Virgil A. Chihak

Virgil A. Chihak, age 89, of Spring Valley, MN formerly of Lourdes, IA passed away on Friday, June 19, 2020 at his home in Spring Valley. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Lourdes with Father Jerry Kopacek celebrating. All are invited to the graveside service at Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery. Military rites will be provided by the Elma American Legion Post #597. A public visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the funeral mass. Online condolences may be left at www.conway-markhamfh.com. Memorials may be directed to the family. Conway-Markham Funeral Home of Elma is assisting the family with arrangements. Virgil Chihak was born June 24, 1930, the son of Alois and Adella (Svestka) Chihak in rural Elma. He attended country school before completing his education at Rudolphinum School in Protivin. Virgil then entered the US Army on May 13, 1953 where he served his country in the post war German occupation until his honorable discharge in April of 1955. Virgil returned home to begin his farming career on the Chihak family farm until his retirement in 1995. On February 2, 1980, Virgil was united in marriage to Laveda Grove at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Laveda passed away on September 24, 1990. In his retirement, Virgil enjoyed lake life in Alexandria, MN with his friend, Nancy Schroeder until finally making his home in Spring Valley, MN. Virgil enjoyed fishing, gardening and visiting with his neighbors. Virgil is survived by his sister, Geraldine Lenehan of Alta Vista, IA; his stepdaughter, Kathy of Cedar Rapids, IA and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alois and Adella; his wife, Laveda; his brother-in-law, James Lenehan and great-niece, Jenny Schultz.