Marvin Hofer, 86, of Rankin passed away on Monday, December 28, 2020 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells. He was born on February 24, 1934 in Claytonville, IL the son of Eli and Fern (Boyce) Hofer. Marvin married Margaret Joan Teresa Cleary on September 5, 1953 in Danville, IL. She preceded him in death on October 7, 2009.

Marvin worked as an electrician at the Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul from 1956 to 1989. While working at the base Marvin and Joan also owned the Rankin Bowling Ally for many years. Marvin stayed busy with his own business, Marv’s Electric Service which he served the surrounding towns and especially Rankin. He was a trustee for the Village of Rankin for 18 honorable years as well as serving 2 years on the Rankin School Board. Marvin was a member of the Rankin Lions Club and was on the Rankin Fire Department for 41 years. During his free time Marvin enjoyed bowling, fishing, and spending time at Racoon Lake. Some may know Marvin as the unofficial Town Sherriff as he kept a good eye on Rankin over the years.

He is survived by two sons, Vern Hofer of Cary, NC and Mike Hofer of Hoopeston; one brother, Larry Hofer of Rankin; three sisters, Virginia Barr of Rankin, Patricia (Mike) Bushue of Rankin, and Connie (Tom) Cain of Carmel, IN; 8 grandchildren, Jeremy (Megan) Deck of Hoopeston, Ashley Deck of Hoopeston, Leon Deck of Hoopeston, Garrett Hofer of Raleigh, NC, Elizabeth Hofer of Orlando, FL, Jessica Hofer of Hoopeston, Matt Hofer of Illinois and Josh Hofer of California; and several great grandchildren.

Marvin is proceeded in death by his parents, his wife, one daughter, Jeanette Deck; two brothers, Duane and Gordy Hofer.

A memorial visitation will be Monday, January 4, 2021 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Cox- Knapp Funeral Home in Rankin. Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Cox-Knapp Funeral Home in Rankin. Burial will follow at Rankin Union Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Rankin Lions Club or Family Wishes. Please sign his guestbook at www.coxknapp.com

Stephen B. Boen, 62, of Rossville, IL, passed away at 1:55 A.M. Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center. He was born January 24, 1958, in Danville, IL, the son of Ray and Amy (Roe) Boen. He married Tammy Swartz on March 7, 1981 at the Rossville United Methodist Church. She preceded him in death.

In addition to his wife of 38 years, Stephen was also preceded in death by his father, Ray.

He is survived by two sons, Steve (Heather) Boen of Westville, IL and Chris (Kristin) Boen of Rossville, IL; one sister, Christina Boen of Alvin, IL; one granddaughter, Hadley Rae Boen; two nieces, Nickole Swartz and Angie Strawser; and one nephew, Robert Tubbs.

Stephen served in the United States military for 27 years. He served in the Marine Reserves for 7 years and ARMY Active Duty for 20 years before retiring after serving in Iraq. He later worked at McLane Midwest for over 20 years. Stephen’s greatest enjoyment was spending time with his family.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, January 2, 2021 at Bethel Cemetery in rural Alvin, IL, with Pastor Dan Mikel officiating. We kindly ask that face coverings be worn, and social distancing is maintained by those who attend the service.

Memorials may be made to the Disabled Veterans National Foundation 4601 Forbes Blvd-Suite #130, Lanham, MD 20706 or the American Cancer Society 2509 S Neil St Ste 1, Champaign, IL 61820. Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Stephen’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Donald Garrison, 72, of Rossville, IL, passed away at 10:42 A.M. Monday December 28, 2020 at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center.  He was born July 11, 1948, in Cheneyville, IL, the son of John Homer and Mary Jane (Calvert) Garrison. 

He is survived by one sister, Bertha (Herman) Obenland; four brothers, Homer (Jeanette) Garrison, James (Janice) Garrison, Ronald (Donna) Garrison, and John (Kristy) Garrison; and many nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by a special friend, Susie Smith. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Betty Wells and Mary Bolin; and two brothers, Charles Garrison and Tom (Joyce) Garrison. 

