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Obituaries

Wilma Jean (Baer) Walder, 86, of Cissna Park

Wilma Jean (Baer) Walder, 86, of Cissna Park, passed away peacefully in her home on Thursday, October 1, 2026.

 

She was born on June 9, 1940 in Peoria, a daughter of Louis and Helen (Miller) Baer. Wilma was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church. On November 14, 1965, she married Charles L. Walder in Princeville and he preceded her in death on June 3, 1989.

 

Wilma is survived by her four children, Jim (Beth Frank) Walder of Paxton, Judy (Mark) Hartman of Fairbury, Susan (Dale) Waldbeser of Cissna Park, and Dan (Pam Eisenmann) Walder of East Lynn; sister, Gloria White of Dunlap, sister-in-law, Dorothy Walder of Cissna Park, sister-in-law, Gloria Walder of Eureka; 21 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

 

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Joan Berchtold; 8 brothers-in-law; and 9 sisters-in-law.

 

Visitation will be held at the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park on Saturday, October 3, 2026 from 3–5pm and 6–8pm.

 

A funeral service will be at the Cissna Park Apostolic Christian Church at 1pm on Sunday, October 4, 2026 with a visitation prior from 12–1pm. Church ministers will officiate. Burial will follow in the Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery in Cissna Park.

 

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

 

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

Nancy K. Pankey, 88, of Clifton

Nancy K. Pankey, 88, of Clifton passed away on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at her residence. She was born on April 22, 1938 in Watseka, a daughter of Leroy and Margaret (Smith) Wasmer.

 

Nancy married Glenn “Moose” Pankey on November 22, 1958 in Clifton and he survives. She spent 68 years married to her best friend.

 

She is also survived by four daughters, Beth Ann (Brian) Gillum of Gordonville, Texas, Paula Maffet of Saunemin, Becky Schmidt of Bloomington, and Amy (Jason) Eberle of Gibson City; brother-in-law, Jim Weinlader of Danforth and Judy Lamie of Marion; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren and one on the way in March.

 

Nancy was preceded in death by both of her parents; her second mother, Lorraine “Sis” Wasmer; one brother, Bill Wasmer; one sister, Marilyn Weinlader; one son, Todd Pankey; one son-in-law, Steve Schmidt; two grandsons, Ryan Allen and Kyle Gillum.

 

Nancy was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Clifton, where she was active with CCW and enjoyed helping with funeral dinners. She loved time spent gardening and tending to her flowers and yard. Nancy owned and operated The Figurine Gift Shop and Bridal Boutique in Clifton with her best friend Betty Podowicz. Nancy was a caregiver to everyone. She spent many years participating in the Iroquois County Christmas Canata. Her family was always most important to her.

 

Funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Clifton with Fr. Doug Hauber officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral mass at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

 

Burial will follow the funeral mass at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Clifton.

 

Memorials may be given Uplifted Care in Bourbonnais or St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Clifton.

 

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

Jerry Lee Frerichs, 84, of Milford

Jerry Lee Frerichs, 84, of Milford passed away on Friday, September 25, 2026 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. He was born on April 5, 1942 in Watseka, a son of Harm and Edna (Lehmann) Frerichs.

 

Jerry married Jayne Adwell on September 2, 1967 at St. John's Lutheran Church at Schwer and she survives.

 

He is also survived by two daughters, Jennifer Hagen of Watseka and Jeanne Frerichs of Milford; one son, Joel (Colleen) Frerichs of Big Bend, Wisconsin; four grandchildren, McKensie (A.J.) Emford of Westfield, Indiana; Drew Hagen of Watseka, Maxwell Frerichs of Big Bend, Wisconsin, and Megan Frerichs of Big Bend, Wisconsin; and one sister, Judith Volling of Wood River.

 

Jerry was preceded in death by both of his parents; and two brothers, Delbert Frerichs and Robert Frerichs.

 

He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church at Schwer, where he was a very active member. Jerry was a proud veteran of the United States Army. Jerry was talented at woodworking, loved working with his hands, and could build most anything.

 

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. until the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. all at St. John's Lutheran Church at Schwer. Burial will be held at a later date.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or to the St. John's Lutheran Church Youth Group at Schwer.

 

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

 

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

Leonard Demers, 101, of Clifton

Leonard Demers, 101, of Clifton passed away on Monday, September 28, 2026 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on July 26, 1925 in Clifton, a son of Joseph and Leonie (Lanoue) Demers. Leonard married Gloria Benoit in Kankakee on April 30, 1949 and she preceded him in death on December 23, 2006.

 

Leonard is survived by his son, Vincent (Pamela) Demers of Watseka; two daughters, Suzanne Parkinson of Chamberlin, South Dakota and Kathleen (Rob) Krones of Bloomington; eight grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; many great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by both of his parents; one brother, Joe Demers; and four sisters, Belva Wilken, Marie Petersen, Veronica Demers, and Madeleine Conrad.

