Nancy K. Blakey
WYOMING – Nancy K. Blakey, 80, of Wyoming, passed away at 5:46 p.m. on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.
Born on Aug. 17, 1943, in Peoria, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Norma (Carman) Timmons. On Dec. 13, 1959, she married her high school sweetheart, Thomas Stanley “Butch” Blakey in Princeville. He preceded her in death on April 6, 2004.
Surviving Nancy is a daughter, Kim Plumer of Wyoming; two grandchildren, Jacob (Claudia) Plumer of Wyoming and Tiffany (Chad) Bell of Morton; 10 great-grandchildren, Jon, Allison, Sam and Abe Plumer, and Jordan, Jaxon, Jeter, Justus, Aubrey and Jruw Ann Bell; and a sister, Marcia (Paul) Nothnagel of Clinton.
Aside from her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her beloved dog, Maxie.
Nancy’s mother owned the Wyoming Floral Shop where she worked for many years. Nancy could be found decorating for any reason and every season, caring for her lawn and garden and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who lovingly referred to her as “Grandma Sweetie.”
She was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs. Nancy was a member of the Wyoming Methodist Church and the Wyoming Eastern Star.
Funeral service will take place on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming, at 11 a.m. Rev. Tammy Shane will officiate. Burial will follow at Wyoming Cemetery. Visitation will take place at the funeral home prior from 10 a.m. until the time of service.
Memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society through Relay for Life (Eagles) at www.relayforlife.com/donate.
To leave condolences for Nancy’s family please visit www.haskellfuneral.com.
Donald E. Bantz
TOULON – Donald E. “Don” Bantz, 75, of Toulon, died at 6:26 a.m., Monday, June 24, 2024 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg.
Arrangements are pending at Rux Funeral Home in Williamsfield.
Thomas A. Bubnick
KEWANEE – Thomas “Tom” A. Bubnick, a life-long resident of Kewanee, passed away on June 22, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Peoria. Thomas was born April 17, 1942, in Kewanee, the son of Frank G. and Adela M. (Zeglis) Bubnick.
Thomas married Sue Ellen Ericson on Dec. 16, 1978, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Kewanee; she survives as do their two children, Marc of Chicago and Kristin (John) Farrell of Orlando, Fla.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Rita M. Bubnick of Kewanee.
Tom was a graduate of Visitation Grade School, Kewanee High School’s class of 1960 and Illinois State University. He was employed by the Wyoming Elementary Unit School District #27 and the Stark County School District #100 for 26 years. He particularly enjoyed his 16-year tenure as a junior high basketball coach.
A private graveside service will take place in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Golnick-Schueneman Funeral Home in Kewanee is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Visitation School Foundation, Kewanee School Foundation, or the Henry County Senior Center.
Codolences can be left online at www.golnickschuenemanfh.com.
Ronald E. Doran
KEWANEE – Ronald E. “Ron” Doran, 84, of Kewanee, died June 18, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
He was born on Dec. 30, 1939, in Pontiac, the son of Eugene E. and Theresa Marie (Froelich) Doran. He married Susan K. Junis on Feb. 1, 1972, in Kewanee and she preceded him in death on Aug. 10, 2009.
Survivors include a daughter, Dr. Dawn (Doran) Muci (Francesco) of St. Petersburg, Fla.; a brother, Ken (Sigrunn) Doran of Bloomington; and two grandchildren. He was also
Howard W. Cooper
MAQUON – Howard W. Cooper, 57, of Maquon, passed away on June 18, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
He was born Jan. 29, 1967, in Canton, Ill., to Claire and Dorothy (Dikeman) Cooper.
He married Elizabeth Haines on July 18, 2020, in Maquon. She survives.
Howard is also survived by one daughter, Alexzandra Samonds of Grayslake, Ill.; two brothers, Perry (Linda) Cooper and David Cooper; one sister, Connie (Curt) Caldwell; two grandchildren, Thalia and Rowan Samonds; five nieces, Toni (Sven) Preuss, Melissa Cooper, Ashley (Jason) Easley, Amber (Steve) Walker and Alyson (Jason) Glenn; three nephews, Travis Newton, Damien Cooper and Joel (Sarah) Cooper; 16 great-nieces and great-nephews; and nine great-great nieces and nephews.
Howard is preceded in death by his parents; one niece, Tina Rooney; and one great-nephew, Sen Cooper.
Howard was a stagehand for various venues in the area. He loved his job, music and people over all.
Cremation rites have been accorded.
Memorials may be made to Men’s Teen Challenge.
To leave online condolences visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Charles F. Herridge
YATES CITY – Charles “Chuck” F. Herridge, 92, of Yates City, passed away on Friday, June 21, 2024, at Courtyard Estates in Farmington.
He was born Jan. 22, 1932, in Peoria, to James “Burt” and Florence “Edna” (Calder) Herridge.
Chuck married Jacqueline “Jackie” Cashman on March 22, 1952, in Peoria. She preceded him in death on May 6, 2020.
Chuck is survived by one son, Steve (Chris) Herridge of Elmwood, and three grandchildren, Kelsey (Emily) Herridge, Ryan Herridge and Nate Herridge.
Chuck is also preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Burt Ronald Herridge; and two sisters, Alma “June” Wright and Marian Edna Wright.
Chuck was an English teacher at Eureka High School for five years and elementary principal at Lowpoint-Washburn for six years. At age 34, he became superintendent of Yates City School District #207 from 1966 to 1979.
Chuck enjoyed fishing, camping, and traveling.
Memorials may be made to Elba-Salem Fire Department.
A private graveside service will be held at Yates City Cemetery.
To leave online condolences visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Janet L. Anderson
DAHINDA – Janet L. “Jan” Anderson, 84, of rural Dahinda died June 10, 2024, at her home.
She was born on Jan. 22, 1940, in Knoxville, the daughter of Paul R. and Frances (Ekstrom) Anderson. She attended and graduated from Knoxville High School in 1958.
Surviving is a sister, Carol Love of Galesburg; and one brother, Robert (Vickie) Anderson of Williamsfield. She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Donald Paul Anderson; and a niece, Lori Fox.
She lived in Milan and worked for Case IH in Moline until she retired in 1993 and moved to rural Dahinda. She enjoyed mowing yards, gardening and helping friends and relatives with their projects.
Private graveside service will be held at a later date. Condolences can be left online at www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
James B. DeMent
ELMWOOD – James “Barry” B. DeMent, 76, of Elmwood, passed away on June 21, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
He was born June 2, 1948, to James and Corrine (Spencer) DeMent in Peoria. He married Wanda Craig on April 11, 1974, in Peoria. She survives.
Barry is also survived by three children Laura (Jason) Lawrence, Joshua (April) DeMent and JaeLee (Khao Toum) DeMent; one sister, Wendy Studt; 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Barry is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Susie.
Barry served in the U.S. Marine Corps from March 1971 to September 1973, including 31 days in Vietnam. He worked 30 years at Caterpillar as a maintenance electrician. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing and aggravating his grandkids.
Condolences can be left online at oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Teresa J. Holford
ELMWOOD – Teresa J. Holford, 76, of Elmwood was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She left this world suddenly but peacefully on June 17, 2024.
There was no match for Teresa’s love of her daughters and grandkids, though plants and gardening came pretty close. She had a full life with her husband, brothers and sisters, nephews and nieces and a group of very specials girlfriends.
A celebration of life may commence at a later date.
Condolences can be left online at www.schmidthaller.com.
Lucinda B. Russell
PRINCEVILLE – Lucinda Belle (Murphy) Russell, 82, of San Antonio, Texas, died June 13, 2024. Born on July 26, 1941, in Peoria, she was the daughter of George R. Murphy Sr. and Lillian P. Murphy (Burkholder).
On Aug. 13, 1960, she married Leo W. Russell, son of Ralph W. Russell and Mary Jane Russell (Hayden) of LaPrairie. He preceded her in death on Dec. 16, 2020.
Also surviving Lucinda are her daughter, Lori J. Murphy of San Antonio; son, Larry D. Russell (Kelli) of Elgin, Texas; and daughter, Lisa A. Kamenick (James) of San Antonio; eight grandchildren; and many great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and son-in-law, William A. Murphy.
Lucinda and Leo loved to travel the United States. They were long-time residents of Princeville. Once their children were grown, they moved to Tucson, Ariz., and later relocated to Springfield, Mo. In 2020, they moved to San Antonio to be near their children.
A graveside celebration of life will take place at a later date at the Blue Ridge Cemetery.
Condolences can be left online at www.haskellfuneral.com.
James M. Peacock
PRINCEVILLE – James “Sonny” Marvin Peacock, 81, of Princeville, formerly of East Galesburg, passed away June 14, 2024, at Toulon Rehabilitation and Health Care Center. Sonny was born on June 8, 1943, in Rushville to Merle and Myrtle (Knous) Peacock.
Surviving are one son, Christopher Peacock of St. David; one daughter, Jeannie Peacock of Princeville; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Richard Peacock.
A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.
Condolences can be left online at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Nancy J. Wright
HANNA CITY – Nancy J. Wright, 82, of Hanna City died June 19, 2024.
She was born on July 26, 1941, in Peoria, to Raymond and Hazel (Nett) Baird. She married Gerald Wright on Jan. 5, 1960, in Peoria. He survives.
Nancy is also survived by her daughters, Robin Barnard of East Peoria, Veronica Baker of Bartonville, Joy (Keith) Haun of Bartonville and Patricia (Ronald) Clements of Port Charlotte, Fla.; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and her sister, Dixie Shrum.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A funeral service was June 23. A private family burial will take place at Smithville Cemetery.
Condolences can be left online at www.Davison-Fulton-BartonvilleChapel.com.
William Clelland III
MAQUOKETA, Iowa – William “Bill” Clelland III, 64, died Friday, May 17, 2024.
Bill was born Nov. 14, 1959, in Peoria, Ill., the son of William Clelland and Joyce Brush. He worked for Caterpillar Inc. for more than 25 years after his service in the United States Navy. He married Connie Nuebling on March 1, 1980. She survives.
You could always find him fixing something, most of the time it was electronics. He will also be remembered for coaching baseball and planning gifts for his children and grandchildren.
He is also survived by his children, Rachel (Michael) Spitz and William Clelland, and his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Celebration of life will be on June 29, 2024, at the American Legion hall in Brimfield, Ill., from 1-3 p.m.
Bernard L. Gilles
KICKAPOO – Bernard Lawrence Gilles, 90, of Kickapoo, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 17, 2024, at his home with his family by his side.
He was born June 11, 1934, in Peoria, a son to Lawrence S. and Mary R. (Ritschel) Gilles. He was raised and educated in Kickapoo, graduating from Spalding Institute with the Class of 1952, where he was a standout baseball player. After graduating, on Feb. 4, 1954, Bernie enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served as an electrician mate 2nd Class on the battleship USS New Jersey. He was honorably discharged on Dec. 20, 1957.
On Sept. 23, 1961, he married Marietta “Mary” Schneider at St. Mary of Lourdes church in Germantown Hills. Together they raised a family and cherished 62 years. He worked for Montgomery Elevator for 39 years, retiring as a superintendent. Bernie was the Kickapoo Township supervisor for eight years, organized and coached the first Little League team in Kickapoo and was honored by the Kickapoo community with a plaque recognizing his leadership and organization of the 150-year celebration of Kickapoo.
He enjoyed auctioneering part time, was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, was Kickapoo’s Santa for many years and will be remembered for his Super Bowl poker parties.
His love of family was top priority, especially watching his grandchildren play their sports. Bernie was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and community citizen who was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Gilles; four children, Karen Gilles, Janet (Dan) O’Connell, Beth (Dave) Gudat and Steve (Lynne) Gilles; six grandchildren, Jayla (Jeff) Ralston, Samantha Gudat, Abby Gudat, Brett Gilles, Brian (Kayla) Gilles and Olivia Gilles; two great-grandchildren, Bella Bishop and Beau Lawrence Ralston; and one sister, Christine (George) LaFollett.
Bernie was preceded in death by his parents; one brother Chuck Gilles; and two sisters, Joan Gillespie and Carol Fairbanks.
Visitation was to be at St. Mary’s Kickapoo Parish Hall on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Kickapoo on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., with an additional visitation one hour prior to mass. The Rev. James Pankiewicz will officiate. Burial with military honors will follow in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Kickapoo.
Preferred memorials in Bernie’s memory may be made to the Keith LaFollett Memorial Scholarship Fund, Greater Peoria Honor Flight or St. Mary’s Catholic Church or school.
Friends and family can log onto www.wrightandsalmon.com to sign the online guestbook, submit photos and share Bernie’s memorial page via social media.
Funeral arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Wright & Salmon Mortuary.
Donna R. Kneer
GALESBURG – Donna R. Kneer, 76, of Galesburg, passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Tuesday, June 11, 2024.
Donna was born on Feb. 2, 1948, in Galesburg. She was the daughter of Ralph and Louise (Spencer) Mackie. She married Greg Kneer on Sept. 2, 1967, at the Williamsfield Methodist Church. Together they celebrated 56 years of marriage.
Surviving Donna are her husband, Greg, at home; children Darcy (Leah) Kneer of Dupo, Ill., and Lisa (Kirt) Ervin of Aviston, Ill.; five grandchildren; and brothers Greg (Theresa) Mackie of Elmwood, Rod (Cheryl) Mackie of Laura and Curt (Susan) Mackie of Williamsfield.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Donna was a graduate of Williamsfield High School. She attended Iowa Wesleyan University. Donna had a career in women’s retail, including co-owner of the former Ladybug Shoppe in Knoxville. Later she was secretary for Dale Murdock, D.C. and at Blucker, Kneer and Associates before she officially retired.
Donna was a member of the Knoxville United Methodist Church, secretary of the church council and member of Methodist Women. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and a 50-year member of Daughters of the American Revolution.
Donna loved gardening, especially flowers. She also enjoyed reading and traveling … from Alaska to Hawaii, the Lower 48, Europe, the Caribbean and more.
She was a loving, welcoming and kindhearted lady with an infectious laugh who will be missed by those that loved her. She was blessed to be a part of a large and loving family.
Visitation was June 16, 2024, at Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory, Knoxville. Funeral services were June 17, 2024, at the Knoxville United Methodist Church. Rev. Dave Mustain officiated. Burial was in Williamsfield Cemetery, Williamsfield.
Memorials may be made to the Knoxville United Methodist Church or to the OSF HealthCare Foundation.
Online condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
Duane O. Bell
GALVA – Duane O. Bell, 85, has no more cart to move around or office chair to miss, as he has for the past six months. He has taken his final load to the streets of gold in heaven, where he was greeted by his parents and son, Ron, on the morning of June 7, 2024, from the Knox County Nursing Home.
He was born in Galva (the house is gone now but was located behind the Ford garage) on Oct. 30, 1938, the son of C.S. and Marjorie Bell.
Graduating from Galva High School in 1956, he married the love of his life, Suzanne Armstrong on Nov. 17, 1957. Together they had four healthy sons. They first lived east of Galva and then in 1975 moved to Duane and Sue’s dream farm west of town.
Duane’s entire life was spent as an employee, driver, mechanic and owner of Bell Trucking Co., which his father started in 1933 and which this past September proudly celebrated its 90th year in business.
Duane loved Galva, the friendly face and the place he called home. He was very proud of how the town grew and flourished and every sports team and activity he so kindheartedly supported.
He loved the family he left behind, Suzanne and his three sons; Steve (Susan) of Galva, Richard (Jane Doss) of Fort Meyers, Fla., and Chris (Tricia) of Broken Arrow, Okla.; his daughter-in-law, Georgia Bell of Galesburg; his sister, Jean Oehlman of Harland, Iowa; grandchildren Rebecca, Daniel, Remington, Wendy, Kerry, Tracy, CeCe, Chloe, Molly and Jonah; and ten healthy great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Jack and son Ron.
A visitation was held June 12 at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. Graveside services were to be held at 9 a.m. on Thursday, June 13, at Galva Cemetery, where military rites were to be accorded by the Galva Fusiliers. Pastor Katie Gallagher was to officiate. Coffee and Duane’s favorite Geneseo donuts were to follow the service at the Messiah Lutheran Church in Galva.
Memorials may be directed to the Messiah Lutheran Church, Galva American Legion or to the Galva Park District for a bench.
Peter J. Johnson
WYOMING – Peter “Pete” J. Johnson, 89, of Denver, Colo., formerly of Wyoming, passed away at 11:14 p.m. Friday, May 17, 2024, at Highpoint Assisted Living in Denver.
One word that describes Pete is commitment. He stood behind his family, his community and his sports teams.
Pete was born on Oct. 3, 1934, in Kewanee, Ill., to Joel A. and Mabel F. (Magnuson) Johnson. He married Carol (Seid) on Feb. 5, 1960, in Des Moines, Iowa. She preceded him in death on Dec. 25, 2022.
Surviving are two daughters, Jennifer (David Paschke) Johnson of Minneapolis, Minn., and Ingrid (Joe Chapo) Johnson of Denver, Colo.; four grandchildren, Anna, Michael, Katharine and Greta; and one step-grandchild, Theresa. He was also preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Philip Johnson.
Pete attended the University of Illinois College of Pharmacy in Chicago. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from Drake University. He owned and operated Johnson’s Drug Store in Wyoming, Ill., from 1960 to 2014.
Pete was a member of the First Congregational Church of Wyoming and the Wyoming American Legion. He was an avid sports fan and supported the Chicago White Sox, Illini nation and the Stark County Rebels. From the 1970s into the 1990s, Pete wrote a historical sports column for the local newspaper. He loved having a press pass. It made his frequent visits to sporting events even more interesting.
His funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 22, 2024, at the First Congregational Church of Wyoming. Pastor Ross Wyman will officiate. Burial will be in Wyoming Cemetery. Celebration will follow at The Spoon River Bowl in Wyoming, from noon to 3 p.m. Everyone is invited.
Memorial contributions may be made to The First Congregational Church of Wyoming. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Wyoming is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave condolences for Pete’s family please visit www.haskellfuneral.com.
Vicky L. Rosenberg
CRYSTAL LAKE – Vicky Lynn Rosenberg (née Bloomberg) died June 6, 2024, at Advocate Christ Medical Center after years of valiantly fighting both heart failure and breast cancer. She was 76.
She is survived by her husband of 54 years, James Rosenberg; their two daughters, Amanda (Whit) Chaiyabhat and Katherine (Kirk) Douglas; her sister Tracy (Charlie) Jaco; six grandchildren; her niece Rachel Bloomberg; and nephews Donovan and Dustin Jaco.
Vicky was born in Kewanee on May 3, 1948, to parents Richard Bloomberg and Mildred Scott. Vicky was the first of three Bloomberg girls, big sister to Gail Bloomberg and Tracy Jaco. As a child, she lived a rural life in Toulon, Ill., some of it on a farm. She often lamented the hour-long bus rides to and from school and decided she wanted to raise her family in a larger town.
She got her wish after she began attending Illinois State University where she met Jim Rosenberg. The couple was married Nov. 22, 1969, and the following year Jim accepted a teaching position at Crystal Lake Central High School and the couple moved to the northwest Chicago suburb, where they made their home the remainder of her life. Later Vicky would finish her studies at Northern Illinois University, from which she graduated with a bachelor of science in education in 1971.
She gave birth to her first child, Mandi, at the age of 30, on Mother’s Day 1977. Three years later the family welcomed Kate.
An ever-dedicated mother, she chose her jobs and the location of their home specifically to maximize time together as a family. The girls could walk to all of their schools from K to 12 and they never came home to an empty house – in fact, most friends who visited the girls after school were met with delicious homemade baked goods. She loved to cook for her family to show her love, which she continued to do even throughout her illness. Not a single special occasion ever passed without a special meal, treat, or a thoughtful gift or card sent cross country.
Her first professional job was working as a teller at Home State Bank but she also spent time working at Thunderbird Nursery School while her girls were enrolled and volunteered at Husmann Elementary School. She then worked as a librarian at the Fox River Grove Children’s Library, where she frequently took the girls on the weekends. She later worked as an assistant librarian at McHenry County College, which her daughters also attended, until she retired.
Although she wasn’t a natural traveler, with Jim by her side she pushed herself out of her comfort zone so the pair could see the world together. They traveled everywhere from Spain’s Canary Islands to Budapest, Vienna, Berlin, Paris, Dublin, Prague and Krakow among countless other globe-trotting adventures. When her daughters were young the family also took multiple vacations each year, driving all across America (with the girls bickering in back).
Once they were grown, she also made frequent visits to see her children as they moved around the country to places including Washington D.C., Arizona, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, California, Texas and Florida. She witnessed the birth of all six of her grandchildren: Mackenzie Chaiyabhat (19), Carter Chaiyabhat (18), Kayleigh Chaiyabhat (15), Cameron Chaiyabhat (6) and twins Alexandria and Andrew Douglas (9).
She was preceded in death by her parents Dick and Millie Bloomberg and her sister Gail Bloomberg – the mention of whom as she was gravely ill made Vicky smile for the last time; she was at peace thinking of reuniting with her sister in heaven.
Fierce, pragmatic, logical and determined, Vicky was always athletic, strong and capable. She played basketball in high school and took jujitsu classes as a young wife. She handled home renovations including demolition and building a deck on her own. She wasn’t often openly emotional, which belied the fact she was the most loving and thoughtful person you’d ever encounter. Of the grief we all are feeling, she would offer the warmest of hugs, a kiss on the cheek and simply say, “This too shall pass.”
Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, June 14, 2024, at Querhammer and Flagg Funeral Home, 500 W Terra Cotta Ave, Crystal Lake, IL 60014.
Agnes E. Snyder
GALVA – Agnes Elora Snyder, 98, of Galva, Ill., formerly of LaFayette, passed away at 9:55 p.m., on Friday, June 7, 2024, at her daughter’s residence in Woodhull.
She was born March 20, 1926, to Harry and Alma (Lindzey) Runyon in Trivoli, Ill. She married Carl “Ted” Snyder Sr. on Dec. 12, 1942, in Cahokia, Mo. He preceded her in death on March 10, 1985.
Agnes is survived by three children, Carl “Sonny” (Lauretta) Snyder Jr. of Yates City, Linda “Joni” (Larry) Henikoff of Virginia and Judy (Todd) Kaiser of Woodhull; one daughter-in-law, Cheryl Snyder; eight grandchildren, Clarissa (Jay) Price, Nathan (Susan) Henikoff, Cynthia (Jason) Chasteen, Scott Snyder, Bart (Amy) Snyder, Danny (Gill) Snyder, Ethan Kaiser and Elias Kaiser; and nine great-grandchildren.
Agnes is also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Robert Snyder; three brothers, Gene Runyon, Robert Runyon and Kenny Runyon; and four sisters, Mary Bantz, Phyllis Bock, Ruth Aiello and Betty King.
Agnes attended the LaFayette United Methodist Church. She was a former treasurer for the United Methodist Women at the church and the Debra Circle. Agnes was a member of the Red Hats as well as the Stark County Farm Bureau.
A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at Elmwood Township Cemetery. A food and fellowship open house to celebrate Agnes’s life will be held from 4-7 p.m. at the Elmwood United Methodist Church following the service.
Memorials may be made to Stark County Ambulance, BYE Ambulance or LaFayette United Methodist Church. To leave online condolences, visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Sharon M. Winter
JOELTON, Tenn. – Sharon Mae (Vaughan) Winter, 83, of Joelton, Tenn., passed away on Friday, June 7, 2024, at the Waters of Gallatin in Gallatin, Tenn.
She was born in Rock Island, Ill., on Feb. 28, 1941, to the late John L. Vaughan and Maxine Mae (Caton) Vaughan. She worked as an assistant manager at Opryland Hotel.
Sharon was preceded in death by her husband, E. Dean Winter; daughter, Deanna Winter; and brothers, John Vaughan and Richard Charles Vaughan.
She is survived by her daughter, Christine Winter; son, Mark Alan Winter (Lisa); and many nieces and nephews.
Sharon will be interred at Middle Tennessee Veteran’s Cemetery in Nashville, Tenn., at a later date.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Cheatham County Funeral Home, (615) 792-2552, and condolences can be left online at cheathamcountyfh.com.
Linda S. Raley
GALVA – Linda Sue Raley, 74, of Galva, died at 4:50 p.m., Monday, June 10, 2024, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born May 5, 1950, in Kewanee, the daughter of Joney and Sadie (Hughes) Yelm. She married Terry Raley on Feb. 2, 1979, in Kewanee.
Survivors include her husband of Galva; her three children, Samantha (Brian) Robbins of Powell, Ohio, Jake (Kenda) Kitner of Lincoln, Ill., and Eli Raley of Charleston, S.C.; her siblings, Ann (Duane) Barlow of Pinehurst, N.C., Kenneth (Jane) Yelm of Hamilton, Ohio, and David (Cindy) Yelm of San Bernadino, Calif.; five grandchildren, Trevor Robbins, Blayne (Sam) Robbins, Kaitlyn Nelson and Brooke and Colt Kitner; and three great-grandchildren, Owen and Liam Robbins and Charlotte Groff. She was preceded in death by her parents, and sister, Alice Collinson.
Linda worked at Community State Bank in Galva for 31 years, serving in many capacities and last holding the title of vice president. She enjoyed flower gardening, reading, crocheting, trips to the beaches of South Carolina and shopping with her daughter. Most of all she loved her family and cherished the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A public visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m., Friday, June 14, at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. Private services will be held at the funeral home with Deacon Michael Crummer officiating. A celebration of life luncheon for the public will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, June 15, at the Galva American Legion. Memorials may be directed to OSF Hospice.
This obituary may be viewed and private condolences left at www.ruxfuneralhome.com.
Randy J. Reich
GALESBURG – Randy J. Reich, 66, of Galesburg, passed away at 9:06 a.m. on Wednesday, June 13, 2024, at Wagner Place in Galesburg.
Randy was born October 22, 1957, in Peoria, Ill. Randy’s parents were Robert and Emma “Kathleen” (Keller) Reich.
Randy is survived by two sisters, Rebecca “Becky” (Larry) Hartley of Farmington and Mindy (Gary) Norbom of Dunlap; and one niece, Emily (James) Hecox of Farmington.
Randy is preceded in death by his parents.
Randy loved sports, especially bowling, the Farmington Farmers basketball team and the Green Bay Packers. He enjoyed going to the workshop during the week at KCCDD. He also enjoyed eating spaghetti, chicken fried rice and strawberry shakes.
Randy was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Brimfield.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 9-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow the service at Elmwood Township Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Brimfield.
To leave online condolences, visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Harlie L. Rhodes
PRINCEVILLE – Harlie LeRoy Rhodes, 92, of Morton, a Princeville native, passed away June 9, 2024, at Apostolic Christian Restmor in Morton. He was born on March 3, 1932, in Princeville to Harlie Joseph and Wilda Leona (Burns) Rhodes.
He married Garna Rhodes on Jan. 12, 1951, in Wyoming. She preceded him in death on March 2, 2022. He was also preceded in death by one infant daughter, Linda Lou Rhodes, and siblings David F. Rhodes, Juanita Rhodes, Hariette Thurston, Duane Rhodes and Gerald Rhodes. Surviving are his daughters Debora Rhodes of Normal and Brenda (Dr. John) Baer of Tremont; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Gilbert and James Rhodes.
