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Obituaries Archives for 2026-07

Nelda A. Ditchfield, 84, of Claytonville

Nelda A. Ditchfield, 84, of Claytonville passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2026 at her home. She was born on November 10, 1941 in Chicago, a daughter of Dietrich and Pauline (Demein) Henrichs and they preceded her in death in addition to three brothers, Eldor, Orville and Paul Henrichs; and one sister, Rita Henrichs.

 

Nelda is survived by three daughters, Leann (Jay) Kaufman of Woodworth, Jolene (Rodney) Ronna of Campbellsville, KY and Carla (Jason) Savoree of Claytonville; ten grandchildren, Joshua Kaufman, Adam Kaufman, Nicole Kaufman-Barwegan, Tyler Ronna, Justin Ronna, Riley Savoree, Logan Kaufman, Kahlee Ronna-Tungate, Dawson Savoree and Gavin Savoree; and thirteen great-grandchildren.

 

Nelda was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church at Woodworth. She loved gardening, playing UNO and Yahtzee, cooking, and spending time with her family.

 

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the 1:30 p.m. funeral service on Friday, July 31, 2026 at St. Paul Lutheran Church at Woodworth. Rev. Michael Ruhlig will officiate. Burial will follow in St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery at Woodworth.

 

Memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church or School at Woodworth.

 

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

 

Please share a memory of Nelda at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Parr William Schoolman, 86 of Danforth

Parr William Schoolman, 86, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026.

 

Born on December 28, 1939, in rural Clifton, Illinois, Parr spent the majority of his life in Iroquois County, where he built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and service to others.

 

Parr proudly served in the United States Army, but was always quick to remind people that he did not see combat and preferred not to receive special attention for his service.

 

He retired as a Quality Control Supervisor at Heinz Pet Food Production Plant after serval decades of employment.

 

Parr was his family’s biggest fan. Whether cheering from the sidelines, the stands, or the audience, he rarely missed an opportunity to support his children and grandchildren in their sports, performances, and activities. His signature words of encouragement—“Give ‘em hell, kid!”—became a treasured family tradition and a phrase that will forever bring smiles to those who knew and loved him.

 

Known for his generous heart, Parr was always willing to lend a helping hand. He quietly served his community for many years by operating the local food pantry, and even in his later years, he faithfully drove friends and relatives to appointments. He was happiest when he could make someone else’s day a little easier.

 

Parr also found great joy in fishing, especially during his annual trips to Chetek, Wisconsin. For more than 80 years, those vacations became a cherished tradition filled with family, laughter, and countless memories on the water.

 

Above all, Parr will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, loyal friend, and a man who could bring laughter even during life’s most difficult moments. He had a gift for spreading joy and, when asked how he was doing, would reply, “I’m feeling up to Parr.” He leaves a legacy that will continue through the many lives he touched.

 

Parr married Patricia Ann Meents on May 25, 1968 in Ashkum and she preceded him in death on February 5, 2025.

 

Parr is survived by his loving children, Parr Thomas Schoolman (Robin), Paige Schoolman (Michelle), Patrice Schoolman and Abby Schoolman Lubich (Jason); seven grandchildren, Makenna (Tommy) DeVries, Myah, Parr Thomas Jr., Ryne and Alec Schoolman, Kinsley and Brynn Lubich; one great-grandson, Jett DeVries and another one on the way; one brother, Delmar Schoolman; two brothers-in-law, Tim (Pat) Meents and Tom Meents; one sister-in-law, Karleen Yohnka; and many nieces and nephews.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister-in-law, Mary Ann Westgor.

 

Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton and also 1 hour prior to the funeral service on Saturday at the Zion Lutheran Church in Clifton.

 

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Clifton with Rev. Joel Brown officiating. Burial will be in the Ashkum Cemetery.