 

Leonard was a member of the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable. He was a former board member of the St. John the Baptist Cemetery Board. Leonard enjoyed making quilts and baking famous sticky rolls which brought in $250 at auction. He also loved time spent gardening, farming, playing cards, playing Dart ball, and riding in his golf cart. Leonard was one of the oldest competitive tractor pullers in the state. Even after his retirement from farming, he still loved it so much that he helped farm with his nephew, Paul Conrad.

 

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 5, 2026 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable. Burial will follow in the St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in L’Erable.

 

Memorials may be made for the Masses at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church or to the donor’s choice.

 

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

James "Jim" W. Moore, 65, of Watseka

James “Jim” W. Moore, 65, of Watseka passed away on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at his home. He was born on December 3, 1960 in Watseka, a son of Stuart Wayne and Mary Alice (Vaughn) Moore and they preceded him in death.

 

Jim married Diann Stoerger on March 16, 1985 in Sadorus, IL and she survives. Also surviving are two sons, Wesley (Ashley) Moore of Cissna Park and Aaron (Michelle) Moore of Woodland; five grandchildren, Oliver Moore, Rebecca Moore, Callie Moore, Charles Moore and Stella Moore; and one sister, Susan (Russ) Lillig of Watseka.

 

Jim was of Lutheran faith. He was a longtime vendor at the Urbana Farmers Market and was a livestock and grain farmer.

 

A memorial visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until the 6:00 p.m. memorial service on Monday, October 5, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Pastor Michael Stoerger will officiate.

 

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

 

Please share a memory of Jim at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Dennis J. Figg, 71, of Iroquois

Dennis J. Figg, 71, of Iroquois passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on April 3, 1955 in Watseka, a son of Elmer and Julia Ruth (Evans) Figg and they preceded him in death.

 

Dennis married Dawn Marquis in Iroquois on November 22, 1986 and she survives.

 

Also surviving are one daughter, Bailey (Joseph) Gallagher of Huntley; one grandson, Ronan Gallagher; two sisters, Judith Smith of Bloomington and Susan (Stephen) Frease of Carterville; one brother, Irvin (Wendy) Figg of Richmond, British Columbia, Candana; sister-in-law, Janice Marquis; nieces and nephews, Wes Smith, Jenny Makiwa, Alex Frease, Christopher Frease, Patrick Frease, Renee Salamone, Damon Marquis, Shea Marquis, and Beau Marquis.

 

Dennis loved history and loved to tinker around the house. He enjoyed listening to music, reading, and playing croquet. Dennis loved time spent with his friends at the Iroquois Café.

 

Cremation rites to be accorded by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

 

Visitation will be on Saturday, October 3, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. A graveside service will follow at 12:30 p.m. at the Prairie Dell Cemetery near Iroquois.

 

A Celebration of Life to be held at a later date at the Iroquois Café.

 

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

 

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

 

 

Dennis Brown, 71, of Watseka

Dennis Brown, 71, of Watseka passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at his residence. He was born on December 8, 1954 in Kankakee, a son of Donald Edward Brown Sr. and Ida Lucinda Brown.

 

He is survived by one daughter, Jessie (Jay) Davis; two sons, Jody Brown and Joshua Brown; three grandchildren, Dylan Thompson, Daytin Thompson, and Emma Brown; two brothers, Donald “Butch” Brown Jr. and Dale Brown; and one sister, Linda Bruens.

 

Dennis was preceded in death by both of his parents; and one brother, David Brown.

 

Dennis enjoyed working on his cars, canoeing, playing euchre, and hanging out with his friends and family.

 

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 24, 2026 at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Funeral services will be on Friday, September 25, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor John Franklin officiating also at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Burial will follow in the Flesher Cemetery near Crescent City.

 

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or Crescent-Iroquois EMS.

 

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

Gordon E. "Gordy" Seggebruch, 89, of rural Onarga

Gordon E. “Gordy” Seggebruch, 89, of rural Onarga, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, September 19. A lifelong resident of the Onarga area, Gordy was born on May 28, 1937, on the family farm to Edward and Arvella Seggebruch.

 

On July 26, 1959, he married the “girl across the section”, Phyllis Anna Walder. Together they shared 67 years of marriage, raising their family and building a life rooted in faith, family, farming and service. Phyllis survives.

 

Gordy was a farmer from an early age and remained passionate about agriculture throughout his life. He was a visionary who was always looking toward the future and new possibilities in farming. He was instrumental in local water management, helping form the Mud Creek Drainage District and serving on multiple drainage district boards. He was inducted into the FFA Hall of Fame in 2015. He also served on the Ludlow Co-op Board and appeared in the documentary Revolution Green: The Making of Bio-Diesel Fuel featuring Willie Nelson.

