Virginia May Rustad (née Gross)

Age 97 of Roseville, MN passed away peacefully in her home on November 29, 2024.

Preceded in death by parents, Michael and Anna (Ochs) Gross; and brother, William Gross.

Survived by children, William (Myrna) Rustad of Alexandria, MN, Patricia Rustad of Melbourne Australia, Thomas (Stacey) Rustad of Cottage Grove, MN and David (Erika) Rustad of Roseville, MN; grandchildren, Christopher (Lori), William, Gavin, and Gabriella; great grandchildren, Cole, Quinn and Paige, many nieces, nephews, and great friends here and in Australia.

Virginia was born on December 5, 1926, in St. Paul, MN. She married and had a daughter and three sons. She was also the ‘chosen or second’ mother and grandmother to many of her children’s friends.

Virginia went to St. Bernard’s Elementary School and graduated from Washington High School. After graduating, she went to work for an insurance company and then Commercial State Bank of St. Paul. Virginia had a natural ability with numbers. Later in life, she returned to the workforce and joined West Publishing Company. She worked as a proofreader and then as a personal assistant to the Comparing Department Manager. She retired in 1990 from West Publishing after 20 years.

Her greatest enjoyment was spending time with her family and friends. She loved watching the birds in her bird feeder, (her favorite was the cardinal). She enjoyed gardening and spending time outdoors. She was a gifted seamstress with an attention to detail, enjoyed word puzzles, reading and physical activity. She stayed active by maintaining her home, walking regularly, and attending Jazzercise and Pilates classes.

She traveled to Europe and Australia multiple times with family, friends and on her own. Virginia had a curious nature and often said, ‘I don’t want to miss out on anything’. Her attitude kept her youthful in mind, body, and spirit.

We will miss you deeply and you will always be remembered for your dedication, love, and laughter you brought to our family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the Church of St. Odilia, 3495 Victoria St N, Shoreview. Visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 - 11:00 AM. Virginia’s funeral Mass will be live streamed. A luncheon will be served following the service. 

Private interment at Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Virginia’s memory to the Animal Humane Society or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.