Our mother, Virginia Bleeg, passed away at home exactly one year after the love of her life, Chuck Bleeg. Virginia was born in Portland to Dr. Ralph and Eleanor Sharkey. She grew up in the Irvington neighborhood with her two older sisters, Eleanor and Margaret. She graduated from Madeleine High School and Marylhurst College.

After a short career as a commercial artist, she married Chuck in 1950 and embraced life as a mother, welcoming seven children. She made their home a beautiful, serene refuge amid the chaos, transforming every inch of woodwork, wallpaper and furniture by herself. Well read, politically savvy and more inclined to listen than talk, she was great company, and offered kind counsel to those who sought it. A natural mother whose love never wavered no matter how we tested her, she especially loved newborn babies. She served as executive director of Birthright of Oregon, supporting mothers in need. She and Chuck enjoyed the Southern Oregon Coast, where she created yet another beautiful home. A lifelong Catholic, Virginia prayed the rosary daily and believed in miracles. We believe she was one herself.

Virginia leaves behind all seven of her children, Margaret, Joan, Ann, Susan, Chuck, Paul and Sarah; 19 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. At her request, a small family Mass has been held. Remembrances may be made to the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, Mother & Child Education Center, or Providence Child Center.