 

Gordy was an Army veteran and an active member of Cissna Park American Legion Post 527 where he was a past Commander. He was especially proud of serving on the Honor Guard team, providing military honors to veterans as far away as Joliet National Cemetery.

 

His dedication to veterans was a particularly meaningful part of his life. Gordy was known for collecting food and other supplies for veterans and for spending time with them including playing bingo and sharing conversation. His service and compassion were recognized with a special Veteran’s Commendation from Iroquois Memorial Hospice on August 30.

 

Faith was also a cornerstone of Gordy’s life. He was a devoted member of Ash Grove Lutheran Church, where he was confirmed on March 18, 1951. Over the years, he served as an elder and in many other capacities. Gordy also served on the Foundation Board of Prairie View Lutheran Home for a number of years. In his final days, he was surrounded by his family, sharing in devotions together before bedtime—a fitting reflection of the faith that guided his life.

 

Gordy will be deeply missed by his wife, Phyllis; his sons, Layton (Kim) Seggebruch and Troy (Tammy) Seggebruch, both of Onarga; and his daughter, Gwendolyn (Steve) Toth of Lancaster, Ohio. He also leaves six grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. Also surviving are four siblings, Imogene (Henry Wayne) Breymeyer, Larry (Margaret) Seggebruch, Stuart (Jane) Seggebruch and Randa (Kenny) Davis.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers-in-law, Kenny Davis and Henry Wayne Breymeyer and grandsons, Andrew Seggebruch and Bill Pierce.

 

Gordy lived a life of purpose- rooted in the land he loved, devoted to his family and faith and marked by a genuine desire to serve others. His legacy will live on in the family farm, in the community he served, in the veterans he cared for and most of all in the family he loved so dearly.

 

Memorial donations may be made to the Cissna Park American Legion earmarked for veteran projects, Iroquois Memorial Hospice or donor’s choice.

 

Visitation will be held Saturday, September 26 from 1-3 pm and 5-7 pm at Knapp Funeral Home, Cissna Park and one hour prior to the 1 pm funeral service on Sunday, September 27 at St John’s Lutheran Church, Ash Grove with Reverend Aaron Uphoff presiding. Burial will immediately follow the service at St John’s Cemetery with military rites conducted by Cissna Park American Legion Post 527.

 

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

Patricia Ann (Pat) Fredrickson, age 87, of Kentland, Indiana

Patricia Ann (Pat) Fredrickson, age 87, of Kentland, Indiana, passed away on September 20th at University Place Health Center in Lafayette, Indiana. She was born on March 6, 1939, in Watseka, Illinois, the daughter of George and UlaBelle (Hootman) Goosey. After UlaBelle’s death, Bertha Monohon helped raise Pat and her sister. Pat married John Fredrickson in Sheldon, Illinois, on September 6, 1964. He survives in Kentland, Indiana.

 

She is also survived by her children, Darrell (Kendra) Fredrickson of Kentland, Indiana, and Deborah (Steven) Pfingsten of Ft. Myers, Florida; five grandchildren, Weston (Shana) Wessels, William (Emma) Fredrickson, Sophia (Dillon) Cooper, Abigail Pfingsten and Madelyn Pfingsten; two great-grandsons, Maverick Wessels and Macklin Wessels; brother-in-law, Richard (Laura) Fredrickson of Grand View, Idaho; and several nieces and nephews.

 

She was preceded in death by both of her parents; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Leslie and Erma Fredrickson; and her sister and brother-in-law, Emma Jane (Harold) Light.

 

After graduating from Sheldon High School in 1957, Pat worked at Iroquois Service Company in Watseka. She also transcribed for the Iroquois County Coroner, Andy Mayotte, and later, Wayne Knapp. She then worked at Segur-Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka, Illinois, for many years. She was a member of Covenant Federated Church in Kentland, Indiana. She was also involved in the Order of the Eastern Star and was previously a member of Tri Kappa Epsilon Iota Chapter of Kentland, Indiana. She spent countless hours entertaining her beloved grandchildren. After retiring, she and John enjoyed wintering in Ft. Myers, Florida, where they had a very active social life with friends from home, as well as many new ones they met along the way. In her later years, Pat enjoyed mornings at the Iroquois Café with her “coffee ladies”.

 

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and also one hour prior to funeral service at the church.

 

Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Covenant Federated Church in Kentland, Indiana, with Rev. Wayne Meyer officiating.

 

Burial will be at Fairlawn Cemetery in Kentland, Indiana.

 

Memorials may be made to Covenant Federated Church or the Kentland Fire Department.

 

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

Christoper David Morrissette, 56, of Rantoul

Christoper David Morrissette, 56, of Rantoul passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on September 13, 2026 at Eden’s Assisted Living Center in Champaign.

