Arthur Koller

Arthur J. Koller, 83, of Decatur, formerly of Chicago, Illinois, died Sunday, November 3, 2013, following a heart attack, at Decatur Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loved ones. A memorial service will be held on November 24, 2013, in Glenwood, Illinois, with time and location yet to be determined. Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes is in charge of local arrangements. Mr. Koller was born January 31, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, a son of John and Louise Bernoska. Following high school, he served in the U.S. Air Force at San Antonio, Texas, between WW II and the Korean Conflict. He worked as a manufacturers' representative for several companies in the Chicago area, more recently in the lamp, lampshades, and lighting fixtures industry. Arthur was a life member of the Thornton, IL, Lions Club. He enjoyed life to the fullest, and was literally "the life of the party." At many parties, he was often asked to sing his favorites: "Danny Boy", and "My Way". He was an excellent bowler, poker, bridge, and pool player, and, after moving to Decatur, especially loved those activities when they were offered at the Decatur Macon County Senior Center and the Decatur Elks Club. He married Joan Johnson in Chicago, IL, on August 26, 1949. He was a devoted husband to Joan for 64 years, until her recent death on October 9, 2013. He is survived by 2 daughters; Mrs. Lorie (Jeff) Klawitter, of Decatur; Mrs. Jackie Lynn (Jim) Purlee, of Sacramento, CA, a special niece: Mrs. Cindy (Tom) Polke and boys, of Homer Glen, IL, other nieces and nephews, 2 grandchildren: Michael and Alicia, and 2 great-daughters: Belle and Robyn. He was preceded in death by his parents and 2 brothers. "
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