Mildred was born in Cunningham, Missouri to Thelma Linscott and James Ponting on March 10, 1927.
She married William Dale VanSickle on September 14th, 1947 in the Sumner Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School. Mildred and Dale lived in Argentine, Kansas before moving to Kansas City, Kansas and later Gashland, Missouri. After Dale’s passing in 1968 she worked for the North Kansas City school district as a cook while taking care of her three children. She married Earnest Sluter on September 19th, 1975 in the Barry Christian Church. Mildred then moved in to Earnie’s home in Kansas City, Missouri after their marriage and made their home where she enjoyed watching her grandchildren. She attended High School in Sumner, Missouri and later graduated from Emporia State University where she received her teacher’s certificate and taught at a nearby school for several years. She enjoyed attending church at the King of Kings Lutheran Church, quilting, making Halloween costumes, and clothing. She also enjoyed baking, gardening, and watching local sports teams. Millie was always a care giver and would drive to Sumner and Macon weekly to care for her Mother. She was by Ernie’s side daily until he passed and was Rod’s caregiver until her passing. Millie had a passion for life and wore a smile on her face wherever she went. She never shied away from traveling for adventure or a chance to take a spin on a motorcycle. She will be greatly missed by all that knew her.
Mildred is preceded in death by her parents; first husband, William Dale VanSickle; second husband, Earnest Sluter; brothers, Richard Ponting and John Lewis Ponting; sister, Theresa Foster.
Mildred is survived by her children; Chet VanSickle, Rodney VanSickle, and James VanSickle; Stepchildren, Edward Stertman and Elaine Sterman, Earnest Sluter, and Elizabeth Dennis; Eight Grandchildren; Numerous Great-Grandchildren.
Funeral service will be held in her honor on Saturday, September 25, 2021 at 2:00 PM, with a visitation starting at 12:00 PM, at King of Kings Lutheran Church, 1701 NE 96th Street, Kansas City, MO 64155. She will be laid to rest on Monday, September 27, 2021 at 10:00 AM in Memorial Park Cemetery and Sunset Gardens, 3223 N 18th Street, Kansas City, KS 66104.
Memorials may be made to the King of Kings Lutheran Church.
The family of Mildred wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Pastor Frank from King of Kings Lutheran Church, Sharon and Martin Oldehoeft, Lowell and Vonne Oldehoeft, Ruth Breininger, Dennis Bredehoest Ascend Hospice Care, and the numerous doctors and nurses at Northland Rehabilitation and Health Care who assisted Mildred daily.
