Roy D. Carlson
ALTONA – Roy D. Carlson, 91, of Altona died at 4 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024, at the Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.
Roy was born July 23, 1933, Henderson Township in Oneida, Ill., the son of Albert and Anna Carlson. He married Shirley A. (Fortman) on March 3, 1957, at the United Methodist Church in Victoria, Ill.
He is survived by two daughters, Sally (Eric) Ohlson of Edelstein, Ill., and Kathy (Rob) Schulz of Dunlap, Ill.; eight grandchildren, Erin (Eric) Daugherty of San Antonio, Texas, Daniel Ohlson of Peoria, Ill., Michelle Ohlson of Peoria, Andrew Schulz of Dunlap, Ryan Cote, Evan Cote, both of Tallahassee, Fla., Michael Schulz of Dunlap and Steven Ohlson of Edelstein; and two great-grandsons, Kai and Aiden Daugherty.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 50 years; two daughters, Susan Cote of Tallahassee, Fla. and Karen Greer of Henry, Ill.; two grandchildren, Ellen and David Schulz of Dunlap; and siblings; Raymond Carlson, Edith Carlson, Alice Carlson and Shirley Schrodt.
Roy graduated from ROVA High School in 1951. He made a career of farming in Oneida, DeLong and Altona. He enlisted in the U.S. Army from September 1954 to September 1956. He later worked at Dixline Corporation in Galva.
Roy and Shirley were leaders of the Walnut Grove Progressors 4-H Club of Altona for many years. After retiring from farming Roy enjoyed working on antique tractors and being an active member of Maxey Chapel Church of Dahinda and the United Methodist Church of Victoria. Roy had a beautiful tenor voice and enjoyed singing. He had a very optimistic outlook on life and a great sense of humor. He will be dearly missed.
Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 8, at the United Methodist Church of Victoria with Pastor Russell Collister officiating. A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7, at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. Burial will be in Galva Cemetery, where military rites will be accorded by the Galva Fusiliers.
Memorials may be directed to the United Methodist Church of Victoria, the Maxey Chapel Church or to the American Heart Association.
Mary A. Knobloch
PRINCEVILLE – Mary Alice Knobloch, 76, of Princeville, passed away at 11:20 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Mary was born March 22, 1948, in Monmouth to Eugene J. and Jennie L. (Johnson) Flake.
On March 14, 1980, she married her cherished life partner, Gerald “Jerry” Knobloch; he survives. Also surviving are their two children, Ryan Knobloch and his wife Jennie, of Bloomington; and Ann Jacott and her husband Tom, of Skokie.
Her greatest joy came from family and she took immense pride in being grandma to four grandchildren, Hayden, Harper and Henry Knobloch, and Adalyn Jacott. She is survived by one sister, Jeanine Flake of Ocean Springs, Miss.
She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Neal Flake; and one brother-in-law, Kenneth Boemker.
Mary attended Illinois State University and Northern Arizona University, where she laid the foundation for a career in education and community service. Her professional teaching journey took her to a Navajo Indian Reservation in Arizona and then to Wyoming Grade School, where she touched many lives and made lifelong friendships.
She valued the importance of education by tutoring and volunteering at school and in the community. Known for her giving nature and creativity, Mary approached life with a sense of humor and a touch of mischief. Her impeccable tidiness reflected her desire to maintain a welcome home for everyone who visited. Jerry and Mary spent 17 years wintering in Phoenix together and enjoyed being outside in warmer weather. Mary is remembered for her steadfast loyalty to her students, and above all else, her love for family, friends and neighbors.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at the Princeville United Methodist Church. Rev. David Pyell will officiate. A gathering will follow until 1 p.m. at the church. A private burial will be in the Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery in Princeville. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting with the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. To leave condolences for Mary’s family, please visit www.haskellfuneral.com.
Delores A. Shimmin
KEWANEE – Delores A. Shimmin, 85, of Kewanee, died at 5:21 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024, at Hammond-Henry Hospital Long Term Care Living Center in Geneseo.
She was born June 17, 1939, in Kewanee, the daughter of Lawrence and Lucille (Bennett) Beyer. She married Robert J. Shimmin on July 28, 1957, in Kewanee and he preceded her in death on Sept. 26, 2008.
Survivors include her daughter, Rhonda (Brian) McKinstry of Grant Park, Ill.; two sons, Lawrence (Karen) Shimmin of Coal Valley and Michael (Melinda) Shimmin of Kewanee; AFS daughter, Barbara (Val) Lazzarina Adami of Brisbane, Australia; her grandchildren, Erica Ann (Todd) Tholl, Mackenzie Shimmin, Marshall (Caseelynn) Shimmin and Mitchell Shimmin, Patrick Hayes, Clayton and Shelby McKinstry and Val Adami Jr. and Nicholas Adami; a great-grandson, Chase Tholl; three sisters, Beverly (Dale) Williams of Kewanee, Mary (Ron) Keim of Moline and Bonnie (Dan) Thompson of Princeton; and two stepsisters, Jeanne (Larry) Roller of Monticello and Bonnie Keeney of Texas.
She was also preceded in death by her father and mother and stepfather, Lucille and Marvin Keeney, and brother-in-law, Jerry Workman.
Delores graduated from Wethersfield High School in 1957. She had worked as a data processor for Kewanee Hospital. She was a member of the Church of Peace and the Peacemakers at the church. She enjoyed cooking and baking and was also a member of a card club for many years and loved playing cards with her friends. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother and cherished the time spent with them. She also enjoyed following her grandchildren and great grandchildren in all of their extracurricular activities.
Funeral services were to be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 5 at Church of Peace in rural Kewanee with Pastor Andrew Christman officiating. A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of the services at the church. The burial will be in the Garden of Peace Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Church of Peace or to Wethersfield School.
Marvin L. Shults
TOULON – Marvin Lee Shults, 81, of Toulon, died Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, at the Kewanee Care Home.
He was born May 19, 1943, in Kewanee, the son of Clyde and Alice (Peterson) Shults. Survivors include his brother, Roger (Linda) Shults of Toulon; and two nephews Keith and Bryan (Traci) Shults and their children, Brandon and Tiffany. He was preceded in death by his parents and his special friend, Linda Scheider.
Marvin obtained a bachelor’s degree in business from Bradley University. He worked for many years as a farmer and a rural mail carrier. He especially enjoyed farming and was an avid traveller, having visited, Mexico, Russia, Stockholm, Sweden, London, England and Perth, Australia.
Graveside services and burial will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at the Toulon Cemetery with Rev. Glenn Corbly officiating. A visitation will be held from 10-10:45 a.m., Monday at Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee. Memorials may be directed to the Toulon Methodist Church.
Macauley A. Gibbs
CHICAGO – Macauley Anthony Gibbs passed peacefully on August 30, 2024, at 1:18 a.m. at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. He spent his final moments in his mom and dad’s arms surrounded by many loved ones.
Mack was a warrior from the moment he was born, on Aug. 8, 2023. He battled many medical complications and major surgeries during his 259 days in the NICU and PICU at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Ill., after his birth. After his discharge, Mack spent his days cuddling with mom, playing with dad and being ornery with his brother.
Mack is survived by his parents, Parker and Kaselyn (Hart) Gibbs; twin brother, Theodore; maternal grandparents, Anthony and Diana (Tribby) Hart; and paternal grandparents, Garry and Lori (Grossman) Gibbs. He is also survived by three great-grandparents, Becky Tribby, Bob Hart and Sheryl Hart; aunt Anna; uncle Justin; aunt Abby; uncle Eli; aunt Holly; uncle Mat; uncle Cory; aunt Olivia; his Lulu (Aunt Lily); and cousins Avery, Maggie, Apollos and Grayson, who all loved him very much.
Mack was a bright light. His smile was infectious and his personality was the sweetest. No matter what battle he was facing, he was happy and brave. He brought joy to everyone who had the chance to see his smile, big blue eyes and long, long eyelashes. He loved Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, his toy DJ Bouncin’ Beats, all kinds of music and being around his family.
A memorial service was held at Northwoods Community Church in Peoria Sept. 3, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., with a reception following.
We would like to thank the staff at Saint Francis for their care of our sweet boy. You helped to make his short life here a little more enjoyable.
Donations can be made in Mack’s name to the OSF Saint Francis Congenital Heart Center.
To leave online condolences, visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Joseph V. Mooney
MONTROSE, Colo. – Joseph Verald Mooney, 77, of Montrose, Colo., passed away on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, at his home. Joe was born in Lincoln, Ill., on May 29, 1947, and graduated from Farmington High School in Illinois.
He was the son of Verald and Wanda Mooney.
Joe is survived by his wife, LaDonna; son and daughter, Darrin and Amanda; two sisters, Shirley and Susan; and two granddaughters, Savannah and Sierra.
He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Michael; and sister, Kathryn.
Joe had a special appreciation for wildlife, especially eagles and wolves. His ability to connect with animals was truly unique.
He was an avid basketball fan, a dedicated golfer and enjoyed riding his bicycle. Joe loved to cook and opened his own restaurant in Phoenix. He had a passion for fast cars, airplanes and rock-n-roll. Joe will forever be remembered as resilient, patient and kind to all.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024, at the Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington, Ill.
Eugene M. Sweeney
DUNLAP – Eugene Michael “Gene” Sweeney, 82, passed away on Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, at his home in Dunlap, Ill.
Gene was born on Nov. 10, 1941, in Carrollton, Mo., a son of Harry E. and Clara W. (Lock) Sweeney. Gene married Donna Coe on June 26, 1964, in Carrollton, Mo. She survives.
Surviving family members also include their children, Michael D. (Leann) Sweeney of Elmwood, Ill., and Joseph R. (Jessica) Sweeney of Fruita, Colo.; siblings Dorothy “Ducky” Huppe, Raymond Sweeney, Patricia “Pat” Calvert, Margaret “Margie” E. Stober, Rita K. Bales, William “Bill” T. Sweeney, Robert “Bob” D. Sweeney, John D. Sweeney, Connie Jo Wiard and Annette Smith; five stepgrandchildren; and four stepgreat-grandchildren.