Services were June 13, 2024.
Condolences can be left online at www.knappjohnson.com.
Nancy Goff
HANNA CITY – Nancy “Nan” Goff was born on Nov. 1, 1950, in Omaha, Neb., to Jack Charles Troe and Phyllis Elaine Henry, both of whom preceded her in death. Nan was the third of four siblings, who all survive, Marsha (Rick) Taylor, Charles (Lisa) Troe and Thomas (Bonnie) Troe.
Nan married Terry Goff in Peoria on June 6, 1970, and was mother to Hilary (Patrick Beckman) Goff, Bryce (Stacey) Goff, and Jonathan Goff, all of whom survive. Six grandchildren also survive, Alvilde Shirven, Amaya Goff, Jadyn Goff, Lyla Goff, Esther Shirven, and Hannah Shirven.
Nan’s funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at Grace and Peace Lutheran Church in Peoria. Pastor Mary Beenken will officiate. Her visitation will be from 5-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at Davison-Fulton-Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria. A celebration of life gathering will be from 6:30-8 p.m. also at the funeral home. An additional visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. on Wednesday at her church. Inurnment will take place later in Springdale Cemetery in Peoria. Her funeral service will be available via live stream on the Grace and Peace Lutheran Church YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/@graceandpeacevideo4975/streams.
Condolences can be left online at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com.
James L. Cisel
MESA, Ariz. – James L. “Jim” Cisel, 74, of Mesa, Ariz., passed away at 4:58 p.m. on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at his home.
He was born Feb. 20, 1950, to Joseph and Ann (Maher) Cisel. He married Lacinda Morris on Oct.12, 1985, in Mills, N.J. She preceded him in death in June 2020.
Jim is survived by three children, Katey McCready of Mesa, Ariz., Megan Minkler of Mesa, Ariz., and JoAnn Cisel of Mesa, Ariz.; one sister, Glynis (Jim) King; and four grandchildren. Jim is also preceded in death by his parents.
Jim served in the U.S. Air Force for 22 years, from which he retired in 1993. He was a member of the local VFW. He also enjoyed attending the Chicago Cubs spring-training games.
A graveside service with military rites will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at St. Mary’s Cemetery in rural Elmwood.
To leave online condolences, visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Michael H. Colgan
MONICA – Michael H. Colgan, 86, of Monica, passed away at 8:13 a.m. on Monday, June 10, 2024, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. Born on Sept. 19, 1937, in Princeville, he was the son of Hugh and Mabel (Green) Colgan.
On May 31, 1955, he married Evelyn Fail; she preceded him in death on Sept. 9, 1987. On June 6, 2009, he married Daphne “Pat” Colgan; she preceded him in death on April 27, 2018.
Surviving Michael are five daughters, Marsha (Doug) Reno, Tammy (Mark) Foster, Amy (Jim) Clark, Angela Colgan and Lori (Tom Hurlbutt) Windish; two stepdaughters, Garnetta (Rodney) Krug and Hari (Tom) McNally; 11 grandchildren; and numerous great- grandchildren and great-great-grand- children. He was preceded in death by his parents; both wives; two brothers; three sisters; and a son, Michael L. Colgan.
Michael worked at Keystone Steel and Wire for over 30 years until his retirement. He farmed, raised and sold sheep, and enjoyed coon hunting.
A graveside service will take place on Friday, June 21, 2024, at St. Mary of the Woods Catholic Cemetery at 1 p.m. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting the family. Memorial contributions may be made to OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home. To leave condolences for Michael’s family, please visit www.haskellfuneral.com.
George W. Gregg
YATES CITY – George W. Gregg, 95, of Yates City, passed away at 12:53 p.m., on Monday, June 10, 2024 at Farmington Village.
George was born July 14, 1928, in Galesburg, Ill., to Bernard Lewey and Florence Alicia (Wadsworth) Gregg. He married Mildred L. Johnson on Sept. 28, 1968, in Bartonville, Ill. She survives.
George is also survived by three sons, John Robert Gregg, Shawn Edward Gregg and George Scott (Angie Lawinger) Gregg.
George is preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Nancy Jean Richardson; niece, Victoria Best; nephew, James Richardson; and brother-in-law, James D. Richardson.
George served his country in the U.S. Navy as a gunners mate on the USS Midway from 1947-54.
He worked for Hill-Kastien as an automotive machinist and was written up in Motor Trend magazine. He was a heavy equipment operator for Local #649 for 44 years.
George was a 71-year life member of the VFW # 4724 in Elmwood, Ill., and life member of the Masons in Farmington. He was a past volunteer for the Elba-Salem Fire Department.
George loved his cocker spaniels, Taffy, Sparkle, Claudette and Ashley; his red Ford pickup trucks; and his green tractor. Above all, he loved his family.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, June 14, 2024, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood. A burial will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the Elba-Salem Fire Department.
To leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Agnes E. Snyder
GALVA – Agnes Elora Snyder, 98, of Galva, Ill., formerly of LaFayette, passed away at 9:55 p.m., on Friday, June 7, 2024, at her daughter’s residence in Woodhull.
She was born March 20, 1926, to Harry and Alma (Lindzey) Runyon in Trivoli, Ill. She married Carl “Ted” Snyder Sr. on Dec. 12, 1942, in Cahokia, Mo. He preceded her in death on March 10, 1985.
Agnes is survived by three children, Carl “Sonny” (Lauretta) Snyder Jr. of Yates City, Linda “Joni” (Larry) Henikoff of Virginia and Judy (Todd) Kaiser of Woodhull; one daughter-in-law, Cheryl Snyder; eight grandchildren, Clarissa (Jay) Price, Nathan (Susan) Henikoff, Cynthia (Jason) Chasteen, Scott Snyder, Bart (Amy) Snyder, Danny (Gill) Snyder, Ethan Kaiser and Elias Kaiser; and nine great-grandchildren.
Agnes is also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Robert Snyder; three brothers, Gene Runyon, Robert Runyon and Kenny Runyon; and four sisters, Mary Bantz, Phyllis Bock, Ruth Aiello and Betty King.
Agnes attended the LaFayette United Methodist Church. She was a former treasurer for the United Methodist Women at the church and the Debra Circle. Agnes was a member of the Red Hats as well as the Stark County Farm Bureau.
A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at Elmwood Township Cemetery. A food and fellowship open house to celebrate Agnes’s life will be held from 4-7 p.m. at the Elmwood United Methodist Church following the service.
Memorials may be made to Stark County Ambulance, BYE Ambulance or LaFayette United Methodist Church. To leave online condolences, visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Lorna J. Yelm
WILLIAMSFIELD – Lorna J. Yelm, 90, of Williamsfield, died at 3:24 a.m. Thursday, June 6, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
She was born May 18, 1934, in Knox County, Ill., the daughter of Loren and Susie (Kimler) Spencer. She married Everett G. “Cowboy” Yelm on Nov. 18, 1955, in Williamsfield. Survivors include her husband of Williamsfield; two sons, Roland (Linda) Yelm of Monmouth and Timothy Yelm of Williamsfield; four grandchildren, Richard Yelm, Eric Munoz, Rachel (Cody) Whiteside and Noah Munoz; and three great-grandchildren, Bailey Jo, Faith and Phillip.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Phillip; daughter-in-law, Daisy; and four sisters, Theda, Grace, Louise and Mary Lou.
Lorna graduated from Williamsfield High School in 1952 and attended Brown’s Business College. She was a water clerk for the city of Williamsfield for over 40 years. She also worked at a camera shop in Galesburg, at Rask Gas Station and as a cashier at Ladd’s.
She was a member of the Williamsfield United Methodist Church, where she served on various committees, sang in the choir and was treasurer. She enjoyed reading, doing jigsaw puzzles, knitting and crocheting, and she especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.
Funeral services were held June 11 at the Williamsfield United Methodist Church, with Pastor Zoila Marty officiating. A visitation was held one hour prior to the services at the church. The burial was to be in Williamsfield Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Williamsfield United Methodist Church. Rux Funeral Home in Williamsfield is in charge of arrangements.
Roy A. Canier
KNOXVILLE – Roy Allen Canier, 67, of Knoxville, died June 6, 2024, in Spring Valley Minn. He was born Oct. 19, 1956, in Lansing, Mich. He married Debra Ann Nichols on Oct. 26, 1985, in Galesburg.
Surviving are his wife of over 38 years, Deb Canier of Knoxville; two sons, Ryan (Emily Young) Canier of Galesburg and Bradley Canier of Knoxville; a daughter, Neely (Levi) Carr of Yates City; two brothers, Robert (Carol) Canier Jr. of Savanna and John Canier of Des Moines, Iowa; two sisters, Cheri (Pat Johnson) Canier of Clinton, Iowa, and Charlene (Mark) Herring of Stockton; and seven grandchildren.
Private graveside services will be today, June 13, in Yates City Cemetery. Condolences can be left online at www.h-p-w.com.
Ronald R. Vance
WILLIAMSFIELD – Ronald Roy “Ron” Vance, 84, of Williamsfield, died May 29, 2024, at OSF Saint Mary Medical Center in Galesburg. He was born Oct. 20, 1939, in Plymouth. He married Mary Ann Wilson on Dec. 13, 1957, in Galesburg. She preceded him in death on Dec. 15, 1990.
Surviving are three sons, Rodney (Ann) Vance of Williamsfield, Shawn (Kathy) Vance of Dahinda and Michael Vance of Galva; two daughters, Mary (Denny) Smith of Williamsfield and Susan Vance of Williamsfield; a brother, Daryl (Mary) Vance of Eddyville, Iowa; 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Services were June 7, 2024.
Condolences can be left online at www.h-p-w.com.
Janet L. Kamerer
TOULON – Janet L. Kamerer, 72, of Toulon, passed away at 2:06 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Born on Feb. 23, 1952, in Kewanee, she was the daughter of Marion L. “Dutch” Frail and Auliece (Leadley) Olson. On June 20, 1981, she married Robert Kamerer of Toulon; he survives.
Further surviving Janet is her daughter, Allison Kamerer of Toulon; son, Robbie (Dawn) Kamerer of Moline; a grandson, Adam Kamerer; “second son,” Keith Winn of Galesburg; three sisters, Sandy (Danny) Blakey of Toulon, Sherry Landergren of Kewanee and Traci (Brian) Shults of Toulon; a brother, Sam Frail of Wichita; an aunt, Carole Fisher of Mo.; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother-in-law, Don Landergren; and a niece, Heidi Blakey.
Janet graduated from Toulon High School in 1970 and went on to serve as the librarian of the Toulon Library for 31 years, retiring May 13. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend who enjoyed quilting and playing cards.
A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming is assisting the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Toulon Fire Department, Toulon Public Library, or to the First Baptist Church of Toulon.
To leave condolences for Janet’s family please visit www.haskellfuneral.com.
James R. Mock
KEWANEE – James R. “Jimmy” Mock, 35, of Kewanee, Ill., died Sunday, June 2, 2024, in Kewanee.
He was born on May 22, 1989, in Galesburg, the son of James R. Mock and Maria Dykeman. He leaves behind his beloved fiancée, Maya Padilla, of Kewanee; his son, Brendan Mock (Brendan’s mother, Ann) of Trevor, Wis.; his father, stepmother and brother, Jim, Miriam and David Mock of LaFayette; aunts and uncles, Sheryl and John Peterson of Rockton, Ill., Susan Mock and Earl Elliott of Elmwood, Ill., and cousins Dana and Lydia Peterson.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert and Nancy Mock.
Jimmy graduated from Stark County High School in 2007. He served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard, earning the rank of chief boatswains mate. He worked as a police officer for the City of Kewanee Police Department, achieving the rank of sergeant.
Jimmy had an intense work ethic and enjoyed outdoor activities, including cattle farming, fishing and kayaking. He attended the First Christian Church of Kewanee and spent time with his fiancée and their chocolate labrador, Rowe. Most of all, he cherished time with his son.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 8, at Rux Funeral Home in Galva with Pastor John Reside officiating. A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m., Friday, June 7, at the funeral home. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Gardens in rural Kewanee with military honors accorded. Memorials can be made in his name and will be accepted at the funeral home.
This obituary may be viewed and private condolences left at www.ruxfuneralhome.com.
Mary L. Griffith
CAPE CORAL, Fla. – Mary Lou Ketridge Griffith, 96, died at Gulf Coast Village Care Center in Cape Coral, Florida on Dec. 21, 2023.
Mary Lou was born on March 30, 1927, at her family’s farm home in Bradford. She was the daughter of the late Carl and Marie Benedict Reed.
She married Chris Ketridge at the First United Methodist Church in Kewanee on March 18, 1950, and he passed away in 1976.
A graveside service will be held at Osceola Grove Cemetery in rural Bradford at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 22, with Pastor Haley Hausman officiating.
Ruth A. Hansen
WYANET – Ruth “Tanny” Ann Hansen, 82, of Wyanet, formerly of Bradford, passed away on May 28, 2024 at OSF St. Luke Medical Center in Kewanee. Tanny was born on Oct. 23, 1941, in Peru, the daughter of Frank and Carrie (Miller) Sadnick. She married Richard Hansen on March 16, 1963. He preceded her in death on Dec. 3, 2016.
Tanny is survived by two children, Tim (Penny) Hansen and Cathie (Ken) Campbell; 12 grandchildren; three great grandchildren and one brother, Jim (Virginia) Sadnick. She was preceded in death by one son, Rodney Hansen; two brothers and five sisters.
A memorial visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. until time of funeral service at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Grant-Johnson Funeral Home in Bradford. Burial of cremated remains will immediately follow in Bradford Cemetery.
Ronald R. Vance
WILLIAMSFIELD – Ronald Roy “Ron” Vance, 84, of Williamsfield died May 29, 2024, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg.
He was born Oct. 20, 1939, in Plymouth, Ill., to Roy R. and Ruth (Pomeroy) Vance. He married Mary Ann Wilson on Dec. 13, 1957, in Galesburg. She preceded him in death on Dec. 15, 1990.
Surviving are three sons, Rodney (Ann) Vance of Williamsfield, Shawn (Kathy) Vance of Dahinda and Michael Vance of Galva; two daughters, Mary (Denny) Smith of Williamsfield and Susan Vance of Williamsfield; a brother, Daryl (Mary) Vance of Eddyville, Iowa, 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
A graveside service will be at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 7, 2024, at Memorial Park Cemetery, Galesburg.
Condolences can be left online at www.h-p-w.com.
Rudolph J. Frank
ELMWOOD – Rudolph John “Rudy” Frank, 98, of Elmwood, passed away at 1:15 p.m. on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Courtyard Estates in Farmington. Born on Feb. 1, 1926, in Texas. Preceded in death by his parents, siblings, wife Shirley and daughter Susie.
Survivors include his grandsons, Seth and David; stepchildren, Scott (Susan), Kathy (David) and Theresa; and Shirley’s grandchildren, Jennifer, Derek, Brandon, Melissa, Abbey and Drew.
His graveside service will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2024, at Elmwood Township Cemetery. Rev. Marla Bauler will officiate. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to BYE Ambulance Service. Rudy wanted his obituary to say, “Rudy died.” Condolences for Rudy’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Frances Johnson
PEORIA – Frances “Fran” Johnson of Peoria, Ill., passed away April 25, 2024, at the age of 98. She left this world from her home at Proctor Place in Peoria, Ill., attended until the end by her loved ones.
Fran began her life Nov. 19, 1925, in Basin, Wyo., the daughter of Henry Olson and Olive “Ollie” (Behne) Olson. Her childhood was spent on a farm near Greybull, Wyo. Fran attended the University of Wyoming, studying business. She married Merrill H. Johnson on Nov. 9, 1948.
The couple lived in Wyoming and built their family, as Merrill worked for the railroad. For several years they resided in Worland, Wyo., while Merrill worked for the Texas Gulf Sulphur Company, until he was transferred to Peoria in 1962. Here Fran found a home with her family for the rest of her days. She never lost her connection to Wyoming and the mountains.
Merrill and Fran used their “spare time” to start and run a custom home-building business named HarVeMer Builders. The homes they built are scattered about the Peoria area, a legacy to this day. Fran became a self-taught draftsperson and office manager for the business. Her creativity, artistry and intellect touched every facet of the business from the blueprints to the finished homes.
In her leisure time Fran loved to sew and was a volunteer for many years at the Methodist Hospital gift shop, making beautiful items to raise money for the hospital foundation. She always took her sewing machine on vacations to Wyoming, where many a summer was spent in the Big Horn Mountains, at the family cabin built by Merrill’s father. Here she also enjoyed hiking, jeeping and relaxing in the company of numerous friends and family who still resided in the Wyoming area. All her life Fran was an avid reader, even in her later years routinely reading the Peoria Journal Star cover to cover.
Fran’s husband, Merrill, passed July 9, 2015. She is survived by her four children and their spouses, Donald Johnson and Celia (Thompson) Johnson of Brimfield, Ill., David Johnson and Julie (Morrison) Johnson of Plainfield, Ill., Merilyn Kearney (Johnson) of North Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Sheri Beintema (Johnson) and Terry Beintema of Brimfield. Fran lived to enjoy the company of 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Fran’s beloved cat Callie, a pugnacious old lady of 20 years, now resides with Fran’s daughter Sheri.
Cremation rights have been accorded and a celebration of life is planned for 1 p.m. June 22, 2024, at First Federated Church in Peoria. A memorial stone is planned to be placed in the Greybull cemetery.
Each of us is a stone cast upon the waters of this world, and Fran made her own great splash. Those who love her will carry on the gentle waves left by her passing, that her kind nature might continue to ripple throughout our lives.
Dixie M. King
TOULON – Dixie M. King, 73, of Toulon, passed away at 9:40 p.m. Monday, May 27, 2024, at her home, surrounded by loving family. Dixie was born on Feb. 13, 1951, in Peoria, to Charles M. and Nettie (Dixon) King. She was a 1969 graduate of Toulon High School.
Surviving Dixie is a brother, Richard (Danita) King; her nephew who cared for her the last five years, Jeff (Amanda) King; nieces, Shelly (Justin) Webster and Morgan King; nephews, Corey King and Adam King; and numerous great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Dorothy Musselman.
Dixie started her career at Boss Gloves in Kewanee and went on to work for Caterpillar Inc. for 31 years, retiring in 2005. She enjoyed going to auctions, and genealogy, having completed her family’s line and many others. She was a member of the Stark County Red Hat Society and the Stark County Genealogical Society.
Her funeral service was at 10 a.m. Friday, May 31, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville. Burial followed in Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria. Visitation was on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at the funeral home in Princeville from 5-7 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Stark County Genealogical Society. To leave condolences for Dixie’s family, please visit www.haskellfuneral.com.
Allen L. Allbaugh
KNOXVILLE – Allen L. Allbaugh, 83, father of a Farmington woman, died May 23, 2024, at his home in Knoxville, surrounded by his family.
He was born on Oct. 28, 1940, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of Warren K. and Ruth (Current) Allbaugh. He married Mary Ellen (Bouma) on Sept. 14, 1963. She preceded him in death on Oct. 14, 2019.
Surviving are his daughters, Dianna (John) Hillebrand of Farmington, Juileen (Donald) Hummel of Chillicothe and Dan’Neile (Matt) Comandini of Knoxville; seven grandchildren; and siblings Roy (Anita) Allison of Knoxville, Iowa, and Virginia (Terry) McMurray of Bussey, Iowa.
A visitation will be held from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 9, 2024, with funeral services following visitation at 2:30 p.m. Services will be held at Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Home and Crematory in Knoxville.
Condolences can be left online at hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
Anna S. Ehresman
PRINCEVILLE – Anna “Ann” Susan Ehresman, 87, a resident of Snyder Village in Metamora and a Princeville native, passed away on May 23, 2024.
She was born on Nov. 27, 1936, in Princeville to the late Anna (Kruse) and Carl Mangold. On Aug. 10, 1958, she married Jack Ehresman in Peoria. He preceded her in death on Dec. 30, 2020, in Peoria.
Surviving Ann are her children, Douglas Ehresman, Susan (Tom) Ausman and Nancy (Brian) McKinney; six grandchildren; siblings Carl (Maggie) Mangold, Betty (Dale) Hollenberg and Irene Nafzinger; and sister-in-law Jeri Mangold.
Ann graduated as valedictorian of Dunlap High School in 1954.
Services were June 1. Burial was at Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria.
Condolences can be left online at www.thewiltonmortuary.com.
Jacqueline Griffith
EAST PEORIA – Jacqueline “Jackie” Griffith, 86, mother of a Brimfield man, died May 28, 2024, in East Peoria, surrounded by her family.
Born Jan. 1, 1938, in Peoria to William and Albena (Cinotto) Kilpatrick, she married the love of her life, Thomas Griffith, in 1990.
She was the mother of Daren (Denise) Courtright of Carbondale, Tyler (Shannon) Courtright of Brimfield, Colise (Hank) Gufrinck of Bloomington and Allison (Edward) McEwen of Prairie City; stepmother to Jennifer Buckles of Arvada, Colo., and Chris (Jennifer) Griffith of Charlotte, N.C.; grandmother of 14; and great-grandmother of six.
Also surviving are one sister, Kathleen Kilpatrick of Bloomington, and two brothers, William (Mary) Kilpatrick of Fort Myers, Fla., and Roger Kilpatrick of Peoria.
Her memorial service will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Brimfield Evangelical Church. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service Saturday at the church. Inurnment will be at Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria.
Condolences can be left online at www.preston-hanley.com.
Beverly A. Stear
HANNA CITY – Beverly Ann (Richmond) Stear, 84, of Hanna City, passed away May 14, 2024, at Graham Memorial Hospital in Canton.
She was born in Pekin on March 15, 1940, to Charles and Rosamond (Haney) Richmond. She married Harold LeRoy Stear on April 20, 1957, in Hanna City.
Surviving are four children, Melody Wiseman of Elmwood, Harold (Bud) Stear Jr. of Fort Worth, Texas, Kelly Larkin of Hanna City and Gregory Stear (Mindy) of Washington; sisters, Kathy Richmond (Scott Fosdick) of Evanston, Ill., and Rita Pogioli (Rex) of Marquette Heights; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother Charles Richmond, infant daughter Beverly Stear, sister Susan Richmond-Zerfas and son-in-law Donald Larkin.
Beverly attended high school in Farmington.
Funeral services were May 25.
Barbara A. Williams
HANNA CITY – Barbara Ann Williams, 88, of Hanna City, died May 18, 2024, at Carle Health Proctor Hospital in Peoria.
Born March 28, 1936, in Carrier Mills to John and Ruth (Bryan) Buckner, she married Freddie D. Williams on May 31, 1954, in Carrier Mills. He preceded her in death in 2011.
Surviving are her children, Jack (Joyce) Williams of Trivoli, Ron (Amy) Williams of Moscow Mills, Mo., and Jennifer (Dave) Prewitt of Blue Grass, Iowa; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Also preceding in death were her brothers, Carl, John, R.V., Moe and Jim.
Barb was a homemaker who devoted her life to taking care of her family. She loved to sit in her swing and watch the traffic go by, waving to those who would honk.
Graveside services were May 25, 2024, at the Salem Cemetery in Carrier Mills.
Condolences can be left online at Davison-Fulton-BartonvilleChapel. com.
Michelle M. Armbruster
ELMWOOD – Michelle Marie (Runyon) Armbruster went home to be with her Lord and Savior at 12:58 a.m. on May 24, 2024, at home surrounded by her family and friends.
She was born in Peoria on July 15, 1968. She attended Elmwood Elementary and High School where she was a pom-pon girl all four years of high school. She attended Illinois Central College and received an associate’s degree in management and marketing. She then earned a bachelor’s degree in management from Sangamon State University. She was proud to take all of her classes at ICC and didn’t set foot on Sangamon campus until graduation. She also earned her master’s degree in human service administration from Bradley University.
She married Christopher Armbruster on Oct. 19, 1996. He survives.
She is also survived by her beloved daughter, Taylor; her precious son, Ian; her sweet dog, Pudge; her mother-in-law, Mary Ann Armbruster; her sister, Christine (Clark) Evans; her stepsister, Brittany (Craig) Campbell; her sister-in-law, Liz Armbruster; her brother-in-law, Tom (Marie) Armbruster; nieces and nephews; her best friends, Shannon Courtright and Cheryl Harlow; four aunts, Roseann Runyon, Pat Runyon, Trudy (Ken) Howard and Maria (PJ) Heinz; her uncle, George Reicheneker; many cousins; and many friends, including a group of 10 girls she has known since kindergarten.
She is preceded in death by her father, Terry Runyon; her mother, Charlotte (Kleier) Perdue; grandparents, Gene (Betty) Runyon and Tom (Laura Nell) Lewis; father-in-law, Albert John Armbruster; five uncles, Duane Runyon, Dale Runyon, Chuck Runyon, Dick Runyon and Mike Runyon; five aunts, Janice Reicheneker, Nancy Reicheneker, Patty (Gary) Fincham, Mary (Don) Carroll and Kathy Selberg; and her dog, Shadow.
Michelle worked at the Elmwood Tastee Freez, Ruppman Marketing, Foster & Gallagher, Marianne’s, Catholic Social Services and as library director at the Morrison & Mary Wiley Library in Elmwood for 20 years.
She was secretary for the Parents’ Club while her children were in elementary school and treasurer and president for the Booster Club while her children were in high school. She was the co-president and president of the Fall Festival Committee for five years.
She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Elmwood, where she taught Sunday School, Children’s Church and helped with Vacation Bible School for years. Her children also helped her when they grew older.
She loved sitting on her porch reading a book and being with family and friends.
Cremation rites have been accorded. In honor of Michelle, there will be a celebration-of-life open house at Maple Lane Country Club in Elmwood on Saturday, June 22, 2024, from 1-4 p.m. with desserts and drinks. There will be a balloon release at 3:30 p.m. for those who would like to attend.
In lieu of flowers, Michelle asked that all memorial gifts go to the family to pay for expenses.
To leave online condolences, visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Dolores D. Horn
BRIMFIELD – Dolores “Dee” Horn left this earth on May 15, 2024, at her home in Brimfield. She suffered from a head injury incurred during a fall, from which she did not recover.
Dee was a devoted wife to her loving husband, Jerry, who proceeded her in death in October 2014. She was a wonderful mother to both her son, Kevin, who also proceeded her in death in October 1976, as well as her daughter, Michelle Curtale, who survives.
Dee was proceeded in death by her two sisters, Beverly Furlong and Brenda Calvert.
Dee is survived by her grandson Spencer (Megan) Curtale and great-grandkids Lucy, Abigail, James and Sarah.
Dee loved all of the finer things in life. Fashion was one of her passions. She could recall in perfect detail what she was wearing to any big event in her life! She was an incredible cook and loved making meals for her family. She believed every dinner should be accompanied with a great wine. She loved getting together with family. She loved music, especially jazz. She will be dearly missed.
Dee was a faithful parishioner of the Lutheran church. She and Jerry were very active in their church throughout the years. Her prayer life was strong, even in her last days. We will miss her terribly but know that she is once again united with the love of her life.
