Virginia Cornelius, 90

Virginia Cornelius, 90, passed away Jan. 15, 2009, at Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

Virginia was born Aug. 1, 1918, in Chinook. She was the third of seven children, four boys and three girls, and the first daughter. Her father, Andy, was the county assessor for many years, and her mother, Tillie, a homemaker. When Virginia was 13 years old, her mother died. Her father remarried two years later to Elvira, who brought a son into their family.

Virginia graduated from high school in Chinook. A year later, in 1937, she moved with her family to Whitefish, where her father owned and operated Andy's Cafe. Virginia worked there as a waitress for about 10 years.

On May 13, 1947, she married Les Cornelius, an engineer on the railroad.

Virginia was a 'second mom" to her sister Carol's five children, helping to care for them as they grew. All her nieces and nephews were a great source of joy for her.

Virginia enjoyed sewing and made many dresses for her nieces. Reading was another hobby; Virginia preferred true stories, inspirational and spiritual readings. She also loved flowers and has spent much time grooming her yard.

Les and Virginia enjoyed traveling together. They visited many interesting places, including Minnesota and Alaska. Virginia also returned to Germany and Norway to see the old country and distant relatives living there still.

On Sept. 14, 1985, Les died.

Virginia had been a leader of the Senior League in her church and maintained membership in the Sons of Norway. She moved to Immanuel Lutheran Home from her apartment in Whitefish on July 31, 1995. She was a lifelong member of Christ Lutheran Church.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell. A reception will be after the service.

Austin Funeral Home in Whitefish is in charge of the arrangements.