His parents preceded him in death as did four siblings, Rose Marie Lavelock, Elizabeth “Betty” Armentrout, Richard “Dick” Sweeney and Daniel “Dan” Sweeney.
Gene attended the University of Missouri and received his master’s degree in civil engineering. He worked at Caterpillar Inc. from 1965-2001 as an engineer. He spent three years in the Caterpillar proving grounds in Tucson, Ariz., then later worked at CAT Brazil for three years.
Gene was very proud and active in the Peoria community. He and Donna were members and choir singers at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Brimfield and most recently members of St. Jude church. He was an active member of Cursillo and on the board of the Heartland Festival Orchestra. He was involved in the Kickapoo Knights of Columbus, then later St. Jude Knights of Columbus.
Gene will be remembered fondly by family and friends. He was known as a woodworker, winemaker and gardener. He was also an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.
Visitation will be from 5-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, at Wright & Salmon Mortuary in Peoria. Memorial Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024, at St. Jude Catholic Church, with a one-hour prior visitation, also at the church. The Rev. Patrick Henehan will officiate and private inurnment of ashes will follow later at Resurrection Mausoleum.
Memorials may be made to the Gene and Donna Sweeney Arts and Education Fund, through Community Foundation of Central Illinois, 3625 N. Sheridan Rd., Peoria, IL, 61604.
Friends and family may view full obituary and sign the online guestbook by logging onto www.wrightandsalmon.com.
Mary A. Knobloch
PRINCEVILLE – Mary Alice Knobloch, 76, of Princeville, passed away at 11:20 p.m. Friday, August 30, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Mary was born March 22, 1948, in Monmouth to Eugene J. and Jennie L. (Johnson) Flake.
On March 14, 1980, she married her cherished life partner, Gerald “Jerry” Knobloch; he survives. Also surviving are their two children, Ryan Knobloch and his wife, Jennie, of Bloomington; and Ann Jacott and her husband, Tom, of Skokie. Her greatest joy came from family and she took immense pride in being grandma to four grandchildren: Hayden, Harper and Henry Knobloch, and Adalyn Jacott. She is survived by one sister, Jeanine Flake of Ocean Springs, Miss. She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Neal Flake; and one brother-in-law, Kenneth Boemker.
Mary attended Illinois State University and Northern Arizona University, where she laid the foundation for a career in education and community service. Her professional teaching journey took her to a Navajo Indian reservation in Arizona and then to Wyoming Grade School, where she touched many lives and made lifelong friendships.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at the Princeville United Methodist Church. Rev. David Pyell will officiate. A gathering will follow until 1 p.m. at the church. A private burial will be in the Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery in Princeville. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting with the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Joan M. Pfahl
HANNA CITY – Joan M. Pfahl, 88, of Hanna City, passed away on Aug. 27, 2024, at 4:26 p.m. at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.
She was born on May 26, 1936, in Peoria to Thomas and Marian (Wallace) Armstrong. She married Raymond Pfahl Sr. on Nov. 20, 1955, in East Peoria. He passed away on June 21, 2004, in Peoria. She was also preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Joy Miller; and two daughters-in-law, Donita Pfahl and Janese Pfahl.
Survivors include four sons, Raymond Pfahl Jr. of Kenosha, Wis., Mark (Lynn) Pfahl of Castle Rock, Colo., Michael (Jaymie) Pfahl of Colorado Springs, Colo., and James (Rebecca) Pfahl of Hanna City; three daughters, Susan Pfahl of Fountain, Colo., Connie (Steven Althaus) Pfahl of Oakley, Calif., and Penny Pfahl of Fountain, Colo; 15 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two sisters, June (Kirt) Abbott of Chillicothe and Janet (Gary) Sharp of Chillicothe.
Visitation was to be Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. at the Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel. Funeral services will be Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Glasford. Additional visitation will be one hour prior to the services on Thursday at the church. Burial will be in Smithville Cemetery.
Donald W. Betts
DES MOINES, Iowa – Donald Wayne Betts, 80, Des Moines, Iowa, died Wednesday, July 31, 2024, with his family present. Don was born June 21, 1944, in Princeville, Ill., to Clemment and Lois (George) Betts. He was a U.S. Navy veteran serving on the USS Enterprise during the Vietnam War.
Survivors include wife Marcella Robinson Schneberger Betts; children Sherry Smith and Tom Spence; stepchildren Diane Thacker and Mark Zindelo; sister Shirley Bland; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
The family greeted friends on Friday, Aug. 9, from 7-8 p.m., with a prayer service at 8 p.m., at Iles Grandview Park Chapel in Des Moines. A Mass of Christian Burial was Aug. 10, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Des Moines. Burial followed at Glendale Cemetery with military honors.
A complete obituary is available at www.ilescares.com.
Jared P. Code
BRADFORD – Jared Patrick Code, 25, of Bradford, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, at his home.
Born in Peoria, on June 9, 1999, he was the son of Brian and Sherri (Barnett) Code. He was a 2017 graduate of Stark County High School and went on to study at Illinois State University.
Surviving are his parents, Brian and Sherri Code of Bradford; three siblings, Jim (Justine) Code of Chicago, Katelyn (Tony) Gripp of Annawan and Jacob (Megan) Code of Bradford; two nephews, Theo and Knox Gripp; a niece on the way; paternal grandmother, Patricia Code; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Dean and Phyliss Barnett; paternal grandfather, Raymond “Luke” Code, Jr.; and a cousin, Jennifer Morrissey.
Jared loved golfing, reading and playing video games, and was an avid Chicago Cubs, Green Bay Packers and Notre Dame fan. He enjoyed history, trivia, a good musical and a bag of pizza rolls. Above all else, he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially the opportunities he had to babysit his nephews. His infectious smile will be remembered by all who knew him.
Funeral Mass was Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Bradford. Father John Thieryoung, officiated. Burial was in St. John Cemetery. Memorial contributions will be given to Suicide Prevention Awareness. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming is assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be left for Jared’s family on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Orval Evans
BRADFORD – Orval “Ray” Evans, 84, of Bradford, Ill., passed away on Monday, Aug. 12, 2024, at his home surrounded by loved ones.
Ray was born on March 18, 1940, in Anchor, Ill., the son of Floyd and Glenda (Pittsenbarger) Evans. He was raised by his beloved grandparents Glen and Addie Pittsenbarger.
Ray married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Marilyn Punke on July 3, 1960, at El Paso Lutheran Church in El Paso, Ill. He worked as an electrician at Caterpillar Inc. in Peoria for 31 years prior to his retirement in 1992.
Ray loved fishing, woodworking, gardening and traveling, but most of all he cherished spending time with his family and beloved dog, Opie.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marilyn Evans; two children, Scott (Judy) Evans and Lori (John) Nelson and adopted daughter, Jacqui Grant, all of Bradford; two granddaughters, Sara and Ashley Nelson; and two great-grandchildren, Ryker and Addisyn.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Online condolences may be made at www.grant-johnsonfh.com.
Philip H. Wilkinson
WYOMING – Philip Herbert Wilkinson, 67, born in Kewanee, Ill., on Aug. 15, 1956, and peacefully passed on Aug. 13, 2024, surrounded by family and friends.
Phil was the youngest son of five children of Wesley ‘Newt’ and Charlotte Wilkinson. Phil was married on June 30, 1984, to Patricia Hough in Toulon. Preceding him in death are his parents, Wesley (Newt) Wilkinson and Charlotte Wilkinson; his brothers, Paul N. Wilkinson and Wesley L. Wilkinson; father-in-law, Pat Hough; and brother-in-law, Scott Hough.
Surviving are his wife, Patricia E. (Hough) Wilkinson; son, Travis (Amanda) Wilkinson of Peoria; daughter, Taylor Wilkinson of Wyoming; three grandchildren, Kathryn, Matthew and Joseph; brother, Robert (Janet) Wilkinson of Wyoming; sister, Carolyn Conklin of Peoria; mother-in-law, Carolyn Hough; sister-in-law, Denise Wilkinson; and brothers-in-law, Stephen and Shannon (Lezlee Hough) of Olney, Ill.; and numerous nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.
Phil graduated from Toulon-Lafayette High School in 1974 and earned a bachelor of science in ornamental horticulture from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1978. Phil was chairman of the 1978 Mom’s Weekend Horticulture Club Flower Show and was Horticulture Club Member of the Year in 1978.
Upon graduation from the University of Illinois, Phil worked as a greenhouse grower and manager in Pawhuska, Okla., and Oklahoma City from 1978 to 1987. While living in Oklahoma, Phil sang in the OK Chorale Men’s Barbershop Chorus and volunteered many hours with Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Oklahoma. Phil also taught horticulture and greenhouse management at the DuPage Horticulture School in West Chicago and, in 1988, Phil became a sales representative for Mid-American Growers in Granville. He later worked in the materials department at Great Dane Trailers in Kewanee, retiring in 2023.
Phil and Patty owned and operated Stark County Design for over 30 years and specialized in weddings, special occasions, craft shows and funerals. He enjoyed tending to his plantings at the State Bank of Toulon and in the City of Toulon for many years. He also enjoyed spending time with his three grandchildren, cheering on the Illini, tending to his garden and supporting his children and wife, Patty. Phil was immensely proud of the personal and professional successes of his children, Travis and Taylor, and wife, Patty. Phil has always been a person of great faith and those values were known by many who knew him.
Phil was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Kewanee and was a lifetime member of the University of Illinois Alumni Association. Special thanks to Compassus Hospice of Galesburg, Dr. Remi Satkauskus, Denise Wilkinson and family, Mike and Theresa Rediger and family, Dave and Dawn Milburn Family, and the numerous family and friends who aided in his journey.
His funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 19, 2024, at Elmira United Presbyterian Church in Elmira. Danny Blakey and Rev. Art Blegen will officiate. Visitation will be from 2-5 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024 at Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Wyoming. Burial will follow in Elmira Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Phil Wilkinson Agricultural Scholarship Fund or the family needs fund at the Congenital Heart Center at the Children’s Hospital of Illinois in honor of his granddaughter, Kathryn, who received a successful heart transplant at Lurie Children’s Hospital in 2017. Condolences may be left for Phil’s family on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Ervin W. Brewer
Ervin (Ernie) Wayne Brewer, 73, of Peoria, Illinois passed away on August 9, 2024, surrounded by his family.
Ernie is survived by his children, Justin (Tracy) Brewer, Jeremy (Jennifer) Brewer and Amber Brewer, his grandsons, Colten and Brandon. He is also survived by his brother, Melvin, his in-laws, Starla (Dave) Roberts, Inez Roberts Gruber, Sharon (Danny) Northrup, and Marilyn Roberts, and many nieces andnephews.
He was predeceased by his wife of more than 40 years, Ronda, in 2018, and his parents, Jesse and Annis Brewer, sister Twila, and his grandson, Taylor. And his brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, Kenny Roberts, Bobby Roberts, and Vicky Roberts, and parents-in-law, William and Norma Crowe Roberts.
Ernie attended Elmwood High School and lived most of his life there. He did everything in his life with 100% passion. His work as a Local 18 cement mason lives on today across Central Illinois, most notably the old Elmwood school transformation into apartments and the I-74 conversion. The work was challenging and important for our community.
The family thanks OSF Senior World for their care and attention for Ernie over the past couple of years. They made a real difference in his life. And, “I’ll tell you what…”, he made some real friends with his caregivers.
Please join the family for a celebration of his life on September 21 at the Elmwood Country Club from 4:30PM – 8:30pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to OSF Senior World: Checks can be made payable to OSF HealthCare Foundation (124 S.W. Adams St., Peoria, IL 61603) with “OSF Senior World” or “IMO Ervin Brewer” in the memo. Or online (please list Ervin Brewer in the note):
https://x.osfhealthcare.org/foundation/donate-now/where-to-give/sfmc
The family very much appreciates all of the support from family and friends over the past years.
Shelley L. Siegel
YATES CITY – Shelley Lynette Siegel, 54, of Yates City, passed away at 9:37 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born Sept. 23, 1969, in Canton, to Jack and Dianne (Bird) Burgess. Shelley married Rodney “Doug” Siegel on Aug. 17, 1991, at Elmwood United Methodist Church. He survives along with two children, Austyn D. (Rachel) Siegel and Kolton S. (Hannah) Siegel; two grandchildren, Korbin and Karsyn Siegel; and one sister, Tammie (the late Dan) McCoy.
Shelley is preceded in death by her father.
Shelley enjoyed working with her family at their trucking company, Burgess Bros.
She loved shopping at Hobby Lobby and doing crafts. She also enjoyed being with Rodney in his semi. Christmas was her favorite time of year. She loved lighting her home up with Christmas lights, decorating and shopping for gifts.
Shelley was an amazing grandmother, wife and mother, and will be dearly missed.
A private family graveside service will be held at Yates City Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Elba-Salem Fire Department and the Douglas United Methodist Church.
To leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Elaine A. Jackamore
BRIMFIELD – Elaine A. (Bradley) Jackamore, 92, of Deerfield, formerly of Brimfield, passed away peacefully on Aug. 5, 2024.
She was a daughter of David C. Adams and Eda Starkey Adams; devoted wife to Pearce S. Grove of Virginia, Jim Bradley (deceased) and Thomas F. Jackamore (deceased); mother of six children, Brenda (Jim) Stenger of Illinois, Darrel Grove of Illinois, Marlene (Rich) Starshak of Illinois, Wayne (Suzanne Mettler) Grove of New York, Kent (Cindy) Grove of Wyoming and Alan (Jane) Grove of Panama; two stepsons, Stephen (Marlene) Jackamore and David (Cori) Jackamore, both of Colorado; and grandmother of 13 and great-grandmother of 20.
At Elaine’s request, there will be a family-only burial of her ashes in Ridgelawn Cemetery in Martinsville.
Samuel C. Rutledge
FARMINGTON – Samuel Carl Rutledge, 77, of Farmington, passed away on Aug. 6, 2024. Samuel was born on June 29, 1947, in Canton to Glen and Helen (Compton) Rutledge.
Sam is survived by one sibling. Sandra K. Jacobs of Elmwood.
Sam married Jane E. (Finnie) Rutledge on June 18, 1969. She survives along with his children Jeffrey (deceased), Michael (Missy), Daniel (Carrie Ann) and David, and five grandchildren.
No services will be held at this time, but a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Lee D.Viehweg
FARMINGTON – Lee Dale Viehweg, 92, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024, at Courtyard Estates in Farmington.
He was born Feb. 21, 1932, in Litchfield, Ill., the son of Arthur and Amelia (Tokarz) Viehweg. He married Patricia Suhling on Nov. 24, 1956, in Mount Olive, Ill., and shared 62 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on April 3, 2018.
Surviving are his five children, Lynn (Martin) Anderson of Madeira Beach, Fla., Mark (Lisa) Viehweg of Sioux Falls, S.D., Lori (Michael) Lally of Lakewood Ranch, Fla., David (Barb) Viehweg of Mankato, Minn., and Dennis (Stacie) Viehweg of Wayne, Ill. Lee was a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Lee was a Korean War veteran and served in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Okinawa and proudly played for the U.S. Army base all-star football team. For two years prior to entering the military, Lee was starter on the Eastern Illinois University football team.
Lee received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Western Illinois University and was employed as a principal and coach at Lewistown Elementary School for 12 years, followed by serving as a principal at Octavia High School in Colfax, Ill., for nine years. He continued in the field of education as an educational consultant with the state of Illinois in 1976 until his retirement in 1987.
Lee enjoyed retirement and spent his days hunting, fishing, gardening and traveling with his wife, Patty. His was a life well lived!
A private family service will be held at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in Farmington, with a burial of ashes in Foster Cemetery in Fairview. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Costa Catholic School in Galesburg, where Lee’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren have attended.
Marlene J. Crandell
HANNA CITY – Marlene J. Crandell, 86, of Hanna City, passed away on July 26, 2024, at a local hospital. She was born in Swindon, Wiltshire, England, on June 25, 1938, to Frank G. LeMaitre and Florence E. Morrish LeMaitre.
On April 27, 1957, she married Frank R. “Dick” Crandell, who preceded her in death on June 16, 2013.
Marlene is survived by her daughter, Lori Winter (Mike) of Hanna City; son, Rick Crandell (Susan) of Bartonville; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Gib and Mary Russell.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a grandson.
A funeral service was Aug. 6, 2024.
Condolences can be left online at www.Davison-Fulton.com.
Sandra J. DeWester
CANTON – Sandra Jane DeWester, 80, of Canton, mother of a Yates City man, passed away on Aug. 3, 2024, at Graham Hospital in Canton.
She was born on May 31, 1944, in Peoria, a daughter of Clayton M. and Nancy C. (Gaumer) Young.
Surviving are her children, William DeWester of Yates City, Tammy DeWester of West Burlington, Iowa, Bonnie Croskey of Canton, Terri DeWester of Galesburg and Rebecca DeWester of West Burlington, Iowa; nine grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; brothers, Roger Young of Peoria, and Clayton Mac Young of Missouri; and sisters, Cynthia Hamm of Canton and Phyllis Blaylock of Peoria.
Preceding her in death were her parents and a brother, John Young.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Condolences can be left online at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.
Pamela Jo Hawkins
EDELSTEIN – Pamela Jo Hawkins, 76, of Edelstein, passed away on July 27, 2024, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minn.
Pamela was born on June 20, 1948, in Peoria to John E. and Joann (Herman) Janssen. She married Larry M. Hawkins on Aug. 16, 1969, in Peoria.
Surviving are her husband, Larry; her son, Matthew C. Hawkins of Princeville; 10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Penny Wiemer of Bonita Springs, Fla., Doug (Julie) Janssen of Fort Myers, Fla., and Jayne (Steve) DeBruyn of Lake Geneva, Wis. She was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Michelle C. Hewitson.
Cremation rites were accorded and a memorial Mass will be held on Monday, Aug. 12, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Peoria Heights, with visitation at 9:30 a.m. Burial of ashes will follow in Mount Hawley Cemetery in Peoria.
Alan J. Mendenall
HANNA CITY – Alan Jay Mendenhall, 61, of Hanna City, died on July 26, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, with his loving wife of 35 years by his side.
Alan was born on Dec. 6, 1962, to Alfred Jesse Mendenhall and Vernadean (Clough) Mendenhall. He married Michelle Higgins on Nov. 19, 1988, in Peoria. She survives.
Alan also leaves behind one brother, Stanley D. (Mary) Mendenhall of East Peoria; and one sister, Marilou (Baxter) Fite of Peoria.
Alan was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Danny F Mendenhall and Larry J. Mendenhall; and one sister, Janet L. (Mendenhall) Bortolussi.
Private inurnment will be at a later date.
Condolences can be left online at www.wrightandsalmon.com.
Harry R. Sherlock
PEORIA – Harry R. Sherlock, 85, of Peoria, passed away July 25, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. He was born Aug. 13, 1938, in Edwards to Earl and Hazel Slain Sherlock Sr.
His daughter, Kimberly Boers; his parents, and siblings, Jim Sherlock, Russ Sherlock, Bill Kirkman, Earl Sherlock Jr., Blaine Keefer and Pat Keefer preceded him in death.
He married Barbara J. Lee on Sept. 21, 1963; she survives. He is also survived by his children, Debra (Steve) Belfield, Lisa (Noel) Brooks and Crystal (Coy) Nagel; 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and siblings Don Sherlock and Mary Ann Pate.
A celebration of life will be held on Aug. 17, 2024, from 3-8 p.m. at the American Legion 979, 4501 S. Airport Rd., Bartonville, IL 61607. Condolences can be left online at csmico.com.
