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Obituaries Archives for 2019-11

Margaret A. Johnson, 95,of Watseka

Margaret A. Johnson, 95, of Watseka passed away November 28, 2019 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born August 21, 1924, in Watseka, the daughter of Floyd and Ethelwyn (Garfield) Gillfillan; and they preceded her in death. Margaret married Bernard A. Johnson, and he preceded her in death on August 5, 2017. Margaret was, also, preceded in death by her brother, Jack Gillfillan; son, Mark Johnson; son-in-law, Ron Scharf; and three grandchildren.

Mrs. Johnson is survived by her daughter, Anne Scharf of Watseka; one son, Stephen (Rebecca) Johnson of Oak Ridge, TN; eight grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.

Margaret was a member of Watseka First United Methodist Church.

A graveside service will be held at a later date at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka. Stephen Johnson will officiate.

Arrangements provided by Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Enola L. "Tillie" Newman Beausoleil, 97, of Winter Haven, FL

Enola L. “Tillie” Newman Beausoleil, 97, of Winter Haven, FL and formerly of Milford and Woodland passed away on Friday, November 22, 2019 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. She was born May 20, 1922 in Milford, the daughter of Everett and Virgie (Rogers) Hawthorne. She married James Earnest Newman in August of 1940 in Iroquois County and he preceded her in death in June of 1980. She later married Joseph Beausoleil in Winter Haven, FL and he preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Earnest Ray Newman; one son-in-law, Bradley Buttman; one daughter-in-law, Donna Elliott Newman; one great-great-grandson; one sister; and three brothers.

She is survived by four children, Ronda (Glen) DeValk of Mahomet, Jimmie Newman of Winter Haven, FL, Linda (Rick) Jones of Auburndale, FL and Jill Newman Buttman of Lakeland, FL; one sister, Iona Reed of Bend, OR; fourteen grandchildren; thirty-five great-grandchildren; eleven great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Tillie was of Christian Faith attending the Methodist Churchs. She worked at Howard Industries, TRW Condensor in Watseka and operated Brown’s Grocery Store in Woodland. She loved singing, dancing, fishing, gardening, spending time with her family and was a great homemaker.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. Rev. Neil Larimore will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

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

Robert F. Lesch, 97, of Watseka

Robert “Bob” F. Lesch, 97, of Watseka passed away on Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. He was born September 17, 1922 on the family farm west of Papineau, the son of Henry J. and Josephine (O’Donnell) Lesch and they preceded him in death. He married Luella Burgess on February 16, 1946 in St. Anne and she preceded him in death on May 19, 2008.

He is survived by one daughter, Mary Decker of Watseka; two grandchildren, Sarah Decker of Rockford and Saul D. (Sandy) Decker of Elizabethtown, KY; and two great-grandchildren, Michael Decker of Elizabethtown, KY and Jacob (Lauren) Decker of Colorado Springs, CO.

Mr. Lesch was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. He was primarily a dairy farmer in the Papineau area and loved animals. Robert was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, University of Illinois Basketball fan, and in his younger days was an avid bowler. He never knew a stranger.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until the 2:00 p.m. memorial service on Friday, November 29, 2019 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Fr. Michael Powell will officiate. Burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Martinton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or for the family’s wishes.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Please share a memory of Robert “Bob” at knappfuneralhomes.com

Corrine Scott, 84 of Sheldon

Corrine Scott, 84 of Sheldon passed away on November 22, 2019 at I.U. Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, IN. She was born on October 10, 1935 in Newton County, IN, a daughter of William and Florence (Simmons) Burke. She married Harrold D. Scott in Crown Point, IN on July 16, 1955 and he preceded her in death on June 12, 2001. Also preceding her in death were her parents, four brothers and six sisters.

