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Obituaries Archives for 2018-06

Donald M. Stowe, 91, of Milford

Donald M. Stowe, 91, of Milford passed away on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. He was born September 15, 1926 in Blue Island, the son of George and Mary Krueger Stowe. He married Shirley J. Krause on June 2, 1945 in Steger and she preceded him in death on March 25, 2008. He was also preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; one sister; and one daughter, Donna J. Stowe.

He is survived by two granddaughters, Dianna (Jason) Reed of Milford and Bobbie Jo (Chad) Sanford of Sheldon; and four great-grandchildren, Blake Reed, Jacob Reed, Hannah Sanford and Caiden Sanford.

Mr. Stowe served in the U.S. Army during WWII. Donald was a member of NRA, and enjoyed woodworking, traveling and using his metal detector.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the 11:00 am funeral service on Monday, July 2, 2018 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. Rev. Brent Zastrow will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford with military graveside rites by the Watseka American Legion Post #23 and Iroquois County VFW Post #7450.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois County Relay for Life.

Please share a memory of Donald at knappfuneralhomes.com.

     

Timothy Portwood, 56, of Sheldon

Timothy Portwood, 56, of Sheldon, IL, passed away on Wednesday, June 27, 2018.

He was born on November 4, 1961 in Watseka, the son of Bill and Cleta (Johnson) Portwood.

Tim served in the ARMY. He was recently a Heavy Equipment Operator. He was a member of the State Line Riders ABATE of Illinois, Watseka Amerian Legion Honor Guard, and the Sheldon Masonic Lodge 609. Tim enjoyed spending time with his father, daughter, friends, watching football especially the BEARS, and Harley Davidson.

Surviving Mr. Portwood is his father, Bill Portwood of Sheldon; daugther, Page Portwood of Lake St. Louis, Missouri; brother, Mark (Amy) Portwood of Sheldon; grandchild, Airabella Davenport; nieces and nephews, Ashlen Risley, Alaina Portwood, Alex Portwood, and Adin Portwood.

He is also preceded in death by his mother, Cleta.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 30, 2018 from 3-7pm, at Baier Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be held on Sundaya, July 1, 2018 at 2:00 pm, at Baier Funeral Home. Pastor Gary Milton will officiate.

Burial will follow at a later date at Iroquois Memorial Park Cemetery in Watseka, IL.

Memorials in Mr. Portwood's name can be made to the Family's Wishes.

Cremation Rites will be recorded following services.

Cynthia L. Snyder, 60, of Chebanse

Cynthia L. Snyder, 60, of Chebanse passed away at her residence on Monday, June 25, 2018 following a lengthy illness. Per her wishes, cremation rites will be accorded by the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. A memorial service will be conducted on Saturday, June 30, 2018 at 11:00 am at the funeral home and Mr. Christopher Peet will officiate. The family will receive friends from 10:00 am until the service time Saturday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Kankakee Valley. Please share a memory of Cynthia at knappfuneralhomes .com.

Mrs. Snyder was born on October 23, 1957 in Chicago, the daughter of Neils and Katherine Hansen Heilskov and her parents are deceased. She married Philip J. Snyder in Orland Park on June 27, 1992 and he survives. Also surviving are her sister, Linda (Jeff) Binnett of E. Hazel Crest; and two nieces, Katherine Ann Christiano of Hickory Hills and Karen (Carlos) Morales of Homewood. In addition to her parents, she is also preceded in death by one sister, Wendy Derwinski.

Mrs. Snyder was a retired dental assistant. She was of the Lutheran Faith and enjoyed gardening.

     

Ronald Leroy Phillips, 72, of Fowler

Ronald Leroy Phillips, 72, of Fowler, died, Tuesday, June 26, 2018. He was born, May 31, 1946, in Danville, IL, to the late Leroy "Firp" & Ethel Marie (Moore) Phillips. He was a 1964 graduate of Ambia High School. He was a Vietnam War Veteran, serving as a Medic in the United States Army from 1965-1968. Ron worked as a mail handler for the US Postal Service, for 33 years, retiring in 2013. He married Nancy (Kult Daws) Phillips, December 15, 1993, in Watseka, IL; she survives. Ron was a Lifetime member of the VFW, in Hoopeston, IL; he was also a member of the AMVETS, in Fowler & the American Legion in Hoopeston, IL, Boswell & Fowler. He enjoyed spending time with his Grandchildren & Great-Grandchildren, bowling & golfing. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.