Jerry D. Sumner
BRIMFIELD – Jerry D. Sumner, 87, of Brimfield, formerly of Peoria, died Aug. 2, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
He was born June 27, 1937, in Peoria to Frank and Evelyn (Huprich) Sumner. They preceded him in death.
He married Marcia Zweifel on Dec. 30, 1989, in Peoria. She survives along with two daughters, Sally (Phil Jordan) Sumner of East Peoria and Susan Beecher of East Peoria; one stepson, Don Klukan of Murray, Ky.; one brother, Frank (Suzette) Sumner of Brimfield; one grandson; one granddaughter; and two step-grandchildren.
A celebration of Jerry’s life was to be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Peoria on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, at 11 a.m. Visitation was to be one hour prior to the services.
Condolences can be left online at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com.
William E. Keyt
BRIMFIELD – William Eugene “Bill” Keyt, 87, of Brimfield, passed away Saturday, July 27, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
Bill was born in 1936, in Lostant, Ill., to Mylo and Florence (Newsome) Keyt. He married Loretta Waldschmidt, of Metamora, in 1959. He is survived by his wife; two sons, Dan (Deb) of Brimfield and Andy (Brenna) of West Peoria, Ill.; grandchildren, Justin (Laurel), Drew (Katie) and Bree (Jake) Harlow; one great-grandson, Beau; a sister, Jane Migliorini of Granville, Ill.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Bill graduated from Lostant High School in 1955. He farmed, with his dad, before working for Berry Seed in Kankakee. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1959. He and Loretta spent two years in Germany while he was stationed there with the 81st Missile Battalion. They traveled throughout Europe and Bill played basketball for the Army. He was a guidance system generator operator for the Corporal missile.
Returning from Germany, he farmed until 1963, when he started working for Pitney Bowes, retiring in 1993. He also played AAU basketball for seven years during that time.
He continued his education, graduating from DeVry Tech of Chicago and taking business courses at Bradley University.
He loved the game of basketball, coaching a Catholic youth team in Springfield, leading them to a second-place finish in the state.
Bill and Loretta moved to the Brimfield area in 1971. He coached baseball and started a biddy-basketball program in 1978. He also started a summer girls basketball program in 1989, taking them to various camps. He maintained a Sunday-night open gym for the community for 11 years.
After retirement, Bill joined the Brimfield School District as assistant coach of grade school boys basketball, 7th grade girls basketball, softball and freshman volleyball. He worked in the school’s cafeteria as well as being the coordinator for the work-based learning program. Bill retired from the school district in 2000.
In April 2009, Bill was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
He continued helping with girls basketball and traveled with the high school girls teams, keeping stats and the book, as needed.
Bill enjoyed playing golf with friends and his grandchildren.
Funeral services will take place on Friday, Aug. 2, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Brimfield, at 10 a.m. the Rev. Deogratias Mpewo will officiate, assisted by Deacon Ray Burton. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will take place at the church on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. and an additional hour Friday morning from 9 a.m. until the time of service.
Memorial donations can be made to Brimfield High School for the girls basketball team, or to any charity of one’s choosing. Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left for William’s family on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Shirley Korth
YATES CITY – Shirley Korth, 95, of Yates City, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her family.
She was born on June 10, 1929, the oldest child of Eugene and Mary (Maston) Wieland.
She married Marion Whitmore and he preceded her in death. She later married David Korth, who also preceded her in death.
Surviving are her children, Gloria (late Gene) Arnold, Mary Bliss, Leo Whitmore, Gary (Sherri) Whitmore and Keith (Tiffany) Whitmore; brothers, Con (Linda) Wieland and John (Bev) Wieland; sisters, Ellen (Jim) Purple, Carol Wieland and Sharon (late Bob) Goodman; 21 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren.
Also preceding her in death are 10 siblings, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Shirley worked at Home Comfort in Princeville, Elm Haven Nursing Home and at a nursing home in Arizona.
She was a devoted Christian woman. Besides her family, God was her priority. She listened to a Christian ministry every day until a few months before her passing.
Shirley was a sweet, kind lady who was a grandma to everyone. She loved to have visitors and you never left without a hug. Her main hobby was crocheting blankets for her family.
She was a breast cancer survivor.
A funeral service was to be July 31, 2024, at 11 a.m. with a visitation one hour prior at the Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood. Burial was to follow in the Texas Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Elba-Salem Fire Department.
To leave online condolences visit, oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Jon S. Rogers
PEORIA – Jon S. Rogers, 57, of Peoria, passed away at his home on July 26, 2024. Jon was born on Dec. 4, 1966, to Louis and Judith Rogers in Galesburg, Ill.
Jon was preceded in death by his loving mother, Judith A. Rogers. He is survived by his father, Louis F. Rogers of Yates City, and his sister, Catherine (Mark) Bovard of Mattoon, Ill., and his faithful dog, Pepper. He is also survived by four very special cousins and an aunt, Fran Sandfort of Asheville, N.C. Jon leaves behind a large community of friends, as he never met a stranger and lived life to its fullest.
After graduating from Yates City High School in 1985, he attended Illinois State University where he was active in his fraternity, Sigma Tau Gamma, and graduated with a degree in political science in 1990. At ISU, Jon was active in ROTC and was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in the Army upon graduation. He was a platoon leader/project manager at the U.S. Army Reserve 724th Transportation Company from 1989-97.
Jon proudly served in Operation Desert Storm and was a patriot through and through. He loved history and could recount details of any Civil War or World War II battle.
Jon was a national account sales executive at G&D Integrated in Morton, Ill., since 2016. Prior to G&D, he was a sales executive at Federal Companies in Peoria. He also had several part-time jobs that allowed him to share his gregarious personality with many. He was an active Uber driver and former bartender at the Tartan Inn and Dormitory in Peoria. He had a wonderful sense of humor and quick wit. Heaven gained the funniest angel.
Jon was a Green Bay Packers and St. Louis Cardinals fan who enjoyed attending and watching games with friends. He enjoyed playing guitar and singing karaoke, with “Roadhouse Blues” by The Doors being his go-to song. Jon loved boating with his friends on his boat “The Dazed and Confused.” He was the life of the party. His river community was strong and plentiful. Jon also stayed in close touch with his high school friends and loved to hang out with the Straight Out of Yates Crew!
Other hobbies of Jon’s were gardening, listening to music, cooking, reading, watching movies and, most of all, spending time with family and friends. He loved poetry, with one of his favorite poems being “Richard Cory” by Edward Arlington Robinson. He was able to quote it line for line. He also loved T.S. Eliot and British war poets. He was opinionated and well-schooled in many topics and loved to debate. Jon was a Christian and grew up in the Faith United Presbyterian Church in Yates City. He was an eloquent man and excellent conversationalist.
Jon had many friends whom he loved and were family to him. To quote one of Jon’s favorite movies, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he.”
Jon leaves a hole in many lives but will live on with memories of his antics. You could always count on him for a good story and experience. To quote a friend of Jon’s who said it best: “Live like Jon – know no stranger, show kindness, be there, and be present!”
Memorials may be made to the ARK Humane Society in Lacon, Ill., or Salem Township Library.
His funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024, at the Faith United Presbyterian Church in Yates City. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Burial will be in Yates City. Immediately following the funeral, a celebration of life will be held at the Yates City Community Center.
Cremation rites have been accorded through Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood.
To leave online condolences please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
James W. Wilson
PRINCEVILLE – James Woodrow “Woody” Wilson, 63, of Princeville, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
Jim was born on June 25, 1961, in Battle Creek, Mich., to James W. Wilson and Patricia A. Wright (Scherer). He married Lisa Slane in 2014 in Stark County and together they had one child.
Surviving are his wife, Lisa, of Princeville; his daughter, Jamey Wilson of Princeville; two stepsons Zac Maddox of East Peoria and Cody Maddox of Monica; his stepmother, Kathleen Wilson of Chillicothe; three sisters, Kim (James) Ely, Angie (Mike) Birch and Lori (Scott) Turner, all of Chillicothe; and two brothers, Jeff (Julie) Wilson of Peoria and Rob Johnson (Angie McIntyre) of Rome. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.
Jim was a metal fabricator and worked for Harms Inc., last working in 2014.
Jim had a love for anything that took him outdoors. Jim grew up the oldest of six siblings on the banks of the Illinois River in Rome, Ill. In the days before video games and cellphones, the outdoors became his playground. Countless summer days spent playing baseball, Wiffle ball and swimming in the river with his brothers and friends often ended with a campout along its banks. Smoking driftwood by the campfire while trying not to get caught always added to the adventure. These early years gave him great respect for nature. He loved hunting and fishing but believed you needed to give back more than you took, and you always ate what you took, never for sport. He spent many years raising quail, pheasant, turkeys and other game animals for the Department of Natural Resources to be released into the wild. He had a true gift for animal husbandry.
Jim spent many hours tending to his garden or just hanging out in his garage. He had a sincere love for animals, especially his dogs. Jim lived a carefree lifestyle and always did things his way, when he wanted to do them. He enjoyed being with friends and socializing. He could always be found in his garage ready with a cold beer and some free advice.
The most cherished gift Jim would tell you he had was his daughter, Jamey. Jamey gave Jim his legacy. He was never prouder than while watching her become the beautiful, caring, giving, hard-working young woman that she has grown to become. Watching her graduate high school was one of the many achievements he got to see her accomplish that gave him great pride. Jim’s way was to counsel, not just to correct bad behavior, but to give meaningful life advice. He and Jamey spent many hours talking, exchanging opinions and poking fun at each other. He truly loved every moment spent with her.
Cremation rites will be accorded. A graveside service is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Aug. 8, 2024, at the Chillicothe City Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Weber-Hurd Funeral Home in Chillicothe. A memorial fund for Jamey’s education has been established through the funeral home.
