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Obituaries Archives for 2021-06

Arvil "Arvie" Beard Jr. 72, of Paxton


Arvil “Arvie” Coye Beard, Jr., loving husband, caring father, and dedicated grandfather passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on June 10, 2021.


He was born in Pittsburgh, California on February 2, 1949, to Clara Arleatha Dunn Beard and Arvil Coye Beard, Sr. After the death of his parents when he was seven, he and his sister went to live with their uncle and aunt, Floyd and Betty Gibbs, where they were raised with their three cousins.
Arvie graduated from Pittsburgh Senior High School in 1967 and enlisted in the United States Air Force. This would begin his over 20-year career as an Air Force Material Manager before retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant in 1990. During his years of honorable service, Arvie received several honors including: Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Distinguished Presidential Unit Citation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Vietnam Service Metal, Air Force Overseas Short Tour Ribbon, Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, among several others.
During his Air Force career, he was stationed in California, Germany, Japan, and finally Chanute AFB in Rantoul, Illinois. Upon his retirement, he worked on the Chanute Base Closure Committee for two years and helped ensure a smooth transition from military to civil ownership of the base. In 1994, Arvie started working at Lincoln’s Challenge Academy in Rantoul, Illinois where he was the Budget and Logistics Director. He worked in this position until his retirement in 2014.
He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Dale Beard of Loda, a son, Jeff Beard (Michelle) of Woodbridge, Virginia, two daughters, Wendy Beard D’Elia (Jay) of Roy, Utah, and Heather Rawlings Wilson (Mike) of Paxton. He is survived by one sister, Rhonda Gonsalves (Bob) of Concord, California, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.


One of his greatest joys was being “Papa” to his grandchildren, Miranda Beard Borhauer (Ansel), Alex Beard, Kayla D’Elia Gallegos (Garrett), Tyler D’Elia, Jonah Wilson (Sarah), Landon Wilson, Olivia Wilson, and Kate Wilson.


He was preceded in death by his parents, Clara Arleatha Beard and Arvil Coye Beard, Sr.
Arvie is remembered for his strong faith, his friendliness, his laugh, his patriotism, his ridiculously amazing organizational skills, and how much he loved his family and friends. He enjoyed playing golf and playing games in the yard with his family. He always loved the water whether it was surfing as a teenager in California or spending the day on the pontoon boat at Bayles Lake with family and friends.


A memorial service will be held at Gibson City Bible Church on July 6, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. with a visitation held from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Pastor Jonah Wilson will officiate the service. A military burial will be held on July 7, 2021, at 1:30 p.m. at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.
Memorials can be made to The Forgotten Initiative (https://theforgotteninitiative.org), an organization supporting the foster care community

Calvin "Cal" Duane Bauer, 82, of Cissna Park

Calvin “Cal” Duane Bauer, 82, of Cissna Park passed away on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. He was born on July 1, 1938 in Cissna Park, the son of Harry W. and Mattie M. (Beer) Bauer. Cal married Rachel Knepp in El Paso, IL on July 14, 1960.

He is survived by their four children, Tim (Melanie) Bauer of Melvin, Pamela (James) Nguyen of Goleta, CA, Penny (Terry) Sims of Phoenix, AZ, and Tyler Bauer (Judson Vosburg) of Chicago; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two sisters, JoAnn Hartman of Bloomington and Madalyn (Dale) Seggebruch of Onarga; two brothers, Glen (Susan) Hodel of Heyworth and Lowell (Lonnie) Bauer of Cissna Park.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, William and Leslie Bauer.

Cal served in the U.S. Army in Panama. He was a lifelong farmer and Cubs fan. He served his community of Cissna Park as a member of the American Legion Post #527, a fireman, a 4-H leader, and on the Co-Op board.

Funeral services will be at 12:30 pm on Monday, June 28, 2021 at Christian Bible Church in Cissna Park. Burial will follow in Cissna Park Cemetery with graveside military rites by Cissna Park American Legion Post #527.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. on Monday, June 28, 2021 prior to the funeral service at Christian Bible Church.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or Cissna Park American Legion Post #527.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Nancy Lee Wolford, 70 of Kankakee

Nancy Lee Wolford, 70, of Watseka passed away on Monday, June 21, 2021 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on February 19, 1951 in Kankakee, the daughter of Albert Edward Ownbey and Dolores Ruth Themes.
 
