Howard Cox - Online Memorial Website

Howard F. Cox, 84, of Oreana, IL passed away Tuesday, June 7, 2011.

 Funeral Services to celebrate the life of Howard will be conducted at 11am on Saturday, June 11, 2011 at Dawson and Wikoff North Chapel, Rt. 51 North in Decatur with interment following at Friends Creek Cemetery near Argenta. Visitation will be held 5-8 pm on Friday, June 10, 2011 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.dawson-wikoff.com.

Howard was born on March 6, 1927 in Springfield and was the son of Forrest and Mabel Cox.  6 years later his family was joined by his little sister, Verna Trimby of Decatur.  Howard was a naval veteran of WWII.  For all of his life he was proud of the time spent serving his country in time of war.  On August 30, 1947 he married the “Love of his Life” for 64 years, Gertrude Williams Cox.  The Love, Enthusiasm, and Confidence Gert had in him is what he credited for making him into the wonderful man he was.  Together they were blessed with a family that included 5 sons: Mike (Linda), Mahomet; Jeff (Linda), Cisco; Jim (Takeko), Kialua, HI ; Rick (Dianne), Argenta; Scott (Brenda), Jacksonville, FL.; 2 daughters: Janet (Matt) Kracht, Sullivan and Julie (Doug) Roach, Monticello. One son, Nick Daniel, preceded his father in death. Howard felt his most important and rewarding achievement was his family. Nothing pleased him more than watching his family continue to grow to 17 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Howard had an innate appreciation for music given to him by his parents and passed down to each of his family members. He played the sax in bands, for fun, and for relaxation.  His work ethic and desire to provide for those he loved was inherited from his father.  Having also trained as a printer in the Navy served him well. Even as he tried many other jobs, he returned to his passion of printing. He retired from Solo Cup Company in Urbana to his Golden Pond on Lake Sara, Effingham in 1990. He found much Joy working in the yard, playing with his children and writing his thoughts.

Howard taught us so much about how to live life. He was a wonderful father, friend, and mentor to many more.  He served our country, played instruments, danced, sang, told stories, provided for and loved his family, and lived life truly to the fullest. We are so happy we knew him, and so thankful for the model he has been for all of us. We will miss him so much.