 

Chris was born on December 9, 1969 in Kankakee, the son of Daniel J. and Rosemary Lea (Sears-Wolfe) Morrissette. Chris grew up in Chebanse and Herscher townships in Illinois.

 

He is survived by his mother, Rosemary Morrissette of Rochester, IL; two brothers, Michael and Debbie Morrissette of Joliet and Jonathan and Lara Morrissette of Springfield; one sister, Deanna (Morrissette) and Nathan McNeeley of Peotone; one daughter Shiane and David Jones of St. Anne; one son, Kyle and Kari Fisher of Noblesville, IN; seven nieces and nephews, Ava, Kyra, Aliya, Rachelle, Zachary, Charlotte, and Cassandra; and five grandchildren, Patrick, Liam, Maelynn, Mia, and Everett.

 

He was preceded in death by his father.

 

Chris moved through life with relentless energy and a heart that felt everything at full volume. He lived a life of big contrasts, loud laughs, and an unmatched capacity for connection. Everyone has a superpower. Chris had several. From an early age, he developed the mechanical grit and aptitude to repair just about anything. He was an avid car, motorcycle, and monster truck enthusiast, always “wheelin and dealin and fixin” while rarely staying in the same vehicle more than a year. He had a superpower for connection. Wherever he found himself, he effortlessly networked and pursued friendship with others. Whether it was through his childhood paper route, windows and siding business, or work at Dilmans Construction, he never met a stranger he didn’t befriend. He loved helping people however he could (we are eternally grateful for everything the Dilman family did for Chris, giving him a new lease on life and work. All glory to God). Chris also had a big heart for family gatherings. His son Kyle, daughter, Shiane, and grandchildren were the pride of his life. His fierce love for his family and friends was only matched by his devotion to his little buddy, Toby the Pomeranian. Chris loved hard, laughed loud, and left a mark on everyone he crossed paths with. He will be deeply missed.

 

A memorial gathering will be held from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Private burial will take place at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka.

 

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

Roy A. Schmidt, 79, of Clifton

Roy A. Schmidt, 79, of Clifton, passed away on Sunday, September 13, 2026 at his residence. He was born on March 16, 1947 in Watseka, a son of Willie and Reneldia Christine (Ulitzsch) Schmidt and they preceded him in death.

 

He married Claudia L. Mathy on February 28, 1986 in Watseka and she preceded him in death on July 17, 2019.

 

Roy is survived by two sons, Chad (Renee) Ulitzsch of Clifton and T.J. (Tina) Schmidt of Ashkum; three daughters, Marci Taylor of Chebanse, Amanda Schmidt of Indiana, and Brandie Schmidt of Indiana; sister, Rita (Randy) Weston of Newman, Georgia; five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

 

Roy loved his job as a truck driver for RCD Trucking in Kankakee. He also loved time spent tinkering around the house. Roy was also a proud veteran of the United States Army having served during Vietnam.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

 

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

 

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

Doris D. Ash, 91 of Lebanon, IN and formerly of Watseka

Doris D. Ash, 91 of Lebanon, IN and formerly of Watseka passed away on Monday September 14, 2026 at her home. She was born on December 10, 1934 in Watseka a daughter of Thomas J. and Myra M. (Latz) McCullough. Doris married John K. Ash Jr in Watseka on October 17, 1954 and he survives. Also surviving are two sons- Gary J. (Lorrie) Ash of Lakewood Ranch, FL and Brian K. (Brita Chaudoin) Ash of Lincoln, IL; two daughters- Penny L. (Gary) Bell of Zionsville, IN and Diane M. (Richard) Burns of Lebanon, IN; five grandchildren- Brad (Ashley) Burns, Caitlin (Jake) Vail, Kegan (Lauren) Burns, Hannah (Adam) Green, and Kylie Ash; seven great grandchildren- Brayden and Ethan Burns, Addison, Emma, and Grace Vail, Maren Green, and Madelin Burns. She was preceded in death by her parents, 7 brothers and 6 sisters- Arvilla Fultz, Virgil McCullough, Lawrence McCullough, Dorothy McCullough, Velma Larson, Samuel McCullough, Levi McCullough, Mary Sturm, Thomas James McCullough, Thomas McCullough, Robert McCullough, Barbara Walters, and Delorous Guard.

 

Doris was a member of St. Peters Lutheran Church in Crescent City and was a 1952 graduate of Watseka High School. She enjoyed reading, making rag rugs, working on jigsaw puzzles, visiting flea markets, and spending time with her family and grandchildren. John and Doris farmed for over 38 years in Iroquois County before moving to Watseka where they lived until 2014 when they moved to Lebanon, IN.

 

Funeral services will be on Thursday September 17, 2026 at 11:00 am at St. Peters Lutheran Church in Crescent City with Rev Joel Brown officiating. Visitation will be on Wednesday September 16, 2026 from 3-7 pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and one hour prior to the funeral service at the church. Burial will be in St. Peters Lutheran Cemetery in Crescent City.

