Debra “Debbie” L. Gudeman, 67, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at her home in Watseka. She was born on September 12, 1956 in Watseka, the daughter of Henry E. and Jewell R. (Cox) Eilts. She married David Gudeman in Watseka on October 18, 1980.

Surviving are her husband, David Gudeman of Watseka; her son, Nicholas Gudeman (Jared Feldman) of Chicago; one sister, Pam Eilts (Dana Parker) of Zephyrhills, FL; David’s sisters and brothers: Sara Melton, Esther Andreas, John Gudeman, Alfred Gudeman, Judy Edelman, Edna Cluver, Dan Gudeman, Leah Joy-Oberg, Jean Robra and Aldine Blunier.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her paternal grandparents, Henry and Anna Eilts; her maternal grandparents, Noel and Ethel Cox; uncle, Robert Cox; brother in laws, Joseph Gudeman, Samuel Gudeman, and Paul Andreas; and sister in law, Mary Gudeman.

Debbie graduated from Watseka Community High School in 1974 and Kankakee Community College in 1982 with an associate’s degree. She started working at Watseka First National Bank in Watseka as an intern her senior year of high school. She also worked at the Watseka Swimming Pool concession stand, Onarga Dairy Queen, and Meyer Insurance Company. Debbie first worked at Watseka First National and then later at First Trust and Savings Bank in Watseka where she worked for many years. She loved working at both banks with her many co-workers and customers over her fifty plus years in banking. She was a Longaberger Consultant and ran a carpentry and rental business with her husband.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Pastor Roy Johnson will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Monday, May 20, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Unit 9 Academic Foundation.

Thelma Rose Miller, 81, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at her home in Watseka, Illinois. Thelma was born on April 4, 1943 in Wolfe County, Kentucky. After graduating from Morocco High School, Thelma worked at Permanite from 1962 – 1977 and moved to Capital Products from 1977 – 2014. Thelma enjoyed camping, fishing, going to the gambling boat, and spending time with her family.

Thelma is survived by her children, Patty (Norm) Lewis of Sheldon, Illinois, Kathy (Rodger) Clendenen of Monticello, Indiana, Ida (John) Carbaugh of Logansport, Indiana, Bertha Miller of Lafayette, Indiana, Alex (Tarah) Miller of Watseka, Illinios, and Melva Childress of Lafayette, Indiana. She is also survived by 23 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, 2 sisters, Becky (Bruce) Smith of Flintstone, GA and Alice Newger of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Ida Wood; 2 brothers, James “J.M.” and Robert; 4 sisters, Jean, Linda “Susie”, Diane “Annie”, and Faye; grandson, Brandon; and honorary granddaughter and niece, Dana Marie.

A visitation will be on Monday, May 20, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until the 2:00 p.m. funeral service at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Burial will follow at the Gaffield Cemetery near Iroquois, Illinois.

Please share a memory of Thelma at www.baierfuneralhome.com.

Wayne D. Knapp, 93, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. He was born on December 18, 1930 in Cissna Park, IL, the youngest of six children to Adam J. and Elizabeth A. (Frank) Knapp. Wayne married Delores Ann Moser in Roanoke, IL on June 26, 1955 and they were blessed to celebrate nearly 69 years of marriage. Delores preceded him in death on March 17, 2024. Survivors include two daughters, Joan (John) Cook of Watseka and Dawn (Tim) Burtch of Northville, MI; one son, Steven (Sondra) Knapp of Watseka; 8 grandchildren, Adam (Deena) Knapp, Andrew (Jamie) Knapp, Alex (Natalie) Knapp, Matthew (Reilly) Cook, Bryan (Marika Couture) Cook, Elizabeth Elmendorf, Rachel Elmendorf, and Ryan Elmendorf; 7 great grandchildren, Hudson, Luke, Sophia, and Oliver Knapp, Logan and Jackson Cook, and baby boy Knapp due this summer.

