Marion-Denzil Howard Speers, 92, passed away at 3:40pm on Monday, August 17, 2015 at the VA Medical Center.
Denzil was born on May 28, 1923 in Blairsville to Lee and Nola (Galliger) Speers. He married Betty Sherertz on September 12, 1942 in Jackson, Missouri. She preceded him in death on February 16, 2014.
Denzil served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was wounded in Italy and was awarded a Purple Heart, two Bronze Stars and a Combat Medal. Denzil worked for Pepsi for 42 years and after retirement he worked there during the summers for 10 more years. Denzil loved to play the guitar and jam out with his friends. He also enjoyed being a part time auctioneer. Denzil loved spending time with his friends and family and will be missed by all.
Survivors include:
Children-Sharon Askew of Marion
Grandchildren:
Tammy McMinn and Tony Berggen of New Zealand
Micia and husband Bill Beard of Chaffee, MO
Lynn Ann and husband Jeff Davis of Mascoutah, IL
Beth White and husband Phil of Niceville, FL
Great grandchildren:
Chad Beard
Adam Beard
Ethan Davis
Samantha Davis
Kasey White
Great-great grandchildren- Chase and Gabriel
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty; daughter, Judy Bratten; son-in-law, David Askew; grandson, Denny Askew; brothers Bill Speers and Harry Speers and sisters, Ruth Hawk, Helen Dennis and Mary Belle Cavaness.
Graveside services will be held on Friday, August 21, 2015 at 11:30am at Egyptian Memorial Gardens in Energy with Rev. John Holst officiating. Military Rites will be performed by the Herrin VFW with assistance from the National Guard. Visitation will also be on Friday from 9am-11am at Blue Funeral Home in Marion.
Memorial donations are suggested to the Disabled American Veterans and will be accepted at Blue Funeral Home/ 1704 N. Court St/ Marion, IL 62959. For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.bluefuneralhome.com