Jimmy Pesnell
Jimmy Pesnell, age 82, of Bethalto, IL passed away April 6, 2013 at home with his family by his side after a brave struggle with pancreatic cancer. Jimmy was born February 24th, 1931, the son of David Proctor Pesnell and Edna Marie Pesnell, in Hobbs, New Mexico.
In 1947, at age 16, Jimmy joined the Army Air Force and served in the WW-II Occupation of Japan and the Vietnam War.
After retirement from the Air Force, Jimmy entered Washburn University, graduating in 1971 with a BBA degree in Business Administration. During his senior year at Washburn, Jimmy served as Finance Officer for Kansas Neurological Institute.
Mr. Pesnell was employed by Explorer Pipeline Company, Wood River, IL in 1971 until his retirement in 1988.
Jimmy was an instrument-rated private pilot and enjoyed many hours of flying and working on airplanes.
Mr. Pesnell is survived by his wife of 48 years, Wilma J. Pesnell, his son James, Grandson David, Granddaughter Megan Thomas, as well as his sister Barbara Kingsbury of Blacksburg, VA, brothers Don (wife Norma) Pesnell, West Point, UT and Gary (wife Judy) Pesnell of Springtown, TX.
Jimmy will be remembered for his ready smile, intelligence, optimism, and philosophy of achieving “Good-Judgement” which comes from “Experience” which, in turn, came from “Bad-Judgement”.
At Mr. Pesnell’s request, a small graveside ceremony at Jefferson Barracks Cemetery, attended by family and close friends was held.
Memorials are suggested to BJC Hospice of Alton, IL.
As my mother would say (Aunt Mildred) it is not easy getting old – the loss of a loved one is part of getting older. My heart goes out to you Wilma, and your family. i wanted to let you know that I was thinking of you at this time. Kay
Jim was not just a big brother, he was a best friend and from the time I lost my father, he was there filling that role as well. Jim was unique. A product of the depression, one who struggled in school, Jim overcame the odds to excel in his Air Force career, his civilian life and education. He loved his wife, his son and grandchildren, his country and his Alma Mater, Washburn, University. I’ll forever miss our daily chats and especially his intelligence on many subjects and his optimism. Jim, you were special.
Dear Wilma and Family…In behalf of the Jim’s Lahr Kansas kin, we extend our condolences to you each with his passing. We know that it has been a long and courageous struggle for him during the past 2 years. To say the least, he was a fighter to the very end and we are so proud of him in his strength & gusto for life. My dad (Uncle John) always got to laughing so hard when telling the story about Jim’s adventure with an old 4 wheel wagon ride in our pasture as well as Jim’s early day “wheeler’s” in his first car. I know that dad and Leni so appreciated your many visits especially in their retirement years. Jerry, Sandy and Leni join me in wishing you each all the best.
He was good man. He help with my homework he helped me with math, science, social studies and Spanish. I love him. I help him outside and inside