Don Bailey

Donald O. Bailey, 72, of Groveland, formerly of East Peoria, passed away at 2:48am Friday, January 23, 2015 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Don was born May 24, 1942 in Peoria to James Dray and Frances Marquis. He was raised by his mother and Fred Bailey. He married Evelyn Arlene Rentfro on December 5, 1964 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in East Peoria. Surviving are his wife, Arlene; sons, Don (Tammy) Bailey, Dave (Kendra) Bailey, and Marc Bailey all of Morton; grandchildren, Keighley of Denver, CO, Josh of Peoria, Hannah, Kyra, Blake, Bryn, Sierra, and Brody, all of Morton; siblings, Janet (Wally) Kuecks of Peoria, Jim (Jane) Bailey of Spring Bay, Judy Dunavan of Sunnyland, Julie (Bob) Vititow of East Peoria, Vanette (Bob) Kohlrus of Metamora, June (Ron) Cato of Eureka, and Fred (Jan) Bailey of Marquette Heights; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and one sister. One of Don’s passions was his work. He was active in the Plumber’s Local #63 as a member for over 50 years, and served as general foreman of several large commercial projects in the Peoria area. With faith and family as his cornerstones, he served as a trustee and usher at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in East Peoria where he was a member for 35 years and was active in Indian Guides and as a Boy Scout Leader. Don was a master craftsman, outdoorsman, and enjoyed traveling and spending time with his family and friends. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather; his presence will be missed by those who knew and loved him. A memorial service for Don will be held at 11am, Wednesday January 28, 2015 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in East Peoria. Visitation will be from 6-8:00pm, Tuesday, January 27, 2015 at Deiters Funeral Home & Crematory in East Peoria, and a half hour prior to the service at the church. Pastor Kurt Mews will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, the American Lung Association, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital-Midwest Affiliate.

Don Bailey

May 24, 1942 - January 23, 2015