E. Virginia “Ginny” Wittibslager, age 89, of Marion, died early Wednesday morning, October 15, 2014, at her daughter’s home following an extended illness.
On November 24, 1924, Ginny was born in Meigs County, Ohio, the daughter of the late F. Verne “Slim” and Dora (Neighborgall) Hutchinson.
Shortly following graduation, Ginny married the love of her life, Lowell R. “Witt” Wittibslager, on October 10, 1943, in Dover, Delaware, a decorated veteran of World War II. They shared over 42 wonderful years together. He preceded her in death on January 24, 1985.
In addition to being a loving homemaker, Ginny and Witt opened their home as foster parents for over 34 years, fostering 116 children from Marion County. In 1980, they were honored by the Ohio Dept. of Public Service with the Foster Parent award for their distinguished service to Marion County by Ohio Governor James Rhodes. In 1983, they were also honored to receive the distinguished citizen award from Scantland Communications.
A woman of faith, Ginny was formerly a member of the Epworth United Methodist Church, and more recently she attended St. Mary Catholic Church with her daughter. Also, she and Witt enjoyed hosting the US Open Drum and Bugle Corp at Sawyer-Ludwig Park for many years, and she was a member of the White Shrine.
Despite being set in her ways, Ginny truly had a heart of gold. She loved her children, grandchildren, all of the children she fostered, and her many canine companions she’s had over the years.
She will be dearly missed by her daughter, Betty (Dennis) Willhelm of Marion; her son, Ted (Marlene) Temple of Marion; five grandchildren: Steven Temple, Ashley and David Wittibslager, and Aubrey and Isac Willhelm; three great-grandchildren: Taylor and Chase Temple, and Andrew Willhelm; and several nieces and nephews.
Including her husband and parents, Ginny was preceded in death by her brother, Glenn Hutchinson.
Her family will greet friends from 5 – 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 23rd, at the Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home, 360 E. Center St., Marion, with prayer services following at 7 p.m. Services honoring her life will be observed at 11 a.m. on Friday, at her graveside in Marion Cemetery, with Rev. David Hoffman officiating.
Rather than flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the care of the family to assist with funeral expenses.
Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home is honored to have been chosen to serve Ginny’s family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
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