Virginia J. Van De Wege

Virginia passed away Monday January 5, 2026, at her home in Plainwell. She was born July 15th, 1940, in Ellsworth, the daughter of Ernest and Christina (Toringa) Brown. 

In 1959 Virginia married the love of her life, James VanDeWege III; together they raised 5 children. Virginia worked at Checker Motors, Unwinder, Meijer and also did in home healthcare. As a young woman, Virginia enjoyed playing basketball and was a catcher for her softball team. In her free time, she bowled on area leagues several times a week. She also enjoyed square dancing, playing bingo, and keeping her flowers looking beautiful. Virginia loved spending time with her family and kept the pool open all summer for them to enjoy. She also liked giving advice over family meals. She had a generous heart and would help anyone in need.

Virginia is survived by her 5 children Rick VanDeWege, Susan (Doug) Worden, Jimmy (Tina) VanDeWege, Jodie (Kurt) Darrow and Steve (Shelley Hinkle) VanDeWege; 7 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great granddaughter; sisters June and Betty along with several nieces and nephews. 

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, husband, grandson Dougie, and siblings Luann, Linda, and Frank.

Friends may visit Virginia’s family from 6-8pm, Thursday January 15, 2026, at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego.

Contributions in memory of Virginia may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, The American Cancer Society, or Centrica Care Navigators.

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.