Joel Ray VanNatta Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Joel Ray VanNatta, 60, of Central City, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at his home. He was born August 5, 1959 in Independence, Missouri, the son of Floyd Gene VanNatta and Agnes J. (Daniels) VanNatta. He married Roberta L. Schackmann on October 6, 1995 in Salem and she survives in Central City. In addition to his wife of 24 years, Roberta VanNatta of Central City, he is also survived by his children: William Rhodes and wife Jami of Nashua, New Hampshire, Andrew VanNatta and wife Kendra of Nashville, Illinois, Leslie Rhodes of Centralia, Amber Worlds and husband Shamal of Centralia, Rita Lusch of Centralia, Ambour McClelland and husband Brandon of Junction City; twenty-five grandchildren; two brothers: Randy VanNatta and wife Valeda of Nashville and Rodney VanNatta and wife Barbara of Centralia; three sisters: Pam Morton and husband Jim of Iuka, Sandy Martin and husband Jim of Salem, and Shelly Lyons of Centralia; special family friend: Bob Mays of Centralia; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Joel was preceded in death by his parents: Floyd VanNatta and Agnes (Daniels) Overturf, step-father: Robert Overturf, and two brothers: Vernon VanNatta and Raymond VanNatta. Joel worked for Wheaton Plastics for 14 years. He then became a truck driver which was his dream job. He drove a semi until he became ill with Myasthenia Gravis Disease and could no longer drive. He was an avid Chicago Cubs Fan. He loved playing softball at Wamac Ballpark and he was a licensed umpire for many years. He bowled in the bowling league at Banks Bowl and he was also in a Pool League for many years. Joel enjoyed fishing. He attended the First General Baptist Church in Central City. Joel cherished the time he spent with his family, friends and his special friend: Bob Mays. Per Joel's wishes, cremation rites will be accorded and a private family Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2020 at the First General Baptist Church in Centralia with Pastor Bryan Bennett officiating. A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the church on Thursday, July 9, 2020 before the Service. Family and friends who are planning to come to the visitation will be required to wear face masks and social distancing will be followed with a limited amount of people entering the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home and Cremation Services at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to the VanNatta Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com.

Joel Ray VanNatta

August 5, 1959 - June 27, 2020