Travis A. Leadingham, 44, of Kankakee, passed away on Monday, May 24, 2021 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. He was born on January 23, 1977 in Kankakee, the son of Michael Lee Leadingham and Sharon (Perzee) Roth Paraday. Travis married Elizabeth Hoover on February 16, 2017 in Watseka.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Hoover Leadingham of Kankakee; his children, Noah Hoover and Miracle Leadingham, both of Kankakee; his mother, Sharon Perzee Roth Paraday (Tim) of Limestone; three brothers, Jason Leadingham of Dwight, Brent (Cara) Leadingham of Cortland, IL, and Jeffery Leadingham of Brook, IN; father-in-law, Kenneth Hoover of CA; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Rebecca Hoover and Brian Hoover, both of Las Vegas, NV; two step-brothers, Brandon (Bridget) Paraday of Chebanse, and Todd (Krissy) Paraday of Orland Hills; and seven nieces and one nephew, Brena Leadingham of GA, Julyn Leadingham of Cortland, Rachel Davison of Carmi, IL, Sebrina Dee of Kankakee, Haley Leadingham of Brook, IN, Hunter Leadingham of Brook, IN, Krissy Croker of Dwight and Romeo Cruz of Las Vegas, NV.

He was preceded in death by his father, Michael Lee Leadingham; one brother, Michael W. Leadingham; his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Perzee and Mr. and Mrs. Walter Leadingham; mother-in-law, Jorie Hoover; and a sister-in-law, Sheryl Leadingham.

Travis enjoyed playing Bags, fishing, listening to music and watching the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. He loved to cook, especially on the grill. Most of all, Travis loved spending time with his children.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 1, 2021 from 4-8pm at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 2, 2021 at 10:00am, also at the funeral home. A private burial will take place at a later date.

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

Stephen Carl "Steve" Fix, 80, of Bradenton, FL, formerly of Milford, IL, passed away at 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at the Tidewell Hospice in Bradenton,FL. He was born May 4, 1941, in Talbot, IN, the son of Roy and Cozetta Fix. He married Dixie (Wilken) Fix in Milford, IL on September 1st, 1963. She survives in Bradenton.

He is also survived by one daughter, Stephanie Wilson(fiance Scott Schneider) of Milford, IL and one son, Clinton Fix of Bradenton, FL; two sisters, Shirley Lane of Hoopeston, IL, Carolyn Longest of Hoopeston, IL; one brother, George Fix(Sheila) of Englewood, FL; three grandchildren, Brianna Castonguay, Zack Castonguay, and Shane Wilson; one great grandchild, Hadley Pratt.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Virginia(Ginny) Probasco and Joyce Williams, two brother-in-laws Ronald Lane and Leon Probasco.

Steve worked at Uarco in Watseka, IL for 33 years retiring in 1999. Steve and Dixie owned and operated Dixie's Kitchen in Milford, IL.

Steve loved to garden, mow, and visit with friends. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.

Cremation rites will be accorded.

To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Published in Times Republic from May 24 to May 27, 2021.

Myron Charles Cailteux, 86, of Clifton passed away on Monday, May 24, 2021 due to a farming accident. He was born on November 16, 1934 in Clifton, the son of Erwin F. and Irene C. (Wauthier) Cailteux.

He married Linda Hynd at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’erable on January 12, 1963 and she survives. He is also survived by one daughter-in-law, Lynn Cailteux of Tallahassee, FL; four children, Gerald (Julie) Cailteux of Clifton, Julie (Craig) Tholen of Bristol, Kenneth (Tammy) Cailteux of Clifton, and Andrew (Jennifer) Cailteux of Lewis Center, OH; fourteen grandchildren, Brandon and Brian Cailteux, Ryan (Tara) Cailteux, Rebecca (Shane) McNally, Rachel Cailteux, Abigail, Benjamin, and Samuel Tholen, Bethany (Stanley) Bouguszewski, Ethan (Autumn) Cailteux, Kelly (Bradley) Gifford, Logan Cailteux, and Tyler and Brady Cailteux; six great-grandchildren and one on the way; four foster great-grandchildren; one sister, Carol (Jerry) Deany of Richton Park; and one brother-in-law, Wayne Jordan of College Station, TX.

