Melvin 'Blackie' Blackford

Melvin R. Blackie Blackford, 85, of Danville passed away on August 9, 2009 at Vermilion Manor Nursing Home. Blackie was born May 1, 1924 in Danville son of William H. and Hannah (Behimmer) Blackford. He married Doris Holycross on August 25, 1945 at her parents home. She preceded him in December of 2008. Survivors include two children: Connie (Ron) Spicer of Bismarck and William (Cheryl Groppi) Blackford of Danville, 5 grandchildren & 14 great grandchildren, and a boy on the way; sister-in-laws: Dorothy Blackford, Marlene (Harold) Coonradt, and Joanne Holycross and several nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Clarence, Harold and wife Susie, and sister: Lena Light and husband Frank. Blackie was a 42 graduate of Potomac High School and had worked for Consolidated Products and later Kraft in Danville until retiring in 85 after 36 years. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Danville for a number of years. Blackie enjoyed playing Industrial League basketball & baseball, playing cards, fishing, going to the Peoria Boat, and has been a avid Yankee fan since childhood, but, most of all he enjoyed spending time with friends and family. A Celebration of Melvins Life will be held at 10:00 am, Friday, August 14, 2009 at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center 3940 N. Vermilion St. Danville, IL with Pastor Richard Sullins officiating. Visitation will be held from 4-7 pm Thursday evening at the funeral home. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Potomac Cemetery. Memorials may be made to The First United Methodist Church or Carle Hospice. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com