In addition to his wife Delores, he was preceded in death by one sister and brother in law, Alma (Aaron) Dreyer and five brothers and sisters in law, Melvin (Doris) Knapp, Charles (Jeanne) Knapp, Ralph (Verena) Knapp, and Earl (Mary) Knapp; and one great granddaughter, Anna Kay Knapp.

Wayne grew up on the family farm, the very place where he learned the value of hard work and dedication. He graduated from Rankin High School in May 1948. While his brothers continued farming, Wayne decided on a different career path that gave him the ability to help others during a time of need. He attended Worsham Mortuary College in Chicago and graduated in June of 1952. After graduating, he was drafted into the United States Army. He was transferred to Frankfurt Germany during the Korean War where he served in the U.S. Military Mortuary Detachment. When a service member passed away, Wayne was part of a team who traveled throughout Europe and Africa as a mobile embalmer and coordinated getting the deceased service member back home to the United States.

After his discharge from the military in 1954, Wayne returned back home to his Illinois roots and started Knapp Funeral Homes. He owned and operated several funeral homes throughout the years. Wayne’s desire to help others led him to serve as Iroquois County Coroner from 1960-1976. He also owned and operated Knapp Ambulance Service from 1955-1980. His professional accomplishments consisted of serving as President of the Illinois Coroners Association in 1966 as well as being installed as a Fellow of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. He was also a 69-year member of the Illinois Funeral Directors Association, where he served as President in 1971-1972. Giving back to the area where he was born and raised was very important to him. He was a member of the Watseka Lions Club, Watseka Kiwanis Club, and Watseka Elks Lodge. He served on the board of directors at Iroquois Federal Savings and Loan for 24 years and served on the board of directors of the Knapp Burn Foundation for 15 years. Wayne was a lifetime member of the Cissna Park American Legion Post 527 and Watseka American Legion Post 23 and lifelong member of the Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park.

His call for helping others continued into retirement. After September 11, 2001 he was asked by the National Funeral Directors Association to travel to Ground Zero in New York City and serve as a volunteer funeral director for the New York City Medical Examiner's Office. He graciously accepted this request and went there, where his role was to serve as a liaison between the Medical Examiner’s Office and families who lost a loved one. He assisted families with the same care and compassion he has given his entire life.

Wayne’s greatest joys included traveling the world, spending time with his family, and watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren play sports.

Visitation will be from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and also one hour prior to the funeral. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, May 20, 2024 at the Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park with ministers of the church officiating. Burial will follow in the Apostolic Christian Cemetery. Graveside military rites will be conducted by the Cissna Park American Legion Post 527.

Memorials may be made to Apostolic Christian Church, Iroquois Memorial Hospice, or Iroquois Memorial Hospital.

Please share a memory of Wayne at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Robin D. Miller-Martin, 60, of Iroquois passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at her residence. She was born on May 22, 1963 in Hammond, Indiana, a daughter of Hugh Pepper and Janice Bryant-Brand and they preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by one daughter, Nikki Rosolowski; and one grandson, Austin James Raby.

She married Kurtis Martin in Iroquois on June 1, 2019 and he survives. Also surviving are her daughter, Brandy Raby of Watseka; her son, Ronnie Rosolowski; and five grandchildren.

Robin was attending Trinity Church in Watseka. She was bartender and server for many years. Robin enjoyed spending time with her friends and family. She loved drag racing, riding motorcycles, and was even a former member of the State Line Riders and ABATE.

A visitation will be held at Trinity Church in Watseka on Saturday, May 18, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. to the 12:30 p.m. Celebration of Life with Pastor Bart Koester and Pastor Ryan Mustered officiating. A meal will follow at the church.

Memorials may be given to go toward her funeral expenses.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Please share a memory of Robin at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Merlyn Dale Mallon, 91, of Watseka, Illinois, joined his beautiful wife in heaven on Monday, May 13, 2024. He was surrounded by the love of his family at his home.

