Glenn F. Bishop

Age 90. Born Oct. 30, 1916 in Ormond, Florida, but since age 3, a life-long resident of Joliet. Passed away on July 3, 2007 after residing at the home of his only daughter, Melody and her family, for the past 14 years. He spent his final 20 hours of his life peacefully at Joliet Area Community Hospice surrounded by his entire family and devoted ""Love of his life"", Dolores Colabuono (Del), after a courageous battle of Alzheimers Disease & Cancer.

Loving and devoted father of his only daughter Melody Gay (Bishop) Hochevar (son-in-law, Edward L.). He is also survived by beloved Grandchildren: Kimberly G. LaBerry (Robert), Holly A. Alberti (Richard) and Amanda J. Donisch (Jason). Great grandfather of 5 children, Daniel Robert and Thomas Glenn LaBerry and Alexander David, Elizabeth Lucille, and Anna Elise Alberti. Brother of his only sister, Verna Ruth Rabovsky (nee Bishop) and Brother-in-law to Doris Bishop-Tesch and Betty Bishop. He is also survived by numerous nephews and nieces.

Preceded in death by his loving wife Norma Mary Bishop (Dec. 6, 1972), his parents Fredrick Willis and Anna Elizabeth Bishop, 3 brothers, Willis E., Willard A., and Garold R. (""Boone"") Bishop.

He was a World War II Veteran, serving his country in the United States Army Air Corp as an accomplished pilot and instructor & ""Check Pilot"" and ""Top graduate of Officers Training School"", receiving the 3 highest awards the air corps issued: the Oak Leaf Cluster for completing over 450 hours of operational air transport over the dangerous and difficult India-China-Burma air routs over the Himalayan mountains, ""The Distinguished Unit Badge"" and ""The Distinguished Flying Cross"", awarded for over 154 missions to his credit for his overseas duty. The citation accompanying the award adds: ""This air transport command is recognized by airmen and the world's toughest flight duty. Flying at night as well as by day, at high altitudes over impassable, mountain terrain through areas characterized by extremely treacherous weather conditions necessitating long periods of operation on instruments. . . requiring courageous and superior performance of his duties to overcome, he accomplished his missions with distinction."" When he left the service he was a corporate pilot for Anderson Doors & Windows. In the 1960's he was an Operating Engineer Local 150 member, retiring from S.G. Hayes, Inc. at age 63.

Glenn was an accomplished musician for the past 83 yrs. Most currently playing with many 8-12 piece dance bands for the past 60 years, leaving the ""Jay Mau"" Orchestra and ""Bill Gerald Orchestra"" approximately 12 years ago, as a tenor sax and clarinet player and vocal soloist. He also was a member of the American Legion Memorial Band since 1945 taking 3 National Champion Awards as a saxophonist. He was awarded the 50 Year Lifetime Membership Pin from the Joliet Federation of Musicians. He was also a member of Cantigny Post #367. He also took awards in various sports: the 1955 and 1956 Illinois State Wrestling Championships, in Harry Hohisel's mat class at Joliet's Y.M.C.A, and several 1st place Men's Freestyle Swimming and Speedskating awards. Glenn was a former member of the Senior Bowling League, was an avid golfer, and a longtime member of the former Charlie Club (Golds Gym).

Although his accomplishments were many, his greatest joy was spending time with his family, loved ones, friends and ""Del"". These, he said were his most cherished and valuable moments.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Joliet Area Community Hospice, especially: Marcella Baxter, Monica Velasquez, Mary McFarlane, Sam Patel, Madeline Golobitsh, and Veveca Tikasingh. The family would also like to extend special thanks to Glenn's caregiver, ""Bill"" and CNA Sherry Meyers. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to the Joliet Area Community Hospice.

From where services will be held at the Funeral Home on Friday, July 6, 2007 at 9 AM with Fr. Doyle officiating. Interment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors at 10:30 AM. Visitation on Thursday from 2-8 PM.