Obituaries 2013
Lorena T. Pearman, 93, of Indianola, passed away at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013, at Vermilion Manor Nursing Home, Danville.
She was born Sept. 28, 1919, in Sidell, the daughter of F.H. and Myrtle (Brooks) McNees, both deceased.
She was united marriage to Charles E. Pearman on Nov. 5, 1934, in Homer until his passing on April 17, 2011.
She will be dearly missed by her daughter, Beverly Ann (Dominic) Bildilli of Indianola; her grandchildren, Pam (Kim) Linne of Danville, Steve (Jeanie) Bildilli of Carbondale, Ind.; her great-grandchildren, Allison Watson of Danville, Ind., Aimee (Jay) Miller of Catlin, Ryan Bildilli of Indianola, and Kelsey (John) Dudley of Georgetown; along with many step-great-grandchildren; her great-great-grandchildren, Alec, Julia, Gavin, Hunter and Colter; her sister, Bonnie Carter of Tilton; and her several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her son, Charles Loren Pearman; and her sister, Fern Alexander.
Lorena was a loving homemaker and was a bookkeeper of her husband’s business, Pearman’s Garage. She also cleaned houses for area residents and really enjoyed tending her flower garden.
A celebration of Lorena’s life was Saturday at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home, Georgetown, with Pastor James Blue officiating. She was laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery, Indianola.
Memorial donations may be given in her name to: Vermilion Manor Nursing Home or a church of the donor’s choice. Please join her family in sharing memories at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Darin L. Weller, 48, of Fairmount, passed away at 6:16 p.m. Friday, Jan. 25, 2013 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
Darin was born October 1, 1964 in Danville, the son of Donald and Karen Rice Weller. Survivors include his mother, Karen Lewis of Fairmount; his two brothers, David (Stephanie) Weller of Fairmount and Doug Weller of Winter Haven, Fla. He was preceded in death by his father & grandparents.
Darin had worked for NAPA Auto Parts in the sales department, both in Florida, and at the Westville location.
Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorial services were Wednesday at Robison Chapel in Catlin. Pastor Chris Baker officiated. Memorials to the Danville Cancer Center in care of Robison Chapel. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Terry Smith Hoag, 70, died January 10, 2013. He was born in Purdin, Mo. to the late Clifford C. Hoag and Lucille Smith Hoag (surviving). His gifts and love for laughter, camaraderie and nicknames with friends and family were legendary.
Terry married his high school sweetheart, Norma Kay Wax, over 49 years ago on July 28, 1963. He is survived by his wife, Norma; children Christopher Hoag, of McKinney, Texas with grandchildren, Hayley, Hayden, Hannah, Harrison Hoag and Paula (Andy) Pellegrino, of Pittsburgh, Penn., with grandchildren Samuel, Charles, Alexandra Pellegrino; and siblings, Clint (Sharon) Hoag and sister Pamela Kay Hoag (Tim) Tighe. More than anything he loved time with his family and was so very proud of them.
Terry graduated from Jamaica High School and continued on to graduate from Bradley University earning a BS and Masters Degrees in business. While at Bradley, he received an Air Force ROTC award as “Outstanding Air Force Cadet in the Nation” and was elected as the Bradley University student body president. Bradley became a life-long friend to him and he served as the Bradley Alumni President in later years.
After graduation, he served four years in the United States Air Force. His business career was spent with Peat Marwick Mitchell (now KPMG), Grange Mutual Insurance, Insurance Ohio, and he retired as President and CEO of Miami Insurance in Troy, Ohio in 2005.
He was an active member of the United Methodist Church; Big Brother/Big Sister Program; the American Legion and helped with the Boy Scout Program. He loved sports, particularly watching his children and grandchildren participate. Golfing and his dogs were close to his heart but closest was the love of his life, Norma.
Family and friends will be received at a visitation at The Linworth United Methodist Church, 7070 Bentree Road, Columbus OH 43235 at 1 p.m. Saturday, February 2, with a memorial service following at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, (Relay for Life Pittsburgh, PA), Attention: Team Biggy-Big T.
Donald Eugene Crowe, 90, of Indianola, passed away at 9:55 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013 at his home with his whole loving family at his side.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Robison Chapel, Catlin with Charlie Graul and Darren Johnson officiating. Burial was in Woodland Cemetery, Chrisman. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday at Robison Chapel, Catlin.
Donald was born April 24, 1922 in Chrisman to Edgar and Florence Olson Crowe. He married Patricia Ann Sexton Dec. 2, 1951 in Paris. She survives. They were married 61 years.
Also surviving are two daughters and their husbands, whom were also like sons to him: Kathy (Kevin) Suchaczewski of Chrisman and Linda (Bruce) Darr of Fairmount; four grandchildren, Kimberly (Harley) Fudge of Dennison, Kristopher (Crystal) Suchaczewski of Danville, Derek (Lacee) Darr of Catlin, and Amanda Darr of Fairmount; and five great-grandchildren, Garrett, Kaleb, and Megan Suchaczewski and Haley and Taylyr Fudge. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Trenton Darr and a great-grandson, Dylan Suchaczewski.
Donald attended Chrisman schools and began farming at a very early age and has continued to be involved with his son-in-law, Kevin, in the farming decisions over the past 37 years. He was always proud of his cars and machinery and always wanted them kept clean and shining. Donald loved mowing his yard and did so through this past summer. He enjoyed Indy and NASCAR Racing and watching the Illini basketball games. Don loved his wife, Patricia, daughters Kathy and Linda and their families. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren would always bring a smile to his face.
Memorials to Carle Hospice or the American Cancer Society. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
John “JD” Alan Douglas, 58, passed away at his daughter’s home in Oakwood on Jan. 15, 2013.
Memorial services will be at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday at Muncie Baptist Church with Rev. Dave Garver officiating. Visitation will be from 10:30 until the time of service. Kirby Funeral Home in Homer is assisting the family.
John was born Nov. 16, 1954 in Champaign, the son of John S. and Anna Jane (Richards) Douglas. He married Li Juan (Tian) on Dec. 11, 2010 in Urbana. She survives.
Survivors also include his daughter, Heather (Chip) McArty of Oakwood; one brother, Joe Douglas of Fairmount; one sister, Julie (Ron) Humphrey of Homer; one step-sister, Karen Richards of GA; three grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. His family will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Jeff Douglas and step-sister, Renay Richards-Rossi.
JD worked as a foreman at Norfolk Southern Railroad and was previously employed at Associated Pallet. He was the owner of Illini Limo/Freedom Cab.
JD enjoyed fishing, shooting, camping, and spending time with his family.
Memorials to the church.
Charles William (Bill) Brown, 70, loving husband of Jackie McGee Brown for 47 years, passed away suddenly Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Huntsville, Ala.
Surviving is his wife, Jackie McGee Brown; son Tim (Sarah) Brown of Wichita, Kan., and their four children, Ashlyn, Terran, Teagan and Braden; daughter Kimberly (Rob) Huchel of Fairmount, and their three children, Ryan, Troy and Mattison; and son Scott (Erika) Brown of Dallas, Texas, and their five children, Alec, Andie, Sennett, Sawyer and Blake; his brother, Jim (Sandy) Brown of Chicago; sister Becky (George) Oliver of Smithville, Tenn.; sister Mary (Rick) Moisio of Tucson, Ariz.; sister-in-law Becky (Bill) Siddens of Danville; and sister-in-law Judy McGee of Park Forest.
Bill was born and raised on the family farm near Indianola, the eldest child of and preceded in death by his parents, Charles (Dean) Brown and Helen Kehlenbach Brown.
He was a master electrician by trade and worked for General Motors (later Delphi) for 35 years at Tilton and then Decatur, Ala. He graduated from Jamaica High School in 1960. From 1964 to 1972 Bill served in the Illinois National Guard, receiving an honorable discharge after having attained the rank of staff sergeant.
Bill was a self-educated man with a deep love of geology, astronomy and manned space flight. He was first introduced to geology by his father who brought home geodes he found in the plowed fields. Over the years, Bill built a mineral and rock collection of impressive scope. Bill’s knowledge was extensive, and he spent much time explaining to his children and grandchildren where the various specimens came from and how the rocks formed. He had a home telescope through which he loved to look at the stars and constellations. Among many other trips to Cape Canaveral, he attended the last Space Shuttle launch as a VIP.
Bill was a lifelong Cincinnati Reds fan and probably first learned about baseball from his Grandfather Kehlenbach telling stories about the Chicago “Black Sox” and train trips to Chicago to watch baseball in the early 1900s. Bill attended the Indianapolis 500 many times and loved NASCAR and drag racing. A good Saturday afternoon in the fall always included NCAA football.
Bill was an avid reader and loved books about history, politics and the Civil War. He had very thoughtful well-informed opinions about the political and economic issues of the day but never imposed those opinions on others.
Bill was a gentleman in every best sense of the word. He loved his wife and family dearly as they loved him, always having time for them no matter how busy or tired he was. Second only to his wife and family he loved farming and nature. Although his passing was too abrupt and too soon, perhaps it provides comfort that his life ended doing something he loved, tending his garden.
Bill was a member of Catlin United Methodist Church and attended Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church in Decatur, Ala.
Funeral services were Thursday, 10 am at the Catlin United Methodist Church with Reverend Sherry Harris officiating. Burial was in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Catlin. Visitation was Wednesday at Robison Funeral Chapel in Catlin.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wesley Memorial UMC, 1211 Westmeade St. SW, Decatur, AL 35601, Catlin UMC, American Heart Association or other charities. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Robert Vinton Hageman, 97, of Danville, died Sunday, January 13, 2013, 4:33 a.m. at his home.
Bob was born November 20, 1915 in Danville to Robert Carl and Mayme Mahorney Hageman. He attended McKinley and Washington grade schools and graduated from Danville High School in 1933.
He had worked as a rural mail carrier with the Danville Post Office from 1938-1977. He had owned and operated He had owned and operated Shephard’s Garage with Paul Hageman and Don Lind at 37-39 N. Walnut where their motto was “Let us Baby Your Buggy.”
He was a founder and active member of Vermilion Heights Methodist Church. He enjoyed Model “Lionel” Trains. He loved spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Bob married Agnes Adeline Allen on November 25, 1942 in Lebanon, Ind. and she preceded him March 17, 1989.
Survivors include two sons, Robert (Linda) Hageman Jr. and Dan (Donna) Hageman; five grandchildren, Justin Robert Hageman, Ashley Allison Brown, Angela Marie Hageman, Joseph (Jennifer) Hageman and Douglas (Jessica) Hageman and eleven great-grandchildren, Jacob, Lucas, Holly and Mallory Hageman; Adeline and Leyton Brown; Evan, Payton and Jordan Hageman and Jacey and Hayden Hageman. He was preceded by his parents, a brother Paul Everett and three sisters: Erma, Rose Delores and Nelle.
