Virginia Lucille Artz, 82, passed away on October 4, 2006 in Kennewick, Washington. She was born in Carson, Washington on June 20, 1924. Virginia was the youngest of eleven children born to Edgar and Jo Pearl Brumitt. Virginia attended school in Carson, Washington. After graduating from high school, she worked as a machinist in the airplane factories in Portland, Oregon during WWII. After the war, Virginia attended bible college in Eugene, Oregon. It was during that time she met Arnold Josiah Artz. They were married on January 17, 1947 at St. James Rectory in Vancouver, Washington. They moved to the Tri-Cities in 1948. Together they had seven boys. Virginia always seemed to be the ''block mother,'' opening her home to all the neighborhood children, nieces and nephews, always making them feel welcome and safe.

She is survived by her sons, Clayton Laurie of Nampa, Idaho, Kenneth Pam of Richland, Michael of West Richland, Gregory of Richland, Christopher TJ of Richland, and Terence Monica of Seattle, Washington. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents and siblings, son Timothy, and husband of 56 years Arnie.

There will a viewing at Einan's Funeral Home on Sunday, October 8, 2006 from 1:00 to 6:00 pm. The Rosary will be at 6:00 pm on Sunday following the viewing and Mass of Christian Burial will be at Christ the King Church on Monday, October 9, at 10:00 am. Internment will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens following the services.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made on behalf of Virginia Artz to Christ the King Catholic Church, Richland, Washington.