Lynn E. Travis
GALVA – Lynn E. Travis of Galva, a loving child of God, died peacefully at home on July 30, 2024 ,after years of lung issues. She was born April 1, 1953, in Kewanee, the third child of Glenn and Agnes Luymes. She was preceded in death by both parents.
Lynn graduated from Galva High School in 1971 and Illinois State University in 1975. She married Steve Nelson in 1975 and later divorced. In 1990 she met and married Rev. Chet Travis.
Lynn worked for 29 years as an English teacher and guidance counselor at Williamsfield High School, Charleston High School, Chatham Glenwood Junior High School and Fisher Junior-Senior High School.
She is survived by her husband, Chet Travis, siblings; Keith Luymes of Galva, Nancy McClay of Knoxville and Carol (Peter) King of Basalt, Colo., stepchildren, Joshua (Megan) Travis of Oconomowac, Wis. and Sara (Angel) Migwans of Hobart, Ind.; one granddaughter, Abby Travis of LaCrosse, Wis.; and several nieces and nephews.
Lynn was very active in the United Methodist Church, especially in choir, missions and as a teacher. She was also active in PEO and a strong supporter of many environmental, human rights and hunger organizations. Lynn helped start or reorganize food pantries in three communities. She was an officer for the United Methodist Women, on the local, district, conference and jurisdictional levels.
A visitation will take place from 5-7 p.m., on Friday, Aug. 2, at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. The funeral service will take place at 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 3, at the Galva First United Methodist Church with Rev. Rebecca Gearhart officiating. The burial will be in Galva Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Galva Public Library, the Galva Park District, the First United Methodist Church, or Cunningham Children’s Home.
Francis A. Maertens
GALVA – Francis A. Maertens, 87, of Galva, died at 11:29 a.m., Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at his home. Arrangements are pending at Rux Funeral Home in Galva.
James W. Wilson
PRINCEVILLE – James Woodrow “Woody” Wilson, 63, of Princeville, died on July 23, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
Surviving are his wife, Lisa, of Princeville; his daughter, Jamey Wilson of Princeville; two stepsons; his stepmother, Kathleen Wilson of Chillicothe; three sisters; and two brothers. A graveside service will be at 1 p.m. on Aug. 8, 2024, at the Chillicothe City Cemetery.
Larry E. Cecil
CANTON – Larry E. Cecil, 82, of 746 W. Walnut St., beloved father, grandfather and friend, died at 7:31 a.m. Monday, July 22, 2024, at Graham Hospital.
He is survived by two children, Michael (Lynette) Cecil of Farmington and Kristy Harris of Peoria; six grandchildren, Maggie (David) Connell and Jonah Cecil, both of Farmington, Alexis Harris of Peoria, Cassie (Chris Steder) Cecil of Monroe Center, Samantha (Ty) Cornmesser of LaGrange, Ky., and Andrew (Ashley) Cecil of Rochelle; two stepgrandchildren, Roger Teel of Monmouth and T.J. Chesnut of Vienna, W.Va.; and two great-grandchildren, Michael and Echo Cecil. Also surviving are his sister, Patricia Simac of Canton, and his twin brother, Jerry Cecil of Springfield, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by one son, Craig Cecil of Peoria; and his parents of Middle Grove.
Larry was born Jan. 13, 1942, at Methodist Hospital in Peoria to Roger and Marita Cecil. His mother was surprised to learn she was having twins when her first son arrived. An hour later, Larry entered the world. For many years after, he and his brother held the record for heaviest twins born there – totaling about 18 pounds.
Larry worked as a railroad-car inspector for more than 42 years, mostly for the TP&W in Canton. He retired at age 60 and said he enjoyed snowy days, knowing he no longer had to get up early and “walk the tracks.”
“Late-night Larry” was how he was known to friends at the VFW post, which was his favorite (and only) place to hang out. They knew to expect him a few times each week – precisely at 7:30 p.m. – and often staying until late in the evening, especially if beloved friends Gary and Lana were there. Though not a veteran himself, Larry always sported a VFW cap and loved all those who served in the military. He spent countless hours volunteering for “the V,” selling hams and tickets to steak dinners and fish frys, as well as passing out poppies to those who donated.
Larry was an outstanding cook and usually brought requested favorites, scalloped potatoes and chicken and noodles, to all family gatherings. And no dinner was complete without one of his pies.
He also was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears and a 47-year member of the Moose Lodge in Canton and Pekin.
Visitation will be from 3-5 p.m. Friday, July 26, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton, with services immediately after at 5 p.m. He will be buried later beside his parents at Elmwood Township Cemetery in Elmwood.
Memorials may be made to VFW Post 1984 in Canton.
Candy J. Cochran
ELMWOOD – Candy J. Cochran, 63, of Elmwood, passed away at 10:35 p.m. on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born Jan. 22, 1961, in Peoria to Everett and Gloria (Barlow) Foster. She married Ron Cochran on June 16, 1979, in Peoria. He survives.
Candy is also survived by her mother; two sons, Zachary Cochran of Elmwood and Aaron (Jerilyn) Cochran of Farmington; four brothers, Tim (Peggy) Foster, Kevin (Theresa) Foster, Scott Foster and Brian Foster; six sisters, Marilee Fries, Jennifer Behm, Pat (the late Roger) Potter, Karrie (Brian) Conlee, Laurie (Kevin) Cochran and Cheryl (Roger) Benedict; one grandchild, Hazel; and countless nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
Candy is preceded in death by her father; and one brother, Randy Foster.
Candy loved spending most of her time with her granddaughter, Hazel. She was an in-home caregiver for many years. She was an avid crafter and artist. She was also a national-champion quilter.
A funeral service will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at Berea Baptist Church in Bartonville, Ill. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 5-6:30 p.m. at the church. Cremation rites will then be accorded. A burial of ashes will be held at a later date. A remembrance of her life will also be held at a later date.
To leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome. com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
David A. Hanson
PRINCEVILLE – David Allen Hanson, 70, of Princeville, passed away at 7:02 p.m. on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at his residence. David was born on Feb. 12, 1954, in Peoria, to Evert and Dorothy Hanson. He married Nadra A. Stanley on Sept. 14, 1974, in Creve Coeur. She preceded him in death on Dec. 29, 2018.
Surviving are two daughters, Wendy (Al) Dispennette of Vacaville, Calif., and Sam Hanson of Princeville; one brother, Frank (Pam) Hanson of Peoria; and one sister, Deena (Mike) Keys. He was also preceded in death by his parents.
David retired from the United States Air Force Reserves. He worked for a short time at Getz Fire Equipment Company and for over 30 years at Caterpillar Inc.
He was an Eagle Scout, an emergency medical technician, a volunteer with the Marquette Heights Fire Department and the Akron-Princeville Fire Department, and once rescued a man who was choking at work.
His funeral service will be at 6 p.m. Friday, July 26, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville. Certified Funeral Celebrant Veronica Haskell will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society Illinois.
Condolences may be left for David’s family on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Arlen V. Johnson
HANNA CITY – Arlen V. Johnson, 78, of Hanna City, passed away at his home on July 11, 2024. The second son of Albert Johnson and Viola (Miller) Johnson, he was born on V-J Day (Victory in Japan), Aug. 14, 1945, the end of World War II, with middle name “Victor.”
He was a 1963 graduate of Farmington High School.
Drafted, he served in Vietnam with the U.S. Army. Returning home, aware of a widening spectrum of cultures, he studied languages at Bradley University, graduating on the G.I. Bill.
At the Goethe Institute in Vienna, Austria, he invested 11 years helping foreign students develop their language skills and his own appreciation for German language and culture, while making yearly trips home to Illinois for spring planting. His association with the Peace Corps in Belize stretched to six years, teaching agriculture and working in community development.
Arlen returned to the family farm full time in rural Hanna City in 1993. He married Elvira Faulkner on Dec. 7, 2002. Both were active in the Christ Church-Limestone (Stone Church), where their faith life grew together.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Roger and his wife Elvira. He is survived by sister-in-law Renatus Lorenz and brother-in-law Peter Rogowski, both of Berlin; sister-in-law Pat Johnson; brothers Gary (Barb) Johnson and Jay (Jackie) Johnson; a flock of nieces and nephews; a tribe of cousins; and kinsmen, former classmates and a host of friends and fellow farmers.
He was a member of the German Club in Peoria for 20+ years, where his appetite, language and social skills often kicked into high gear.
Arlen savored his far-flung friendships, always ready with words of encouragement for new and old acquaintances. His accounts of family and the world spiced up many a discussion at different reunions.
Arlen’s memory was a storehouse of data ready to access. Beethoven and Mozart, “friends” of his in Vietnam and Vienna, became frequent chums in his house: for visitors or while alone as the music rattled the windows throughout the house.
Arlen was a steward of the land and its produce, a caretaker of animals. He was in continual “thought process,” making things happen. He took up baking after his mom died to provide family/friends with pies on birthdays or Christmas and at reunions. He’d glean roadside berry patches, picking/distributing fruit to neighbors and friends. Orphaned critters were cared for. He wrote ditties to sing in the field and recited poetry when the urge came.
The Lord in his grace has blessed you, Arlen! He blessed by gifting you to us as friend and brother. Fluent in five languages, your God-given gift of service, your “love language,” has been a treasured sentiment for many. And by your faith you have touched many. We have been blessed.
There will be a private memorial service for Arlen at Christ Church-Limestone. A public celebration of life will be at the German-American Central Society, 7601 N. Harker Drive, Peoria, IL 61615 on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, from 1-5 p.m. Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Memorials may be made to Christ Church-Limestone or to SAMS Rescue Animal Shelter at 328 S Pinkerton Road, Hanna City, IL 61536.
You may view Arlen’s obituary online at www.Davison-FultonBartonvilleChapel.com.
Barbara A. Cramer
HANNA CITY – Barbara A, Cramer, 90, of Hanna City, passed away at Lutheran Hillside Village in Peoria on July 15, 2024, with her family by her side.
Born May 22, 1934, in Peoria, a daughter to Robert and Julie (Bewer) Bour, she was raised and educated in Peoria.