Donald worked as a grinder in the finishing department for General Motors for 25 years until his retirement.  He attended the Rossville Church of Christ.  His hobbies included fishing, raising chickens and rabbits and racing race cars and hot rods.    

A public visitation will be held 10:00 – 11:00 A.M. Monday January 4, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  We kindly ask that face coverings be worn, and social distancing is maintained by those who attend the visitation.  A private graveside service will be held. 

Memorials may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place • Memphis, TN 38105, 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Helen Kimble - Vaughn, 93, of Watseka passed away on Wed, December 23rd at the Watseka Rehab & Healthcare Center.

A graveside service is set for Thrusday, December 31st 2020 at 2:00pm at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka. 

A visitation will be held starting at noon, 12/31/2020 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. 

Baier Funeral Home is handeling arrangments.

Samuel “Dean” Piatt 78 of Gifford, formerly of Armstrong left his earthly home on December 27, 2020 after a 16 year battle with Parkinson’s Disease, at home with his family at his side.

Dean was born on July 19, 1942, the son of Carl D. and Ruth Lindley Piatt.  They both preceded him in death.  He married Jane Walsh on March 8, 1964.  She survives him.  Also surviving are his 2 daughters, Lisa Edenburn and her husband, Buddy, of Penfield, IL and Lori Langholz and her husband, Mark, of Cedarburg, WI;  four grandchildren, Bailey and her husband, Cody Conrady, of Armstrong, IL, Miranda and her husband, Tyler Wright, of Royal, IL, William and Andrew Langholz of Cedarburg, WI.  His first great grandchild, Baby Conrady, is due in January of 2021.  Also surviving are his sister, Jeanne Rademacher and her husband, Norman of Gifford, IL.  His brothers and sisters in law, John and Jan Walsh of Carmel, IN, Julie and Jim Peck of Mequon, WI and Jim and Angie Walsh of Potomac, IL along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Dean graduated from Armstrong High School with the class of ‘60.  Dean was a life-long grain and livestock farmer.  He loved the land and loved to farm and it showed.  He took great pride in being a farmer and exemplified the best of farming – he was a good steward of the land; he was a conscientious caretaker of his livestock and he took care of his community of fellow farmers.  He lived on his farm at Armstrong for 75 years before passing it to the next generations just a few weeks ago.

He was a Seed Dealer for over 40 years.  First for Dekalb (Trojan) and then for Beck’s Hybrids.  He always enjoyed his customers and was highly valued for his knowledge and service.

He was always busy and had “working” hobbies, including woodworking, welding, and restoring antique tractors.   He particularly enjoyed making oak pieces for family, friends and organizations he loved.  If you have been in his church or the I & I grounds or in the homes of many family members or friends you will have likely seen his handiwork.  He also enjoyed restoring antique tractors and the activities that surrounded it – he had many fond memories of driving those tractors and the fellowship of his fellow farmers and tractor enthusiasts as part of the I&I Tractor Club.  He mostly drove and restored John Deere tractors.  He did deviate from John Deere for a few special tractors, particularly his Oliver, Minneapolis-Moline and Allis-Chalmers.   In later years, he loved to take visitors to his tractor shed and start up the Oliver to listen to the VERY loud roar of the engine and laugh at the reactions. 

He was very involved in the community and was a member of the Middlefork United Methodist Church, I & I Antique Tractor & Gas Engine Club and Vermilion County Farm Bureau.  He was formerly on the Partlow Cemetery Board, the Vermilion County Extension Board and a member of the Vermilion County Pork Producers.

Dean was someone who didn’t tell you how he felt about you – he showed you.  He was always ready with a helping hand, to lend a piece of equipment or a tool, or just come help do the job himself.  He had a wonderful easy smile (that made its way all the way to his very blue eyes) and usually a story to tell.  Hopefully you either learned something or laughed whenever you were with him.  In lieu of flowers the family has a request:  If Dean ever did something good for you – pay it forward and do a good deed for someone else in Dean’s memory – and do it with a smile.

The family would like to specifically thank Comforted Care and owner, Carey Jacobs, for the exceptional care she provided to Dean in the last several months, enabling us to keep him at home with people who loved him. 

