Robert "Bob" Virkstis

Bob was born on June 2, 1930, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and later made his home in Atlanta, Georgia, where he built a life rooted in faith, family, and community. A proud patriot, Bob served his country honorably in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He was awarded the Air Medal and Oak Leaf cluster for meritorious service during extended bombardment and cited for the Distinguished Flying Cross in Korea as well. Bob was also an accomplished athlete, as a left-handed pitcher in the farm league system, and carried his love of sports throughout his life. He worked for 33 years as a US Postal Letter Carrier.

Bob found great joy in the simple moments—spending time fishing, supporting his family, and watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren pursue their passions. He was a longtime and faithful parishioner of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Hapeville, where he worshipped for more than 60 years.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Virginia Virkstis; longtime companion, Geneva Thomas; daughter, Jennie Brown; brother, Jack Virkstis (Rusty); sister-in-law Marge Virkstis and brother-in-law, Jim Richardson.

Bob is survived by his loving siblings, Patrick “Pat” Virkstis (Lynn), Mike Virkstis, and sister Jean Richardson; his children, Sandy Virkstis, Teresa Alford (Dan), Joseph Virkstis (Barbara), and son-in-law Floyd Brown; and his grandchildren, Ashley Reid (Josh), Tyler Virkstis (Katie), Corey Alford, Callie Alford (Whitney), Chase Alford, Candace Minor (Richard), and Paige Brown. He is also survived by his cherished great-grandchildren, Cash Alford, Kinsley Alford, Lily Virkstis, Jameson, Flynn, and Gavin Minor, and Kaylen and Kinley Reid.

Bob will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family will receive friends during a visitation on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Haisten Funeral Home, 1745 S Zack Hinton Parkway, McDonough, Georgia. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Hapeville on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that a donation be made in Bob's memory to either the Masonic Home of Georgia or Knights of Columbus Charities of Georgia Inc.

Bob’s legacy of love, faith, and dedication to his family will live on for generations.