Constance Gail “Connie” Dale, 75, of Wellington, IL, passed away 5:23 A.M. Thursday January 27, 2022, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL.  She was born February 6, 1946, in Williamsport, IN, the daughter of LeRoy and Dorna (Crane) Ogborn.  She married Leonard Dale on June 13, 2011, in Wellington, IL.  He preceded her in death. 

She is survived by three sons, Joe (Amy) Rieches of Hoopeston, IL, Steve (Jill) Rieches of Danville, IL, and James (Janelle) Bell of Hoopeston, IL; two brothers, Rick (Mary Ann) Ogborn of West Lebanon, IN and Jim Ogborn of Watseka, IL; 8 grandchildren, Nicholas and Megan Rieches, Nicholas Cardenas, Charlie and Samantha Rieches, and Kylee, A.J., and Bentley Bell; three step-grandchildren, Kyle, Brant, and Kade Ramos; and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by one sister, Teresa Rife and one brother, Doug Ogborn. 

Connie worked at Howard’s and later at Jeld-Wen until her retirement.  After retirement, she cared for her brother, Jim.  She attended the Wellington United Methodist Church.  Connie loved spending time with her family and caring for her grandchildren.  She also loved watching old Western movies, crocheting, knitting, and putting puzzles together. 

A visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Wednesday February 2, 2022, 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. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston. 

Memorials may be made to the Wellington United Methodist Church. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Helen M. Bergman, 81, of Potomac, passed away at 6:55 p.m. Wednesday, January 26, 2022, at Hawthorne Inn, in Danville.

Helen was born on September 3, 1940, in Rossville, Illinois, the daughter of Arthur and Hattie (Bertram) Cornell.  She married Charles Jack “Poppy” Bergman on May 12, 1958, in Paris, Illinois.  He preceded her in death on January 31, 2015. 

She is survived by one daughter- Kathy Fayard of Bismarck; one son- Brad (Angie Mansfield) Bergman of Danville; seven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; five brothers- Robert (Virginia) Cornell of Alexis, Illinois, Chuck Cornell of Rossville, Illinois, Raymond (Marlene) Cornell of Georgetown, Illinois, Melvin (Tina) Cornell of Danville and Dean (Susie) Cornell of Bloomington, Illinois; four sisters- Dorothy Swan of Rantoul, Illinois, Arthina Street of Monroe, Louisiana, Carolyn Haltiwanger of Potomac, Illinois and Sharon (Jim) Pollitt of Potomac, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son-in-law- Ricky Fayard, grandson- Caleb Bergman and two sisters- Beverly Wallace and Francis Cox.

Helen graduated from Rossville High School and attended DACC.  She worked for 20 years in Civil Service Accounting, at the various bases that her husband was stationed at during his time in the military.  She later worked as a librarian at DACC and Newtown Grade School.  She was a member of the Potomac Church of Christ, where she was very involved in the woman’s club, Sunday school and youth groups.  She enjoyed playing the piano, playing cards, reading and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.  Helen also enjoyed collecting Santa’s for her Santa Claus room that she built.  Her favorite saying was always “you create your own happiness”.

A Celebration of Helen’s Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at the Potomac Church of Christ, with Pastor Randy Walters officiating.  Burial will follow the service in Rossville Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, at Blurton Funeral Home, in Potomac.  Memorials may be made to the Potomac Church of Christ or Parkinson’s Foundation.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Helen’s life.  Condolences may be shared with the family on her everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Thomas Earl Ritter, 55, of Rossville, IL, passed away on Wednesday January 26, 2022, at home with his wife, daughters, and sister by his side, after fighting a courageous battle against cancer related illness. 

Tom “Tommy” was born on May 30, 1966, in Prince Frederick, MD, to Lewis Howard and Kay (Thomas) Ritter.  He attended Rossville-Alvin schools, graduating in 1984.  Having intended to enlist in the Marine Corps., his plans changed after re-uniting with his high school sweetheart, Tammie Moore.  Tom and Tammie were married on June 27, 1987.  They have two daughters, Kelsey Nicole Ritter and Hannah Beth Ritter. 

Preceding Tom in death were his father, Lewis Ritter and brother, Bill Ritter.  He is survived by his wife, daughters, sister, Nyla LaMar, sister-in-law, Kathy (Greg) Jones, and several nieces and nephews. 

Tom retired in June 2016 after working at the Danville Correctional Center for 31 years.  While there, he made many lasting friendships and was admired for his laid-back demeanor, sense of humor, his stories, laugh, honesty and his old-school values.   

In addition to being a genuine friend, Tom expressed his loyalty and great love for his family as a faithful and devoted husband, father, son, and brother. 

Over the years, Tom enjoyed attending Nascar races, St. Louis Cardinals games and rooting for the Indianapolis Colts.  However, he had reservations about Tammie’s infatuation with Jeff Gordon and Jim Edmonds, and the Colts’ secondary! He loved taking Tammie and the girls on family vacations and riding his Harley. 

