Lora Jane Fraikes

Lewistown- Lora Jane Fraikes, 81, of Lewistown, passed away at 5:43 PM Sunday September 29, 2019 at Graham Hospital.

She was born July 4, 1938 at rural Summum, the daughter of John W. and Hazel I. (Ward) Grove. She married Edwin Keith Fraikes on September 27, 1957 at Lewistown. He died January 30, 2006. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and one sister, Louise Miller. Surviving is one son, Randall Keith Fraikes of Lewistown, and one twin brother, Gene Grove of Astoria.

Jane had worked at various restaurants in Lewistown in her early years. She was a member of the Crossroads Free Methodist Church in Lewistown. She enjoyed playing the piano, crafts, and cooking.

A private family burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Spoon River Towers Activity Fund. Condolences may be made at henrylange.com

Elizabeth B. Turl

Canton – Elizabeth B. Turl, 99, of Canton passed away at 11:02 am Monday, September 30, 2019 at Red Oak Estates in Canton.  She was born on December 23, 1919 in Canton to William and Julia A. (Raker) Snider.  Elizabeth married Gordon E. Turl on April 2, 1938 in Kahoka, MO.  He preceded her in death on November 5, 1989.  Also preceding her in death were her parents, three brothers and six sisters.  Surviving is one son Marvin (Debbie) Turl of Panama, three grandchildren; Chris Turl, Elizabeth (Jim) Chelgren, and Amanda (Mike) Hamilton, niece Sandy Chapman, four great-grandchildren; Brittany Plevka, Josh Chelgren, Cody Chelgren, and Kyle Hamilton, and one great great-grandchild Everly Plevka.
Elizabeth attended Wesley United Methodist Church in Canton.
Services will be 11 am Monday, October 7, 2019 at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton where visitation will be one hour prior to services.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  Burial of ashes take place following the services at White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton.  To leave online condolences, or to view Elizabeth’s video tribute, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Susan Rae VanHouten

Farmington – Susan Rae VanHouten, 79, of Farmington, passed away at 3:05 PM on Saturday, September 28, 2019 at Farmington Country Manor surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 20, 1940 in Canton to Edwin and Georgia (Howard) Lane. She married Ronald “Zeke” Eugene VanHouten. He preceded her in death.

Also preceding her in death were her parents, one daughter-in-law, Patricia “Trish” VanHouten, one brother, Jared “Jed” Lane, and one brother-in-law, Glenn Deakin.

Surviving are four sons, Lonnie (Elaine) VanHouten of Fort Worth, TX, Dennis (Alena) VanHouten of El Paso, TX, Bruce VanHouten of Farmington, and Greg VanHouten of Farmington; eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; one sister, Barbara Deakin; and many nieces and nephews.

Susan worked for over 40 years at Day-n-Palin, now known as County Market in Farmington, IL. She was a member of Farmington Women of the Moose.

A memorial service will be held at 12:30 PM on Friday, October 4, 2019 at Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington where a visitation will be from 11-12:30 PM. Pastor David Swain will officiate. A luncheon will follow the services at the Farmington Moose. Burial of ashes will be held at a later date at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington, IL. Cremation rites will be accorded with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Farmington Rescue Squad 1100 or the American Cancer Society. To view Susan’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Carmalee (Watts) Ashwood

Carmalee (Watts) Ashwood, 88, of Canton, passed away Friday, September 27, 2019, at Graham Hospital in Canton. Service are pending with Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton.

Theresa J. Davis

Canton – Theresa J. Davis, 70, of Canton, passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2019 at OSF St Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

She was born on November 28, 1948 in Peoria.

She married LeeRoy Davis on April 27, 1974 in Peoria.  He preceded her in death on October 30, 1994.

Surviving is her mother Johanna Cooper of Peoria, eight children, Johanna Blair of Peoria, Michael Blair of Canton, Cecelia Harper of North Carolina, Shannon Bulk of California, Rebecca Celia of Canton, LeeRoy Davis II of Morton, Robert Davis of Arizona, Michelle Welker of Arizona, thirteen grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Theresa was a loving and caring mother, grandmother and friend.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2019, from 5-7 pm with a funeral service at 7 pm at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a burial of ashes will take place at a later date at Greenwood Cemetery in Canton.

Memorials may be made to the family C/O TBK Bank.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Ronnie J. Gillham

Ronnie J. Gillham, 61, of Canton, Passed away Friday, September 27, 2019 at Renaissance Care Center in Canton. Cremation rites will be accorded with Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory

Richard R. Deakin

Canton-Richard R. Deakin, 80, of Canton, passed away Thursday, September 26, 2019 at his home in Canton

He was born on August 17, 1939 in Canton, to Don J. Deakin, and Ruby Mae (Buffum).

He is survived by four children, Karen (Craig) Bouc, of Canton, Michelle Garner, of Canton,  Don (Mandi) J. Deakin II, of Canton,  and Sarah (Rich) Smolen, of Plainfield Illinois, one sister, Celia (Larry) Beam, thirteen grandchildren, Josh, Kyle (Chelsea), Emily, Curtis, Sara, Colton (Courtney), Sydnee, Justus, Jacob, John, Garrett, Cade, Kalina, and Olivia, and five great grandchildren, Adalynn, Silas, Harper, Charles, and Jade.

He is preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Linda Deakin, one granddaughter, Lexi and one great grandson, Tyson.

Richard was a veteran of the United States Air Force. He worked for Caterpillar as a tool maker for 35 years retiring in 1992. He loved taking care of his family and attending all of their sporting events and activities.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton at 11:30 a.m., visitation will be held the night before, Monday, September 30, 2019, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Burial will immediately follow the funeral service at Cuba Cemetery in Cuba.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

To leave online condolences, or to view Richard’s video tribute, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com

George J. Genseal

Name: George J. Genseal Age: 87

Address:   Beardstown, IL, formerly of Rushville, IL

Date of Death: Thursday, September 26, 2019 Time:  4:16 pm    

Place: Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville, IL

Date of Birth:      October 1, 1931 Place: Beardstown, IL

Parents: Dick and Bessie Mae Coakley

Married: George married Phyllis Robertson on January 31, 1952 in Palmyra, MO. Phyllis preceded George in death on July 7, 2006. 

Survivors: daughter-Carol (and Dennis) Greenwood of Leesburg, VA

Preceded by: his 3 brothers, Silbert, Frank and Glenn Genseal, and his sister, Juanita “Jean” Ridgeway.

Occupation: George was an owner and operator of Surber and Genseal Meat Processing Plant in Rushville. After selling the business, he worked for M & M Vending in Macomb, IL. 

Military:         served in the US Army, in the 169th Infantry

Memberships: He was a member of the Lewistown VFW and Schuyler American Legion Post 4. He was also active in Ducks Unlimited. George enjoyed hunting, especially coyote and duck. 

Services: Graveside service at 10 am on Monday, September 30, 2019 in the Ipava Cemetery.

