Ronald Reece Thurman

Ronald Reece Thurman, 70, of Maquon, Illinois died peacefully surrounded by his family at OSF St. Francis in Peoria, Illionois, on Monday November 17, 2014 at 1:40 P.M.

Ron was born on January 13, 1944 to Reece & Geneva (Scudder) Thurman.  He was raised on the family farm just outside Maquon and had three brothers and two sisters.  He was educated at Spoon River Valley High School where he was an outstanding basketball player.  Ron served in the Navy during the Vietnam War as a 2^nd class petty officer Sonar Technician on the USS Ingersoll DD-652.

Ron married Janet Anderson on May 14, 1967.  Together they built a home in rural Maquon where they raised their family. He began working at Caterpillar where he would eventually retire as an electrician.  After 30 years of service, he retired in 1999.  He also farmed for nearly 20 years.

Ron enjoyed life.  A great provider for his family, and a loyal friend to so many, he enjoyed being a part of the Maquon Masonic Lodge #530 A.F. & A.M., the Maquon Fire Department Trustee Board, and the Maquon Township Trustee.  In 2002 Ron received the Masonic Community Builders Award.  In later years, Ron also enjoyed spending winters in Gulf Shores Alabama.  In 2012 Ron was crowned Gulf Shores Hangout poker champion.   

He is survived by his wife Janet, two sons: Brett (Beth) of Cuba, IL, Darrin (Racheal) of Dawson, IL; one daughter, Danette (Brian) Wilkinson of Canton, IL; six grandkids: Angela, Amy, Gregory, Weston, Wade, and Vanessa.  He also had nine great grandchildren. 

Visitation will be Thursday November 20, 2014 from 5:00 – 8:00 P.M. at the Maquon United Methodist Church with Masonic Rites performed at 7:30 P.M.  Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M., Friday November 21,  2014 at the church.  Services will be officiated by Rev. Krey Leesman and Rev. Jennifer Seder with burial immediately following at the Maquon Cemetery with military rights conducted by the Roy Miller American Legion Post #644.  Lunch will be served at the church fellowship hall. Memorial donations may be made to Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp, 2000 West Pioneer Parkway, Suite 16, Peoria, IL 61615.   Arrangements are provided by Hurd Hendricks Funeral Home and Crematory in Knoxville, IL.   Online condolences and sympathy cards may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com