Evelyn L. Koesler, age 89, a life-long resident of rural Vinita passed away at her home surrounded by her loved ones, on Monday, March 8, 2021.

Evelyn was born December 15, 1931 to John “Orville” Medearis and Ethel Viola (Blevins) Medearis. She was the youngest of two children.

While growing up in Vinita, Evelyn attended Vinita Public Schools. As a child, she attended church regularly with her family and loved listening to old gospel hymns. Her family later moved to White Oak after purchasing a farm. She developed many fond friendships while living and working there. In her free time, she enjoyed swimming and riding her horse, Ace. Every weekend, after selling the farm and moving back to Vinita, her home would be filled with country music played by family, friends and neighbors. She especially loved listening to her father play the guitar, piano, banjo, harmonica, violin, and sing. As a young woman, she became employed by McClellan’s 5 and 10 and worked at the cosmetics counter.

On August 8, 1950, Evelyn married Michael “Mike” Alfonse Koesler. Together, they raised five children in rural Vinita. She was a devoted wife and mother. She loved to cook for her family and was known for her excellence in the kitchen. She found enjoyment in preparing food and collecting and sharing recipes. She enjoyed sewing, reading books, listening to gospel hymns, country music, and spending time with friends and family. She was also very fond of her treasured angel figurine collections.

Evelyn was a long-time member of the Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Vinita. During that time, she was an active member in the ladies’ guild. She baked pies, cakes, and cookies for bake sales, funeral dinners, and other occasions. She was an active supporter of Oktoberfest. She was well known for her many delicious baking contributions, especially her most-requested hot rolls and cinnamon rolls.

In her later years, Evelyn attended St. Frances of Rome Catholic Church in Langley, OK. She remained a loyal parishioner up until the time she went home to be with the Lord.

Evelyn is preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother John, sister-in-law Betty and her son-in-law Gary Cauthon.

Evelyn is survived by her five children, Michael and wife Debbie of Vinita, Teresa Cauthon of Bartlesville, Tom Koesler of Vinita, Janet Moentnish and husband Alvin of Ozark, MO, Karen Harmon and husband Rick of Claremore, OK; 10 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Due to Covid19 restrictions the family will have a private graveside service.

Services are under the direction of Luginbuel Funeral Home, Vinita, OK. Online condolences may be left at www.honoringmemories.com or on the Luginbuel Funeral Home Facebook page.