Virginia Esten

Virginia "Jinny" Esten, died on August 27, 2012 at the age of 87. Jinny was a teacher of biology and outdoor education for over 40 years. Graduating Magna cum Laude from Butler University, she later was granted a Master's degree from the University of Michigan. Jinny graduated from two leadership training programs at the American Youth Foundation Camp Miniwanca, latter becoming an instructor, counselor, and class mentor.

She was well-known as an ornithologist and a camping professional. Jinny helped introduce and maintain the outdoor phase of biology wherever she taught. Exploring six continents to study birds, flora, and other fauna, she continually enriched her life and those of her stud3ents. As a military historian, she enjoyed engaging in war games with the military miniature figures from her extensive hand-painted collection. With this background, Jinny served as chairman of the Uninform Section of the National Button Society. Since 1935, Jinny has served in many leadership capacities as a member of Camp Fire, Inc. (formerly Camp Fire Girls) including Camp director and president of the Board of Directors. She was a member of the Indiana Academy of Science, Company of Military Historians, Great Lakes War-gamers Coalition, and the National Center for Great Lakes Native American Culture. She was a life-long member of the Indiana Audubon Society. Contributions may be made in her name to the Indiana Audubon Society, Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary or to the National Center for Great Lakes Native American Culture (NCGLNAC)

She is survived by her companion, Sharon A. Kidwell, and her dear friends Judy Lorenz Tisdale, Carole Notaras, and their daughters.

A Memorial Open House will be held on October 7, 2012 from 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. at 5475 N. Capital Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46208 (317-257-3833)