Services were Wednesday, January 16 at Pape Funeral Home, 10 E. Williams, Danville, IL 61832 with Pastor Kevin Cox officiating. Burial was in Hicks Cemetery in Perrysville, Ind.
Memorials may be made to Salt Fork Football Program, Jamaica High School, c/o Chris Hodge, 7087 N. 600 E. Road, Sidell, IL 61876. Guest register: www.papemortuary.com
Louis E. Tracy, 90, of Homer passed away on Sunday (Dec. 30, 2012) at his home.
Louis was born Feb. 14, 1922, in West Union, to Clarence and Martha (Collier) Tracy. He graduated from Homer High School in 1943.
He enlisted in the Army after high school and served in World War II as a communications provider for the 1090th Signal Corps in the Philippines.
After returning from his service, he married Betty Shoaf of Homer in 1945. They were married for 67 years.
Louis was employed at Illinois Bell Telephone Company in Danville for 43 years until he retired.
He is survived by his wife, Betty; daughters, Connie (Jerry) Messman and Ginny Dillon, both of Homer; three grandsons, Steve (Susie) Messman, Matt Dillon and Scott (Amy) Messman; seven great-grandchildren, Kyle and Brianna Messman, Emma, Cole, and Cody Messman, and Drew and Tyler Dillon; and two great-great-grandchildren.
Louis belonged to Homer American Legion, Danville Olive Branch Masonic Lodge, AT&T Pioneers and Homer Methodist Church. He was an avid reader and enjoyed doing things for the community. He loved spending time with his family.
Services were Saturday, Jan. 5, at Kirby Funeral Home. Pastor Raymie Gordon officiated. He was laid to rest in GAR Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be given in his name to Provena Hospice or Homer Fire and Rescue Squad.
Harry G. Shipman, 79, of Fairmount, passed away at 12:12 p.m. Monday, December 31, 2012 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
Harry was born November 21, 1933 in Danville to George & Thelma Miller Shipman. He married Carole Jean Holden March 3, 1951, they later divorced. She survives, as well as one son, Anthony Shipman of Danville; two daughters, Tamar Fortner of Newport, Indiana and Terri Francis of Danville; one brother, Merrell Shipman of St. Joseph; one sister, Sharon Kay Shipman of Macon; six grandchildren, Jeremy Fortner, Jaimal Fortner, Emily Fortner, Ben Shipman, Nick Shipman, and Eli Shipman; and eight great-grandchildren, James Fortner, Mercedes Fortner, Mathew Fortner, Tiffani Fortner, Chase Fortner, Lola Shipman, Ryan Shipman, and Sophie Shipman. Harry was survived by his longtime companion Kathy Voorhees of Fairmount with whom he made his home.
He was a 32 degree Mason, member of the Danville Moose Lodge, and had been a truck driver all his life. He was also a member of Teamsters Local 26 and enjoyed fishing, Bears football games and was an avid Cardinal Baseball Fan, as well as Illini Fan.
Funeral services are Saturday 10 am at Robison Chapel in Catlin. Reverend Patti Wise officiating. Burial in Sunset Cemetery in Danville. Visitation is from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday at Robison Chapel.
Memorials to the Batestown United Methodist Church. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Jimmie Lee Draper, 72, of Fithian, passed away at 11:46 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2012, at the Vermilion County Nursing Home after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Born May 1, 1940, in Muncie, Jim was the eighth of 10 children born to William and Edith (Goble) Draper.
Jim is survived by his wife, Dorothy (Ferling) Draper, whom he married on Dec. 29, 1961.
Jim and Dorothy have three daughters, Cathy (Steve) Thatcher of Mahomet, Sharyl (Lenny) Light of Surprise, Ariz., and Shelia (Darrin) Fletcher of Oakwood. Jim and Dorothy also have seven grandchildren, Kale (Erica) Wallace, Joel Wallace, Sydney Bailey, Emily Bailey, Casey Fletcher, Preslie Fletcher and Koby Fletcher. Also surviving are his four sisters, Jane Hibbs of California, Mildred (Bob) Anderson of Champaign, Dora (Larry) Moreman of Tilton and Shirley Cummings of California; and two brothers, Jerry (JoAnn) Draper of Westville and Larry (Sandy) Draper of Oakwood.
Jim has joined his parents; brothers, Richard “Dick” Draper and William “Bill” Draper; and a sister, Ruth Draper Mann.
At a young age, Jim started working beside his father in the automotive repair business. He went on to start his own business, Mr. Auto Body Inc. of Champaign, which he and his wife have owned for the past 42 years. Jim loved his work, and he enjoyed the many friendships he made through his business. On a daily basis he looked forward to taking his customers out for coffee.
Jim also enjoyed many hobbies, which included team roping with his beloved horse, Leon, attending NASCAR races, watching old Westerns on television and Major League Baseball games. Jim also had many fond memories of participating in drag races with his car “Thumper Three.”
Jim especially cherished the time he spent with his family. He was known for his quick stops just to check in on everybody. Jim was a very generous and loving husband and father. He will be deeply missed by his family.
Funeral services will be Friday at 10:30 a.m. at Kirby Funeral Home in Homer. Jim’s final resting place will be at Stearns Cemetery in Fithian. Pastor Kim Dancey will officiate. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to the Fithian United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 35, Fithian, IL 61844.
Jameson Trisler, infant son of John Tyler and Brandy Bailey Trisler, passed away at 4:10 p.m. on Saturday, December 15, 2012 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, Illinois.
Survivors include his parents of Fairmount; two sisters, Ashtyn Jade Seder and Scarlett Sophia Trisler of Fairmount; his paternal grandparents, Patricia (Jim Call) Trisler; maternal grandmother, Ann (Kenny) Price; and maternal grandfather, Robert (Vilia) Bailey. Jameson was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Jim Trisler.
Private family graveside rites were held at the Oak Ridge Cemetery, Catlin. Robison Chapel of Catlin assisted the Trisler family. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Cody James Patton, 21, of Sidell, passed away at 10:14 p.m. on Wednesday, December 19, 2012 in the emergency room at Presence Covenant Medical Center in Urbana.
Cody was born November 22, 1991 in Urbana to James L. and Shelley Sue Archer Patton. They survive, as well as one sister, Kathryn Patton of Sidell; one half-sister, Angie (Frank) Yates of Flatrock, Ala.; one brother, Clay Patton of Sidell; one half-brother, Steven (Angie) Patton of Stevenson, Ala.; and maternal grandfather, Glen (Helen) Archer of Champaign. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Kathryn Archer and his paternal grandparents, Omar & Maggie Kent Patton.
Cody touched many lives with his wonderful smile. He had been a resident of Swan Care Center in Champaign.
Funeral services were December 22, 2012 at the Sidell United Methodist Church with Joe Eakle officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery near Sidell. Robison Chapel, Catlin, handled arrangements. Memorials to Swan Care Center in care of Robison Chapel. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Ernest Smith, 89, of Sidell, passed away December 22, 2012 at Sunset Manor, Canton. He was born February 2, 1923 in Metcalf to Virgil L. and Zella Rose (Ketchum) Smith.
He married Merrilee Burd on December 2, 1945. She preceded him in death. Ernest was a member of the Sidell Sportsman’s Club, UAW Local 579 and Ridge Farm Friends Church. He was a farmer and retired from General Motors in 1976.
Ernest is survived by one son, Donald L. (Glenda) Smith; one daughter, Merriletta Hayes; five grandchildren, Clint (Martina) Smith, Rob (Sherri) Murphy, Jason (Ashley) Smith, William H. (Emily) Hayes Jr. and Jamie L. (Lisa) Hayes; five great grandchildren, Brianna Hayes, Cody and Hailey Murphy, Dalton and Drake Smith; one sister, Virginia M. Stanton; brothers in law, Ervin Burd and Eddie Burd.
He was preceded in death by one son, Ronald G. Smith; one sister, Viola Greenlee and one son in-law, Bill Hayes.
A celebration of Ernest’s life was December 28 at Sunset Funeral Home, Danville, with Pastor Raymie Gordon officiating. He was laid to rest in Crown Hill Cemetery, Ridge Farm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in his name to Ridge Farm Friends Church or Cuba Senior Center. Condolences may be left online at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
Woodrow Elmore, 88, of Sidell died at 2:59 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2012 in Sidell. Memorial services will be announced at a later date. Robison Chapel, of Catlin, is in charge of arrangements.
Bernice Andruski, 96, of Indianola, entered the gates of heaven joining her parents, brothers and sisters and her Lord and Savior at 6:53 p.m. Monday, Feb. 11, 2013, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center.
She was born July 3, 1916, in Indianola, the daughter of James and Goldia Sandlin Hoskins.
She married Edward Andruski in April of 1933 in Danville. He preceded her in 1976.
Those who will miss her are her daughter, Joleen Sedlacek, of Indianola; three sisters, Betty Ramsey of Georgetown, Deloris Luster of Danville, and Teresa Cummings of Danville; two brothers, James (Lois) Hoskins Jr. of Indianola, Ron (Terri) Hoskins of Georgetown; three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; several nieces and nephews; and her special companion, Donny McCool, of Indianola.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and 13 brothers and sisters.
Bernice was a homemaker and loved gardening and canning, working on her home, vacationing in Piedmont, Mo., in her little log cabin in the woods. She was still chopping wood at 80 years old.
Bernice was a member of the former Indianola Baptist Church. During World War II she worked in an aircraft factory, building bombers in California.
Services were Feb. 14 at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home in Georgetown. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola.
Memorial contributions can be given to the donor’s choice. Please join Bernice’s family in sharing memories through her Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Donald Joseph Harris, resident of Kankakee, died at 11:20 a.m. Friday, March 1, 2013, at Riverside Hospital. Donald was 84 years old.
Born June, 12 1927, in Effingham to Wendell W. and Justine Bonharme Harris, Donald was an accountant/systems analyst for the United States Army.
A graduate of the University of Illinois, his career included work at Ammunition Procurement & Supply Agency (APSA) in Joliet, the U.S. Army Engineer Division, downtown Chicago and with Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont.
Donald was a war veteran, serving in both World War II and The Korean Conflict as a medic in the U.S. Navy. During the Korean Conflict, Donald was stationed in the Pacific on the heavy cruiser USS Bremerton. Among his military involvements after WWII was the de-commissioning of Navy Pier, Chicago.
Donald was an avid card and cribbage player, was a great lover of dogs and also TV Westerns.
Donald is survived by his wife of 62 years, Laura L. Fausett Harris; by his son and daughter-in-law, Steven J. and Laura Byarley Harris of Rolling Meadows; by sister-in-law and husband, Frances and James McIntyre of Newman; and several nieces and nephews.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Anne Harris Randolph.
