John Vernon Coons "J"

John Vernon Coons (J), 73 of Springfield IL passed away on Saturday November 14th, 2020 surrounded by close family. He was born May 16th, 1947 to Robert Price Coons and Georgia Elaine Coons (Roseberry) in Springfield, IL. 

His childhood was spent in Springfield IL and he graduated from Springfield High School. It was in high school that he met his wife Marcia Faugust Coons. On May 31st, 2020, they celebrated 51 years of marriage.

After high school he joined the US Air Force and served 4 years of active duty. Upon returning to IL from TX, he began working at Fiat-Allis in Springfield IL. While working there he continued his military service by joining the IL Army National Guard. He worked at Fiat-Allis from 1970 – 1982 and then went full time with the IL Army National Guard working at Camp Lincoln in Springfield IL. During his service, he was deployed to Vietnam to assist with operations during the Vietnam War. He served with the 3637th Maintenance Company where he was the Motor Sergeant and Food Service Sergeant. Throughout his military career he received many certificates and awards and on 12/21/1999 he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. He was well respected by those he supervised and trained.  After serving 26 years with the IL Army National Guard, he retired with honors in 2000 reaching the rank of Specialist First Class.

He was an avid horseback rider who enjoyed taking his family camping and trail riding all over IL and out of state as well. He forged many friendships through his camping trips and held those friendships close. Throughout his life he also enjoyed boating, riding his motorcycle, fishing, and shooting guns. He enjoyed playing poker with friends and family as well.

He had two things he said often, “Work smarter, not harder” and most importantly and most often said was “Me too”.  For those who knew him well, those two words meant the world.

He is survived by his loving wife Marcia Faugust Coons, brother Jeff Roseberry Coons, daughter Sheri Coons McCarty, son Chad Vernon Coons (Joni), grandchildren Michael Coons (Caitlin), Kirsten Coons, Tia McCarty, Jenna McCarty; sister in law, Linda Meador; and brother in law, Bob Meador and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is proceeded in death by his parents Robert Price Coons and Georgia Elaine Coons (Roseberry) and brother Robert Michael Coons (Mike).

In leu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to Shriner’s Hospital or a charity of your choice.

A private ceremony with military honors will be at Camp Butler Cemetery.

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