Myron was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Harold Cailteux; two sisters, Noreen Saathoff and Dorothy Jordan; one son, Richard Cailteux; one brother-in-law, Alvin Saathoff; and one sister-in-law, Sue Cailteux.

Mr. Cailteux was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka, a lifelong farmer in L’erable, and a U.S. Army veteran. He loved playing cards, going to casinos, making hook rugs, watching the Lawrence Welk show, and raising popcorn for his family.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 29, 2021 at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. Fr. Michael Powell will officiate. Burial will follow at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in L’erable with graveside military rites by Chebanse American Legion Post #408.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 28, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

Memorial may be made to the donor’s choice.

Rafael P. Melgoza, 71, of Gilman passed away on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at his home. He was born November 6, 1949 in Ejido, Nuevo Camaron, Rodriguez, N.L., Mexico, the son of Bartolo and Felicitas (Perez) Melgoza and they preceded him in death in addition to one son.

He married Anita Lopez on January 21, 2005 in Watseka and she survives. Also surviving are five children, Sofia Melgoza of Gilman, Olivia Melgoza of Gilman, Jose Ma Melgoza of Mexico, Karla Romero of Mexico and Guadalupe Olivares of Mexico; seven siblings, Augustin Melgoza of Gilman, Isidro Melgoza of Gilman, Teodoro Melgoza of Gilman, Jose Melgoza of Onarga, Maria G. Gonzalez of Onarga, Dora Magana of Tennessee and Felicitas Hernandez of Texas; and many grandchildren.

Mr. Melgoza was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Gilman and was very active in the church. He was a welder for Ficklin’s Grain Wagons and enjoyed playing the guitar, fishing, and reading.

Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Gilman. Father John Horan will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Gilman.

Memorials may be made for the family’s wishes.

Please share a memory of Rafael at knappfuneralhomes.com.

James Marshall Allen, 36, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 1:11 P.M. Sunday May 23, 2021, at his home.  He was born April 10, 1985, at Blytheville AFB, Arkansas, the son of Rodney Marshall and Judy Charlene (Whiteman) Allen.  They survive in Hoopeston. 

He is also survived by one daughter, Delani Marie Nephew of Danforth, IL; one brother, Mark (Alexandra) Allen of Bellevue, NE; maternal grandparents, Charles and Anna Whiteman of Hoopeston, IL and paternal grandmother, Doris Allen of Hoopeston, IL; and four nieces and nephews, Ava G. Allen, Hannah J. Allen, Nolon C. Allen, and Renner M. Allen. 

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Dick Allen. 

James served in the United States Army in the 82^nd Airborne division for 3 years.  He then served in the Illinois National Guard and later in the Army Reserves. He had worked for Rich’s Lawncare and several different factories.  He most recently worked at Teasdale Foods.  James was a member of the Hoopeston United Methodist Church, where he had served on the Appalachia Service Project.  He was also a member of the Hoopeston Lion’s Club. 

A visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Friday May 28, 2021, at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 1:00 P.M. Friday at the funeral home with Pastor Jemiriye Fakunle officiating.  Burial will follow in Johnson Cemetery near Danville, IL, with military rites being accorded by the Hoopeston American Legion Post #384. 

Memorials may be made to the American Legion Dornblaser Post #203 Mission K9 Warrior, 106 E. West St. Georgetown, IL 61846 or to the donor’s choice. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Lawrence “Pete” Bauer, 81, of Cissna Park passed away on Sunday, May 23, 2021 at Fairview Haven Nursing Home in Fairbury. He was born April 9, 1940 in Loda, the son of Ernest and Mary (Yergler) Bauer and they preceded him in death in addition to three brothers and five sisters.

He is survived by two sisters, Dorothy Walder of Cissna Park and Carol (John) Waldbeser of Cissna Park; one brother, Bob (Sonnie) Bauer of Cissna Park; and many nieces and nephews.

Pete belonged to the Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at the Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park. Ministers of the church will officiate. Burial will be in the Apostolic Christian Cemetery in Cissna Park.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 pm on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Memorials may be made to Fairview Haven Nursing Home in Fairbury.

Please share a memory of Pete at knappfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Lawrence "Pete" Bauer please visit our Sympathy Store.

