Cranwill Donald Parkin

Born March 14, 1942 in Pekin to Frederick and Mary Elizabeth (Cranwill) Parkin, he married Sharon A. Thomas on September 3, 1965 in Eureka. She survives.

Also surviving are one son, Josh Parkin of Manito; six grandchildren, Hannah, Heidi, Dylan, Tyler, Nickolas and Miles; one great-grandchild, Amelia and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, James “Jim” Parkin; one sister, Bobbi Regan and two brothers, Larry Parkin and Joe Parkin.

Butch was a jack of all trades and several business ventures with his wife throughout the years, selling jewelry being his most recent.

He graduated from Midwest Central High School in Manito and attended Illinois State University and Bradley University for several years. While in school, he was a great athlete. He played basketball, baseball and track and field, holding state records for track and high jump. He was also a fan of the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears and Fighting Illini.

Butch loved traveling with his wife, traveling to over 27 countries throughout the years, camping and living in several states, especially loving New Mexico. They enjoyed kayaking and riding off roading motorcycles.

He was a generous, wonderful person who loved his family and dogs he cared for.

His memorial visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2026 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. There will be no service. Cremation has been accorded.

Memorial contributions may be given to Tazewell Animal Protective Society, 100 Taps Lane, Pekin, Illinois 61554.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com