John Allan Virley

John Allan Virley, 71, of Port Charlotte, Fl, previously of Granada Hills, CA, and earlier Farmington, MI passed on 8/16/22 after a short illness. Born on 3/3/51 in Detroit to John William and Irene (Howie) Virley. Brother to Karen Virley.

John graduated from Farmington H. S. in 1970. He attended WSU and OCC. He worked in marketing research, formed John Virley and Associates -- a complete advertising/public relations group -- and The Video Group, Inc.. He also worked/interned at SWOCC (local cable commission) where he was known to be a perfectionist and innovative in his quality work. At SWOCC, he produced multiple cable talk shows like "In One Ear" and community services documentaries. One of these on fire protection had John and a local fireman unexpectedly trapped in a fireman pre-set burning building until the fireman was able to "mule kick" a way out. John took much pride in his creation and development of the annual Farmington's Halloween Fest -- a much looked-forward-to and a very well- attended event which brought thousands of people to the downtown. He was called by many Mr. Halloween.

John was an ardent patriot -- never afraid to state his considered opinions, but also willing to listen to those who opposed his views. He always wanted to discuss the issues. He was a conservative and had his political writings read and used by many including national commentators/journalists. He was followed on Facebook by many including Bill Hemmer.

John loved involved, in-depth discussions. His interests were broad -- politics to out-of-body experiences (which he had experienced himself). These experiences led him to a firm spiritual belief that we "go on" after death. He also was an ordained minister of the Universal Life Church.

He loved music and knew the lyrics to almost everything ever recorded. Through his love of music and their love of the USA, he became the patriotic/religious/ country singer Joyce Shaffer's friend, manager and promoter.

He supported Toys For Tots and animal (no kill) shelters. He never met a dog he didn't love. Despite having been born in snow country, he hated snow/cold which prompted moves to warmer areas. As a child, he saw his first palm tree and knew he had to live in a place with them. He loved all palms. On his passing, there were over 90 palms in his yard. John loved being by the water. The bigger the water, the better. He said it was calming/soothing to close his eyes and hear the surf gently hit the beach.

With his great sense of humor, John loved jokes and funny stories -- even better if they were true. He said he "invented" the tongue twister, "toyboat".

John wrote poetry and short stories. Many were about family members and John's interaction with them or his dogs. He frequently wrote about universal truths -- family, heroism, transitioning from life to death and gifts we are given such as health, abilities, kindnesses and what we do with them. With others, there was a basic lesson in humanity or humbleness to be reflected on. These were all very thoughtfully and almost understatedly done.

He could not have been a better, more loving, kind brother or true friend to his sister, Karen, who will miss him deeply. Those who knew John will miss him for multiple personal reasons. Just being around him made you feel better. He loved life and you are better for having known John.

In lieu of flowers, you may want to donate to one of the organizations above. Kays & Ponger and Uselton (Port Charlotte, FL) are caring for him. No service is planned.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kayspongerpc.com for the Virley family.