Robert James “Bob” Bell, 83, formerly of Rossville, IL, passed away at 6:05 A.M. Wednesday May 19, 2021 at Country Health Care & Rehab in Gifford, IL.  He was born June 15, 1937 in Rossville, IL, the son of Ransom and Elizabeth (Ramsey) Bell.  He married Martha Strawser on April 27, 1960 in Watseka, IL.  She preceded him in death. 

He is survived by one daughter, Bobbette (Bert) Asbury of Penfield, IL; one son, Marty (Lolita) Bell of Ashland, OR; one sister, Grace Christiansen of Missouri; 7 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; one son, William Bell; two sisters, Carol Deck and Edna “Babe” Carter; and two brothers, Charles Bell and Gene Bell. 

Robert worked as a construction worker for McCalman’s Construction through the UA Danville Laborers Union.  He served in the United States Army.  He attended the Rossville Church of Christ where he was baptized.  Robert enjoyed doing yardwork, traveling and camping at Badlands.  He also enjoyed auto mechanics and working on lawn mowers. 

Per his wishes, cremation rites will be accorded.  A graveside service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday May 26, 2021 at Rossville Cemetery in Rossville, IL with Rev. Gary Milton officiating.  Military rites will be accorded by the Hoopeston American Legion Post #384. 

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or Country Health Care & Rehab 2304 CR 3000N Gifford, IL 61847. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Estelle “Sissy” Goodrum, 67, of Hoopeston, IL passed this life peacefully to be received in heaven by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  She was born June 27, 1953 to Donald and Thelma Miller.  She married Bill Goodrum on September 18, 1976 at the Church of God on South 5^th Street in Hoopeston.  They enjoyed 44 years of happy marriage and had one son, Ryan.   

Sissy was a hard worker and had many jobs to help support her family.  She also ran an ice cream and sandwich shop called Chocolate Fantasy.  She finished her working life as a corrections officer and retired from the Danville State Prison.  She enjoyed family get togethers and going out to eat with friends.  She was also a very talented crafter who enjoyed decorating and home life.  She had a very big heart and was generous to all she knew.  She loved animals, especially her little yorkie Missy and her cat Allie.  She was also very devoted to her husband Bill and her son Ryan.  She loved going to church and made many friends there as well.  She was always ready to help people in need and also gave to the Humane Society and animal shelters. 

Sissy leaves behind her husband Bill, and her son, Ryan Goodrum of Hoopeston, IL; brothers, Tony Miller of Hoopeston, IL and Bob Miller of Gainesville, MO; brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, Larry (Myra) Goodrum and Frances Goodrum, many beloved nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly, and many special friends, Connie Mathews, Kathy Moore, Carol Myer, Cindy Baker, Janet Daley, Mickey Bell, Patty Taylor, Debbie Castillo, Barbara Baker, Shellie Billingsley and many more. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Sandra Spivey, Carol Miller, Shirley Baker, and Judy Ford, and a brother, Barry Miller. 

A visitation will be held 9:00 – 11:00 A.M. Saturday, May 22, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will follow the visitation and begin at 11:00 A.M. at the funeral home with Pastor Carlos Sanchez officiating.  Burial will follow at Floral Hill Cemetery. 

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

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Barbara Jean Sanders, 89, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 2:14 A.M. Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at her home.  She was born August 23, 1931, in Hoopeston, IL, the daughter of Charles and Mable (Burnham) Leemon.  

She is survived by two daughters, Deb Sanders Terhune of AR and Carolyn Sanders of WI; three sons, Michael Sanders of IL, George Alan Sanders, of IL, and John Sanders of NC; fifteen grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. 

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Raymond Richard “Dick” Sanders III, and two brothers. 

She worked as a home health aide for the Vermilion County Health Department.  Barbara was a member of the Methodist Church and helped with their program Feed the Lambs.  Barbara served on many mission trips within the US.  She was also a member of the VFW in Hoopeston, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the UMC Women’s Group.  She traveled throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. 

A visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Monday, May 24, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  A burial will be held 2:00 P.M. Monday May 24, 2021 at Floral Hill Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Feed the Lambs, United Methodist Church 403 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL 60942. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Edith Josephine “Jo” Johnson, 72, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 10:30 P.M. Monday, May 17, 2021 at the Carle Foundation Hospital in Hoopeston, IL.  She was born October 24, 1948 in Rossville, IL, the daughter of Donald and Garnet (McBride) Milner.  She married Gary Johnson on October 4, 2013 in Danville, IL.  He survives in Hoopeston. 

