Obituaries 2008
Patrick A. Lewis, 39, of Fairmount, died at 8:15 p.m., Jan. 26, 2008, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urban. Funeral Services were 11:00 a.m. on Wed. Jan. 30 at Kirby Funeral Home; 708 S. Main St; Homer. Rev. Jennie Chin and Fr. Jeffrey Lawrence officiated. The burial was in Old Homer Cemtery in Homer.
Mr. Lewis was born on Dec. 15, 1968 in Danville, a son of Phillip R. and Gloria Buck Lewis. He married Barbara Yeazel on Jan. 28, 1995 in LasVegas, NV. She survives. Also surviving are four children; Allie; Jacob; Lindsay and Tyler Lewis all at home. His mother; Gloria Lewis of Homer; a brother; Paul (Kristi) Lewis of Sidney; sister; Annette (Kris Bolt) Livingston of Sidney; a brother; Bill (Melissa) Lewis of Clarksville, Tenn. He was preceeded in death by his grandparents and his father (Phillip R. Lewis).
Mr. Lewis was a 1993 graduate of SIU. He worked as a project manager for the University of Illinois. He was a Professional Engineer for the State of Illinois. He was a member of the Illinois State Rifle Assoc.; National Rifle Assoc.; Illinois Federation for Outdoor Resources; North American Hunting Club; and Guns Save Life Organization. He was a volunteer basketball coach for the young children 'Shooting Stars' at the Jamaica schools.
His hobbies included collecting guns; camping and being outdoors with his wife and children.
John Marion Walters, 86, of Normal, died Jan. 24, 2008 at 5:33 p.m. at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.
John was born Nov.11, 1921 in Fairmount, a son of Paul Nye Walters and Florence Tracey Walters. He grew up in the Fairmount/Homer area and attended school there. In May of 1942, he joined the US Navy and served as an Aviation Ordnanceman, First Class, in the Hawaiian Islands. In January of 1946, he returned home and married Ruth O. Burton Dec. 12, 1948, in Homer.
John attended the University of Louisville in Kentucky and was a Linesman and a trouble-shooter for CILCO, retiring in 1979. He was a member of the Peoria Temple of the Scottish Rite and a Shriner, a member of the Masonic Temple in Atlanta, Ill., a member of the American Legion and a member of IBEW for 60 years.
After his retirement, John and his wife moved to Thunderbird Park in Ft. Myers, Fla., where they lived 25 years before returning to Illinois. John was an avid Euchre and Cribbage player. While in Florida, he taught Euchre and the fineries of the game to other residents in the community where he lived.
He loved fishing with his grandsons, boating and waterskiing and had an extraordinary sense of humor. He always had jokes or stories at the ready and would crack himself up as often as he did others, laughing too much to finish his story. With his outgoing and warm personality, John made many friends both in Florida and at home in Illinois. While he treasured his friends and family, he especially loved his two grandsons, they were a very important part of his life.
In addition to his wife Ruth, John is survived by a daughter, Becky (Bob) Burden of Bloomington; his two grandsons, Jonathan (Sarah) Burden of Oak Park, and Joel Burden of Normal; a sister, Leona Mae Benner of Homer, and a brother, Everett Walters of Homer.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers Bob, Glenn and Carl Walters; sister Selma White and an infant sister Lois Iona Walters.
John's family wish to offer special thanks to the staff and nurses at Evergreen Place and Heritage Manor, who gave such loving care during his last year there. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, John will be sadly missed.
Funeral services were at Kibler-Smith Memorial Home with Pastor Mary Armstrong-Reiner officiating. Military honors were accorded by the Carl S. Martin Post 635 Honor Guard, Normal, American Legion. Masonic rites were accorded by the Atlanta Lodge #165. Interment was in Funks Grove Cemetery, McLean. Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL, 33607-1460 in his memory.
Charles M. "Pat" Patterson, 92, of Georgetown, passed away at 12:57 a.m. Jan. 28, 2008, at his home. He was born in Georgetown on Feb. 8, 1915, the son of Charles A. and Lenora (LaMar) Patterson, both deceased.
He was united with Madonna Maskel on Feb. 1, 1936, in Georgetown until her death on July 6, 2005.
Survivors include his sons, Robert Patterson, Richard Patterson and John Patterson, all of Georgetown; his daughters, Donna (Robert) Brimner of Grandview, and Bonita (Stephen) Cook of Cayuga, Ind.; his 11 grandchildren; and his many great-grandchildren, as well as several great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his five brothers, James, Kenneth, Glen, Wayne and Tom Patterson; and his sister, Elizabeth Ridge.
Pat was a member of the First Church of Christ in Georgetown. He had worked for International Harvester in Ridge Farm and Allerton. He had also worked for Bennett/Emmert Lumber Company, the Grab-It-Here Store, as well as the Georgetown IGA and Biggs Marathon.
A celebration of Pat's life was at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 31 at Sunset's Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home, Georgetown. Rev. Leon Korb officiated. He was laid to rest in Georgetown Cemetery. Memorial donations may be given in his name to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church or Carle Hospice or donor's choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Bessie L. Anderson Campbell, 101, of Cullman, Ala., formerly of Fairmount, died at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 28, 2008, at Woodland Village Health Care Nursing Home in Cullman, Ala.
Funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 31, 2008, at the Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial in Greenview Cemetery.
Bessie was born May 18, 1906, in Edwards County, Shelby Precinct in Illinois, the daughter of Otis and Jessie Belle Alexander Peters. She married John Anderson, and after his death, later married Clarence Campbell, who also preceded her in death. Survived by two grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and several great-great-grandchildren; and a nephew, Warren Peters of Georgetown. She was preceded by a son, Lawrence Anderson; stepson, Rex Anderson; stepdaughter, Irene Peters; and two brothers Raymond and Lyle Peters.
Bessie moved from Fairmount in 1962 relocating in Lafayette, Ind. Bessie enjoyed playing the piano, reading and attending the Church of Christ in Lafayette.
Memorials to the donor's choice. Arrangements entrusted to Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount.
Shirley Elizabeth Forshier Tighe, 84, of Nogales, Ariz., formerly of Homer, died Jan. 6, 2008, at her home. Her body was cremated. She had been declining in health since 2003.
There will be a memorial Mass at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 26 at St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Church in Homer. Father Jeffrey Lawrence will officiate. Visitation will be from 8:30 to 10 a.m. before Mass. Burial will be in GAR Cemetery in Homer. Kirby Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St., Homer, is in charge of arrangements.
Mrs. Tighe was born on March 9, 1923, in Danville, a daughter of Claude R. ³Cap² and Edith G. ³Chick² Johnson Forshier. She married Joseph F. Tighe. He passed away June 1999.
Survivors include one daughter, Dr. Carolyn Tighe (Dr. John) Wemlinger of Nogales, Ariz.; one brother, William (Charlene) Forshier of Danville; niece, Deborah Dawson of Danville; nephews, William Robert (Brenda) Forshier and Charles Lee (Tina) Forshier, both of Danville. Other nieces and nephews, great- and great-great-nieces and nephews living in the Danville and Champaign areas.
She was a 1941 graduate of Danville High School where she was involved in basketball, soccer, a GAA tennis champion, a swimming champion and synchronized swimming with her brother, Bill. She was a member of Pi Epsilon Pi Sorority and Senior Standard Bearer of St. James Methodist Church in Danville.
Organizations and hobbies as an adult included being a 47-year member of St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Church in Homer; Fairmount Home Bureau (former chairperson and member); Daughters of Isabelle Circle 40 in Danville; Fairmount Legion Auxiliary; Fairmount Women¹s Club (member and officer); St. Charles Borromeo Volunteer of the Year, Diocese of Peoria Council of Catholic Women.; St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church Altar Guild; Homer Lions Club Auxiliary; and Muscular Dystrophy Association fundraising.
Her hobbies were visiting friends who were homebound, hospitalized or in care facilities.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Nogales Hospital Building Fund or Carondelet Hospice Santa Cruz County, both in Nogales, Ariz.
Gary L. Hooker, 63, of Kingman, passed away at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2008, at his home.
He was born on June 2, 1944, in Danville, the son of Leon Hooker and Elizabeth Ellen (Yowell) Hooker.
He was a 1962 graduate of Jamaica High School.
He will be missed by his sons, Barry (Marsha) Hooker of Bloomington, Brad (Leisa) Snoke of Ohio and Bret (Christi) Snoke of Arkansas; his daughter, Becky Davis of Ridge Farm; his three stepchildren, Vanessa (Randy) Purple of Covington, Julie Lawson of Kingman and Wesley (Rachel) Lawson of Ridge Farm; and his 21 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three grandchildren.
Gary was a farmer who raised sheep and showed them at county and state fairs. He also enjoyed spending time with the friends he made at those fairs over the years. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Danville. He enjoyed his breakfast group at the Apple Tree restaurant in Veedersburg. He enjoyed watching sports and especially when his grandkids played. He really cherished the time he spent playing with his grandchildren.
A celebration of Gary¹s life was Jan. 22 at Sunset¹s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home in Georgetown with Jerry Cum-mins and Mark Bouslog officiating. He will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park in Danville, Ill.
Memorial donations may be given in his name to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Gary Lee "Tiny" Whitington, 63, of Wapello, Iowa, formerly of Fairmount, died Thursday, Jan. 17, 2008, at the Henry County Health Center at Mount Pleasant.
The son of Charles E. and Ella Rose Collins Whitington, he was born Jan. 1, 1945, at State Line, Ill. He married Linda Sue Wolfe on Sept. 22, 1966, at Fairmount.
Tiny graduated from Jamaica High School in 1963. He was an over-the-road truck driver for 21 years and had worked at Trisler Seed Farms.
He was a member of the Evangelical Methodist Church at Fairmount and had been a volunteer fireman. He enjoyed trucking, gambling and a good joke.
Survivors include his wife, Linda; two sons, James (Jenifer) Whitington of Oakwood and John (Audra) Whitington of Eagle Lake, Minn.; two daughters, Lee Ann (Mike) Lihs of Wapello and Shannon (David) Williams of Alton, Mo.; 10 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; four brothers, Jim Whitington of Danville, Terry (his twin) Whitington of Covington, Ind., Danny Whitington of Danville and Russ Whitington of Charleston; and two sisters, Barbara White of Sampson, Ala. and Neomi Freezer of Gary, Ind.
He was preceded in death by parents and four brothers, Charles, John, Larry, and Ronnie.
Memorial services were Jan. 20 at the First Presbyterian Church in Wapello. The Dudgeon-McCulley Funeral Home at Wapello provided arrangements. He has been cremated. The Rev. James H. Huston officiated the service.
Violet E. Gilroy, 85, of Sidell, passed away at 12:20 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 10, 2008, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville.
She was born on Feb. 7, 1922, in Georgetown, the daughter of Charles and Grace (Morgan) Hewitt, both deceased. She was wed to Paul Walker Gilroy on Feb. 7, 1942, in Sidell. He preceded her in death in 2000.
Those who will miss her include: her sons, David (Linda) Gilroy of Ridge Farm and Charles Gilroy of Sidell; her daughters, Sandra Thornton of Ogden, Anita Schmidt of Tilton, Elaine (Kevin) George of Veedersburg, Ind., and Janice Wade of Sidell; her 16 grandchildren; her 23 great-grandchildren; and her three great-great-grandchildren. Her sister, Ruth, preceded Violet in death.
Violet was a school bus driver for the Jamaica School District for several years.
She was a member of the Pleasant Mound Church of Christ. In her spare time, she enjoyed gardening, canning, and she enjoyed tending flowers.
She loved to be outdoors and spending time with her cats and feeding the squirrels.
A celebration of Violet’s life was at 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, at Pleasant Mound Church of Christ, east of Georgetown. Paul Kent will officiate the service. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 12 at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home, 200 E West St. in Georgetown. She will be laid to rest in Pleasant Mound Cemetery. Memorial donations may be given in her name to Pleasant Mound Church of Christ. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Betty M. Bennett, 81, of Sidell, died at 3 p.m. Sat., Jan. 5, 2008, at the Danville Health Care Center in Danville.
Mrs. Bennett was born on Jan. 26, 1926 in Urbana, a daughter of William and Myrtle Maxfield Retzolk. She married Robert J. Bennett on November 4,
1950 in Champaign. He survives.
Also surviving are two cousins and several nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Bennett was a member of the Sidell United Methodist Church, and a member of the Sidell Historical Society.
She worked for GTE and for Illinois Bell for many years. She also attended and graduated from Urbana High School.
Memorials may be made to the Sidell United Methodist Church.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Jan. 8, at the Sidell United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Dennis Fager officiating. Burial was at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola.
Joines Appleby Funeral Home of Sidell, is in charge of arrangements.
Ralph L. “Cotton” Hooker, age 85, of Sidell, passed away Thurs., Feb. 21, 2008 at the VA Illiana Health Care System in Danville.
He was born Dec. 1, 1922 in Effingham, the son of John and Daisy (Steambrook) Hooker. He married Lena Hires on May 27, 1959 in Metcalf. She preceded him in death.
