Joseph 'Joe' Billot

Joseph "Joe" Billot, 80, of Cayuga, passed away at 1:55 pm on Friday, August 20th, 2004, at the Illiana Healthcare Systems of Danville. He was born in Westville, IL, on March 12th, 1924, to Gus and Serena Legros Billot. After attending Westville Schools, he participated in the CCC Camp Project the later served in the U. S. Army as a combat engineer during WWII. He was active in the European Theater and was involved in numerous battles. One of his fondest memories was seeing the Statue of Liberty upon his return from the War. He met and married Mary Elizabeth McKearney in 1944. She survives. He later married Lucille Nelson of Cayuga who is preceded him in death. Those who will miss him include: his children, Maureen (Mike) Socha of Cayuga, Joe (Suzanne) Billot of Colorado Springs, CO, and Mike (Dianne) Billot of Sebastopol, CA; his sister Carol Sermersheim; his seven grandchildren of whom he was very proud, Maureen Socha of Indianapolis, IN, Michael (Kristen) Socha of Michigan, Tanya (Brant) Ireland of Indianapolis, IN, Gus Billot, Michael Billot both of Colorado Springs, CO, Kelly (Nick) Achison, & Chuck Billot both of CA. He also has several nieces and nephews and one special cousin, Joe Lourdeau of Westville and friend Armand (Yolanda) Merlie of Westville, both of whom he considered like his brothers. His parents and three sisters - Palmere Lesko, Henrietta "Lolly" Henry, & Doris Merlie, preceded him in death. His hobbies included fishing, bird watching, cooking and play euchre. He lived on the Wabash River for many years and was known for his fish fries and parties at his cabin. He loved his poodle, La Belle', who was with him constantly. Memberships included the American Legion Post 5, the Audubon Society, & the Wabash Valley Gourmet Club. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him, especially his devoted caregiver, Kay McComas, and a special friend and fishing buddy, Claude (Elaine) Vallangeon whom he considered like a son.