 

The family asks that those wishing to honor Parr’s memory do so by supporting Prairieview Lutheran Homes, Uplifted Care, Zion Lutheran Church of Clifton, or the Clifton Food Pantry, or by cheering on a young athlete, casting a fishing line, or simply offering a helping hand to someone in need—just as Parr so often did.

Marvin E. Dillon, 101, of Watseka

Marvin E. Dillon, 101, of Watseka passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth. He was born on March 17, 1925, a son of Lester and Clara (Scherer) Dillon. He married Joyce Fink on May 15, 1955 in Onarga and she preceded him in death on August 25, 2017. He was also preceded in death by his parents; five siblings, Donald, Guy, Gordon, Lorin and Valda; and many cherished family members and friends.

 

Married for 62 years, he and his late wife had three daughters, Diana (John) Salditt, Julie (Brent) LaReau and Connie (Todd) Breeling; six grandchildren, Melissa, Chris, Ami, Ryan, Kyle and Samantha; five great-grandchildren, Rileigh, Sharlee, Izabelle, Blade and Addisyn; and one great-great-grandchild, Ryker.

 

Marvin loved life, country and the land for more than 101 years. While he made his living in sales and other ventures, he was a proud Midwesterner who remained a farmer and gardener at heart. He was a man of contradictions – generous but frugal; strong but softhearted; earnest but humorous; an adventurous spirit who survived adversities; a traveler focused on the road home. He was a combat-wounded veteran who served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Marvin enjoyed collecting antique cars, spending time with family and friends; fishing; and dining out. Above all, he was loyal, honest, and kind.

 

Although we will miss his presence, laughter and storytelling, we are grateful for his long life and for the caring staff at Prairieview Lutheran Home.

 

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Steve Baker will officiate. Burial will follow at Ridgeland Twp. Cemetery in Thawville with military graveside rites by the Watseka American Legion Post #23.

 

Memorials may be made to the Watseka American Legion Post #23 or Faith Lutheran Church in Watseka.

 

Please share a memory of Marvin at knappfuneralhomes.com.

William "Bill" T. German II, 52, of Ashkum

William “Bill” T. German II, 52, of Ashkum passed away on Thursday, July 23, 2026 at his home. He was born on June 20, 1974 in Watseka, a son of William and Pamela (Johnson) German Sr. and his father preceded him in death.

 

William married Alice Pace on November 18, 2009 in Watseka and she survives in Ashkum. He is also survived by two sons, Robert (Angela) Baker of Glendale, Arizona and Ashton German of Ashkum; two step-children, Alizabeth (Patrick) Murphy of Ashkum and Allen (Joanna Piwowarczyk) Grammer of Ashkum; two grandchildren, Lillian and Harper Murphy of Ashkum; his mother, Pam German of Sheldon; two brothers, Arron (Shannon) German of Eugene, Oregon and Cory (Michelle Lukowski) German of Sheldon; and four nephews, Owen, Lucas, William and Matthew German.

 

William loved fishing, hunting, semi-trucks, riding around in his golf cart, and hanging out with family and friends.

 

A memorial visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. until the 6:00 p.m. memorial service on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Joe Hughes will officiate.

 

Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.

 

Please share a memory of William at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Karen A. Coffey, 58, of Sheldon

Karen A. Coffey, 58, of Sheldon passed away on Thursday, July 23, 2026 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born August 17, 1967 in Lafayette, IN.

 

Mrs. Coffey is survived by her mother, Patricia Green of Watseka; daughter, Heather Coffey of Watseka; two grandchildren, Brayden Dewitt and Bryton Cahoe; and special friends Randy Wilson of Sheldon and Jennifer Brock of Sheldon.

 

Karen enjoyed bartending and waitressing.

 

Cremation rites are being handled by Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

 

A celebration of life service will take place a later date.

 

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

 

Please share a memory of Karen at baierfuneralhome.com.