 

Memorials may be made to St. Peters Lutheran Church, American Heart Association, or donor’s choice.

 

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

Matha A. "Rose" Burger, 87, of Watseka

We are grateful for the blessed Christian life of Matha A. “Rose” Burger, 87, of Watseka who passed quietly in the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Citadel of Kankakee. She was born on October 30, 1938 in Long Beach, CA, the daughter of Dale Higgins and Mae Hoover. She married LeRoy Henning on November 23,1956 and he preceded her in passing. She later married Cromer D. Burger in Watseka on April 12, 1969 and he preceded her in passing on August 7, 2008. In addition, she was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Larry Higgins; and one great grandson, Brenden Rose.

 

She is survived by three daughters, Cindy (Jim) Bursma of Marne, MI, Janet Henning of Oklahoma City, OK, and Susan (Arlo) Williams of Arkadelphia, AR; one son, Tom (Robin) Burger of West Lafayette, IN; one sister, Marla Frye of Piper City; seven grandchildren, several great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

 

Matha’s lifelong commitment and sacrifice to her church and to her family was evident as well as caring for her aging parents until they passed into glory. Her faith in God was very important to her as she was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church in Watseka. She showed God’s love always recognizing the need of others and was very generous sharing her excellent meals with everyone. Matha was happiest when she was with her family, friends, pets, and in her garden.

 

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Friday, September 18, 2026 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka, with a one-hour prior visitation to the service from 10:00-11:00 at the funeral home. Pastor Ashley Clifton will officiate. Burial will follow at Body Cemetery outside of Woodland.

 

The family would like to extend their gratitude to all that have cared for Matha during her extended illness with a very special thank you to Marie Garfield and Jason Creek.

 

She will not be forgotten for her tidal wave of goodness and her love will be with us forever, until we meet again in eternity.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials or donations be made to the Watseka First United Methodist Church Food Pantry honoring Matha’s generous spirit and love of helping others.

 

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

 

Thelma Garrelts, 78, of Milford

Thelma Garrelts, 78, of Milford passed away on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. She was born on December 21, 1947 in Watseka, a daughter of Philip Eugene and Mary Lou (Books) Pentecost and they preceded her in death in addition to one son, David Wayne Garrelts; one sister, Vickie (brother-in-law, Joe) Bachman; one step-daughter, Laura Mansfield; and one nephew, William Pentecost.

 

She is survived by her fiancé, Fred Wright of Milford; six siblings who all grew up in Milford, Phyllis (L.B.) McLaughlin, Dennis (the late Dolores) Pentecost, Richard (Becky) Pentecost, Cindy Pentecost-Cloutier, Troy Pentecost and Shelley (Brian) Meier; fourteen nieces and nephews; one step-son, John (Michelle) Wright of Urbana; four step-grandchildren; and two step-great-grandchildren.

 

Thelma was a member of the Milford Christian Church. She enjoyed making flower arrangements, crafts, cooking and baking. Thelma loved being a mother and grandmother.

 

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 12:00 p.m. funeral service on Monday, September 14, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. Joe Hughes will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

 

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

 

Please share a memory of Thelma at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Roger L. Huffman, 78, of Cissna Park

Roger L. Huffman, 78, of Cissna Park passed away on Friday, September 4, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on May 24, 1948 at Lakeview Hospital in Danville, the son of Leon and Mildred (Stebbins) Huffman. He married Marilyn (Vogel) Huffman in Cissna Park.

 

Surviving are his wife, Marilyn Huffman of Cissna Park; one son, Barry (Diane) Huffman and their daughter, Jennifer; two daughters, Melissa (Cory) Kult and their children, Tess (Dakota) Cooper and Erin Kult and his daughter, Ann (Steve) Callahan and their children, Riley, Bailey, Abby, Eric, Lauren, Christine, and Gigi Callahan; one stepdaughter, DeAnn Johnson-Jacobs and her children, Kayce, Griffin, Kinley, and Zander; and one brother, Michael Huffman of Florida.

 

Roger was preceded in passing by both of his parents.

 

Mr. Huffman graduated from Hoopeston High School. He served in the United States Army from July 17, 1967 until June 17, 1970 attaining the rank of Sgt. E5 of the Infantry 2nd Division-Indian Head Infantry. Roger was a member of Cissna Park American Legion Post 527 and Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park. He enjoyed reading, hunting, and fishing.

 

Visitation will be from 11:00-1:00 pm on Friday, September 11, 2026 at Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park. Funeral services will be at 1:00 pm, also at the funeral home with Pastor Terry Strom officiating. Burial will follow at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery outside of Cissna Park with graveside military rites provided by Cissna Park American Legion Post 527.