Ralph is survived by two sons: Greg (Kathy) Hooker of Sidell and Eric (Tammy) Hooker of Fairmount, one daughter: Sue (Tod) Wolfe of Sidell, one brother: Verlie Hooker of Indianola, one sister Billie Baier of Hoffman Estates, five grandchildren: Jessica, Justin, Adam, Ashley, Daniel; and one great grandchildren: Shaelynn and one expected granddaughter: Alivia Marie.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, one son: Joe Hooker and several brothers and sisters.
Ralph served in the United States Army during WWII. He worked as a self-employed carpenter doing jobs for many people around the area. He really loved hunting, fishing and tending to his garden. Ralph also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, great grandchild and the kids in his neighborhood. He will be sadly missed by everyone that knew him.
A memorial service for Ralph Hooker was held from 2 - 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2008 at the Sidell Assembly Church in Sidell.
Memorial donations may be made in Ralph’s name to the organization of the donor’s choice. Email condolences may be sent to Ralph’s family at: www.sunsetfuneralhome.com. Sunset’s Community & Life Tribute Center is handling arrangements.
Frederick Henry Dohme, 70, of Broadlands, died at 8:28 a.m. Tues. Feb. 12, 2008 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
Fred was born on July 5, 1937 in Broadlands. A son of George and Kathryn Krukewitt Dohme.
He is survived by a daughter, Libby Dohme of Naples, Fla.; a son, Darren (Julle) Dohme of Broadlands; three grandchildren, Caroline, Jacob and Dylan, all of Broadlands; three sisters, Frances Jervis of St. Joseph, Marion (Maurice) Wienke of Homer, Ilene Boudreaux of Willow Springs; one brother, Henry Paul (Karen) Dohme of Champaign.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Karen Dohme.
He was a 1956 graduate of ABL High School. He then spent two years in the Illinois National Guard. He was a retired farmer and Ayers Township Road Commissioner for over 20 years. He loved to show cattle back in the 1970¹s and early 1980¹s. His prize shorthorn cattle won many championships at the Champaign County Fair and Illinois State Fair. He even had a steer named ŒFred¹ that won the North American Livestock Expo in 1982. He was a longtime member of the Broadlands card club and member of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Broadlands.
Fred lived life for his grandchildren up to his final moments. He enjoyed being with his grandchildren every day, and taking part in all activities they were involved in. He was very outgoing and social and had many friends throughout Champaign County and never knew a stranger. He was a wonderful father, brother, uncle, friend and beloved grandfather. He is sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church.
Funeral Services were Feb. 16, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Broadlands with Rev. Lynn A. Podoll officiating. Burial was in St. John¹s Cemetery in Broadlands.
Treva E. Andersen, 80, passed away, Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2008 at Ball Memorial Hospital, Muncie, Ind.
She was born March 3, 1927, in Indianola, the daughter of Louis Frederick and Sibby Goaldia Willison Ward, and graduated from Indianola High School in 1945. She later lived in Chicago where she worked for the government processing war and savings bonds.
While living in Chicago Treva met, and then married, Andrew L. Andersen on June 19, 1948. In 1959 she and her family moved to Cowan, Ind.
Mrs. Andersen was a member of Cowan United Methodist Church where she was a former Sunday School Superintendent, Church treasurer and president of the WSCS.
She was active in Girl Scouts having served as the Cookie Chairman for many years.
Surviving are six children: Glenna (Gary) Divine, Cowan; Judy (Allen) Stewart, Janice (Byron) Ritchie, Springport; Nancy Andersen, Indianapolis; David (Anna) Andersen, Murfreesboro, Tenn.; and Laura (Brian) Andersen-Bales, Noblesville; 10 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law, Joyce Ward, Chicago; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Andrew L. Andersen, who died in 1996; her brothers, David, Benson and William Ward; and her sisters, Arleigh Spessard and Theresa Drzal.
Services for Treva were Feb. 16 at Parson Mortuary with Pastor Matthew Todd officiating. Burial followed in Tomlinson Cemetery.
Memorials may be sent to the American Diabetes Association, 6415 Castleway W. Drive, Suite 114, Indianapolis, IN 46250.Condolences may be sent to www.parsonmortuary.com.
Mary Margaret Downey, 94, of Charleston and formerly of Oklahoma City, Okla., passed away Sunday, Feb.17, 2008, at Hilltop Convalescent Center in Charleston. A Memorial Service will be held at the Sidell United Methodist Church at a later date. Inurnment will be at the Resurrection Memorial Cemetery in Oklahoma City.
Margaret, as she was affectionately known, was born in St. Louis, Mo. Sept. 24, 1913, a daughter of Otis and Carrie (Sproul) Downey. She loved children and spent a portion of her life as a nanny for Dr. and Mrs. Lehmann of Sorocco, New Mexico. She later moved to Oklahoma City where she worked at Memorial Hospital for 26 years before retiring in 1978.
She enjoyed her retirement, visiting friends and relatives and traveling. In 1994 she relocated to Prairie Village in Rantoul, to be closer to family. She remained there until entering Hilltop Convalescent Center in Charleston. Margaret also enjoyed such hobbies as embroidery and cross stitch and was an avid reader.
She leaves her cousin, Barbara and her husband, Lyle, Knott of Sidell, and their children, Mike and Becky Lord and family, Lyle A. and Patti Knott and family and Dan and Helen Knott and family. Also surviving are the children and families of her late cousin Evelyn Johns; Bitsy Mourning and Phil, and Bob and Diana Johns and their family; and two very special friends, Bower Knight and David Flight. Margaret was also preceded by her stepmother, Mary Downey.
Margaret's family has requested that Memorials in her honor be made to the Sidell United Methodist Church, P.O Box 49, Sidell, IL 61876.
Paul Elias Frederick, age 64, of Sidell passed away at 9:35 a.m. Jan. 25, 2008 at Provena USMC of stroke and diabetic related complications.
Paul was born May 7, 1943 in Anoka Minn., the son of Ted and Coral (Playle) Frederick. He married Marilee Kay Jennings Nov. 2, 1964 in Osseo, Minn.
He is survived by his wife and daughter, Pauletta Kay (Ron-dall) Burgess of Hendersonville Tenn.; and two brothers, William ³Bill² Henry (Barbara) Frederick of Ontario, Calif. and Arnold Joy (Sharon) Frederick of Las Vegas, Nev.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Dora Mae (Frederick) Stofferahn.
Paul worked nights in the custodial department at Danville Area Community College for 26 years (1975 2000). He loved to repair bicycles for local children and was nicknamed the ³Bicycle Man.² He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
Per his wishes, he was cremated. A memorial service was held at East Park Church of Christ, Danville with Ray Nasser officiating. Paul had fond memories of driving the bus for the Church and delivering tapes to the shut-ins many years ago.
Memorial donations may be given in his name to East Park Church of Christ, 1224 E. Voorhees Street, Danville, IL 61834 or a favorite charity. Email condolences to sunsetfuneralhome.com. Sunset¹s Community & Life Tribute Center assisted the family with the arrangements.
Martha A. Hart, 77, of Georgetown passed away at 11:15 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, 2008, at the Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
She was born March 22, 1930, in Indianola, the daughter of Byrd and Frances Johnson Caudill.
Martha married Robert L. “Bob” Hart on Nov. 15, 1950, in Robinson. He preceded her on Aug. 18, 2006. Others who will miss her include her children, Randy (Debbie) Hart of Georgetown, Steve (Melanie) Hart of St. Louis, Mo., Susan (Larry) Glasscott of Georgetown, Tim (Lois) Hart of Olivet, Bryan (Renee) Hart of Georgetown, Betsy (Tim) Serd of Walker, La., and Ted (Kelly) Hart of Charleston, her 17 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren and her cat Mitzie.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one grandson, Travis.
Martha attended Vermilion Grove Friends Church, and her hobbies included bird watching and wildlife, collecting antiques, reading, baking, working crossword puzzles and going on drives, but most of all she loved and cherished her entire family.
A celebration of life was Tuesday, Feb. 12, at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure funeral home in Georgetown. Officiating was Rev. James Walker and Rev. James
Blue. Visitation for family and friends will be 4-7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 11, at the funeral home and one hour prior to the funeral on Tuesday. Place of rest will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Vermilion Grove Friends Church. Condolences can be e-mailed at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
Jerry Lee Murray, 55, of Danville passed away Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2008, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center.
Jerry was born Nov. 18, 1952, in Danville, the son of Floyd Arnold and Pauline Ruth Burke Murray. He married Debbie Ann Martin on Oct. 23, 1973, in Indianola. She survives along with son, Adrian Murray; and a special grandson, Skye Murray; one sister, Donna (Roy) Kindred; one brother, Steve (Teresa) Murray; a special niece, Brandy Pacheco and several other nieces and nephews and dozens of close friends.
Jerry attended Indianola Grade School and Jamaica High School.
He enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in Vietnam. Jerry worked as a roofer for Berlines and later for Local 97.
He enjoyed NASCAR, listening to "The Who" and the scanner, but most of all spending time with his family and friends.
A celebration of Jerry¹s life was held at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Danville with Pastor James Blue officiating. He was laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Steven Curtis Dalbey, 55 of Ogden, died at 6:22 a.m. Sunday, March 23, 2008 at his home.
Mr. Dalbey was born on Jan. 1, 1953 in Danville, a son of Curtis and Helen Cole Dalbey.
Survivors include his mother Helen Dalbey of St. Joseph; two daughters, Brandi Dalbey of Ogden and Brenda (Jeff) Adolph of Fithian; one brother, Tommy (Kristy) Dalbey of Cameron, Texas; two sisters; Susan (Terry) Carpenter of Danville and Judie (Jay) Puzey of Fairmount; two grandsons, Cole Mohr and Curt Adolph; eight nieces and nephews; one great-niece and one great-nephew.
Mr. Dalbey was preceeded in death by his father and one nephew.
He was a farmer all his life. He was a member of the Vermilion County Farm Bureau; former township trustee for Oakwood Township and a former Vermilion County 4-H board member.
Funeral services were Wednesday at Kirby Funeral Home, Homer, with Rev. Allen Miller officiating. Burial was in Stearns Cemetery, Fithian.
Memorials to his grandsons, Cole Mohr and Curt Adolph, in care of Kirby Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St., Homer, IL, 61849.
Billy G. Johnson, 58, of Fairmount, passed away suddenly at 12:56 p.m. Friday, March 14, 2008, in the emergency room at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville.
He was born June 16, 1949, in Frankfort, Ind., to Don and Norma Jean Thurman Johnson. Billy married Shirley Wade on May 18, 1983 in Danville. She survives.
Also surviving are three stepsons, David (Kelly) Wade of Bloomington, Rick (Chris) Wade of Westville and Steven (Jodi) Wade of Fairmount; one stepdaughter, Diana Davis of Tilton; two brothers, Mark (Lynn) Johnson and Jay (Judy) Johnson, both of Indiana; and 11 grandchildren.
Billy had been working in the maintenance department at the University of Illinois. He was a Vietnam Army veteran and a member of the Davis-Busby Post of Catlin Legion. He enjoyed football and was a Cubs fan. He especially enjoyed riding his Harley with Tia and found great enjoyment in watching NASCAR races with Jacob.
Funeral services were Tuesday at Robison Chapel in Catlin with Rev. Gary Menard officiating. Burial was in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Catlin. Davis-Busby American Legion provided military graveside rites.
Marjorie Moreman, 83, of Fairmount, passed away at 3:20 a.m. Tuesday, March 18, 2008, at Colonial Manor Nursing Home in Danville.
Marjorie was born Aug. 16, 1924, in Danville, to Orville and Lucy Smith Pletch. She married Kenneth Moreman on March 22, 1945, in Danville. He passed away in 2003.
Survivors include two sons, Terry (Brenda) Moreman and Randy Moreman Sr., both of Fairmount; four grandchildren, Kevin (Molly) Snack of Catlin, Holly Moreman of Bloomington, Heather (Tommy) Dongarra of Loveland, Colo., and Randy Moreman Jr. of Danville; four great-grandchildren, Dalton and Brady Snack, Domenic Dongarra and Donavan Wade; and one son-in-law, Wayne Hoskins. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Vicki Hoskins; two brothers, William and Howard Pletch; and one granddaughter, Kelly Snack.
Marjorie was a member of the Catlin Church of Christ. She worked for a time at Carson Pirie Scott department store and Provena Hospital. She was a member of Vermilion County Farm Bureau and enjoyed playing cards, doing puzzles and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral services: 10 a.m. Friday at Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount. Rev. Mike Roberts officiating. Burial in Oakridge Cemetery in Catlin. Visitation is from 5-7 p.m. Thursday at Carrington's in Fairmount.
Memorials to the Fairmount Rescue or donor's choice.
William E. Witherspoon, 78, of Prescott, Ariz., formerly of Fairmount, died Friday, Feb. 29, 2008 at the Veterans Hospital in Prescott. Graveside rites will be held in the late spring at Oakridge Cemetery in Catlin.
Arrangements by Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount.
Blaze Allyn McLain, 11 months, passed away at 12:49 p.m. Tuesday, March 4, 2008, at home. He was born March 12, 2007, in Danville, to Courtney Jones and Zack McLain.
Blaze was much loved and will be greatly missed by his mother, Courtney Jones of Indianola; his father, Zack McLain of Danville; his big brother and best friend, Zacheriah R. "Boodgy" McLain of Indianola; his grandparents, Suzanna and Hugh E. Jones of Indianola and Pepper and Earl McLain of Defiance, Ohio; his great grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. Fredrick H. Pierce of North Salem, Ind; his great-great grandmother, Rosene E. Pierce of Richmond, KY; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A celebration of Blaze's life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 8 at Bethel Baptist Church, 501 S. Main St, Georgetown. Pastor Gerald McPhillips will officiate.
Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the church prior to the service. He will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery, Indianola.
Memorial donations may be made in Blaze's name to the Education Fund and Care of Bethel Baptist Church, Georgetown.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Phil A. Dillon, 58, of Sidell, died at 9:15 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 28, 2008, at his home in rural Sidell.
Mr. Dillon was born on July 15, 1949, in Danville, a son of Hugh L. and Helen G. Anderson Dillon. He married Ann McDade on Feb. 12, 1989, in Independence, Mo. She survives.
Also surviving are his mother, Helen Dillon of Sidell; a brother, Alan E. Dillon of Danville; stepchildren, Eric and Tara McDade; and a nephew, Matt Dillon.
Phil was a 1972 graduate of Eastern Illinois University earning a degree in psychology. He farmed with his father for many years, and then by himself after his father passed away.
Phil became a pilot in May of 1987 and later became a high performance pilot in August of 1987. Phil was an avid fisherman.
Memorials may be made to the Carle Hospice Memorial Fund.
Funeral services were Monday, March 3, 2008, at the Joines Appleby Funeral Home in Newman. The Rev. Leslie Bone officiated. Burial was held at the Oakridge Cemetery in Catlin.
Wilmetta Rowand Madden, 97, of Johnson City, Tenn. passed away on February 28, 2008. Born in Sidell, she was the daughter of C. Dale and Carrie Myrtle Rowand.
Mrs. Madden was a member of Munsey Memorial United Methodist Church.
She graduated from the University of Illinois where she was a member of the Tri-Delta Sorority. She then attended graduate school at Columbia University in New York.
She was employed by the Credit Bureau in Florida from 1965 through 1985. She belonged to the Daytona Beach Credit Bureau Women¹s Club. Mrs. Madden owned and operated Kitty¹s House of Fashion in Daytona Beach in the 1950¹s. She was a member of the Eastern Star for 60 years.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Dale A. Madden; brother, Curtis Rowand; two grandsons, Joe Walton, III and George Madden.
She is survived by a daughter, Doris A. Walton and husband Joe of Johnson City; grandchildren: Sonja Walton Hadad and husband Gary, David Alan Madden, Paul Rowand Madden and Carla Baster; great-grandchildren: Kevin and Kyle Madden, Andrew Madden, Anabel Catherine and Jonathan Lucas, Joe Walton IV and Maggie Walton.
A Celebration of Life service was held on Sunday at 1 p.m. at Tetrick Funeral Services with Rev. Dennis Hamm officiating.
Memorial donations may be made in Mrs. Madden¹s name to Munsey Memorial United Methodist Church, 201 E. Market St., Johnson City, TN 37601.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com <http://www.tetrickfuneralhome.com/> or faxed to (423) 610-7177.
Arrangements for the Madden family are in the care of Tetrick Funeral Services, 3001 Peoples St., Johnson City, TN 37604. (423) 610-7171.
Lova Imogene Fleetwood Cutsinger
Lova Imogene Fleetwood Cutsinger passed away on April 7, 2008.
She was born September 14, 1907, to Walter and Dora Arthur Fleetwood in Brown County, Indiana. Imogene moved to Newman at an early age where she
graduated from Newman High School. In 1929, she married G.L. “Demp” Cut-singer.
After his death in 1940, Imogene continued to operate their family business, Allerton Oil Company, where she won the Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Award in a national magazine. After her son, John, took over management of the business, Imogene continued to work in the office well into her late 80’s.
She was an active member of the Allerton United Methodist Church, the Allerton Woman’s Club, and the Danville Business and Professional Women’s organization. Imogene’s grandchildren remember with great warmth spending weekends at “Grandma’s” when they were growing up. She enjoyed seeing her great-grandchildren, feeding and loving on her dogs and telling stories of days past.
She lived an active and fulfilling life in her home of 65 plus years, moving to the Newman Healthcare Center in July 2007. Imogene’s big smile, infectious laugh, encouraging words, and positive outlook will be missed.
Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, John and Donna Cutsinger, Allerton; grandson, David (Christy) and two great-grandsons Logan and Alex, all of Carmel, Ind.; granddaughter, Patty and (Matt) Taylor, Indianapolis, Ind.; a sister, Lucille Taylor, Seminole, Fla.; a sister Gladys Wilson and brother, Hugh Fleetwood, preceded her in death. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Visitation and services were at Joines Funeral Home, Newman. Burial was at Newman Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Allerton United Methodist Church, or to the Newman Rehab and Healthcare Center.
Joines Appleby Funeral Home of Newman was in charge of arrangements.
LENNIE L. MONROE
Lennie L. Monroe, 65 of Sidell died at 1:35 p.m. Saturday, April 19, 2008, at her home in Sidell.
Mrs. Monroe was born on October 26, 1942 in rural Newman, a daughter of Earl and Marcella (Sally) Cox Loop. She married Allan Monroe on May 27, 1961 in Newman. He preceded her in death on October 23, 1998. She was also preceded in death by her parents and a nephew.
Surviving are two brothers Kenneth and Barry (Peg) Loop of Sidell, three sisters Cinda Sue (James) Pope of Danville, Lisa (Kevin) Mackey of Urbana, and Sheree (Rodney) Deffenbaugh of Sidell, five nieces and six nephews.
Mrs. Monroe was an active member of the Metcalf Christian Church. She was an avid NASCAR Racing and Chicago Cubs fan. She enjoyed traveling, gardening, and hummingbirds.
A memorial service was held Wednesday at the Metcalf Christian Church. The Rev. Don Pruitt officiated. Burial was at the Pleasant Ridge Cemetery near Newman.
Joines Appleby Funeral Home of Sidell was in charge of arrangements.Memorials may be made to the Metcalf Christian Church or the American Cancer Society.
WAYNE FRANK REED
Wayne Frank Reed, 64, of Eureka, IL died unexpectedly at 1:44 p.m. on Monday April 21, 2008 at BroMenn Regional Medical Center, Normal. He was born on March 20, 1944 in Danville to Jacob Junior (J.J.) and Ruth Davis Reed. He married Sandra Walters on July 8, 1967 in Newell, West Virginia. They celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary last year.
Surviving are his wife; one son, Matthew (Kara) Reed of Decatur; one daughter, Brooke (Brandon) Beck of New Albany, Ind.; six beloved grandchildren, Ashlyn, Kaile, Lexi, Brayden, Brinley and Brielle; one brother, Terry (Christine) Reed of Monticello and two nieces also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.
He was raised near Fairmount and graduated from Jamaica High School where he lettered in football, basketball and track. He briefly attended Illinois State University.
Frank served his country in the U.S. Army during Vietnam from May 1965 to 1967 as an Inventory Control Instructor in the Washington, D.C. area.
He was employed by Hupp Toyota Lift in Peoria as branch manager from April 2002 to present. He previously had worked for M.H. Equipment in Peoria from October 1992 to April 2002 in various management positions. Frank started his career in the forklift business at Hyster Company in Danville.
He was a member of the Eureka Church of the Nazarene where he was actively involved in serving.Frank will be greatly missed by family and many friends.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday at the Eureka Nazarene Church,the Rev. Gordon Barrick officiating. Visitation will be 4-8 p.m.Thursday at Argo-Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home in Eureka and one hour prior to services on Friday at the church. Burial will be in the Hoult Cemetery in Chrisman with a graveside service at 3:00 p.m. on Friday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Eureka Church of the Nazarene or Eureka Community Hospital. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.
Rev. Mary Vick Roth
Rev. Mary Vick Roth, 69, of 2652 Manor Hill in Quincy, died Monday, April 14, 2008, in Blessing Hospital.
She was born Jan. 30, 1939, in Ft. Sill, Okla., the daughter of Kenneth and Evelyn Pilch Vick. On Aug. 25, 1957, she married Merlin Roth in Arcola.
She received her bachelor¹s degree, master¹s degree and specialist degree in guidance and counseling from Eastern Illinois University. She received her master of divinity degree from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary where she was voted "Top Preacher" in her class.
Mary served as a teacher in Indianola, then Jamaica High School in Sidell where she taught English, speech and rhetoric. She was head guidance counselor at Southeast Fountain School District, Veedersburg, Ind. She served Methodist churches in Batestown, Union Corner and Macomb. She was then named superintendent of the Springfield District and then superintendent of the Decatur District where she served for six years.
She served churches in Normal, Union Methodist Church in Quincy and then Knoxville, Ill. She retired in 2004 and returned to Quincy. Mary was involved in numerous conference task forces and retreats, and was always active in outreach efforts which focused on teaching and counseling.
She currently attended church at Melrose Chapel United Methodist Church in Quincy. She and her friend Sidney Crowcroft began ³Sharing the Loaf² which was a counseling, mentorship program.
Survivors also include, three children, Marti E. (Tom) Deighan of Bloomington, Marilyn E. (Edward) Kuper of Maryland Heights, Mo., Mark E. (Peiyu) Roth of Salinas, Calif.; seven grandchildren, Michael and Patrick Deighan, Sarah, Mary, Hannah and Leah Kuper and Sid Roth. She also was preceded in death by her parents and a half sister, Ann Jobie Vick.
Services were held April 18 at Melrose Chapel United Methodist Church in Quincy with the Rev. Wally Carlson officiating. Burial was in Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford. Memorials may be made to Garrett Seminary Tribute Scholarship.
Hansen-Spear Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Web site: http:// www.hansenspear.com.
Marshall Allen Grissom
Marshall Allen Grissom, 57, of Fairmount, passed away at noon Friday, April 18, 2008, at home. He was born November 5, 1950, in Newman, a son of Jesse Lester and Ruby Fern Bishop Grissom.
He is survived by: a son, Cory (Kim) Grissom of Westville; a daughter, Dawn Grissom of Janesville, Wis.; three brothers, Wayne (Sallie) Grissom of Chrisman, Bob (Barbara) Grissom of Mt. Pulaski, and Jim (Robin Rife) Grissom of Indianola; four sisters, Lillie (Dick) Rodeffer of Catlin, Lynn West of Tilton, Peggy (Warren) Hack of Danville and Katie Hoggatt of Chrisman; eight grandchildren, Kaleb, Sarah, Natalie, Cassie, Kodie and Ally Grissom, and Dylan and Alexis Kuhl.
A sister, Nina Skovira, preceded him.
Mr. Grissom was a semi driver. He enjoyed fishing, camping, traveling and was an avid NASCAR fan.
Funeral services were at Tuesday at Robison Chapel in Catlin with Rev. Darren Johnson officiating. Burial was in Georgetown Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Carle Home Care and Hospice
BRENDA GRAY
Brenda Gray, 58, well known Catlin resident, active in church, civic, and community affairs, passed away suddenly at 8:37 a.m. Monday, April 21, 2008, in the emergency room at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville. Brenda was born Oct. 7, 1949, in Springfield, Ohio, to Kenneth and Lu McFarland Shook. She married Dale Gray July 28, 1973, in Danville. Dale survives as well as her mother, Lu (Les "Bud") Willsey of Rockford, Ill.
Brenda is survived by one son, Mark (Maurie) Gray of Dallas, Texas; one daughter, Kelli (Matt) Merold of Washington, Ind.; two brothers, Gary (Carol) Shook of Rockford, and Bob (Jennifer) Shook of Littleton, Colo.; and four grandchildren, William Merold, Harrison Merold and Benjamin Merold and Gunnar Gray; and her mother-in-law, Dorothy Gray of Tilton.
Brenda had been a receptionist at the Danville Polyclinic for more than 15 years. She was an active member of the Catlin Church of Christ and church choir. She served on the Catlin School board, member of the Catlin Junior Women's Club and the Red Hat Society "Dazzling Dames."
She enjoyed yard work, boating, the Illini and the family pool. Her greatest joy was being with her grandkids.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Catlin Church of Christ. Dave Burger and Darren Johnson will officiate. Visitation is from 4-8 p.m. Thursday at the church.
Memorials may be made to the Catlin Church of Christ, c/o Robison Chapel in Catlin.
Fred Hancock, 65, of Champaign, formerly of Fairmount, passed at 7:56 a.m. Friday, March 28, 2008, in the emergency room of Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. Fred was born July 26, 1942, in Fairmount to George and Georgia Turpin Hancock.
Survivors include his father, George Hancock of Fairmount; his companion of 26 years, Kathy Carlson of Champaign; a sister, Diane (Irvin) Summers of Fairmount; a niece and a nephew.
Fred was a graphic artist, having worked for a time with General Dynamics of Quincy, Mass., designing nuclear submarines. He later joined the office of Planning and Budgeting at the University of Illinois in Champaign, where he worked for 35 years. Fred enjoyed antiques, furniture refinishing and gardening.
Funeral services were April 1 at Robison Chapel in Catlin with Rev. Jim Blue officiating. Burial was in Davis Cemetery west of Fairmount. Memorials may be made to the Fairmount and Jamaica Historical Society in his memory.
Ronald Emrick, 76, of Fairmount, passed away at 1:38 p.m. Sunday, May 25, 2008, at his home.
