Emmanuel Whelchel

Emmanuel Lee Whelchel, age 77, of Kinmundy, Illinois passed away at 11:58 am, Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Helia Healthcare of Salem, in Salem, Illinois.

He was born on May 7, 1948, in Rockford, Illinois, to Freeman Emmanuel and Lydia (Batson) Whelchel.

A proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Emmanuel honorably served his country during the Vietnam Era. He later met and married Victoria R. "Vicky" McGathey on July 22, 1977, and their 30 years of marriage were filled with love and companionship until her passing on June 15, 2008.

Emmanuel was a multifaceted individual, balancing careers as both a mechanic and a nurse. His passion for working on cars was matched only by his dedication to caring for others. Known for his gentle spirit and kind heart, he found joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly through his love of the great outdoors. Emmanuel enjoyed spending time hunting and fishing, cherishing the moments spent in nature.

Emmanuel is survived by his children: Tara (Daniel) Donoho of Salem, Kevin Whelchel of Kinmundy, Roy (Kristina) Wren of Kinmundy; 8 grandchildren: Tashina Wren, Ashante Wren, McKenzie (Eli) Espinoza, Victoria Donoho, Hunter Donoho, Raven Donoho, Karter Donoho, Raelynn Donoho; and 1 great-grandchild: Erza Espinoza; a brother: Edward Leon Whelchel of Patoka; 2 sisters: Carolyn Endicott of Shawneetown, Illinois and Patricia Ilene Gossage of Salem.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; brother: Roy Whelchel; 2 sisters: Rose Johnson and Pauline Stoneham.

Funeral services will be held to honor Emmanuel's life and legacy, will be held at 1:00 pm, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the McGriff Funeral Home in Kinmundy. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Kinmundy. Visitation will be held on Wednesday at the funeral home from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Roy Wren to help offset expenses.

The McGriff Funeral Home in Kinmundy is honored to be entrusted the family's care and arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory or story of Emmanuel, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.