Virgil Marsh

Virgil Allen Marsh, 93, of Eaton County, Michigan, and Citrus County, Florida, was called home to the Lord on October 22, 2025.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Darlene (Weldon) Marsh, whom he dearly loved, and their children: Steven (Sharon) Marsh, Valorie (Donald) Buck, Scott Marsh, and Penny Marsh, a blessing he cherished deeply. He was preceded in death by his son, Wane Marsh. Virgil was a loving grandfather to Rebakah Marsh, Elizabeth Reitenbach, Zachariah Buck, Jeremiah Buck, Alyssa Kolis, Sarah Marsh, and Anna Duby, and a proud great-grandfather to ten.

Born on July 21, 1932, in Dimondale, Michigan, to Wesley Marsh and Ruth (Ireland) Anderson, Virgil was the brother of Judy and Mary, who preceded him in death, and is survived by his brother, Lio “Bob” Marsh.

During the Korean War, Virgil served in the United States Air Force from 1950 to 1953 as an Aircraft Mechanic First Class. He later continued his military career with the Michigan Army National Guard and the Army Reserves. During Operation Desert Storm, he was recalled to active duty, where, though holding the rank of Master Sergeant, he served as the acting Sergeant Major and Senior Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC) of the Military Police at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, overseeing region-wide security operations.

He retired from General Motors in Lansing, Michigan, where he worked in plant security and was known for his long hours and strong work ethic. He carried that same drive into retirement, rarely sitting still and always finding something to do; his calloused hands were never idle.

A faithful servant of Christ, Virgil attended Chester Gospel Church and Suncoast Baptist Church. He lived his faith through acts of kindness, generosity, and service. He found joy in serving others through the church’s food pantry, feeding those in need. He gave his time generously to the Citrus County Fair, where his efforts were central to its operation, and to Shady Green Pastures Bible Camp in Charlotte, Michigan, where he contributed in countless ways, from mowing the acres and building the pavilion to roasting a steer overnight for the annual Gospel Sing. At his church, he delighted in handing out cones from the soft-serve machine he purchased, bringing joy to children and reflecting his generous spirit.

Virgil was a man of great presence, with radiant blue eyes, a larger-than-life personality, and a deep faith that will continue to inspire those who knew him. He loved sharing meals with family, especially when they included butter pecan ice cream, coffee, or cherry pie. Above all, he loved Jesus, his family, and his country. Virgil was a force for the Lord, living with intensity, conviction, and love that bore witness to his Savior.

A memorial service will be held at Chester Gospel Church, 3744 W Vermontville Hwy, Charlotte, MI, on November 1 at 10:00 a.m.