Addie B. (Calvert) Schroeder, 75, of Covington, IN and formerly of Hoopeston

Addie B. (Calvert) Schroeder, 75, of Covington, IN and formerly of Hoopeston, IL, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at The Waters of Covington in Covington, IN. She was born on October 21, 1950 in Westmoreland, TN, the daughter of Frank “Bubbie” and Mary Elizabeth “Bessie” (Roark) Calvert. Addie married Rodney B. Schroeder Sr, in Milford on May 24, 2003 and he preceded her in passing on June 24, 2018.

 

Mrs. Schroeder is survived by three step children, Tim (Michelle) Schroeder Sr of Westville, Bill (Charlotte) Schroeder of Thomasboro, and Randy (Margo) Schroeder of Rantoul; her daughter in law and niece, Carol Calvert Schroeder of Milford; one sister, Ruth (Paul) Mackiewicz of Henning; brother-in-law, Bill Stark of Danville; several step grandchildren, step great grandchildren, and loving nieces and nephews.

 

She was preceded in passing by her parents; husband, Rodney Sr; three brothers, Cleo, Leo, and Leslie Calvert; four sisters, Jewel Watson, Mae Tucker, Frances Stark, and Judy Akins; and two step-sons, Rodney “Butch” Schroeder Jr and Danny Schroeder.

 

Addie loved decorating cakes and just being around her family.

 

Funeral services will be on Tuesday, July 28,2026 at 1:00 pm at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. Rev. Brent Zastrow will officiate. Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the 1:00 pm service on Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow the funeral and will be at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

 

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

 

Please share a memory of Addie at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Duane K. "Augie" Schafroth, 81, of Ashkum

Duane K. “Augie” Schafroth, 81, of Ashkum passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 in Danforth. He was born on April 29, 1945 in Fairbury, a son of Lester and Lila (Olson) Schafroth. Duane married Deborah Mason on September 17, 1994 in Gilman and she preceded him in death on August 8, 2019. He was also preceded in death by both of his parents; brother, Dean Schafroth; and sister, Pat Schoon.

 

Augie is survived by one son, Paul Schafroth of Colorado Springs, Colorado; one daughter, Lisa Cote of Fort Meyer Beach, Florida; two sisters, Lois Dorfield of Piper City and Nancy Griffet of Champaign; one brother, Richard Schafroth of Bradley; one step-daughter, Lisa Quinlin of North, South Carolina; one step-son, Ryan Leggett of Kankakee; seven grandchildren, Katy Cote, Paul Schafroth II, Mackenzie Schafroth, Aiyana Schafroth, Wolfe Schafroth, Axel Schafroth, and Nikolai Schafroth; 19 nieces and nephews; 41 great nieces and nephews; and 65 great-great nieces and nephews.

 

Augie was a member of Gilman United Methodist Church. He was a graduate of Bradley Bourbonnais High School. Augie worked for many years at CIT Trucking. He loved America and was a strong supporter of Tunnels to Towers and Wounded Warriors. Augie was a fan of the Chicago White Sox and an Illini Fan. He took great pride in playing on the church Dart Ball Team and loved his church family as his own. Augie loved his family dearly and all the time spent with them.

 

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Saturday, July 25, 2026 all at the Gilman United Methodist Church with Rev. Vicki Killus officiating. Burial will follow in the Gilman Cemetery.

 

Augie was always in his shorts and t-shirt, so in honor of Augie, please dress in your favorite shorts and t-shirt for his funeral.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Gilman United Methodist Roof Fund.

 

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

 

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

Orval Alfred "Kortzy" Luhrsen, 93, of Buckley

Orval Alfred “Kortzy” Luhrsen, 93, of Buckley passed away at 8:30 a.m. Monday, July 6, 2026 at Heritage Health, Hoopeston.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 302 S. Fourth Street, Cissna Park with Rev. Michael Ruhlig officiating. Burial will follow in the Trinity Lutheran Church Cemetery with military honors accorded by Cissna Park American Legion Post 527.

Visitation will be two hours before the service from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 25, at the church. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is handling arrangements.

