William Sims

William 'Bill' J. Sims, 87, of Pekin, formerly of Venice FL, passed away at 4:55 am, Tuesday, October 18, 2011 at Pekin Manor. Bill was born May 21, 1924 in Taylorville, IL to William T. and Geneva Mary (Smith) Sims.He married Laura J. Sparice February 3, 1946 in Naples, Italy, where he served proudly in the US Army/Air Corp during WWII. He is survived by his wife,Laura, the love of his life; three sons, Mike Sims of Channahon, IL, Larry (Cheryl) Sims of Normal, IL, Mark (Cherie) Sims of Elwood City, PA; three daughters, Deana (Mike) Thompson of Pekin, Julie (George) Bogle of Friendswood, TX, Mary Jean (Michael) Meese of Virginia Beach, VA; two brothers, Daniel (Nancy ) Sims of Edinburg, IL, Jesse (Frances) Sims of Hillard, FL; one sister, Charlene (Leland) Graven of Findley, IL; twelve grandchildren; and seventeen great grandchildren. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, one son, James E. Sims, several brothers and sisters. Bill was of the Catholic faith.He enjoyed fishing, playing guitar, golfing.He enjoyed being the passenger while flying with his son, Mike.Bill also was a master wood worker.Bill was a machinist for International Harvester retiring June 1, 1988. Memorial service will be at 11:00 am, Saturday, October 29, 2011 at Henderson Funeral Home in Pekin with military honors by the US Army. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am prior to the service.Deacon Mark Wilder will officiate. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to Alzheimer's Association or charity of donor's choice.To leave the Bill's family an online condolence please visit www.hendersonfuneralcare.com. Visitation Saturday, October 29, 2011 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Henderson Funeral Home and Crematory 2131 Velde Dr. Pekin,IL 61554 Service Saturday, October 29, 2011 11:00 AM Henderson Funeral Home and Crematory 2131 Velde Dr. Pekin,IL 61554