She is survived by a two daughters Roxann (Vincent) Baker of Biloxi, MS and Jody Wolford of Watseka; four grandchildren Sarah Thomas of Biloxi, Matthew (Kala) Thomas of Watseka, Danielle Mense of Watseka, and Michelle (TJ) Maitland of Danforth; five great-grandchildren Holden Mense, Ella Thomas, Kalvin Maitland, Rylee Maitland, and Owen Thomas; one brother Larry Ownbey of Bradley, IL; two sisters Cheryl Villagomez of Kankakee and Alberta MacFadden of Muncie, IN; and family friends Ken Mense of Iroquois and Greg Thomas of Watseka. She was proceeded in death by one sister and parents.
 
Nancy was a member of the Centennial Christian Church in Watseka and was a certified nursing assistant for 30 years. Her hobbies include reading, quilting, gardening, writing, and embroidering. In addition, she was a member of a book club eLibrary.
 
Visitation will be held on Thursday June 24, 2021 from 4:00pm until the 7:00pm funeral service at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Joe Hughes will officiate. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka at a later date.
 
Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.
 
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Nancy Lee Wolford please visit our Sympathy Store.

Dorothy M. Gerhart, 83 of Piper City

Dorothy M. Gerhart, 83 of Piper City passed away on Saturday June 19, 2021, at the Richard L. Owens Hospice House in Peoria. She was born on May 25, 1938 in Gilman a daughter of Robert E. and Elizabeth R. Roush Chase. Dorothy married Bruce D. Gerhart, Sr. in Gilman on March 17, 1959, and he survives. Also surviving are three sons- Bruce Gerhart Jr. of Kankakee, Alan (Jenny) Gerhart of Tolono, Clay (Suzie) Gerhart of Piper City; one daughter- Vicki (Phillip) Orr of Fairbury; eight grandchildren-Maggie, Bryan, Brigett, Samantha, Christopher, Megan, Jordan, and Sydney; three great grandchildren- Katherine, Jonathan, and Braylee; two sisters- Joan Stemke of Chatsworth and Jean (Bernie) Miller of Pontiac. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers- Dennis and Richard, one sister- Patricia Anderson, and one son- Robert Chase.

Dorothy enjoyed sewing, crocheting, and crossword puzzles.

Memorial services will be on Friday, June 25, 2021 at 11:00 am at Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman with Rev. Pete Hinrich officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at Wenger Cemetery in Gilman.

Memorials may be made to St Jude Children’s Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Merton L. Cnudde, 81, of Clifton

Merton L. Cnudde, 81, of Clifton passed away on Saturday, June 19, 2021 at Miller Rehabilitation in Kankakee. He was born on June 10, 1940, the son of Maurice and Marie (Collette) Cnudde. He married Patricia Ann Cadieux in LaGrange Park, IL and she preceded him in passing on October 5, 2017. In addition to his wife’s passing, he was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Marvin and Myron Cnudde.

Surviving are one daughter, Monét (Tom Schelling) of Bourbonnais; two sons, Mark Cnudde of Clifton and Mike Cnudde of Ashkum; seven grandchildren, Ryann Cnudde, Rebekkah (Jose) Munoz, Alyssa and Katie Cnudde, and Anna-Marie, Jack, and Gabriel Schelling; two great grandchildren, Liliana Munoz and Autumn Castro; and one sister, Mary Lou (Floyd) McLeroy of Bolivia, NC.

Mr. Cnudde was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and Lions Club. Merton was a lifelong farmer in the Clifton area, was a local barber for fifty-nine and a half years, and also raised cattle. He sold Mormon Feed, LG Seed, and worked for Petrolane in propane sales.

Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am on Thursday, June 24, 2021 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable. Fr. Vern Arseneau will officiate. Burial will follow in St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in L’Erable.

Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 pm on Wednesday, June 23, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

Memorials may be made to Masses, Clifton Food Bank, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Cricket-Roger Hanford Jr, 48, or Watseka

Cricket-Roger Lee Hanford Jr, 48 of Watseka passed away on June 14, 2021 in Chicago. He was born on August 22, 1972 in Watseka. Surviving Cricket are his mother and step father- Cheryl and Dave McCullough of Watseka; his father- Roger Hanford Sr of Kentland, IN; three step brothers-Bill (Vicki) Walver of Watseka, Dustin McCullough of Daphne, AL, and James Jeffries of Watseka; four step sisters- Danielle (Ross) Huntley of Westfield, IN, Darci (Erick) Thordarson of Westfield, IN, Angie (Andrew) Maple of Watseka, and Brandi (Nathan) Truman of Watseka; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

 

Cricket enjoyed his friends and family, listening to music, and worked for many years at construction and different factories.

 

Funeral services will be on Wednesday June 23, 2021 at 11:00 am at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Rev. Wayne Meyer officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

 

Memorials may be made to the family.

 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Cricket-Roger Lee Hanford Jr. please visit our Sympathy Store.

Glenna Jeanne Isbell, 100, of Jacksonville, FL, formerly of Hoopeston

Glenna Jeanne Isbell, 100, of Jacksonville, FL, formerly of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 1:23 P.M. Wednesday June 16, 2021, at Sunrise Assisted Living in Jacksonville.

 

She was born February 15, 1921, at home in Wellington, IL, the daughter of Dale Robert and Anne Virginia (Downey) Brougher. She married Robert Maurice Isbell on June 9, 1946, in Vandalia, IL. He preceded her in death in 1970.


She is survived by one son, Rollin (Jan) Isbell of Jacksonville, FL and one granddaughter, Kristen Isbell of Gainesville, FL.


In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents.


Jeanne was a schoolteacher at Duval County Public Schools in Jacksonville, FL until her retirement and was a member of the Arlington Congregational Church in Jacksonville.


A visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Thursday June 24, 2021, at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL. A graveside service will follow the visitation at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston, IL, with Pastor Gary Milton officiating.


Memorials may be made to Community Hospice and Palliative Care 4266 Sunbeam Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32257.

 

William H. Flageole Jr. of Herscher, formerly of Ashkum

William H. Flageole Jr., 90, of Herscher and formerly of Ashkum passed away on Friday, June 18, 2021 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on October 11, 1930 in Kankakee, the son of William and Veronica (Rohr) Flageole Sr. He was preceded in death by both of his parents; two sisters, Vivian Maher and Marion Harms.

 

Surviving are four nieces, Patricia (Steven) Schunke of Gilman, Pamala (Randy) Rabideau of Gilman, Susan (Robert) Mosier of Herscher, and Mary Ellen Maher of Chicago; two nephews, John (Jean) Harms of Ashkum and Edward (Debbie) Maher Jr. of Charleston, SC; and several great nieces and nephews.

 

Mr. Flageole was a member of Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum. He worked at Commonwealth Edison and was a part-owner of Flageole’s Bar in Ashkum for many years. He was a member of Ashkum American Legion and enjoyed fishing, playing cards, and walking.

 

Funeral mass will be at 11:30 am on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum. Father Michael Powell will officiate. Burial will follow at Ashkum Catholic Cemetery in Ashkum with graveside military rites by Central VFW Post #2131.

 

Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00 am on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

Memorials may be made to the Donor’s Choice.

 

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

Sue Latimer, 73, of Sheldon

Sue Latimer, 73, of Sheldon passed away on Wednesday, June 16, 2021 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee.

She was born on February 5, 1948 in Watseka, the daughter of Ray and Betty (DeLong) Sennett and they preceded her in death.

She married Tom Latimer on June 22, 1968 in Stockland and he survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Julie Latimer of Watseka and Jill (Rich) Whiteman of Sheldon; one grandchild, Christopher Whiteman; and two sisters, Jo (Chuck) Lewis of Port Townsend, WA and Judy (Rich Koblin) Sennett of Aiken, SC.

Sue was a member of Natural High singing group for forty years as well as First Christian Church in Watseka where she served as both an Elder and Board Member. She enjoyed University of Illinois basketball and most of all, loved her family.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 21, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at First Christian Church in Watseka. Pastor Roy Johnson will officiate. Burial will follow at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or ABRA of Sheldon.

Darin A. Cline, 53, of Wellington

Darin A. Cline, 53, of Wellington passed away on Thursday, June 17, 2021 at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center. He was born on January 15, 1968, the son of Billy W. and Wanda (Verkler) Cline. Darin was preceded in death by his father, Billy.

