Sherryl “Sherry” Riley, 79 of Watseka passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2020 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee.

Sherry was born August 17, 1940 in Milford, the daughter of Marion and Bernice (Hasselbring) Fanning. She married Thomas F. Riley on January 28, 1961 in Milford and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, Mark (Sherrill) Riley of Windsor, CA and Ron (Julee) Jensen of Crete; and three grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one son, Matthew Riley.

Mrs. Riley was a member of Milford Church of the Nazarene.

Private graveside services will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka with Rev. Tom McCann officiating.

Memorials may be made to donor’s choice.

Harston “Bub” Scott, 92, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 3:05 P.M. Friday March 27, 2020 at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center.  He was born December 24, 1927, in Mississippi, the son of Charley and Pearle (House) Scott.  He married Leona Scott and she preceded him in death.  He later married Betty Scott.  She also preceded him in death.

He is survived by one sister, Annie “Polly” Harris of Tupelo, MS; one sister-in-law, Colleen Scott of Saltillo, MS; two brothers, Wayne (LaRue) Scott of Baldwin, MS and Larry “Joe” (Sherry) Scott of Gifford, IL; three grandsons, Jeromy, Ronald and DeWayne Creamer; six great-grandchildren, Adam, Jayleigh, Jenesis, and Jericka Creamer, Lela Kintner, and Jeromy Creamer Jr.; one great-great-grandson, Adam Creamer Jr.; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Flossie (Tommy) Creamer; brothers, Quincy (Faye) Scott, Robert “Bob” Scott, and Virgil (Marleen) Scott; sisters, Larelee (James “T-Boy”) Payne and Annie (Sooner) Wood; one infant sister, Ruby and infant brother, Rubel; and brother-in-law, Willy Harris.

Bud had previously worked as a farm hand.  He then worked at Greene’s Galvanized Stairs and later worked for Steiner Farm Drainage until his retirement.  In his spare time, he enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs.

A family graveside service will be held at Sunset Memorial Park in Danville, IL with Pastor Dan Mikel officiating.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Lucille Vogel, 93, of Cissna Park passed away on Wednesday, March 25th at ther home. 

A private graveside service will be held for the family. with a celebration of lucille's life to be held at a later date. 

Knapp Funeral home will be conducting the services.

Betty Carol Gocking, 82, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 2:05 A.M. Tuesday March 17, 2020 at her home.  She was born February 20, 1938, in Watseka, IL, the daughter of Glenn William and Mildred Agusta (Ristow) Ashby.  She married Robert Earl Gocking and he preceded her in death.

She is survived by one son, Wade (Joy) Gocking of Hoopeston, IL; four sisters, Connie Law, Lela Savage, Linda Rutledge, and Joyce Wilkie all of Hoopeston, IL; one grandson, Brady Gocking; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Gloria Morefield and Jean Breeding; and several brothers-in-law.

Betty was a factory worker working at Howard’s in Milford for many years and later at Schumacher’s until her retirement.  She enjoyed gardening especially her flowers, working crossword puzzles, drinking coffee with the girls at McDonald’s, and loved her dog.

Per her wishes, she will be cremated, and a graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made in Betty’s honor to the Hoopeston Multi Agency 206 S. First Ave. Hoopeston, IL 60942.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Barbara Jean Anderson, 84, of Watseka, IL, passed away of Monday. March 18th at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. 

A private graveside service will be held at the GAR Cemetery in Watseka with a memorial to be planned at a later date. 

Knapp Funeral Home will be conducting the services. 

Phyllis Marie Vandervort, 88, of Rossville, IL, passed away at 10:05 P.M. Tuesday March 17, 2020 at Heritage Health Therapy and Senior Living in Hoopeston. 

She was born November 17, 1931, in Rossville, IL, the daughter of Lawrence “Cy” and Bonnie (Kilbury) Austin.  She married Donald Eugene “Gene” Vandervort on July 30, 1950 at the Rossville Church of Christ.  He survives.

Also surviving are twin daughters, Sharon (Jim) York of Rossville, IL and Karen (Jim) Skinner of Danville, IL; two grandsons, Jamie York and Shaun (fiancée, Kourtney) York; three granddaughters, Heather (Tim) Cottingham, Lisa (Jason) Miller, and Carrie (Brodie) Krause; twelve great-grandchildren, Bailey, Austin, Sophia, Dalton, Luka, Cameron, Cierra (Matt), Morgan, Owen, Hayden, Lexie, and Lilly; four great-great-grandchildren, Ryder, Eli, Gray, and Knox; one sister-in-law, Delcena Austin; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Lawrence Austin Jr.; an infant brother; and one nephew, Cy Austin.

