Merle Sims

Merle E. Sims, 82, of Decatur, IL, passed away Friday, July 28, 2017 at Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy, IL.Memorial visitation will be 2-5 pm Wednesday, August 2, at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home, Decatur. Military rites will be conducted by the Macon County Honor Guard at 1:30 pm preceding the visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Illinois Veterans Home, Quincy, IL or to the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children.Merle was born December 18, 1934, in Decatur, son of Merl and Gladys Irene (Quinn) Sims. He married Judith Lee “Judy” Meador February 14, 1964 in Decatur. Merle was a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran serving in Korea and Japan, and was a member of the Macon County Honor Guard, Charles Parlier Chapter 24 - Korean War Veterans Assn. Local Chapter, Korean War National Museum - Emeritus member, Beaumanoir Commandery #9 - KT, and Marine Corps Heritage Foundation - National Museum of the Marine Corps. He received the Ambassador of Freedom Medal from the Republic of Korea in July 2011.Merle worked at A&M Auto Supply. He later worked for Caterpillar for 32 years, retiring February 3, 1992 and was a former member of UAW Local #751. He was also a member of the Stephen Decatur Lodge #979, Decatur York Rite Masonry, Decatur Chapter #21 - RAM, Decatur Council #16 -CM, Macon County Historical Museum, Friends of the Decatur Public Library, and a life time member of the Warrensburg Sportman’s Club. Merle was known as one of the best automotive machinists, having built many high performance engines.Merle enjoyed pheasant hunting with “fellas” in Iowa, trap shooting, traveling on many great vacations, attending grandchildren’s sporting events, dance recitals, etc.Left with many memories are his wife of 53 years, Judy of Decatur; daughter Kathy Bailey and husband Todd of Oakley; grandchildren Hunter Damarin and husband Dillon of Macon and Jensen Bailey of Oakley.Merle was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, three sisters, and two brothers-in-law.The family would like to have a Celebration of Life at the D.A.V. at 6pm, drop by if you can, the family would love to see you and reminisce. "
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