Orval was born December 1, 1932 in rural Buckley the son of Richard and Rosa Ecker Luhrsen. He married Hildegard Selma “Hilda” Freche on June 23, 1957, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Tuscola. She preceded him in death on February 25, 2024.

He is survived by four children, Sandra Kay Miller of Charlottesville, Virginia, Daniel William (Cathy) Luhrsen of Tennessee, Peggy Ann (Randy) Burgett of Goodwine, Nancy Lynn (Jeff) Street of DeWitt, Illinois; 9 grandchildren, James (Jessica) Miller, Jessie (Mark) Paul, Matt (Angela) Luhrsen, Joshua Luhrsen, Gabriele Luhrsen, Donald Burgett, Natasha (Ryan) Johnson, Daniel Burgett, Cassandra (Tony) Wood; 10 great grandchildren, Nathan Orval Miller, Talynn, Owen, Amelia, Lauren, Kamryn, Chase, Faith, Elisabeth, Isabelle; a sister Ruth Grace of Paxton and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Hilda; great grandson, Caden Luhrsen; three brothers, Charles, Donald and Marlin Luhrsen and a sister Selda Coffey.

Orval graduated from Buckley High School in 1950. He proudly served in the United States Army from February 1953 - January 1954 as a combat construction engineer during the Korean War. In 1981, he and his wife opened Luhrsen Star Market, Cissna Park. They owned and operated the business until 2000.

Orval was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Cissna Park and a member of the Cissna Park American Legion Post 527. He enjoyed woodworking, boating and fishing. Orval loved spending time with his family.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, Cissna Park or Cissna Park American Legion Post 527. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.

Laurence "Larry" M. Lyons, 81, of Onarga

Laurence “Larry” M. Lyons, 81, of Onarga passed away on Friday, July 10, 2026 at Arcadia Care of Watseka. He was born on December 2, 1944 in Onarga, a son of Merle S. Lyons and Janet (Moore) Lyons Filby and they preceded him in death in addition to one nephew, Jeremy Lyons.

 

Larry married Merry Ronna on July 2, 1965 in Onarga and she survives. Also surviving are one son, Tony (April) Lyons of Ashkum; three grandchildren, Whitney (Mike) Cotter of Ashkum, David (Nicole) Lyons of Gridley and Derek (Renee) Lyons of Gilman; three great-grandchildren, Kaylynn Cotter, Jack Lyons and soon to arrive, Caroline Lyons; two brothers, Steve Lyons and Brian (Raeline) Clauss; and one sister, Val Lyons.

 

Larry served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era. He retired from D.O.T. in Buckley and Ashkum. Larry loved drag racing, woodworking and upholstery.

 

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga and also 1 hour prior to the funeral service on Thursday.

 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga with Rev. Michael Ruhlig officiating. Burial will follow at the Onarga Cemetery with graveside military rites by the Onarga American Legion Post #551.

 

Memorials may be made to Uplifted Care in Bourbonnais or Arcadia Care of Watseka.

 

Please share a memory of Larry at knappfuneralhomes.com.

 

 

Wes Ravens, 87 of Milford, Illinois

Wes Ravens, of Milford, Illinois, went to be with Jesus peacefully in his home, surrounded by family, on July 9, 2026, at the age of 87. He was born on November 27, 1938, in Watseka, Illinois, the son of Lloyd and Ruth Ravens.

 

Wes lived a life marked by faith, hard work, and devotion to the people he loved. He was a lifelong farmer and cattle feeder. He served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1960–1966.

 

Wes loved Jesus and instilled that same love in each member of his family. He was known for his wisdom and the calm, steady presence he brought to his family. He enjoyed spending time with his grandkids and great-grandkids, telling stories, and riding his Gator around the farm checking cattle.

