Bernard LaVon Ator

Bernard LaVon Ator, age 93, of Pearl, IL passed away September 20, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 14, 1930, in Pleasant Hill, IL to Floyd and Bertha Collins Ator. Bernard married Virginia Holloway February 10, 1951, at Lee Maynard’s house and she survives.

Bernard was drafted in the United States Army and served in Korea from 1951 to 1953. He started working in Pittsfield for REA, Wipco and Soyland, and retired as a shift supervisor at Pearl Power Plant. Bernard was a carpenter, mechanic and handyman who enjoyed spending time in his workshop in the garage. One of his greatest passions was his family, he dearly loved attending his grandchildren’s activities and thoroughly enjoyed traveling and camping all over the United States with his family. After retiring he and Virginia built their home on the hill where they spent their golden years. Bernard was a lifelong member of Pearl Church of Christ where he also served as the handyman. He was a simple, loyal, strong and quiet man who was considered a good listener, especially for Virginia.

Bernard is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Virginia Ator; five children, Judy (Charlie) Cox of Pittsfield, IL, Jim (Sandy) Ator of Big Rock, TN, Bona Jean Martens of Blair, OK, Jerry Paul (Stephanie Bess) Ator of Oquawka, IL and Joanne (Carl) Smith of Nebo, IL; ten grandchildren, Rodney (Shelli) Cox, Jeramy (Shasti) Cooper, Brian (Corrie) Collier, Benjamin (Blake) Collier, Melissa (Bobby) Charles, Julia Roach, William Martens, Chris (Michelle) Ator, Elisha (Phil) Roesel, Shamus Smith and Megan (Jason) Buss; twenty-seven great grandchildren; and eight great great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Bertha Ator; in-laws, Clyde and Julia Holloway; granddaughter, Rashelle Cox; great grandson, Bo Buss; and daughter-in-law Janice Ator.

Funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM, Sunday, September 24, 2023, at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with visitation held prior to the service from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Interment will follow the service at Green Pond Cemetery near Pearl, IL.  Memorials are suggested to be made to Green Pond Cemetery or Pleasant Hill American Legion Post #1048. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

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