A memorial service will be held at the Brimfield Evangelical Free Church on Friday, May 31, at 11 a.m. with a lunch immediately following.
Bonita J. Freerking
HANNA CITY – Bonita “Bonnie” Jean Freerking, 86, of Hanna City, passed away on May 23, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
She was born on Jan. 1, 1938, in Peoria to Lloyd and Lillian (McCullem) Dawson. Bonnie married Harold “Ray” Freerking on Dec. 7, 1956. He passed away July 5, 1999.
Bonnie was also preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Cynthia Rae Freerking; and brother, William L. Dawson. She is survived by her son, Daniel L. (Kathy) Freerking of Hanna City; three grandchildren, Daniel L. Freerking of Bartonville and Alexander and Christina Freerking, both of Hanna City; two great-grandsons; and brother, Donald D. Dawson of Brimfield.
Funeral services were to be held Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel. Condolences can be left online at www. Davison-Fulton-Bartonvillechapel.com.
Todd Guidi
FARMINGTON – Todd Guidi, 61, of Farmington, passed away May 20, 2024, at his residence. He was born on Sept. 22, 1962, a son of Elmer and Marjorie (Arnett) Guidi.
Surviving are his children, Cameron (April) Guidi of Farmington, Myranda (Scott) Whitman of Bloomington, Christopher Guidi of Minnesota, Kara (T.J.) Lair of Pekin and Shaw Guidi of Bloomington; six grandchildren; brother Bradford C. (Willa) Guidi of Princeville; and sister Catherine C. (Mitchell) Goldstein of Boca Raton, Fla.
Preceding Todd in death were his parents and brother Bruce C. Guidi.
Funeral services were May 25. Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
William C. Landon
TRIVOLI – William Clarence “Bill” Landon, 78, of Trivoli, passed away May 25, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
He was born on Sept. 21, 1945. He married Donna Marie Meminger on Aug. 17, 1969. She preceded him in death on April 7, 2023.
He is also preceded in death by his parents; one son, Kenneth Landon; three brothers, Lowell Landon, Rodney Landon and Joseph Landon Jr.; and one sister, Jane Bitner. He is survived by two children, Joseph (Wendy) Landon and Todd (Kelli) Landon; and two grandchildren.
A funeral service will be Saturday, June 1, at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton. Visitation is 5-7 p.m. on Friday, May 31, at the funeral home and Saturday from 10-11 a.m. Burial will be at Smithville Cemetery in rural Hanna City.
Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
David G. Long Sr.
FARMINGTON – David G. Long Sr., 83, of Farmington, passed away on Monday, May 27, 2024, at the Farmington Village.
He was born on Oct. 29, 1940, in Fulton County to Elmer and Lorene (McKinty) Long. He married Jeanette Mathis on Sept. 15, 1962. She preceded him in death on July 30, 2017.
Surviving are his children, Tammy (Chris) Girard of London Mills and David Long Jr. of Farmington; two grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and one sister, Mary Lou Zink.
David worked as street superintendent for the city of Farmington for 30 years.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the London Mills Fire Department from 2-5 p.m.
Condolences can be left online at oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Douglas M. Dial
EDELSTEIN – Douglas M. Dial, 57, of Edelstein, passed away unexpectedly at 7:24 p.m. on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
Doug was born in Hinsdale, Ill., on Jan. 31, 1967, to Ronald F. and Arlene (Andreotti) Dial. On Oct. 28, 1989, he married the love of his life, Amy Bell, in Peoria; she survives.
Further surviving are two children, Alyssa (Justin) Brabant of Chillicothe and Drew (Emily) Dial of Washington; three grandchildren, Dominic, Gemma and Jackson; mother, Arlene Dial of Edelstein; brother, Mark (Shari) Dial of Iowa City, Iowa; a nephew, Sam Dial, of Macomb; and his trusted companion dog, Duke. He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald F. Dial; father-in-law, Frank Bell; and his dogs, TJ, Maggie and Tucker.
Doug worked at Comcast for over 20 years and was currently the branch manager at United Rentals. He also worked part time at Bushwacker for over 30 years to support his skiing habit. Aside from hitting the slopes, Doug loved watching women’s softball (especially his daughter in college), golfing, playing the baritone saxophone in the Big Oldies All Star Band, birdwatching, traveling to Colorado and Florida and watching aerospace and aviation events like the Blue Angels. He was a great cook who enjoyed smoking meat and making pizzas for his family.
Although Doug had many titles over the years, his favorite was being “Bubba Pop” to his grandchildren. His joking nature will be deeply missed.
Funeral services will be held at noon on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville. Pastor David Spillman will officiate. A visitation will be held prior at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place at a later date in Princeville Township Cemetery. Memorials can be made to the Doug Dial Softball Scholarship fund at Princeville State Bank.
Condolences for Doug’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Christopher L. McClain
DAHINDA – Christopher Lee McClain, 73, of Dahinda, Ill., died on May 7, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Born on Jan. 5, 1951, to the late Harry and Mary (Sullivan) McClain, he married Marta Jolene Hixson on July 28, 1973, in Moline, Ill.
Chris and the love of his life, Jo, were married nearly 51 years and created a beautiful life together. He leaves behind amazing memories and stories survived by wife Jo McClain; children Chris (Mandy) McClain, Jennifer (Mike) Gribble, Jessie (Tom) Arena and James (Tabitha) McClain; and brother Charles (Cynthia) McClain. Chris, affectionately called “Pop Pop,” has joyfully inspired his grandchildren Lizzie, John, Darcy, Roselin, Liam, Gavin, Gabe and Aiden.
Chris provided for his family while employed at John Deere for 30 years. He proudly worked at Little John Conservation Club until his passing, caring for the grounds and upkeep of the land he dearly loved.
Chris enjoyed walks in the woods at Little John, sharing a laugh with everyone he encountered, a “nice little lunch,” and holding the hand of his bride anywhere the wind took them. For over 50 years, his face would light up when “Jody” walked in the room, and they enjoyed being close, listening to the birds and sharing their thoughts daily. Above all, he enjoyed his family and sharing his joy for life.
Cremation rites have been accorded. In keeping with how Chris celebrated life, his ashes will be spread in the breeze at a future date. A celebration of life was held on May 12.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Little John Conservation Club.
Cards can be sent from and condolences left at illinicremation.com.
Alan R. Millard
EDELSTEIN – Alan Ray Millard, 74, of Edelstein, passed away on May 8, 2024, in Columbia, Tenn.
Alan was born on June 5, 1949, to Leslie R. Millard and Martha V. (Nelson) Millard. Alan was a loving son, brother, uncle and friend. Alan was a graduate of Princeville High School and Cliff Mann School of Floral Design. Alan went on to own Millard’s Florist and was a florist for over 50 years.
Alan had many interests, including antique cars, genealogy, local history, trains and traveling to visit his good friends in Switzerland. Alan was a lifelong resident of Edelstein, and although he traveled around the world, his favorite view was the one provided by sitting on his front porch watching the trains pass by.
Alan will be remembered for his loving spirit, sense of humor, generous soul, adventurous personality and gregarious nature. He is survived by his brothers, Kenneth (Lynda) Millard, and Stephen (Shannon) Millard of Princeton, Ill.; numerous nieces and nephews, including nephew Chris (Linda) Millard of Columbia, Tenn.; and his aunt, Dolores White of Edelstein. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ronald Millard; and good friend, Art Smith.
Funeral services are Friday, May 24, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville. Burial will be in Lawn Ridge Cemetery in Speer, Ill.
Memorials may be directed to the Princeville Heritage Museum.
Georgeann Williams
WILLIAMSFIELD – Georgeann Williams, 89, of Williamsfield, Ill., passed away on May 20, 2024, due to a short-term illness.
Georgeann was born on Jan. 17, 1935, to George and Lillian Kendall in Alton, Ill. After Georgeann graduated from Alton Senior High School, she went on to enlist in the U.S. Navy as a beautician.
After the Navy, she graduated nursing school as a LPN and went on to work at Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater, Fla., and then on to Kinkaid Special Needs Home in Jacksonville, Fla., where she later retired.
While serving in the Navy, Georgeann Kendall met James Williams in Bainbridge, Md., where they later married.
Georgeann and James were married for 27 years and had four children, Debra Williams-Potts (Mark), Duane Williams (Judy) and twins Denise and Darryl Williams.
In 1996, Georgeann retired and spent her time with her flowers, puzzles and her family. She also loved politics.
Georgeann was predeceased by her husband, James Williams, and she is survived by her children and several grandchildren.
Georgeann loved church and her Lord and wanted to make him known to everyone. We, as a family, all agreed on a scriptural verse most fitting for her at this time as it comes from 2 Corinthians 5: 6 through 8 which states, “So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord. For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”
No service will be held locally, per family request, and cremation rights have been accorded. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to OSF Hospice in Galesburg, Ill.
Marie Lybarger
CANTON – Marie Lybarger, 92, of Canton, died May 16, 2024, at Red Oak Memory Care in Canton.
She was born on Oct. 8, 1931, in Farmington to Batiste and Lena (Astesone) Filerbo. She married Paul Hayes and later married Wade Lybarger on Sept. 26, 1986. They preceded her in death.
Burial of ashes was in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington.
Condolences can be left online at oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
James C. Evans Jr.
HANNA CITY – James C. Evans Jr., 82, of Hanna City, died April 29, 2024, at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. He was born July 12, 1941, in Farmington.
Surviving are his son Tim (Kim) Evans of Hanna City; sister Carol Danz of Farmington; two grandsons; two great-grandchildren; and son-in-law Don Gibson.
A celebration of life will be held from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the Farmington Moose Lodge, 1001 E. Fort St.
Mardell R. Dietz
BRADFORD – Mardell Rose Dietz, 82, of Bradford, passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria. Mardell was born Oct. 9, 1941, in Quincy, Ill., to Fred and Louise (Hodel) Grimm. She married Kenneth Dietz on June 21, 1964, in Taylor, Mo.; he survives.
Also surviving are five children, Jeff (Sara) Dietz of Elgin, Barry (Rachel) Dietz of Wyoming, Fred (Shaena) Dietz of Mediapolis, Iowa, Valerie (Todd) Steiner of Tremont and LaNae (Peter) Huang of Edwards; 30 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one sister, Judy (Don) Feller of Morton; brothers-in-law Paul Haab, Dwayne “Chub” Dietz, Mike Dietz and Dick Dietz; and sisters-in-law Joyce Streitmatter, Betty (Walt) Herrmann and Charlene Dietz.
She was preceded in death by her parents; one grandson, Joel Steiner; one brother, Roy Grimm; one sister, Kathy Haab; brother-in-law Norman Streitmatter; two sisters-in-law, Dona Grimm and Kim Dietz; and Renie Schlesier.
She was a member of the Bradford Apostolic Christian Church from the very beginning, attending Bradford’s first service a week after she was married. She was a loving wife and an encouraging support to her husband in the ministry for over 40 years, as well as a mother to the church and friend to all, making everyone feel loved and welcomed.
Her love for people extended beyond her family and church to the community, which included serving as an EMT on the Bradford Rescue Squad for many years. She was a loving, godly mother who poured her life into her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We all felt her love and prayers.
Her funeral service was May 11, 2024, at the Bradford Apostolic Christian Church in Bradford. Ministers of the church officiated. Burial was in Bradford Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to Marklund Wasmond Center, 1435 Summit St., Elgin, IL 60120 (where her grandson Matt has resided for many years), or the Bradford Apostolic Christian Church for its charity fund.
Condolences may be left for Mardell’s family on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
James A. Archibald
ELMWOOD – James Adam Archibald, 57, of Elmwood, passed away at 6:41 p.m. on Thursday, May 9, 2024, with his family by his side. He has gotten peace after a long battle with cancer.
He was born on Feb. 3, 1967, in Peoria to Dick and Marsha (Schooley) Archibald. He married Patricia Clark on Oct. 18, 1998, in Glasford. She survives.
He is also survived by his father; three children, Nicholas Adam Archibald of Speer, Shelbey Rae (Zak Stokes) Clark-Archibald of Brimfield and Jessica Jaimes Clark-Archibald of Elmwood; and one sister, Trisha Archibald of Brimfield.
Per James’ wishes, there will be no services. “If they can’t come see me if I’m alive, don’t bother when I’m gone.” Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton.
Condolences can me left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Janice A. Schaefer
PEORIA – Janice Ann (Needham) Schaefer, 83, died May 8, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Janice was born to John “Jack” and Alma (Fultz) Needham on Dec. 26, 1940, in Peoria County. She married Robert “Bob” Schaefer Sr. on June 21, 1958, in Peoria. He preceded her in death on June 16, 2021.
She is survived by seven children, Robert Schaefer Jr. of Chillicothe, John (Tammy) Schaefer of Edelstein, Jennifer (Chris) Johnson of Edelstein, Kathy (Rick) Doering of South Carolina, Jeff Schaefer of Peoria, Joe (Christina) Schaefer of Hanna City and Ana Schaefer (Adam) Milestone of Peoria; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and four sisters, Barb (Bob) Lovelace of Tennessee, Susan Ricks of Peoria, Mary Needham of Princeton and Colleen (Steve) Harmon of Princeton.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Nevaeh M. Mitchell
PRINCEVILLE – Nevaeh Marie Mitchell, 18, of Princeville, passed away unexpectedly in a car accident at 12:27 a.m. Sunday, May 5, 2024, in Peoria. Nevaeh was born on June 25, 2005, in Peoria, to Matthew Mitchell and Danielle Courteau. They survive.
Also surviving are her maternal grandparents, Rich and Alice Shipley of Princeville; paternal grandparents, Ben and Judy Mitchell of Peoria; great-grandmother Jan Shipley of Princeville; two brothers, Rylee Mitchell and Mekhi Robinson; three sisters, Londyn and Delta Robinson and Amya Stevens; two uncles, Ryan (Ester) Shipley and Sean (Britney) Courteau; and three aunts, Kristina (Randall) Feagin, Tiffany (Ty) Shipley and Taylor (Mat) Hill.
A bright and diligent student, Nevaeh was set in two weeks to graduate with honors from Dunlap High School in just two weeks. She earned a scholarship to Loyola University in Chicago, where she planned to continue her education, embracing future opportunities and adventures.
Nevaeh’s work at the AMC Theater in Peoria was more than just a job; it was an extension of her warm and welcoming personality. Her creative spirit found expression in her love for drawing and clay work. Nevaeh also found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as sipping her favorite pink drinks from Starbucks and singing.
Those who knew Nevaeh will remember her as the embodiment of love and kindness. Her presence was a gift to all who had the privilege of knowing her, and her creative soul left a lasting impression on the world around her. Her spirit, though taken too soon, will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
Her visitation will be from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, May 12, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 13, 2024, also at the funeral home. Pastor David Pyell will officiate. Burial will be in Princeville Township Cemetery.
Memorial donations can be made to the Nevaeh Mitchell Memorial Fund, c/o Princeville Community Bank, to be used toward her siblings’ future education.
Condolences for Nevaeh’s family may be left on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Eddie Breese
CANTON – Eddie “Ed” Breese, 78, of Canton, father of a Farmington woman, passed away May 5, 2024, surrounded by his family.
He was born on Sept. 17, 1945, in Canton. He married Cynthia Agre on Sept. 17, 1966, in Canton. She survives.
Surviving are his son, Darren (Jeannie) Breese of Canton; daughter, Brenda (Darren) Sprague of Farmington; five grandchildren, Kayla (Chase) Welker, Alli Sprague and Macie Sprague, all of Farmington, and Delanie and Jacob Breese of Canton, and three great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton. A visitation will be held one hour prior. Burial will follow in White Chapel Memorial Gardens in Canton.
Condolences can be left online at visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Curtis J. Campbell
WILLIAMSFIELD – Curtis John “Curt” Campbell, 29, of Williamsfield, died at 3:23 p.m. Thursday, April 25, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria from injuries sustained in a utility-vehicle accident.
He was born May 14, 1994, in Galesburg, the son of Mark and Peggy (Filson) Campbell. Survivors include his parents of Elmwood; his son, Dean Patrick; fiancée Katie Hiebert of Williamsfield; his sister, Kimberly (John) Forney of Elmwood; and two nieces, Dawsyn and Jordyn.
Curt graduated from Williamsfield High School in 2012 and attended Black Hawk East College. He farmed grain and livestock with his father. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, fishing, snowmobiling and especially farming. He loved his family and cherished the time spent with his son and his fiancée, Katie.
Curt was a selfless individual with a generous spirit, giving the gift of life to many others through organ and tissue donation.
Funeral services were May 1 at the Williamsfield United Methodist Church. Burial was in Williamsfield Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held beginning at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 11, at his farm, 1342 E. Knox Rd. in Williamsfield.
Memorials may be directed to a fund for his son, Dean, c/o Peggy Campbell at F&M Bank.
Sharon A. Gaul
FARMINGTON – Sharon A. Gaul, 76, of Farmington, passed away on Friday, May 3, 2024, at Graham Hospital in Canton.
She was born on Aug. 9, 1947, in Peoria, a daughter of John and Phyllis (Smith) Stear. She married Russell F. Gaul Jr. on Feb. 18, 1968, in Peoria. He preceded her in death on Feb. 7, 2002.
Also preceding her in death were her parents; brothersWayne and Bruce Stear; and sister Brenda Clanin.
Surviving are her children, Kari (Darren) Berry of Farmington, Kelly (Scott) Nolan of Rapatee, Kim Streitmatter of Farmington and Courtney Bauman of Yates City; three grandchildren, Grace and Conner Berry and Emily Streitmatter; and one great-granddaughter, Rylee Chatten.
She worked as a bookkeeper for Kmart for several years, shortly after getting married, and later dedicated her life taking care of her family.
A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. today, May 9, 2024, at Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington. Cremation rites will be accorded following the visitation. A graveside service and burial of ashes will take place in Cottonwood Cemetery in rural Hanna City on Saturday, May, 11, 2024, at 10 a.m. Rev. Kevin VanTine will officiate.
Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Jessica Hake
DUNLAP – Jessica “Dana” Hake, 49, of Dunlap, passed away at her home on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. She was born June 3, 1974, in Peoria to Jerry “Dean” Janssen and Diane (Bruninga) Janssen. Dana married Paul Hake on May 20, 1995, and he survives.
Also surviving are her boys, Jaden Hake of Deland, Fla., Jesse Hake and Jonas Hake. She is also survived by her sister, Johnna “Deanne” (Darrell) Dunbar.
She was a member of Bethany Baptist Church in Edwards.
A celebration of life will be held at Bethany Baptist Church on Friday, May 10. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 4-6 p.m., with the service to follow at 6:30 at the church. Cremation rites have been accorded. Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is overseeing arrangements.
Condolences can be left online at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
V. Gaylene Stufflebeam
FARMINGTON – V. Gaylene Stufflebeam, 67, of Farmington, passed away at 8:45 a.m. on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at The Loft Rehab & Nursing of Canton.
She was born on Aug. 26, 1956, at Graham Hospital in Canton. She is a daughter of Virginia Bohanan. She married Alan Stufflebeam on Oct. 19, 1974, at Mount Pleasant Church in rural Lewistown. He survives.
Also surviving are her grandchildren, Brennan, Ella, Scarlett and Easton Potter; and one sister, Georgia Custer.
She was preceded in death by her mother and daughter, Angela Marie Potter, who was an only child, passing March 12, 2019. Angela passed away from breast cancer.
Gaylene was a homemaker and faithful wife to her husband, Alan. She loved her grandchildren dearly and enjoyed dancing, animals and Elvis.
Cremation rites will be accorded through Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton. A celebration of life and burial of ashes will be held at a later date.
Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Mary L. Kitterman
PRINCEVILLE – Mary Louise Kitterman, 89, of Princeville, passed away at 9:10 a.m. Sunday, May 5, 2024, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.
Mary was born on June 21, 1934, in Stark County to Dwain and Edna (Price) Hegwood. She married Ray Kitterman on June 21, 1952, in Wyoming. He preceded her in death on Feb. 10, 2018.
Surviving are one son, Mickey (Dan) Kitterman of St. Louis; one daughter, Michelle (Denny) McGinn of Princeville; daughter-in-law, Robin Kitterman of Toulon; one brother, Bill J. (Doris) Hegwood of Camp Grove; one brother-in-law Keith Murray of Plano, Texas; seven grandchildren, Sean (Rachel), Chad, Corey (Nikki), Lisa (Chad), Dru (Stephanie), Amber and Ashley; 13 great-grandchildren; former daughter-in-law Liz Shane of Florida; and several nieces and nephews.
Mary was also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Anthony “Tony” Kitterman; and one sister, Shirley A. Murray.
She had a love of gardening (flowers and vegetables) and cooking. She enjoyed watching all sporting, dancing and theater that involved her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan.
She and Ray spent their later years line dancing, camping at Allendale and spending winters on South Padre Island, where many new friendships were made. She was always up for a political conversation and advocated for everyone to vote.
She had made the decision early on to donate her body to science, when she realized that there was a need. She also felt everyone should own a good pair of gold shoes.
Her memorial service will be at 6 p.m. Monday, May 13, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville. Funeral Celebrant Nicole Reed, alongside Mary’s family, will officiate. Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m., also on Monday at the funeral home. A burial will be in Wyoming Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Akron-Princeville Ambulance Service or the Wy-Hi Center in Wyoming. Condolences may be left for Mary’s family on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Gail R. Ripka
GALVA – Gail Rosenow Ripka, 74, a voracious reader and avid gardener, died in Peoria, Ill., on May 4, 2024, at the Richard L. Owens Hospice Home, surrounded by her family.
Born in Morrison, Ill., on Nov. 10, 1949, the daughter of Clarence Rosenow and Jana (Clementz) Rosenow, Gail grew up in Galva, Ill. She graduated from Galva High School in 1967, and then went on to earn her LPN at Black Hawk East College, an associates degree in Nursing at Sauk Valley College, BSN at the University of Illinois and master’s degree in health administration from the University of St. Francis.
She was a nurse and lived a life full of serving others as she developed and managed the Kewanee Hospital Healthcare program during her time as vice president of Kewanee Hospital. She was also executive director of the Henry County Health Department until her retirement in 2014.
Throughout her life, Gail gave back to her community in many ways including serving on the Henry County 708 Mental Health Board, Freedom House Board, ABCD Board, Kewanee Food Pantry Board, Abilities Plus Human Rights Committee, Kewanee Friends of the Library Board and the Henry County Mental Health Alliance Board.
She was awarded the Helen Heyrman Award for Outstanding Leadership by the Illinois Homecare and Hospice Council. Gail was very interested in genealogy, and she was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and The Mayflower Society.
Gail singlehandedly kept every local library in business and won many prizes in library summer-reading programs. She loved her yoga pals and her “old nurses” cohort who remained a constant comfort until her last breath. Gail loved the tranquility of her vast garden and patio sanctuary. She found joy in both feathered friends and the wild creatures who danced through her yard, epitomizing a life of understated richness.
But most of all, Gail loved spending time with her family. She is survived by her son, Christopher (Deidre) Ripka and her three grandchildren, Miranda, Isabella and Anderson Ripka. She was affectionately known as “Grandy” to them and could always be counted on for book recommendations, gifts of office supplies and Legos, amazing trays of Christmas cookies and Barnes and Noble gift cards for every special occasion.
“Auntie Gail” is also survived by her very special nieces and nephews, Sarah (Mike Trippiedi) Cardiff, Amy (Gary) DeFauw, Ben (Angie) Cardiff, and Nolan Rosenow, along with many great-nieces and nephews.
Meeting her in heaven are her parents, her longtime partner Jim Jones, and several dogs who crossed over the rainbow bridge before her. She will also be greeted by her sister, Marilee Cardiff, and brother, Robert Rosenow.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, May 10, at Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee with Pastor Haley Hausman officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Richard L. Owens Hospice Home or the Galva Library.
This obituary may be viewed and private condolences left at www.ruxfuneralhome.com.
Edward E. Bowman
NEWTON, Iowa – Edward Eugene Bowman, 65, of Newton, Iowa, formerly of Williamsfield, died at 6:32 a.m. Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at his home.
He was born April 16, 1959, in Galesburg, the son of Richard and Betty (Murphy) Bowman. He married Hiltraud “Hilly” Lilienthal on Oct. 26, 1984, in Germany. Survivors include his wife, of Newton; his three children, James (Tamie) Wright of Lincoln, Ill., Jennifer Bowman of Newton and Christine (Christopher) Cornell of Carlisle, Iowa; a brother, Mitch (Kathy) Bowman of Williamsfield; a sister, Bonnie (Delvin) Powell of Dahinda; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Michael Bowman.
He graduated from Williamsfield High School and served his country in the U.S. Army. He worked as a train engineer for the Iowa Interstate Railroad until his retirement. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing.
Funeral services were held April 29 at Rux Funeral Home in Galva, with Pastor Zoila Marty officiating. Visitation was prior to the services at the funeral home. Burial was in Williamsfield Cemetery, where military rites were accorded by the Williamsfield American Legion. Memorials may be made in his name and will be accepted at the funeral home.
This obituary may be viewed and private condolences left at www.ruxfuneralhome.com.
Chad O. Conger
BRIMFIELD – Chad O’Neil Conger, 41, of Brimfield, Ill., passed away on April 14, 2024. He was born on Aug. 13, 1982, to Shane and Patricia (Logston) Conger.
Surviving are his daughter, Kenzie Conger of Delavan; his parents; his brother, Kyle Conger; his niece, Kendra Conger; his significant other, Molly Gass; and many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents.
Many knew Chad from his days as an athlete. He grew up with a love for sports, which carried on past high school to Spoon River College, where he had the opportunity to pitch. After college, Chad found slow-pitch softball and had the joy of playing almost every night of the week.
Those who had the pleasure of knowing Chad knew they were going to have a great person to lean on through whatever life threw at them.
There are no funeral arrangements at this time, but a celebration of life is being planned for a later date, as is a slow-pitch softball tournament.
A GoFundMe account (https://gofund.me/173ca30a) has been created for those who would like to make a donation.
James C. Evans Jr.
HANNA CITY – James C. Evans Jr., 82, of Hanna City, passed away at 4:38 a.m., Monday, April 29, 2024, at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. He was born on July 12, 1941, in Farmington to James C. and Ella Mae (Swift) Evans Sr.
James married Patsy Rogers on Sept. 12, 1959, in Peoria. She preceded him in death on Oct. 14, 2022. Also preceding him in death were his parents; daughter Debra Gibson; three brothers, Joe Evans, Bob Evans and Tom Evans; sister Linda Morgan; and grandson Skylar James Evans.
Surviving are his son Tim (Kim) Evans of Hanna City; sister Carol Danz of Farmington; two grandsons, Trace (Kelsey Mull) Evans and Tanner (Morgan) Evans; two great-grandkids, Skylar James Evans and Layla Joy Evans; and son-in-law Don Gibson.
James was a volunteer firefighter for West Peoria, member of Elmwood Masonic Lodge, an IHSA official for basketball and football and loved attending all sporting events for his grandkids. He got the nickname of “Milkshake Evans” which he lived up to, even to the end.
