Malcolm "Abe" Grant

Malcolm "Abe" Grant, 87, of Springfield, was born into eternal life on Wednesday, November 26, 2008 at St. John's Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Malcolm was born on October 5, 1921 at home in Menard County, the son of Earl and Clara Boring Grant. He married Mary H. Grant on April 18, 1953 at St. Agnes Catholic Church. She preceded him in death in September 2008. Malcolm graduated from Athens High School in 1940. He went on to serve his country in the US Army during WWII. Malcolm was known as "Mr. Fix It"; he was very family oriented and when he wasn't helping out everyone else, he enjoyed playing horseshoes, fishing, travelling, and playing the lottery. Malcolm was also a member of the New Horseshoe Club of Springfield. Also preceding Malcolm in death are his parents; his great grandson, Jacob Grant Schloemann; and his brother, Brian Grant. He is survived by his children, Marilyn (husband, John) Cimarossa of Sugar Hill, GA and Rhonda (husband, Terry R.) Brown of Athens; his grandchildren, Carolyn (husband, Chad) Schloemann, Darren (wife, Emily) Cimarossa, Jaclyn Cimarossa, Justin and Jared Brown; his great grandchildren, Adam, Mackenzie, Mary Kate and Maddie; his brother, John Wendall (wife, Kay) Grant of Lanart Village, FL; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and great nieces and nephews. Family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 30, 2008 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Visitation will begin with a prayer service at 4:00 p.m. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 1, 2008 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1345 N. 6th St., Springfield with Rev. Msgr. Thomas P. Holinga, celebrant. Burial will follow at Joel Hall Cemetery in Athens. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1345 N. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62702 or Telephone Pioneers for their Shoe Program, 3509 Glengate Dr., Springfield, IL 62711-7111.