Given current health guidelines, there will be a Private Family Service.  Memorials may be made to Middlefork United Methodist Church, I & I Antique Tractor Club, Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or a charity of your choice.   

Robert Dean “Bobby” Davis, 83, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 3:05 P.M. Monday, December 21, 2020 at the VA Illiana Health Care System in Danville.  He was born September 6, 1937, in Danville, IL, the son of Arthur “Buzz” Davis and Ruth (Miller) Davis.     

He is survived by two daughters, Dana Burk of Hoopeston, and Abby (Marty) Dobkins of Hoopeston; one sister, Carol Rudd of Danville: one half-brother, Scott Davis of Palm Springs, CA:  four grandchildren, Alina (Aaron) Goble, Kirby (Meghan) Burk, Brad Dobkins, and Sabrina Dobkins; one great-grandchild, Cope Goble, and one on the way.  

He was preceded in death by his parents.  

Bob worked at the family-owned business, Davis Sheet Metal, with his dad for over twenty years.  He served in the United States Army from 1960-1962 with the 12th Infantry. Bob was a sports fanatic. He was an elite athlete in high school and captain of the John Greer High School football and basketball teams. Bob bowled competitively in two leagues and was inducted into the Hoopeston Bowling Hall of Fame in 2002. He also enjoyed fishing and was an avid Patriots fan. 

Per his wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and no services will be held.  

Memorials may be made in Bob’s memory to the Hoopeston American Legion Post #384.  

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.  

Timothy Barragree, 56, of Rossville, IL, passed away at 12:16 P.M. Monday December 21, 2020 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.  Arrangements are pending at Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston.

John Louis Herriott, 51, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 3:02 A.M. Wednesday December 23, 2020 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL.  He was born November 27, 1969, in Lafayette, IN, the son of Tom and Patricia (Niccum) Herriott.   

He leaves behind 2 children, Cade Herriott of Hoopeston and Kelsey Herriott of Rossville; one sister, Misty (Jeff) Brummet of Bedford, IN; aunts and uncles, Sharri Herriott of Evansville, IN, Violet (Ron) Hughes of Tucson, AZ, and Randy (Penny) Herriott of Kentland, IN; and several nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Michael Herriott; his paternal grandparents who raised him, Tom Sr. and Beverly Herriott; his maternal grandparents; and his aunt, Helen Niccum. 

John worked at Schumacher’s in Hoopeston and later at Full-Fill in Rossville before working at SuperValu in Rantoul for 27 years.  He was a proud father to his children, never missing a golf match or ball game.  He also enjoyed playing golf.  John was one of the most selfless people and it made him happy to make the people that he loved happy.  He was a great father, husband, son, and friend and will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him. 

Per his wishes, cremation rites will be accorded.  A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday January 7, 2021 at Gundy Cemetery in rural Bismarck.   

Memorials may be made to John’s family. 

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements. 

Patricia “Pat” Ann Mockbee, 76, of Potomac, passed away at 4:02 p.m. Monday, December 21, 2020, at home.

Pat was born on January 24, 1944, in Danville, the daughter of Theodore Roosevelt and Alice Agnes (Sands) Hunt. She married Gary Mockbee in 1965, in Danville. He survives.

She is also survived by three daughters- Melinda (Tommy) Winiger of Rossville, Angela (Jason) Sefrhans of Paxton and Michele (Casey) McQuinn of Paxton; one son- Rick Mockbee of Potomac; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one brother- Ronnie (Debbie) Hunt; two sisters- Bert Bland and Pauline Jones; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister- Geraldine Delp and brother- Delbert Hansbrough.

Pat graduated from Danville High School. She enjoyed going to the casino boat and spending time with her children and especially her grandchildren.

A Celebration of Pat’s Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 26, 2020, at Blurton Funeral Home, in Potomac, with Pastor Raymie Gordon officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Potomac Cemetery. Due to the current health concerns, masks and social distancing will be required.

