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*NORTH PEKIN *- Charles N. Manion, 76, of North Pekin passed away on Monday, Oct. 12, 2009, in the emergency room of OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

He was born on Aug. 22, 1933, in Mount Vernon, Ill., the son of Clyde and Flossie McKiness Manion.

He married Juanita E. Lelm on Dec. 22, 1956, in Peoria.

Surviving are his wife; one daughter, Cheryl Manion of South Pekin; and one son, Dennis (Michele) Manion of Bettendorf, Iowa. Also surviving are his five grandchildren, Andrew Uppole, Zachary Uppole, Nicole Manion, Gabriele Manion and Kristin Manion. He is further survived by one sister, Jewel Imes of Elk Grove, Calif.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Marcella Weatherford.

An honorably discharged U.S. Korean War veteran, he worked for Caterpillar Tractor Co. for 37 years, last working as a machine operator in salvage before retiring in 1991.

He enjoyed going to the North Pekin McDonald's daily to shoot the bull and discuss world events with his friends. He also loved spending time with his children and grandchildren and attending their many events.

He was a handyman and enjoyed home improvement projects.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a celebration of life visitation is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009, at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 715 N. 11th St., Pekin, from 1 until 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in his name to a charity of the donor's choice.

Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services of Central Illinois, Peoria is in charge of arrangements.

Source: In Journal Star of Peoria, Illinois
Date: October 15, 2009
Submitted by: Susan Armstrong