Les C. Higgins

Les C. Higgins, 59, of Cambria passed away at 11:59 a.m., Friday, November 29, 2013, at his residence with his loving wife by his side. He was born on February 13, 1954 at Carbondale, to James and Margaret (Maier) Higgins. Les was a retired sheriff of the Williamson County Sheriff's Dept. after serving 34 years, a member of the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police, Trustee of the Village of Cambria, Cambria Police Commissioner for 22 years, Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator with the Department of Natural Resources and a retired Board Member of the federal Free Again Wildlife Rehabilitation Association. He married Christine Marie (Dakin) on March 10, 1994 and she survives. Other survivors include Joseph T. Dakin, Sr. and Jodi of Cambria; one brother, Michael Higgins of Cambria, two sisters-in-law, Patti Dakin Sinclair of Cambria and Teresa Dakin Sauer and husband Tom of Murphysboro; brother-in-law Joseph Dakin Jr. and wife Cindy of Columbia, SC; one niece Morgan Jesse of Columbia, SC; and dearest nephews Brian T. Sauer of Oaklawn, IL and Bradley J. Sauer of Carbondale; step brother James Hill and wife Kristina; step-sons Nathan and Collen Sauer. He is also survived by his beloved animals that include, camels JoJo and BooBoo, 4 Scottish Highland Cows, 2 miniature Sicilian Donkeys, 17 pygmy goats, 3 horses and Harley the hog. Les was known for his kindness, compassion, and integrity. He will be missed by all who knew him. Memorials may be made to the Cambria Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 218, Cambria, IL 62915-0218 or Free Again Incorporated, 4032 Big Muddy Road, Carterville, IL 62918. As per his wishes there will be no services.