Donald E Empson, 80, of Urbana, IL, passed away at 2:20 A.M., Monday, February 8, 2021 at Amber Glen, Urbana, Illinois. Mr. Empson was born December 11, 1940 in Urbana, IL, a son of Jim.and Vonna (Spradling)Empson.  He married Cheryl Smalley on July 29, 1973, in Tolono, IL.   Survivors include his wife- Cheryl and son- Jason ( Stephanie)Empson of Seymour and daughter -Julie (Joe)Smith of Urbana, Illinois; 5 grandchildren- Joey Smith, Makinzi Smith, Bryce Empson, Isabella Empson and Sofia Empson; a sister Shirley Ridley of Houston, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother-James and sister-Patricia; step-son Jeff Barnhart, Donald was a stationary engineer. He worked for Illinois department of Highway, Adlers Zone Center and Illinois Water Survey. He was a member of the Boil Makers Union. He enjoyed reading a good western novel and was a Western movie enthusiast. Don also enjoyed mowing and had great pride in his yard. There will be a private burial at Bailey Cemetery in Tolono at a later date. Memorials may be made Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, Illinois 60601. Renner Wikoff Chapel & Crematory is assisting the family.