Virgil Dean Vera, age 56 passed away early Sunday morning on June 29, 2008.  Virgil was born in Porterville and was a member of the Tule River Tribe.  He resided on the Tule River Indian Reservation for most of his life.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 2nd from 5:00 p.m. through the night at the Tule River Gymnasium.  A Rosary Service will be held on Wednesday, July 2nd at 6:00 p.m. at the Tule River Gymnasium. A service will be held on Thursday, July 3rd at the Tule River Gymnasium at 10:00 a.m. Interment to be at Tule River Indian Reservation Upper Cemetery.

Virgil attended local schools and later attended Santa Barbara City College then went on to attend the University of California at Santa Barbara, majoring in history.

His work with many Native American Organizations was well known throughout the Central San Joaquin Valley. As the director for Turtle Lodge Alcohol Program, he coordinated the Central Valley Tribal Consortium, bringing together tribes in the Central Valley to address alcoholism treatment.  The Central Valley Tribal Consortium continues to assist Native Americans. 

His later work included the Tule River Indian Health Center, Eagle Mountain Casino, and Gaming Commissioner for the Tachi/Palace Casino in Lemoore, California. 

As a youth, he excelled in athletics and rodeos.  His love for sports, music and rodeos continued throughout his life.

Virgil is survived by his mother, Agnes Vera; three brothers, Vernon, Ruben, and Doug Vera, all of the Tule River Indian Reservation; three sisters, Dorean Baga of Lemoore, Chris De Soto of Tule River Indian Reservation, Patty Vera of Lemoore. 

He was preceded in death by Matthew Vera and Valores Hawkins.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.myersfuneral.com. 

Myers Funeral Service & Crematory in Porterville is in charge of arrangements.