Cord Dwigans' Obituary
Cord Charles Dwigans, age 51, passed away on July 7, 2026, in Illinois. He was born in Houston, Texas on December 19, 1974. Throughout his life, he spent many meaningful years living in both Texas and Florida, before spending his final chapters in Decatur, IL.
A resolute and decorated veteran, Cord honorably served his country in the United States Army National Guard. Throughout his distinguished military career which began in 1994, he achieved the rank of Sergeant (SGT) and dual-specialized as both a Combat Engineer and an M1 Armor Crewman.
Sergeant Dwigans answered the call of duty, and he served several deployments one of which was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Serving on the front lines in a designated imminent danger area, his bravery and steadfast commitment to his unit were highly recognized.
For his exemplary service, combat actions, and dedication to duty, Cord was awarded the Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award), the Army Achievement Medal (2nd Award), and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars. His courage under fire earned him the prestigious Combat Action Badge, and he was further honored with the National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M Device, and the NATO Medal.
Following his honorable military service, Cord returned to civilian life where he cherished the simpler things in life. Hedeeply enjoyed spending quality time surrounded by his family and his beloved fur baby, Lil Hippo, who brought immense joy to his days.
He is survived by his dearly beloved grandmother, Margaret Neaderman, his loving daughters, Kori Dwigans (Nick Cedoz), Lindsy Dwigans, and son Levi Dwigans; his sister, Rene Welser; and his cherished companion, Lil Hippo, his nieces and nephews, Michael (Kristen) White, Britney Welser (Brandon Cook), Cody McCoy, and Riley Wolff; as well as his great-nieces and great-nephews, Wesley White, Owen White, Emily White, Elijah Cook, and Adelynn Cook.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry Lee Dwigans,and Judith Elaine Franks; his maternal grandparents, Charlie Franks and Lou Ann Dellow; and his paternal grandparent, Joseph Dwigans.
A memorial service with full military honors will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Cord’s honor to The Wounded Warrior Project or GoFundMe.
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