Place: Ipava Cemetery, Ipava, IL

Visitation:     4 to 6 pm Sunday, September 29, at Shawgo Memorial Home Astoria, IL

Interment:    Ipava Cemetery

Memorials:   Schuyler American Legion Post 4

Services By:  Shawgo Memorial Home, Astoria, IL. Online condolences may be given to the family at www.shawgomemorialhome.org

Eltoro “Tez” M. Smith

Name: Eltoro “Tez” M. Smith Age: 36

Address: Vermont, IL

Date of Death: Thursday, September 26, 2019 Time:  8:20 am    

Place:   OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, IL

Date of Birth:      November 20, 1982 Place: Joliet, IL

Parents: Frank James Jr. and Ranez Smith

Survivors: Wife- Dawn Dohner of Vermont, IL
Sister- Manika (and Lorenzo) Smith of Gary, IN
Sister- Donyale McCray of Chicago, IL
Sister- Lynn (and Charles) Edwards of Keokuk, IA
Sister- Shemika (and Antwon) Smith-Fields of Grand Rapids, MI
Sister- Takita (and Bill Baskin) Smith of Chicago, IL
Sister- Carrie McGowan of Chicago, IL
Sister- Frankie McGowan of Tennessee
Sister- Veronica McGowan of Waterloo, IA
Paternal-Grandmother- Elisabeth James of Springfield, IL
  Several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins

Preceded by: his parents, maternal-grandparents, Eltoro and Mary Lee Smith, and his paternal-grandfather, Frank James Sr.

Occupation: worked construction

Memberships: Tez was a very passionate person who loved his family very much. He
enjoyed spending time with friends and family, listening to his music, cooking and
traveling. He was a God fearing man who was protective of his family and loved ones.
He was a very loving and kind hearted person who would give the shirt off his back but would also be very blunt and give you a piece of his mind.

Services:   Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held at         2 pm on Saturday, October 5, 2019

Place:   Vermont Christian Church in Vermont, IL

Officiating: Pastor Cody Stinnett

Memorials: Vermont Rescue Squad or the Vermont Food Pantry

Services By:  Shawgo Memorial Home, Astoria, IL. Online condolences may be given to the family at www.shawgomemorialhome.org

Eric W. Miller

Lewistown- Eric W. Miller, 53, of Lewistown, passed away at 10:20 AM Thursday September 26, 2019 at OSF St Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

He was born July 25, 1966 at Havana, the son of Larry Wilson and Patricia Ann (Force) Miller. Survivors include one sister, Rita Gerber of Lewistown, two step brothers, Loy E. “Jr” (Nancy Elliott) Bridges of Havana, Michael Bridges of Havana, two step sisters, Barbara (Harold) Lee of Farmington, Karen (Daniel) Holmes of Havana, several nieces and nephews including Nicky Gerber and Sarah Lehman, and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Eric was a truck driver and farmer. He was a member of Lewistown VFW Post 5001, Lewistown Odd Fellows Lodge, and Lewistown Lodge 104 AF & AM.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 AM Monday at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lewistown. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2-4 PM at Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fulton County Humane Society. Condolences may be made at henrylange.com

Barbara L. Reed

Barbara L. Reed, 86, of Rio, IL, passed away at 10:40 PM on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home. Arrangements are pending with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington, IL.

Kathryn D. Shaffer

Cuba – Kathryn D. Shaffer, 89, of Cuba, passed away at 1:35 PM on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at Graham Hospital. She was born on July 9, 1930 in Blyton, IL to Wesley and Jennie (Mason) Strode. She married George Shaffer on September 20, 1953 in Cuba, he preceded her in death on July 15, 1997.

Kathryn was also preceded in death by her parents, one son, David Shaffer on September 12, 1997, and three brothers, Delbert, Dwight, and Carroll Strode.

Surviving is one daughter, Anita (Ron) Ball of Cuba; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Ben (Mary) Strode of Carlinville, IL and Phillip (Roweena) Strode of TX.

Kathryn worked as a nurse in the OB Department at Graham Hospital for 44 years. She was a charter member of Cuba Church of Nazarene and attended the Smithfield Church of Nazarene. Kathryn volunteered at the Fulton County Health Department after she retired. She loved working in the yard and gardening.

Services will be held at 2 PM on Monday, September 30, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL where a visitation will be from 1-2 PM. Pastor Dean Potts and Rev. Kevin VanTine will officiate. Burial will follow at Conner Cemetery in rural Cuba, IL. Memorials can be made to Graham Hospital OB Department. To view Kathryn’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Glen V. Armstrong

Canton – Glen V. Armstrong, 78, of Canton, passed away at 8:58 PM on Monday, September 23, 2019 at OSF. St. Francis Medical Center. He was born on October 7, 1940 in Peoria to Glenn and Lillian (Popplewell) Armstrong. He married Carolyn Sue Williams on March 28, 1961 in Pekin, IL, she survives.

Also surviving is one son, Glenn (Kathy) Armstrong in Canton; one granddaughter, Jennifer Armstrong; three great-grandchildren, Glenn Paul Smith, Anthony Mahr Jr. and Caleb Mahr; one brother, David Armstrong of Pekin; and one sister, Sharon Rockhold Gardner of Pekin.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Robert and Paul Armstrong.

Glen retired from Continental Grain in Bartonville, IL. He loved hunting, fishing, and riding four wheelers, especially at his vacation home in Kentucky. Glen was an avid NASCAR, Green bay Football, and St. Louis Cardinals fan. He loved telling stories and jokes to make everyone laugh, but most of all he loved spending time with grandchildren.

Services will be held at 2 PM on Friday, September 27, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton where a visitation will be held from 1-2 PM. Rev. Kevin VanTine will officiate. Burial will follow at White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton, IL. Memorials can be made to the National Kidney Foundation or American Diabetes Association. To view Glen’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Rosemary S. Gurley

Canton – Rosemary S. Gurley, 89, of Canton, passed away at 6:00 am Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at Sunset Nursing Home in Canton.  She was born on May 1, 1930 in Brimfield to Raymond and Helen (Dungan) Schelkopf.  Rosemary married Arthur Gurley on March 17, 1952 in Princeville.  He preceded her in death on November 10, 2006.  Also preceding her in death were parents, two sons; Andy and Alan and one sister Joyce Ann Zepp.  Surviving are two children; Pat (Dr. John) Tveite of Benton, KY, and Mary (Roger) Pille of Hanna City.  daughter-in-law Ruby Gurley of Burt, MI., one brother John Schelkopf of Downingtown PA, eight grandchildren; Molly, Charles, Robert, Ashlyn, Jess, Raymond, Sara, and Erin, and one great-grandchild Scout, Rosemary earned her BS and MS from WIU.  She taught school at Bushnell, Cuba, Valley, Canton, Canton Jr. College, and Edison Jr. College in Fort Myers.  She retired from Canton High School in 1986.

The Gurleys were snowbirds in Fort Meyers, FL. for 20 years.  Rosemary was a member of
Six Lakes Ladies Golf League, Swan Lake Ladies Golf League, Fairview Women’s Club, and Amaquonsippi, and Daughters of the American Revolution.  She served on the board of Valley Library and Agency for the Aging.  She was a longtime volunteer for Lee Memorial Hospital, Norris Lady Quiters.  Rosemary also was a member of Phi Mu Sorority, WIU Alumna, Cousins Club and Piecers of the Heartland.  She also traveled extensively with Canton group to Europe, Africa, South and Central America.  Her hobbies were doing estate sales, collecting antiques, making quilts, gardening and reading.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a burial of ashes will take place at a later date in Fairview Cemetery.  Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton is in charge of arrangements.  To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Olga Zedric

Canton – Olga Zedric, 96, of Canton, passed away at 7:46 am Saturday, September 21, 2019 at her residence, surrounded by her family.  She was born on February 1, 1923 in Canton to Oscar and Emma (Duffield) Wolfe.  Olga married Joseph Zedric and he preceded her in death in 2005.  Also preceding her in death were her parents, three brothers; Earl, Melvin, and Carl Wolfe, and four sisters; Irene Lashbaugh, Cecile Altizer, Dorothy Glasford, and Corda Hickman. 

Surviving are three daughters, Loretta (Bill) Hickman, Vicki (Dick) Harris, and Stephanie (Bob) Nelson) all of Canton, nine grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren.

