The Angels came peacefully for James Hoeszle, age 85, of West Salem, Illinois on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at Carle Hospital, Urbana, Illinois.
James was born on December 22, 1938, in Olney, Illinois to Curma and Lucile (Yonaka) Hoeszle. He married Judith Leedom on April 1, 1964, in Phoenix, Arizona. They enjoyed 22 years together. On November 3, 1989, James wed Nonalene Westberry in Newnan, Georgia. James was preceded in death by his loving wife of 28 years.
James attended West Salem Grade School and graduated from Edwards County High School. He proudly served in the United States Air Force, then began a 30-year progressive career working for what is known today as Delta Airlines. He obtained a pilot’s license and flew small planes for fun and personal travel. James and Nonie traveled extensively and circled the world…literally.
James is survived by daughters Diane Stephenson, Monna (Jim) Young; sons David (Donna) Stephenson, William (Connie) Hoeszle, and Jay (Jada) Hoeszle; 11 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are brothers Terry (Joan) Hoeszle, and Gary (Debbie) Hoeszle of West Salem, Illinois.
He was preceded in death by sister Helen (Nile) Balding; daughter Debra Lee Stephenson; and grand-daughter Courtney Stephenson.
Visitation will be held Friday, July 19, 2024, from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at West Salem Zion Church. Funeral Service will follow at 4:30 p.m. A Life Celebration will be held at
6:00 pm at Weber’s Archery Shed in West Salem, Illinois (address below) with a buffet dinner, drinks and dessert served. All are welcome.
Clergy: Larry Walston
Military Rights presented by Edwards County VFW Post #8222, with TAPS performed by grandson Chester Phillips
Memorials are encouraged to the Macedonia Cemetery, West Salem, Illinois.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.meridithfuneralhome.com. Ingram-Meridith Funeral Home of West Salem is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.
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