Merlyn was born in Earlham, Iowa on July 12, 1932, the son of James Emery and Orpha Elizabeth Mallon. He married Cora Mallon, the love of his life, on June 4, 1955 in Watseka. Merlyn was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, where he spent most of his time in a submarine. Merlyn enjoyed his grandchildren, helping others, woodworking and trains.

Merlyn was preceded in death by his wife, parents, three brothers and two sisters. He is survived by three children, Michael (Nancy), Twila, and Tammy (Steven), eight grandchildren, and eleven great grandchildren.

A private service will be held at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Merlyn's beloved brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Sherri Harder officiating. Burial will follow at Lyman Cemetery in Watseka with graveside military rites by Watseka American Legion Post #23.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Cornerstone Church.

Larry Munro, 69, of Gilman passed away on Monday, May 13, 2024 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on August 2, 1954 in Watseka, the son of Loren and Metha (Lucht) Munro.

He married Pamela McGill on January 15, 1982 in Watseka and she survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Myla (Matt) Munro Ringler of Bellflower and Megan (Jacob) Hilgendorf of Tuscola; one granddaughter, Ty Munro and one grandson, Calvin Joel both of Tuscola; two sisters, Pat (Duane) Peterson of Ashkum and Bonnie Hartke of Crescent City; two nieces, Mindy (Sam) Peterson Lindsay of Minier and Penny (David) Hanania of Batavia; one great-niece, Maddie of Batavia; and his two dogs, Rocky and Robbie.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; one brother-in-law, Charles “Butch” Hartke; and his faithful canine companion, Riley.

Larry was born, raised and lived a full life on the family farm outside of Crescent City. He enjoyed the hours spent on his John Deere tractors baling hay to feed his Polled Hereford cattle and horses.

He was confirmed at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Crescent City. In addition to being a farmer, he was also the caretaker at St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery and Haun Park. Larry was a past 4-H superintendent at the Iroquois County Ag & 4-H Fair and was an avid Polled Hereford breeder and exhibitor. He enjoyed barrel racing with his family and playing dartball. He was a NASCAR fan and was a member of Illinois State Stock Horse Association, “100 Mile Trail Ride”, card club, and K&H Coffee Drinkers.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 17, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Rev. Dr. Pete Hinrich officiating. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery in Crescent City.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois County Fair (Designated to Horse Barn Improvements) or JDRF.org (Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund).

Please share a memory of Larry at knappfuneralhomes.com.

LaVerne Mae Hubner, 95, of Milford Il, passed away on Tuesday May 14th at 3:59am at her home. She was born on Sept 5, 1928 in Roanoke Il., the daughter of Ed and Lola (Aeschleman) Reiter.

LaVerne married Donald J Hubner on Sept 5th, 1948 at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford.

Surviving are three daughters, Carol (Jerry) Kuemmerle of Danville, Marilyn (Gene) Reeves and Chris (Stan) Schroeder of Milford: two sons Jon (Barb) Hubner of Otterbein Indiana and Don (Joy) Hubner of New Smyrna Beach, Flal two sisters Wilma Wilkening of Watseka and Phyllis Huff of Milford; 15 grandchildren; and 23 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, EdWaina Fatland; two brothers, Milton and Ed Reiter; two foster sons, Bill and Sam Walker; and one grandson Adam Hubner.

LaVerne was a member of Our Savir Lutheran Church in Milford. She graduated from Onarga High School and the Gallagher School of Business in Kankakee.

LaVerne worked at McFall Insurance Agency and Plumbers Clothing Store. She spent her greatest years as a hardworking and devoted farm wife. LaVerne enjoyed gardening, baking, canning, sewing and early morning swim. She was a member of the Our Savior Lutheran Church Dorcas Society and the Couples Club. She also volunteered for Iroquois Memorial Auxiliary. LaVerne was guided by her strong Christian faith and was known for being humble, selfless, caring and kind.

