Virginia Ullrich "Ginnie" Riordan

OKEECHOBEE - Virginia "Ginnie" Ullrich Riordan passed to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, Nov. 27, 2011, at the age of 91. Ginnie, a resident of Okeechobee, Fla., was born on May 24, 1920, in St. Louis, Mo. Her parents, Walter and Alma Ullrich, were also from St. Louis. Ginnie married Norman Gerren in 1937, William Cesak in 1958 and William Riordan in 2006. Ginnie earned a Bachelor of Science and Master's Degree from St. Louis University. She attended Holy Trinity Church in St. Louis where she was a Stephens' Minister before moving to Florida. She was a proud member of the Merry Widows, a Christian fellowship group at Holy Trinity and cherished the close friendship. Ginnie loved to sing, dance, and make those around her happy. She was known for her incredible smile that brought warmth and joy to many. Ginnie was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church. She performed in plays at the Okeechobee Community Theater, sang in the Peace Lutheran Choir, and entertained many with her wit and genuine, caring nature. Ginnie's Lutheran faith was strong throughout her entire life. She took great pleasure in sharing the Word of our Lord in hopes of helping others find the love of Jesus. Ginnie was an animal lover and cherished all of God's creatures. She was an avid reader and loved to learn and experience new things. She loved to travel and visited many far-away places including many European countries, Egypt, and Kenya; where she stayed with local tribes and enjoyed animal safaris; Israel and most of our United States. She loved spending time with her family and many friends. Most of all, Ginnie loved life and loved bringing happiness to others. Ginnie was predeceased by her parents, Walter and Alma Ullrich; husbands, Norman Gerren, William Cesak, William Riordan; brother, Norman Ullrich; son-in-law, Richard Weber; grandsons, Jerry Long, Dean Gerren; granddaughter, Laura Long; and many cherished pets. Ginnie is survived by daughters, Yvonne (Larry) LaMee of Okeechobee, Elaine (Rex) Kenyon of New Smyrna Beach, Fla.; son, Bill (Sheri) Cesak of Atlanta, Ga; grandchildren, Mike and Rae Long, Greg and Scott Reagan, Mark Jordon and Bret Cesak; great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; brother, Ray Ullrich; cousins; nieces and nephews; and many cherished friends. A memorial service will be held at Peace Lutheran Church, 750 N.W. 23rd Lane, Okeechobee, Fla. on Friday, Dec. 2, 2011, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the church or a favorite charity. Ginnie, a follower of Our Lord Jesus Christ, lover of life, family and friends will be missed by many. We love you Mom, with all our hearts. Friends may send online condolences at www.buxtonseawinds.com. All arrangements are under the care of Matthew and Paul Buxton of Buxton-Seawinds Funeral Home, 3833 SE 18th Terrace, Okeechobee, Florida.