Survivors include two sons- Terry Scott of Sheldon and J.R. (Marta) Scott of Sheldon; two sisters- Marie Calander of Secor and Hazel (Steve) Gagnon of Lafayette, IN.; five grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Visitation will be on Tuesday November 26, 2019 from 4:00-8:00 pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Funeral services will be on Wednesday November 27, 2019 at 11:00 am at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Chris Francis officiating. Burial will be in Fairlawn Cemetery in Kentland, IN.

Please share a memory of Corrine at knappfuneralhomes.com.

 

Roseanna Noonan, 91, of Champaign

Roseanna Noonan, 91, of Champaign, IL passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2019.
She was born on October 9, 1928 in Watseka, IL, the daughter of Patrick L and Elsie (Hinrichs) Noonan.
Ms. Noonan worked as a Executive Secretary before retiring in 1995. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church since 1943.
Surviving Ms. Noonan are her brothers, Donald and Mary Noonan, Gerald and Joanne Noonan; nieces and nephews, Janet and Dave Klimas, Greg and Patricia Noonan, Carla and Michael Bird, Andrew and Anna Noonan, Tim and Nikki Noonan, and Nancy and Carey Schalber; several great-nieces and nephews, Daniel and Rachel Klimas, Carolyn (Chris) Rigsby, Elizabeth and Matthew Noonan, Shelisa Bird, Samantha, Melissa and Amanda Noonan, Nathan Schalber and Emily (Brenton) Isom; great-great niece and nephew, Emma Kay Isom and Ralph David Rigsby; and special friend, Kathy Dupuis.
She is also preceded in death by her parents.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 26, 2019 from 11-12pm, at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka, IL.
Funeral Services will take place on Tuesday, November 26, 2019 at 12:00 pm, following the visitation. Pastor Tom McCann will officiate.
Burial will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka, IL following services.
Memorials in Ms. Noonan’s name can be made to the Organ Fund at the First Presbyterian Church.

Vivian Pufahl 89 of Donovan

Vivian M. Barnlund Pufahl, 89 of Donovan passed away on November 21, 2019 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. She was born on December 5, 1929 in Goodland, IN a daughter of Thomas and Lena (Harms) Seibring. Vivian married Byron W. Barnlund in Schwer on April 7, 1946 and he preceded her in death on January 28, 1996. She later married Robert C. Pufahl in Tennessee, July 1999 and he preceded her in death on February 11, 2012. In addition to both of her husbands, she was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Earl Seibring and Don Seibring; and four sisters, Marian Harms, Francis Aupperle, Irene Dexter, and Maxine Carlson.

Survivors include two sons, Leslie “Les” (Mary) Barnlund of Martinton and Roger (Pam) Barnlund of Minnesota; one daughter, Nancy (Ron) Henneike of Martinton; three sisters, Donna Carlson, Shirley Zwart, and Mary Seibring; twelve grandchildren, Lesley Marshall, Amber Barnlund, Holly Barnlund, Tim Allsteadt, Stacey Baker, Lucas Barnlund, Jason Barnlund, Hannah Barnlund, Sara Otto, Laura Ratcliff, Todd Henneike, and Toni Brown; and twenty-six great grandchildren.

Vivian graduated in 1982 from KCC with an Associate Degree in Nursing. She was employed many years as a nurse at Magnolia Wood Healthcare and Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. She worked alongside Byron, loving to farm and was a caregiver for many relatives over the years.

She was an active member of Faith Lutheran Church in Watseka where she was a founding member, served on the church board, and was a Sunday School teacher.

She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She spent many enjoyable hours feeding and watching birds and other wildlife in her spare time.

Her coffee pot was always on. You could not leave her house without feasting on a pie or brownies. She will be greatly missed and always loved.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 26, 2019 at Faith Lutheran Church in Watseka with Rev. Alex McNally officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30 until the 11:00 am service at church. Burial will be in Beaver Cemetery near Donovan.

Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka is in charge of the arrangements.

Memorials may be made to Faith Lutheran Church or The Alzheimer’s Association.