Per his wishes, he will be cremated. A visitation will be held 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Friday February 4, 2022, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The memorial service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Saturday February 5, 2022, at the Rossville Church of Christ, 514 E. Attica St. Rossville, IL, with Pastor Kevin Purdy officiating.  No burial will be held. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Rossville Community Ambulance Service or Hospice Hearts Animal Rescue PO Box 17605, Urbana, IL 61803. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Virginia A. Honeycutt Theesfeld, 95, of Gilman passed away January 25, 2022 at Faith Place in Danforth. She was born May 20, 1926 in Danforth, the daughter of Walter and Anna (Arends) Baker and they preceded her in death. She married Russell Honeycutt on June 30, 1949 in Gilman and he preceded her in death. She later married Donald Theesfeld on September 21, 2002 in Gilman and he preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by one son, Dennis; one brother, Walter “Buddy” Baker; one sister, Marilyn Baker; and one great-grandson, Oliver Honeycutt.

She is survived by one son, Rodney (Joan) Honeycutt of Crescent City; five grandchildren, Chad (Karin) Honeycutt, Aubrey (Colton) Hinderliter, Jason (Tina) Honeycutt, Matt (Raelene) Honeycutt and Kristopher (Amanda) Honeycutt; eleven great-grandchildren, Jameson, Camden, Leah, Chase, Zoey, Addisyn, Pyper, Hanna (Nick), Chelsea (Glenn), Hillary and Brett Michael; and seven great-great-grandchildren, Bradley, Makayla, Branson, Blake, Rowan, Theodore and Lucas.

Virginia was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gilman, where she was active including with Alter Guild and various Circles. She worked for her father’s hardware store, Baker’s Hardware, and also part time at Ev’s Prim & Trim. She enjoyed volunteering for Meals on Wheels.

Private family services will be held at the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman with Rev. Pete Hinrich officiating. Burial will be in the Gilman Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gilman.

Please share a memory of Virginia at knappfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Virginia A. Honeycutt Theesfeld please visit our Sympathy Store.

Betty L Leonard, 97 of Watseka passed away on January 25, 2022 at her home. She was born August 20, 1924 in Pittwood to Clarence L and Edith (Starkey) Wall. She attended school in Pittwood and Donovan High School and graduated in 1939. Betty married Raymond J. Leonard in Watseka on August 6, 1955 and he preceded her in death on July 26, 2002. She lived and farmed north of Watseka along with her husband until her death. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by one son- Bruce Leonard who died in infancy; her parents; one brother- Wayne Wall and his wife, Joyce; one nephew-Frances Rabideau; and one niece in law- Carolyn Rabideau.

Betty is survived by five nephews and nieces- Jerry Rabideau of Watseka, Diane (Merle) Theile of Watseka, Paula Wall Duis of Champaign, Sue Wall of Bloomfield IN, and Tom (Charlotte) Wall of Hopedale, IL; niece in law- Janet Rabideau; along with several great nieces and nephews and her special caretaker- Auggie.

Betty worked at Western Condenser on the assembly line for thirteen years and was very active in the Home Bureau for many years. She was also a member of The Fun Club, a group of neighborhood woman who met once a month for lunch and games. For many years she and Ray had a trailer along the Iroquois River near Plato Bridge where they spent much of their time.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday January 29, 2022 at 2:00 pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Fr. Michael Powell officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

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

Dorothy Jean Prather, 85, of Hoopeston, passed away at 3:04 A.M. Tuesday January 25, 2022, at Pleasant Meadows Senior Living in Chrisman, IL.  She was born in Hoopeston on April 21, 1936, to Bloyd and Pauline Pruitt.  Dorothy married William Prather on November 4^th, 1956, and he survives in Hoopeston.  Together they raised five children, Mike Wood, Roger (Vickie) Wood, William “Clyde” Prather, Mary (Gale) Free, and Jim (Terri) Prather.  She loved her 12 grandchildren, Danny, Andy, Adam, Nick, Darren, Eric, Tyler, Katy, Katie, Jeni, Kari, and Leah and enjoyed spoiling them and her 8 great grandchildren.   

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sons, Mike, and Roger Wood; one son-in-law, Gale Free; and three brothers, Don, Bob, and Fred Pruitt. 

Dorothy loved to cook and have all her family over for holiday meals.  She also thoroughly enjoyed gardening, finding a deal at an area garage sale, and having coffee with her friends. 

A private family service will be held. 

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692 or H.A.R.T - Hoopeston Animal Rescue Team, 901 W. Main St. Hoopeston, IL 60942. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Ruth Irene (Judy) Richmond, 83, of Blue Grass, Iowa, formerly of Rossville, passed away at 6:20 p.m. Friday, January 21, 2022, at Senior Star at Elmore Place, in Davenport, Iowa.

Ruth was born on July 18, 1938, in Potomac, Illinois, the daughter of Lloyd and Ruthal (Larkin) Judy.  She married Thomas Leslie Richmond on November 30, 1961, in Belvidere, Illinois.  He preceded her in death on June 23, 2016.

She is survived by two sons- Andy Dean (Pamela) Richmond of Blue Grass, Iowa and Allen Lloyd (Amber Botkin) Richmond of Danville, Illinois; four grandchildren- Bradley Thomas Richmond, Christina Joanne Richmond, Blake Allen Richmond and Kane Thomas Richmond; three great-grandchildren; sister- Deana Tappendorf of Decatur, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and sister- Sarah Bridgeman.