James also played sports in high school and coached Peoria Post 2 American Legion baseball team for many years. He started working at Brucker Company (HVAC Supply Company) in 1972. In 1983 he started his own company, TEDECO, as owner/operator.
He got to go on his last trip to Florida recently to see his great-granddaughter for the first time and declared his life was full.
Cremation rites will be accorded and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton is in charge of arrangements. Memorials can be made to OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home at 8630 N. Illinois Route 91, Peoria, IL, 61615.
To leave online condolences, visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Chris Jensen
BRIMFIELD – Chris Jensen, 81, of Lena, Ill., passed away on April 27, 2024. He was born on Jan. 25, 1943, in Princeton, Ill., to Carl Chris Jensen and Mary Lou Epperly Jensen.
He received his bachelor of fine arts at Illinois State University. He was married on Oct. 21, 1961, in Brimfield, Ill., to Carol Cluskey. He was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Stockton and the Fraternal Order of Eagles.
Survivors include his wife, Carol; daughter Rose (Lynne); son Mike (Wendy); grandchildren Jared Jensen, Dr. Katie (Eric) Lutz and Kyle Jensen (Alyssa Tompkins); sister Mary Kay (Jere) Blundy; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Carlene Leffler (Sam).
A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 7 p.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Stockton, Ill., with visitation at 6 p.m.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 5, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Harrison Hall in Brimfield, Ill.
Online condolences may be shared at www.schwarzfh.com.
Kevin R. Sandall
PRINCEVILLE – Kevin R. Sandall, 67, of Princeville, Ill., passed away from this life on April 26, 2024, at Lacon Rehab and Nursing, with his wife by his side.
Kevin was born Dec. 2, 1956, in Peoria, Ill., to Marilyn (née Junker) and Edwin Sandall. He married Lisa M. (née Parsons) in 1982, and they had three daughters, whom they raised in the log cabin they built themselves on Golden Jubilee Farm. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed in 1979 and Marilyn in 2021.
Surviving are his loving wife of 41 years, Lisa of Princeville; three daughters, Emily (Jonah Ulmer) of Washington, D.C., Laura of Princeville and Karlen Sandall of Lacon, Ill.; mother-in-law, Jeanette Parsons; uncles, Darrel and Ronald (Janice) Junker; cousins; and friends.
Kevin attended Richwoods High School in Peoria. After high school he went on to serve in the U.S. Army, stationed near Frankfurt, Germany.
Kevin was a hard worker, starting his career in maintenance at Franklin Grade School in Peoria District 150 and had several subsequent jobs. He was incredibly handy and had a vast knowledge of construction, machinery and tools.
There was no place he would rather be than outside, and he had many fond memories of being on his grandparents’ farm. He deeply loved his wife, daughters and family dogs and cats, even though he often joked that he was the only man on a farm full of girls. He was a loyal and well-loved friend to many.
Music was very important to him, from playing classic rock constantly and attending concerts to singing in the choir at the Princeville United Methodist Church. Kevin was actively involved in the Princeville Lions Club and volunteered for many years at the WTVP Auction. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, endless concert T-shirts and stories, excellent planning of family vacations, delicious chili recipe and wonderful friendship.
His memorial was to be at 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville. A visitation was to be held from 3:30-5 p.m. also on Wednesday at the funeral home. A private burial will be held in Jubilee Churchyard Cemetery in Brimfield, Ill., at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, tributes in Kevin’s bright memory may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation, Jubilee Churchyard Cemetery or a meaningful charity of your choice.
The family wishes to thank all of the staff at Lacon Rehab and Nursing and Traditions Hospice for the excellent care they provided.
Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be left for Kevin’s family on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Marilyn J. Wyss
CHILLICOTHE – Marilyn Joyce Wyss, 89, of Chillicothe, formerly of Princeville and Watseka, passed away April 22, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria. Marilyn was born on Dec. 22, 1934, in Princeville, to Alva and Zelma (Sloan) Peterson and graduated from Princeville High School, Class of 1952.
She married Edward Wyss on Nov. 27, 1955, at the Presbyterian Church of Princeville. He survives.
Also surviving are two daughters, Kimberly (David) Deetjen of Naperville and Karen (Steve) Ippen of Madison, Wis.; four grandchildren, Marc Deetjen, Grace Walder, Kevin Ippen and Erin Ziebarth; and five great-grandchildren, Luke Deetjen, Micah Deetjen, Rebekah Walder, Benjamin Ippen and Owen Ippen. She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Melvin Peterson; and two sisters, Marjorie Galvin and Martha Mock.
Marilyn lived life as a witness to following Jesus Christ, reading her Bible daily, leading Bible studies and boldly sharing the Gospel to all. Well-known as a fun, playful grandmother, she also cherished getting photos and videos of her young great-grandchildren. Marilyn served her calling as a caregiver to those around her as a RN in hospital and home health settings.
She was a skilled seamstress, sewing, quilting and mending for her family and friends. She loved music, playing clarinet, piano and using her singing voice. Her energy was ceaseless, with a love for physical fitness, running and walking. Her love for dogs was almost as much as the people around her with whom she loved to socialize. Marilyn never met a stranger, was a dear friend to many and will truly be missed.
Marilyn’s family appreciates the excellence and compassion of her caregivers: Shanda, Evergreen Senior Living staff, the office of Dr. Timothy Lawless and Carle Health Methodist Peoria staff.
Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville.
Memorial services and burial in Princeville Township Cemetery will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Samaritan’s Purse.
More information and condolences may be left for Marilyn’s family on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Edward H. Schultz Jr.
ALPHA – Edward Herman Schultz Jr., 86, of Alpha, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on April 20, 2024. A private family graveside service will be held.
Online condolences may be left at www.petersonwallinknox.com.
Edward was born June 14, 1937, in Moline to Edward and Marcella Johnson Schultz. He graduated from Rock Island High School, where he met the love of his life, his wife of 63 years, Patsy S. O’Melia. They were married April 2, 1955, in Dixon.
Edward was employed as a home builder and FS Warehouse supervisor. He enjoyed hunting, working on his farm, his gun club and hosting card club with his high school buddies. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. He had a way of making everyone feel special and loved, even though his family is large. He will be celebrated because he was so deeply loved.
Survivors include three daughters, Kathy Vossoughi of Rock Island, Jennifer (Chad) Anderson of Elmwood and Jill (Charlie) Branson of Council Bluffs, Iowa; two sons, Ed (Karen) Schultz of Alpha and Jeff (Kris) Schultz of Lynn Center; 19 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Audrey (Tom) Kiser of St. Peters, Mo. and Mary Vermillion of Omaha, Neb.; and one brother, Bill (Dana) Schultz of Camdenton, Mo.
Memorials can be left to Meals on Wheels, Attn: Vanya Cowser, 105 N. Scandia St., Alpha, IL 61413.
Steven M. Whaley
ELMWOOD – Steven M. Whaley, 70, of Elmwood, died April 24, 2024, at Marigold Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Galesburg.
He was born April 25, 1953, in Kewanee, the son of Irv and Lois (Huber) Whaley. He married Sherri A. Beauprez on May 5, 2007, in Elmwood. Survivors include his wife of Elmwood; a stepson, Bradley Briggs of Kewanee; and his sister, Becky Riley of Atkinson. He was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather, Lee Floy.
Cremation will be accorded and a gathering of family and friends will be held from 12-3 p.m., Saturday, May 4, at the Galva American Legion. Memorials may be directed to the Kewanee Chapter of the Henry County Humane Society. Rux Funeral Home in Galva is in charge of arrangements.
Margaret L. Coulter
ELMWOOD – Margaret Louise Coulter, 80, of Elmwood, passed away peacefully at 3:28 a.m. on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Ill.
She was born May 2, 1943, in Peoria to Arthur Warren and Lillian Marie (Smith) Danz. Margaret married Dale Ross Coulter on Aug. 27, 1961, in Edwards, Ill. He preceded her in death on Dec. 7, 2010.
Margaret is survived by three children, Jeff (Susan Wilson) Coulter, Julie Parm of Elmwood and Jerry (Sally Vititow) Coulter of Brimfield; one daughter-in-law, Wendy (Gorham) Coulter; two brothers, Donald (Donna) Danz and Michael (Linda) Danz; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Margaret is preceded in death by her parents; one son, Jason Coulter; one brother, William Charles Danz; and one sister-in-law, Karen Danz.
Margaret worked at Customer Development Corporation for over 20 years in Peoria. After retirement, she worked at Dr. Baylor’s office in the billing department. Margaret was a member of Bethany Church in Edwards.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Bethany Church in Edwards. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 9-11 a.m. at Bethany Church. A private graveside service will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethany Church.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Nancy Jo Guingrich
PEORIA – Nancy Jo (Burgess) Guingrich, 84, of Peoria, passed away at 2:56 a.m. Thursday, April 18, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center. She was born in Princeville on Sept. 25, 1939, the daughter of the late Paul M. and Marcia S. (Steinman) Burgess. She married Dr. Richard D. Guingrich on May 11, 1962, in Peoria. He preceded her in death on July 8, 2008.
She is survived by four sons, Richard M. (Jessica) Guingrich of Peoria, Anthony Shaun (Wendy) Guingrich of Peoria, Adam J. Guingrich (with whom Nancy made her home) of Peoria and Brendan T. Guingrich of Peoria Heights; a daughter, Larissa R. Guingrich of Peoria Heights; grandchildren Ashley, Richard A. (Brianna), Chelsea, Maggie, Michael, Aidan, Sam, Alexandra (Zach) Bean, Elizabeth, Miranda (Josh) Forsberg and Ethan; sister-in-law Evie Schlehuber of Peoria; a brother, Paul R. “Dick” (Ellie) Burgess of Florida; and several nieces and nephews.
She was also preceded in death by her younger brother, Michael “Mike” Burgess.
Nancy graduated from Princeville High School, Class of 1957. She was involved in several clubs and activities, cheerleading in particular. It is in high school where she met the love of her life, Richard D. “Rick” Guingrich. She became his No. 1 cheerleader, always cheering as number “55” would be found at or near the bottom of the pile after the latest football play. Their love for each other produced a wonderful family of children and grandchildren.
Mom was a fantastic wife, supporting dad’s education and oral and maxillofacial surgery practice at every turn. On several occasions while being a “homemaker” she helped in his office doing whatever he might need, all of this between having and raising her children. Her children were always the most important part of her life during these years, and both of them wanted her to be home as much as possible. It truly made for a wonderful, although hectic life.
She was a fantastic mother, always there for comforting words, taking away the sting of a loss whether it be a game or a love. She helped with homework and attended all the games and meetings, was never quick to anger and always even-handed in her discipline. She was a wonderful teacher and example to emulate. Mom made legendary potato salad, cherry fluff and orange fluff. She was a great cook and her chili soup (always a Halloween staple, first batch of chili was always Oct. 31, never sooner) was good too!
Mom always loved family get-togethers and especially enjoyed the company of Jeannine Alameda (Rich’s mother-in-law) as stories and good times were exchanged. Mom’s quick wit and keen sense of humor were priceless. Once you had the privilege to get to know Mom, you were guaranteed to love her; there would be no turning back. Her children loved her to death as she loved us. Her love for us is her legacy.
Grandma Nancy, or as she was called on occasion “Grandma Apple,” loved her grandchildren. Not one grandchild has ever done anything wrong in the eyes of this grandma. She always had a sweet smile and empathetic listening ear, with a contagious laugh. She was always there to hug her grandbabies and loved sugaring them up and sending them home!
She had a “cookie drawer” that was bottomless and a Starburst drawer that was apparently magical. However, there was at least once occasion where Grandpa Richard turned on the oven and after a period of time smoke began to bellow since Grandma hid some treats (most likely from her “grown” kids or more likely Grandpa himself!). Sometimes things just happen.
Grandma loved animals of all types, from bunnies to dogs. The dogs could sense that they were competing with the grandkids but there was never a problem, since Grandma always had more than enough love for all.
Nancy had a strong faith and a heart of gold that gave everything until the very end. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy, a life well lived and well loved. She will be missed by all.
On behalf of Mom, we would like to thank every physician, nurse, assistant, therapist, clerical staff and pastoral-care person that she encountered, especially during these past three-plus years. All of these mentioned folks, far too numerous to name individually but none forgotten, gave our mother an encounter at every turn and every appointment that was filled with compassion and love. She noticed it and the rest of her family noted it as well. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Her funeral service was April 22 at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville. Pastor David Pyell officiated. Visitation was Monday from 5 p.m. until the time of service. Burial took place on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in Springdale Cemetery in Peoria.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois or OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute.
Condolences for Nancy’s family may be left on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Hayden T. Melton
FARMINGTON – Hayden Thomas Melton, of Farmington, was born at 10:49 a.m. on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Ill.
Although his mommy only got to hold him in her arms for a short time, she will hold him in her heart forever.
Hayden is survived by his mom, Josie Melton of Farmington; his Mamaw and Papaw, T.J. and Kari Melton of Farmington; his aunts and uncles, Kayla and Nick Wright, Lexi and Brian Elliott, Riley Melton and Coe Jansen-Ramp; great-grandma Lori Berry; great-grandpa Bob Rynearson; special great-great aunt Susan (Sonny) Gorham; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Hayden was preceded in death by great-grandparents Ron and Kim Melton.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Hayden’s honor to Hearts for Adi account at Bank of Farmington, Farmington.
To leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Dennis H. Porter
BRIMFIELD – Dennis H. “Denny” Porter, 80, of Brimfield, passed away at 10:32 a.m. Thursday, April 11, 2024, at University of Florida Health Hospital in The Villages, Fla.
Denny was born on Sept. 26, 1943, in Peoria, the son of Ross and Lucille (Pratt) Porter. He married Suellen M. “Susie” Johnson on Dec. 1, 1962, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Brimfield; she survives.
Also surviving are four children, Brian (Lori) Porter of Brimfield, Cindy (Dave Heinz) Wood of Princeville, Denise (Brian Hamby) Porter of Brimfield and Angie (John Nowlan) Goodell of Toulon; seven grandchildren, Nathan (Kristina) Porter, Brandon (Allison) Porter, Wyatt (Natalie) Wood, Brice Fourdyce, Alec Fourdyce, Cydney (Jeremy Berchtold) Goodell and Cole Goodell; nine great-grandchildren, Cole, Gabe, Tate, Emerie, Gwen, Miley, JJ, Max and Madden; one sister, Phyllis (Fred) Heinz of Kickapoo; and one brother-in-law, Ralph Kingdon of Brimfield.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Joyce Kingdon; and one brother, Alan Porter.
Denny worked as an electrician for Oberlander Electric and the IBEW, retiring in 2005. He was a lifelong farmer and part owner of the Oak Hill Tavern and Fiesta Club. Denny was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Brimfield.
He adored his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Denny and Susie enjoyed winters in The Villages for the past 10 years.
His funeral service was Saturday, April 20, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Brimfield. The Rev. John Verrier officiated. Visitation was April 19, 2024, at the church. Additional visitation was prior to the funeral service. Burial was at Calvary Cemetery in Brimfield. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services assisted the family with arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Brimfield Juvenile Diabetes Cruise-In or the COPD Foundation at 3300 Ponce DeLeon Blvd., Miami, FL 31334.
Condolences for Denny’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Diane K. Doe
TOULON – Diane Kay Doe, 82, of Toulon, passed away April 6, 2024, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. She was born on Dec. 2, 1941. She was married to Donald Doe, of Toulon, for over 50 years; he survives.
Also surviving are their four children, Dawn (Tim) Green of Edwards, Doug (Heidi) Doe of Normal, Debbie (Mike) Krough of Aurora, Colo., and David (Kim) Doe of Brimfield; 13 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one sister, Cheryl (Donald) Hendrick of Kewanee; and one stepbrother, Rex Turnbull of Toulon.
Georgia G. Kelsey
PEORIA – Georgia G. Kelsey, 79, of Peoria, passed away April 18, 2024, at Seminary Manor in Galesburg.
She was born on May 17, 1944. She married Bert Kelsey on Nov. 10, 1963. He preceded her in death. Surviving are her three sons, Tony (Terri) Kelsey of Farmington, Scott (Marsha) Kelsey of St. Augustine and Clyde (Rebeccia) Kelsey of Farmington; eight grand- children; nine great-grandchildren; and two brothers.
John F. Downs
CANTON – John F. Downs, 82, of Canton, died April 13, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. He was born on March 22, 1942. He married Patricia Messer on Aug. 20, 1961. She survives.
Also surviving are his children, Steve (Kelly) Downs of Elmwood and Jennifer (Matt) McKenzie of Cedar City, Utah; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and one sister, Jane (Larry) Wages of Canton.
Evelyn K. Streitmatter
PEORIA – Evelyn Kay Streitmatter, 82, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2024, at the Lofts in Peoria, Ill. Evelyn was born to George and Minnie (Leeds) Derr on May 29, 1941, in Canton, Ill. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Surviving are her three children, Robert (Golda Ewalt) Streitmatter of Peoria, Sharon (Walter Jr.) Rambow of Princeville and William (Kelly) Streitmatter of Yates City; and seven grandchildren, Walter Rambow, Jonathan Rambow, Jenna Rambow, Brandon Streitmatter, Autumn Streitmatter, Hannah Streitmatter and Maranda Streitmatter.
Evelyn graduated from Farmington High School and attended business school. She retired from L.R. Nelson, where she was a team lead for many years.
A longtime member of the Princeville United Methodist Church and the Peoria Herb Guild, she enjoyed gardening, genealogy, line-dancing and karaoke with friends, hosting family dinners and collecting Santa Clauses. More recently, she was involved in supporting the Princeville Heritage Museum.
Evelyn dearly loved animals, sharing the trait with all her children, but above all, she was a proud mom. She was the den mother, she rescued you from trees, she attended the football games, she attended the band concerts and she made sure there was money in your account during school.
A private celebration of life will be held for the family. The family thanks OSF hospice for its care and assistance. Memorial donations may be given to the Humane Society of Fulton County, 22988 Illinois Route 9, Canton, IL 61520.
Cards can be sent from and condolences left at illinicremation.com.
Tom L. Sawyer Jr.
AVON – Tom Leon Sawyer Jr., 79, of Little Swan Lake, died March 23, 2024, at Seminary Manor in Galesburg. He was born Sept. 26, 1944, in Galesburg. He married Linda (Menely) Becker on Aug. 30, 1983.
He is survived by one daughter, Tommie (Chad) Lydic of Little Swan Lake; one daughter-in-law, Jamie Becker of Macomb; one granddaughter; two brothers, Richard (Rita) Sawyer of Cameron and Rodney (Nancy) Sawyer of Putnam; and three sisters, Cindy Morris Tinker of Peoria, Sharon (Mark) Morris Harmon of Peoria and Joyce (Rudy) Morris Carlson of Brimfield.
A celebration of life will be held at Tom’s house, 34 Shady Lane, Avon, on June 15, 2024 at 1 p.m.
Condolences can be left online at www.moorememorial.com.
Kathryn M. Quartier
FARMINGTON – Kathryn “Kathe” Marie (Zeglen) Quartier, 63, of Westville, formerly of Farmington, died April 11, 2024, at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington. She was born on June 23, 1960.
She is survived by her father; two sons, Christopher (Amber) Quartier of Berthoud, Colo., and Bryce (Jenna) Quartier of Washington; four grandchildren; former husband Scott Quartier; and brother, Daniel Zeglen.
Visitation and services were April 17, 2024. Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Donald L. Hendrick
KEWANEE – Donald L. Hendrick, 80, of Kewanee, formerly of Toulon, passed away at 9:45 p.m. Monday, April 15, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Wyoming, Ill., on May 5, 1943, the son of Robert and Anna Mae (McRell) Hendrick. On Aug. 26, 1962, he married Cheryl Clark at Elmira Presbyterian Church; she survives.
Also surviving are two children, Rich (Michele) Hendrick and Melissa Rossell, all of Kewanee; five grandchildren, Derek (Chelsea) Hendrick, Grace Hendrick, Brett (Lexus) Rossell, Jacob Rossell and Paige Rossell; four great-grandchildren, Tannen, Creighton, Cameron and Charlotte; a brother, Gene (Connie) Hendrick; and a sister, Rosie (Al) Goins. He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Drew Hendrick; and a great-granddaughter, Rorie Mae Hendrick.
Don worked as an industrial engineer for Compaction America, formerly Hyster, for 42 years. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, car rides in the country, doing yardwork and being involved with all the kids’ activities. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Kewanee, where he served on many boards and committees.
His funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Monday, April 22, 2024, at First United Methodist Church in Kewanee. Pastor Haley Hausman will officiate. Burial will take place in Toulon Cemetery at a later date. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming is assisting the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Rorie Mae Foundation (www.theroriemaefoundation.org), or to First United Methodist Church in Kewanee for their lighting project.
Condolences for Don’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
John F. Cover
TOULON – John F. Cover, 96, died Sunday, April 14, 2024, at his home at Bickford House in Peoria, Ill. John was born on Oct. 31, 1927, in Kewanee, Ill., the son of Ralph O. Cover and Bertha Leitch Cover. He married Paula M. Woods on July 18, 1948, and she died Feb. 22, 2015, after 67 years of marriage.
Surviving are his three children, David L. (Margaret) Cover, of Peoria Heights, Ill., Marsha L. (Olle) Mannertorp, of Cape Coral, Fla., and Nancy J. Hobson, of Warrenville, Ill.; five grandchildren, Melissa (Eli) Selinger of Fitchburg, Wis., Ross (Laura) Cover of Fox Point, Wis., Lesley (Jonathan) Kulbeda Twitty of Downers Grove, Ill., Dr. Amy (Jeremy) Hobson, of Riverside, Iowa, and Dana Hobson, of Burbank, Calif.; six great-grandchildren, Sadie and Margaux Selinger, David, Peter and Charles Cover, and Madison Twitty; and a long-time neighbor and special caring friend, Larry Shipley, of Toulon, Ill. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister June (Green) May and his sister-in-law Harriet Crossett.
John attended Toulon schools, graduating in 1945. He attended Western Illinois State Teachers College, Hartford (Conn.) Insurance Training School, and Bradley University real estate school. He joined Cover Insurance Agency with his father and owned and operated the business and was a real-estate broker and appraiser for 40 years.
He was a lifetime member of First Congregational Church of Toulon, a member of the Toulon American Legion, 67-year member and past master of Toulon Masonic Lodge, past patron of Order of Eastern Star, a lifelong member of Toulon Lions Club, a member of the board of directors of the State Bank of Toulon for 29 years and was on numerous other boards throughout his business life.
John was named Badge Honoree of the Old Settlers Association in 2007. He enjoyed fishing, playing golf and spending winters in Sun City, Ariz., with his wife for 20 years. John was always regarded as a reliable source of family histories and real-estate ownership in the Stark County area.
A private family service will be held. Veronica Haskell, certified celebrant, will officiate. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later time.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational Church of Toulon or Stark County Food Pantry. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming is assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences for John’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Terry J. Morthland
GALVA – Terry J. Morthland, 77, of Galva, died Sunday, April 14, 2024.
He was born March 23, 1947, in Clinton, Iowa, the son of Blair and Marcella Morthland. He married Mary Alice Griswold on Aug. 15, 1969, in Osage, Iowa. Survivors include his wife of Galva; his daughter, Tara Morthland of Galva; three grandsons, Coleton Kelly and Conner Kelly, both of LaMoille, Ill., and Cameron Kelly of Galva; his sisters, Sharon Leslie and DeMerle (Aaron); cousins, both of Clinton, Iowa, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Clarence Morthland of Sterling, Ill., and Darwin Morthland of LeClaire, Iowa.
Terry graduated from Clinton High School and Upper Iowa University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He retired as a vice president from R.K. Dixon in Davenport, Iowa.
He enjoyed fishing and boating at Oak Run, taking many fishing trips with friends and especially spending winters in Florida. He liked cooking, grilling, visiting with friends at the gas station, spending time on his computer, taking rides around Galva and Bishop Hill, reading and watching football and basketball games. He loved his dog Sam and cat Daisy who were his faithful companions.
Terry’s deepest love was for his family. His wife, daughter and grandsons meant the world to him. The family would like to thank all the doctors and nurses who helped care for Terry.
Private graveside services will be held at Galva Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Galva Public Library or to the Galva Senior Citizens Center. Rux Funeral Home in Galva is in charge of arrangements.
Donald J. Behnke
SUN CITY WEST, Ariz – Dr. Donald J. Behnke passed in his sleep on March 4, 2024, in Sun City West, Ariz.
Donald was born in Galva, Ill., on Nov. 3, 1935, to John and Virginia Behnke. His parents and wife Ruth preceded him in death. He is survived by his older brother Raymond and many nieces and nephews.
Donald spent his formative years in Galva attending the local public schools. He attended Illinois State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree. He taught speech and English in Washingtonville, N.Y., schools (1958-64) and became an assistant principal during this time. He married the former Ruth Fent in Callicoon, N.Y., in 1958.
Over the next eight years, Donald received a master’s degree from The State University of New York (1960) and a doctorate from Columbia University (1968).
Donald started his various administrative positions in the Hewlett-Woodmere, N.Y., school systems in 1964 and over the next several years he was the superintendent of schools in Villa Park, Ill., Amityville, N.Y ,and Southampton, N.Y., from which he retired in 1990.
Over the years of work, Donald was active in the Rotary International, serving as president of Villa Park Rotary in 1976, edited the Journal of the New York State Council of Supervision and Curriculum Development and was adjunct Professor at DePaul University in Chicago and Long Island University.
Donald and Ruth retired to Scottsdale, Ariz., in 1990. Donald became president of the Ke Group, an educational consulting group in Scottsdale. He also served as director of planned giving for Planned Parenthood in central and northern Arizona. He served on AZTEC, a computer Freenet at Arizona State University and the Arizona Center for the BOOK. He taught Elderhostels at Arizona State University during this time.
In 2001, Donald and Ruth moved to Academy Village in Tucson, Ariz., where he was active in Arizona Senior Academy and had several terms on the board of directors.
In 2007, Behnke became a classical music critic for The News and Sun in Green Valley, Ariz., covering the Arizona Opera Company and the Tucson Symphony Orchestra until 2023.
In 2009, he began lecturing on cruise ships in the area of music and cruised the world with his wife for Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, Celebrity and Royal Caribbean. This work came to an end in 2020 with the COVID years.
In 2023, Donald moved to Sun City West to be closer to his niece Christy and her husband Clint. He enjoyed his new home and spent holidays and quality time with Christy and her family before his passing.
At Donald’s request, no services are planned at this time. Memorial Contributions are suggested to the Arizona Opera Company and the Tucson Symphony.
Grady Steele
KNOXVILLE – Grady Steele, 91, of Knoxville, passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at the Knox County Nursing Home, Knoxville.
Grady was born on June 16, 1932, in Clear Lake, Ark. He was the son of Oscar and Florence (Delaney) Steele. He married Sue Craig on Aug. 19, 1966. Together, they celebrated 42 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on June 1, 2009.
Surviving Grady is his son, Gyuchan (Kim) Steele of Knoxville; grandson, Connor Steele; and sister, Willa Dean Reich of Tupelo, Miss.