 

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

 

Please share a memory of Roger at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Shirley A. Krumwiede, 82 of Cissna Park

Shirley A. Krumwiede, 82 of Cissna Park passed away on September 5, 2026 in Gifford, IL. She was born on October 27, 1943 in Paxton a daughter of Eugene and Irene (Alt) Hauptli. Shirley married Ronald A. Krumwiede in Ash Grove on November 5, 1961 and he preceded her in death on July 18, 2018. Survivors include two daughters- Deanne (Joe) Rothermel of Broadlands and Dawn (Jay) Martin of Mahomet; one son- Derek Krumwiede of Cissna Park; son in law- Bob McKeown of Englewood, FL; six grandchildren- Rianna Rothermel, Torie Rothermel, Taylor (Marcus) Powers, Chelsea (Zach) Wilkins, Landon (Alyssa) Martin, and Tara Krumwiede; six great grandchildren; and one brother- Gerald (Callie) Hauptli of Mesa, AZ. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter- Dana McKeown, and two brothers- Wayne and Dean Hauptli.

 

Shirley was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park. Along with her husband, they owned and operated Krumwiede Farm Supply in Cissna Park and she was the office manager for Fast Distributing in Gilman for many years until their retirement. She enjoyed shopping, gardening, tending to her beautiful flowers in her yard, and her house plants. Shirley mostly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

 

Funeral services will be held on Thursday September 10, 2026 at 11:00 am at the Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park with ministers of the church officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday from 9:00-11:00 am at the church. Burial will be in the Apostolic Christian Cemetery in Cissna Park.

 

Memorials may be made to the Apostolic Christian Church or the donor’s choice.

 

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

David Charles Rasdall, 69

David Charles Rasdall, 69, passed away on September 2, 2026. He was born April 28, 1957, in Duluth, Minnesota, to Dwayne and Leona (Henning) Rasdall.

 

David married Sally (Moore) Rasdall on February 14, 1992, in Watseka, Illinois. Together they built a life centered around family, laughter, and the simple things that meant the most.

 

David proudly served in the United States Marine Corps for eight years. He was especially proud when his nephews followed in his footsteps by serving in the Marine Corps as well.

 

Sports were an important part of David’s life from an early age. As a child, he played baseball and later ran track while attending high school in Watseka. He had great respect for Joseph Sutfin, who taught him not only how to run track, but also the importance of commitment and finishing what you start. That was a lesson David carried with him throughout his life.

 

David loved all kinds of sports and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, but football held a special place in his heart. Above all, he was a lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan.

 

David worked in Ford parts for many years before becoming a tanker truck driver for Heniff Trucking out of Kankakee, where he spent the last 16 years of his working career. He loved driving a truck and valued the many friendships he made along the way.

 

More than anything, David loved his family. Spending time with his children and grandchildren brought him tremendous happiness.

David had a quirky and wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh. He had a way of finding humor in the unexpected things in everyday life, and he brought a great deal of joy and laughter to his family and friends.

 

David is survived by his wife, Sally Rasdall; his children, William and Vicki Walver of Watseka, Angela and Andrew Maple of Watseka, Brandi and Nathan Trumann of Donovan, and Karli Alejandro of Bourbonnais.

 

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Adam and Hannah Walver, Gabriel Walver, Samuel Walver, Finnegan Walver, Jacob Sparling (Kammie), Benjamin Villafria, Nikolas Maple, Owen Maple, Megan Trumann, Andrew Trumann, Emma “Aka Wilbur” Trumann (Justin), Izabell Alejandro, Olivia Alejandro, and Humberto Alejandro; and his two great-granddaughters, Iyla and Emelia Alejandro-Pantoja.

 

David is also survived by his brother, Mark Rasdall of Watseka; sisters-in-law, Trisha Rasdall of Colorado, Sandy Thomas of Cissna Park, Sharon (Mike) Oliveria of Champaign, and Sue (Dale) Heffelfinger of Milford; brother-in-law, Greg Moore (Donna) of Champaign; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dwayne and Leona Rasdall; his brother, Dan Rasdall; his in-laws, Delores and Wayne Stimpson and Kenneth and Donna Moore; and his brother-in-law, Paul Thomas.

 

A private funeral service will be held.

 

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Watseka American Legion Post #23 Building.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family’s wishes.

 

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

Richard "Rik" S. Anderson, 60 of Milford

Richard "Rik" S. Anderson, age 60, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer.

 

Raised in Milford, Rik was a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, and cousin who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard G. Anderson.

 

He is survived by his mother, Erica Anderson; his children, Cody Anderson, Cain Anderson, and Johanna Rutledge; his grandchildren, Rhean, Ayden, and Jayse; his sister, Maggie Anderson; his sister-in-law, Andrea Park; and his beloved aunt, Jan Kelley, along with cousins and friends who cherish his memory.

