George A. Granneman

George A. Granneman, 89, of Springfield, died at 2:20 p.m. on Monday, April 2, 2007 at St. John’s Hospital. George was born on September 14, 1917 in Springfield, the son of George Carl and Bertha Sidener Granneman. He married Jule A. Kizevich on February 7, 1942 at St. Barbara’s Church in Springfield; she preceded him in death on December 31, 2001. He attended Feitshans High School. He was a WWII Army Veteran as a heavy machine gunner, serving with the 130th Infantry battalion 33rd Division in Hawaii, Kauai, New Guinea, Morati and Japan. He was awarded two Bronze Stars, the Asiatic-Pacific Theatre Ribbon, Victory Medal, five Overseas Bars, Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the Good Conduct Medal. He was employed at Sangamo Electric from 1936 – 1942 before serving in the military. Upon his return from WWII, he returned to Sangamo Electric from 1946 until their closing in 1976. He was active in the leadership of the United Auto Workers while employed at Sangamo Electric. He then worked at the Illinois Dept. of Transportation where he was employed in the maintenance department until his retirement. George was a devoted husband, sometimes working three jobs to meet family needs. He always orchestrated family holiday gatherings, and was a very special grandpa. He was most proud of his children and grandchildren. He will be remembered for his devotion to his wife and family, his sense of humor and fairness. He enjoyed fishing and vegetable gardening, especially giving of his bounty to friends and neighbors. Surviving are two sons: Dr. Richard (wife, Billie) Granneman of Marco Island, FL and Dr. James (wife, Debora) Granneman of Saline, MI; two daughters: Joanne (husband, Lance) Evans of Telluride, CO and Jane (husband, Christopher) Hansen of St. Charles; seven grandchildren: Jennifer Yantis, Lauren Hansen, Michael Hansen, Brian Granneman, Peter Granneman, Rachel Granneman and Lindsey Granneman; one great grandson, Aaron Granneman; one brother, Robert (wife, Betty) Egnew of Littleton, CO and several nieces and nephews. The family welcomes friends to visit from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 4, 2007 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St. Springfield. Funeral Ceremonies will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 5, 2007 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home with Scott Brindley officiating. Burial will follow in Camp Butler National Cemetery where military honors will be conducted by the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County and the Department of Defense. Memorial contributions may be made to Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702-1766 or Charity of Donor’s Choice.