Phyllis graduated from Rossville High School in 1950 and was the homecoming queen and the DAR recipient.  Shortly after her marriage to Gene, he was drafted into the Army and served in Korea. 

They were married for 69 years and raised their family in Rossville.  She was a long-time member of the Rossville Church of Christ where she taught Sunday school to primary children years ago.  She worked several places over the years including cook at Rossville-Alvin High School and Grade

School, CBS factory in Hoopeston, and the local grocery store in Rossville.  She spent 26 plus years at the Towne Center County Market in Danville as a cashier and retired from there.  She called them her second family.  Her hobbies were family.  She and Gene loved them all so much and spent a lot of time attending sports and activities of their girls and grandchildren.

Phyllis was very kind-hearted, loving, and generous and loved to laugh.  She will be missed by everyone who knew her.

Due to the health circumstances, a private family service will be held.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or to the Nephrotic Syndrome Association.

To express sympathy to the family please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com where you can leave an online condolence or send flowers to the family.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Vicki Jo Lackey, 67, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 5:52 P.M. Tuesday March 17, 2020 at her home.  She was born June 1, 1952, in Pine Village, IN, the daughter of William Mack and Olive Mae (Perrin) Craig. 

She is survived by two daughters, Stephanie (Bob) Herman of Hoopeston, IL and Brenda (Pedro Jr.) Zarate of Bainbridge, IN; one son, Travis (Darci) Lackey of Hoopeston, IL; one brother, Richard Craig of Stonefort, IL; seven grandchildren; two nephews, Bill and Tim Reynolds; and special friends, Janet, Nora, Connie, and Sharon.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Sharon Reynolds; and brother-in-law, Dick Reynolds.

Vicki was a homemaker and home health care worker.  She enjoyed watching movies, visiting with friends and family, and loved her dog, Mack.

A visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. CST Saturday March 28, 2020 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  Due to the Covid-19 restrictions only 10 people at a time will be allowed into the visitation. A private graveside service will be held at Boswell Cemetery, with Rev. Earl Eells officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Hoopeston Animal Rescue Team 901 W. Main St. Hoopeston, IL 60942.

To express sympathy to the family please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com where you can leave an online condolence or send flowers to the family.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Florence M. Pew, 95 of Watseka passed away on March 18, 2020 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. She was born on December 19, 1924 in Chicago, the daughter of Rev. and Mrs. George Woodman. Florence married Russell Pew in Kankakee on October 9, 1942 and he preceded her in death on June 18, 2006.

Survivors include one son, Ronald (Patricia) Pew of Hedgesville, WV; one daughter, Sharon (Jim) Ward of Crescent City; five grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and one sister.

Florence was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Watseka.

Private graveside services will be held on Friday March 20, 2020 at G.A.R. Cemetery in Watseka with Pastor Kara Berg officiating.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church in Watseka.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Florence M. Pew please visit our Sympathy Store.

George Granzow, 84, of Clifton passed away on March 15th 2020 at Amita Health St. Mary's Hospital in Kankakee. A visitation is set for Friday March 20th from 4-7pm with the funeral service to follow starting at 7pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton, IL. 

Knapp Funeral Home will be conducting the service. 

Gracelyn Belle Warren was received silently into God’s arms at 3:10 A.M. Friday March 13, 2020 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL. 

Gracelyn is survived by her parents, Brian Warren and Terra Williams of Hoopeston, IL; two sisters, Paige and Peyton Warren; maternal grandmother, Kathy Davis of Anderson, IN; paternal grandparents, Rebecca (James) Luttrell of TX and Ron Warren of Wabash, IN; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Michael Davis.

Gracelyn will be sadly missed by her family. 

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

In loving memory of William Arthur Yergler (58) of Mesa, Arizona, September 2, 1961 to February 7, 2020.

Bill was an avid and devoted Chicago sports fan. He loved the Cubs, Sox, Bears and Blackhawks. He enjoyed watching and attending numerous games and collecting sports memorabilia. His favorite sports icons were Walter Payton and Michael Jordan. Bill loved fast sports cars as well as classic rock and roll, especially Van Halen. In addition, he was an animal lover and enjoyed the companionship of pet dogs Frazier and Sophie for many years. Bill was oftentimes hilarious with jokes and antics, yet quick to offer a listening ear and a bear hug when needed.

Since moving to Arizona, he was active in a men’s Bible study group and he embraced the beautiful scenery by oftentimes hiking in the great outdoors. Bill was a gentle soul who was deeply loved and will be missed by many, but mostly his family.

