Donald James Curran, 81, of Peoria, passed away at 2:30 a.m., Thursday, January 5, 2006 at his home, with his family by his side.

  Donald was born on August 2, 1924 in Peoria, son of Delbert and Evelyn Hinkle Curran. He married Charlotte Niemeier on December 29, 1942 in Peoria. She preceded him in death on February 2, 1986. His parents; one son, Donald; one step-granddaughter; twin great grandchildren; one step-great grandchild; and son-in-law, C. Rodney Mason, also preceded him in death.

  He is survived by his long-time companion, Martha Sarver; son, Stephan D. (Kay) Curran of New Brockton, AL; daughter, Donna Mason of Washington, IL; sister, Virginia Henderson of Peoria; half-brother, William (Etta) Goetz of Peoria; eight grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; and six step-great grandchildren.

  Donald retired in 1986, after forty years of service, as a tool grinder for Caterpillar, Inc. He was a World War II Navy Veteran. Donald was a long-time golfer and bowler. He served as past-president of the Lincoln-Jefferson Association, former union steward for local 974 and former precinct committeeman for his ward.

  Donald was an avid sportsman and loved bowling, basketball, baseball, football and golf. He was a fan of Major League Baseball, especially the Chicago Cubs. Donald enjoyed listening to Bing Crosby and his favorite song was Danny Boy. He enjoyed going to Madison Park Golf Course and taking trips to Florida. Any family event was most important to him – graduations, marriages, baptisms, etc. His family is proud of him for being a good father, a good worker and his caring way with others.

  A visitation will be held from 6 - 8 p.m. on Monday at Clary Funeral Consultants, 1625 Candletree Dr., Peoria. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday. Interment will be held at Parkview Cemetery in Peoria. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society Road to Recovery Program, OSF St. Francis Hospice or Alzheimer’s Association Central Illinois Chapter.