Virginia K. Anderson

There wasn't anyone quite like Virginia Anderson, especially in the eyes of those who knew and loved her. A highly intelligent woman, she was well ahead of her time and considerably versed in a variety of subjects. She reached a higher level of understanding, regardless of the situation, and was truly a "thinker". A brilliant woman in her own right, she was just as loving and interested in the lives of those around her. Gone but never to be forgotten, she will be deeply missed. A time of great change, normalcy was slowly returning to America in the wake of World War I. Jazz music blossomed, and the flapper redefined modern womanhood at a time when women won the right to vote. The year 1923 marked many firsts in the fabric of American culture. The field of medicine was forever changed when insulin became available for diabetics, and as a vaccine for the whooping cough was developed. The establishment of the eight hour workday came about just as the economy was beginning to prosper, and manufacturing was at an all time high. Amongst this time of growth, a young couple from Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania, the Kinner family, experienced a time of change as well when on August 18, 1923 they delighted in the birth of their daughter, Virginia. Born in the small borough of Lawrenceville in Tioga County, their community was situated right on the New York State line. Virginia's father supported his family as a mechanic for Pan Am while her mother remained at home with Virginia and her sisters, Dorothy and Joann. During her formative years, Virginia's family resided in Pennsylvania and Homestead, Florida. She enjoyed a typical childhood for the times, and especially held fond memories of her pet, a white muscovey duck she came to love as a child. Over the years she shared many stories about her well loved duck which she cared for deeply. While growing up, Virginia held several special friendships close to her heart. They included Joyce Arnold, Helen Weimert, George Kufeldt and many untold others who only added to the many fond remembrances she recalled throughout her life. From an early age, Virginia demonstrated a keen sense for learning. She was extremely interested in every subject matter, particularly science. Following high school she went on to graduate from the University of Florida with a degree in medical technology. It was quite an accomplishment, especially at a time when most women never pursued an education, especially in higher fields of learning. She came to be a distinguished member of MENSA, the largest and oldest society of individuals who hold some of the highest intelligence ratings in the world. Membership is reserved for those who score in the 98th percentile or higher on approved intelligence testing. In time she also became a member of the American Atheist Association. As a young woman, Virginia also came to know the meaning of love. She met a handsome gentleman named Jack H. Anderson in Florida while he served as a dentist aboard a U.S. Naval ship during World War II. They dated for a short time and after falling in love, married on October 25, 1947 at the All Saints Chapel in Jacksonville, Florida. With Jack's career as a dentist, Virginia remained at home as a homemaker following their marriage. She soon realized the joy of children when she welcomed the births of Janet, Eric and Marylou who completed their family. Over the years that followed, Virginia continued her love of science. She also studied literature, higher mathematics, law, and became quite interested in the stock market and economics. She also had a way with writing. Among her many intellectual interests, Virginia was also talented in a variety of other areas. She loved playing tennis, enjoyed gardening, and appreciated the theatre. She was a gifted painter, but did not pursue it as much as she would have liked. Many enjoyable summers were spent together as family at their family cottage in Ontario, Canada.They spent numerous weeks there swimming, sailing and taking in the wooded areas and enjoyment of the lake. Holidays were always very special in their home. Virginia never ceased going out of her way to make Christmas an exciting event for her family and friends and made sure the underside of the tree was loaded with lots of presents for everyone. When it came to parenting, Virginia was very logical and extremely thoughtful. She allowed and encouraged her children to express their individuality and creativity through music, dance and other art forms. As a family, there was sure to be several beloved pets in their home. They gave a home to many dogs, cats, fish, and birds over the years, and she even continued her special love for ducks. One time the kids found an orphaned mallard duck and she let them bring it home. It waddled freely around the house, but was mainly kept in the basement. Each day Virginia lovingly tended to Dolly, feeding her corn and changing her newspapers. When it came to Dolly, Virginia would do nearly anything for her. While hosting a backyard party with many people milling about, an incident made for quite an exciting family story. Dolly was waddling around and one of her webbed feet accidentally became pinched in a rocking lawn chair. Needless to say, it created quite a commotion, but Virginia went over and ever so gently picked her up and stroked her until she settled down. Dolly the duck had a few wits of her own, and from then on she'd begin to limp just for the attention! One time at a rather fancy Christmas dinner, Dolly flew up onto the table and commenced to drinking her grandmothers coffee! Sadly, Virginia's husband, Jack died at the young age of 61. He had recently cut back on his work hours, so at least he and Virginia had time to share their love for reading and political discussions along with valuable time with family and friends. She continued on with her many interests, especially spending treasured time with her grandchildren. As a grandmother, Virginia so loved listening to their hopes and dreams, and learning about their passions Throughout her life, Virginia was considered a brilliant woman who held fast to her very strong and resilient ways. She remained focused and persistent concerning the things she felt adamantly about, and although disciplined in many respects, she was loving and accepting of others differences just the same. A devoted wife, loving mother and dedicated grandmother, she will be fondly remembered. At the age of 87, Mrs. Virginia K. Anderson, of Grand Haven, passed away Saturday, July 16, 2011. Virginia is survived by her daughter, Marylou Grace Peterman of Norton Shores; granddaughters: Courtney Jo Peterman, Elizabeth Ann Peterman, both of Norton Shores; sister, Dorothy Reynolds of Florida. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jack; oldest daughter, Janet Marie Anderson; only son, Eric Douglas Anderson; sister, Joann Buckhalt. No services will be held. MEMORIAL: Hospice of North Ottawa Community - Grand Haven. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a favorite memory of Virginia or to sign her online guest book. Clock Life Story-Muskegon.