Mrs. Inez Pope, 99, of Big Sandy, Tenn., passed away Oct. 4, 2014. Graveside services were Oct. 9, at Sunnyfield Cemetery in Kenton, Tenn., with Bro. Gerald Scott officiating.
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Inez Pope
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Benjamin “Gentle Ben” Johnson
Danville-Benjamin O. Johnson, 78, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his immediate family, on October 8, 2014 in Danville at the VA Hospital in the Palliative Care Unit. Ben was born the son of Charles and Z. Lucile Johnson in Tuscola, IL on July 13, 1936. Ben is survived by his step daughter Rosalinda (Robert Epmeier) Walker of Danville, his daughter Aileen Motsay of Danville; four grandchildren Maria (Jeremy) Wolf, Chasity and Brittanie Galey of Danville, and Francis B. Motsay of Grand Rapids MI; three great-grandchildren Mercedes Wolf, Aiden Galey, and Aubriella Hill all of Danville; his sisters Marcella Burton and Ramona Lucas of Covington, IN, and his brother Charles Johnson of Jacksonville, AK, nieces and nephews, and his best friend Clifford Powell of Covington, IN. He is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Priscilla Johnson, nephew Scott Lucas, and brothers-in-law William Lucas and Clarence Burton. Ben served in the United States Air force from 1955 to 1963; he was honorably discharged on March 22, 1963. He was an Airman First Class who received metal for good conduct and applied himself in an excellent and outstanding manner. He took sincere interest in his work and placed all missions over his personal desires. Ben had a green thumb that developed while studying horticulture at DACC, where he made the dean’s list. Ben was also a member of The Moose Lodge, and The Masonic Blue Lodge/Gao Grotto in Danville. Ben was also responsible for giving the Palliative Nurses at the VA Hospital the loving nickname of “Angels Among Us”. Ben was a generally easy going guy, which earned him the nickname of “Gentle Ben” to his many friends and family. He will be greatly missed by many cherished friends and beloved family members. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home is in charge of arrangements for Ben. Services and Burial will be held at a later time at the VA Cemetery in Danville, IL. Please join Ben’s family in sharing pictures, videos, and memories on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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Maryellen Childs
MAHOMET-Maryellen Childs, 84, of Mahomet, passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2014 at Carle Hospital in Urbana. Maryellen had a long, well lived life. She was born on March 25, 1930 In Urbana, the daughter of Wilbur Allen and Lula Mabel Lyster-Stowe. On February 17, 1951 in Urbana, Maryellen married the love of her life, John Childs. He preceded her in death. Surviving to carry on Maryellen’s legacy are her daughters, Connie (Bob) Barrowman of Mahomet, Karen Becker of Mahomet, and Vicki (Robert) Schoonover of Champaign; five grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and one half sister, Linda Stowe of Texas. Also preceding her in death was her stepmother, Alice Stowe. Maryellen was a graduate of Urbana High School and Illinois Commercial College. Upon her graduation from college, she spent a majority of her time in customer service and bookkeeping. She worked for A&P, IGA, and County Market. Spending time with her fellow winter Texans, meeting new people, and helping others are just a few of the many things Maryellen enjoyed. She was an avid member of the Champaign Sportsman’s Club. She will be most remembered for the love she had for her family and friends. A graveside ceremony will be held on Friday, October 10, 2014 at 11:30 am Grandview Memorial Gardens with the Reverend Edwin Potts officiating. A Celebration of Maryellen’s life will follow at 12:30 pm at the Champaign Sportsman’s Club, 302 N. Lake of the Woods Road, Mahomet, IL. Memorial contributions may be made in Maryellen’s honor to the Champaign Sportsman’s Club. Sunset Funeral Home, Champaign-Urbana Chapel, 710 N. Neil Street, Champaign is assisting the family with arrangements. Please join Maryellen’s family in sharing memories of her on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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Roy A. Hathaway
Roy A. Hathaway, 66, of Westville, passed away at 1:47 pm Friday, Oct. 10, 2014, at his home.