Surviving with his Wife, Nancy, Fowler, are his Son,  Jeffrey (Wife, Nikki) Phillips, Indian Rocks Beach, FL, 2 Grandsons, Cole (Fiancé , Sara) Phillips & Cellen Phillips, 3 Step-Sons, Matt Daws, Adam Daws & Phillip (Wife, Sharyl) Daws, 5 Step-Grandchildren, Ashley Boundy, Kaylee (Fiancé, Jason Whitaker) Daws, Kerri Daws & Chelsy & Cheyenne Stepp, 2 Step-Great-Grandchildren, Karter & Leroy, Sister, Jane Painter, Ambia & Brother, Jim Phillips, Hoopeston. He is preceded in death by a Brother-in-Law, Jay Painter.

A Celebration of Ron's Life will be Sunday, July 1, 2018, from 1-4 PM, at Shoemaker Funeral Home, Otterbein. Graveside Military Honors will be, at 11 AM, Monday, July 2, 2018, at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery (Dunnington), 2960 S. State Road 71, Fowler. In following Ron's wishes PLEASE dress casual; preferably shorts. Also, NO flowers, Memorial Contributions may be given to Fowler AMVETS Post #102, 116 E. 5th St., Fowler, IN 47944 or St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery (C/O, Mark Flook) 1616 S. 600 W., Fowler, IN 47944. Visit www.shoemakerfh.com or Shoemaker Funeral Home- Otterbein, Indiana Facebook page to leave any condolences or to share a memories & pictures of Ron.

James Anderson 58 of Watseka

James Anderson 58 of Watseka. 

 

Visitation will be Thursday 6/28 from Noon until 2pm, services at 2pm all at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. 

 

 

James Leroy "Jim" Schultz, 91, of Iroquois

James Leroy “Jim” Schultz, 91, of Iroquois, IL, went to be with his lord and savior on June 21, 2018.

James was born August 29, 1926 to Roy and Donna Schultz in the farm house where he would spend he next 71 years. He married Phyllis Eckstein on August 28, 1948 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Beaverville, IL. They were married 50 years at the time of her passing in June of 1999.

Surviving Mr. Schultz include his children Brad (Kathy) Schultz of Florida, James Schultz Jr. of Iroquois, and Carol Massey of Kentland, IN; grandchildren, Steven (Lisa) Eilers, Scott Eilers, Ali Eilers, Eric (Monica) Schoonveld, Lacey (Bill) Buss, Kevin (Elayne) Obenland, Paul McEnterfer, Josie Goyette, Bradley Goyette, and Jaclyn Cruz; sixteen great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Philip and Paul; sister, Hazel; and daughters, Chris Schoonveld and Connie Goyette.

Jim never met a stranger and brightened the day of every person he met with his great sense of humor and kindness. Jim greatly enjoyed his season tickets to the Country Theatre, playing cards with anybody he could, and eating ice cream every day. His faith in the lord, loyalty and love of family and friends will be unmatched and greatly missed by us all.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 26, 2018 from 4-8pm, at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, June 27, 2018, at 11:00 am, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Beaverville. Father Belanger will officiate.

Burial to follow at the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials in Mr. Schultz name can be made to the St. Mary’s Catholic Church or the Country Theatre Workshop in Cissna Park.

Rodney B. Schroeder Sr., 76, of Hoopeston

Rodney B. Schroeder Sr., 76, of Hoopeston passed away on Sunday, June 24, 2018 surrounded by his family. He was born February 18, 1942 in Chicago, the son of Charles and Ruth Carter Schroeder and they preceded him in death in addition to three brothers, Charles, Melvin and Arthur “Arkie”; and two sisters, Evelyn Schroeder and Waneta Lane.

He married Betty Mae Jones on January 23, 1960 in Milford and they had five sons who all survive, Rodney “Butch” (Carol) Schroeder of Milford, Tim (Michelle) Schroeder of Tilton, Danny (Linda) Schroeder of Watseka, Bill (Charlotte) Schroeder of Thomasboro and Randy (Margo) Schroeder of Rantoul. Betty preceded Rodney in death on June 28, 2000. He later married Addie Bell Calvert in May of 2003 in Milford and she survives in Hoopeston. He is also survived by one sister, Charlene Schroeder of Milford; two brothers, Terry Schroeder of Milford and Ron (Theresa) Schroeder of Milford; many grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, June 28, 2018 at the Milford Nazarene Church, where Rodney was a member. Rev. Robert Killion will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford and 1 hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorials may be made to the Milford Nazarene Church or Carle Hospice.

Please share a memory of Rodney at knappfuneralhomes.com.


 

Steven J. Swigart, 66, of Watseka

Steven J. Swigart, 66, of Watseka passed away on Friday, June 22, 2018 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka, surrounded by his family. He was born on December 20, 1951 in Watseka, the son of Joseph E. and Carolyn Anderson Swigart. He married Debra Kissack at Faith Lutheran Church in Watseka on January 20, 1973.