Ruth graduated from Potomac High School, in 1955, where she was the class salutatorian.  She was a former member of the Middlefork United Methodist Church and the Rossville Bunco Club.  Ruth loved her pets, playing cards, gardening, reading, studying history, and traveling all over the country.  She loved being a grandma and she was the best mom that Andy and Allen could have asked for.  She will be sadly missed by all who knew her and loved her. 

Graveside services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, January 27, 2022, at Potomac Cemetery, with Pastor George Desmond officiating.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the ASPCA.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Ruth’s life.  Condolences may be shared with the family on her everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Della D. Bell, 56, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 2:20 P.M. Thursday January 20, 2022, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL.  She was born October 18, 1965, in Hoopeston, IL, the daughter of Larry and Ellen (High) Bell. Her mother survives in Hoopeston. 

She is also survived by her significant other of 35 years, Ralph Edward Baker of Hoopeston, IL; two daughters, JoJo Bell of Hoopeston, IL and DeeDee Baker (Peter Kunce) of Hoopeston, IL; one sister, Amber (Jeff) Deck of Hoopeston, IL; two brothers, Larry (Garnet) Bell of Corpus Christy, TX and Robert (Lisa) Bell of Ambia, IN; 5 grandchildren, Ella Livingston, Tanner Wray, Peytan Cooper, Harmonee Griffin, and Khi’ Andre Crockett; and many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her father, Larry Bell Sr.; one sister, Barbara Bell; and many aunts and uncles. 

Della worked at Schumacher Electric for several years and later at Silgan Containers for nearly 11 years.  She enjoyed cooking, baking, and watching Tyler Perry movies as she was an avid movie critic.  Most of all, she loved spending time with her family especially her mom and grandkids. 

Per her wishes, she will be cremated.  A visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Tuesday February 1, 2022, at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The memorial service will follow the visitation and will begin at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday at the funeral home with April Jones officiating.  No burial will be held. 

Memorials may be made to Della’s family. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Donald Victor Allison, 71, passed away at 3:59 p.m. Wednesday, January 19, 2022, at his home in Rossville after a long and valiant battle with COPD.  His son, grandson and Tabitha were with him when he died. Don is survived by his son Jerome (Tabitha Powell), his daughter Alisha Allison, and his grandson Damon Allison, all of Rossville. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Debbie, who died on March 24, 2008.

Don was born on November 10, 1950, in Danville, the only child of Robert and Barbara (Swartz) Allison.  He grew up in Rossville and went to school with the same group of friends for all 12 grades. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was widely liked, and often said that growing up in Rossville during the 1950s and 1960s was "like growing up in Mayberry but a lot more fun".  After graduating from High School in 1968, he attended Sam's Technical Institute in Indianapolis and graduated with a certificate in electronics. He returned to Rossville and after working at FMC for a few years he joined Tyco International (Symplex Time Recording) where he worked for 27½ years.  He retired from Tyco in 2005 and had a great time during retirement playing his guitar, riding his motorcycle, and "doing anything I want every day".

He married Debra Lynn "Debbie" Maxwell on June 5, 1971, at Mann’s Chapel. They lived in Rossville their entire married life and raised their children there.  Don loved playing music, collecting vintage musical equipment, talking music with other musicians, and played in bands his whole life.  He was also exceptionally mechanical and loved creating things with his hands. He made a motorbike at 14 when he mounted a lawnmower motor on a bicycle, then moved up to a Suzuki motorcycle at 15, then moved up to a Triumph at 18, and always had a motorcycle the rest of his life. He was a remarkably talented and good-hearted man and will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Graveside services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Friday, January 28, 2022, at Rossville Cemetery, in Rossville, with Pastor Jackson Morgan officiating.  Memorials may be made to the family.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home, in Hoopeston, to assist them in honoring Donald’s life.  Condolences may be shared with the family on his everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Earl W. Prasse, 91, of Wellington passed away on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. He was born on November 2, 1930 in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of Edward and Ida (Elbrecht) Prasse. He married Marcia Ravens on July 25, 1970 in Wellington.

Surviving are his wife, Marcia Prasse of Wellington; two daughters, Jill (Bradley) Smith of Danville and Jane Roitsch of Norfolk, Virginia; one son, Kyle (Kate) Prasse of Elmhurst; and three grandchildren, Brooke Prasse, Cole Prasse, and Reagan Roitsch.

Earl was proceeded in death by his parents; two brothers, Roy Prasse and Ernst Prasse; and one son, Mark Prasse.

He was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Danville. After he received his degree from Cleveland State University, he held various positions in the human resources field. He served in the United States Army in Korea and was the recipient of the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. He later moved to Illinois and farmed for thirty years until retirement.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 23, 2022 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Danville with Rev. James Yonkers officiating. Visitation will be held one-hour prior at the church from 11:00 a.m. until the noon service. Burial will follow at the Amity Cemetery near Goodwine with graveside military rites by the Hoopeston American Legion Post 384.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are being handled by the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

James Robert Carpenter, 64, of Potomac, passed away at 5:04 p.m. Tuesday, January 18, 2022, at his home.

