Obituary for Virginia Ruth Van Duzer

Virginia R. Van Duzer, 93, of Menlo, IA passed away Friday, February 13, 2009 at Good Samaritan Care Center in Forest City, IA. Per Virginia''s wishes, her body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, May 23, 2009 at the Menlo Methodist Church, Menlo, IA. A "celebration of Virginia''s life" bonfire will be held at the Springbrook State Park, CCC Shelter, following the church luncheon. Survivors include her two daughters Carole (Richard) Schneider of Aguanga, CA, and Sarah (Creighton) Nelson of Forest City, IA; four grandchildren Stephen Pritchard, Nicolle Whalen, Noelle Tichy and Nash Nelson; five great grandchildren; brother Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Andrew Lyman Cooley of Sedalia, CO; and sister Mary Cooley Miller of Lindale, TX. She was preceded in death by her husband John Frederick Van Duzer and her parents Andrew and Mabel Cooley. Virginia Ruth Cooley was born June 12, 1915 the daughter of Andrew and Mabel (Muren) Cooley. She married John Frederick Van Duzer on January 23, 1942 in Menlo, IA. John Frederick passed away on March 12, 2006. Virginia was a school teacher for the Spring Hill Schools from 1937-1939 and for Menlo Community Schools from 1939-1977. She was a member of ISEA, American Legion Women''s Auxiliary, Good Sam''s Camping Club and member and Church Choir Director of Menlo Methodist Church. She was an avid camper at Springbrook State Park. Her years of teaching had a positive and lasting impact on many members of her family and community. Her devotion to her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews was unsurpassed. One of Virginia''s finest gifts was her appreciation for the simple things in life. She will be missed beyond words. Memorials may be given in Virginia''s name to the Animal Lifeline of Iowa….Special Needs No Kill Shelter or Hospice of North Iowa. Please mail memorials to Sarah Nelson at 635 N. 8th St., Forest City, IA 50436.