Clarence Blackburn, Jr.

Clarence Blackburn, Jr. 80 of Pana, formerly of Springfield, died at 1:55 a.m. Thursday, October 2, 2003 at Pana Community Hospital. Clarence was born February 25, 1923 in Lynville, IL the son of Clarence and Louise Blackburn, Sr. His stepfather Eugene Armstrong was also involved in his life. Mr. Blackburn was employed as a maintenance worker for Hickox Apartments retiring after 20 years he also worked for Mansion View Hotel. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during WWII where he received the WWII Victory Medal, EAME Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon and a Good Conduct Medal. He was preceded in death by his father, mother and stepfather; one brother: George; one sister: Yvonne; one niece: Evelyn Ryder and great nephew Bobby Blackburn. He is survived by daughter: Debbie Rauch of Pana; two sons: Thomas Blackburn of Hilton Head, SC, Jerry Blackburn of Springfield; one granddaughter: Lauren Blackburn of Springfield; eight nieces and nephews: George Blackburn, Jr., Bobbie (husband, Dale), Judy (husband, Denny) Ronnie (wife, Jill) Verny (wife, Linda) John, Rodney and Parma all of Springfield and special friends at Otter Lake. Friends may call at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home from 5-8:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 7, 2003. Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 8, 2003 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home with Scott Brindley officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery where the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County will conduct military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to Blood Bank of Central Illinois, 1134 S. 7th Springfield, IL 62703 or American Lung Association of Illinois, 3000 Kelly Lane, Springfield, IL 62707. The family of Clarence Blackburn, Jr. is being served by Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.