Herman Francis Hilligoss, 86, of Humboldt, died at 4:18 PM Tuesday, October 7, 2014 at Carle Hospital in Urbana.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM Saturday, October 11, 2014 at Shrader Funeral Home, 204 N. Locust Street, Arcola, with Dr. John Calio officiating. Burial will follow in the Humboldt Cemetery with military rites accorded. Visitation will be held from 1:00-3:00 PM Saturday at the funeral home.

Herman was born September 14, 1928 in Humboldt, the son of Kenneth and Eva Olive Wright Hilligoss. He married Virginia Leah Oliver in Mattoon on October 5, 1947; she preceded him in death on December 18, 2012.

Survivors include 3 sons, Herman (Donna) Hilligoss of Mattoon; David (Pam) Hilligoss of Macon; Donald (Debra) Hilligoss of Humboldt; 2 daughters, Jean (John) Bailey of Mattoon; Barbara (Kurt) Taylor of Englewood, Florida; sister, Gladys Sanders of Mattoon; 12 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; and special friend, Dorothy Treat of Mattoon. He was preceded in death by 2 infant sons, 3 brothers, and 1 sister.

Herman had worked for Illinois Consolidated Telephone Co. for 12 years. He then became a journeyman electrician for the IBEW#146. He was past president and 65-year member of the IBEW #489 in Mattoon and past president of the Telephone Employee Credit Union. He was also a member of the First Southern Baptist in Mattoon, American Legion Post #88 of Mattoon, the Eagles Club, and Moose Club. Herman served in the US Army during the Korean War.

In his earlier years Herman served as a Cub Scout leader and Pony League coach. From the age of 6, he worked on the family farm using horses to harvest broomcorn. One of the highlights of his life was being on national TV when he and his wife danced at the White Horse Saloon in Nashville. He loved spending time with his family and reminiscing.

Memorials are suggested to the First Southern Baptist Church, 3521 Dewitt Avenue, Mattoon, IL 61938.

Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.hilligossshraderfh.com