Daniel D. Cox, 80, of Dunlap, formerly of Farmington, passed away at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2009, at home.
Daniel was born in Carthage on May 28, 1929, a son of Cleo and Lottie (Williams) Cox. He married Kay Nelson on July 3, 1955 in Farmington. She survives.
He is also survived by his daughter, Cathy Bendtsen of Peoria; sons, Robert (Sheryl) Cox of North Pekin, David (Jane) Cox of Fairplay, CO and Ronald Cox of Metamora; grandchildren, Liz Ward, Josh Cox, Julie (Erik) Dalmasso, Dan Cox and Melanie “Mel” Cox; and great grandchildren, Maggie, Logan and Payton.
Daniel graduated from Farmington High School in 1947. He was inducted into the Greater Peoria Sports Hall of Fame in 2005, as part of the undefeated 1945 and 1946 Farmington football teams.
He was a U.S. Army Korean War veteran and was honorably discharged on March 14, 1953, after earning the rank of Corporal.
Daniel was a maintenance supervisor for Caterpillar Inc. at their Tech Center, Building L. He retired on January 1, 1993, after forty-three years of service.
He enjoyed watching football, especially the Chicago Bears, and Tiger Woods; listening to Country music, especially The Statler Brothers; and visiting the Smoky Mountains, by going to the cabin and driving through Cades Cove.
He also enjoyed spending time in his workshop and woodworking, by making furniture and selling crafts on The Spoon River Scenic Drive.
The most important thing in his life was his family. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, great grandchildren and at family get-togethers.
Daniel will be remembered for his wit and humor; his patience, kindness and gentleness; and for being a family-oriented, hardworking role model. It seemed like there was nothing he couldn’t do.
A private family visitation will be held and cremation rites will be accorded. Memorial contributions may be made in Daniel’s memory to OSF Hospice or to the Farmington Rescue Squad.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Clary Funeral Home, 428 West McClure Avenue, in Peoria.
Papa Dan, One of my toys broke. I was hoping you could fix it.
love Maggie
I enjoyed working with Dan for many years at Cat Tech Center. As an engineer I had responsibility for getting projects accomplished and Dan was a great help a good many times. He was a great fellow! I've enjoyed looking at all of the pictures of Dan on this website. Looks like he had a wonderful life! I'll remember him fondly.
Dear Kay, I know that you will miss Dan terribly, but try to think of him and Jack up in heaven with their other friends talking about the good old days at Caterpillar and the many lunches and good times that they shared. God Bless you, Dottie
Bob "Chub" & Phyllis Carson |
Dear Kay & Family |
October 30, 2009 |
Dear Kay & Family,
At times like this it is difficlt to express our thoughts this message is intended to bring. It brings back lots of memories of our school days and the fun times. We've missed you on Spoon River Drive the last few years. Dan was very talented.
Again, we express our sincere sympathy to you and your family during this very difficult time.
With Our Love,
Bob "Chub" & Phyllis Carson
Cindy "Lozier" Norton |
You're in our Thoughts & Prayers |
October 21, 2009 |
Kay, Bob, Dave, Cathy, Ron & Families,
Just wanted to tell how sorry we were to hear of Dan's passing. He was a wonderful man with a kind heart. The memories you have of him will sustain you during this difficult time. I'm sure he and dad are up in heaven catching up!!! God Bless all of You.
Our prayers are with you,
Rich, Cindy, Andrea & Ashley Norton
Melanie Thurman |
Condolences |
October 20, 2009 |
Cathy and Family,
So sorry to hear about your dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this tough time. I have fond memories of your dad during our summer softball days and trip to Myrtle Beach. May the memories comfort you and fill your hearts with peace.
Love,
Melanie
Jerry Frazee |
Lord be with you |
October 19, 2009 |
My prayers are with your entire family, may the Lord give you all strength to get through these tough times. I will continue to pray for your family............ Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. . . . For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.
Isaiah 41:10, 13.
Ted Laidig |
Cox family |
October 19, 2009 |
Sorry to hear of Danny's passing. I worked for him on occasion when I was at Cat Tech. center Build L maintenance. Our sincere condolences .
Ted, Sylvia Laidig and family