Virginia K. Welch, 81, of Grand Rapids, MN passed away on Sunday, August 6, 2023 at Grand Village, surrounded by her loved ones.

Virginia was born in 1942, in Grand Rapids, MN to Helen (Revoir) and William Zwhalen. She would later be adopted by her mother's husband, Lem Porter. Virginia graduated from Greenway High School in 1961. In June of the same year, she married Hugo Kronmyr in Bovey, Minnesota, and to this union, a daughter, Susan, was born. On September 10, 1983, Virginia married Gerritt "Blue" Welch in Grand Rapids.

Virginia continued her education at Itasca Community College and earned her certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant. For countless years, she dedicated herself to caring for others at Grand Village in Grand Rapids.

She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was indulging in her love for bowling, creating needlepoint designs, or crafting culinary delights that warmed the hearts and bellies of her loved ones. She is also noted for her love for the King, Elvis Presley.

Virginia was affectionately known as "Grandma Buttons" to her adoring grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her nurturing spirit, warm embrace, and infectious laughter made her a cherished matriarch, and her legacy of love will undoubtedly be passed down through generations.

Virginia was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles where she formed lasting friendships and contributed to the betterment of her community. She also volunteered at Murphy School. Her absence will be deeply felt by her family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known her.

Preceded in death by her mother, Helen Violet Porter; fathers, William Zwahlen and Lem Porter; sisters: Mary (Freddie) DeCenzo, Helen Jean (Joe) Crimaldi; nieces: Michelle and Cheryl Castellano, and Misty and Teresa Crimaldi; great-granddaughter, Hailey Mae Hunter; sister-in-law, Lana (Robert) Wilson Porter; special friend Joy Kromptich; great-nephew, Eric Hafar; great-niece Serena Elkins; and numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins.

She is survived by her husband, Gerritt P Welch; daughter, Susan (Kronmyr) Johnson; brothers, William (Jean) Porter, Robert Porter, and Gary (Mary Beth) Porter; grandchildren: Kelli (Chris) Stigen, Ryan (Cassi Smith) Johnson, and Paige (Sam Lemperle) Johnson; great-grandchildren: Gage Hunter, Kayden Stigen, Christopher Graves, Lily Stigen, Bella Stigen, Florence Johnson, Magnolia Johnson, James Mortensen, and Rowan Smith, best friend Sharon Melbo, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 10:00 am followed by the memorial service at 11:00 am at Rowe Funeral Home, Grand Rapids, MN. Following interment, a reception will be at the Bass Brook Community Center (105 NW 5th Street, Cohasset, MN 55721) at 1:00 pm. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery, Coleraine.