Ginger Gatlin '62 Arnold

Virginia (Ginger) Ann Arnold (nee Gatlin), age 77, of Lombard passed away on Friday, February 25, 2022.

Ginger was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Virginia Gatlin (nee Forst); brothers Daniel (Mary) Gatlin and Terrance Gatlin; brother-in-law Peter Sakelakos; and nephew Kevin Gatlin.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Patrick Arnold, Michael Arnold, Jeanne Arnold, Brendan Arnold, and Kathleen Arnold; grandson Lucas Arnold; brothers Joseph (Nancy) Gatlin and Michael Gatlin; sister Julie Sakelakos; father of her children and former husband James Arnold; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who all loved her deeply.

Ginger was born in Chicago, November 8, 1944. She attended Sacred Heart Catholic grammar school in Lombard, IL and graduated from St. Francis High School in Wheaton, IL before attending St. Agnes Nursing School in Fond du Lac, WI, graduating in 1965 with her Registered nursing degree.

Ginger had a long career in nursing at various hospitals in the Chicagoland area as an ER and OR nurse, helping the lives of so many people. Later in life, combining the love for her children and travel, she began a decade-plus journey as a travel nurse, visiting them all over the country. Her favorite destination was Hawaii, where she nourished her love of sea turtles, kayaking, and Hawaiian culture. One of her most cherished adventures was visiting Ireland with her mother, where they explored the family’s heritage and created many fond memories.

With unconditional love and kindness, Ginger cherished her family and friends, near and far, greeted everyone with a smile, and was always there when needed. One of Ginger’s greatest joys was being a grandmother and enriching the life of her grandson through activities, travel, and garage sale-hunting. She had a great love of books and crosswords, and found comfort tending her flowers and gardening.

Ginger touched many lives, and her faith, Irish spirit, and smile will continue to live on through her children, her grandson, and all those fortunate enough to call her friend.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 13, 2022, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Brust Funeral Home, 135 S. Main St., Lombard. Prayer service at 11:00 AM. Interment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside.

Info www.brustfuneralhome.com or 888-629-0094.