Julia Ellen Decker

Julia Ellen Baker was born the youngest of 8 children in Chestnut, IL on July 16, 1934 to Edwin William (Bill) and Uva Julia (Dunn) Baker. She married Elwyn Eugene Decker on January 9, 1953 in Mt. Pulaski, IL. Surviving are her nine children, Donald (Nicki) Decker, Glenn (Michelle) Decker both of East Peoria, Wesley Decker of Naperville, Roger (Penny) Decker of Washington, Kenneth Decker of Washburn, Janice (Roger) Markle, Barbra (Terry) Whalen both of Mapleton, Joyce (Dennis) Donahoe of Metamora and Nancy Swisher of Creve Coeur. Also surviving are nineteen grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one sister Irma Jean Buckles of Mt. Pulaski. She was preceded in death by her husband Elwyn, her parents, 3 brothers and 3 sisters.

Julia was hard of hearing, but that didn’t deter her from raising 9 children and being a wonderful loving Mother, Grandmother and Great grandmother. She loved sports especially softball and baseball. She was an avid Cardinal fan. She and Elwyn enjoyed watching their children and grandchildren participate in all kinds of sports. She also enjoyed fishing, camping, playing games, especially cards, and hunting mushrooms. Julia was an inspiration to those who knew her. She was an example of strength, faith and love. She had a passion for life and found joy in the smiles of children. Family meant a great deal to her and her legacy will continue in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

She attended Pleasant Hill Mennonite Church, now Crosspoint Church in East Peoria for almost 50 years.

Services will be at 11:00 am Wednesday, June 19, 2013 at Crosspoint Church. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 pm Tuesday, June 18, 2013 at Remmert Funeral Home. The Rev. Dr. George E. Hines will officiate. A graveside service will follow at Roberts Cemetery in Morton.

Memorial gifts may be made to The Carle Development Foundation, 611 W. Park St., Urbana, IL 61801, or online at www.carle.org/give to benefit the Adult Cochlear Implant program at Carle. Please visit Julia's story at www.remmertfuneralhome.com.