 

Rik was a graduate of Milford Township High School. He enjoyed spending time fishing and was a devoted Chicago Bears fan. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will remember him with love and affection.

 

Visitation will be on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. A Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 a.m. also at the funeral home with Rev. Brent Zastrow officiating. Private burial with family will follow at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice, 200 E Fairman Ave, Watseka, IL 60970.

 

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

Ruby M. Kaufman, 94, of Cissna Park

Ruby M. Kaufman, 94, of Cissna Park went to be with the Lord on September 2, 2026. She was born on April 19, 1932 in Watseka, the daughter of Arthur and Louise (Luthi) Markwalder. She married her high school sweetheart, Albert “Jun” Kaufman in Cissna Park on February 4, 1951 and he preceded her in death on August 17, 2021.

 

Surviving are one daughter, Kailyn (Mark) Alt of Carmel, IN; one son, Wayne (Jaye) Kaufman of Morrison, CO; eight grandchildren; 41 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Earl Markwalder and Paul (Betty) Markwalder; one daughter, Donna Gast; and one great-grandchild, Grace Alt.

 

Ruby was a member of Christian Bible Church in Cissna Park. She enjoyed doing hand work and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ruby was born again in 1950 and loved serving the Lord Jesus ever since that day.

 

Visitation will be from 1:00 pm on Saturday, September 5 at the Christian Bible Church in Cissna Park until the 2:00 pm funeral service at church with Pastor Nathan Gast and Pastor Steve Hall officiating. Burial will be in the Cissna Park Cemetery.

 

Memorials may be made to Christian Bible Church Mission Fund.

 

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

Maynard F. Marquis, 90, of Donovan

Maynard F. Marquis, 90, of Donovan passed away on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at his residence surrounded by his daughters. He was born on October 18, 1935 in Beaverville, a son of Levern and Juliette (Dionne) Marquis. He married Nancy Spitler on June 23, 1956 and she preceded him in death on July 30, 1992.

 

Maynard is survived by two daughters, Tracy (Kent) Lottinville of St. Anne and Wendy (Jeff) Corriveau of St. Anne; one sister, Bonita Larson of Iroquois; one brother, Merlin “Pete” (Lynn) Marquis of Ashkum; six grandchildren, Josh Ziehr, Missy (Logan) Heavilin, Brandi (Garrett) Martin, Stefanie Wheeler, Courtney Corriveau, and Erin Corriveau; six great-grandchildren, Braxtyn, Tyssleigh, Tandon, Kaden, Kenna, and Leo; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by both of his parents; one brother, Eldron Marquis; one sister, Burnetta Curby; and one daughter, Kathy Ziehr.

 

Maynard retired from Uarco and Standard Register in June of 1999. He was an avid David Bradley Tractor Collector after retirement where he made many lasting friendships over those years. Maynard enjoyed coaching the Donovan girls summer softball team for many years and spent time serving on the Donovan School Board. He loved the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bulls. Maynard was a huge supporter of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

 

Visitation will be on Thursday, September 3, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Funeral Mass will be on Friday, September 4, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Beaverville with Fr. Michael Powell officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Beaverville.

 

Memorials may be made to Uplifted Care Hospice of Bradley or the donor’s choice.

 

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

Donald L. Ailey, 81 of Hoopeston and formerly of Crescent City and Watseka

Donald L. Ailey, 81 of Hoopeston and formerly of Crescent City and Watseka, passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.

 

He was born on July 13, 1945 in Crescent Township, the son of James W. and Adelia (Ulitzsch) Ailey and they preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, William Ailey and Wayne Ailey; two sisters, Wanda Bull and Nancy Quakenbush; two brothers-in-law, Gene Quackenbush and Bruce Suver; and one sister-in-law, Betty Ann (Musgraves) Ailey.

 

He is survived by one daughter, Jennifer (Ken) Massey of Paxton, IL; two grandchildren, Parker Massey and Audrey Massey; two brothers, Norman (Linda) Ailey of Ashkum and Wendell (Fiona) Ailey of Woodland; three sisters, Nelda (Bobby) Roth of Watseka, Donna Suver of Onarga, and Lila (Larry) Hill of Champaign; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Don was a graduate of Crescent City High School. He worked for Red Morrison (Crescent City) and was co-owner of Ailey’s Welding (Crescent City) with his brother, Norman. Don also worked at FMC (Hoopeston) and for S&A Concrete (Crescent City). He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, listening to music, and landscaping. Don also had a love for animals. He served in the United States Army during Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Sergeant.

 

The family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to Kingdon Gardens Senior Living Center (Watseka), Autumn Fields Adult Community (Hoopeston), Danville VA Medical Center, and Carle Foundation Hospital.

 

Visitation will be on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 from 10:00 am-12:00 pm at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Funeral services will immediately follow at 12:00 noon. Pastor Steve Hall will officiate the service with burial following at Body Cemetery in Woodland. Graveside military rites to be provided by Watseka American Legion Post 23.

