Harry C. Kaper, 88, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, July 22, 2021 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. He was born on October 29, 1932 in Chicago a son of Neil and Johanna Kingma Kaper. Harry married Grace M. Reed in Chicago on August 21, 1955 and she preceded him in death on January 1, 2021. Also preceding him in death were his parents, two brothers, and one sister. Survivors include three sons- Gary (Debbie) Kaper of Watseka, Burt (Nancy) Kaper of Watseka, and Jeff (Sarah) Kaper of Champaign; two daughters- Susan (Steve) Johnson of Minneapolis, MN and Stephanie (James) Gray of Tower Lakes; thirteen grandchildren- Cornell, Madelyn, Katelyn, Grant, Allison, Alex, Reed, Emma, Ethan, Anna, Olivia, Ellen, and Oliver; five great grandchildren- William, Jackson, Emersyn, Shannon, and Danielle; two sisters- Betty Fetel of PA and Ruth Elliott of Tuscon, AZ.

After graduating from Demotte High School, Harry attended South Bend Business College. He continued his education at Kansas State University and he was in the first class to graduate from the Feed Technology School. He entered the executive training program with Ralston Purina Company and worked with them for four years. Harry then formed a partnership with his cousin and established Bedford Woodworking Company in Burbank. This company was well known for high quality cabinetry and millwork throughout the Chicago area. In 1981, he started his own business, Kaper’s Hardware and Building Materials, in Watseka and ran the business until March 2013. Harry was School Board President of District 135 in Orland Park for fourteen years and most recently was a trustee for the Woodland Fire Department. Throughout the years he was active in church ministries serving on elder boards, building committees, and youth programs.

A celebration of life service will be held at Cornerstone Church in Woodland on Saturday, August 7, 2021 at 10:00 am with Pastor Jerry Parker officiating.

Memorials may be made to Cornerstone Church.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Harry C. Kaper please visit our Sympathy Store.

Sheila K. Hartman, 69, of Watseka passed away on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at Kindred Hospital Chicago in Northlake. She was born October 23, 1951 in Watseka, the daughter of Harvey H. and Evelyn M. (Kaufmann) Hartman and they preceded her in death in addition to one brother, Rick Hartman.

She is survived by two sisters, Sheryl (Ron) Gocken of Watseka and Sharon (Harold) Wiedeman of Watseka; one sister-in-law, Barb Hartman of Marco Island, FL; four nieces and nephews, Lisa (Todd) Oster of Watseka, David Wiedeman of Watseka, Hailey (Alex) Helin of Fayetteville, AR and Michael (Fiance, Megan) Hartman of Chicago; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and two great-great-nieces.

Sheila attended Life Church in Gilman and enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Pastor Jim Harkins officiating. Private burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Life Church in Gilman.

Please share a memory of Sheila at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Pauline Siebert, 89 of Gilman passed away on Saturday July 24, 2021 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on August 16, 1931 in Wing, IL a daughter of William and Mary Ash Crandall. Pauline was married to David Siebert and he preceded her in death. Also preceding her in death were her parents, four brothers, and two sisters. Survivors include one daughter- Dena (Steve) Reynolds of Loda; one son- Dale (Sheila) Ecker of Gilman; nine step children; two grandchildren- Derek (Dana) Cobb of Gilman and Erica (Eddy) Turner of Watseka; two step grandchildren- Chris and Karen McCubbins; one sister- Rita Ray of Sabattus, ME; along with many great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Pauline was a member of St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gilman and enjoyed playing cards, fishing, and gardening.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday July 27, 2021 at 11:00 am at St. Pauls Lutheran Church in Gilman with Lynn Clukin officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral service at the church. Burial will be in Del Rey Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St Paul’s Lutheran Church, American Cancer Society or the donor’s choice.

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

Barbara M. Wood, 86, of Milford, IL, passed away at 3:35 P.M. Friday July 23, 2021, at Accolade Health Care of Paxton on Fulton.  She was born October 24, 1934, in Wellington, IL, the daughter of Roy and Myrtle (McMahel) Crook.  She married Everett H. Wood on December 24, 1952, at the Prairie Green Church of Christ.  He preceded her in death. 

