Jeffrey Ralph Cann, 58, of Milford passed away May 9, 2024, at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee.

Jeff was born on January 4, 1966, at Silver Cross Hospital in Joliet IL, the son of Ralph E. and Carol R. (Rosin) Cann and they preceded him in death along with one brother, Roger Cann.

Jeff grew up in Peotone and loved farm life. From little on he loved animals and, on several occasions, had the neighbors calling to report that he was out in the pasture walking under and around the horses. Jeff graduated from Peotone High School in 1985 and continued to help farm until he started his welding career working at Berg Ladders and Arbon Steel in University Park.

He married Kimberly Sue Buchmeier on September 14, 1991. They moved to Sheldon and then later Milford where he resided when he passed. Jeff was a huge fan of the game show network. Wheel of Fortune and The Price is Right were his favorites. The most important part of his life was his family. He enjoyed attending his kid’s sporting events and taking family car rides to go sightseeing.

He is survived by his wife, Kim Cann of Milford; four children, Jessica (Cole) Smith of Warren, PA, Jeffrey (Brooke) Cann Jr. of Milford, Khyler (Esme) Cann of Milford, and Kullen Cann of Milford, four grandchildren, Auden, Della, Evelyn and Dax; one brother Wayne (Joan) Cann; one sister Debbie (Mark) Girling; and one sister-in-law, Karen Cann of Normal.

Visitation will be from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. Rev. Brent Zastrow will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

Memorials may be made to his son, Kullen’s UTMA Account (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act) c/o Iroquois Farmers State Bank in Iroquois.

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

Kathleen S. Regnier, 76, of Watseka and formerly of Gilman, passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024, at her home.

Katie was born on July 31, 1947 in Watseka, the daughter of Harry and Maxine (Austin) Shannon.

She married James E. Regnier Sr. on May 8, 1982 in Onarga. She is survived by her husband, James Regnier Sr. of Watseka; four children, Melissa (Sean) Hanes of Houston, TX, Amy (Keith) Biegelmann of Aurora, James (Sherry) Regnier Jr. of Clifton, and JoEtta (Corey) Minard of Watseka; Grandchildren, Britney (Dustin) Schroeder, Kathleen (Ryan) Ashline-Long, Meagan (Justin) Ashline-Nichols, Casey (Lance) Minard-Honn, Kaitlyn (Colton) Biegelmann-Ritchie, Delaney (Joe) Evelo, Evan (Vicki) Hanes, Kyleigh (Brian) Klazura, and Jayden Regnier; eleven great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Michael Nims and Judy Pree.

Katie was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Maureen Shannon; one daughter, Julie Ann Newman; one granddaughter, Patricia Biegelmann; and one great-granddaughter, Alexis Ashline.

Family was the most important thing in life to Katie. She loved her pets, spending summers at the pool with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, family gatherings, and weekly lunches with her beloved sisters.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at the Knapp-Redeinus Funeral Home in Gilman.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at United Methodist Church in Gilman. Rev. Mark Crawford will officiate. Burial will follow at Gilman Cemetery.

Katie enjoyed reading books, especially to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may made be made to Gilman-Danforth District Library.

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

Stephen H. Quick, 76, of Watseka passed away on May 10, 2024 at Heritage Woods in Watseka, IL. He was born on July 26, 1947 in Terre Haute, Indiana to John F. and Carrie Fern Quick. He married Deborah Clark on April 18, 1970 in Marshall, IL.

Steve is survived by his children Joshua and Roselene Quick of Robinson, IL, Jacob and Shawna Quick of Watseka, and Megan and Ryan Baxter of Bloomington, IL; his grandchildren Jessica and Jacob Blankenbeker of Robinson, Ian and Emma Quick of Houston, TX, Samuel Quick and fiancee Grayce Hightshoe of Marshall, IL, Joseph Quick of Robinson, Aden and Abby Quick of Watseka, Caleb and Joshua Baxter of Bloomington, and his great-grandchildren Leo and Elizabeth “Lily” Blankenbeker of Robinson. He is also survived by his sister, Phyllis Higginbotham of Bristow, VA, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Bob Smitley, Penny and Ken Cannady, Mindy and Bryan Harper, Tammy and Bill Fraker, and Diane Clark all of Marshall as well as many nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his wife Debbe, his parents, his brother and sister-in-law Fenton and Judy Quick, his sister Marilyn Sue Smitley and brothers-in-law Ron Higginbotham and Mark Clark.

