John L. Golden

John Golden, 94, of Westville, Illinois, passed away on December 14, 2024. He was born March 3, 1930, in Danville, Illinois to the late Arthur and Mamie Golden.

John is survived by his sons; Rusty (Sue) Golden and Chuck (Sharon) Golden; daughters Terry (George) Pate, Barbra (Roy) Burke, Bev (Rick) DeBarba, Mary (Warren) Connett, and Penny (Tom Stitt) Bunting; grandchildren Jenna (Nicholas) Henderson, Ryan (Kayla) Pate, Shay (Matt) Jones, Kristie (Adam) Eyer, Deonna (James) Edmonson, Rich (Maida) DeBarba, Jeff (Julie) DeBarba, Candi (Erik) Sternberger, Mandi (Tom) Fahey, Megan (Jake) Zedrick, and Michael (Kylah) Bunting; 24 great-grandchildren; along with his “little lady” Arlene Nichols.

He was proceeded in death by his parents; brother Charles; sisters Esther, Mineva, and Frances; son in law Rick DeBarba; first wife Dorothy Drollinger Pickett; and second wife Jean Morgan Golden.

John was the proud owner and operator of J. L. Golden Decorating, where his artistic flair transformed countless homes and spaces throughout the area. His talent for painting not only provided a livelihood but also became a passion he generously shared with others; he took great joy in teaching friends and family the art of painting with precision and skill.

He was a proud veteran of the Korean War, John served in the Army, where he exemplified leadership and service, later becoming a post commander at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). His military service deepened his commitment to his community and to those who served alongside him.

John was known for his love of westerns, especially John Wayne, and often entertained family and friends with his singing and dancing. A proud supporter of conservative values, he was an avid fan of President Trump. Beyond entertainment, John's creativity blossomed in his poetry, offering a glimpse into his thoughts and feelings. As a craftsman, he built his own fireplace, a project that demonstrated his ingenuity and ability to create beauty in all aspects of his life.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to Wounded Warriors Project (P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516)

Visitation will be held from 8:30AM – 10:30AM Friday, January 3, 2025, at Sunset Funeral Home, 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, IL 61832. Funeral service at 10:30AM Friday, January 3, 2025, with Father Sauppé officiating. Followed by burial at Danville National Cemetery, 1900 E Main St, Danville, IL 61832.

Please join the family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on John’s tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com