Robert Eugene ‘Doc’ Walton
Robert Eugene “Doc” Walton, 73, of Jonesboro, died Sunday, Jan. 21, 2018, at Jonesboro Rehab and Healthcare Center.
He was born on Dec. 14, 1944, in Champaign, the son of Dr. Joseph Eugene and Wanda Lee Lorton Walton.
He met the love of his life, Donna Bodeen, while he was in college. They married on June 18, 1967, in Alpha, Ill.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Donna Walton, of Jonesboro; a sister, Nancy (Ron) Nagel of Lake Suzy, Fla.; a sister-in-law, Diane (Steve) Fairfield of Louisville, Ky.; a brother-in-law, Duane (Dianne) Bodeen of Falls Church, Va.; six nieces and nephews; many friends including Doug (Cindy) Allen, Jeff Hickam and James Patterson, all of Anna. His loving cats were Kiwi, Kudzie, Fluffy and Topsey.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and by one uncle, Robert L. Walton, who died in World War II.
He grew up in Homer, Ill., and enjoyed playing the trumpet, trombone and baritone in the school band. After graduation, he attended Southern Illinois University, graduating with his bachelor of science degree in physiology and psychology. He worked part time at Jerry’s Gulf, south of Carbondale, cleaning carburetors.
He joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1968, serving his country during the Vietnam War in the 3rd Marine Amphibious Force, 1st Marine Division. He was promoted to lance corporal and was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries he sustained during his tour.
He was a life member of Carroll P. Foster Post No. 3455 of the VFW in Anna, and served as their adjutant for ten years. He played many years in the VFW pool league.
He owned and operated Blue Meanie Records in Carbondale and later Rabbit Records in Marion. He loved to drive and read about cars. He loved to study history, especially World War II history. Most importantly, he loved his wife and his cats.
His wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be planned in the spring and will be announced at a later date.
To view the obituary and to leave online condolences for the family, visit www.rendlemanhilemanfh.com.
Rendleman & Hileman Funeral Home in Jonesboro is in charge of arrangements.