She is survived by two daughters, Connie (Lynn) Campbell of Tucson, AZ and Cathy Jennings of Carterville, IL; one sister, Carolyn (Tracy) Clayton of Brownsburg, IN; one brother, Richard Crook of Milford, IL; one brother-in-law, Wayne Way; two granddaughters, Jenifer Harris and Tina Shick; three great-grandchildren, Kody, Kady, and Kaly; and many nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Frances Way; two brothers, Ernie Crook and Robert Crook; and one son-in-law, Mike Jennings. 

Barbara worked at Goss’ Home Bakery and later at Stokely’s in Hoopeston.  She was a member of the Milford Christian Church.  She enjoyed bowling and was inducted into the Hoopeston Bowling Hall of Fame.  Barbara also enjoyed growing flowers, birdwatching, and collecting knickknacks and antiques. 

A visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. -12:00 P.M. Thursday July 29, 2021, at the Milford Christian Church 811 E. Hickory St. Milford, IL.  The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 12:00 P.M. Thursday at the church with Pastor Brent Zastrow, Rev. Gary Milton, and Rev. Neil Larimore officiating.  Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston. 

Memorials may be made to the Milford Christian Church 811 E. Hickory St. Milford, IL 60953. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Nicholas James Davis, 32, formerly of Watseka passed away on Monday, July 19, 2021 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Nicholas was born December 26, 1988 in Watseka, the son of James Martin Davis and Judy Arlene Ealy.

Survivors include his mother, Judy (Kim) Barrie of Kankakee; his father, James Davis of Watseka; sisters, Samantha (Daniel) Waller of Watseka and Nancy (Josh) Conner of St. Anne; one brother, Pat (Eboni) Button of Gifford; five nieces and nephews that were like his children, Daniel Waller, Jr., Owen Houser, Jayden Waller, Ava McCain, and Kya Houser; his paternal grandmother, Lois Davis of Watseka; his fur-baby, Capone; and several aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his step-father, George Button; maternal grandparents, Everett and Patricia Ealy, Sr., and his paternal grandfather, Bill Davis.

Nicholas enjoyed fishing, traveling as a free bird, and being outdoors with his nieces and nephews. He had heart of gold, loved construction and scrapping, and especially enjoyed spending time with Capone.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the 1:00 p.m. funeral service on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Burial will follow at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to the family to help pay for funeral expenses.

Richard L. Roberge, 93 of Watseka passed away on Friday July 23, 2021 at Carle Hospital in Urbana. He was born on November 21, 1927 in South Hadley, MA a son of Edmund and Ida Dupree Roberge. Dick married Pearl L. Matson in Hoosick Falls, NY on June 28, 1948 and she preceded him in death on January 14, 2020. Survivors include two sons- Gary (Sue) Roberge of Onarga and Mark Roberge of Alva, FL; one sister- Ida Roberge of Troy, NY; one brother- Louis Roberge of Clifton Park, NY; two step grandchildren and five step great grandchildren. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by two brothers and four sisters. Dick was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka, Watseka American Legion, Iroquois County V.F.W., and Disabled American Veterans. He was a police officer and fireman for the City of Watseka for many years.

Funeral services will be on Thursday July 29, 2021 at 1:00 pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Fr. Mike Powell officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Watseka American Legion and Iroquois County V.F. W. Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral service. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery at a later date.

Michael E. Johnson, 50, of Gilman passed away on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 in Gilman. He was born on November 18, 1970 in Kankakee, the son of Paul E. and Margurette Wade (Shuman) Johnson. He married Linda Kay Milton in Bourbonnais on August 15, 1997 and she passed away on January 20, 2018. He is also preceded in death by both of his parents.

Surviving are one daughter, Nicole Johnson (R.C. Snow) of Decatur; one son, Logan Johnson of Gilman; two brothers, David E. Johnson of Gilman and Andrew J. Johnson of Gilman; one sister, Susan M. Johnson of Buckeye, AZ; and his girlfriend, Karen Kmiecik and her family, all of Gilman.
Michael served in the United States Marine Corp. He was a member of the Onarga Sons of the American Legion Post 551. Michael enjoyed camping, was a tech enthusiast, and had a special skill in photography. He was a good, loving father to his kids.