Memorials may be made in Pat’s name to the donor’s choice. Condolences may be sent to the family on Pat’s everlasting memorial page at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Robert "Bob" Atkins, 87, of Watseka passed away on Saturday,12/19/2020 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee.

A private funeral service will be held at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Burial to follow the private service at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka. 

Knapp Funeral Home is handling arrangements. 

Iris R. Elliott, 87, of Potomac, passed away at 5:55 p.m. Thursday, December 17, 2020, at Accolade Healthcare, in Paxton.

Iris was born on March 19, 1933, in Potomac, the daughter of Clarence and Nelle (Johnson) Taylor. She married Donald E. Elliott on July 17, 1952, in Potomac. He preceded her in death on June 21, 2005.

She is survived by two daughters- Debra (Joe) Kuntz of Rankin and Karen (Jim) Suggs of Canton, Michigan; two sons- Chris (Janet) Elliott of Rankin and Brian Elliott of Potomac; eleven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brother-in-law- Roy (Patsy) Elliott of Paxton; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, infant son, two brothers-Robert and Frank Taylor and her sister- Margaret Henry.

Iris graduated from Potomac High School, in 1951. She worked for 23 years as the cook at Armstrong-Ellis Grade School and volunteered as a teachers aid at Potomac Grade School. She was a member of the Rankin United Methodist Church and former member of the Rankin Jr. Women's Club. Iris was also involved in numerous other clubs over her life. She volunteered for years at the I and I Farm Show, in the Pork Palace and Half Century of Progress Show, in the Area Methodist Church food tent. She enjoyed cooking, baking, watching Armstrong grade school sports and spending time with family and friends. Her treasured cooking aprons from Armstrong Grade School and Rankin United Methodist Church, will be interred with her.

The family would like to extend a special "Thank You" to the staff of Accolade Healthcare and Senior Living and Transitions Hospice, for their excellent care of Iris and the family during this time.

Due to current Covid-19 health concerns, a private family graveside service will be held at Potomac Cemetery, with Pastor Molly Spence Hawk officiating. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made in Iris's name to the Rankin United Methodist Church. The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home, in Potomac, to assist them in honoring her life. Condolences may be shared with the family on her everlasting memorial page at: www.blurtonFuneralHomes.com

Erna Jensen, 90, of rural Cehbanse, IL passed away on Monday, 12/14/2020 at her home.

A private funeral mass at St. Mary & Joseph Catholic Church in Chebanse with burial to follow at St. Mary & Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Chebanse. 

A private visitation will also be held at the church.

The Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton is handling arrangements. 

Mardell "Mardy" Shuper, 89, of Watseka passed away on Monday, 12/14/2020 at Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. 

A private service will be held at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with burial to follow. 

Burial will take place at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka. 

Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka is handling arrangements.

Robert Leroy “Bob” Dixon, 68, of Wellington, IL, passed away on December 9, 2020 at OSF Sacred Heart Medical Center in Danville, IL.  He was born September 12, 1952, in Danville, the son of Lloyd and Esther (Schwartz) Dixon. 

He is survived by two brothers, Harold (Mary Jane) Dixon and Earl (Cecelia) Dixon both of rural Prairie Green; one niece, Jill (Charlie) Henning; and five nephews, Bryan (Laura) Dixon, Stephen (Dana) Dixon, John (Tammy) Dixon, Philip (Halie) Dixon, and Craig Dixon. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and two special cousins, Kay (Rosborg) Tabin and David Dixon. 

Bob was a farmer all his life and was a proud graduate of the University of Illinois, graduating in 1974.  He was a lifetime member of the University of Illinois Alumni Association and was always an avid Illini fan.  He was a member of the Wellington United Methodist Church where he served on different committees. He also attended St. James United Methodist Church in Danville after moving to assisted living in Danville.  Bob was also a member of the Wellington Lions Club and held various offices in that organization.  He was known for his ready smile and love of teasing people and willingly receiving it in return. 

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Thursday December 17, 2020 at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston, with Pastor Jemiriye Fakunle officiating. 

Memorials may be made to the Wellington United Methodist Church. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Juana Gonzalez Espino, 85, of Hoopeston, passed away at 1:31 a.m. Saturday, December 12, 2020, at Accolade Healthcare, in Paxton.