In October 1957 she married Richard Cramer at St. Boniface Church. They cherished 39 years until his passing on March 12, 1996.
Barbara was an avid reader who loved antique shopping and collecting antique glassware. She worked at Hiram Walker from 1974-81 before proudly becoming a stay-at-home mother. She was a devout wife, mother, grandmother and sister who cherished her family.
Survivors include her five children, Larry (Denise) Cramer of Port Orchard, Wash., Laura Cramer of East Peoria, Dan (Jenny) Cramer of Charlestown, Ind., Ben Cramer of Peoria and Jeff (Gill) Cramer of Hanna City; six grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; two brothers, Richard Bour of Kokomo, Ind., and Brian (Pat) Bour of Bowling Green, Ky.; and one sister, Kate (David) Tyler of Germantown Hills.
Services were July 22, 2024, and burial was in Resurrection Cemetery in Peoria.
Online condolences can be left at www.wrightsandsalmon.com.
Richard E. Evans
GALVA – Richard E. Evans, 91, of Galva, died at 1:55 p.m., Friday, July 12, 2024, at Toulon Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.
He was born Nov. 10, 1932, in LaFayette, the son of William and Lena (Shoff) Evans. He married Janice R. Likes on Oct. 13, 1961, in Altona and she preceded him in death on Dec. 27, 2020.
Survivors include his daughter, Gretchen (Shane) Hickman of Galva; his son Eric Evans of Altona; two grandchildren, Brooke (Aaron) Bachman of Annawan and Taylor (Eli) Beinke of Washington, D.C.; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter-in-law, Tammy Lynn Evans; and half-brother, Bill Briggs.
Richard graduated from LaFayette High School and served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.
He worked at Hyster in Kewanee until his retirement. He was also a Galva resident entrepreneur earning the name, “Trader Dick.”
He was a member of the Galva American Legion and especially enjoyed telling stories and, of course, visiting the junkyard.
Cremation will be accorded and graveside services will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, July 19, at Galva Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the Galva Fusiliers. Memorials may be directed to the Galva American Legion Hagberg-Hamlin Post 45. Rux Funeral Home in Galva is in charge of arrangements.
Francis J. Waldinger
GALVA – Francis “Frank” Joseph Waldinger, 83, of Bradford, Ill., passed away peacefully on July 15, 2024, at Genesis East Medical Center in Davenport, Iowa, after a brief illness.
Frank was born on April 12, 1941, in Princeville, Ill., to Emilie (Lang) Waldinger and Franz Waldinger. He graduated from Bradford High School in 1959.
After first noticing her at church on Aug. 15, 1961, Frank met up with Alice Parkin at a football game. They dated for two years before marrying on Aug. 10, 1963, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Bradford.
Together, they had four children and farmed in Buda, Ill., for 41 years, raising corn, soybeans and hogs. He had the straightest rows of corn and the cleanest beanfields (with the help of his wife and children!) in Bureau County. Early in his farming career during the offseason, he also worked as a carpenter, building houses for Colgan Brothers Construction.
Frank was a lively teller of jokes, and, if he could overcome his own laughter before he got to the punchline, his jokes were always funny.
He loved watching Jeopardy! with Alice, making sure to write down the final questions to quiz the kids and grandkids when they came to visit. He avidly solved crossword puzzles – often with the help of his friend, Siri. Frank also had an exceptional memory, recalling farming details, people’s names and sports facts like no one else while his family had to refer to Google just to join the conversation.
He was well known in his family for his witty, pithy sayings, including one that would always come after hearing of the deals and savings from shopping excursions: “You’re going to go broke saving money!”
One of Frank’s proudest moments came when his first grandchild, Ryan, was born on his birthday. They shared many special days together over the 27 years, often savoring a bunny cake Alice would bake for them.
Those surviving to cherish his memory include his doting wife of nearly 61 years, Alice; his devoted children, Kyle Waldinger (Danielle Svetcov) of Corte Madera, Calif., Corey (Laura) Waldinger of Naperville, Ill., Cynthia (Todd) Carlson of Amboy, Ill., and Teresa Waldinger (Tom O’Connor) of North Aurora, Ill.; his adoring grandchildren, Charlotte and Jo Waldinger (Corte Madera, Ryan Waldinger (Chicago), Alex Waldinger (Nashville, Tenn.), Sarah Waldinger (Chicago), Emma Waldinger (Naperville) and Avery and Beckett O’Connor (North Aurora); his beloved siblings, Ginny (Ted) Gilles, Henry (Paulette) Waldinger, Ruth (Don) Stahl, Clarence (Kathy) Waldinger and Tom Waldinger; his amazing Parkin “out-laws”; and 36 dear nieces and nephews.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Liz Code; his brother, Willie Waldinger; four brothers-in-law, Phil Code, Bill Hinkle, Rodger Woodley and Jim Parkin; and two nephews, Travis Parkin and Billy Hinkle.
A visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. with the recitation of the rosary at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at Grant-Johnson Funeral Home in Bradford. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Bradford with Rev. John Thieryoung, officiating. Burial will immediately follow at St. John’s Cemetery.
Memorials can be made to St. John’s Cemetery or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Johnathon L. Tomlinson
ELMWOOD – Johnathon Lee Tomlinson, 39, of Elmwood, passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, in La Crosse, Wis.
He was born March 1, 1985, in Galesburg, Ill., to Kevin L. (Beth) Tomlinson and Annette M. (Schneider) Tomlinson.
John is survived by the love of his life, Stephanie D. Bowhay; two sons, Brayden L. Stevens and Karsyn L. Tomlinson; grandfather Glenn L. Tomlinson of Kewanee; one sister-in-law, Lindsey (Ron) Gill of Franklin, Ill.; three sisters, Victoria Gibbons of Abingdon, Ill., Jennifer (Mark) Everhardt of Seymour, Tenn., and Samantha (Chris) Klavinger of Conyers, Ga.; one brother, Gary Klavinger of Perrysburg, Ohio; two aunts, Sharon (Andy) Mapes and Terri (Jeff) Stuart; one nephew, Ivar West; and two nieces, Faith and Emma Greathouse, along with several others.
John was preceded in death by one daughter, Kinsley M. Tomlinson; grandparents Barbara E. Tomlinson and Carole M. (Roderick) E. Johnson; and uncles Kevin P. Casteel and Frank C. Schneider.
John graduated from Williamsfield High School. He then served honorably in the active Army with the HHC 14th Engineer Battalion from August 2003 to February 2007 at Fort Lewis, Wash.
During his active time he deployed to Iraq twice. He served as a light-wheel vehicle mechanic. After he was released from active duty, he joined the Army Reserves and was stationed with the 733rd Maintenance Company out of Canton, Ill. He ETS’d in November 2016 after 13 years of service in our nation’s defense.
He spent time working in maintenance at Gates Rubber Company and with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He most recently worked as a highway maintainer for the Peoria County Highway Department. He did his due diligence in maintaining the county roads and keeping them safe to travel for the last year and a half.
John was a member of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Chapter 24-1, since 2021 and was most recently the newest committee member for the Red Ride of Central Illinois.
John was a simple man. We all knew him for his tall masculine stature that was intimidating to those who didn’t know him. For those who were in his circle, his dedication to them was like no other. He took pride in working hard and providing for his family. His true love was Stephanie, his boys, his Harley-Davidson motorcycle and the Dallas Cowboys football team.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of life with military rites was held from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the Elmwood Tap Banquet Hall, 100 S. Magnolia St., Elmwood, IL 61529.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to his family for future expenses, in care of Stephanie Bowhay.
To leave an online condolence, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Barbara I. Oldfield
FARMINGTON – Barbara I. Oldfield, 80, of Farmington, passed away, Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Farmington Village.
She was born in Peoria on March 27, 1944, to Marvin and Ethel (Hyde) Wood. They preceded her in death, as well as one brother, James Wood, and her sister, Sharon (Ken) Stanley.
She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Wayne Oldfield. They were married on Nov. 30, 1963. Also surviving are three sons, Rob (Susie) Oldfield, Gary (Lisa) Oldfield and Kenny (Michelle) Oldfield; one brother, Albert (Pat) Wood; two grandsons, Brett (Chelesa) Oldfield and Tyler Oldfield; and one great-grandson, Luke Oldfield.
Barb always took care of her boys, and she and Wayne spent countless years farming around their home. She enjoyed traveling with Wayne after his retirement, going to country music shows and attend the New Salem Opry as often as she could.
She was a previous member of the Rebekahs association, River Valley Antique Collectors and the Peoria County Home Extension for Homemakers. Most of all, Barb loved taking care of her family.
Cremation rites will be accorded and a burial of her ashes will be on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 1 p.m. in Brunswick Cemetery in Trivoli. A celebration of life will follow at the Farmington Moose Lodge from 2-5 p.m.
Memorials may be made to Farmington Rescue Squad.
Robyn Carlson
PRINCEVILLE – Robyn (Tankersley) Carlson, 78, of Princeville, Illinois, passed away on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria after a brief illness, with her family at her side.
She was born on July 10, 1946, in Peoria to Allen and Dorothy (Mahallak) Tankersley. Robyn married Ross Carlson on Jan. 17, 1981.
Robyn is survived by her husband, Ross, of Princeville; brother, Patrick A. (Beata) Tankersley of Peoria Heights; sister, Ellen (Mike) Russell of Peoria Heights; sister, Dory (James) Krusa of Brimfield; children, Chris (Tammy) Finch of Peoria, Amy (Jim) Van Dettum of Princeville and Dalton Carlson of Peoria Heights; son-in-law, Ronald Weber of Princeville; seven grandchildren, Patrick, Lindsey, Josie, Nellie, Matthew, Brittany and Katie; and several great-grandchildren.
Robyn was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Jennifer Weber; and granddaughter, Elizabeth Van Dettum.
Robyn previously loved to travel on long car trips with her husband. She was an avid reader, sometimes reading a book a day.
