John David Draper, Sr.

John was born on November 28, 1950 in Springfield, the son of Betty “Jane” (Lovell) Draper and the late William Draper, Sr.

In 1982 John re-united with and married his childhood sweetheart Lynn E. Crenshaw and together they raised a blended family and had a son together as well. In the early years John worked with his father and brothers in the family business, “Draper Electric”. He later moved on to work for the Turris coal mine in Elkhart, working his way up to Prep Plant Manager. John finished out his career managing Lake Area Disposal’s recycling facility.

John is survived by his wife Lynn, and children, Jim (Amy) Graham of Springfield, Angie (Travis) Ostermeier of Taylorville, IL, Nancy Churney of Florida, and John D. Draper, Jr. (Christie Reller) of Springfield; his mother Betty Jane Draper; 12 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild due on his birthday; 2 brothers Bill (Shirleen) Draper and Sam (Madalyn) Draper; a sister Janet Gaynor; and many nieces and nephews.

John possessed a contagious smile and an entertaining sense of humor. He was an avid lifelong bass fisherman, a true master of the craft, and was still fishing local tournaments with the Springfield Knotjesta Bass Club. He enjoyed the wildlife he observed while fishing, including the occasional close-up views of bald eagles.

John was an accomplished singer and guitarist, once fronting the Springfield GRAB band playing countless lake parties and receptions, but his true passion was teaching guitar to his family members, artists being somewhat common in the Draper family. John’s rendition of “The House of the Rising Sun” was amazing.

John is reunited with his father Bill Sr., brother Bob Draper, and sister Doris Ritz.

Services are under the direction of Bisch and Son Funeral Home, 505 E. Allen, Springfield. Per his wishes, cremation rites were accorded. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2014 at 11:30 am at Pasfield Southern Baptist Church, 411 West Lenox, Springfield, IL, with Rev. Milton Bost officiating.

Memorials may be made to Pasfield Southern Baptist Church Pantry, 411 West Lenox, Springfield, IL 62704.

Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.