Donald “Bud” Brave, 93, of Chebanse passed away on Wednesday, September 28, 2022 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on April 15, 1929 in rural Kankakee, the son of Fred and Pearl (Hickory) Brave. He married Bonita “Bonnie” Houde in Kankakee on November 26, 1949 and she preceded him in passing on June 1, 2010.

Surviving are his daughter, Belinda Powell of Chebanse; son, Craig Brave of Evansville, IN; ten grandchildren, Michelle, Michael, Monique, Brandon, Amanda, Matt, Jason, Donny, ChyAnn, and Alysa; eighteen great grandchildren; six great great grandchildren as well as one on the way; and two brothers, Jerry (Sharon) Brave of Chebanse and Larry (Judy) Brave of Chebanse.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Bonnie; brother Ray Brave; sister, Phyllis Geffe; son in law, Bobby Elumbaugh; one son, Brett Brave; and one daughter, Becky Elumbaugh.

Bud sang in a barbershop quartet and played basketball in high school. He was a volunteer fireman and EMT-I for the Village of Chebanse. He retired from Nicor after thirty-nine years and later worked for the Village of Chebanse as a mechanic for over thirty. He enjoyed working on small engines for fun as well as for a business and riding his motorcycle.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Chebanse.

Visitation will be from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm before the funeral service on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the Family’s Wishes.

Ronald P. “Squeek” Long, 71, of Watseka passed away on Monday, September 26, 2022 at his residence.
Squeek was born on September 11, 1951 in Danville, the son of Elmer O. and Clara Cynthia (Cooksie) Long. He married Michele Joan Tweedy on June 3, 1972 at Milford Christian Church and she survives.

Besides his wife, Michele Long of Watseka, he is survived by one daughter, Tammy Barragree of Watseka and her children, Kaitley (Dustin) Smith, Kenna (Austin) Zirkle, and Cameron Barragree; one son, Nicolas (Catherine) Long of Zionsville, IN and their children, Everett, Oliver, and Alden Long; five sisters, Barb Gosser of Pence, IN, Nancy (John) Neal of Chattanooga, TN, Winnie Roach of Wellington, Brenda Eastburn of Sheldon, and Sue (Donnie) Cropper of Armstrong; one step-sister, Sherrie (Steve) Leslie of Hoopeston; and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, James and Herb Long, and one great-grandson, Tripp Ryan Smith.

Squeek loved his friends and family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He took great pride in taking care of his house and yard, was an automobile enthusiast, and an avid car show coordinator and participant.

Visitation will be from 1:00 until the 4:00 p.m. funeral service on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Steven Adsit will officiate the service. Burial will be held at a later date at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Marlene M. Seggebruch, 89, of Cissna Park passed away on Monday, September 26, 2022 at the Praireview Lutheran Home in Danforth. She was born on July 15, 1933 in Watseka, daughter of Fred and Mable (Hodge) Lubben. Marlene married Melvin Henry Seggebruch in Grand Prairie, Texas on July 8, 1951 and he preceded her in death on July 29, 2020. She was also preceded in death by both parents; one brother, John Lubben; and her daughter-in-law, Donna Seggebruch.

Surviving are four sons, Duane “Dewey” Seggebruch of Milford, Les D. (Joann) Seggebruch of Cissna Park, Rod Seggebruch of Cissna Park, and B.R. (Beth) Seggebruch of Cissna Park; nine grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren.

Marlene was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church at Ash Grove where she was involved with the Ladies Aide and taught Sunday School. Marlene raised four boys into men. She loved to bowl and play golf.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at St. John’s Lutheran Church at Ash Grove. Funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Rev. Michael Ruhlig officiating. Burial will follow in the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery at Ash Grove.

Memorials may be given to St. John’s Lutheran Church at Ash Grove or the Donor’s Choice.

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

Wayne L. Street, 74, of Milford passed away on Tuesday, September 20, 2022 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka.

Wayne was born on April 15, 1948 in Watseka, the son of Harold and Emma (Reiners) Street and they preceded him in death along with one brother, Robert, and one grandson, Larry McCray.

