Virgine Lynn McKnight

Virgine Lynn McKnight, age 76, passed away on April 9, 2026, in Lansing, Michigan. Born on June 9, 1949, to Joan Virgine “Judy” Kukuk and Leonard Carl “Pete” Kukuk, Virgine grew up on her parents’ farm in Winfield, Kansas.  While attending Kansas State University, Virgine met Patrick McKnight.  Upon his return from Vietnam, they married on November 9, 1969.  They moved and started their family in the Toledo area. Early in their marriage, her brother‑in‑law gave her the nickname “Jake,” a name that she was affectionately known by most of her life.  Virgine embraced life with the energy of a Toby Keith song—she loved boating, racing, dive bars, and Bud Light.  She had a talent for delivering memorable one‑liners at family dinners, the kind of comments her kids and grandkids will be laughing about and repeating for years to come.  In recent years, Virgine made her home in St. Johns, Michigan. She found community and joy at the Clinton County Senior Center, where she especially loved playing Euchre and spending time with friends who became like family.  She is survived by her daughters, Julie (Mike) Young of DeWitt and Jessica (Justin) Leonard of DeWitt; and by her six grandchildren, Henry, Eleanor, and Abigail Young, and Joe, Aida, and Sam Leonard. They were the pride of her life.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Clinton County Senior Center, a place that brought Virgine friendship, laughter, and a sense of belonging.  Her spirit, humor, and unmistakable presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.  Arrangements with Purse Funeral Home.  www.PurseFuneralHome.com

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