Virgil A Longnecker

VIRGIL ALLEN LONGNECKER, 78, a very special man to all his family, many friends and clients, passed away peacefully at his home in Olympia, WA on December 5, 2013. Virgil was the youngest of seven children born and raised to Harvey and Georgia Mae (Pincott) Longnecker on August 22, 1935 on the family farm in New Rockford, North Dakota. He attended Wahpeton State School of Science in ND until he was politely asked not to return to campus housing. He was a spirited rebel with an everlasting positive outlook on life and a heart of gold. Virgil was a great man who was known for helping people in need of a second chance.

Virgil’s first professional job was as a bookkeeper at Mayville Motors in North Dakota. He convinced his potential employer that he could keep their books despite having no experience at it. It was there that Virgil became a self-taught accountant and began an impressive career.

Virgil married Ila Alice Rossow on February 27, 1955. In 1960, Virgil and Ila moved to Olympia, WA with their three young children. Ila preceded him in death. Virgil’s first job in Olympia was with Charlie Stickney, CPA. More than 50 years ago, Virgil started his own company in a one room office. Longnecker Accounting and Tax Service has thrived ever since. Virgil enjoyed his family through the years, coaching little league baseball, water skiing, and four- wheeling. Virgil’s family and many others often expressed their appreciation for his business expertise and the sound advice he offered to help their own businesses. Notably, Virgil co-founded J& I Saw shop in 1974.

Virgil spent the last 30 years of his life with his loving partner Helen Rhodes. Together they enjoyed family, traveling, golfing, the Seahawks, the Mariners, and working together.

Virgil is survived by Helen, his three children Mark Longnecker and Randy (Lori) Longnecker of Olympia, WA and Cindy Longnecker-Allen of Eagle, ID, his seven grandchildren Angela, Greg, Brent, Crystal, Nicole, Riley, and Jay; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Virgil was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Lorraine, George, Leo, Viola, Zella and Alvina.

A service will be held at Mills and Mills Funeral Home on Thursday, December 12, 2013 at 1:00pm. A celebration of Virgil’s life will continue after the service with a luncheon and spirits next door at Pellegrino’s Event Center.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Lung Association or the Seattle Children’s Hospital.