Please share a memory of Vivian at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Dolores C. Brown, 93, of Piper City

Dolores C. Brown, 93, of Piper City passed away on Wednesday, November 20, 2019 at Heritage Manor in Gibson City. She was born July 23, 1926 in Chicago, the daughter of Thomas and Cecelia Daly. She married Jack Brown on August 31, 1946 in Chicago and he preceded her in death on May 11, 1994. She was also preceded in death by her parents; three brothers; four sisters; one daughter, Susan DeWall; one daughter-in-law, Val Brown; and one grandson, Michael Brown.

She is survived by three daughters, Pat (Alan) Marcheski of Arizona, Jean (Kent) Bielfeldt of Strawn and Kathy (Dave) Stettner of Shannon; four sons, John (Sherry) Brown of Missouri, Michael Brown of Arizona, Dan Brown of Chicago and Charlie (Christi) Brown of Philo; one sister, Helen Bargerhoff of Florida; eighteen grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. Funeral Mass on Saturday, November 23, 2019 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Piper City. Fr. Michael Powell will officiate. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Piper City.

Memorials may be made to Homes of Hope or Transitions Hospice in Champaign.

Arrangements are by the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

Please share a memory of Dolores at knappfuneralhomes.com

Gary Earl Raymond, 72, of Watseka

Gary Earl Raymond, 72, of Watseka passed away on Monday, November 18, 2019 at University of Chicago Hospital in Chicago.

Gary was born June 1, 1947 in Watseka, the son of Charles Earl and Rita Eileen (Clawson) Raymond and they preceded him in death. He married Trula Jane Hoover on February 4, 1978 in Watseka and she survives.

Besides his wife, Trula Raymond of Watseka, he is survived by one son, Nathan Earl (Jill) Raymond of Arcola; one grandson, Beau Jamison Raymond; one granddaughter, Ivy Maxine Raymond; honorary son, Ryan (Alicia) Hoover and their son, Owen, of Indianapolis, IN; and one sister, Diana Thomas of Sarasota, FL.

Gary was a member of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He was baptized March 22, 1969, dedicated his life to the faith, and built many Kingdom Halls. He owned and operated local concrete companies for many years, but his true passion were the farms he owned and operated. Gary was a very kind man that loved his family and his greatest pride and joy were his grandkids. He died faithful to his Heavenly Father, Jehovah God.

Memorial visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until the 4:00 p.m. memorial service on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Brother Eric Richardson will officiate.

A memory box will be provided for those to share a memory in honor of Gary or you may share a memory at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Blake Burnside, 31, of Hoopeston

Blake Burnside, 31, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2019.
He was born June 23, 1988 in Watseka, IL, the son of Frank Burnside and Kelli (Watkins) Burnside.
Blake was an Operator for United Prairie. He enjoyed spending his free time fishing, hunting, and listening to music.
Mr. Burnside married Tamie Moore on July 24, 2012 in Watseka, IL.
Surviving Mr. Burnside is his wife, Tamie Burnside of Hoopeston; mother, Kelli Burnside of Rensselaer, Indiana; sisters, twin Brittany Burnside of Illinois, and Melissa Nash of Grants Pass, Oregon; brother, Josh Chadd of Nashville, TN; children, Taryn Bruens, Tyler Bruens, and Timothy Moore; grandchild, Karson; and special niece, Rosslynn Claire.
He is also preceded in death by his father, Frank Burnside; brother, Eric “Ozzy” Osborne; and grandmothers, Alice Dick, Dorothy Watkins, and Laverne Burnside.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2019 from 4-7pm, at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka, IL.
Funeral Services will take place on Friday, November 22, 2019 at 11:00 am, at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka, IL. Minister Kara Berg will officiate.
Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka, IL.
Memorials in Mr. Burnsides name can be made to Family’s Wishes.

John R. Staubus, 93, of Columbus, OH

John R. Staubus, 93, of Columbus, OH passed away on November 14, 2019 at The Forum in Columbus, OH.