LaVerne and Don celebrated 75 wonderful years of marriage the past year.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Friday, May 17, 2024 at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford. Rev. Doug Minton will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

Memorials may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church Radio Ministry or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Jeffrey Ralph Cann, 58, of Milford passed away May 9, 2024, at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee.

Jeff was born on January 4, 1966, at Silver Cross Hospital in Joliet IL, the son of Ralph E. and Carol R. (Rosin) Cann and they preceded him in death along with one brother, Roger Cann.

Jeff grew up in Peotone and loved farm life. From little on he loved animals and, on several occasions, had the neighbors calling to report that he was out in the pasture walking under and around the horses. Jeff graduated from Peotone High School in 1985 and continued to help farm until he started his welding career working at Berg Ladders and Arbon Steel in University Park.

He married Kimberly Sue Buchmeier on September 14, 1991. They moved to Sheldon and then later Milford where he resided when he passed. Jeff was a huge fan of the game show network. Wheel of Fortune and The Price is Right were his favorites. The most important part of his life was his family. He enjoyed attending his kid’s sporting events and taking family car rides to go sightseeing.

He is survived by his wife, Kim Cann of Milford; four children, Jessica (Cole) Smith of Warren, PA, Jeffrey (Brooke) Cann Jr. of Milford, Khyler (Esme) Cann of Milford, and Kullen Cann of Milford, four grandchildren, Auden, Della, Evelyn and Dax; one brother Wayne (Joan) Cann; one sister Debbie (Mark) Girling; and one sister-in-law, Karen Cann of Normal.

Visitation will be from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. Rev. Brent Zastrow will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

Memorials may be made to his son, Kullen’s UTMA Account (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act) c/o Iroquois Farmers State Bank in Iroquois.

Please share a memory of Jeff at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Kathleen S. Regnier, 76, of Watseka and formerly of Gilman, passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024, at her home.

Katie was born on July 31, 1947 in Watseka, the daughter of Harry and Maxine (Austin) Shannon.

She married James E. Regnier Sr. on May 8, 1982 in Onarga. She is survived by her husband, James Regnier Sr. of Watseka; four children, Melissa (Sean) Hanes of Houston, TX, Amy (Keith) Biegelmann of Aurora, James (Sherry) Regnier Jr. of Clifton, and JoEtta (Corey) Minard of Watseka; Grandchildren, Britney (Dustin) Schroeder, Kathleen (Ryan) Ashline-Long, Meagan (Justin) Ashline-Nichols, Casey (Lance) Minard-Honn, Kaitlyn (Colton) Biegelmann-Ritchie, Delaney (Joe) Evelo, Evan (Vicki) Hanes, Kyleigh (Brian) Klazura, and Jayden Regnier; eleven great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Michael Nims and Judy Pree.

Katie was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Maureen Shannon; one daughter, Julie Ann Newman; one granddaughter, Patricia Biegelmann; and one great-granddaughter, Alexis Ashline.

Family was the most important thing in life to Katie. She loved her pets, spending summers at the pool with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, family gatherings, and weekly lunches with her beloved sisters.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at the Knapp-Redeinus Funeral Home in Gilman.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at United Methodist Church in Gilman. Rev. Mark Crawford will officiate. Burial will follow at Gilman Cemetery.

Katie enjoyed reading books, especially to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may made be made to Gilman-Danforth District Library.

Please share a memory of Katie at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Stephen H. Quick, 76, of Watseka passed away on May 10, 2024 at Heritage Woods in Watseka, IL. He was born on July 26, 1947 in Terre Haute, Indiana to John F. and Carrie Fern Quick. He married Deborah Clark on April 18, 1970 in Marshall, IL.

