John Zears

John Robert "Bobby" Zears, 63, of Pekin, went to be with his beloved wife on Sunday, May 14, 2017. He was born on February 11, 1954 in Peoria to the late William and Celesta (Selvey) Zears. He was the devoted husband to the late wife Nancy (Fitzmaurice) Zears, who passed on March 14, 2010. He is survived by two children. Sean Zears of Bloomington and one daughter Kelly (Kevin) Coffey of Bartonville. John was a proud grandfather of his five grandchildren. Amanda, Natalie and Isabelle Zears, and Abigael and Kevin Coffey III. Also surviving are two brothers, William Zears Jr. of Lakeside, CA and David (Dee) Zears of Peoria, along with his brother in law and best friend Patrick Fitzmaurice of Peoria Heights and his beloved pet "Jewels". John graduated from Manual High School in 1972 and began employment at Caterpillar, retiring 30 plus years and a proud member of UAW Local 974. He enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing with loved ones, cheering on his favorite sports teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Blackhawks and the University of Illinois. Most of all, he enjoyed attending his grandchildren's school activities, including softball, band and football. His sense of humor was something that all looked forward to whenever he came to visit. He will be greatly missed by those he left behind, but he will be in our hearts forever. Rest in peace Dad, we are comforted knowing that you are with mom. A celebration of life will be held at John's place of worship, Maranatha Baptist Church, 3403 West Ann St. in Peoria on Friday May 19, 2017 at 6:30 pm, with visitation from 4:30-6:15 pm. In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made to TAPS no kill animal shelter in Pekin at 100 TAPS Lane, Pekin, IL 61554 or make your donation online at https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/TAPSshelter. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook or send private condolences by logging on to www.cumerford.com

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