Stanley H. Ward, 71, of Chebanse, IL
Stanley H. Ward, 71, of Chebanse, IL
Stanley H. Ward, 71, of Chebanse, IL died on Saturday, August 22, 2009 at the Hines VA Hospital in Hines, IL.
There will be no visitation. Cremation rites will be accorded.
Mr. Ward was born October 30, 1937 in Galatia, IL, a son of Elbert and Ruth Hale Ward. He married Theresa Ward on October 17, 1959 in Kankakee, IL. She preceded him in death on November 20, 1996.
Survivors include special friends, Jimmy and Diana Thornton.
Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Scott Ward.
Mr. Ward was a painter. He belonged to Painters Local Union 467 and the Kankakee Valley Boat Club. He enjoyed Nascar racing.
Fred E. Krueger, 82, of Ashkum, IL
Fred E. Krueger, 82, of Ashkum, IL
Fred E. Krueger, 82, of Ashkum, IL died on Saturday, August 22, 2009 at his home.
Visitation will run from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Monday, August 24, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton and for one hour prior to the 11:00 a.m. services on Tuesday, August 25, 2009 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Danforth, IL. The Rev. William Callister will officiate. Burial will be in the Ashkum Cemetery in Ashkum, IL at a later date.
Mr. Krueger was born in Danforth, IL on May 8, 1927, a son of Henry and Josie Heyens Krueger. He married Betty M. Behrends in Danforth on February 19, 1949. She survives.
Other survivors include two daughters and one son-in-law, Lana and Michael Kistner of Grafton, OH and Madonna Krueger of Charleston, IL; one son and daughter-in-law, Terry and Barbara Krueger of St. Joseph, IL; one sister, Marilyn White of Minnesota; one brother-in-law, Victor Poff of Bradley, IL; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; and one sister.
Mr. Krueger had farmed in the Ashkum area for 41 years. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Danforth. He loved hunting, fishing, trapshooting, gardening and playing cards.
Memorials may be made to IMH Hospice or E.I.L. Lung Association.
David A. Minard, 60, of Rensselaer, IN
David A. Minard, 60, of Rensselaer, IN
David A. Minard, 60, of Rensselaer, IN died on Saturday, August 22, 2009 at the Jasper County Hospital in Rensselaer.
Visitation will run for one-half hour prior to the 11:30 a.m. service on Tuesday, August 25, 2009 at Segur-Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. The Rev. Paul Copeland will officiate. Burial will be in Iroquois Memorial Park Cemetery in Watseka.
Mr. Minard was born January 30, 1949 in Watseka, a son of Harold and Frances Hayslett Minard.
Survivors of Mr. Minard include three daughters and two sons-in-law, Kristen and Winchill Comstock of Brookfield, MO, Davionette Minard of Marceline, MO and Darlene and Collin Bolin of Chula, MO; one son, Cody Minard of Chula, MO; his mother, Frances McCarty of Watseka; one sister and brother-in-law, Sandra and Don Chute of St. John, IN; one brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Betty Minard of Whiteland, IN; four grandchildren; and several nephews and one niece.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Mr. Minard had been a truck driver for over 20 years. He enjoyed playing the Wii.
The family would like to thank the staff at Rensselaer Care Center for their loving care over the past several years. They were like his family. You know he is looking down at all of us and saying, “I did it my way. Now I am in control.”
Memorial may be made to the American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association or Donor’s Choice.
Margaret Hrindak Rusk, 80, of Cedar Park, Texas
Margaret Hrindak Rusk, 80, of Cedar Park, Texas
Margaret Hrindak Rusk, 80, died Thursday, Aug. 13, 2009 while in hospice care in Austin, Texas.
Margaret was born Oct. 23, 1928 in Gary, Ind., to Michael and Anna (Harvan) Hrindak. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Russell Jerry Rusk.
After retiring first to Bloomington, Ind., then Ridge Manor, Fla., they have lived for five years in Cedar Park, Texas, north of Austin.
Survivors include their children, Paulette (Richard) Haddix of Schererville; Mark (Becky Miller) Rusk of Palacios, Texas; Barbara Rusk Allen of Austin, Texas; and Brian (Nona Bergeron) Rusk of Elmira, Mich. Other survivors are grandchildren Craig (Lindsay Trattner) Haddix of Indianapolis, Grace (Justin) Santos of Griffith, Brett Haddix of Schererville, Celeen Rusk of Chicago, Faith Rusk of New York City, Vivian Rusk of Austin, Hunter Allen of Austin, Nicole (Joshua) Walters of Gaylord, Mich., Jaziah Bergeron of Lewiston, Mich., four great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and her brother Michael (Sue) Hrindak of Dyer.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, brother John (Frances) Hrindak of Long Beach, Calif. and sister RoseMary (late John) Onder of Rensselaer.
Margaret worked for Illinois Bell Telephone Co. before starting her family, and later for Indiana Bell once the children were older. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother and aunt. Together, she and Jerry created a wonderful home, where their love nurtured and embraced Christian values, as well an appreciation for education, achievement and cooperation. Margaret’s other legacy is her talent as a fabric artist. She had an exceptional eye for fabric selection and a deft touch with needle and thread, which she learned from her mother. The combination resulted in her sewing many wonderful outfits for herself, her children and her daughters’ dolls. More than 40 years ago, she began concentrating her talents on making quilts, many of which she sewed by hand. She generously gave them as presents to loved ones, who appreciated the colorful patterns and incredible handiwork. Even though her quilts are scattered in loved ones’ homes throughout the country, more than 40 remained at her home at the time of her passing. Together, they represent a body of work that will warm relatives’ hearts for generations.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 24, at the Rankin Union Cemetery in Rankin, IL.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice Austin’s Christopher House would be appreciated. The address is 2820 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Austin, TX 78702.