Grady was close to Willa’s daughter, Florence.
He was preceded in death by his wife, parents and 10 siblings.
Grady joined the U.S. Air Force before graduating from high achool. He served in the Korean War from June 26, 1950, to Dec. 31, 1953. He finished high school while in the Air Force and got his diploma from Blytheville High School in January 1953.
After discharge from the Air Force, Grady attended Memphis State University, where he received his bachelor of science in 1957 and master of arts degree in 1959. Grady taught English in Buffalo, N.Y., and at Eastern Kentucky University, where he met Sue at the graduate school. Then he taught English and mythology at Illinois Central College for 32 years, retiring in 2000.
Along with his deep love of mythology, Grady also enjoyed reading, the theatre, watching old movies and playing with his dogs. He also enjoyed traveling, especially to big cities and researching and learning about their history and culture. In addition, Grady had a love for making furniture and fountain pens. The proudest moments of his life were adopting Gyuchan and becoming a grandfather.
Cremation rites will be accorded. A memorial visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, April 19, 2024, at Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory, Knoxville. Burial of cremated remains will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the Trivoli Cemetery, Trivoli, Ill. Military rites will be conducted at the cemetery. Rev. Jordan Knight will officiate. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory, Knoxville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials may be donated to the Knox County Humane Society.
Online condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
Janene H. Stillson
PEORIA – Janene H. Stillson (Turner), 66, of Peoria, Ill., passed away peacefully on Feb. 17, 2024, at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.
Born on Jan. 9, 1958, in Canton, Ill., she was the cherished daughter of Lloyd and Berlene Turner. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Terry Turner.
Janene’s memory will be lovingly carried on by those she leaves behind, including her devoted daughter and son-in-law, Kimbra and Steve, and her adored grandchildren, Jack and Emma, all residing in Mahomet, Ill. Her legacy also lives on through her brother, Dean (Cathy) Turner of Anniston, Ala., and her sister, Sherry Turner of Bartonville, Ill. She is survived by several nieces and a nephew.
A proud graduate of Elmwood High School, Janene committed herself to a laudable career at AT&T, faithfully serving the company for 40 years until her retirement in 2017. Known for her unwavering work ethic, Janene’s loyalty and dedication were evident to all who worked alongside her. Her competitiveness at work earned her several trips/cruises throughout her career.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Janene treasured the simple pleasures of life. Her greatest and most fierce love in life was for her family, but especially her grandchildren.
Janene could often be found on the sidelines, cheering on her grandchildren at their various sporting events. When she couldn’t attend in person, she would watch and cheer them on through livestreams.
She was skilled in the arts of knitting and crocheting, creating countless treasured keepsakes for those she loved. This past Christmas, she made and gifted blankets for both of her grandchildren, and they will be forever treasured.
The family finds comfort in knowing that Janene’s kind heart and nurturing presence touched many lives. Her memory will linger in the hearts of family and friends as a constant reminder of her gentle soul.
Janene will be missed deeply, yet her spirit will continue to inspire those she knew and loved.
A special thanks to OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice home for the love and compassion shown during her stay, and to her dear friend, Cindy Simpson, who was there to help taking her to doctors’ appointments, tests, etc., over the last few years. A simple “thanks” is not enough to express the gratitude her family has for the love shown by friends and family during this time.
A Celebration of Life will be Sunday, April 21, from 1-4 p.m. at the Yates City Community Center. Memorial donations can be made in Janene’s honor to: OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home.
The Cremation Society of Mid-Illinois Co. Pekin/Peoria is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at csmico.com.
Donna C. Wolschlag
SUN CITY, Ariz. – Donna Charlene Wolschlag, 88, of Sun City, Ariz., passed away at 1:45 a.m. on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Hospice of the Valley in Surprise, Ariz.
She was born Oct. 17, 1935, in Bernadotte, Ill., to Donald and Sarah (Marshall) Atwater. Charlene grew up in Knox County and graduated from Yates City High School. Charlene Atwater married Robert “Bob” Wolschlag on June 22, 1957, in Yates City, Ill. They were married for 63 years.
Charlene was preceded in death by her husband, parents and two sisters, Phyllis Atwater and Barbara (Atwater) Brunner. She is survived by two children, Donald (Gayle) Wolschlag of Sun City West, Ariz., and Ronald (Jane) Wolschlag of Sun City West; six grandchildren, Denise (Louis) Danso of Normal, Ill., Kimberly (Matthew) Simonsen of Surprise, Scott Wolschlag and Brett Wolschlag of Phoenix, Ariz., Mark Wolschlag of Avondale, Ariz., and Stephen (Yasari) Wolschlag of Wauwatosa, Wis.; one great-grandchild, Alexander Danso of Normal; one sister, Patricia (Atwater) Johnson of Knoxville, Ill.; two sisters-in-law, Betty (Burgess) Wolschlag of Bartonville, Ill., and Florence (Wolschlag) McAlister of Elmwood, Ill.; one brother-in-law, Harry Brunner of Peoria, Ill., and several nephews and nieces.
Charlene was a member of the Elmwood Presbyterian Church, Elmwood Community Choir, Elmwood Business Women’s Club and sang with the Sweet Adelines along with her sister Patricia. She was also a member of the Peoria (Ill.) Color Camera Club and Sun City Camera Club. Charlene also enjoyed traveling.
Charlene worked for Whitney and Potts Ltd. in Elmwood and retired from there after 37 years. She was an avid baseball fan and loved cheering for the Chicago Cubs. Also, she was very proud of her children and grandchildren and enjoyed their activities.
A visitation/celebration of life will be held for Charlene and Bob at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 29, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church, 201 W. Evergreen St. in Elmwood.
A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will immediately take place after the funeral service in Elmwood Township Cemetery. Food and fellowship will follow at the First Presbyterian Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Elmwood Presbyterian Church or a memorial of your choice.To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com. Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Dennis H. Porter
BRIMFIELD – Dennis H. “Denny” Porter, 80, of Brimfield, passed away Thursday, April 11, 2024, at University of Florida Health Hospital in The Villages, Fla. Denny was born on Sept. 26, 1943, in Peoria, the son of Ross and Lucille (Pratt) Porter. He married Suellen M. “Susie” Johnson on Dec. 1, 1962, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Brimfield; she survives.
Also surviving are four children, Brian (Lori) Porter of Brimfield, Cindy (Dave Heinz) Wood of Princeville, Denise (Brian Hamby) Porter of Brimfield and Angie (John Nowlan) Goodell of Toulon; seven grandchildren, Nathan (Kristina) Porter, Brandon (Allison) Porter, Wyatt (Natalie) Wood, Brice Fourdyce, Alec Fourdyce, Cydney (Jeremy Berchtold) Goodell and Cole Goodell; nine great-grandchildren; one sister, Phyllis (Fred) Heinz of Kickapoo; and one brother-in-law, Ralph Kingdon of Brimfield.
His funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 20, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Brimfield. Visitation is 5-8 p.m. Friday, April 19, at the church. Additional visitation is 9-10 a.m. prior to the funeral service. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Brimfield. Visit the Facebook page “Dennis H. Porter Funeral Service” to livestream the service at 10 a.m.
at the time of service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Brimfield Juvenile Diabetes Cruise-In or the COPD Foundation at 3300 Ponce DeLeon Blvd, Miami. FL 31334. Condolences for Denny’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Diane K. Doe
TOULON – Diane Kay Doe, 82, of Toulon, passed away April 6, 2024, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. She was born on Dec. 2, 1941, in Kewanee. She was married to Donald Doe, of Toulon, for over 50 years; he survives.
Also surviving are their four children, Dawn (Tim) Green of Edwards, Doug (Heidi) Doe of Normal, Debbie (Mike) Krough of Aurora, Colo., and David (Kim) Doe of Brimfield; 13 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one sister, Cheryl (Donald) Hendrick of Kewanee; and one step-brother, Rex Turnbull of Toulon.
Condolences can be left online at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Kathryn M. Quartier
FARMINGTON – Kathryn “Kathe” Marie (Zeglen) Quartier, 63, of Westville, formerly of Farmington, died April 11, 2024, at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington. She was born on June 23, 1960.
She is survived by her father; two sons, Christopher (Amber) Quartier of Berthoud, Colo., and Bryce (Jenna) Quartier of Washington; four grandchildren; former husband Scott Quartier; and brother, Daniel Zeglen.
Visitation was to be 2-4 p.m. April 17, 2024, at Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington, followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m.
the same day. Cremation rites will be accorded with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home.
Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Michael T. McNulty
CHILLICOTHE – Michael T. McNulty, 79, of rural Chillicothe, brother of a Brimfield woman, died April 5, 2024, at 5:15 a.m. at Lacon Rehab and Nursing in Lacon.
He is survived by three sisters, Patricia (James) Miller of Humboldt, Tenn., Teresa (Bruce) Thiemann of East Peoria and Cheryl (John) Becker of Brimfield; one stepbrother, Ray Ande (Carol) Anderson of Casa Grande, Ariz.; and a stepsister, Sandra DeCremer of Grapevine, Texas.
Michael is survived by his children, Jennifer L. McNulty of Peoria Heights and Christopher M. McNulty of Chillicothe; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Michael married Cassandra A. Reynolds on May 3, 1969; she survives. He later married Crystal A. Smith on July 11, 1987; she also survives.
There will be a celebration of Mike’s life at the Chillicothe VFW 4999 from noon to 3 p.m. on May 4, 2024.
Condolences can be left online at lenzmemorialhome.com.
Tom L. Sawyer Jr.
AVON – Tom Leon Sawyer Jr., 79, of Little Swan Lake died March 23, 2024, at Seminary Manor in Galesburg. He was born Sept. 26, 1944, in Galesburg, the son of Tom Sawyer Sr. and Clara Irene (Schisler) Sawyer.
He married Linda (Menely) Becker on Aug. 30, 1983. He is survived by one daughter, Tommie (Chad) Lydic of Little Swan Lake; one daughter-in-law, Jamie Becker of Macomb; one granddaughter; two brothers, Richard (Rita) Sawyer of Cameron, Rodney (Nancy) Sawyer of Putnam; three sisters, Cindy Morris Tinker of Peoria, Sharon (Mark) Morris Harmon of Peoria, and Joyce (Rudy) Morris Carlson of Brimfield.
A celebration of life will be held at Tom’s house, 34 Shady Lane, Avon, on Saturday, June 15, 2024 at 1 p.m.
Condolences can be left online at www.moorememorial.com.
Carol J. Camp
TRIVOLI – Carol J. Camp, 88, of Trivoli, Ill., passed away at 5:45 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at her residence.
She was born on Nov. 9, 1935, in Trivoli to Henry and Lydia (Ellinghausen) Andrews. Carol married Steven M. Camp on Oct. 23, 1955, in Trivoli. He preceded her in death on June 18, 2014.
Also preceding were both of her parents, four brothers and five sisters.
She is survived by her three children, Andy (Sherry) Camp of Bartonville, Lynn (Dennis) Reis of Trivoli and Stan (Holly) Camp of Farmington; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
Carol worked endlessly throughout her life, as a mother and a homemaker and she was a member of Trivoli United Methodist Church.
Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Trivoli Cemetery in Trivoli. The Rev. Bob DeBolt will officiate.
Memorials may be made to St Jude Children’s Resource Hospital.
Nellie Clark
DAHINDA – Nellie “Joann” Clark, 82, of Dahinda, Ill., passed away Sunday, April 7, 2024, at home surrounded by family.
Joann was born on March 10, 1942, in Cameron, W. Va., to Herman and Jenny Romack. She attended Cameron schools and graduated as valedictorian in 1960. On March 24, 1962, she married David “Gene” Clark at Big Run Church in Cameron, W. Va. The two were married for 52 years, until his death in 2014.
Gene and Joann moved from West Virginia to Illinois in 1964. She worked for the U.S. Postal Service for 32 years, eventually becoming the postmaster of Dahinda. She retired in 2000 to spend more time with her grandchildren.
She was a member of the Dahinda United Methodist Church and Women’s Society of Christian Service. She also assisted with the annual church auction for a number of years.
She was a wonderful host. Friends and family alike will remember her for her homemade bread, chicken and noodles and iced tea.
Spending time with family and friends held a special place in her heart, and she especially enjoyed family outings, reunions, and camping trips. All of her family knew that she was available by phone day and night for company while driving or to answer to the name of Betty Crocker when family and friends called with cooking questions.
Joann is survived by her daughters, Lisa Hanson (Carl Hunt) of Dahinda and Donna (Mark) Abel of Wataga; grandchildren Sarah Hanson (Larry Howell) of Peoria, Emily Hanson of Chicago, Amanda (Kim) Broadfield of Abingdon and Jan Abel of Wataga; great-grandchildren Breanna McClain, Brittany McClain and Makayla Blackwell of Abingdon; great-great-grandchildren, Zayden Campbell and Braylen Zefo of Abingdon; sister-in-law Carol Clark of Moundsville, W. Va.; plus many loving nieces, nephews and extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister Genevieve Romack of Dahinda; and grandchildren Madison and Mitchell Abel of Wataga.
Visitation was April 9, 2024, at Hurd Hendricks Funeral Homes & Crematory, Knoxville, Ill., with a funeral service to be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at the same location. She was to be buried alongside her husband inTrenton Cemetery in rural Dahinda.
Memorials may be made to the Dahinda United Methodist Church.
Online condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
Joyce M. Kingdon
BRIMFIELD – Joyce Marie Kingdon, 87, of Brimfield, Ill., passed away peacefully at 8:53 p.m. on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Heartis Assisted Living & Memory Care in Peoria. She is home with her Lord and Savior, pain free and full of joy.
Joyce was born Oct. 14, 1936, to Ross and Lucille (Pratt) Porter of Brimfield. She married Ralph E. Kingdon on May 25, 1953, in Brimfield. He survives.
Also surviving are their five children, Norma (Bill) Hoffman, Patricia Baggott, Laurel (Tony) Heinz, Bret (Lisa Gann) Kingdon and Julie (Kevin) Bevard; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. Other survivors include one sister, Phyllis (Fred) Heinz, and one brother, Dennis (Susie) Porter.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Alan Porter; daughter-in-law Karen; and son-in-law Joe.
Joyce was a member of White Rose Fellowship Church in Bellevue, where she was very involved in church activities and several mission trips.
She enjoyed traveling, camping, bowling, gardening and spending time with her family and friends.
A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. today, April 11, 2024, with visitation starting one hour prior to the service at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel in Peoria. Burial will follow the service in Brimfield Township Cemetery in Brimfield.
Memorials may be made to White Rose Fellowship Church or to the B.Y.E. Ambulance Service.
Words of comfort can be shared with the family at www.Davison-Fulton.com.
Shirley A. Ingold
FARMINGTON – Shirley Ann Ingold, 94, of Farmington, passed away at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at Farmington Village in Farmington.
She was born on May 22, 1929, in Fairview to George William and Ila Mae (Cozadd) Paull. She married T. James Ingold on April 3, 1946, in Canton. He preceded her in death on May 22, 2011.
Funeral services were April 7, 2024, at Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington. Burial was in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington.
Memorials may be made to the Farmington United Methodist Church or the Farmington Rescue Squad 1100.
Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Michael E. Evans
DUNLAP – Michael E. Evans, 63, of Dunlap, passed away at 3:18 p.m. on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
Mike was born Aug. 30, 1960, in Farmington to Donald and VBernita (Slack) Evans. After graduating high school with the Class of 1978, Michael earned his bachelor’s degree in agriculture at the University of Illinois and later obtained his Juris Doctorate degree from Southern Illinois University. He was a lawyer in Wyoming.
Survivors include his partner in life and best friend, Nina Bush, of Dunlap; four children, Xavier, Quinn, Noah and Duke; three grandchildren, Jessalynn, Novan and Lydia; and two sisters, Donna Fager and Lynn London.
He was proceeded in death by his parents and his sister, Carol Diefendorf.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Memorial Mass was to be held at St. Mark Catholic Church in Peoria on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 10 a.m. with Msgr. Brian Brownsey officiating. A celebration of life was to follow the mass.
Thomas F. Meyer
PEORIA – Thomas F. Meyer, 90, father of a Kickapoo woman, died Friday, April 5, 2024, at Proctor Place Senior Living in Peoria.
Tom was born on Jan. 25, 1934, in Peoria, a son of George W. and Kathryn Marie (Madden) Meyer. He married Penelope “Penny” Butterfield on Aug. 15, 1959, at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Peoria. She preceded him in death on Jan. 3, 2018.
Survivors include two children, Royden Meyer of Sparland and Carol (Rick) Gilles of Kickapoo; eight grandchildren, Jared (Rachel) Volk, Casey (Caitlin) Volk, Jennifer Volk, Ashley (Matt) Arbogast, Taylor Davis, Garret Davis, Kathryn Meyer and Kallie Meyer; and nine great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Sheree Davis; one grandson, Cody Gilles; and one great-granddaughter, Everly Volk.
Tom served in the U.S. Army, spending his 21st birthday patrolling the Iron Curtain.
A memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Kickapoo, with visitation there beginning one hour earlier. The Rev. James Pankiewicz will officiate and burial of ashes will follow in Springdale Cemetery in Peoria.
Michelle Simon
FAIRVIEW – Michelle Simon, 56, of Fairview, sibling of three Farmington residents, died April 3, 2024, at her residence.
She was born on July 3, 1967, in Pekin to Othol and Irma (Watson) Foster. She married Eric Simon.
Surviving are four children; Matthew (Lauren Herminghaus) Trumpy of Wakefield, R.I., Tyler Trumpy of Fairview, Mikayla (Zackary Preston) Foster of Creve Coeur and Seth Simon of Fairview; brother Leslie (Beth) White of Farmington; two sisters, Christine (Jeffrey) Carlyle and Teresa Foster both of Farmington; and eight grandchildren.
Services will be today, April 11, 2024, at 4 p.m. at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton, where visitation will be two hours prior to services.
Condolences can be left online at oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
John R. Tribby
BICKNELL, Ind. – John R. Tribby, 78, of Bicknell, passed away April 1, 2024, at his daughter’s home in Peoria, surrounded by his loving family.
John was born April 12, 1945, in Edwardsport, Ind., to Ray and Eugenia (Hancock) Tribby. John married Mary “Becky” Ruggles on July 30, 1965, in Bicknell. She survives.
John is also survived by one daughter, Diana (Tony) Hart of Peoria; one sister, Marilyn Henebry; four grandchildren, Holly (Mat) Dumay, Kaselyn (Parker) Gibbs, Cory Hart and Lily Hart; and three great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held in his gardens at a later date followed by his burial of his ashes with military honors in Odd Fellows Cemetery in Edwardsport, Ind.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church in Bicknell.
Condolences can be left online at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Edward E. Eaton
WYOMING – Edward Ernest Eaton of Wyoming, Ill., 76, passed away March 20, 2024.
He is survived by his twin sisters, Jane Smith of Broomfield and Janet Peck of Lafayette, both of Colorado; sons Shawn Eaton of North Dakota, Chris Eaton of South Carolina and Edward Eaton Jr. of Centralia; as well as stepdaughter Stacey Van Dorn of Henry, Ill.
He is also survived by grandsons Austin Reno, Philip Eaton and stepdaughter Myla Reno.
He was preceded in death by his wife Laramie Eaton and stepdaughter Shawna Olszanowski.
He attended the Methodist Church of Wyoming.
Ed worked as a welder, propane deliverer and semi driver.
He was a member of the Wyoming American Legion, where he had served as commander and chaplain.
A special thank you to Mary and Jeff Trobaugh, Bob King and Phil St. John for their help and support during the time of his illness. A memorial service is pending.
Lois V. Molln
OHIO – Lois V. Molln, 94, died Sunday March 31, 2024, at Allure of Walnut.
Lois was born on Jan, 5, 1930, in Sublette the daughter of Fredrick and Leona (Spittler) Rempfer. She married Myron R. Molln on Nov. 20, 1949, in Mendota. He preceded her in death April 10, 2010. Lois was a homemaker who enjoyed reading, was a good baker and loved working in her garden. She was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Ohio and was active in her church, including the Rebecca Circle.
Survivors include one daughter, Janice (Bob) Williams of Van Orin; two sons, David (Ann Cobane) Molln of Ohio and Kevin (Missy) Molln of Toulon; one daughter-in-law, Linda Molln of Walnut; one sister, Mary Horn Michel of Princeton; 10 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two sons, LaVerne Molln and Gary Molln in infancy; and two brothers, Eugene Rempfer and Fritz Rempfer.
Visitation will be from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the First Lutheran Church in Ohio. Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. with Pastors Jeff and Lori Whalen officiating. Burial will follow at Van Orin Repose Cemetery, Van Orin. Arrangements were completed by the Garland Funeral Home in Walnut.
In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established for the Ohio Fire Department, First Lutheran Church of Ohio and Bache Chapel.
Online condolences may be sent to www.garlandfuneralhomes.com.
Karen R. Nunez
KEWANEE – Karen R. Nunez, 81, of Kewanee, formerly of Wyoming, passed away at 1:49 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at Kewanee Care Home.
Karen was born on March 1, 1943, in Peoria to Robert and Jessie (Wilkinson) Bawn. She married David A. Nunez on Nov. 2, 1974, in Wyoming. He preceded her in death on Aug. 27, 2006.
Surviving are three children, Karen (Ronald) Horsley of LaFayette, Lawrence “Frank” Nunez of Galesburg and Aaron (Victoria) Nunez-Claeys of Georgia; seven grandchildren, Alexander Welch, Alexis Welch, David Horsley, Johnathan Horsley, Lena, Lathe and Landen; and a sister, Gleynafa Page of St. Louis. She is further survived by other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; foster parents, Jack and Ilene Benedict; and two sisters, Arlene Snyder and Audrey “Jean” Eckman.
Karen was a homemaker and also worked in trucking. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Wyoming Post 91 and Teamsters Local 627. She showed Ayrshire cattle for many years and loved horses and cows and playing cards. Karen was also a foster parent to many children over the years and cared for their special needs.
Her funeral service will be at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 5, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming. Pastor David Hamilton will officiate. Visitation will also be at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow in Wyoming Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choosing. Condolences for Karen’s family may be left on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Jordan Feucht
PRINCEVILLE – Jordan Feucht, 76, of Princeville, Ill., passed away peacefully on March 28, 2024, at Carle Health Proctor Hospital in Peoria, Ill., with his family at his side.
Jordan was born on March 19, 1948, to Rueben and Nathalie (Menold) Feucht in Peoria. He was married to Kathleen (Hinrichsen) Feucht for nearly 54 years. They were wed on May 10, 1970, in Peoria; she survives.
Also surviving is one daughter, Kari (Steven) Beutel of Princeville; one son, Andrew (Brooke) Feucht of Normal; nine grandchildren, Austin (Kya), Ethan, Jacob, Wyatt and Sawyer Beutel, and Annika, Alexa, Eliana and Drew Feucht; one sister, Elaine Paris of Ventura, Calif.; one brother, Roger Feucht of Princeville; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Jordan was a member of Princeville Apostolic Christian Church. He lived out his faith in Jesus Christ in devotion to his family, service to the community and countless volunteer driving trips for the Midwest Food Bank, for which he was passionate.
He farmed for over 50 years, served on the Princeville School Board for 12 years and was very active in the Peoria County Farm Bureau. He loved music, participated in the church choir, gathered his family to sing and play guitar and entertained many nursing home residents with his singing and playing music.
His funeral service was Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at the Princeville Apostolic Christian Church. Burial was in Princeville Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery.
Condolences can be left online at www.haskellfuneral.com.
David M. Buck
DAHINDA – David M. Buck, 70, of Dahinda, died at 7 a.m., Friday, March 29, 2024, at his home. He was born Oct. 20, 1953, in Galesburg, the son of Earl and Mary Irene (Broadfield) Buck.
Survivors include his brother, Eldon (Carolyn) Buck of Williamsfield; two nephews, Aaron Buck and Neil (Tina) Buck; and two great-nephews and a great-niece, Connor, Noah and Emma.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his two canine friends, Homer and Hannah.
David graduated from Princeville High School in 1971 and served his country in the U.S. Army from 1972-73 in the armored tank division during the Vietnam Era. He worked at Caterpillar Inc. and had worked for the U.S. government building a gold mine in Alaska. He also owned and operated Bucks Landscaping in Dahinda.
He was a member of the Williamsfield American Legion and enjoyed operating heavy equipment, fishing and hunting.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., today, April 4, at the Williamsfield United Methodist Church where military rites will be accorded by the Williamsfield American Legion. Pastor Zoira Marty will officiate. Visitation will be from 9 a.m., until the time of the services at the church. Cremation will be accorded following the services and inurnment will be held at Williamsfield Cemetery at a later date.
Memorials may be directed to the Williamsfield American Legion or to the American Cancer Society. Rux Funeral Home in Williamsfield is in charge of arrangements.
This obituary may be viewed and private condolences left at www.ruxfuneralhome.com.
Dr. William R. Degelman
BRIMFIELD – Dr. William “Bill” R. Degelman, 88, of Brimfield, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Country Comfort in Henry, Ill. He is now at home with his Lord and savior, pain free and full of joy.
Bill was born to William and Marie (Rink) Degelman on July 15, 1935, in Allegheny County, Pa. On Dec. 1, 1973, Bill married Betty I. Davis in Peoria, Ill. She survives.
Bill is also survived by four children, Wendy Degelman of Fort Collins, Colo., Marta Degelman of Brimfield, Jason (Samantha) Degelman of Woodinville, Wash., and Scott Degelman of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and one son-in-law, Dave Wasson of Divide, Colo. Other survivors include 12 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two brothers, Larry (Carole) Degelman of Texas, and Wayne (Joyce) Degelman of Pennsylvania; and one sister, Linda (James) Ferguson of Texas.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Gary Degelman and David Degelman; and one daughter, Dana Wasson.
Bill graduated from Uniontown High School in Pennsylvania and Temple University Medical School in Philadelphia. He practiced medicine in Pennsylvania, Illinois, Wisconsin and North Carolina. He served two years in public health services in Alaska, where he was taken by plane to each of his patients.
Together Bill and his wife, Betty, enjoyed doing mission work and served in Guatemala, Peru, Africa and Argentina.
His love of flying impelled him to earn his pilot’s license and instrument rating certificate, which allowed him to fly throughout the U.S. and the Bahamas. This skill was shared for the enjoyment of others, as was every skill and talent he possessed.
Whatever Bill did, he did with love and excellence, whether it was woodworking, gardening or working with stained glass or needlepoint. His creations were always beautiful and given with love. If help was needed by anyone, he would immediately and unbegrudgingly give his time, sweat and energy to assist with the job.
In his downtime, he liked to read, do jigsaw puzzles, play games and hike. He had a fun and sometimes quirky sense of humor that kids especially loved. Those of us who like puns also enjoyed his humor, a lot!
Bill was an active member of Living Hope Community Church in Bartonville and made sure he always attended Bible studies. His priority each and every day was to read his Bible and devotions. He was a good man, a devout man, a loving man, a humble man. Those fortunate enough to know him have been truly blessed. We will miss his presence but look forward to the day when we join him and hear him say, “Welcome home!”
