Jennie "Virginia" Martin

Jennie “Virginia” Martin of Walkerton, IN, formerly of Menifee, CA, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 14, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on June 20, 1936, in Foam Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada, she was the daughter of the late John and Mary (Moskaluk) Ostapowich. Virginia was a woman of deep faith, strong values, and unwavering pride in her Ukrainian heritage. A longtime administrative assistant in the insurance industry, she retired with the same grace and diligence that defined her career. On April 25, 1959, she married the love of her life, Frank Martin, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together, they built a beautiful life, and upon retirement, they created their own slice of paradise—affectionately known as "Shang-Ra-La"—in Menifee, California. A devoted member of Sun City United Methodist Church in Sun City, CA, Virginia lived her faith in both word and deed. Her dedication to her church family led her to become the beloved hostess of the weekly coffee hour, a role she treasured and poured her heart into. In recognition of her love and service, the church named its kitchen “Virginia’s Kitchen” in her honor—a tribute to her generous spirit and welcoming heart. Virginia proudly celebrated her Ukrainian roots in every aspect of life, especially through the art of creating traditional hand-painted Ukrainian Easter eggs, known as pysanky. Her passion for her culture was matched only by her devotion to her family and to her Lord. She also enjoyed crocheting, feeding hummingbirds, and sharing small joys with those around her. She is survived by her loving daughter, Veronica “Roni” (Steve) Daube; her stepsister, Natalie Bailey; and one nephew Michael (Donna) Richards; and one niece Paula (Don Allen) Esselmont. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Frank, and one brother. Per Virginia’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service to celebrate her remarkable life will be held at a later date. In remembrance of Virginia, may we honor her by living faithfully, loving deeply, and cherishing the heritage and traditions that shape who we are.