Virginia Ellen Pearson Ophus, 101, of Kalispell, passed away on Jan. 15, 2016, at her daughter’s home in Kalispell. Her family was at her bedside.
Virginia was born on the family homestead in Big Sandy on April 12, 1914. She graduated from Big Sandy High School and continued on to receive a teaching certificate. She taught in country school in Big Sandy and later, substitute taught in public schools in Havre.
Virginia was married to Jerry Ophus on May 6, 1936. They were married 51 years before Jerry’s death in 1987.
Virginia was a very accomplished piano player and played in dance bands when she was young. In later years, she played for family sing-a-longs or impromptu gatherings even into her 90s. She was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Havre and played the piano for their ceremonies. Some of her favorite times were playing cards with family and she always looked forward to her afternoon bridge and pinochle games.
Virginia is survived by daughters, Joann Schadewitz and Lou of Kalispell, and Jere Schaub and Lon of Safford, Arizona; grandchildren, Amy Hanson, Rachel Ghekiere, Rita Chvilicek, Dani Jo Reel, Scott Norton, Kris Schaub and Kale Schaub; 12 great-grandchildren, Katie Hanson, Parker Hanson, Jennifer Ghekiere, Kimberli Ghekiere, Chandler Reel, Quinlan Reel, Noah Norton, Silas Norton, Andrew Bermudez, Aidan Bermudez, Luke Schaub and Savanna Schaub; and her nephews, Allan Pearson, Dave Tester, Robert Tester and Jon Tester.
Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Christine Pearson; husband, Jerry; daughter, Barbara Jean Chvilicek; grandson, Brian Chvilicek; brother, Lloyd Pearson; and sisters, Geneva Cline and Helen Tester.
A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Big Sandy.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to your local senior citizen center.
The family of Virginia Ophus wishes to thank Kalispell Regional Medical Center Home Options Hospice for their care and support during her final days.