VIRGIL RAYMOND SUESS

1931 - 2025

Virgil Raymond Suess was born on January 13, 1931 and went to be with the Lord on December 22, 2025 at the age of 94 years. Virgil was born and lived the first twelve years of life on a small farm near Three Hills, Alberta, Canada. Virgil, his six siblings and parents relocated to Lodi, California where he lived most of his life. He graduated from Lodi High School and enlisted in the United States Air Force.
Virgil was preceded in death by his wife Verla Suess; parents Edwin and Freda Suess; four brothers - Forrest, Leroy, Reuben and Ivan; one sister, Ramona Ottman; and grandson Aaron Morris. Virgil is survived by his son Skip Suess and wife Denise; daughter Wendy Morris and husband Don; brother Kelly Suess; grandchildren Kendra Morris; Cameron Morris; Ryan Suess; Rachel Davidson; Rebecca Suess; and 11 great-grandchildren.
Virgil began dating Verla Hochhalter in Lodi and later they were married in England where he was stationed. After his discharge from the service, the couple moved back to Lodi. Virgil began a lifelong career working for his father-in-law Ted Hochhalter at Lodi Nut Company and later became part owner with his brother. Virgil was a hard worker and respected leader, boss, and businessman. He was self-taught in electrical work, welding, carpentry and mechanic work. He and his brother later began ShellPro, a walnut shell grinding business. After selling Lodi Nut Company and retiring in 2011, his wife Verla died unexpectedly. Virgil later moved to St. Petersburg, Florida to live closer to his daughter Wendy and lived there until his death.
Family was a very important part of Virgil's life and he was loved deeply by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He had many special friendships that he maintained throughout his life. Virgil had a deep personal faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He faithfully served as choir director, Sunday School teacher and held numerous church leadership positions. He was active in the Lodi Rotary Club and served a term as president. He had a lifelong love for music, singing in the church choir and playing the baritone in the Lodi Community Band until moving to Florida.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday February 13, 2026 at 1 pm at Vinewood Community Church 1900 W. Vine St. Lodi, CA.