James was born on April 25, 1957, in Danville, the son of Robert Garfield and Joan (Curtis) Carpenter.  He married Donna Kay Putnam on July 23, 1983, at the #10 Church of Christ.  She preceded him in death on April 16, 2021.

He is survived by his mother- Joan Carpenter of Armstrong; son- Nick Putnam Carpenter Applegate of Champaign; granddaughter- Angel Applegate; sister- Tari (Tom) Adwell of Rossville; two nieces- Jennifer (Chris) Danner of Hoopeston and Tabitha (Jerome Allison) Powell of Rossville; great-niece and nephew- Olivia and Skylar; and special friends- Shawn and Ashley Lee.

He was preceded in death by his father, wife, and sister- Dixie Lee.

James graduated from Armstrong High School, in 1975.  He was a former member of the #10 Church of Christ.  James helped his father for years operate Carpenter’s Fur.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, mushroom hunting, ginseng hunting and riding his motorcycle.

Private family services will be held and he will be laid to rest in East Lynn Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the family.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home, in Potomac, to assist them in honoring Jim’s life.  Condolences may be shared with the family on his everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Alice M. (Livingston) Huffman, 95, formerly of Potomac, Illinois, passed away peacefully Monday, January 17, 2022, at Aurora BayCare Medical Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

She was born December 7, 1926, in the town of Dewey, Illinois to Rev. James H. and Dorvis E. (Loy) Livingston.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Dale L. Huffman, her daughter, Connie L. Nelson, her parents, six brothers and two sisters.

She is survived by her son, Dale L. Huffman, and daughter-in-law, Lynn, of Urbana, Illinois; her daughter, Glenda K. Thompson, and son-in-law, Doug, of Luxemburg, Wisconsin; her son-in-law, David J. Nelson, of Savoy, Illinois; grandson, Zach L. Huffman (Jennifer), of Savoy, Illinois; granddaughter, Jamie L. Ellars (Michael), of Tolono, Illinois; six great-grandchildren, Natalie Ellars, Callie Ellars, Dillon Ellars, Aiden Huffman, Elliot Huffman, Lucas Huffman; two sisters, Mary Myers of El Paso, Texas and Martha Long of Melbourne, Florida; one brother, Phillip (Pat) Livingston of Fithian, Illinois and many beloved nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

On November 4, 1944, Alice married Dale Levi Huffman in Kewanee, Illinois and they spent the next 47 years together in Potomac, Illinois until his death on September 30, 1991.  During those years, Alice was a homemaker, a part-time cook at Potomac Grade School and also worked for 19 years as a Cashier at the grocery store in Potomac.

Alice devoted her entire life to her family and was so very proud of each and every one of them.  She especially loved every minute of time she could spend with her two grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  She would always say that seeing their beautiful and handsome faces and making memories together was like getting a shot in the arm.  They always made her smile and gave her the will to stay strong and a desire to keep going.

Over the course of her lifetime, one of Alice’s great passions was cooking for family and friends.  She hosted dozens of family dinners and took great pride in setting a beautiful table.  Family members always looked forward to coming to her house and thoroughly enjoyed eating the delicious food she prepared.  Her reputation as an excellent cook and gracious host was known to many far and wide.

Alice loved people and made many friends across the United States.  She touched the lives of so many wherever she went.  She willingly shared everything she had with others and her generosity was well-known to all.  She was a very selfless person, always wanting to do for others rather than herself.

Alice also enjoyed crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles and crocheting.  She took great pride in her work and loved sharing her crochet pieces with family and friends.  She would often reminisce about all those whom she had given them to and the many places across the country where her masterpieces ended up.

Over the years, Alice’s faith kept her strong and carried her through life’s ups and downs.  She always remained happy and positive, lending a helping hand and great support to her family, and graciously shared everything she could.  Her greatest wish in her daily prayer was to spread as much sunshine as she could and to be a blessing to others.  Without a doubt, she truly filled that wish, as anyone would tell you.

A private family service will be held.  Memorials may be made to Hooves of Hope, 7757 US Rt 136, Potomac, Illinois, 61865.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Alice’ life.  Condolence’s may be shared with the family on her everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlutonFuneralHomes.com.

Kameron Reed Wilken, 23, of Danforth, IL, gained his Angel wings on Sunday, January 16, 2022.
Kameron was born on March 27, 1998 to Reed and Shelly Wilken in Kankakee, IL. After Kameron graduated from Iroquois West in 2016, he pursued his lifelong dream of driving a truck over the road. He was born into the life of trucking coming into this world at 10lbs 4oz on the Mid-America Trucking Show weekend. Kameron was an honest, loyal man and a friend known across the country to give the shirt off his back. He was the brightest light that will continue to shine on everyone he knew and loved.

Kameron began his career with Farm Dawg Trucking, Inc. In 2019 he started K. Wilken Trucking, Inc. where he owned and operated his truck. In December 2021, Kameron was granted his own authority.