Surviving are his wife Debra “Cookie” Swigart of Watseka; two daughters, Shannon (Rob) Belcher of Bloomingdale, IN and Sadi (Erich) O’Donnell of Mahomet; one son, Steven J. Swigart Jr. (Miranda McNeely) of Champaign; six grandchildren, Kaleigh (Ben) Ford, Kelcie Basan, Madelyn Belcher, Charles Belcher, Talynn O’Donnell, and Raegan O’Donnell; one great grandson, Joseph Ford; his father, Joseph E. (Helen) Swigart of Watseka; one sister, Sarah (Gary) Lambert of Watseka; sister in law, Marybeth Noel; brother in law, Ben Walters; and several nieces and nephews.

Steve was preceded in death by his mother, Carolyn; one sister, Susan; and one brother, Scott.

Mr. Swigart was a gifted musician and was well known for playing music and shows in the area since the early 1970’s. The Blue Ribbon Band and Shatterkane were two of his most popular bands. Steve wrote and recorded music throughout the years. He built his very first guitar in shop class in high school and continued to build guitars throughout his life. Steve was well known for his unique talent of being a slide guitar player. He was very proud of playing with The Marshall Tucker Band on stage at the Watseka Theater last June. Steve always wanted to share his gift of music with others.

Steve enjoyed traveling to Brown County, Indiana with his wife. He also loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren who meant so much to him.

Funeral services will be at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 at Centennial Christian Church in Watseka. Joe Hughes will officiate. Private Family burial will take place at a later date at Body Cemetery in Woodland.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 at Centennial Christian Church.

Memorials may be made to ICARE Animal Rescue in Iroquois.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Mary Beverly Stiegman, age 94 of Thawville

Mary Beverly Stiegman, age 94 of Thawville passed away on Saturday June 23, 2018 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born in Ogden, IA on February 13, 1924 to Amicas and Clara Mertens Van Steenberghe whose business was importing Belgian work-horses and farming. Following high school, she joined other women aiding the war effort by learning telegraphy and becoming a depot agent for the Central Illinois Railroad. She worked for the Illinois Central Railroad for 7 years and eventually resided in Thawville, IL. There, she met and married Marvin L. Stiegman on June 12, 1948 in Thawville. They farmed successfully near Thawville for many years. Beverly and Marvin celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary 11 days prior to her passing.

Mrs. Stiegman is survived by her husband, Marvin, two children, Dr. Gregory Stiegmann of Denver, CO and Eric Stiegman of Thawville, daughter-in-law, Dr. Sarah J. Chilton and two grandchildren, Captain (Dr.) Regan Stiegmann-Stafford of Colorado Springs, CO and Andrew A.V. Stiegmann of Honolulu, HI. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Naoma Chipman.

Beverly was very active her entire life. She understood and appreciated her obligation to be a good steward of the land and all the creatures that lived from it. She enjoyed gardening as well as nurturing, propagating and understanding trees and had a keen interest in preserving the beauty and natural flora and fauna of Central Illinois.

Private funeral services will be held on Wednesday June 27, 2018 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. Pastor Brian King will officiate. Burial will be in Ridgeland Twp. Cemetery in Thawville.

Memorials may be made to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Thawville.
Please share a memory Beverly at www.knappfuneralhomes.com

Linda Blair, 71, of Watseka

 Linda Blair, 71, of Watseka, IL, passed away on Sunday, June 17, 2018.

She was born February 17, 1947 in Lafayette, IN, the daughter of William and Jewel (Merrick) Jones.

Linda married Jerry Blair on May 1, 1965 in Watseka, IL.

She was a receptionist and biller for Teverbaugh, Croland & Mueller OBGYN. She enoyed cooking, baking, spending time with the grandkids, and taking care of her husband.

Surviving Mrs. Blair is her husband, Jerry Blair of Watseka; son, Jerrod Blair of Chatham, IL; daughters, Dr. Lori (Chad) Teverbaugh-Kunkle of Peoria, IL and Debra (Dan) Hankey of Watseka; brothers, Virgus Jones of Sulfur Springs, TX, Richard (Laura) Jones of Sulfur Springs, TX, Donald (Norma) Jones of Somerset, KY, and Gerald Jones of Sulfur Springs, TX; sisters, Betty Jones of Colorado, Delorus (Mason) Campbell of Lexington, KY, Kathleen (Rick) Cadwallader of St. Pete, FL; grandchildren, Ian Teverbaugh, Skyler Hankey, Blair Hankey, Dylan Hankey, Gavin Ray Blair, and Collin Robert Blair; great grandchild, Jude Hankey; and several nieces and nephews.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; son, Jerry Ray Blair Jr.; and sister, Carolyn Sue Miller.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 20, 2018 from 4-7pm, at Baier Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, June 21, 2018 at 11:00 am, at Baier Funeral Home. A one hour visitation will take place prior to services. Pastor Ray Jackson will officiate.

