She was tough enough to defy the odds, but inevitably they turned for Virginia, early Monday, November 4, 2024, peacefully with April beside her.
Virginia was an only child, a grandchild of Alberta homesteaders. Her’s was a life well lived, in many locations from her birthplace in Calgary, school years in Okotoks to raising a family in Winnipeg. There were many other homes including Lac du Bonnet and High River. Virginia embraced every destination, cheerfully gathering friends, tackling renovations & decorating with gusto and a charming flair that welcomed her many visitors.
Also known to many as Ginger, her working life began as a switchboard operator and ended as a receptionist for Dominion Securities. She also spent many years as a caring and creative homemaker.
Her biggest heartbreak was the ultimately fatal illness of her only son Kendall. Later, after her marriage ended, her independence flourished and she tackled new opportunities. She overcame breast cancer twice.
She enjoyed travel and made memorable trips to New Zealand to see her daughter April (Andrew) and her grandchildren Evan & Kelly, who she loved & spoiled to absolute bits, despite the long distance.
Virginia also loved the prairies, grain elevators, chickens, antiques, the colour blue, teddy bears, patchwork quilts, ice cream and happy hour. Life handed her some fat lemons, but she could always find the funny side and just got on with making lemonade. A small town girl at heart, her final move was to Claresholm where she arrived in her seventies, knowing no one, but soon built yet another circle of friends with her outgoing nature, loyalty & generosity.
Thanks to Dr Smith, the wonderful staff at Willow Creek Continuing Care, Mom’s devoted Claresholm crew, and the far flung friends and family who will miss her, but who will remember her with a chuckle.
Private cremation in accordance with Virginia’s wishes.