Virginia Elaine Waag

Virginia Elaine Waag, 76, of rural Fort Collins passed away August 1, 2011 at Pathways Hospice in Loveland. "Elaine" was born on April 8, 1935 in Denver. She was the daughter of Frank and Frieda Johnson of Fort Collins. Elaine Johnson married LeRoy Waag on March 18, 1952. They celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary in March. She lived in Vista, California for two years while her husband was in the U.S. Marine Corp. In 1954 she returned to Fort Collins to operate the family farms east of town. Elaine worked side by side with LeRoy on the farm, irrigating crops, truck and tractor driving, and tending livestock. She also raised three children, gardened, volunteered at school, and cooked fabulous meals for family, friends, and employees. During harvests, field workers enjoyed and appreciated the food she provided. In the winter months Elaine traveled to Mexico, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and numerous states. She enjoyed dancing, volleyball, sewing, knitting, crocheting, needlework, playing cards, watching the Broncos, attending her grandchildren's sporting events, and family gatherings. Elaine's heart and hands were never idle. Elaine is survived by her husband, LeRoy Waag of Fort Collins; daughter, Cheryl Zimmerman of Greeley; daughter, Sue Herkstroeter and husband, Ron of Fort Collins; and son, Darrell Waag of Fort Collins. She has eight grandchildren, Matt, Jessica, and Nicholas Zimmerman of Greeley; Katlyn and Kolter Herkstroeter of Fort Collins; and Alexander, Dustin, and Garrett Waag of Fort Collins. Elaine also has three great-grandchildren, Max Zimmerman, Jayde Zimmerman, and Elisabeth Elaine Waag. She was preceded in death by her great-grandson, Tyler Zimmerman. The family would like to thank all of Elaine's physicians, nurses, care-givers, therapists, friends, and neighbors who helped during the time of her illness. Memorial contributions may be made to Pathways Hospice in care of Bohlender Funeral Chapel, 121 W. Olive, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524. Private services will be held.