Viola June Scadden

In Loving Memory of Viola Scadden

On Friday, May 2, 2025, Viola Scadden, beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, peacefully journeyed to her eternal home at the age of 97.

Born on April 16, 1928, in the quiet hills of Bear Valley, Wisconsin, Viola was the fifth child welcomed into the world by Grace (Sopher) and Forest Dull. From an early age, Viola's spirit radiated warmth, curiosity, and quiet strength. She could often be found helping her mother with chores or curled up in the barn with a book, her imagination already dancing beyond the farm fields that surrounded her.

Viola thrived in her one-room schoolhouse, where she discovered her deep love for learning and an insatiable appetite for reading—a passion that would remain with her for life.  At 13, her family moved to Hazel Green, Wisconsin, where she embraced a new chapter with open arms. Full of school spirit, she became a cheerleader and band majorette, lighting up every room with her enthusiasm and grace.

Never afraid of hard work, Viola took on many roles throughout her youth, from detasseling corn and babysitting to working at the local hospital. At just 17, she moved to Rockford, Illinois, and graduated from West High School in 1946. A year later, she married Daryl Scadden.  Later, they welcomed their children, Sandi and Rick. She made their house a home filled with love.

Viola and Daryl co-founded Topper Bookkeeping and later Topper Real Estate, carving out their own legacy at a time when women entrepreneurs were rare. Viola's work ethic and determination were unwavering. She wore many hats—bookkeeper, activity director, landlord—and wore each with pride and purpose. She was also a proud member of the North Suburban Women's Club, always finding ways to contribute, uplift, and connect. Active in her church, she enjoyed the camaraderie of the Super Solos at Riverside Community Church.

A lifelong learner and adventurer, Viola traveled far and wide—to Israel, Greece, England, Russia, Jamaica, Cuba, Ireland—gathering stories and experiences that she would share with a sparkle in her eyes. Closer to home, she found joy on the Sinnissippi bike path, in lively card games with her sisters, and while tracing the branches of her family tree through genealogy.

But above all, Viola's greatest joy came from being a mother and grandmother. She adored every moment spent with her family, whether hosting vacations or playing games, she treasured their laughter and companionship, always making each feel uniquely loved and understood.

Even as age brought physical challenges, Viola met each one with resilience and unshakable independence. Her strength, her wisdom, and her unwavering love leave a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire generations.

She lived a life full of purpose, passion, and heart. And while we mourn her passing, we celebrate the extraordinary woman she was—and always will be in our hearts.

She is survived by her beloved family, Sandi Kelly (Dan), daughter, Rick Scadden (Terri), son, Olivia Rogers Rush (Kai), granddaughter, and Cason and Grayson Rush, great-grandchildren.  Others include sisters Barbara (Richard) Easton, along with sister-in-law Sarah Dull, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her parents, brothers Bud Dull, Warren Dull (Letha), Burl Dull, Robert Dull, Cecil Dull, and sisters Rosetta (Step) Trecek , Leora (Tut) Liddle, Orpha (Dom) Savala, Shirley Viederis, nephew Jimmy Dull, and nieces Nancy Gilbertson and Janice Bishoff.

We wish to give special thanks to the amazing staff at OSF Hospital and OSF Hospice and to Madeline, who was Viola's wonderful helper. We hold in our hearts many friends and family who made her life incredible.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 31st at 11:00 am at Riverside Community Church, 6816 North Second Street, Machesney Park, IL 61115.  Private interment at Sunset Memorial Gardens.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Rock House Kids, 1325 7th Street, Rockford, IL 61104.

www.rockfordfunerals.com