James D. Blackburn

He was born Nov. 2, 1945 in Peoria to Lionel and Pauline (Gilles) Blackburn of Kickapoo. They preceded him in death.

Jim married Dana Schooler Oct. 29, 1988 in Peoria. She survives along with two daughters: Jill (Sean) Sauder of Tremont, Kari Firebaugh of Chicago; two sons: James (Lori) Blackburn of Lacon, Kyle (Kristy) Firebaugh of Denver, CO; five grandchildren: Emma, Weston, Elizabeth, Lauren, and Sam. He was also survived by two sisters: Jeanette (Bill) Wyatt of Brimfield, Sue (Terry) Johnson of Peoria; three brothers: Larry (Debbie) Blackburn of Brimfield, Gary (Kathy) Blackburn of Brimfield, Phil (Terri) Blackburn of Bartonville; six nephews and four nieces.

Jim was a proud Navy veteran serving in the Vietnam War. He retired in 1998 from Caterpillar, Inc. after working there 30 years. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in downtown Peoria, and the River City O-Gauge Model Train Club. He was an avid model railroader, boater, and outdoorsman. He was loved by all who knew him and never met a stranger. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Visitation will be Wednesday May 12, 2010 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria, with a memorial service to follow.

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the OSF St. Francis Hospice Program.

Please view James’s life story at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com