Juana was born on September 20, 1935, in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico, the daughter of Agustin and Victoria (Cruz) Castillo. She married Juan Gonzalez, in 1949, in Mexico. He preceded her in death on March 19, 1973. She later married Amador Espino, in 1974, in Danville, Illinois. He preceded her in death on August 1, 2013.

She is survived by four daughters- Stella (Robert) Holloman of Sebring, Florida, Toni (Mike) Boyd of Hoopeston, Maria Gonzalez of Hoopeston and Maria (Kyle) Dietrich of Urbana; five sons- Arnie (Carmen) Gonzalez of Hoopeston, Joe Gonzalez of Hoopeston, John (Michelle) Gonzalez of Hoopeston, Jesse (Emily) Gonzalez of Hoopeston and Pete Gonzalez of Houston, TX; 21 grandchildren; 41 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great grandchildren; one brother- Alfredo Castillo of Mexico; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, two sons- Alex Gonzalez and infant son, three daughters- Juanita Rojo, Lupe King and Guadalupe Gonzalez, two grandsons- Jamie Gonzalez and Antonio Gonzalez and four brothers- Pasqual Castillo, Agustin Castillo, Domingo Castillo and Ricardo Castillo.

Juana worked at Schumacher’s in Hoopeston and retired from Howard Industries, in Milford. She was a devoted Catholic and member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Juana enjoyed making blankets, knitting, gardening and she had a real green thumb for flowers. She also enjoyed cooking, watching the birds and she loved her chihuahua’s.

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, December 17, 2020, at Blurton Funeral Home, 309 E. Washington St., Hoopeston. Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, at Floral Hill Cemetery, with Father Thomas Gibson officiating. Due to the current health concerns masks and social distancing will be required. Memorials may be made to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Juana’s life. Condolences may be shared with the family on her everlasting memorial page at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Charles (Chuck) David Misner, 73, of Rossville, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on December 7, 2020, with caring family by his side. Born in Hammond, Indiana, on January 15, 1947, Chuck was preceded in death by his kind parents, Clifford (Red) and Mary Maxine Misner (nee Newnum), and by his warmhearted grandmother, Leona Lynwood Newman (nee Marshall).

Chuck is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Susan Jean (nee Terry), and his two loving children, Megan Jean Kester and Michael David Misner, with their respective spouses, David Kester and Amanda Misner (nee May). Chuck had eight cherished grandchildren: Michael Chochola, Madalynne Chochola, Peyton Kester, Gibson Kester, William Misner, Connor Misner, Patrick Misner, and Logan Misner. Another precious Misner grandchild is expected soon. Chuck also is survived by his sister, Mary Ellen Bozack (nee Misner), and her husband, Melvin; and by his brother, Garry Misner and his wife, Peggy. Chuck’s loss is mourned deeply by Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey (Carol) Terry, Mr. & Mrs. Michael (Debra) Muenich, and many dear nieces and nephews. Among many others, Chuck’s life is honored by special family friends: Dr. Seijeoung Kim, Mr. John and Rev. Ritakay Scruton-Wilson and family, the Mr. Juan (Rosa) Pedrosa family, and the Mrs. Phan Ean family.

Chuck graduated from Hammond High School in 1965 and was a U.S. Army veteran. He worked as a manager in the field of electrical supply distribution for more than 40 years, in Hammond, IN; Chicago, IL; and Columbus, OH. He later worked with employment programs for young adults with special needs. Chuck loved watching his grandchildren play sports and games, liked scouting through vintage stores, appreciated participating in good conversations, and enjoyed taking country drives and walks, especially around his favorite tourist place: the Indiana Dunes National Park.

A private service will be held for immediate family members at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made in Chuck’s name to a charitable organization of the donor’s own preference. Chuck’s wife and children wish to thank the numerous colleagues, friends, neighbors, and family members who have shown much kindness and care to Chuck and his family during past and recent years.

