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Virgil Binnion

Virgil Eugene Binnion

September 14th, 1931 - May 25th, 2023

Virgil's Obituary

Virgil Binnion, a dynamo of a man, a sage of grease and metal, a connoisseur of speed, and a pillar to his family and community, has punched his last time card on this terrestrial coil on March 25. Florida-bred, born on the fortuitous day of September 14, 1931, Virgil made his mark and called Michigan his home.

In 1949, Virgil met his cosmic counterpart, his heart's echo, Josephine DeCota. Their love story became a legend in its own right - a testament to time, clocking in over 60 years till Josephine took her leave from this earthly dance in 2011.

Serving his tenure at Whirlpool, Virgil became an unsung hero of industry until his watch ended in retirement. But the story of Virgil Binnion would not be complete without the North Shore Inn, that legendary pit stop he and Josephine masterminded for several years, flipping the best damn burgers this side of Michigan!

It was the underbelly of engines and the adrenaline surge of racing that fueled Virgil’s passion. He was a maestro of mechanics, and a drag-racing daredevil who lived life in the fast lane, truly embodying the spirit of the wild American road.

He leaves behind a symphony of souls - his daughter Donna Gipson, granddaughters Kelly Mills, Holly Gipson and Celena Gross, great-grandson Kadin Mills, brothers Jimmy and Richard, and sisters Jody McCain and Shirley Ross. The echo of Virgil's life reverberates in their hearts, as they carry forward his indomitable spirit.

His final pit stop will be at North Shore Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, make some noise in Virgil’s honor with donations to the Caring Circle Lakeland Health. As the wrench turns and the wheels keep rolling, let's tip our hats and rev our engines for a man who truly embraced the ride. Adios, Virgil. Your pit crew salutes you.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Heritage Chapel & Cremation Services, 8747 US 31, Berrien Springs MI. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.heritage-chapel.com.

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