Olga worked as waitress and also for Answer Canton.  She was of the Christian faith and member of Assembly of God Church in Canton. In her earlier years she enjoyed fishing, camping, pheasant hunting, dancing, gardening, and oil and water color painting.  Her greatest love was writing poems, some of which were published and many won awards.  Many of her neighbors and friends knew her from acts of love and kindness. She also had a song recorded.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Graveside services will be 11am Friday, September 27, 2019 at Shields Chapel Cemetery in rural Canton.  A celebration will take place immediately following the services at Canton Elks Club.  Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton is in charge of arrangements.  To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Chalmer L. Quigley

Lewistown- Chalmer L. Quigley, 73, of Lewistown Passed away at 2:35 AM Saturday September 21, 2019 at Graham Hospital Emergency Room.

He was born October 17, 1945 at Moline, IL; the son of Chalmer and Pauline (Anerson) Quigley. He married Roberta Margaret on February 14, 1979 at Moline. She survives with one sister, Frances (Hershal) Carman of Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Donna Farr.

Chalmer was a self employed contractor for over 40 years before retiring. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and making friends.

Cremation will be accorded and there will be no services held. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lewistown Rescue Squad. Condolences may be made at henrylange.com

Jack D. Draper Jr.

St. David – Jack D. Draper Jr., 70, of St. David, passed away at 8:45 AM on Monday, September 23, 2019 at his residence. He was born on September 5, 1949 in Canton to Jack D. and Ruby Mae (Arnett) Draper. He married Cheryl L. Schultz on December 29, 1967 in Joliet, IL, she survives.

Also surviving are four children, Sara Draper of St. David, Wendy (Rick Jr.) Hamm of Delavan, Jenny (Jon) Hines of St. David, and John (Shaundra) Draper of Bryant; seven grandchildren; and one sister, Patty (Mike) Franzoni of Canton.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Linda.

Jack worked as a truck driver for 30 years and also as a mechanic at Morton Truck Center for 16 years. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Canton. Jack was a member of the Lewistown Mason Lodge 104 and was Master Mason.

Jack served as a Sergeant during the Vietnam War for the United States Air Force.

Memorial service will be held at 7 PM on Thursday, September 26, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton where a visitation will be from 5-7 PM. Chaplin Scot Shelburne will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Memorials can be made to the Greater Peoria Area Honor Flight. To view Jack’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Donita F. Ellsworth

Canton – Donita F. Ellsworth, 88, of Canton, passed away at 9:08 am September 20, 2019 at Graham Hospital in Canton.  She was born on December 31, 1930, in Canton to Roscoe and Lucy (Howard) Ague.  Donita married John Ellsworth on May 6, 1951 in Canton.  He preceded her in death on September 7, 2019. Also preceding in death were her parents, and one sister Charlotte Gibson

Surviving are four children, Jeff (Lori Ann) Ellsworth of Canton, Mark Ellsworth of Canton, Lori Appelberg-Jensen of Cuba, Jon Robert (Bobbi) Ellsworth of Cuba, nine grandchildren, six great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Donita worked as book keeper, first at CIPS and later for Canton Township.  In 1947 she became a Job’s Daughter Jr. Princess.

Services will be 11 am Thursday, September 26, 2019 at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory, where visitation will be one hour prior to services.  Cremation rites have been accorded and the burial of the ashes will be held at White Chapel Memory Gardens following the Funeral.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the donor’s choice.  To leave online condolences, or to view Donita’s video tribute please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Jack Danley

Jack Danley, 60, of Hanna City, passed away at 1:30 PM on Thursday, September 19, 2019 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center.

Arrangements are pending with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington, IL.

Karl W. Bain

Farmington – Karl W. Bain, 68, of Farmington, passed away at 3:37 PM on Wednesday, September 18, 2019 at his residence. He was born on April 15, 1951 in Canton to Brice and Twila (Compton) Bain. He married Rose Thaller on January 8, 1972 in Mason City, she preceded him in death.

Karl was also preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Brice “Ted” Bain and Norman Bain.

Surviving are five children, Jason (Elaine) Bain of Mapleton, Jamie Bain of Farmington, Linda (April) Myers-Midgette of Nashville, TN, Chris (Ashley) Myers of Canton, and Kara Myers of Peoria Heights; 12 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and one sister, Charlotte (Frank) Roseboom of TX.

Karl worked as a mechanic and retired from Farm King. He was a member of the Farmington United Methodist Church. Karl loved fishing, camping, mushrooming, genealogy, and most of all loved spending time with his family. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Cremation rites will be accorded with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington, IL. Burial of ashes will be held at a later date at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington, IL. Memorials can be made to the family for funeral expenses. To make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Connie Cook Smith

Canton - Connie Cook Smith, 71, of Canton, passed away on September 19, 2019 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Connie was born on December 9, 1947 in Canton, to LaVern and Genevieve (Bitner) Cook.  She married Mark Smith on October 21, 1990 in Bartonville.  He survives along with a daughter Erin Robertson of Santa Cruz CA, niece Kimberly Hedden Welch (Jacob) of Denver CO and cousins Dean (Ruth) Bitner of Joliet, IL. and Suzie (Rocky) Diederich of East Peoria.
Connie spent the first 6 years of her life in Glasford until the family moved to Canton in 1954. She is pre-deceased by her parents, and a sister, Carolyn.

Connie was known for her warm sense of humor, her sparkling and articulate writing, her intelligent research, her beautiful singing and original song writing.

Connie loved school! Especially her beloved Jr. High from 1960-1963, that resembled a "School for Wizards." There she was involved in student government, class plays, Baptist Church groups, Girl Scouts, a stand-out percussionist with a band uniform jacket loaded with blue ribbons.  One noteworthy event was performing her thundering "Buwanna Beat" to fire batons during halftime at Alice Ingersoll Gym. She graduated in 1966 from Canton High School. While at Canton Community College (Spoon River College) Connie found herself as a reporter (special features writer) for the Canton Daily Ledger and was hired to spend the day with the Doors in 1967 and write a feature on the band. Lastly, Connie went to college at Northern Illinois University (1968-1970) focusing on English courses and American History.

Connie moved to Baltimore and worked at various advertising agencies and was hired as an instructor for the Responsive Learning Center, a literacy-improvement program. From Baltimore she moved to Los Angeles to work at a Montessori School, served as a trained counselor on a Suicide Prevention Hotline, then eventually marrying Dwight Robertson (d. 2016). They had one child, Erin Robertson. In 1980 the family migrated to Peoria Illinois where Connie focused her interests in American History research and writing and wrote many letters-to-editor on corrections to misinterpretations of "traditional American values" that were published fairly frequently in most regional newspapers, but also in the Baltimore Sun, the Los Angeles Times, Newsweek Magazine, Time Magazine, and numerous other publications as well. She was also passionate about human rights (woman, men, all life) and from 1981-1985 was the co-founder and president of The Friends of Robert G. Ingersoll.
In November of 1981 Connie was one of many in her neighborhood, including two Illinois State Troopers, who witnessed a "startlingly beautiful" object hovering above the neighborhood one night. Rick Baker (then famous columnist for the Peoria Journal Star) wrote about it in one of his columns, and Connie remained inspired by the beauty of the UFO and suddenly began composing upliftingly lovely songs. In 1987 she created "The Wonderful Reality of the UFOs” seminar/concert where her current husband, Mark Smith, attended. They were married in 1990. Connie and Mark became the music duo “Cook’n’Mark” and performed at schools (including the anti-drug program “Operation Snowball”), coffeehouses and special events. Their music was about bringing out the best within all people and “seeing the sunlight behind the storms.” Connie was featured on the front page of The Wall Street Journal in September of 1990 for her UFO experiences which lead to many adventures including the TV show "Unsolved Mysteries" yet decided not to use her story because it was “too positive.”