Cremation rites will be accorded by Blurton Funeral Home, 309 E. Washington St., Hoopeston, IL 60942. The family has asked that any condolences or short stories about Chuck be shared on his everlasting memorial page at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com

Harriett M. Mowrey, 80, of Stockland passed away on Monday, December 7, 2020 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on September 12, 1940 in Watseka, the daughter of Lee M. and Mae (Baser) Callahan.

She married Maynard G. Mowrey on November 7, 1960 and he preceded her in death on May 9, 2016. She was also preceded in death by her parents and one grandson, Caleb Mowrey.

Harriett is survived by three sons, Jim (Debra) Mowrey, Ty (Trish) Mowrey, and Jon (Tracy) Mowrey, all of Milford; eleven grandchildren, Jaime (Darren) Bakken of Sheldon, Jennifer Mowrey of Cleveland, OH, Shane (Beka) Lavicka of Leroy, Amie Lavicka of Santa Barbara, CA, Ashlie Lavicka of Watseka, Cody, Caley and Cassidy Mowrey of Milford, Charlee Mowrey of Sheldon, and Jakki and Hunter Mowrey of Milford; four great-grandchildren, Caden, Emmerson, and Adelynn Lavicka and Cecelia Bakken; one sister, Nancy Feller of Bourbonnais; and two brothers, Larry (Gayleen) Callahan of Lowell, IN and Henry Callahan of Watseka.

Mrs. Mowrey was a member of the Milford Christian Church and taught Sunday School for 12 years. She was also a member of the Stockland Township Board for 27 years, the Milford Library Board for 14 years, the Iroquois County Board for 17 years, the Iroquois Memorial Hospital Board for 12 years, and the 911 Board for 4 years.

Private funeral services will be held at the Milford Christian Church with Rev. Brent Zastrow and Rev. Gary Milton officiating. Burial will follow at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Milford Swimming Pool or Milford Christian Church

Helen Maxine Catron, 93, of Hoopeston, passed away at 8:56 a.m. Tuesday, December 8, 2020, at Amita Health Resurrection Medical Center, in Chicago.

Helen was born on August 30, 1927, in Center, Kentucky, the daughter of Richard and Rendi (Bryant) Coffey. She was previously married to Ray Catron. He preceded her in death on April 17, 2005.

She is survived by one son- Roger Catron of Hoopeston; one daughter- Valarie Johnson of Valparaiso, Indiana; four grandchildren- Jessica Catron, Joseph Catron, Lucas Ray, and Billy Bieber; several great-grandchildren; and brother-Gordon Coffey.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sister- Flora Taflinger.

Helen worked at Joan of Arc Canning Company. She enjoyed gardening, flowers and spending time with family and friends.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, December 14, 2020, at Floral Hill Cemetery, with Pastor Tom Cici officiating. Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice. The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Helen’s life. Condolences may be sent to the family on her everlasting memorial page at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com

Joann Ruth Mathews, 74, of Crawfordsville, IN, passed away at 7:35 A.M. Friday December 4, 2020 at her home in Crawfordsville, IN.  

She was born on July 1, 1945 in Hoopeston, IL, the daughter of Raymond and Ruth (Pyle) Cronkhite. 

Joann married Dean Mathews and together they had four children. She is survived by 3 of her children, Elizabeth Hecker of Lafayette, IN, Rachel Mathews of Danville, IL, and Joel Mathews of Williamsport, IN. 

She is also survived by her brother, Glen (Joyce) Cronkhite of Danville, IL; five grandchildren, James Hecker, Eric Miles, Micheal Mathews, Joshua Mathews, and Sarah Mathews; five great-grandchildren, Kada Miles, Tyson Miles, Canian Miles, DeKarter Mathews, and DeKarcier Mathews; and three nieces Debbie, Suzi, and Heather Cronkhite. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Rebecca Mathews; one brother, Daniel Cronkhite; and her late husband. 

Joann enjoyed reading and being with her church family.  She was a member of the Church Alive in Crawfordsville, IN, where she also taught Sunday School once a month. For many years, she worked as a nurse at Lakeview Hospital located in Danville, IL, before moving to Indiana and continuing her work there until her retirement. 