Steve and Debbe grew up in the same neighborhood in their hometown of Marshall, IL where Steve was known for buzzing around in the go-cart he had rigged with a lawnmower motor. He had a passion for fixing, tinkering, and building things throughout his life. Following his graduation from Marshall High School in 1965, Steve attended college at Southern Illinois University where he earned an associate degree in mortuary science and was licensed as a funeral director. After working as a funeral director for several years in Marshall, he and Debbe moved to Watseka in 1971 where Steve began work as the shipping manager for Stam Manufacturing. He later began working for T&D Metal and saw the company grow and expand. Steve’s hard work and attention to detail resulted in promotions to several positions of responsibility within the company including department supervisor and quality control supervisor. He retired from T&D after 35 years of service having earned the respect and friendship of many coworkers over those years. In addition, Steve worked at Fred’s Woodworking for a period of time and he and Debbe also had their own business “This ‘n That” making handcrafted country and primitive home decor.

Steve was a longtime member of St. Edmunds Catholic Church where his handyman and woodworking talents were called upon many times including building wooden hymnal holders and crafting the cross behind the altar. He was active in the community as a Little League coach, supporter of Sugar Creek Symphony, and member of the Knights of Columbus.

All who knew Steve well were familiar with his great sense of humor and joyful smile and laugh. He enjoyed entertaining his family and friends with silly faces, voices, and pranks. Steve also enjoyed all kinds of cars and pretty much anything with wheels or a motor. He helped his children and grandchildren build and fire model rockets and potato guns and fixed up nearly a dozen dilapidated cars and trucks over the years. Together, he and Debbe created a beautiful home and garden. Debbe would have a creative vision and together she and Steve would make it happen right down to the last detail. Some of Steve’s favorite places were his basement workshop and the backyard pond he lovingly and meticulously tended. Steve loved the many neighbors who became like family in his 53 years living on Cherry Street in Watseka. They helped each other with projects, looked after one another, and shared stories on front porches.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00PM on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at Pearce Funeral Home in Marshall. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:00AM on Thursday, May 16 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marshall. Donations may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or St. Edmunds Catholic Church.

The family gives special thanks to the staff at Heritage Woods of Watseka and Iroquois Memorial Hospice for their loving care of Steve and all of our family and friends for their expressions of love and support. We also thank Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and Pearce Funeral Home in Marshall for their assistance with the final arrangements.

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

Helen B. Godby, 77, of Milford passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton. She was born on February 21, 1947 in Hayti, MO, the daughter of Roy Wesley and Violet (Reeves) England. She married Mike Godby in Milford on October 22, 1987 and he survives.

Also surviving are her daughter, Loretta Matthews of Milford; one son, Ricky Biggs of Sheldon; six grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; one brother, Roger (Becky) England of Woodland; three sisters, Linda (Leonard) Bailey of Woodland, Peggy Deaton of Rossville, and Jennifer England of Watseka.

She was preceded in death by her parents and four brothers, Paul, Jerry, Donald, and Jimmy.

Helen was a hard-working mother. She was employed at Howard Industries and later worked at Jeld-Wen Windows and Doors.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the 12:00 noon funeral service at Knapp Funeral Home in Milford on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Rev. Brent Zastrow will officiate. Burial will follow at Rossville Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Transitions Hospice.

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

Carol Ann (Parrish) Lyon Ball, 83, of Milford, IL passed away at 3:50 a.m. on May 8, 2024 at Hoopeston Community Memorial Hospital in Hoopeston.

Carol was born on July 6, 1940 in Watseka, the daughter of George T. and Ruth I. (Crawford) Parrish.

She married John W. Lyon on April 24, 1960 in Stockland. He preceded her in death on February 6, 1997. She later married Roger L. Ball on June 13, 1998. He preceded her in death on January 23, 2017.

Survivors include daughters, Julie (Phil) Jensen of Newton, Jody (Terry) Fanning of Milford, and Stacey Piwoni of Bourbonnais; grandchildren, Mark Jensen of Clarksville, TN, Aaron Jensen of Hidalgo, Bailee Fanning of Champaign, Austin Piwoni of Bourbonnais, and Jacob Piwoni of Bourbonnais; sister, Arlene (Susan) Snyder of Glenview; step-children, Roger (Lisa) Ball and Michelle (Tommy) Fauls; two step-grandchildren; one niece; and two nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one grandson, Tyler S. Fanning.

Carol spent a lifetime participating in the family farm operation. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family, especially her grandchildren. She loved taking scenic tours through the countryside and reminiscing. Carol was a member of the D.A.R., Junior Women’s Club, Iroquois County Republican Women’s Club, a graduate of Marycrest Business College in Kankakee, a lifelong member of the Stockland United Methodist Church until its closing, and then a member of the Milford United Methodist Church.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. The funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Burial following at the Sugar Creek Cemetery in rural Stockland.

