Virginia Howard Sitorius

Virginia (Ostergard) Sitorius, age 95 of Cozad, passed away Wednesday, October 22, 2014 at Meadowlark Assisted Living in Cozad. Virginia was born April 10, 1919 at Gothenburg, Nebraska to Samuel J. and Anna (Khristensen) Ostergard. She spent her childhood on the family farm North of Gothenburg. Virginia graduated from Gothenburg High School and attended the University of Nebraska, majoring in Home Economics. Virginia was united in marriage to Rodney A. Sitorius on July 12, 1940 in Gothenburg, Nebraska. To this marriage, 6 children were born. She was "Doc's" helpmate for over 50 years of Doc's practice of family medicine in Cozad. Their loving relationship continued for 65 years until Rodney's death in 2005. Virginia was the organizer, planner and executive producer of all family events, trips and wonderful family gatherings. She attended hundreds of sports activities, music events and countless other activities of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She shared with her family her love of flowers, gardening, cooking and countless needle crafts, including; sewing, cross-stitch, needlepoint, crocheting and knitting. Her quiet encouragement many times gave loved ones the special nudge to do their best. Virginia enjoyed her bowling team and loved playing bridge in her leisure time. Aside from her love of family, Virginia has a special love for the young child. This love prompted her many volunteer hours in the community. Especially dear to her heart were efforts through the County Medical Auxiliary toward education of the public regarding child abuse and neglect. Virginia gave countless educational presentations regarding child abuse and its awareness and prevention. Virginia served many years as a board member of the County Parent-Child Protective Services. She organized the first all-volunteer nanny in a many county area. This project included visits by a volunteer after a child's birth. Home visits were made at least 2 times and the mother was able to bond with the volunteer for continued encouragement and advise. This program continues presently after 30 years and Virginia was actively involved until her health prevented it. Virginia was an active member of Cozad United Methodist Church for over 50 years serving as Board Member, President of Women's Society, Circle Member, Sunday School and Youth Teacher. She was instrumental in the opening of the Thrift Shop sponsored by the United Methodist Women. Virginia was pleased to attend the Thrift Shop's new expansion and 45th Anniversary Celebration a month before her death. In 1982, Virginia was named the Nebraska Mother of the Year. Based on her many community accomplishments and her children's activities, Virginia was honored by the presentation of her award by the Govenor. She served many years on the Mother of the Year State Board. Virginia's other memberships include: member and past president of PEO, Chapter CO, Cozad, Buffalo County Medical Auxiliary and VFW. She served on the Cozad Library Board. Virginia was a nominee of Cozad United Way for a national "Daily Points of Light" award. She received the Ak-Sar-Ben Good Neighbors Award, the Merit Award from the Nebraska Medical Auxiliary and several volunteer awards from local and area organizations. In 2009, Virginia was inducted into the Cozad Hospital Foundation Hall of Fame. Virginia will be remembered for her quiet, humble, loving ways. She was the epitome of a gracious lady. Forever in our hearts, Mom! Looking forward to seeing you again in God's eternal home! Survivors include her daughters, Joyce (Charles) Shaw-Garner of Hobart, WA, Nancy (Fred) George of Kearney, NE, Cynthia (Richard) Brown of Council Bluffs, IA, sons, Michael (Marilyn) Sitorius of Omaha, Patrick (Terri) Sitorius of Jamesville, WI and Greg (Patrice) Sitorius of Minden; 14 grandchildren, Jon, Joe, Tracy, Kerry, Shayne, Tom, Anne, Jane, Beth, Peter, Shelby, Taylor, Regan, Lindsey and Carly; 6 great-grandchildren, Dylan, Alaina, Michayla, Shaylee, Bennett and Casey. Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; husband Rodney; and 4 brothers, Howard, Robert, Gene and Gage. Memorials are suggested to the family to be designated at a later date. Celebration of Life Memorial Services will be held Saturday, November 1, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at Cozad United Methodist Church with Pastor Doug Smith officiating. A private family inurnment will be held prior to the memorial service at Fort McPherson. Those wishing to sign the memorial book may do so on Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Berryman Funeral Home, which is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.