David "Dave" Draher

his home.

Born June 30, 1952 in Peoria to George and Colleen Draher, he married Jan King on June 1, 1990 in Pekin. She survives.

Also surviving are his father of Pekin; four daughters, Jamie (Jim) Nelson and Kendra Draher of Pekin, Holly (Joe) Blanquart of Glasford, and Kalene (Jon) Cunningham of Green Valley; six grandchildren, Galen (Sarah) Clark, Tyler Clark, Reilly Nelson, and Aiden Slavin of Pekin, McKinna Russell of Peoria, and Kobe Russell of Texas; three great-grandchildren, Asher Clark, Melodee Clark, and Avalynn Clark of Pekin; two brothers, Steve (Donna) Draher and Tom (Julie) Draher of Pekin; four sisters, Jan (Phil) Newcomb, Judy (Lee) Kowalski, Joyce (Randy) Cline, and Jackie Draher, all in Pekin; his mother-in-law, Catherine King of Pekin, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother; one sister, Peggy; and his father-in-law, Harold King.

A 1970 graduate of Pekin Community High School, Dave was a truck driver for 38 years and retired from G&D Integrated in 2008 with 25 years of service.

He loved nature and anything associated with the sky. Dave became a private pilot in 1985. He enjoyed building and flying model experimental airplanes, watching space launches, and going to air shows. He also enjoyed traveling, especially cruises with Jan and vacations with friends and family.

He was a squirrel whisperer and bird watcher. Dave was a fan of football, golf, and watching collegiate basketball with Jan and friends.

Dave loved music and has requested that you remember him by listening to your favorite “tunes.”

There will be no funeral or visitation, per his request. Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin has been entrusted with his arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois CancerCare Foundation, 8940 Wood Sage Road, Peoria, IL 61615.