Virgil Lee Hapes, 97, of Plano, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, May 12th.
Born on May 19, 1928, in Chula, Missouri, Virgil was the son of Harry and Bessie (Fleshman) Hapes. He graduated from Colo High School and married the love of his life, Marian Oliver, on June 26, 1950. Together they shared 75 years of marriage, celebrating their milestone anniversary in 2025. They were blessed with three children: Laura, Mike, and Keith.
In his early years, Virgil worked at Wirtz Implement before beginning a long and dedicated career with the Iowa Department of Transportation, retiring after 32 years of service. Virgil and Marian made their home in the Ames area until 1994, when they moved to Plano, Texas, to be closer to family.
Virgil was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great‑grandfather, great‑great‑grandfather, and uncle. He found joy in camping, woodworking of all kinds, puzzles, and—above all—time spent with his family.
He is survived by his daughter, Laura (James) Crowley of Scottsdale, Arizona; his sons, Mike (Theresa) Hapes and Keith (Diana) Hapes, both of Plano, Texas; his sister‑in‑law, Elizabeth Uthe of Elma, Iowa; seven grandchildren; ten great‑grandchildren; four great‑great‑grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Virgil was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marian; his parents; three sisters; two brothers; and one great‑granddaughter.
A remembrance gathering will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Turrentine‑Jackson‑Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.