A memorial service in Donald’s honor was Wednesday at Schreffler Funeral Home in West Kankakee. Burial was Thursday at Fairview Cemetery in Sidell.
Memorial gifts in Donald’s name may be given to the American Heart Association.
Dorothy E. Prpich, 81, of Peoria passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family at 4:20 p.m. Friday, March 8, 2013, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center.
She was born March 30, 1931, in Danville to Claude and Ellen (Luther) Pyle of Sidell.
Surviving are five children, John (Yolanda) Prpich of Bogotá, Colombia; Mary Rodgers of Peoria, Lynn Palmer of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.; Paula (Gregory) Goddard and Patrick Prpich of Peoria; 10 grandchildren, Crystal (Marcus) Slaughter, Tony (Rachel) Rodgers, Rachel Rodgers, John (Renee) Goddard, Jonathan (Tatiana) Prpich, Peter (Katie) Goddard, Abigail Palmer, James (Rebekah) Goddard, Joshua Prpich and Paula Beth Prpich; eight great-grandchildren, Mikayla, Marcus, Mike, Samuel, Elijah, Jacob, Olivia and Charlotte; and two great-granddaughters to be born in the spring.
She was preceded in death by one brother, Patrick Pyle; one sister, Marilyn Dewitt; and one grandson, Joshua Rodgers.
Dorothy graduated from Sidell High School in 1949 and from Bradley University in 1952 with a bachelor of arts in journalism. After raising her family she moved to Saint Petersburg, Fla., in 1980.
In 1995, she retired from the St. Pete Police Department.
She liked “the Cardinals better than the Cubs.” Her hobbies included crossword and jigsaw puzzles.
She was active in the St. Petersburg Holy Family Church and was honored for more than 20 years of service as an eucharistic lay minister.
After returning to Peoria in 2002, Dorothy made her home with her daughter, Paula, and family and attended Holy Family Catholic Church.
Funeral Mass was Tuesday at Holy Family Church. Franciscan Friars officiated. Cremation rites were accorded. Burial of ashes will be at a later date.
Memorials may be made to Holy Family School or St. Thomas School in Peoria. Tributes and condolences may be submitted to www.wrightandsalmon.com.
David E. Gilroy, 66, of Ridge Farm, passed away at 4:40 p.m. Friday, March 30, 2013 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. He had been ill for one month.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Violet (Hewitt) Gilroy and Paul Gilroy of Sidell.
Family surviving: wife, Linda Gilroy of Ridge Farm; children, Chris Gilroy of Ridge Farm, Tammy (Mark) Belansky of Danville, and Becky (Mark) Shields of Westville; siblings Sandy Thornton of Ogden, Anita Schmidt of Tilton, Elaine (Kevin) George of Veedersburg, Charles Gilroy of Sidell, and Janice Wade of Westville; grandchildren, Trevis Liggett of Ridge Farm and Ian Gilroy of Westville.
David was born March 1, 1947, and graduated from Jamaica High School in 1965. He married Linda Champion in 1966.
He worked for 22 years at Danville Bearing and Supply, and then 17 years at Heatcraft.
David enjoyed working with his hands in the garage, yard and garden. He loved antique cars, movies, television and old country music. He enjoyed the camaraderie of his family and friends and was known for telling an unexpected joke or two that would follow with his unmistakable laugh.
He was a beloved member of the Pleasant Mound Church of Christ.
A celebration of his life was Wednesday at Pleasant Mound Church of Christ, west of Georgetown, with Paul Kent officiating.
Robert Wayne “Robbie” Cramer, 3, Colfax, died at 5:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 26, 2013 at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, Normal.
Survivors: father, Jacob M. Cramer, Colfax; mother, Danielle L. Fischer, Colfax; paternal grandparents, Mary Beth and Robert Kirby, Colfax, and John Cramer, Lincoln; maternal grandparents, Monica (Eric Walker) Fischer, Colfax, and William Fischer, Gibson City; paternal great-grandparents, Henry and Diane Cramer, Fairmount; Judy Morris, Lincoln; Jeannette Litherland, Grand Prairie, Texas; Constance and David Saylor, Paxton; and Pat Kirby, Colfax; maternal great-grandparents, Sue and Keith Seibert, Colfax, and Mary Fischer, Gibson City; and maternal great-great-grandmother, Wilma Schapmire, Cooksville.
Funeral services were at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Normal with Bishop Joseph Goodman officiating. Interment was in Wiley Cemetery, Colfax. Arrangements are being handled by Calvert and Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington.
Memorials may be made to his family in care of his grandmother Mary Beth Kirby, 205 E. Wood St., Colfax, IL 61728.
Phil Swinford, 83, of Sidell, went to be with his Lord surrounded by loved ones, at 9:45 a.m. on Monday, April 8, 2013 at his home.
Phil was born February 4, 1930 in Sidell to Harold and Bertha Ratcliff Swinford. Phil married his high school sweetheart Elizabeth Aileene Ware on June 10, 1951 at the First Baptist Church in Sidell.
Aileene survives as well as one son, John (Cari) Swinford of Williamsville; one daughter, Judy (Don) Okuley of Sidell; one brother, Joe (Peggy) Swinford of Pekin; one sister, Claudine (John) Boen of Oakwood; three grandchildren, Emily Swinford, Ellen (Nick) VanMeter and Matthew (Aubrey) Hayes; two great-grandchildren, Ian Swinford and Natalie Hayes; several nieces and nephews; special nephew, Troy Ware; special great-niece, Taylor Ware; one aunt, Esther Thomas of Veedersburg, Ind.; one sister-in-law, Robbie Lynn Swinford; and two brothers-in-law, Harold (Linda) Ware of Sidell and Veit Gustin of Sidell. He was preceded in death by a sister, Nola Gustin; a brother, Dick Swinford; and an infant son, Jason David.
Phil operated the Standard Station in Homer for a time, and also Sidell Radio and TV and he retired from Hyster Corporation. He was a member of the Faith Evangelical Church in Fairmount and a charter member of the Sidell Historical Society. He had also served on the Sidell Village Board and as President of the Fairview Cemetery Board. Phil was an avid Cardinal fan, enjoyed reading Westerns, bird watching, and gardening, as well as Illini basketball.
Funeral services were this morning (Thursday) at Robison Chapel in Catlin with his son John Swinford officiating, assisted by Pastor Steve Lamb. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery at Sidell.
Memorials to Carle Hospice, Sidell Historical Society, Faith Church or Sidell Fire and Rescue, all in care of Robison Chapel. Condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Eula Rose Binkley, age 91, passed away peacefully in her sleep April 3, 2013 at Pleasant Meadows Christian Village in Chrisman.
Born on May 13, 1921 to Jesse and Ora Hopkins in Edgar County, Eula graduated from Ridge Farm High School in 1939 and attended beautician school in Paris, Illinois, graduating in 1940.
On May 6, 1941, Eula Rose married Dane Binkley and they resided in Ridge Farm. They had two children, Sandra Sue and Richard. They survive. She is also survived by one sister, Florence of Rockville, Ind.; five grandchildren, David (Bridget) Creek of Chrisman, Andrew Creek of Milwaukee, Wisc., Amy (Jerry) Creek Cason of Plainfield, Ind., Dana (Keith) Taylor of Irmo, SC and Beth Binkley of Washington D.C.; five great-grandchildren, Alexander and Spencer Lourie of Irmo, SC, Jessica Creek of Paris, Zoie and Kylie Cason of Plainfield, Ind.; one great-great grandson, Braxton Medley of Paris; special nieces and nephews, Larry and Joan Binkley of Avon, Ind.; Fred Binkley of Mount Vernon, Ind and Dan Hopkins of Alabama and her beloved dog, Benji.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 63 years; three sisters, Marie, Dorothy and Mildred; two brothers, Truman and Charlie; one grandson, Bradley Binkley and one son-in-law, David Creek.
Eula and Dane owned the Shady Rest Restaurant in Chrisman and also owned the Hut Restaurant in Ridge Farm for a number of years. Eula worked for the First National Bank of Georgetown and First National Bank of Danville.
She earned her associate’s degree in Education at DACC; was a teacher’s aide at Georgetown-Ridge Farm Grade School and a teacher, retiring from Jamaica Grade School. She also enjoyed writing, finishing a book on the Binkley Family History, which she had published for her family. She was also a member of the Ridge Farm Methodist Church.
Dane and Eula also owned Crabapple Creek Antique Shop. They loved to travel to the New England area to buy antiques. Eula always had a love for buying and displaying antiques in her home. She also would coordinate antique clothing shows for various civic groups in the area. They also enjoyed to exhibit at antique shows and sales. In Eula’s later years, she enjoyed going to antique shows and sales with her son, Richard.
She also loved to travel to Texas and Arizona with her daughter Sandy to visit her niece and nephew Larry and Joan Binkley. For Eula, being with her family on Thanksgiving and Christmas were the most special times. She was a wonderful cook; her pies, cookies and cinnamon rolls will be missed, as she will be dearly missed by her family and friends.
A celebration of Eula’s life was Monday at Krabel Funeral Home in Chrisman. Eula was laid to rest at Crown Hill Cemetery in Ridge Farm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Ridge Farm Methodist Church food bank.
Online condolences and service information are available at www.krabelfuneralhome.com.
Frances E. Glasgow Mumm, 89, passed away on Friday, April 5, 2013 at the C-U Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Savoy.
Frances was born on June 24, 1923 in Fairland, a daughter of Chester Orval and Nellie Smith Jameson. She married Ross William Glasgow who preceded her in death. She later married Howard Mumm who also preceded her in death. She is also preceded in death by a granddaughter, Carolyn Glasgow and a son William Mackenzie Patterson.
Survivors include children Eugene Ross (Jeannie) Glasgow and Gerry Alan (Mary) Glasgow, four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Frances was a member of the Allerton United Methodist Church and the Red Hat Society. She enjoyed reading, traveling, and being in the Canasta Club.
Funeral services were Tuesday at the Joines-Appleby Funeral Home in Newman. Pastor John Sharpe officiated. Burial was in Fairfield Cemetery north of Newman.
William Daniel “Boone” George, 64, passed away March 16, 2013 at home in Tennessee from natural causes. He was formerly of Sidell.
Dan was born October 4, 1948 in Danville to Nona Lee and Garnet Mae (Brazeal) George. He attended Hume School and graduated at Young America in 1966.
He is survived by his wife, Carlene (Evans) George. He is also survived by a son, Bradley (Hedi) George, two grandsons and another on the way. He is also survived by a stepdaughter Jamie Mills, one granddaughter and three more grandsons.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers David and Richard George.
No services were held. Memorials may be made in Dan’s name to local animal shelters or wounded vets.
Charles Leo Darr, 93, prominent Fithian area farmer, passed away 7:07 am Wednesday April 17, 2013 at his home.