A memorial visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman. Burial of cremains will take place at a later date at Danville National Cemetery in Danville with full graveside military rites.

Memorials may be made to Toys for Tots or CJD Foundation.

Dolores F. Hansen, 83, of Clifton passed away on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 in Clifton. She was born on December 13, 1937 in Martinton, the daughter of Raymond J. and Florence M. (O’Connor) Hubert.

Dolores married her husband of 62 years, Ronald G. Hansen, on June 27, 1959 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable and he survives. She is also survived by three sons, Mark (Donna) Hansen of Roselle, Craig (Elizabeth) Hansen of Arlington Heights, and Kyle (Amy) Hansen of Bourbonnais; two daughters, Lori (Warren) Menard of Lafayette, IN and Kendra (John) Martin of Watseka; fourteen grandchildren, Alexa (Brett) Krahn, John (Natalie) Hansen, Brian (Elizabeth) Hansen, Andrew Hansen, Claire Hansen, Mary Beth Hansen, Molly (Rhett) Morehouse, Maria (Bowdie) Linsenmeyer, Luke Menard, Adam Menard, Michael Hansen, Hannah Hansen, Dane Martin, and Megan Martin; eight great-grandchildren, Liam, Bence, Livie, Hallie, Haven, Emerson, Adalyn, Ila, and one on the way; one brother, Gerald (Pat) Hubert; six sisters, Phyllis Blake, Beverly (Robert) Kohan, Sandra Gigl, Arlene Scholl, Lynn Arseneau, and Therese (Arnie) Bandstra; and nephew, Otto Stuckmeier III.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Ronnie; two sisters, Shirley and Carole; and one great-grandchild, Ellie.

Dolores was a charter member of the Clifton Junior Women’s Club and Woman of the Year CCW. She enjoyed volunteering for school, community, and church activities, and her chocolate chip cookies were always there when you needed one. She was a homemaker, enjoyed bike rides with her husband, and spending time with her family.

Funeral mass will be held on Monday, July 26, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable. Fr. Doug Hauber will officiate. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Clifton.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 25, 2021 from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

Shawn Edward Barham, 38, of Paradise, CA and formerly of Gilman passed away on Thursday, July 15, 2021. He was born on April 27, 1983 in Clifton, the son of Barry Albert and Tina (Lord) Barham.

He is survived by four children, Kaydence, Haylie, Sebastian, and Ezzarah Barham, all of California; mother, Tina Barham of Gilman; father, Barry Barham of LaFollette, TN; two brothers, Cory (Lissette) Barham of Gilman and Colby Barham of Gilman; and maternal grandmother, Linda Lord of Chebanse.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Jan Lord and paternal grandparents, Albert and Harriett Barham.

Shawn was a member of the Gilman United Methodist Church. He enjoyed playing guitar, riding motorcycles, fitness, and loved animals and his family. He attended college at Santa Rosa Junior College and Sonoma State University, and was general sales manager at Sierra Steel Harley Davidson.

Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, July 31, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. memorial service at Gilman United Methodist Church. Rev. Mark Crawford and Rev. Vicki Killus will officiate. Burial will follow at Gilman Cemetery.

Arrangements by Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

Memorials may be made to Family’s Wishes

Edgar Bertram, 87, of Stockland passed away on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family.

Ed was born September 5, 1933 in Frazer, KY, the son of Jimmy and Ina (Brown) Bertram and they preceded him in death. He married Ora Lee Thompson on September 30, 1950 in Frazer, KY and she preceded him in death on December 24, 2016. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Haskel and Norman “P.H.”; two infant sisters; and one daughter, Linda Hancock; and one sister-in-law, Evelyn Bertram.

