Janet Baxter

Janet Baxter, 80, of Canton, passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at Graham Hospital in Canton.

She was born on August 14, 1944 in Canton to Alexander and Regina (Frichtl) Wilson.

She married Alan Baxter on February 14, 1977. He preceded her in death in 1988.

Also preceding her in death was her parents, five sisters, Carol, Rose, Marge, Christina, Anna and one brother, Alex.

Surviving is her daughter, Melissa Baxter, three grandchildren Ryan Perkins, Logan Perkins, Ashley Perkins and several nieces and nephews.

Janet was a long-time paper carrier and enjoyed spending time with her grandkids and watching TV. She was the most caring and independent women and would help anyone. These last few months she went through a lot but never lost her fight to carry on. She fought the fight with a smile on her face! Every one said she was the little women with nine lives.

Cremation rites have been accorded though Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton.

Memorials can be made to her daughter Melissa.

To leave online condolences please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Frances M. Siegel

Frances M. Siegel, 83, of Peoria, formerly of Edwards, passed away at 6:05 a.m., surrounded by her loving family, on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at The Loft in Peoria, IL. She was born November 9, 1941, in Peoria, IL, to William and Ethel (Simms) Traver. Frances married Melvin Siegel on July 6, 1962. He preceded her in death in 2021.

Frances is survived by three children, Justine (Micheal) Morefield of Edwards, Melvin L. Siegel, II, of Edwards, and Jackie (Debbie) Siegel of Peoria; two brothers, Chuck (the late Janet) Traver and Jerry (Linda) Traver; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Frances is also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Tommy Siegel; one brother, William (the late Dianna) Traver; one sister, Carrie Markum-Traver; and two granddaughters, Megan Siegel and Amber Siegel.

Frances loved her Katie dog. She enjoyed going and attending the stock car races where she watched her grandsons and nephews compete against one another. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family, especially all of her grandkids.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 1704 South East Lane Street, Peoria, IL.

Memorials may be made to Fanconi Anemia Foundation.

To leave online condolences please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Oaks-Hines and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.

Stuart Michael

Stuart D. Michael, 54, of Canton, passed away on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at his residence.

He was born on March 20, 1970 in Peoria to Fred and Janet (Britain) Michael.

Surviving are his parents, step mother, Julia Michael, daughters, Krystal (Jerika) Frank of Canton, Rachael (William) Swearinger of Nashville, TN, brothers, Scott Michael of Peoria, Nicholas Cotter of East Peoria, sisters, Melissa (Ben) Wallace of Avondale, AZ, Brooke (Robert) Smith of Pickerington, OH, two grandchildren, Dominick Miller, Lillian Miller and seven nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

Stuart worked many years as a skilled welder for Chillicothe Metal Company. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Cremation rites have been accorded though Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2024 from 11-noon with a funeral service to follow at noon.

Memorials can be made to the American Heart Association.

To leave online condolences please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Betty Jean (Trone) Crosier

Betty Jean (Trone) Crosier, age 95, passed away Monday, January 13, 2025 at Graham Hospital in Canton, IL. She was born November 27, 1929 near Rushville to Carl and Mabel (Hollenback) Trone.

She married Francis (Jinks) Crosier June 1, 1949 in Canton. He proceeded her in death in 2007.

She has two surviving daughters: Sharon (Steve) Kuzniar of Canton and Linda Asher (Terry Weeks) of Warsaw Illinois. There are three grandchildren: Kevin (Debbie) Asher of Wasilla, AK and Jennifer Asher (Troy Hallman) of Clinton CT and Joshua (Alyssa) Kuzniar of Canton IL. Also surviving are five great grandchildren: Curtis, Ella Grace, and Ethan Asher, all of Wasilla, Ak and Lance and Ayla Kuzniar of Canton. Vicki Trone Natwick (Mark) of Milwaukee, WI. A special niece, who was raised as close as a daughter, also survives.

She was proceeded in death by her husband. Five brothers also proceed her in death. Bob, Hank, Jody, Jim, and Donnie. Also, a sister, Marjorie Chenoweth proceed her in death as well as a son-in-law Curtis Asher.

Betty was a devout Christian, belonging to the Salvation Army Church her entire life. She loved reading the Bible daily and also her devotional book. She loved singing church hymns. There was a time when she was an avid Nascar fan, when Mark Martin was still racing. You had to watch the races with her on Sunday if you stopped in for a visit.