Michael D. Denniston, 57, of Paxton, IL
Michael D. Denniston, 57, of Paxton, IL
Michael D. Denniston, 57, of Paxton, IL died on Tuesday, August 18, 2009 at his home.
Visitation will be for one hour prior to the 11:00 a.m. service on Friday, August 21, 2009 at the Knapp-Miller Funeral Home in Paxton, IL. The Rev. Ed King will offciate. Burial will be in Lyman Twp. Cemetery in Roberts, IL.
Mr. Denniston was born January 22, 1952 in Fairbury, IL, a son of Loyal D. and Melba “Darleen” Reynolds Denniston.
Survivors include two daughters, Chelcie and Melissa McClatchey of Rantoul, IL; close family friends, Kim and Chano Chacon of Paxton; one brother, Denny Denniston of Paxton; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Melba and Mike Mercer of Paxton and Colleen and Dave Gomaz of Texas; twin granddaughters, Destani and Devani McClatchey; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.
Mr. Denniston was a member of the Church of Christ in Paxton, IL.
Memorials may be made to Family Wishes or American Cancer Society.
Marie I. Decker, 86, of Paxton, IL
Marie I. Decker, 86, of Paxton, IL
Marie I. Decker, 86, passed away at her home in rural Paxton on Sunday morning, August 6, 2009, after a long illness and hospice care.
She was born October 1, 1922 in Ludlow, IL, a daughter of Jerry and Esther Sheehan. She married Bill Decker in 1947. He preceded her in death on November 20, 1997.
Surviving are a daughter, Jaci Davis of Champaign, IL; a son, Jerry (Thelma) Davis of Dillsburg, PA; two sisters, Doris (Fred) Punke of Elliott, IL and Alyce (Rollie) Seibring of Paxton, IL; and one brother, Jon (Janet) Sheehan of Paxton, IL.
She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Jim (Esther) Sheehan of Hoopeston, IL; an infant sister, Wanda Elizabeth; and a grandson, Bill Davis of Harrisburg, PA.
She and her husband farmed together near Ludlow, Gifford and Paxton before they both retired in 1988. She was a graduate of Paxton High School and Danville School of Cosmetology and operated a beauty shop at her country residences from 1955 to 1985. She was an avid gardener, each year raising beautiful flowers alongside bountiful vegetable gardens. After she and her husband retired they traveled to several states and Mexico, while spending some winters in Arizona. One of her favorite adventures was traveling to Ireland in 1988 for Dublin’s millennial celebration.
There will be a visitation from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 20 at Knapp-Miller Funeral Home in Paxton with a memorial service beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Memorials may be made to Ludlow Community Center, PO Box 177, Ludlow, IL 60949.
Gail S. Granger, 63, of Paxton, IL
Gail S. Granger, 63, of Paxton, IL
Gail S. Granger, 63, of Paxton, IL died Thursday, August 13, 2009 at the Heartland Health Care Center in Paxton.
Visitation will run from 10:00 a.m. until the 12:00 p.m. Prayer Service on Saturday, August 15, 2009 at the Knapp-Miller Funeral Home in Paxton. Pastor Tom Bryant will officiate.
Mrs. Granger was born May 15, 1946 in Hanover, NH, a daughter of Howard and Mary Little Sanborn. She married Leonard A. Granger Jr. on Sept. 9, 1967 in Lebanon, NH. He survives.
Other survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Melanie and Chad DeWall of Glenwood, IA; one brother, Edwood Sanborn of Encino, CA; three sisters, Marion Descoteau of Webster, FL, Sandra Griffin of Lisbon, NY, and Dorothy Stevenson of Brockton, MA; and two grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, two sisters and one daughter, Melissa Ann.
During her nursing career, Gail worked in New Hampshire, Mississippi, Virginia and Illinois. She retired from Carle Hospital & Clinic after twenty-four years of service. She was a member of Illini Country Stitchers Quilting Guild and a quilting guild in Paxton. She was a member of the “Girl Gang” at the the “Needle and I” in Rantoul, IL. She belonged to the Compassionate Quilters at Carle and was a founding member of the Peacemaker Quilt Club of Illinois.
Memorials may be made to Compassionate Quilters at Carle.
Michael V. Burgett, 67, of Milford, IL
Michael V. Burgett, 67, of Milford, IL
Michael V. Burgett, 67, of Milford, IL died on Tuesday, August 11, 2009 in Danville, IL.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2009, at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford, IL. The Rev. Rusty Beals will officiate.
Mr. Burgett was born March 14, 1942 in Watseka, IL, a son of Vernon J. and Martha Duke Burgett. He first married Karen VanHoveln in Schwer in July, 1960. He later married Marie Taylor in Casper, Wyoming in September, 1975. She survives.
Other survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Lori Michelle and James Napoli of St. Louis, MO; two sons and one daughter-in-law, Michael V. and Renee Burgett Jr. of St. Louis, MO and John Carmin of Virginia; one sister, Dianne Langfahl of Milford, IL; and many nieces and nephews.
Mr. Burgett was owner and operator of Burgett Aviation in Danville, IL.
