Memorial Legacy Project Created For
“Miss Virginia” Starosta

The efforts of one person can impact the lives of many. Our Miss Virginia may have passed away, but her work at St. Joseph School (SJS) lives on through the many children she mentored in her quiet way.  The children knew that Miss Virginia was always on their side, but that they better behave!

A model of diligence and integrity, Miss Virginia Starosta died suddenly at the age of 83. Dedicating herself to St. Joseph for nearly 20 years, she was the one who rose daily at 4 a.m. and always made sure that the school was unlocked and lights were on by 6:15 a.m. for our early morning teachers.  Although Miss Virginia worked invisibly behind the scenes to keep the school running smoothly, the lack of her adept and skilled workmanship will be noticed by all now that she is no longer with us. Those who worked closely with her are mourning.

As families have asked how to remember Miss Virginia, the school will memorialize her life by creating a legacy project. Tax-deductible donations can be sent to St. Joseph Parish, 4824 Highland Ave., DG 60515. Make checks payable to St. Joseph. For more information, call Beth Harbauer, parish business manager, at 630-964-0216.

Additionally, Miss Virginia was instrumental in the creation of this year's Mosaic Furniture art project done by our middle-school students. Two pieces are still available for purchase. Although many wish to keep the pieces within the school, Sr. Dorothy Randall believes that Miss Virginia would want these pieces sold for this legacy project. To purchase these tables with a donation, contact Sr. Dorothy Randall, CSJ, through the school office at 630-969-4306.

To read about Miss Virginia's life and the Mosaic Furniture project, visit the TribLocal.

This exquisitely designed blue and white wicker porch table features a beveled glass center created and donated by Miss Virginia and Sr. Dorothy. Surrounding the center are stained glass pieces of iridescent blue with a white fill.  Miss Virginia, along with art teacher, Ginny Clark worked with middle-school students, teaching glass-cutting and mosaic design.  
(68"w x 24"d x 28"h)

This quirky, fun storage end-table is nicknamed the "Giraffe" because of its student-created design.  
(27"d X 27"w X 25"h)