Charles was born December 9, 1919 in rural Fairmount, the son of George Bryan and Rosa Alice Hart Darr. He was united in marriage to Mary Elizabeth Jenkins on June 29, 1941 at the Fithian-Boarde Farm. Mary Elizabeth preceded him in death on December 24, 2000.
Survivors include one daughter, Rita (Bill) Trankina of Fithian; two brothers, David (Evelyn) Darr of Fairmount and Dane (Mary Lou) Darr of Fairmount; one sister, Mary Puzey of Fairmount; one sister-in-law, Margaret Darr of Fairmount; two grandchildren, Brad (Christina) Trankina of Fithian and Darcee (Tom) Divan of St. Joseph; three great-grandchildren, Lauren Trankina, Rachel Divan and Trey Divan. Charles was preceded in death by one sister and brother-in-law, Marjorie and Ralph Diel; one brother, Paul Darr; and a brother-in-law: Lloyd Puzey.
Charles was a 1937 graduate Catlin High School. He worked at the armory in Rock Island before enlisting in the Army Air Core in 1944. After his service, he returned home to farm.
He continued his passion for farming until his retirement in 2001 at the age of 81. Throughout his career in farming, he won numerous local and regional high yield awards.
Charles was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He enjoyed boating, camping, square dancing and outdoor activities. He wintered at Riverwoods Plantation Park in Estero, Florida.
He never met a stranger and enjoyed visiting with everyone he met. In the later years, he enjoyed spending time with his great-grandchildren and many new friends who cared for him.
Funeral mass was Saturday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Westville. Father Timothy Sauppe officiated. Burial was in the Stearns Cemetery at Fithian. Memorials may be made in Charles’ memory to Carle Hospice or Carle Heart Center in care of Robison Chapel. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
William Morris, 72, of Allerton passed away on Sunday, April 28, 2013 at the Newman Rehabilitation Center in Newman.
William was born on May 10, 1940 in Danville, a son of William “Paul” and Sarah Hart Morris. He married Barbara Courson on December 10, 1961 in Allerton. She survives.
Also surviving are children Mark (Marilyn) Morris of Mendota, Mike (Brenda) Morris of Brocton, and Julie (Rich) Hood of Brocton. Grandchildren Brett (Brooke), Sarah, Meghan (Patrick), Bryant (Bethany), Abby, Hannah, Adam, Courtney, Kaleb, and Cody. Great-grandchildren Gambel, Charlotte, and Connor. Two sisters Mary Lareau of Homer and Rachel Morris of Tyler, Texas.
He was preceded in death by a brother John Morris, and a great granddaughter Victoria.
William was a 1958 graduate of ABL High School. He was a farmer in the area, sold farm equipment with Morris Brothers and Courson’s, and worked at the Corps of Engineers in Sullivan. He enjoyed Nascar, camping, boating, and he loved his friends and family.
Funeral services were Wednesday at Joines-Appleby Funeral Home in Newman. Pastor Craig Roller officiated. Burial was at the Young America Cemetery in Hume. A visitation was Tuesday at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to the Newman Rehabilitation Center, The American Cancer Society or the Allerton United Methodist Church.
William F. Boyette, 73, of Fairmount, passed away at 2:40 a.m. on Monday, May 6, 2013 at Presence United Samaritans Medical Center, Danville.
William was born July 3, 1939 in Phoenix, Ariz. to Willie and Opal Wooten. He married Diane J. Puzey on October 16, 1999 in Fairmount. She survives.
Also surviving are one son, Timothy Boyette of Dalles, Ore. and one niece, Diana (Willie) Phillips of Missouri. He was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters.
William served in the U.S. Army. He was a man of many talents. He enjoyed reading, studying the Bible, working in the yard, taking road trips and he adored his pets. He was a member of Faith Church, Fairmount.
Memorial service at a later date. Robison Chapel, Catlin is handling the arrangements. Memorials may be made to Wycliffe Bible Translators and the Fairmount Fire & Rescue. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Ivan G. Reed, 89, of Georgetown, passed away at 12:10 p.m. Wed., May 1, 2013, at Veterans Affairs Illiana Health Care System, Danville.
He was born in Cisne, the youngest son of Armor and Irene Reed. Ivan was preceded in death by brothers, Walton Reed and Marion Reed, and his parents.
Ivan and Emy Lou Mahoney were married after graduating from Sidell High School. They moved to Georgetown in 1944 and have resided there since.
The call to military service took Ivan to Fort Knox, Ky., in the tank corps. He was transferred to Monterey, Calif., to train in amphibious tanks to invade Japan. Luckily, Japan surrendered and they were sent all over the South Pacific to replace those who had been fighting there. The last place was Iwo Jima and then discharge and home to his family.
Ivan enrolled in Coyne Electrical School in Chicago and graduated from there to begin his life working with electricity.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Emy Lou; daughter, Betty (James) Lomax of Catlin; sons, Charles “C.I.” (Linda) Reed of Danville, John (Mary Jo) Reed of Georgetown and James “Mike” (Jory) Reed of Newport, Ind.; five grandchildren;15 great-grandchildren; and many relatives in southern Illinois.
Ivan was an active community person — Lions Club, Georgetown Fair, American Legion Post 203 (18th District Commander, 40 & 8 of the Legion) and the many people he donated his electrical expertise to.
According to his wishes, he will be cremated. Graveside services and burial was Saturday at Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola, with Pastor Gary Farris officiating. Military honors will be provided by American Legion Post 203, Georgetown and Post 51, Westville.
Rortvedt Funeral Services & Crematory in Tilton is assisting the family.
Randall Scott Thomas (Tonka), 40, of Sidell passed away at his home on Monday, May 20, 2013.
Randall was born on January 4, 1973 in Danville, a son of Ricky and Barbara Kistler Thomas. He married Ami Wilson on November 10, 2012 in Sidell. She survives.
Also surviving are children Austin & Alli Lutz, a brother Ricky (Dana) Thomas, Jr. of Sidell, sister Angela Hamilton of Indianola, in laws Jeff & Debbie Wilson, and extended family . He was preceded in death by his mother Barbara and a sister Calista Thomas.
Randall was a truck driver, he enjoyed listening to music and playing the drums. He loved his family dearly and loved spending time with them.
Many were inspired by his positive attitude during his fight with cancer. He stayed employed and despite suffering from cancer, always thought of others first.
Funeral services were held this morning (Thursday) at the Sidell United Pentecostal Church in Sidell. Pastor Tim Pearman officiated. Burial was at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola.
Joines-Appleby Funeral Home of Newman is in charge of arrangements.
Rhea Mae Guthrie, 82, of Sidell, passed away at 10:05 p.m. Monday, May 27, 2013 at North Logan Healthcare Center in Danville.
Rhea was born July 18, 1930 in Carroll Township to Frank and Evelyn Molt Bennett. She married Clifford D. Guthrie March 19, 1950 in Sidell. Clifford passed away Dec. 9, 2011.
Survivors include one son, Gene Guthrie of Decatur; two daughters, Sue (John) Batts of Yucca Valley, Calif. and Leslie (Henry) Vasquez of Weston, Fla.; 10 grandchildren, Chad Batts, Brandon Batts, Geoffrey Guthrie, Greggory Guthrie, Gretchen Guthrie, Gary Guthrie, Gina Guthrie, Ryan Vasquez, Brittany Vasquez, and Gabriela Vasquez; six great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
Rhea was preceded in death by one daughter, Fae, a daughter-in-law, Jill Guthrie, and three brothers, Raymond, Ralph, and Robert .
Rhea worked part-time at the Keenean Elementary School in California, where the family lived for 20 years. She was a member of the Sidell United Methodist Church and the Order of the Eastern Star.
Funeral services at 11 a.m. today (Thursday) at the Sidell United Methodist Church with Pastor Charles Graul officiating. Burial at Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola. Visitation was from 10 a.m. until service time at the church.
Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Research. Robison Chapel in Catlin is in charge of arrangements. Condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Barbara A. Miller, 85 passed away at 4:27 a.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2013 at her home in Champaign.
A graveside service will be held on Sunday, June 9 at 1 p.m. at Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola.
She was born on February 13, 1928, the daughter of Walter and May Richards Canaday of Vermilion Grove. She married Robert A. Miller of Sidell on December 31, 1949 and he survives.
Also surviving are two daughters, Tracy (Jay) Hageman of Fairmount and Dede (Don) Heidbreder of Thomasboro; her grandchildren Jenny (Chris) Kirschner of Homer, Cale (Callie) Heidbreder of Gifford, and Carson Heidbreder and her friend Clark Juday of Thomasboro; two great-grandchildren Dylan and Hadley Kirschner of Homer and her sister Betty Hooper of Charleston.
Memorials may be made to the Savoy United Methodist Church or to a place of the donor’s choice.Joines-Appleby Funeral Home of Newman is in charge of arrangements.
Anita K. Jordan, 71, of Fairmount, passed away at 6:38 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2013, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
She was born on Jan. 31, 1942, in Fairmount to Harry and Lelia Baker Smith.
She married Robert J. Ferry, who preceded her in death. She later married Cecil “Wes” Jordan, who also preceded her in death.
She is survived by three children, Brad (Trish) Phelps of Fairmount, formerly of San Diego, Calif., Cheryl Phelps of Danville and Roger (Susie) McNeese of Memphis, Tenn.; two brothers, Teddy (Lila) Smith of Wisconsin and Billy Smith of St. Joseph; four sisters, Sonya (Dean) Woodard of Fairmount, Doris McNeese, also of Fairmount, Mary Jane (Gary) Zindars of Potomac and Pam Krabbel of Hume; five grandchildren, Amber (Erik Palmer) Phelps of San Diego, Calif., Amanda Phelps of Springfield, Dustin Phelps of Fairmount, Vannessa Pacheco of San Diego, Calif., and Travis “T.C.” McNeese of Champaign; and a great-granddaughter, Angelina Aganowski.
In addition to her husbands, she was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, Norman and Ronnie Smith.
Anita was an avid gardener and loved to feed and watch her hummingbirds. She could also be found sipping chai tea while she shopped from home on QVC. In the past she had enjoyed square dancing and playing tennis.
Anita especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and always looked forward to her dinners with her daughter and granddaughter Amanda at the Possum Trot. She will be dearly missed by all her family.
Services were today (Thursday) at 2 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville. Chris Murphy officiated. Burial was at Sunset Memorial Park.
Memorials may be made to the CARA no kill animal shelter in Tilton.
Please join Anita’s family in sharing memories, photos and video of her life through her Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Brent A. Schmalshof, 48 of Auburn passed away Saturday, June 1, 2013.
He was born October 2, 1964 in Hannibal, Mo., the son of John and Ruth Ann Key Schmalshof. He married Karen Schmidt and they later divorced.
