Haroldene “Deanie” Antonacci passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, at the remarkable age of 101. Born on May 23, 1925, in Sacramento, Ca, to Harold and Grace McDaniel, Deanie lived a life centered around family, friendship, and making others feel welcome. In 1946, she married Walter Antonacci, and together they built a wonderful life filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories until Walter’s passing in 1998.
For twenty-four years, Deanie and Walt owned and operated Walt & Deanie’s Tavern in Springfield, where they became familiar faces to so many in the community. Whether you stopped in for a meal, a conversation, or just to say hello, Deanie made everyone feel at home.
She embraced life with enthusiasm and enjoyed golfing, bowling, shuffleboard, and playing Liverpool Rum. She also loved taking cruises and was a proud member of the Elks Ladies #158, where she dedicated many hours of volunteer service.
More than anything, Deanie treasured time with her family. Her greatest joy came from watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow.
Deanie is survived by her daughters, Carol (Ted) Buecker and Pamela (Greg) McLaughlin; her grandchildren, Stacy (Ray) Ross, Kelly (Zach) Dicken, Patrick McLaughlin, and Erin (Damon) Deopere; her great-grandchildren, John Buecker, Lachlan Dicken, and Merritt Dicken; her step-great-grandson, Dalton Ross; and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Walter; her grandson, John Buecker; and her three sisters, and two brothers.
In accordance with her wishes, Deanie made the generous decision to donate her body to science.
Graveside Service: A graveside celebration of her life will be held at a later date at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
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