Memorials may be made to Special Olympics or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
John W. Johnson, 90, of Loda, IL (formerly of Windsor, IL)
John W. Johnson, 90, of Loda, IL (formerly of Windsor, IL)
John W. Johnson, 90, of Loda and formerly of Windsor, died on August 3, 2009 at Merkle-Knipprath Nursing Home in Clifton.
He was born on February 13, 1919 in Windsor, the son of William L. and Iva Pearl Herron Johnson.
John served in the Army during World War II.
He is survived by three daughters, Janice (James) Caspary of Loda, Christine Johnson of Springfield and Marlene (Daniel) Geers of Grayslake. Also surviving are seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
John was preceded in death by his parents.
Cremation rites will be accorded and private services will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Windsor Cemetery.
Memorials may be given to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.
Marie Antoinette Kroll, 82, of Bradley, IL
Marie Antoinette Kroll, 82, of Bradley, IL
Marie Antoinette Kroll, 82, of Bradley, IL died Friday, July 31, 2009 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, IL.
Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton, where a memorial service will follow at 7:00 p.m. Cremation rites were accorded. Pastor Rod Serbus will officiate. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery at a later date.
Marie Kroll was born August 8, 1926 in Chicago, IL, a daughter of Willam Paul and Marie Amelia Richter Kemp.
Survivors of Marie Kroll include three sons, Richard and Thomas Kroll of Chebanse, IL and Dan Kroll of Bourbonais, IL; two daughters and sons-in-law, Jane and Charley Wirtz of Bradley, IL and Angela and Martin O’Connor of Clifton, IL; five brothers, LeRoy and William Kemp of Kankakee, IL, Harold Kemp of Bourbonnais, IL, Gerold Kemp of Florida and Donald Kemp of Hudson, NC; thirteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Richard Kemp; and one son, Michael Kroll.
Mrs. Kroll was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Chebanse, IL. She enjoyed watching the Cubs and local stock car racing.
Memorials may be made to Family’s Wishes.
Esther M. Myers, 93, of Onarga, IL
Esther M. Myers, 93, of Onarga, IL
Esther M. Myers, 93, of Onarga, died on Thursday, July 30, 2009 at Gilman Health Care Center in Gilman, IL.
Cremation rites will be accorded and burial will be held at a later date in the Onarga Cemetery.
Mrs. Myers was born July 7, 1916 in Perry County, IN, a daughter of Abraham and Jessie L. Hall Harding. She married Roy Walters in 1934 in Perry County, IN and he died on March 10, 1956. She later married James Myers in Onarga and he died on January 13, 1979.
Survivors of Mrs. Myers include two daughters and one son-in-law, Wilma Walters of Onarga and Donna and Pat Kennedy of Queen Creek, AZ.
Preceding her in death were her parents; three brothers; one sister; and one son, Leroy Walters.
Mrs. Myers was a member of the Onarga Christian Church.
Memorials may be made to Donor’s Choice.
Payton Marie Combs, 0, of Rantoul, IL
Payton Marie Combs, 0, of Rantoul, IL
Payton Marie Combs was stillborn on Tuesday, July 28, 2009, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, August 3, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Glen Cemetery in Paxton, IL. Pastor Terry Cooper will officiate.
Survivors of Payton include her parents, Gary and Danielle Combs of Rantoul, IL; one brother, Seth Forbes and one sister, Brianna Combs, both of Rantoul; maternal grandparents, Timothy and Kathryn Smith of Ogden, IL and Glenna Bornsheurer of Callifornia; paternal grandmother, Kathy Combs of Paxton, IL; maternal great-grandparents, Clinton and Esther Smith of Champaign, IL; paternal great-grandparents, Gary and Mary Combs of Paxton, IL; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Memorials may be made to Family Wishes.
Brandon S. Schoon, 21, of Ottawa, IL
Brandon S. Schoon, 21, of Ottawa, IL
Brandon S. Schoon, 21, of Ottawa, IL died on July 27, 2009 in Clifton, IL.
Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton, IL. Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2009 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Danforth, IL. The Rev. John Schmeling will officiate. Burial will be in the Clifton Cemetery. Military rites will be accorded by the U.S. Army and VFW Post 2131.
Mr. Schoon was born November 24, 1987 in Kankakee, IL, a son of Steven J. and Christine M. Wulffe Schoon. He was a sargeant in the U.S. Army.
He is survived by his parents, Steven and Rev. Christine Schoon of Ottawa; one sister and brother-in-law, Andrea and Jesus Marquez of Clifton, IL; one sister and good friend, Kendra Schoon and Jacob Williams of St. Anne, IL; one nephew, Antonio Marquez and one niece, Selina Marquez, both of Clifton, IL; and maternal grandparents, Virgil and Kalie Wulffe and paternal grandparents, Jim and Barbara Schoon, all of Clifton, IL.
Mr. Schoon was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Danforth. He enjoyed paintball, dogs, four-wheeling and being with friends.
Memorials may be made to Family’s Wishes.
Robert R. “Mo” Schroeder, 54, of Milford, IL
Robert R. “Mo” Schroeder, 54, of Milford, IL
Robert R. “Mo” Schroeder, 54, of Milford, IL died on Saturday, July 25, 2009 at Provena St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee, IL.
Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Monday, July 27, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford, IL. Services will be at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, July 28, 2009, also at the funeral home. The Rev. Jason Wagner will officiate. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford, IL.