He enjoyed being on the road, making friends at truck shows, Harleys, shooting pool, golfing, and snowmobiling. He had a natural talent for anything he tried his hand at.

Kameron is preceded in death by his Grandma Carlene Wilken and Great Grandma Mason Buchanan. He is survived by his parents Shelly Wilken and Reed (Kim) Wilken, his sisters Keagon (John) Urban, Karlyn (Gavin) Warmbold, and Kaleigh (Anthony) Valandingham, his grandparents Donald and Jo Wilken, Ron and Ruby Knight, and his girlfriend Allison Cornwell. He was the proud uncle to Ainsley, Chase, and Andrew Urban, Walker Warmbold, and Konnar, Blake, and Rylie Valandingham.

Visitation will be held at Iroquois West High School on Saturday, January 22, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Funeral service will follow at 2:30 p.m. with Pastor Brian King officiating. Burial immediately following in the Danforth Cemetery in Danforth. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Kameron Wilken Memorial Fund.

Arrangements made by Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

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

Anna Marie Reutter, 98 of Roanoke and formerly of East Lynn and Gridley passed away on Sunday January 16, 2022 at the Apostolic Christian Home of Roanoke. She was born on April 7, 1923 in Cissna Park the daughter of Joseph and Anna (Markwalder) Rudin. Anna Marie married William Reutter in Cissna Park on January 23, 1943 and he preceded her in death on January 29, 1990. Survivors include two daughters- Cheryl (Ray) Nardoni of Bismarck and Annette (Kevin) Fischer of Roanoke; one son- Duane (Kay) Reutter of Tolland, CT; seventeen grandchildren, twenty-five great grandchildren, and three great great grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by six brothers, three sisters, one grandchild, and one great grandchild.

Anna loved her Lord and was a prayer warrior for her family and others continuing to pray for everyone until the night of her death. She loved visiting with others, never met a stranger and was always working at her desk making and sending cards to people. Anna loved working outdoors tending to her garden.
She was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church of Cissna Park, Gridley, and Roanoke throughout her lifetime.

Visitation will be on Thursday January 20, 2022, from 4-7 pm at the Ruestman- Harris Funeral Home in El Paso and from 9 – 9:45 am on Friday prior to the services at the church. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am on Friday January 21, 2022 at the Apostolic Christian Church in Gridley with ministers of the church officiating. Graveside services will be held on Friday at 2:00 pm at the Apostolic Christian Cemetery in Cissna Park.

Memorials may be made to Apostolic Christian Home of Roanoke.

Please share a memory of Anna Marie at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Donna Ruth Judy, 88, of rural Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 1:01 P.M. Friday January 14, 2022, at her home.  She was born March 22, 1933, in Prairie Green Township, the daughter of Claude and Merle (Sproll) Swartz.  She married Duane “Newt” Judy on August 4, 1956, in Prairie Green Township. He preceded her in death on November 3, 2011. 

She is survived by two daughters, Diana (Tim) Frederick of Westmont, IL and Delaine (Mike) Webb of Hoopeston, IL; two sons, Darrell (Kathy) Judy of Milford, IL and Dwight-Lee (Diana) Judy of Hoopeston, IL; 2 sisters-in-law; 13 grandchildren, Derek Ried, Amanda Kitterman, Bethany Burt, Brooke Allen, Zachary Judy, Christopher Webb, Bradley Frederick, and Dylan-Lee, Daisy, Dorothy, Daniel, Della, and Darla Judy; 11 great-grandchildren, Emery, Burke, Maren, and Elody Kitterman, Ryan and Mitch Ried, Charlie and Conrad Allen, Riley and Harley Judy, and Jack Burt; and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her husband, Donna was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Denise Ried; son-in-law, Rick Ried; brother, Delmar Swartz; four sisters-in-law; and five brothers-in-law. 

Donna worked at the Hoopeston Public Library for twenty-one years.  She was a member of the Prairie Green Church of Christ where she had served as a Sunday school teacher.  She had also served as an election judge and as a room mother while her children were attending school.  She enjoyed reading, working crossword puzzles, bowling, and collecting salt and pepper shakers.  Most of all, Donna enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren. 

A visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Thursday January 20, 2022, at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 12:00 P.M. Thursday January 20, 2022, at the funeral home with Rev. Chuck Alt officiating.  Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston. 

Memorials may be made to the Hoopeston Public Library, Wellington Greer Fire Protection District, Prairie Green Church of Christ, or to the donor’s choice. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Michael J. Miner, 72 of Watseka passed away on January 9, 2022. He was born on October 22, 1949 in Watseka, an only child of Harold and Jean (Saddler) Miner who both preceded him in death. He was affectionately known as “Mike” by all who loved him. Mike accepted Christ as his Savior at an early age where he attended the Crescent City Methodist Church. He graduated from Watseka Community High School where he was a very popular, articulate, and outgoing student. He attended the University of Illinois and became a successful farmer and businessman. Mike devoted his life to his children, family, farming, and chasing parts. Mike always had a joke or two to tell. Throughout his life Mike made many charitable donations and formerly served as an Iroquois County Deputy Coroner and was a member of the St. Anne Masonic Lodge.

