Fred "Rockie" Sewell, of Bartonville, passed away on Monday, October 29 in his residence. He was born in Henderson, TN to Hayes and Maude Sewell. He married Mary Louise Mabie in May of 1962, who survives. Also surviving are his children Lana (Tyler) Simmons, Cindy (Rich) Hermann, Greg Sewell, Cheryl (Loren) Peacock and his grandchildren; Megan (Ryan) Welker, Dylan (Samantha) Simmons, Lynsi (Joe) Hinrichsen, Nick Hermann (Bree Luster), Quinton Carlyle, Connor Peacock, Mason Sewell, Calvin Peacock, Dalton Sewell, and Creighton Peacock. He so enjoyed his great grandchildren Jonah, Claire, Franklin, and Carson. One of Rockie's favorite things was being with his entire family, especially around a table playing games. Also surviving is his brother Claude (Toma Lea) and his sister Sylvia, numerous nieces and nephews who all held him in high esteem. Preceding him in death are his father and mother and four brothers.
Rockie was a seven year veteran of the United States Air Force. He worked at Keystone Steel & Wire Company and started Sewell Brothers Tree Experts in 1963, a company he was very proud of and continues to be a successful family-run business.
Rockie was involved in several clubs and organizations. He was a past Master at Bartonville's Masonic Lodge (twice). He was a member of the Limestone American Legion Post 979. He served as Bartonville Police & Fire Commissioner for 25 years. He coached his son, a few sons in law and lots of other Bartonville boys in the Limestone Junior Baseball League. He also advocated on behalf of several homeowners as a member of the Oak Grove Fire Protection Board. He loved playing softball and managing a team in Bartonville's Senior Slow Pitch league.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, November 3, at Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel. Visitation will be before the service on Saturday from 1-2pm. Graveside Committal Services immediately following the services at Maple Ridge Cemetery in Mapleton, IL. There will be a Celebration of Rockie’s Life at Peacock's Pub in Bartonville following the services.
Memorials may be made to Bartonville St. Jude Runners.
You may view Rockie’s obituary online at www.davisonfultonbartonvillechapel.com