Steve is survived by his children Joshua and Roselene Quick of Robinson, IL, Jacob and Shawna Quick of Watseka, and Megan and Ryan Baxter of Bloomington, IL; his grandchildren Jessica and Jacob Blankenbeker of Robinson, Ian and Emma Quick of Houston, TX, Samuel Quick and fiancee Grayce Hightshoe of Marshall, IL, Joseph Quick of Robinson, Aden and Abby Quick of Watseka, Caleb and Joshua Baxter of Bloomington, and his great-grandchildren Leo and Elizabeth “Lily” Blankenbeker of Robinson. He is also survived by his sister, Phyllis Higginbotham of Bristow, VA, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Bob Smitley, Penny and Ken Cannady, Mindy and Bryan Harper, Tammy and Bill Fraker, and Diane Clark all of Marshall as well as many nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his wife Debbe, his parents, his brother and sister-in-law Fenton and Judy Quick, his sister Marilyn Sue Smitley and brothers-in-law Ron Higginbotham and Mark Clark.

Steve and Debbe grew up in the same neighborhood in their hometown of Marshall, IL where Steve was known for buzzing around in the go-cart he had rigged with a lawnmower motor. He had a passion for fixing, tinkering, and building things throughout his life. Following his graduation from Marshall High School in 1965, Steve attended college at Southern Illinois University where he earned an associate degree in mortuary science and was licensed as a funeral director. After working as a funeral director for several years in Marshall, he and Debbe moved to Watseka in 1971 where Steve began work as the shipping manager for Stam Manufacturing. He later began working for T&D Metal and saw the company grow and expand. Steve’s hard work and attention to detail resulted in promotions to several positions of responsibility within the company including department supervisor and quality control supervisor. He retired from T&D after 35 years of service having earned the respect and friendship of many coworkers over those years. In addition, Steve worked at Fred’s Woodworking for a period of time and he and Debbe also had their own business “This ‘n That” making handcrafted country and primitive home decor.

Steve was a longtime member of St. Edmunds Catholic Church where his handyman and woodworking talents were called upon many times including building wooden hymnal holders and crafting the cross behind the altar. He was active in the community as a Little League coach, supporter of Sugar Creek Symphony, and member of the Knights of Columbus.

All who knew Steve well were familiar with his great sense of humor and joyful smile and laugh. He enjoyed entertaining his family and friends with silly faces, voices, and pranks. Steve also enjoyed all kinds of cars and pretty much anything with wheels or a motor. He helped his children and grandchildren build and fire model rockets and potato guns and fixed up nearly a dozen dilapidated cars and trucks over the years. Together, he and Debbe created a beautiful home and garden. Debbe would have a creative vision and together she and Steve would make it happen right down to the last detail. Some of Steve’s favorite places were his basement workshop and the backyard pond he lovingly and meticulously tended. Steve loved the many neighbors who became like family in his 53 years living on Cherry Street in Watseka. They helped each other with projects, looked after one another, and shared stories on front porches.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00PM on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at Pearce Funeral Home in Marshall. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:00AM on Thursday, May 16 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marshall. Donations may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or St. Edmunds Catholic Church.

The family gives special thanks to the staff at Heritage Woods of Watseka and Iroquois Memorial Hospice for their loving care of Steve and all of our family and friends for their expressions of love and support. We also thank Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and Pearce Funeral Home in Marshall for their assistance with the final arrangements.

Please share a memory of Steve at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Helen B. Godby, 77, of Milford passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton. She was born on February 21, 1947 in Hayti, MO, the daughter of Roy Wesley and Violet (Reeves) England. She married Mike Godby in Milford on October 22, 1987 and he survives.

Also surviving are her daughter, Loretta Matthews of Milford; one son, Ricky Biggs of Sheldon; six grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; one brother, Roger (Becky) England of Woodland; three sisters, Linda (Leonard) Bailey of Woodland, Peggy Deaton of Rossville, and Jennifer England of Watseka.

She was preceded in death by her parents and four brothers, Paul, Jerry, Donald, and Jimmy.