He is survived by one daughter, Kathie Brady of Watseka; four grandchildren, Tony Brady of Watseka, Eric (Christina) Hancock of Rossville, IN, Mark (Laeticia) Hancock of Tuscola, and Amanda (Nathan) Lambert of Milford; twelve great grandchildren, Taylor and Connor Brady, Evan, Macie, Dallas, Brent, Lucas, Joshua, and T.J. Hancock, and Morgan, Aurora, and Kinsley Lambert; two great-great grandchildren, Rosalyn and Alaska Hancock; one son-in-law, Warren Hancock; and several nieces and nephews, including two special nieces, Sue and Donna.

Mr. Bertram started his career by farming, working at the grain elevator, followed by Alver Popcorn Company, and later International Multifoods. He then owned and operated Stockland Lumber and Stockland Cafe for many years. He later worked at Big R in the lawnmower repair department. Ed helped maintain the Clifford Bury Auditorium (Stockland Gym) for many years. He was a member of Sheldon Masonic Lodge #609 and his hobbies included his koi pond and mowing.

Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Masonic rites will be held at 11:00 a.m. and the funeral service will follow. Rev. Brent Zastrow will officiate. Burial will be held at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Milford Ambulance.

Connie Jean Fink, 58, formerly a resident of Rankin, IL, passed away at 4:22 A.M. Sunday July 18, 2021, at her home.  She was born January 11, 1963, in Paxton, IL, the daughter of Donald L. and Valaria Margaret (Sincula) Skinner.  She married Kevin Fink in Hoopeston, IL and he survives. 

She is also survived by one daughter, Paige Hensley of Danville, IL; two sons, Lance Hensley and Chase Hensley both of Danville, IL; two sisters, Linda Loy of Lafayette, IN and Cindy (Gayle) Pate of Greenville, IL; two brothers, Donald J. (Vanessa) Skinner of Mulberry Grove, IL and Terry Skinner of Hoopeston, IL; three grandchildren, Kah’mariontae Cooper, Audra Hensley, and Ariah Hensley; 5 nieces and nephews, Penny Smith, Kimberly Lorentzen, Trinia Riggs, Travis Pate, and Lindsey (Mike) Roeder; 5 great-nieces and nephews; and 2 great great nieces and nephews.  

She was preceded in death by her parents; late husband, John E. Hensley; grandparents, Nellie Collins and Walter & Francis Skinner; and step grandparents, Spencer and Dorothy Collins. 

Connie was a mother of three, all of which could do no wrong in her eyes.  She was their strength and the person who they could go to without judgement during any trial and tribulation they faced in life.  She adored her grandchildren and spent a lot of time with them, spoiling them rotten.  Connie’s house had an open-door policy and all of her children’s friends were able to come and go as they pleased.  She was often referred to as, “Mama Connie”.  

Before Connie’s health started to decline and she was still able-bodied, she enjoyed family get-togethers and was especially known for her famous taco salad and chex mix, which were always a hit during the holidays.  She spent lots of time watching her favorite shows, Paranormal Witness and Young and the Restless, reading Woman’s World Magazine and doing crossword puzzles.  Connie had a very special and close relationship with her mother, Valaria, and oftentimes you could find them together, shopping or watching television.  There was not a day they went without talking.    

Connie leaves behind many family members and friends who are completely devastated, and heart broken by her sudden passing.  She will be missed tremendously, and her absence will be felt for years to come.  

Cremation rites will be accorded, and a graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday August 9, 2021, at Rankin Union Cemetery in Rankin, IL.    

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.  

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.  

Sharon Elaine Goller, 71, of Savoy and formerly of Watseka, passed away on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 at Champaign-Urbana Rehab Center in Savoy. She was born on April 2, 1950 in Kankakee, the daughter of Victor W. and Florence (Seemann) Futcher and they preceded her in death.

She is survived by one son, Sean (Rebecca) Goller of Portland, OR; one brother, Ronald (Carol) Futcher of St. Anne; one grandson, David; and several nieces and nephews.

Sharon attended the First United Methodist Church in Champaign.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to her grandson, David’s Educational Fund or First United Methodist Church in Champaign.

Marlene Bonita Funk, 86, of Onarga passed away on Monday, July 19, 2021 at the Gilman Health Care Center. She was born May 1, 1935 in Clifton, the daughter of Milton and Angela (Green) Demierre and they preceded her in death in addition to one sister.