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood. A visitation will be held the night before on Friday, April 5, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow the service at Glendale Cemetery in Elmore, Ill.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and Samaritan’s Purse.
To view Bill’s video tribute or to leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Jordan Feucht
PRINCEVILLE – Jordan Feucht, 76, of Princeville, Ill., passed away peacefully on March 28, 2024, at Carle Health Proctor Hospital in Peoria, Ill., with his family at his side.
Jordan was born on March 19, 1948, to Rueben and Nathalie (Menold) Feucht in Peoria. He was married to Kathleen (Hinrichsen) Feucht for nearly 54 years. They were wed on May 10, 1970, in Peoria; she survives.
Also surviving is one daughter, Kari (Steven) Beutel of Princeville; one son, Andrew (Brooke) Feucht of Normal; nine grandchildren, Austin (Kya), Ethan, Jacob, Wyatt and Sawyer Beutel, and Annika, Alexa, Eliana and Drew Feucht; one sister, Elaine Paris of Ventura, Calif.; one brother, Roger Feucht of Princeville; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Jordan was a member of Princeville Apostolic Christian Church. He lived out his faith in Jesus Christ in devotion to his family, service to the community and countless volunteer driving trips for the Midwest Food Bank, for which he was passionate.
He farmed for over 50 years, served on the Princeville School Board for 12 years and was very active in the Peoria County Farm Bureau. He loved music, participated in the church choir, gathered his family to sing and play guitar and entertained many nursing home residents with his singing and playing music.
His funeral service was to be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at the Princeville Apostolic Christian Church. Ministers of the church were to officiate. Visitation was Tuesday and was also Wednesday from 9-9:45 a.m. at the Princeville Apostolic Christian Church fellowship hall. Burial will be in Princeville Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is in charge of arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to Midwest Food Bank or to Akron-Princeville Ambulance.
Condolences may be left for Jordan’s family on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Leo G. Hietter
PEORIA – Leo George Hietter, 101, of Peoria, formerly of Princeville, passed away at 2:17 p.m. Monday, March 25, 2024, at his residence in Independence Village.
Leo was born on Jan. 21, 1923, in Princeville to Leo Thomas and Catherine (Weese) Hietter. He married Ruby M. Streitmatter on Feb. 14, 1946, at St. Mary of the Woods Catholic Church in Princeville. She preceded him in death on Oct. 21, 1998.
Surviving are one brother, Jim (Mary) Hietter; and several nieces and nephews, Patricia Rowley, Kathleen Rauhaus, Susan Wright, Juanita Hoffer, Charles Bohannan, Michael Kneer, Constance McIntosh, Deanna Reeder, Maria Sommerville, Joseph Hietter, Angela Beeney, Patrick Hietter, Lisa Wanless, Thomas Hietter, Paul Hietter and Eric Hietter. He was also preceded in death by his two sisters, Frances and Rose; and two brothers, Thomas and Earl.
Leo was involved in many community activities. Leo and Ruby were both kind and generous. He was a long-time member of St. Mary of the Woods Church as well as a trustee for 30 years. Leo was also on the board of directors for Princeville State Bank. He served as a trustee on the Princeville Township Board. Leo was a 25-year volunteer on the Akron-Princeville Fire Department.
He last worked as a service manager at Graves Chevrolet for 38 years. Leo was involved in six invasions while serving in the U.S. Army as a quartermaster corporal in the 45th infantry during World War II. He was stationed in Africa, Italy and France. A highlight for Leo later in life was participating in the Greater Peoria Honor Flight.
His funeral mass was April 2, 2024, at St. Mary of the Woods Catholic Church in Princeville. Fr. Corey Krengiel was to officiate. Burial with military honors was to follow in Streitmatter Cemetery, Princeville.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Greater Peoria Honor Flight. Condolences for Leo’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Larry E. McCoy
DAVENPORT, Iowa – My husband, Larry E. McCoy, 83, Davenport, Iowa, passed away at home Friday, March 22, 2024.
Funeral services, led by our dear friend Rev. Anna Peck, will be held at noon Friday, April 5, 2024, at Runge Mortuary in Davenport. Visitation will be 10 a.m.-noon prior to the funeral.
Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Scott County, QC Paws or any favorite animal shelter. Online condolences may be left at www.rungemortuary.com.
Larry was born June 3, 1940, in Tuscola, Ill., to Leonard and Areva (McBride) McCoy. Larry married Carolyn (Sparks) McCoy in 1963 in Elmwood, Ill. She passed away in 2013. He married Donna (Spielman) Backstrom on March 14, 2015, in Florida.
Larry graduated from Southern Illinois University with a bachelors of science degree in communications. Following college, Larry’s first job was selling classified advertising for the Rockford Morning Star and Register-Republic (today’s Rockford Register Star). He later sold national advertising, was named national advertising manager and served as classified advertising manager until 1978.
He joined the Dubuque Telegraph Herald as classified advertising manager in 1978. He also served as telemarketing manager and advertising operations manager, retiring in 2006.
Larry was past president of Alpha Delta Sigma, a professional advertising fraternity, past president of the Mississippi Valley Classified Advertising Managers Association, past president of the Barn Community Theatre in Dubuque, member of Sigma Delta Chi (Society of Professional Journalists) and a member of The Rotary Club of Dubuque. With his late wife, he managed the Die Laughing Mystery Players and also performed in several Barn Community Theatre shows, circa 1980s-2004, either on stage or playing trumpet in the pit band for musicals.
Larry was a U.S. Army veteran. In honor of veterans everywhere, he played “Taps” at military funerals. Donna’s father was a WWII veteran of the front lines, so this brought them a shared interest in helping other veterans. He would play “Taps” on most every holiday, always right at sunset.
Larry’s hobbies included playing trumpet, baritone, trombone, clarinet and recorder, even playing a duet on his recorder with his granddaughter. He enjoyed woodworking and collecting/emailing puns, jokes and quotes sent to friends via daily email. He also was an avid reader. He very much enjoyed traveling and, early on in our marriage, he and I traveled frequently.
One highlight was a stop in Santorini, Greece, on a cruise. We wandered away and could not find our way back to the ship, which didn’t surprise either of us, or my children. We stopped and asked for directions, but we did not understand Greek, so we’d get the giggles and have to stop and ask again for directions. This. This is what I’ll miss. We had so much fun together and yes, we found our way back to the ship. Laughter was an important piece of our everyday lives. I will miss him forever.
Those left to cherish Larry’s memory are his wife, Donna McCoy; their only grandchild, Fiona Backstrom; Donna’s son, Jon Backstrom and his wife, Amy Phillips; and Donna’s daughter, Madonna Backstrom. He leaves behind three cats, Bertie, Gracie and Izzy. Larry was preceded in death by his first wife; his parents; in-laws, Doreen and Bert Sparks; several wonderful cats and two collies.
Special thanks to Dr. Lynn Geick, UnityPoint Health, Bettendorf, Iowa, for his wonderful medical care.
Hug your loved ones, treasure them always.
Ralph F. Bitner
FARMINGTON – Ralph F. Bitner, 87, of Farmington, died March 29, 2024, at his residence. He was born March 4, 1937, in Trivoli, to Charles and Florence (Rindfleisch) Bitner. He married Judith K. Long on Sept. 29, 1956. She preceded him in death.
He is survived by his two daughters, Dee Hagen and Mary Jo (the late Richard) Perardi; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one sister, Linda Gernert.
Visitation is 10 a.m. to noon on Monday, April 8, 2024, at Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington. Graveside services will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington at 12:30 p.m. the same day.
Carole A. Stevens
ELMORE – Carole A. Stevens, 89, of Elmore died March 22, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. She was born Sept. 11, 1934, in Galesburg. She married Jack Stevens on Sept. 5, 1952, in Galesburg. He survives.
She is also survived by two daughters, Jackie (Geri) Lofgren of Gilson and Starla (Glen) Knox of Holiday, Fla.; 11 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and two brothers.
Funeral services were March 28, 2024. Inurnment will be at a later date at Glendale Cemetery, Elmore.
Condolences can be left online at hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
Albert J. Dorich
ELMWOOD – Albert J. Dorich, 99, of Peoria, formerly of Elmwood, passed away at 7:58 a.m., on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at Bickford of Peoria.
He was born March 27, 1924, in Dunfermline, Ill., to John and Johanna (Golic) Dorich. He married Evelyn Gregory on Jan. 3, 1948, in Canton. She preceded him in death on May 15, 2023.
Albert is survived by four children, Linda Hamm (Allan Christy) of Astoria, David Dorich of Elmwood, Denise (Dale) Kemper of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Daryl (Valerie) Dorich of East Peoria; 10 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren and one on the way.
Albert is also preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Pauline Spargo and Mary Miller Scott.
Albert served in the Navy for three years during World War II. He was stationed in the Pacific Theater onboard a landing craft tank and the U.S.S. Mindoro. He was a coal miner for 40 years, retiring in 1985. He was a lifetime member of the Elmwood United Methodist Church.
Albert enjoyed woodworking, gardening, traveling and was a life-long Cubs and Bears fan.
A funeral service was to be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood. A visitation was to be held one hour prior to the service from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial with military honors was to immediately follow the service at Elmwood Township Cemetery. Food and fellowship was to follow at Elmwood United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to B.Y.E. Ambulance.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com. Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Phillip W. Miles
ELMWOOD – Phillip W. Miles, 71, of Peoria, formerly of Elmwood, passed away at 3:40 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, in Peoria. He was born Jan. 18, 1953, to Alfred and Elizabeth (Silzer) Miles.
He is survived by two children, Gabrielle (Justice) Willie-Doe of Joliet and Abigail (Joven) Wood of Bartonville; and one sister, Janet (William) Mason.
He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Alfred “Grant” Miles.
Phillip was a tile, terrazzo and granite setter for many years. One of his projects included the memorial at the Peoria riverfront. He enjoyed showing Gordon setter dogs, driving cars and watching the Chicago Bears.
Cremation rites have been accorded.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to National Alliance on Mental Illness Tri-County Chapter.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com. Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Donald S. Paul
DUNLAP – Donald Sherwood “Tug” Paul, 98, of Dunlap, passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at Proctor Place in Peoria.
Tug was born on Dec. 26, 1925, in Peoria, to the late Edward and Janet (Rae) Paul. On Aug. 31, 1947, he married Evelyn Wieland. She preceded him in death on Nov. 18, 2008.
He is survived by a son, Dr. Roger L. Paul of Dunlap; three granddaughters, Monica Paul, Lauren Paul and Corinne Olson; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Tug was preceded in death by a son, Brian Paul; twin granddaughters, Shawna and Shelley; one brother, William Paul; and one sister, Lorene Jones.
Tug graduated from Dunlap High School and attended Illinois Wesleyan University and Bradley University. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II in aviation medical research and was honorably discharged in 1948.
From 1948 to 1968, he farmed in the Edelstein area and operated a painting and contracting business. He then became a farm manager and was vice president of agricultural services at The First National Bank of Peoria. He was there for 22 years, retiring Feb. 15, 1990.
Following banking, he became a self-employed real estate broker, operating Paul Realty and Management, dealing primarily in farmland acquisitions.
He was a charter member of Arrowhead Country Club and a member of its men’s golf association. He shot his age several times and had one hole-in-one, three short of Evy!
He was a board member of the Princeville Unit School District 326 and a charter member of The Peoria Area Civic Chorale. He was a member of the Downtown Rotary Club in Peoria and the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers.
Tug was an active member of Arcadia Avenue Presbyterian Church in Peoria, where he served as an elder and was a choir member for 17 years. He remained with United Presbyterian Church when the churches merged and he frequently attended The First Presbyterian Church of Knoxville in Knoxville, Ill. Pastor Kenn Shedenhelm was a best friend.
In addition to golf, Tug had several hobbies including woodworking, fixing anything that needed fixing and travel. His many travel destinations include Hawaii, Alaska, Fiji, Australia and several places in Europe.
He touched many, many lives with his honesty, integrity and sense of humor.
Visitation was March 22, 2024, at the United Presbyterian Church of Peoria. Tug’s funeral service was March 23, 2024, at the church. Burial was at Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria.
Memorial contributions may be made to Children’s Home, 2130 N. Knoxville Ave., Peoria, IL 61603. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences for Tug’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Robert C. Howard
HANNA CITY – Robert Clay Howard, 89, of Hanna City passed away on March 16, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
He was born on Oct. 19, 1934, in Peoria to Orville and Louise (Newell) Howard. He married Laura “Jan” Braden on April 13, 1954. She passed away on March 28, 2023.
Robert was also preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Larry Howard; and one nephew, Larry Dean Howard.
He is survived by his children, Denny (Debbie) Howard, Diane (Barry) Adkins and Betsy (Bill) Irving; eight grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; four great-great- grandchildren; one sister, Sally Yocum; and two sisters-in-law, Kate Badgerow and Carol Howard.
Robert led a life marked by service, commitment and passion for his community. He served honorably in the U.S. Navy. He was also an active and devoted member of the Hanna City Presbyterian Church.
After many years of service, Robert retired from his role in security at Caterpillar Inc. He joined the local volunteer fire department, where he selflessly responded to countless emergencies and helped protect his neighbors. His commitment to education and community development led him to serve as a member of the school board.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 9-10:30 a.m. at Hanna City Presbyterian Church, with a celebration of life to follow starting at 10:30 a.m. Inurnment will immediately follow services at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Hanna City.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.davison-fulton-bartonvillechapel.com.
Lyle Koller
GALESBURG – Lyle Koller, 74, of Galesburg, father of a Dahinda woman, passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Peoria.
Lyle was born on Oct. 25, 1949, in Avon, the son of Ray and Betty (Clayberg) Koller.
Surviving Lyle are his daughter, Kimberly (Joe) Groeper of Dahinda; and a brother, Dennis (Beverly) Koller of Springfield.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Verl.
Lyle served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Lyle was a truck driver for over 40 years.
Cremation rites have been accorded. Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the Linwood Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow graveside services starting at noon at the Harry E. Philbald American Legion Post 749, Knoxville.
Condolences can be made online at hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
Donald W. Purchase
CANTON – Donald W. Purchase, 69, of Canton, passed away on March 17, 2024, in Glasford.
He was born on Sept. 17, 1954, in Elmwood, a son of Ralph W. “Speck” and Marion (Blodgett) Purchase. He married Louanna McAdams on Jan. 11, 1986 in Elmwood. She survives.
Also surviving are his two daughters, Kim Purchase of Canton and Krissy (Jack) Taff of Oakley; five grandchildren, Jace Kelly, Trevor Taff, Payton Coon, Dominic Coon and Jay Taff; one brother, Steve Purchase of Elmwood; and one sister, Ruth Nott of Maquon.
Preceding Donald in death were his parents, and one granddaughter, Colleen Taff.
Donald worked many years as an over-the-road truck driver and retired in 2016 from the Boilermakers Local Union 60 in Peoria. Donald was a great storyteller and enjoyed tinkering in the garage with his buddies, but most of all was the time he spent with his grandchildren.
Per Donald’s wishes, there will be no services. Cremation rites will be accorded through Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory. Memorials can be made to his family.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Charles F. Dungan Jr.
BRIMFIELD – Charles F. “Fred” Dungan Jr., 88, of Brimfield, passed away at 7:35 p.m. on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
Born on March 24, 1935, in Brimfield, he was the son of the late Charles and Elva (Marks) Dungan. On Oct. 7, 1956, he married Mary E. Wagner in Brimfield. She preceded him in death on Feb. 3, 2020.
Survivors include two sons, Charles (Tina) Dungan III and Joseph Dungan; three granddaughters, Rachel (Chase) Fahrner, Elizabeth (Matt) Kulik and Tabetha Dungan; and five great-grandchildren.
Fred proudly served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged. He went on to work as an area manager for Unisys. He then worked for the University of Illinois-Springfield until he retired.
He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Brimfield.
A private graveside service will take place at Brimfield Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to palliative care at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
Condolences for Fred’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Donna J. Hanson
MONICA – Donna Jean Hanson, 95, of Peoria, formerly of Monica, passed away at 12:28 a.m. Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Carle Health Proctor Hospital in Peoria. Born on Sept. 26, 1928, in Knox County, Ill., she was the daughter of the late Dwight and Vivian (Nelson) Boyer. On Feb. 14, 1948, she married Wilfred E. Hanson at United Methodist Church in Cambridge, Ill. He preceded her in death on June 29, 2021.
She is survived by her son, Steve (Miriam) Hanson of Edelstein; two daughters, Deborah (Robert) Duckworth of Princeville and Lori (James) Cochran of Monica; seven grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Donald Boyer; and two sisters, Audrey Wagher and Marilyn Hatch.
Donna worked as a bond underwriter for Auto-Owners Insurance for 17 years until her retirement in 1986. She kept busy and worked hard around the home, maintaining a large garden, canning and assisting her husband with odd jobs.
Donna was a helpful and caring neighbor, assisting those around her in need. She was a very involved member of the Monica United Methodist Church and enjoyed her time in their former happy hour club. She would also help with any church activity she could, like teaching Sunday School and working dinners and rummage sales.
Above all else, Donna loved her family. She enjoyed when her children and grandchildren stopped by for visits and looked forward to the next time they would spend together.
Her funeral service was March 18, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Service in Princeville. Burial was to follow at Princeville Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Pathway Ministries (the former Peoria Rescue Ministries) or Apostolic Christian Skylines in Peoria.
Condolences for Donna’s family may be left on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Walter J. Grebner
GLASFORD – Walter J. Grebner, 93, of Glasford, passed away Friday, March 15, 2024, at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.
Born July 7, 1930, in Metamora, Ill., to Frederick Jacob and Josephine Mary (Theobald) Grebner, he married Norma Jean Jarrett on Nov. 26, 1955, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Peoria. She preceded him in death on June 23, 2012 in Peoria.
Also preceding him in death were his parents; brothers Herman, Harley and Marion Grebner; siste, Mary Lou Chism; and son-in-law Jayson Essex.
Surviving are his children, Candy (Bill) Fralick of Farmington, Cindy (Bob) Miller of Glasford, Walter Jay Grebner of Dryden, Mich., and Cheryl (Rick) Berry of Glasford; and grandchildren, Jade Essex of Farmington, Shelby Berry of Peoria and Reid Berry (Mackenzie Brunet) of Lone Tree, Colo.
Walter was a U.S. Air Force veteran and a member of the Bartonville American Legion Post 979.
He was a lifetime member of the Peoria RBA, Illinois RBA and the American Rabbit Breeders Associations. He loved to show and judge rabbits and judged them from 1975 until his retirement in 2014.
Walter dedicated 35 years of service as an assembler at Caterpillar, Inc., retiring in 1989.
He enjoyed traveling with Norma, showing and judging rabbits and watching his grandchildren’s activities. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.
He was also a member of St. Matthew Catholic Church in Farmington where Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. today, March 21, 2024. Burial will be at Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria, with U.S. Air Force honors.
Visitation was to be 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel with recitation of the rosary at 6:30 p.m. Additional visitation will be 9-9:45 a.m. Thursday prior to Mass at the church.
Memorials are suggested to the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.
Condolences and memories may be shared through Davison-Fulton-BartonvilleChapel.com.
Alberta R. Meehan
SAN JOSE, Calif. – Alberta Rosalie (Bertie) Meehan, 91, passed away on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024, in San Jose, Calif.
She was born July 9, 1932, in Elmwood, Ill., to Albert and Rachel Broadfield. Her family moved to Yates City, where she graduated high school in 1950.
After high school she went to airline school in Nebraska. On Nov. 1, 1953, she married Richard Dale “Dick’’ Meehan.
In 1958 they moved to California, where they raised two daughters. Bertie was very active in the Methodist Church, serving on many committees and taking care of the church kitchen for all types of functions. She loved cooking and baking, especially her gingerbread cookies and maple nut chiffon cake.
She loved her family and was over the moon when her great-grandchildren came along. Bertie enjoyed working in the garden, especially if her great-grandchildren helped. She was always helping others with a place to stay, warm meal, shoulder to lean on or just a hug.
Bertie is survived by her daughter Susan (Edward) Lincoln and daughter Donna Meehan; granddaughters Amanda (Justin) Perkins and Allison (Benjamin) Brown; and great-grandchildren Madison and Elias Perkins and Mason and McKinley Brown. She is also survived by her sister Marylyn and many nieces and nephews.
She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandma, great-grandma and friend who will be missed by all who knew her.
There will be a graveside service on June 15 at Elmwood Township Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome.
Lorraine E. Turner
PEORIA – Lorraine Evelyn Turner, 68, of Peoria, passed away at her residence on March 1, 2024.
She was born Oct. 13, 1955, in Peoria to Glen S. and Florence (Mummert) Turner.
Lorraine is survived by her aunt, Mary Mummert, and cousins Linda Woodard, Martha Reismeyer, Jim Mummert and Bethany Sutton, as well as many other cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Lorraine attended and graduated from Limestone High School. She pursued further studies by taking courses at Illinois Central College.
Her devotion to her Christian faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she found joy in her congregation at Grace Presbyterian Church. Lorraine’s love for her church extended beyond attendance; she actively participated in various church activities, finding particular joy in singing with the church choir.
Aside from her dedication to her faith community, Lorraine had a deep love for music. She found immense joy in singing, and her passion for music was evident to all who knew her. Whether she was humming hymns or harmonizing in the choir, her love for music was infectious and uplifting.
Cremation rites have been accorded. Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, March 21, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel, Peoria. Pastor John Hopwood will officiate.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.davison-fulton.com.
Joan E. Davis
WILLIAMSFIELD – Joan E. Davis, 85, of Williamsfield, died Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at her home.
She was born Feb. 1, 1939, in Peoria, the daughter of Orrin and Leto (Tucker) Coe. Survivors include her four children, Mike (Heather) Davis of Indiana, Jill Davis of Williamsfield, Mitch (Lori) Davis of Abingdon and Jan (Jon) Neville of Minier, Ill.; brother Lowell (Marilyn) Coe of Brimfield; sister Barbara (William “Gipp”) LaBrush of Peoria; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents.
A graveside service was held on March 18 at Williamsfield Cemetery.
Edward Hayes
ELMWOOD – Edward “Eddy” Hayes, 10, of Elmwood, passed away Saturday, March 9, 2024, peacefully at his home. He was born Feb. 1, 2014, in Peoria, to Alissia Hayes. She survives.
Edward is also survived by his stepfather, Douglas Williamson; sister JaeLynn Hayes; grandparents, Monica and Timothy Hayes and Robert and Pamela Wiliamson, all of Elmwood; one aunt and three uncles, Heather and Kristofer Kaufman of Arizona, Patrick Hayes of Arizona and Samuel Williamson of Elmwood; and many other loving family.
Eddy won many battles and overcame many obstacles but will no longer be confined by the worldly constraints of muscular dystrophy.
A celebration of life will be held on March 24, 2024, from 2-5 p.m. at the Uptown Café in Elmwood.
To leave online condolences, visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Donald L. Colvin
LaFAYETTE – Donald L. “Don” Colvin, 86, of LaFayette, died at 8:39 p.m., Sunday, March 17, 2024 at his home.
He was born Jan. 8, 1938, in Ottumwa, Iowa, the son of Lloyd and Marie (Mercer) Colvin. He married Laura L. Nygren on Aug. 22, 1964, in Ottumwa.
Survivors include his wife of LaFayette; his three sons, Casey (Sheri) Colvin of Blue Grass, Iowa, Jeff (Carrie) Colvin of South Beloit, Ill., and Chris Colvin of Princeville, Ill.; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Kelly.
Don served his country in the U.S. Army from 1958-61. He worked as a salesman for various steel companies. He was a member of the LaFayette Methodist Church and a member of the Masonic Lodge, Elks Lodge, the Disabled American Veterans and the American Legion in Kewanee.
Cremation will be accorded and graveside services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 23, at LaFayette Cemetery with Rev. Glenn Corbly officiating. Military rites will be accorded by the Galva Fusiliers. Following the services a luncheon and time of fellowship will be held at 11:30 a.m. at the LaFayette Methodist Church.
Memorials may be directed to the LaFayette Methodist Church. Rux Funeral Home in Galva is in charge of arrangements.
This obituary may be viewed and private condolences left at www.ruxfuneralhome.com.
Eleanor Hanning
KEWANEE – Eleanor “Ellie” Hanning, 85, of Kewanee, died at 10:16 a.m., Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Courtyard Village in Kewanee surrounded by her family.
She was born May 24, 1938, in Kewanee, the daughter of Floyd and Catherine (Quinney) Ericson. Survivors include her four children, Sherrie (Chuck) Boyer of Washington, Ill., Terrie (Russ) Ehnle of Tremont, Ill., Marci (Larry) Horrie of Kewanee and Rob (Jill) Hanning of Bradford; a brother, Terry (Claire) Ericson of Ark.; eight grandchildren, Kristen (Ben) Briney, Lindsey (Austin) Wharram, Cody (Carly) Ehnle, Carly Ehnle, Connor (Alyssa) Ehnle, Tyler Horrie, Jordan (Logan) Smith and Paige Horrie; six great-grandchildren, Austin, Adelynn, Wyatt, Owen, Gia and Sully; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Gene Ericson.
Eleanor graduated from LaFayette High School and then from Western Illinois University. She was a teacher at Bradford High School and later an aide for Belle Alexander School in Kewanee.
She played for the Kewanee Ballhawks and coached various sports including volleyball, basketball and track and had the honor of taking three teams to the IHSA girls basketball state tournament. In 1998 she was inducted into the IHSA Hall of Fame as a friend of basketball. She loved her family and enjoyed babysitting her grandchildren and great grandchildren and attending their activities.
She had a remarkable sense of humor and touched many lives and will especially be missed by all who knew her.
Funeral services were to be held Wednesday, March 20 at Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee. Cremation was accorded following the services and private inurnment was to be held at Bradford Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed in her name for a memorial to be established.
Donna J. Hanson
MONICA – Donna Jean Hanson, 95, of Peoria, formerly of Monica, passed away at 12:28 a.m. Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Carle Health Proctor Hospital in Peoria.
Born on Sept. 26, 1928, in Knox County, Ill., she was the daughter of the late Dwight and Vivian (Nelson) Boyer. On Feb. 14, 1948, she married Wilfred E. Hanson at United Methodist Church in Cambridge, Ill. He preceded her in death on June 29, 2021.
She is survived by her son, Steve (Miriam) Hanson of Edelstein; two daughters, Deborah (Robert) Duckworth of Princeville and Lori (James) Cochran of Monica; seven grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
She was also preceded in death by a brother, Donald Boyer; and two sisters, Audrey Wagher and Marilyn Hatch.
Donna worked as a bond underwriter for Auto-Owners Insurance for 17 years until her retirement in 1986. She kept busy and worked hard around the home, maintaining a large garden, canning and assisting her husband with odd jobs.
Donna was a helpful and caring neighbor, assisting those around her in need. She was a very involved member of the Monica United Methodist Church and enjoyed her time in their former happy hour club. She would also help with any church activity she could, like teaching Sunday School and working dinners and rummage sales.