Bill is survived by his father, Arthur Yergler, Arthur’s wife, Roseann Zahn, and his mother, Earlene Lambert, sister Jori Mendel (Scott) of La Jolla, CA; brother Daniel Yergler (Margota) of Stockholm, Sweden; and sister Heidi Herrmann (John) of Manhattan, IL. Bill’s nephews and nieces are Aidan, Zoe and Oliver Mendel; Elias and Sofia Yergler; and Karleigh, Michelle and Nicolas Herrmann.

Please join us at Knapp Funeral Home, 219 West Blaine Street, Cissna Park, IL, 60924, on Friday, March 20, 2020. Visitation will be from noon to 1 pm, immediately followed by a service at 1:00 pm, followed by graveside services at the Cissna Park Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to:
NAMI DuPage County
115 N County Farm Road
Wheaton, IL 60187

Ronnie Guy Longfellow, 72, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 9:31 A.M. Thursday March 12, 2020 in Hoopeston.  He was born October 22, 1947, in Albany, KY, the son of Gilbert “Gib” and Georgia (Ferguson) Longfellow.  He married Marilyn Tincher on November 15, 1968 in Hoopeston.  She survives in Hoopeston.

He is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Linda Harmeson of Watseka, IL and Sandy (Steve) Dazey of Hoopeston, IL; two brothers-in-law, Bill (Karen Bray) Tincher of Hoopeston, IL and Chuck Tincher of Hoopeston, IL; six nieces and nephews, Shelly (Stan) Snyder, LeAnne (Randy) Stebbins, Lonnie Davis, Kim (Matt) Nelson, Jason (Lindsey) Tincher, and Phil (Karolyn) Tincher; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and two grand pups, Abby and Jasper.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, mother-in-law and father-in-law, one sister-in-law, three brothers-in-law, and several cousins.

Ronnie worked at FMC in Hoopeston as welder for many years.  He later became an over the road truck driver for Nussbaum and later AutoZone.  After his retirement he drove a grain truck.  He was a member of the VFW and enjoyed fishing and camping.

Per his wishes, he will be cremated.  A visitation will be held 4:00 – 6:00 P.M. Monday March 16, 2020 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  Burial will be held at a later date.

Per the family’s request, anyone who is ill please refrain from attending.

Memorials may be made to the Hoopeston Animal Rescue Team 901 W. Main St. Hoopeston, IL 60942.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Linda Fay Barnett, 79, of Sheldon passed away on Monday, March 9, 2020 at Sheldon Health Care Center in Sheldon.

She was born on April 15, 1940 in Nunnelly, TN, the daughter of Carlton and Cora Lee (Buchanan) Redden. She married Robert Swope on August 8, 1955 in Mississippi. She later married Blache Barnett on July 9, 1982 in Hickman County, TN and he preceded her in death in January 1983. She was also preceded in death by her parents; sister and brother-in-law, Carlene and R.T. Rivers; brother, William “Wiggle” Redden; and a niece, nephew, and great nephew.

Surviving are three children, Susan Gail (Jeff) Brown of West Lafayette, IN, Robert Wayne Swope of Sellersburg, IN, and Mary Jane (Larry) Parks of Donovan; six grandchildren, K.C. Patlan, Robert Swope, Destin Swope, Paris Swope, Megan Parks, and Mason Parks; six great grandchildren; and three sisters, Margaret Askins, Dorothy Weatherspoon, and Nina Adamson.

Linda always had a love for basketball and took great pride in passing that on to her grandchildren. She enjoyed animals and spending time with her family.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 21, 2020 at Charles L. Nickell Memorial Park in Centerville, TN. Burial will follow in the cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Please share a memory of Linda at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Ivadelle Agnes Meints, 91, of Danforth died Thursday, March 12, 2020, at Prairieview Lutheran Home, Danforth, IL.

Ivadelle was born October 16, 1928, the daughter of Raymond and Lydia (Fatka) Geisler, Danforth, IL. When Ivadelle was a young girl, her mother passed away, and her father later married Carrie Stoup in 1944. Ivadelle was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Danforth, IL. She graduated from Cullom Community High School in 1946. After her training at beauty school, she became a hairdresser. She operated a beauty shop at Cullom and later one in her Danforth home.

She married George F. Meints, Jr. on August 26, 1951 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Gilman, IL. Their attendants were her best friend, Leona (Kewley) Meredith, and George’s brother, Ervin Meints. They settled on the Meints family farm and as a farmer’s wife, she helped George with many things. They moved into Danforth in 1968. George predeceased her in 2008. She was active in the Danforth American Legion Auxiliary, St. Paul Lutheran Church activities, and was an election judge for many years.

