Virginia Wood

   I was Susanne's boyfriend during high school and part of college, and Ginny--although I never once
 called her that--was always wonderful to me: kind, generous, understanding, warm.   She was
also funny, unfailingly upbeat, and the life of the party.  She added to everyone's happiness.  She surely
added to mine.  
   I can't remember the last time I saw her--in Ohio, maybe, in about 1971?  But I've always missed her
and thought about her. 
   I hope Susanne, Diane, and Jim are holding up well under this very considerable loss.  I miss you all too.

As I sit thinking of the last words I spoke to you Momma, I believe you heard them and heeded them. I told you as I bent close to your ear, that God loves you. He sent Jesus to die for you. He became flesh and came to earth for you. If you would have been the only person on earth, He would have come for you. I told you that you were the apple of His eye and wanted you to pray and talk to Him. I told you that you could talk to Him even in your mind, that He was there in your room to listen. I believe you asked Him to take you to heaven. I believe you are there now.

I will keep you close in my heart always and see you in the place of Glory!!!

Your daughter,
Diane

If there is one lasting memory of my mother-in-law, it will be her many pranks and her wonderful sense of humor. She loved to wear masks or cajole others into wearing them.  When the movie "Grumpy Old Men" came out, she convinced me to wear an "old man mask" and walk with a cane into the movie with her; she delighted in telling other movie-goers, as we walked arm-in-arm, how much she loved Grumpy Old Men ... like me ... and that it was about time someone made a movie celebrating them!  I also cherished the dozen golf balls she gave me with the meanest, least attractive photo of her on them that she could find, in an attempt to "improve my driving distance." While they unfortunately did not improve my golf game, I still think of her every time I show one of those hilarious balls to my playing partners.  They all get a kick out of them...  I will sorely miss Virginia, the Merry Prankster!    

My strongest memory of my mother is how much she constantly encouraged me and believed in me.  She was always telling me I could do ANYTHING if I set my mind to it.  She gave me piano lessons, dancing lessons, swimming lessons, and sent me to Girl Scout camp.  I'm sorry to say that I did not become a great pianist or dancer or swimmer, but I never missed out on any opportunity, thanks to my mom.  When I wanted so badly to win the 4th grade Halloween costume contest, my mother told me of course I could win it, and dressed me as "Mary had a Little Lamb."  To clinch the win, she brought our fluffy white poodle Poupee to school to act as my lamb--decked out in a big velvet bow and leash. And yes, I won first place.

Just a few weeks ago, mom was telling me that she told the nurse treating her leg that I could do anything.  I said "oh Mom, that's not true."  She insisted quite adamantly that it was true.  But what I should have answered, what I wish I had answered, and what I want to tell her now is this:  whatever I am and whatever I may have accomplished or will accomplish in this life is because of you, mommie, and your absolute faith in me.  I am forever grateful for that and will carry it with me always. 

Diane, Susanne, & Jim,

I was saddened to hear about the passing of your mother and my long-time friend.  Although we had a long distance between us, we always kept in contact by phone.  Sometimes we talked for more than an hour, reminiscing about our times together and our families.

The four of us, Woody, Don, Virg and I had so many good, happy times together.  Don and I always had such fun times when we were around your mother and dad.  I have so many fond memories of our times together in Japan and Las Vegas - those were the good old days.

More recently - a few years ago - after Woody and Don had passed away - Virg and I had a wonderful reunion at my timeshare in Flagstaff.  Oh, the stories we recounted about all you kids were heartwarming.

A little thing that I'll always remember about your mother was that she hated her hearing aids.  I can now identify with that because I dislike mine, too!

Please accept my very heartfelt condolences at this sad time.  But knowing that Virg lived such a wonderful, full life and brought cheer to me and so many others is a cause for celebrate her life.

Love,
Mother

Susanne, Bill and Family,

We share your deep sorrow over the loss of your Mother.  We never had the opportunity to meet Virginia face to face, but came to know her so well from
the stories you shared over the years.  She was a strong, unique, and “very” entertaining women who cherished her family above everything else. 
She nurtured those gifts in her children and so she continues on in each of you - her legacy and gift to all of us who love you.
Know we keep you in our hearts and prayers.

She was always a lot of fun and will be missed by you kids, especially.  Our prayers are with you...thanks for sending us this information..Jack & Bev

Dear Susanne, Bill and Family,

We were so sorry to learn of your Mother's passing.  Over the years, you and I have so often talked about out Moms and family that I felt like I had gotten to know her.  Now, through your absolutely beautiful tribute to her, I have really gotten to meet Virginia and her wonderful family. 

You all were very "blessed" to have her as your Mother and role model and she was so very "blessed" to have you all as her children.

Our love and thoughts are with you all.

Darleen and Michael

Susanne, I'm so sorry for what you must be feeling to lose your Mom. I hope in quiet moments you'll hear from her. No doubt she had everyone laughing as soon as she got to the other side, and it's heart-warming to know she's with your Dad again. I hope that will sustain you until you see her again because you really haven't lost her. She won't ever be far from such a treasured daughter. You have my warmest hugs and so much love,

Josie