He is survived by one daughter, Linda Street-McCray of Watseka; six grandchildren, Elijah Street, Gena Pickens, Lavaughn McCray, Betty McCray, Wilson McCray, and Tyran McCray; two brothers, Delbert (Vonda) Street of Goreville, IL and Wendell (Ruby) Street of Springfield; one sister, Leona Parker of Watseka; and five nieces and nephews.

Wayne operated machinery equipment for the Iroquois County Highway Department for over thirty-five years. He was an avid hunter.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the 12:00 p.m. funeral service on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Burial will follow at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery at Schwer.

Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.

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

Leatha Ann (Rogers) Romine, 67 of Watseka passed away on Wednesday September 21, 2022 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. She was born on February 17, 1955 in Watseka the daughter of James H. and Eleanor L. (Wood) Rogers. Leatha married the love of her life, David Romine in Watseka on November 20, 1982 and he preceded her in death on July 14, 2018. Survivors include her greatest blessings- daughter Tifanie Ann Romine and son Ryne Alan Romine both of Watseka. Also surviving are one sister- Kathy (Mark) Breckenridge; one uncle- Everett Wood; sister in law- (Jeanine (JR) Clifton; brother in laws, Robert (Cheri) Romine, and Duane Romine; nieces- Wanda Kay Abston and Brittany Romine; nephews- Kirt Wayne (Tonya) Rogers, Kim Douglas Rogers, Michael (Kandace) Rogers, Kevin Trumble, Jeff (Ashley) Clifton, Mark (Lacy) Clifton, Travis Romine, Cody (Lexi) Romine; several great nieces and great nephews; friends that have become sisters- Georgia Potts, Cindy Eagle, and Vicky Quakenbush; and family friend, Bob Buckley. In addition to her husband, Leatha was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents- Henry and Birdie Rogers and Clarence and Amanda Wood; father in law and mother in law- Walter and Elaine Romine; brothers- Kenneth W. Rogers, William C. Rogers, Colin Kelly Rogers, and James H. Rogers Jr; sister and brother in law- Marietta (Miles) Varboncouer; aunts- Maxine Williams, Leona Wood, Helen Probasco, Clarice Farrand, and Janice Rogers; uncles- Herbert Wood, Alf Rogers; niece- Kandy (Rogers) Peterson; and great niece- Teresa Rogers.

Leatha graduated from Milford Twp. High School and Kankakee Community College. She worked at Electronics Components, Howard Industries, Littlefuse Inc, Iroquois Memorial Hospital, and Watseka Times Republic until her retirement. Leatha had a big heart, enjoyed her family, and was especially proud of her children.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 28, 2022 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Pastor Ashley Clifton officiating. Burial will follow at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka.

Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 pm on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and one hour prior to the service on Wednesday.

Memorials may be made to Special Needs Trust established for her children.

Please share a memory of Letha at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Sally Ann Rosenboom, 57, of Clifton, Illinois, was taken to her eternal home in Heaven on September 15, 2022.

Sally was born in Kankakee on March 1, 1965, to Donald and Zita (St. Peter) Sweeney of Chebanse. She was the 10th of the 13 wonderful Sweeney children: Steve (Linda) Sweeney, Stan (Martha) Sweeney, Stu (Jane) Sweeney, Sue (Dan) Mortier, Sam (Roxanne) Sweeney, Scott (Diane) Sweeney, Sherm (Julie) Sweeney, Sharon Sweeney, Sheila (Karl) Buch, Sean (Maria) Sweeney, Sara (Scott) Mitchell, and Shannon (Lisa) Sweeney.

Sally married Lyn Rosenboom on November 5, 1988, in Kankakee. She gained her mother-in-law, Ruth (Coordes) Rosenboom, and father-in-law, Roland Rosenboom; sister-in-law Susan Rosenboom; and sister-in-law Jackie (David) James and niece. As a young couple, Sally and Lyn enjoyed traveling, spending time with friends, and making the old family farm their home for 34 years.

