Sophie Van Fossen

Sophie Van Fossen (nee Filipchak), 83, of Vermilion, died Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at Kingston of Vermilion under the care of New Life Hospice. She was born December 13, 1926 in Donora, PA. and has been a Vermilion resident since 1947. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Vermilion. She was also a member of AMVETS Post #22 Auxiliary and VFW Post # 7576 Auxiliary. She volunteered for the Salvation Army and the Lorain County Food Bank. Sophie also known as "Sue" to friends and family enjoyed camping, cooking, gardening and walking. She enjoyed being with her family and spending time with her 3 sisters. Survivors include her daughter, Diane (John) Martin of Vermilion; sons, Mark Van Fossen of Vermilion and Lee Van Fossen of Lakewood; granddaughter, Gretchen (Eric) Millard of Amherst; grandson, Collin Martin of San Diego, CA; great granddaughter, Sophie Millard and sisters, Anne Congregane of Vermilion and Julia Bianchi of Brownsville, PA ; and several nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her husband, Daniel L. Van Fossen; parents, Jan and Katherine (nee Kuchaloski) Filipchak.; a sister, Mary F. Baltes and her loving kitty, Jake. A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, April 17, 2010 at noon at St. Mary Catholic Church, 731 Exchange Street, Vermilion. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to New Life Hospice, 5255 North Abbe Road, Elyria, Ohio 44035 or the Humane Society of Erie County, 1911 Superior Street, Sandusky, Ohio 44870. Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.