John R. Duerre

John Roger Duerre (Johnny, Du-ray, Big John), 68, of Galesburg, died at 9:21 p.m. Monday, April 29, 2024 at his home.

He was born June 30, 1955 in Galesburg, the son of Stanley Leroy and Bernadine Lucille (Martinson) Duerre. John was raised in Galesburg and graduated high school in 1973. He married Debbie A. Coburn on June 29, 1979 in Camdenton, Missouri. John was a hard worker and worked at Gates Rubber Co. for 13 years and never missed a day. He had an amazing work ethic and he was a devoted family man. John loved to cook and taught his kids how to as they were growing up. John went all out for holidays, going above and beyond for his kids when they were young. He was also a devoted grandfather to Lilith and Ricky. Nothing was more important to him than his children and grandchildren.

He was a lifelong member of the NRA. John Loved being outdoors tending to his garden, fishing, boating, hunting, hiking or camping. He was an avid player of pool, darts, cards, and bowling. He had many skills and was a jack of all trades; ranging from carpentry, landscaping, tree work and construction.

John is survived by Debbie Duerre of Knoxville; one son, John (Carla) Duerre of Knoxville; daughter, Tammy Duerre (Auston Wright) of Knoxville; two grandchildren, Lilith Adele Engle (Chris Martinez) and Ricky Haze Wright; daughter, Audra (Jason) Hill of Durand, Illinois; step-son, Robert Nixon of Galesburg; and step-daughter, Crystal Savanna (Heather Mitchell) of Chillicothe, Illinois.

Also surviving is brother, Steven (Valerie) Duerre of Galesburg; a sister, Trudy Dunbar of Knoxville; and two cousins, Tracey Richardson and Justin Duerre. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Michael Duerre; a step-sister, Nannette Nixon; and a nephew, Jermey Duerre.

John was an animal lover. He was a true hippie who loved travel and adventure. John will be remembered for being a free spirit. He had a good sense of humor and a bit of a wild side. Big John marched to the beat of his own drum. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend and will be deeply missed in the community.

Visitation will be 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday, May 24, 2024 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, with the funeral service at 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Chaplain Jordan Knight will officiate. Cremation will be accorded following services. A celebration of life will be held immediately after in the Thomas Legacy Center. Memorials may be made to the Knox County Humane Society.