Funeral services were today, May 29, 2008, at 10:30 a.m. at the Oakwood Christian Church, Oakwood with the Rev. Richard Fortier officiating. Burial was at Stearns-Fithian Cemetery, Fithian.
Mr. Emrick was born November 22, 1931, at Valley City, the son of Tom and Beryl Crossman Emrick. He married Judith Bradley on Dec. 30, 1951, at Ogden; she preceded him on April 24, 2004.
He is survived by two sons, Douglas Emrick of Urbana and Shawn (Michelle) Emrick of Michigan City, Ind.; one daughter, Julie (Chuck) Brinkley of Champaign; three grandchildren, Jon (Ashleigh) Swanson, Ericka Swanson and Joe Emrick; one sister, Bonnie Wombles of Pittsfield; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded by his parents.
Mr. Emrick was a member of the Oakwood Christian Church. He worked at The News Gazette for 21 years. After leaving the News-Gazette, he went to work for Nixon Newspapers in Michigan City, Ind., until he retired. He was a veteran of the Korean War, serving as a sergeant in the U.S. Army. He was a member of the American Legion Post, Oakwood, and the National Association of Watch Collectors. His hobbies included hunting and woodworking. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed antiquing.
Memorials can be made to the Oakwood Christian Church.
Donald P. Dodd, 86, of Tilton, passed away at 10:10 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2008, at the Vermilion Manor Nursing Home in Tilton.
He was born July 29, 1921, in Sidell, the son of James C. and Ella E. Daugherty Dodd, both deceased. On Jan. 25, 1946, Don married Alma Danner in Georgetown. She preceded him in death in 2006. Survivors include his two daughters, Donna Dodd of Tilton and Linda (David) Landers of La Mirada, Calif.; his two grandchildren, Joshua (Sue Ellen) Landers and Elizabeth Landers, both of La Mirada, Calif.; and his brother, Kenneth Max. His grandson: Matthew, two sisters: Hazel and Mary, and his brother: James, preceded Don in death.
Don was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during World War II. After the military, he worked at Black and Company in Danville as an industrial manager, retiring after 40 years. He was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church in Til-ton, the Sidell American Legion, and the Vermilion Manor Nursing Home Auxiliary.
A celebration of life service for Donald Dodd is scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, May 19, 2008, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center located at 3940 N. Vermilion St. in Danville. Pastor Scott McCurdy will officiate with burial to follow at Sunset Memorial Park with military honors conducted by the Danville VFW Post 728.
Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s name to the Vermilion Manor Nursing Home and/or the Alzheimer’s Association.
E-mail condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Harold Dean Murray, 84, of Indianola, passed away at 2:50 p.m. Friday, May 16, 2008, at the Veterans Affairs Illiana Health Care System.
He was born on Dec. 20, 1923, in Jamaica, Ill., the son of Oscar Everett and Stella Taylor Murray. He married Imogene Wilson on July 16, 1946, in Danville. She survives.
Other survivors include: one son, Darold Gene Murray of El Mirage, Ariz.; three daughters, Frances Kay (David) Wenz of Glendale, Ariz., Ruth Ann (David) James of Phoenix, Ariz., and Thelma Irene Mercer of Danville; 20-plus grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Freeda May (Carl) Marana of Anaheim, Calif., and Ruby Irene (Dennis) Martin of Indianola; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Harold was preceded in death by: his parents; three children, George Allen Murray, Rebecca Ione Britton and Dale Everett Murray; one brother, Floyd Arnold Murray; and one sister, Dorothy Marie Woods.
Harold owned and operated Murray’s Body Shop in Danville before moving to Arizona, where he retired from Phoenix Transit. He was an ordained minister for 55 years. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army where he served under General Patton during WWII. He was in the Field Artillery in the Yankee Division and fired the 155 Howitzer.
Harold enjoyed being a minister and going to gospel revivals. He enjoyed singing and playing instruments for the revivals. He liked fishing, bowling and loved talking to people. He especially loved laughing and making people laugh. He was a wonderful, caring and loving husband and father who enjoyed life and lived it to the fullest.
A celebration of Harold’s life will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 20, 2008, at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home. John Deeters will be officiating. Burial will be at Danville National Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Monday, May 19, 2008, at the funeral home. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
William E. Witherspoon, 78, of Prescott. Ariz., originally of Fairmount, passed away Feb. 29, 2008, in the Veterans Administration Hospital in Prescott.
He was born Aug. 6, 1929, to Clyde and Geraldine Tate Witherspoon. He grew up on a farm near Jamaica and graduated from Fairmount High School in 1947.
He attended the University of Illinois. He was an officer in the Air Force and was stationed in France.
Following his military service, he went into the travel and tourism business in California and operated his own agency in the San Francisco area, specializing in group tours in both the United States and Europe.
Survivors include: one son, Andrew Witherspoon of Waikoloa, Hawaii; one daughter, Wendy Witherspoon of Los Angeles, Calif.; one stepdaughter, Shari Nielson of Burlin-game, Calif.; one stepson, Patrick Kruger of Salt Lake City, Utah; two sisters, Sarah Dickey of Clarendon Hills, Ill., and Ellen Witherspoon of Arvada, Colo.; two brothers, Lawrence Witherspoon of Metairie, La., and John Witherspoon of Bethesda, Md.; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one brother, Robert Witherspoon.
Funeral services: 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 24, at Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount. Rev. Steve Lamb will be officiating. Burial with military honors by the Davis-Busby Post of Catlin American Legion at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Catlin. Visitation is from 10:30 a.m. until the service time Saturday at Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount.
Robert Raymond Ogden, 85, of Champaign, died Saturday May 16, 2008 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
There will be a memorial service at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St., at 2 p.m. on May 20, 2008. The Rev. Philip McGarvey will officiate. There will be a visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will be private.
Bob was born March 11, 1923, in Isabel, Ill., the son of Paul Raymond 'Ray' and Vera Carnes Ogden. He married Mary Elizabeth Hale on June 16, 1946, in Urbana. She survives. Other survivors include two children, Melissa Jane (Scott) Wilson of Champaign and Paul (Karen) Ogden of Larchmont, N.Y.; a sister, June Watson of Urbana; three grandchildren, Lori Wilson of Champaign, Carter and Spencer Ogden of Larchmont; and a great-grandson, Schyler Wilson of Champaign. He was preceded in death by his brother, Carlos Ogden of San Jose, Calif., and a grandson, Michael Wilson of Champaign.
Bob graduated from Fairmount High School in 1941 and later attended the University of Illinois. He served in the 67th Army during World War II, seeing service in both the European and Pacific theaters. He was employed by Beatrice Foods and as business manager of Brown, Davis, Mullins and Associates (later GHR) consulting engineers of Champaign. Bob was past President of the Champaign-Urbana chapter of the American Business Club, an active member of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, the Fraternal Order of the Elks and the Masons. He was a member of the Board of Directors of the Champaign Country Club.
Bob loved to golf. For many years, he enjoyed the fellowship and laughter of three close friends in his Saturday morning golf foursome. Golfing trips with friends and spouses were a big part of his life. For many years, he participated in the Wednesday night bowling league at Old Orchard Lanes. He actively supported his childrens' athletic and scouting activities. Bob avidly supported Illini sports. He was a talented carpenter and craftsman.
In lieu of flowers, his family suggests that gifts be made to the American Diabetes Association, 2580 Federal Dr. Suite 403 Decatur, IL 62526.
Condolences may be offered at www.owensfuneralhomes.com
Ross Padgett, 96, well known Catlin resident, longtime milk distributor, passed away at 4:38 a.m. Wed., May 7, 2008, at Marshall County Hospital in Benton, Ky.
Ross was born July 2, 1911, in Coal City, Ind., to Edd and Jenny Reagan Padgett. He married Pauline Lindley Dec. 21, 1933, in Danville. She died April 2, 1960. He later married Dorothy Manning. She died Nov. 29, 2004.
Survivors include: two daughters, Joan (Terry) McGarigle of Gilbertsville, Ky., and Karen (Dean) Liggett also of Gilbertsville, Ky.; one stepdaughter, Shirley Trignero of Caballo, N.M.; one sister, Margaret Holland of Westville; five grandchildren, four stepgrandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, two stepgreat-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Ross was preceded in death by three brothers and one sister.
Ross was a milk distributor for over 50 years, 11 of those with Meadow Gold Company. He was a member of the Catlin Church of Christ, Christian Men¹s Builder Class and had served as an elder and deacon in the church. He was a member of the Catlin Lions Club, served on the board of the Illini Children¹s Home, member of Catlin Historical Society and had served on the Catlin Township Cemetery Board. He wintered in Florida for 27 years. He also attended the Aurora Christian Church in Benton, Ky. Ross had spent the last few years at Stilley House assisted living in Benton, Ky.
Funeral services were held at Catlin Church of Christ with Dave Burger officiating. Burial was in Oakridge Cemetery in Catlin. Robison Chapel in Catlin was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made in Ross¹ memory to the Catlin Church of Christ or Catlin Historical Society in care of Robison Chapel.
Evelyn Fisher, 88, longtime area realtor and business woman, passed away at 8 a.m. Tues., May 12, 2008, at her home.
Evelyn was born July 17, 1919, in Westville, to Leo and Gladys Rogers Harrier. She married S. Deneen ³Dean² Fisher Jan. 7, 1938, in Covington, Ind. He died Sept. 9, 1997. She later married Herschel Hooker in 2000. He died in 2004.
Survivors include two sons, Lee (Bette) Fisher of North Fort Myers, Fla., and John (Paula) Fisher of Tavares, Fla.; one brother, Kenneth Harrier of Minnesota; six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; her longtime friend, Louise Hart; special friends, Helen Dillon, Clyo Wright, Virginia Stewart and all her Westville girlfriends. Thanks to all her caregivers over the years, as well.
Evelyn owned and operated Fisher Real Estate office for 38 years and was an Eastern Star member for more than 50 years. She enjoyed dancing, Gaither concerts, traveling to Branson and wintering in Boyton Beach, Fla.
Funeral services will be at 6:30 p.m. today (Thursday) at Robison Chapel in Catlin. Rev. Joe Humrichous will officiate. Visitation is from 4-6 p.m. Thursday. Cremation will follow the service. Memorials to St. Judes Hospital or Carle Hospice in care of Robison Chapel.
Terry Gene Whitington, 63, of Covington, passed away at 8:40 a.m. EDT Saturday, May 3, 2008, at Home Hospital in Lafayette, Ind.
He was born Jan. 1, 1945, in State Line, the son of Charles and Ella (Collins) Whitington. He married Nancy Owens in 1966. They later divorced. He then married Judy Lowe on June 6, 1970, in Fairmount. She survives.
Terry is also survived by one son: Charles (Colleen) Whitington; one daughter: Traci (Jim) Mosley; three brothers: Russell (Lynda) Whitington, Jim (Charlotte) Whitington and Danny Whitington; two sisters: Naomi Feezor and friend, Stan Valrich, and Barbara (CR) White; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild with two great-grandchildren on the way.
He was preceded in death by his parents and five brothers: Charles, John, Gary, Larry and Ronnie Whitington.
Terry worked for GM in Danville for 25 years, retiring in 1990. He loved listening to classical country western music, especially George Jones. He liked to watch TV and travel. His favorite pastimes were playing bingo and going to casinos. He got pleasure from spending time with family, friends and his dog, Pebbles. He enjoyed joking with people.
A memorial service celebrating the life for Terry Whitington was held May 7 at Sunset's Covington Chapel in Covington.
Memorial donations may be made in Terry's name to the organization of the donor's choice.
E-mail condolences to: www. sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Fern Alexander, 95, of Fairmount, passed away at 11:11 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, 2008, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville.
She was born June 13, 1912, south of Sidell to Freddie and Myrtie Turner Brooks McNees. She married William D. Alexander in Indiana March 2, 1931. He passed away Sept. 2, 1978.
Survivors include: three sons: Clifford (Genie) Alexander of Converse, Texas, Freddie (Karen) Alexander of Fairmount and James (Shirley) Alexander of Danville; one daughter: Betty (Jim) Salladay of Fairmount; one daughter-in-law: Pat Alexander of Fairmount; and two sisters: Lorena (Rev. Charles) Pearman of Indianola and Bonnie Carter of Fairmount. She was preceded by an infant daughter and one son, Bill Alexander. Survivors also include 16 grandchildren, four stepgrandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, six stepgreat-grandchildren and 16 great-great-grandchildren.
Fern's family and children were her greatest pride and concern. She enjoyed flowers, active in the Fairmount Ball Association, helped with the Fairmount Boy Scouts, member of the former Fairmount Presbyterian Church, later New Hope Community Church. She attended Sidell Grade School, Galloway School and Barnet School. She had been a homemaker and a loving and caring person.
Funeral services were Monday at Robison Chapel in Catlin with Rev. Ron Weishaar officiating. Burial was in the Greenview Cemetery, Fairmount.
Memorials to the Fairmount Ball Association or American Cancer Society.
Mary Burke, 86, of Champaign, formerly of Fairmount and Danville, passed away at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at Illini Heritage Nursing Home, Champaign.
Mrs. Burke was born April 24, 1921, in Danville, a daughter of William and Nell Tighe McCormick. She married Joseph Burke in 1950 in Chicago. He preceded her in death in 1953.
