Arija Jirgensen, 92, passed away in Wheaton Franciscan-All Saints on Friday, August 26, 2016.  She was born in Latvia on August 7, 1924, the daughter of the late Alexandris and Zelma (nee: Vebers) Vinogradova.

Arija fled Latvia in 1945, at the end of World War II, leaving behind her entire family, to escape Communist occupation. She spent five years in a displaced persons camp in Germany, where life was extremely hard. There she met the love of her life and future husband, John (Janis) Jirgensen.

On November 20, 1950, here in Racine, she was united in marriage to John A. Jirgensen. He preceded her in death on December 17, 1997. They started a family and she became a homemaker. In the late 60's and early 70's she was employed as an aid for Dr. Charles Alexander.

Arija was an avid gardener of flowers, vegetables, and fruit. She loved the theatre, ballet, and the arts. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, and crocheting. She and John had many rescued pets, dogs and cats, throughout their lives. Holidays and special occasions were enjoyed with lavish banquets and spirits in their home.

Dressed to the nines, she always looked fabulous no matter what her age. She relished being a nurturing and fun loving grandma to her grandchildren. Taking them on countless fun adventures: the beach and the quarry every summer, the Nutcracker Ballet in Milwaukee every Christmas, Latvian events, musicals, movies, etc. Becoming a great grandparent was one of her last great joys.

Arija received the best care, the last two years of her life, at Lakeshore Manor where all the staff will miss her very much.

Her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and friends will always remember the joy that she brought to our lives and forever miss her.

Surviving are her children Rita (Charles) King, Edwin (Patti) Jirgensen; grandchildren, Heather Jirgensen, of Racine, and Robert Jirgensen, of South Milwaukee: great grandchildren London Arija and Camden J. Pugh; her sister Taisia Elbrets and many nieces and nephews in Latvia. She was also preceded in death by her sister Lidija Gajevska in Latvia.

Special thanks to all the wonderful and caring staff at Lakeshore Manor.

If you wish to make a memorial in memory of Arija please direct them to H.O.P.E. Safehouse, 1911 Taylor Avenue, Racine, WI 53403.

Honoring Arija's wish, a private family service was held in the chapel of West Lawn Memorial Park followed by entombment.

Service Details

If you wish to make a memorial in memory of Arija please direct them to H.O.P.E. Safehouse,     Special thanks to all the wonderful and caring staff at Lakeshore Manor.

1911 Taylor Avenue, Racine, WI 53403.

Honoring Arija's wish, a private family service was held in the chapel of West Lawn Memorial Park followed by entombment