Johnnie L. Byrn

Marion- Johnnie “J.B.” Byrn, 69, of Marion, passed away at 4:20 PM, Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at his home. Johnnie was born on May 25, 1947 in Herrin to Joseph E. and Ruth (Pullem) Byrn. He married Patricia K. Norris on October 15, 1985 in Creal Springs. She survives of Marion. He was a hardworking man who began working as a paperboy at a young age and then doing odd jobs and helping those in need. He was soon drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War where he fought courageously as he protected military and humanitarian shipments up and down hostile rivers. Once he was honorably discharged, he returned home and began a 17 year career in coal mining as a belt-man for Old Ben Coal Company. He left mining to begin a short lived trucking career and later retired in 2011 as a line man at Bombardier Boat Factory in Benton. In his spare time, he enjoyed spending time outdoors, hunting and fishing and spending time with his family and friends on his private homestead. He also enjoyed watching war themed movie and old westerns. He will be dearly missed by those that knew and loved him. Survivors include- Wife- Patricia Byrn of Marion Daughter- Johnna Stewart and husband Travis of Creal Springs Son- Richard Komasinski and wife Angie of Marion Daughter- Florentine Cambron and husband Brian of Marion Son- Joe Byrn and wife Kim of Marion Daughter- Jana Byrn of Marion Son- Dustin Byrn and wife Darcy of Creal Springs 11 Grandchildren 4 Great Grandchildren He was preceded in death by his parents and brother- Mike Byrn. The funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM, Monday, February 13, 2017 at Blue Funeral Home in Marion. Pastor Don Schluter will officiate. Burial will follow at Maplewood Cemetery in Marion. Military rites will be performed at graveside by the Marion VFW and American Legion Posts with assistance from the Illinois National Guard. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until time of service, Monday, February 13, 2017 at Blue Funeral Home in Marion. Memorial donations are suggested to Disabled American Veterans and will be accepted at Blue Funeral Home/ 1704 N. Court/ Marion, IL 62959. For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.bluefuneralhome.com.