Johnnie Dorich

Canton – Johnnie Dorich, 98, of Canton passed away on July 12, 2015 at his home, Red Oak Estates.  He was born John Dorich in Dunfermline on May 27, 1917 to Joseph and Josephine (Tomljanovich) Dorich.  He married Arlene Wright on December 14, 1942 in Kahoka, Missouri.  She passed away on November 28, 1992.
Also preceding him in death were three brothers Matt, Frank, and Junior; sister Theresa; son Frank; great granddaughter Caitlin Snow.
Surviving are his daughter, Trudy (Larry) Williams of Canton; his granddaughters Franki (Jeremy) Ruck of Canton; Jennifer (Nick) Dorich-Vespa of Zionsville, IN; Stephanie (Dave) Snow of Virden; Great Grandchildren Alex Ruck; Sydney, Drew, Ryan and Charlie Vespa; Jenna and Abby Snow; nieces, nephews, great nephews; great neices and great great and nephews and nieces.
Johnnie served his country twice- first as a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps at Camp Illini in Marseilles, Illinois completing his “tour of duty” on September 3, 1935.  He later entered the Army, leaving from the Lewistown Post Office, on March 13, 1941.  He was honorably discharged on April 3, 1944.
He was a 78 year member in good standing of the United Mine Workers of America.  He retired from Buckheart Mine #17 in 1981.  In the 1970’s, he worked for the International UMWA as Safety Coordinator, Surface Mines, District 12.  He co-authored many safety regulations which protected strip miner’s lives.
Johnnie was 73 year member and life member of the American Legion Post #17 in Ipava.  He was a 63 year member and life member of the Morning Star Lodge #734 and the Scottish Rite Valley of Peoria.
He was Catholic who interpreted his faith in his own fashion all of his life.
Those who knew him well will remember his love for his wife and family, fast cars, a good argument and the Cardinals winning.
His family would like to thank the staff and residents at Red Oak Estates for so enriching his life these last years.
Dad said to me, “Don’t cry for long.  I’ve had a good life and I have no regrets.”
A funeral mass will be held on Friday, July 17, 2015, at 10:30 a.m. at the St. Michaels Catholic Church in St David.  A visitation will be held one hour prior at the Church.  Burial, with military honors, will be held at the White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton is in charge of arrangements.
Memorials may be made to the Canton Salvation Army or to St. Mary’s Catholic Church Food Pantry.
To view Johnnie’s video tribute or to leave online condolences please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com