Edith is also survived by two sons, Steven (Lynn) Hughes of Danville, IL and Kevin (Carol) Perkins of Lafayette, IN; four sisters, Jane (Camilla) Milner of Round Rock, TX, Donna Smith of Potomac, IL, Barbara (Michael) Brock of Danville, IL, and Rosemary Milner of Hoopeston, IL; two brothers, Charles Milner of St. Louis, MO and Otis Milner of Mark Twain Lake, MO; seven grandchildren, Jacob Mitchell, Nathaniel Perkins, Jasiah Hughes, David Pratt, Devin Pratt, Dillon Pratt, and Dalton Pratt; three great grandchildren, Aspen Pratt, Ember Pratt, and Hadley Pratt, and many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Jenny Swim, and a brother-in-law, Lannie Smith. 

Edith worked for Presta in Danville.  She was a member of the Cowboy Church in Hoopeston.  Her greatest enjoyment was reading to her grandkids. 

A visitation will be held 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Friday, May 21, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will follow the visitation and begin at 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.  After the funeral service, cremation rites will be accorded. 

Memorials may be made to HART 901 W. Main St. Hoopeston, IL 60942. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Viola F. “Sis” (Queen) Fetters, 90, of Hoopeston, IL, formerly of Rossville, IL, passed away at 11:38 P.M., Monday, May 17, 2021 at the Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL.  Viola was born February 7, 1931, in Harvey, IL, the daughter of Oliver and Edith (Davis) Queen.  She married Floyd Fetters on April 6, 1948 in Watseka, IL.  He preceded her in death.   

Viola is survived by one daughter, Jean Peters (Dave Haworth) of Mattoon, IL; one daughter-in-law,  Lynne Fetters of Germantown Hills, IL; one sister, Creta Davis of Lumberton, NC; three brothers, Danny (Ingrid) Queen of Manchester, NJ, Richard “Dick” (DeAnn) Queen of Rossville, IL, and David (Dwyla) Queen of Danville, IL,; four grandchildren, Judie Summarell of Franklin, TN, Jerod (Betsy) Peters of Hoopeston, IL, Ryan (Kate) Fetters of Germantown Hills, IL, and Megan Fetters (Nathan Behl) of Goodfield, IL; nine great grandchildren, Katlin, Ashley, and Lindsey Summarell, Jacob, Aubrey, and Jadyn Peters, Matthew and Sarah Fetters, and McKenna Fetters along with several nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, son, John, two sisters, Elsie and Betty and two brothers, Eldon and Melvin. 

Viola worked at TRW in Hoopeston before becoming a bookkeeper at the Bank of Rossville for thirty years. She was a member of the Rossville Church of Christ, the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary, the Red Hat Society, and the Rossville Community Organization (RCO).  She was an election judge for many years.  Viola enjoyed sewing, making kids costumes, traveling, baking pies, playing cards and dominoes, and doing jigsaw puzzles. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family. 

A visitation will be held 1:00 – 3:00 P.M. Saturday, May 22, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The Funeral Service will follow the visitation and begin at 3:00 P.M. with Pastor Kevin Purdy officiating.  Burial will follow the service at the Rossville Cemetery in Rossville, IL. 

Memorials may be made to the Rossville Church of Christ or the Donor’s Choice. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Jack A. Taylor, 87, passed away Monday, May 17, 2021, at Oakhill Nursing Home in Waterloo, IL due to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, which he had been battling for over ten years.  Jack was born March 22, 1934 in Davis County, Iowa, the first child of Charlotte Marietta (Hansen) and Miles Ray Taylor. 

He is survived by, a daughter, Dawn Marie Bogle of Paxton, IL; grandchildren, Tara Dawn Reynolds of Shreveport, LA, and children, Joshua Aldan Helm, and Arianna Wyat, Brita Linn Reynolds, and daughter Hayden Raquael Lopez, and Emily Cecil Coker Youngest, and son Bentlee Thomas Coker; a sister Patty J. (Henry)  DeHeer of Paxton, IL; a brother, Billy M. (Nancy) Taylor of Columbia, IL; a nephews, Brian (Melinda) Wells of Cape Coral, FL and Jeffrey (Sondra) Taylor of Arnold MO; a niece Amy (Dean) Gilson of Winchester, VA, and a special friend, Gayle and the Ho family of California 

He moved with his family to Illinois in 1947 and graduated in 1951 from Rankin TWP High School in Rankin, IL.  He spent four years in the United States Air Force, mostly in Japan and Korea.  Jack lived in several places including Illinois, Iowa, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Louisiana, and California earning a living as a professional gambler and poker player.  Due to declining health, in 2011, he moved from California to Magnolia Terrace, an independent living facility in Waterloo, IL, where he enjoyed many new friendships.  