Burial will follow at GAR Cemetery in Watseka.

John & Reta Dowling 84 of Watseka

John R. Dowling, 84, of Watseka passed away on Sunday, June 17, 2018 in Watseka. He was born on August 20, 1933 in Murrayville, IL, the son of John W. and Hattie Mae (Cooper) Dowling.

Reta A. Dowling, 84, of Watseka passed away on Sunday, June 17, 2018 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born on January 6, 1934 in Danville, IL, the daughter of Myron R. and Blanche H. (McGahan) Miller.

John and Reta were high school sweethearts at Danville High School. They married in Danville on January 28, 1955. Surviving are three sons: Michael (Kathy) Dowling of Chester, VA, David (Kathy) Dowling of Paxton, and Robert (Kary) Dowling of Bourbonnais; seven grandchildren: William Dowling of DeKalb; Laura Dowling of San Francisco, CA; Chris Dowling of St. Louis, MO; Elizabeth Dowling of Hagerstown, MD; Kelsey Dowling of Boston, MA; Jori Dowling of Bourbonnais; and Mason Dowling of Bourbonnais; and two nieces: Susan (Miller) Bruner and Sonja Miller.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Hattie. Reta was preceded in death by her parents, Myron and Blanche, and one brother, Fred Miller.

John served in the United States Army Reserves during the Korean Conflict. He received his Bachelors of Science in History from Eastern Illinois University and his Masters of Science in Educational Administration degree from Illinois State University. He was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Watseka, IHSA Board of Directors where he was a past-president, member of the Iroquois County Board, and served as the Middleport Township Supervisor. In 1955, he started teaching and coaching in Armstrong then continued at Crescent-Iroquois High School from 1959-1963. In 1963, he joined the Watseka High School teaching staff, where he also served as principal for twelve years, ending in 1984. He then became the grade school principal at both Wanda Kendall and Nettie Davis schools. He also served as acting superintendent for a short time. He was awarded Iroquois County Teacher of the Year in 1968. In 1989, he was awarded Watseka Area Citizen of the Year. John was a member of the Illinois Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame, Iroquois County Republican Precinct Committeeman, Ford-Iroquois Board of Health, Watseka Library Board, I-KAN Joint Education Committee, Iroquois Memorial Hospital volunteer, and was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Watseka community. He was a frequent volunteer at Iroquois Memorial Hospital and helped organize the annual Hospice brunch for many years. John enjoyed history and he was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan. He had a love for baseball all of his life, starting with being a batboy for the Dodgers minor league team in Danville. He authored a book on the history of the Three-I League, which is in the library of the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY. Talking baseball and being an advocate for Iroquois County and Watseka were some of his greatest passions.

Reta was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Watseka, singing in the choir and was also part of the Iroquois County Cantata Choir. She started teaching in Bismarck Grade School and later taught at Crescent City Grade School and the Glenn Raymond Junior High School. She graduated from Illinois State University in 1969 with her Bachelors of Science in Education and that year started the Art Department at Watseka Community High School. Reta also co-owned and taught at the Pied Piper and Building Blocks Preschool. After she left the preschool she went on to teach 4-H students for many years. Reta served as President of the Iroquois Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and was also a member of the board for the Iroquois Mental Health Association, the Watseka Bridge Club and the Iroquois County Republican Women. She enjoyed ceramics and was a watercolorist. Reta was a former Iroquois County 4-H judge and was a blue ribbon winner for her angel food cakes. She was always taking on a new project, whether it be framing pictures for friends, making pies for the Gooseberry Festival, or immersing herself in her grandchildren’s latest school project. Reta was the official costume maker for all of her children and grandchildren, and inspired them all to bring creativity into their lives. She was a life-long learner, adopting her grandchildren’s hobbies as her own, so she could keep up with them. Reta was known for her can-do attitude, approaching every situation with grace and selflessness, and always having a kind word for everyone.

Together, John and Reta traveled the world, usually with friends and family and always making new friends along the way. The St. Louis Cardinals Spring Training was one of their favorite places. They were both avid readers and loved spending time with their grandchildren, playing games with them and attending their activities.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Friday, June 22, 2018 at the First United Methodist Church in Watseka. Rev. Tom McCann will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 pm on Thursday, June 21, 2018 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka, as well as one hour prior to the funeral service at the church on Friday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or Unit 9 Academic Foundation.

