Ivan Leo “Bill” Burkhalter

 

Ivan Leo “Bill” Burkhalter, 83, of Galesburg, formerly of Cameron, diedat 3:20 p.m. Friday, September 4, 2015 at home.

Bill was born November 19, 1931 in Maquon, the son of John Charles and Iva Blanche (Thurman) Burkhalter.  He married Lee Stanley and together they had three children, John M. (Sandra) Burkhalter of Galesburg, Patti Davis of Galesburg, and Kathy J. (Don) Underwood of Rio.  Bill and Lee later divorced.  Bill is also survived by his partner of 35 years, Mary Polillo and her son, Matt Polillo of Galesburg; 9 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.  Bill was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Maxine Fancher, Dale Burkhalter, Harold Burkhalter, Laura Magnison and LaVerne Burkhalter and Mary’s son, Terry Polillo.

Bill was a farmer nearly all his life, having farmed for over 50 years at his farm near Cameron.  Aside from farming, Bill’s other passion was music.  His band Luv’n Country was a family band he had for over 40 years, they played many different venues and most importantly played in many charity events and numerous years at the Moose Lodge Heart Fest.  Bill was an active and long time member of the Moose Lodge.  He served in the US Navy during the Korean Conflict.  Bill loved to fish.  He took annual trips to Big Lake Resort in Minnesota and at different times took each family member there to fish.  Some years Bill would travel to Canada to fish as well. 

Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, September 9, 2015 at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory.  Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, September 10, 2015 at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Henderson Cemetery, Henderson, IL.  Memorials may be made to American Heart Association or a charity of the donor’s choice.   Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.