Virginia Bishop

ACME — Virginia Ann (Oberlin) Bishop, 82, life-long resident of Traverse City and Acme, passed away Saturday, March 24, 2012, at Bortz Health Care in Traverse City.Virginia was born Sept. 23, 1929, to the late Wilbert and Esther (Pertner) Oberlin, in Traverse City. She graduated from Traverse City Central in 1947, and went on to Davenport College where she received her business diploma. On May 2, 1953, Virginia entered into marriage with Edwin K. Bishop at Trinity Lutheran Church in Traverse City.Ed and Ginny made their home in Traverse City, starting a family as Ginny made a career working at the Menmuir Zimmerman law firm. Ginny was meticulous and well-organized and, with her light-hearted attitude combined, allowed her to work in the same office for more than 40 years.She enjoyed every opportunity to spend time with friends and family. She was a proud and supportive grandmother, offering her time to babysit, cheering at sporting events and being involved in her grandkids' lives.Ginny was strong in her faith as an active and important part of the Trinity Lutheran Church congregation, where she taught Sunday School for many years. She was also the local representative for the Church Extension Fund for several years.She had many close friends and neighbors who she liked spending time with and entertaining. Ginny and Ed spent much time traveling and loved their time together sharing trips to many places. They often found themselves near the water, taking several cruises, visiting Hawaii, the Virgin Islands, and even staying on a houseboat on the Mississippi River.Ginny leaves a lasting and loving legacy with cherished memories for many to enjoy.Virginia is survived by her loving husband of nearly 59 years, Ed; their children, Nancy (Robert) Conklin, of Williamsburg, Sandra Wright and Randy Bishop, Ed's daughter Cheryl (Doug) Weathers, all of Traverse City; grandchildren, Robert (Amanda) Conklin, of Ludington, Theodore (Kristy) Conklin, of Elk City, Okla., Jeffrey Conklin, of Pekin, Ill., Kristopher Weathers (Niki Fassbender) and Kelly (Cory) Carlton, all of Traverse City; great-grandchildren, Adelaide and Colton Conklin, Preston and Tanner Conklin, Kiley and Corbin Carlton, and Aiden Weathers; along with many other loving family members and friends.Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; a sister in infancy; and her son-in-law, Tim Wright.Funeral services will take place at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 29, at Trinity Lutheran Church, with visitation one hour prior to the service. The Rev. Robert M. Zagore will officiate. Graveside committal services will be held at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens immediately following the service.Memorial contributions may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church or the charity of one's choice.Please share thoughts with the family at Ginny's online guest book at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.