Please share a memory of John and Reta at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Kenneth Booi Decker, 90 Danforth

Kenneth Booi Decker was born February 3, 1928 in Danforth Illinois, the son of George Eddward Decker and Angie W. Booi Decker. He passed away Sunday June 17, 2018 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee Illinois. He married Eleanor Louise Moore on September 15, 1950. She passed away February 5, 1997. He was also proceeded in death by his parents, several aunts and uncles as well as his brother Eugene Decker, his sisters Alice Mardell Mickens, Marie C. Decker Martin, an infant sister Edna Decker and an infant daughter Karlyn Michelle Decker.

He is survived by his sons Kenneth M. Decker (Patricia), Keith A. Decker (Barb), daughters Kris A. Glicken (Kerry), Karla M. Felesena (Mark) and his wife Lois B. Decker. His grandchildren are Lauren C. O’Leary (Robert), Michael M. Glicken (Claudia), Ashley E. Glicken, Tony D. Felesena(Stephanie), Jenna E. Koch (Nick), Kristen M. Warman (Nate), Kyle R. Decker, Korey R. Decker, Kenneth M. Decker, Kathryn M. Decker, Kirk M. Decker(Whittni).

He is also survived by his great grandchildren Ella O’Leary, Willow O’Leary, Autumn O’Leary, Ceneca Glicken, Jaelyn Koch, Kaleb Koch, Landry Koch, Anthony (AJ) Felesena Jr. and Caton Decker.

Mr. Decker attended Danforth and Gilman Illinois schools then pursued his college degree at Hope College in Holland, Michigan graduating in 1950. Following graduation, he taught school in McBain Michigan, then moved to Chebanse, Illinois where he taught English and other subjects in the Chebanse Middle School. From there he began his next job, teaching Driver Education and coaching Football and Track at Central High School in Clifton Illinois. He was most proud of the hundreds of students he taught to drive and the athletes he taught, especially those who were able to overcome their personal obstacles to become outstanding young citizens. He was recently recognized as a Charter Founding member of the Chebanse Lions Club where he was a member for many years.

He earned a Master’s Degree from Illinois State University and left education to become the Supervisor of Driver Education in Springfield for the State of Illinois. It was there that he had his experiences, working with the State Legislature and Local, County and State agencies.

Those interactions were important, as he used those contacts, in his new role working for Eastern Illinois Electrical Cooperative. There, he lobbied the General Assembly and at times the Congress of the United States regarding Rural Electrical Legislation and the needs of the rural Illinois farmer.

After that tenure, he realized the importance of Sludge Application to farm land and began selling sludge application machinery with Big Wheels and Big A. That experience gave him the opportunity to begin his own business applying municipal sludge to farm land. Very quickly, he became the preeminent expert on the technique of application and the regulation of land application of municipal and farm sludge. That expertise honored him with speaking engagements in Springfield and Washington DC. and in cities across the country.

He sold that business to retire to the farm in rural Chebanse, Illinois where he has spent many summers with his children and grandchildren teaching them the skills of a farmer. During the winter, he has lived in Willcox, Arizona with his wife Lois and his two sisters, Marie and Mardell. There he became the honorary Mayor of Willcox, during the winter months, with a proclamation he wrote himself and was ratified by the retired men at the local coffee shop.

He will be remembered for his love of family, his empathy and willingness to help those less fortunate, as well as his many stories and jokes about life and his love of the Lord. Memorials can be made, in his name, to the Children’s Brittle Bone Foundation, P.O. Box 619 Zion IL 60099. Visitation will be at the Knapp Funeral Home 415 N. Main Clifton Il from 3-7 PM Friday, June 22 2018. Saturday visitation will be at 10 AM June 23 with services beginning at 11AM at the Life Church 1411 Crescent St. in Gilman IL. Burial will follow at the Danforth Cemetery. A memorial service will also be held at 10 AM at the Nazarene Church in Willcox Arizona on July 14, 2018.

     

Richard W. Zaremba, 77, of Milford

Richard W. Zaremba, 77, of Milford passed away on Saturday, June 16, 2018 at his home. He was born May 22, 1941 in Chicago, the son of William and Mary Zdeb Zaremba and they preceded him in death.

He married Katherine Setinsky on August 7, 1993 in Chicago and she survives. Also surviving are one son, Ronald (Marla) Zaremba of Mt. Prospect; one daughter, Robin Zaremba of Mt. Prospect; one sister, Jacqueline (Wilson) Curtis of Rossville; three step-daughters, Paula Haylie of Kansas City, MO, Haylie Justice of Waupan, WI and Mary Wright of LaCrosse, Wi; two grandchildren; and eight step-grandchildren.

