John Edward Raber, 90, of Browns, Illinois passed away on May 4, 2021 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Evansville, IN.

John was born on October 30, 1930 in Carmi, Illinois. The son of John Phillip Raber and Pauline (Kallenback) Raber. He grew up on the Raber Farm in Browns, Illinois, graduating from Browns High School in 1948. John married Norma Fleck in 1957 and she survives.

He served during the Korean War, in the Army 7th INF Medical Div 31 INF Reg as a medical aid. John received a Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars, Combat Infantryman Badge and United National Service Medal. He was an American Legion Member.

Church was very important in his life. He was a active member of Friedens UCC and served on the church board for several years. He enjoyed singing the church hymns.

John served on the Wabash County Soil and Water Conservation Board, Drainage District #6, Bonpas River Conservation Board and Browns Rural Fire.

He enjoyed farming and his cattle. John enjoyed traveling in the later years and has been to most of the states and Mexico.

John is survived by his wife, Norma; sons, Merle (Karen) Raber and Gary Raber; grandchildren, Hannah Raber, Kristopher Raber and Mallory Raber; two great-grandchildren, Carter and Norah Raber; brother, Darrell Raber of Bartlet, TN.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Joan Jennings.  

Visitation for friends and family will be held on Friday, May 7, 2021 from noon until the hour of service at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home (527 North Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863). Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Cemetery.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorial contributions may be made to Friedens Church or American Diabetes Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or donations may be made online.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve John’s family.