Cherishing his precious memory is his fiancé and life partner, Tamika Pettis (Chloe); three beautiful step children- Da’Shanta Pettis, Khadejah Pettis, and Justin Brock; two handsome step grandsons- Ayden Michael who carries his step grandfather’s name and Royal Brandon along with a host of friends.

Visitation will be on Thursday January 20, 2022 from 11:00 am until the 12 noon funeral service at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka with Joe Hughes officiating. Burial will be in Body Cemetery near Woodland.

Memorials may be made to St. Anne Masonic Lodge or Crescent City United Methodist Church.

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

Kristan S. Pardy, 62 of Watseka passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Saturday January 15, 2022 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. She was born on March 29, 1959 in Watseka the daughter of Ronald and Jean (Grant) Trillet. She married Dale E. Pardy in Watseka on August 11, 1984. Kris is survived by her husband of 37 years, Dale; three daughters- Tina (Cody) Schippert of Woodworth, Tricia (Lincoln) Saak of Watseka, and Tori Pardy of Watseka; grandchildren- Logan, Ezra, and McKenna Saak, and baby Schippert due in August 2022; her mother- Jean Trillet of Watseka; two sisters and one brother- Vicki (Trillet) Norder of Watseka, Steve (Susie) Trillet of Kalamazoo, MI, and Amy (Mike) Thomas of Watseka; as well as three sisters of the heart- Lynn (Joe) Sander of Spokane WA, Pia (Alan) Knight of Folsom, CA, and Shelley (Kevin) Lott of Roseburg, OR. She was preceded in death by her father, Ronald and her father and mother in law- Adrian and Vivian Pardy.
Kris created many lifelong friends while working for Uarco, Cigna, Iroquois Federal, and most recently, Edward Jones where she was granted a promotion to Senior Branch Office Administrator. Although Kris was born and lived most of her life in Watseka, she called Roseburg, OR home. Kris lived in Roseburg from 1972-1981 when her father was transferred back to Watseka. Kris would make yearly trips back to her place she called home to reunite with her BFF’s of 50 plus years. Kris was very strong in her faith and always a helping hand to those around in making sure they knew who Jesus Christ was.
Visitation will be from 4-8 pm on Friday January 21, 2022 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Private funeral services will be held on Saturday.
Please share a memory of Kris at www.knappfuneralhomes.com

Thomas G. Reeder, 73 of Claytonville passed away on Friday January 14, 2022 at Carle Hospital in Urbana. He was born on March 18, 1948 in Watseka the son of James and Esther (Prutsman) Reeder. Tom married Hope Feller in Milford on May 20, 1973 and she survives. In addition to his wife Hope, also surviving are two daughters- Alisha Reeder of Grain Valley, MO and Lacy (Mark) Clifton of Woodland; two grandchildren- Logan and Gavin Clifton; one sister- Marilyn Rutledge of Milford; along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Tom served in the US Navy from 1967-1971 training at Great Lakes Naval Base and served on the USS Allagash and USS Caloosahatchee. He was a member of the Cissna Park American Legion. Tom enjoyed fishing, bowling, gardening, and carpentry. He loved watching the Chicago Bears, Lonesome Dove, and taking drives with his family. He worked at Food Machinery in Hoopeston and drove a truck hauling grain for many years.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday January 19, 2022 at Maple Grove Cemetery with Pastor Jim Harkins officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Cissna Park American Legion. A celebration of life will immediately be held after the graveside service at the Milford Christian Fellowship Hall.
Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society or St. Jude Hospital.
Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.
Please share a memory of Tom at www.knappfuneralhomes.com

Lester Arthur Crow passed away on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. He was the first born to Arthur and Helen Hawthorne Crow on February 12, 1942.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, David. Surviving are two brothers, Richard of Woodland, and Charles (Sharon) of Danville. Nephew, Ricky Crow of Hopkinsville, KY, and nieces Carmine (John) Dwyer of St. Joseph, IL, and Jeanette (John) Conrad of Danville, IN, also survive. Great nephews and nieces include Michael and Josh Crow, Jacob and Caleb Dwyer, and Jenna, LJ, and Jillian Conrad and one great, great nephew, Braxton Crow.

Graduating from Milford schools, he also earned his Eagle Scout award and enjoyed coaching Little League baseball for a few years. After attending Bradley University in Peoria, he served as a medic in the U. S. Army and then farmed for a time with his father north of Milford. He spent most of his career as a mechanic for Crow’s Hybrid Corn Co. Upon his retirement, he operated Lester’s Laundromat in Milford up till the present time.

He was a member of the Forrest Ballard Post #723 of the American Legion and served on the Milford Public Library Board and the Milford Township Board.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.
Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at Knapp Funeral Home with Rev. Brent Zastrow officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford with graveside military rites provided by Watseka American Legion Post 23 and Iroquois County VFW Post 7450.

Memorials may be made to the Donor’s Choice.

Please share a memory of Lester at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Melvin H. Schlueter, 88 of rural St. Joseph, passed away at 1:45 a.m. Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at his home.

