John W. Ebens, aged 84, passed away on Monday, February 6, 2023, at Serenity Hospice and Home near Oregon, Illinois. Born on January 13, 1939, close to Oregon, John was the son of John and Mildred (Tillett) Ebens. A 1957 graduate of Oregon High School, John’s life was rooted in the Oregon, IL area, yet his family extended across the country, reaching places like Charlotte, NC to Rock Falls, IL.
John married Violet Draege in June 1958 at the Chana United Methodist Church, beginning a lifelong partnership. His early career included work at Carnation Condensed Milk Factory in Oregon and over 15 years at Wood Brothers Manufacturing. Later, he became a rural mail carrier for the U.S. Post Office for more than 20 years and also contributed to Lorado Taft Field Campus. Beyond his professional life, John was a dedicated farmer, raising sheep, pigs, and milking cows, showcasing his strong work ethic and connection to the land in Oregon, IL.
His interests were diverse and active, ranging from golfing and camping to card games, bowling, and pool. These hobbies reflected a man who enjoyed community and simple pleasures. While Oregon, IL was his home, his family spread out, with grandchildren like John Nickolas Ebens in Rock Falls, IL, and Jill Ebens in Charlotte, NC, demonstrating the geographical reach of his legacy. Other grandchildren include Jacob Ebens in Houston, TX, Cody Ebens of Oregon, IL, and Travis Ebens of Milledgeville, IL, further illustrating the family’s presence across different locations.
Preceding him in death were his parents, brother Donald, sister Shirley, and son-in-law Ricky Wallace. He is survived by his wife Violet “Vi” Ebens of Oregon; his children Melody Wallace of Oregon; Joe (Julie) Ebens of Oregon; and John Todd Ebens of Chana.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, February 10, 2023, at Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home in Oregon, IL, officiated by Pastor Dave Rogula and Pastor Joshua Brown. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday evening from 5-7 pm at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Daysville Cemetery near Oregon. Memorial funds can be directed to the Chana United Methodist Church and Serenity Hospice and Home, reflecting John’s values and community ties. The family expresses gratitude to Silverado Memory Care in St. Charles, IL, and Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon, IL, for their compassionate care.
