Marvin E. Dillon, 101, of Watseka passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth. He was born on March 17, 1925, a son of Lester and Clara (Scherer) Dillon. He married Joyce Fink on May 15, 1955 in Onarga and she preceded him in death on August 25, 2017. He was also preceded in death by his parents; five siblings, Donald, Guy, Gordon, Lorin and Valda; and many cherished family members and friends.

 

Married for 62 years, he and his late wife had three daughters, Diana (John) Salditt, Julie (Brent) LaReau and Connie (Todd) Breeling; six grandchildren, Melissa, Chris, Ami, Ryan, Kyle and Samantha; five great-grandchildren, Rileigh, Sharlee, Izabelle, Blade and Addisyn; and one great-great-grandchild, Ryker.

 

Marvin loved life, country and the land for more than 101 years. While he made his living in sales and other ventures, he was a proud Midwesterner who remained a farmer and gardener at heart. He was a man of contradictions – generous but frugal; strong but softhearted; earnest but humorous; an adventurous spirit who survived adversities; a traveler focused on the road home. He was a combat-wounded veteran who served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Marvin enjoyed collecting antique cars, spending time with family and friends; fishing; and dining out. Above all, he was loyal, honest, and kind.

 

Although we will miss his presence, laughter and storytelling, we are grateful for his long life and for the caring staff at Prairieview Lutheran Home.

 

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Steve Baker will officiate. Burial will follow at Ridgeland Twp. Cemetery in Thawville with military graveside rites by the Watseka American Legion Post #23.

 

Memorials may be made to the Watseka American Legion Post #23 or Faith Lutheran Church in Watseka.

 

Please share a memory of Marvin at knappfuneralhomes.com.