Memorials may be made to Milford Ambulance Service or Milford United Methodist Church.

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

Kevin P. Hull, 65, of Chebanse passed away on Monday, April 22, 2024 at his home. He was born on November 13, 1958 in Kankakee, the son of Delmar and Cleone (Hebert) Hull.

Surviving are three daughters, Heather (Jason) Prairie of Clifton, Nikki (Alex) Watson of Mooresville, NC, and April (Todd) Perzee of Chebanse; two brothers, Dennis Hull of Sheldon and Duane (Pam) Hull of Chebanse; eight grandchildren, Natalie Prairie, Audra Prairie, Lia Prairie, Hunter Perzee, Ellie Perzee, Wyatt Watson, Rosemary Watson, and Grant Watson; and his mother, Cleone Hull Jett.

Kevin was preceded in passing by his father, Delmar; one brother, Richard; and his brother’s loved one, Penny Mulloy.

Kevin liked to go boating, camping, and watching sports. He loved to socialize with friends and was always willing to help others.

Cremation rites are being handled by Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

A celebration of life get together will be on Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 1:00-4:00 pm at the Chebanse Civic Center.

Please share a memory of Kevin at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Thomas A. “Fat Rat” Lunsford, 80, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at his daughter’s home in Grant Park. He was born on August 13, 1943 in Gary, IN, the son of Thomas “Bud” and Olive (Boesell) Lunsford. He married Hope Hendershot on April 20, 1970 in Waukegan and she preceded him in passing on June 18, 2012.

Surviving are his children, Deanna (Daniel) Junker of Grant Park, Thomas Lunsford (April Parker) of Fort Smith, AR, and Larry Lunsford of Bourbonnais; his grandchildren, Hillary Hubert, Bethany Junker, Kortney Junker, Alyssa Regnier, Gabriella Lunsford, Tommy Lunsford, Sophia Lunsford, Max Lunsford, Tyler Lunsford, Liam Lunsford, Connor Lunsford, Grace Lunsford, and Jesson Lunsford; great grand-daughter, Aubree Byrd; brother, Rick (Betsy) Lunsford; sisters, Barbara (Leon) Richmond, Linda Durham, Stacy (James) Woolan; special daughters, Tina Birr and Jill Witthoft; special nephews, Tony Hendershot and Aaron Hendershot.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Hope; brothers, Larry Lunsford, Jim Lunsford, Roger Lunsford, Mike Lunsford, Tim Lunsford; sister-in-law, Joy Crosswell; brothers-in-law, Jay Hendershot and Russell Birr.

Thomas enjoyed playing the lottery, classic cars, playing cards, and spending time with his family. He was a veteran of the United States Navy and proudly served his country.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am on Monday, May 13, 2024 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Graveside military rites and burial will be at 2:30 pm at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Lorraine (Sis) Wasmer, 105 years old, of Herrin IL , formerly of Clifton, IL passed away Tuesday, April 30. 2024 in Carbondale Hospital after having a fall. She was born in Clifton on May 11, 1918 to Orval and Lenora Krumwiede Flott. Surviving is her only daughter Judy Lamie and Stepdaughter Nancy (Glenn) Pankey. She was married to Leroy Wasmer in 1962 who passed away in 1973. Also deceased is a Brother Shirley (Dude) Flott, Stepdaughter Marilyn Weinlader, Stepson Bill Wasmer, and Stepgrandchild Todd Pankey.

Surviving Grandchildren are Jeff (Liz) Lamie, Nancy (David) Smith, Teri (Norm) Lancaster. Step Grandchildren (The Pankey Girls) Beth Gillum, Paula Maffett, Becky Schmidt, and Amy Eberle. The Weinladers - Lisa, Cathy, David and Chris. Great Grandchldren Christopher and Jonathan Glazik, Joe and Cari Hendershott Wright, Brian and Nicole Staples, and Kylie Zlotnicki. Also 14 great great Grandchildren with 9 of them being five generations and Nephews Bill (Mary) Flott and Bob (Sue) Flott.

She graduated from Gallagher Business College and was secretary at the Kankakee Foundry Co. for 35 years. She was a member of St Peters CCW, was Woman of the Year in 1972, a long time member of the Women's Club, and was Committee Chairperson and Treasurer for the Women's Card Club Marathon. She sang Alto in the Church Choir for many many years.

