Ann M. Mitchell

Ann M. Mitchell, 68, of Astoria, IL, passed away at 9:18 am on Monday, December 8, 2025 at Carle Memorial Hospital in Peoria, IL. She was born on May 3, 1957 in Rushville, IL, the daughter of Ernest and Jeannine (Powell) Shanks. Ann married Willard Wayne Mitchell on June 24, 1988 in Bernadotte, IL. Willard preceded Ann in death on February 12, 2005. She later married Carl “Bill” Burnham on December 13, 2014. Bill preceded Ann in death on December 28, 2022.

She is also preceded in death by her parents, daughter; Georgia Ann Duckwiler and brother; Duane Shanks.

She is survived by her son, Mylo (and Amanda) Mitchell of Peoria, IL, daughter; Cheyenne (and Craig) Barnette of Astoria, seven grandchildren; Trey, Braden, Jasmine, Hannah, C.J., Allie and Marley, four great grandchildren; Avyanna, Graycen, Harmony and Lylli, three sisters; Vicky (and Dean) Conway of Astoria, Roberta (and Chris) McCormick of Astoria and Phyllis (and Rick) Batterton of Astoria.

Ann graduated from Spoon River College as Licensed Practical Nurse and worked at several area nursing homes.

She was a member of the “Country Duo” band. She enjoyed camping, fishing, anything outdoors, bowling, her job of nursing, and spoiling her grandchildren.

Services will be held at 11 am on Friday, December 12, 2025 at Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria. Pastor Kevin Kessler will be officiating. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in the Woodland Cemetery in Astoria. Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Jenna Sue Thomas

Jenna Sue Thomas, age 78 of Peoria, Illinois, passed away at 7:30 p.m. Monday, December 8, 2025 at her home. She was born on September 12, 1947 in Canton, Illinois, the daughter of Robert E. and Eva E. (Cooper) Horwedel. She married Steve Thomas on May 5, 1978 in Rushville, Illinois. He survives.

Also surviving are her daughter, Tiffany Thomas of Wasilla, Alaska, her son Trent Charles of Chicago, Illinois, three daughters from a previous marriage, two granddaughters, Emma Maier and Hannah Lee, Hannah’s father David Lee, her two sisters, Shirley A. Horwedel and Roberta Batterton, both of Astoria, Illinois and her brother Ron J. Horwedel of Chatham, Illinois.

Jenna was preceded in death by two brothers, Hank and Larry Horwedel.

She worked in the cafeteria at Peoria High School, retiring after 22 years of service.
Jenna enjoyed reading, traveling and being around children.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A graveside service in the Ipava Cemetery will be held at a later date. Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria, Illinois has been entrusted with arrangements.

Judith “Judy” F. Webb

Judith “Judy” F. Webb, 79, of Lewistown, passed away, Monday, December 8, 2025, at Graham Hospital in Canton.

She was born on June 5, 1946, to Leonard and Frieda (Shawgo) Gorsuch. They preceded her in death as well as two siblings, Don Gorsuch, and Shirley Keeler.

Judy married Phillip E. Webb on October 22, 1966. They shared 54 years of marriage before he passed away on March 3, 2021.

Judy is survived by two sons, Scott (Courtney) Webb of Edwards, and Clay (Keri) Webb of Canton, brother, John (the late Judy) Gorsuch, and two grandsons, Ben and Brody Webb.

Judy worked with her husband first at Webb Farm and Home in Lewistown, and later at Canton Tire Center. She retired in 2000. She enjoyed boating and snowmobiling with her family.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton at 11:00 a.m., visitation will be held one hour prior to the services.

Cremation rites will be accorded and a burial of her ashes will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lewistown.

Memorials may be made to Lewistown Rescue Squad.

Frank E. Wright

Frank E. Wright, 90, of Peoria, IL, formerly of Elmwood, passed away on Monday, December 8, 2025, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

Frank was born March 20, 1935, in Asheville, NC, to Frank L. and Charlotte (Redmon) Wright.

He married Jacqueline “Jackie” Miles on August 23, 1961, in Jacksonville, IL. She preceded him in death on October 26, 2024.

