Thief River Falls – Virginia Carol Feiock, 87, of Thief River Falls, living most of her adult life in Bemidji, passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Sanford Medical Center in Thief River Falls, with her loving family by her side.
Born December 25, 1936, in Aberdeen, SD to Eugene and Alvina (Block) Herrboldt, Ginger was baptized and confirmed into the Christian faith and was a follower of Jesus. After graduating from Aberdeen High School with the Class of 1954, she spent the following year at Northern State Teachers College, then completed her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, SD in 1958. Ginger sincerely loved being at “Augie” and treasured her college years. She was voted Homecoming Queen in high school and college along with her King and future beloved husband, Arlo James Feiock.
Ginger met the love of her life in the 7th grade. In an attempt to gain her attention, Arlo carved into a tree a heart with their initials inside. After some convincing, he won her heart, being truly devoted to him. After marrying on July 27, 1958, in Aberdeen, SD, the couple moved to Phoenix, AZ. Returning to Minnesota, the family lived in Brainerd and Cass Lake, ultimately residing in Bemidji.
While Arlo pursued pastoral education, Ginger taught in local schools and became a proud mother to their children, Matthew, Timothy, and Darcie. Throughout the family’s involvement in various church congregations, Ginger served and developed many important relationships with individuals she loved dearly.
In later years, Ginger built Watkins into an independent sales organization, allowing her to fulfill her desire to be present daily to raise their three children. With Ginger in the lead, she and Arlo built an impressive community and business. As a Watkins President’s Club member, Ginger spoke at several national conventions and was covered by the Twin Cities Business Monthly for her entrepreneurship. Once referred to as “today’s quintessential Watkins man,” Ginger and Arlo were able to make unforgettable memories traveling the world and building lifelong friendships.
Ginger was happiest spending time with family, riding a motorcycle with Arlo, reading, sewing, making beautiful quilts, knitting, crafting, and enjoying pontoon rides at their home. Easily spotted was “Mimi,” as she was called by her grandchildren, at local sporting events cheering them on. She had a green thumb and could grow nearly anything and make it beautiful. Ginger was a good listener and an even better storyteller. One of her favorite things to do was to share stories with her grandchildren. She was an avid Vikings fan and was joyfully able to attend a game with her family in 2022. If things did not go well for her favorite team, the words “stupid Vikings” were often uttered under her breath. She was truly one of a kind. With a loving and vibrant personality, she lit up every room she walked into. She had a heart of gold, a brilliant smile, and never wavered in hope and positivity. The quote, “God’s timing is always on time,” was an assurance in her daily life and displayed on a mirror in her home.
Rooted in her passion and love for the outdoors, Ginger enjoyed camping with her friends and family in God’s beautiful creation. She loved people, was always up for an adventure with her husband, and put her hope and trust in Jesus Christ.
She is survived by her three children, Matt (Sylvia) Feiock, Duluth, Tim (Michele) Feiock, Bemidji, and Darcie (Nate) Dalager, St. Hilaire; seven grandchildren, Adam, Josh, Jarod, Marryn (Cade), Annika, Alec, and Lila; sister, Colleen Sehnert; brother, Dick (Barb) Herrboldt; and many other relatives and friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Arlo on April 18, 2022; her parents, Eugene and Alvina; step-father, Adam Oberlander; brother-in-law, Keith Sehnert; and mother-in-law, Lila Feiock.
A celebration of life service for all those who lovingly knew her as “Ginger” will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 19, 2024, at the Evangelical Covenant Church in Thief River Falls with Pastor Bryan Dickson officiating. Burial will follow at the Community Cemetery in St. Hilaire.
Visitation will be one hour before the service.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.
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