The top of her list was her family whom she loved and lived for!!! She liked music, sports, reading, baking and cooking (Was known for the best fudge ever) and playing cards (Was a card shark) She was an avid Cubs fan and saw her first game when she was 8 years old - A highlight of her life was living long enough to see them win the World Series !!

We will be celebrating her beautiful life with services and visitation on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Visitation will be from 10:00 until the 11:00 am service. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Clifton.

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

Wendell Lee Verkler, 83, of Cissna Park passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at his home. He was born on January 25, 1941 in Cissna Park, a son of Elmer and Lillian (Word) Verkler. He married Donna Hari on April 11, 1963 in Cissna Park and she survives.

Other survivors include two sons, Richard (Maria) Verkler of Cissna Park and David (Maria) Verkler of Bourbonnais; one daughter, Sara (John) Houston of Paxton; six grandchildren, Samantha (David) Bougher of Lowell, IN, Melannie (Nathan) Verkler Woodward of Savoy, AJ Verkler of Bourbonnais, Lucas Verkler of Bourbonnais, Joshua Houston of Paxton, and Jeremiah Houston of Paxton; two great-grandchildren, Spencer Bougher of Lowell, IN and Quentin Bougher of Lowell, IN; three brothers, Randell (Jo) Verkler of Cissna Park, Jerry (Maren) Verkler of Clarksville, TN, and Ken (Dianne) Verkler of Bloomington; and two sisters, Wanda Cline of Cissna Park and Linda (Jim) Seidel of Cissna Park.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Russell Verkler; one sister, Brenda Pitzer; one brother-in-law, Bill Cline; and one sister-in-law, Diane Verkler.

Wendell was owner of Verkler Construction since 1970 having built many homes and designing custom cabinetry throughout Iroquois, Kankakee, Vermilion, Ford and Champaign Counties. He earned several awards for building, including the People’s Choice Award in the Kankakee Parade of Homes. Wendell was a member of the Cissna Park Fire Department for thirty-six years. He served as a fireman, Assistance Chief, Fire Chief and Trustee/President of the Fire Protection District. He was a member of the Christian Bible Church. Wendell enjoyed gardening, canning, and puzzles. He loved family gatherings and spending time with his grandkids.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at the Christian Bible Church in Cissna Park with Pastor Paul Thomason officiating. Burial will follow in the Cissna Park Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2024 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Memorials may be given to the Cissna Park Fire Protection District, Christian Bible Church or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

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

Ricky “Rick” K. Anderson, 68, of Milford passed away on Friday, May 3, 2024 at his home. He was born on February 7, 1956 in Watseka, a son of Willis and Beverly (Johnson) Anderson. Rick married Marsha F. Reiners on May 12, 1979 at St. John’s Lutheran Church at Schwer and she survives.

Other survivors include one daughter, Amber Anderson (Hunter Reece) of Williamsport, IN; two sons, Joshua Anderson of Milford and Zachary Anderson of Milford; six grandchildren, Kyle, Callie Ann and Calvin Anderson of Antioch, Janiah and Aizley Haymon of Williamsport, IN, and Brynlee Anderson of Milford; two sisters, Kathy (Stan) Patterson of Watseka and Teresa (Tom) Siebring of Iroquois; and one brother, David (Renee) Anderson of Hatton, ND.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Mike Anderson.

He loved working on cars, fishing, and camping. Rick worked in construction for Voyle’s in Wellington.

Rick and Marsha would have celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on Sunday, May 12, 2024.

A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, May 11, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Cemetery at Schwer (Milford) with Pastor Joe Frech officiating.

Memorials may be given to the Milford Fire Dept. and Ambulance Service.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

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

Loren L. Blanck, 80, of Claytonville passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at his residence. He was born on May 23, 1943 in Watseka, a son of Henry A. and Ida D. (Kuester) Blanck. Loren married Connie L. Harris on August 30, 1964 in Woodworth and she preceded him in death on October 3, 2018.

Loren is survived by one son, Preston (Angie) Blanck of Onarga; one daughter, Carisa Hylton of Palmyra, Virginia; five grandchildren, Caleb, Theran, Caitlyn, Mason, and Kinley; two brothers, Theodore “Ted” (Mary) Blanck of Cissna Park and Jerry (Ellie) Blanck of Cissna Park; two sisters, Bonnie (Charles) Muench of Cissna Park and Shirley Davis of Watseka; and one sister-in-law, Gayle Blanck

Besides his wife, Loren was also preceded in death by both of his parents; and two brothers, Kenneth Blanck and Donald Blanck; and one brother-in-law, Gerald Davis; and one sister-in-law, Joann Blanck.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park. Loren was a 40-year member of the Cissna Park Fire Department. He was the owner of Loren Blanck’s Garage in Claytonville. Loren loved fishing, camping, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. also at the funeral home with Rev. Dale Fjordbotten officiating. Burial will immediately follow in the St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery of Woodworth.