John was born March 21, 1926 in Cissna Park, IL the son of Raymond R. and Anna E. (Newell) Staubus and they preceded him in death. He married Lorene Lawrence on September 8, 1951 in Cissna Park, IL and she survives.

Besides his wife, Lorene Staubus of Columbus, OH, he is survived by one daughter, Anna (Terry) Jones of Bryan, OH; one grandson, Jason Jones of Mackay, ID; one granddaughter, Rebecca (Nate) Stahl of Kendallville, IN; and two great grandsons, Andrew Stahl and Matthew Stahl.

John served in the U.S. Army during World War II and became the oldest member of the Cissna Park American Legion. He was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church, Alpha Zeta Epsilon, Sigma Phi and Gamma Sigma Delta Professional Fraternities. John received his Bachelor degree and PhD from the University of Illinois. He was a Professor of Dairy Science at The Ohio State University and received the Dairy Science Hall of Fame Service Award in 1990 and the Meritorious Service Award in 2011. He enjoyed spending time with his family and traveling to all 50 states, Canada, China, and England. John liked playing golf with friends, especially the 19th hole.

Memorials may be made to Salvation Army or Bethel United Methodist Church in Columbus, OH, in care of Knapp Home (219 S. 4th Street, Watseka, IL 60970).

Private graveside services were held at Cissna Park Cemetery in Cissna Park, IL with graveside military rites by Cissna Park American Legion Post #527.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park, IL. 

Larry L. Taylor, 67, of Milford

Larry L. Taylor, 67, of Milford passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. He was born June 12, 1952 in Hoopeston, the son of Kenneth and Ruby (Huff) Taylor.

He married Carol Redburn on April 12, 1969 in Glasgow, KY and she survives. Also surviving are two sons, Christopher (Deborah) Taylor of Hudson, NC and Shane (Katy) Taylor of Geneseo; three grandchildren, Jaxton Taylor, Taylor Hensley and Christian Taylor; and two sisters, Debbie Taylor of Milford and Libby Galoway of Hoopeston.

Larry was preceded in death by his father and step-mother, Kenneth (Genevive) Taylor; mother and step-father, Ruby (Rollie) Lawson; and two brothers, Ricky Lawson and Calvin Lawson.

Larry enjoyed fishing and stock car racing. After retirement, he loved woodworking.

A memorial visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 16, 2019 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Please share a memory of Larry at knappfuneralhomes.com

Mary A. Leveque, 79, of Sheldon

Mary A. Leveque, 79, of Sheldon passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at her home in Sheldon. She was born on November 20, 1939 in Kankakee, the daughter of Elmer and Clementina (Scott) Wishchnowski. She married Charles J. Leveque Jr. in St. Anne on October 17, 1959 and he preceded her death on September 28, 2013. She was also preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Erma Boudreau.

Surviving are two daughters, Jill (Steve) Conrad of Sheldon and Kim Leveque (Bonnie Boudreau) of Beaufort, NC; two grandchildren, Jacob (Jessica) Conrad of DeMotte, IN and Katy (Shane) Taylor of Geneseo, IL; four great grandchildren, Ty, Brayden, and Koltyn Conrad and Jaxton Taylor; and one sister, Jo Butz.

Mrs. Leveque was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Kentland.

Funeral services are scheduled for 12:00 noon on Friday, November 15, 2019 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Fr. Robert Bernotas will officiate. Burial will follow in Mound Grove Cemetery in Kankakee.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am – 12:00 noon on November 15, 2019 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice. 

Mary "Tootsie" C. Diskin, 84, of Rankin

Mary “Tootsie” C. Diskin, 84, of Rankin passed away on Tuesday, November 5, 2019 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born on July 28, 1935 in Butler Township, the daughter of Joseph and Dorothy (Bush) Shaeffer. Tootsie married James L. Diskin on December 19, 1953 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Penfield. He preceded her in death on January 7, 2002.

Tootsie worked for Kuperschmidt Egg Grading Station, and retired from selling real estate. She enjoyed vacations to Florida and made it her home in the winter. Mostly, she enjoyed spending time with her friends, family and especially her grandchildren.