Sally was the amazing mother of Abrielle (Stuart) Latham, Landon (Mishio) Rosenboom, and Haley Rosenboom. Sally and Lyn supported their children in whatever they were doing—from track meets to hauling a sheep trailer of belongings each time they decided to move around the country. In later years, Sally enjoyed visiting her children in Savannah, Georgia; Seattle, Washington; Florida, Indiana, Wyoming, Japan, and Germany. Sally held many titles at home: homemaker, bookkeeper, counselor, and best friend. In October of 2021, Sally earned a new favorite title, “Grandma” to Clay Alan Latham.

Sally was an aunt to 39 nieces and nephews, 42 great nieces and nephews, and 6 great-great nieces and nephews. Her crowning title from them is the “ice cream lady”, as she handed out Schwan’s ice cream every year at the Sweeney family reunion.

Sally enjoyed a full life. Her favorite pastimes included reading her Bible, listening to sermons and worship music, traveling, and relaxing on the lake with her dear friends and family. Sally loved the Lord with all of her heart, and she lived her life as a faithful servant and a beautiful example of love.

“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” Acts 20:24

Please join us in celebrating her life.
Visitation: Friday, September 23 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton
Funeral Service: Saturday, September 24 at 11 a.m. at Trinity Church in Ashkum
Burial will follow in the Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Chebanse

Catherine “Kate” Nagele, 102, of Sheldon passed away on Monday, September 19, 2022 at Watseka Rehab and Healthcare Center in Watseka. She was born on May 24, 1920, in Remington, IN, the daughter of Vurnard and Allie (Dluzak) Peters. She married Donald A. Nagele on December 29, 1945 in Remington, IN and he preceded her in passing on November 14, 2003.

Surviving are two sons, Dr. David (Nancy) Nagele of Sheldon and Mark (Cindy) Nagele of Sheldon; one daughter, Janet (John) Nagele-Judd of Plainfield, IL; five grandchildren, Adam (Amanda) Nagele, Ryan (Sarah) Nagele, Nicholas (Amanda) Nagele, Amber (Kolby) Jackson, and Ashley (Marcio) Sena; and seven great grandchildren, Oliver Nagele, Gabby Nagele, Teddy Nagele, Gunnar Nagele, Everly Nagele, Rosalie Jackson, and Livia Jackson.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers; and one daughter, Alice Nagele.

Kate was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Kentland. She enjoyed singing in the choir, dancing, and playing cards, especially Bridge. Over the years, she worked as a cook at the school as well as at Dixie Little Bit. Mrs. Nagele enjoyed cooking and baking and loved her time at the Iroquois Café having coffee with the ladies. She was a devoted mother and housewife.

Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 pm on Monday, September 26, 2022 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. A prayer service will take place at 3:45 pm before the visitation and a brief performance by A Natural High will take place at 7:00 pm.

A funeral mass will take place at 11:00 am CST on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Kentland. Fr. Rob Bernotas will officiate. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Kentland.

Everyone is encouraged to wear a broch or pin in Kate’s honor to the visitation and funeral mass.