Survivors include two nieces, Janet (Bruce) McCormick of Tiburon, Calif., and Sharon (Robert) Ward of Los Osos, Calif. She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Billy McCormick, and a brother, Dennis McCormick.
She was employed in Chicago as a telephone operator, at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Danville, and she also owned and operated the Fairmount Tavern with her brother.
She enjoyed traveling, collecting silverware and buying and selling houses, moving many times in her life. She also enjoyed playing cards and was a St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan.
Funeral Mass was held at 10 a.m. April 19, at St. Thomas Catholic Church, Philo, with Rev. Keith Walder officiating. Burial was at St. Joseph Cemetery, Bongard.
Memorials may be made to St. Thomas School.
Dale L. Lamb, 61, of Oakwood, passed away at 5:49 p.m. Wed., April 23, 2008, at home.
He was born April 27, 1946, in Danville, a son of Ralph and Florence Thomas Lamb. He married Beatrice Fout Sept. 14, 1968, in Fairmount. She survives.
Also surviving: three daughters, Rebecca (Craig) Eitel, Janet (Rick) Lamb and Cindy (Anthony) Swaney, all of Oakwood; two brothers, Frank Lamb of Sidell and Wayne Lamb of Danville; two sisters, Donna Fultz and Judy Arnett, both of Fairmount; and seven grandchildren.
Dale retired from General Motors and worked at Jamaica Unit 12 School. He was an avid fisherman and a Cubs fan. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.
Funeral services: 10 a.m. Monday, April 28 at Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount with Rev. Mike Roberts officiating. Burial: Davis Cemetery, west of Fairmount. Visitation: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, April 27 at Carrington Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to the Colon Cancer Alliance.
Herman R. Feezor, 79, of Indianola passed away at 6:34 p.m., Monday, June 9, 2008, at Provena USMC, Danville.
A celebration of Herman’s life will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, June 13, 2008, at the Indianola United Methodist Church. Pastor Jarrett Wells will officiate. Visitation will be 4-8 p.m., Thursday, June 12, 2008, at the church and also, one hour prior to the service. He will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery, Indianola.
Herman was born on Oct. 16, 1928, in Georgetown, to Claude and Mabel (Powell) Feezor. He was joined in marriage to Wilmetta Wax on Aug. 25, 1957, in Indianola.
Survivors include his wife, Wilmetta of Indianola; his three children, Nancy (Wesley) Grimes of Danville, Daniel (Jenny) Feezor of Waverly, and Dr. Lori (Benjamin) Ribble of Franklin; six grandchildren, Adam and Samantha Grimes, Janet and Garrett Feezor and Mikah and Noah Ribble; a sister, Beverly Whitington of Danville; a brother, Billy Feezor of Lebanon, Mo.; two sisters-in-law, Naomi Feezor of Gary, Ind., and June Feezor of Danville; as well as, many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father; two brothers, Claude Feezor Jr. and Melvin Feezor; and one sister-in-law, Alice Feezor.
Herman was in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1952 and served in the Korean War as a Corporal. He retired from Hyster after 37 years of service and was
a member of the Independent Lift Truck Builders Union. Herman was an active member of the Indianola United Methodist Church. Herman loved his fellow man and his gentle tap on the shoulder to his friends will be missed by all who knew and loved his gentle nature. He enjoyed music and working puzzles. Herman’s love of education for his family and himself was the highlight of his life. He received his GED from DACC in 1969. In August of 2007, he celebrated his Golden Anniversary with his wife, Wilmetta, at the United Methodist Church in Indianola.
Memorial donations may be given in Herman’s name to the Indianola United Methodist Church. Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home, 200 E West St,
Georgetown, in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
Daniel Allen Whitington, 54, of Peoria Heights, formerly of Danville, passed away on June 5, 2008, at Heartland Health Care Center in Peoria.
He was born in Fairmount on Jan 23, 1954, to Charles and Ella Collins Whitington. He is survived by his children, Larry (Jennifer) Whitington of Peoria Heights, Melissa (Brian) Weiler of Des Moines, Iowa, and four siblings.
He was preceded in death by his parents and six siblings.
Cremation has been accorded and a memorial service will be held at a later date. The Cremation Society of Mid-Illinois Co. Pekin/Peoria is in charge of the arrangements.
Albert L. “Bud” Royce, Jr. entered this life on Feb. 2, 1941, the son of Albert L. “Ab” Royce, Sr. and was called by God on May 28, 2008, due to complications from leukemia, though he tried his best to beat it. His wife, son, and special niece, whom he loved very much, Lynn Morgan of Catlin, took care of him from the start to the end of his illness.
He married his lover, wife, and companion, Helen, November 4, 1967. She survives.
Also surviving; one son, Christopher Royce of Georgetown; two sisters, Rita (Lynn) Schrader of Billings, Mont. and Penny Boren of Oakwood; two brothers, Mike (Bev) Royce of Danville and Eric (Rhonda) Royce of Tilton; and a special nephew, Bradley Morgan of Mississippi, as well as, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Ab; three brothers, Paul, Tim, and Rick Royce; and a niece, Michelle.
Bud was a member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 293, then Local 157 of Terre Haute since April 7, 1966. Prior to his retirement in 1998, he was an elected Union officer and Business Manager of Local 293. When the two locals merged, he was appointed Field Representative of Local 157. He was very proud to be a Union member.
Bud served on many civic and labor organizations, Boys and Girls Club, United Way, Salvation Army, Work Force Challenge, DACC Presidential Search, Danville Labor Movement Council, Leadership Danville, and others. He also served in the US Army.
He took pride in his love for his bride, Helen, of 40 years, and his family. Bud wanted to be remembered as a good husband, father and good union man, as well as, for his involvement in the labor movement. Bud Royce will be remembered and missed by many.
A celebration and memorial of Bud’s life will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday at Sunset’s Community and Life Tribute Center, 3550 N. Vermilion, Danville. Visitation will be held from 12 noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday prior to the service. As per his wishes, he was cremated.
Memorial donations may be given in Bud’s name to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Winford V. “Winnie” Bland, 93 of Perrysville, Ind. died at 4 p. m. July 8, 2008 in VA Illiana Health System, Danville.
He was born Feb. 9, 1915 in Bloomfield, son of the late Homer and Ruby Stewart Bland. He married Irene L. Wait Feb. 20, 1942 at Perrysville. She survives.
He served 29 years in the U. S. Air Force, retiring in 1965 as a chief warrant officer. They moved to Perrysville in July 1965. He was a member of Christian Union Church, a Life member of Retired Officers Association and Walter Hoyt American Legion Post 350.
Also surviving are four brothers, William (Hazel) Bland of Englewood, Colo., Charles Bland of Danville and formerly Sidell, Herschel (Delores) Bland of Homer, Dean (Emily) Bland of Sacramento, Calif.; two sisters, Marie Sinclair of Fort Wayne and Elsie (Levy) Greer of Fairmount; several nieces and nephews; several great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters.
Friends were received noon to 2 p.m. EDT Friday July 11, 2008 at the Shelby Funeral Home, Covington. Services followed at 2 p.m. EDT with Rev. Grover Williams and Rev. Larry Stoops officiating. Interment will be in Hicks Cemetery, Perrysville, with military services by the American Legion. Contributions may be made to the Christian Union Church or Gessie United Methodist Church.
William Ray Orndorff Jr., 42 and his wife, Julie Anna Orndorff, 34 of Broadlands passed away alongside each other at 11 p.m. Saturday (July 12, 2008) in an accident.
A memorial service was held at 11 a.m. today (July 17, 2008) at the Joines-Appleby Funeral Home in Newman. Burial service was in Fairview Cemetery, Sidell.
Bill Orndorff was born on May 11, 1966, in Danville, a son of William and Darleen Swinford Orndorff.
Julie Orndorff was born on Oct. 25, 1973, in Grand Rapids, Mich., a daughter of Michael and Marleene Morley Godlewski.
They married on June 28, 1996.
Surviving the couple are their five children, Geoffrey, Darrell, Trent, Nicolas, and Kevin Orndorff, all of Broadlands;
Surviving Bill are his parents, William and Darleen Orndorff of Hume; five brothers, Richard of Newman, Allen of Sidell, Robert of Champaign, Stanley of Danville, and Michael Orndorff of Hume; four sisters, Jackie Crowe of Indiana, Ann Orndorff of Broadlands, Mary Gast of Broadlands, and Rachael Orndorff of Hume; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.
Surviving Julie are her mother Marleene Klump; two brothers, Eric of Tampa, Fla., and Michael Godlewski of Grand Haven, Mich.; a sister, Kristi Clover of Grand Haven; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.
Bill and Julie were avid Harley-Davidson fans, both of them members of the Stone Cold Motorcycle Club.
They loved spending time with each other and camping with their boys.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Longview State bank c/o Orndorff Boys Scholarship Fund.
Walter Chew, 90, of Bradenton, Fla., formerly of Sidell, died on Jan. 22, 2008 at 3 p.m.
Walter was born on Jan. 24, 1917 in Sidell, a son of Fred and Dot Chew. He graduated from Sidell High School and later married Norma Hager in 1944 in Washington, D.C. She preceded him in death.
Walter graduated from the University of New York at Buffalo. He was a veteran of the WWII. He served in the Philippine Islands. He was a manager at the Western Electric Communication Company in Buffalo. He was later transferred to Atlanta. He retired from there in November 1975.
He is survived by a son, Dennis, of Ashville, N.C., and a daughter, Melissa Gendreau, of Bradenton, Fla., four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
A memorial service was held at the Cortez United Methodist Church in Bradenton, Fla.
John W. Gones, 69, of St. Joseph passed away at 11:18 a.m. Monday, June 30, 2008 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.
Funeral services were held today (Thursday) at Freese Funeral Home in St. Joseph with the Rev. Mark Harris officiating. Burial was in Patterson Cemetery, St. Joseph.
Mr. Gones was born March 21, 1939 at Danville, the son of John and Frances McDaniel Gones. He married Marilyn Wax on April 2, 1960 at Sidell. She survives.
Also surviving are two sons, John (Cheryl) Gones of St. Joseph, Jim Gones of Champaign; one daughter, Jacinda (Michael) King of Urbana; six grandchildren, Patrick, Mark, Lucas Gones, Ryan and Aaron Gones, and Kiel King; one brother, Douglas Gones of Shorewood; two sisters, Judy Chesnut of Sidney and Janet Jackson of Fairmount; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two sisters.
John was retired from AT&T since March of 1991. He worked for the village of St. Joseph since 1993. He helped farm in the area. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing golf and attending his grand-children’s events.
Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or American Cancer Society.
Carl F. Dorsett, 79, of Newman passed away at 6 p.m. Friday, June 27, 2008, at Provena Covenant Medical Center in Urbana.
Mr. Dorsett was born on April 13, 1929, in Danville, a son of John and Eva Johnson Dorsett. He was later adopted by Roy and Maude Pollock. He married Joan Biddle on July 3, 1949, in Newman; she survives.
Also surviving are a son, Rick (Kathy) Dorsett of Newman, and three grandchildren, Ricki and Skyler Dorsett, both of Newman, and Summer of Champaign.
Mr. Dorsett was preceded in death by two sons, Carl Wayne and David Dorsett, and two sisters, Bernice Redifer and Barvely Mitchell.
Mr. Dorsett was a member of the local UAW Union 579, and a member of the Fairmount Evangelical Church in Fairmount.
He loved and enjoyed his grandchildren, and was a former Little League baseball coach, having the opportunity to coach both his son and grandson.
Funeral services were held 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 1, 2008 at the Joines Appleby Funeral Home in Newman with Pastor Chuck Powell officiating. Burial was at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery north of Newman.
Memorials may be made to the Fairmount Evangelical Church. Joines Appleby Funeral Home of Newman is in charge of arrangements.
DeeAnn K. Davis,
43, of Fairmount, passed away at 8:25 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, 2008,
at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville. DeeAnn
was born Feb. 2, 1965, in Tuscola, to Bill and Judy Lucas Toppe.
She married Greg Davis Aug. 31, 1984, in Sidell.
Greg survives as well as her mother of Sidell; and three daughters, Brooke Davis, Brittany Davis and Briley Davis, all of Fairmount; and one sister,
Debra (Jeff) Knight of Fairmount. She was preceded in death by her father, Bill.
DeeAnn owned and operated Hiland Logistics, a transportation brokerage firm. She enjoyed her home and swimming pool, shopping, traveling, and
especially “spoiling her girls” and being with her family.
Funeral services are 10 a.m. today (Thursday) at Robison Chapel in Catlin with Rev. Mike Roberts officiating. Burial is in the Fairview Cemetery in
rural Sidell. Memorials to “DeeAnn’s Girls” in care of Robison Chapel.
Ruth B. Taylor, 97, a longtime
area resident and noted Catlin historian, passed away at 8:36
a.m. Friday, Aug. 22, 2008, at Colonial Manor Nursing
Home in Danville.
She was born June 10, 1911, in Sidell to G.W. and Ethel Browning Burroughs. Ruth married Don Taylor on Sept. 3, 1937, in Louisville, Ky. Don
passed away on Nov. 10, 1998.
