Brad Funk

Major Brad “GYRO” Thornhill Funk Brad Funk, beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, died when his T-38 jet crashed at Sheppard AFB, in Wichita Falls, Texas on Thursday morning, 1 May 2008. Brad was doing what he loved--flying, teaching, and serving his country. Brad was born 26 February 1973, at Webb AFB, Big Spring, TX. He is the son of the late Loahnna Thornhill Gilliland, Craig and Dorothy Funk, and Robert and Mary Ann Gilliland. Brad found the love of his life, and married Jennifer R. Thompson (daughter of Fred and Helen Thompson of Roy) for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on July 16, 2004. They have three beautiful daughters, Tyler (13), Sophia (2 ½) and Addison (6 months). Brad dearly loved his girls. Brad graduated from high school in Del Rio, Texas and received his BS and Masters Degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Throughout Brad’s life he received many honors. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He was named the distinguished graduate of his Euro-Nato pilot training, and achieved the Top Gun award in his fighter fundamental training. Brad was selected and had been serving as a member of the Air Force One support team as an Advance Agent. He was recently chosen to attend Advanced Officer School. His Wing Commander, Col. Peterson said, “Major Funk was an exceptional leader who exemplified the Air Force’s core values of integrity, service, and excellence. It was my privilege to work closely with him. He was the perfect example of what it means to be an officer and a gentleman.” Brad was a proud “Eagle Driver” and flew the F-15C for most of his Air Force career. He had over 1000 hours in the Eagle including over 80 hours of combat time over Iraq. Brad logged 1,689 hours of total flying time. Brad loved to volunteer in the service of others. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he honorably served in many callings including a two year, full time mission to Billings, Montana, and served as Assistant to the President. He also organized and led work groups providing 1,630 hours for support in disaster relief after Hurricane Katrina. As a Scout Master his troop received the Woodsman of the Ax Award for outstanding volunteer service provided to the camp. In all he did, Brad was a role model to many. Not only was he the favorite uncle to his 29 nieces and nephews, he donated his time to teach over 3,000 elementary and secondary school students, and church groups about values, service, and patriotism. He is survived by his wife Jennifer, daughters; Tyler, Sophia, and Addison; his parents and siblings; Lance (Sharley) Funk, Cheryl (Ralph) Savage, Amber (Jason) Park, Clark (Lisa) Funk, and his step brothers and sisters. Brad was preceded in death by his mother Loahnna, his sister Dana, and both sets of his grandparents. Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 11 a.m. at the Roy North Park Ward Chapel, 4250 South 2175 West. Friends may call at Lindquist’s Roy Mortuary, 3333 West 5600 South on Friday only from 6 to 8 p.m. Interment, Warren Cemetery where Military Honors will be accorded. Send condolences to the family at: www.lindquistmortuary.com /stop