Virginia A. Baumgartner

Virginia A. Baumgartner 75 (Gini), of St. Columban’s on the Lake, formerly of Dunkirk, N.Y. passed away October 1, 2024 after a brief stay at the Chautauqua Nursing and Rehab Center, Dunkirk, N.Y.

 Gini was born on February 1, 1949, in Ithaca, NY, the daughter of the late Richard & Maud Saville. In addition to her parents, Gini was predeceased by her husband David Baumgartner in 2012. She was also predeceased by David’s son Tad Baumgartner, and brother in-law Michael Brzozowski.

 Gini and her husband David were happily married for 26 years. Gini met David when she went to work for Garden Gate Flower Shop as their bookkeeper in the early 70s. David was the proud owner of Garden Gate Flower Shop, a family owned and operated business of over 64 years. Gini was very much part of the success of the business and she was involved in every facet of the business. Both Gini and David gave their heart and souls to the family business until their retirement in 2011.

 Gini led a full and blessed life. She was a true inspiration to many due to her fighting spirit and appreciation for the gift of life. Gini was also known for being generous and kind, her favorite saying was “In a world where you can be anything, be kind”. She loved her dogs Dusty, and Carly, reading, music, puzzles, traveling, camping, visiting with her family and friends, and in later years being visited. Gini adored her husband, David; he was the true love of her life. 

 Gini became a resident of St. Columban’s in 2023. She quickly felt like part of the family there, and Gini’s family is grateful to the staff, administration and residents for the wonderful care and memories there.

 Gini is survived by one daughter: Kyle (Stephen Bixby) Baumgartner of Dunkirk, NY, her granddaughter: Kristina Gilbert of Lexington, KY, 5 Brothers and Sisters: Dick (Cheryl) Saville of Bergen, NY; John (Kathy) Saville of St. Petersburg, FL; Melissa Brzozowski of Fredonia, NY; Tricia Saville (Robert Miller) of Sheridan, NY; Holly (Michael) Leone of Watertown, NY. In addition, Nieces and Nephews: Erin (Jeremy) Martz of Rochester, NY; Brian (Kaleigh) Saville of Rochester, NY; Nicole (Angelo) Antonini of Rochester, NY; Kelly (Steve) Panek of Rochester NY; Caitlyn Saville of Las Vegas, Nevada; Abby Saville of Syracuse, NY; Roxanne (Keith) Glowniak of Dunkirk, NY; Michelle Leone of Watertown, NY; Melissa Leone of Watertown, NY; Michael Leone Jr. of Watertown, NY; Roger Baumgartner Jr. of Dunkirk, NY.

 Also 12 great-nephews and great-nieces: Josiah, Marco, Lydia, Levi, Michael, Karson, Jocelynn, Marqel, Avery, Chiatta, Emily, Eric. Her Aunt: Edna Saville of Orchard Park, and many cousins

 In addition to our gratitude to St. Columban’s, the family would like to thank and acknowledge the staff at both the Chautauqua County Nursing Home and Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative care for the thoughtful care and assistance for Gini, and communication with her family.

 There will be a private memorial service and burial. If desired, memorial donations may be made in Gini Baumgartner’s memory to St. Columban’s on the Lake, 2546 Lake Road, Silver Creek, NY 14136. 

 Arrangements by McGraw-Kowal funeral home.