She married James Funk on December 20, 1991 in Watseka and he survives. Also surviving are one son, Larry (Nancy) Redeker of Crescent City; four step-sons, Tracy Funk of Alabama, Timmy Funk of Watseka, Tony Gamino of Watseka and Philip Gamino; three grandchildren, Jason (Gail) Redeker of Cissna Park, Mallory Redeker of Watseka and Joel (Melissa) Redeker of Crescent City; four great-grandchildren, Peyton, Drayke, Ryenn and Emma Redeker; two brothers, Dennis Demierre of Martinton and Ronald (Myrna) Demierre of Bourbonnais; and one sister, Joan Goodwin of Watseka.

Marlene was a CNA at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the 12:00 pm funeral service on Thursday, July 22, 2021 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. Rev. John Franklin will officiate. Burial will follow at Glen Cemetery in Paxton.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or the donor’s choice.

Charles G. “Chuck” Schneider, 81, of Kankakee entered the gates of Heaven and met his savior on Friday, July 16, 2021 at his home with his family. He was born July 4, 1940 in Kankakee, the son of H. Glenn and Mary (Lockwood) Schneider. Charles married Judi Saxe on December 7, 1963 in Kankakee and she preceded him in passing on February 6, 2021.

Charles is survived by two sons, Scott Schneider (fiancé Stephanie Wilson) of Milford and Jeff (Tammy) Schneider of Bourbonnais: one brother, David (Christine) Schneider of North Point, FL; four grandchildren, Haley Schneider, Megan (Jacob) Kruse, Andrew (Kirsten) Schneider, and Oliver Schneider (fiancé Jacalyn Wingerter); four great-grandchildren, Illyria and Solara Schneider and Brooklyn and Grace Kruse; and many nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by both of his parents; wife, Judi; brother, John Schneider; and two grandchildren, Trevor and Alexander Schneider.

Charles loved collecting skillets and pots or anything related to cast iron. He loved to visit the Smokey Mountains in Tennessee with his family. Charles also loved to tinker around in the yard and in his woods out back. He was a member of the Grace Baptist Church in Kankakee and was a veteran with the United States Army.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am at the Grace Baptist Church in Kankakee (2499 Waldron Rd.) on Wednesday July, 21, 2021 and a funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at church. Pastor Dwight Ascher will officiate. Burial will follow after the service at Gilman Cemetery in Gilman.

Memorials can be made to the Family’s Wishes.

Arrangements are being handled by the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

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

Tim L. Schaumburg, 75, of Milford passed away on Thursday, July 15, 2021 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on December 29, 1945 in Milford, the son of Edwin and Lavonne Ilene (Theesefeld) Schaumburg. He married Joy Ann Lehmann on October 5, 1969 at St. John’s Lutheran Church at Schwer and she preceded him in passing on December 22, 2014.

Surviving are four sons, Brent (Paula) Schaumburg of Burlington, KY, Troy (Michelle) Schaumburg of Westville, Jaci (Michelle) Schaumburg of Danville, and Quentin (Audra) Schaumburg of Milford; eleven grandchildren, Katy (Tyler), Stephen (Faith), Matthew, Alec, Cade, Kelsey, Colin, Sydney, Jordan, Klaytin, and Isaac; two great grandchildren, Parker and Theo; one brother, Tyrone (Lyn) Schaumburg of Milford; five sisters, Marleen (Jerry) Purdin of Woodland, April Steiner of Cissna Park, Seiri (David) Schippert of Cissna Park, Holly Milar of Watseka, and Dawn (Donny) Steiner of Cissna Park; his mother in law, Maxine Lehmann of Savoy; brother in law, Lee (Judy) Lehmann of St. Joseph; and a special friend, Betty Hoffman.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Joy Ann.

