Carroll Dean Partain

Carroll Dean Partain, 88, of McLeansboro, IL passed peacefully in his sleep on September 13, 2026 at his home.  He was born in Herod, IL on November 7, 1937 to William Masa Partain & Irene (Owen) Partain.  On June 25, 1960 he married Patricia (Skelton) Partain.  They enjoyed 60 ½ years of marriage until her passing on December 7, 2020.

Carroll was commonly known as “Western Star” – stemming from his many years as a truck driver.  He drove for several local companies as well as being self-employed before his retirement from Marathon-Ashley Oil Company.  Even after retirement, he still drove a truck and was proud to work alongside his grandson.  He was a member of the Polk Masonic Lodge #137 in McLeansboro, IL; The McLeansboro American Legion Post #106; the McLeansboro Elks #1882; and the McLeansboro Eagles Aerie #2699.

After retirement, he enjoyed traveling with Pat, his Tuesday morning Board meetings with Don Woodrow, but most of all he loved cooking fish with his McPeak Fish Market family.  He had love for visiting and feeding people.  He was also proud of his hot wings skills and cooking for events at the McLeansboro Elks.

Carroll is survived by his 2 children: Charles Partain of Evansville, IN and Julie Partain (and Rodney Kiefer) of Dale, IL; his 5 grandchildren: Jacob (Darian) Kiefer, Devan (Dalton) Elpers, Patrick (Alexas) Kiefer, Chase (Jess) Partain, and Brock (Chloe) Bowling.  Also surviving are 9 great-grandchildren: Jace & Leddy Kiefer; Ashton, Hayden, Riley, and Owen Elpers; Silas and Jovi Kiefer; Olivia Partain; and baby Bowling due in May 2027.

He was preceded in death by his wife Pat Partain, his mother Irene Partain, and his sister & brother-in-law Pauline & Bill Gholson.

A graveside memorial service for Carroll Dean Partain will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026 at Lindale Cemetery in Eldorado, IL with Pastor Larry Woodrow officiating and military honors by the McLeansboro American Legion Post #106.  Those attending are asked to meet directly at the cemetery.  After the graveside service there will be a Celebration of Life and a meal at the McLeansboro Elks #1882 in McLeansboro at 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the McLeansboro American Legion Post #106 Honor Guard.  Online condolences, memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gholsonfuneralhome.com

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