Ivan Dene Waldrop, age 96, of Sumner, Illinois, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2026, at The Haven of Bridgeport.
Ivan Dene Waldrop, age 96, of Sumner, Illinois, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2026, at The Haven of Bridgeport. He was born January 14, 1930 in Landes in Crawford County, Illinois, the son of Ray Waldrop and Pauline Messenger Waldrop. He was married to Rosella Jean Perrott, and she preceded him in death April 14, 1983. He married Sandra Ford, and she preceded him in death in 2025.
Dene was a longtime businessman and community member in Sumner. He ran Dene’s Marathon in Sumner and, along with his wife, Jean, owned and operated D & J Key Market in Sumner for many years. He was also a self-employed truck driver. Dene served as the City of Sumner Superintendent for eight years before retiring. He generously gave his time to the community, including helping with the City of Sumner’s downtown Christmas decorations. Dene was a member of Lawrence County Country Club, where he enjoyed golfing. He also had a passion for car racing and served as the track reporter for Red Hill Raceway. Dene will be remembered for his many years of service to the Sumner community and for the lasting impact he made through his work and involvement in the community.
Preceding Dene in death were his parents; son, Ronald Waldrop, daughters-in-law, Marsha Waldrop and Becky Waldrop; stepson Brett O’Brien; grandson, Kyle Waldrop; siblings, Imogene Lindsey, Norma Jean Vanwinkle, and Darrell Waldrop.
Survivors include: sons, David “Dave” Waldrop of Sumner and Duane “Bub” (Barbara) Waldrop; grandchildren, Jodi (Jess) Wesley, Ryan (Lindsey) Waldrop, Jeff Waldrop, Brady Waldrop, Jennifer (Tim) O’Connor, Stephanie (Brian) Heyman; and several great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be Saturday, October 10, 2026, 12:00 p.m. at Sivert-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Sumner, Illinois. Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. till the service hour of 12:00 p.m. Burial will be in Waggoner Cemetery, north of Chauncey.
