Victor Erwin “Vic” Cannons, age 80, of Olney, Illinois, passed away Friday, May 3, 2024, at his home.

Victor Erwin better known as, "Vic" was born on December 11, 1943, in Olney, Illinois, the son of Greta Louise (Burt) Tibbs.  He graduated from Olney High School, with the Class of 1963.  Following high school, he attended Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.  While there he was invited to Russia to play the Chess Masters.

Vic was united in marriage to Dorothy “Dottie” Hanna, on July 1, 1966, at Glenwood Church in Noble, Illinois.

Vic had a fulfilling career as the Olney Police Department Telecommunications Supervisor for over 30 years before his retirement.  He was instrumental in introducing 911 services to Richland County and served as their first 911 Coordinator.  Because of his tenacity and dedication, many lives have been saved in the surrounding area.  In the 80s, Vic also championed the rights of people with physical challenges by working tirelessly to get a wheelchair lift installed at East Richland High School. This enabled many students access that otherwise would not have been included.  Prior to this, he worked at Taylor’s Print Shop and the White Squirrel Speedway.

In his free time, Vic enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, riding 4-wheelers, and playing poker with friends. He earned the title “Marksman” with a gun and enjoyed deer hunting with his friends in Hardin County, in Southern Illinois.  He was known for his quick wit and determination when achieving his goals.

Vic was a member of the Olney Elks and the Noble Lions Club.  He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.  May he rest in peace.

Vic is survived by his wife of 57 years - Dottie Cannons of Olney, Illinois; daughter, Pamela (husband Troy) Wagner of Tucson, Arizona; sisters-in-law Lola (Gary) Myers of Flora, Illinois; Rose Aldridge of Olney, Illinois; and brothers-in-law John (Shirley) Hanna of Noble, Illinois; and Mark (Vicki) Hanna of Noble, Illinois.

Vic was preceded in death by his mother, Greta Tibbs, aunt, Maxine Nowak, father-in-law, and mother-in-law Jado and Goldia Hanna.

A celebration of Vic’s life will be held at a later date.  A private burial will be in the Hanna Cemetery in Noble, Illinois.  In loving memory of Vic, memorials may be made to the Noble Lion’s Club.

Meyer Funeral Home, Olney, IL