Surviving are his three children, Connor Cline (Samantha Vaughn) of Danville, Madison Cline (Coltyn McNelly) of Wellington, and Caden Cline of Wellington; his mother, Wanda Cline of Cissna Park; one sister, Dee Ann (Toby) Schippert of Watseka; nephew, Logan (Jackie) Schippert of Chatham; niece, Megan Schippert of Watseka; and special friend, Sandra Cordova of Wellington.

Mr. Cline enjoyed fishing, hunting, and playing music with his son, Caden. He knew just about every farmer in Iroquois and Vermillion Counties as he was in the farm chemical business his whole life. Darin was a top seed corn salesman for several different companies throughout his career. He loved traveling, especially with two of his best friends, Scott Shipman and Pedro Zarate. Darin loved listening to music and spending time with his kids.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Thursday, June 24, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park. Rev. Tom McCann will officiate. Private interment will take place at a later date at Cissna Park Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 5:00-8:00 pm on Wednesday, June 23, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park and one hour prior to the service on Thursday.

Memorials may be made to Wellington Fire Department.

Dennis H. Jepson, 80, of Chebanse

Dennis H. Jepson, 80, of Chebanse passed away on Wednesday, June 16, 2021 at Amita Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee. He was born on February 7, 1941 in Clifton, the son of Howard and Ruby (Nordmeyer) Jepson. He married Sandra Ann Coy in Kankakee on September 28, 1963 and she preceded him in passing on September 24, 2010. He was also preceded in death by his parents and one niece, Bonnie Gregg.

Surviving are one son, David (Darla) Jepson of Kankakee; one daughter, Lisa Cherep (fiancé Scott Sproat) of Batavia; Dennis’ fiancé, Mary Pace of Chebanse; two grandchildren, Lucia Cherep of Iowa and Darci (Mitch) Geister of Reddick; one brother, Wesley (Barb) Jepson of St. Anne; one niece, Cathy (Aaron) Langlois of Kankakee; one great niece, Carrie Palmer of Champaign; and one great nephew, David (Mary) Palmer of Bradley.

Dennis retired from Henkel after over thirty years of employment and later worked at Chebanse Ag. He enjoyed farming in the Chebanse area his whole life. He was an avid John Deere collector, belonged to Zion Lutheran Church in Clifton, and was a charter member and past President of Thee Old Time Farm Show. Dennis could often be seen running the steam driven saw mill.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at Zion Lutheran Church in Clifton. Pastor Joel Brown will officiate. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery in Chebanse.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Monday, June 21, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton and one hour prior to the church service on Tuesday, from 10:00-11:00 am.

Memorials may be made to the ALS Foundation or Zion Lutheran Church in Chebanse.

Please share a memory of Dennis at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Judith C. Wason, 81, of Watseka

Judith C. Wason, 81, of Watseka passed away on Friday, June 11, 2021 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on February 14, 1940 in Watseka, the daughter of Ray and Clarabell (Forrest) Nasers. She married George Wason in Watseka in August 1964 and he preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her parents; one sister-in-law, Ronna Nasers; and one cousin, John Nimz Jr.

Judith is survived by one brother, Joel F. Nasers of Watseka; two nephews, Joel L. Nasers of San Juan Capistrano, CA and Michael (Jennifer) Nasers of Watseka; two great-nephews, Nathan and Reece Nasers of Watseka; one great-niece, Madelyn Nasers of San Juan Capistrano, CA; eight cousins, Jacki McDugle of Mesa, AZ, Jill Greene of Phoenix, AZ, Jim (Sylvia) Forrest of Schaumburg, Kimberly Shor of Palatine, Paul Nimz of Ashkum, Susan (Jon) Guimond of Kankakee, Stuart (Peg) Nimz of Watseka, and Cheryl Nimz of Champaign, and the Skov family of Børkop, Denmark.

Ms. Wason graduated high school from WCHS in 1958 and from the University of Illinois in Champaign in 1962. She was an international traveler having visited several continents and taught high school math for 45 years, retiring from Deerfield High School. Judith loved to read and do word puzzles.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. until the 12:00 p.m. funeral service at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Rev. Gary Minard will officiate. Burial will follow at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka.

