Ione L. Sargent

Ione Lillian Sargent age 80 a longtime resident of Samaritan Bethany in Rochester passed away Wednesday March 21, 2012 at St. Marys Hospital.She was born October 15, 1931 the daughter of Connie & Lillian Bernice (McGowan) Bartholomew .She attended country school in rural Pine Island, graduated and then went onto the Kahler school of nursing.She worked several years as a surgical nurse in Rochester. She later began a career as a gemologist with her gemological training at Gemological Institute of America.This lead to the beginning of Minnesota Valley Diamond company which she founded with her husband and son Timothy.They ran the company several years.She was a member of the Minnesota Retail Jewelry Association and the Better Business Bureau.She enjoyed flying especially with her father-in-law in his private aircraft.She married Robert E. Sargent and he survives, as does their 4 children; Debra Kay Sargent, Timothy R. Sargent (wife Beth), Patrick D. Sargent, and Robert E. Sargent II.2 grandchildren; Craig and Shannon and her brother Jimmie Bartholomew (wife Sandy) of Pine Island, and nephews Daniel and Matthew Bartholomew.She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother Vernon Lightning Bartholomew.A celebration of her life will take place 11 AM Saturday, March 24, 2012 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home with Pastor Jean Boese officiating.On line condolences may be left at www.ranfranzandvinefh.com