Mr. Schroeder was born October 6, 1954 in Watseka, IL, a son of Robert L. and Edna Cade Schroeder.
Suvivors of Mr. Schroeder include his parents, Robert and Edna Schroeder of Milford, IL; one sister and brother-in-law, Sheila and Joe Wilken of Stockland, IL; one niece, one nephew and one great-nephew.
Mr. Schroeder was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford and was a former member of the Milford Jaycees. He was employed by Hiltz Sanitation. He enjoyed truck pulls and fishing.
Memorials may be made to Donor’s Choice.
Vickie Brammer, 56, of Donovan, IL
Vickie Brammer, 56, of Donovan, IL
Vickie Brammer, 56, of Donovan, IL died on Saturday, July 25, 2009 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, IL.
Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, July 27, 2009 at Segur-Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and for one hour prior to the 10 a.m. service on Tuesday, July 28, 2009, also at the funeral home. Pam Munson and Stephen Deardurff will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Beaverville, IL.
Mrs. Brammer was born May 10, 1953 in Rensselaer, IN, a daughter of Richard Deardurff and Joy Bartholomew. She married John (Jack) Brammer on April 2, 1983 in Pontiac, IL. He survives.
Other survivors include her mother, Joy Bartholomew of Morocco, IN; her father and spouse, Richard and Mary Deardurff of Albion, MI; two sons and one daughter-in-law, Keith and Pam Pufahl of Morocco, IN and Mike Brammer of Martinton, IL; two step-sons, Edward Brammer of Wisconsin and Don Brammer of Sheldon; one sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Dennis Lade of Donovan; one brother, Stephen Deardurff of Lafayette, IN; two grandchildren and seven step-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by one brother, Rick Deardurff; one son, Branden Brammer; and one step-daughter, Cindy Brammer.
Mrs. Brammer loved animals, especially cats and dogs. She had a passion for spending time in the country and enjoyed baking cookies.
Memorials may be made to Family’s Wishes or Donor’s Choice.
Waneta Lucille O’Neal, 91, of Titusville, FL, formerly of Milford, IL
Waneta Lucille O’Neal, 91, of Titusville, FL, formerly of Milford, IL
Waneta Lucille (Hartberg) O’Neal, 91, born September 20, 1917 in Watervliet, MI, died Saturday, November 1, 2008 in Titusville, FL.
She was the daughter of the late Henry Hartberg Sr. and Clara (Kersey) Hartberg.
Waneta married Glenn Norris O’Neal on April 2, 1938. She lived in Milford, IL until 1996 when she moved to Titusvill, FL.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Glenn, two brothers and one sister.
Waneta is survived by two daughters, Sharon Ann Bohlmann of Titusville, FL and Mary Lynn Morin of Eloy, AZ; a son, Steven Wayne O’Neal of Weatherford, OK; nine grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, August 6, 2009 at the Milford United Methodist Church. The Rev. Rusty Beals will officiate. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Milford, IL.
Memorials may be made to the Milford United Methodist Church.
L. Paul Fink, 72, of Loda, IL
L. Paul Fink, 72, of Loda, IL
L. Paul Fink died Monday, May 11, 2009, at Riverside Medical Center, Kankakee, IL. Visitation will be Thursday, May 14, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 15, at 10:00 a.m. at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at the Onarga Cemetery in Onarga, IL.
Mr. Fink was born Nov. 6, 1936 in Onarga, the son of Charles and Pearl Clark Fink. He married Sharon Lathrop on June 27, 1958 in Basel, Switzerland. She survives.
Other survivors include three daughters and sons-in-law, Kim (Tom) DuBois of Spring Grove, IL, Kelly (Jim) Peterson of Peotone, IL and Tracy (Bob) Mohr of Bonfield, IL; three sons and daughters-in-law, Todd (Kim) Fink of Story City, IA, Brad (Carol) Fink of Dwight, IL and Brent (Pam) Fink of Channahon, IL; one brother and sister-in-law, Marvin (Sandra) Fink of Onarga; one sister and brother-in-law, Joyce (Marvin) Dillon of Watseka; and twelve grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, one sister, and one grandchild.
Mr. Fink had served in the U.S. Army. He was a Plant Superintedent for Electron Beam Technology in Kankakee, IL for many years.
Memorials may be made to Kankakee County Chapter of American Red Cross or Hospice of Kankakee Valley.
Pearl K. McDonald, 82, of Scottsville, KY, formerly of Stockland, IL
Pearl K. McDonald, 82, of Scottsville, KY, formerly of Stockland, IL
Pearl K. McDonald, 82, of Scottsville, KY, formerly of Stockland, IL died Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at the University of Louisville Hospital in Louisville, KY.
Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. A graveside service will be held afterwards at 11:30 a.m. at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland, IL. The Rev. Neil Larimore will officiate.
Mrs. McDonald was born August 11, 1926 in Woodland, IL, a daughter of Everett E. and Dollie C. Osborn Carswell. She married Edward Raymond McDonald on April 14, 1946 in Rossville, IL. He preceded her in death on August 5, 1985.
Survivors include one son, Raymond Morris McDonald of Scottsville, KY; one daughter, Victoria Jean Reed of Frankfort, KY; two brothers, Bobby Gene Carswell of Valley Station, KY and Herbert Davis Carswell of Sheldon, IL; four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or Spina Bifida.
