Virgil Vernon Vigen

**To view the memorial service, use this link: https://youtu.be/tV5jW35Dbwc

Virgil Vernon Vigen, a long-time resident of Grand Forks, ND, passed away from complications of pneumonia on February 15, 2021 at Banner Del E Webb Hospital, Sun City, Arizona with his children by his side.  Virgil will be missed by so many but knowing he is now with his son eases our hearts.

Virgil was born on August 6, 1936 in Hatton, ND to Ilan & Irene Vigen.  He attended school in Hatton until the 8^th grade to help with the family farm.

On June 16, 1956 Virgil married Jeanette C. Heffelfinger and they lovingly had 5 beautiful children together. 

In 1984 He married Beverly Holweger and they were together for 32 years.

Virgil worked for Peavy Elevator Company for 26 years.  In 1975 he purchased Johnny’s Lounge In Grand Forks, ND and was the successful owner for 46 years.  Virgil was a social butterfly, he loved being around his friends and meeting new people.  Being an avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and spent summers out at his lake camper at Pinehurst Resort in Minnesota or in Grand Forks ND.  He also wintered in Surprise, Arizona.  Virgil, being the owner of Johnny’s Lounge, when he walked through the door he was greeted like Norm from Cheers, everyone knew him.  He had a smile that made people feel welcome and a handshake for all who greeted him.  He loved to dance, if there was a band you could always find Virgil out on the floor.  When it came to telling jokes he had a gift, once he got on a roll you knew your cheeks were going to hurt from laughing.  Playing golf with his friends or family was a way to enjoy the love for the game and friendship. 

Virgil was a member of the Masonic Center in Grand Forks. Virgil entered his apprenticeship on 2/24/1993, Fellowcraft on 3/3/1993 and became a Master Mason on 3/24/1993.  He was a part of the Kem Mobile Nobles, a fraternity based on fun, fellowship and the Masonic principles of brotherly love, truth and relief.

Virgil is survived by his son Daniel (Nanon) Vigen, daughters Jeanie (Brian) Vigen, Debra Vigen, Jolene (Doug) Lane.  Grandchildren: Rachel (Joe) Hodny, Brittany (Cody) Salisbury, Eric Vigen, Tyler Vigen, Amanda (Daniel) Van Kalsbeek, Melanie (Jesse) Russell, Wyatt Vigen, Austin Lane, Kylie (Kaiser) Vigen-Nettum. Great Grandchildren: Karsen, Coltin, Kooper and Ruby, Brother Dennis Vigen and Niece Tori Vigen.

He is preceded in death by: His son Jeffrey Vigen, Parents Ilan & Irene Vigen, Brother Rodney Vigen, Jeanette Vigen, Beverly Vigen.

Funeral services will be held at the Masonic Center, 423 Bruce Ave Grand Forks, ND on Friday, May 14 at 11am with visitation from 10-11am.  Services provided by Amundson Funeral Home.  Amundson's will also provide a video of the funeral on their website after the service for those that were unable to attend. 

The family will have a celebration of life gathering August 7, 2021, at Johnny’s Lounge.  All are welcomed.  The family will also have a celebration of life in Surprise Arizona in December, date to come.