Above all else, Donna loved her family. She enjoyed when her children and grandchildren stopped by for visits and looked forward to the next time they would spend together.
Her funeral service was to be Monday, March 18, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Service in Princeville. Burial was to follow at Princeville Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Pathway Ministries (the former Peoria Rescue Ministries) or the Apostolic Christian Skylines in Peoria.
Condolences for Donna’s family may be left on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Katina M. Hegwood
WYOMING – Katina Marie (Hewitt) Hegwood, 46, of Wyoming formerly of Bradford, passed away on March 17, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at OSF Richard L Owens Hospice and Home in Peoria.
Katina was born on April 26, 1977, in Kewanee, Ill., the daughter of William and Patricia (Craig) Hewitt. She was a 1995 graduate of Bradford High School. Katina married the love of her life, David “Dave” Hegwood on Oct. 26, 2007, in Stark County.
Most recently she worked at Stark County High School as a special education paraprofessional through the Henry-Stark co-op. Katina also coached junior high and high school volleyball at the school.
She truly enjoyed working with all of the students and coaching all the girls. Katina also enjoyed playing volleyball recreationally and loved a good game of euchre. Most of all, her greatest joy in life was taking care of her family and being a mom. She will truly be missed by all those who knew her and by her beloved dog, Batman.
Survivors include her husband of 16 years, Dave Hegwood of Wyoming; six children, David Hegwood II of Riverton, Ryan Bogner of Dahinda, Joseph “Joey” Hegwood, Charlotte Hegwood, Max Hegwood and Grace “Gracie” Hegwood all of Wyoming; her parents, William and Patricia Hewitt of Bradford; three siblings, Luke (Tara) Hewitt of Kewanee, Angie (Mike) Hart of Wyoming and Jenny (Mike) Cooper of Castleton; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial visitation will be held from 3 p.m. until time of service at 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at Grant-Johnson Funeral Home in Bradford, with Reverend Laura Root-Tanner, officiating. Cremation rites have been accorded. Burial of cremated remains will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be directed to Leukemia Research Foundation, https://leukemiarf.org.
Jeanne L. Hurst
TOULON – Jeanne L. Hurst, 74, of Toulon, passed away on Monday, March 18, 2024, at her home surrounded by her family.
She was born on Jan. 2, 1950, in Peoria, to Arthur A. and Verda Charlene (Stiarwalt) Beecher. On May 29, 1970, she married Gary Hurst at the Hanna City United Methodist Church; he survives.
Also surviving are two sons, Jeff (Cheryl) Hurst of Toulon and Christopher (Tracy) Hurst of Oak Ridge, Tenn.; four grandchildren, Kaylie, Kelsey, Andrew and Emily; one brother, Allen (Rebecca) Beecher of Hanna City; two sisters, Janet Hecox of Farmington and Joyce (Mark) Mehaffey of Houston, Texas; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, and grandson, Kyle.
Jeanne was a member of the Hanna City United Methodist Church. She worked as a reading aide at Hanna City Elementary. Jeanne loved to read and tend her garden. Above all else, Jeanne loved her family and her grandchildren dearly.
Her service will be at 12 p.m. Friday, March 22, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming. Rev. Glenn Corbly will officiate. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., also at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to the Toulon Fire Department.
Condolences may be left for Jeanne’s family on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Anne W. Nolan
CINCINNATI – Anne (Down) Willmann Nolan of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed peacefully Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024.
Born Dec. 7, 1933, near Wyoming, Ill., she was the first child of Prescott and Dorothy Down.
She graduated with the Class of 1951 from Wyoming Community High School and attended the University of Illinois, where she met Dean Willmann. They married in August 1954. He died in 1991. They were parents of five children.
Surviving are two sons and two daughters, 17 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and four stepdaughters as well as many nieces and nephews.
Her second marriage was March 20, 1999, to William “Bill” Nolan. He survives as do Anne’s two brothers and one sister. Two brothers are deceased.
Her interment is in Oak Hill Cemetery, Springfield, Ohio, near her first husband, oldest son and oldest grandson.
Christopher B. Cade
BRADFORD – Christopher Brian Cade, 26, of Bradford, died March 16, 2024, at his home. He was born on Jan. 13, 1998, in Kewanee, the son of Brian and Rebecca (Harris) Cade.
Surviving are his parents of Bradford; grandfather, Fred Cade of Bradford; grandmother, Deanna Logan of Effingham; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Brad and Judy Harris.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming is assisting the family.
Ronald R. Lindquist
TOULON – Ronald R. “Ron/Monk” Lindquist, 80, of Toulon, died March 12, 2024, at Allure of Knox County.
Ron was born July 24, 1943, in Kewanee, the son of Ray and Hazel (Ballentine) Lindquist. Ron graduated from Wethersfield High School with the class of 1961. He married Karen M. Salz in 1966, in Phoenix City, Ala.; she survives.
Ron is also survived by many nieces and nephews, and their pseudo-son, Eugene (Teresa) Costin. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Joyce Dye.
Ron was a member of the Army 173rd Airborne Brigade; he did 40 jumps during his time in Vietnam. Ron worked for Hyster for 36 years. He enjoyed running a farm, raising horses and cattle dogs. Ron also helped Karen with her show dogs.
Per Ron’s wishes there will be no services. Memorials may be left at the funeral home for the Wounded Warrior Project.
Condolences can be left online at www.golnickschuenemanfh.com.
James C. Coakley
GALVA – James C. “Jim” Coakley, 67, of Galva, died Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024, in Galva.
He was born May 17, 1956, in Moline, the son of Calvin Cornelius and Lois Anne (Penix) Coakley. He married Mariann M. Waggoner on Dec. 12, 2012, in Galva.
Survivors include his wife of Galva; his five children, Os’scarr Coakley of Galva, Douglas (Maggie) Schmidt of Galva, Amber (Melvin) Inman of Newton, Iowa, Samantha Schmidt (William Despain) of Galva and Jerzie and Luciee Coakley, both of Galva; three sisters, Gloria (Dan) Sheldon of Clinton, Iowa, Pam Coakley of Moline and Sharon Kermeen of Sterling; and seven grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Alica Coakley and two angel infants.
Jim graduated from United Township High School in East Moline, Ill. He worked for the water department at Big River Resources in Galva for six years until his retirement. He had also worked for John Deere and Bob Evans and was the director of the Galva Ambulance Service for several years.
He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed watching football and baseball. Most of all he loved his family and cherished the time spent with them.
A visitation was to be held Monday, March 4 at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. Cremation was to be accorded following the visitation. Memorials may be directed to the family.
This obituary may be viewed and private condolences left at www.ruxfuneralhome.com.
Donovan K. Stout
ANNAWAN – Donovan K. “Don” Stout, 94, of Annawan, a LaFayette native, died March 3, 2024, at Allure of Prophetstown.
Don was born April 5, 1929, in LaFayette at the family farm, the son of Eddis and Cora (King) Stout. Don is survived by his significant other, JoAnn Cathelyn.
Don is also survived by six children, Donna (Mike) DeReu of Buda, Jeri (Danny) Baker of Prophetstown, Mike (Jodi) Stout of Havana, Terry Stout of Annawan, Bobbe (Pam) Stout of Prophetstown and Francis (Becky) Stout of Annawan; 19 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; and 15 great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Earl Stout; and a sister, Margaret Berlin.
Visitation will be noon to 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at Golnick-Schueneman Funeral Home in Kewanee. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m., Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the funeral home. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Gardens.
Condolences can be left online at www.golnickschuenemanfh.com.
Judith A. Cosby
ELMWOOD – Judith Ann “Judy” Cosby, 84, of Elmwood, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024, at Bickford House in Peoria, surrounded by her family.
She was born on Feb. 10, 1940, in Princeville, to Edwin Russell Purcell and Lola (Chapman) Rook. On April 12, 1959, she married Edward Leo “Ed” Cosby at the Elmwood United Methodist Church; he survives.
Also surviving are daughter Teresa (Jerry) Nuese of Peoria and son Doug (Terri) Cosby of Elmwood; six grandchildren, Ben, Michael and Thomas Nuese, and Max, Josh and Anney Cosby; two sisters, Buffie (Jerry) Stewart of Brimfield and Mary Beth (Bill) Brouch of Pekin; and one brother, Johnny Bill (Patty) Rook of Brimfield.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, David Purcell; sister, Susan Miller; and brother, Eugene Rook.
Judy graduated as valedictorian from Elmwood High School. She was Homecoming queen and still enjoyed her monthly gatherings with her classmates from the class of 1957.
Judy worked as a legal secretary at Whitney and Potts Ltd. for many years. After her retirement, Judy took part in a medical research trial for aortic soft-tissue disease with Cleveland Clinic.
She could often be found outside tending her flowers and garden with loving, tender care. She loved planting spring flowers and was proud of her infamous purple screen door. Judy’s family loved her deviled eggs, potato salad, Texas cake and scalloped oysters.
She enjoyed wall papering, reading, jigsaw puzzles, playing cards and slot machines and shopping early for that perfect Christmas present for her family. Judy was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Elmwood and former ladies bowling league. She loved her family and her grandchildren with all her heart.
Her service will be at noon Saturday, March 9, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church in Elmwood. Rev. Marla Bauler will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior, also at the church. A private burial will be in Elmwood Township Cemetery at a later date. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memorial contributions can be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Elmwood, Elmwood Fire Department, BYE Ambulance Service or Carle Health Hospice.
Condolences may be left for Judy’s family on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
William B. Emerick
YATES CITY – William B. “Bill” Emerick, 69, of Yates City, passed away at 2:10 p.m., on Friday, March 1, 2024, at his home.
He was born Oct. 1, 1954, in Peoria, to William “Dale” and Margaret (Wolf) Emerick. He married Bobette “Bobbi” Montag on July 29, 1972, at the Union Church in Brimfield. She survives.
Bill is also survived by five children, Margaret “Margie” Emerick (James) Feik of Brimfield, Brian (Virginia) Emerick of Brimfield, Melanie (Jarod) Lukehart of Washington, Ben (Kayla) Emerick of Princeville and William “Billy” (Melissa Petermeyer) Emerick of Yates City; one brother, Bob (the late Louise) Emerick; three sisters, Betty (the late Bob) Pacey, Mary (the late Bob) Short and Sherry Steinkuehler; and 13 grandchildren, Kevin, Carmen, Michael, Shaun, Jonathan, Rebecca, Lily, Lexi, Jacen, Lincoln, Deacon, Eden and one on the way.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents.
Bill was a lifetime truck driver and farmer. He enjoyed gardening and tinkering around with things outside. He also loved fishing with his parents, kids and extended family, especially on the annual trip to Minnesota.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 8, 2024, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood. A visitation will be held the night before on Thursday, March 7, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow the service at Brimfield Township Cemetery. Food and fellowship will also follow the service, at the Brimfield Legion.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to B.Y.E. Ambulance, American Heart Association and to the family to help with funeral expenses.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Janet L. Elsasser
PRINCEVILLE – Janet Lee “Jan” Elsasser, 83, of Princeville, passed away Feb. 27, 2024, at Honor Health John C. Lincoln Hospital in Phoenix.
Janet was born on Dec. 26, 1940, in Peoria County to Philip and Martha “Mart” (Endress) Elsasser.
She is survived by her niece, Belinda Jacobsen of Denver along with many special cousins and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Phyllis Elsasser.
She was a longstanding member of Princeville Apostolic Christian Church, where she was baptized.
A memorial service was March 3 in Phoenix.
Her funeral service will be held at Princeville Apostolic Christian Church, Princeville, in the near future. Arrangements are pending. Burial will be in Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria.
Noel M. Heinz
KICKAPOO – Noel M. Heinz, 83, died Feb. 27, 2024, at Franciscan Dyer Hospital in Dyer, Ind., surrounded by her loving family.
She was born at Holbrook Hospital in Patchogue, N.Y., on Nov. 24, 1940, the daughter of Thelma and Sam Horowitz, both deceased. Noel married Greg Heinz on Sept. 13, 1980. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Kickapoo.
Survivors include her children, Tracy (James) Collins of Munster, Ind., and Jill (Matthew) Hilty of Chicago; one stepdaughter, Laurie Heinz, of Peoria; and four grandchildren.
Visitation will take place at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Kickapoo on Saturday, March 9, 2024, from 11 a.m. until time of Mass of Christian Burial at noon. Burial will follow in St. Patrick Cemetery.
Condolences can be left online at www.wrightandsalmon.com.
Beverly M. Ralston
KICKAPOO – Beverly Marie Ralston, born Oct. 25, 1948, in Peoria, died at home, with her family by her side, in Kickapoo, on Feb. 29, 2024.
She is survived by her two daughters, Dina Baird of Berthoud, Colo., and Dani (Brian) Butterfield of Mosinee, Wis.; four grandchildren; two sisters, Sherry (John) Harris and Mickie (Steve) Wenger; and three brothers, Robert Murphy Jr., Michael (Pam) Murphy and Patrick (Kim) Murphy.
Bev graduated from Manual High School in 1966 and married Dennis Ralston in 1968.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis Ralston; parents, Robert Senior and LaVonne (Eis) Murphy; and sister-in-law, Nancee Murphy.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Condolences can be left online at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com.
Dorothy J. Stuaan
HANNA CITY – Dorothy Jean (Kirkham) Stuaan, 86, of Hanna City, passed away Feb. 23, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria, surrounded by members of her loving family.
She was born on Sept. 7, 1937, in Dwight, Ill., to Roscoe and Julia (Burke) Kirkham. On Feb. 5, 1955, Dorothy married her high school sweetheart, Raymond Stuaan, in Peoria. He passed away on Nov. 26, 2018.
Surviving are Dorothy and Ray’s four children, Lori (Ron) Riekena of Peoria, Cindy (Steve) Rilling of Huber Heights, Ohio, Dave (Kim) Stuaan of Bushnell and Jeanie (Scott) Jones of Morton, Illinois; 11 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.
Preceding Dorothy in death were her parents; brothers, Ralph Kirkham and Louis Kirkham; and sister, Frances Mitchler.
Funeral services were March 2, 2024. Burial was in the St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Bartonville.
Condolences can be left online at www.Davison-Fulton-Bartonvillechapel.com.
Donald D. Jacobson
ALTONA – Donald D. “Don” Jacobson, 84, of Altona, father of an Elmwood man, died March 2, 2024, at Seminary Manor in Galesburg.
He was born Aug. 19, 1939, in Galesburg to Raymond and Helen (Nelson) Jacobson. He married Sharon I. Bellamy on Aug. 12, 1961, in Galesburg. She preceded him in death on June 23, 2021.
Surviving are a son, Donald (and Chrissy) Jacobson of Elmwood; two daughters, Marquie Smith of Altona and Penny (and Paul) Leafgreen Jr. of Altona; six grandchildren, Natasha Emery, Krishonna Smith, Amber Leafgreen, Andrea Leafgreen, Rachel Jacobson and Cameron Jacobson; and four great-grandchildren, Rozalynn, Myles, Lyric and Karma.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Along with farming his whole life, Don was the Walnut Grove road commissioner and worked at Andrews Implement in Altona and Gateway Co-Op/River Valley Co-Op in Galva. He was the assistant fire chief of Altona for 35 years.
He was an outdoorsman who liked fishing, mowing his yard, cruising the timber in his Kawasaki Mule or listening to country music on his patio. His true love was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Visitation will be 1-2 p.m. today, March 7, 2024, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel. A funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. at the chapel. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery in Altona.
Memorials may be made to Illinois Cancer Care in Galesburg or to the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Altona.
Condolences can be made online at www.h-p-w.com.
Joel A. Brewster
GALVA – Joel A. “Joey” Brewster, 51, of Galva, passed away at 1:05 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, surrounded by loving family.
He was born on May 16, 1972, in Galesburg, the son of Lynda (Doss) and Gary Anderson.
Surviving Joel are his daughter, Tia Brewster of Yukon, Okla.; grandson, Damon Reese; adopted son, Dalton Brewster; parents, Lynda and Gary Anderson of Toulon; brother, James Brewster of Moline; nephew, Frankie Doss; step-siblings, Ehrin and Shauna Anderson; and a step-niece, Harmony Stauth.
He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Joe Brewster, and a brother, John Doss.
Joey loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed motorcycles and having a beer with his buddies. He owned and operated his own handyman business, Brewsters N’ Stuff. His generosity will be remembered in the way he helped others through his work and through being an organ and tissue donor.
A celebration of life will take place at a later date. A memorial has been established at the State Bank of Toulon at the Toulon, Kewanee, and Galva locations, so he may have a park bench at the park district in his memory.
Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming is assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences for Joey’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Norma Brown
TOULON – Norma “Pat” Brown passed away on Feb. 18, 2024, on a sunny Sunday morning at home exactly where she always wanted to be when she finally got to “go Home.”
She lived a long, fulfilling life giving so much to the world along the way. She was a strong independent woman who always wanted to do whatever she could to make this world a better place.
Norma Patricia Swanson was born on Aug. 17, 1927, in Kewanee, Ill., to Frederick and Lora (Nyberg) Swanson. They preceded her in death. Her little sister, Nancy Jane also preceded her in death.
She graduated from Galva High School and earned an associate degree later in life.
She married Merle Streitmatter in 1946. They had four children, Linda (Fred) DeCamp, Gary Streitmatter, Alan (Linda) Streitmatter and Amy (Greg) Milroy. She also had four grandchildren, Francine (Doug) McCartney, Scott DeCamp, Dave (Mackinsey) Milroy and Kyle Milroy; and four great-grandchildren, Erica DeCamp and Alexis DeCamp and Quinn and Lincoln Milroy.
In 1987, she married the love of her life, Boyd Brown. She cherished their four short years together and it brings so much comfort to her family to know that they are together once again.
Much of Pat’s life revolved around her son, Gary, born with Down Syndrome in 1951, at a time when there were virtually no services for special needs children. Pat and Merle along with two other couples with special needs children worked diligently to create what has evolved into Kewanee’s Abilities Plus, which today serves hundreds of special needs residents.
She always viewed this as her most important gift to life. Gary passed away three months ago. One of Pat’s biggest hopes was to be there for Gary throughout his entire life but was content to live “just one day longer.” Not to diminish the love she had for the others in her family, but Gary’s death left a huge void in her life. These past months she was looking so forward to being reunited with her sweet boy.
She loved her family. Her home was always most important to Pat, but she also worked outside of the home at times. She did clerical work for Country Companies and she and Merle started a bus service to transport children to attend Pilot House (now Abilities Plus) before special education classes were available for them in the public school system. Pat eventually worked for Abilities Plus as Supervisor for the Respite Program.
Pat was an accomplished pianist and organist. She played organ for the United Methodist Church for close to 60 years.
She loved to travel, especially to sunny places with beautiful beaches. She loved cooking and baking and loved to have people stop by. She was sad when “dropping in on friends and neighbors” became a thing of the past. Her door was always open and loved it when people felt free to walk right in.
A celebration of life for Pat will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, March 2, at the Toulon United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the church. Following the services everyone is welcome to join the family in the church basement for food and fellowship.
Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to Abilities Plus.
Roberta A. Green
CAMP GROVE – Roberta A. Green, 89, of Camp Grove, passed away at 2:08 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice in Peoria.
Roberta was born on March 31, 1934, in Wyoming to Raymond Leo and Emma Ann (Morrissey) Maher. She married Thomas Green on Nov. 17, 1956, at St. Dominic’s in Wyoming. He preceded her in death on Aug. 28, 2011.
Surviving are two sons, Thomas (Denise) Green, of Pontiac, Ill., and John (Kimberly Holland) Green of Adel, Iowa; two daughters, Mary Green, of Peoria, Ill., and Kathleen (Christopher) Abel of Brownsburg, Ind.; one daughter-in-law, Marie Green, of Wyoming; nine grandchildren, Ann (Ryan) Boarman, Heather (Mitch) Mustard, Emily Green, Tommy (Katie) Green, Christopher (Tricia) Green, Sara, Jennifer, Connor and Samantha Abel; nine great-grandchildren, Charlie, John Patrick and Hattie Boarman, Max, Brooks, Isla and Cooper Mustard and Cade and Emma Green; and one sister, Christine (Ricky) Cooper, of Glencoe, Ill.
She was also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Timothy Green; and three brothers James, Robert (her twin) and John Maher.
Roberta received her teaching certificate in 1954 from Western Illinois University and taught at Princeville and Camp Grove Schools. She was a member of St. Dominic’s Altar and Rosary Society.
Her funeral mass will be at 10 a.m. Friday, March 1, 2024, at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Wyoming. Visitation was to be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming. The rosary service was to be at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Father Braden Maher was to officiate. Burial will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Camp Grove. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming is in charge of arrangements.
Memorial contributions can be made to OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home or St. Dominic’s Altar and Rosary Society.
Condolences may be left for Roberta’s family on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Marian A. Smith
PRINCEVILLE – Marian A. Smith, 86, of Princeville, passed away at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, at her home.
Marian was born on Feb. 13, 1938, in Princeville, the daughter of Cecil and Florance (Swanson) Wilson. She married James L. “Homer” Smith, on Nov. 16, 1957. He preceded her in death on Nov. 10, 2011.
Surviving are one son, Jeffrey Smith of Princeville; one daughter, Robin Kitterman of Toulon; four grandchildren, Vanessa (Bill) Bohm, Michelle Smith, Amber Kitterman and Ashley Kitterman; four great-grandchildren, Alex, Sam, Grace and Addison; and one brother, Donald Wilson of Princeville. She was also preceded in death by her parents.
Marian and Homer’s life in the military took them on many travels across the United States. She enjoyed seeing new places and working various jobs along the way. She loved being outside and in warm weather. Above all else, Marian loved her family and the time spent with them.
Her graveside service will be at 1 p.m. Friday, March 8, 2024, at Princeville Township Cemetery. Rev. David Pyell will officiate. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is in charge of arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans or the Akron-Princeville Fire Department.
Condolences for Marian’s family may be left on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Artis VanHouten
FARMINGTON – Artis VanHouten, 84, of Farmington, passed away at 3:33 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, at her daughter’s residence in Farmington.
She was born on Dec. 6, 1939, in Farmington Township, a daughter of Evan “Tick” and Lola (Miller) Welker. She married Kenneth VanHouten Sr. on June 14, 1958, in Farmington. He preceded her in death.
Also preceding her, in death were her parents; one son, Howard VanHouten; and one sister, Linda Payne.
Surviving are her children, Kenneth (Karen) VanHouten Jr. of Canton, Karen (Tracy) Bishop of Farmington and Francie (Eric) Baker of Pinckneyville; daughter-in-law, Debbie VanHouten of Farmington; eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Artis worked at Kitchen Cooked Chips in Farmington for several years.
A funeral service was to be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024, at Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington, where visitation was to be from 10 a.m. until the time of the services. Rev. Kevin Van Tine was to officiate. Burial was to follow service at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington. Memorials can be made to the Farmington Rescue Squad 1100.
To view Artis’ DVD or to leave an online condolence please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Diana L. Wagner
BRIMFIELD – Diana L. Wagner, 64, of Brimfield, passed away at 8:36 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024, at her home surrounded by loving family.
She was born on Jan. 22, 1960, in Peoria, the daughter of the late Russell and Gail (Pillman) Baysingar. She married Keith Wagner of Brimfield and they’ve spent the last 45 years together; he survives.
Further surviving Diana are six children; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a brother; and two sisters.
Diana worked at Bickford House in Peoria for 13 years. She loved being with family and will be dearly missed.
Services for Diana will be private. The family would like to thank Dr. Lawless and Clark Health Hospice of Peoria. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences for Diana’s family may be left on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Robert M. Marquardt
KNOXVILLE – Robert M. Marquardt, 47, of Knoxville, died Feb. 19, 2024, in Marietta. He was born Aug. 14, 1976, in Peoria to Wesley A. Marquardt and Mary L. Alton.
Surviving is his father; brother Welsey Hall of Vancouver, Wash.; sister Jennifer (Rodney) Ferry of Killeen, Texas; niece Taylor (Nick) Craig of Harker Heights, Texas; two step nieces and three step nephews.
Cremation rites were accorded by Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton. Per his wishes there will be no services.
Condolences can be left online at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Cora Quinn
PEORIA – Cora Quinn, 74, of Peoria, passed away at 7:04 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024, at her son’s home in Rock Island.
Cora was born on May 20, 1949, in Peoria, the daughter of the late Daniel and Leona (Riggens) Mitchell. On Feb. 21, 1971, she married Robert “Bob” Quinn in Princeville. He survives.
Further surviving Cora are two sons, Nathan (Amanda Sweigart-Quinn) Quinn of Millersville, Pa., and David (Angie McMeen) Quinn of Rock Island; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and sister Sharon (John) Barks of Peoria.
Services were Feb. 26, 2024.
Lois M. Stodgel
GALESBURG – Lois M. Stodgel, 88, of Galesburg, passed away on Feb. 20, 2024, at Seminary Manor, Galesburg.
Lois was born on Feb. 3, 1936, in Elmore. She was the daughter of Clyde Anderson “Pete” and Golda (Lumberry) Yelm. She married Jackson “Jack” F. Stodgel II in Williamsfield in 1955.
Surviving Lois are her son, Gerry C. (Lisa) Stodgel of Galesburg; six grandchildren, Misty Stodgel, Steve Stodgel, Jackie Stodgel, Adrianne Stodgel, Carl Stodgel and Lainee Hobbs; 10 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and siblings Bea Hefflin of Williamsfield, Ed Yelm of Williamsfield and Bill Yelm of southern Illinois.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jack, sons Jack Stodgel and Greg Stodgel, sister Ilene Daniels and brother Dorence Yelm.
Lois was a graduate of Williamsfield High School.
Visitation is 5-7 p.m. today, Feb. 29, 2024, at Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory, Knoxville. Cremation rites will be accorded after visitation. A burial of cremated remains will be 10 a.m. Friday, March 1, 2024, at the Williamsfield Cemetery.
Online condolences can be left at hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
Dixie G. Watters
FARMINGTON – Dixie G. Watters, 85, of Farmington, passed away at Feb. 19, 2024, at her residence.
She was born on Dec. 18, 1938, in Canton, a daughter of Dick and Ruth (Earhart) Elliott. She married Neal L. Watters on Oct. 19, 1958, in Farmington. He preceded her in death on Oct. 11, 2017.
Also preceding her in death were her parents.
Surviving Dixie are two daughters, Chris (the late Fred) McMaster, of Farmington and Cinda (Chris) Ohl of Orlando, Fla.; five grandchildren, Jami (Richard) Crawford, Ryan (Heather) McMaster, Lynsey (Ben) Vermillion, Alex (Angela) Ohl and Kelci Ohl; nine great-grandchildren, Jace and Landon Crawford, Haven and Aniston McMaster, Presley, Easton, Maddox and Trace Vermillion and Luca Ohl; and one sister Donna Blust of North Carolina.
Private family burial of ashes will take place at a later date in Oakridge Cemetery in Farmington.
Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Gerald and Marilyn Doran
PEORIA – Gerald J. Doran, 91, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2024, at Courtyard Estates in Farmington. He was born on Nov. 22, 1932, in Peoria to Robert and Evelyn (Lyman) Doran.
