Virginia Finney-Lahde

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Virginia Mae Finney, also known as Virginia Lahde, who departed this life peacefully on May 25th 2024 at the age of 96. Born in 1927 to Viola and Art Ranger, Virginia was the granddaughter of Charlevoix boat builder Roy Ranger and sister to Alvin Ranger. She spent her formative years in the scenic town of Charlevoix, where she developed a deep love for nature and the outdoors.

In her early years, she married Jared Finney of Detroit, with whom she had two children, Jay and Jan. Her dedication to family was matched by her passion for education. As a devoted teacher in the Birmingham school system, she not only imparted knowledge but also inspired a generation of students through the Environmental Education program she founded. Her commitment to fostering an appreciation for the environment in young minds remains one of her most enduring legacies.

A true world traveler, Virginia embraced every opportunity to explore new places and cultures, enriching her life and the lives of those around her. Her adventures and experiences brought a unique perspective to her teaching and community involvement.

After decades of dedication to education, Virginia with her beloved husband of over 40 years, Jim Lahde, retired to the Upper Peninsula and later to her childhood home of Charlevoix. There, she continued to make significant contributions to the community as an active member of the Charlevoix Historical Society and the Garden Club.

Virginia was deeply devoted to her family which include Jay and his wife Linda, their sons Jared and Thomas; Jared’s wife Amber, their children Kate and Eleanor; Jan and her husband Kenny, their children Kayle and Charlie; Charlie’s wife Alicia, their children Carter and Kinsley. She also leaves behind three children and one grandson on Jim’s side; Cindy, Jim, Lori and her son Henry, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Her life was a testament to the values of family, education, and community service. Virginia's warmth, wisdom, and unwavering spirit will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the environmental consciousness she nurtured in her students and community.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Charlevoix Historical Society online at https://chxhistory.com/donate/ or by mail, PO Box 525, Charlevoix, MI 49720, in memory of Virginia Mae Finney (Lahde).

A family celebration of her remarkable life will be held at a later time. Rest in peace, Virginia. Your journey on this earth has ended, but your spirit and the impact you made will remain with us always.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign her online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com