Wilbur Russell Durham

Wilbur R. Durham, 92, of Springfield, died at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2014 at his home. Wilbur was born October 2, 1921 in Murrayville, the son of Walter and Minnie Florence Hodges Durham. He married Mary Louise Buck; she preceded him in death. Wilbur proudly served his country in the United States Army during WWII. He worked for Coca-Cola as superintendent for years and then worked for Pennington's Refrigeration Company, which he later co-owned and operated until his retirement in 1984. Wilbur was a 50 year member of the Plumbers and Steamfitters Union Local 137 and enjoyed cooking, canning, and vegetable gardening. Wilbur was a generous and kind-hearted man who loved children and opening his home up to friends and family for holidays. Mary and Wilbur were the National Foster Parents of the Year in 1977, which was recorded in the Congressional records in Washington, D.C. He was also preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Natalie, Ethlyn, Roberta, Marvel, Argus "Red", Harvey and Calvin. He is survived by his children, Patricia Harms of Sherman, Margaret Bedolli of Springfield, David (wife, Beth) Durham of Rochester, and Rusty Durham of Springfield; ten grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering and Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m until the time of the memorial ceremony at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, February 21, 2014 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors provided by Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County. Memorial contributions may be made to: Disabled American Veterans, 25 Club Area, Springfield, IL 62712.