Virginia Engleman

Tribute

Virginia "Ginny" Engleman (née Fries), 84, passed away peacefully at home, on May 10, 2026, in Aurora, Colorado with her daughter Shannon as always, by her bedside. Born on March 12, 1942, in Bayard, Nebraska, Virginia lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and her love for animals. Virginia spent many decades as a dedicated pet sitter in the Metro Denver area. Her career brought comfort to countless families who entrusted her with the care of their beloved pets while they traveled. She continued this work well into her seventies, embodying reliability and compassion for both animals and their owners. Virginia leaves behind her son Scott Wilson (Theresa) and granddaughters Jess (Dan Alexander) and Jaime, all of Fort Collins, Colorado. She also is lovingly remembered by her daughter Shannon (Josh Gomez), grandsons Frank (Starr), Taylor, John, and Aidan (Kat) Naughton; five great-grandchildren—Alin, Colton, Lourdes, Bonnie, and Arthur Naughton—all residing in the Metro Denver area; and stepdaughter Tammy Engleman of Tucson, Arizona. Her brother Vern Fries (Karen), niece Katie (Gene Fiscus), and nephews Christopher (Michelle) and Neil (Kim) of South Dakota and Nebraska also survive her. Virginia was preceded in death by her beloved husband Gerald "Jerry" Engleman of Aurora; her parents Herman and Esther Fries of Bayard; in-Laws Al and Rae Engleman of Aurora; son-in-law Brian Naughton Sr.; grandson Brian Naughton Jr., both of Aurora; and stepson Fred Engleman of Tucson. A woman of many passions, Virginia found joy in tending to her garden and yard. She was an avid reader who cherished quiet moments with a good book. On occasion, she enjoyed trips "up the hill" to Blackhawk for card games—a pastime that brought her much delight. Raised Lutheran, Virginia maintained a strong connection to her faith throughout her life. She attended Mount Olive Lutheran Church before transitioning to online services due to health constraints. Her Bible remained at her bedside until the morning of her passing. Virginia’s generosity extended beyond life itself; she chose to donate her body to science through Science Care in hopes that it might benefit others in need. For those inspired by this act of kindness or wishing to learn more about such contributions, please visit www.ScienceCare.com.

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