AVA, Gabriel James Bilderback, 77, of Ava, passed away at 2:57 am Monday, October 17, 2011, at his home following a recent illness from pancreatic cancer. His body will be cremated as per his wishes. He was born November 08, 1933 in Ava, Illinois the son of Sylvester "Jett" and Helen(Richardson) Bilderback. Jim married Janet Lee Bradley on December 29, 1956 in Murphysboro, IL. Mr. Bilderback served in the U.S. Marines, during 1953-1955. Jim began his career with the Illinois State Police in 1957 with District 12 and later transferred to District 13 until he retired as Master Sergeant on December 31, 1988 after 31 years of service. He was also a member of the Illinois Police Association. He was a loving husband for nearly 55 years and a loving and caring father of three children. He always enjoyed vacationing in Florida with his family and spending time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed fishing in his younger years. He is survived by his wife: Janet Lee (Bradley) Bilderback of Ava, IL; daughters: Linda Marie Hine and husband Aaron of Carbondale, IL, Lori Ann Wilson and Husband Billy Ray of Ava, IL, and one son: James Michael Bilderback of St. Louis, MO. He is also survived by grandchildren: Sarah and (Greg) Jones of Ava, Michael Baker and (Jodi Suhre) of Percy, Gabrielle and (Kreed) Moniger of Murphysboro, Gannon Wilson of Ava and Jake Hine of Carbondale; great grandchildren: Jordan, Rhett, Greta, and Embry Jones and Hunter and Claire Baker along with his Yorkie KoKo. He is preceded in death by his parents. At his request no visitation will be held, he will be laid to rest at a later date at Bower Cemetery. His family wishes to express he will be greatly missed. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois . A special thank you to the Hospice nurses.