Edward "Ed" James Virta

Edward "Ed" James Virta 

April 30, 1964 - April 13, 2024

Ed entered into Eternal Life on Saturday, April 13th, 2024. He leaves behind his loving wife of 34 years, Ellen (nee Gaurkee) and his precious kitties, Danica, Smoke and Cheetah. He was reunited in Heaven with his beloved father, Roy Virta and cousin Mike Maki, who is responsible for Ed and Ellen meeting in 1982. He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Lila Virta, and his sisters Mary Virta and Nancy Burkel. He was the cherished brother-in-law of Jason and Jennie Gaurkee, fun-loving uncle to Jordyn and Justin, and proud godfather to Moira Wigderson. Ed also leaves behind many friends and relatives. He will be greatly missed.

In his early teenage years, Ed spent several summers working on his Aunt Helen and Uncle Francis's farm and logging business in the UP. Ed dedicated most of his adult life working in the printing industry, with a majority of his time spent working at Arandell Corporation in Menomonee Falls, WI. 

Ed found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved red meat and was known for his infamous "hot tubs" and his infectious laugh. Ed had a love for music and learned to play bass guitar in order to join a garage band with friends. Ed greatly enjoyed Nascar and playing video games until 5:00 in the morning with his nephew, Justin. Ed was a passionate movie watcher and lover of sitcoms, with Frasier being his very favorite. Nothing compared, however, to his life-long passion for Batman. 

Visitation will be held at the Bruskiewitz Funeral Home, 5355 W. Forest Home Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53220 on Saturday, May 11th, 2024 from 12:00 - 2:00 PM, with a Celebration of Life Service at 2 PM. Dinner and refreshments to follow at Clifford's Supper Club, 10418 W. Forest Home Ave., Hales Corners, WI 53130. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a cause that touched Ed's heart. Elijah List Ministries started a program to drill clean water wells in Uganda. Not only does this program provide easy access to clean water for those who live there, the Word of God is shared with the people and many dear souls have decided to follow Jesus as a result. The link to donate is: https://www.elijahstreams.com/wellsgift