A fallen soldier killed in the Iraq War was remembered in Newport News, Thursday.

"To everything, there is a season," the preachers said, "a time to weep, a time to laugh, a time to mourn, a time to dance."

And so it was at Olivet Christian Church as scores came to remember Army Sergeant Bruce Horner, 43, killed in an ambush by a sniper June 1st in Iraq.

The Ohio native was remembered as being large in size and appetite, and, in his love for family, country and God.

“His spirit taught me that God is always good. God is good even though we may go through the hell of war,” said Horner’s brother, Doug.

"In a world where people live for themselves, Bruce gave himself,” said friend Dave McCants.

"I want to challenge people here to rise up and step out of your comfort one, be good to people, invite them ultimately to know the Lord Jesus. That would be Bruce's wish,” said Rev. David Willis of Olivet Christian Church.

A procession of Patriot Guard Riders escorted Horner to his final resting place, with Newport News firefighters offering a final salute. A lone bugler played "taps" and full military honors were rendered.

His wife, Erin, may have gotten the final word. In a written tribute, she said: "Some would say that his life was cut short, but others who knew him would say he did more in those 43 years than some do in one hundred."

Bruce Horner, "Tick" as he was known to many, was also remembered, officially by the Department Of Defense.

He posthumously received both the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart, which were awarded to his family members.