08/19/1973
James Patrick Philben was the son of Frank Michael and Patricia Ann (Krause) Philben. He was born, January 2, 1950, and grew up in Knoxville, graduating from the Knoxville High School in 1968.
The young man identifed as James Philben 23, died in an accident at Lake Red Rock, August 19, 1973, when he struck his head on rocks after diving from a 30-foot bluff. After hitting his head, a witness said he rolled into the lake.
The incident happened at about 7 p.m. and the body was recovered in about 35-40 feet of water at about 8:45 p.m. by Scuba divers from Pella and Knoxville.
Members of the Marion County rescue unit, The Conservation Commission and several scuba divers, participated in the search. Assisting at the scene were members of the Marion County Sheriffs department and the Knoxville Police Auxiliary.
A Marion County medical examiner, Dr. E.J. McKeever ruled the death accidental.
Services are pending at Evans-McCleery Funeral Home