Virginia Mae "Betts" Bope Golding Vogel

Virginia Mae "Betts" Bope Golding Vogel, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, peacefully departed this world on August 18, 2026, at the age of 95. Born on July 13, 1931, in Indiana, Betts graced this world with her vibrant spirit and compassionate heart, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her. Betts was the devoted daughter of William and Gertrude (Robbins) Bope and grew up alongside her brother, Norman "Dick" Bope. She was predeceased by her loving parents, brother, and two cherished husbands, Wilfred Gene Golding and James C. Vogel. Through life's trials and triumphs, Betts remained a beacon of strength and grace, embodying the love and resilience that she would pass down to future generations. Married to Wilfred on June 16, 1950, Betts was a loving wife and mother to their daughters, Jacqueline Jean and Carrie Sue. Wilfred's untimely passing in 1974 left Betts a young widow, but she persevered with courage and dedication to her family. In 1981, Betts found love once more, marrying James C. Vogel, who introduced her to the joys of golfing—a sport she embraced with enthusiasm, achieving the remarkable feat of being the first woman in Starke County to score a hole in one. Betts dedicated many years of her life to her work at the Starke County ASCS office and later at the Starke County Co-op in Brems. Her career was marked by her genuine care for the farmers she worked with, always eager to hear about their crops and lend a helping hand. Betts also served her community with distinction, holding positions on the Jackson Township Advisory Board and as Jackson Township Trustee. A woman of many talents and interests, Betts was an active member of Gleaner's Ober Arbor #477, Davis Weslyn Church, and the Starke County Republican Party. She was a proud member of the Jackson Township Women's Club and a former member of the Hamlet Golf Club. Her passions extended beyond her professional and civic life; she loved fishing, gardening, feeding her birds, and playing cards. An adventurous spirit, Betts encouraged her family to explore the world and embrace its beauty. Above all, family was the cornerstone of Betts' life. She cherished family gatherings and took great joy in celebrating birthdays and milestones with her loved ones. Her handwritten letters and thoughtful cards were treasures that kept her family close, no matter the distance. Betts' legacy lives on through her surviving family: her daughter, Carrie (James) Kuchel; her son-in-laws, Anthony Mildice Sr. and Tom Rausch; her grandchildren, Genelle (Keith) Hewlett, Anthony (Mary) Mildice Jr., Candace (Kristopher) Kotras, Whitney (Broc) Larrison, Aaron (Jen) Rausch, and Laura (Tim) Mason; and her great-grandchildren, Madeline (Aaron) Fletcher, Kylee (Paul) Chaffins, Sophia Hewlett, Quill Larrison, Douglas and Owen Thomas, Cooper Mason, Abram, Everett, and Kale Rausch. Betts also rejoiced in the arrival of her great-great-grandchildren, Anthony Chaffins and Wilder Fletcher. She is lovingly remembered by her brother Perry (Edna) Bope. A service to celebrate Betts' life will be held on August 22, 2026, at 11:00 AM, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and the remarkable life she led. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Betts' memory to a charitable organization of your choosing, reflecting her spirit of generosity and love for community. Virginia Mae "Betts" Bope Golding Vogel leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to family. She will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.