In 1997 Connie’s life dramatically changed when her husband had emergency brain surgery leaving the music duo at a loss. Then in 2014 Connie suffered a stroke which lessened her own health, her music abilities, and her writing abilities.

At Connie's request, no special services are planned.  Cremation rites have been accorded and Mark invites family and friends to a public Celebration of Life at the First Congregational Church, 159 N. 2nd Ave., Canton, IL. 61520, for his beloved wife at a later date.  Memorials can be made to Architects and Engineers for 9/11 Truth, or to the First Congregational United Church of Christ.
Oak-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton is in charge of arrangements.  To make online condolences please visit www.oakhinesfuneralhome.com

Ruth E. Diefendorf

Farmington – Ruth E. Diefendorf, 99, of Farmington, passed away at 9:30 on Wednesday, September 18, 2019 at The Loft in Canton, IL. She was born on September 9, 1920 in Mapleton, IL to Lewis R. and Laura B. (Schleigh) Stranz. She married Frank Diefendorf on April 12, 1947 in Pekin, IL, he preceded her in death on May 25, 2007.

Ruth was also preceded in death by her parents, one son, Lewis Diefendorf, one infant granddaughter, five brothers, and three sisters.

Surviving are three children, Loretta Bollinger of Trivoli, Sharon Diefendorf of Dumfries, VA, and Walter (Karen) Diefendorf of New Boston, TX; daughter-in-law, Sheryl Diefendorf of Farmington, IL; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.

Ruth worked at Keystone until marrying her husband, Frank. She was a member of the Farmington United Methodist Church. Ruth helped start and run the annual pancake and sausage dinner at the church for 50 years. She was very active in the church and taught Kindergarten Sunday School for over 35 years. Ruth also was a Fulton County Election Judge for many years.

Services will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at the Farmington United Methodist Church. Rev. Walter Carlson will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Ridge Cemetery in Mapleton, IL. A visitation will be held from 5-7 PM on Monday, September 23, 2019 at the Farmington United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Farmington United Methodist Church, Harbor Light Hospice, or Farmington Rescue Squad 1100. To view Ruth’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Maude L. Cieloha

Canton- Maude L. Cieloha, 90 of Canton passed away at 11:58 am Wednesday, September 18, 2019 at the Graham Hospital.  She was born on March 30, 1929 in McDonough County to Edwin and Iva Mae (Purtle) White.  They preceded her death along with one son Brian Cieloha, one brother, and two sisters. 

Surviving are four grandchildren; Sara Bull, Brian Cieloha Jr, Brad Cieloha, and Breanne Cieloha all of Canton, seven great-grandchildren, and one brother Alva Gamble of Canton.

Maude was a R.N. working at various hospitals in Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, Georgia, and Colorado, retiring in 1993.  She was a member of Shield’s Chapel United Methodist Church in rural Canton.

Graveside services will be 2pm Friday, September 20, 2019 at High Bridge Cemetery in Dunfermline.  Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.  To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Betty J. Hyde

Betty J. Hyde, 82, of Bushnell, passed away at 12:06 AM on Monday, September 16, 2019 at McDonough District Hospital in Macomb, IL.

Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL is in charge of arrangements.

Robert Flynn

Canton-Robert Flynn, 86, passed away on Tuesday, September 17, 2019 at his residence.

He was born on September 25, 1932 in Canton to Harry Earl and Gladys (Conrad) Flynn.  They preceded him in death.

Surviving are three children, David (Kristy Hedges) Flynn of Canton, Bruce Flynn of Canton, Darren (Lisa Rosich) Flynn of Canton, three sisters, Betty Kost of Canton, Lila Williams of Canton Mary Brown of Missouri, eight grandchildren, five great grandchildren and the mother of his children Janet (Rohrer) Meadows.

Robert served in the U.S. Army and retired from Freeman United Coal Company working from 1963 until retiring in 1994.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 20, 2019, at 11 am at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton with a visitation one hour prior at the funeral home.

Burial will follow the service at Greenwood Cemetery in Canton.

Memorials may be made to Fulton County Humane Society.

To leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com

George C. Florea

Pekin- George C. Florea, 100, of Pekin, passed away Monday, September 16, 2019 at Unity Point Health Pekin.

He was born on November 15, 1918 in Fairview, Illinois, to Cyrus and Clana (Sherman) Florea

George is survived by his wife of 64 years, Nancy (Murphy) Florea, whom he married on September 8, 1956 in Canton.

Also surviving are three children, Lisa (John) Watkins, of Pekin, Walter (Jane) Florea, of Rockford, and Marvin Florea, of Canton, and four grandchildren, Bill (Rachel), April. Erica, and Austin.

George is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Dean Florea and Virgil Florea, and one sister Ruth Smysor.

George was a Veteran of the United States Navy. He was inducted and active from February 1940 to May of 1941, he was later honorably discharged in August of 1942. George first worked for Caterpillar for 10 years, he then worked 25 years for television station 19 ABC,  he later worked as a home building contractor in the Canton area retiring after 12 years. He also enjoyed restoring cars.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2019 at Foster Cemetery in Rural Fairview at 10:00 a.m. the Reverend Micah Garnett will officiate the service.

Military rites will be rendered at the cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Central Illinois Kidney Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 235 Morton, IL 61550.

Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton is assisting with arrangements.

To leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com

David A. Nichols

Canton – David A. Nichols, 86, of Canton, passed away at 10:50 AM on Monday, September 16, 2019 at The Loft in Canton, IL. He was born on October 31, 1932, in Farmington, IL to James and Matilda (Brohn) Nichols. He married Patricia A. Jenkins on February 21, 1958 in Canton. She survives.

Also surviving are three children, Blee A. (Susan) Nichols of Suwanee, Ga, Rick E. (Jenny) Nichols of Canton, IL, and Michael J. Nichols of Burbank, CA; and seven grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; eight brothers, and two sisters.

David Worked for International Harvester for 31 years, first working in Canton then retiring from Navistar in Springfield, OH in 1990. He was a member of Local’s 1357 and 402. David worked part-time later for the Canton Park District and as a custodian for Canton schools. He also loved fishing.

Graveside service will be held at 11:15 on Saturday, September 21, 2019 at White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton, IL. A visitation will be held Saturday from 10 AM – 11 AM at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Rev. Monroe Bailey will officiate. Memorials can be made to the Fulton County Humane Society. To leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Jimmie A. Keefauver Sr.

Fairview – Jimmie A. Keefauver Sr., 84, of Springfield, formerly of Fairview, passed away at 10:15 AM on Monday, September 16, 2019 at his residence. He was born on December 19, 1934 in Canton to Ora A. and Eva Margaret (Mahr) Keefauver. He married Harriett Conklin on January 1, 1958, she preceded him in death on July 26, 1992. He later married Tomye Parliament on March 25, 1993 in Maui, HI. She survives.

Also surviving are eight children, Cathy (Ron) Mofford of AZ, Cindy (Alan) Thompson of Canton, IL, Lisa (the late Rick) Bybee of Canton, IL, Jimmie (Sheri) Keefauver Jr. of Smithfield, Jeff (Diane) Furlow of Chapel Hill, NC, Stacey (Alice) Furlow of Springfield, Tricia Price of Springfield, and Kelly Furlow of Springfield; 16 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one sister, Esther Keefauver of Fairview; and one son-in-law, David Vandermeer of Fairview.

Jimmie was preceded in death by his parents; two children, Linda Vandermeer and Mark Furlow; three grandsons; one granddaughter; and one brother, Charles Keefauver.