James Lee Schunke, 63, of Gilman

James (Jim) Lee Schunke, 63 of McKinney Texas, passed away on Sunday, June 6, 2021. He was born July 22, 1957 in Kankakee, the son of James “Pinky” and Willie (Bucksteeg) Schunke and they preceded him in death. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved son, Matthew Joseph on June 8, 2019.

He is survived by his fiancé, Michele Price Schroeder, son Kyle James Schunke and Natascha Maca of Mckinney; Michele’s daughters, Riley and husband Conner Cain of Evansville, IN, Grace and husband Kyle Balthazor of Clifton, one sister Jaye Lynn and husband Eric Gravitt of Normal; one brother, Dale Schunke of Gilman and many nieces and nephews. Jim is also survived by dear friends Marty and Maria Martindale and their daughter Rachel of Allen, TX.

Jim spent his childhood in Gilman, graduating from Gilman High School in 1975. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in history at the University of Illinois in Champaign. Jim proudly served his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corp. Following a honorable discharge from the military he embarked on a very successful career in Human Resources. He cherished many treasured friendships that he developed over the years and to this day friends across the industry recall his professionalism, old school work ethic, quick wit, genuine kindness and relentless humorous interjections in meetings and get togethers. From crazy sox, ugly Christmas sweaters, and shark heads to endless Yoda memes, Jim believed in having fun while working hard and in creating a work environment that supported everyone. He was quick to provide donuts in the morning, German potato salad for potlucks and kept an endless supply of snack mix in his cubicle. He never turned down an opportunity to bring out his tool belt to help with Habitat for Humanity or lace up his running shoes to participate in a Schneider Electric event or One Run for the Cancer Support Community. He prided himself on providing amazing customer support and worked tirelessly with candidates to set them up for success. This was reflected in numerous honors and awards for performance through the years and leaves a remarkable legacy.

Jim’s charisma and endearing personality made being a part of his personal life an absolute joy. The pure and unconditional love that he had for his close friends and family was tremendous. Kyle and Matthew were the center of his world. His love for his boys was boundless. As a proud Pops, he mastered dirt bike riding and boating, sat proudly on the sidelines of soccer games providing snacks and drinks to the team, swelled with pride as he attended high school graduations and boasted about their life achievements to everyone. He introduced both sons to his love and passion for cooking and grilling. His most special moments were spent preparing spiral ham for special holidays, trading recipe ideas, and trying new things on his Big Green Egg. No Christmas passed without “scratchers” in the stockings and hanging the pickles on the tree. He always had a crisp 20 in the wallet for yardwork or just because. Jim also had a special place in his heart for Michele’s children and shared the same pride and adoration for them and all their special moments.

Jim loved old black and white war movies, collecting guns, working in the yard, building things and restoring anything with an engine. He lived for weekends when the weather was just right, and he could ride his Harley to one of his favorite hang outs and have an ice-cold beer with his dear friend Marty. He loved adventures but was just as happy to be sitting on the patio catching a nap in the afternoon. Jim and Michele were very fortunate to have spent the last several years together, planning for the future and had just begun the process of renovating Jim’s childhood home in Gilman. He loved talking about his vision for the final product and dreamed of sitting on the front porch with Michele enjoying their quiet life with his trusty barker Otto sitting at his feet.

Jim’s zest for life was matched by his genuine, caring, protective, and loving nature. Everyone who was blessed to know him is better for having him in their life. The profound sadness and sense of loss is immeasurable. This is somewhat eased by the extraordinary amount of special memories we will all carry in our hearts, the knowledge that he touched so many lives, that he and Matthew are together again and that we will have a special guardian angel looking over all of us, as he always did. When you said I love you to Jim, he always responded with “More”……that embodies Jim. He loved us all …More.

A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity.

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

Timmy Deaton, 59, of Milford

Timmy Deaton, 59, of Milford passed away on Friday, June 11, 2021 at his home.

 

He was born October 5, 1961 in Steele, MO, the son of Joseph Lee and Lula Coreen (Bailey) Deaton and they preceded him in death in addition to five brothers, Curtis, Jackie, Dean, Larry and Randy; and one sister, Janet Smith.