Gene F. Forrest, 77, of Watseka, IL
Gene F. Forrest, 77, of Watseka, IL
Gene F. Forrest, 77, of Watseka died Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at his home.
Visitation will be from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 24, 2009 at Segur-Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, July 25, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. The Rev. Lee Ryan will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Gilman, IL. Military graveside rites will be accorded by Watseka American Legion Post #23.
Mr. Forrest was born July 7, 1932 in Gilman, IL, a son of Merrill and Esther Wasmer Forrest. He married Phylllis Walsh on April 24, 1954 in Champaign. She survives.
Other survivors include three daughters and sons-in-law, Elizabeth and Tom Weldon of Champaign, IL, Jean and Blaine Smitley of Charleston, IL and Jan and Jim Hambleton of Urbana, IL; two sons, Robert Forrest of Champaign and Mark Forrest and special friend, Karen Lipe of Urbana, IL; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Eddie and Mary Jo Forrest of Danforth, IL and Jim and Dorothy Forrest of Gilman, IL; and eight grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Robert Forrest.
Mr. Forrest served in the U.S. Navy. He worked as a pressman at Uarco for twenty-seven years. He was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church and Watseka American Legion.
Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice, Watseka American Legion or Donor’s Choice.
Rita E. Raymond, 86, of Watseka, IL
Rita E. Raymond, 86, of Watseka, IL
Rita E. Raymond died Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at Gilman Health Care Center in Gilman, IL.
Visitation for Mrs. Raymond will run for one hour prior to the 2:00 p.m. service on Saturday, July 25, 2009 at Segur-Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka, IL. David Field will officiate. Burial will be in Iroquois Memorial Park Cemetery in Watseka, IL.
Mrs. Raymond was born May 19, 1923 in McEwen, TN, a daughter of Allen and Esther Spring Clawson. She married Earl Raymond on October 24, 1945 in Joliet, IL. He preceded her in death on January 10, 1965.
Survivors of Mrs. Raymond include one son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Trula Raymond of Watseka; one daughter and son-in-law, Diana and James Thomas of Sarasota, FL; one sister, Elouise Gray of Watseka; one brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Norma Clawson of Watseka; one grandson and his wife, Nathan and Jill Raymond of Arcola, IL; one granddaughter and her husband, Kelly and Dustin Jurceka of Norcross, GA; one great-grandchild, Keira Jurceka; and serveral nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Raymond was a Jehovah Witness.
Branden Ray Brammer, 18, of Donovan, IL
Branden Ray Brammer, 18, of Donovan, IL
Branden Ray Brammer died Wednesday, July 22, 2009 in Beaver Twp. as a result of an automobile accident.
Visitation for Branden will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 27, 2009 at Segur-Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and for one hour prior to the 10:00 a.m. service on Tuesday, July 28, 2009, also at Segur-Knapp Funeral Home.
Branden was born May 31, 1991 in Rensselaer, IN, a son of John “Jack” and Vickie Deardurff Brammer. He was a student at Donovan High School.
Survivors of Branden include his parents; two brothers and one sister-in-law, Keith and Pam Pufahl of Morocco, IN and Mike Brammer of Martinton, IL; two half-brothers, Edward Brammer of Wisconsin and Don Brammer of Sheldon, IL; maternal grandmother, Joy Bartholomew of Morocco, IN; maternal grandfather, Richard Deardurff of Albion, MI; special aunt, Betty Carlson of Morocco, IN; and several nieces and nephews.
Branden was preceded in death by his half-sister, Cindy Brammer.
Branden worked at McCullough Implement Co. in Watseka. He enjoyed fishing and going for rides in the country.
Donald P. Lukow, 83, of Chebanse, IL
Donald P. Lukow, 83, of Chebanse, IL
Donald P. Lukow died July 17, 2009 at Merkle-Knipprath Nursing Home in Clifton, IL.
Visitation will be Tuesday, July 21, 2009 for two hours prior to the 11:00 a.m. service at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Pastor Kene Whybrew will officiate. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery in Chebanse, IL. Military rites will be accorded by the Momence Honor Guard.
Mr. Lukow was born January 7, 1926 in Chebanse, IL, a son of William and Elizabeth Wendt Lukow. He never married.
Survivors of Mr. Lukow include two nephews and their wives, Ron and Theresa Lukow and Larry and Mary Lukow, all of Chebanse; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Glenn and Raymond Lukow.
Mr. Lukow served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a life-long farmer in the Chebanse area and was a member of the American Legion in Chebanse.
Memorials may be made to the Chebanse Community Building.
Joefina Martinez Avalos, 46, of Onarga, IL
Joefina Martinez Avalos, 46, of Onarga, IL
Josefina Martinez Avalos died Sunday, July 19, 2009 at her home.
Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. Services will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception/Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Gilman, IL. Rev. Anthony Taschetta will officiate.
Mrs. Avalos was born November 10, 1962 in Casacuaran Gto. Mexico, a daughter of Rafael and Maria Luisa Hernandez Martinez. She married Jesus Avalos on November 8, 1980 in Casacuaran Gto. Mexico. He survives.
Other survivors of Mrs. Avalos include two sons, Jesus Avalos Jr. of Abilene, TX and Cesar Avalos of University Park, IL; one daughter, Karen Avalos of Onarga, IL; four sisters, Araceli Moreno and Rosalva Rivera, both of Kankakee, IL, Leticia Zavala of Onarga, IL and Veronica Pizano of Mexico; three brothers, Rafael Martinez and Gilberto Martinez, both of St. Anne, IL and Manuel Martinez of Kankakee, IL; her parents, Rafael and Maria Martinez of Mexico; and one grandchild.
