Virginia Belle Shanks , Age 96


July 18, 1928 --November 20, 2024

Virginia Belle Shanks, age 96, of Baraboo, passed away on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at Our House Assisted Living.

Virginia, daughter of Clarence and Virgie (Barrow) Fuller, was born on July 18, 1928 in Portage, WI.  On March 22, 1947 she was united in marriage to William “Bill” Shanks at St. John's Lutheran Church in Portage.   He preceded her in death on July 6, 2016.  For many years, Virginia worked various jobs in the food service industry, primarily as a cook and baker.

Virginia enjoyed gardening, and filling her fruit cellar and freezer with canned goods and vegetables. She took delight in preparing meals for her family, always making sure everyone had enough to eat. She had a passion for animals, especially horses and dogs, but would welcome stray animals as well.  She loved to watch deer, turkeys, and other wildlife, in the surroundings fields. Virginia enjoyed cheering on the Badgers and the Packers.

Virginia had a special love for her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; spending as much time as she could with them.

She is survived by her children, Connie Shanks, Dennis (Julie) Shanks, Ron (Cheryl) Shanks; ten grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sisters, Bernadine Holtz, June Peetz, Mona (Gary) Winkers, Nona (Owen) Ennis; brother, Dean (Patricia) Fuller; sister-in-law, Rosalee; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is further survived her special dog companion, Maddie.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 69 years, Bill; son, William Shanks, Jr.; daughter-in-law, Kathy; grandson, Tony; great-grandson, Will; and brothers, Leo, Harlan, Dale.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Baraboo with Pastor Kuske officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Shanks Cemetery in Caledonia Township.

Family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Our House and SSM Home Hospice for the compassionate care Virginia received.  

 



Condolences

Susie Bruchs November 21, 2024

Aunt Oxford , Wisconsin

I am so sorry to hear Aunt Virginia passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Barb Schanke November 22, 2024

Friends Baraboo , Wisconsin

Ron, Connie family and I am so very sorry for the loss.

Dennis and Penny Quandt November 22, 2024

Friends Dothan , AL

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all and we send our love.

Ann Vogtschaller November 22, 2024

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

We are sad to learn of Ginny’s passing. What a joy to have known her and learn from her. I owe my bread baking skills to her, especially French bread loaf making! Ann, Hannah, Jeff Vogtschaller

Kathy Siberz November 22, 2024

former co-worker Baraboo , Wisconsin

I'm so sorry for your loss. I worked with Virginia at Pierce's many years ago. We were on a bowling team together too. She was so nice, so happy and so easy to work with. My prayers are with you all.

Virginia Daley November 24, 2024

Babysat for your mother in the 50s Eatonton , Georgia

Sorry for your loss. God’s blessings.

Gary Peetz November 25, 2024

Nephew Kalispell , Montana

I'll always remember my Aunt Virginia as a fun and loving woman to all that knew her. Family meant everything to her. She was a strong woman. Connie, Dennis, Ronnie...you all are on my mind and in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you with his peace at this time and forever.

Fritz Kruse November 25, 2024

Friend Dodge City , Kansas

Hello Ron and family, so sorry to hear of your mom passing. She was a wonderful lady! The best Shanks burgers in town! Peace knowing she is in heaven with your dad too! You will see her again!