Vernie V. Stoneking

Vernie V. Stoneking, 92, formerly of Galesburg, died at 3:50 p.m. Wednesday, November 16, 2016 in the Knox County Nursing Home.

He was born October 3, 1924, in Birmingham Township, Schuyler County, Illinois, the son of Bert and Josephine (Babb) Stoneking. He married Gladys Dupuy. She preceded him in death April 17, 2005. He later married Clarita Endicott on September 21, 1974, in Galesburg. She preceded him in death November 6, 1992.

He is survived by a son, Dennis Stoneking of Galesburg; two daughters, Judith (and Edwin) Anderson and Deborah Watson, both of Galesburg; seven grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren with one on the way; 17 great-great grandchildren with one on the way; and a brother Marion Stoneking of California. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, James; and four sisters, Violet, Nola, Lucille, and Beverly.

Vernie was a laborer at Rowe Manufacturing Company for 34 years. He then was maintenance supervisor at Applegate East Nursing Home for nine years. He had lived in Galesburg since 1945 and was a member of First Church of God. He was a talented carpenter, who enjoyed woodworking. He especially loved music, playing the guitar, singing, and writing songs. Vernie was a left-handed pitcher on a baseball league after World War II. He enjoyed swimming and sunning at the beach. He also like ice skating.

Vernie served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, with the rank of Technical Sergeant. He was a radio operator stationed at RAF Nuthampstead, England with the 398^th Bomb Group, 600 Bomb Squadron. Vernie participated in 33 combat missions. He also taught International Morse Code. He was awarded the EAME Ribbon with three Bronze Stars, the Air Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Good Conduct Medal.

Graveside services with military rites will be 10 a.m. Saturday, November 19, 2016 at Memorial Park Cemetery. Rev. Dennis McQuown will officiate. There will be no visitation. Memorial contributions in Vernie’s name may be made to First Church of God. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel is handling arrangements for the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.