Shenandoah National Park Rangers are searching for Earl Funk, a 50-year-old Staunton area man.

Funk was last seen on Monday around 1:00 p.m. A hasty search of the area was conducted by volunteers and friends.

Friends reported Funk missing to the Albemarle County Police Department on Tuesday morning. Albemarle County Police Department and the Albemarle County Sheriff's Office searched the area until late Tuesday night.

Wednesday's search has centered on the Cedar Mountain area of the park. Operations will continue through dark this evening and will resume Thursday morning with additional resources.

Funk is described as a male with brown hair and green eyes, 5’ 8” tall who weighs approximately 145 pounds. It is believed that he is wearing a dark pants and a light shirt.

More than 40 personnel, including ground searchers and a dog team are currently involved in the search. This search is a joint operation between Shenandoah National Park and the Albemarle Sheriff’s Office.

The agencies are currently being assisted by the Albemarle County Police
Department and a Virginia State Police dog team.

Anyone with any information about Funk is asked to call 1-800-732-0911. For additional information about the search and rescue operation please call 540-999-3300.