A Graveside service will be held 1:00 P.M., Thursday, May 20, 2021 at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston, IL. 

Memorials may be made to Magnolia Terrace 623 Hamacher St. Waterloo, IL 62298. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Edward L. Harms, 72, of Ashkum, passed away on Sunday, May 16, 2021 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. Ed was born on March 28, 1949 in Kankakee, the son of Edward S. and Jennie (Bruns) Harms. Ed married Marilyn Kay Gillespie on August 29, 1970 at Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum. She preceded him in death on March 20, 2020.

Ed is survived by one daughter, Erin (Kenneth) Sorensen of Ashkum; one son, Ryan E. Harms of Clifton; two granddaughters, Andie Mathy (Nina Crowley) and Kaylee Mathy (Jasmine Clark); and one sister, Dorothy Eshleman of Cullom.

Along with his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Melvin Harms, Richard Harms and Larry Harms; and one sister, Ruth Mikeworth.

Ed worked maintenance for BASF for over 20 years. He was a member of Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum, as well as a former member of the Ashkum Lions Club. Ed was also an American Red Cross Blood Donor. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening, playing Scrabble, crossword puzzles, and playing shuffle board with his buddies.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 20, 2021 from 5-8:00pm at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. The Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, May 21, 2021 at 11:00am, at Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum. Fr. Doug Hauber will officiate. Burial will follow at Ashkum Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Uplifted Care Hospice.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Edward L. Harms please visit our Sympathy Store.

Arlen “Lew” Alwardt, 70, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 1:17 A.M. Friday, May 14, 2021 at his home.  He was born March 15, 1951, the son of Ted and Emma (Dahkne) Alwardt.  He married Beverly Vits on December 25, 1970 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Assumption, IL.  She survives. 

Lew is also survived by two sons, Micah (Jamie) Alwardt of Hoopeston, IL and Jarod (Kathy) Alwardt of Hoopeston, IL; a mother–in–law, Joan Vits of Hoopeston, IL; two sisters, Marvelle (Dean) Cole of Arcola, IL and Jan Benner of Greenville, IL; four brothers, Steve (Theresa) Alwardt of Stewardson, IL, Dave & Diane Alwardt of St. Louis, MO, Paul (Christine)) Alwardt of McKinney, TX, and Fred (Martha) Alwardt of Paris, IL; seven grandkids, Alexandra, Emilie, A.J., Carson, Nolan, Alyssa, and Abigail, and several nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and father–in–law, Don Vits. 

Lew served in the Air Force from 1970 to 1974.  After he got out of the Air Force he started farming.  He then was a seed salesman for Diener Seeds for many years.  He later started his own seed company, Twin State Seeds.  Lew went back to farming where he enjoyed working with his two sons and spending time with his wife of 50 years. 

Per his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.  A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 P.M. Saturday June 26, 2021, at The Pump 1023 W. Main St. Hoopeston, IL. 

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston, IL is handling the arrangements. 

Janice Louise “Jan” Kuhns, 93, of Rossville, IL, passed away at 9:25 A.M. Monday March 22, 2021 at her home.  She was born July 7, 1927, in Clinton, IN, the daughter of Cassel and Louise (Jordan) Kuhns.   

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Jack Kuhns. 

Jan graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in music.  After graduation, she began teaching music at Rossville Grade School where she taught for many years.  She loved playing golf and was a member of Hubbard Trail Country Club.  She also enjoyed playing Bridge and teaching the game to young people. 

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a  graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday May 20, 2021 at Rossville Cemetery in Rossville, IL with Pastor Kevin Purdy officiating.. 

Memorials may be made to the Hoopeston Animal Rescue Team (H.A.R.T.) 901 W. Main St Hoopeston, IL 60942 or to the Humane Society of Danville 1225 N Collett St. Danville, IL. 61832. 

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements. 

