Virginia Marie (Donley) Kienitz, 91, of Big Rapids, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026. She often said, “I’ve been lucky, I don’t have a bit of pain, and not many people live to be 100.”

Virginia grew up on her family farm in Paris, Michigan. She married Alton (Al) Kienitz in 1955. In 1953, she began working as a telephone operator for Michigan Bell, retiring in 1985. After retirement, she continued working in the Ferris State University Alumni Office.

Virginia’s greatest treasures on earth were her family and friends. She took great pride in serving her community, including time as a Big Rapids City Commissioner and as a member of the Commission on Aging. Virginia was also a landlord for over 50 years and a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church.

She is survived by her three daughters, Linda (Pete) Currie, Nancy (Mark) Patrick, and Carrie Heemstra; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alton; her son, Terry; her parents, Merlin and Marie Donley; and her brother, Richard Donley.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, Big Rapids on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. with visitation at 10:00 A.M. and lunch immediately following. A Rosary will be said on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 5:00 P.M. at St. Mary Catholic Church.

Virginia will be laid to rest at Mount Carmel Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Evergreen Terrace or the Big Rapids Public Library. Arrangements are entrusted to Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Homes, Big Rapids. To leave a memory or share a condolence, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com.