He was preceded in death by two grandfathers, George Schmalshof and Malcolm Key, uncle Bowen “Skip” Watts, and sister and brother-in-law, Marsha and Donnie Craig.
Brent was employed for over 25 years as a digital copier representative currently working for GFI Digital.
Surviving are one daughter, Rachel Schmalshof of Auburn; former spouse, Karen Schmidt-Schmalshof of Auburn; mother, Ruth Ann (Bob) Voight of Sidell; father, John (Deb) Schmalshof of Gahlonega; one brother, Wheeler (Kimberly) Schmalshof of Lincoln; one niece, Hannah; nephew, Keyton; two grandmothers, Carrie Askew of Quincy and Lela Key of Chrisman; extended family, Dale, Rosalee, Stan, Dori and Regan McDannold, Becky Phillips, Amy and Kent McDermott, Dustin and Joshua Craig; several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Visitation was June 5 at Bramley Funeral Home, Auburn. Services were at last Thursday at the funeral home with his nephew Kent McDermott officiating.
Memorials may be made to Rachel’s college education fund, PO Box 197, Chrisman, IL 61924. Online condolences at www.bramleyfh.com
Nicholas W. “Nick” Schmit, 27, formerly of Ridge Farm, passed away at 1:15 a.m. on Wednesday, June 5, 2013 near Lodgepole, Nebraska as a result of a motorcycle accident.
Nick was born May 15, 1986 in Danville to Phillip A. & Sandra K. McNulty Schmit. Survivors include his parents of Chrisman; one daughter Chloe Elizabeth Schmit and his girlfriend Dallas Hogan, both of Salt Lake City, Utah; three brothers, Phillip A. (Robin Dodds) Schmit II of Austin, Texas, Cory J. (Rhonda) Schmit of Ridge Farm and Chris (Danyel) Schmit of Bismarck; and one sister Faith (Dillon Gregory) Schmit of Springfield; Nieces and nephews Phillip, Nichole (Kyle), Tyffani, Cole, Marliegh, Bryant, Braxton, and Byntlee; one great-niece Kylee; one great-nephew Luke; and several special friends, Justin Hoskins, Joey Lee, Alex Henthorn, and Austin McNulty. Nick especially loved his family and co-workers at Elkhorn Construction Company. He was preceded in death by one great-nephew D.J.
Nick was a heavy equipment operator and a 2004 graduate of Georgetown-Ridge Farm High School. He enjoyed playing pool, bowling, skydiving and all competitive activities, spending time in the mountains and riding his motorcycle. Above all else, he loved his family & friends.
Visitation was Monday and funeral services were Tuesday at the Georgetown-Ridge Farm High School gymnasium. Burial was in the Hoult Cemetery south of Chrisman with Pastor Jay Sorrell officiating.
Memorials to the Chloe Elizabeth Schmit Fund, in care of Robison Chapel in Catlin. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com. The Robison Chapel in Catlin is assisting the Schmit family with arrangements.
Susie M. Smoot, 83, passed this life at 4:35 a.m. on Thursday, June 27, 2013 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.
Susie was born March 1, 1930 in Sand Prairie (Eugene Area), Indiana to Frank and Florence Pritchard Kizer. She married Donald P. Smoot on June 6, 1948 in Catlin. He survives.
They always felt they raised many children, but actually had four of their own: Donald E. (Jackie) Smoot of Oakwood, Ronald (Kay) Smoot, of Fairmount, Dianna (Kevin) Kirk of Catlin, and John Kevin (Teresa) of Catlin. They have ten grandchildren: Matthew Smoot, Jed Smoot, Nathan Smoot, Seth (Laura) Smoot, Clayton Smoot, Carrie (Brock) Burton, Ashley (John) Clem, Doug Kirk, Kimberly (Garett) Pabst and Kelli (Zach) Lyons. Susie was also blessed with 15 great grandchildren: Mason, Sebastian, Cooper and Rowan Burton, Camden, Ty and Bennett Smoot, Braxton and Fletcher Clem, Dylan and Ava Smoot, Taylor Smoot, Lennox Lyons, Tucker and Kirk Pabst.
Susie is survived by two sisters: Madge (Lloyd) Ross and Virginia (Keith) Boen; two brothers: Edward (Clara) Kizer and Wayne (Betty) Kizer; and many nephews, nieces and all of their children. Susie was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters: Mildred, Mabel, and Margaret; and a brother: Clarence.
Susie attended several Indiana schools before they moved to the Bismarck area and ended up graduating from Catlin High School. Along her childhood path to adulthood she gained many lifelong friends.
After “retiring” from Smoot Construction Company, Inc., in 1985, Susie opened a day care business in her home. She became affectionately known as “Grandma Susie” to many. Susie was a “giver,” never turning down the opportunity to fix a meal, a tea or a sandwich “to go.” Her kitchen was never closed and never a stranger sat at her table. Susie looked forward to each day.
Funeral services were Sunday at the Catlin United Methodist Church with Matt Streeter officiating. Burial in OakRidge Cemetery, Catlin. Memorials to the Catlin Historical Society or flowers to someone that needs something to look forward to. Robison Chapel of Catlin was in charge of arrangements. Online condolences www.robisonchapel.com.
Marian Davis, 83, formerly of Catlin, passed away June 20, 2013, at Harbour Manor Nursing Home in Noblesville, Ind.
She was born April 24, 1930, near Jamaica, Ill., to Herbert and Elizabeth Setser Moreman.
She is survived by a son, Donald Davis of Indianapolis; her beloved grandchildren, Tricia (David) Williams of Daleville, Ind., Allison (Bernie) Berry of Fishers, Ind., Eric (Misty) Davis of Covington, Ind., and Brad (Kristen) Davis of Danville; also five great-grandchildren, Abbey, Maddey, Alexandria, Logan and Mason.
She was preceded in death by a son, Charles Davis; her parents; five brothers; and four sisters.
Marian graduated from Lakeview School of Nursing and was employed by the Veterans Affairs medical center in Danville and provided home health care for families until retirement.
The greatest love of her life was her family. She attended many church programs, ballgames, school plays, concerts, parades and any event her grandchildren were involved in.
Funeral services were June 28 at Robison Chapel, Catlin. Burial at OakRidge Cemetery, Catlin. Online condolences: www.robisonchapel.com
Charles William Goodall, 68, of Sidell, died July 4, 2013 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago of complications from multiple myeloma.
Charles was born July 28, 1944 in Danville, the son of the late Clarence Vernon Goodall and Rachel Elizabeth (Guthrie) Goodall. A fifth-generation farmer, he grew up on the family farm just outside of Sidell, with sisters Carol, Marjory, and twin Catherine, and was a member of the Jamaica High School class of 1962.
Charles attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he majored in agricultural economics. Immediately following college Charles spent two years in Venezuela as a Peace Corps volunteer. His experiences there left a deep impression and a curiosity about other languages and cultures. He reminisced fondly about the people he met and his interactions with them.
Charles married Nancy Tsai Chao on August 17, 1969 in Urbana. After living in New York and St. Louis, where Charles graduated from Washington University School of Law, the couple returned to Sidell in 1974 to farm in partnership with his father. Clarence and Charles also began and operated Goodall Products to design, manufacture, and market C-Thru® bin extensions and other harvest equipment accessories.
Charles greatly valued community, historical preservation, the natural world, and conservation and he dedicated his time and effort to these causes. He was a long-time member of the Sidell Lions Club and Farm Bureau, served on the Hastings drainage district commission, Lake Vermilion Water Quality Coalition and the Sidell Tree Commission, was a board member of Prairie Rivers Network, and was a founder of Stand Up to Coal.
Charles’ sense of stewardship and his long-term view are reflected in projects such as planting a grove of trees last fall with the help of his sisters and friends. His curiosity led him to pursue knowledge over the last several years in areas such as organic farming, soil conservation practices, and German, through classes, conferences and books.
He enjoyed outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and canoeing and through these activities, shared his love of the outdoors with family and friends.
He will be remembered by those close to him for his optimism, his hard work, his easy laugh and his love of problem solving. Over the years he used his creative skills and metalworking shop to make furniture and other custom items for his family, a grill wagon for the Lions Club barbecue, and the occasional piece of wall art.
Charles is survived by his wife, Nancy; daughters, Catherine (Uwe) Goodall-Heising and Andrea (Milyon) Trulove; granddaughter, Norah; his sisters, Carol Wock, Marjory (Paul) Queen and Catherine (Albert) Allen; and many other relatives and friends.
The family will have a private burial. A memorial service will be held on July 28, at 4 p.m. at the Sidell United Methodist Church. Memorial donations may be made in lieu of flowers to the International Myeloma Foundation, Prairie Rivers Network, or the Sidell United Methodist Church.
Connie Turpin, 77, of Fairmount, passed away suddenly at 5:08 p.m. Thursday, July 11, 2013 in the emergency room at Presence Medical Center in Urbana.
Graveside rites 11:45 a.m. Friday at the GAR Cemetery in Homer. Rev. Mike Roberts will officiate. Visitation is from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at Robison Chapel in Catlin.
Connie was born January 30, 1936 in Danville to Fred & Esther Mason Fitzsimmons. She married Wayne Turpin in Fairmount and he passed away in 1983.
Survivors include two daughters, Mary Catherine (John) Kuczera of Champaign and Lisa Ann O’Neil of Loxahatchee, Fla.; one brother, Bob (Brenda) Fitzsimmons of Vero Beach, Fla.; two step-brothers, Scott Davis of Danville and Jerry Davis of Danville; one sister, Carol (Jon) Latoz of Chrisman; one step-sister, Marcia Bolser of Catlin; and four grandchildren, Kalin Richardson, Trent Richardson, Emilee Kuczera, and Shannon O’Neil.
Connie enjoyed drinking coffee with her friends, gardening, working at the Fairmount Lounge, and watching black & white movies, as well as enjoying animals.
Memorials may be made to the Vermilion County Humane Society. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Flossie M. Cary, 99, of Ridge Farm, went home at 10:23 a.m. Tuesday, July 16, 2013 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
Celebration of Life Service 2 p.m. Saturday at Robison Chapel in Catlin. Pastor Jim Blue to officiate. Burial in the Crown Hill Cemetery in Ridge Farm. Visitation from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday at Robison Chapel in Catlin.
Flossie was born June 5, 1914 in Cumberland County, Kentucky to Hunter and Mattie Farley White. She married Denver Davis Cary on June 21, 1940 in Missouri. He preceded her in death on August 15, 1991.
Surviving are three daughters, Barbara (Duane) Rosdail of Indianola, Judie Land of Ridge Farm, and Marcie (Kent) Barker of Belleville; one sister, Ruby Anderson of Glasgow, Ky.; five grandchildren: Bob (Shelley) Land, Lisa (Douglas) Nesbitt, Tammy (Brian) Bailey, Eric (Lisa) Rosdail and Amy Land; eight great-grandchildren: Christopher, Lucas, Carissa, Lauren, Noah, Amanda, Tanner and Bailey. She was preceded in death by five brothers, two sisters, and one son, Curtis Cary.