Survivors include a son, Joel (Sharon) Taylor of Indianola; three grandchildren, Tamara (Larry) Farr of Lafayette, Ind., Rebecca (Robert) Lazzell of Danville and Todd (Kimberly) Taylor of Charlotte, N.C.; five great-grandchildren, Samuel Robert Lazzell, Colby Joel Taylor, Mary Ann
Lazzell, Savannah Claire Taylor and Elisabeth Rose Lazzell. She was preceded in death by two sisters.
Ruth was a member of the Catlin United Methodist Church, Sidell Women’s Club, American Association of University Women, University of Illinois graduate of 1933, U of I Alumni Association, Home Extension, Catlin Historical Society and served on the first board of directors.
Ruth taught business at Bismarck High School from 1933-1937 and at Jamaica High School from 1957-1959. She also taught knitting for the war effort, and enjoyed crafts. Ruth also authored a colorful history of Catlin.
Ruth was always very family-oriented. In the last few years, her family grew to include her wonderful neighbors in Catlin; her loving caregiver, Joyce Thomas; and most recently, the attentive staff at Colonial Manor.
Funeral services were 10 a.m. Monday at the Catlin United Methodist Church with Pastor Jan Miller officiating. Burial was at Oak Ridge Cemetery at Catlin. Memorials to the Catlin Historical Society in Ruth’s memory in care of Robison Chapel.
Rose M. Sacre, 98, passed away
at 3:47 a.m. Monday, Aug. 25, 2008, at Colonial Manor Nursing
Home in Danville. She was born Nov. 15, 1909, in Catlin Township,
the daughter of Alexander V. and Florence M. (Sanford) Church.
On Nov. 10, 1934, in Catlin, she married Raymond H. Sacre, who preceded her in death on July 29, 1984. She also was preceded by her parents, four sisters, Grace (Ed) Martin, Edith (John) Davis, Ruth (Raymond) Berry and Helen (Theodore) Richer.
Rose is survived by one daughter, Rita (Ed) Ross of Fairmount; one brother, Herman (Deveril) Church of Westfield, Ind.; two grandsons, Matthew
(Chrissy) Ross of Palatine and Anthony (Meghan) Ross of Georgetown; one great-grandson, Landon Matthew Ross also of Georgetown; and several nieces and nephews.
Rose attended Illinois State Teachers College in Normal receiving her teacher’s certificate in 1927. She taught in several one-room schools in the Catlin area including Miller, Bethel and Shiloh, which was the last functioning one-room school in Vermilion County. She completed her teaching
career in Catlin Elementary School where she taught fourth grade until retiring in 1967.
Rose was a member of the Catlin Church of Christ where she taught Sunday school for many years. She was also a member of the Catlin Historical
Society and a former member of Vermilion County Home Extension, the Danville Garden Club and the Danville Art League.
Funeral services were 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, at Robison Chapel in Catlin with Ed Ross, Tony Ross and Matt Ross officiating. Burial was in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Catlin. Memorials to the Catlin Church of Christ or the Catlin Historical Society in care of Robison Chapel.
Shannon George, 41, of Sidell, passed away unexpectedly at 1:11 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, 2008, in the emergency room at Carle Hospital in Urbana.
Shannon was born Sept. 1, 1966, in Ravenna, Ohio. She married David George on Sept. 6, 1986, in Edmonds, Wash. David survives, as well as: her mother,
Kathleen Finn of Seattle, Wash., three sons, Noah, Elijah and Nathaniel, all at home; one brother, Jason (Shannon) Menks of Seattle, Wash., and one sister, Heather (Mark) Barlow of Lynnwood, Wash.
Shannon was also the loving and devoted aunt to Kristopher George. Her favorite activities included her children’s sporting events and her family. She loved baseball and the Seattle Mariners. Shannon attended the Sidell United Methodist Church.
Memorial services were at the Sidell United Methodist Church with Mike Cox and Rev. Larry Moreau officiating. Memorials in Shannon’s memory may be made to the Vermilion County Humane Society. Robison Chapel of Catlin is assisting the George family.
Raymond Allen Ingram, 52, of Indianola, passed away Friday, Aug. 8, 2008, from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. He was born on Sept. 5, 1955, in Danville, the son of Charles and Ruby Murray Ingram. He married Patricia Webster. He later married Joyce Dickison on Aug. 11, 1988, in Newport, Ind. She survives.
Other survivors include his mother, Ruby (Dennis) Martin of Indianola; his son, Michael Ingram of Terra Haute, Ind.; his stepdaughter, Margaret (Cris) Songer of Indianola; his granddaughter, Myka Ingram and his stepgrandchildren, Brandy, Colt, Dalton and Leo Songer; his stepgreat-grandchild, Krystal Songer; his brother, Charles (Debbie) Ingram of Indianola; his three sisters, Wilma (Bill) Reagan-Ingram of Sidell, Lisa (Steve) Cundiff of Indianola and Darla Ramey of Terre Haute, Ind.; his stepbrother, Donald Martin of Covington and two stepsisters, Lisa Beth Ray of Danville and Lori Winningham of Livingston, Tenn.; his special brother-in-law, Darrell Ramey of Indianola; several nieces and nephews and many more family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, one infant daughter, Lynn, and his uncle, Harold Murray.
Raymond worked as a landscaper for Ingram’s Nursery for 18 years. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, mushrooming, and motorcycle riding. He also enjoyed working on cars. Raymond loved helping people. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Graveside services were held at Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola. Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Condolences:
www.sun setfuneralhome.com.
Marjorie A. Kavanaugh, 95, of Danville, passed away at 11:45 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, 2008. She is now rejoicing her new life with her Lord and family.
Marjorie was born Jan. 25, 1913, and raised in the pioneering Fisher family of Indianola. Preceding her in death were her parents, Edward Mont Fisher and Ida Dell Maddox Fisher, her husband, Thomas Kavanaugh, sisters, Eva Swank, Gayle Moreland and Armada Baker and brother, Dean Fisher.
She will be forever missed by her daughter, Carol Holaves; and the apple of her eye that could do no wrong – her grandson, Michael Bratton; her nephews: John and Lee Fisher, John Moreland and Bill Swank; stepdaughter: Connie Kavanaugh Wood and stepson: Larry Kavanaugh plus family and friends.
Marjorie was a graduate of Indianola High School, and she and her husband owned and operated the Big 4 Tavern in Danville for many years. She attended St. James United Methodist Church for several years and enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, traveling, an occasional martini, watching T.V., especially golf, but above all, she loved being with her family.
A Celebration of Marjorie’s Life was held at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center with Lee Fisher officiating. After a private committal service she was laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carle Hospice. Condolences: www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
George E. Hancock, 93, well known Fairmount businessman and owner of the former George’s Gun Shop, passed away at 9:10 a.m. Monday, July 28, 2008 at his home.
George was born Feb. 18, 1915, in Homer to Fred and Effie Elliott Hancock. He married Georgia Turpin Sept. 30, 1940, in Louisville, Ky. She passed away Nov. 5, 2001.
Survivors include: one daughter, Diane (Irvin) Summers of Fairmount; two grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; and Kathy Carlson of Champaign.
George was preceded in death by his son, Fred and one sister, Margaret. George was foreman of packing and shipping at Chanute Air Force Base for 30 years. He also owned and operated George’s Gun Shop in Fairmount from 1973 until his retirement in 2007. He served in World War II in the Army.
He was a noted gun, coin, and knife collector and an avid Cubs fan. He enjoyed fishing and hunting. He attended Faith Evangelical Methodist Church in Fairmount. George was a charter member of the Wabash Valley Gun Club, NRA and was a 32nd Degree Mason and member of the Catlin Masonic Lodge for 58 years, and Scottish Rite Valley of Danville, as well as a member of the Davis-Busby post of the Catlin American Legion. George also served for a time on the Fairmount Village Board.
Funeral services at 10 a.m. Friday at Robison Chapel in Catlin. Pastor Chuck Powell and Rev. Phil Jackson officiating. Burial with military honors by the Catlin American Legion will be in the Davis Cemetery, west of Fairmount. Visitation is from 5-7 p.m. Thursday at Robison Chapel with Masonic rites at 6:45 p.m. Memorials in George’s memory to the Vermilion County Museum or Faith Evangelical Methodist Church in Fairmount, in care of Robison Chapel.
September
2008
Clifford O. Rohrscheib, 91, longtime Fairmount area grain and livestock farmer, passed away at 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008, at Carle Hospital in Urbana.
Clifford was born July 21, 1917, in Sidney, to Henry L. and Berdie Hale Rohrscheib. He married Dorothy Clem on April 21, 1951, in Danville.
Dorothy survives as well as: one son, Vernon (Mary) Rohrscheib of Fairmount and two granddaughters, Lynn and Stacey Rohrscheib.
Clifford was preceded by one brother, Hilbert, and four sisters, Mabel West, Elma Rohrscheib, Mary Ellen Allard and Louise Wimsett.
Clifford was a dedicated farmer and member of the Vermilion County Farm Bureau and Homer United Methodist Church. He was honored by the FFA as an
American Farmer in 1974.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Robison Chapel in Catlin. Rev. Jim Blue will officiate. Burial will be in the GAR Cemetery in Homer. Visitation is from 4-8 p.m. Thursday (tonight) at Robison Chapel in Catlin. Memorials may be made to the Illinois FFA Association, c/o Robison Chapel. Carrington Funeral Home of Fairmount is assisting with arrangements.
Harold Lynn Cromwell, 81, of Homer, died at 2:20 p.m. on Sun., Sept. 14, 2008 at the Piatt County Nursing Home in Monticello.
Mr. Cromwell was born on Nov. 8, 1926 in Danville, a son of L.J. and Zelda Ellis Cromwell. He married Shirley Woodard on Jan. 18, 1953 in Danville. She survives.
Also surviving are three sons: Rick (Ann) Cromwell of Monticello, Dave (Laura) Cromwell of Weldon, and Gary (Karen) Cromwell of Sidney; one sister: Louise (Don) Morgan of Homer; eight grandchildren: Denise Leonard, Mindy Condis, Erica Cromwell, TJ Dunlap, Jessica Dunlap, Lindsey Kirkland, Kendra Cromwell, and Carter Cromwell; five great-grandchildren: Nate and Emma Leonard, Sierra Lipsey, Summar Dunlap and Kierra Dunlap. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Olive Walters.
He was a member of the Homer United Methodist Church, Homer American Legion, Homer Historical Society, and Odd Fellows Lodge in Lincoln. He was a WW II Airforce Veteran serving in the Phillipines.
Mr. Cromwell retired from the U of I. He later sold cars for many years for many dealerships in the area including Glen T. Smith in Danville, Brewers in Homer and Phil Lamb in Tuscola. He was an avid Cubs fan and enjoyed selling and working on cars.
The funeral service was today (Thursday) at 10:30 a.m. at Kirby Funeral Home; 708 S. Main St., Homer with Raymond Gordon officiating. Interment was in the G.A.R. Cemetery in Homer.
Memorials may be made to Homer Fire Dept., G.A.R. Cemetery, or the Alzheimers Unit at Piatt Co. Nursing Home.
Billy Lee Snack, 74, of Clarkston, Mich., went home to be with his Lord on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2008, surrounded by his wife and sons.
Bill was born April 27, 1934, in Sidell, Ill., to the late Dorothy and Earl Snack. Bill was a maintenance supervisor for General Motors plant in Tilton, Ill., and retired with 36 years of service.
Bill was loved by all who knew him, as he always had time and compassion for others. He was an avid sports fan and antique collector.
He always had a love for American history and was especially interested in Lincoln. Over the years, he and his brother, Gene, collected Lincoln memorabilia and rare documents that Bill felt should be available for everyone to enjoy. In 2005, he co-authored and published “Rare Personal Accounts of Abraham Lincoln.”
Bill is survived by his wife, Pat; four sons, Timothy (Crystal) of Bedford, Ind., Mark of Dallas, Texas, Don (Cathy) of Danville, Ill., and Matt Wiese of Phoenix, Ariz.; two daughters, Becky Young of Georgetown, Ill., and Lisa (Tom) Fridmanski of Westville, Ill.; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; three sisters, Edna Ferling of Fithian, Ill., Marden (Russell) Jones of Danville, Ill., and Millie Hylton of Bakersfield, Calif. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Elmer, Virgil and Gene Snack.
Funeral services were at 11 a.m. today (Thursday) at Sunset Funeral Home in Danville. Interment was in Jones Grove Cemetery in Catlin. Arrangements
were handled by Modetz Funeral Home-Silverbell Chapel in Orion, Mich.
Online guestbook www.modetzfuneralhomes.
Daisy Beryl (Culton) Furnish, 95, of Chrisman,
went home to be with the Lord Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008, at Pleasant
Meadows Christian Village in Chrisman. She was born Aug. 12, 1913,
in Camargo, to Dave and Okalona (Brewer) Culton. She married Jacob
Lyman Furnish on Jan. 19, 1941, in Hannibal Mo.
Mrs. Furnish lived in Chrisman for 25 years,
after living in Ridge Farm and farming there with her husband
for 30 years. She was a homemaker and enjoyed caring for livestock,
cooking, gardening, fishing and watching the Cubs. She was a member
of the Chrisman Christian Church.
She is survived by two sons, Jerry (Marilyn)
Furnish of Ridge Farm and Terry (Debra) Furnish of Dana, Ind.;
one brother, Albert Culton of Newman; three sisters, Margaret
“Peggy” Kollmeyer of Carmel, Ind., formerly of Fairmount,
Betty Martin of Newman and Alberta Roth of Mattoon; five grandchildren
and two great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband and
two brothers.
