Lee E. Avery, 91, of Media, Illinois, passed away Wednesday October 30, 2019 in a traffic accident, near Stronghurst, Illinois. He was born September 14, 1928, near Raritan, Illinois, the son of Joe and Nellie Wolford Avery. On December 4, 1948, he married Frances “Lottie” Rettig in Thermopolis, Wyoming. She preceded him in death on May 5, 2005.
Mr. Avery was a graduate of Stronghurst High School. He first worked for Santa Fe Railroad, and later was a ironworker for the Rock Island Local until his retirement. He served on the M.S.T. Fire Department, and the Media Village Board for many years. He enjoyed fishing, mushroom hunting, and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.
Survivors include two daughters, Connie (Darrell) Kraft of LaHarpe, IL, Dianna (Mike) Duncan of Media, IL, two sons, Neal (Patti) Avery of Media, Sheldon (Diane) Avery of Glenburn, ND, eight grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren, twelve great great grandchildren, and one sister, Shirley (Kendall) Furniss of Media. He was preceded in death by his wife, one sister, Helen Hobby, and five brothers, Eldon, Donald, Kenneth, Charles, and Larry Avery.
No Visitation is planned. A graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 5, 2019 in the Carman Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given to the M.S.T. Fire Department of Media, Illinois. Please visit banksandbeals.com to sign the guest book and leave a condolence.
