Ervin E. Yocum (89) of Edgewood

Ervin E. Yocum, 89, of Edgewood, IL, passed away on Sunday, July 3, 2022 at his home.

Private family services will be held at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. Burial will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Effingham with military rites. There will be no public visitation.

Memorials may be made to the Edgewood American Legion Post 1168. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here. 

Ervin was born on July 22, 1932, in Effingham County, IL, the son of John Ervin and Mabel Ruth (Campbell) Yocum. He married Mary Lou (Loy) on February 6, 1954. They are the parents of five children.

Ervin was a proud veteran of the Unites States Army and served his country during the Korean War from 1949-1953. He was a Corporal in the United States 82nd Airborne Division, Co A 505 1st Squad as a Parachutist and Glider Pilot. Ervin completed 62 Jumps. He was a Southern Illinois Heartland Chapter Chairman for the 82 Airborne Division Association and a proud Sergeant at Arms Edgewood American Legion Post 1168.

Ervin had many occupations in his younger years, working in a bakery in Effingham, at Norge, and in the oil fields. He enjoyed working in politics with U.S. Representative Miles E. Mills and Congressman George Shipley. He also was an Effingham County Deputy Sheriff for a short time.

Ervin worked at the Edgewood Post Office as a mailing supervisor, and in shipping and receiving at Crossroads until his retirement. He was an active member in his community, serving as a trustee of the Village of Edgewood and on many committees helping with projects in Edgewood. He also was a member of the Edgewood American Legion for over 50 years.

He enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs and spending time with his family. He enjoyed going on vacations with his family, country music, and watching Westerns, especially John Wayne.

Ervin is survived by his wife of 68 years, Mary Lou; children, Dennis (Melissa Bricker), Kim (Ray Cole), Carrie (Kelly King), Daniel, and Bonnie (Randy Ingram); 13 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert Yocum; sister, Linda Murray; sons-in-law, Curt McKinney and Donald Olivier; grandson, Eric King; and great-granddaughter, Jodee Campbell.