Josefina worked at Bork Nurseries. She was a member of Immaculate Conception/Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Gilman. She enjoyed gardening and cooking.
Memorials may be made to Donor’s Choice.
Laura L. Windhorn, 98, of Crescent City, IL
Laura L. Windhorn, 98, of Crescent City, IL
Laura L. Windhorn died Monday, July 13, 2009 at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth, IL.
Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 20, 2009 at Segur-Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and for one hour prior to the 11:00 a.m. service on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Crescent City, IL. The Rev. Joel Brown will officiate. Burial will be in St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery in Crescent City.
Laura Windhorn was born May 17, 1911 in Crescent City, a daughter of John D. and Emma Natschke Meyer. She married Walter D. Windhorn on December 23, 1931 in Buckley, IL. He preceded her in death on March 19, 1983.
Survivors of Mrs. Windhorn include eleven nieces and nephews; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and one step-sister, Verna Trasetti of California.
Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Mabel and Edna Leiding; two step-brothers, Ray and Willard Schmohe; and one step-sister, Irene Schleef.
Mrs. Windhorn had been a homemaker. She was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Crescent City.
Memorials may be made to Donor’s Choice.
Barbara J. Hammond, 83, of Watseka, IL, formerly of Sheldon, IL
Barbara J. Hammond, 83, of Watseka, IL, formerly of Sheldon, IL
Barbara J. Hammond died Saturday, July 11, 2009 at Watseka Rehab and Health Care Center in Watseka.
There will be no visitation. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka. Rev. Tom McCann will officiate.
Mrs. Hammond was born March 24, 1926 in Watseka, a daughter of Franklin and Ethel Miller. She married William M. Hammond on September 2, 1945 in Watseka, IL. He preceded her in death on February 6, 2009.
Survivors of Barbara J. Hammond include two daughters and sons-in-law, Sherry and Gail Lambert of Sheldon, IL and Mary Jo and Morris Long of Rossville, IL; five grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
Besides her husband, Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and one brother.
Mrs. Hammond was a homemaker and enjoyed reading, puzzle books and cards.
Memorials may be made to Family Wishes.
Elizabeth A. “Betty” Spring Peden, 51, of Watseka, IL
Elizabeth A. “Betty” Spring Peden, 51, of Watseka, IL
Elizabeth A. “Betty” Spring Peden died Friday, July 10, 2009 at her home.
Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at Segur-Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. A graveside service will be held immdiately afterwards at Body Cemetery in Woodland, IL. Pastor Bobby Netzband will officiate.
Mrs. Peden was born July 16, 1957 in Chicago, IL, a daughter of James and Eddella Roberts Bates. She married Ernest Lee Peden III on December 31, 2008 in Watseka. He survives.
Other survivors include three daughters and sons-in-law, Estalene and Roy Johnson and Teresa and Nathan Richmond, all of Watseka and Tina and Eugene Tapp of Kankakee; one son, Wayne Nowak of Janesville, WI; five sisters and four brothers-in-law, Karen and Ed Kaack of Momence, IL, Jackie and Joe Loosa of Youngsville, LA, Kathy and Scott MacArthur of Kankakee, Roberta Forgue of Newcastle, PA and ToniJo and Guy Bieber of Chandler, AZ; three brothers and three sisters-in-law, James and Gretchen Bates of Chicago, Kenneth and Cheryl Bates of Kankakee and Robert and Arlene Bates of Grovetown, GA; and sixteen grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and several brothers and sisters.
Mrs. Peden was a manager at McDonalds. She enjoyed cooking, fishing and the outdoors.
Memorials may be made to Family Wishes.
Helen M. Price, 88, of Watseka, IL
Helen M. Price, 88, of Watseka, IL
Helen M. Price died Sunday, July 12, 2009 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka.
Visitation will run for one hour prior to the 2:00 p.m. service on Thursday, July 16, 2009 at Segur-Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Pastor Jerry Parker will officiate. Burial will be in Flesher Cemetery in Crescent City, IL.
Mrs. Price was born January 17, 1921 in Watseka, IL, a daughter of Otto and Anna Grossiant Butzow. She married Arthur E. Price on February 6, 1939 in Kentland, IN. He preceded her in death on August 31, 1984.
Survivors of Helen Price include two sons, Marvin Price of Watseka, and Ronald Price of Stutgart, Arkansas; two daughters and one son-in-law, Phyllis and Bill Stratman of Wesley, IA and Bonnie Carmen of Lincoln, IL; and five grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, six brothers and three sisters.
Mrs. Price was a homemaker and had been a waitress at Woolworth’s in Chicago for many years.
Ray E. Hoagland, 89, of Watseka, IL
Ray E. Hoagland, 89, of Watseka, IL
Ray E. Hoagland died Friday, July 10, 2009 at his home. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am, Tuesday, August 11, 2009 at Sheldon Cemetery. The Rev. Larry Shuringa will officiate.
Mr. Hoagland was born April 3, 1920 in Sheldon, IL, a son of Frank and Goldie Clausen Hoagland. He married Marylynn Hughes on October 9, 1939 in Kentland, IN. She survives.
Other survivors include two daughters, Merrilee Trotz of Bolingbrook, IL and Sherrie Lynn Brinkman of Kankakee, IL; one son, Ramon Hoagland of Longmont, CO; six grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, one sister and three grandchildren.