Ronald “Jake” L. Ellett Jr., 60, of Penfield, passed away at 5:07 p.m. Thursday, May 13, 2021, at Carle Foundation Hospital, in Urbana.

Jake was born on June 12, 1960, in Portsmouth, Virginia, the son of Ronald Leroy and Evelyn Ann (Tatem) Ellett Sr.  He is survived by his mother- Evelyn Ellett of Danville; fiancé- Jackie Davis of Penfield; step-daughter- Brittany Spear of Veedersburg, Indiana; two step-sons- Chris (Aubrey Imler) Spear of Cates, Indiana and Justin (Samantha) Davis of Attica, Indiana; two sisters- Terry (Don) Ellett of Danville and Melany Morris of Oakwood; several step-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father- Ronald L. Ellett Sr. and grandparents- Leroy and Marge Ellett and Benny and Bessie Tatem.

Jake graduated from Armstrong High School, in 1978.  He worked for several years as a truck driver and most recently worked at United Prairie.  He enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren.  He also enjoyed watching NASCAR, riding his Harley, and going on poker runs.

A Celebration of Jake’s Life will be held at 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at Blurton Funeral Home, in Potomac.  Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, at the funeral home.  Cremation rites will be accorded following the services.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Jake’s life.  Condolences may be shared with the family on his everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

James Ronald Duncan I, 83, of Potomac, passed away at 5:51 a.m. Sunday, May 9, 2021, at his home.

James was born on February 14, 1938, in Rossville, Illinois, the son of Mason B. and Dorene Jane (Amick) Duncan.  He married Anne Burke on November 26, 1959, at the United Methodist Church, in Potomac.  She survives.

He is also survived by one daughter- Jane (Kevin) Collins of Ogden; two sons- James (Annie) Duncan II of Newark, Ohio and John (Joyce) Duncan of Auburn, Illinois; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; sister- Joyce (Paul) Stimak of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida; sister-in-law- Loretta Burke of Potomac; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister- Bette Hosler.

James graduated from Potomac High School, in 1957.  After high school, he served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1964.  Jim worked for 30 years as a clerk for the railroad until his retirement in 2003 and he also farmed for several years.  He was a member of the Middlefork United Methodist Church, Potomac Lions Club and Pleasant View Masonic Lodge, where he was a 32-degree Mason.  James enjoyed genealogy, collecting trains, gardening and most importantly to him was spending time with his family, especially hosting wiener roasts.

A Celebration of James’ Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 14, 2021, at the Middlefork United Methodist Church, with Pastor George Desmond officiating.  Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday, at the church.  He will be laid to rest following the services in Potomac Cemetery, with full military honors conducted by the Potomac American Legion.  Memorials may be made to the Middlefork United Methodist Church. 

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

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

Judy Louise Martin, 75, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 7:18 P.M. Thursday May 6, 2021 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, IL.  She was born June 26, 1945 in Rector (Holly Island), AR, the daughter of Lucien and Thelma Louise (Williams) Clements.  She married Paul Martin on November 23, 1993 in Watseka, IL.  He survives in Hoopeston. 

In addition to her husband, she is survived by one daughter, Kim Emelander of South Haven, MI; two sons, John (Heidi) Busler of Green Valley, IL and Lon Busler of Allegan, MI; step-daughter, Janice Whitten of St. Anne, IL; step-son, Scott Martin of Aiken, S.C.; four sisters, Alice Breuchert of West Des Moines, IA, Pat Doty of Paragould, AR, Dody (Puff) Puffenbarger of Wellington, IL, and Brenda (Bobby) Walker of Mountain City, GA; three brothers, Jim Clements of Cleveland, GA, Bill Clements of Clearmont, GA, and Rusty (Kathy) Clements of Gainesville, GA; 5 grandchildren, Ashlynn Busler, Cole Busler, Jessica Borah, Cody Emelander, and Tucker Emelander; 5 step-grandchildren; one great-grandchild, Gideon Emelander; 6 step-great-grandchildren; and many special nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; one son, James Busler; four sisters, Betty, Freeda, Cindy, and Linda; and one brother, Paul Ray. 

Judy worked at Life Savers in Holland, MI until her retirement.  She attended the First Church of God in Hoopeston.  She served as a Trustee for the Village of Wellington and was a volunteer at the American Red Cross in Watseka.  Judy loved working in her yard, canning with her sister, Dody, and spending time with her grandchildren.  She was also very patriotic. 

A visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Thursday May 13, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will begin at 1:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home with Rev. Gary Milton officiating.  Per her wishes, following the service she will be cremated. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Samuel Joseph Ochs, 76, of Milford, passed away on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. He was born on October 3, 1944 in Olney, IL, the son of Henry and Susie (Frauli) Ochs. Samuel married Deborah Forristall in 1967, at St. John’s Catholic Church on the University of Illinois Campus.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie Ochs of Milford; a daughter and son-in-law, Sarah (Jason) Bond of Marion; a brother, Kenneth Ochs of Olney, IL; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Susie Ochs; two brothers, Sylvan Ochs and John Ochs; a sister, Esther Ochs; a sister-in-law, Marcella Ochs; and his father-in-law, Delbert Forristall.

Sam graduated from East Richland High School in Olney, and furthered his education at the University of Illinois, Class of 1967, obtaining a Degree in Agricultural Education. He taught Agriculture at Watseka High School and Cissna Park High School, as well as the Iroquois County Career Center. He then transitioned to computer training for Business and Industry. For 44 years, he and Debbie served as the Secretary and Treasurer of the Iroquois County Fair. Sam was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church, Cissna Park American Legion Post #527, Illinois Farm Bureau, a Life Member of the Illinois FFA Alumni, and was a Fourth Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening and traveling with his wife, Debbie. Sam was best known for his generosity, and loved spending time with his wife, daughter, and son-in-law.

Sam was a Veteran, having served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and provided care and comfort on medivac planes.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 7, 2021 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka with Fr. Michael Powell officiating.

Private burial will be held at Danville National Cemetery.

Robin Renee Robinson, 59, of Rankin, IL, passed away at 1:39 P.M. Monday May 3, 2021.  She was born January 26, 1962, in Danville, IL, the daughter of Bobby Ray and Roseline (Watson) Robinson.   

She is survived by two sons, Andrew Robinson (Betsy Ratliff) of Lexington, IL and Christopher Robinson of Rankin, IL; two sisters, Roberta Funk (Tony Webber) of Woodland, IL and Ronda (Gene Jr.) Breeden of Loda, IL; 3 grandchildren, Dylan, Brendan, and Baylee Robinson; and several nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; infant twin sisters, Rebecca and Rita; and one brother, Robert Robinson. 

Robin was a waitress and had previously worked at The Coffee Cup in Hoopeston and Merita’s Family Restaurant in Rossville.  She attended Wellington High School where she was a cheerleader.  She enjoyed visiting with people and her greatest enjoyment was spending time with her family. 

Cremation rites will be accorded, and a service will be held at a later date. 

Memorials may be made to Robin’s family. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Robert Raymond “Bob” Butterworth, 80, of rural Rossville, IL, passed away at 11:45 P.M. Saturday May 1, 2021 at Pleasant Meadows Senior Living in Chrisman.  He was born April 4, 1941, in Hoopeston, IL, the son of Robert F. and Helen (Giles) Butterworth.  He married Kathryn E. Anderson on June 18, 1967 at the Hoopeston First Christian Church Disciples of Christ.  She survives. 

He is also survived by one brother, Mark Butterworth (Kellie Watson) of Hoopeston, IL and 11 nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Judy Keller Moore. 

Bob began working at Harrison Steel and then worked at Vermilion Iron.  He later worked at TeePak in Danville and then American Can, which later became Silgan in Hoopeston, until his retirement.  He was a member of the Hoopeston First Christian Church Disciples of Christ.  Bob was also a member of the Rankin Lions Club, was a past District Governor of the Lions Club, Order of the Eastern Star member, and was a member of the Hoopeston Masonic Star Lodge #709 where he served as a past Master and was a 32^nd Degree Master Mason.  He enjoyed bowling and visiting with friends at Henning’s Restaurant and Dairy Queen.  Bob enjoyed watching sports and was an avid St. Louis Cardinal’s fan. 

A visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Thursday May 6, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will begin at 12:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.  Masonic rites will be accorded by the Hoopeston Masonic Star Lodge #709 at 10:00 A.M. Thursday. 

Memorials may be made to the Lions Club International 300 W. 22^nd St., Oak Brook, IL 60523 or the Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601.  

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com