Flossie enjoyed cooking at Ridgeway Lanes in Ridge Farm for 32 years where she was a very sharing and caring person. She enjoyed sewing and quilting. Flossie also loved flowers and mowing and had beautiful flower beds all of her life. Flossie loved working with young people and guiding and encouraging them along the way. She was a member of the Ridge Farm Church of Christ, and enjoyed vacationing in Florida. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her here and will be welcomed by all who’ve gone before.
Memorials to the Ridge Farm Church of Christ. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Esther Lahne of Sidell passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2013 at the Pleasant Meadows Christian Village in Chrisman.
Esther was born on Nov. 23, 1926, in Rockville, Ind., a daughter of Clifford and Della Taylor McDaniel. She married Harold Lahne on Aug. 3, 1945, in Sidell. He preceded her in death on March 6, 2003.
Survivors include sisters Betty Jackowski, Ruth Callahan and Shirley McCown, and brothers Donald, Wayne and Keith McDaniel. Esther was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and one sister.
Esther was a member of the Sidell United Methodist Church.
Funeral services were July 17 at the Sidell United Methodist Church with Pastor Don Shane officiating. Burial was at Fairview Cemetery in Sidell.
Memorials may be made to the church. Joines-Appleby Funeral Home of Newman was in charge of arrangements.
L. Mason Burd, 89, of Watseka and formerly of Armstrong passed away on Wednesday, July 17, 2013 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka.
Mason was born November 10, 1923 in Armstrong, the son of Lester M. and Edna F. Wernigk Burd. He married Josephine Campbell on February 26, 1949 in Seattle, Wash. and she preceded him in death on February 10, 2001.
He is survived by one daughter, Mary (Richard) Taylor of Sidell; two sons, Richard Burd of Palatine and Bob (Julie) Burd of Watseka; seven grandchildren, Jennifer Taylor, Ben (Mandy) Taylor, Brent Burd, Justin Burd, Brandon Burd, Brittany Burd and Blake Burd; his first great-grandchild is due in January 2014; two nieces, Sue Elston-Rogner and Jane Booth; and several cousins.
In addition to his wife, he was also preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Julia Elston; and one son, Sherman Burd.
Mr. Burd attended Armstrong High School and the University of Illinois. He served in the Army, farmed in the Armstrong area his entire life on the family’s Centennial Farm and represented Funk’s G Hybrid Seed Corn for over 30 years. Mason served as 4-H leader and tractor school teacher. He served as board member and chairman for the Vermilion County Farm Bureau, was a member of the Masonic Lodge, 32nd Degree Mason in the Valley of Danville, served in Eastern Star and was a member of the Potomac Masonic Lodge.
Mason was active in church, having belonged to the Armstrong Methodist Church, the Sidell United Methodist Church and the Ely Methodist Church. He served as Methodist District Lay Speaker leader and filled the pulpit in many area churches as a lay speaker. He was an accomplished bowler and served faithfully on a men’s bowling team. With his wife, Josephine, he chaperoned travel groups to Alaska and points beyond.
He enjoyed raising orchids in his greenhouse, did intricate counted cross stitch work and loved fishing and spending summers near Ely, Minnesota at his summer home. Music was an important part of Mason’s life, singing in choirs and as a soloist in church and community events.
Funeral services were Sunday at the Sidell United Methodist Church with Rev. Charles Graul and Rev. Don Shane officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sidell United Methodist Church or Ely United Methodist Church.
Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.
Please sign the online guestbook at knappfuneralhomes.com.
James McKee, of Indianola, known as “Granddad” to family and friends alike, passed away unexpectedly at 2:32 a.m. Tuesday (July 30, 2013) at Carle Foundation Hospital.
He was born April 9, 1942, in Thornsbey, Ala., to parents Dewey A. and Hazel Irene (Murphy) McKee. He married Sue A. Foster in Webster, Fla., on May 16, 1964. She survives.
Also surviving are children, Julie Williams (Butch) of Champaign, James McKee Jr. of Indianola, Tammy Fredrick (Roger) of Delta, Ohio, and Alex McKee of Danville; seven grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.
Condolences may be offered online at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.
Barbara Ann Schomburg, 81, of Fairmount, died at 10:03 a.m. Thursday, July 25, 2013, at her home.
Barbara was born Dec. 28, 1931, in Teaneck, N.J., to Merwin Hartley Dick and Opal Marie Stucker.
She attended schools in New Jersey and graduated from Main High School in Park Ridge in 1949. She had been an owner-partner with her husband at Schomburg & Schomburg Construction of Danville. She had been an avid golfer at Blue Needles and Kiawah, S.C.
Barbara married Richard Schomburg on Dec. 28, 1978, in Reno, Nev., and he survives. Also surviving is a son, Charles Cofoid; stepchildren, Mark Schomburg and Susan (Jeff) Kitts; grandchildren, Charles Cofoid Jr., Matthew and Alex Kitts and Jake and Kyle Schomburg; and a sister, Virginia (Melvin) Roberts. She was preceded by her parents.
Barbara treated the construction company employees, in the office and in the field, as though they were her family.
Memorial services were Tuesday at Pape Funeral Home, Danville with Pastor Raymie Gordon officiating.
Guest register at www.papemortuary.com.
William “Bill” McManamon died peacefully at home July 28, 2013. He was the beloved husband of Bridget nee Campbell; loving father of Kathleen McManamon, D.V.M. of Broadlands, William McManamon, Jr., Martin (Martina) McManamon, Maureen (David) Kendziera and Thomas (Rosie) McManamon; dear grandfather of Thomas, Jr., David, Brenda, Patrick, Ryan, Shane, Angela and William “Liam.” He was the very last of 12 brothers and sisters and the adored uncle of many nieces and nephews.
A native of Newport, Co. Mayo, Ireland, he was born August 1, 1931. He was educated at St. Jarlaths College, Co. Galway, attended UCD, Dublin, and graduated from London Polytech with a degree in Civil Engineering. Bill was a great GAA supporter, founding member of the McBride G.F.C. and he loved the Red and Green.
Visitation will be at Cooney Funeral Home, 625 Busse Hwy., in Park Ridge Friday, 3 to 9 p.m. Lying in state 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Cecillia Church, Mt. Prospect. Mass at 10 a.m. Internment private.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, Tenn. 38105, (800)822-6344 would be appreciated.
Dolores Jean Metzger, 82, Noblesville, Ind. passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2013 at Maple Park Village in Westfield, following a long battle with kidney failure. She was born to Arthur and Luella (Kislia) Rondeau on October 2, 1930 in Janesville, Wis.
After graduating in 1949 from Columbia City Joint High School in Columbia City, Ind., Dolores worked at United Telephone Company of Columbia City as a switchboard operator. She married Marvin Metzger on October 7, 1950 in Columbia City. She was a homemaker and was very active in Happy Homemakers Club of Thorncreek in Columbia City.
After moving to Noblesville in 1977, Dolores worked at Huntington National Bank in Noblesville. She was also very active in the local Homemakers club in Noblesville and worked at Conseco as a switchboard operator until she retired. Dolores was a member of Noblesville Baptist Church, where she was very active and sang in the church choir. She loved listening to all types of Christian music.
She is survived by her brother, Don Rondeau of Ft. Wayne; son, Ron (Kathy) Metzger of Sidell; four grandchildren, Sandy, DeAnna, Angie and Shelly all of Indiana; and five great-grandchildren, Kimberly, Michael, Andrea, Ashley and Austin.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Arthur, Dale and Dick; son, Michael; grandson, Tadd.
Funeral services will held at 7 p.m. EST on Friday, Aug. 23 at Randall & Roberts Funeral Home, 1150 Logan Street in Noblesville, with visitation beginning at 5 p.m. immediately prior to the service. Pastor Seth Leeman of Noblesville Baptist Church will officiate. A graveside service and burial will be held at Fairview Cemetery in Sidell at 11 a.m. CDT on Saturday August 24.
In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Indiana, 911 E 86th Street, Suite # 100, Indianapolis, IN 46240.
Condolences: www.randallroberts.com.
Arthur William Todd, 89, of Ridge Farm died Friday, Aug. 23, 2013 at 11:27 a.m. at the Veteran’s Affairs Palliative Care Unit in Danville where he had been a patient since May.
Art was born Dec. 9, 1923 to Clamus and Clara Donley Todd of rural Sidell. He was a 1942 graduate of Sidell High School. He married the love of his life Alta Mae Neibarger of Newman Nov. 11, 1950. They were married 52 years until her death in 2002. They had three children, Ronnie, Rinda and Rebecca “Becky.”
Art proudly served his country in Northern France/Rhineland during World War II and was thrilled to be included in the 2011 Honor Flight that flew WWII veterans to Washington DC. He was recognized as a 50 year Mason this year and was also a member of the Sidell American Legion.
He was a farmer for over 50 years. Art loved to bowl and mushroom hunt and was known for his teasing of everyone, especially his waitresses and nurses.
Those who loved him dearly and will miss him very much include his daughters, Rinda Maddox of Sidell, Becky (Dave) Nimrick of Jacksonville; granddaughter Amanda (Jon-Michael) Rull of Fairmount; grandsons, Joshua and Jacob Nimrick, both of Jacksonville; brother Roger (Dixie) Todd of Forsyth, Mo.; and closest friends, Leon Dugan and Phil and Sandy Schmit, all of Chrisman, Larry Truelove of Ridge Farm and Joe and Arlene Wise of Westville.
Art will also be missed by his brothers, Tim (Carolyn) Todd of Good Hope, and Elmo Todd; his sisters, Susie Lang of Danville and Margie (Glen) Foster of Hoopeston, nieces and nephews, and many of his coffee buddies from The Ridge.
Art was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, son-in-law Steven Maddox and brother Ted Todd.
Funeral services were at Ridge Farm United Methodist Church Aug. 26. Burial was at Pilot Grove Cemetery east of Ridge Farm with the American Legion Dornblaser Post 203 of Georgetown presenting arms. Arrangements were by Joines Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Sidell American Legion or the Shriner’s Children Hospital in St. Louis.
Margaret “Peggy” Kollmeyer, 95, of Carmel, Ind. formerly of Fairmount passed away at 11:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2013 at Clare Bridge of Carmel, Carmel, Indiana.
Margaret was born December 25, 1917 in Douglas County, Illinois to David W. and Okalona Brewer Culton. She married Tom Robert Kollmeyer on March 20, 1942 in LaGrange. He preceded her in death on July 27, 1992.