Jimmie owned and operated an Upholstery Store in Fairview for 23 years, worked as the Fulton County Coroner from 1980-1988, and retired from Illinois State Police as a criminal field analyst. He was the former Mayor of Fairview. Jimmie was of the Baptist Faith. He was a past volunteer Fireman at the Fairview Fire Department, a member of the Fairview American Legion Post 644 and Chief of an Indian Tribe.

Jimmie served in the United States Army for 11 years during the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

Services will be held at 3 PM on Sunday, September 22, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL, where a visitation will be held from 1-3 PM. Pastor Clint Cook of Real Life Church in Springfield will officiate. Burial with military honors will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Fairview, IL. Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society or the Fairview American Legion. To view Jimmie’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Ruth Ann McCombs

Lewistown- Ruth Ann McCombs, 75, of Lewistown passed away at 5:35 AM Monday September 16, 2019 at her home.

She was born March 11, 1944 at Avon the daughter of Wayne and Dorothy (Wilson) Shaw. She married Loren McCombs on November 22, 1980 at Lewistown. He died September 23, 2005. She was also preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, two sisters and one great grandchild. Surviving are three children, Christopher (Audrey) Carlin of St. David, Laura (Allen) Tippey of Lewistown and Pamela (Rod) Beaird of Bernadotte, five step sons, Steve McCombs of Springfield, Darrell (Lou) McCombs of Pinckneyville, Dave McCombs of Arizona, Todd McCombs of Pekin, and Doug (Marie) McCombs of Cuba, 14 grandchildren, five step grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

Ruth worked for Casey’s in Lewistown for over 20 years the last 15 years as manager. She retired in 2005. She was a member of the former Crossroads Free Methodist Church and the Order of Eastern Star both of Lewistown. Ruth enjoyed visiting antique shops, reading and collecting Coca Cola memorabilia.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Friday at the Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown with Reverend Brant Reed officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery at Lewistown. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the memorial home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Spoon River Towers resident council, Beacon of Hope Hospice or Central Illinois Memorial Kidney Fund. To view Ruth’s life tribute video or to send online condolences visit henrylange.com.

Robert Dean Harper

Robert Dean Harper, 90, of Trivoli, passed away at 12:15 AM on Monday, September 16, 2019 at Unity Point Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria. Services pending with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington.

William G. “Robbie” Robinson Jr.

William G. “Robbie” Robinson Jr., 61, of Canton, passed away at 8:06 AM on Friday, September 13, 2019 at his residence.

Arrangements are pending with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL.

Brian T. Jackson

Brian T. Jackson, 33, of Canton, passed away at 12:33 PM on September 11, 2019 at his residence. Services pending with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton.

Benjamin D. Homan

Benjamin D. Homan, 30, of Farmington, passed away at 10:30 PM on September 10, 2019 at his residence. Services pending with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington.

Darlene S. Hammond

Dunfermline- Darlene S. Hammond, 57, of Dunfermline, passed away at 10:13 PM on Tuesday, September 10, 2019, at OSF Hospital in Peoria, IL. She was surrounded by her family.  She was born on March 10, 1962, in Beardstown, IL, a daughter of Robert and Janet (Scheer) Hobrock. She married Robert Fitzjarrald on August 8, 1981 in Beardstown, IL.  She later married Rick Hammond on July 30, 2009, he preceded her in death on July 15, 2018.

Surviving are her children, Daniel (Kara) Fitzjarrald of Canton and Amy Fitzjarrald of Houston, TX, sisters, Diana Kaminsky of Edwardsville, Debbie (Jim) Icenogle of Beardstown, Bobbie Logsdon of Beardstown, brother, David (Beth Oeser) Hobrock of Beardstown, and two grandchildren Kate and Jack Fitzjarrald; nephews, Josh (Nicole) Kaminsky of Oswego, IL, Rob (Erica) Kaminsky of Edwardsville, IL, Jake Logsdon of Beardstown; nieces, Jamie (Soe) Tha of Chicago, Annie Logsdon of Beardstown, Autumn Hobrock of Beardstown and Rilee Hobrock of Beardstown; and 1 great-niece and 3 great-nephews.

In addition to her husband Rick, she was preceded in death by one brother-in-law, Cliff Kaminsky.

Darlene graduated from Beardstown High School in 1980.  She then went on to Graham School of Nursing in Canton graduating in 1983.  She recently earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Wisconsin – Green Bay and had just started classes in pursuit of her Masters of Science in Nursing.  After graduation from Graham School of Nursing, she worked in the OB department at Graham Hospital until 2006.  She then went on to Pekin Hospital, last serving as its Director of Obstetrics until taking time off after Rick’s passing.  In March of 2019, she had just started her dream job as Perinatal Outreach Educator for OSF Hospital.

She loved to live life.  She shared a passion of motorcycle drag racing with her husband Rick, she supported him as his pit crew.  She had a green thumb and could grow anything.  Darlene jokingly dubbed herself “the queen of everything” and lived her life as a true diva.  From a young age, her family nicknamed her “Weener” and that’s a nickname she proudly embraced; this sparked her lifelong obsession with the Oscar-Mayer Wienermoblie.  In the spirit of Darlene, when you see a butterfly, think of her.

It should be noted that Darlene was an Organ & Tissue Donor.  Though her family is experiencing grief, they find solace in knowing that at the same time so many other families are experiencing so much joy and relief through her donation.

A visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, with cremation to follow.  Memorials can be made to OSF LifeFlight or Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network in memorial of Darlene. To view Darlene’s DVD or to make online condolences please go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Jon Culton

Canton- Jon Culton was born in Canton, Illinois to Margret and Willis Culton. He had an interesting childhood being raised on the family farm. Among his many memories, he loved recalling being three years old, wearing bib overalls and riding with his grandfather on a horse drawn plow. He also loved to search for mushrooms in the forest with his grandmother, a skill that served him well in Oregon.

Jon graduated from the Canton High School in 1952. He attended the University of Illinois in Urbana/Champaign until he was drafted in 1956.

He served in the Army on the Savannah River Project then returned to the University of Illinois. He graduated with a Bachelors degree in Mathematics and a strong minor in Physics. Subsequently he received an MBA. He took a job in the University that made good use of his skills.

Jon’s title was Principal Research Engineer. It was always difficult to describe exactly what he did. He liked to say that he made electrons turn corners. The gist of it was that an academician conceptualized something and he made it a reality. When he retired, he had designed and managed what was, at the time, the cleanest clean room in the United States. He was a charter member of the American Vacuum Society and worked side by side with many Nobel Prize winners.

Jon married late in life to Carol Link. They moved to the Oregon Coast, lured by the magnificent environment and salubrious temperatures. It has been an enjoyable interlude for the both of them.

A memorial visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Sunday, September, 15, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton. Graveside service and burial of ashes will be at 2:30 PM on Sunday at Orendorff-Breeds Cemetery, where Military Honors will be conduct by the United States Army and Canton VFW Post #1984. To leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Bernita J. Long

Canton – Bernita J. Long, 92, of Canton, passed away at 12:45 PM on Monday, September 9, 2019 at Renaissance Care Center in Canton, IL. She was born on June 16, 1927 in Canton, IL to Clayton M. and Catherine (Johnson) Westerfield. She married Beverly F. Long. He preceded her in death.

Bernita was also preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Samuel, Lawerence, and James Westerfield; and one sister, Janet Hughbanks.

Surviving are two children, Kenneth E. (Nina) Long and Martha L. Enge both of Canton, IL; three grandchildren, Keely (Mike) Vollmar of Canton, Brian (Amanda) Long of Morton, and Eric (Stephanie) Enge of East Peoria; and four great-grandchildren.