Mary White, age 97 of Watseka and formerly of Rockford, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 17th surrounded by family.
Mary was born October 10, 1924 in Ossian, IA, the daughter of William & Pauline Kipp. She married Archie White on August 20, 1945 in Bluffton, IA. Archie passed away in 2013.
Surviving are two daughters Janet (Larry) Gentry of Mountain Home, ID and Becky (Mike) Marcier of Watseka. Four Grandchildren Steven (Angela) Gentry of Airway Heights, WA, Russell (Christy) Gentry of Mountain Home, ID, Amy (Troy) Simpson and Nathan (Angela) Marcier all of Watseka. Six Great Grandchildren Gina Gentry of Mountain Home, ID and Austin, Amelia, Avery Marcier and Sophie and Ellie Simpson all of Watseka.
She was preceded in death by her parents, two Brothers and one Sister.
Mary retired from GC Electronics in 1989.
She and her husband were active members of St. James Catholic Church in Rockford serving for over 60 Years. Together they served on Peace & Justice Committee, the Elder Group, and Funeral Committee. She also volunteered at Cornucopia Food Pantry. She was a member of the Catholic Women’s League and St. James Council of Catholic Women. She served on Meals-On-Wheels Ministry. Mary tirelessly served her church and was selected as the St. James Catholic Woman of the Year in 2002.
She was devoted to her family and loved spending time with her Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren as often as time allowed.
Mary received Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and looked forward to being in Heaven with Him and her loved ones.
Visitation will be on Wednesday, September 21st from 5 to 7 PM at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. There will be a private family burial at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Winnebago, IL.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to St. James Church Rebuilding Fund in Rockford or to IMH Hospice in Watseka.
Please share a memory of Mary at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Sandra K. Lambert, 79, of Piper City passed away on Sunday, September 18, 2022 at the Piper City Rehab and Living Center. She was born on May 19, 1943 in Watseka, a daughter of Howard and Dorothy (Osborne) Whaley and they preceded her in death. Sandra married Arnold “Butch” Lambert in Anchor, Illinois of March 27, 1968 and he survives in Piper City.

Also surviving are her daughter, Jana McDade of Urbana; her son, Jeff (Scottie) Treesh of Argos, Indiana; her step-daughter, Lori (Howie) Dillman of Sidney; eight grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.

Sandra was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gilman. She was a teller at the Farmers-Merchant Bank. Sandra enjoyed camping and playing cards.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, September 21, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gilman. Funeral will follow at the church at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Pete Hinrich officiating. Burial will follow in the Gilman Cemetery in Gilman.

Memorials may be given to the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gilman or to the Donor’s Choice.

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

Raymond B. Hummel, 88, of Gilman and formerly of Piper City passed away on Sunday, September 18, 2022 at Heritage Health in Normal, IL.

Raymond was born on February 23, 1934 in Piper City, the son of Earl and Leah (Kurtenbach) Hummel and they preceded him in death along with two brothers, Durwood and Jimmy; two sisters, Elvera Eppelheimer and Darlene Schall; and one granddaughter.

He married Darlene D. Strough on October 12, 1963 in Piper City and she survives in Gilman. He is also survived by three children, Lori (John) Ried of Normal, Bob Hummel of Champaign, and Karen (Zach) Moore of Bloomington; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Raymond worked for forty-two years at FS & Growmark Seed Division in Piper City. He served in the U.S. Army and was a member of the Illinois Crop Improvement Board of Urbana. He was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church in Piper City where he served on the church council for many years. Raymond enjoyed wintering in Naples, FL, loved wood working, and playing euchre.

Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at St. Peter Catholic Parish Hall in Piper City with a Rosary Service at 4:30 p.m. There will also be a visitation prior to the Funeral Mass on Thursday from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

A Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 22, 2022 at St. Peter Catholic Church in Piper City. Fr. Marek Herbut will officiate. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Piper City.

Memorials may be made to St. Peter Catholic Church in Piper City, American Diabetes Association, or donor’s choice.

Reatha Kay Henrichs, 73 of Onarga passed away on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at
Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on July 15, 1949 in Palestine, Illinois a
daughter of Paul William and Mary Jane (Lane) Johnson. Reatha married Delmer Henrichs
in Woodworth on July 24, 1981 and he survives.

Also surviving are two daughters, Barbara Ann (Jason) Shields of Goodwine and Jennifer Lynn (Jason) Thilmony of Cissna Park; four grandchildren, Jocelyn Shields, Carson Shields, Raegan Thilmony and Rylan Thilmony; one brother, Ron (Debbie) Johnson of Milford; one brother-in-law, Mike Bruens of Texas; four nephews, Mike and Jason Bruens, Matt and Marc Johnson; three sisters-in-law, Elvera Carder of Cissna Park, LaVern Carder of Kankakee and Edith (Larry) Petry of Hoopeston.

Reatha was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Roxanna.

