CHARLESTON, IL - Scott John Ebinger entered into eternal life on Wednesday, August 11, 2021. The Memorial Mass, honoring his life, will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 21, 2021, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 921 Madison Avenue in Charleston. Following the Mass, a time of fellowship for family and friends will be held until 2:30 p.m. with refreshments provided. A private inurnment will be held at Roselawn Cemetery in Charleston. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the EIU Swimming Booster Club or to the Newman Catholic Center and mailed in care of Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive, Charleston, IL 61920.
Scott was born December 23, 1965, in Charleston, Illinois, a son of John and Marlene (Spreen) Ebinger. He was a 1984 graduate of Charleston High School and a 1989 graduate of Eastern Illinois University.
Scott married Joan Ryan on August 6, 1994, in Downers Grove, Illinois. He is survived by her and their four children, Caitlin Elizabeth Ebinger, Patrick Ryan Ebinger, John Edwin ‘Jack’ Ebinger and Matthew Thomas Ebinger. He is also survived by his father, John Ebinger and his sister, Kari Ebinger, both of Charleston, Illinois; his sister Wendy Satchwell and husband Gary of Bloomington, Illinois and his brother Warren Ebinger and wife Cindy of Indianapolis, Indiana. He enjoyed the companionship of many loving extended family members including nieces, nephews, cousins; and his EIU Swimming Alumni family. Scott was preceded in death by his mother, Marlene Ebinger.
Scott attended the First Presbyterian Church as a child and young adult; he was a volunteer in their youth group and used his talents to paint the church throughout his adult life. Scott and Joan raised their children in the Charleston Catholic Community, enjoying the fellowship of both the Newman Community and St. Charles Borromeo Parish.
Scott was always diligent, committed, and gave 100% to all his endeavors. He is an Eagle Scout. He was the successful business owner of Ebinger Painting Company. He was a lifelong athlete, particularly in swimming. He was a talented pianist and loved to ski and golf. For many years he sponsored multiple baseball teams through the Charleston Rec Department. He volunteered his time to coach or assist in coaching both the women’s and men’s swim teams at Charleston High School.
Scott was known for his love and dedication to the EIU Swimming program, both during his time as a student athlete and throughout his life. He was an NCAA Swimming Official for over twenty years and involved in a variety of fundraising and development activities, most recently in the establishment of the EIU Swimming Booster Club.
Scott’s family brought him immense joy. The legacy he leaves is perhaps expressed best by his children: "What is a legacy?" It's planting seeds in the garden you never get to see. Our dad planted the seeds of many gardens to come. His gardens of craftsmanship, musical abilities and athletic abilities (really, who skis Colorado double black diamonds with Stage 4 cancer? Our dad.) Gardens of love for animals, for the outdoors, for telling stories, his energy, tenacity and exuberance. Most importantly, love for his family and friends. While he won't be able to see the flowers flourish in person, he will always be a part of our foundation. We love you and miss you, Dad.
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