Longtime Illinois Railroad Worker and Vietnam Vet Lonnie Holleman Dies at 83

Holleman dedicated his life to his career and service, leaving behind a loving family and community.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 3:25pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph depicting a blurred, warm-toned scene of a railroad worker's tools and uniform, with muted colors and soft, hazy edges, conveying a sense of nostalgia and the quiet dignity of blue-collar labor.The passing of longtime Illinois railroad worker and Vietnam veteran Lonnie Holleman reflects the quiet dignity and unsung contributions of America's blue-collar workforce.Johnsonville Today

Lonnie Holleman, an 83-year-old resident of Johnsonville, Illinois, passed away on March 28, 2026 at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. Holleman was a hardworking man who spent much of his life working for the Illinois Central Railroad as a carshop employee and as a cement mason in construction. He was also a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served during the Vietnam War. Holleman is survived by his wife of 27 years, Peggy, as well as his daughter, grandchildren, and other extended family members.

Why it matters

Holleman's life and legacy represent the contributions of many hard-working Americans, particularly those who served in the military and dedicated their careers to industries that helped build and maintain the country's infrastructure. His passing is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served their communities and nation.

The details

Lonnie Holleman was born on January 6, 1943 in Marion County, Illinois to Earl and Dorothy Holleman. He married Peggy Wooters in 1998, and the two shared 27 years of marriage together. Holleman worked for many years in the carshop for the Illinois Central Railroad and also as a cement mason in construction. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, having served during the Vietnam War.

  • Lonnie Holleman passed away on March 28, 2026.
  • Holleman was born on January 6, 1943.

The players

Lonnie Holleman

An 83-year-old resident of Johnsonville, Illinois who worked for the Illinois Central Railroad and as a cement mason, and was a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served during the Vietnam War.

Peggy Holleman

Lonnie Holleman's wife of 27 years.

Kelly Burgess

Lonnie Holleman's daughter.

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The takeaway

Lonnie Holleman's life and work exemplified the dedication and sacrifice of many Americans who served their country and communities through careers in critical industries and the military. His passing is a somber reminder of the important contributions of everyday people.