Bernita worked at International Harvester from 1945 – 1951. She loved all family activities and spending her time as a homemaker. She enjoyed gardening and canning. She was also a member of Wesley United Methodist Church in Canton.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, September 19, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, where a visitation will be held an hour prior. Rev. K. Bruce Rushing will officiate. Burial of ashes will follow at White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton, IL. Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Memorials can be made to the Wesley United Methodist Church 1895 Restoration Project. To view Bernita’s DVD or to leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Ronald Eugene Neff

Canton – Ronald Eugene Neff, 98, of Canton, passed away at 7:11 PM on Sunday, September 8, 2019 at Lakeside Meadows in Osage Beach, MO. He was born on June 6, 1921 in Cuba, IL to Oscar J. and Ruth E. (Mason) Neff. He married Elizabeth Louise Ball on December 26, 1941 in Hannibal, MO, she preceded him in death.

Ronald was also preceded in death by his parents and one sister.

Surviving are two daughters, Susan (Joe) Massillo of Peoria, AZ and Jean (Rick) Kimball of Camdenton, MO; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Ronald retired in 1984 as an operator at A Max Coal Company after 41 years of service. He was of the Protestant Faith. Ronald was a member of the Cuba American Legion Post 533.

Ronald served from 1942-1946 as a Sergeant during World War II in the Army Air Corps.

Services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, September 13, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton where a visitation will be held an hour prior. Pastor Curtis Atchley will be officiating. Burial will follow at White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton, IL. Memorials can be made to American Legion, Post 533, Cuba, IL. To make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Steve Reneau

Canton- Steve Reneau, 73, of Canton, passed away Sunday, September 8, 2019, at O.S.F. St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

He was born on February 22, 1946, in Canton, to Verle and Viola (Thompson) Reneau. They both preceded him in death, along with two brothers, David M. Reneau and Dennis Reneau.

Steve is survived by his wife Brenda (Archdale), whom he married on January 20, 1990 in Dunfermline.

Also surviving are two children, Bruce (Tracy) Reinmann, and Shelli (Chris) Trone, one brother Jerry (the late Sharon) Reneau, three grandchildren, Christopher Reinmann, Anna Reinmann, and Rylli Koener, two nephews, Jay (Charity) Reneau, and Jim (Michaela) Reneau, two great nieces and three great nephews, and special family friends, Donna and Chris Bennettt and Kacie Jeremy and Addison Przybylo

Steve was retired U.S.P.S city of Canton letter carrier for 32 years. He was an active member of both Canton Elk’s Lodge 626, and American Legion Post 16, he was a Veteran of the United States Navy where he served in the Naval Reserves. Steve was loved by all and will always be remembered as one of the greatest Chicago Cubs and Green Bay Packers fans.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Canton Elk’s 626 Children’s Care Corporation, Fulton County Ferals, Fulton County Humane Society or to the Canton Trap Team.

A Funeral service will be held on Wednesday September 11, 2019 at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton at 6:00 p.m., visitation will be held at the funeral home from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Military rites will immediately follow the service at the funeral home. 

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, September 29, 2019 at the Canton Elk’s Lodge 626 starting at 1:00 p.m.

To view Steve’s video tribute or to leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Wilma Lewis

Wilma Lewis, 86, of Havana formerly of Lewistown, passed away Saturday Sept. 7 at her home. Arrangements are pending at Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown.

Whitney Huff

Whitney Huff, 66, of Canton, passed away on Saturday, September 7, 2019 in Macomb. Services pending with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton.

John Ellsworth

Canton – John Ellsworth, 91, passed away on Saturday, September 7, 2019 at his residence.

He was born on April 3, 1928, in Canton to Merle and Clara (Crockett) Ellsworth.  They preceded him in death.

He married Donita Ague on May 6, 1951 in Canton.  She survives.

Also surviving are four children, Jeff (Lori Ann) Ellsworth of Canton, Mark Ellsworth of Canton, Lori Appelberg-Jensen of Cuba, Jon Robert (Bobbi) Ellsworth of Cuba, nine grandchildren, six great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by five brothers, Bill, Maurice, Meredith “Mig”, Harold “Itsie”, and Robert “Bob” Ellsworth and five sisters, Janet Ball, Bessie Williams, Virginia Lock, Frances Ekstrand and Ellen Linquist.

John Graduated from Canton High School and was active in its sport programs.  He played baseball, football and basketball and played on the 1948 State playoff team.  He worked for International Harvester Company in Canton and retired in 1985.  He was an avid sport fan and coached his kids little league teams.  He enjoyed fishing and even won a biggest fish Contest.  He was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan and later in life he attended all of his grandkids sporting events.  John and Donita attended the 1st Christian Church where he once served as an usher.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at 11 am at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton with a visitation one hour prior

Cremation rites have been accorded and the burial of the ashes will be held at White Chapel Memory Gardens following the Funeral.

Memorials may be made to his Hospice Compassus.

To leave online condolences, or to view John’s video tribute please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Richard L. “Doc” Roe

Richard L. “Doc” Roe, 88, of Lewistown, passed away at 10:17 PM Thursday September 5, 2019 at St John’s Hospital in Springfield.

He was born September 1, 1931 at Rayland, Ohio the son of Loma A. and Effoie Marie (Mehollin) Roe. He married Norma Saults on May 26,  at Missouri. She survives with one son, Rich Roe of Bushnell, one granddaughter, Stacey Roe of Bushnell, two great grandsons, Logan and Trenton Roe both of Bushnell, and one great great grandson, Axle Roe of Bushnell. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Shirlene Jockisch, and one grandson, Thomas William Roe.

Doc was an industrial arts teacher and coach at Lewistown High School for many years before retiring. He later worked as a carpenter and home builder in the Lewistown area. He was a WW 2 Army veteran, and was a member of the Lewistown United Methodist Church, and a 50 year member of Lewistown Lodge 104 AF & AM.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday at Oak Hill Cemetery with Pastor Shane Smith officiating. There will be no visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lewistown United Methodist Church. Condolences may be made at henrylange.com

Rosemary K. Peak

Rosemary K. Peak, 69, passed away on September 6, 2019, at her residence.

She was born on April 3, 1950 in Canton to Robert and Harriett (Harden) Jennings.  They preceded her in death along with one grandson, Jesse Peak.

Surviving are two children, Kenny (Tina) Peak of Canton, Christopher (Tabby) Peak of Canton, one brother, Robert (Carolyn) Jennings of Canton, two grandchildren, Arionna Peak, Kelsi Peak and one great grandchild Rylann Harrison.

Rosemary worked for the Old Drive-in movie theater, the Capital Theater, the Garden Theater and later became a LPN and worked as a traveling nurse.  She then worked at area nursing homes retiring from Heartland in 2017.  She was a member of the Rebekah Lodge and was an animal lover especially her birds and dogs. 

A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 12, 2019, from 5-7 at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton with a funeral service at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, September 13, 2019, at the funeral home.

Burial will follow at the White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton.

Memorials may be made to the family C/O Triumph Bank in Canton.

To view Rosemary’s video tribute or to leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Virginia Jane Baker

Virginia Jane Baker, age 94 of Cuba, died Sunday, September 1, 2019 at her granddaughters’ home in Macon, Missouri.

She was born January 3, 1925 in Cuba, the daughter of James and Elizabeth Kerr Murphy. She married Melvin Baker in 1948, and he preceded her in death in 1988.

She is survived by one son Robert (wife Denise) Ennis of Tennessee; five great grandchildren Stephen John Ennis of England, Terri (husband Mark) Van Tine of Macon, MO, Tammi (husband Harry) Ellison of Pekin, IL, Duncan (wife Veron) Ennis of Harpers Ferry, WV, and Michael Ennis of Denver, CO; nine great grandchildren; four great great grandchildren; and one brother Benny Murphy of Tennessee.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a brother Tiny Murphy, and one sister Myrtle Goldsmith.