Memorials may be given to the Cissna Park Fire Department or to the Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

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

Linda Lou Thompson, 81, of Watseka passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. She was born on August 15, 1942 in Watseka, a daughter of Walter F. and Lorene L. (Knake) Rieches.

Linda is survived by her sister, Mary Salm of Watseka along with several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Wayne Rieches; one sister, Carolyn Reed; and two great nephews, Josiah Rieches and Jeffrey M. Reed.

Linda was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka.

Private services were held and burial was in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Arrangements are by the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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

Marlene J. Light, 80 of Phoenix, AZ and formerly of Watseka passed away on Thursday April 11, 2024 at Honor Health Deer Valley in Phoenix. She was born on August 28, 1943 in Mendota, IL a daughter of Frank and Maevis (Tegen) Metzen. Marlene married Donald Bates in Mendota in 1969. She later married Silas Light in Wheaton on August 22, 1986 and he preceded her in death on December 7, 2023. Survivors include one daughter- Margo Bates of Dallas, TX; one son- David (Angela) Bates of Glendale, AZ; two step sons- Lenny Light of Sun City, AZ and Steve (Tammy) Light of Salem; one sister- Barbara Hanson of Glen Ellyn; two brothers- Kendall Metzen of Aurora and Gary Metzen of Mendota; 12 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother- Frank Metzen.

Marlene was a member of the Watseka First United Methodist Church and was an elementary school teacher for over 30 years. Following her retirement from teaching, she worked at the Watseka Public Library for nearly 18 years. Marlene enjoyed reading, cross word puzzles, and was an avid Cubs and University of Illinois fan.

Funeral services will be on Saturday May 4, 2024 at 10:30 am at the Watseka First United Methodist Church with Pastor Darla Holden officiating. Visitation will be on Friday May 3, 2024 from 4-7 pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Burial will be at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Unit 9 Academic Foundation or Watseka Public Library.

Denise A. Corke, 93, of Valparaiso, IN and formerly of Watseka passed away on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at Brookdale Memory Care in Valparaiso, IN. She was born on June 21, 1930 in Brussels, Belgium, the daughter of Pierre and Adolphine Jeanne “Jane” (Allard) Fransaer. She married Charles “Corky” Corke in Watseka on May 28, 1955 and he preceded her in passing on January 9, 2020.

Surviving are one daughter, JoAnn Mosby of Valparaiso, IN; one granddaughter, Adrienne (David) Bansemer of Valparaiso, IN; one great grandson, Luke Bansemer of Valparaiso, IN; a niece, Rita Corke Brutlag of Hudson, IL; and her Thibaut cousins in Sheldon, IL as well as several cousins in Belgium.

Denise was preceded in passing by her husband; parents; and one son, Michel “Micky” Corke.

Mrs. Corke worked at the Iroquois County Credit Bureau for seventeen years. She later worked at First Trust and Savings Bank as a bookkeeper and at Wal Mart in the craft department. She was a past president and current member of the Iroquois County Historical and Genealogy Society. Denise volunteered at the Watseka Public Library where she proudly kept all of the town’s scrapbooks. She enjoyed painting, knitting, crocheting, playing the piano, and all things genealogy.

Visitation will be from 10:00 - 11:30 am on Monday, April 29, 2024 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. A sharing of memories will be from 11:30 - 12:00 noon. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Watseka Public Library or Iroquois County Historical Society.

Please share a memory of Denise at baierfuneralhome.com

Donnalee Bertha Wilken, 92, of Danforth, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 19, 2024. Donnalee was born on July 6, 1931, in Humphrey, NE, daughter of Harry and Olga Baumgart. She married her beloved husband, Marlin Wilken on April 20, 1952, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Humphrey, NE. He preceded her in death on July 17, 2017. They celebrated their 72nd Wedding Anniversary together in Heaven. Donnalee was the loving mother of Gene (Pat) Wilken of Champaign, Joan Bisterfeldt of Yorkville, Joyce (Mike) Strubhar of McLean, Lynn (Pam) Wilken of Ashkum, and Randy (Libby) Wilken of Chebanse, 1 brother, Dean Baumgart of Hastings, NE, and 1 sister, Jean Slizoski, of Columbus, NE. Donnalee had 14 grandchildren and 33 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marlin, sister, Marlene Wyant, son-in-law Rick Bisterfeldt, and grandson David Bisterfeldt.

