Paretta W. Dirks, 99, of Gilman passed away on Thursday, December 26, 2024 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells. She was born on March 2, 1925 in Clifton, a daughter of Parr Henry and Winnie (Mikkelson) Cotter. Paretta married Charles T. Dirks on November 13, 1943 in Gilman and he preceded her in death in 1997. She was also preceded in death by both of her parents; and three sisters, Hazel Schoolman, Evelyn Schoolman, and Gloria Ritzma.

 

Paretta is survived by one son, Charles (Betty) Dirks of Lebanon, Missouri; one daughter, Sandra (Bruce) Kunsch of Gilman; one granddaughter, Courtney (Allen) Hemphill of Lebanon, Missouri; two great-grandchildren, Trenton (Alexis) Hemphill of Lebanon, Missouri and Daily (Dayton) Blacklaw of Lebanon, Missouri; three step grandchildren, Nichole (Kevin) Schroeder of Paxton, Kenton (Amber) Kunsch of Stockland, and Ashley (Ken) Snowden of Delphi, Indiana; sister-in-law, Lucille Clark of Donovan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Paretta was a member of the Zion United Church of Christ in Gilman, where she was active in the Women’s Circle. She worked at Ben Franklin for many years. Paretta loved animals, car rides; and traveling around the area.

 

Funeral services will be on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at the Zion United Church of Christ with Rev. Barb Lohrbach. Visitation will be held two hours prior beginning at 10:00 a.m. also at the church. Burial will be held at the Wenger Cemetery in Gilman.

 

Memorials may be given to the Iroquois County Animal Rescue or the Donor’s Choice.

 

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