Mrs. Baker attended Cuba Schools. She was a homemaker by trade. She cherished each moment she was able to care for her granddaughters. She was an avid quilter and made sure each grand child and great grandchild had a quilt made special by her. She loved to spend time gardening and enjoying yard work. Mrs. Baker had a strong faith and was an active member of Cuba Christian Church. It was her wish to live out her life at home and with great care from her granddaughters she was given that wish. Her love was contagious, and she will be greatly missed by all.

Graveside memorial services will be held at 11 AM Saturday, September 14, 2019 at Cuba Cemetery. There will be no visitation. Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested to Cuba Christian Church. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.

Viola Quesinberry

Name:   Viola Quesinberry   Age: 91    Address:     Rushville, IL, formerly of Astoria, IL

Date of Death: Monday, September 2, 2019 Time:  9:45 am    

Place: Rushville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Rushville, IL

Date of Birth:    August 19, 1928 Place: Beardstown, IL 

Parents: David and Alma Anderson 

Married: Samuel Cassel in 1946.  She later married Tommy Curlsess on April 25, 1966 in Lewistown, IL.  He preceded her in death on January 24, 1981.  She then married James Quesinberry on May 27, 1982 in Astoria, IL.  He preceded her in death on October 21, 2016.

Survivors: Daughter-Elma Darlene (and Gary) Baker of Rushville, IL
Grandson-Bobby (and Angela) Blickenstaff of Astoria, IL
Great-Grandchildren-Aubri Blickenstaff and Mason Blickenstaff of  Astoria, IL
Great-Great-Grandsons-Oscar Jones and Parker Stewart of Astoria, IL
Sister-Irene Curless of Rushville, IL

Preceded by: 4 brothers:  Alfred, David, Franklin, and Arthur Anderson
4 sisters:  Vivian, Dorothy, Virginia, and Mildred.

Occupation: She held her first job at the age of 16 at the Glove Factory in Beardstown, IL.  She later worked at several businesses in Astoria; The Subway (Broadway) Café and Wilbur’s Coffee Cup, where she loved being a waitress.  She later worked as bookkeeper for Alexander Lumber Company and was a cashier at Hamblin’s Gas and Snacks.

Memberships:    One of Vi’s accomplishments was when in her 60’s she got her GED with some local friends.  She and her sister Irene played the guitar and sang at local churches and PTA meetings in the area.  Vi loved people and had a way to make them smile.  She loved dogs, the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Chicago Bulls.  She enjoyed watching them on TV.  She was a member of the Astoria Christian Church where she always reminisced and shared the story of Pastor Ray Artrip baptizing her and later Tommy.  Vi loved the Lord and shared her faith with her family and friends.  She loved walking, gardening, and canning.  Most of all she, along with Darlene, loved spending countless hours cooking and baking for her family at the farm house.  These were the memories she spoke most often of.  Vi enjoyed watching her great-grandchildren Aubri and Mason having their tea parties, swinging on the porch swing, and singing old Sunday school songs.  She was so glad when the great-great-grandsons came to visit.  They would always put a smile on her face.  He fury friend Payton will help Jesus welcome her into heaven.  He preceded her in death just 6 weeks earlier.


Services:   2:00 pm Thursday, September 5, 2019 at the Astoria Cemetery

Officiating: Bob Spencer

Memorials:   Schuyler County Humane Society

Services By:  Shawgo Memorial Home, Astoria, IL. Online condolences may be given to the family at www.shawgomemorialhome.org

Carroll L. Barnes

Canton- Carroll L. Barnes, 87, of Canton passed away at 2:58 pm on Sunday, September 1, 2019, at Graham Hospital. He was born September 25, 1931, in rural Joshua Township in Fulton County near Fairview, the youngest of nine children of Ralph and Lola (Benner) Barnes. He married Mary M. Senders on October 23, 1948, in Lewistown.

She survives along with son, Kenneth (Katherine) Barnes of Chillicothe and daughter-in-law Maureen (Chap) Barnes of Rolling Meadows, along with two grandchildren, Cara (Jeff) Shoup of Chandler, AZ, and Jason (Ashley) Barnes of Chillicothe and five great grandchildren, Adam Bridges, Emma Bridges, Carissa Barnes, Nicklaus Barnes and Anderson Barnes.


He was preceded in death by a son, Rodger Bruce Barnes, his parents, four brothers and four sisters.


He began working at Spoon River Electric Cooperative on his sixteenth birthday in 1947 as a forestry man and worked there for 48 years, retiring in 1995 as a journeyman lineman.


He was an avid Cubs and Bears fan.


Cremation rites will be accorded through Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, and per his wishes there will be no visitation nor services. A private burial at White Chapel Memory Gardens will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice. To leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Eddie Joe Walton

Canton – Eddie Joe Walton, 71, of Canton, passed away Sunday, September 1, 2019, at Methodist Medical Center in Peoria.
He was born on February 8, 1948, to Joseph Walton and Thelma (Bolen) Brown. They preceded him in death.
He survived by his wife, Donna (Ibbotson), whom he married on September 8, 1967 in Spring Lake.
Also surviving are two children, Kenneth Walton and Timothy Walton, one half-brother Ramsey Walton, one sister Deava Walton, three grandchildren, Jenna (Evan) Haile, Wesley Walton, and Kingston Walton and one great grandson Emmett Haile.
Eddie worked for Keystone, International Harvester, Caterpillar, the Pere Marquette, and ALCOA. In 2010 he retired from Brinks. He enjoyed playing pool, bowling, motorcycles. He was an avid animal lover and he loved spending time with his grandkids.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2019 at Orendorff Breeds Cemetery in Canton at 10:30 a.m. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 6, 2019 from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton.
Memorials may be made to his grandchildren’s education fund.
To leave online condolences, or to view Eddie’s video tribute please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Tiffanie Lynn Hornung

Tiffanie Lynn Hornung, 26, of Hanna City, passed away at 5:26 PM on Saturday, August 31, 2019 at her residence. Services pending with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington.

Anna Lee (Post) Haggerty

Canton- Anna Lee (Post) Haggerty, 97, of Canton, passed away at 8:24 AM on Friday, August 30, 2019 at Graham Hospital in Canton. She was born on May 31, 1922 in Bryant, Illinois, to Earl and Lena (Wilcoxen) Post. She married Robert Linn Haggerty on March 9, 1947 in Canton, who  preceded her in death in December of 1995.  Also preceding her in death are her beloved children, Dennis Haggerty and Linda Adams.

Anna Lee graduated from Canton High School in 1940, where she met Robert. They began their life together as farmers and soon after started their family with Linda and Dennis born a year apart.  She and Robert adopted Lori twelve years later. She loved life and deeply loved God and her family. She was active in the church all her life, teaching Sunday school, supporting her family members’ involvement in the church and cooking for potlucks.  Anna Lee was last a member of Covenant Community Church in Canton.

As a devoted wife, she worked steadfastly by Robert’s side in farming and their restaurant business. Her family was always her priority and she loved having them visit—she especially loved seeing her grandkids and great-grandkids. She prayed for her family and many friends every day.  She kept her deep joy and sense of humor till the end.  Her family legacy and traditions will live on, and she will be greatly missed.

