Edward Sheehan

Ed Sheehan, 96, died on Thursday, July 30, 2020 in Charleston, IL. He was born December 17, 1923 in Ludlow, to parents, Ed 'Buzz' Sheehan and Vera Brown Sheehan.  He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Barbara and his sisters, Jane DeFuria and Mary Grosjean. 

He grew up in Rantoul and attended St. Malachy School and graduated from Rantoul High School in 1941, where he was a cheerleader. In January 1943, he was drafted into the army.  He served in the Pacific Theater with Battery D, 505th AAA as they advanced through the Philippines and the great battle of Okinawa.  When the war was over, Sergeant Sheehan, radar operator, was discharged with many ribbons, medals and a bronze battle star.

He returned to Rantoul and attended the University of Illinois on the G. I. bill and  graduated with an Engineering Degree.  He  met Barbara Ann Bouslog at a campus dance.  They were married for 72 years before her death in 2018.  He worked for the Kuhne Company for over 50 years.  It gave him great pride to have participated in the construction of many large buildings on the U of I campus, several schools in the area and the Music Building at Eastern Illinois University.

Ed leaves behind his beloved children, Steve (Barbara) Sheehan and Colleen (Chuck) Maxwell.  He was so proud of each of his grandchildren: Erik Sheehan (Ivanny), Travis Sheehan (Becky), Kelly (Joe) Marcus, Katey (James) Wamsley and Lydia (Brett) Nadal.   He also enjoyed his 14 great-granchildren.

Ed was a proud 100% Irishman known for his blarney.  He and Barbara enjoyed ballroom dancing for many years and made lots of friends who are dancing in heaven.  He was a big fan of the ILLINI and wore his class ring with pride.  He loved pepperoni pizza and dressing 'snazzy' and was known for his Popeye imitation. He served on the Mahomet Village Board for many years and was a past president of the local PTA and a member of the Mahomet American Legion.    He was a member of St. Malachy in Rantoul, Holy Cross in Champaign and finally Our Lady of the Lake in Mahomet.

The family would like to express special Thanks to the members of St. Philamena in Monticello for bringing the church to him while he lived at Holly Brook Villa.  They also Thank the Staff of Holly Brook in Monticello for taking such good care of him. 

In accordance with his wishes, a private family service will be held.

Memorials may be made to: Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church (501 W. State, Mahomet, IL 61853) or Pheasants Forever (1767 County Rd 2400 N, Thomasboro, IL 61878)

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