Donald "Cracker" Gene McCracken

Mr. Donald Gene “Cracker” McCracken, 85, of Abingdon, Illinois died at 9:15 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born January 11, 1941, in Abingdon, Illinois to George E. and Dora E. (Skinner) McCracken.  He married Bonnie Jean Edgar on September 20, 1963, in Cameron, Illinois.  She preceded him in death on September 12, 2024.

Surviving is a son, Russell “Rusty” (and Janelle) McCracken of Galesburg, a daughter, Robin (and Ted) Stull of Avon, Illinois, a sister, Connie Moore of Galesburg; grandchildren, Anthony Davis, Douglas (Chelsea) Davis, Gregory (Mackenzie) Davis, Trevor Davis and Alyssa McCracken; great-grandchildren, Jackson Davis, Isabella Davis, Emilia Davis, Carter Davis and Everleigh Davis.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie, his parents, and a sister, Shirley Burrows.

Cracker attended Abingdon schools.  He worked for the Abingdon Pottery for 41 years, retiring in 2001.  He and his wife were active members of the Knox County Conservation Sportsman’s Club in St. Augustine, Illinois. He enjoyed hunting, camping and target shooting.   He and Bonnie club danced for 25 years. Most of all he loved his family, especially his grandkids.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Home and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. A graveside service will be held 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Abingdon Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Knox County Conservation Sportsman’s Club.

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