Donald D. “Dean” McKinney, WWII Veteran and Dedicated Community Member, Passes Away at 98

COAL CITY - Donald D. “Dean” McKinney, aged 98, of Coal City, IL, passed away peacefully at his home on December 14, 2024. Born in Swanwick, IL, to Joseph and Goldie McKinney, Dean served as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Army during World War II. He was among the oldest WWII veterans in Grundy County and was honored with a flight on Honor Flight Chicago in 2013.

Married to Minnie L. Landrith for 72 years, Dean was a devoted husband and father who raised four children in the Coal City area. His contributions to the community were vast, from his service as a Coal City Police Officer to owning and operating McKinney Excavating, where he installed essential sewer and water lines. Dean also provided tree-cutting services and worked on numerous small engines and tractors post-retirement.

Survived by his loving wife Minnie, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and cousins, Dean's memory will be cherished by many. His life was marked by service, skill, and dedication to his country and community.

Visitation and the Funeral Service will be held at Ferrari Funeral Services in Coal City on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. Cremation rites will be accorded, followed by private inurnment at Braceville-Gardner Cemetery. Memorial donations in Dean's name can be made to Lightways Hospice, VFW St. Juvin Post 1336, or Honor Flight Chicago. Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on the online guestbook at www.ferrarifuneral.com. Ferrari Funeral Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.

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