Raymond J. Brandon, 81

Raymond J. Brandon, age 81, of Spring Creek RV Resort, Crescent City, formerly of Rantoul, passed away Sun., Jan. 24, 2010 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. Visitation was held Wed., Jan. 27 at Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman with Masonic rites by Paxton Lodge 416. Graveside service was held Thurs., Jan. 28 at Eden Park Cemetery with Rev. Jeffray Greene officiating.

Military rites will be provided. Raymond was born on Dec. 24, 1928 in Cross Plains, IN. to Harry and Florence Brooks Brandon. His childhood was spent in Cross Plains, IN. An Air Force veteran from 1945-1966, he retired with the rank of Master Sargeant and also worked in civil service at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul where he was a weather and jet engine instructor. He retired from civil service at the age of 55. He married Betty Benson. She passed away on Oct. 12, 1978. Survivors include his fiancée, Corinne E. Martin of Crescent City; daughter Pamela Hopkins of TN.; son Raymond D. and Verla Brandon of MI.; step-daughters Donna (Bill) Johnmeyer of MO. and Evelyn (George) Davidson of IN.; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, daughter, Lynda Somsen; grandsons, Trevor Brandon and Joshua Schultz and one nephew, Billy D. Fields. Raymond was of Lutheran faith. He had formerly lived in Rantoul from 1959-1985. Lifetime memberships include VFW Post 6750 and American Legion 287 both of Rantoul and Paxton Mason Lodge 416, serving as Master from 1974-1975. Other memberships are Moose Lodge, Scottish Rite of Danville, Shrine of Springfield and York Rite Bodies of Paxton and board member of Lot Owners Association at Spring Creek RV Resort. He enjoyed traveling, camping and collecting. He was a handyman and jack of all trades. He most enjoyed helping others.