Sonnie Dempke

Sherrill L. “Sonnie” Dempke, age 80, of Du Quoin, passed away at 2:35 am on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, at Du Quoin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Sherrill was born at Kaskaskia Island on May 22, 1941, the son of Henery and Ruth (Kreilter) Dempke. He married Audrey L. (Owens) Lynn in Cutler, Illinois on December 31, 1995.

Sonnie was a United States Army Veteran. Prior to his retirement, he made many friends while working jobs he enjoyed, including manager of Hills Hardware in Du Quoin, bartender of the bowling alley, truck driver, and even a metal polisher. Sonnie was a big part, and very active in, the VFW, where he also served as bartender.  He was a proud member of the Storm Rider Motorcycle Club, allowing him to embrace his love of Harley Davidson motorcycles.  

Survivors include his wife- Audrey L. Dempke of Du Quoin

Son- Brian and JoEllen Crawford of Chester

Son- Carl and Robin Crawford of Ellis Grove

Daughter- Diana and Kenny Batten of Chester

Daughter- Samandrea Crain of Chester

Step-Daughter- Melisa and Bill Mayfield of Fort Branch, Indiana

Step-Son- Brian Scott and Michelle Lynn of Du Quoin

Step-Daughter- Kristina Lynn and special friend Jesse James of Du Quoin

Step-Daughter- Debra and Kevin Copple of Haines City, Florida

Twenty Grandchildren

Seventeen Great Grandchildren

Seven Step Grandchildren

Twelve Step Great Grandchildren

Brother- Paul and Edna Dempke of Erwin, Tennessee

Brother- Henery Anthony Dempke of St. Mary, Missouri

Sister- Alfrieda Patterson of Cutler

Sister- Loretta and Kenneth Head of St. Mary, Missouri

Brother-in-law- Tom Knight of St. Mary, Missouri

Several Nieces and Nephews

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson- Alexander Phelps, two brothers- Phillip and Robert Dempke, two sisters- Shirley Ritter and Patricia Parks; and a great nephew- Michael Mooney.

Cremation rites will be accorded through Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home in Du Quoin.  The family will hold memorial services at a later date. Service information will be updated here as it becomes available.

In honor of Mr. Dempke’s veteran status, a retired American Flag will accompany him during cremation where the flag will serve one last patriotic duty for this heroic veteran one final time. The family will be presented with a beautifully framed star swatch from this same flag.

For those who prefer, memorial donations may be made to the family (in care of Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home). Envelopes will be accepted at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home; 11 S. Hickory Street; Du Quoin, IL 62832, or by calling 618-542-2020. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sonnie Dempke, please visit our floral store.