Ivadelle is survived by her niece, Diane (Roger) Gustafson, Paxton, IL; two nephews, James (Patricia) Green, Watseka, IL and Michael Green; and two brothers, Herbert (Ann) Weber of Georgia and Ed (Sandy) Weber of Florida. She is also survived by her Aunt, Mildred Schunke, Gilman, IL; numerous cousins and friends; and her Prairieview buddy, Dolores Wingren. She enjoyed playing cards and bingo and doing crafts.

Visitation will be Tuesday, March 17, 2020, beginning at 9:00 am with the service at 11:00 am at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Gilman, IL with Pastor Pete Hinrich officiating. Burial will be at Danforth Cemetery. Memorials may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church or to Prairieview Lutheran Home.

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

Please share a memory of Ivadelle at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Karen Yvonne Laffoon, age 79, passed away peacefully Monday, March 9, 2020 at Pleasant Meadows Senior Living Center in Chrisman, IL, with family and friends by her side.

She was born September 17, 1940 in Hoopeston, IL, the daughter of George K. Bee and Helen L. Cade (Ray Ramsey). Karen married Kenneth Rex Laffoon on February 23, 1957 in Sheldon, IL. He preceded her in death June 6, 2008.

Karen & Rex lived in Sheldon for over forty-five years. While devoting her life to Rex, her children and grandchildren, Karen enjoyed reading, gardening and sweets.

Surviving are three daughters, Kassandra K. Smith (Jason) of Hume, IL, Debora L. Burton (Terry) of Sheldon, IL, Michelle L. Yallaly (Quintin) of Lincoln, NE: two sons, Kenneth R. Laffoon, Jr. (Stacy) of Pensacola, FL and Randall G. Laffoon (Barbara) of Sheldon, IL.

She was predeceased by both parents, her step-father, Ray Ramsey, husband and one sister, Sharon Ramsey, and one grandson, Kristopher Daniel.

Also surviving are seventeen grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren.

There will be a private memorial service held with family at the Buswell Cemetery in rural Kentland, IN, on Saturday, March 21, 2020 at 11:00 a.m.

Memorials may be made to Carle Hospice.

Please sign her online guestbook at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Kaye Dalene Lemenager, 55, of Bourbonnais passed away on Monday, March 9th 2020. 

A funeral service is scheduled for 7:15pm at Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman with a visitation from 4:00pm-7:00pm before the funeral service. 

Charles O. Struble, 95 of Watseka passed away on Thursday, March 10, 2020 at Bromenn Regional Medical Center in Normal. He was born on June 7, 1924 in Benton, IL, the son of Harry and Iva (Wilson) Struble and they preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by one brother, three sisters, one son-in-law, Ron Henderson, and one daughter-in-law, Susan Struble.

He married Bette Roach on June 29, 1946 in Logan IL, and she survives. Also surviving are two children, Charles Struble Jr. of Normal and Carla Henderson of Philo; five grandchildren, Jacob Henderson, Justin Henderson, Joshua (Amie) Struble, Shawn (Molly) Struble, and Darcy (Chris) Worrick; seven great-grandchildren, Maxwell and Caleb Struble, Hazel, Oliver, and Penny Struble, and Cody and Austin Worrick; and one sister, Faye Kraft of Benton.

Mr. Struble was a member of Trinity Church in Watseka. He served in the United States Air Force during World War II and was a retired Sgt. for the Illinois State Police after many years of service. He was also an active member of the Watseka American Legion Post #23 and Iroquois County VFW Post #7450.

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Church in Watseka. Pastor Ryan Mustered and Pastor Bart Koester will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka with military graveside rites by Watseka American Legion Post #23 and Iroquois County VFW Post #7450.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2020 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka, as well as one hour prior to the funeral service.

Memorials may be made to Watseka American Legion Post #23 or Trinity Church in Watseka.

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

Bonnie K. Wood, 73 of Watseka passed away on Monday, March 9, 2020 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born February 24, 1947 in Danville to Harold R. and Ethel Roberta (Chesnut) Wood. They preceded her in death.

She is survived by one sister, Betty Lynn (Todd “Hank”) Shaffer of Hoopeston; one nephew, John (Nicki) Shaffer of El Paso; one niece, Kristin (Jimmy) Phillips of Murfreesboro, TN; six great nieces and nephews, Alexis, Lauren, and Chloe Shaffer, and Ella, Carly, and Carson Phillips; and three cousins, Rita Rutherford, Randy Chesnut, and Carla Artis.

Ms. Wood was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Watseka where she sang in the church choir for over 33 years. She was an elementary school teacher in Donovan for over thirty years and volunteered at Iroquois Memorial Hospital for many years.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 funeral service on Thursday, March 12, 2020 at First United Methodist Church in Watseka. Pastor Kara Berg will officiate.