 

Please share a memory of Donald at baierfuneralhome.com.

 

 

Carol Lee Karsgaard, 83, of Ashkum

Carol Lee Karsgaard, 83, of Ashkum passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on March 16, 1943 in Kankakee, a daughter of Leo and Gertrude (Aden) King. Carol married Dallas E. Karsgaard on November 17, 1962 in Clifton and he preceded her in death on January 6, 2021.

 

Carol is survived by one son, Scott Karsgaard of Ashkum; three grandchildren, Noah Karsgaard of Ashkum, Matthew Karsgaard of Kankakee, and Lauren Karsgaard of Bourbonnais; one great-grandson, Kàrtier Thompson of Bourbonnais; two sisters, Bonnie Siedentop of Herscher and Donna (Charles “Bub”) Chandler of Clifton; one brother, Bob “Sandy” King of Ashkum; and sister-in-law, Sandy Joan King of Clifton.

 

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by both of her parents; one brother, Ronald King; one sister, Pat Ponton; and one son, Michael Karsgaard.

 

Carol was a member of the Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum, where she member of CCW. She worked and retired at Esselte before working and retiring at the Central Bank in Ashkum. Carol was the president of the Ashkum Shooters Supply. She enjoyed going for coffee with her friends once a week at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth. Carol also enjoyed going to lunch every couple of weeks with her siblings. Carol loved flowers and gardening. She was an avid Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan and enjoyed playing video poker.

 

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at the Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum with Fr. Doug Hauber officiating. Burial will follow at the Ashkum Catholic Cemetery.

 

Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.

 

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

Joyce Condit Urban, 76, of Beecher

Joyce Condit Urban, 76, of Beecher passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026 at Prime Healthcare St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee. She was born on April 12, 1950 in Watseka, a daughter of Ivan and Marjorie (Garrison) Condit and they preceded her in death.

 

Joyce married David Urban on November 22, 1969 at the Gilman United Methodist Church and he survives.

 

Also surviving are two sons, Greg (Lisa) Urban of Bourbonnais and Troy (Maria) Urban of Oshkosh, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Easton, Griffin, Anthony, Ashlyn, Addison, and Andrew; two sisters, Judy Henrichs of Bloomington and Joan Johnson of Danforth.

 

Joyce loved birds and watching wildlife of all kinds. She enjoyed trips to Alaska with David and watching her grandkids play baseball.

 

Visitation will be on Thursday, August 27, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman and also one hour prior to the funeral service at the church. Funeral services will be on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Gilman with Rev. Vicki Killus officiating. Burial will follow in the Gilman Cemetery.

 

Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.

 

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

Gladys Anna Amelia Haase, 92, of Kankakee and Savoy, IL and formerly of Gilman

Gladys Anna Amelia Haase, 92, of Kankakee and Savoy, IL and formerly of Gilman passed away on August 21, 2026 at Riverside Hospital in Kankakee, IL. She was born on May 7, 1934 in Metropolis, IL., the daughter of Herman and Hanna Bremer. Gladys worked in retail in Champaign, IL for a few years before she married Albert G. Haase on August 11, 1957 and he preceded her in death on July 9, 2017. She was also preceded in death by her daughter Melody Haase on December 15, 2025.

 

She is survived by one daughter Michelle Nimmons (Joel) Fishers, IN and two sons, Michael Haase (Alessandra Chiareli) of St. Paul, MN; Mark Haase (Cassie) Kankakee, IL and three grandchildren – Easton, Brigham and Ava Haase.

 

Gladys is survived by two sisters Georgia Ann Bremer, Geneva Barness and one brother Gerald Bremer.

 

Gladys was a former member of the American Lutheran Church in Bourbonnais, IL and St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gilman, IL. She enjoyed gardening, reading and spending time with her family and grandchildren.

 

Funeral service will be on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman with Rev. Vicki Killus officiating. Burial will follow in the Gilman Cemetery.

 

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

 

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

Sharlene R. Hesse, 72, of Danville

Sharlene R. Hesse, 72, of Danville passed away on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at OSF Sacred Heart Medical Center in Danville. She was born on January 31, 1954 at the Keesler Air Force Base Hospital in Biloxi, Mississippi, a daughter of John T. and Donna J. (Woodruff) Johnson and they preceded her in death.

 

She is survived by three sons, Jason Hesse, Matthew Hesse, and Joshua Hesse; one brother, John Johnson; two sisters, Sharon Underwood and DeAnn Johnson; and four grandchildren, Benjamin Hesse, Alex Hesse, Addison Hesse, and Zachary Hesse.

 

Sharlene enjoyed teaching and going for walks. She loved to read and loved her family and friends.

 

A private graveside service will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

 

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

 

Memorials may be made to Danville School District 118 for their science classes.

 

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

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