James Philip Degenhart, 84, of Vandalia, died on Sunday, Aug. 06, 2023 surrounded by his family.
Funeral mass will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13, at Mother of Dolors Catholic Church in Vandalia, with Rev. Fr. Seth Brown officiating. Visitation will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. prior to mass at the church. Burial will follow at McInturff Cemetery in rural Vandalia. Military honors will be provided by Brownstown VFW Post #9770.
Hohlt & File Funeral Home in Vandalia, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Mr. Degenhart was born Sept. 28, 1938 in Piopolis, IL, the son of Albert and Rose Ann (Ewald) Degenhart. He married Norma Hopkins on Nov. 11, 1963. She preceded him in death on Oct. 26, 2007.
Mr. Degenhart was a farm equipment salesman employed by Eakin & Emerick for many years and then he went to work for Sievers Equipment from where he retired.
During his retirement he developed a love for baking. His specialties included pecan, pumpkin, and his grand daughter’s favorite custard pie. He would often make pies and fresh fruit salads for church events at Mother of Dolors Catholic Church and for family gatherings.
He is survived by his only daughter, Kristina “Nina”(Robert) Garrison of Vandalia; granddaughter, Karsyn Garrison (fiancé Mitch Pannitto ) of Willoughby, OH; brother, Paul (Mary Kay) Degenhart of St. Louis, MO and John Degenhart (Theresa) of Okawville, IL; brother-in-law, Larry (Dianne)Hopkins of Vandalia; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife he was preceded in death by his parents; sister; Sr. Mary Louise Degenhart;and wife’s parents Clem and Myrtle Hopkins.
Memorials may be made to the Degenhart family and condolences can be left online at www.hohltandfilefh.com.