Reatha was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford. She had worked for Milford
Canning Co. for seven years, Howard’s in Milford for twenty-two years and in the Sterilization
Department at Iroquois Memorial Hospital for nineteen years. Reatha enjoyed baking, family and
friends.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 19, 2022 at Our Savior Lutheran Church
in Milford at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Doug Minton officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Paul’s
Lutheran Cemetery in Woodworth. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on
Monday before the service at the church.

Memorials may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

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

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

Linda Lou Stahlschmidt, 70, of Gilman passed away on Thursday, September 8, 2022 at her home in rural Gilman. She was born on October 21, 1951 in Kalamazoo, MI, the daughter of Henry and Virginia (Van Dyke) Van Germert. She married William Stahlschmidt in Kalamazoo, MI on April 27, 1973.

Surviving are her husband, Bill Stahlschmidt of Gilman; three sons, Paul (Ani) Stahlschmidt of Cocoa Beach, FL, Zachary (Adrienne) Stahlschmidt of Lodi, CA, and Benjamin Stahlschmidt of Gilman; six grandchildren; and one brother, Henry (Erika) Van Germert of Interlochen, MI.

Linda was a special education teacher for many years. She enjoyed reading, quilting, gardening, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Cremation rites are being handled by Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman. A celebration of life service will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gilman-Danforth District Library or God’s Food Pantry.

Please share a memory of Linda at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Lucille L. Selk, 100 of Danforth and formerly of Watseka passed away on Wednesday September 7, 2022 at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth. She was born on November 10, 1921 in Tracy, IN a daughter of Rev. Walter and Edna (Drewes) Feddersen. Lucille married Elmer H. Selk in Grant Park, IL on June 17, 1944 and he preceded her in death on December 1, 2008. Survivors include three daughters- Carol Schuldt of Onarga, Kay (Gene) Hines of Venice, FL, and Debra (Joseph) Judd of Plainfield; three sons- Dennis (Sheila) Selk of Milford, Lyle (Vickie) Selk of Minooka, IL, and James (Raenell) Selk of Redmond, WA; 17 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, two sisters, and one son in law- Roger Schuldt.

Lucille was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka where she served in various leadership roles.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday September 17, 2022 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka at 11:00 am with Rev. Aaron Uphoff officiating. Burial will follow in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka. Visitation will be from 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Prairieview Lutheran Home or Calvary Lutheran Church.

Sandra D. Zigtema, 78 of Clifton passed away on Friday September 9, 2022 at her home. She was born on March 4, 1944 in Kankakee a daughter of Walter A. and Edna L. (Doll) Lee. Sandra married Robert W. “Ziggy” Zigtema in Papineau on December 1, 1962 and he preceded her in death November 21, 2006. She was also preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include one daughter- Dawn (Gordon) Greenley of Kankakee; one son- Bill (Heather) Zigtema of Martinton; four grandchildren- Andrew Zigtema of Flanagan, Bruce Lane (Andrea Fuentes) of Martinton, and Rebecca (George) Luhman of Haubstadt, IN, Wyatt Steele of Haubstadt, IN; two great grandchildren- Olivia and Natalie Lane of Martinton; nieces and nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews, and many friends and neighbors she loved dearly.

Sandra loved to send cards of encouragement to others and was a volunteer with Catholic Charities. She attended and served at the Martinton Church of Christ. Sandra was a teacher's aide for the Kankakee School District 111 for 30 years.

Funeral services will be held on Friday September 16, 2022 at 11:00 am at the Martinton Church of Christ with Pastor Chuck Alt officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday September 15, 2022 from 4-7 pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton and one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in the St. Anne Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Catholic Charities of Kankakee or Martinton Church of Christ.

Martha E. Cluver, 95, of Watseka passed away on Sunday, September 11, 2022 at her home. She was born March 8, 1927 in Union County, IL, the daughter of Samuel and Jessie (Mennise) Littlepage. She married Walmar A. Cluver on January 28, 1946 in Vienna, IL and he preceded her in death on February 12, 2022. She was also preceded in death by her parents, seven brothers, one sister, one son-in-law and two grandchildren.

