Richard E. Shaw

Richard E. Shaw, age 89, of Oquawka, Ill., passed away at 9:07 a.m. on Monday, February 23, 2009, at OSF Holy Family Medical Center in Monmouth, Ill.. Richard was born on August 10, 1919 in Belmont, Ill., the son of Charles and Bernice Armstrong Shaw and was raised in Alexis and Monmouth where he attended local schools. Richard enlisted in the United States Navy serving in China. He was present at and was a survivor of Pearl Harbor in 1941. Following the war Richard also was in the National Guard and reenlisted in the Army during the Korean War Period for eighteen months. His rank was Master Sargent. Richard married Erma L. Peterson McMahon on May 30, 1953 in Coldbrook, Illinois. She is surviving. Richard first worked for Illinois Power Company as a Gas Serviceman for 36 years in the local area. He retired in 1981. He is a life member of J.W.Clendenin Post 2301 Veterans of Foreign Wars and a life member of Post 44 American Legion in Gulf Shores, Alabama. He is a member of the USS Saratoga Association. Richard enjoyed traveling and boating. Richard enjoyed traveling and in earlier years, boating. He is survived by his wife Erma L. Shaw of Oquawka, Illinois. Two daughters Pat Simpson (Rusty) and Sandy Huff, both of Oquawka, Illinois. Three Grandchildren survive Angie Peterson (Jeff) and Cindy Fedler (John) both of Oquawka, Illinois and Jeff Simpson (Sandra) of Atlantic Beach, Florida. Three Great Grandchildren survive Jordyn Peterson, Austin Bigger, and Rusty Simpson. He is preceded in death by his Parents and one brother Robert. Services:Cremation has been accorded. No visitation or funeral service is currently planned. His family is planning a memorial service at a later date.