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Barbara A. Reid
Champaign – Barbara A. Reid, 74, of Champaign passed away at 2:34 PM on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born on August 17, 1940 in Jackson County, Mississippi. Barbara, or Mama Bobbie to many, was granddaughter to Annie Lee, daughter of Catherine, mother to Linda and Coda, sister to Jerry, grandmother to Vaskia and Rasheid, great-grandmother to Aundriana, Pericio, and Poncho, and great-great grandmother to Antwan and Avianna. She will be missed by many. Per Barbara’s wishes, there will be no services. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Sunset’s Champaign-Urbana Chapel, A Life Celebration Home. Please join Barbara’s family in sharing memories, photos, and video of her life through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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Joseph J. Henry
Champaign – Joseph J. Henry, 86, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2014 at University Hospital in Indianapolis. Joe was born on March 7, 1928 to Clarence and Evelyn Henry in Pesotum, IL. He married Rose Marie McKinney on July 22, 1950 in Morrisonville, IL. They shared 64 wonderful years together. Joe is survived by his wife Rose of Champaign, his children Dave (Cindy) Henry of Richardson TX, Keith (Bonnie) Henry of Urbana, Mark (Barb) Henry of Champaign, Linda (Rick) Mallory of Mahomet, Rick (Bridget) Henry of Danville, CA and daughter-in-law Judy Henry of Melrose, FL; his 15 grandchildren Becky, Mike, Jenny, Clint, Matt, Stephanie, Ryan, Katie, Allyson, Kelsey, Spencer, Joe, Amanda, Nolan, and Maura; his nine great-grandchildren Caroline, Henry, Kallie, William, Charlie, Luke, Riley, Madison, and Grace. Joe is preceded in death by his parents, sister Dorothy Wheatley, and son Bob Henry. Joe was a graduate of Sadorus High School in Pesotum, class of 1946. After high school Joe enlisted in the Army followed by the National Guard and Army Reserves. He retired as a Major in his later years. On July 22, 1950 Joe married his sweet heart Rose Marie McKinney and they started a wonderful family together. One of Joe’s many joys in life was the game of golf, his memberships to the local Knights of Columbus group, and The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers – Local 601, which he was a proud member for over 55 years. Joe was known by many as “Uncle Possum” or “Uncle Joe”. He always had a smile on his face and something kind to say, he will be missed by many family members and friends. Sunset’s Champaign-Urbana Chapel, A Life Celebration Home is in charge of arrangements for Joe. Cremation and burial to follow at Saint Joseph’s Cemetery at a later date. Service information to follow shortly. Please join Joe’s family in sharing pictures, videos, and memories on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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Diana Lynn Brown
Diana Lynn Brown, age 49, of Tilton passed away Sunday, October 12, 2014 at 5:18 PM at her home. Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 16, 2014 at 2:00 PM at Sunset Funeral Home, A Life Celebration Home, 3940 N. Vermilion Street in Danville. Visitation will be held from 5-8 PM Wednesday, October 15, 2014 at Sunset Funeral Home. Pastor Jim Blue will be officiating. Memorials can be made in her name to the American Cancer Society. Diana was born May 8, 1965 in Danville to Bill and Pat (Miller) Priest. She attended Danville High School and Danville Area Community College. Diana enjoyed visiting with her family and loved her grandchildren very much. She also enjoyed sitting on the porch and just relaxing. Diana had a cat named Jack that she enjoyed spending time with as well. He will miss her very much. Diana is survived by her parents, Bill and Pat; her two sons, David (Tasha) Brown and Marc (Arnedda) Priest; her five grandchildren, Haley, Taylor, Marielle, Natalie, and Alissa, plus one on the way; one brother, Mike (Amy) Priest; one sister, LeAnne (Jae-R) Nevels; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. She is preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents and two uncles. Diana will be missed dearly by all who knew her.