Donnalee was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Danforth. She attended school in Humphrey, NE, and then the Nebraska Methodist School of Nursing in Omaha, NE. Donnalee and Marlin were long-time area farmers and business owners. Together with Marlin they founded MWS Seeds, which is now known as ProHarvest Seeds; and with their guidance, the Wilken Family was honored as the Kankakee Daily Journal Farm Family of the Year in 2006.

A strong believer of serving others, she was active in many activities at St John’s Lutheran Church in Danforth, served as an election judge, served the area at Blood Drives, was a 4-H leader for the Ashkum Chargers and worked alongside of Marlin at the Iroquois County Fair for many years. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially her Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren.

She loved God and she loved her family. She touched many with her words, her smile, and her kindness. She was always an encourager to others, was quick to lend a helping hand, and loved to give devotion books to others. Growing up in Nebraska and marrying a farmer from Illinois, her family was scattered from Illinois to Colorado. Then after raising 5 children, and then seeing her many grandchildren move around the country, she always found a way to communicate with family, quick to adapt to technology to do so. She learned how to use computers, iPads, emails, texts, FaceTime, and even Zoom to keep in touch and share pictures. This was proven by her activities on her last night when she was sending her children old photos that she had sorted through, an encouraging text that was sent to a granddaughter, and the devotion book that was found by her side.

Donnalee was a person who always looked out for others. She unselfishly cared for Marlin for many years after his illness. She was a wonderful example of a Christian parent for her children and grandchildren, never said an unkind word of anyone and never complained, despite what curves life threw her way. She touched so many with her words, her smile, and her kindness. She will be missed but also remembered by so many.

Visitation will be held from 4 pm to 7 pm at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton on Thursday, April 25, and at St. John’s Lutheran Church at Danforth, IL from 9:30 am to 10:30 am on Friday, April 26 with the funeral at 10:30 am.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to Prairieview Luther Place, St John’s Lutheran Church at Danforth, or Clifton Food Pantry.

Edgar E. Johnson, 85, of Cissna Park passed away on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at Accolade Healthcare of Savoy.

He was born on December 1, 1938, the son of Onke and Elsie (Redeker) Johnson. He married Barbara Fisher on August 25, 1963.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Johnson of Cissna Park; one son, Kevin E. Johnson of Champaign; one daughter, Cindy Johnson of Champaign; two grandchildren, Logan Johnson of Champaign and Jaime Johnson of Champaign; three sisters, Vicki Welvaert of Moline, Carol (Jim) Fox of Paxton, and Brenda (Brad) Marshall of Paxton; and several nieces and nephews.

Edgar was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Eldor Johnson and Gerald “Jerry” Johnson; and one son, Scott Johnson.

Edgar was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army and member of the Cissna Park American Legion Post 527. Edgar served during the Korean War as a Military Policeman. He enjoyed playing in a bowling league and was an avid sports fan, especially the Cissna Park Timberwolves, Chicago Cubs, and the Fighting Illini. Edgar enjoyed coaching his kids over the years and watching his grandkids, as well as his nieces and nephews, play sports. Edgar retired after 40 years from Schippert’s Water Care as a Route Carrier.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 22, 2024 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park with Rev. Dale Fjordbotten officiating. Burial will follow the funeral at the Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Cissna Park with graveside military rites by the Cissna Park American Legion Post 527.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 21, 2024 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park and also one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.

Memorials may be given to the Elevator Fund at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cissna Park.

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

Iva Hornbuckle, 85, of Sheldon passed away on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at her home. She was born on July 27, 1938 in Watseka, a daughter of George and Loretta (Lee) Warren. Iva married Ernest Hornbuckle on August 16, 1958 in Sheldon and he preceded her in death on March 13, 2002.

Surviving are her grandson, William (Amy) Hornbuckle of Sheldon; two great-grandchildren, Eli and Josie Hornbuckle at home; one sister, Martha (Melvin) Hanson of Sheldon; and many nieces and nephews.

Iva was also preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Walt Warren and William Warren; one sister, Irene Parbs; one son, Victor Hornbuckle; and one daughter, Debra Thompson.

Iva was a CNA at the Sheldon Nursing Home.

A Graveside Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at the Sheldon Cemetery.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

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

Francis “Dale” Weber, 98, of Ashkum passed away on Monday, April 15, 2024 at Illinois Veterans’ Home in Manteno. He was born in Danforth, on September 14, 1925, a son of Frank B. and Susanna S. (Gerdes) Weber and they preceded him in death. Dale married Evelyn Frye on June 30, 1951 in Ashkum and she survives.