Frank is survived by one daughter, Tonia (Ron) Pringle of Lafayette, CO; two grandchildren, Evelyn Pringle and Gavin Pringle; two brothers, David Wright and Dale Wright; and one sister, Betty Davis.

Frank is also preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Kimberly “Kim” Wright; one brother, Wayne Wright; and one sister, Roberta Kurth.

Frank served in the Army during the Korean War. He was also an active member of the Illinois State Police Retirees.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to noon on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood.

A private burial will be held at Elmwood Township Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

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

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

Robert Van den Arend

Robert Van den Arend, 93 of Pekin, passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Walnut Street Terrace in Canton.

He was born on November 13, 1932 in Chicago to Robert and Ada (Furry) Van den Arend.

He married Mary Lou Whaley on March 14, 1954 in Lewistown. She preceded him in death on July 23, 2025.

His daughter Bobbie Sue Van den Arend also preceded him in death on August 16, 2021.

Surviving is his twin sister, Roberta (the late Mel) Fletcher, one nephew Todd (Kelli) Fletcher, great nephew Jace (Delanie) Fletcher, great niece Kelsie (Gage Miller) Fletcher and great great- nephews, Crew, Beck and Emmett.

Bob served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War.

He worked for Illini Tech Systems retiring in 1989 after 31 years of service as the director of finance and administration. He was the past Chairman of the American Welding Society and volunteered at the Pekin Hospital as an escort for 15 years.

A family service will be held at the Glendale Mausoleum in Pekin.

There will be no visitation.

Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to the Tazewell Animal Protective Society, 100 Taps Lane, Pekin, Illinois 61554

To leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.

Paul A. Hadsall Jr.

Paul A. Hadsall Jr., 82, of Canton, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025, at The Loft Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Canton, Illinois.

He was born July 30, 1943, in Canton to Lucille and Paul Hadsall Sr., who preceded him in death. Surviving him are his sons Nicholas (Ashley) Hadsall of Peoria, Zachary Hadsall of Canton, and his daughters Laura (Jim) Kaufman of East Peoria and Ashley Hamilton of Morton. Also surviving are his brother Lon Brooks of Canton; grandchildren Ava and Mia Hadsall, David Hadsall, Richard Ball, Natalie Hoferkamp, Gage Kaufman, Jim Kaufman, Ethan Hamilton, and Angela (Jonathan Barnett) Hadsall; nephew Noah (Megan) Brooks; niece Nesa Brooks; and brother-in-law Jon (Glynda) Koch.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cynthia Hadsall (August 17, 2022); his son Brian A. Hadsall (March 24, 2018); grandson Brian E. Hadsall (October 27, 2018); and granddaughter Amanda Ball (May 30, 1985).

Paul loved the outdoors and enjoyed working with the public throughout his career. He created many fond memories at Steeplechase Lounge, Galesburg Lincoln Mercury, Wabco, and Metz Ford. After retiring, Paul cherished life in the country with his wife Cindy, spending time in the yard, watching wildlife and indulging his passion for music.

Diagnosed with late-stage cancer in September, Paul was surrounded by loved ones during his final months. Per his wishes, no formal services will be held. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to The Loft Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Canton, Illinois. Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton are in charge of services. To leave online condolences please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Danny Dallefeld

Danny Dallefeld, 69, of Canton, formerly of Kearny, AZ, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025 at Graham Hospital in Canton.

He was born on October 25, 1956 in Canton to John and Jackie (Lemar) Dallefeld. They preceded him in death.

Surviving are three children, Brian, Jason and Pete, five grandchildren, Kenna, Brynann, Klyer, Breann and Adlin. Also surviving is his brother John (Connie) Dallefeld, sister, Ronda (Richard) Woodward, nieces and nephews, Jill Anderson, Kelly Anderson, Eric Dallefeld, Brad Dallefeld, one great niece, Kelsey (Jacob) Longenecker and three cousins, Jerry Garrison, Tom Dallefeld and Suzanne Dallefeld.

Dan was a certified heavy equipment mechanic for Asarco Mine in Arizona and retired in 2022. He lived in Kearney, AZ until 2025 then moved back to his hometown of Canton. He loved riding motorcycles and fixing small engines.

Cremation rites have been accorded per his wishes through Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton.