Tootsie was a member of the Rankin Lions Club and Grace Lutheran Church in Rankin.

She is survived by two sons James (Kim) Diskin Jr of Rankin and Andy Diskin of Deltona, FL; one daughter Clementine (Arlan) Kaufmann of Cissna Park; one sister Janet Powell of Florida; four grandchildren Andrew (Katie) Kaufmann, Dylan Kaufmann, Dalton Kaufmann and Valla Diskin; and one great-granchild Kaimbry.

Along with her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Andy and her sister Clementine.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 8, 2019 from 4-7pm at Cox-Knapp Funeral Home in Rankin. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2019 at 11am at Grace Lutheran Church in Rankin. Burial will follow the service at Rankin Union Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Grace Lutheran Church.


 

Dan A. Cross, 66, of Milford

Dan A. Cross, 66, of Milford passed away October 28, 2019 at Carle Hoopeston Regional Hospital in Hoopeston. He was born April 6, 1953 in Watseka, the son of James Lee and Marjorie June (Zimmerman) Cross. Dan married Cathy Fleming in Watseka on September 14, 1974 and she survives.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by one daughter, Amy Cross of St. Louis, MO; one son, Jacob Cross of Milford; one grandson, Damon James Arthur Cross and his mother, Mendy Williamson; his mother, Marjorie Cross of Milford; and one sister, Pam (Brad) Cross-Craig of White Heath.

Dan was preceded in death by his father, James Lee Cross.

Dan worked as an Operations Manager at T&D Metals since 1992. He enjoyed golf, yard work, and flowers. Dan was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and enjoyed spending time with his family and grandson.

A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 9th, 2019 at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. Fr. Michael Powell will officiate.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or Milford Fire Department.

Arrangements provided by Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Rev. Don Richard Stuckwisch Sr. 78, of Goodwine

Rev. Don Richard Stuckwisch Sr., 78, of Goodwine passed away on Tuesday, November 5, 2019 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. He was born on April 20, 1941, the son of Carl and Beulah (Steltenpohl) Stuckwisch. He married Sandra Lee Helmer in St. Louis, MO on June 13, 1964 and she survives.

In addition to his wife, Sandra Stuckwisch of Goodwine, Don is survived by two sons, Don Richard “Rick” (LaRena) Stuckwisch Jr. of South Bend, IN and Paul Alexander (Nora) Stuckwisch of Manhattan, KS; two daughters, Dorisa Lee (Robert) Polk of Scottsbluff, NE and Dawn Marie (Virgil) Fisher of Terre Haute, IN; one sister, Leota Barnett of Seymour, IN; twenty grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Shirley Mails.

Mr. Stuckwisch received the gift of baptism into the family of God on May 4, 1941 and confirmed in the faith on April 3, 1955. He graduated from Concordia Teachers College in River Forest and taught in Philadelphia, PA, Bergholz, NY, Westlake, OH, and in Australia. He then became a Lutheran Minister after graduating from Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN and served in Nebraska and Illinois.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Monday, November 11, 2019 at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford. Rev. Michael Stoerger will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

Visitation will be one hour prior the funeral service Monday, November 11, 2019 at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford from 10:00 – 11:00 am.

Memorials may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford or LCC Comfort Dog Ministry.

Arrangements are being handled by Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Charla J. Molck, 85, of Onarga


Charla J. Molck, 85, of Onarga passed away on Sunday, November 3, 2019 at her home. She was born December 21, 1933 in Ambia, IN, the daughter of Charles and Teresa (Leuck) Grogan. She married Marvin Clyden on November 25, 1950 in Ambia, IN. She later married Norman Molck on April 1, 1974 in Gilman and he preceded her in death on December 28, 1994.

