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.
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