Mr. Hoagland served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He had been a truck driver for Edward J. Funk & Sons in Kentland, IN for 35 years. He was a member of Modern Woodman and the American Legion.
Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.
Gerald Ray Gilbert, 71, of Bull Shoals, AR, formerly of Clifton, IL
Gerald Ray Gilbert died Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at his home.
Visitation will be for one hour prior to the 11:00 a.m. services on Saturday, July 25, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton, IL. The Rev. Steve Hartman will officiate.
Mr. Gilbert was born October 10, 1937 in Kankakee, IL, a son of Louis Ray and Viola Lindemann Gilbert. He married Gladys Loica in 1955 in Kankakee, IL. She died in 1970. He later married Sandra Eskildsen on July 15, 1971 in Clifton. She died on October 12, 2004.
Survivors of Mr. Gilbert include his mother, Viola Gilbert of Bradley, IL; four sons and three daughters-in-law, Jerry Gilbert and Scott and Candi Gilbert, all of Clifton, IL, Larry and Paula Gilbert of Spring, TX, and Mike and Gay Gilbert of Ashkum, IL; one step-son, Jeffrey Gardner of Clifton, IL; one step-daughter and her husband, Carrie A. and William Marry of Paxton, IL; two brothers and one sister-in-law, Roger and Lillette Gilbert of Knox, IN and Terry Gilbert of Chebanse, IL; one sister-in-law and her husband, Lynn and Marty Nickles of Bull Shoals, AR; one brother-in-law and his wife, David and Karen Eskildsen of Littlestown, PA; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Niels and Betty Eskildsen of Bull Shoals, AR; fourteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Preceding Mr. Gilbert in death was his father and one daughter.
Mr. Gilbert attended the Methodist Church.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of Ozarks – 701 Burnett Drive; Mt. Home AR 72653.
Orval E. Rieches, 85, of Cissna Park, IL
Orval E. Rieches, 85, of Cissna Park, IL
Orval E. Rieches died Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka.
Visitation will be from 2:00-5:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park and for one hour prior to the 11:00 a.m. service on Monday, July 20, 2009 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Ash Grove. The Rev. Kevin Wendorf will officiate. Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Ash Grove.
Mr. Rieches was born June 12, 1924 in Cissn Park, IL, a son of Henry J. and Amanda Schumacher Rieches. He married Anita Peters on July 16, 1950 in Buckley, IL. She survives.
Other survivors of Orval E. Rieches include three daughters and one son-in-law, Cheryl Rieches and Heidi Rieches, both of Cissna Park, and Kathryn and Anthony Norrick of Watseka; two grandchildren, Sabrina and Tony Norrick II; one sister and brother-in-law, Bernice and Bud Taden of Crescent City; one brother and sister-in-law, Irvin and Leona Rieches of Cissna Park; and two sisters-in-law, Maggie and Ada Peters of Paxton, IL.
Preceding him in death was his parents, one brother and one sister.
Mr. Rieches was a farmer. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Ash Grove.
Memorials may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church or Donor’s Choice.
Norman T. Moore, 78, of Onarga, I
Norman T. Moore, 78, of Onarga, IL
Norman T. Moore died Tuesday, July 14, 2009 at Provena St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee, IL.
Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. The Rev. James Small will officiate. Burial will be in the Onarga Cemetery.
Mr. Moore was born June 12, 1931 in Mulberry Grove, IL, a son of Luther and Tenabelle Berry Moore. He married Faye Berniece Beckler on October 11, 1952 in Pocahontas, AR. She preceded him in death on April 5, 2005.
Survivors of Norman T. Moore include eight daughters; Nancy Moore of Onarga, Amy Hemp of Clifton, Norma Russell of Monee, Sharon Baldwin of Midlothian, Evelyn Nelson of Orlando, FL, Sandy Samelson of Larkspur, CO, Jeannette Tarnecki of North Port, FL, and Carol Moore of Watseka; five sons, Adam Moore of Onarga, Ronald Wehrle of Mississippi, Richard Wehrle of Momence, James Wehrle of New Port Richey, FL, and Bud Wehrle of Illlinois; two sisters, Rachel Market of Tennessee and Betty Montgomery of Illinois; two brothers, Melvin and Chester Moore, both of Illinois; many grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.
Mr. Moore served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He was a heavy equipment operator and belonged to the Midwest Operators and Engineers Union. He was a Mason. He was a member of the Onarga Christian Church and the Kankakee First Church of God. He enjoyed cooking, woodworkig, working with his hands and was a patron of the Fine Arts.
Memorials may be made to Donor’s Choice.
Paul E. “Gene” Nolin, 82, of Cissna Park, IL
Paul E. “Gene” Nolin, 82, of Cissna Park, IL
Paul E. “Gene” Nolin died Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at Heartland Health Care Center in Paxton, IL.
Visitation will be from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park, IL and on Thursday, July 16, 2009 for one hour prior to the 11:00 a.m. service at Goodwine United Methodist Church. The Rev. Rusty Beals will officiate. Burial will be in Amity Cemetery in Goodwine, IL. Military graveside rites will be accorded by Cissna Park American Legion Post #527.
Mr. Nolin was born August 14, 1926 in Stockland Twp. IL, a son of Samuel and Alta Sites Nolin. He married Eleanor Wingert on March 30, 1952 in Sheldon, IL and she survives.