Mr. Schaumburg was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church at Schwer, sang with the group Behold, and was a part of the Schaumburg Quartet. He was an active Milford Township Board member, was a lifetime member of the Milford FFA Alumni, and was a lifetime farmer in the Milford area. Tim loved hunting, fishing, and watching his grandkids play sports. He was a forty three year member of Cissna Park American Legion Post 527. He served in the United States Navy. Tim enjoyed making memories with family and friends at his meat shop. He enjoyed farming, raising cattle, and loved his dogs.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at St. John’s Lutheran Church at Schwer. Rev. Steven Jensen will officiate. Military rites will be provided by Cissna Park American Legion Post 527.

Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 pm on Monday, July 19, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Memorials may be made to Milford FFA Alumni to go towards scholarships.

Steve “Scuba” Robinson, 45, of Watseka passed away Sunday, July 11, 2021 at his home. He was born August 14, 1975 in Kankakee, the son of Geral and Mary Ann (Coker) Robinson. He was preceded in death by his mother.

He is survived by his father and step-mother, Geral (Patricia) Robinson of Winston Salem, NC; one sister, Pamela (Brian) Howell of Watseka; one brother, Michael Robinson of Sheldon; one niece, Kayla Rogers of Watseka; one nephew, Brandon Rogers of Donovan; and his girlfriend, Jamie Saathoff of Crescent City.

Steve was a truck driver for T&D Metals in Watseka. He was a member of State Line Riders and enjoyed motorcycles, boating and camping.

A memorial visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 16, 2021 at Baier Funeral home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Please share a memory of Scuba at baierfuneralhome.com.

Earnest “Ernie” Graham, 87, of Clifton passed away on Saturday, July 10, 2021 at his home. He was born on March 22, 1934 in Metropolis, IL, the son of John and Marie (Joiner) Graham. He married Rebecca Davis in Anna, IL in July 1954.

Surviving are his wife, Rebecca Graham of Clifton; three sons, Charles “Ernie” (Diane) Graham of Chattanooga, TN, Mike (Debra) Graham of Ashkum, and William (Gloria) Graham of Sammons Point, IL; two daughter in laws, Sue Graham of Chebanse and Jan “Denise” Graham of Florida; one son in law, Randy Livesay of Olmstead, IL; fourteen grandchildren; and many great grandchildren.

Ernie was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, John Graham and Robert Graham; one daughter, Rebecca Marie “Missy” Livesay; and one grandchild, Jessie Lee Saltzgiver.

He was a member of Christ Central Community Church, UAW, and was President at Chicago Heights Autoworkers Credit Union. He worked at Texaco in Chebanse doing various duties. Ernie enjoyed bowling, golf, hunting, and fishing.

Funeral services will be at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 at Clifton Baptist Church. Rev. Dan Shipton will officiate. Visitation will be from 1:00-3:00 at church.

Memorials may be made to Christ Central Community Church building fund.

Please share a memory of Earnest at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Allen J. Carley, 101 of Danforth and formerly of Milford passed away on Sunday June 27, 2021 at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth. He was born on June 2, 1920 in Crescent Twp., a son of Adam J. and Ollie C. Smith Carley. Allen married Velma E. Scheiwe in the same house in rural Milford that he was born, on December 25, 1941 and they were blessed with nearly 78 years of marriage. Velma preceded him in death on October 24, 2019. Survivors include - Dr. Leon (Janet) Carley of South Beloit, IL, Verla Carley of Milford, Bonita Rajala of Watseka, Virginia (Bob) Buhr of Milford, and Kenton (Lisa) Carley of Milford; ten grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren. In addition to his wife he was preceded in death by his parents, one brother- LaVern Carley, one sister- Dorothy Werkau, one son- Russell Carley, two grandsons- Jeffrey Buhr and Scott Carley, one daughter in law- Shari Carley, and one son in law- Bruce Rajala.

