Virginia Marie Connare (Linehan) died peacefully in her home, surrounded by her family, on October 13th, 2024. It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon. The sun was shining on her through the window, an altar of sorts had been created near her displaying cards and flowers from loved ones, and her favorite artist, Bonnie Raitt, was playing softly from her phone.
Virginia was born in Buffalo in 1950 to John and Edna Linehan. She was the second of four siblings, to whom she remained very close all of her life. She always cherished her family. Virginia attended Holy Spirit School, Mt. St. Mary’s Academy, and SUNY at Buffalo. Growing up in Buffalo, Virginia made many lifelong friends.
Virginia moved to Santa Cruz in 1972 and she began working at Thomas J. Lipton (Unilever) shortly after arriving. Her job as a lab technician at Lipton suited her well, and allowed her to craft the life of her dreams. At Lipton, she made many dear friends, who meant so much to her throughout the years.
In 1978, after reconnecting in California, Virginia married Terrence Connare, a fellow Buffalo native. Terry and Virginia would go on to welcome two children – in 1980, Shannon Mae, and in 1982, Michael Kenneth. They raised their children in Live Oak, in a home that they lovingly tended. Virginia devoted herself to being a mother and was an exceptional source of love and stability, beyond what words can say. Virginia’s love extended to the friends of her children, some of whom became like family.
In 2005, Virginia retired from Unilever and went on to work part-time at Santa Cruz Biotech. Wherever she was, at work or with friends and family, Virginia brought with her her practical nature, a talent for managing the details, and her wonderful sense of humor. Virginia fully retired in 2011.
Virginia loved the ocean and was always grateful to live in Santa Cruz. She walked everyday and enjoyed Pilates, reading, baking, and gardening. She loved children, and being a bonus grandma to the Rachleff and Araujo children brought her much joy, as did being an aunt and a great-aunt. Virginia’s love and support continues to be felt by those who knew her.
Virginia’s ashes will be spread in Big Sur, a place she described as “heaven.” A celebration of life will be held for Virginia in Santa Cruz in the spring.
Author: gqlshare
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/obituaries/virginia-marie-connare-aptos-ca/