Virginia Ficker

On March 12th, 2011, surrounded by her family, our beloved and loving mother, Virginia Sullivan Ficker, slipped her mortal bonds and moved to a better existence. Virginia was born on December 13, 1932 to Del and Virginia Sullivan. Growing up in Denver, Colorado with four brothers, Frank, Robert, William and Richard (Buzz), mom learned to appreciate frogs, snakes and such. Mom attended the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she met her husband, Jack W. Ficker of 57 years. Four children and several moves brought Virginia to Bountiful, Utah. The 1970’s brought big changes to moms life when she went back to school at the University of Utah, where she graduated with a Masters degree in Education. Mom put her degree to good use teaching special education at Cyprus High School, where she taught for 18 years. Mom instilled a love of classical music as well as literature in all its forms in her children. A great love of green and growing things was another trait bequeathed to us. Building garden walls with dad and planting beautiful flowers in her yard were just a few of her passions. She loved nature, the house was always alive with Labradors and poodles and odd little rescues, enlivening our childhood. Her special friend, a long haired dachshund named Fritz, mourns her passing and offers his special brand of solace to the family left behind. Mom was active in the Bethsaida chapter of the order of Eastern Star for many years, holding many offices. Virginia is survived by her loving husband, Jack; and children, Sharon Cameron, Edward and Caryn Ficker, Jim and Melanie Ficker, and Linda Bogdanow; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two brothers, William and Robert Sullivan; and a host of nieces and nephews in her extended family. Virginia is preceded in death by her parents and two brothers. Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 19, 2011 at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful, Utah, where friends may pay their respects 1 hour prior to services. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Scottish Rite Learning Center.