 

She is survived by two daughters, Susan Henson of Onarga and Marva Crandall of Gibson City; three sons, Gail (Cindi) Clyden of St. Anne, Alan (Diane) Clyden of Clifton and David Clyden of St. Anne; thirteen grandchildren, Ashley (Mark) Classen, Jeremy (Jill) Schumacher, Daniel (Hannah) Cole, Amanda (Jeremy) Huml, Brian (Molly) Clyden, Kristen (Mark) Mitchell, Kimberly (Ryan) Cooper, Stacie (William) Powers, Sara (Rory) Mulcahay, Joshua (Emily) Clyden, Whitney (Christopher) Williams, Naomi (Justin) Lamarr and Noah (Jessica) Clyden; thirty-three great-grandchildren; four sisters, Marlene Sue Clough, Pat Vanrickle, Judy (Ed) Roark and LeAnn (Thomas) Putney; three brothers, Jay Grogan, Edward (Leanda) Grogan and Terrance (Margaret) Grogan; and three step-children, Vicki Goldenstein of Danforth, Michael (Cathy) Molck of Crescent City and Dennis Molck of Danforth.

 

In addition to her second husband, Charla was also preceded in death by her parents; brother, Darrell; step-son, Jeff Molck; son-in-law, Tom Henson; daughters-in-law, Debbie Clyden and Vickie Clyden; great-grandchildren, Leland Clyden and Addison Williams; and a step-great-grandchild, Sarah Molck.

 

Charla was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gilman, Altar Guild, and volunteered for many things within the church and with hospice. She was also a member of the Onarga and Watseka VFW Auxiliary and served as the 7th District President for VFW Auxiliary. Charla was an LPN at many area nursing homes. She loved adult coloring, word searches, baking bread, having coffee with her friends at K&H, collecting bells, angels and cardinals, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

 

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 8, 2019 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. Rev. Pete Hinrich will officiate. Burial will follow at the Onarga Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2019 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga with a 7:00 p.m. VFW Auxiliary Service.

 

Memorials may be made for the family’s wishes.

 

Please share a memory of Charla at knappfuneralhomes.com

Donald "Pudge" Gerdes, 81, of Onarga

Donald “Pudge” Gerdes, 81, of Onarga, passed away on Friday, November 1, 2019 at his home surrounded by beloved family. He was born August 2, 1938 in Watseka, the son of Dwane and Ozilda (Gagnon) Gerdes and they preceded him in death. Donald married Ramona (Mona) “George” Zirkle on August 1, 1959 in Gilman and they resided in LaHogue.

 

He is survived by his wife, Mona Gerdes of Onarga; his children, Diane (Larry) Neste of Spooner, WI, Donald (Sherri) Gerdes of Thawville, Becky (Gary Fuoss) Gerdes of Thawville, Kathy (Duane) Menigoz of Onarga, Lisa (Curtis) Bloom of Fisher, and Ronne (Sandy) Gerdes of Rantoul; 14 grandchildren, Heather, Nichole, Erica, Derek, Mandy, Connor, Jake, Brandon, Hilary, Jamie, Danielle, Ashton, Kody, and Kyle; 28 great grandchildren, Kara, Nautica, Harper, Sawyer, Paisley, Kailin, Hadley, Hayden, Austin, Jarrett, Mason, Brooks, Ryan, Christian, Cale, Jacksen, Jolene, Danielle, Ethan, Leighlah, Reece, Piper, Calvin, Owen, Miles, Morgan, Conner, and Natalie; his faithful dog, Molly; two brothers-in-law, Bob (Kay) Zirkle of Onarga and John Zirkle of Woodland; three sisters-in-law, Joan Sterk of Milton, WI, Mary Mulligan of Arlington, TX, and Nina (Tom) Dundas of Clifton; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

 

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his step father, Troy Eads; sister, Brenda Champaigne; son-in-law, Jeffrey Bull; father-in-law, Clyde Zirkle; mother-in-law, Mary Zirkle; brother-in-law, Bob Sterk; sister-in-law, Gloria Zirkle; niece, Mary Zirkle; nephews, Danny Zirkle, Eric Sterk, and Tim Zirkle; and his godson, Troy Chayer.

