Obituary of Johnnie Reynolds

John L. Reynolds, 91, of Beach Park, IL died on November 30, 2011. John was born April 25, 1920 in Dawson Springs KY to Alphus Logan and Delia (Copeland) Reynolds and grew up around Herrin, IL. He married Betty L. Walker from Energy, IL on July 3, 1940 and spent his lifetime with her. They resided in Beach Park since 1954 where they raised three sons. John served in the Navy during WWII as a Fireman First Class and received an honorable discharge on January 1, 1946. He began working on January 7, 1946 as a tool and die maker with the Johnson Motors Outboard Marie Corporation in Waukegan, IL and retired July 28, 1978 after 32 years with the company. He was an avid fresh water fisherman, gardener, rock collector and always had time to make machine repairs or parts in his garage workshop for anyone stopping by for help. He spent many hours maintaining his yard, garden, flowers, bridges, trees, hills and winding creek bed. His property was used for the wedding ceremonies of a son and a grandson. He was a member of the Lake County Gem and Mineral Society for many years and exhibited rocks with the club many times. Survivors include his threes sons; John W. (Nancy) Reynolds of Beach Park, IL; Ray E. (Cathy) Reynolds of Davenport, FL; Greg L. (Rhonda) Reynolds of Elburn, IL; 8 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. John was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great and great-great grandfather. He was always there for his family and friends and will be missed. John was preceded in death by his wife, Betty L. Reynolds, on July 2, 2011, one day before their 71st wedding anniversary; his parents; two brothers William and Robert Reynolds; and a sister Mary (Reynolds) Canaday. Congdon & Company Funeral Home will handle the cremation. Interment will be private for the family.