 

He is survived by one sister, Mary (James) Williams of Sheldon; two brothers, Robert (Peggy) Deaton of Rossville and Michael (Lori) Deaton of Milford; two daughters, Heather Martin of Crestview, FL and Chasity Gianopoulos of McCollum Lake; one son, Timmy James Deaton of Milford; eight grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Timmy enjoyed fishing.

 

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 19, 2021 at the Milford Christian Church. Cassandra Villegas will officiate.

 

Memorials may be made to the Milford Christian Church.

 

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

 

Please share a memory of Timmy at knappfuneralhomes.com

Irene June Warren Parbs, 73, of Gilman

Irene June Warren Parbs, 73, of Gilman passed away on Friday, April 16, 2021 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born on June 14, 1947 in Watseka, the daughter of George and Leota (Lee) Warren.

 

She married Quin L. Parbs in Danforth on August 25, 1973, and he preceded her in death on June 7, 1993. She was also preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Walter Warren and William Warren.

 

Irene is survived by one son, Warren Parbs of Gilman; two daughters, Kristin Parbs of Onarga and Erin (the late Charles) Lamb of Richmond Hill, GA; five grandchildren, Lily and Serina Garcia and Simon Quin, McKenzi, and Carson Buley; two sisters, Iva (the late Ernie) Hornbuckle of Sheldon and Martha (Melvin) Hansen of Sheldon; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Mrs. Parbs loved spending time with her grandchildren. She also enjoyed garage sales, music, and was an avid sports fan.

 

Cremation rites will be accorded by Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman. A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, June 14, 2021 at Danforth Cemetery with Rev. Jim Harkins officiating.

 

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Maurice S. Minard, 82, of Watseka

Maurice S. Minard, 82, of Watseka passed away on Saturday, June 5, 2021 at his home. He was born on March 22, 1939 in Watseka, the son of Cecil and Clara (Hogle) Minard.

 

He married Mary Lou Ponton on October 10, 1964 in Crescent City and she preceded him in death on July 18, 1999. He was also preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Cecil Minard Jr. and Jerry Minard.

 

Maurice is survived by two sons, Timothy Minard of Watseka and Anthony Minard of Utica and two brothers, Roger (Diane) Minard of Tower Hill and Curtis Minard of Watseka.

 

Mr. Minard enjoyed the remodeling and construction of homes. He collected Indian artifacts and American primitive tools, and also created Native American inspired art. Maurice was baptized in the Christian church and later attended St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka.

 

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 14, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. until the 10:00 a.m. funeral mass at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. Fr. Michael Powell will officiate. Burial will follow at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in L’erable.

 

Memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity.

 

Arrangements by Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Loraine J. Anderson, 99, of Hoopeston, Formerly of Milford

Loraine J. Anderson, 99, of Hoopeston and formerly of Milford passed away on Friday, January 17, 2020 at Heritage Health in Hoopeston. She was born on December 19, 1920 in Milford, the daughter of Walter L. and Julie (Henke) Mathewson. She married George E. Anderson in Watseka on March 31, 1940 and he preceded her in death on August 14, 1998. In addition, she was preceded in death by her parents and one sister.

 

Surviving are one daughter, Nancy (Ray) Langellier of Wellington; two sons, Lewis (Betty) Anderson of Hernando Beach, FL and Wayne (Donna) Anderson of Paris, TN; eight grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren.

 

Loraine was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Hoopeston, Watseka American Legion Auxiliary, and Milford Household Science. She enjoyed playing cards with her friends, quilting, and crocheting. She was very proud to have made all of her grandkids a quilt or afghan.

 

A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 am on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

 

Cremation rites have been accorded by Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

 

Memorials may be made to Milford Fire and Rescue or Milford Public Library.