Helen was a hard-working mother. She was employed at Howard Industries and later worked at Jeld-Wen Windows and Doors.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the 12:00 noon funeral service at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Rev. Brent Zastrow will officiate. Burial will follow at Rossville Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Transitions Hospice.

Please share a memory of Helen at www.knappfuneralhomes.com

Carol Ann (Parrish) Lyon Ball, 83, of Milford, IL passed away at 3:50 a.m. on May 8, 2024 at Hoopeston Community Memorial Hospital in Hoopeston.

Carol was born on July 6, 1940 in Watseka, the daughter of George T. and Ruth I. (Crawford) Parrish.

She married John W. Lyon on April 24, 1960 in Stockland. He preceded her in death on February 6, 1997. She later married Roger L. Ball on June 13, 1998. He preceded her in death on January 23, 2017.

Survivors include daughters, Julie (Phil) Jensen of Newton, Jody (Terry) Fanning of Milford, and Stacey Piwoni of Bourbonnais; grandchildren, Mark Jensen of Clarksville, TN, Aaron Jensen of Hidalgo, Bailee Fanning of Champaign, Austin Piwoni of Bourbonnais, and Jacob Piwoni of Bourbonnais; sister, Arlene (Susan) Snyder of Glenview; step-children, Roger (Lisa) Ball and Michelle (Tommy) Fauls; two step-grandchildren; one niece; and two nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one grandson, Tyler S. Fanning.

Carol spent a lifetime participating in the family farm operation. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family, especially her grandchildren. She loved taking scenic tours through the countryside and reminiscing. Carol was a member of the D.A.R., Junior Women’s Club, Iroquois County Republican Women’s Club, a graduate of Marycrest Business College in Kankakee, a lifelong member of the Stockland United Methodist Church until its closing, and then a member of the Milford United Methodist Church.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. The funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Burial following at the Sugar Creek Cemetery in rural Stockland.

Memorials may be made to Milford Ambulance Service or Milford United Methodist Church.

Please share a memory of Carol at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Kevin P. Hull, 65, of Chebanse passed away on Monday, April 22, 2024 at his home. He was born on November 13, 1958 in Kankakee, the son of Delmar and Cleone (Hebert) Hull.

Surviving are three daughters, Heather (Jason) Prairie of Clifton, Nikki (Alex) Watson of Mooresville, NC, and April (Todd) Perzee of Chebanse; two brothers, Dennis Hull of Sheldon and Duane (Pam) Hull of Chebanse; eight grandchildren, Natalie Prairie, Audra Prairie, Lia Prairie, Hunter Perzee, Ellie Perzee, Wyatt Watson, Rosemary Watson, and Grant Watson; and his mother, Cleone Hull Jett.

Kevin was preceded in passing by his father, Delmar; one brother, Richard; and his brother’s loved one, Penny Mulloy.

Kevin liked to go boating, camping, and watching sports. He loved to socialize with friends and was always willing to help others.

Cremation rites are being handled by Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

A celebration of life get together will be on Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 1:00-4:00 pm at the Chebanse Civic Center.

Please share a memory of Kevin at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Thomas A. “Fat Rat” Lunsford, 80, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at his daughter’s home in Grant Park. He was born on August 13, 1943 in Gary, IN, the son of Thomas “Bud” and Olive (Boesell) Lunsford. He married Hope Hendershot on April 20, 1970 in Waukegan and she preceded him in passing on June 18, 2012.

Surviving are his children, Deanna (Daniel) Junker of Grant Park, Thomas Lunsford (April Parker) of Fort Smith, AR, and Larry Lunsford of Bourbonnais; his grandchildren, Hillary Hubert, Bethany Junker, Kortney Junker, Alyssa Regnier, Gabriella Lunsford, Tommy Lunsford, Sophia Lunsford, Max Lunsford, Tyler Lunsford, Liam Lunsford, Connor Lunsford, Grace Lunsford, and Jesson Lunsford; great grand-daughter, Aubree Byrd; brother, Rick (Betsy) Lunsford; sisters, Barbara (Leon) Richmond, Linda Durham, Stacy (James) Woolan; special daughters, Tina Birr and Jill Witthoft; special nephews, Tony Hendershot and Aaron Hendershot.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Hope; brothers, Larry Lunsford, Jim Lunsford, Roger Lunsford, Mike Lunsford, Tim Lunsford; sister-in-law, Joy Crosswell; brothers-in-law, Jay Hendershot and Russell Birr.

