Daniel G. Higgins

Daniel G. Higgins, 72, of East Peoria, passed away at 2:08 pm on Thursday, August 15, 2024 at OSF St Francis Hospital in Peoria, with his loving daughter by his side.
Dan was born in Peoria on June 27, 1952, the son of Clarence and Mary (Ohlemiller) Higgins. He married Mary Jo Ellyn Brown on June 28, 1975 in Peoria, she preceded him in death on July 24, 2005.
Dan was a proud graduate of St. Philomena School and Bergan High School in Peoria. He served in the United States Army from 1972-1974, stationed in Germany. He was a member of the American Legion Post #2, Knights of Columbus Spalding Council # 427, UAW Local #974 at Caterpillar, where he worked for 35 years before retiring in 2009. Dan was a former member of St. Bernard's Catholic Church and St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church and their men's clubs, and in recent years attended Mass and had communion brought to him by St. Monica's Catholic Church in East Peoria.
Dan enjoyed playing bingo, watching sports and old shows, being outdoors, and watching his grandchildren grow up. He was a loving and faith-filled husband, father, and grandfather and his presence in our daily lives will be deeply missed.
Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Stacey (Matt) Hawley, grandchildren, Dany and Sydnee Wharton; brother, John (Marlis) Higgins; sister-in-law, Bobbie Higgins; two nephews, Tom and Mike and four nieces, Kelly, Suzie, Christy, and Cathy and all of their children.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Jo Ellyn; his parents, Clarence and Mary; three brothers, Patrick, Thomas, and Robert and one sister-in-law, Patricia.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Senior World in Peoria, Saxony Court and Accolade Healthcare in East Peoria for their compassionate and loving care of Daniel.
Visitation will be held on Monday, August 19, 2024 at St. Philomena Catholic Church from 9:30am-10:30am; followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30am. Father Daniel Dionesotes will officiate. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in West Peoria, IL.
Memorials may be made to TAPS Animal Shelter or St. Philomena School.
Funeral arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Wright & Salmon Mortuary. (309-688-4441)
Friends and family may view full obituary and sign the online guestbook by logging onto www.wrightandsalmon.com