 

Please share a memory of Loraine at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Ronald Ponton, 82, of Ashkum

Mr. Ronald B. Ponton, 82 of Ashkum, Illinois passed away on Monday June 7, 2021 at Amita Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee following a short illness. Mr. Ponton was born in Ashkum, IL on April 16, 1939, the son of Burnal J. and Olieda Rabideau Ponton. His parents are deceased as is a brother in law, Richard Phelps. Mr. Ponton married Patricia A. King on August 17, 1963 at Assumption BVM Church in Ashkum and his wife, Pat survives. In addition to his wife he is survived by a daughter and son in law, Tammy and Rick Saathoff of Ashkum and a son and daughter in law, Todd and Shelley Ponton also of Ashkum. There are three grandchildren, Alan Ponton, Jordan Saathoff, and Jared Saathoff, all of Ashkum. In addition, there is a sister, Mrs. Lois J. Phelps and two brothers and sisters in law, Steve and Joan Ponton and Daniel and Kim Ponton all of Ashkum, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
 
Mr. Ponton was a member of Assumption BVM Church in Ashkum. He enjoyed NASCAR and being with family, especially his grandchildren. Mr. Ponton was a petroleum trucker and after 62 years was still actively trucking at the time of his becoming ill. He spent most of his career with Meier Oil and Manito Trucking. There will be a visitation on Thursday (June 10, 2021) from 4 until 7 PM at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton, IL. Private family services will be held on Friday also at the Knapp Funeral Home with burial in Ashkum Catholic Cemetery. Memorials are for the Donor’s Choice.

Delie Mae Dehm, 89, of Watseka, formerly of Piper City,

Delie Mae Dehm, 89, of Watseka, formerly of Piper City, passed away on Monday, June 7, 2021 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on August 5, 1931 at St. James Hospital in Pontiac, the daughter of Roscoe and Mary (Dodd) Harding.

Delie married Leroy A. Dehm on June 21, 1947 in Gilman. He preceded her in death on February 16, 2013.

She is survived by two daughters, Brenda (Ken) Dirks of Milford, and Kathy (Mike) Claywell of Farmington, MN; five grandchildren, Jason (Angela) Dirks of Paxton, Travis (Anna) Dirks of Lincoln, Amber (Justin) Boudreau of Ashkum, Cameron Claywell of Farmington, MN, and Kristen (Wes) Szempruch of Apex, NC; eight great-grandchildren, Reece Boudreau, Ellie Dirks, Graysen Boudreau, Khloe Dirks, Aubrey Dirks, Kallen Dirks and Rory and Paxton Szempruch; and a brother-in-law, Jim Roush.

Along with her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, and a half-brother, Hiram Stow.

Delie was a homemaker and a farmer’s wife. She loved playing cards, bowling, camping and crocheting. She also loved attending her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s church, school and sporting events.

Private services will be held on Thursday, June 10, 2021 at Piper City United Methodist Church. Burial will be held at Chatsworth Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Piper City United Methodist Church or to the donor’s choice.

Marion Omer Lindquist, 94, formerly of Chatsworth

Marion Omer Lindquist, 94, formerly of Chatsworth, died on Thursday, Dec. 24, 2020, at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth. He was born on Aug. 14, 1926, in Piper City, the son of Omer J. and Velma (Meisenhelder) Lindquist.

He married Mary Ann Poplett on Jan. 26, 1958, in Dahinda, Illinois, and she preceded him in death on Feb. 16, 2012. He also was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Stephen Douglas Lindquist; one sister, Bernice; two brothers, Russel Lindquist and Francis Lindquist; and their respective wives, Marie and Lois.

Marion is survived by two sons, Dale Lindquist of Des Moines, Iowa, and David (Dawn) Lindquist of Indianapolis; five grandchildren, Eric Lindquist of Phoenix, Valerie (Patrick) Lunasol of Phoenix, Anthony Mentz of Chicago, Michael Mentz of Flint, Michigan, and Ian Lindquist of Indianapolis; and two great-grandchildren, Felix Lunasol and Phoebe Lunasol of Phoenix.

Among many additional treasured loved ones, he is survived by nieces Patty (Irvin) Wilken of Chatsworth and Joyce (John) Pool of Thawville.

He graduated from Chatsworth High School in 1944, and he served in the U.S. Army following World War II. Marion farmed east of Chatsworth, and he retired from Nichols-Homeshield in the early 1990s.

Marion enjoyed restoring his tractors and playing Hawaiian steel guitar and resonator Dobro guitar in “jam” groups throughout Central Illinois as well as in Texas during past winters. He was a member of Community of Christ Church in Bloomington.

A celebration of life will be on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman. The memorial visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with the memorial service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Chatsworth Twp. Cemetery.