Private family funeral services will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Gifford with Pastor Scott Guhl officiating.  Burial will follow in Kopmann Cemetery.  Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorials may be given to Alcoholics Anonymous c/o his family or St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Gifford.  Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com

Franklin Edward Wolfe, 88, of Milford passed away on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton in Paxton, IL. He was born on March 10, 1933 in Stockland, the son of James Henry and Mary Lettie (Steadman) Wolfe. He married Mildred L. Martin at the Darrow Church near Sheldon on January 13, 1952.

Surviving are his wife, Mildred Wolfe of Milford; two daughters, Nancy (Donald) Walker of Celina, TX and Carole (Wendell) Heeren of Milford; two sons, James (Krista) Wolfe of Watseka and Steve (Elizabeth) Wolfe of Sullivan; seven grandchildren, Courtney Rodges, Briana Miller, Clarissa Walker, Josh Heeren, Jake Heeren, Danielle Walls, Stefanie Wolfe, Justin Wolfe, and Kylee Wolfe; and twelve great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Donald and Kenneth Wolfe; and one sister, Elizabeth Datweiler.

Mr. Wolfe was the owner and operator of Wolfe Insurance Agency in Sheldon and farmed in the Milford area. He was a member of Shriners International as well as the American Legion. He was a well-known referee for all sports in the area.

Cremation rites are being handled by Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. A private graveside service will take place at a later date at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland.

Memorials may be made to the Shiners Children’s Hospital.

Please share a memory of Franklin at knappfuneralhomes.com.

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

Gregory Joe “Junior” Baird II, 45, of rural Danville, IL, passed away 8:15 A.M. Wednesday January 5, 2022, at his home.  He was born October 22, 1976, in Hoopeston, IL, the son of Gregory Joe and Catherine (Gooden) Baird Sr.  He married Cammy Elizabeth Green on July 11, 2020, at the Rossville United Methodist Church.  She survives in rural Danville.   

He is also survived by his mother, Catherine Baird of Henning, IL; one brother, Bill (Heather) Baird of Pesotum, IL; one step-daughter, Ashton (Eli) Cousins of Dubuque, IA; one step-son, Kyle Hufford of Ogden, IL; one aunt, Jane Lane of Hoopeston, IL; one uncle, William “Bill” Boose of Hoopeston, IL; 6 grandchildren, Trentyn, Zachary, and Archer Hufford and Ryylan, Rynlee, and Rayden Cousins; and two nephews, Joseph and John Henry Baird. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Gregory Baird Sr., and his grandparents. 

Greg owned and operated Baird Trucking with his father and brother where he later assumed full ownership.  He was a member of the Rossville United Methodist Church where he loved his church family and served on several committees.  He loved listening to bands at Lola’s in Potomac, pulling his semi with his dad and brother, and collecting model semis.  Greg had a selfless passion for helping others and will be truly missed by those who knew and loved him. 

A visitation will be held 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Tuesday January 11, 2022, at Rossville United Methodist Church 116 Maple St. Rossville, IL.  The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday January 12, 2022, at the church with Pastor Chris Quick officiating.  Following the service, cremation rites will be accorded.   

Memorials may be made to the Rossville United Methodist Church 116 Maple St. Rossville, IL 60963. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

On December 29, 2021, Denzil “Denny” Neumann, age 81, was promoted to his heavenly home, because he had received Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at a young age. 

Denny is survived by five loving siblings: Rev. J. Doug (Connie) Neumann, Asenath (Wilbert) Brunner, Rev. Philip (Betty) Neumann, David Neumann, Becky Adkins, and many nieces and nephews. 

Denny was born on May 19, 1940, in Oak Park, IL, to Rev. Denzil and Maxine Neumann.  Denny grew up in a minister’s home.  As a result, he lived in Chicago, Hoopeston, and Chillicothe, IL, Estherville, Iowa, Urbana, and Kankakee, IL.  He later returned to Hoopeston where he lived until his death. 

Upon graduation from high school, Denny attended Pillsbury Baptist Bible College for one and a half years. 

He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Hoopeston, where he was very active in the ministry at the church, serving as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and even occasionally preaching. 

Denny loved music and was self-taught in playing the Hawaiian Steel Guitar, harmonicas in various keys, pan pipes, melodica, and his most unique instrument, the musical saw.  His music was a blessing to many people as he played in several meetings, camps, and churches. 

Denny loved to travel across our country.  His greatest love was the West.  He hiked and rode his bicycle many happy miles, along with tent camping at many a campsite. 

Denny’s knowledge of the Bible, Nature, Science, and plants, trees, and bugs along with astronomy amazed those who listened to him. 

Denny was a humble spiritual giant who served the Lord with a contagious smile and a willing heart.  He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. 

A visitation will be held from 9:00 – 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday January 11, 2022, at the First Baptist Church 323 E. Seminary Ave., Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday January 11th, at the church with Pastor Adam Taubert, Pastor Doug Neumann, and Pastor Philip Neumann officiating.  Burial will be in Mound Grove Garden of Memory in Kankakee, IL, where he will be laid to rest near his parents. 

