Earl J. Wilson

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[Earl J. Wilson, 74, of 209 W. McClernand Ave., Shawneetown, passed away at his home at 2:25 p.m. Sunday, March 8, 2009.

He was born Aug. 16, 1934, to Adrian C. and Lola (Proffer) Wilson in Alton. Earl was married to the former Elva Cowsert of Eichorn, who survives.

They have two daughters, Cheryl Wilson and her husband James Schoeberl of Shawneetown and Terri Hoffner of Clifton; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He is also survived by daughters, Linda Hefferin and Sharon Schneider and their families; an adopted granddaughter, Stephanie Mustafa and her family; brother, Harold Wilson of Lockport; sister, Shirley and Robert Sheets of Evansville, Ind.; and several nieces and nephews.

Earl worked at Manteno State Hospital, Fisher Body and as an Ironworker for Local No. 465, now No. 444. He served as recording secretary and on the pension board. He was a member of Exline Sportsmen's Club, where he served on the board and as president for several years. Earl also served on the city council of Shawneetown after moving back here.

He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was a hunter safety instructor. His greatest pride were his grandchildren and as of late his great-grandson.

Earl was preceded in death by parents; and three brothers, Freddie, Adrian L. and Charles Virgil Sr. Wilson.

Visitation for Earl will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, 2009, at the Vickery Funeral Chapel in Shawneetown. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 11, 2009, with Pastor Jack Hall officiating. Burial will be at Westwood Cemetery near Shawneetown.

Memorials in Earl's memory may be made to The Preston Wilson Fund. Internet condolences may be made at the Internet site www.vickeryfuneralchapel.com.