John R. Maher

John was born on July 13, 1941 in Springfield, the son of John H. and Anna E. Guymon Maher. He married Clara Wellenaeiter on December 4, 1971 in Springfield. They shared 47 wonderful years together.

John graduated from Cathedral High School. He worked as a firefighter for 30 years. He proudly served our country in the U.S. Marines. John was a member of NRA. He loved racing drag cars, reading, shooting guns, and spending time with his grandsons, Justin and Codey.

John was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Clara of Springfield; daughters, Stella Fernandez of Springfield and April Emerson of Nokomis; grandchildren, Justin R. Fernandez and Codey Fernandez, both of Springfield, Raymond Michael Emerson of Nokomis, Christina Lynn Emerson of Norfolk, VA, and Matthew Ryan Emerson and Mitchell Edwards Emerson, both of Portsmouth, VA; and one great-grandchild, Raylin.

Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at Boardman-Smith Funeral Home, 800 South Grand Ave. West, Springfield.

Memorial contributions may be made to Firefighters Local 37, 825 E. Capitol, Springfield, IL 62701.

Please visit boardmansmith.com to offer your condolences.