Brigadier General George W. Erdmann

Brigadier General (BG) George W. Erdmann, 92, of Springfield, died peacefully at 10:00 p.m. on Monday, December 7, 2009 in the loving environment of St. Joseph's Home. He was born July 21, 1917 in Springfield, the son of George C. and Emma Hiltebrand Erdmann. He married Rosemary Graham on October 10, 1942 and had three children who survive, one son, Deacon David R. (wife Barbara) Erdmann of Springfield; two daughters, Maryanne (husband Tom) Lawrence of Lafayette, IN and Maryrose (husband Randy) Stricker of Poplar Bluff, MO. Rosemary preceded him in death on November 4, 1974. He then married Clara Kolis Heinemann in August 1977, who had two children, Denise Heinemann (husband Dr. Terry) Jones of Springfield and Mark (wife Debbie) Heinemann of Taylorville. Clara preceded him in death as did his sister, Rita Marie Erdmann. Also surviving are his brothers, Victor Erdmann of Minneapolis, MN and James B. Erdmann of Wallingford, PA; his sister, Ruth Amburgey of Mountvale, NJ; 12 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. BG Erdmann graduated from Cathedral Boys High School, Springfield Jr. College, and General Command and Staff College. He fought as a Lieutenant in the European theatre during WWII, receiving the European-African-Middle East Ribbon, Good Conduct Ribbon, Combat Infantryman's Badge, two battle stars and a bronze star for bravery. He also served as a Major in Korea. As Commander of the 32nd Ordinance Battalion, his unit received the Eisenhower Trophy for Excellence. He was the Commandant of the Illinois Military Academy until his retirement at which time he was honored with a commendation from President Ford. He was the oldest member of the Knights of Columbus Counsel 364 and a member of Christ the King Parish. Visitation will be held from 9:30 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 11, 2009 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1725 S. Walnut St., Springfield. Funeral mass will follow at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. David Hoefler celebrant. Burial will follow in Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors. Memorial contributions may be made in his honor to St. Joseph's Home, 3306 South 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703.