Virginia Bernice Kruizenga

Virginia Bernice Kruizenga, 87, of Kalamazoo passed peacefully away Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at her home.

Virginia was born June 18,1937 in Kalamazoo, Michigan the daughter of Victor Guarisco and Lillian (Anselmo) Guarisco.

She was preceded in death by her parents, cherished husband Kenneth Kruizenga; brothers Neno Guarisco and Tony Guarisco and a sister, Lucille Stanfield.

She is survived by two daughters, Kathleen (Richard Glassman) Pavlack-Glassman and Jackalyn Daily; two sons, Kenneth Kruizenga and Bradley Kruizenga; a sister, Lilly Amos (Terry Amos); three beloved granddaughters; Samatha Pixley, Malory Snyder, and Carly Pavlack; and six great grandchildren. 

Virginia and Kenneth were avid primitive American antique collectors and spent many joyful years together traveling the country in pursuit of their hobby. The pair were well known nationally within this specialized collecting community. They completely refurbished a 150-year-old home and furnished it entirely with period antiques. Later in life they sold this home and downsized but continued their collecting hobby until late in life.

Virginia was a talented gardener. She designed and planted a large classical flower garden to compliment her 150-year-old-house. After retiring from a 25-year career at Upjohn, she continued her gardening activities turning their retirement home into a neighborhood showpiece.

A gifted cook, Virginia’s home was the frequent gathering place for holidays and family celebrations. Family was always treated to lavish gourmet meals and desserts. 

One of her grandchildren called her “Do” from early childhood and the nickname stuck. Now, even her greatgrandchildren refer to her simply as “Do” with love and affection.

Known to her family and friends as Ginny, she was deeply loved and will be missed by friends and her immediate and extended family. 

Family was everything to Virginia; her motto was “love is all that matters”.

The family will gather privately to celebrate and honor Ginny’s life. Virginia will be laid to rest at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, at a later date.