Virginia 'Gini' Bantle, 85; 'Had a Passion for Helping Others'

From Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home.

Virginia “Gini” Clark Bantle, passed away on Nov. 1, 2014 surrounded by family. She was 85.

She was born Sept. 26, 1929 to the late William Foster Clark and Grace Davis.

A graduate of Merchantville High school and University of Minnesota, she spent several years with U.S.O. in Western Europe as a Recreation Supervisor, from 1957 to 1959. She was married to Louis F. Bantle, former chairman of UST in January 1962.

Always together, Lou and Gini made a great team and made a huge difference in the lives of so many. Gini had a passion for helping others and was involved in numerous causes. From Explorer Post 53 in Darien, the Family Center in Greenwich, the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miami, and the House of Hope, St. Petersburg, Russia. Recently, Liberation House dedicated and opened “Gini’s House” in Norwalk, a facility for women in need of support services, low-income housing and addiction treatment.

Gini was a member of Old Palm Golf Club, Palm Beach Gardens FL, Winged Foot Golf Club, Mamaroneck, NY and Blind Brook Country Club, Purchase, NY. She had an infectious personality and her words of wisdom still ring true in many lives. She might have been wrong but never in doubt. She loved people and was admired for her wit and intelligence along with her ability to bring warmth, perspective and hope to so many that she touched and influenced.

Gini was predeceased by Lou, her husband of 48 years.

She is survived by her two children Robert C. Bantle and wife Lori of Cos Cob; Terri A. Walker and husband Chris of Rowayton; four grandchildren Brittany and Christopher Walker and Brooke and Kate Bantle. A large extended family and countless loving friends also survive her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Gini’s House, care of Liberation House Programs and Family Centers. Liberations House Programs 129 Glover Ave., Norwalk, CT 06850 or Family Centers of Greenwich, 20 Bridge St., Greenwich, CT 06830.

The Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home is handling arrangements.