William Jacob Diefenbach, 77, passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2014 at 12:45 pm at the VA Medical Center.
William was born June 4, 1937 in Marion the son of Roy Frederick and Jewel Pearl (Odum) Diefenbach. He married Caroline Purcell on June 18, 1965 in Wheaton, Illinois and together they shared over 45 years of marriage until her death on March 27, 2011.
He was an Army veteran, proudly answering the call to serve his country during the Vietnam war. William retired from the railroad. He was a member of the Local 318 Operators Union, VFW, American Legion, Lions Club, The Snow Drifters, Property Owners Assoc. and former President of the Library in Crab Orchard.
Survivors include his;
Daughter – Susan Schaak of McHenry, Illinois
Son – Jeff Quinlan and wife Loretta of Huntley, Illinois
Daughter – Julie Campbell of Blairsville
Daughter – Rebecca Diefenbach of Marietta, Ohio
Eight grandchildren;
Amanda Carzolli and husband Mike
Becky Adams and husband Zack
Kevin Quinlan and wife Michelle
Kyle Quinlan
Nicole Diefenbach
Jacob Diefenbach
Joshua Diefenbach and wife Kortny
Elizabeth Diefenbach
Eleven great grandchildren;
Ryan, Abby, Nora, Madison, McKenzie, Jacob Lee, Lilliana, Carter, Marlie Jo,
Zaylee, Zander
Two brothers;
Neil Diefenbach and wife Judy of Escondido, California
Robert Diefenbach and wife Mona of Paulton
Preceded by his Parents, Wife – Caroline and grandson Lee Ray Norris.
Funeral services will be Saturday, January 3, 2015 at 1 pm at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home with Chaplin Lisa Scott officiating. Burial will follow in Bolton-Trammel Cemetery. Military rites will be presented by members of the Marion VFW Post #1301, American Legion Post #147 and National Guard Flag Detail Unit. Visitation will be Friday from 5 – 8 pm at the funeral home.