Marilyn Doran, 89, passed away on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, also at Courtyard Estates in Farmington. She was born on March 11, 1934, in Galesburg to Robert and Marjorie (Smith) Tucker.
They were married on Jan. 16, 1953, in Cheyenne, Wyo.
Surviving are three children, Hope (Bill) Koontz of Rolla, Mo., Holly (Bob) Skau of Peoria and Rodney (Pam) Doran of Marquette Heights; eight grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Per their wishes cremation rites have been accorded with the Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton. A graveside service with the burial of Marilyn’s and Gerald’s ashes will be held at St. Patrick Cemetery in Kickapoo on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at 11 a.m. Military rites will be accorded for Gerald.
Memorials may be made to the Brimfield American Legion.
To leave online condolences, visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Edith Endress
PRINCEVILLE – Edith Endress, 88, of Princeville, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
She was born on Jan. 20, 1936, in Peggs, Okla., to Noah and Ruth (Hendrickson) Hill. On Jan. 23, 1954, she married Arthur Endress in Tahlequah, Okla. He preceded her in death in 2008.
Surviving are two daughters, Cheryl Endress of Peoria and Rita (Kevin) Kirk of St. Peters, Mo.; three grandchildren, Justin, Stacy and Drew; two great-grandchildren, Kyla and Clayton; and one brother, Gomer (Julie) Hill. She was also preceded in death by her parents and several brothers and sisters.
Edith was a member of the Princeville Presbyterian Church for over 60 years. She was an organizer and volunteered for Meals On Wheels.
Her graveside service was to be at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, at Princeville Township Cemetery in Princeville. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Princeville Presbyterian Church.
Condolences may be left for Edith’s family on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Phillip Bishop Sr.
HANNA CITY – Phillip “Buck” Bishop Sr., 79, of Hanna City, passed away on Feb. 17, 2024, in Hanna City.
He was born on June 25, 1944, in Bureau to Russell and Lena (Songer) Bishop Sr. He married Marilyn Kay Johnson on April 26, 2012, in Lewistown. She preceded him in death.
He was also preceded in death by his parents; one son, Troy Dean Bishop; one daughter-in-law, Angela R. Bishop; and seven brothers and sisters.
He is survived by one son, Phil Bishop Jr.; six grandchildren, Timmy Bishop, Tyler Bishop, Shane DeVere (Beth Phillips) Stewart, Dillion Andrew Reissen, Samantha Erlene Reissen, and Cody (Hannah Jones) Bishop; and four great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington. A visitation will be held the same day from 10-11 a.m. Rev. Rick Kensinger will officiate. Burial will follow services at Princeville Cemetery in Princeville. Cremation rites will be accorded.
Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Wayne E. Galpin
GALESBURG – Wayne E. Galpin, 55, of Galesburg, died Feb. 11, 2024, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.
Cremation was accorded, and a memorial visitation was held on Feb. 16 at Rux Funeral Home in Williamsfield.
Wayne was born July 4, 1968, in Galesburg, the son of Alan and Marsha (Collopy) Galpin. He is survived by his mother and stepfather Marsha and Wayne Buss of Laura; his fiancée, Lorelee Dawn Simpson of Galesburg; his son, Wayne (Lisa) Galpin of Peoria; his daughter, Nadine Galpin of Peoria; two grandchildren; his sister, Carrie (Wes) Peek of Laura; and his brother, Jim Galpin of Williamsfield.
He grew up in the Williamsfield and Princeville areas.
Mary L. Haahn
FARMINGTON – Mary L. Haahn, 67, of Farmington, passed away on Feb. 12, 2024, at Graham Hospital in Canton. Mary was born in Peoria on Sept. 1, 1956, to Bob and Hazel (Burgess) Sollenberger.
Mary is survived by one daughter, Courtney (Brett) Dicks of Farmington; one stepson, Eric Haahn of East Peoria; two sisters, Betty Korth and June Ekena; one sister-in-law, Nancy Sollenberger; and two grandchildren.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, Bob Sollenberger and Ron Sollenberger.
Mary graduated from Elmwood High School in 1974.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Condolences can be left online at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Judith M. Tipton
HANNA CITY – Judith M. Tipton, 80, of Hanna City, passed away on Feb. 12, 2024, at Henry Rehab and Nursing in Henry.
She was born on Sept. 4, 1943, in Peoria to Issac William and Mildred (Matheny) Snyder.
She married Carl E. Tipton on April 13, 1963, in Eureka. He preceded her in death on Feb. 12, 2013.
She is survived by four children, Mark Tipton, Brian Tipton, James Tipton and Stacy (William) Dillingham; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and one on the way; one sister, Evelyn (Curtis) Rowden; and one brother, Steven (Pearl) Snyder.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024, at the Lord’s Table Church of God in Bartonville. The family will receive friends and family the same day from 1-3 p.m. Pastor John Miller will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded.
Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Sandra Hardman
WYOMING – Sandra “Sue” Hardman, 79, of Wyoming, passed away at 6:38 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist in Peoria. Sue was born on June 14, 1944, in Kewanee to David and Pansy (Riley) Edwards. She married Dan Hardman on Sept. 8, 1991; he survives.
Also surviving are four sons, Jim (Robin) Blair of Sheffield, Tim Blair of Toulon, Matt (Carrie) Hardman of Nashville, Tenn., and Aaron Hardman of Pekin; eight grandchildren, Jakob, Tylor, Samantha, Jessica, Hope, Roger, Farrwell and Ebba; five great-grandchildren, Tucker, Xander, Elizabeth, Maddison and Willow; and one sister, Rebecca Heaton of LaFayette. She was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Roger Blair; one granddaughter, Anna Blair; two brothers, Johnny and Bob; and one sister, Evelyn.
Sue graduated from Browns Business School and began her career working as a secretary at Blackhawk College in Kewanee. She worked for the Stark County Soil and Water Conservation District for many years, before working as a clerk in the Secretary of States Wyoming branch for nearly 20 years. She was a lifetime member of the First Baptist Church in Toulon, a Gold Star legion member, and a member of the DAR. She taught bible school and was a Cub Scout den mother when her sons were young. Sue enjoyed cooking for her family, watching the birds, and loved her cat Emma.
Her funeral was to be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, at the First Baptist Church in Toulon. Visitation was to be from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, at the church. Rev. Al Harmon was to officiate. Burial will follow at Toulon Cemetery. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming is in charge of arrangements.
Memorial contributions can be made to the First Baptist Church in Toulon. Condolences may be left for Sue’s family on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
J. ‘Wayne’ Becker
KEWANEE – J. “Wayne” Becker, 90, of Kewanee, father of a Toulon man, died Feb. 17, 2024 at the Kewanee Care Home.
He was born Oct. 7, 1933, in Two Rivers, Wis., the son of George and Bernice (Schimmel) Becker. He married Donna M. Riemer on June 11, 1955, at St. John Lutheran Church in Pulcifer, Wis.
Survivors include his wife of Kewanee; his four sons, Tim Becker of Hickory, N.C., David (Amy) Becker of Algonquin, John (Kim) Becker of Toulon and Steven (Joan) Becker of Kewanee; daughter-in-law Kelly Becker of St. Charles, Mo.; brother John Becker of Two Rivers, Wis.; sisters Delores Petska of Manitowoc, Wis., Judy Goldsmith of Fon du Lac, Wis., and Carol (Danny) Wergin of Two Rivers, Wis.; 11 grandchildren; and one great grandchild on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Chris Becker.
Funeral services were Feb. 21 at Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kewanee. Burial will be in Pleasant View Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the Kewanee Veterans Council.
Memorials may be directed to Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, Kewanee Kiwanis Foundation or to the Kewanee Schools Foundation.
Benjamin R. Howes
BETTENDORF – Benjamin R. Howes, 32, of Bettendorf, Iowa, died Friday, Feb. 2, 2024, at his home.
Benjamin was born Feb. 5, 1991, in Princeton, the son of Bob and Carol (Jacobs) Howes. He married Sarah Cannon on Feb. 9, 2019, in Bettendorf.
Benjamin was a 2014 graduate of St. Ambrose University and was employed at John Deere. He loved music, dirt bikes, playing the drums and watching the Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Lakers. He also loved spending time at his family cabin in Wisconsin.
He is survived by his wife, Sarah Howes, of Bettendorf; his parents, Bob and Carol Howes, of Walnut; two sisters, Abbey (Jeramy VanLanduit) Howes of Tampico and Sarah Howes of Wyanet; one brother, Beau (Nicole) Howes of Holly Ridge, N.C.; maternal grandmother, Marjorie Jacobs of Walnut; and his paternal grandparents, Doug (Mary) Hansen of Walnut and Tom Howes of Bradford.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Albert Jacobs; his aunt, Ruth Howes-Palacios; and his good friend, Johnny Pogliano.
A visitation was to be held on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, from 5– 7 p.m. at the Garland Funeral Home in Walnut. A graveside service was to be on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Walnut Cemetery with Reverend Philip Fischaber officiating.
A memorial has been established.
Online condolences may be sent to www.garlandfuneralhomes.com.
Patricia A. Robbins
DUNLAP – Patricia Ann Robbins, 86, of Dunlap, passed away on Monday, Feb. 12, 2024.
She was born on Aug. 6, 1937, in Peoria, to the late Ivan and Margaret (Hargadine) Ruse. On Dec. 7, 1957, she married Lloyd Wendell Robbins in Peoria. He preceded her in death on July 20, 2003.
Survivors include three children, Jill Robbins Rosen of Broad Run, Va., Jacqueline (Richard) Deibner of Wyoming, Ill., and James (Julie) Robbins of Great Mills, Md.; nine grandchildren, Brian Arthur (Christianna) Coss, Daniel Lee Coss, Christaan Lloyd Deibner, Lindsey Edwin (Kristi) Deibner, Travis McKensie (Brittney) Deibner, Wesleyan Richard (Nola) Deibner, Katherine Margaret (Alex) Moss, Jacob Lloyd Robbins and Joshua James Robbins; and 15 great-grandchildren.
Pat graduated in 1955 from Wyoming Community High School. She was active in the FHA, Drama and Wy-Hi Booster Clubs. She was the art editor and played clarinet in the band.
Patricia worked as a secretary for Rennick Law Offices before marrying her high-school sweetheart in 1957. Following marriage, she dedicated herself to caring for her family and managing the family farm she inherited from her late parents. Together, she and Lloyd enjoyed traveling and being part of their communities in both Texas and Tennessee where they were active in the HOAs and the establishment of the volunteer fire department.
After Lloyd’s death, she moved to Dunlap, Ill., to be near family. She enjoyed being involved with others, visiting her family and was active as the vice president of the Fields of Hickory Grove Condo Association for many years.
Her funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Rev. Glenn Corbly will officiate. Burial will follow at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in rural Wyoming.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Penn Township Cemetery Fund.
Condolences may be left for Patricia’s family on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Nancy A. Puskar
KEWANEE – Nancy Ann Puskar, 74, of Kewanee, died Feb. 8, 2024, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
She was born on Aug. 25, 1949, in Springfield. She married Leo “Sonny” Puskar Jr. on Dec. 19, 1969, in Toulon and he preceded her in death on Aug. 1, 2007.
She is survived by two sons, Leo Puskar III and James (Valerie) Puskar, both of Kewanee; two daughters, Sherry (Reuben) Israel of Rockford and Michelle Puskar of Kewanee; four grandchildren; and a great-granddaughter on the way.
Nancy was a graduate of Toulon High School and Black Hawk East. She had worked at Excel Leather Factory and was also a homemaker.
Cremation will be accorded and graveside services will be held at Pleasant View Cemetery at a later date.
Rux Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Jon M. Burgess
PRINCEVILLE – Jon Michael “Mike” Burgess, 80, of Princeville, passed away at home Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024. He was born on Feb. 16, 1943, in Princeville to Paul M. and Marcia S. (Steinman) Burgess.
Surviving are one sister, Nancy (Burgess) Guingrich of Peoria Heights; one brother, Paul R. “Dick” (Ellie) Burgess of Florida; one sister-in-law, Evie Schlehuber of Peoria; and several nieces and nephews, Paula Terwilliger (Kevin) of Concord, Calif.; Christy DeBord (Bill “Willy”) of Princeville, Ill.; Amy Densberger (Randy) of Aurora, Ill.; Brenda Colyer of Sterrett, Ala.; Luanne Cundiff (Craig) of St. Charles, Mo.; Richard M. Guingrich (Jessica) of Peoria; Shaun Guingrich (Wendy) and Adam Guingrich, all of Peoria; Larissa Guingrich and Brendan Guingrich, both of Peoria Heights. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother-in-law, Dr. Richard D. Guingrich.
Mike served in the United States Air Force. He was previously employed at Princeville Canning Company; drove for Monica Elevator; operated a café in Monica, Ill.; was road commissioner for Princeville Township; and was currently employed by the Petersons, working at their horse stable in Brimfield. Mike enjoyed fishing in Minnesota and sailing the Pacific Ocean; he loved his dogs over the years and being outside in his garden. He enjoyed cooking and he loved when the Schwann’s truck showed up with apple pie and ice cream; he enjoyed a wide range of music (including country and opera) and he himself played clarinet as a young man. Mike enjoyed Lionel trains and his old TV and radio shows were a favorite pastime. Mike loved the John Deere company, especially their tractors. Mike was seldom at a loss for words and always let folks know where he stood. Mike was always willing to help a neighbor in need. He had many dear friends and a loving family. He will be missed by all.
A graveside service was to be at 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 12, 2024, at Princeville Township Cemetery. Rev. David Pyell was to officiate. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorial contributions can be made to the charity of the donors’ choice.
Condolences for Mike’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Michael W. Crouch
ELMWOOD – Michael W. Crouch, 87, of Elmwood, passed away at 6:10 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, at Country Comfort in Elmwood. He was born April 29, 1936, in Peoria, to Wilbur and Juanita (Hahn) Crouch. He married Patricia Doubet on Oct. 8, 1955, in Princeville. She survives.
He is also survived by six children, Dennis (Joy) Crouch of Eureka, Cathy (Dave) Shipley of Yates City, Ronald (Kim) Crouch of Brimfield, Connie (Randy) Dollar of Chewlah, Wash., Cheryl (Curtis) Wright of Eureka and Brenda (Dave) Evans of Normal; 18 grandchildren; and 31 great-grandchildren.
Michael is preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Joan Orr.
Michael was a lifetime sheep shearer. He won many contests/accolades, including National Sheep Shearing Contest winner in 1974, second place in 1982, the Indiana Sheep Shearing Contest four times and Sheep Shearer of the Year three years in a row. Michael managed the Illinois Sheep Shearing Contest for many years. He sheared all over the United States and in Canada.
Michael was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan, loved to travel and enjoyed playing cards with family and friends. Michael served in the Navy Reserves for six years. He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Elmwood.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A private burial of ashes will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in rural Elmwood. A Celebration of Life will be held at noon on Friday, March 1, 2024, at the fellowship hall at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to B.Y.E. Ambulance and the American Cancer Society.
To leave online condolences, visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Sandra S. Eberle
ELMWOOD – Sandra S. Eberle, 77, of Elmwood, passed away at 2:55 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Sandra was born July 7, 1946, in Peoria, to Harlan and Ruth (Tolly) Eberle.
Sandra is survived by her good friend of 55 years, Fannie Moore; one sister-in-law, Rosemary Eberle; and many nieces and nephews, Cindy (Dave) Dewalt, Mike (Debbie) Eberle, Shelly (Randy) Egli, Lori (Pat) Sheldon, Lynn (John) Pieper and Jeffery Eberle.
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Harlan Eberle and Jack (Doris) Eberle.
Sandra graduated from Chillicothe High School and worked at ALCOA in Princeville for 55 years. She also enjoyed traveling to Florida for over 20 years where she met many wonderful friends.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A burial of her ashes will be held at Elmwood Township Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to any animal shelter of the donor’s choice.
To leave online condolences, visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Donald K. Hogue
ELMWOOD – Donald K. Hogue, 46, of Elmwood, passed away at 10:04 p.m., on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. He was born Oct. 25, 1977, in Galesburg, to Gary and Susan (Cowden) Hogue. They preceded him in death.
He is survived by one brother, Cameron Hogue of Creve Coeur; one sister, Brandy (Eric) Herring of Elmwood; three nephews he adored, Gage Hogue, Jarett Roberts and CJ Land; and his grandmother, June Northrup of Elmwood.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
To leave online condolences, visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Michael D. Welch
EDWARDS – Michael Dean Welch, 66, of Edwards, Ill., passed at OSF Richard Owens Hospice Home in Peoria on Feb. 7, 2024, surrounded by his family.
He was born to Gary and Phyllis (Balagna) Welch on Aug. 23, 1957, in Peoria, Ill. He grew up in Hanna City and graduated from Farmington High School, Class of 1975. He graduated from Western Illinois University in 1979 with a BA in business.
Mike began a 44-year career at CILCO/Ameren in May 1979, retiring in May 2023.
Mike married Lynette (Long) Welch on Aug. 8, 1981. Together they have four children, Jillian Welch, Samantha (Kyle) Stover, Joseph (Brittany) Welch and Michael (Kristen) Welch. He was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren, Alex, Oliver, Mason, Garrett, Mia, Grace, Meadow, Gwendolyn and Marley. Mike is also survived by his mother and sisters, Susan (Vern) Newell and Stacey (Carol) Welch Anderson.
Mike was a proud member of: Farmington Moose Lodge 1571, Peoria Rotary North, Home Builders Assoc., Maple Lane Country Club and the Hanna City Sportsman’s Club. Mike enjoyed spending time with friends and family, hunting at the Bennett Farm, riding motorcycles, “collecting his mail” at Jimmy’s and yelling at his Cubs and Bears.
The family would like to extend their extreme gratitude to the ALS Foundation, OSF Saint Francis Medical Center Emergency Department and Medical ICU, and the Richard Owens Hospice Home.
A private graveside service will take place at Smithville Cemetery. Please join the family for Mike’s Celebration of Life on Friday, Feb. 16, beginning at noon at the Hanna City Sportsman’s Club.
Donations may be made to Team Gleason P.O. Box 24493, New Orleans, LA 70184, or the Hanna City Sportsman’s Club Scholarship in memory of Mike Welch.
John Wheeler
ELMWOOD – John Wheeler, 87, of Elmwood, passed away Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, at Sunset Manor in Canton. He was born on April 13, 1936, to Charles and Goldie (Raymond) Wheeler. John married Eleanor (Hall) on Sept. 20, 1959.
He is survived by three children, Ron (Robin) Wheeler of Elmwood, Angie (Jeff) Davis of Yates City and Melinda (Doug) Smith of Trivoli; three brothers, Chuck, Lawrence and Richard; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Cremation rites will be accorded.
To leave online condolences, visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Mary A. Sams
PEORIA – Mary Ann Sams, 69 of Peoria, Ill., sister of a Williamsfield man, died Feb. 7, 2024 peacefully at her home.
Mary was born May 25, 1954, in Monterey, Tenn., the daughter of James and Grace Sams. Survivors include three children Shane (Jamie) Vester, Tonya (Pascal) Maroun and Terry Joe II (Bri) Bohannan; siblings Vivian Brown, Vera (Clifford) Greer, Patty Lafever and Charles (Annette) Sams; seven grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.
A visitation will be held 9:30-10:30 a.m., today, Feb. 15, at Rux Funeral Home in Williamsfield, with graveside services following at 11 a.m. at Glendale Cemetery in Elmore.
Donald H. Nott
MAQUON – Donald H. “Don” Nott, 90, of Galesburg, formerly of Maquon, Ill., died 9:25 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, at Allure of Knox County, Galesburg.
He was born Oct. 10, 1933, in Abingdon, Ill., the son of Harvey and Irene (Peck) Nott. He married Betty Duggins on March 2, 1957, in Elmwood, Ill.
Surviving is his wife of almost 67 years, Betty Nott of Galesburg; a son, Douglas (and Ruthie) Nott of Maquon; two daughters, Lois Grohmann of Lincoln, Ill., and Karen McCormick of Maquon; a brother, Fred (and Linda) Nott of Tennessee; three grandchildren, Michelle (and Ryan) Goetz, Elizabeth (and David) Matchefts and Randy Grohmann; and three great-granddaughters, Adelynne, Madison and Emersyn Goetz.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Robert Nott, Charles Nott and Harold Nott; and two sisters, Dorothy Howell and Shirley McCormick.
Don lived in Maquon most of his life. He attended Fruithill and Maquon schools. From 1955-57 he served his country in the U.S. Navy. He was a farmer in the Maquon area his whole life. He was also a salesman for Vigortone Feed Company and was a mechanic for the Burlington Truck Lines in Galesburg for 21 years.
Don loved his family and worked very hard to support them.
As Don requested, cremation will be accorded. A graveside service will be 10 a.m. Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Haynes Cemetery, near Delong, Ill. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Heart Association. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Abingdon Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
Connie E. Richards
BRIMFIELD – Connie E. Richards, 63, died Jan. 22, 2024, at 1:35 a.m. She was born Dec. 2, 1960, in Canton, Ill., a daughter of Harris and Thelma Richards of Elmwood.
Connie is survived by her life partner, Ken Joos; her daughter, Misty (Justin) Stodgel; two grandsons, Byron (Sierra) Stodgel and Gavin Haw; granddaughter Natilie Clifton; two great-grandsons, Emmett and Sullivan; two sisters, Cindy Richards and Kathy (Leroy) Richards; and many nieces and nephews, whom she loved, along with many friends.
Connie liked helping people and going on trips with Kenny to the mountains while stopping at casinos along the way. She will be missed.
Online condolences can be left at Schmidt-Haller Burial and Cremation Services’ website www.schmidthaller.com.
A private graveside service will be at a later date.
Donald G. Cecil
MAQUON – Donald G. Cecil passed away in Rogers, Ark., on Jan. 29, 2024. He was born July 18, 1941, in Galesburg to Kenneth and Margaret (Martin) Cecil. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his brother James Cecil.
He is survived by his sister Roberta (Roger) Wilson, and his children from his marriage to Judy Kay Cecil (deceased), including sons Kurtis Cecil (Yulien) of Bella Vista, Ark., Kyle Cecil (Staci) of Maquon and daughter Julie Fleming (Robert) of Des Moines, Iowa. He had three grandsons, two granddaughters and six great-grandchildren.
Don was raised and lived almost his entire life in Maquon, where he farmed corn and soybeans and worked as a bulldozer operator.
Following cremation, Don will be buried in his Illinois hometown at a later date.
Lowell D. Landon
ELMWOOD – Lowell Dean Landon, 77, of Elmwood, Ill., passed away on Friday, Jan. 26, 2024, at 10:36 a.m. at his home. He was born on Nov. 6, 1946, to Joseph and Elsie (Catron) Landon.
He is survived by two children, Andrea Stanley and Steven Landon; five grandchildren; and one brother, William “Bill” Landon.
He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Rodney and Joseph Landon Jr.; and one sister, Elsie Jane Landon.
Cremation rites will be accorded. Burial of ashes will be held at Smithville Cemetery at a later date.
Motz of Wataga and Jason (Jackie) Motz of Wataga; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, nephew Travis Swanson and uncles Johnny Joe Motz and Charlie Motz.
A graveside service was to be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024, at Wataga Cemetery. A celebration of life was to follow at 2 p.m. at Motzee’s in Wataga.
Condolences can be made online at hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
David L. Smith
BRIMFIELD – David L. Smith, 84, of Brimfield, passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. He was born on Sept. 9, 1939, in Peoria, to Charles and Mary (Kleppe) Smith. He married Barbara C. Polonus on Sept. 19, 1959, at St. Mark Catholic Church in Peoria. She preceded him in death on March 27, 2023, after 63 years of marriage.
Surviving are two sons, David “Scott” (Julie) Smith of Glen Carbon and Dr. Mark (Angie) Smith of Washington; one daughter, Anne (Stuart) Smith-Ingersoll of Elmwood; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He is also survived by one brother, Gerald (Lucille) Smith of Middleburg, Fla.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, four brothers-in-law and two sisters-in-law.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial Mass will be celebrated by Fr. John Verrier on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Brimfield at 11 a.m., with a luncheon to follow. The family will receive relatives and friends one hour prior to services at the church. Interment will be at Resurrection Mausoleum in Peoria, at a later date.
Condolences can be made online at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.
Katherine E. Wheeler
HANNA CITY – Katherine E. Wheeler, 51, of Hanna City, passed away on Jan. 31, 2024, at her residence. She was born on Feb. 23, 1972, in Gallipolis, Ohio, a daughter of John Thomas and Dorothy (Ketterer) Griffin III.
She married Nathan Wheeler on Oct. 20, 2007, in Peoria. He survives.
Also surviving are her mother, Dorothy (David) Yeager of Hanna City; son, Griffin D. Wheeler at home; brother, John Thomas (Molly) Griffin IV of Novato, Calif., stepmother, Marilynn Griffin of Gaylord, Mich.; father-in-law, Lawrence Wheeler of Farmington, brother-in-law, Brett (Jennifer) Wheeler of Farmington; and sister-in-law, Crystal (Jeremiah) Seymour of Farmington.
Preceding Katherine in death was her father, John Thomas Griffin III.
Cremation rites will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Condolences can be made online at sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Dolores M. Galindo
PRINCEVILLE – Dolores M. Galindo, 82, of Princeville, died Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024, surrounded by family at home. Dolores was born July 31, 1941, in Brimfield, the daughter of Eugene M. and Margaret (Tucker) Daum.
Dolores attended Princeville High School, graduating with the class of 1959. She married Mario A. Galindo on July 18, 1959, in Princeville; he preceded her in death on Feb. 24, 2009.
Dolores is survived by five children, Raul (Sue) Galindo of Princeville, Deanna (Ron) Musselman of Toulon, Corrina Smith of Princeville, Roxana (Todd) Crose of Princeville and Mario “Geno” Galindo of Princeville; stepdaughter, Carmen Rojas of Harlingen, Texas; 10 grandchildren, Nic Galindo, Ashley (Adam) Donahoe, Jason Musselman, Vanessa (Bill) Bohm, Michelle Smith (Alec Burris), Brandy (Warren) Ward, Brandon Crose, Falon (Shawn) DeBord, Jessie Galindo (Hunter Wilkenson) and Carmelita De Los Reyes; nine great-grandchildren, Ariella, Axel, Aiden, Miles, Millie, Alex, Sam, Easton, Delilah and another on the way; and four nephews, Ronnie, Rolland, Rick and Robert.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; three brothers, Raymond, Billy and Kenny; and her beloved dog, Bentley.
Dolores worked at LR Nelson, Princeville, as an assembler, retiring in 2004 after 25 years. Dolores enjoyed sewing, quilting and gardening. She was a member of the Quilt Club in Elmwood. She also enjoyed going to garage sales and thrift stores. She loved her dogs. Dolores loved spending time with her family; she especially enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s activities.
There will be no services at this time. Memorials may be left at the funeral home for either the American Cancer Society or Animal Protection Services (PCAPS), Peoria.
Please leave an online condolence for Dolores’ family at www.golnickschuenemanfh.com.
James H. Hickey
