Virgil Ray Woodhams

Virgil Ray Woodhams of McCook died Friday, February 16, 2007 at Community Hospital. He was 80 years old.

Virgil was born on December 11, 1926 in Denver, Colorado to George H. and Hazel M. (Lucas) Woodhams. He graduated from Manual High School, Denver, CO in 1944.

He entered the US Navy on February 28, 1945 and served during World War II. He was honorably discharged on July 20, 1946. He reentered on July 18, 1950 and served during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged on August 29, 1951.

Virgil married Ruth M. Kirch on October 4, 1953 at Denver, Colorado. To this union three children were born. They made their home in the Denver area where Virgil was a programmer for heavy construction for many years. Among some of his contracts was the Apollo Space Mission. They later enjoyed retirement in Forsyth, Missouri and then moved to McCook to be closer to family.

He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church.

Preceding him in death were his parents, George and Hazel Woodhams; and one sister, Delores Funke.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth Woodhams of McCook; son, James R. Woodhams and wife, Denise, of Murrieta, CA; two daughters, Cynthia M. and husband, Stephen Belanger, of Marietta, GA and Debra L. and husband, Douglas Swanson, of Indianola; one brother, David L. Woodhams, and wife, Juanema, of Grand Junction, CO; two sisters, Peggy Nolan of LaGrande, OR and Jean Pettigrew of South Carolina; and six grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in his name to Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church Building Fund, Forsyth, Missouri.

Memorial services were Tuesday, February 20, 2007, 10:30 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church with Pastor Brad Rick officiating. A private family inurnment will be held at a later time.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook is in charge of the arrangements.