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Dorothy Sunderman
Dorothy M. Sunderman, 86, of Danville, passed away on October 11, 2014 at the Waters of Covington Nursing Home in Covington, IN. She was born on April 28, 1928 in Henning, IL, the daughter of Otto and Ruby (Neikirk) Seyfert. She married Kenneth Sunderman on October 25, 1953 and he preceded her in death in 1996. She will be deeply missed by her daughter, Kristi Derse of Edmonton, KY, son, Craig Sunderman of Danville, brothers, Melvin (Katherine) Seyfert, Paul (Sandy) Seyfert, Carl (Sue) Seyfert, sisters, Carol Owens and Karen (Don) Tate, grandchildren, Sabrina (Robert) Miller, William (Beth) Neff and great grandchildren; Dayton, Kobey, Cayden Miller; Phoenix Dylan and Ayla Hope Neff. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one brother and sister-in-law. Dorothy loved playing Euchre and was an avid card player, she loved to travel and spend time at family gatherings. She retired from TeePak in Danville as their secretary after many years. A celebration of Dorothy’s life will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2014 at 10:00 AM at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville with Pastor Jan Reeder officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 PM on Wednesday, October 15, 2014 at the funeral home. Entombment will take place at Sunset Memorial Park. Memorials can be made in Dorothy’s name to the American Stroke Association 7272 Greenville Ave Dallas, TX 75231. Please join Dorothy’s family in sharing photos, videos and memories of her through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
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Maragret Virginia Noggle
Margaret Virginia Noggle, 89, of Georgetown, passed this life to go be with her husband, Paul, on their 70th wedding anniversary, at 5:45am, Tuesday, October 14, 2014, at Pleasant Meadows Senior Living, Chrisman. She was born on November 22, 1924, the daughter of Samuel and Minnie {Freeman} Benton. On October 14, 1944, she was united in marriage to Paul Noggle in Quaker until his passing August 20, 2008. She will be missed by: her sons, Donald (Rita) Noggle of Georgetown & Robert Noggle of Yucca Valley, CA; her grandchildren, Bret (Lisa) Noggle, Bryan (Brenda) Noggle, Brandon (Nancy) Noggle, Rusty (Jeanette) Noggle, Lauri (Laird) Thompson, Donna (Kerby) Cortapassi, Carla Hilligoss, Kelly Noggle, Corey Noggle, & Ryan Noggle; her great grandchildren, Billy, Kayla, Briana, Brendan, Jared, Mason, Aaron, Jenna, Caitlin, Jesse, Gabe, Ladonna, Kayla, Tyler, Morgan, Dalton, & Caden; her great-great grandchildren, Matthew, Carter, Brailynn, Mason, Julia, & Annabel; her sister, Susan Harmon; her sister-in-law, Nellie Laughhunn of Cayuga, IN; and her caregivers, Karen Price, Belinda Meeker, & Donna Henderson; as well as, many extended family & friends. She was preceded in death by: her parents; her husband; her sons, Billy Joe & Kenneth Noggle; her granddaughter, Shelly Cardin; three brothers; and two sisters. Margaret lived & loved her life as a farmer’s wife. She enjoyed canning, cooking, & mushroom hunting. She also enjoyed collecting sea shells, especially at Mexico Beach, Florida. She also enjoyed crafts. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. A celebration of Margaret’s life will be held at 10:00am, Saturday, October 18, 2014, at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home, Georgetown, with Ron Noggle officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services on Saturday. She will be laid to rest in Thomas Cemetery, Newport, Indiana. Memorial donations may be given in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association. Please join Margaret’s family in sharing memories through her Tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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Sue Ella Scott
Sue Ella Scott, 81, of Danville, was called home to heaven Monday, October 13, 2014 at 2:35PM. She was surrounded by her loving family. Visitation will be Friday, October 17, 2014 from 4-7PM CST at Sunset Funeral Home, A Life Celebration Home, 3940 N. Vermilion St., in Danville. Funeral service will be Saturday, October 18, 2014 at 2PM CST at Sunset Funeral Home. Rod Godley will be officiating. Memorials can be made in Sue’s name to the Vermilion Heights Christian Church. Sue was born March 17, 1933 in Waynetown, IN to George W. and Berneice A. (Reynolds) Crawford. She attended West Lebanon High School and graduated in 1951. Sue worked for Sears and was a secretary for District 118 at Elmwood Elementary and Meade Park Elementary schools. Sue married Frank “Scottie” on July 6, 1956 and they enjoyed 44 years of marriage before his passing on September 21, 2000. Sue is survived by her two daughters, Crystal Fields of Danville and Sandra (Donald) Knauer of Cayuga, IN; her grandchildren, Sarah (Joey) McQueen, Mallory Fields, and Abby Fields, all of Danville, Matthew (Zandra) Johnson and Tyler (Rachael) Johnson, both of Terre Haute, Amy Taylor of Keller, TX and Shawn (Stephanie) Taylor of Fischer, IN, Brad (Allie) Knauer, and Kellie Knauer. Both of Cayuga, IN; great-grandchildren Lane Taylor, Kyler Modglin, Tevin McQueen, Kaleb McQueen, Carter McQueen, Bentley McQueen, Taylor Pittman, and Madison Taylor; brothers Ron (Clara) Crawford of Monticello and Brad (Becky) Crawford of Tilton; special nieces and nephews, Chris (Cathy) Crawford, Jodi (Michael) Zedrick, Rock (Beth) Crawford, Jennifer Ferris, and Brandon (Sara) Crawford; as well as many other great nieces, nephews, and special friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, one daughter, Linda