She is survived by seven children, Marilyn (Mike) Swanson of Sheldon, Edna (Ron) Osborne of Watseka, Doris (Charles) Milar of Watseka, Kenneth Cluver of Remington, IN, Paula Horner of Watseka, Pam (John) DeMarse of Sheldon and Janet “Suzy” (Terry) Hutchison of Auburn, IL; a special friend, Elaine Schroeder of Watseka; numerous nieces and nephews; twelve grandchildren; twenty-two great-grandchildren; and thirteen great-great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Cluver was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka and Shewami County Club. She loved golf, watching birds in her backyard, and flower gardening. Martha enjoyed her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka. Rev. Aaron Uphoff will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice, Calvary Lutheran Pre-School or Donor’s Choice.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Jeffrey Dean Hanson, 46, of Ashkum, IL, died September 8, 2022 after a courageous 7-month cancer battle.

Born in Kankakee on March 31, 1976 to Ashkum residents, Philip and Nancy (Voigt) Hanson, and they preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Lisa (Meister) Hanson and their beautiful daughters, Sydney and Brenna. Also surviving are sisters, Jennifer (Matt) Lindgren and Jill (Matt) Boyce.

Numerous nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles will miss his laughter and the fun. The nieces and nephews found Uncle Jeff hilarious; always the life of the party. His antics will be told and retold for generations.

On March 28, 1998, he married the love of his life and best friend. When Jeff married Lisa, Duane and Karen Meister embraced him as a true son, warmly welcoming him into the Meister clan. He gained four brothers Todd (Casey), Ryan (Melinda), Troy (Amanda), Jeff (Kenzie) and three sisters, Jill (Warren) Kaeb, Jodi (Andrew) Halleran and Jana Meister. He fit perfectly.

The newlyweds briefly lived in Kempton, but Ashkum was home. He loved the people and the community. They chose to raise Sydney and Brenna, with family who were friends; with friends and neighbors who were family. He wanted the best for his girls.

A 1994 graduate of Central High School, Jeff never stopped supporting the Comets. He proudly attended his girls' school activities. He was their biggest fan.

He was the Ashkum Village Maintenance Supervisor. He faithfully and happily took care of his town. As an active member in the volunteer Ashkum Township Fire Department, Captain Hanson wore Helmet #1105, remaining active until his last days with his Firehouse family.

An amazing woodworker, Jeff paid attention to the tiniest details. He was a perfectionist. He had an open heart for everyone he met. He never knew a stranger. Forgiving. Kind. Hilarious. Loyal. He had a pack of high school friends, who were faithful friends to the end.

A die-hard, lifelong Cubs fan, November 2, 2016 was one of the greatest days of his life (alongside his marriage and the birth of his girls). He was a long-time season ticket holder. Jeff crafted and donated a wooden “bat flag” to the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation to benefit children with cancer. Mr. Rizzo was so impressed he had the entire Cubs team sign the “bat flag”. His precious Cubs, for that moment, were fans of Jeff Hanson.

Visitation: Monday, 9/12 at 3-8pm at Knapp Funeral Home, Clifton, IL. The memorial service is at 10am, Tuesday 9/13, at the Ashkum School Gym (Trinity Church) 203 N Third Street, Ashkum, IL 60911, with a brief 9am visitation before the service. Burial at the Ashkum Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to: The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation or the Ashkum Township Fire Department.

Daniel Lee Schmidt, 59, of Thawville passed away Thursday, September 8, 2022 at Carle Hospital in Champaign from injuries sustained in a car accident.

He was born February 17, 1963, a son of Donald and Elizabeth “Betty” White Schmidt.

Survivors include one sister and two brothers, Peggy Houtzel of Arkansas, David (Kaye) Schmidt of Thawville, and Doug (LeeAnne) Schmidt of Thawville; his significant other, Michelle Schultz of Pontiac; and eight nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Dan was a rule following accountant who was a valued employee of Trainor Gain and Supply, Hicksgas and Donovan Farmers Grain. He began his career with Dunbar, Breitweiser and Company. He had attended Illinois State University graduating with a degree in Accounting.