A graveside service will be held on Friday, December 11, 2020 at 1:00 P.M. at Floral Hill Cemetery located in Hoopeston, IL. Due to the Covid restrictions we kindly ask that face coverings be worn, and social distancing is maintained by those who attend. 

Memorials may be made to Donor’s Choice. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Marian June Cawthorn, 90, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 1:15 A.M. Sunday December 6, 2020 at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center.  She was born October 3, 1930, in Hoopeston, the daughter of Virgil “Dick” and Alice (Irwin) Smith.  She married Stanley B. Cawthorn on September 19, 1948 in Hoopeston.  He preceded her in death on June 2, 1998. 

She is survived by one daughter, Sandy (Jim) Thornton of Lockport, IL; two grandchildren, Lori Thornton (P.J. Wintermute) of Oswego, IL and Jill (Matt) Rusek of St. Anne, IL; one great-granddaughter, Annabelle Rusek; one special niece, Sue (Jerry) Powell and several other nieces and nephews.  She is also survived by close family friends, Paul and Melanie (Bergstrand) Cancialosi and Dave Holloway. 

In addition to her husband, Marian was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Frank Smith. 

Marian worked at Stokely’s in Hoopeston.  She later worked at the Commercial-News in Danville and then at Hott’s Lumber.  She enjoyed making crafts and visiting with her family and friends.  She especially enjoyed her grandchildren and great-granddaughter. 

A private family graveside service will be held at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Hoopeston Animal Rescue Team 901 W. Main St. Hoopeston, IL 60942. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

James Francis Green, 62, of Watseka, passed away Thursday, December 3, 2020, at Riverside Medical Center, in Kankakee.

James was born on August 16, 1958, in Gilman, Illinois, the son of Francis A. and Henrietta (Meints) Green. He married Patricia Baker on October 31, 2001, in Watseka. She survives.

He is also survived by two daughters- Karen Coffey of Sheldon and Pam (Brian) Howell of Watseka; two sons- Michael Robinson of Sheldon and Steven Robinson of Watseka; three grandchildren- Brandon Rogers of Donovan, Heather Coffey of Hoopeston and Kayla Rogers of Watseka; five great-grandchildren- Brayden, Bryton, Aubrianna, Brielle and Lincoln; one brother- Michael Green of Kankakee; and cousin- Diane Gustafson of Paxton.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife Mary Ann Green.

James served in the United States Army. He worked at Pride Metal Products, in Watseka and he later owned Boomers’s Bar, in Watseka. James enjoyed riding around town and playing with his great-grandchildren. He also loved spending time with Patricia.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday, December 12, 2020, at Blurton Funeral Home, in Hoopeston. A Celebration of James’ Life will begin at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, December 12, 2020, at the funeral home. Following services cremation rites will be accorded. Memorials may be made to the family to assist them with the funeral expenses. The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring James’ life. Condolences may be sent to the family on his everlasting memorial page at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

James W. Pence, 84, of Watseka passed away on Sunday, November 29, 2020 at the Iroquois Memorial Resident Home in Watseka.

Jim was born on March 3, 1936 in Watseka, IL, the son of Earl and Gertrude (Troup) Pence and they preceded him in death. He married Lucille Deno on May 25, 1957 in Goodland, IN and she preceded him in death on March 3, 2020. He was also preceded in death by one brother, Merwin Pence, and one daughter-in-law, Debbie Pence.

He is survived by four children, Terry (Rhonda) Pence of Watseka, Lynette (Rich) Moyer of Watseka, Mike (Phyllis) Pence of Marshall and Scott (Kelly) Pence of Bourbonnais; thirteen grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Wanda Pence of Clarksville, IN and several nieces and nephews.

Jim was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka, the Watseka Lions Club and the Watseka Elks Club.

Jim and Lucille started Pence Oil Company in 1965 out of their home. They retired in 2005 and enjoyed travel, camping and fishing. They loved spending time with their family, especially their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Private visitation and Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, December 14, 2020 at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka, Watseka Lions Club or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of James W. Pence please visit our Sympathy Store.

