John L. Louden's Obituary
Johnny “John” L. Louden, 74, of Atwood, Illinois left this life much too soon on May 9, 2024. John was born on August 23, 1949, in Webb City, Missouri, the son of Eugene and Betty Crane Louden, who preceded him in death. He was a standout athlete at many sports, but John especially excelled at baseball. Unfortunately, his dreams of playing Major League Baseball came to an abrupt halt due to an injury just a few days before the MLB scouts were scheduled to come to watch him pitch. After graduating from Alba High School in 1967, John joined the United States Army and served out his tour in Europe. After returning from the military, a job opportunity at USI Chemical Corporation took him to Tuscola, Illinois where he met the love of his life, Barbara Kay Bishop, and later married her in Villa Grove, Illinois. John loved his family more than anything. His favorite place to be was with his family, especially at events for one of his children and later on at events for one of his four grandchildren. Sports, especially crappie fishing, came in a close second place to his family. Rest assured, if it was crappie season, it was almost a guarantee that John could be found bright and early at his favorite fishing spot. He was adamant about getting there early so that no one got his best spot! In fact, that was where he was headed on his last day on this earth. John is survived by his loving wife, Barb; His daughter, Charidy (Bryan) Butcher of Atwood, Illinois; His son, Chad Louden of Heltonville, Indiana; and four grandchildren that were the light of his life- Brody and Blayne Louden and Lucas and Savannah Butcher of Atwood, Illinois. He is also survived by his three “grand pups”- Tex, Duke, and Lucy. He spoiled them almost as much as he spoiled his human grandkids! As John would say, he’s just “Going Fishing Instead of Just A Wishin’!” Visitation will be at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the First Christian Church of Lovington located at 301 South County Street, Lovington, with funeral services starting at 11:00 AM with burial in Keller Cemetery immediately following. Memorials may be made to the family. Graceland-Fairlawn Funeral Home is assisting the family with services. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in care of Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Homes at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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