Washington 1959 André Marcellus Bohannon

May 28, 1941 - Dec. 13, 2017

SOUTH BEND - André M. Bohannon, 76, peacefully passed away December 13, 2017. Born May 28, 1941 in South Bend, IN to Frederick M. & Precious Mae (Hesiben) Bohannon, he graduated from Washington High School in 1959 & in 1963, received a Bachelor's degree in Education from Ball State University. André was well-respected as among the first African American high school teachers in South Bend Schools. While teaching English at Washington High School, he completed a Masters of Arts degree from the University of Notre Dame. In 1964, he married Irene Kimble; they had one daughter, Ché Andrea. The family moved to Montgomery, AL when André was sought after to become principal of a high school. Following that tenure, he moved to Peoria, IL and served at the Tri-County Urban League as Deputy Director. Being recognized for strong leadership skills, in 1974 André became an administrator for the City of Peoria and retired in 1986 from the position of Assistant City Manager. He then started his own management consulting firm, Urban Diversified Services. In 1992, André was elected Peoria City Councilman. He became the host of CAPtions Broadcasting, where he continued to broadcast the program until he became ill. He was actively involved in numerous community and civic organizations to include Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc. Over his lifetime, he has received numerous awards including being featured in the Peoria Riverfront Museum African American Wall of Fame, and being named Man of the Year by the University of Notre Dame Alumni Association of Peoria. André leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Ché A. (David) Glover of Manassas, VA; son, William Bohannon of Atlanta, GA; 3 grandchildren, Gabrielle E. Glover of Manassas, VA, Brandon M. Glover of Manassas, VA, and Brittany (Willie) Truitt of Snellville, GA.; and two great-grandchildren, Chase and Carsin Truitt. André was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Sharon Bohannon, and his wife, Anne Bohannon. A Memorial Service celebrating his life will be held this spring. Simon Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.SimonsMortuary.com. Donations may be made to the Tri-County Urban League Education Department of Peoria, IL.

Published in South Bend Tribune on Jan. 14, 2018

jmc 14 jan 2018