Wayne R. Vonderharr

Wayne R. Vonderharr, 81, of Lebanon, IL, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at his home.

He was born on September 17, 1941, in Madison, MN, to Joseph and Estelle (nee Richards) Vonderharr. Wayne was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lebanon, IL.

Wayne grew up in Madison, MN, and was the oldest of 11 siblings. After graduating high school in 1959, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served for 30 years, earning the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, until his retirement in 1991. Wayne and his wife, Linda Vonderharr, settled in Lebanon in 1984, after being stationed in England. He was a member of the Lebanon Lions Club, where he served as president multiple times, St. Vincent DePaul, and was part of a men’s bowling league that met on Monday mornings.

He enjoyed reading, cooking, and baking. Everyone loved his cookies, rhubarb pie, and cobblers. Wayne was fond of cruises, having been on at least 15 in his life. Wayne was a good man and liked to be active in his community; often taking part in various fundraisers put on by groups he was affiliated with as he just wanted to make life better for others.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Estelle Vonderharr, and his brother, Roger Vonderharr.

He is survived by his wife, Linda (nee Demko) Vonderharr, Fairview Heights, IL; son, Benjamin F. (Kenishia) Luke, Bloomington, IL; grandchildren, Kendall Luke, Miles Luke; brothers, Dennis Vonderharr, Donald (Diane) Vonderharr, John (Becky) Vonderharr, Richard (Carol) Vonderharr, Robert (Marianne) Vonderharr; sisters, Betty (Larry) Fay, Carol (Dennis) Carlson, Linda (Robert) Prestidge, Diane Vonderharr; many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lebanon Lions Club or St. Joseph Catholic Church, Lebanon, IL

Visitation: Tuesday, June 20, 2023, from 9:00 to 11:00 am, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Lebanon, IL

Mass of Christian Burial: Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at 11:00 am, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Lebanon, IL

Clergy: Fr. Paul Wienhoff, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Lebanon, IL

Interment: June 21, 2023, 11:30 am, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO

Meridith Funeral Home, Lebanon, IL