Funeral services will be held at Krabel Funeral
Home in Chrisman with interment at Young America Cemetery in Hume.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to the Chrisman Christian
Church in care of the funeral home.
James (Pappy) Jessie Jones, 80, of Sidell, passed away at 8:10 p.m. at the Pleasant Meadows Christian Village in Chrisman on Friday, Oct. 24, 2008.
Mr. Jones was born on May 17, 1928 in Laclede, Mo., a son of William and Nellie Thomas Jones. He married Jennie Marie Gilroy on Sept. 4, 1950 in Chicago. She preceded him in death Oct. 9, 1993. Also preceding him in death were five brothers, and two sisters.
Survivors include six children; daughter Judy (Terry) Decker of Sidell, son Jimmy of Sidell, son Jerry (Karen) Jones of St. Peters, Mo., son Jack Jones of Fairmount, daughter Jeannie Jones (and fiancé Rob Harbaugh) of Sidell, and son Jeff (Tralisa) Jones of Sidell; 13 grandchildren: Joanie Farren, Tim Farren, of Sidell, TR and Monica Decker of Orlando, Fla., Justin and Jennifer Jones of Blaine, Minn., Kyle and Andrew Jones of St. Peters, Mo., Megan and Jared Jones, and Britton Seaman of Fairmount, Michelle (fiancé Bruce Miles) Haurbaugh of Georgetown, Emily and Hillary Jones of Sidell. Two great-grandchildren: Levi and Luke Farren of Sidell and two more great-grandchildren to be born soon; three sisters, Elizabeth Matchousky of Reseda, Calif., Vivian Rollhaus of St. Louis, Mo., and Maria Ostrow of New York, N.Y.; and special niece, Barbara Ann (Alfred) Bell of Paris.
Mr. Jones was a former member of the Moose Lodge 1001 in Danville, a retired UAW local 579 member, an avid NASCAR and St. Louis Cardinal fan and he also enjoyed bowling.
Mr. Jones loved and enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandkids.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 28 at the Sidell Baptist Church in Sidell. Pastor Chuck Powell officiated. Burial was at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola.
Memorials may be made to the Sidell Baptist Church.
Norlyn O. Ray, 82, of Danville, died at 12:40 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, 2008, at North Logan Health Care Center in Danville.
Norlyn was born May 19, 1926, in Danville, to Lawrence and Effie (Nier) Ray. He attended school in Danville, later becoming the owner of Danville Mobile Home Park and Ray’s Super Way in Sidell. He married Lena Doloris Davis on May 8, 1944, in Covington, Ind. She preceded him in 1983.
Norlyn is survived by two daughters: Linda (Lannie) Gregory of Lafayette, Ind., and Judith Ware of Danville. Also surviving are five grandchildren: Todd Hack, Troy Ware, Tara Lewis, Chad Stewart and Carrie Baker; 12 great-grandchildren: Kylie, Melody, Taylor, Conner, Joshua, Grace, Skyler, Savannah, Ramzie, Kaden, Bailey and Liam; three great-great-grandchildren: Davin, Lane and Holden; one sister: Arlene Neal; one brother: Lester Ray; and his companion of several years: Esther Williams.
He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters: Juanita Richards, Helen Stovall, LaVaughn Stuebe and Ruby Collins; and one brother, Buster Ray.
Services were at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008, at Pape Memorial Home & Gardens, 10 E. Williams St., Danville, with Rev. Loren Batley officiating.
Burial was be in Spring Hill Cemetery with Rev. Dr. Jimmy Hopper officiating graveside services.
Guest register in his honor at www.papemortuary.com.
Marjorie A. Diel, 86, longtime Fairmount business woman, owner of Diel Hardware and Lumber passed away at 10:25 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2008 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Westville. Burial will be in the Davis Cemetery west of Fairmount. Visitation will be today (Thursday) from 4-8 p.m. at Robison Chapel in Catlin.
Marjorie was born Jan. 2, 1922 in Fairmount to George and Alice Hart Darr. Marjorie married the love of her life Ralph Diel June 21, 1941 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Westville. The couple operated Diel Hardware and Lumber in Fairmount for over 60 years. Ralph passed away Feb. 18, 2007.
Survivors include, one son Ron (Marla) Diel of Danville, one daughter Susan (Bill) McMahon of Fairmount; three brothers, Charles Darr of Fithian, David (Evelyn) Darr of Fairmount, Dane (Mary Lou) Darr of Fairmount; one sister Mary Puzey of Fairmount; sister-in-law Margaret Darr of Fairmount; her cousin and best friend for life Eileen Cast of Fairmount; two grandchildren, Brett McMahon and Kimberly (Kirbi) Bennett; two great-grandchildren, Kade and Kieler Bennett; several nieces; caregivers, Rita Trankina and Carol Harden; and Dawn Brumleve (Brett’s fiancee).
Marjorie was preceded in death by her brother, Paul, her sister-in-law, Mary Elizabeth Darr, and her brother-in-law, Lloyd Puzey.
Marjorie was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church in Homer, as well as a regular attendee at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Westville. Marjorie served on the Vance Township Library board since 1961, and was a member of the Fairmount Women’s Club since 1948. She enjoyed her flowers and gardening, and played dominoes with her friends. She always watched the “Wheel of Fortune” and was an avid Illini fan.
Memorials may be made to the Fairmount Rescue or Vance Township Library in care of Robison Chapel in Catlin.
Dr. Richard Eugene Bradley, Sr. went home to be with our Lord Oct. 6, 2008. He was born on Oct. 18, 1927 in Decatur to Mabel Waltz and Donald Bradley. He grew up in Illinois, attending the University of Illinois before joining the U.S. Navy in the Hospital Corps at the end of World War II.
After the Navy he attended Florida State University in the first co-ed class, graduating in 1949. After graduation from FSU he went to veterinary school at the University of Georgia where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, as well as a Masters Degree. After several years of private veterinary practice in Illinois he went back to the University of Georgia and was awarded his Ph.D. in Parasitology. He joined the veterinary science faculty at the University of Florida in 1965 where he taught and did research in veterinary medicine until his retirement in 1990.
During his years as a faculty member at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, he served in many positions with the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Florida Veterinary Medical Association, the Eastern States Veterinary Association, as well as chairing many committees with the College of Veterinary Medicine. From 2003 he and his family have owned and operated Kustom Kare Kennel in Morganton.
He is survived by his wife, Alla Parnell Bradley and their daughter Meghann Parnell Bradley of Morganton, NC; his sons from his previous marriage: David Bradley of Bethesda, MD, Donald Bradley of Cary, NC, and Douglas Bradley of Cary, NC, and by six grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Barbara Jean Ludwig; and his son, Richard Bradley, Jr.
Donations in Richard’s name may be made to the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Senior Director of Development, P.O. Box 100125, Gainesville, FL 32610. Please make checks payable to the University of Florida Foundation and mail with a cover letter designating donations for the Veterinary Medicine Scholarship Fund in memory of Richard E. Bradley, DVM, PhD, Professor Emeritus.
Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Julia LaMarr Ferber
Julia LaMarr Ferber, a longtime Fairmount resident, passed this life at 2:47 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2008, at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis in the company of her son and daughter. She was born in Fairmount on April 16, 1926, to Carl J. and Sadie Lewis Pate. She married George C. Ferber on Sept. 29, 1946, in Saunemin. George preceded her on Jan. 15, 2003.
Survivors include a daughter, Judy Ferber, and a son, Robert Ferber, both of Indianapolis, and two grandsons, Jeremy Ferber of Grand Junction, Colo., and Cody Ferber of Indianapolis. Also surviving her is a cousin, Carolyn Ann Burke (Tom) of Fithian, and a brother-in-law, Phil Ferber (Sharon) of Dyer, Ind., and her many beloved nieces and nephews.
Julia graduated from Fairmount High School as a member of the class of 1944, where she was a cheerleader and played the violin in the orchestra. Upon graduation she moved to Chicago and worked at Charles A. Stevens on State Street for two years before returning to Fairmount to begin married life with George.
Julia and George were among the early partners in George Ferber & Sons and Fairmount Redi-Mix with his father and two of his brothers and their wives. Julia was a member of the Fairmount United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Julia enjoyed singing and participated in many church ensembles along with George. She also coordinated many church banquets and events for the Sixty Plus senior citizens’ group.
Julia was devoted to her family and enjoyed nothing more than family dinners and holiday gatherings. She especially loved Christmas. She and George took great pride in their lawn and garden and loved working together to keep it beautiful. She also enjoyed Fighting Illini basketball.
Services were held on Monday, Oct. 6 at 10:30 a.m. at Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount. She was laid to rest next to George at Greenview Cemetery in Fairmount.
Jerry A. Lamb
Jerry A. Lamb, 58, of Danville, passed away at 11:37 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, 2008, in the emergency room at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center.
He was born Jan. 1, 1950, in Danville, to William D. and Lena Lucille Wilson Lamb. Survivors include his mother, Lena L. Ross of Oakwood; three daughters, Jenny Waguespack of Baton Rouge, La., Jana Lamb of Randolph, Kan., and Ashley Brown of Ogden, Kan.; three brothers, Bill (Janice) Lamb of Collison, his twin, Larry (Annie) Lamb of Yana, Guam, and Donny (Missy) Lamb of Manhattan, Kan.; two sisters, Dot (Bill) McDaniel of Fairmount and Dee (Wayne) Huchel of Conyers, Ga.; and three grandchildren.
Jerry enjoyed fishing for catfish, loved the Chicago Cubs and mushroom hunting. He had been a heavy equipment operator and served in the U.S. Army for more than 20 years.
Funeral services: 10 a.m. Thursday at Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount. Burial in the National Cemetery in Danville. Visitation is from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday at Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount.
Keith A. Knight, 60, of Sidell passed away at 12:32 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, 2008 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
He was born Sept. 17, 1948, in Danville to Walter Lee and Irene Pugh Knight.
Survivors include his mother, Irene Knight of Fairmount; one brother, Charles (Doreene) Knight of Fairmount; and one niece, Amanda (Chaz) DeBord
of Lexington, Ky. Keith was preceded by his father.
He was a member of the Sidell Christian Church, an Eagle Scout and served in the United States Navy Reserves. He enjoyed antique cars. Keith operated
the Marathon Station in Sidell for several years.
Funeral services were at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Robison Chapel in Catlin with Pastor Chuck Powell officiating. Burial in the Crown Hill Cemetery in Ridge Farm. Memorials to the Vermilion Manor Nursing Home in his memory.
Doris Jean Castle, 60, of Fairmount, passed away at 3:41 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, 2008, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Carrington Funeral Home in Fairmount with the Rev. Mike Roberts officiating. Burial will be at Davis Cemetery in Fairmount. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Friday, Nov 28, at the funeral home.
Doris was born Feb. 2, 1948, in Champaign, a daughter of Fred and Mary Whitesell Fultz. She married Lindsey Wayne Castle on Nov. 22, 1970, in Fairmount. He survives.
She is also survived by her mother, Mary Fultz of Fairmount; three sons, Jonathan Wayne (Melissa) Castle and Bryan Edward (Amy) Castle, both of Fairmount, and Chad Allen (Amanda) Castle of Fairbault, Minn.; a daughter, Christina Michelle (Brian) Drollinger of Georgetown; two brothers, Fred Fultz Jr. and Vernon (Donna) Fultz, both of Fairmount; two sisters, Clara (Rodney) Woodard of Fairmount and Janice Jones of Homer; and seven grandchildren,(Billy D.,Jordyn C.,Austin D.,Alec C.,Savannah C.,Skylar C. and Sebastion C.). She was preceded in death by a brother and father.
Doris was a member of the First Baptist Church in Fairmount. She was affectionately known as the “Cookie Lady.” She sold Avon for more than 25 years. She was a U.S. Army veteran.
Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association.
Christopher Shane Turpin, 21, of Mt. Pleasant, Mich., passed away Friday, Nov. 14, 2008, at Flint Hurley Hospital. Chris was born on Sept. 2, 1987, the son of David J. and Brenda Kay (Burch) Turpin in Danville, Ill.
Chris was scheduled to enlist in the U.S. Army on Jan. 6, 2009. He enjoyed socializing, music, cars, video games, sports, and was a special friend to the Rhonda Klein family. Chris was an organ donor to the Gift of Life Program.
Chris is survived by his mother, Brenda Turpin of Clare, Mich.; his father, David (Michelle) Turpin of Shepherd, Mich.; grandparents, Jim and Martha Burch of Danville; stepgrandmother, Beverly Denise Gallagher and stepgrandfather, Joseph Wayne DeBolt of Mt. Pleasant; brother, Connor Turpin of Shepherd; sisters, Kerrie Wallace McQueen (Jeff Crisp) of Mt. Pleasant and Jennifer Wallace (Scott)) Owens of Clare; niece, Kaitlynn McQueen, and nephews, Colin and Corbin Owens.
Chris was preceded in death by his grandparents, Vernon and Darlene Turpin.
