Kevin S. Sickles, Jr.

Kevin Shane Sickles, Jr., 35, of Galesburg, died early Wednesday morning, February 13, 2019 as a result of a house fire. Kevin was born December 2, 1983 in Galesburg the son of Kevin S. and Jackie L. (McDorman) Sickles, Sr.  Kevin is survived by his mother, Jackie Simpson of Galesburg and his father, Kevin S. (Susanne) Sickles, Sr., of Abingdon; as well as one brother, Michael (Sepy) Armstrong of Galesburg; and three sisters, Victoria R. McDorman of Galesburg, Adrienne (Dusty) Frakes of Greenbush, and Kaitlin Sickles of Abingdon.  He is also survived by his maternal grandmother, Ileen F. (late William) McDorman, Sr. of Abingdon; his paternal grandmother, Betty (late Elmer, USMC) Sickles of Abingdon; and his step father, David L. Simpson of Galesburg.  His beloved daughter, Charlotte Marie was born February 11, 2016 and perished in the fire with Kevin.  Also surviving are six nieces and nephews, Landyn and Liam Armstrong, Madi, Hailey, JoJo, and D.J. Frakes, and a niece, Mila Rae Armstrong due in July; along with numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.  Kevin was preceded in death by his great grandmother, Beatrice Johnson. Kevin served in the US Army in the transportation division for two years, serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.  He was currently working as a railroad crew hauler for Hallcon.  Kevin was an avid collector of military memorabilia, knives, and scale John Deere Tractors.  Kevin also enjoyed collecting guns and was a gunsmith.  He was a connoisseur of fine cigars and whiskey.  Kevin enjoyed working on his trucks and his house along with riding his motorcycle.  Kevin will be remembered as a loving and kind soul who deeply loved his daughter and a dedicated family man who was always willing to help anyone in need. He also had a dry and snarky sense of humor along with a quick wit. Cremation rites will be accorded.  A memorial visitation will be 3 to 5 p.m. Monday, February 18, 2019 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  Memorials may be made in Kevin’s memory to the Gary Sinise Foundation or Hope for Warriors.  Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com .