Fred B. Bushnell

Freddie B. Bushnell, 82, of Topeka, IL, passed away at OSF-St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria on Saturday, March 9, 2013, surrounded by family and friends. He was born August 14, 1930 in Bluffdale, IL to Orin and Mary (Coonrod) Bushnell. He married Clara Carle on June 27, 1974. Mr. Bushnell is survived by his wife, Clara, of Topeka, children: Sonna (Mike) Bishop: Kewanee, IL; Bonnie Bushnell: Decatur, IL; Timothy (Judy) Bushnell: Fountain Hills, AZ; Tammy Bushnell Saleem: Pekin, IL; Kim Bushnell: Houston, TX; Heidi Bushnell Christian: Houston, TX; Brady (Shaine) Bushnell: Henry, IL, and step children: Gene (Linda) Neill: S. Beloit, IL; Marilyn (Wally) Miars: Charlotte, MI; Danny Neill: Troy, MO, Trish (Mike) Manley: E. Peoria, IL; Roger (Teresa) Neill: Forest City, IL as well as many dearly loved grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, step-father, Reuben Seelund, daughter, Vicky Bushnell and previous wife, Agnes Verona Baker Bushnell. Fred enlisted in United States Army at age 17. He served two tours in Korea during the Korean War earning the rank of Sergeant. He received a purple heart after being wounded in battle honorably defending his country. Fred’s experience in Korea had a definite effect on his life. He worked as a machinist at Caterpillar Inc. for three decades, retiring in the mid-1980s. Fred was a huge baseball and basketball fan. He loved the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Bulls, Illinois Fighting Illini and Bradley Basketball. March Madness was one of his favorite times of the year. He rarely missed an NCAA tournament game or an IHSA state tournament game on T.V. In addition to his love of sports, Fred was a true dog lover. Fred owned too many dogs to count throughout his lifetime, treating them all like family members, especially his beloved black lab, Luke. More than anything, Fred loved his wife Clara and his family. Fred was truly one of a kind and will be eternally missed by those closest to him. Graveside services will be held at Noon on Saturday, March 16, 2013 at Forest City Cemetery. Rev. Tom Guengerich will officiate. Following the services, a luncheon will be held at the Manito Legion Hall from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to his family. Online memorial messages may be left for the family at www.hurleyfh.com. Maas-Hurley Funeral Home in Manito is in charge of arrangements.

Fred B. Bushnell

August 14, 1930 - March 9, 2013

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