James 'Jim' Maskel

GEORGETOWN - James Jim Maskel, 68, of Georgetown, passed away at 2:32pm, Wednesday, June 18th, 2008, at his home. He was born on July 8th, 1939, in Danville, IL, the son of Boyd and Hazel (Morrison) Maskel, both deceased. He was united in marriage to Alverta Farrell on April 1st, 1962, at Grape Creek Baptist Church. She will miss him dearly. Those who will also miss him include: his son, Brian (Tammy) Maskel of Georgetown; his grandchildren, Lauren & Jacob Maskel, both of Georgetown; his brothers, Art (Jeannie) Maskel of Gessie, IN, Daryl (LaDonna) Maskel of Sidell, IL, and George (Pam) Maskel of Covington, IN; his mother-in-law, Evelyn Farrell; his brothers-in-law, Dale (Heidi) Farrell of Metcalf and Kenny Farrell of Georgetown; his sister-in-law, Brenda Farrell of Bismarck, IL; and his good friends, Kent & EJ Leasure. The family would like to express a special thanks to the Carle Hospice nurses who attended him; Tonya, Jenna, & Lanie. Jim was preceded in death by his son, Steven, and one brother, Pete Maskel. Jim was involved in many aspects throughout the community. He was a member of the Russell Lodge #154 being a 32nd Degree Mason and past member of the Georgetown Lions Club. Jim was proud to serve for 33 years for Georgetown Fire Protection District and had achieved the rank of Assistant Chief before retiring in 2005. He also worked to establish the Georgetown Ambulance Service. Jim had worked as a welder and machinist for Hyster until he retired in 2001. Jim was an advocate for the Georgetown Youth Football program. He also was instrumental in keeping the Sportsman Club of Georgetown open and running. He loved to garden and talk gardening with his neighbors, especially Virginia Gumm. He will always be remembered for his tireless efforts on behalf the Georgetown Community and his loving nature. A celebration of Jims life will be held at 10:00am, Monday, June 23rd, 2008, at Sunset Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home, 200 E West St, Georgetown, IL. Reverend James Blue will officiate. Visitation will be held from 2pm to 6pm, Sunday, June 22nd, 2008, at the funeral home. Jim will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park, Danville. Memorial donations may be given in Jims name to the Georgetown Fire Protection District and/or Carle Hospice.