Memorial for James Leonard Perrone

Born in Danville, IL on Sep. 15, 1925
Departed on Jan. 7, 2014 and resided in Peoria, IL.
Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014
08:00 am - 09:00 am
Service: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014
09:00 am
Cemetery: Swan Lake Memory Gardens

James Leonard Perrone
PEORIA HEIGHTS – James L. Perrone, 88, of Peoria Heights passed away at 1:47 P.M. on Tuesday, January 7, 2014, at UnityPoint Health - Methodist.

He was born September 15, 1925 in Danville, IL to Antonio and Rachel (Sherrow) Perrone.

James was preceded in death by his parents; four step-children, Jean Hatton, Rick Burdin, Ray Burdin, Malinda Keller; one brother, and one sister.

He married Louise Galbraith in 1948, she precedes him in death. Jim later married Linda McGuire in 1990. Linda survives along with daughters, Bina (Paul) Connelly of New Holland, IL, and Tina (Jeff Broms) Miller of Peoria; and step-son, Bob Burdin of Peoria.

Also surviving are eleven grandchildren, Heather (Paul) Heppner, Brandon Underwood, Shelby (Shawn Powers) Miller, Nathan Miller, Nicole Keller, Amanda (Dustin) Matuszyk, Wayne Hatton, Christopher Burdin, Ricky Burdin, J.D. Burdin, Josh Burdin; and three great-grandchildren, Parker Powers, Luke Heppner, and Peyton Matuszyk. James also leaves behind two sisters, Lea Marketto of Watseka, IL, and Judy LaCombe of Danville, IL.

Jim served his country in the Philippines during World War II as a U.S. Marine. He retired from Methodist Medical Center in 1990 where he ended his work career which was varied and interesting. However, he was most proud of his years in law enforcement, first as the sole Marshall in Sheldon, IL where he also co-owned and operated the town's meat locker and general store, and then as a Sergeant and later as a Detective for the Danville, IL police force.

Jim was a big man with an even bigger heart. He was quick with a smile and a caring word. Although quiet by nature, he was quick witted and enjoyed engaging in a good 'debate' with anyone who wanted to exchange ideas. He loved listening to the music of Il Volo, watching any sports but especially his Chicago Cubs, Bulls and Bears. But most of all, he loved his family and was a devoted, loving husband.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2014, from 8:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M at the Wilton Mortuary. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, January 11, 2014 at 9:00 A.M. with Pastor Brent Foster officiating. Burial will follow at Swan Lake Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

This Memorial Obituary provided by The Wilton Mortuary