Wendell Dean Graven (87) of Springfield

Wendell Dean Graven, 87, of Springfield, IL passed peacefully, in the comfort of home, surrounded by his loved ones, on Monday, February 28, 2022.

Wendell was born on March 1, 1934, in Findlay, the son of John and Ethel (Steele) Graven. He was a 1952 graduate of Findlay High School. Wendel and Fern Thacker were married on December 31, 1954 and were blessed with 67 years of marriage. Wendell owned and operated Hick’s Gas Station, worked at Charlie Wilson’s Ford Dealership and as a Purchasing Agent at International Paper for 20 years. Wendell served on the Shelbyville School Board from 1972-1976, was an original organizer of the little league ball diamonds, founder of the pony league and one of the original volunteers for the Shelbyville Festival of Lights. He was an avid Illinois Fighting Illini basketball fan and St. Louis Cardinals fan. Wendell was the MVP of the Shelby County Basketball Tournament in 1952 and was proud to be inducted into the IHSA Coaches Basketball Hall of Fame in 1991.

Surviving are his wife, Fern Graven of Springfield; two sons: Dean (Stacey) Graven of Springfield and Doug (Amy Cashman) Graven of Fort Collins, CO; four grandchildren: Tina Gardiner, Kyle Graven, Bryon Graven and Brett Graven; four great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; sisters: Juanita Tucker of Shelbyville and Barbara (Ed) Olivier of Strasburg and many nieces, nephews, cousins and his grand-dog, Rudy.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Lucille.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, March 7, 2021, in Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Shelbyville. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place in Glenwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made in his name to the Animal Protection League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702 or the Alzheimer’s Association, 2309 W. White Oaks Dr., Ste E, Springfield, IL 62704 or mailed to 302 W. Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565. Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Shelbyville is assisting the family.

Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story in Wendell’s honor by clicking here.