Lonnie S. Priest

Marion- LtC. Lonnie S. Priest, 73, of Marion, died at 7:23 PM, Saturday, August 30, 2008 at his home. Lonnie was born on February 15, 1935 in Chicago to Lonnie & Betty (Marema) Priest. He married his wife of 52 years Ida Crain on August 11, 1956 in Marion. She survives of Marion. He was a graduate of Marion High School 1953. Mr. Priest served his country honorably and courageously in the US Army during the Korean and Vietnam wars. He retired from the Army in September of 1973 after more than 20 years of active duty. Seven of which were served overseas. He graduated from OCS in 1957 with the rank of 2nd Lt. His service included the US, Japan, Hawaii (before statehood), Thailand, Germany and three tours in Vietnam. He served in various capacities from company commander, confinement officer, to provost marshal. During 1972-1973 he was USARV provost marshal of MRII, the northern half of South Vietnam. He had operational responsibility for all MPs, functions and missions. During this tour he was awarded the Legion of Merit and Two Bronze Stars. He was awarded numerous other badges and merits. He was a member of the 101st Airborne Division where he earned a master parachutists badge for over 100 jumps from both fixed wings and helicopters in day or night. While serving in Germany he was officer in charge of the MP Schools European Command. Once retired from the Army, Lonnie worked many years with the Dept of Interior, US Fish and Wildlife. He was awarded t the Valor Award in Washington DC for saving two lives on the lake during a storm. He was known for his great sense of humor and joke telling. He was a member of MOA and the First Methodist Church. Survivors include- Wife- Ida Priest of Marion Son- Lonnie S. Priest Jr and wife Mari of Lakewood, WA Daughter- Dianne Pansing & husband Bryan of Jackson, AL Son- Lance Priest of Dallas, TX Grandchildren: Bradley & Branson Pansing of Jackson, AL Sister- Ramona Horsley of Edwardsville Several nieces & nephews He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Barbara Singler. The funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM, Wednesday, September 3, 2008 at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion. Gordon Lambert will officiate. Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery. Military rites will be provided by the Marion VFW Post 1301 at the graveside. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until time of service, Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home/ 800 N. Market St. / Marion, IL 62959.