Joseph O. Renfrow

age 88, of Mattoon, II, passed quietly from this life, Wednesday, September 7, 2011, at home with his devoted wife and daughter by his side. After cremation, a private family memorial will be held on Friday, September 16, 2011 in their home at 3408 Western Ave. followed by an open house from 5:00-7:00 P.M. for those who wish to pay their respects. Mr. Renfrow was born January 7,1923, in Olaton, Kentucky, the son of William and Julia Renfrow. In 1944 Joe and Hilda were young sweethearts whose lives were put on hold by WWII. Joe served in the U.S. Navy in New Guinea and the Philippine Islands as an Electrician's mate. They were married on December 4,1948 and enjoyed 62 years of happiness. He is survived by his wife, 2 daughters, Linda DeSort and her husband Joe of Waleska, GA; Betty Dunn of Mattoon; 2 grandchildren Jared Dunn Of Champaign, IL; Jamey Dunn-Thomason and her husband Drew of Springfield, IL Joe was a retired electrician, a member of IBEW local 146. He loved his work and was highly skilled. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, loved reading and poetry, and pursued hobbies in woodworking, photography and gardening. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather and our family will not be the same without him. He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, 4 sisters and recently lost a special son-in-law, Bob Dunn. Memorials may be made to Lincolnland Hospice in lieu of flowers. Online condolences may be expressed at swengel-odell.com




Visitation:

Friday, September 16, 2011 From 5:00-7:00 P.M.

Open house at their residence 3408 Western Ave.

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