Don Michael Baccus

Don Baccus, 80, of Carterville, passed away Saturday, November 18, 2023, at Herrin Hospital.

Don was born on November 27, 1942, to the late Elmer and Mary Baccus. On July 1, 1978, he married Gynelle (Riley) Alvey, and she survives. Together they celebrated 45 years of marriage. 

He joined the United States Air Force immediately after graduating from Marion High School in 1960. Don served in a communications unit, travelling to many countries in Europe and Africa.

Don was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed pheasant, grouse, and deer hunting with a special group of hunting buddies.

He was a graduate of SIU Carbondale, where he formed lifelong friendships. After completing his degree, he worked with his dad in Baccus Roofing and Siding in Herrin. After that business closed, Don became the Director of Transportation and Maintenance for the Carterville School District until his retirement.

In addition to his wife, Gynelle, Don is survived by his daughter, Kara Stapleton of Carterville; son, Matthew Baccus of Austin, Texas; granddaughter, Kenzington Baccus of Carterville; special great-nephew “grandson”, Hunter Voice of Colorado; sister, Marlene McFarland of St. Louis; brother, H.E. (Jan) Baccus of Chicago; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear lifelong friends, Tom DiFilippo and his family from Mahomet, and the Bailey Family of Dykersburg. He will be missed by many.

As requested, Don will be cremated.

A celebration of life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with Pastor Ryan Tackett officiating.

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