Mason-Taylor, and one great-grandson, Braylen. Sue was an active member of the Vermilion Heights Christian Church. She took pride in her job of sending out cards to shut-ins and people of the church for birthdays, Christmas, and many other occasions. Sue also loved to shop, especially on Black Friday. You could find Sue many nights sitting in her swing looking at wildlife or just enjoying the fresh air. Most of all Sue enjoyed her family. She loved being surrounded by family and being involved in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s lives. Her presence in the family will be greatly missed. Sue loved the Lord and read her Bible every morning. She was the Rock that held the family together. Sue could pull a positive out of every negative and was the family’s number one cheerleader. Even at her worst she would rather hear about your life rather than what was wrong in hers. She always put everyone else first, never knew a stranger and was easy to fall in love with. Sue was a beautiful lady and was known as the “Foxy Lady” to many people at church She also enjoyed her outings with her special friends from Meade Park and Trio’s. Sue loved working at the genealogy library and collecting information on her family. She never lost her spunk; she always had to make you laugh, no matter how bad she got toward the end. Sue was an amazing person and was truly an angel on earth. She will be greatly missed. Please join the family in sharing photos and memories on the tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
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Thelma Adele Eaton
Thelma Adele Eaton, 90, of Georgetown, passed away Monday, Oct. 13, 2014, at Presence United Samaritans Medical Center, Danville.
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Patricia Jo Edwards
Patricia Jo Edwards, age 76, of Danville passed away Wednesday, October 15, 2014 at 10:15 AM at Presence United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville. Visitation will be held from 5-7pm Saturday, October 18, 2014 at Sunset-Urbas Funeral Chapel, 414 S. State Street, Westville, IL. Funeral service will be held at 7:00 PM following the visitation. Cremation rites will be accorded. Memorials in her name can be made to the Westville Public Library. Patricia was born September 19, 1938 in Vermillion County, Indiana to Jesse Frank and Evelyn Louis (Fox) Switzer. She attended Covington High School and Danville Junior College where she obtained her LPN. Later Patricia worked as a nurse at St. Elizabeth Hospital and for 15 years at the Illiana VA Hospital in Danville. She retired from the Illiana VA in 1993. Patricia married Vernon L. Reese on October 25, 1958 in State Line City, IN. He preceded her in death on June 29, 1961. Patricia was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Westville. She was a member of a Euchre club and enjoying playing cards with her friends. Patricia also served on the Westville Library Board. She enjoyed gardening and loved flowers. She loved reading and the company of her cats and dogs. Patricia is survived by her daughter, Sherril Masulis of Danville; her son, Brian (Gretchen) Edwards of Knoxville, TN; four grandchildren, Shannon (John) Howard, Ronnie Masulis II, Carl Edwards, and Sonya Edwards; one great grandchild, Jamie Howard; and many special friends including Ann and Cas Mokijewski, Tommy, Logan, and Kyler Vance. The family would like to thank also her caregiver and friend, Teresa Oatis. Patricia was preceded in death by her first husband, Vernon L. Reese, her parents, Evelyn and Jesse Switzer, her two brothers, Dean and Barry Switzer, and her friend Ron Stricklett. Please join the family in sharing photos and memories on the tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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China P. Vandiver
China P. Vandiver, 89, of Georgetown passed away on October 14, 2014 at Presence United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville. China was born on September 18, 1925 in Summerset, Kentucky, the daughter of Harry and Grace (Eades) Allen. She married Thomas Vandiver on February 14, 1947 in Danville, IL. He preceded her in death in 1987. Surviving China are her sons, Donald Vandiver of Rantoul, Gordon Parsons of Danville; daughters, Clarice Grinstead of Ohio and Vickie Vandiver of Danville; brother, Dick Allen of Hoopeston; 30 grandchildren, 66 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren; special friends, Jeannine her neighbor and Marvin Burton. She was preceded in death by her husband; sons, James, Bruce and Eric Vandiver; sister, Mary Turner; brothers, William, Steve and Lenard Allen, 2 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and special friend, Madaline Sykes. China was a lifetime member of The First Church of The Nazarene. She was a homemaker all her life. She was an avid stock car racing fan, as most of her family were racers, she loved playing bingo and spending time with all of her family. A celebration of China’s life will be held at 11:30 AM Friday, October 17, 2014 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, IL with Pastor James Blue officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 PM Thursday, October 16, 2014 at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest at Danville National Cemetery. Memorials can be made in care of China’s family. Please join her family in sharing photos, videos and memories of her through her Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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Janet D. Nees
Janet D. Nees, 79, of Sidell, passed away Thursday, Oct. 16, 2014, in Geneva, Ill.