Thomas enjoyed playing the lottery, classic cars, playing cards, and spending time with his family. He was a veteran of the United States Navy and proudly served his country.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am on Monday, May 13, 2024 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Graveside military rites and burial will be at 2:30 pm at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Lorraine (Sis) Wasmer, 105 years old, of Herrin IL , formerly of Clifton, IL passed away Tuesday, April 30. 2024 in Carbondale Hospital after having a fall. She was born in Clifton on May 11, 1918 to Orval and Lenora Krumwiede Flott. Surviving is her only daughter Judy Lamie and Stepdaughter Nancy (Glenn) Pankey. She was married to Leroy Wasmer in 1962 who passed away in 1973. Also deceased is a Brother Shirley (Dude) Flott, Stepdaughter Marilyn Weinlader, Stepson Bill Wasmer, and Stepgrandchild Todd Pankey.

Surviving Grandchildren are Jeff (Liz) Lamie, Nancy (David) Smith, Teri (Norm) Lancaster. Step Grandchildren (The Pankey Girls) Beth Gillum, Paula Maffett, Becky Schmidt, and Amy Eberle. The Weinladers - Lisa, Cathy, David and Chris. Great Grandchldren Christopher and Jonathan Glazik, Joe and Cari Hendershott Wright, Brian and Nicole Staples, and Kylie Zlotnicki. Also 14 great great Grandchildren with 9 of them being five generations and Nephews Bill (Mary) Flott and Bob (Sue) Flott.

She graduated from Gallagher Business College and was secretary at the Kankakee Foundry Co. for 35 years. She was a member of St Peters CCW, was Woman of the Year in 1972, a long time member of the Women's Club, and was Committee Chairperson and Treasurer for the Women's Card Club Marathon. She sang Alto in the Church Choir for many many years.

The top of her list was her family whom she loved and lived for!!! She liked music, sports, reading, baking and cooking (Was known for the best fudge ever) and playing cards (Was a card shark) She was an avid Cubs fan and saw her first game when she was 8 years old - A highlight of her life was living long enough to see them win the World Series !!

We will be celebrating her beautiful life with services and visitation on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Visitation will be from 10:00 until the 11:00 am service. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Clifton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Wendell Lee Verkler, 83, of Cissna Park passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at his home. He was born on January 25, 1941 in Cissna Park, a son of Elmer and Lillian (Word) Verkler. He married Donna Hari on April 11, 1963 in Cissna Park and she survives.

Other survivors include two sons, Richard (Maria) Verkler of Cissna Park and David (Maria) Verkler of Bourbonnais; one daughter, Sara (John) Houston of Paxton; six grandchildren, Samantha (David) Bougher of Lowell, IN, Melannie (Nathan) Verkler Woodward of Savoy, AJ Verkler of Bourbonnais, Lucas Verkler of Bourbonnais, Joshua Houston of Paxton, and Jeremiah Houston of Paxton; two great-grandchildren, Spencer Bougher of Lowell, IN and Quentin Bougher of Lowell, IN; three brothers, Randell (Jo) Verkler of Cissna Park, Jerry (Maren) Verkler of Clarksville, TN, and Ken (Dianne) Verkler of Bloomington; and two sisters, Wanda Cline of Cissna Park and Linda (Jim) Seidel of Cissna Park.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Russell Verkler; one sister, Brenda Pitzer; one brother-in-law, Bill Cline; and one sister-in-law, Diane Verkler.

