A cowboy born in Dallas, Texas, Virgil P. Hennen was adopted out of Hope Cottage, four months later. In addition, he was a pilot of air and sea, fisherman, builder of homes and boats and dirt track race cars. Athlete, artist, and all around adventurer and rolling stone with the Irish gift of the blarney. Survived by his third wife Jude, whom he married Sept. 2, 1967 in Reno, Nevada. They moved to San Juan Island and built their second home while living on their ketch Saint Jude at Capron’s Landing.

Also survived by his three sons by his first wife Mary (predeceased), Virgil Chip Hennen (wife Heide) of San Mateo and Grass Valley, California; Patrick Bennett Hennen of San Mateo, California; and David Scott Hennen (wife Keiko) of Washoe Valley, Nevada; and his beloved pets Cactus the Siamese, Patsy Ann the incorrigible English Bull Terrier, and Boots the Irish Setter Racer red dog mix.

After a short illness at St Joseph’s Medical Center (June 23 to July 7) Virgil was transferred to Whatcom Hospice House where he died peacefully with Jude by his side. Our extended family of friends made it possible for Jude to be with Vigil during his last sojourn. Blessings to all of you. A Celebration of Virgil’s life will held on Sunday, July 30 at the San Juan Island Yacht Club from 2-4 p.m. Bring your memories and stories and an appetizer to share if you so desire. If you would like to make a donation in Virgil’s name, please send it to Whatcom Hospice House, 2800 Douglass Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225.