Memorials may be sent to Camp Assurance, Georgetown, IL or the First Baptist Church in Hoopeston, IL. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Richard “Dick” Reardon passed away Dece,ber 30, 2021, at 2:50 am, after a battle with lung cancer with his family by his side. 

He was born August 25, 1932, to Velma (Shain) and Daniel J. Reardon.  He married Ruthanne Showalter, on April 25, 1959.  She survives. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, and 2 brothers Robert and Merle. 

He is survived by 2 sons-Daniel (JoEllen) and Tim (Laura) both of Potomac;  6  grandchildren-Shain (Rebecca Latta) of Potomac, Shanon (Brandon) Clemmons of Fisher, Shawn (Jayden King) of Potomac, Ben Reardon of Potomac, Chaise Reardon of Potomac and Sarah Asbury of Potomac; 11 great-grandchildren-Lorelai Reardon, Lane and Lincoln Clemmons, Layla and Hunter Reardon, Jamison and Lilly Reardon, Kollin, Konner, Aliyah and Brantlee Asbury.

Dick graduated from Potomac High School, in 1950.  He was a member of the winning basketball team that beat Danville, in 1949.  After high school, he traveled to California in a 1932 Chevy (purchased for $25) down Route 66 with Harold Spain.  While in California he worked in a cafeteria as a bus boy and at a Texaco.  He came home Christmas and later joined the Navy in 1952, while enlisted he played basketball for them 2 years.  

He started with McBroom Lumber Co. building houses in Potomac and then built house’s and new additions off of Winter Ave in Danville making $100 a week.  He built his own home in the spring of 1961 moving into the basement June 1, 1962.  He built everything in the home except for the stone and concrete and plaster work. He then went to work making custom cabinets for Charlie Pickett.  Dick went on to work at McDowell Construction until starting work for Dick Schomburg, where he worked until retirement as an estimator in 2007.

He was in charge of several big projects including the fertilizer plant in Portage IN, our own Community Building in Potomac was another big project for Dick.  He was known as a millwright, carpenter and estimator.  He loved fishing, hunting, building and repairing any wood projects including back bar and end bar at his son's place of business Lola's.

One of Dicks many projects was building his wife Ruthanne a grandfather clock from raw walnut to finish working clock.  Known for his perfectionism in any project he took on.  Towards his final days Dick loved his once -a- week poker games in Paxton that his granddaughter Chaise would accompany him to.

Special Thanks given to: Carle Hospice, (Marge, Tracy and Dawn) Patches Tucker, Darling Graves, Sarah Asbury for stepping in when needed.

Very Special Thanks to Chaise Reardon and Joellen Reardon for their constant care the past 14 months.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s or Carle Hospice.

Visitation will be Monday January 3, 2022 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Blurton Funeral Home 400 N. Vermilion Potomac.  Funeral will be Tuesday 1:00 pm with Pastor Randy Holden officiating at the Funeral Home, Burial in Potomac Cemetery with Military Honors conducted by the Potomac American Legion.  Due to the current Covid-19 outbreak the family does request masks to be worn at the funeral home.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Dick’s life.  Condolences may be shared with the family on his everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Paul J. Martin, 87, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 8:05 P.M. Tuesday December 28, 2021, at his daughter’s home in St. Anne, IL.  He was born September 19, 1934, in St. Anne, IL, the son of Paul C. and Lula C. (Ponton) Martin.  He married Janett ? on September 24, 1955.  She preceded him in death in 1991.  He later married Judy Clements on November 23, 1993, in Watseka, IL, and she preceded him in death on May 6, 2021. 

He is survived by one daughter, Janice K. (Ray) Whitten of St. Anne, IL; one son, Scott A. Martin of Aiken, SC; one step-daughter, Kim Emelander of South Haven, MI; two step-sons, John (Heidi) Busler of Green Valley, IL and Lon Busler of Allegan, MI; five grandchildren, Andrew (Hilary) Martin, Kate (Rob) Burgess, Samantha Whitten, Nastassia Kronika, and Jennifer Jensen; 8 step-grandchildren, Ashlynn Busler, Cole Busler, Jessica Borah, Cody Emelander, Tucker Emelander, Madi Busler, Aericka Westerfield, and Kaityln Busler; 6 great-grandchildren, Wesley Burgess, Anna Burgess, Lucas Dexter, Janett Kronika, Henry Kronika, and Harold Jensen; and one step-great-grandchild, Gideon Emelander. 

Paul was also preceded in death by his parents.  

Paul worked in the maintenance department for General Foods in Kankakee for thirty-two years.  He served in the United States National Guard, where he also served six months of active duty.  He attended the First Church of God in Hoopeston and served on the Wellington Village Board.  Paul enjoyed flying radio-controlled airplanes, building things with his hands, and tinkering around. 

A visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Wednesday January 19, 2022, 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. Wednesday January 19, 2022, at the funeral home with Pastor Gary Milton officiating.  Following the service, cremation rites will be accorded, and burial will be held at a later date. 

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Denzil R. “Denny” Neumann, 81, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 3:15 P.M. Wednesday December 29, 2021, at Cox South Hospital in Springfield, MO.  Arrangements are pending at Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston, IL.