Surviving are one son, David (Nannie) Kollmeyer of Mooresville, Ind.; two daughters, Beth Bennett of Carmel, Ind. and Nancy Kups of Sarasota, Fla.; one brother, Albert Culton of Newman; one sister, Alberta Roth of Mattoon; five grandchildren, Stacey Swanson, Amy Kollmeyer, Lori Hammer, Marc Bennett, and Lisa Bennett; and six great-grandchildren, Patrick Swanson, Morgan Kerberg, Reilly Jo Swanson, Kaya Dube, Benjamin Hammer, and Andrew Hammer. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Keith Culton and Max Culton and two sisters, Beryl Furnish and Betty Martin.
Margaret was a member of the First Baptist Church and the Sixty Plus Club in Fairmount. She was a former secretary of the Sixty Plus Club. She was a former member of the Jamaica Historical Society and an avid reader.
Funeral services were Saturday at Robison Chapel, Catlin with Reverend Mike Roberts officiating. Burial was in Newman Cemetery. Memorials to the First Baptist Church, Fairmount. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Gerald R. “Jerry” McGee, 83, well known Sidell area farmer, passed away suddenly at 9:25 a.m. Monday, September 24, 2013 at his home.
Jerry was born February 15, 1930 in rural Fairmount to Cecil C. and Margaret Taylor McGee. He married Ginger Dedman June 6, 192 at St. James Methodist Church in Danville. Ginger survives as well as two sons, Charles (Deborah) McGee of Fairmount and John (Stacey) McGee of Troy, Mich.; two daughters, Paula (Daniel) Dickey of Gibson City and Leigh Ann (Tom) Hanson of Bartlett; one sister, Ruth Patterson of Sidell; two sisters-in-law, Connie (Clifford) Puzey of Indianola and Barbara Dedman of Kalispell, Mont.; 10 grandchildren, Seth Dickey, Nathan Dickey, Jacob Dickey, Nick Hanson, Darcy Hanson, Jessica (Adam) Southern, Samantha McGee, Mitch McGee, Megan McGee, and Kate McGee. He was preceded in death by one brother, Ted and one infant half brother, John H.
Jerry graduated from Sidell High School in 1948 and began farming. He was a school bus driver for Jamaica High School and Grade School. He worked construction with Bob Bennett of Sidell for several years. He enjoyed working for the Jamaica Township Road Commissioner. Jerry had been an elder and member of the Sidell Christian Church. He was also a member of the Champaign Elks Club.
He enjoyed traveling, camping, and loved to dance, and attended many dances. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. Jerry was known for his Irish sense of humor and his blue eyes.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at the United Methodist Church in Sidell with Pastor Don Shane officiating. Burial in the Woodlawn Cemetery at Indianola. Visitation is from 3-6 p.m. on Sunday at Robison Chapel in Catlin.
Memorials to the American Diabetes Association or the Sidell Fire and Rescue. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Delorise O. Shields, 79, of Sidell, formerly of Fairmount, passed away at 2:16 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2013 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
She was born December 24, 1933 in Fairmount to Ralph and Evelyn Pierce Wolfe. Delorise married Leland E. “Bunk” Shields on October 2, 1960. Bunk preceded her in death.
Survivors include four sons, Ralph (Penny) Wakefield of Danville, Matt Shields of Indianola, Mark (Cindy) Shields of Sidell, and Rick (Ruth) Shields of Orlando, Fla.; one brother, Dean (Sue) Wolfe of Danville; three sisters, Linda Whittington of Iowa, Dixie (Carl) Welch of Alabama, and Nina (David) Keys of Hume: 12 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
Delorise enjoyed gardening, canning, birds, and spending time with her family.
Funeral services were at noon today (Thursday) at Robison Chapel in Catlin. Rev. Mike Roberts to officiate. Burial in the Davis Cemetery west of Fairmount. Memorials to the American Cancer Society. Online condolences www.robisonchapel.com.
Robert Lee Spesard, 79, of rural Paris, Illinois, passed away at 9:48 p.m. Thursday, October 10, 2013, in the emergency room of Paris Community Hospital. He was retired after 18 years at the former U.O. Colson Co. of Paris and also owned and operated High Knoll Dairy Farm for over 35 years.
He was born April 25, 1934 in Catlin, the son of the late Foster “Buck” and Naomi (Archer) Spesard. He married Bettie Garver on April 18, 1958, in Paris. She survives.
Other survivors include three sons: Alan (Cindy) Spesard, Ronald Spesard, and Roger Spesard, all of Paris; two daughters, Roberta (Richard) White of Brazil, Ind. and Rebecca (James) Everman of Westerville, Ohio; two brothers, Dean (Florence) Spesard of Harvard, Ill., and Wilber (Marge) Spesard of Ridge Farm; two sisters, Wilma (Kenny) Lewis of DeLand, Fla., and Judy (Ed) Rademacher of Rapid City, SD; 10 grandchildren, Jessica (Mike) Walker, Michelle (Wes) Sowell, Nicole Spesard, Veronica Witherspoon, Mary Beth (John) Stephens, Le Ann Spesard, Katy Spesard, Kaileb White, David Everman, and Rachael Everman; nine great-grandchildren, Devon, Drew, Clayton, Tiffany, Kayli, Kennedy, Jaylissa, Joshua, and Mathew; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Mr. Spesard was a graduate of Indianola High School. He was a member of the Illinois Jersey Association and the Edgar County Farm Bureau. He was an avid cattle showman and showed his Jersey Cattle throughout the country. He enjoyed daily fellowship with his lunch group at Paris Burger King and especially loved being surrounded by loved ones at family dinners. He will be remembered for always putting the needs of others ahead of his own.
For those who wish, the family suggests that memorials be made to the Illinois Jersey Association.
Services were Monday at Templeton Funeral Home in Paris. Burial was in Bluegrass Cemetery in Clark County, Illinois.
Online condolences at www.TempletonFuneralHome.com
Julia E. Patton
Julia E. Patton, 96, of Sidell, departed this life at 8:50 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2013 at the Colonial Manor Nursing Home, Danville.
She was born September 8, 1917 in the farming community of Sidell to Ned and Eva Watson McDowell. She married Chester Patton on August 18, 1936 in Danville. Julia now rests in peace with the angels in heaven and joins with her husband who preceded her in death on March 22, 1986.
Julia is survived by two daughters, Sandra (Joe H.) Baldwin of Hot Springs, Ark., and Pamela Howell of Oakland, Tenn. Also surviving are three grandchildren, Leslie McDowell of Winchester, Ky., Roger Baldwin of Diamond, Ill., and Tracy Howell Cheney of Arlington, Tenn.; and four great grandchildren, Nicholas Howell Cheney, Katie Schill, Ellyn Schill, and Dougal Meakin.
Julia’s life was spent dedicated to the world of farming and maintaining the beloved family farm home in Sidell where she began her life 96 years ago.
A private family memorial service will be decided at a later date. Robison Chapel, Catlin is handling the arrangements. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Ralph F. Oehlsen, 77, of Fairmount, passed away Saturday, Nov. 2, 2013 at 7:03 p.m. at Carle Hospital in Urbana.
Services will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at the New Hope Community Church in Fairmount with Rev. Mike Roberts officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time at the church. A time of reflection and refreshments will follow the service in the church fellowship area.
Ralph was born March 12, 1936 in Chicago to Frank and Myrtle Becker Oehlsen. He married Karen Williamson November 4, 1961 in Chicago.
She survives as well as three sons: Jeffrey Oehlsen, San Antonio, Texas; Glenn Oehlsen, Silver City, N.M.; Todd Oehlsen, Anna, Ill. One daughter Nadia Oehlsen, Chicago. Five grandchildren: Samantha Oehlsen, Lukas Phillips, Abigail Oehlsen, Oscar Oehlsen, Solomon Oehlson and one cousin, Janet (Lon) Bendler, Scottsdale, Ariz.
Ralph worked at the Danville Commercial News as a journeyman for many years. After retirement he drove for Illini Swallow for 15 years and the Carle Hospital Shuttle for three years. He enjoyed his grandchildren, computers and camping. Ralph especially loved jazz music.
Memorials may be made to The Cradle or Vance Township Library in care of Robison Chapel. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com. Robison Chapel of Catlin is handling service details.
Jayne Frances Lynch, 55, of Fairmount passed away at 10:17 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, 2013 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.
She was born on Oct. 21, 1958, in Champaign, a daughter to Russell and Marilyn White Lynch.
She is survived by her mother of Fairmount; her children, Angi Luhrsen (Jeremy) of Mahomet, Jessi Gawthorp (Phil) of Villa Grove, Kaleb Shields of Urbana and Keith Shields of Monticello; her grandchildren, Tyler, Emma and Noah Luhrsen, Gavin and Lilyjo Frances Gawthorp, London Lefkowitz and Isaiah Shields; her dog, Margo; her siblings, Julie Price (Steve) of Clayton, N.M., Joni Markel (Bill) of Sidell, Kenny Lynch (Jennifer) of Fairmount, Kerry Lynch and Brad Hurt of Menomonee Falls, Wis., and several nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.
She was preceded in death by her father, Russ Lynch; a brother, Keith Lynch; granddaughter, Macey Deuwer; and her grandparents, Eddie and Mary White and Raymond and May Lynch.
She attended the University of Illinois, where she received her bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and microbiology as well as a master’s degree in microbiology.
She was employed at the UI as a research specialist at Vet Med, where she loved her job. She had a love for animals, reading and playing with her grandchildren.
Funeral services were November 15, at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney. Burial will be in GAR Cemetery, Homer. Visitation was November 14 at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to Carle Hospice, Children Advocacy Center or Vet Med Animal Shelter I/C of U of I Foundation Jr. Surgery Fund No. 33625.
Cleveland High, Sr., 89, of Indianola, passed away at 12:20 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2013, at Presence USMC, Danville, with his loving family at his side.
He was born Jan. 20, 1924, in Indianola, to Merrit Elmer and Louella (White) High, both deceased. He married Naomi M. McNeese on Dec. 11, 1940, in Danville.
He is survived by his children, Cleve Jr. (Darlene) High of Fairmount, Charles (friend, Teresa) High of Longview, Nancy L. Setser of Indianola, and Betty Wolfe of Fairmount; his 11 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 70 years; three infant sons; four sisters; three brothers; a daughter-in-law; a granddaughter; and a son-in-law.
Cleve worked for Gordon Almy for 15 years farming and 21 years at Danville Metal Stamping until his first heart attack forced him to retire in 1986. Then he and his wife mowed cemeteries and did odd jobs for the elderly in Indianola and Ridge Farm until their health deteriorated. He will be missed by everyone he knew.
A celebration of Cleve’s life was November 16 at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home, Georgetown, with Pastor James Blue officiating. He was laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery, Indianola.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family. Please join his family in sharing memories through his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Beulah M. Thomas, 88, of Georgetown, formerly of Indianola, passed away at 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, 2013, in Danville, with her family at her side.