 

His faith and family were the center of Wes’s life, and he treasured each generation that followed him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Ruth Ravens, and his sister, Marcia (Earl) Prasse. He is survived by his wife of 63 wonderful years, Charlene Ravens; his three children, Gayle (Jerry) Urich, Lloyd (Beth) Ravens, and Glenn (Tammy) Ravens; seventeen grandchildren, Britnie (Bill) Baker, Bree (Matthew) Wells, Jayde (Trevor) Norris, Beau Ravens, Brooke (Tyler) Moxley, Nick (Allison) Ravens, Will (Maddie) Ravens, Brynne (Wayde) McCutcheon, Ben (Megan) Ravens, Emma Ravens, Brielle (Brandt) Breymeyer, Mason Ravens, Lexi (Christopher) Kaeb, Wesley (Mackenzie) Ravens, Joshua Kaufman, Henry (Isabella) Ravens, and Braidee-Anne Urich; and fifteen great-grandchildren, Ty, Weston, Dekker, Merrick, Hallie, Brittlyn, Molly Mae, Lauren, Tucker, Natalie, Gentry, Maverick, Aubrey, Lindsey, and Clay.

 

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather and great-grandfather.

 

Private services will be held at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford with Bruce Ristow officiating. Burial will be in the Amity Cemetery near Goodwine with graveside military rites by the Cissna Park American Legion Post 527.

 

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

 

“Yet as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last He will take His stand on the earth.” Job 19:25

 

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

Carolyn Fay Bossong, 84 of Watseka

It is with comfort we celebrate Carolyn Fay Bossong, 84, going home to her heavenly Father on June 23, 2026. She was born to Edwin and Gertrude (Ferdinand) Hofer on November 11, 1941 in the Goodwine family home. She married Virgil E. Bossong in Schwer on June 14, 1959. Carolyn was the loving mother of Kim (Scott) Marsch of Gallatin, TN, and Kevin (Christine) Bossong of Watseka. She was the cherished grandmother of five grandchildren; Kole (Kacey) Bossong of West Lafayette, IN, Courtney (Todd) Lyznicki of West Lafayette, IN, Claire Bossong and fiancé, Josh Pullman of Alexandria, VA, Kalie (Kevin) McCormick of Denver, CO, and McKenzie (Will) Dolce of Lantana, FL; four great-grandchildren, Kinsley and Kian Bossong & Nellie and Ruth Lyznicki. Also surviving are her high school sweetheart and husband, Virgil Bossong of Watseka; along with her sister, Charlotte Adkins of Lafayette, IN and twin sister, Karen Yergler of Watseka; and several nieces and nephews. Carolyn will be greeted in heaven by both parents and one sister, Eunice White.

 

Carolyn never met a stranger! Her kindness was always on display within her church family, friends and especially within her community. She was a charter member of Faith Lutheran Church in Watseka for over 60 years and participated in their sewing group, bake sales and choir. She was a Sunday school teacher, organist, and volunteered for many visits to Prairieview Lutheran Nursing Home in Danforth.

 

She was the receptionist for the Iroquois County Courthouse for 24 years and completed her state retirement at City Hall. She later would work at H & R Block greeting clients during tax season.

 

Volunteering was always special to Carolyn and her most rewarding volunteer hours were spent with Iroquois Memorial Hospice and Iroquois Memorial Hospital. She spent 35 years with hospice and 10 years welcoming people at Iroquois Memorial Hospital. For 17 years she enjoyed fundraising and participating in Relay For Life for Cancer. Carolyn also found time to spend over 15 years as an election judge. She loved sharing her angel food cakes and did so in honor of her mother who taught her the skill. Carolyn was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, loved feeding her visiting birds, completing puzzles and nurturing hers and others African violets.

 

Though Carolyn left this world physically, her spirit lives on through the memories she etched in our hearts. Celebration of Life service will be held at the Knapp Funeral Home on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 11:00 am with Pastor Jacob Schaeffer officiating and visitation will be held one hour prior also at the funeral home. Private burial will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Schwer.

 

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice, Faith Lutheran Church in Watseka, or Iroquois Memorial Resident Home.

