Micka, Mary Virginia, CSJ A passionate educator, poet and artist, "with a sly wit and a keen eye for the large implications of small, everyday events," are just a few attributes those who knew her best use to describe Sister Mary Virginia Micka, CSJ. Born Carol Ann Micka in Hibbing, MN on May 12, 1922, she died peacefully on August 14, 2018 at Carondelet Village in St. Paul. Sister Mary Virginia entered the CSJ community in the fall of 1943. In 1948 she earned a BA in English from the College of St. Catherine, and later an MA in English from the University of Notre Dame in 1956. In the late 1940's Mary Virginia taught English, journalism, and religion at St. Margaret's Academy in Minneapolis, and in 1950 she went on to teach for 42 years in the English department of the College of St. Catherine where she inspired countless students with insights into how great literary works speak to us of the human condition. Her own writing prowess spanned more than 50 years, with several published collections of poetry including Three Bridges, In My Own Voice, and Half a Hundred. The fruits of retirement were also plentiful as, with brush in hand, she entered the art world creating pieces that were exhibited in many venues including both St. Catherine and St. Thomas University. Of note, at 82 years young, she presented a six-week exhibition featuring her watercolor paintings, charcoal drawings, and poetry. Of her poetry she writes: "Poetry for me is trying to hear what's coming up from within. It is very much like the expression of prayer." Sister Mary Virginia is preceded in death by her parents Edward Joseph and Anna Evelyn (Polasky) Micka. She is survived by sisters Elizabeth Micka Thouin and Marian Micka Pearson; many nieces and nephews; countless friends; and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and Consociates. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, August 17, 2018 at 11:00 AM, in Our Lady of the Presentation Chapel, 1884 Randolph Avenue, St. Paul, MN with Visitation at 10:00 AM preceding Mass. Burial at Resurrection Cemetery in Mendota Heights, MN, will follow luncheon at the Carondelet Center in St. Paul. Memorials preferred to the Sisters of St. Joseph Ministries Foundation. Sister Mary Virginia, rest in love and peace. Willwerscheid Funeral Home & Cremation Service 651-228-1006