Burial will follow at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Watseka or the American Diabetes Association.

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

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Bonnie K. Wood please visit our Sympathy Store.

Howard Martin Mann, 63, of Hoopeston, passed away at 10:46 p.m. a.m. Saturday, March 7, 2020, at his home.

Howard was born on November 29, 1956, in Los Angeles, California, the son of Raymond Joseph and Eleanor May (Compton) Mann II.

He is survived by his mother- Eleanor Mann of Hoopeston; one brother-Phillip Mann of Kenosha, Wisconsin; three sisters- Betty (Ron) Ervin of Littleton, Colorado, Nancy Mann of Hoopeston and Kathy Mann of Milford; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father- Raymond Mann, two brothers- Raymond Mann III and Steve Mann, sister- Bonnie Gerlits, one niece and one nephew.

Howard graduated from Hoopeston High School.  After high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp, where he served from 1974 to 1976.  Howard previously worked at Caradco, in Rantoul.  He was a lifelong member of AMVETS and an avid Chicago Bears fan.  Howard didn’t have much to say but he enjoyed being around people.  He loved children and they loved being around him.  Howard enjoyed gardening and really had a green thumb.  Howard enjoyed repairing things and fixing broken objects.  Howard loved talking about his school days and friends.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 12, 2020, at Floral Hill Cemetery, with full military rites conducted by the Hoopeston American Legion post #384. 

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice. 

The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Howard’s life. 

Memories or condolences may be shared with the family on his everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

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Ronald D. Priest, 86, of Watseka passed away on Friday, March 6, 2020 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born December 8, 1933 in Watseka, the son of Russell C. and Deloris L. (Taylor) Priest and they preceded him in death in addition to one sister, Ruth Keith.

He married Yvonne Gray on September 13, 1958 in Watseka and she survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Lori Priest of LaGrange and Jeni (Timothy) Madison of Watseka; one son, Steven Priest of Elk Grove Village; two grandchildren, Megan Madison of Homewood and Trisha Madison of Watseka; and one great-granddaughter, Andria.

Mr. Priest was a member of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. His greatest enjoyment was farming.

Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until the 3:00 p.m. funeral service on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Please share a memory of Ronald at baierfuneralhome.com.

Gerald C. Kemp, 88, of Clifton passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2020 at the Manteno Veteran’s Home. He was born August 11, 1931 in Kankakee County, the son of William and Marie (Richter) Kemp and they preceded him in death in addition to five brothers, Leroy Kemp. William Kemp, his identical twin, Harold Kemp, Donald Kemp and Richard Kemp; and one sister, Marie Kroll.

He is survived by his companion, Sandra Zigtema of Clifton; four children, Wesley (Cheryl) Kemp of Clifton, Danita (Jerry) LaRocque of St. Anne, Carolyn (Dan) Ruark of Martinton and Jerry (Julie) Kemp of St. Louis, MO; his children’s mother, Norita Kemp; eight grandchildren, Crystal LaRocque Spalding, Stephanie LaRocque Thompson, Ashley Ruark Kusman, Courtney Ruark, Abigail Kemp, Samuel Kemp, Anneliese Kemp and Carl Ruark; six great-grandchildren, Landon, Jayden, Parker, Paxton, Lawson and Amelia; and one sister, Ellen (Bob) Jennrich of Los Angeles, CA.

Mr. Kemp served in the U.S. Marine Corps. during the Korean Conflict and was a member of the Aroma Park American Legion. He was employed at the U.S. Post Office in Kankakee for 30 years. Gerald was a member at Oak Springs and enjoyed golfing, bowling and horseshoes.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 12:00 p.m. funeral service on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Pastor Chuck Alt will officiate. Burial will follow at Mound Grove Cemetery in Kankakee with military graveside rites by Momence Honor Guard.

Memorials may be made to the Manteno Veteran’s Home Alzheimer’s Unite R 5 North.

Please share a memory of Gerald at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Arminta “Betty” Dawson, 85, of Milford passed away on Friday, March 6, 2020 at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center. She was born December 25, 1934 in Milford, the daughter of George and Minnie (Brumfield) Mann. She married Thomas Evan Dawson on November 11, 1950 in Milford and he preceded her in death on May 4, 2016. She was also preceded in death by her parents; five brothers; two sisters; and two sons-in-law, Ray Craighead and Tom Sparks.

