Kenneth Runyan, Sr.

Kenneth Eugene Runyan, Sr., of Danville, formerly of Champaign, passed away at 3:05am Saturday, August 2, 2008 at the Veterans Administration Illiana Health Care System, Danville. He was born on March 29, 1924 in Danville, the son of John W. and Myrtle (Nixon) Runyan. Kenneth married Dorothy M. Reed on March 1, 1947 in Chicago, IL. She preceded him in death on September 7, 1965. He later married Phyllis M. Stout on June 25, 1966 in Champaign, IL. She survives Other survivors include six sons, Gary W. Starwalt of Carbondale, IL, Kenneth E. Chip (Sharron) Runyan of Danville, Robert J. (Deborah) Runyan of Danville, Dan C. Starwalt of Phoenix, AZ, John W. (Brenda) Runyan of Plainfield, IL, and James G.(Della) Runyan of Champaign, one sister, Evelyn Dines of Danville, eight grandchildren, Mathew (Lori), Robert, Patrick (Kayla), David, Gregory (Sarah), Kevin, Scott, and Amanda Runyan, and five great "grandchildren, Adam and Allison Hanson, Mariel, Gabrielle, and William Runyan, and many nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife, Dorothy, and one sister, Betty Garretson. Kenneth was a veteran of the United States Army during World War II. He received a Purple Heart for his dedicated service to his country. Kenneth worked at Davies Meat Packing in Danville and retired as a meat merchandiser for Eisner Food Stores. His hobbies were golfing and fishing. Kenneth was a member of the Illiuka Fishing Club, and past member of the Champaign Elks Lodge. A celebration of life for Kenneth Eugene Runyan, Sr., will be held at 10:00am Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, with Reverend James Blue officiating. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Park. Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00pm, Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at the funeral home. E-mail condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com