Eugene R. Catron's Obituary
CHARLESTON, IL - Eugene R. ""Gene"" Catron, age 93 of Charleston, passed away peacefully at his daughter's Mattoon home on Tuesday, August 2, 2011. Services honoring and celebrating his life will be held at 11:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 6, 2011 at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston with Pastor Mike Southards officiating. Visitation will be held Saturday for one hour prior to the Services. Burial with Military Rites by the Honor Guard of the Charleston VFW Paul McVey Post 1592 will follow in Rest Haven Memorial Gardens. It is requested that memorial gifts in his honor be made to Carle Hospice or to the Lifespan Center. Gifts may be left on the memorial table at the visitation or services or mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive, Charleston, IL 61920. Gene was born in Seven Hickory Township, Coles County, Illinois on March 3, 1918 the only son of the late John William and Lou Etta (Williams) Catron. He married Ruth L. Patrick on July 22, 1939 and they shared sixty-nine years of marriage and friendship prior to her death on May 8, 2008. Gene is survived by three children; his son Jerry Catron and wife Cheryl of Charleston, and daughters, Carol McPheron and husband Walter and Barbara Johnson, all of Mattoon; ten grandchildren, Teresa ""Terry"" Trigg and husband Darryl, Gregory Catron and wife Barbara, Paul Catron, Lynn O'Brien and husband Kevin, Jennifer Woodson and husband Shawn, Karl McClelland and wife Jodi, Kimberly Araca and husband Steven, Kyle McClelland, Bradley Hinds and wife Michelle and Wendy Frates; eighteen great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; several nieces and nephews; and his truly special friend Chloe who was his constant canine companion following Ruth's passing. In addition to his parents and his wife, Gene was preceded in death by three sisters, Eloise Price, Betty Walters and Gretchen Reams. Gene was a United States Army Veteran honorably and proudly serving his country during World War II. He began his career with the Nickel Plate Railroad which was later known as Norfolk & Western. He retired as a Freight Conductor following a thirty-five year career. Gene was a life member of the Charleston VFW Paul McVey Post 1592, a member of the Toledo American Legion Post 764 as well as the Charleston Moose Lodge #1388. He was an avid bowler, enjoyed playing BINGO and cheering for his beloved Chicago Cubs. He looked forward to attending the Lifespan Center where he enjoyed the various activities and the company of fellow seniors. There was never any doubt that Gene placed his family as his highest priority in life. Ruth was the love of his life and they enjoyed one another's company - whether they were square dancing or traveling the United States - they were happiest when together. He was a wonderful role model for his children and their families, whom he always made time for and dearly loved. Gene was a graciously kind and respected gentleman and memories of him will be lovingly treasured in the hearts of his family and friends. Click to view Family Memorial Video.
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