Memorials may be made to the Fulton County Humane Society.

To leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.

Becky Poindexter

Viola “Becky” Poindexter, 94, of Canton, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025 at Walnut Terrace in Canton.

She was born on December 11, 1930 in Artas S.D. to Gottlieb and Caroline (Metzger) Beck.

She married Gerald Poindexter on September 14, 1953 in Jamestown, N.D. He preceded her in death on November 2, 1986.

Surviving are three children, Kathy (Don) Edwards of Memphis, TN, Mike (Carol) Poindexter of Canton, Ann Poindexter of Canton, four grandchildren, Jake Dielfield, Nikki (Josh) Bond, Matt (Lia Shurtz) Poindexter, Sean (Analeese) Poindexter, one step grandchild, Chrissy (Cory Durham) Edwards, one great grandson, Sonny Bond, one step great grandchild, Ivory (Tyler) Morgan and one step great great- grandchild, Noble Morgan along with several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Also preceding Becky in death is one brother, Albert Beck and one sister, Hilda Schick.

Becky graduated from Eureka High School in 1948 in Eureka, S.D. and from Jamestown College School of Nursing in 1953. She worked in various hospitals last working for 25 years at the Coleman Clinic as a staff nurse. She had volunteered at the clinic for many years starting in 2001

She was a member of St Mary’s Catholic Church in Canton where she was a Eucharistic Minister Lector, coordinator of the RCIA program, coordinator of the “Prayer Chain” and cleaned the church for many years.

In 1999 she was awarded the “Women of Achievement” award by the YWCA. She was also awarded the “Pere Marquette” award from the Bishop.

Becky was quite active in the Peoria Cursillo which included a few years at the prison Cursillo in Canton.

A visitation will be held at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a Rosary service at 7pm.

A funeral Mass will be held at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Canton at 10 am on Thursday December 11, 2025.

Burial will immediately follow the Mass at St Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

A funeral luncheon will follow the burial at the Parish Hall.

Memorials may be made to St Mary’s Building Fund or Spoon River Pregnancy Center or Peoria Cursillo.

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

Penny Smith

Penny L. Smith, 77, of rural Lewistown passed away Thursday December 4, 2025 at her home.

She was born September 5, 1948 at Canton the daughter of Willard A. and Thelma L. (McCarty) Sheets. She married Wayne M. “Tony” Smith on July 28, 1968 at Lewistown. He died March 9, 2025. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and one sister.

Surviving are two children, Matthew C. Smith of Lewistown, and Mintonya Holt of Lewistown, one sister Elaine Stockham of Lewistown, three grandchildren, Samantha Young, Vanessa Smith, and Hunter Smith, three great grandchildren, Wyatt Young, Briar Postin, and Quinn Young.

Penny was a beautician for 57 years. She was a member of the Lewistown United Methodist Church. She was also a member of the Spoon River Professional Women’s Club, the clerk for Waterford Township, and was a 4-H Leader for many years. Penny’s favorite thing was working and socializing, she also enjoyed reading, horse shows, and china painting which she did for 55 years.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday December 9th at the Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown with Pastor Shane Smith officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery at Lewistown. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the memorial home. Memorial contributions may be made to Spoon River Professional Women’s Club. Online condolences may be made at henrylange.com.

Eloise Hertz

Margaret Eloise "Weezie" (Hilton) Hertz, 79, of Lewistown, Illinois, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, at The Clayberg Nursing Center in Cuba, Illinois, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on August 15, 1946 in Canton, Illinois, Weezie was a lifelong resident of the Lewistown area, where her roots ran as deep as the community's spirit she cherished so dearly. She was the beloved daughter of the late Marjorie Helen (Finley) Hilton - her lifelong best friend and the late Garland Henry Hilton.

Weezie was the wife of the late Marion "Butch" Conrad Hertz, who preceded her in death on August 4, 1996.She was a proud mother to her three children: Christy (Danny) Daly of Lewistown, the late Monica Keenlance (2018) and J.C. (Karina) Hertz of Gainesville, FL. She is survived by her siblings: Carolyn Foster, Charles (Naomi) Hilton and Debra Sue Cole (Curtis Mahr).