Allen spent his childhood in the rural Milford area attending the Prairie Center one room grade school through 8th grade. He attended Woodland High School, Crescent High School, and graduated from Watseka Community High School in 1937. After high school, he graduated from the Utility Engineering Institute in Chicago. Farming was his passion and profession his entire life. He was a director of the Iroquois County Soil and Conservation for several years, charter member of Professional Farmers of America, member of the Farm Bureau, was a drainage commissioner for 30 years, and past member of the Farmers Union. Allen received many tractor pulling awards over the years including 1st place Points Trophy and 2nd place trophy for National Corns Growers Association. In 1953 he organized Little League in Crescent City and coached Little League, Babe Ruth League, and American Legion baseball for many years. Allen was a lifetime member of St. Peters Lutheran Church in Crescent City and active in many organizations within the church especially Men in Mission where he served as President. He was secretary of the Building Committee during the church addition and was the oldest member of St. Peters Dartball Team. Allen became active in golf during his later years and was a past member of Shagbark, Grandview, and Shewami Country Club.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday July 10, 2021 at 12 noon at St Peters Lutheran Church in Crescent City with Rev. Joel Brown officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30am to 12 noon prior to the funeral service at the church. Burial will be in St. Peters Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Prairieview Lutheran Home, Iroquois memorial Hospice, or donor’s choice.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Allen J. Carley please visit our Sympathy Store.

Charles “Herb” Voyles Jr., 73, of Wellington, IL, passed away at 3:14 A.M. Sunday July 4, 2021, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.  Arrangements are pending at Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston. 

Diana L. Bowers, 72, of Chebanse passed away on Friday, July 2, 2021 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.

She was born on March 15, 1949 in Kankakee, the daughter of Duane and Jennie (Sroka) Mathy. She married Kenneth J. Bowers on February 15, 1969 in Chebanse and he survives.

Besides her husband Ken, she is survived by two sons, Duane Bowers of Clifton and Darin Bowers (Kerry Janesky) of Urbana; one daughter, Jill (Tim) Rieken of Clifton; nine grandchildren, Kaitlin, Mariah, Matthew, and Jenna Bowers, Mariana and Dylan Rieken, Zoe, Jade and Kate Bowers; one great-grandchild, Sylvia Rieken; two sisters, Karen (Hap) Billingsley, Janis (Richard) Buss, and one brother, Mike (Dawn) Mathy, all of Chebanse; three sister-in-laws, Rita (Roger) West, Marilyn Gorun, Patricia Moore; one brother-in-law, Robert Bowers; one aunt Dorothy Riebe, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Diana graduated from Clifton Central High School in 1967. She retired after being an Executive Secretary at Gould National Battery in Kankakee for over 27 years.

She was a member of Sts. Mary & Joseph Catholic Church in Chebanse. Diana was the vice president of the Clifton Community Food Pantry and served on the board for over 18 years. Diana was also a member of the Chebanse Community Building board. She loved spending time with family and friends, and especially her children and grandchildren. She was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, loved to watch PGA golf, enjoyed bowling, playing cards and travel.

She was preceded in death by her parents, along with one sister, Linda Mathy, and one brother-in-law, Joel Gorun.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, July 7, 2021 from 4pm-7pm at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

Funeral Mass will be at 10am on Thursday, July 8, 2021 at Sts. Mary & Joseph Catholic Church in Chebanse with Fr. Doug Hauber officiating.

Private graveside services will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Clifton Community Food Pantry or Family Wishe

Beulah M. Reed, 84, passed away on Tuesday, November 24, 2020 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 17, 1936, the daughter of Ben and Margaret (Heur) Zbinden. She lived her entire life in the home where she passed and was very passionate about the house and the beautiful flower gardens.

Beulah’s two daughters were wonderful caregivers to their mother, as well as the grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Beulah married Charlie Ford Reed on October 19, 1958 in Watseka, Illinois and he preceded her in death June 2, 1986. She was also preceded in death by one daughter Julie Parsons, April 14, 2010, her parents, five sisters and one brother.

Surviving are two daughters, Lisa and Darryl Focken, and Dawn and Stuart Anderson all of Cissna Park. Son-In-Law and Daughter-In-Law, Dr. Steven and Debbie Parsons of Gibson City. Grandchildren, Lacey and Ben Dreyer, London and Bradley Most, Payton Focken, Macy and Trace Coleman, Reed and Jessica Anderson, Beau Anderson, Noah Anderson, Jeramy and Chrissy Parson, Andrew and Angie Parsons, Tony and Rachel Parsons and 10 Great Grandchildren. Also surviving are two brothers, Ray Zbinden of Aroma Park, Daniel Zbinden of Cissna Park, many nieces and nephews and a host of dear friends.