Mr. Zaremba was a retired police officer after 39 years of service, having served in Chicago for 33 years and in Milford for 6 years. He was a member of a Barber Shop Quartet and Chorus and Church Chorus. Richard was a Boy Scout Leader and just loved being a mentor to many. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.

Cremation rites will be accorded by the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford and services will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Riverside Clinic in Watseka or Watseka Police Dept.

Please share a memory of Richard at knappfuneralhomes.com.


 

Nancy Hari, 75, of Rankin,

Nancy Hari, 75, of Rankin, IL passed away on Sunday, June 17, 2018 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born December 30, 1942 to Lorin and Louise (Smith) Nease of Rankin. She graduated from Rankin High School as valedictorian in 1961. On June 4, 1961 she married Dennis Hari in Rankin.

In the fall of 1961 she started college at Illinois State University in elementary education. In 1964 she started teaching in East Lynn and then Hoopeston. She retired after 30 years of teaching elementary students.

She loved to read, garden, sewing, and playing with grandkids. After retirement Nancy and her husband spent 19 summers fishing at their place in Northern Wisconsin and traveling the world, visiting all 7 continents.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Lorin and Louise Nease; her sister, Phyllis Hulmes; one brother, Robert “Bob” Nease; and two sisters, Shirley and Patti, who died shortly after birth.

She is survived by her husband Dennis; two daughters, Kathy (Lewis) Brown of Rankin and Terri (Casey) Skelton of St. Louis; five grandchildren, Nathan, Grace, and Allison Skelton and Anna and Eva Brown; three sisters, Beverly Overbey of Rankin, Carolyn Unzicker of Champaign, and Jean Swanson of Laurens, Iowa; and two brothers, Tom (Dolly) Nease and Larry (Pam) Nease both of Effingham.

She will be sadly missed by her husband, daughters, grandchildren, and the rest of her family and friends.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 22, 2018 at Rankin United Methodist Church. Rev. Charlie Graul will officiate. Burial will follow in Rankin Union Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 21, 2018 at Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park as well as one hour prior to the funeral services on Friday at church.

Memorials may be made to the Rankin Library or the Rankin United Methodist Church where she was a long time member.

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

Dorothy M. Geddes, 93, formerly of Watseka

Dorothy M.  Geddes, 93, formerly of Watseka passed away at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, June 14, 2018, in Hoopeston, IL.  She was born on June 26, 1924 in Wapakoneta, OH, the daughter of Eylar and Ethel (Stoltey) Brunskill.

 

Dorothy married Charles Geddes of Milford on October 28, 1951 in Reddick, IL.  He preceded her in death in 1998.

 

Dorothy touch many children’s lives having taught for 28 years.  She started her teaching career in Manlius, Illinois, then as the Home Economics teacher at Milford Township High School.  She then taught 3rd grade at Milford Grade School and finally 2nd grade at Nettie Davis in Watseka, Illinois.  Dorothy was a firm believer in education and had a Bachelors and Masters Degree from the University of Illinois and was a member of the University of Illinois Alumni Association.  She had an interest in genealogy.  She always enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, and had a passion for teaching.

 

Dorothy was a longtime member of the Watseka Methodist Church and Fortnightly Group, various Bible studies groups, along with the Retired Teachers Association.  She was interested in Agriculture, a member of the 4-H House at the U of I, and was a member of the University of Illinois Home Extension Group.

 

She is survived by her children Robert (Becky) Geddes of Hoopeston, IL., Richard (Melinda) Geddes of Colorado Springs, Co., and Barbara (David) McCann of Clifton Park, NY., and several grandchildren.

 

A visitation will be held 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. on Monday, June 18, 2018 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  A graveside service will be held at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, June 19, 2018 at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford, IL.

 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to any local public library or to the donor’s choice.

 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Dorothy’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Nancy J. Hari 75 of Cissna Park

Nancy J. Hari 75 of Cissna Park

 

Arrangements are pending with Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park. 

Patricia Balanoff 85 of Milford

Patricia Ann Balanoff, 85, of Milford passed away on Wednesday, June 13, 2018 at Carle Regional Health Center in Hoopeston. She was born March 18, 1933 in Harvey, the daughter of George and Mary Krueger Stowe. She married Victor Balanoff on November 20, 1970 in Stockland and he preceded her in death on May 30, 1992. She was also preceded in death by her parents and two brothers.

