Carl E Seelye

Born May 18, 1937 in Pekin to Carl Wayne and Ludicey Berniece (Taylor) Seelye, he married Susan Lee Straley on January 16, 1959 in Pekin.  She survives.

Also surviving are two sons, Bill E. Seelye and Chuck L. Seelye, both of Pekin; three daughters, Carla Irvin, Janice Seelye, and Barbara Brown, all of Pekin; ten grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and one sister, Peggy Null of Pekin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, two brothers, one grandson and one great-granddaughter.

Carl was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local No 649 in Peoria, working as a heavy equipment operator for 40 years, retiring in 2002.

In the late 1950's, Carl enjoyed stock car driving at the Peoria Speedway.

He started the Seelye Family Texas Hold 'Em Tournament.  He also enjoyed fishing, playing pool and playing the organ.  He enjoyed his last day on the Par-A-Dice Casino boat on Monday with his wife and daughter, Barb.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, January 21, 2010 at the Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel.  Services will immediately follow visitation with the Chaplain Ron Little officiating.  Cremation will be accorded following services.

Memorial contributions may be given to the family to help with expenses.