Denny R. Patridge

Denny R. Patridge

(August 30, 1948 – March 8, 2024 )

Denny Ray Patridge , 75, of Strasburg, IL, passed away peacefully at 6:20 pm Friday, March 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, after a brief battle with cancer.

In keeping with Denny’s wishes, no services will be held.  A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.   In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Fairfield Park District Baseball (Memo: Denny Patridge Memorial) and mailed to Howe and Yockey Funeral Home, 415 N. Broadway, Shelbyville, IL 62565.   Arrangements are by Howe and Yockey Funeral Home.

Denny was born on August 30, 1948 in Olney, IL, the son of Delbert Elmer and Geneva Luella (Hilderbrand) Patridge.  A graduate of Fairfield High School, Denny maintained and cherished many lifelong friendships from his hometown.  He attended Olney Community College and Southern Illinois University.  He was a successful entrepreneur who started many businesses over his years and was retired from independent insurance sales. Throughout his life, Denny had a passion for sports, particularly basketball and baseball, which lasted from his playing days to the joy of coaching his son and grandchildren.  He married the love of his life, Judy Kay Miller, on June 8, 1973 and they were married for over 50 years. He and Judy were a constant presence over the years at all the games for their kids and grandkids, as well as cheering on many local teams even after their kids were grown.  He attended Lakewood Community Church and was an avid fan of Illini basketball and the St. Louis Cardinals.

As much as he loved sports, he loved his friends and family even more.  He and Judy had so much pride enjoying the family they built together.  He had a huge, generous heart and truly cherished moments with his family and friends.  Denny had a talent for bringing joy and laughter to those around him with his awesome sense of humor and his great joke telling.  We all will miss seeing his smile and hearing that laugh when he told stories.

Denny is survived by his wife, Judy; son, Jeff Wagner (Cathy) of Mattoon, IL; daughter, Amanda Bieber (Gene) of Tower Hill, IL; sister, Debbie Richardson of Fairfield, IL; four grandchildren, Danielle De Leon (George) of Taylorville, IL, Bryce Bieber of Tower Hill, IL, Megan Salmela (Chase) of Mattoon, IL and Taylor Wagner of Mattoon, IL; four great grandchildren, Parker and Murphy Salmela and Greyson and Wells Eaton and expecting baby De Leon; and lifelong friend, Larry Wattles of Louisville, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Carolyn Simpson (Herman).