Mom loved people and visiting with them especially when Lance and Ayla came for their Sunday visit. She had a fantastic memory regarding family and friends. In her spare time, she enjoyed search-a-word puzzles and playing bingo at her home on 2 East at Grahm Hospital Extended Care, where she had resided for the last few years.

Most of all Betty’s family will remember her as the most precious mother, grandmother, and great grandmother on earth who is now walking hand in hand with her Lord and Savior.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Service will be held the same day at 12:00 PM at the funeral home. Betty’s nephew Michael Trone and Rev. Kevin Van Tine will officiate. Burial will follow service at White Chapel Memory Garden’s in Canton, IL. Memorials may be made to the Graham Hospital Extended Care Activities Fund. To view Betty’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Larry Donald Starcevich

Larry D. Starcevich, 74, of Farmington, passed away on January 13, 2025 at his residence. He was born on October 16, 1950 in Canton to John and Carrie (Painter) Starcevich. Larry married Carilyn Burgett on February 25, 1972 at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Canton. She survives along with his three sisters; Velma J. Harris of Ohio, Shirley M. (late W. Gene) Allen of Galesburg and Sharon S. (late Kenny) Welker of Farmington, nephews; Bob (Casey) Allen and Eric Allen and great nephews; Caden and Colton Allen, and several other nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Christy Lynn Starcevich and brother Rickey Starcevich.

Larry farmed his entire life. He was a member of the Knox County Farm Bureau. He was a good man. He never met a stranger and his goal was always to leave a smile on your face. Larry will always be remembered for being ornery and joking. His legacy will continue to live on through his farm which he poured his entire life into. He was a loving and kind husband to Carilyn for over 50 years. He also loved football and played for Farmington growing up.

Cremation rites have been accorded though Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton.

Private graveside services will be held at a later date in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Canton. Memorials can be made to either B.Y. E. Rescue Squad or the Fulton County Humane Society. To leave online condolences please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Earl “Pat” Patterson

Earl “Pat” Patterson, 97, of Farmington, passed away at 2:43 AM on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at Red Oak Estates in Canton. He was born on October 22, 1927 in Slayton, MN, a son of William and Bertha (Frank) Patterson. He married Phyllis Vasquez on January 1, 1998 in Farmington. She survives.

 

Also surviving are his children, LuAnn (David) Benjamin of East Peoria; Cheryl (Ronnie) Shaffer of Georgia; Sandy Patterson of Florida; Timothy Patterson of Georgia; step-children,  Dawn (Bradley) Ward of Farmington; Rob (Susan) Batterton of Farmington; several grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Preceding Pat in death were his parents, son, Kevin Patterson; daughter, Karen Patterson; step-daughter, Bonnie Bellows; three brothers, and three sisters.

Pat worked and retired in 1991, after 35 years of service from Wabco (known as Komatsu), working as an Inspector. He was of the Baptist faith, avid fan of the Chicago Cub fan, and enjoyed going fishing. He served his country during World War II, serving in the United States Navy.

Graveside services and burial will take place in Trivoli Cemetery on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 3:00 PM. Memorials can be made to Traditions Hospice, 7800 North Sommer Street STE 410, Peoria, Illinois 61615. To leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Fred Palin, Jr.

Fred Palin, age 91, of Cuba, Illinois died on January 13 at Graham Hospital in Canton. Mr. Palin was born on February 6, 1933, in the then-family home on Main Street in Cuba. He was the second son and third child of Frederick T. Palin and Laura Tenant Palin.

After graduating from Cuba schools, Mr. Palin attended Northwestern University and Central State College (Edmond, Oklahoma). Following service in the US Army he attended Michigan State University.

On August 14, 1953, Fred married Ruth Ann McDonald of Edmond, Oklahoma. Fred and Ruth had two children, Philip Jon (born 1955) and Jana Lea (born 1964). They were very involved in the lives of three grandchildren, Laura, Alexander, and Carson. Mrs. Palin died in 2011. In addition to his children, survivors include Jeannie Palin, wife of Phil, nieces Amy Sabol and Mary Nelmes, and Jan Nelmes the surviving wife of Fred’s nephew James Joseph Nelmes.

In the mid-1950s, Mr. Palin worked with his father, also Fred, to reorganize the Day & Palin grocery stores in Fulton and Mason counties. After purchasing the business from his father, Mr. Palin operated grocery stores in Cuba, Lewistown, Havana, and Farmington, Illinois for over 40 years.

After selling the grocery stores, Mr. Palin created a general merchandise and eBay store that continues to operate. Retailing was his passion and his way of making a creative contribution to the community.

