Leo Gilbert Hendrickson

Leo Gilbert Hendrickson, 89, passed away at 7:00 A.M. on Sunday, April 26, 2009 at his home in Marion, surrounded by his children and their spouses. Leo was born in Marion on November 9, 1919, the son of Raymond and Myrtle (Welborn) Hendrickson. He was married to Juanita Joyce King on February 18, 1939 in Paducah. Together they shared over 60 years of marriage until her death March 23, 1999. Leo was a veteran of World War II, serving in the US Navy from June 1944 until February 1946. While enlisted, he was stationed in San Diego and served aboard the USS McGowan (DD-678). He was a 32nd degree Mason and a member of Third Baptist Church in Marion. Leo spent much of his time outdoors enjoying hunting, fishing, and camping. He retired from Amax Delta Coal in 1984 after 35 years. Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Brenda Hendrickson of Marion, daughters and sons-in-law, Carol and Ted Jeter of Marion and Barbara and Jim Ghent of South Lake Tahoe, California; grandchildren Terry and Gina Hendrickson of Goreville, Jeff and LaDonna Hendrickson and Veronica Hendrickson all of Marion, Teddra Jeter of Springfield, LT CDR Brian Jeter of Honolulu, Hawaii, Jason Ghent of San Francisco and Jeremy Ghent of Prescott, Arizona; great-grandchildren Amanda, Greg and daughter Lauren; Josh, Amber and children Braydon and Brooklyn Hendrickson and Kristina Hendrickson of Marion and Jordan Hendrickson of Goreville. He was preceded in death by his father Ray in 1946, mother Myrtle in 1995 and brother Louie in 1982. Funeral services will Thursday, April 30, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion with Dr. Jerry Ford and Rev. David Hancock officiating. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. Military rites will be performed by Marions VFW Post #1301, American Legion Post #147 and National Guard Flag Detail Unit. Visitation will be Wednesday evening from 5:00 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home. For those who prefer memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Envelopes will be available and accepted at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home, 800 North Market Street, Marion, IL 62959. Watch the Video Tribute