In Memory
Virginia (VanGoey) Griffin
Jan. 20, 1931 - Feb. 3, 2012
SOUTH BEND - Virginia Griffin passed to her next life on February 3rd near Pasadena, CA. She died in her sleep after an illness of several years that gradually decreased her enjoyment of life. She was born on January 20, 1931, as Virginia Jeanette Van Goey in South Bend, IN, graduated from Riley High School, and continued as a housewife for three decades.
She then moved near Pasadena, CA, and started college at night courses, continued until she had her bachelor's degree, then continued to get a master's degree in fine arts with a major in design. This schooling was done while being an excellent mother to her four children. Her next activity was teaching at the high school, then college levels in the Pasadena area. She taught both ceramics and painting, especially oil painting of flowers. She had over 130 rosebushes in her yard and was known as the Rose Lady at the Hollywood Bowl and several other venues because she brought large rose bouquets to the frequent concerts she attended. When her husband retired, she continued her active lifestyle with the extensive foliage in her yard. In her last few years, a series of health problems took their toll and she eventually succumbed in a very peaceful and painless passing.
Virginia is survived by Henry, who had a distinguished career in the NASA rocket program, Charles, who was active in Florida real estate, Joe, who had a well-known jewelry business, and Cecilia, who operates an interior design business in North Carolina.
Virginia made specific requests for her final resting many years ago. There will be no funeral, meetings or flowers. Virginia wanted to be remembered as she had been during her healthy years with no impact to other families. Her favorite charities were Helping Hands for the Blind (818-998-0044) and the Braille Institute (800-472-4553, ext.1238); please send any donations with reference to Virginia Griffin to these charities.
Published by South Bend Tribune on Feb. 9, 2012.
06/30/2023 EJS
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