Veronika Elisabeth Underwood

Born July 26, 1946, in Amburg, Germany, to Joseph and Anna Stammler, she married Michael J. Underwood Sr. on September 18, 1964, in Amburg. He died January 14, 2017. Her parents; two brothers, Heinz Stammler and Herbert Stammler; and one daughter, Erica Underwood, preceded her in death.

Surviving are her three children, Stephanie Underwood (Scott Cooper) of Manito, Kimberley Buskirk (Perry Buskirk) of Creve Coeur, and Michael Underwood Jr. (Denielle Underwood) of Pekin; 14 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Annaliese (Gunter) Dix and Angelika (Adam) Ramsauer; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Veronika’s greatest joy was spending time with her family. She loved being outdoors, working in her yard, tending to her garden, and simply enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. She enjoyed having fun, taking trips to the casino, and making memories with the people she loved most. Family meant everything to Veronika, and the time she spent with them was always time well spent.

Her visitation will be from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Cremation arrangements will follow.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675.