Funeral Held For Minnesota Marine Killed In Helicopter Crash

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A Minnesota marine has been laid to rest one month after a deadly helicopter crash off the cost of Hawaii.

Minnesota's patriot guard circled Cedar Valley Church in Bloomington as the funeral for Delano-native Sgt. Dillon Semolina was held on Friday.

Following the service, a processional lead Semolina's casket to its final resting place at Fort Snelling Cemetery.

The obituary for the 24-year-old said he planned to go to school in the fall to be an anesthesiologist following his tour with the Marine Corps, but he never got the chance.

While he was known for being strict on his routine and staying in shape, his family says his 6-foot-4-inch, 210-pound frame did not match his tender heart.

The guns saluted and "Taps" sounded as a family, state and country remembered a man who gave his life to serve.

The family has created a scholarship in Semolina's honor. It will go to students at Delano high school.