When Robyn was in a room full of people, she was always the center of everyone’s attention with her great sense of humor and larger-than-life personality.
Memorial donations may be made to The Colorectal Cancer Alliance in honor of her daughter, Jennifer, who passed away in March, or to the Akron-Princeville Fire Department and Akron-Princeville Ambulance.
The family would like to extend their deep appreciation to the Akron-Princeville Ambulance and Akron-Princeville Fire Department for their kindness and dignity in caring for Robyn over the past few years.
There will be a private celebration of life at a later date. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Weber-Hurd Funeral Home in Chillicothe.
Alan P. Dremann
EDELSTEIN – Alan Paul Dremann, 66, of Edelstein, Ill., passed away on June 27, 2024, surrounded by his family after a long battle with prostate cancer.
Alan was born to Lois and Ivan Dremann on Aug, 12, 1957, in Princeton. While he was both athletically and academically gifted, his sense of work ethic was established at home on the farm where he helped his father. His academic pursuits took him to Bradley University where he achieved his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, which was the catalyst for his 39-year career at Caterpillar Inc.
He demonstrated consistent excellence in his career and was an ever-present loving husband and father. He and his wife, Joyce, spent their years in partnership; building a home and home-educating all four of their children, but most importantly, as a team, worshiping God in the everyday.
Alan is survived by his wife, Joyce; their four children Rachel (Bradley) Schmoyer, David (Angela) Dremann, Hannah (Daniel) Watson and Sarah (Benjamin) Swenor; and nine grandchildren.
Alan is also survived by his father, Ivan Dremann, though he was preceded by his mother, Lois. He is also survived by his siblings Nancy Leichty, Herb Dremann, Mary King and Janet Farra along with their families.
Alan’s love of Christ his Savior came first, followed by his persistent and sacrificial love of his family. He was characterized by a love of dry and absurd humor which enlivened many dinners at home and get-togethers with friends. His perseverance and steadfastness was inexhaustible whether at work, at home, or most important, in his faith. His ability to hold firm to truth was a gift that strengthened those around him. His joy in life and wisdom was shared by all he knew. The lack of his earthly presence will be a chasm in our lives, but our joy and hope is in the promise of life eternal though Jesus Christ our Lord. Oh, what a Love the Father has for us.
Alan’s family was to be present at Bethany Baptist Church for a visitation on Friday, July 5th from 4-7 p.m. and again on July 6th from 10-11 a.m. with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m.. Burial was to be at Blue Ridge Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria.
Condolences and memories may be shared through Woolsey-Wilton.com.
Marita L. Irvine
TALLAHASEE, Fla. – Marita Lynn (Christiansen) Irvine, 71, of Tallahassee, Fla., formerly of Galva, Ill., passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on May 28, 2024.
Marita was born in Shelbyville, Ill., on Feb, 10, 1953, to Marjorie Christiansen (Swim) and Marvin L. Christiansen. Marita met the love of her life and soul mate, David William Irvine in 1974, and they eloped on March 14, 1982, in Dallas, Texas.
Marita was an over-the-road truck driver with her husband for 35 years, retiring in 2009. She loved to cook and if you left her table hungry, it was your own fault. She loved exploring new restaurants, playing Yahtzee, and listening to “Cops” on the television. Above all else, she loved her family fiercely.
Marita is survived by her daughter, Anita Shae Porter, Tallahassee, Fla.; her “fluffy butt grandkids” Nova, Ox and Ravioli; three sisters, Joanne Glover of Phoenix, Ariz., Dorothy Stark of Davenport, Iowa, and Cheryl Godsey of East Moline, Ill.; her sister-in-law, Nancy (Poole) Roberts of Batesville, Ark., her “daughters-in-love”, Cyndi McCoy of Galva; Jaymie Sanders of Davenport, Iowa, Sally Decrane of Kewanee, Rita Edelman of Lincon, Ill., and Denise Johnson of Zephyr Hills; and “son-in-love” Thomas (Angela) Leece of Ocala, both of Florida; her grandchildren, Andrea C. Irvine, Danial J. Porter, Robert Aaron Irvine Slavish (Jaimie), Jontavius Johnson, Megan L. (Gatling) Schreiber, Jessica Pitman, Brittany McNaught, Jaymie Slavish, Randi (Jake) Davis, Trai Anderson, Tabitha Davis, Robbie Anne Slavish, Belahna Slavish, Zohee Slavish, Alyssa Shadden, Gage Shadden, James (Beck) Frederick, Nelson Carlson; several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family.
Marita was welcomed into heaven by her husband (who was probably waiting for her in a semi, with a big smile on his face), her parents, 16 brothers and sisters and her best friend, Myrabeth “Mickey” Rapp.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Melissa Shrewsberry for helping take care of her for the past six months and loving her like she was her own; Marion County Hospice for giving her dignity, peace and comfort during her final days; and her Ret’d neighbors, Roxy and Laz, who promptly ran to her rescue if she “took a trip” or needed help removing a turtle from the kitchen floor that Nova had so proudly gifted her.
Funeral services were July 10, 2024, at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. Marita will be laid to rest at the Galva Cemetery, next to her husband.
Jacob E. Rewerts
WYOMING – Jacob E. Rewerts, 44, of Wyoming, passed away at 7:59 p.m. Thursday, June 27, 2024, at his home. Born in Peoria, on Oct. 31, 1979, he was the son of Myron A. and Vicki L. (Beck) Rewerts.
Surviving Jake are his brother, Chris (Lacey) Rewerts of Washburn; three nephews, Riley, Reid and Westin; and aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Jake was employed at Nutrien in Princeville for 25 years and finished his career farming. He enjoyed hosting other farmers for coffee in the mornings, antique farm equipment and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan. He will be missed by his lunch and dinner friends at Curry’s and Catalpa Grove.
Funeral service was July 2, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Wyoming. Rev. Rebecca Klemm officiated. Burial was at Pleasant Valley Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Wyoming Fire Department.
Condolences for Jake’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Donald E. Bantz
TOULON – Donald E. “Don” Bantz, 75, of Toulon, died June 24, 2024, at OSF Saint Mary Medical Center in Galesburg. He was born March 27, 1949, in Elmore, the son of Maurice E. “Buster” and Shirley J. (Lumberry) Bantz. He married Barbara Graves on April 7, 1973. She preceded him in death.
Survivors include his son Michael (Megan) Bantz of Forsyth; daughter, Donna Bantz of Toulon; four brothers, John (Jennifer) Bantz of Williamsfield, Harley Bantz and Dennis (Gina) Bantz, both of Happy Hollow, and Larry Bantz of Fairview; and nine grandchildren, Chance and Chloe Deilkes, Kayden, Maci, Piper and Easton Bantz, Isabelle and Owen Thompson and Ellayna Orwig.
Don worked as a power shovel operator for the State of Illinois Department of Transportation from 1969-2000 and for West Jersey Express from 2002 until June of 2022.
Funeral services were July 3.
George A. Baer
EUREKA – George A. Baer, 74, of Eureka, passed away at 7 a.m. Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
Born in Peoria on Aug. 14, 1949, he was the son of Otto and Eleanor (Grusy) Baer.
Surviving George are eight siblings, Anna Marie (Steve) Stoller of Wyoming, Delores Baer of Eureka, Linda Joos of Chillicothe, Edward (Connie) Baer of Elverson, Pa., Larry (Vera) Baer of Edelstein, Terry Baer of Peoria, Cynthia Herr of Fairbury and Nita (Kevin) Grimm of Morrill, Kan.; and many loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Anita Baer; and a brother-in-law, Rolland Joos.
George was a good friend. He was a friend to his siblings. He was a very special friend to his nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. He was a friend to the waitresses and waiters, the clerk at the checkout, his neighbors, his community, his co-workers at Alcoa; and oh, how he loved his church family.
George had the ability to set children into peals of laughter and to cause the adults in his life to chuckle. George was employed at Alcoa for 32 years, then at AC Skylines until retirement. He was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church in Princeville and Eureka, where he lived his sincere faith simply.
Funeral services were July 1, 2024, at the Princeville Apostolic Christian Church. Ministers of the church officiated. Visitation was June 30, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville.
Memorial contributions can be made to Eureka Apostolic Christian Home. Condolences for George’s family may be left on his tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Larry L. Boyer
ELMWOOD – Larry L. Boyer, 86, of Elmwood, passed away at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born April 9, 1938, in Peoria, Ill., to Charles “Elmer” and Virginia (Baggs) Boyer.
Larry first married Carla Haines and then later married Louise Hess on April 17, 1993, in Elmwood. She survives.
Larry is also survived by five children, Lynn (Robert “Bobby”) Tannock of Elmwood, Angie (Larry) Shideman of Elmwood, Daniel (Angela) Hess of Bloomington, Ill., James (Amy) Hess of Bloomington and Rhonda (David) Ross of Springfield, Ill.; 12 grandchildren, Noah Shideman, Aubrey (Aaron) Graves, Alexa (Heath Skaggs) Shideman, Tyler (Sarah) Tannock, Dara (Andrew) Castro, Travis (Lubna) Brady, Hannah (Sam) Hensley, Emily Hess, Kate Ross, Jack Ross, Alex Hess and Ella Hess; eight great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Jensen and Mavis Hensley, Hank Hess, Korra Graves, Ben and Halen Skaggs, Lucia Castro and four more on the way; two brothers, Roger Boyer of Fort Meyers, Fla., and Ronald (Donna) Boyer of Trivoli; one sister, LuAnn (Todd) Tedder of Garland, Texas; and many nieces and nephews.
Larry is preceded in death by his parents and one daughter, Lori Lee Boyer.
Larry attended country school through eighth grade at Moore School on Texas Road. He graduated in 1956 from Elmwood High School. He then served for the U.S. Army Reserves from 1961-67. His work career began when Larry was in high school working the summer for his dad at B&B Builders. Larry was a member of the bricklayers union in Peoria. Later, Larry and his brother, Ron started their business as Boyer Construction, doing masonry work.