She is survived by five children, Leslie (Debbie) Dawson of Milford, Carol Craighead of Milford, Diane (Doug) Newman of Milford, Charlotte Sparks of Milford and Eric (Brenda) Dawson of Milford; two sisters, Geniece Allen of Milford and Sue Kissack of Milford; one brother, Scott (Linda) Mann of Hoopeston; fourteen grandchildren; twenty-nine great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Dawson was a member of the Milford Christian Church. Betty was an Iroquois County election judge and worked at Howards, Volunteer Services, and ran a daycare out of her home for many years. She enjoyed crocheting, shopping, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. Rev. Brent Zastrow, Rev. Neil Larimore and Rev. Gary Milton will officiate. Burial will follow at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 9, 2020 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Memorials may be made to the Milford Ambulance or donor’s choice.

Please share a memory of Betty at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Verena E. Knapp, 92, of Bloomington, IL and formerly of Cissna Park, peacefully passed away at 4:53pm on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at her residence at Mercy Creek.

Verena was born on April 13, 1927 in Cissna Park, a daughter of Gust and Bertha (Grusy) Meiss. She married Ralph Knapp on December 21, 1947 in Danville and he preceded her in death on June 1, 2012.

Survivors include her children, Stan Knapp of Frisco, TX, Mardel Knapp of Fort Myers, FL, Kevin (Dixie) Knapp of Bloomington and Keith (Kay) Knapp of Hoopeston; one brother, Roy (Sherry) Meiss of Indianapolis, IN; seven grandchildren, Alesa (Clint) Bahler, Lucas (Angie) Knapp, Dustin (Trish) Knapp, Spencer (Emily) Knapp, Jennifer (Kyle) Raymond, Jackie Knapp, and Jason (Ann) Knapp; and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and four sisters.

Visitation will be from 3:00-7:00 pm Sunday, March 8, at the Apostolic Christian Church in Bloomington and from 9:00-9:45 am on Monday at the church.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Monday, March 9, 2020 at the Apostolic Christian Church in Bloomington with the ministers of the church officiating.

Graveside services will be at 2:00 pm, Monday, at the Apostolic Christian Cemetery in Cissna Park.

Verena was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church. She was known for her contagious laughter, quick wit and the many limericks she quoted by memory. Her love of flowers was displayed in her beautiful flower gardens. She loved her family well and they often share many examples of her tender heart. She hated to awaken the boys on a cold, dark winter morning to go out to the barn to milk cows before school. Her grandchildren’s problems were always better after she gave them a bowl of Kellogg’s Corn Pops. Friends and family alike felt encouraged and loved by the cards she faithfully sent.

Memorials may be made to the Apostolic Christian Church Outreach Fund or LifeSong for Orphans.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Peggy Lou Rose, 84, of Williamsport, Indiana, formerly of Armstrong, passed away at 8:55 a.m. est. Tuesday, March 3, 2020, at Franciscan Health, in Lafayette.

Peggy was born on October 12, 1935, in Potomac, Illinois, the daughter of Herbert and J. Hermenia (Edenburn) Warren. 

She is survived by two daughters- Tammy (Troy) Seggabruch of Onarga, Illinois and Lisa Taylor of Martinsville, Indiana; one son- John Rose of Peoria, Illinois; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; aunt- Louise Zimmerman: and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter- Marcey Bartlow, brother- Bill Warren, sister- Pat Ewing, nephew- Shane Warren, and her aunt- Theora Talbot.

Peggy worked at SuperValu, in Champaign, for several years until she retired.  She enjoyed her pets and doing crafts.

Graveside services will be held at 3:30 p.m. Monday, March 9, 2020, at Partlow Cemetery, in Armstrong, with Pastor Sally Swaim officiating.  Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday, at Blurton Funeral Home, 400 N. Vermilion Street, Potomac, Illinois.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Peggy’s life. 

Memories or condolences may be shared with the family on her everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

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Lucille Mae Pence, 83, of Watseka passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. She was born June 21, 1936 in Rensselaer, IN, the daughter of Elmer and Mabel (Mathew) Deno and they preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by one brother, Gene Deno; one sister, Vera Wetli; and one daughter-in-law, Debbie Pence.

She married James “Jim” Pence on May 25, 1957 in Goodland, IN and he survives. Also surviving are four children, Terry (Rhonda) Pence of Watseka, Lynette (Rich) Moyer of Watseka, Mike (Phyllis) Pence of Marshall and Scott (Kelly) Pence of Bourbonnais; one sister, Dorene Gretencord of Lafayette, IN; one sister-in-law, Wanda Pence of Clarksville, IN; thirteen grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Pence was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. She worked with her husband in the family business, Pence Oil Company, for forty years and enjoyed sewing, gardening, fishing and camping. Lucille loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2020 at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. Fr. Michael Powell will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2020 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice, St. Edmund Catholic Church CCW or Mahlah Comfort Dog Ministries.

