Joseph C. Bingham, Jr.

Joseph C. “Sonny” Bingham, Jr., (MSGT, USAF ret.) 88 of Peru passed at 8:05 AM, Friday, November 19, 2021 at Dukes Memorial Hospital. He was born in Louisville, KY on August 19, 1933 the son Joseph C. and Lillian Grey Bingham, Sr. Sonny married Mary E. Gardner on November 29, 1957 and she preceded him in death on March 27, 2014. 

Joe was a 1951 graduate of Flaget High School in Louisville, KY and a retired US Air Force Veteran. His military decorations include the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal and the Air Force Longevity Service Award.  Joe served as part of the Jungle Survival School in the Philippine Islands.  Joe earned an Air Medal for rescuing an Air Force Officer who fell down a 900 foot cliff by repelling down, administering first aid, getting him onto a litter and helicoptered out. When he retired, Joe was NCOIC of Nursing Services at Grissom Air Force Base. 

Joe was the oldest child of seven.  He was a mentor, protector, and father figure to his siblings.  His family was very important to him and one of his greatest sources of pride.  Another joy that Joe enjoyed was Gardening.  He loved flowers and his beautiful yard.  He loved being outside and working with his flowers.

Joe is survived by his children Brian (Shelley) Bingham of Windsor, CA, Robin (Lane) Siekman of Rising Sun, IN, Jeffery (Melanie) Bingham of Peru, IN and Valerie (Brian) Williams of Anderson, IN; grandchildren Allison (Alex) Kartman, Brenden (Sarah) Siekman, Michael Bingham, Jacob (Destynne) Bingham, Jordan (Dani) Williams, Parker (Ashley) Williams, Joshua Bingham, Caroline Siekman and Sarah Bingham; 4 great grandchildren with one on the way; sister Janet Shambough and brother David Bingham.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mary, an infant daughter Kelly, as well as brothers Donald and James and sisters Carolyn and Joyce. 

Family and friends of Joseph “Sonny” Bingham, Jr. will gather from 1:00 – 4:00 PM, Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home, 84 W. Main St. A funeral service will be held at 4:00 PM, Tuesday at the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home with Lane Siekman and Brian Williams officiating. Military Honors will be provided by the Miami County Military Rites Unit. Burial will be in Marion National Cemetery.

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