Virgil Brunner McIlvain's Obituary
Virgil Brunner McIlvain, 53, of Hurst, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2017. A memorial service celebrating the life of Virgil will be held on Sunday, January 7th at 3:00 PM at the Wildwood Chapel of Restland Funeral Home in Dallas, Texas. A visitation will be held at 2:00 PM until service time at the funeral home.Virgil was born in Dallas, Texas on April 27, 1964 to John T. and Margaret McIlvain. He was a protective and loving father to Justin McIlvain and Chelsea McIlvain Heffley. Virgil enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family before enlisting in the U.S. Marines. He began his military career as a door gunner for Huey Helicopter. He also worked as quality control for the HMA-169 Cobra Helicopter and went on several West Pacific tours. Virgil then relocated to Cherry Point, North Carolina, where he was a lead instructor for the school support battalion. In addition to this, Virgil was dedicated to training and commanding fellow soldiers in Special Forces while serving in Central America and abroad. A man with no fear, Virgil also discovered a love for competitive bareback horse and bull riding. After completing his military duties, Virgil enjoyed the solitude of the country. He was an avid gun collector and enjoyed reminiscing with fellow service men and women in the Dallas area. Although Virgil could be a serious, no nonsense soldier, he also knew how to have a good time. He often played practical jokes on Justin and Chelsea and was quite confident on the dance floor. His family and friends will miss his sense of humor and generous heart.Virgil will be deeply missed by his son, Justin McIlvain of Arlington, Texas; daughter, Chelsea Heffley and husband, Corey Heffley of Frisco, Texas.He is now reunited with his loving parents, John T. and Margaret McIlvain, and sister, Andrea McIlvain-Dunn.
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