Dorothy E. Young, 87, of Cissna Park passed away on Friday, February 28, 2020 at Accolade Health Care of Paxton.

Dorothy was born February 17, 1933 in Effingham County, the daughter of Rudy H. and Minnie (Priess) Berg. She married Marvin W. Young on December 20, 1950 in Buckley and he preceded her in death on May 7, 2018. She was also preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Edward Berg; two sisters, Betty Janssen and Janet Enlow; one daughter, Connie Whaley; one grandchild, Michelle Kuester; and two daughter-in-laws, Donna Young and Connie Young.

She is survived by two sons, Wayne Young of Watseka and Donald “Red” Young of Cissna Park; one daughter, Beverly (Steven) Kuester of Cissna Park; one sister, Esther Ruff of Waynesville, IL; ten grandchildren, Cindy Mitchell, Jeffrey Young, David Young, Travis Young, Tammi Noonan, Jason Kuester, Vanessa Levan, Neal Kuester, Wayne Lee Stafford, and Dorothy Scarbrough; and twenty great-grandchildren.

Dorothy was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park. She enjoyed quilting and crocheting.

Visitation will be from 12:30 until the 2:00 p.m. funeral service on Sunday, March 8, 2020 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park. Rev. Tim Hahn will officiate. Burial will follow at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Cissna Park.

Memorials may be made to Cissna Park Fire Department, Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park, or family’s wishes.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Mary Kay Rabe, 77, of Watseka passed away on Monday, March 2, 2020 at Heritage Woods in Watseka. She was born on October 9, 1942 in Cheneyville, the daughter of Paul Jay Sr. and Catherine (Newman) Houmes. Mary Kay married Roger Wendell Rabe on February 3, 1962 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka.

Mary Kay is survived by her husband Roger Rabe of Watseka; her children Teresa (Jeff) Parish of Catlin, Mark (Crystal) Rabe of Crescent City and Ruthanne (Paul) Hammett of St. Louis; her siblings Shirley Guttman of Beaver Creek, OH, Diane Houmes of Watseka, Paul Jr (Carol) Houmes of Watseka and Angela Jones of Donovan; two brothers-in-law Dennis (Nancy) Rabe and Stuart (Neva) Rabe; three sisters-in-law Barbara Bohlmann, Sandra Rabe and Leola Rabe-Rader; her grandchildren Jeremy (Courtney) Parish, Autumn Parish, Nicholas (Nikki) LeVeque, Trenton (Jessica) Rabe, Madison Hammett and Lauren Hammett; her great-grandchildren Kyli, Ellie, Adeline, Evan, Liam, Audrey and Sebastion; and an aunt Jane Houmes Smith of Watseka.
She was preceded in death by her parents.

Mary Kay worked as a Graphic Designer for the Times-Republic for 29 years. She enjoyed homemaking, cooking, baking and canning. During the Iroquois County Fair, she won numerous Grand Champion Ribbons for her baked goods.

She was a 4-H Leader of Crescent City Arrowcrest for many years, and an Iroquois County Fair Board Member. Mary Kay also taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka. She was a member of the Crescent City Development Association, as well as, a member of the committee to develop and build Heritage Park in Crescent City.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2020 from 10am until the 12pm Funeral Service at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka. Burial will follow the service at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Woodworth. Memorials may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church and Preschool.

Ricky Anthony Fayard Sr., 62, of Bismarck, Illinois, passed away at his home on February 29, 2020.

Ricky was born in Marrero, Louisiana, the son of Roy and Clara (Schexnayder) Fayard, on July 27, 1957.  He married Kathy Bergman on July 10, 1993, in Potomac, Illinois.  She survives.

Ricky leaves behind two sons- Ricky Fayard Jr. and Jacob Kirkley; three daughters- Jessica (Jeff) James, Keli (Brian) Kirkley and Whitney (Brad) Stephens; fourteen grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two brothers- Troy (Shontel) Fayard and Samuel (Michelle) Fayard; two sisters- Barbara (Jimmy) Pigron and Pam Fayard; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Ricky was preceded in death by his father Roy Fayard, mother- Clara Netto, step-father- Ardis Netto, son- Todd Fayard and brother- Timmy Fayard.

Ricky loved his family dearly.  He served in the United States Army.  Ricky was also a golden glove boxer.  He was a very devoted New Orleans Saints and LSU fan.  Ricky was a carpenter for 30 years and used his abilities to build their home in the oldest church in Bismarck, which was his pride and joy where they entertained family gatherings.  He enjoyed life and was specially loved, and he will be dearly missed.