Over the years Fred Palin was actively involved in the Independent Grocers Association (IGA), Cuba Christian Church, and the Fulton County Community Concert Association. He loved Big Band and classical music.

Mr. Palin’s body has been donated to the Mayo Clinic for medical research and education. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled in the Spring.

William F Otto Jr.

William Frederick Otto, 77, of Havana, passed away at his home at 5:55 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025. He was born on June 16, 1947 in Bath, Illinois to William F. and Ellen (Adkins) Otto, Sr. He married Judith Cohenour on November 6, 1962 in Havana and she preceded in him death on November 30, 2011.

William is survived by his children, William E. (Nancy) Otto, Illa (Curt) Wilke, and Jason (Molly) Otto, all of Havana; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and partner, Sharon Graves. Also surviving are three sisters, Sheilah, Mary, and Karen and one brother, Rick. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; daughter, Brenda Williams; three sisters, Nancy, Wanda, and Doris; and five brothers, Johnny, Donald, Scotty, James, and Frank.
William retired from Caterpillar in 1998 after 33 years of service. He enjoyed spending time in his yard and garden, and loved his pets.
A private burial was held at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Havana.
Memorial contributions may be made in William’s name to Mason County Pets without Parents or the American Cancer Society. Online condolences can be left for his family at www.hurleyfh.com.
Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.

Barbara Webber Luthy

Barbara Webber Luthy, a beacon of kindness and love, passed away on Jan 9th at the age of 92 surrounded by her loving family. A devoted wife to her husband, Charles, with whom she recently celebrated 56 years of marriage, Barbara’s legacy is carried forward by her nine children, 19 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

She was born October 24,1932 in Urbana, Illinois, and graduated from Urbana High School, where she was the student council president. Ironically, as vice-president of the Illinois Association of Student Councils, she delivered a presentation at Peoria High School where her future husband Charles heard her speak. She graduated from the University of Illinois in 1954, where she was a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority and through which she made many lifelong friends. She later received a Masters in education from Western Illinois University.

Born with a generous heart, Barbara’s passion for education led her to a fulfilling career as a grade school teacher. She began her teaching journey on the East Coast before bringing her talents to Illinois and ultimately the Canton School District. Her teaching tenure left an indelible mark on her students, many of whom cherished her guidance long after their school days. Barbara also shared her love of community and civic life by becoming the first woman to serve as an Alderman for the City of Canton.

Among her many and varied interests, Barbara’s love of water may have crowned them all. She created many joyous moments teaching and entertaining her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in pools and oceans alike. Also noted for her melodious singing voice, her penchant for music was reflected in her appreciation for all types of music. Together with Charles, she championed musical endeavors in the community, notably supporting the P&O Band Club at Canton High School. She also loved traveling, gardening, knitting, and reading anything historical.

Her philanthropic spirit shone brightly through her active involvement in many organizations, including P.E.O. and the Altruistic Club of Canton. A woman of steadfast faith, Barbara along with her husband Charles, attended Trinity Lutheran Church in Canton. Previously, she served with devotion as a Deacon and on the Vestry and Altar Guild at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.

She is survived by her husband Charles Luthy, her nine children: Leo Lenny McCarthy, Karen McCarthy, Shannon Lukens (Jeff), Douglas McCarthy (Sue), Chuck Luthy (Cindy), Maureen McCarthy (Julie), Allen Luthy (Amanda), Kristin Mixson (Jim), and Bill Luthy, her nineteen grandchildren, her nine great-grandchildren, and her sister Nancy Andrews. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Ruth & Ray (T.R.) Webber, and by her brother, Tom Webber II.

A celebration of Barbara’s remarkable life will be held on Saturday, January 25th, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Canton. Visitation will commence at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Afterward, family and friends are invited to a reception and luncheon to honor her memory. The service will be broadcast for those who wish to join but cannot make it.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Barbara’s name to the following organizations:

P.E.O. Sisterhood: A philanthropic organization dedicated to promoting educational opportunities for women. Donations can be directed to the Illinois State Chapter BZ. Treasurer Jean Edwards, 21568 E Brereton Rd, Canton, IL 61520

Altruistic Club of Canton: With a 124-year history of service to Fulton County, this club focuses on alleviating suffering among individuals in the community. Contributions can be coordinated through their treasurer Jennifer Kees, 28630 N Wild Wind Rd, Canton, IL. 61520, or through their Facebook page

Trinity Lutheran Church

301 E Chestnut St, Canton, IL 61520

Barbara’s unwavering love, generosity, and dedication to her family, students, and community have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.