 

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

Larry G. Holden, 83, of Crescent City

Larry G. Holden, 83, of Crescent City passed away at his residence on Sunday, July 5, 2026. He was born on April 7, 1943 in Galesburg, IL, the son of Harry and Pauline (Strandberg) Holden. Larry married Barbara A. Young on December 8, 1963 in Altona, IL and she survives.

 

Besides his wife, Barb, he is survived by five children, Laurel (Rodney) DeWitt of Papineau, Brandon (Margaret) Holden of Saybrook, Lynn (Steve) Canady of Watseka, Lee Gray of Saint Robert, MO, and James Holden of Dittmer, MO; eleven grandchildren, Bryant (Heather) DeWitt, Brooklyn (Tyler) Dandurand, Logan (Jasmine) Holden, Nicholas (Maria Jose) Holden, Christopher (Angelina) Canady, Matthew Canady, Zachary (Leslie) Gray, Taylor (Anthony) Gray, Johnathon Gray, Tannor (Amanda) Holden, and Chesnie Holden; twelve great-grandchildren; one sister, Carol Schuely; one brother, Allen Holden; and his close family friends, Tami (Ben) Burns and Carrissa (Logan) Dunlap.

 

Larry was preceded in death by both parents.

 

Larry served his community for over 60 years as a member of the Crescent-Iroquois Fire Protection District, EMT coordinator, Boy Scout leader, Advisor to Order of the Arrow, American Red Cross Volunteer, school bus driver, and bowled in a league for many years. In his free time, he enjoyed stockcar racing, photography, model trains, electric car racing, and teaching his grandchildren carpentry and electrical work. He was a devoted family man whose greatest joy was spending time with his family and the love of his life, Barb.

 

Memorial visitation will be on Friday, July 10, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

 

A graveside service will be on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at the Ontario Cemetery near Rio, IL, at 1:00 p.m. with a luncheon to follow at the Rio Community Center.

 

Memorials may be given to the family’s wishes.

 

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

Lillian Lorain Anderson, 100, of Hoopeston, formerly of Milford

Lillian Lorain Anderson, 100, of Hoopeston, formerly of Milford, passed away at 4:20 a.m. on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Autumn Fields Assisted Living, where she had resided for the past 8 ½ years. Lillian was born on January 27, 1926, in Wellington, Illinois, the daughter of Julius and Tillie (Johnson) Carlson. She married John C. Anderson on July 13, 1946.

 

She is survived by her son, Daniel J. Anderson, and daughter-in-law, Diane (Mitchell) Anderson, of Milford; two grandsons, Jon of Milford and Andrew (Rebecca) of Kalamazoo, Michigan; and two great-granddaughters, Hannah and Leah.

 

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her parents; four sisters, Louise Hodge, Esther Webb, Irene Carlson, and Mary Lou Means; and two brothers, Lloyd Carlson and John Carlson.

 

Lillian graduated from Wellington High School in 1944. Following graduation, she worked for State Farm in Bloomington, Illinois, for two years. After marrying John, the couple farmed in the Milford area for 50 years. She always had coffee brewing and homemade sweet rolls ready for anyone who stopped by.

 

Lillian was a devoted member of Milford United Methodist Church, where she attended Bible study for many years. She was also active in the Household Science Club, Senior Women's Club, Poetry Club, an early morning swimming group, and several other community organizations throughout her life.

 

Her many hobbies included making and sending handmade cards, painting, crocheting, sewing, baking Swedish rye bread, and making scratch pads. She also enjoyed sharing her apron collection with organizations throughout Iroquois County. Lillian was proud of her Swedish heritage and traveled to Sweden to visit relatives. One of her greatest joys was preparing lunch every Thursday for her grandson, Jon, where they visited and shared stories together.

 

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

 

Graveside services will be at 11:30 a.m. at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford with Rev. Brent Zastrow officiating with the burial to follow.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Milford Park & Pool, IMH Hospice, or The Arc of Iroquois County in Watseka.

