John Gifford

John L. Gifford, 64, of Decatur, died Saturday, January 17, 2015, at Decatur Memorial Hospital, with family at his side. Graveside services will be 1:00 P.M. Thursday, January 22, at Camp Butler National Cemetery, Springfield, IL. Visitation will be 5-7 P.M. Wednesday, January 21, at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home, Decatur. Memorials may be made to the family. John was born June 28, 1950, in Decatur, the son of Ronald Lee and Janet LaVonne (Boneham) Gifford. He married Carol Cravens September 6, 1975, in Decatur. John owned the Rendezvous Bar for 28 years. He was a U.S. Army veteran having served in Vietnam, and was a gold star father. He was a member of the V.F.W. and APA pool player for 35 years. John was an avid fisherman and a Miami Dolphins fan. He is survived by his wife Carol of Decatur; step mother Peggy Gifford of Decatur; daughters Valerie (Raymond) Durbin of Decatur and Tiffany (Michael) Law of Bethany; sister Patricia (Gene) Cowart of FL; brother Randy Gould of KS; sister Gail (Bob) Marlow of Decatur; brother Kelly Gifford of Decatur; grandchildren Mason Gifford, Olivia, Lilith, and Ellie; special friend and Miami Dolphin fan, Rick George. John was preceded in death by his parents, son Jonathan, and daughter Jennifer. John was a mentor/father figure to many people. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. "
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