Larry was an avid golfer, playing countless rounds at his beloved Maple Lane Country Club. His other loves were hunting, fishing and hunting mushrooms, mostly fall ones. He also enjoyed spending time with his family.
Larry was also a member of the Farmington Moose and a former member of Maple Lane Country Club, where he served on the board.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held at noon on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church in Elmwood. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Military rites and burial will immediately follow the service at Elmwood Township Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Midwest Affiliate, 4722 N. Sheridan Road, Peoria, IL 61614, and to the Ronald McDonald House.
To view Larry’s video tribute or to leave an online condolence, visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Ricky L. Camp
ELMWOOD – Ricky L. “Rick” Camp, 66, of Elmwood, passed away at 1:58 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
He was born Feb. 10, 1958, in Peoria to Ronald “Sonny” and Marjorie (Harkness) Camp. He married Jo Arbogast on March 17, 1979, in Elmwood. She survives.
Rick is also survived by two children, Brian (Rhonda) Camp of Austin, Texas, and Jill (David) Williams Lansford of Bement, Ill.; three brothers, Ron (Shelley) Camp, Gary (Karen) Camp and Dennis (Heidi) Camp; and four grandchildren, Eli Camp, Tessa Camp, Breanna Camp and Jerrica Williams Lansford.
Rick worked at Liberty Steel & Wire/Keystone for 43 years, where he retired from on April 1, 2023. He was passionate about car restoration, especially his 1956 Chevy.
Cremation rites have been accorded. There will be no services at this time.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Elmwood Fire Department or BYE Ambulance.
To leave an online condolence, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Susan K. Streitmatter
PRINCEVILLE – Susan K. Streitmatter, 73, of Princeville, passed away at 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 28, 2024, at the Arc of Chillicothe. Born in Peoria on May 9, 1951, she was the daughter of the late Ralph and Mabel (Oertley) Streitmatter.
She is survived by several cousins and her loving dogs.
Susan grew up on the family farm and graduated from Princeville High School and Bradley University. She spent the entirety of her professional life teaching kindergarten at Brimfield Grade School.
Funeral services were July 3, 2024, at Haskell Funeral and Cremation Services in Princeville. Pastor Ernie Russell officiated. Burial followed in Streitmatter Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to her church, Edelstein Congregational Church, 2903 W. Main St., Edelstein, IL 61526.
Condolences for Susan’s family may be left on her tribute wall at www.haskellfuneral.com.
Johnathon L. Tomlinson
ELMWOOD – Johnathon Lee Tomlinson, 39, of Elmwood, passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, in La Crosse, Wis.
He was born March 1, 1985, in Galesburg, Ill., to Kevin L. (Beth) Tomlinson and Annette M. (Schneider) Tomlinson.
John is survived by the love of his life, Stephanie D. Bowhay; two sons, Brayden L. Stevens and Karsyn L. Tomlinson; one sister-in-law, Lindsey (Ron) Gill of Franklin, Ill.; three sisters, Victoria Gibbons of Abingdon, Ill., Jennifer (Mark) Everhardt of Seymour, Tenn., and Samantha (Chris) Klavinger of Conyers, Ga.; one brother, Gary Klavinger of Perrysburg, Ohio; two aunts, Sharon (Andy) Mapes and Terri (Jeff) Stuart; one nephew, Ivar West; and two nieces, Faith and Emma Greathouse, along with several others.
John was preceded in death by one daughter, Kinsley M. Tomlinson; his grandparents, Barbara E. Tomlinson and Carole M. (Roderick) E. Johnson; and uncles Kevin P. Casteel and Frank C. Schneider.
John graduated from Williamsfield High School. He then served honorably in the active Army with the HHC 14th Engineer Battalion from August 2003 to February 2007 at Fort Lewis, Washi.
During his active time he deployed to Iraq twice. He served as a light-wheel vehicle mechanic. After he was released from active duty, he joined the Army Reserves and was stationed with the 733rd Maintenance Company out of Canton, Ill. He ETS’d in November 2016 after 13 years of service in our nation defense.
He spent time working in maintenance at Gates Rubber Company and with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He most recently worked as a highway maintainer for the Peoria County Highway Department. He did his due diligence in maintaining the county roads and keeping them safe to travel for the last year and a half.
John was a member of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Chapter 24-1, since 2021 and was most recently the newest committee member for the Red Ride of Central Illinois.
John was a simple man. We all knew him for his tall masculine stature that was intimidating to those who didn’t know him. For those who were in his circle, his dedication to them was like no other. He took pride in working hard and providing for his family. His true love was Stephanie, his boys, his Harley-Davidson motorcycle and the Dallas Cowboys football team.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of life with military rites will be held from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the Elmwood Tap Banquet Hall, 100 S. Magnolia St., Elmwood, IL 61529.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to his family for future expenses, in care of Stephanie Bowhay.
To leave an online condolence, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
Patricia A. Campbell
DUNLAP – Patricia A. Campbell, 70, of Dunlap, mother of a Princeville man, died June 25, 2024, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Pat was born Jan. 28, 1954, to Carl and Doris (Wirth) Carmody. She married Murray Campbell in Peoria. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Nancy Schwartz and her husband Murray.
Surviving are her sons, Corey (Audrey) Campbell of Princeville and Ryan (Allison) Campbell of Peoria; sisters, Pam (Steve) Poulsen of Hardy, Ark., Carla Carmody (Bill Bowden) of Dunlap, Kathi (Dave) James of Chillicothe and Angie Carmody (Kelly Triemstra) of Oshkosh, Wis.; and four grandchildren.
Services were July 2.
Larry E. Dawson Sr.
SPRINGFIELD – Larry E. Dawson Sr., 81, of Springfield, formerly of Pekin, passed away on Friday, June 28, 2024, at Concordia Village in Springfield.
Larry was born on Sept. 15, 1942, in Peoria to Chester and Isabelle (Rushing) Dawson. On Dec. 21, 1979, he married Cheryl “Cheri” Lee (Martin) Campbell, and she survives.
He is also survived by four children, Larry (Trudy) Dawson Jr. and Debora “Debbie” (Brian) Ihnes, both of Elmwood, Patricia “Patty” Stancomb of Dahinda and Nicole Campbell “Nikki” (Joe) Monari of Springfield; one brother, Robert “Bob” (Norma) Dawson of Elmwood; seven grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, James “Jim” Dawson; two special brothers-in-law, Kenneth “Kenny” Mitzelfelt and William “Bill” Martin; and three sisters-in-law, Mary Dawson, Jaqueline “Jackie” Mitzelfelt and Louise Martin.
As per Larry’s wishes, no services will be held. Inurnment will be at Parkview Cemetery in Peoria.
Condolences can be left online at www.Davison-Fulton.com.
Steven G. Hughey
CHANDLER, Ariz. – Steven Glenn Hughey, 72, father of a Princeville woman, passed away on June 27, 2024, in Chandler, Ariz. He was born on Aug. 20, 1951, in Galesburg to parents William E. and Shirley M. (Stivers) Hughey. They preceded him in death. He married Susan Hughey on April 21, 2006; she survives.
Steven’s zest for life was paralleled only by his love for his family. He is also survived by his daughter, Veronica (Bert) Haskell of Princeville; son, Ian (Sara) Hughey of Kettering, Ohio; stepdaughter, Tara (David) Torres of Ahwatukee, Ariz.; stepson, Danny Touvell of Chandler, Ariz.; his adored grandchildren, Gabrielle and William Haskell, both of Illinois, and Isaac, Liam and Divya Hughey, all of Ohio; two stepgrandsons, Blaise and Phoenix Torres of Ahwatukee, Ariz.; two brothers, Alan D. Hughey of Lafayette, La., and Robert E. Hughey of Galesburg; three very special nieces; many cousins; and several lifelong friends he considered brothers.
He was preceded in death by one brother, David Hughey.
Steven grew up in Galesburg, the oldest of four boys (yes, his mother was a saint!) hunting pheasant, rabbit and squirrel with his dad and three brothers. An alumnus of Galesburg High School, he graduated with the Class of 1969, later furthering his education by earning a degree from DeVry Polytechnic Institute in 1977.
As a proud U.S. Army veteran, he served his country in Vietnam, earning the Army Commendation medal.
Following his military service, Steve worked at Gates Rubber Company and started a concert promotion business Concerts Unlimited, and was the first to bring Ted Nugent and the Amboy Dukes to Monmouth College in 1975.
He later moved to Ohio, where he lived for nearly 30 years. There he began his career journey in sales managing Record Town; was a store manager, stoking fires at Fire Place Specialties; achieved life insurance salesman-of-the-year accolades at Prudential Insurance for several years; and later became a sales manager for Airtron Heating and Cooling. He concluded his work life with Wolf Mechanical in Phoenix.
Steve will be laid to rest with military honors in National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix on Oct. 8, 2024, at 10:30 a.m.
A celebration of Steve’s life hosted by his family is being planned in Galesburg, with details to be announced.
Larry K. Miles
ALPHA – Larry Kay Miles, 82, of Alpha, an Elmwood native, died surrounded by his family at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, on June 29, 2024.
Larry was born in Elmwood to Raymond and LaVeda Miles on Sept. 3, 1941. He graduated from Elmwood High School and joined the Army. He was an Illinois State Trooper, retiring as a master trooper and with many marksman awards. After retiring, he had many jobs, including semi-truck driver, security officer and cab driver.
Larry married Nancy Langbehn. They had two sons, Scott and Peter. He later married Deanna Randall. They had a daughter, Megan. Larry is survived by one son, Scott (Felicia) Miles; one daughter, Megan Miles; one daughter-in-law, Destiny Miles; one sister-in-law, Helen Miles; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Peter Miles; one brother, Lee Miles; one sister, Peg Miles; one sister-in-law, Karen Miles; and two granddaughters.
Services were July 6, 2024, at Lehigh Cemetery in rural Elmwood.
Condolences can be left online at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
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.
