Virginia A. Martin

LOCK HAVEN - Virginia A. Martin, 82, of 33 Julia Drive, passed away Tuesday, September 25, 2012, at her residence. She was born July 7, 1930, in Troy, NY, the daughter of the late Carl E. and Mildred V. (Marvin) Martin. She attended Brown University, where she received a BA in English, and Columbia University, where she received an MA in English. She also attended Penn State University. Virginia was a dedicated teacher, mentor, and friend. An Associate Professor Emerita, Virginia taught Literature and Women’s Studies at Lock Haven University for 30 years, retiring in 1999. She founded the Women’s Studies Program in the early 1970s. For decades, she regularly taught summer courses in the Act 101/Educational Opportunity Program. She was the first recipient, in 1997, of the Woman of Distinction Award. In 2011, she established a fund for an annual essay contest in Gender Issues. For her many contributions to Lock Haven University, Virginia was inducted into the Alumni Association Roll of Service in October 2011. She is survived by her friend and companion Julie Story, two nephews, Peter Klee and Paul (Laura) Klee, and niece Susan Klee, all of the greater Philadelphia area. She enjoyed seven great-nephews: Joshua, Jeremy, Zachary, Gabriel, Jonathan, Brian and Alexander. She is also survived by two cousins, Arnold Castagner and Maurice (Shirley) Castagner, both of Vermont. A sister and brother-in-law, Joan and David Klee, preceded Virginia in death. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date to take place in Lock Haven. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in her name to the LHU Foundation, Durrwachter Alumni Conference Center, Lock Haven, PA 17745. Interment will be private at Union Village Cemetery, Norwich, VT. Arrangements are under the direction of the Helt Funeral Chapel, 232 Hogan Blvd., Mill Hall.