Murray Dean Mershon, 41, of LaHarpe, Illinois passed away Monday, March 14, 2011 at 7:25 P.M. at the OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, IL.

He was born January 29, 1970, in Macomb, IL, the son of Larry and Deanna Petty Mershon. On June 21, 2003 he married Monica Jean Buckert at Argyle State Park near Colchester, IL.

Survivors include his wife, three children Nicholas, Caleb and Allison Mershon, all at home, two step daughters, Heather Leatherwood of Brighton, IL and Brittany Singleton of Alton, IL, his father and step mother, Larry and Vicki Mershon, of Macomb, one brother Mike Mershon, of LaHarpe, 1 step-grandchild and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother and grandparents.

Murray served in the Army National Guard. He was a self employed truck driver and also drove for Walmart. Earlier in life, he played in the band XLR8TR, operated a light and sound show and was a radio disc jockey in Burlington, IA and Macomb. He and his wife also operated Premier Graphics in LaHarpe. He was a member of OOIDA Trucking Association and Goldwing Road Riders Association. He placed 2nd in the Van-Trailer Division at the Iowa Truck Rodeo Championship in 2004. Murray was an avid Steelers, Lakers, Cardinals and Kiss fan. Murray was always first to help someone out, and continued to do so by being an organ donor.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, March 18, 2011 in the LaHarpe Christian Church with Mark Hanson officiating. Burial with Military Rites will be in the LaHarpe Cemetery. Friends may call after 3:00 PM, Thursday at Banks and Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe, where the family will receive friends from 6:00-9:00 PM Thursday. A memorial fund has been established for his childrens education.