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Patrick E. Black
Patrick E. (Pat-Rik) Black, 52, of Westville, passed away at 1:06 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2014, following a tragic accident the prior evening. He was born Nov. 13, 1961, the son of Richard E. and Patri
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Donna June Sloan
Donna June Sloan, 70, of Danville, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2014, at Gardenview Manor in Tilton.
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A. Rosalie Landers
TILTON – A. Rosalie (Lyons) Landers, 79, passed away peacefully in her home in Tilton, surrounded by her loved ones on Saturday, October 18, 2014. Rosalie, also known as, “Mama Rose,” and “Me Me” was born May 14, 1935 to Chester and Dorothy Lyons in Danville, IL. She attended Danville schools and graduated from Pana High School. Rose was united in marriage to Charles (Bud) Landers on May 19, 1956. Her beloved husband preceded her in death after 40 years of marriage. Rose was an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan. She enjoyed camping, bowling, going to casinos, rummaging, playing cards, BINGO and most of all spending time with her kids, grandkids and extended family. Rose did not know a stranger and welcomed everyone into her heart and home. Her family was everything to her and she treated everyone as family, related or not. She was a very strong woman who spoke her mind and had a generous, kind and big heart. She was a great cook and loved to share her cooking with her family and friends, which is a trait that she passed on to her children. She was able to make people laugh with her witty comments and jokes. She always looked at the bright side of things, and was fun to be around. She is survived by her children; Tammy (Greg) Lund, Debbie (Gary) Borgwald, Charles “Bud” Landers, Rhonda (Rhett) Butler, Shelly Rangel and daughter-in-law, Susie Landers; her twelve grandchildren, Katty, Danny, Steven (Kivanc), Derek, Garrett, Nicole, Nathan (Monique), Kelsee, Kayla and Eddie; and nine great grandchildren, Gage, Devin, Gavin, Sophia, Trenton, Cameron, Averi, Kamden and Aiden; two brothers, Robert (Phyllis) Lyons and Fred (Sheryl) Lyons; a sister, Francis (Lyle) Ruot; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Bud, she was preceded in death by her parents; her sister and brother-in-law, Sally and Robert Head; two sons-in-law, Timothy O’Blenis and Kent Davis; and her good friend, Boots Gillis. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Carle Hospice and CRIS Senior Services, for everything they did for Rose and her family. A service to celebrate Rose’s life will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, October 22nd at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville. The family will receive friends from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home. Memorials have been established for Carle Hospice and CRIS Senior Services. Cremation will be entrusted to the care of Sunset Funeral Home following services, and entombment will be in Sunset Memorial Park at a later date. Rose will be sadly missed by her family and friends. In honor of Rose’s dedication to the Cubs and Bears, feel free to wear Cubs or Bears attire to the visitation and service. Please join Rose’s family in sharing memories, photos and video of her life through her Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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B. E. “Ed” Fletcher
OAKWOOD – B. E. “Ed” Fletcher, 95, of Oakwood, passed away surrounded by his family, Thursday, Oct. 16, 2014, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
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Melody Hillard
Bismarck – Melody A. Hillard, 68, of Bismarck passed away at 7:47 PM on Sunday, October 19, 2014 at Presence United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville. She was born on June 8, 1946 in California, the daughter of John Allen and Eva Wieck. She married Paul Hillard in Danville on May 21, 1966. He preceded her in death. She is survived by four sons, Paul (Jamie Swider-Hillard) Hillard of Oakwood, Mike (Melissa) Hillard of Bismarck, Tim (Misty) Hillard of Bismarck, and Todd Hillard of Bismarck; two brothers, Tom (Cheryl) Lancaster and Ernie Wieck; two sisters, Clellene (Steve) Schultz, Dawn (Vincent) Short; seven grandchildren, Jonica Hillard-Merrill, Katarina Johnson, Rain Hillard, Jaidyn Davis, Carter Hillard, Vanessa Hillard, and Gino Lopez; and one great-grandchild, Myla Merrill. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and four siblings, Charles Lancaster, Robert Lancaster, Billy Lancaster, and Tammy Wieck. Melody was a graduate of DHS and graduated valedictorian in her class at DACC where she earned her associates in Computer Programming and Accounting. She worked as a Programmer at NACCO for 27 years until her retirement, all while raising her family. She enjoyed reading, dancing, cooking, and socializing. Most of all, Melody loved her family. She was very active in her boys’ sports and loved to spend time with her grandchildren. A service to celebrate the life of Melody Hillard will be held at 10 AM on Friday, October 24, 2014 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville. Pastor Jeremy Lazzell will officiate. Visitation will be held from 4-8 PM on Thursday, October 23, also at Sunset in Danville. Cremation and burial at Sunset Memorial Park will take place following the services. Memorials may be made to the Presence Cancer Center. Please join Melody’s family in sharing memories, photos, and video of her through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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Roger A. Graham
SAVOY – Roger Arnold Graham, age 89, of Savoy, passed away Thursday, October 16, 2014 at 2:30 pm at the Illinois Veterans Home in Manteno. Visitation will be held from 2-4 pm at Sunset Funeral Home Champaign-Urbana Chapel, 710 N Neil St., Champaign, IL on Thursday, October 23. A funeral service will be held at 4:00 pm following the visitation. Cremation will be entrusted to the care of Sunset Funeral Home following services. Mr. Graham will be laid to rest in the Danville National Cemetery at a future time with military honors. Memorials can be made in his name to the Vineyard Church of Urbana or Samaritans Purse. Roger was born October 2, 1925 in Macomb to Lloyd Ady and Rilla (Chaddock) Graham. He worked on his family’s farm and attended school in Ipava until WWII, when he enlisted in the US Army and served in Italy as a Private, Infantryman, Rifleman, Corporal Technician and Engineer in the 2nd Company of the 161st Depot Brigade where he was awarded several medals during that time. He was at sea on his way to the Pacific theater when VJ Day occurred and the war was declared over. Roger completed his service stateside as a Military Policeman and motorcyclist, finishing at the rank of Corporal. Shortly after returning to his family’s farm in Ipava, Roger got a job with the Illinois Power Company, working as a supervisor at several coal power stations throughout the state. It was during his time at the Oakwood Power Station that he met Marilyn Ida Drews. The couple started courting and were later married at Trinity Lutheran in Danville on April 28, 1956. Their daughter, Gayle Leslie (Graham) Vivona, was born on October 18, 1957, and they later welcomed their son, Randall Drew Graham on September 16, 1958. Roger retired from Illinois Power in 1987, and soon afterward the couple sold their home in Danville and purchased an RV, spending a number of years enjoying life sightseeing and traveling throughout the US. In later years the couple called Sun City West, AZ their second home, spending most of their winters there. Special trips to Alaska (1988) and Hawaii (2005) allowed them to finish out their quest to see all 50 states. In addition to traveling, Roger loved auto sports, having participated in a number of rally car events back in the ‘60s and ‘70s. The Indy 500 remained his all-time favorite event to watch. Roger also enjoyed fishing, boating, playing card games with family, and motorcycling in his free time. Roger was also actively involved in The Vineyard Fellowship both in Arizona and in Urbana when he and Marilyn moved to Savoy in the mid-2000s to be closer to their son and his family. He was also an integral part of his son and daughter-in-law’s business, Curtis Orchard located in SW Champaign. Roger is survived by his wife, Marilyn, of Savoy; his daughter, Gayle (Chris) Vivona, of Alameda, CA; his son, Randy (Debbie) Graham, of Champaign; two sisters, Janette Cowley and Margaret Nellis; seven grandchildren, Aaron (Sarah) Graham, Rachel (Jeremy) Coventry, Carissa (Dushan) Katic, Cameron Graham, Lindsay Vivona, Juliana Graham, and Casey Vivona; and three great-grandchildren, Benjamin Graham, Mayara Graham, and Sophia Katic. Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Rilla Graham, two brothers, Willis and Robert, and one sister, Louise Morey. Please join Roger’s family in sharing memories, photos and video of his life through his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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