Her family tree bloomed with joy through her grandchildren and great grandchild, whom she adored through her whole heart. Evan (Mallory) Daly, Liam and Reed Daly, Whitney (Joseph) Dudek, Aidan and Nicolas Ford, Alyvia And Grayson Dudek, Samantha (Josh Feasley) Keenlance, Evan, Liam and Maeve Feasley, Conrad Hertz and Kyra Hertz, Max, Weezie's beloved dog that brought her so much joy.

Weezie's warm smile and quick wit made her a beloved fixture in the community. She spent many decades as a renowned waitress in Lewistown's local restaurants, where her genuine care for every patron turned meals into memories. Whether sharing a story over coffee or offering a kind word, she had a knack for making everyone feel like family.

Weezie's legacy was one of unbridled joy and fierce love. With her signature great sense of humor, she lit up any room, always ready with a quip or a laugh that could chase away the clouds - often joking that she was "just misunderstood," a playful wink to her one-of-a-kind spirit that those closest to her cherished all the more. She took immense pride in her appearance - her hair, and nails impeccably done, a reflection of her vibrant soul. Above all, she poured her heart into her children, grandchildren, great grandchild and tight-knit family ties that define her. Lewistown was her world, she never wanted to leave it's familiar streets, where neighbors were friends and every corner held a story.

Funeral services will be Saturday, December13, 2025, visitation 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown, IL. Funeral services immediately following with interment to follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, Lewistown, IL. Memorial contributions may be directed to Henry-Lange Memorial Home.

Carol Severt

Carol Severt, 77, of Cuba, passed away, Wednesday, December 3 2025, surrounded by her family at her home in Cuba. She was born in Canton, on April 26, 1948, to William “Bill” and Arthalene (Utsinger) Widger.

She is preceded in death by her father William “Bill” Widger, infant daughter, Tonja Severt, and grandson, Jacob Burgard.

Carol married Gary Severt on October 15, 1964. They shared 45 years of marriage before he passed away on January 14, 2009.

She is survived by her mother Arthalene Widger, three children, Tammy (Ken) Harr, Tracey (Jeff) Behymer, and Bill (Jill) Severt, four sisters, Sue (the late Gordon) Ault, Nancy (Jerry) Schumacher, Mary Bradley, and Cindy Brown, six grandchildren, Anthony (Kathleen) Harr, Jackie Harr, Skyler Burgard, David Severt, Laura Severt, and Hannah Severt, and one great grandchild, Harley Harr.

Carol first opened and operated TLC Learning Center. She then attended Western Illinois University, where she obtained a dual master’s degree in education. Carol was a master teacher, and dedicated her life to elementary education. She taught for 35 years at Cuba Elementary School. She also helped countless children with tutoring after school. She was a founding member of Bag Buddies through the Cuba School District. Outside of the school she enjoyed gardening, and her numerous cats. Carol was a member of Wiley Lutheran Church, Retired teachers Association, and Spoon River College Alumni. Most of all Carol enjoyed spending time with her family.

A visitation will be held at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

A funeral service will be held at Wiley Lutheran Church in Ellisville on Friday December 12, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

Burial will immediately follow the service at Wiley Cemetery in Ellisville.

Memorials may be made to Bag Buddies at the Cuba School District, or to Wiley Lutheran Church.

Jesse James Burke

Jesse James Burke, 49, of Havana, passed away at his home at 9:20 p.m., on Sunday, November 30, 2025. He was born December 8, 1975, in Orange, California, to William and Colette (Street) Burke. He married Jennifer Gordon, on September 3, 2020 at Dixon Mounds, near Lewistown, Illinois. 


Jesse is survived by his wife, Jennifer, of Havana; mother, Colette, of Oklahoma; three children: Gilbert, Austen, and Nathan; step-children: Tony, Jaekob, and Izabella; brothers: Ted Burke and Timmy Street, both of Oklahoma; and brother-in-law: Danny Gordon, of Forest City, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his father.

Jesse worked for Apex Fire Control and was a 28 year member of Sprinklerfitter Union Local #669. He loved motorcycles, music and his family.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Pets Without Parents. Online memorial messages may be left for the family at www.hurleyfh.com.

Hurley Funeral Home, in Havana, is in charge of arrangements.