It was Marion’s wish that any memorial tributes be made in the form of donations to the Community of Christ World Hunger Fund, Outreach International or Habitat for Humanity

Virginia "Jean" Reutter 97, of Cissna Park

Virginia “Jean” Reutter, 97, of Cissna Park passed away on Thursday, June 3, 2021 at her home. She was born April 24, 1924 in Nashville, IN, the daughter of Fred and Mary (Russell) Patterson. She married Don E. Reutter on April 23, 1944 in Loda and he preceded her in death on May 1, 2012. She was also preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and four sisters.

She is survived by three sons, Greg (Fern) Reutter of Elgin, Marc (Ruth) Reutter of Cissna Park and Don J. (Laurel) Reutter of Cissna Park; ten grandchildren; and nineteen great-grandchildren.

Jean was a member of the Christian Bible Church in Cissna Park and loved crocheting and crafting.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Monday, June 7, 2021 at the Christian Bible Church in Cissna Park. Rev. Josh Benner will officiate. Burial will follow at the Cissna Park Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Christian Bible Church in Cissna Park.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Please share a memory of Jean at knappfuneralhomes.com.

William "Billy" Fischer, 57, of Chebanse

William "Billly" Fischer, 57, of Chebanse passed away on Sunday, May 30th, 2021 at the RIverside Medical Center in Kankakee. 

 

A Funeral service is scheduled for Monday, June 7th, 2021 at 5:00pm at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. A visitation is set for Monday, June 7th starting one hour prior to the 5pm funeral service.

 

Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton is handling arrangements. 

Mattie B. Kent, 90, of Chebanse

Mattie B. Kent, 90, of Chebanse, passed away on Saturday, May 29, 2021 at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth.

 

Mattie was born on April 3, 1931 in Golden, MS, the daughter of George R. and Vertie M. (Marbutt) Burton and they preceded her in death. She married James L. Kent on April 23, 1947 in Belmont, MS and he preceded her in death on April 2, 2007. She was also preceded in death by seven brothers and one step-brother; 6 sisters; one daughter, Patty; and one son-in-law, James.

 

She is survived by two daughters, Janice Yohnka of Chebanse and Pamela Peeken of Kankakee; five sons, Thomas “Clark” (Sandy) Kent of Greenbriar, TN, James “Chris” (Patricia) Kent of Pocatello, ID, Michael (Sharon) Kent of Bourbonnais, Ronald (Anette) Kent of Punta Gorda, FL, and Rodney (Elizabeth) Kent of Gainesville, VA; one son-in-law, David Boness of Chebanse; nineteen grandchildren; thirty great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.

 

Mattie was a member of Faith Baptist Church. She enjoyed quilting and crocheting. Mattie was a wonderful provider, housewife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She enjoyed playing games, especially cards and Bingo.

 

Private services will be held at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton with burial at Evergreen Cemetery in Chebanse. Pallbearers for the service will be Tim Kent, Tom Kent, Brandon Kent, Justin Kent, Matthew Peeken, Stephanie Denoyer, Dawn Lamie, and Eric Boness.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth.

 

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

Sheryl Stewart, 54, of Clifton

Sheryl Lynn “Sherry” Stewart, 54, of Clifton passed away on Monday, May 24, 2021 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on December 10, 1966 in Joilet, the daughter of Clarence “Jim” Stewart and Phyllis Ducat.

 

She is survived by one son, Zachary Isaac Stewart (Karlee) of Ashkum; one daughter, Jasmine Danielle Stewart of Clifton; her mother, Phyllis Stewart of Clifton; her father, Jim Stewart of Cambridge, OH; two grandchildren, Mallory and Marshall Stewart; one sister, Judy (Shawn) Mattox of Bourbonnais; one brother, Jamie (Meghan Thomson) Stewart of Kankakee; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Sherry was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Clifton and was a Claims Adjustor at Cigna. She loved sewing dolls, Crocheting, and reading, and was a Cubs and Bulls fan.

 

Memorial mass will be held on Friday, June 4, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Clifton. Fr. Vern Arseneau will officiate. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Clifton.

Memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, June 3, 2021 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

 

Memorials may be made to Jasmine’s education fund.

 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Sheryl Lynn Stewart please visit our Sympathy Store.

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