Virginia Lou Kiel

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Virginia Lou Kiel, age 87, of Grandville, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior in Heaven on October 15, 2021. She was born in Detroit, MI on March 8, 1934 to Robert and Helene Cooke, both of whom preceded her in death. She is survived by her faithful and loving husband of 66 years, Norman; children, James (Wendy) and Karen (Russell) Dempsey; five grandchildren, Sarah (Stephen) Kiel George, Matthew (Addie) Metzger, Ariel Dempsey, Jordan Dempsey, Tyler Dempsey; four great-grandchildren, Jhace, Kiely, Harper, and Alexandra. Virginia graduated as Valedictorian from Mackenzie High School in Detroit, MI in 1952, and received a full scholarship from the Ford Motor Company. She attended the University of Michigan, graduating with a BA degree in English and as an honored member of the Phi Beta Kappa and the Alpha Delta Pi sorority in 1956. On August 27, 1955, she married Norman Wilmarth Kiel of Grandville, MI. She completed her MA degree in Library Science from the University of Michigan in 1971, and subsequently became the librarian for Jackson Park Junior High in Wyoming, MI. Beloved by all her student volunteers and appreciated by both staff and students alike, she always enjoyed inspiring students in their discovery of independent thinking while instilling a love for books and literature. Virginia retired in 1989 after a highly successful and happy career to spend time with her family and travel the world. She and Norm traveled to over a dozen countries overseas, sailed extensively around Lake Michigan, and led Airstream trailer caravans within the US, Canada, and Mexico. Virginia dedicated her life on Earth to Christ, her family, church, and her dear friends. Relatives and friends may meet the family on Monday, October 18, 2021 from 5-7 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at 11 am at Grandville United Methodist Church, 3140 Wilson Ave SW, Grandville, with an additional hour of visitation prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to the United Methodist Church of Grandville, The Methodist House, or the Salvation Army.