Brad Funk

Brad Funk, 38, formerly stationed at Mountain Home AFB, died May 1, 2008, when his T-38 jet crashed at Sheppard AFB, in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Funeral services were held Saturday, May 10, at the Roy North Park Ward Chapel in Roy, Utah. Internment was at the Warren, Utah, Cemetery, where Military Honors were accorded.

"Brad was doing what he loved -- flying, teaching, and serving his country," his family said.

Brad was born Feb. 26, 1973, at Webb AFB, Big Spring, Texas. He was 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 "for time and all eternity" in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on July 16, 2004. They have three daughters, Tyler, 13, Sophia, 2, and Addison, 6 months. "Brad dearly loved his girls," his family noted.

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, "Maj.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 1,000 hours in the Eagle including over 80 hours of combat time over Iraq. Brad logged 1,689 hours of total flying time. He had been stationed at Mountain Home AFB from 2001-2003.

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, Mont., 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," his family said. "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 stepbrothers and sisters.

Brad was preceded in death by his mother, Loahnna, and his sister Dana.

Donations may be made in remembrance of Major Brad Funk to the Funk Children's College Fund at any Wells Fargo Bank Branch.

Send condolences to the family at: www.lindquistmortuary.com.