She was born Nov. 24, 1924, in Lilbourn, Mo., the daughter of Jay W. and Dora Lola (Austin) Barrett, both deceased. She was united in marriage to Joseph E. Thomas on Sept. 27, 1941, in Danville, until his passing in June of 1984.
She will be dearly missed by her children, Jim (Ruth) Thomas, Ricky Thomas, Gregory (Sherri) Thomas, Rozella (Fred) Clore, Donna (John) Sloan, Bonnie (Steve) Lyman and Lola (Robert) Snell; her 16 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; 14 great-great-grandchildren; and her sister, Mary Woods. She was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law, Barbara Thomas; three grandchildren; and three sisters.
Beulah was a member of the United Methodist Church of Indianola. She had retired from Georgetown Republic Plastics factory.
She loved flowers, gardening and cooking for her extended families. She was a wonderful Christian woman and devoted her life to caring for her seven children and their families.
A celebration of Beulah’s life was November 18 at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home, Georgetown, with David Almy officiating. Visitation was Sunday at the funeral home. She was laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery, Indianola.
Memorials may be made in her name to United Methodist Church of Indianola. Please join her family in sharing memories through her Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Vivian R. Smith, 90, of Fairmount, passed away at 10:10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15, 2013 at the Waters of Covington, Indiana where she had resided for the past 10 years.
Services will be Saturday, November 23, 3 p.m., at the Calvary Baptist Church in Danville with Pastor Scott McCurdy and Pastor Joe Humerichous officiating. Visitation at the church from 2 p.m. until service time.
Vivian was born September 15, 1923 in Danville to William and Ona Woodard Reese. She married Ray F. Smith in 1943 in Fairmount. Ray passed away in 1994.
Survivors include two sons: Larry (Laura) Smith of Hendersonville, N.C. and Jerry Smith of Veedersburg, Ind.; one daughter: Judy Martin of Indianapolis, Ind.; one sister: Edith Williamson of Kingsport, Tenn.; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Vivian was preceded in death by one sister Fredia Reynolds; two brothers Lyle and Foster Reese and one granddaughter Jess.
Vivian spent more than 32 years as head cashier at the First National Bank of Fairmount. She was a graduate of Fairmount High School and had been a member of the Calvary Baptist Church. Her enjoyment centered around her husband Ray and her family. The couple spent a lot of time attending their grandchildren’s sporting and school activities.
Memorials to the Calvary Baptist Church. Robison Chapel of Catlin is handling service details. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
Sona L. Baird, 72, of Ridge Farm, passed away at 5:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 25, 2013, at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.
Sona was born May 11, 1941 in Indianola, to Marvin and Esther Tuggle Miles.
She married Glenn Allen Baird April 1989 in Las Vegas, Nev. He preceded her in death on Sept. 19, 2011.
Surviving are two sons, Marvin (Jessica) Personette of Ridge Farm and Rodney Miles of Vandalia; one step-son, Porter (Christine) Baird of Ridge Farm; two daughters, Nancy (Tim) Mounce of Bloomington and Carle (Troy) Ogle of Hillsdale, Ind.; five brothers, Charlie (Bobbi) Miles of Ridge Farm, Kenny (Carol) Miles of Lawton, Okla., Dave (Jo) Miles of Danville, Donnie (Connie) Miles of Anaheim, Calif., and Rick (Roxanne) Miles of Danville; two sisters, Mary Jane (Wesley) Smith of Navasota, Texas, and Betty Conrad of Kingman, Ind.; 17 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by one daughter, Lisa Miles-Kremitzki; three brothers, Jack, Jerry and Larry Miles; and one sister, Marge Dailey.
Sona enjoyed going to flea markets, playing poker, baking and spending time with her family and friends.
Private family services were held. Robison Chapel, Catlin, is handling the arrangements.
Memorials to the organization of the donor’s choice. Online condolences www.robisonchapel.com.
Arselia S. Ensign, 94, of St. Johns, Mich., formerly of Bannister, Mich., passed away Saturday, Nov. 30, 2013, at Ashley Care Center in Ashley, Mich.
Dr. Arselia Sehler Ensign was born as Arselia Marie Block in Indianola, on June 10, 1919, to Edgar William and Marie Anna (Schweiger) Block.
Upon receiving her BA from U. Illinois in 1941, she began teaching English at the Indianola Community High School. An interest in special education led her to complete a master’s at U. Michigan in 1946.
Arselia went on to develop special ed programs for high school students in Lansing and Grand Rapids, Mich.
While in Grand Rapids, she met and married John Phillip Sehler on June 23, 1956. After his death in Aug. 31, 1962, she decided to focus on further studies. She earned a Ph.D. from Michigan State U. in 1969.
In 1968 she joined the Michigan Department of Education as consultant for programs for the physically and visually handicapped. Arselia was instrumental in founding in 1973 the Physically Impaired Association of Michigan (PIAM), followed by two technology centers located in Lansing and St. Johns, Mich. She worked 50 years as a teacher and administrator.
She met Albert “Corky” Ensign on a flight. They married on Aug. 26, 1973. She moved to his farm in Bannister, Mich. She developed skills in writing poetry and in oil painting. Other abiding interests include the Bannister United Methodist Church, where her funeral will be held, her pets and the cause of animal welfare. Corky died in 2006.
Arselia is survived by her stepchildren, Larry and Orean Ensign of Holt, Mo., David Ensign of Flagstaff, Ariz., Linda Tribley of Bannister, Mich,, Elizabeth Elliott of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Cathy and Duane Hampton of Portage, Mich., 15 step-grandchildren; 15 step-great-grandchildren; six special nieces; and two special nephews.
Funeral services were held today (Thursday) at Bannister United Methodist Church, Bannister, Mich. Visitation was Dec. 4 at Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie Chapel. Burial was in Ford Cemetery in Gratiot County, Mich.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Bannister United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, 221 E. Main Street, Elsie MI 48831.
Virginia L. Fritz, 94, of Georgetown passed away Friday, Nov. 29, 2013 at 8:15 p.m. at the home of her daughter surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on January 5, 1919 in Fleming, County, Ky., the daughter of William R. and Elizabeth Zorne Dice. Virginia was united in marriage to Charles C. Fritz in February of 1945. He preceded her on August 25, 1994.
Those who will miss her are her children: Charles Fritz of Urbana, Carolyn (Harold) Collins of Maysville, Ky., Betty (Merl) Hixon of Chrisman, Nina Finchum (Corey Meeks) of Georgetown, Terri (Jack) Dunn of Georgetown; one sister Anna Malapelli of Kentucky. Also her grandchildren: John Michael Collins of Ky., Darlene (Mark) Welte of Kansas, Virginia (Richard) Crouch of Ky., Tom (Crystal) Vire of Georgetown, Charles (Kari) Vire of Georgetown, Kelly (Sue) Handy of Chrisman, Stewart (Jill) Finchum of Georgetown, Scott (Stacy) Finchum of Chester, Ill., Robert (Monica) Dunn of New Albany, Ind., Jared (Windy) Fritz of Fairmount. Also 15 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren.
Virginia was preceded by her parents, a son Donald Thompson, two brothers William and JC Dice and a granddaughter Sandy Jo Dunn.
Virginia worked as a waitress at Ridgeway Lanes in Ridge Farm for several years. She and her husband had owned and operated restaurants in Georgia, Tennessee and Indiana as well. She later worked in home health care service. During WWII, she and her husband lived in Japan during his enlistment with the U.S. Army Airborne.
Virginia enjoyed putting together and mastering puzzles, sewing was a favorite pastime for her and she loved all kinds of flowers. She was devoted to her children and grandchildren all of her life.
A celebration of life funeral service for Virginia L. Fritz was Tuesday at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home in Georgetown. Pastor James Blue officiated. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola.
Memorials may be made in her memory to Presence USMC or Woodlawn Cemetery care fund. Please join Virginia’s family in sharing memories on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
Juanita Woodard, 86, of Fairmount passed away at 10 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2013 at Heartland Health Care Center, Champaign.
Juanita was born March 14, 1927 in Fairmount to Charles Edward and Fae Leona George Cheuvront. She married James W. “Bill” Woodard January 29, 1944 in Catlin. He preceded her in death August 1, 2004.
Surviving are two daughters, Melita (Roy) Irwin of St. Joseph and Teresa (Robert) Huffman of Sidell; two brothers, Eddie (Jackie) Cheuvront of Fairmount and Joe (Sharon) Cheuvront of Covington, Ind.; one sister, Irene Vinson of Danville; three grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Juanita had been a sub rural mail carrier for several years. She was a member of the Rebekah Lodge of Fisher, LAPM of Rebekah’s, LEA branch of Rebekah’s and was active in the American Legion Auxiliary and the Coast Guard Auxiliary. She enjoyed reading, crafting, camping, and traveling.
Graveside services were Wednesday at the Mt. Vernon Cemetery west of Catlin with Reverend Clyde Snyder officiating. Robison Chapel, Catlin is handling the arrangements.
Memorials to the American Kidney Foundation or to your local humane society in care of Robison Chapel. Online condolences www.robisonchapel.com.
Herbert Edwin Bedinger, 99, long time Catlin area farmer, passed away at 4:40 p.m. Monday, December 16, 2013 at Presence Medical Center, Danville.
He was born October 26, 1914 in Catlin, the first of three children to Owen and Elsie Puzey Bedinger. He married Harriett Stevenson July 27, 1970. She passed away June 22, 2007. He was also preceded in death by one sister, Madeline (John) Dickson and one brother, Bill (Julia) Bedinger and a grandson Curt Schmink.
He will be missed by his son, Jim (Linda) Bedinger of Catlin; a daughter Janie (Dick) Williams of Clermont Fla.; a stepdaughter Sharon (Len) Hathaway of Terre Haute, Ind., and a stepson Roger (Jean) Stevenson of Phoenix Arizona and many grandchildren, both great and great great grandchildren.
Herbert loved his farm and enjoyed farming for many years. He was also a hail adjuster for several years with Country Companies. He loved his family and liked to help others. When he and Harriett lived in Phoenix, he volunteered to help a handicapped lady fix things around her house and helped her to appointments.
Herb was a craftsman and could make just about anything from wood crafting to stained glass to quilting. He kept busy many years making clocks and furniture. He enjoyed making things with stained glass. When he was unable physically to do these things, he took up quilting and making baby blankets for his homemade doll beds.
Herb was a member of Fairview Methodist Church and also attended Catlin United Methodist church.
Private family services are under the direction of Robison Chapel, Catlin with burial in the Oakridge Cemetery in Catlin. Memorials are to the donor’s choice. Online condolences to www.robisonchapel.com.