Lifelong "Duck Creek" resident Virginia "Virgie" Williquette, died peacefully in the comfort of her home on Thursday, May 17, 2012. She was 87.

A Life Remembered?

Born Virginia Catherine Weyenberg on May 4, 1925 to the late Peter and Josephine (DeCoster) Weyenberg, she was one of 13 children.

Growing up in a large family during difficult times, Virgie learned to face adversity with strength and courage ?? virtues that would serve her throughout her life. Her humble upbringing instilled a keen sense of tolerance and an open-mindedness that bridged generational gaps and earned her such labels as "cool" or "hip" amongst her grandchildren and great grandchildren alike.

As a woman who embraced and accepted new ideas, new ways of life, new family members and extended family members, Virgie was much loved and deservedly adored.

A Family Raised ?

On June 19, 1943, Virginia Weyenberg became Virginia Williquette when she married her husband of 47 years, Nicholas "Nick" Williquette. Nick and Virgie raised six children together. In addition to their commitment to family, Nick and Virgie were active members in their community and church. Virgie was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 7534, Catholic Society of Foresters. They were involved in booyah parties, church picnics and fish fries in their garage. Nick preceded Virgie in death on March 21, 1990.

A Love Like That is Hard to Find TWICE!

Some women have a hard time finding one good man. Virgie, well, she was fortunate enough to find not one, but two! Her husband, Nick, was a wonderful husband and father. Years after Nick's passing, Virgie met and fell in love with her partner of 18 years, Bill Sell. During their many years together, Virgie and Bill enjoyed golf, bowling, trips to Arizona, and ""up north' at Bill's cottage, going out to dinner, and spending time with their families.

A Mark on the world?

May 4th marked Virgie's 87th birthday. At her request, family gathered for a small and intimate celebration. This time, spent with those she loved so dearly, meant everything to her. In the day leading up to her death, friends and family visited with Virgie at her bedside. During her final hours, Virgie was encircled by the love of her family and her beloved, Bill. Virgie began her Sentimental Journey into the eternal light on the morning of May 17th.

Virgie is survived by her children, Mike Williquette; Faye Eastman; Pat (Julie) Williquette; Jill (Jim) Grunwald; Jack Williquettte; her companion and best friend for 18 years, Bill Sell; extended family Diane Sell; Dan Sell; Nancy Sell; Jane Sell; Mary (Scott) Meyers; Larry Sell; Tony Sell; Lisa (Steve) Wolters; sister, Mary Botdorf; brother, Don (Marie) Weyenberg; sister-in-law, Ruth Weyenberg; son-in-law, Mike McAvoy; grandchildren: Michelle, Marne, Kari, Kelly, Chad, Patrick Jr. , Michael Jr. , Tommy, Matt, Heather, Jenni, Jacob, Jessica, Brooke, Chad, Jessie; extended grandchildren: Kristy, Holly, Melissa, Meghan, Mark, Olivia, Lauren, 41 great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Nick; daughter, Karen McAvoy; son-in-law, Jeff Eastman; grandson, Jason Smurawa; extended grandson, Gregory Myers; sisters and spouses, Evelyn (Harry) DeValk; Lucille (Ed) Sobieck; Della (Lloyd) Welch; Lorainne (Bill) Carney; brother-in-law, Fred Botdorf; brothers and spouses, Clarence (Jose) Weyenberg; Willard (Marie) Weyenberg; Milton (Margaret) Weyenberg; Butch Weyenberg; Mike (Jane) Weyenberg; Gordon (Joyce) Weyenberg; brothers-in-law and spouses; Ambrose (Francis) Williquette; Melvin (Eleanor) Williquette; sisters in law and spouses, Mildred (Tom) Landwehr; Mary Ann (Frank) Baeb.

Family and friends may call at the Pfotenhauer Funeral Home & Cremation, Howard-Suamico location, on Monday, May 21 from 4 until 8 p.m. and after 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. John the Baptist Church, Howard. Mass of Christian Burial 11 a.m. Tuesday at the church with Rev. John Bergstadt presiding. Burial in the church cemetery. Online condolences are welcome at www.PfotenhauerFuneralHome.com

A memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the Unity hospice doctors and nurses for their sincere concern and care, especially Sue; and Dr. Amy James for her experienced guidance.

PFOTENHAUER Funeral Homes & Cremation Service (920) 434-2060

A Tradition of Excellence