R. LaVern Knepper, age 85
Of Wheeler, IL passed away at 4:40 PM – Monday, September 30, 2013
at his home.
Funeral services celebrating LaVern's life will be held at 10:00 AM- Thursday, October 3, 2013 at Central Christian Church in Newton, IL with his son Mike Knepper officiating. Burial will be in Westlawn Memorial Park in Newton, IL with full military rites by the Jasper Post #20 American Legion. Visitation will be held 5:00-8:00 PM - Wednesday October 2, 2013 at Central Christian Church in Newton, IL.
In loving memory of LaVern memorials may be made to the Central Christian Church or Tractor Pullers for Christ.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of the Blake-Buchanan Funeral Home in Newton, IL.
The obituary can be viewed and condolences left at www.blakefh.com.

Raymond LaVern Knepper was born on October 11, 1927 in Charleston, IL the son of Raymond Henry and Anna Leolene (Howell) Knepper.
He married Georgia Stewart on September 22, 1951 and she survives.
LaVern served his country in the United States Army during World War II.
He was a lifelong farmer.
LaVern was a member of the Central Christian Church.
He was a Charter Member of the Illinois Tractor Puller Association, member of the National Tractor Pullers Association and the Hoosier State Tractor Pullers Association.
LaVern served on the Muddy School Board for several years.
He enjoyed spending time with his family, tractor pulling, mushroom hunting and his dogs.
LaVern is survived by:
Wife of 62 years- Georgia Knepper of Newton, IL
Children- Debbie (Ray) Diel of Newton, IL
Patty MacEachron of Champaign, IL
Mike (Vickie) Knepper of Newton, IL
Grandchildren-
Sarah (Cliff) Kinkade of Newton, IL
Michelle (Jason) Fulton of Newton, IL
Rebekah (Fiancé Monty Nester) Diel of Newton, IL
Alison MacEachron of Chicago, IL
Mariah (Joey) Eblin of Mt. Carmel, IL
Charlie (Ashley) Workman of Louisville, IL
Heather(Tyler) Mulany of Louisville, IL
Caleb Knepper of Orlando, Fl
Vanessa (Tyrunne) Howard of Effingham, IL
Elijah Knepper of Newton, IL
13 Great Grandchildren
Dolly his faithful companion and dog.
LaVern was preceded in death by his parents and a child.