He was a supporter of his local community, particularly Christ Lutheran High School in Buckley and St Peter Lutheran Church in Thawville. He currently was serving on the Board of Directors as Treasurer for Christ Lutheran High School. He had served on the Board and as a key financial advisor for both organizations for several years.

Dan was a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Fighting Illinois basketball fan, and never missed an opportunity to attend a high school or college tournament basketball game no matter the weather. He also enjoyed playing cards and dartball. He was a lifelong farmer and gardener with the most delicious tomatoes; however, he once lost a battle with the raccoons over his sweet corn patch. Dan was also a skilled weather watcher who would often check in on his favorite people to see if they were safe during bad weather. He would never turn down a request to help family or friends fix a computer, discuss financial planning, play cards or talk sports.

Dan was quiet and thoughtful with a great sense of humor. He was a man of faith and kind to everyone he met along his life’s journey. Dan was a wonderful son, brother, uncle and friend. He will be missed tremendously by his immediate and extended family and his girlfriend Michelle and the second family he gained with her family.
Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at Christ Lutheran High School in Buckley as well as one hour prior to the funeral service on Wednesday.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at Christ Lutheran High School in Buckley with Rev. Paul Scheunemann and Pastor Earl Kinney officiating. Burial will follow at Ridgeland Township Cemetery in Thawville.

Memorials may be made to Christ Lutheran High School or St. Peter Lutheran Church in Thawville.

Mary A. Claire, 79, of Watseka passed away on Friday, September 9, 2022 at her home. She was born on June 14, 1943, in Watseka, the daughter of Ollie W. and Vivian M. (Fortin) Lovelass. She married Ira L. Claire at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka on July 1, 1967.

Surviving are her husband, Ira Claire of Watseka; one son, Jeff Claire of Watseka; one daughter, Julie (Kent) Schippert of Watseka; two grandchildren, Olivia Claire of Watseka and Wyatt Claire (fiancé Kacie Haag) of Watseka; four sisters, Diane (John) Gagnon of Watseka, Sue Butler of Sheldon, Trish King of Watseka, and Lori Lovelass of Troy, OH; brother in law, Steve Smith of Florida; sister in law, Lila Flessner of Loda; and many nieces and nephews.

Mary was preceded in passing by her parents; one sister, Linda Smith; three brother in laws, Jim Butler, Craig King, and John Flessner; her in laws, Herman and Elsie Claire; and her daughter in law, Marybeth Claire.

Mrs. Claire was a homemaker, former beautician, and held various other jobs from time to time when her kids were in school. She spent most of her time enjoying her grandchildren, Olivia and Wyatt, as well as being the farm cook and chauffer from time to time. Mary was an active parishioner of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka, was a member of The Council of Catholic Women, Iroquois Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, and the Beta Gamma Phi Sorority. She was a former volunteer for Iroquois Memorial Hospice and The Iroquois County 4-H Fair.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. A prayer service will take place following the visitation at 7:00 pm.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Thursday, September 15, 2022 at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. Father Michael Powell will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or St. Edmund Catholic Church Building Fund.

Diane M. Hofer, 77 of Cissna Park was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Thursday September 8, 2022 at Carle BroMenn Medical Center in Normal. She was born on July 5, 1945 in Watseka a daughter of Herbert and Clara (Schumacher) Hofer. Her parents preceded her in death. Survivors include several Schumacher and Hofer cousins.