 

Grandchildren were his joy. He never missed a game or event and loved being a grandpa. He looked forward to every opportunity to see his great grandchildren.

 

After graduation, Mr. Gerdes went on to farm with his father, he then worked for Don Wrede breaking and training horses and farming. He was a union carpenter in Chicago. He then worked for Ficklin Machine Company and Roeder Grain Elevator. He drove semi-trucks for Ficklin’s and Roeder’s. He then went on to work for the Village of Onarga. He became Superintendent of Public Works after studying at KCC to obtain his class A drinking water operator certification. He retired after 20 years of service to Onarga, at age 70. Pudge was a member of Immaculate Conception/Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Gilman; a born-again Christian. He was also a member of Illiana Ropers & Doggers Association and Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association. First and foremost, he was a genuine cowboy, winning many trophy buckles. He was a longtime team roper as a header. Mr. Gerdes was a coach for little league baseball and later for junior high girls’ softball. He was the Onarga Indian Mascot for two years and lead the teams out at home games. He was quite the craftsman, and a patent holding inventor. He was the biggest prankster around. Pudge was an avid Onarga Indian’s, Chicago Bears and University of Illinois fan. He received the 2003 Citizen of the Year Award and was grand marshal of the 4th of July parade. He loved rodeos, feeding birds, metal detecting, his grandkids and great grandkids, and wintering in SPI, TX.

 

He was a 1956 graduate of Gilman High School and participated in football, track, choir, and marching band. His nickname from birth on was Pudge.

 

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., on Saturday, November 9, 2019 at Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman. Funeral service will be at 12:15 p.m. on Saturday, November 9, 2019 also at the funeral home. Fr. Marek Herbut will officiate. Burial will be at the Onarga Cemetery at a later date.

 

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

 

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

Steven Kissack, 67, of Milford

Steven Kissack, age 67, of Milford passed away on Monday, October 28th, 2019. 

 

Steven is survived by his wife, Dana Kissack, and 4 children; Brandon Barker,Trachelle Williams,Kirsten Johnson, and Candi Kissack. 

 

A funeral service is set for Saturday, November 9th @ 11am with a visitation from 9am-11am prior at Milford Christian Church.

 

Arrangements are being made by Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Marjorie Cailteux Heeler, 95, of Clifton

Marjorie L. Cailteux Heeler, 95, of Clifton passed away on Sunday, November 3, 2019 at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth.

 

Marjorie was born February 12, 1924 in Papineau, the daughter of Phillip and Lena (Kempen) Chenore. She married Russell A. Cailteux on January 24, 1948 in Beaverville and he preceded her in death August 18, 1982. She later married Owen W. Heeler on October 24, 1987 in L’Erable and he preceded her in death on November 27, 1994. She was also preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Roger Chenore; and three sisters, Velma Miller, Elenore Depatis, and Therese Yeoman; and one son in law, John Blasey.

 

She is survived by three daughters, Sheila Blasey of Ashkum, Marla (Michael) Reichert of Ft. Myers Beach, FL, and Brenda (Rodney) Ader of Thawville; eleven grandchildren; and twenty eight great grandchildren.

 

Marjorie was a member of St. Peters Catholic Church in Clifton and also CCW. She was a member of Kankakee and Chebanse Senior Citizens as well as President of Clifton Women’s Club. Marjorie enjoyed playing bingo and cards, sewing, quilting, crocheting, and traveling.

 

A Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 am on Friday, November 8, 2019 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable. Fr. Doug Hauber will officiate. Burial will follow at L’Erable Catholic Cemetery in L’Erable.

 

Visitation will be one hour prior to the Mass in L’Erable on Friday from 10:00-11:00am.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church in Beaverville, Iroquois Memorial Hospice, or Prairieview Lutheran Home.

 

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

Ross L. Verkler, 84, of Watseka

Ross L. Verkler, 84, of Watseka passed away on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee.