Also preceding her in death are her parents, three brothers: Russell Post, Marshall Post and Danny Post, and three sisters: Violet Post, Ruby Hauser and Bea Whitehead.  Surviving her is one daughter, Lori Shaw of Dallas, Texas; four grandchildren, Colin (and Shelley) Adams of Canton, Heather (and Kevin) Eide of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Dawn Sabrina (and Joshua) Barlow of Redding, California; Mackenzie Hitz of Dallas, Texas; twelve great-grandchildren, and one brother, Edward Post of Florida, who deeply loved his big sister.

Funeral services will be at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton at 3:00 PM on Saturday, September 7, 2019, with visitation from 2:00 PM until the time of the services.  Additional visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, September 6, 2019 also at the funeral home. Rev. Kevin VanTine will officiate with burial in White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton. Memorials can be made to Covenant Community Church. To view Anna’s DVD or to leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Frances E. Hilton

Name: Frances E. Hilton Age: 95

Address:      Smithfield, IL

Date of Death: Sunday, September 1, 2019 Time:  9:22 pm    

Place: Graham Hospital in Canton, IL

Date of Birth: December 1, 1923 Place: Astoria, IL

Parents: John and Maude Irene (Wickwire) Shaw

Married: Harold “Rusty” Hilton on July 21, 1941 in Hannibal, MO. Harold preceded Francis in death on June 28, 1991.

Survivors: Son- Dennis Hilton of Marietta, IL
Daughter- Kathy (and Joseph) Ford of Cuba, IL
4 grandchildren: Tiffany (and Dennis) Clark, Terie Nieukirk,
Brandon (and Becky) Nieukirk and Tami (and Damon) McCombs
8 great-grandchildren 

Preceded by: her infant son, Darrell Hilton, her son, Danny Hilton, 4 brothers, Herbert, Larry, Jim and Willard Shaw, and 2 sisters, Rose Ellen Cluney and Lila Atwater. 

Occupation: homemaker

Memberships: Frances attended Ipava High School. She was a member of Modern Woodmen of America and director of the Modern Woodmen of America Club 1460 of Smithfield for 50 year. She volunteered at the Red Brick School in Smithfield for Chicken Noodle dinners and served on the board at the Cuba Senior Center for several years. She enjoyed bird watching, canning, sewing, gardening and flowers. She also made the best watermelon pickles.   

Services:   Graveside service on Wednesday, September 4, 2019 at 2:30 pm in the Ipava Cemetery. 

Place: Ipava Cemetery

Visitation:        1 to 2 pm on Wednesday, September 4, 2019 at Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria. 

Interment: Ipava Cemetery in Ipava, IL

Memorials:   Red Brick School or the Cuba Senior Center

Services By:  Shawgo Memorial Home, Astoria, IL. Online condolences may be given to the family at www.shawgomemorialhome.org

William H. Hopkins

New Philadelphia- William H. Hopkins, age 87, of rural New Philadelphia, passed away on September 1, 2019, in Macomb, Illinois.  Bill was born in rural Fulton County and grew up in Cuba, Illinois, graduating from Cuba High School in 1951.  Bill was the son of Claude and Cora Mae (Agnew) Hopkins, the eighth of thirteen children. Bill married his high school sweetheart, Hazel Marie Miller, on April 25, 1953, in Pismo Beach, California, shortly before he left for Korea. He served in the U.S. Signal Corp stationed in Korea.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and eight siblings (Pauline, Edgar, Ralph, Clyde, Margaret, David, Hazel, and Mary Lou).

He is survived by his wife, Hazel (Miller); his children, Nancy Hopkins (Joe Ourth), and Stephen Hopkins (Laura Gennaco); brothers and sisters Ruby Bishop, Herbert Hopkins, Thomas Hopkins, and Bonnie Lisle; and grandchildren Emily Martin, Abraham Ourth, Bailey Hopkins, and Elijah Ourth.

Bill was a person of great faith and was an active member of the New Salem Christian Church in Adair. He was active in the American Legion. Bill was a stand-out basketball player for Cuba High School and continued to enjoy sports throughout his life, particularly watching his son Steve’s high school and college games, and watching college and professional basketball games on television. Bill loved animals and worked at several agriculture-related jobs in his early career. He also raised and showed St. Bernard dogs. Bill became an electrician and worked for Consolidation Coal Company. Bill was very talented mechanically, and could make and repair almost anything. He was an accomplished woodworker, making cradles, wagons, and toys for his grandchildren and other items for his home and as gifts. An avid gardener, Bill raised a large garden throughout all but the last years of his life. “Grandpa’s corn” is fondly remembered by his grandchildren. As the caption in his high school year book said “To know him is to like him.”

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 6, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Henry Lange Memorial Home in Cuba. The funeral will be at the Cuba Christian Church on Saturday at 10:30 a.m.  Burial will be at the Bushnell Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. Memorial donations can be made to the Cuba Christian Church or the Salvation Army Food Pantry. To view William’s life tribute video or to send online condolences visit henrylange.com.

Brandi J. (Wilhelm) Rudd

Ellisville- Brandi J. (Wilhelm) Rudd, 46, of rural Ellisville passed away at 6:15 PM Saturday August 31, 2019 at her home following a short hard fought battle with metastatic breast cancer.

She was born May 11, 1973 in Peoria, IL the daughter of Keith and DeYonne (Gladitsch) Wilhelm. She married Troy Rudd on October 25, 2014 at their home in rural Ellisville, IL. He survives along with her step father and mother, Paul and DeYonne Farr of Table Grove, one son, Keith (Alaira) Allard of Lewistown, a step daughter, Taylor Rudd of Washington, one sister, Tamra (Jason) Stambaugh of Cuba and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father.

Brandi worked at IGI in Peoria for 20 years.

Brandi loved her nieces and nephews especially the babies. She enjoyed floating in ponds and fishing. She enjoyed the little things in life. Brandi was an avid Green Bay Packer fan like her father. She was known for her love of purses, perfume, and candles. She also enjoyed playing cards, traveling with Troy, and spending time with family.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Friday at the Wiley Lutheran Church at rural Ellisville the Reverend Ardith Corsaw officiating. Burial will be at Wiley Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4-7 PM Thursday at the Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown, IL and one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to The Team Brandi Fund, Wiley Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice. To view Brandi’s life tribute video or to send online condolences visit henrylange.com.

Melvin “Mel” Fletcher

Canton – Melvin “Mel” Fletcher, 92, passed away on Saturday, August 31, 2019 at his residence.  He was born on July 3, 1927 in Kilbourne, IL to Timothy and Esther (Curry) Fletcher.  They preceded him in death.

He married Roberta Van den Arend on June 13, 1954 in Pekin.  She survives.

Also surviving is one son Todd (Kelli) Fletcher of Canton, two grandchildren, Jace (Delanie) Fletcher, Kelsie Fletcher, one brother, Tim (Velva) Fletcher of Matanzas Beach, IL and several nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by one son Cory.

Mel served in the U.S. Navy during WWII.  He worked at Easton and Oakford Schools, later at the Canton Junior High School as a math teacher and Guidance Counselor and lastly at the Canton High School as a Guidance Counselor and bus driver retiring in 1986.  He was a member of the Canton American Legion, Shields Chapel Church and also a past member of the Brotherhood of Shields Chapel Church.  Mel also was a Charter member of the Jedidiah Chapter of the Christian Motorcycle Association, the YMCA, and the Canton Area Citizens for Environmental Issues and served Meals on Wheels.

Services will be 10:30 pm Wednesday, September 4, 2019 at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton with a luncheon to follow at Shields Chapel Church.

A visitation will be Tuesday night from 5- 7 pm.  At the funeral home

Graveside services will be held at 2:30 pm, following the luncheon the Fairview Cemetery in Rural Bath.

 Memorials can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Shields Chapel Church or to Donor’s Choice.

To leave view Mel’s tribute video or to leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com