She was a long time member of the Cissna Park United Methodist Church, serving as past Sunday School Teacher, leader of the United Methodist Youth Fellowship, President of the United Methodist Women and financial secretary for forty-eight years. Served on the Board of Directors for Country Theatre Workshop for thirty-eight years and also served as Treasurer. She also worked for thirty years at the Cissna Park State Bank. Beulah was an author of a book “Sweet Home Cissna Park”, co-chairman of Pigeon Grove United Fund Drive for several years. She was best known for her famous birthday, wedding and graduation cakes and her delicious meals and deserts.

Beulah enjoyed any time she could spend with her family and friends. She always cherished time with her grand and great grandchildren.

Words to live by, Ephesians 4:29. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Be the person that makes others feel special. Be known for your kindness and grace.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 9, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 104 Harrison Ave. in Cissna Park. Ashley Clifton and Ben Dreyer will officiate. A visiting hour will be held from 5:00 p.m. until the start of the service.

Burial was held at Cissna Park Cemetery.

Susan K. Jordan, 73, of Onarga passed away on Monday, July 5, 2021 at her home in Onarga. She was born on October 10, 1947 in Watseka, the daughter of Ralph and Marie (Brauman) Scott. She married Richard Jordan in Onarga on June 3, 1966 and he survives.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by five sisters, Marietta, Marjorie, JoAnn, Pat, and Sharon; mother in law, Vivian; two sister in laws, Donna and Judy; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Richard; and two sisters, Beverly and Donna.

Susan was an avid golfer, enjoyed bowling, and ran a ceramic shop in her home for years. She enjoyed tractor rides with her husband, especially going out to Mt. Rushmore serval times on trips and pulling a tractor out there. Susan loved children, babysat for many kids in the area over the years, and loved to harvest her garden yearly.

Funeral services will be on at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 8, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. Pastor Jim Harkins will officiate. Burial will follow at Onarga Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, July 7, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga.

Memorials may be made to Donor’s Choice.

Please share a memory of Susan at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Faith Marie Billerbeck, 20, of Ashkum passed away on Tuesday, June 29, 2021.

She was born on September 7, 2000 in Kankakee, the daughter of Brian and Cheryl (Gullquist) Billerbeck Sr. and they survive. Other survivors include one brother, Brian (Nikki) Billerbeck Jr. of Chebanse; one sister, Misti Billerbeck of Massachusetts; one nephew, Carson Goben; one niece, Grace Billerbeck; her companion dog, Copper; and many aunts and uncles.
She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Merle and Opal Gullquist and Homer “Pete” and Darlene Billerbeck; and one uncle, Mickey Gullquist.

Visitation will be from 12:00 until the 4:00 p.m. funeral service on Saturday, July 3, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Rev. Kene Whybrew will officiate.

John “Jack” Kohl, 84, of Watseka passed away on June 30, 2021 at Piper City Rehab & Living Center.

He was born on June 23, 1937 in Watseka, the son of Henry and Nettie (McCloskey) Kohl and they preceded him in death along with one brother, Jerry Kohl, and one nephew, Mark Kohl.

He married Mary Dubea on October 11, 1969 in Iroquois and she survives. Other survivors include one son, John (Kathy) Kohl of Woodstock; one daughter, Kim (Ryan) Zufall of New Berlin; and six grandchildren, Meghan and Anna Zufall, John and Katie Kohl, and Evan and Derek Ambre.

Jack served in the U.S. Navy. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Watseka. He was employed at Uarco for 42 years as a proof assembler. Jack was an avid Cubs, Bears, and Blackhawks fan.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the 12:00 p.m. funeral service on Monday, July 5, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Joe Hughes will officiate. Burial will follow at Prairie Dell Cemetery in Iroquois with graveside military rites by Watseka American Legion Post #23 and Iroquois County VFW Post #7450.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of John "Jack" Kohl please visit our Sympathy Store.