 

Ross was born August 17, 1935 in Cissna Park, the son of Harry and Mildred (Harweger) Verkler and they preceded him in death along with two brothers, Robert and Charles Verkler; two sisters, Helen Fox and Carol Shaffer; one step-son, Ryan Gagnon; one step-daughter, Renee Gagnon; one grandchild, Mara Verkler; and one great grandchild Finn Henneike. He married Janice Cook on July 1, 1956 in Hoopeston and she preceded him in death April 9, 1968. He married Ruth Schippert and she preceded him in death on June 2, 1989. He later married Shirley Sorensen on August 1, 1992 in Watseka and she survives.

 

Besides his wife, Shirley Verkler of Watseka, he is survived by one son, Kevin (Pam) Verkler of Watseka; two daughters, Karen (Rodney) Conley of Watseka and Rhonda (Toby) Harris of Watseka; two brothers, Dale Verkler of Watseka and Lowell (Rita) Verkler of Sparta, WI; nine grandchildren; fourteen great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; several brother-in-laws; several sister-in-laws; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Mr. Verkler was a member of First Christian Church in Watseka and Watseka Elks. Ross enjoyed fishing, golfing, and playing euchre. He was head of maintenance at Iroquois County Courthouse from 1964-1997.

 

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 5, 2019 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

 

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 6, 2019 at First Christian Church in Watseka. Pastor Roy Johnson will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

 

Memorials may be made to First Christian Church in Watseka or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Robert (Paul) Klemme, 94, of West Lafayette/Fowler IN

Robert (Paul) Klemme, age 94 passed away on Thursday, October 31st due to age and after having lived a long and blessed life.  Betty (Sparrow), his wife of 66 years, survives.

 

Paul was the last living child of Louise and Leo Klemme, whose land continues to be farmed for the third generation in the Fowler, IN and Stockland, IL areas. Paul farmed with his brother Orval and until retirement, his son Mark. 

 

Paul was a devoted man of his Catholic faith.  Paul and Betty were dedicated, life-long members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dunnington, IN and received spiritual nurturing and faith from their nephew Father Robert Klemme.  The family greatly appreciates Fr. Bob for his frequent visits and spiritual inspiration especially during these final weeks.

 

Paul served his country as a Marine.  Seldom were there conversations that didn’t include stories of how he reported for duty and was sent directly to boot camp, being assigned to the Marine Corps, and his service tour of duty in China, which included accompanying officers to the Great Wall.

Paul and Betty’s favorite pastimes were listening to and watching sports both on radio and TV.  They enjoyed trips to Washington D.C., Alaska, Ireland, and Hawaii.

 

Paul and Betty were the best of role models for their four children Richard (Cynthia) of Madison, WI,  Mark (Sherry) Hoopeston, IL,  Maureen (Robert Morgeson) of Marion, IL  and Patrick (Teresa) of Fowler; 8 grandchildren, Sarah (Paul) of Madison WI, Ryan of Vail, CO, Amy of Chicago, IL, Paul of Marion IL, Michael, Noah, Samantha, and Zoe of Fowler, IN; and two great grandchildren, Samuel and Celia of Madison, WI. 

 

Paul and Betty together made a mutual decision to move from the farm to Elmcroft Assisted Living in 2013 where they again extended themselves as ambassadors to other Elmcroft residents.  They happily embraced their new lives at Elmcroft.

 

St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Dunnington, IN will host the visitation beginning 10:30 EST on Wednesday, November 6th with Mass following at 12 noon.  Burial will immediately follow in the church cemetery.    A light luncheon and gathering will be held in the church basement. 

 

Memorials may be offered to the perpetual care of St. Mary’s Dunnington Cemetery, St. Mary’s Catholic Church Dunnington, IN or Franciscan Hospice of Lafayette.  The family is being assisted by Shoemaker Funeral Home of Otterbein, IN (Shoemakerfh.com).

 

“Grandpa, we will always remember your stories, your loud sneezes, and every time we visited you saying, “thank you for coming”.

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