Funeral services for Christopher were held Nov. 19, 2008 at the First United Methodist Church with the Rev. John Boley and the Rev. Ronald Thompson co-officiating. Interment followed in Riverside Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Turpin family, c/o Clark Family Funeral Chapel, 114 Bradley St., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858. Send a private condolence to the family or sign the public guestbook at www.clarkfuneralchapel.com.
Gordon Joseph Buck, 84, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2008, at Coquina Keys Nursing facility in St. Petersburg, Fla. Gordon was formerly of Danville.
Mr. Buck was born July 4, 1924, in Penfield, Ill., to Joseph and Loretta (Gordon) Buck. He married Margery Baird on Feb. 20, 1954.
Survivors include one son, Joseph (Louise) Buck of Rossville, Ill.; a daughter, Laurie (Rick) Barlik of St. Petersburg, Fla.; a brother, Bernard Buck of Westville, Ill.; six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and several nieces.
Gordon graduated from St. Lawrence Academy in Penfield. He served in the United States Army Air Forces. He was a self-employed painter with a friend, Richard Biscart, until his retirement in 1991. He and Margery, then, moved to St. Petersburg, Fla. He was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church. He also was a member of the Knights of Columbus, where Gordon was a past Grand Knight, past Faithful Navigator and District Deputy. He was in charge of bingo at the Knights of Columbus for many years. He was a life member of the Westville Legion. Gordon was an avid bowler, once bowling a 289. He was part of three state championship teams. Gordon loved his family, St. Louis Cardinals baseball, gardening, and playing euchre.
Gordon was preceded in death by his wife, Margery, his son, Larry Buck, his grandson, Jacob Spicer, and two sisters, Helen Bohanon and Louise Butler.
A visitation was held Nov. 1 at the Rossville United Methodist Churchwith a memorial service to follow. Memorials can be made in Gordon Buck’s name to the Parkinson’s Foundation or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Alison Sophia Crose, 8, of Chicago, passed away at 1:34 a.m. Monday, Oct. 27, 2008, at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, after a long battle with cancer.
Alison was born Sept. 23, 2000, in Carbondale, the daughter of Jacob and Paula (Day) Crose. She is survived by her parents; maternal grandparents, Jeff and Mary Jo Day of Danville; paternal grandparents, Jim and Debbie Crose of Danville; aunts, uncles and cousins and her beloved Princess kitty cat. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Larry McDaniel.
Alison loved Disney World. She was all girl. She loved singing, dancing, shopping and all things pink and red. She was the happiest girl and proclaimed almost every day that “this was the best day ever.”
A Celebration of the Life of Alison Sophia Crose was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2008 at Johnson Cemetery, north of Danville, with Pastor Phil Yakey officiating. Arrangements are being handled by Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Make a Wish Foundation of America Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 29119, Phoenix, AZ 85038-9119, National Children’s Cancer Society, One South Memorial Drive, Suite 800, St. Louis, MO 6310 or Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation, 23 W. Hubbard St., 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60610.
E-mail condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Kenneth Max Dodd, 90, of Danville, passed away at 8:04 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, 2008, at North Logan Health Care in Danville. He was born May 3, 1918,
in Allerton, the son of James and Ella (Daughtery) Dodd. He married Lois Smith on April 14, 1946, in Danville. She survives. Kenneth is also survived by a son, Gary (Mary Ann) Dodd of Danville; two daughters: Brenda Shanks of Danville, Julie Myers (Steve) of Oakwood; seven grandchildren: Jason, Tara, Anthony, David, Joseph, Maria, Jordyn; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters: Hazel Wire, Mary Taflinger and two brothers: James Dodd and Donald Dodd.
Kenneth graduated from Sidell High School in 1937. He attended David Rankin Trade School. He served in the United States Army in South Pacific Theater during World War II. Kenneth worked as a mechanic, then was a Snap-on-Tool salesman for 18 years until his retirement in 1977. He enjoyed golf, playing cards, and spending time with family and friends.
A celebration of the life of Kenneth Dodd was held at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2008 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville with Drew Mentzer officiating. Entombment followed at Sunset Memorial Park.
Memorial donations may be made in Kenneth’s name to the Second Church of Christ. E-mail condolences can be sent to Kenneth’s family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Ralph R. Lomax Jr., 72, of Fairmount passed away at 7 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, 2008, at the Veteran’s Affairs Illiana Health Care System in Danville.
He was born Dec. 13, 1935, in Danville to Ralph R. and Edna Mae Lovett Lomax Sr. He married Martha Ellis April 11, 1975, in Sidell. She survives as well as one son Ralph R. Lomax III of Covington, Ind.; two stepsons, Robert Davis of Catlin, and John Davis of Fairmount; five brothers, Earl Lomax of Georgetown, Robert Lomax of Brooksville, Fla., James Lomax of Catlin, Tom Lomax of Catlin and Oscar Lomax of Oakwood; one sister, Peggy Myler of Sidell; three grandchildren and one step-grandchild.
Ralph worked 37 years in maintenance at the General Electric plant in Danville. He also served in the Army. He enjoyed catfishing, CB radios, working on cars, NASCAR and was a Chicago Cubs fan.
Funeral services were at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, at Robison Chapel in Catlin, with burial in the National Cemetery in Danville.
Charles “Terry” Payne of Danville passed away Thursday, Oct. 30, 2008, after a hard-fought battle with lung cancer.
Terry is survived by his wife of 52 years, Dixie Wilson Payne; one daughter, Kathy Jackson of Mayfield, Ky.; four sons, Kevin (Linda) Payne of Fairmount, Kent (Sandy) Payne of Veedersburg, Ind., Keith Payne of Potomac and Kyle Payne of Springfield. He is also survived by seven grandchildren of whom he was very proud, Matt Payne, Amy Payne, Sammie and Kellie Wilber, Dylan Payne, Chyann Cheesman and Angie Nichol; and three sisters, Kay (John) Haddix, Rae (Alfred) Gher and Linda (Richard) Brown, all of Paris.
Born in Newman on Oct. 19, 1936, Terry was the son of the late Charles and Neva Payne. Terry was also preceded in death by his in-laws, Woody and
Juanita Wilson.
Terry retired from Hyster Company in March 2000 after 33 years of service. A local farmer, he was a member of the American Shorthorn Association. He received the Breeder of the Year award in 2002 and was the Honoree of the Show at the Illinois State Fair in 2008. His prized shorthorn cattle won several championship ribbons during his family’s 40 years showing, including grand champion bull in 2008.
Involved in the community, Terry served on many boards, including Danville Area Community College, United Way, Vermilion County Fair (president) and the Independent Lift Truck Builders Union (president). He also was a charter member of the first Labor Management Council in Danville.
A dependable community worker and devoted Democrat, he served as an election judge and cared deeply about the future of his hometown.
Terry will be greatly missed by his fellow union members; cattle farming friends; wonderful neighbors; the friends that helped so much during his illness: Gene, Tom, Larry and Randy; and the family that loved him very much.
Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, 2008, at Pape Funeral Home. A celebration of Terry’s life was held at 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3, 2008, at Pape Funeral Home. The burial took place at the Payne Family Cemetery in Brocton. The family asks that contributions be made in Terry’s name to the Carle Hospice, in lieu of flowers. Guest register: www.papemortuary.com.
Grace W. Wilson, 90, passed away Oct. 18, 2008, at Cross Timbers Nursing and Rehab Center in Flower Mound, Tx.
She was the daughter of Rolla Swick of Sidell and Bessie Kibler Swick of Rose Hill. Grace was born in Rose Hill in 1918.
Grace was preceded in death by her husband Henry Wilson and several step brothers and sisters of the Sidell area. Grace leaves a step brothers Verlie Hooker of Indianola and Billie Baier and her husband Fritz of Hoffman Estates.
She married Henry Wilson in 1939 and they made their home in Champaign for over 40 years where her husband owned a tire shop.
She leaves one daughter, Nancy, and her husband, Jay, of Highland Village, Tx, a granddaughter Kris Boring and her husband Junior and their children,
Heather Knight of Plano, and Emily and Zac at home. A grandson, Kevin Boyd, and his wife, Lora, and daughter, Alyssa, live in Watauga, Tx.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete but will be in Urbana at Woodlawn Cemetery at a later date.
Carl J. “Ike” Eickhoff, 80, of Ridge Farm, passed away at 2:30 p.m., Dec. 20, 2008, at Veterans Affairs Illiana Healthcare Systems in Danville. He was born Jan. 29, 1928, in Danville, the son of William R. and Edna Poll Eickhoff.
Ike married Patricia Swick. She preceded him in death in 2000.
Those who will miss him are: his son Joe (Cindy) Eickhoff of Oakwood; two grandchildren: Brooke and Michaela Eickhoff, both of Oakwood and also his very close friend, Joan Brust of Bradenton, Fla. Ike was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Billy; two brothers, Harold and Bob, and a sister, Wilma.
Ike was a veteran of the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1952, serving in French Morocco, Africa.
He worked for the railroad for several years and later owned and operated the Starlite in Ridge Farm for several years. Ike was an avid fisherman all his life and enjoyed gardening as well. Ike was a caring son who later in life took his father in to live and care for him.
A celebration of life funeral service for Carl John “Ike” Eickhoff will be at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2008, at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home, 200 E. West St., Georgetown. Pastor James Blue will officiate the service. Visitation will be held 5-7 p.m., today, Dec. 22, 2008, at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola. Memorial donations may be given to Veterans Affairs Illiana Healthcare Systems of Danville. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Corbit Fox, 98, of Danville, formerly of Indianola and Rossville, died at 7:50 a.m. Wed., Dec. 10, 2008, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville.
He was born March 15, 1910, in Eddysville, Ky., the son of Ed and Ada Merrick Fox. He married Ethel Snyder on Feb. 11, 1931, in Eddyville. She died May 28, 2007.
Survivors include one daughter, Deborah Key of Indianola; five sons, Elmer Fox of Indianola, Mervin Fox of Charlotte, N.C., David Fox of Poplar Bluff, Mo., Larry Fox of Rossville and Carl Fox of Bismarck; 22 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren; a special niece, Myrtle Roger of Greenwood, Ariz.; and a sister, Beulah Bright of Downie, Calif. He was preceded in death by a son, Cecil; a grandson; a daughter-in-law, Lorettia Fox; two brothers and two sisters.
Corbit retired as a millwright from General Motors in 1971. He served in the U.S. Army from 1927 to 1930. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Hoopeston, and enjoyed woodworking.
Services were at Wolfe Funeral Home in Potomac with Pastor Steve Nelson officiating. Burial was in Sunset Memorial Park in Danville. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the First Baptist Church in Hoopeston.
A very special thanks to the staff at Vermilion Manor Nursing Home, which Corbit called his second home.
Ann Cheney, 56, of Sidell, passed away at 3 p.m. Wed., Dec. 3, 2008 at the Newman Rehabilitation Center. A graveside service was held Dec. 6 at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola, with Pastor Sandi Hire officiating.
Ms. Cheney was born on Feb. 24, 1952 in Danville, a daughter of John and Ruth Wienke Cheney. They both preceded her in death.
Surviving are a brother Nathan (Brenda) Cheney of Sidell and several nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to the Newman Rehabilitation Center or the Allerton United Methodist Church.
Joines-Appleby Funeral Home of Newman, is in charge of arrangements.
Charles Nees, 86, of Terre Haute, Ind., departed this life Dec. 5, 2008.
He was born on Aug. 15, 1922 to Charles and Mamie Kerney Nees. His wife, Westine Propst Nees, preceded him in death in 1958.
He left behind his beloved family, Patricia Nees Doades (Ken), Garrett Nees (Donna) and Nancy Nees, two grandsons, Aaron Nees, Jeremy Nees and one great-grandson, Logan Nees. Several nieces and nephews, Ralph McCown, Anita Rothermel, Roberta Tomaw, Janet Nees, Elsie Palmer and Ervin Nees.
He was also preceded in death by his brother, George Nees; stepbrother, Ralph McCowan; stepsister, Agnes Nees; and two nephews, Bill Nees and Jim Nees.
Mr. Nees was a farmer in the Sidell area until retirement in 1985. He then moved to Terre Haute where he worked with his son, Gary, at Nees Galleries.
He was a member of Gospel Assembly Church.
Visitation will be Saturday, Dec. 13, 4-8 p.m. at Gospel Assembly Church, 401 W. Springhill Dr., Terre Haute. Graveside services will be held at a later date at Woodlawn Cemetery, Indianola.
Charles will be remembered for his love and devotion to his family, his giving spirit, kindness and strong faith. He will be greatly missed.
Phyllis Marie Mosier, 72, of Indianola passed away at 3:15 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, 2008 at her residence. Per her wishes, she will be cremated.
Phyllis was born on Aug. 16, 1936, in Georgetown, the daughter of Don and Jessie (Byerly) Fleming. She married Robert C. Mosier Sr. on May 29, 1953.
He preceded her in death on Oct. 5, 1996.
She is survived by one son, Robert C. (Kaye) Mosier Jr. of Indianola; three daughters, Doreen (Rick) Doan of Kentucky, Darlene (Michael) Fehr of Tennessee, and Cindy Wilson of Lafayette, Ind.; one sister, Madaline Sykes of Georgetown. She was preceded in death by one son, Raymond Mosier and one
daughter, Charline Mosier, four sisters, and three brothers. Phyllis has ten grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. No visitation was requested.
Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home of Georgetown is in charge of arrangements.