Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Virginia Ballard Hauser, affectionately known as “Gini,” passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026, in Vero Beach, Florida, at the age of 84.
Gini was born on July 31, 1941, in Appleton, Wisconsin. Gini was the first child to Paul and Emily Ballard and the oldest of 11 children. From a young age, she embraced a nurturing role, helping care for her younger siblings. At just 11 years old, during a fierce blizzard when the doctor couldn’t reach the house, she assisted in delivering one of her sisters, Margie—a testament to her calm strength and resourcefulness that would define her throughout life.
Her first job was at the local library, where she not only worked but taught her siblings the joy of reading and the importance of caring for library books so others could enjoy them too. This early love of knowledge and community carried into her lifelong career as a Registered Nurse. For 30 years, Gini provided compassionate care in intensive care, surgery, general nursing, and elder care, touching countless lives with her skill and kindness.
In October of 1962, she married the love of her life, Merle William Hauser Jr., beginning a devoted partnership that will last forever. Together, they raised four children, always prioritizing family above all. Gini ensured her children participated fully in school, sports, and social activities while instilling values of independence, intelligence, and the unbreakable importance of family.
An avid golfer in her earlier years, Gini later dedicated her free time to the game of bridge, becoming a Sapphire Life Master with over 3,500 masterpoints—a remarkable achievement that reflected her sharp mind, strategic thinking, and love of friendly competition. She cherished time with her husband, her children, her many siblings, and a wide circle of friends who were drawn to her warmth and generosity.
Gini is pre deceased by her beloved husband, Merle; and is survived by her four children: daughter Susan Primelo (Ralph ), Richard Hauser (Claudia), Teresa Hauser, Karen Hauser and grandchildren Anthony Primelo, Nella (Christopher O’Brien), Richard Hauser Jr. (Elizabeth) and Marc Primelo. She also leaves behind numerous siblings, extended family, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.
Gini’s life was one of quiet strength, unwavering love, and joyful dedication—to her family, her patients, her siblings, and the games and friendships that enriched her days. She will be remembered and cherished forever.
A private service will be held.
In lieu of flowers, Gini and her family kindly request that donations be made in her memory to the Vero Beach Bridge Center, 1520 14th Ave, Vero Beach, FL 32960, a place that brought her great joy and community. Donations can be made online at: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLRP6YF8K2NJH/checkout/CNNAUSHZVB2CKOYPJYOHAQVR
Our caring professionals are here to assist you and your family during this difficult time. We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week to assist in immediate arrangements or pre-arrangements.
Sharon Wolf
January 13, 2026, 8:16 pm
Bridge will never be the same for sooo many! She and Merle were the first neighbors we met when we moved to Vero and Indian River Club 21 years ago! We were so lucky!!! They mentored Terry in bridge and for the last years they have played bridge seven days a week!
Peace to our dear friend! Caring thoughts go to all of the family.
Thomas Lauterbach
January 13, 2026, 10:00 pm
Hausers,
Very sorry for the loss of your mother. She was such a great friend to my mother Eleanore, not the easiest person to be friends with. Gini and your dad were such great influences on me personally. Heck, I was a Marquette engineer who also had the good fortune of marrying a nurse! As the obit stated, your mother was a very caring person. I certainly saw that quality in her, and she raised very caring children as well. It’s hard, but I am sure you all will carry on as your mother and father would have you do. I’ll keep you all in my prayers. Take care and God bless. Sincerely, Tom Lauterbach
Marina Petrulla
January 14, 2026, 11:15 am
Karen, Teresa, and family – we know how much you adore your mom and how deeply she shaped each of your lives. We never had the privilege of meeting her but got to know her through you. May you take comfort in the warmth of many happy memories ❤️ Marina and Dominic Petrulla
Al (Alvie) Arnold
January 14, 2026, 12:46 pm
My condolences to Gini’s family. Gini and Merle were dear friends to my late wife Carolynand myself. We shared a lot of great times together.
Gini was a sweet, kind and caring person
May she rest in peace.
Al (Alvie) Arnold
January 14, 2026, 12:47 pm
My condolences to Gini’s family. Gini and Merle were dear friends to my late wife Carolyn and myself. We shared a lot of great times together.
Gini was a sweet, kind and caring person
May she rest in peace.
Gary Smith
January 14, 2026, 2:47 pm
Gini was one of the loveliest, most charming woman I’ve had the pleasure to meet. I met Gini and Merle at the bridge center soon after my wife and I moved to Vero. From the start, she was so warm and friendly, it was like I had known her forever.
A few years later when I was looking for a partner, Gini agreed to play with me and even though she was significantly better, she was the type of person who made YOU feel like you were the expert! We played many many times in person, and for about 2 years online. Never an unkind word, always humble, and the best kind of person to be around.
Just a kind, kind woman who will be greatly missed! Condolences to the family.
Karen Atten
January 14, 2026, 6:24 pm
How Heartwarming it is to read all of the sincere and loving messages from our sweet sister’s family and friends. Gini was a wonderful talented big sister to me. She taught me so many things! Always encouraging me to read quality books, how to dress as a teenager, how to take care of my nails(I was a serious nail biter until she gifted me a manicure set), how to style my hair. She inspired me to aspire to go to college, and to select high school classes that would prepare me for college. As a teenager She was an avid cheerleader, tennis player, and swimmer, serving, as a role model to us younger kids to engage in sports activities. After they moved to Florida we were not able to see Gini and Merle for many years. I only wish our families and our children had been able to reconnect more as we grew older. I loved her very much. My condolences and sincere thanks to Gini’s children for sharing beautiful photos, this lovely obituary, and this wonderful format for sharing messages and memories from all her friends and family. Karen and John Atten
Rose Cocchiaro
January 15, 2026, 8:43 pm
I never got the chance to meet your mother/mother in law but I know she must have been an amazing person to raise children as wonderful as you.I’m praying that you find peace in the beautiful memories that you all shared.Her spirit will always be with you and her love will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May she Rest in Peace
Rose Cocchiaro
January 15, 2026, 9:53 pm
I never got the chance to meet your mother/mother in law but I know she
must have been an amazing person to raise children as wonderful as you.I’m
praying that you find peace in the
beautiful memories that you all
shared.Her spirit will always be with you and her love will never be forgotten. My
thoughts and prayers are with you.
May she Rest in Peace