Dennis W. Conover

Dennis W. Conover, 73, of Pekin, passed away at 4:33 PM Monday, November 4, 2019 at St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria surrounded by his loving family. He was born September 28, 1946 in Kennett, MO, to Sally Mae Conover. He married Tammie Jo Bruder on November 2, 1982 in Pekin. He was preceded in death by his mother, two sisters, Barb and Sherry and his in-laws, Richard and Edith Bruder. He is survived by his wife, Tammie; one son, Colton (Jennifer) Conover; two daughters, Courtney (Brody) Jackson; Kaleigh Conover; four grandchildren, Peyton, Wolfgang, Kyland, and Fletcher; two brothers, Jim (Judie) Conover, Robin (MaryAnn) Conover; two sisters, Carmalita Nash, all of Pekin, and Linda Jones of Lincoln, IL., and numerous nieces and nephews. Dennis came to Pekin the day after graduating in 64 and worked jobs from railroad to construction before finding his career in law enforcement. Dennis's career began in the Pekin Auxiliary Police and the 911 Communications Center where he met his bride, Tammie Jo. He worked for the Pekin Park Police Rangers from 82-'89, where he attained the rank of Sgt. From there he joined the Marquette Heights Police Department in 89 and became the Firearms Range Instructor, Field Training Officer, and Sgt. of major case investigations where he received the 'Officer of the year' award in 94 for the largest drug bust in Marquette Heights history, in addition to various other awards. He then received his certification through the State of IL for a private detective license in 89' and opened the 'The Conover Detective Agency' with his brothers, which was a successful business for many years. His interest in death investigations led him to the Tazewell County Coroner's office where he became Coroner in 03'. While in office Dennis worked hard for justice for the citizens of Tazewell County. He never backed down to lawyers, insurance companies, doctors, nursing home owners, politics, etc. always advocating for the deceased and their families. Successfully elected for three more terms he retired in 11. He was a long time member of First Christian Church serving as deacon, elder, and in various other areas. He was on the Salvation Army Advisory Board, serving on the Rust Transitional Center Committee. Dennis also served on the Tazewell County Republican Executive Board helping to elect many politicians who he believed were best for the County and State, lastly serving in the capacity of Chairman. Dennis's love for his family, especially his loving wife, children, and grandchildren will never be forgotten. He was lovingly referred to as 'Papa' by his grandchildren. Rarely missing a game he was an avid St Louis Cardinals fan. Funeral Services will be at 10:30 AM Saturday, November 9, 2019 at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory, 2131 Velde Dr., Pekin with Pastor Mark Foglio officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 PM Friday, November 8, 2019 at the funeral home. An additional visitation will be from 9:30 - 10:30 Saturday prior to the funeral. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to The Salvation Army or Prevent 22. Cemetery Glendale Memorial Gardens 18119 Illinois Route 9 Pekin,IL 61554 Funeral Service Saturday, November 9, 2019 10:30 AM Henderson Funeral Home and Crematory 2131 Velde Dr. Pekin,IL 61554 Visitation Friday, November 8, 2019 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Henderson Funeral Home and Crematory 2131 Velde Dr. Pekin,IL 61554 Visitation Saturday, November 9, 2019 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Henderson Funeral Home and Crematory 2131 Velde Dr. Pekin,IL 61554