He is also survived by three daughters, Mary Jane (Charles) Down of Cabery, Paula (Pat) O’Connor of Kankakee and Brenda (Richard) Adams of Bonfield; five sons, Bernard (Cheryl) Weber of Ashkum, Leo (Kathleen) Weber of Cabery, Eric Weber of Kankakee, Duane (Christine) Weber of Beaverville, and Warren (Roxanne) Weber of Ashkum; one son-in-law, Fred Lesch of Papineau; twenty-five grandchildren; forty-two great-grandchildren; and one great-great granddaughter.

Dale was also preceded in death by one sister, Lois Finegan; and one daughter, Ruth Lesch.

Dale was a lifetime Ashkum farmer and a 1943 graduate of ASH-CLIF High School. Dale serviced in the U.S. Army in the National Guard. He later served in the Korean War and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. Dale was a founding member of the Ashkum Fire Department. He served several terms as Ashkum Twp. Road Commissioner and also served on a Drainage District. He was a member and held multiple offices for the Ashkum Lions Club and Ashkum American Legion. He served on the boards of Central Bank and Tri-Central Co-Op. Dale was a member of Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum and also served as church lector. He served on the Ashkum Cemetery Committee for several years.

Visitation will be on Sunday, April 21, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum with Fr. Michael Powell officiating. Burial will follow in the Ashkum Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.

Emeline M. Collins, 96, of Milford passed away on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at Valley Hi Nursing Home in Woodstock, IL. She was born on December 19, 1927 in Milford, the daughter of Burr and Lucille (Allen) Allen. She married Willie B. Collins in Milford on July 1, 1950 and he preceded her in passing on April 22, 2018.

Surviving are two grandchildren Amy (Marc) Johnson of Dekalb, IL and Mark (Crystal) Collins of Lutz, FL; four great grandchildren, Noah and Evan Johnson and Lucas and Maverick Collins.

She was preceded in passing by her parents; husband, Willie; three brothers, Delbert, Richard, and Denny; one sister, Leona; and three sons, Jonathon, Robert, and Bill.

Mrs. Collins was a member of Milford Church of the Nazarene. She loved music, singing, sewing, and crafting. Emeline always enjoyed cats.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am on Thursday, April 18, 2024 at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland. Graveside services and burial will follow at 11:00 am at Sugar Creek Cemetery. Rev. Tom McCann will officiate.

Memorials may be made to Sugar Creek Cemetery.

Please share a memory of Emeline at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Margaret Leveque, 98, of Ashkum passed away on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at Arcadia Care in Clifton.

Margaret was born on May 3, 1925 in Papineau, the daughter of Anthony and Margaret (Cassidy) Shyke and they preceded her in death. She married Vernon Leveque on June 14, 1947 in Martinton and he preceded her in death on November 8, 1992. She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Mary Dewitt and Nora Blain.

She is survived by two daughters, Sheila (Paul) Cook of Elkhart, IN and Noreen (Randy Crandall) Dundas of Ashkum; two sons, Kenneth (Deb) Leveque of Ashkum and Marvin (Sandi) Leveque of Onarga; one sister, Eileen Ratliff of Martinton; twelve grandchildren; twenty-four great grandchildren; and five great-great grandchildren.

Margaret was a member of Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum, CCW, and Catholic Daughters of America. She retired from Louis Melind Company in Onarga and in her spare time, she enjoyed reading. Margaret loved spending time with her friends and family.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Monday, April 15, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton with a rosary beginning at 3:30pm.

A Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum. Burial will follow at Ashkum Catholic Cemetery in Ashkum.

Memorials may be made to Assumption BVM Catholic Church or Uplifted Care.

The family would like to make a special thank you to Arcadia Care in Clifton and Uplifted Care as well as their staffs for taking such great care of Margaret.

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

Sharon L Knisley, 78, Henry, IL and formerly of Sheldon, IL passed away on March 28, 2024 in Sun City, AZ. She was born on December 9, 1945 in Mattoon, the daughter of Paul W. and Louise (Howe) Gust and they preceded her in death. She married Verlyn Knisley on June 29, 1968 in Mattoon and he preceded her in death on November 17, 2014.

She is survived by one son, Kevin (Suzanne) Knisley of Henry; one daughter, Jennifer Knisley of Sun City, AZ; one brother, Randy Gust of Arizona; and two grandchildren, Payton Knisley (Alexander Mark) and Jackson Knisley.

Sharon was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka. She was a school teacher in Sheldon for over thirty-six years. Sharon enjoyed reading and playing cards.