She is survived by three daughters, Christy Cartwright of Danville, Debra Dawson of Milford and Lisa (Gerald) Allen of Milford; one son, Bruce (Hang Ye) Cartwright of Milford; seven grandchildren, Cody Cluver, Adam Cluver, Stephanie Dawson, Andrea Luthy, Nick Dawson, Kori Cartwright and Kyle Allen; seven great-grandchildren; one brother, Don Stowe of Milford; and her very special friend, Maynard Marquis of Donovan.

Mrs. Balanoff was a member of the Milford Christian Church. She had worked at Uarco in Watseka for many years. She loved her grandchildren and attended all of their events. She also loved her animals.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the 11:00 am funeral service on Saturday, June 16, 2018 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. Rev. Brent Zastrow will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice, Milford Christian Church or ICARE.

Please share a memory of Patricia at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Huldah Buhrmester Callahan, 99, of Watseka

Huldah Buhrmester Callahan, 99, of Watseka, IL, passed away on Saturday, June 9, 2018.

Born on May 18, 1919 to John and Clarissa (Clara) Houmes on the family farm near Stockland, IL. She graduated from Stockland High School. She was a housewife and loving mother. She enjoyed traveling, gardening and her flowers; she said flowers made a house more of a home. Huldah worked for 32 years as a nurse’s aide and in central supply at Iroquois Memorial Hospital.

Surviving Mrs. Callahan are her sons, Michael (Renee) and Robert (Nalena) Buhrmester of Watseka; daughters, Phyllis (Robert) Feller of Washington, Susan (Werner) Carron and Imogene (David) Brandenburg of Missouri; sister, Jane Smith of Tennessee; eight grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Glenn Buhrmester and Lee Callahan; and siblings, Lucille, William, Paul, John, and Dale.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2018 at 1:00 pm, at Baier Funeral Home. Pastor Gary Milton will officiate.

Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka, IL.

Memorials in Mrs. Callahan’s name can be made to the IMH Hospice.

Barbara Burdick, 75, of Watseka

Barbara Burdick, 75, of Watseka, IL, passed away on Sunday, June 10, 2018.

She was born on September 15, 1942 in Corydon, IN, the daughter of William Richert and Lucy (Harrison) Richert.

Barbara married Virgil Burdick on April 3, 1965 in Watseka. 

Mrs. Burdick was a secretary for Hamilton for eight years. She enjoyed bowling, computers, and doing taxes for others.

Surviving Mrs. Burdick are her sons and daughter-in-law's, Virgil and Kathy Burdick of Woodland, Duane and Jana Richert of Watseka, Dennis and Charlene Bruner of Watseka, Mark and Kathy Burdick of Watseka, Elmer Scott of Jeffersonville, IN, and Linda Burdick of Watseka; daughters and son-in-law, Alice and William Yonke of Mauston, WI, Susan Felty of Florida, and Juanita Philpot of Sellersburg, IN; brother, Floyd and Sherry Richert of Fowler, IN; sister, Karen Richert of Watseka; thirteen grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; husband; one brother; one son, Lucky; and two granddaughters, Paige and Alice.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 13, 2018 from 4-8pm, at Baier Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will take place on Thursday, June 14, 2018 at 11:00 am, at Baier Funeral Home. A one hour visitation will be held prior to services. Pastor John Franklin will officiate.

Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka, IL.

Memorials in Mrs. Burdick's name can be made to the First Christian Church, American Cancer Society, or Donor's Choice.

Ronald "Jim" Roach, 92, of Martinton

Ronald "Jim" Roach, 92, of Martinton, IL, passed away on Tuesday, June 12, 2018.

He was born on February 6, 1926 in Martinton, IL, the son of John Roach and Aldea (Benoit) Roach.

Jim married Esther (Duclos) Wehling on June 18, 1966 in St. Martins Catholic Church in Martinton, IL.

Mr. Roach was an Insurance and Real Estate Broker. He served in the ARMY as a Corpral, serving in the Korean Conflict and was a Medical Corpsman. He was a clerk for the Martinton Township and Village Board for 20 years. Jim was a member of the St. Anne Church in St. Anne, and the Watseka American Legion Post #23. He enjoyed doing yard care, especially landscaping for his wife. He also liked watching his crop grow. Jim took pride in helping take care of the Mt. Olivet Cemetery starting when he was only 9, until eventually taking over and running/managing it up until recently.

Surviving Mr. Roach is his son, David (Nancy) Wehling of Racine, WI; son-in-law, Dave Webster of Martinton, IL; grandchildren, Adam Wehling, Sara Merten, and Scott (Michele) Webster; great-grandchildren, James Wehling, Chase Merten, and Tiffany Webster; and many nieces and nephews.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; wife, Esther; daughter, Sandra; three sisters, Romella LeReau, Rethel Tatro, Rueletta "Betty" Tilton; two brothers, Romeo Roach and Ruel Roach.