Thomas “Tom” Keith, 84, of Wellington, IL, passed away at 1:50 P.M. Friday November 27, 2020 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka, IL.  He was born October 3, 1936, in Hoopeston, IL, the son of Clyde and Vera (Vigus) Keith.  He married Penelope Pearl Bell on September 28, 1957, in Sheldon, IN.  She preceded him in death.   

He is survived by two daughters, Debra Keith of Hoopeston, IL and Lisa Rath of West Frankfort, IL; two sons, Timothy (Penny) Keith of Monroe, GA and Tony Keith of Loganville, GA; one sister, Patricia York of Paxton, IL; 2 granddaughters; 2 grandsons; 3 great-granddaughters; 2 great-grandsons; and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; and one brother. 

Tom worked at Crow Hybrid Corn Co. as a truck driver, selling and delivering seed and doing maintenance work.  He was a lifetime member of the NRA and enjoyed hunting. He also enjoyed tinkering in his garage and watching the Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Cubs, and Illini basketball. 

Per his wishes, he will be cremated. 

A visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Monday December 7, 2020 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  No burial will be held. Due to the Covid restrictions, 10 people will be allowed in the funeral home at a time.  We kindly ask that face coverings be worn, and social distancing is maintained by those who attend the visitation. 

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Thelma D. Mason, 87, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 11:03 P.M. Thursday November 26, 2020 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells.  She was born September 4, 1933, in Hoopeston, the daughter of Harold and Pearl (Trent) Roe.  She married Charles E. Strink on September 15, 1951 in Chicago, IL.  He preceded her in death.  She later married Louis Mason on June 1, 1979 in Hoopeston and he preceded her in death. 

She was also preceded in death by her parents; one son, David Strink; and two brothers, Richard and Kenneth. 

She is survived by one daughter, Debra (Barry) Miller of St. Charles, MO; three sons, Mark (Debbie) Miles of Indiana, Mike Strink of Rantoul, IL, and James Strink of Rantoul, IL; 7 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. 

In her earlier years, Thelma worked at Howard Industries in Milford.  She enjoyed knitting, doing genealogy, and loved animals especially cats and dogs. 

Per her wishes, she will be cremated, and a private burial will be held. 

Memorials in Thelma’s memory may be made to Hospice Hearts Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 17605
Urbana, IL 61803. 

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements. 

Edward E. Elliott, 66 of Paxton, passed away at 7:36 p.m. Sunday, November 29, 2020, at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton Senior Living.

A graveside service will be held at Floral Hill Cemetery, Hoopeston at a later date. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is handling arrangements.

Ed was born July 9, 1954 in Danville the son of Franklin and Bernice Scarlet Elliott. He married Julie Behncke July 27, 1974 in Danville. They were school sweethearts and have spent 46 years happily married. She survives. Along with his wife, Julie, he is survived by two sons Chad (Sarah) Elliott of Rantoul, Joshua (Ashley) Elliott of Richland, WA; two grandchildren, Oliver and Isabel; one brother David (Belva) Elliott of Danville and one sister Sue (Charles) McChesney of Loves Park, IL Ed graduated from Danville High School in 1972 and from Eastern Illinois University in 1982. He received an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan in 1998. Ed had been the purchasing manager for FMC Hoopeston and later worked for the Alamo Group, Gibson City. They moved from Danville to Paxton in 2006. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion and an Eagle Scout with Troop 19, Danville. Ed always brought light into the room and had a way about getting a smile out of every one he spoke with. He loved being outdoors – whether grilling, gardening, camping and especially fishing. He was at home outside with nature – loved playing with his dogs and feeding the birds and squirrels in the neighborhood. Ed followed the Lord, the 12 points of the Scouts Law and his heart – he was a good man.

Memorials may be made to The Boy Scouts of America.

Please share your condolences and memories with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.

Diane Houmes, 73, of Watseka passed away on Saturday, Nov 28th, 2020.

A private funeral service will be held. A public graveside service is set for 12:00pm Saturday, December 5th at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka. 

The Baier Funeral Home is handling arrangements.