Harry Gene Hodges, 81, of Mapleton, IL, passed on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at Pekin Hospital in Pekin, IL.
He was born on September 19, 1941, in Seminole, TX, the son of Hillary and Erma (Cox) Hodges. He married Donna Mae Norton in 1962. He later married Crystal L. Schiefeling on January 24, 1986, in Peoria, IL. She passed away on June 4, 2018. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Mike Hodges and Dutch Hodges, and one infant brother Steven Hodges.
Surviving are two sons, Harry (Julie) Hodges of Germantown Hills, IL, and William (Rhonda) Hodges of Mapleton, IL; one daughter, Patricia (John) Harr of Low Point, IL; seven grandchildren, Eric (Chelsey) Harr, Tyler (Caroline) Hodges, Billy (Amy Walker) Hodges Jr., Meghan Berrard, Alissa (Ryan) Harkins, Lindsey (Derek) Hobbick, and JJ Pyatt; and 14 beautiful great-grandchildren.
Harry was born in Texas, raised in Arkansas, and lived in California and Alaska prior to settling in central Illinois to raise his family and work for Caterpillar, Inc. Because of his extensive knowledge and experience in mechanics, Harry finished his career at CAT as a lead checking engineer. He took great pride in his long career, helping to ensure that mechanical design visions became reality.
Harry's hobbies included spending time in his garage with his sons working on go-carts, trucks, cars and sharing his knowledge. He was an avid hunter, enjoyed camping, martial arts, wrestling, and his beloved dogs. Harry and his late wife, Crystal, were highly involved in the community and active members of the Abbas Grotto of East Peoria, IL. Harry shared his love for life, and was known for his enormous personality, his laughter, and the ability to show up in a time of need. He will be remembered for many things, but most importantly his love of family and dear friends.
Cremation rites have been accorded. At Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington, a memorial visitation is scheduled from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, January 11, 2023, with a Masonic Service scheduled at 6 p.m. Following the Masonic service, a short service will be held sharing fond memories of Harry. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Grottoes international at https://scgrotto.org/.
