Poplar Grove, ILGinther Wilharm, 85 of Poplar Grove, IL died peacefully at home March 12, 2011after a long and courageous battle against cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family, including his children and grandchildren. Born on November 15, 1925, Ginther was honored to serve in the 508th Parachute Regiment of the 82nd Airborne during World War II. In 1949, he married Rose Mary Yonjof and together they raised five children on a successful dairy farm in Elgin. An avid dancer, Ginther especially enjoyed the Big Band sounds of the 1940's. He was active in many sports, recently participating in a senior bowling tournament. Energetic and outgoing, Ginther will be missed by his family and many friends.Ginther is survived by his children Gregory (Madelyn) Wilharm, Deborah Sievers, Gary (Karla) Wilharm. Karen (Ron) Lee, and Glenn (June) Wilharm; his grandchildren, Lisa (Darin) Hood, Gary Wilharm, Amber Lee, Carl and Stephanie Sievers, and Nolan and Micaela Wilharm; his sister, Erika Wubbena and his brothers, Ludwig and Martin (Carol) Wilharm. He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Rose Mary, and his parents, Ludwig and Marie (Prussner) Wilharm.

In lieu of flowers, his family request that memorials be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1045 Belvidere Road, Belvidere, IL 61008.