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 14, 2018 fom 4-7pm, at Baier Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, June 15, 2018 at 11:00 am, at Baier Funeral Home. A one hour visitation will be held prior to services. Father Jim Fanale will officiate.

Buriall will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Martinton, IL.

Memorials in Mr. Roach's name can be made to the Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Barbara Burdick, 75, of Watseka

 Barbara Burdick, 75, of Watseka, IL, passed away on Sunday, June 10, 2018.

She was born on September 15, 1942 in Corydon, IN, the daughter of William Richert and Lucy (Harrison) Richert.

Barbara married Virgil Burdick on April 3, 1965 in Watseka. 

Mrs. Burdick was a secretary for Hamilton for eight years. She enjoyed bowling, computers, and doing taxes for others.

Surviving Mrs. Burdick are her sons and daughter-in-law's, Virgil and Kathy Burdick of Woodland, Duane and Jana Richert of Watseka, Dennis and Charlene Bruner of Watseka, Mark and Kathy Burdick of Watseka, Elmer Scott of Jeffersonville, IN, and Linda Burdick of Watseka; daughters and son-in-law, Alice and William Yonke of Mauston, WI, Susan Felty of Florida, and Juanita Philpot of Sellersburg, IN; brother, Floyd and Sherry Richert of Fowler, IN; sister, Karen Richert of Watseka; thirteen grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; husband; one brother; one son, Lucky; and two granddaughters, Paige and Alice.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 13, 2018 from 4-8pm, at Baier Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will take place on Thursday, June 14, 2018 at 11:00 am, at Baier Funeral Home. A one hour visitation will be held prior to services. Pastor John Franklin will officiate.

Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka, IL.

Dennith "Rosie" Rosenberger 58 of Watseka

Dennith "Rosie" Rosenberger 58 of Watseka.

 

Visitation will be held Saturday Jume 9th from 4-7pm, With Memorial Services at 7pm.

 

All at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. 

 

Burial at a later date in Iroquois Gaffield Cemetery. 

Ronald J. Sanders, 83, of Onarga

Ronald J. Sanders, 83, of Onarga passed away on Saturday, June 2, 2018 at his residence.

Ron was born October 14, 1934 in Peoria, the son of John and Roberta Scharp Sanders and they both preceded him in death. He married Gail Yarger on July 10, 1965 in Richmond Heights, MO and she survives.

Besides his wife, Gail Sanders of Onarga, he is survived by one son, Kent Miles of Seymour, IL; three daughters, Kim Sanders of Olathe, KS, Kris (Tom) Tapocik of Springfield, IL and Karel (Kenneth) Troxell of Washington, IL; one brother, Alan Sanders of Tremont, IL; one sister, Sara (Paddy) Liles of Springfield, IL; five grandchildren including Arianna Melsome, Mary Beth Tapocik, and Jimmy Tapocik; and four great-grandchildren.

Mr. Sanders was employed at Morton Buildings for over 50 years where he was Sales Manager at the Watseka location. He was a 40-year member of Watseka Kiwanis, 40-year member of Watseka Lions Club, Past President of Iroquois County Mental Health Board, and member of Onarga United Methodist Church. Ron was a former boy scout leader and was an avid fisherman and golfer.

Visitation will be from 9:00 until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at Onarga United Methodist Church. Rev. Vicki Killus and Rev. Elizabeth Reis will officiate. 

Memorials may be made to Onarga United Methodist Church.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

 

Aldine Hines, 88, of Watseka

Aldine Hines, 88, of Watseka, IL passed away on Friday, June 1, 2018.

She was born on February 20, 1930 in Goodwine, IL, the daughter of Smith Gillins and Hazel (Leaver) Gillins.

Aldine married John Hines on May 18, 1951 in Kentucky.

Mrs. Hines was the Vice President at MainSource Bank where she worked at for thirty years. She enjoyed playing cards and was an avid Chicago Bulls Fan.

Surviving Mrs. Hines is her daughter, Julie (Wes) Handy of Mundelein, IL; grandchildren, Adam (Janet) Handy and Jessica (Joe) Cozza; great grandchildren, Christopher and Jacob Handy; and great nephew, Travis Martin.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; husband; and brother, Al "Razor" Gillins.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 4, 2018 from 12pm-1pm, at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Funeral Services will follow on Monday, June 4, 2018 at 1:00 pm, at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Burial will take place at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland, IL.

Memorials in Mrs. Hines's name can be made to the Milford Park and Pool Foundation or Carle Auxiliary Guest House.

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