 

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

Daryle J. Hari, 80, of Morton and formerly of Cissna Park

Daryle J. Hari, 80, of Morton and formerly of Cissna Park passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at his residence.

 

Daryle was born on September 9, 1945 in Paxton, IL, the son of Raymond and Emily (Feller) Hari.

 

He married Janet Heinold on March 30, 1969 and she preceded him in death on July 3, 1988. He later married June Gavin in Tucson, AZ in 1989 and she survives.

 

Besides his wife, June Hari of Morton, he is survived by three daughters, Janeen (Terry) Baum of Morton, Darla Fiechter of Ossian, IN; and Corinne (Graig) Stettner of Ossian, IN; one step-son, William (Brenda) Gavin of Gilbert, AZ; seventeen grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Roger (Joy) Hari of Cissna Park and Earl (Diane) Hari of Sarasota, FL.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Janet; one brother, Dale Hari; and one step-daughter, Christine Gavin.

 

Daryle attended Cissna Park schools and then went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University and a Master’s of Education degree from the University of Illinois. During his college years, Daryle placed his faith in Christ Jesus and was baptized. He taught high school business near Chicago for several years prior to returning to the family furniture business in Cissna Park. A decade later, he and his three daughters relocated to Arizona, where he worked with the Postal Service for nearly 27 years. Pit, Jake (among his nicknames) enjoyed family activities, Christian worship music, golf, and helping others. He many times expressed his gratefulness for his parents, family and friends, and especially their generosity through the years.

 

Private family services will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026 at Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery in Valparaiso, IN.

 

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

Dale E. Pardy 67 of Watseka

Dale E. Pardy passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his 3 loving daughters on June 28th, 2026. He was born in Watseka on August 6th, 1958 to Adrian and Vivian (Kempen) Pardy. He married Kris S. (Trillet) Pardy on August 11th, 1984 in Watseka.

 

Dale is survived by his loving daughters, Tina (Cody) Schippert of Woodworth, Tricia (Lincoln) Saak of Joliet, Tori Pardy of Champaign. He was a proud grandfather to Logan, Ezra, McKenna, and Brodie, each of whom brought him tremendous joy.

 

He is also survived by his brother, Gerald Enlow of Virginia; his sister, Sue Hall of Georgia; and his four “brothers of the heart”, Mark (Tina) Miller, Gill Weitzel, Roy Juzeszyn, and Tom Zybak, whose friendship meant so much to him throughout his life. Dale is further survived by his mother-in-law, Jean Trillet of Watseka; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Vicki Norder of Watseka, Steve (Susie) Trillet of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and Amy (Mike) Thomas of Watseka. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever miss him.

 

Dale was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 37 years, Kris Pardy; his parents, Adrian and Vivian Pardy; his brother, Gary Enlow; his father-in-law, Ron Trillet of Watseka; and his precious granddaughter, Brynn Schippert.

 

Dale was a hardworking and devoted provider who always put his family first. He dedicated more than 20 years of his career to Uarco and then CSL Behring, where he was known for his strong work ethic and commitment.

 

Dale found his greatest peace on the waters of Lake Michigan, where he spent countless hours chasing King Salmon. Known to fellow anglers by the name “Pardytime,” he cherished every early morning on the lake, every story shared with friends, and the thrill of the catch. Those who knew him know there was no place he’d rather be than on his boat, with a fishing rod in hand and the promise of another King Salmon on the line.

 

Though he has cast his final line, the memories he made, the stories he told, and the love he shared will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew him. His family finds comfort in knowing that somewhere beyond the horizon, the fish are always biting, the water is calm, and “Pardytime” is once again doing what he loved most.

 

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to the 1:00 p.m. funeral service on Monday, July 6, 2026 all at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Pastor Michael Stoerger officiating.

 

Memorials may be given to the family's wishes.

 

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

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