Wendell was owner of Verkler Construction since 1970 having built many homes and designing custom cabinetry throughout Iroquois, Kankakee, Vermilion, Ford and Champaign Counties. He earned several awards for building, including the People’s Choice Award in the Kankakee Parade of Homes. Wendell was a member of the Cissna Park Fire Department for thirty-six years. He served as a fireman, Assistance Chief, Fire Chief and Trustee/President of the Fire Protection District. He was a member of the Christian Bible Church. Wendell enjoyed gardening, canning, and puzzles. He loved family gatherings and spending time with his grandkids.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at the Christian Bible Church in Cissna Park with Pastor Paul Thomason officiating. Burial will follow in the Cissna Park Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2024 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Memorials may be given to the Cissna Park Fire Protection District, Christian Bible Church or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Please share a memory of Wendell at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Ricky “Rick” K. Anderson, 68, of Milford passed away on Friday, May 3, 2024 at his home. He was born on February 7, 1956 in Watseka, a son of Willis and Beverly (Johnson) Anderson. Rick married Marsha F. Reiners on May 12, 1979 at St. John’s Lutheran Church at Schwer and she survives.

Other survivors include one daughter, Amber Anderson (Hunter Reece) of Williamsport, IN; two sons, Joshua Anderson of Milford and Zachary Anderson of Milford; six grandchildren, Kyle, Callie Ann and Calvin Anderson of Antioch, Janiah and Aizley Haymon of Williamsport, IN, and Brynlee Anderson of Milford; two sisters, Kathy (Stan) Patterson of Watseka and Teresa (Tom) Siebring of Iroquois; and one brother, David (Renee) Anderson of Hatton, ND.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Mike Anderson.

He loved working on cars, fishing, and camping. Rick worked in construction for Voyle’s in Wellington.

Rick and Marsha would have celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on Sunday, May 12, 2024.

A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, May 11, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Cemetery at Schwer (Milford) with Pastor Joe Frech officiating.

Memorials may be given to the Milford Fire Dept. and Ambulance Service.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Please share a memory of Rick at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Loren L. Blanck, 80, of Claytonville passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at his residence. He was born on May 23, 1943 in Watseka, a son of Henry A. and Ida D. (Kuester) Blanck. Loren married Connie L. Harris on August 30, 1964 in Woodworth and she preceded him in death on October 3, 2018.

Loren is survived by one son, Preston (Angie) Blanck of Onarga; one daughter, Carisa Hylton of Palmyra, Virginia; five grandchildren, Caleb, Theran, Caitlyn, Mason, and Kinley; two brothers, Theodore “Ted” (Mary) Blanck of Cissna Park and Jerry (Ellie) Blanck of Cissna Park; two sisters, Bonnie (Charles) Muench of Cissna Park and Shirley Davis of Watseka; and one sister-in-law, Gayle Blanck

Besides his wife, Loren was also preceded in death by both of his parents; and two brothers, Kenneth Blanck and Donald Blanck; and one brother-in-law, Gerald Davis; and one sister-in-law, Joann Blanck.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park. Loren was a 40-year member of the Cissna Park Fire Department. He was the owner of Loren Blanck’s Garage in Claytonville. Loren loved fishing, camping, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. also at the funeral home with Rev. Dale Fjordbotten officiating. Burial will immediately follow in the St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery of Woodworth.

Memorials may be given to the Cissna Park Fire Department or to the Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Please share a memory of Loren at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Linda Lou Thompson, 81, of Watseka passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. She was born on August 15, 1942 in Watseka, a daughter of Walter F. and Lorene L. (Knake) Rieches.

Linda is survived by her sister, Mary Salm of Watseka along with several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Wayne Rieches; one sister, Carolyn Reed; and two great nephews, Josiah Rieches and Jeffrey M. Reed.

Linda was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka.

Private services were held and burial was in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Arrangements are by the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Please share a memory of Linda at www.baierfuneralhome.com.