Obituary of Virginia Ruth Somers

VIRGINIA RUTH SOMERS

Virginia Ruth Somers passed away gently in her sleep the morning of October 12, 2022, at Hawthorn Landing (Director’s Hall) in Kalamazoo at the age of 96. She was born November 16, 1925, at their farm home in Breedsville, Michigan the daughter of Delos and Pearl (Niles) Knickerbocker. She was one of 4 children. Her parents and other three siblings, Reed (Shirley), Dana (Carmen) and Norma (Bob) Carlson preceded her in death.

She attended Breedsville elementary. After a merging of the districts she attended South Haven schools, and graduated South Haven High, Class of 1944. Her yearbook, which we have, is filled with signatures, memories, and well-wishes from her immense number of friends. She had so many lifelong and newly made friends throughout her life.

From a marriage to Donald E. Hutchins of Lawrence, Virginia had 2 sons. Kenneth (Catherine) Hutchins of Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, and Rick (Deborah) Hutchins of Portage. In the 60’s she met Reynold Somers of Richland thru a mutual friend. They were wed October 30, 1969. Ren had 2 daughters, Virginia (Peter) Sugas and Barbara (Jack) Hunt. She welcomed them as her own and considered herself a mother of 4. We thank Virginia and Barb greatly for the love, caring, and support given mom as she declined.

She retired after a 28-year career at Kalamazoo State Hospital as an attendant nurse. She stayed current with her many friends and met often for retiree lunches.

Upon their retirement Ren and Ginny enjoyed gardening, fishing, camping, and traveling. Their most treasured adventure was a summer-long camping trip to Alaska with another couple. Ren caught, and Gin cooked fresh trout for breakfast almost every day.

Virginia leaves behind her children, 12 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Cremation, as she wished, has taken place. A time of Memorial and Celebration of Virginia’s life will take place at a future date. At that time, we will meet at Living Hope Community Church in Richland that Ren and Virginia were instrumental in establishing. She sang in the choir there, and we know her joyful voice continues to sing.