Obituary for Henry Deatherage III
Henry Clay Deatherage III passed away on Friday, February 3rd, 2012 in Peoria. Henry was born in Union City, TN to Henry Clay and Mildred (Matheny) Deatherage. He attended school in Bayonne, NJ, and graduated in 1939 from Logansport HS, IN. Also attended Purdue and Bradley University. Henry served in WWII from 1942-46 in the 5th Air Force. He received the following awards/medals: Asiatic Pacific Campaign, Phillipine Liberation, Japan Occupation. In 1955 he married Lucille H. Rosenau in Hammond, IN. They had two daughters, Diana and Connie. He lived most of his life in Peoria. Henry worked as an Insurance Adjuster and Special Agent for General Motors (MIC) from 1951-1978. He was appointed for distinguished service to the Nationwide Inter-Company Arbitration Committee. Henry was well known at car dealerships and body shops in central IL. He received the President’s Safe Driving award for over 25 years. He enjoyed road trips with Lucy as they traveled the US widely upon his retirement. An avid reader, Henry also enjoyed sailing, math, science, history, and music. Also known to his friends as Hank, he was active in the VFW Post 814 in Peoria, served in many capacities including Commander and published the newsletter. As a devoted member of the Optimists Club, he served as President in 1998. He also served on the Lakeview Museum Board and enjoyed volunteering in many elementary schools including 6 years at Kelly Avenue School. His mother, father, sister Jane Deatherage Matthews, and brother Robert Deatherage preceded him in death. Survived by his wife, Lucy, daughters Diana (Doug) Pearson, Connie Fitzsimmons, grandchildren Corrie (Jason) Bird, Conner Fitzsimmons, Capri and Chantal Pearson. A private military ceremony for family and friends will be held at Springdale Cemetery in Peoria (TBA). Memorials in Hank’s memory can be made to VFW Post 814 or the Optimists Club. Henry Clay Deatherage III, man of Honor, Integrity, and Lifelong Learner.
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