Virginia Hepkema

Virginia was born in White Lake, Wisconsin and grew up in Antigo, Wisconsin.

Virginia loved her family dearly, and they were truly the center of her world. She cherished spending time with those she loved and never missed a special occasion. No matter where she was going, Virginia always made sure she was dressed to impress, with her hair and makeup done just right.

Virginia had a personality that was truly unforgettable. She was a die-hard Chicago Bears fan and loved listening to Waylon Jennings, Kid Rock and Willie Nelson. She enjoyed getting out, going places, and simply enjoying the day—something she liked to call “bumming around.”

She also had a wonderful sense of humor and a way of saying exactly what was on her mind. Anyone who knew Virginia can probably hear her saying one of her favorite phrases, “You’ve got to be shitting me!” It was just one of the many things that made Virginia uniquely Virginia and brought smiles and laughter to those around her.

Virginia retired from Abbott Laboratories in North Chicago after many years of dedicated service. During her time there, she formed friendships that meant a great deal to her. Retirement did not end those friendships, as Virginia continued to keep in touch with the close friends she made throughout her years at Abbott.

Above all else, Virginia will be remembered for the tremendous love she had for her family, her unforgettable personality, her sense of humor, and the joy she found in simply being together with the people she cared about. Her family and friends will deeply miss her presence, her laughter, and all of the little things that made her so special.

The memories Virginia created and the love she gave will remain in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

She is survived by her children, Rickey Henderson, Tamara (Joel) Gregerson, and Penny (James) Billeter; grandchildren, Jeremy (Christy) Gregerson, Johnny Schroeder, Jamie Oliver and Nichole Bonnivier; great grandchildren, Nathan Gregerson, Austin Schroeder, Kaden Schroeder, Jasmine (Sam) Helmick, Zackery Secketa and Nathan Bonnivier; great-great grandchildren, Grayson Helmick and Landon Helmick and grand-dog, Payton Henderson.

Virginia is preceded in death by late husband, Steve Hepkema; former husband, Rick Henderson; parents, William and Nellie Oliver; sisters, Jean Conn, Lillian Muellemann, Rose Bordeau and Marie Elliott; brothers, Lawrence Oliver and Vernon Oliver and great granddaughter, Alexis Oliver.

Special Thank you to close family friends, Ricardo and Maria Mendez

Visitation will take place Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Rd, Zion, IL from 10:00 to 11:00 am with a funeral service to begin at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Mt. Olivet Memorial Park, Zion, IL.