Orville Burks

Orville Lee Burks, 80, of Shobonier, IL, passed away peacefully Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at his home after a long battle with acute myeloblastic leukemia. Per Orville’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. Visitation will be held from 1:00 – 3:00 PM, Friday, November 01, 2024 at Hohlt & File Funeral Home, Vandalia. A Private Inurnment will be held at Vernon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online condolences can be expressed at www.hohltandfilefh.com. Orville Lee Burks was born on March 10, 1944, three miles south of Arroll, MO, the son of Benjamin Franklin and Goldie Bell (Hoobery) Burks. Orville’s family moved many times when he was younger, finally settling in Vernon, IL. He married Joyce Sussen with whom he shares three children, they later divorced. He married Judy (Ritter) Black in November of 1982, and gained two step-sons. Together they celebrated nearly 42 years of marriage. Orville spent most of his working years in the logging and timber business, a career that runs throughout his family. He was never a stranger to hard work; it was his passion as he was still working at the age of 80. In his later years, he also established OB’s Place in Shobonier, owning and operating the business for 8 years. One might say that he opened the bar just for himself; Orville loved to drink beer, dance and listen to music. He will forever be remembered by his wife, Judy Burks of Shobonier; son, Jim Burks and wife Jodi of Vernon; daughter, Tammy Watkins and husband Roger of Saybrook; son, John Burks and wife Stephanie of Vernon; step-son, Matthew Black and wife Karen of Vandalia; sister, Vera Ray and husband David of Vandalia; sister, Wilma McElroy and husband Jim of Effingham; grandchildren, Telisa Simpsen, Stephanie Pickett, Justin Watkins, Tiffany Cathey, Genny Burks, Angie Burks, Kirsten Kershaw, John Burks, Kody Burks, Tresa Elgin, Ryan Black, Brady Black, Marley Black, Sierra Sanders, and Rylee Doza; numerous great-grandchildren; and countless nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; step-son, Andrew Black; brothers, Everett Burks and Chester Burks and wife Deloris; sisters, Vivian Burks, Wanda Spicer and husband Earl, Donna Evans and husband Richard; and two infant brothers.

Orville Burks

March 10, 1944 - October 29, 2024