Virginia Mae Swanson Sunderhaft peacefully passed away in her sleep on Christmas morning 2024, in her Lowville, New York home where she had resided for over 70 years.

Born on May 25, 1920, in Webster, South Dakota, to Clara and Swan Swanson, Virginia's remarkable 104-year life is a testament to her unwavering faith, gentle spirit, fierce tenacity, enduring inquisitiveness, and ability to embrace change. Some may even attribute her longevity to her diet of an apple a day.

Growing up in South Dakota, Virginia graduated from Mobridge high school in 1937, and went on to pursue nursing at St. Luke's School of Nursing in Aberdeen, South Dakota, graduating in 1942. She then joined her family in Seattle, Washington, where she served in the Navy Reserve Nurse Corps, and was called to active duty as a Navy Ensign at the Navy Hospital in 1943.

It was in Seattle that she met her beloved husband, Robert (Bob) E. Sunderhaft, on a blind date—and it was love at first sight. In March 1944 she was honorably discharged from the Navy upon marrying Bob. Her discharge was pursuant by Navy regulations that married nurses were not allowed to serve. Bob and Virginia were married for 65 beautiful years until his passing in 2009.

In 1948, after World War II, Virginia and Bob returned to Bob's hometown, Lowville, New York, and opened the R. E. Sunderhaft Department Store on Lowville's "Four Corners".

Virginia balanced her nursing career at the Lewis County Hospital while lovingly raising their four children and working at the Department Store alongside Bob. In 1966 she embarked in a career at Lewis County Department of Social Services, where she retired in 1984 after holding the position as Director of Protective Services for ten years.

Embracing the simplest joys in life—music, crossword puzzles, crafts, birdwatching, family, holidays, and the views from her front porch—she was an inspiration to all. Her infectious smile and witty humor lit up any room. And she remained sharp until her final days—easily recalling memories and evoking laughter with every story she told.

The kitchen was her playground. Reading, critiquing, and trying new recipes was her favorite pastime well into her 90's. Her home was the gathering space for many memorable holiday meals and family celebrations.

Her sister Marian once remarked, "Virginia, you are the most curious person I know!"  This was certainly true as Virginia embraced the "digital age" with enthusiasm, delighting in connecting with family on Facebook and exploring the world through Google.

Virginia's faith was a guiding force in her life. She was an active member of St. Peter's Church, The Altar Rosary Society, and St. Theresa's Guild. She was also a member of the Hospital Auxiliary for many years.

Most important to Virginia was her family, who filled her heart with joy and purpose. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones and is survived by her four devoted children: David (Jan) Sunderhaft, Henderson, NV; Gene (Sophie) Sunderhaft, Turin, NY; Joan (Tom) Condon, San Antonio, TX; and Eric (Marcia) Sunderhaft, Lyons Falls, NY. Virginia's legacy also continues through her eight grandchildren: Kristin Sunderhaft, Heidi Sunderhaft, David Sunderhaft, Gene Sunderhaft, John Sunderhaft, Ryan Condon, Craig Condon, and Blair Smith; and her 12 great-grandchildren: Jessica Sunderhaft, Robert Sunderhaft, Samantha Sunderhaft, Andrew Sunderhaft, Jack Sunderhaft, Luke Sunderhaft, Kara Condon, Kent Condon, Owen Smith, Shane Smith, Liam Sunderhaft, and Alena Sunderhaft.

Virginia is predeceased by her husband, Bob, and four sisters, Helen Olsen, Evie Hamman, Phyllis Radtke, and Marian Holliday.

The family would like to acknowledge their heartfelt gratitude to the team of ladies that supported our mother the past four years with their compassionate care and friendship. Thank you to Dee Dee Berry, Deb Brigham, Michelle Burke, Dawn Buxton, Terri Hoch, Gloria Manzer, Darlene Michalski, Dianne O'Brien, Connie Peters, Kathy Powlin, Ellen Scanlon, Betty Swartzentruber and Mary Ellen Tyner.

A funeral Mass will be said on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 10 AM at St. Peter's Catholic Church with Rev. Jude Nnadibuagha, Parochial Vicar, of Holy Cross Parish, Plattsburgh, officiating.  Following the Mass, please join the family for a reception and eulogies in the church hall. Spring burial will be in the Lowville Rural Cemetery.

Family and friends may call on Friday, January 3, 2025 from 1 to 3 at the Sundquist Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Virginia's name may be made to: St. Peter's Catholic Church, 5439 Shady Avenue, Lowville, NY 13367