Virgil L. Currence Jr., 85, Milford, passed away at 12:51 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, 2016 at Lakeland Rehab & Healthcare in Milford.

He was born Jan. 3, 1931 in Bluefield, W. Va. to Virgil L. “Stubby” and Ella B. (Buffalow) Currence Sr.

He grew up in Bluefield, W. Va., graduated in 1949 from Beaver High School in Bluefield and was a United States Korean Air Force veteran. He moved to Indiana in the late 1960’s from West Virginia and lived many years in Goshen area before moving to Milford in 2010. He retired from Mogul Rubber Corp. in Goshen after several years of service.  He was a self-employed photographer and was a seller at Flea Markets in Shipshewana, Peddlers Village in Goshen, and Borkholder’s in Nappanee.

He was formerly a professional wrestler in the 1950’s. He was the champion for the Southeast United States Wrestling Team and held the title of “The Mountaineer.”

He is survived by his son: Virgil (MIchelle) Currence III, Lexington North Carolina; two grandchildren: Stephanie and Nicolas Currence; two brothers: Danile “Butch” (Lovetta) Currence; and Veryl “Kiffie” Currence, both of Bluefield W. Va.; two step daugthers: Florence (Tim) Barry, Milford; and Cheryl (William) Shively, Syracuse; several step grandchildren and many step great grandchildren; three nephews: Shane Brent and Brian Currence.

He was preceded in death by his parents, life companion –Alice Bradshaw, and half-brother – Mike Currence.

Visitation was held Sunday, Sept. 11, at Owen Family Funeral Home, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, at the Grandview Memory Gardens Cemetery in Bluefield, W. Va. with Pastor Buddy Goins officiating.  

Preferred memorial may be given to the donor’s choice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. 

Owen Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.