Other survivors include two grandchildren, Jason Bruns of Champaign, IL and Justin Bruns of Cissna Park; and one son-in-law, John Bruns of Cissna Park.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Byron Nolin; one sister, Joan Reichenbach; one daughter, Lucinda Sue Bruns; and one granddaughter, Cassandra Lacy Bruns.
Gene attended schools in Stockland Township, Raub, IN, Claytonville, Milford. He graduated from Cissna Park High School in 1944. He was a soldier in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. After his stint in the military, Gene came home and started his life-long career of farming in the Cissna Park area.
He was a sixty-five year member of Goodwine United Methodist Church. He served on the following boards: Farm Bureau, Iroquois Service Company, and Goodwine Elevator. He was also active with the County Extension Council, 4-H Committee, Pork Producers and township government.
Gene participated in many church mission construction trips. He loved to travel and had visited most of our fifty United States and over thirty countries. He was also the handyman for the Country Theater Workshop in Cissna Park for serveral years.
Memorials may be given to Goodwine United Methodist Church or the American Cancer Society.
Donald G. Schumers, 81, of Onarga, IL
Donald G. Schumers, 81, of Onarga, IL
Donald G. Schumers died Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at Provena St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee, IL.
Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga, IL and for one hour prior to the 11:00 a.m. service on Friday, July 10, 2009, also at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. The Rev. Neil Larimore will officiate. Burial will be in Del Rey Cemetery in Onarga. Military graveside rites will be accorded by the Onarga American Legion Post #551.
Mr. Schumers was born September 14, 1927 in Onarga, IL, a son of Willis S. and Ethel Loueva Hockersmith Schumers. He married Dorothy M. Peters on April 3, 1954 in Gilman, IL and she survives.
Other survivors of Donald G. Schumers are two sons and one daughter-in-law, Dale and Amy Schumers of Onarga and Dennis Schumers of Park Forest, IL; one daughter, Diana Hahn of southern Illinois; and one grandson, Jorgen Schumers.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Mr. Schumers served in the U.S. Army for sixteen months during the Korean Conflict. He and his wife farmed for ten years east of Onarga. Over the years Don was employed by the Hockersmith Construction Co., the Onarga Township Highway Department, Roeder Grain and Bork Nursery. He retired in December of 1993.
Don served as a volunteer fireman for the Onarga Fire Protection District for forty years, served as a charter EMT on the ambulance for ten years and served on the Fire District Board for eight years. He also served on the Onarga Drainage Commission for several years.
He was a member of the Boots & Saddle Club and in his younger days he enjoyed competing in horse shows. He and his old horse, Paint, won many a trophy and ribbon. He also enjoyed woodworking. He was also a member of the Slow Boys Tractor Club.
Memorials may be given to the Onarga Fire Protection District or Donor’s Choice.
Robert W. Taylor, 92, of Cissna Park, IL
Robert W. Taylor, 92, of Cissna Park, IL
Robert W. Taylor died Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka.
Visitation will be Saturday, July 11, 2009 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park, IL. A graveside service with military rites accorded will be held at Potomac Cemetery in Potomac, IL following the visitation. The Rev. Janet Longtin will officiate.
Mr. Taylor was born November 2, 1916 in Potomac, IL, a son of Clarence and Nellie Johnson Taylor. He married Wilma G. Clements on September 24, 1938 in Michigan City, IN. She preceded him in death on April 17, 2007.
Survivors of Mr. Taylor include two daughters and sons-in-law, Sharon and Kenneth Raum of Gibson City, IL and Anne and Wayne Brown of Breckenridge, CO; one sister, Iris Elliott of Potomac, IL; several nieces and nephews, including Bob and Bev Strom of Watseka, IL and Bob and Pat McCay of Goodwine, IL; eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Frank Taylor and one sister, Margaret Henry.
Mr. Taylor served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was a member of the Cissna Park United Methodist Church, where he also served as head usher for twenty-five years. He was also a member of the Cissna Park American Legion. He owned and operated Bob’s Market in Potomac, Rankin and Cissna Park for many years.
Memorials may be made to Cissna Park United Methodist Church or Donor’s Choice.
Michael J. Freeston, 51, of Sheldon, IL, formerly of Bridgeview, IL
Michael J. Freeston, 51, of Sheldon, IL, formerly of Bridgeview, IL
Michael J. Freeston died Monday, July 6, 2009 at Watseka Rehab and Health Care Center in Watseka, IL.
Visitation will be 3:00 – 8:00 p.m.on Thursday, July 9, 2009 at Knapp Funeral Home in Sheldon, IL and for one hour prior to the 11:00 a.m. service on Friday, July 10, 2009, also at Knapp Funeral Home in Sheldon. Brother Jude Lustyk will officiate.
Mr. Freeston was born April 11, 1958 in Chicago, IL, a son of Donald and Wanda Lustyk Freeston. He was divorced.
Surviving Mr. Freeston is one daughter, Amanda Freeston of Tinley Park, IL; his step-parents, Shirley and Jerry McClain of Sheldon, IL; two brothers and one sister-in-law, Jason of Sheldon and Donald and Debbie of Aurora, IL; one sister and brother-in-law, Susan and Ronald; two nephews, Gavin and Jason; and three nieces, Tracy, Laura and Rosemary.
Preceding him in death was his parents.
Mr. Freeston was an avid Cubs fan. He also enjoyed fishing, camping, bowling, golfing, archery and cooking.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.
