Vickey and Jim built a life centered around their family and took great joy in raising their two sons, James Bradford and Jason. She could often be found enthusiastically cheering them on at their countless sporting events. Her greatest joy continued with the arrival of her five grandchildren, Allison, Matthew, Nate, Lilly, and Rhett, who brought immense love and happiness to her life.

After Jim’s passing, Vickey embraced a new chapter with the same spirit of adventure and determination that defined her throughout her life. She pursued her passion for travel and, at a travel seminar, met Karl Tegtmeyer. What began as a shared love of travel grew into a partnership in travel and in life. Together, Vickey and Karl eventually moved to a retirement community in Germantown, Tennessee, where they continued to enjoy life and explore the world.

Vickey and Karl traveled extensively throughout Europe and embarked on unforgettable adventures, including a safari on the Serengeti and riding a camel in Egypt. She lived her life with curiosity, courage, and an eagerness to experience all that the world had to offer.

Vickey was small in stature but large in spirit. She possessed an incredible strength and determination and was never intimidated by the odds. Her infectious laugh, adventurous spirit, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Vickey is survived by her sons, James Bradford (Tina) Diestelhorst and Jason (Amy) Diestelhorst; her five grandchildren, Allison, Matthew, Nate, Lilly, and Rhett; her sister, Linda (Jim) McNeely; her partner in life and travel, Karl Tegtmeyer; and many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Diestelhorst; and her parents, Lawrence and Mary Emery.

Vickey leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, determination, and adventure. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will forever cherish the remarkable woman she was.