Visitation will be from 5-8 pm on Tuesday April 16, 2024 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. A memorial service will be at 10:30 am on Wednesday April 17, 2024 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka. Pastor Aaron Uphoff will officiate. Private burial in Monticello will be at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

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

Sylvia Anne Yoder, 87, of Gilman passed away on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at Gilman Nursing Home in Gilman. She was born on February 27, 1937 in Nesmith, SC, the daughter of Julius H. and Violet (Owens) Jones.

Surviving are her four sons, Phil Yoder Jr (Diane), C. Rodney Yoder, Jeffrey Yoder, and Timothy Yoder; two sisters, Barbara Simmons and Sara Jones; her grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her parents and one brother, John H. Jones.

Mrs. Yoder enjoyed gardening, reading, and bird watching. She attended St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gilman.

Graveside services will be at 1:00 pm on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at Wenger Cemetery in Gilman. Rev. Dr. Pete Hinrich will officiate.

Memorials may be made towards the charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are by the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

Please share a memory of Sylvia Anne at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family of Sylvia Anne, please visit our floral store.

James Randall “Randy” Cultra, 88, of Onarga, Illinois passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at his home with family by his side. Randy was born on March 22, 1936, in Watseka, IL.

Randy is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Mary Anne (Gibson) Cultra, three daughters: Cathy Cultra of Bonita Springs, FL., Sharon Cultra of Chicago, IL., Mary Beth (Tom) Breslin of Indian Wells, CA., two sons: Robert (Carol) Cultra of Fairfield, CA., and Jamie (Jill) Cultra of Onarga, IL. Randy will be missed by them and his seven grandchildren Conor, Dennis, Emily, Amy, James, Taylor & Lauren. Randy leaves behind his three brothers-in-law and lifelong friends Dave, Mike, & Steve Gibson, along with his sister-in-law Nancy Delaney.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Amy (Wolgast) Cultra and brother-in-law, Raymond Gibson.

Randy attended Onarga schools and graduated in 1954. He then went on to Whittier College in CA and earned a Political Science degree.

Randy and his father, Ron, owned and ran the Cultra Nursery Company (est. 1953). Randy worked in the nursery with his dad for 30 years until turning to farming with his son, Jamie. Father and son established J&R Farms in 1990, and at age 88, Randy was preparing for this 2024 planting season. Randy loved farming Onarga’s surrounding land, and he loved his lifelong home in Onarga. He also enjoyed traveling to his second homes in Florida and California.

Thank you, Randy, Dad and Grandpa, for all the good times shared and for the memories we will always have. You will be dearly missed.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024, from 11:00 am-1:00 pm with a funeral service following at 1:30 pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga.

Burial in the Onarga Cemetery will follow the memorial service.

Memorials may be made to American Heart Association, Carle Philanthropy “Auxiliary Guest House”, or American Cancer Society.

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

Hildegard Selma “Hilda” Luhrsen, 88 of Buckley, died at 4:36 a.m. Sunday, February 25, 2024, at Heritage Health, Hoopeston.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 302 S. Fourth Street, Cissna Park with Rev. Dale Fjordbotten officiating.  Burial will follow in the Trinity Lutheran Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be two hours before the service from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 13, at the church.  Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is handling arrangements.  

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Trinity Lutheran Ladies Aid or the Cissna Park American Legion Auxiliary.  Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com

Joe Edward Thurston, 79, of Walnutport, PA passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024 at his daughter's home in Ashkum. He was born on April 2, 1944 in Longview, Texas, a son of Wilson and Ruth (Chatman) Thurston, Sr.

Joe is preceded in passing by his first wife, Mercedes “Mickey” Freyer as well as his second wife, Carolyn Jamison. He was also preceded in passing by both of his parents and two brothers, Charlie A. Thurston and Wilson Thurston, Jr.

Surviving are his children, Judy Bofah of Noblesville, Indiana and Ruth Thurston of Ashkum; one granddaughter, JoLynn Bofah of Indianapolis, Indiana; several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews; and many cousins.

Joe enjoyed singing and was a part of the Summer Harmony Men's Chorus in Allentown, PA. He also had performed in musicals at the Theatre on the Lake in Chicago. He was a member of the Penn Coachmen RV Club and was also a member of NAARVA. Later in life, he served with Habitat for Humanity for several years. Joe enjoyed archery and was a retired salesman..

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at the Trinity Church Ashkum Campus with Pastor Tim Tammen officiating. Fellowship will begin at 10:30 a.m. just prior to the service. Guests are encouraged to stay and fellowship at the lunch to follow the service.

Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.

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