A Celebration of Ricky’s Life will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday, March 7, 2020, at the Potomac Community Building, with a service to begin at 3:30 p.m.  Military honors will follow the service conducted by the Potomac American Legion.  Cremation rites have been accorded. 

Memorial may be made to the American Cancer Society.  A memorial service will also be held at a later date in French Settlement, Louisiana.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Ricky’s life.  Memories or photos may be shared with the family on his everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Wesley "Wes" Glover, 79, of Milford passed away on Monday, March 2nd at the Heritage Health of Hoopeston.

Abiding by his wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral. He will be cremated. Interment will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford at a future time. 

Joan Marshall, 89, of Littleton, CO and formerly of Watseka passed away on February 13th at her home. A funeral service is scheduled for 11:30AM on Saturday, March 7th at the First Christian Church in Watseka. A visitation will be held at 9:00AM - 11:15AM before the 11:30AM Saturday service. 

Knapp is in charge of the services.

Marieta “Eileen” G. Layden, 92, of Hoopeston, passed away at 6:44 p.m. Sunday, February 23, 2020, at Autumn Fields.

Eileen was born on November 24, 1927, in Alvin, Illinois, the daughter of Marion “M.L.” and Bertha (Kelly) Green. She married Edward J. Layden on November 26, 1959, in Hoopeston. He preceded her in death on April 6, 2013.

She is survived by eight children, Edward J. (Yvonne) Layden Jr. of Hoopeston, Tade (Sue) Layden of Normal, Mary Kay (James) Brown of Hoopeston, Margie (Dr. Alan) Brewer of Faucett, Missouri, Colleen Layden of Overland Park, Kansas, Abby (Mark) Linesch of Houston, Texas, Patrick Layden of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Molly Miller of Danville; one daughter-in-law, Barbara Layden of Phoenix, Arizona; 24 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; one brother- John David (Cookie) Green of Rossville; two sisters- Lois Roberts of Rossville and Mary (Phil) Briggs of Rossville; sister-in-law- Ruth Marie Carter; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son-John Michael Layden, two grandchildren- John Callahan and Doug Layden and five brothers- Leland, Harold, Glenn, Jack and Lloyd Green.

Eileen graduated from Rossville High School. She worked for several years at America Bell, as a telephone operator. She also helped manage the books for the family farm for years. Eileen was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. She was also a member of DAR, Rossville Historical Society, Altar and Rosary Society, Hoopeston Art Association and was a secretary for the Grant Township Food Bank. Eileen enjoyed painting, reading, shopping, traveling and playing bridge.

Funeral mass for Mrs. Layden will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 7, 2020, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 423 S. 3rd St., Hoopeston, with Father Thomas Gibson officiating. As per her wishes cremation rites will be accorded and a burial will be held at a later date. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, March 6, 2020, at the Blurton Funeral Home, 309 E. Washington St., Hoopeston.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Hoopeston Multi-Agency, Grant Township Food Cupboard, Hoopeston Public Library or St. Anthony Catholic Church, all in Hoopeston.

The Layden family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Mrs. Layden’s life. Condolences may be shared with the family on her everlasting memorial page at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Mary Joyce Yeats Smith, 74, of Rossville, IL, passed away at 4:20 P.M. Saturday February 29, 2020 at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center.  She was born May 30, 1945, in Danville, IL, the daughter of Raymond O. and Betty J. (Hardy) Yeats. 

She is survived by her mother, Betty Yeats of Rossville, IL; one daughter, Megan (Garth) Ludeman of Frenchburg, KY; three sons, Scott Smith of Valdosta, GA, Sean (Cathy) Smith of Greenville, NC, and Steven (Susie) Smith of Port Lavaca, TX; nine grandchildren, Maggie Smith, Ryan Smith, Shaden Smith, Bryland Smith, Chyla Jo-Ann Smith, Noelle Smith, Cianndra Barraza, Kaitlinn Smith, and Kaylee Turuc; two great-grandchildren, Zayis Alexander Barraza and Xalleah Ryan Barraza; and three nieces and nephews, Sara Roels Anderson, David Roels, and Chelsea Collier.

She was preceded in death by her father, Raymond O. Yeats and one grandson, Jacob Turuc.

Mary enjoyed playing cards, especially bridge.  She also enjoyed working outside in her yard and was an avid reader.

Per her wishes, she will be cremated.  A visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Friday March 6, 2020 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The memorial service will begin at 12:00 P.M. Friday at the funeral home with Pastor Chris Quick officiating.  No burial will be held.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Janis Carol Vonderharr, 72, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away on Sunday February 23, 2020 at her home.  She was born October 27, 1947 in Arkansas, the daughter of Seburn J. and Emma Jean (Allen) Jones.

Cremation rites will be accorded, and no services will be held.