Diane was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church Nazarene in Washington DC. She graduated in 1963 from Cissna Park High School and 1965 graduate of Illinois Commercial College. She worked for the Central Intelligence Agency in Washington DC for 25 years and later was a secretary for Kaeb Sales, Inc for 15 years.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday September 14, 2022 at the Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park with ministers of the church officiating. Burial will be in the Apostolic Christian Cemetery in Cissna Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grace Anna Rodgers Irrevocable Trust Fund or the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Esther L. Glauser, 90 of Watseka passed away on Saturday September 3, 2022 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. She was born on June 7, 1932 in Watseka a daughter of Edward and Bertha (Teske) Tobeck. Esther was married October 11, 1958 to Robert Diercouff, later marriages to Lloyd Theesfeld, and Leonard Glauser, they all preceded her in death. Survivors include one daughter- Julie K. (Mark) Perring of Forrest, IL; four grandchildren- Jamie (Jim) Miller, Nicole (Kevin) Ricketts, Derek (Amber) Hahn, and Chelsey (Adam) Ellis; 15 great grandchildren; one brother- Larry (Nancy) Tobeck of Milford; two sisters- Lucille Marshall of Orange, CA and Alice Cluver of Watseka; one sister in law- Vineta (Roy) Tobeck of Hoopeston. In addition to her husbands she was preceded in death by four brothers, two sisters, one son- Gene Marlin Diercouff, one daughter, Janet Diercouff Hoult, and one son in law, Mark Perring.

Esther was a 1951 graduate of Crescent High School and attended Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka. She enjoyed watching movies, taking walks, and playing games. She loved winning.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday September 8, 2022 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Pastor Aaron Uphoff officiating. Visitation will be from 12 noon until 2:00 pm on Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be at St Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery in Woodworth at a later date. Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Nadya G. Peters, 90 of Kankakee passed away on Friday September 2, 2022 at Riverside Miller Healthcare in Kankakee. She was born on February 23, 1932 in Kankakee a daughter of Christopher and Malvina (Girard) Hansen. Nadya married Wesley P. Peters in Clifton on March 31, 1951 and he preceded her in death on August 29, 2012.

Survivors include two daughters- Lana (Karl) Berns of Bourbonnais and Lynn (Lester) Anderson of Kankakee; one son- Scott (Sherry) Peters of Kankakee; seven grandchildren- Shelly (Colin) White, Jason Berns, Jarrod Berns, Derek (Cara) Anderson, Dustin (Renee) Anderson, Travis Peters, and Megan Peters; 13 great grandchildren; and one brother- Ronald Hansen of Watseka.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two sisters- Maxine Thompson and Dolores Nakaerts.

Nadya was a member of St Patrick’ Catholic Church in Kankakee and the No Muss, No Fuss club. She was a volunteer at Provena St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee for several years. She enjoyed flowers, gardening, decorating the house, and helping on the farm.

Funeral services will be on Friday September 9, 2022 at 11:00 am with Fr. John Peeters officiating at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Visitation will be from 9:30 am to 11:00 am on Friday at the funeral home. Burial will be at St Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Clifton.

Memorials may be made to Uplifted Care.

Zola M. Clark, 88, of Gilman passed away on Thursday, September 1, 2022 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born on October 22, 1933 in Kinmundy, Illinois, a daughter of Orville and Avanell (Tipsword) Finckbone and they preceded her in death along with two brothers, Jerry Finckbone and Randy Finckbone; one sister, Mary Stow; and one son, Dennis Clark.

Zola married Richard J. Clark on April 23, 1953 in Farina, Illinois and he survives. Also surviving are one son, Rick (Quiong Liu) Clark of Onarga; one daughter, Theresa (Terry) Eimen of Gilman; nine grandchildren, Eric Clark, Matt Clark, Steve Clark, Josh Clark, Karly Corly, Jess Eimen, Annette Fairchild, Cory Eimen, and Eric Eimen; 18 great-grandchildren; one daughter-in-law, Lisa Clark of Onarga; three sisters, Wanda Logsten, Doris Lavender, and Helen Ash Elasri; three brothers, Jake Finckbone, Russell Finckbone, and Wayne Finckbone.

Zola was a member of the Gilman United Methodist Church in Gilman. She previously worked at the Sager Glove Factory. Zola enjoyed sewing, crocheting, quilting, knitting, and teaching ceramic classes. She also had a love for the outdoors and enjoyed fishing, camping, and gardening. Zola was a fabulous cook, especially when it came to her cinnamon rolls.

Visitation will be held from 10:00-12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 6 at the Gilman United Methodist Church in Gilman. Funeral will follow at noon at the church with Pastor Vicky Killus officiating. Burial will follow in the Gilman Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Gilman United Methodist Church.

The Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman is handling arrangements