Melvin Dale Dearing

Melvin Dale Dearing, 81, of Peoria, Illinois, passed away at St. Francis Hospital on November 19, 2016 with his family by his side. He was born on March 19, 1935 to Russell Sr. and Delphia (Lowe) Dearing in Virginia, IL. He married Elizabeth J. Childers-Walker on June 26, 1955 at the Baptist Church in Tallula, IL. Melvin worked at Caterpillar in East Peoria, IL for 33 years. He ran a factory crane at the LL Building and retired in 1985. He later worked for Horan Construction Laborers Local 165. Melvin had a passion for motorcycles from a young age and bought his first Harley-Davidson in 1953. He was a lifetime member and former president of the Peoria Motorcycle Club. He was also a lifetime member of the American Motorcycle Association. He served as president of the Monroe School Board and was a member of the Monroe Booster Club. Melvin was a member of the Bartonville Christian Church where he and his wife worked as loyal volunteers for the church’s food pantry. His favorite sport teams were the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Bulls. He lived his life through his family. His wife, children, and grandchildren were his heart and soul. He never missed a sporting event for his children or grandchildren, which were the highlight of his life. He portrayed unconditional love and devotion to his beloved wife of 61 years as he selflessly cared for her. Melvin gave true meaning to “giving the shirt off his back”. Melvin is survived by his wife Elizabeth, six children; Mike Dearing, Kevin (Margie) Dearing, Mason Dearing, Chris Dearing, Robin (Ericka) Dearing, and Dawn Dearing-Harbison, thirteen grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Melvin was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers; Russell Marvin Dearing and Clyde Dearing. Visitation will be held at the Bartonville Christian Church, 4900 Pfeiffer Rd., Bartonville IL, 61607, on Tuesday, November 22, 2016, from 4-7pm with a service following at 7pm. A funeral service will be held at Hurley Funeral Home in Petersburg, IL on Wednesday, November 23, 2016, at 10am with a graveside service following. Memorials for Melvin may be made to the Christian Church of Bartonville Food Pantry. Please visit Melvin’s obituary online at www.hurleyfh.com.

Melvin Dale Dearing

March 19, 1935 - November 19, 2016

Explore Obituaries &
Upcoming Services