VIRGINIA MAE KOCHEMS (née Budniak), 98, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025 at her home, where she lived for 74 years.
Born on June 13, 1926, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Charles and Clara Budniak, Virginia was a petite yet strong and independent woman. She found great joy in gardening; she took great pride in caring for her lawn, continuing to mow it herself well into her 90s. Virginia also loved spending time outdoors, walking the family’s dogs in the park and relaxing in her backyard under the shade of her swing glider.
Virginia was preceded in death by her husband, Roy G. Kochems, and her brother, Norbert Budniak. She is survived by her three sons: Robert (Deborah Little Kochems, deceased), Tim (Pam McCormick), and Lee (Jeffery Christopher-Kochems, deceased); granddaughter, Alane Kochems (Eric Holtgrefe); great-grandchildren, Elizabeth and Jonathan, and her sister-in-law, Doris Kochems.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Virginia’s dear friend, Linda Buhrer, and to Rose McEathron for their unwavering support. A special thank you goes to Dr. Michael Harrington for his compassionate home visits and care, Denise Shanno for her daily assistance and companionship over the past three years, the dedication and attentiveness of the women of Rosecare Senior Care, and the team at Crossroads Hospice for their experience and sensitivity.
Funeral Mass 9:30 a.m. Friday, February 14, 2025 at St. Charles Borromeo Church, 5891 Ridge Road, Parma 44129 (please meet at church). Interment Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. Friends received at GOLUBSKI FUNERAL HOME, 5986 RIDGE ROAD, PARMA 44129 on THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2025 from 3-6 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Crossroads Hospice Charitable Foundation or Northeast Ohio SPCA Pet Shelter.
