Dewitt Obits Archives for 2017-02

Johnny Burton

Johnny B. Burton 86 of DeLand, Illinois passed away 7:02 AM February 28, 2017 at his family residence, DeLand, IL.
 
Services will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, March 3, 2017 at the Calvary Baptist Church, Monticello, IL with Pastor Blake Brewer officiating. Burial will follow at DeLand Cemetery, DeLand, IL. Visitation will be 10:00 – 11:00 A.M. at the church. The family has entrusted Calvert Funeral Home, DeLand, IL with arrangements.
 
Memorials may be directed to the Calvary Baptist Church, Monticello, IL.
 
Johnny was born May 9, 1930 in Delmar, KY the son of Benjamin Shelby and Charitie Belle (Burton) Burton. He married Susie Kelley June 17, 1950 in Science Hill, KY.
 
Survivors include his wife, Susie Burton, DeLand, IL; daughters: C. Lanette (Phil) Holdcroft, Champaign, IL and Ruby A. (Leonard Riquelme) Hottinger, Indianapolis, IN; 3 Grandchildren; 4 Great-Grandchildren; sisters: Vernia Brock, KY and Rhodia Stevens, TN.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents, 6 brothers, and 3 sisters.
 
Johnny was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church in Monticello, IL. His biggest enjoyment in life was his grandchildren.

Leonard F. Hursh

Leonard F. Hursh of Heyworth died Wednesday (Feb. 22, 2017) at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.
 
He was born July 30, 1934, in Bloomington, a son of Leonard M. Hursh and Pearl Scott Hursh. Leonard's first wife, Mary, is deceased. He married Patricia Robinson on June 10, 1978. She survives.
 
Also surviving are his daughter, Laurie Hursh; son, Todd (Laura Schoolman) Hursh; grandson, Zack Hursh, all of Heyworth; stepchildren, Mike (Liz) Robinson, Goodfield; Dave Robinson, Las Vegas, Nev.; Kelly (Reid) Doner, Aurora; Dan (Della) Robinson, Rosamond, Calif.; and Barry (Molly) Robinson, Normal; 19 stepgrandchildren; six stepgreat-grandchildren; one stepgreat-great-granddaughter; one sister, Patricia Prouty, Bloomington; and many nieces and nephews.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister and two infant children.
 
He inspired many others with his love of music. He enjoyed his Thursday night jam sessions with friends in his basement. He also enjoyed playing pool and cards. He was loved by all and will be greatly missed.
 
A private family memorial service will be held. Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home, Heyworth, is in charge of arrangements. A celebration of life will be 1 p.m. March 12 at Heyworth American Legion. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Cancer Society.

C. Scott McLaughlin

C. Scott McLaughlin, 41, of Mount Pulaski, formerly of Atlanta, died Wednesday (Feb. 22, 2017) in Atlanta.
 
Service: 1 p.m. Monday at Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home, Lincoln, with the Rev. Mark Thompson officiating.
 
Visitation: 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
 
Burial: Blue Grass Cemetery, Atlanta.
 
Memorials: The Education Fund for the Children of C. Scott McLaughlin, in care of The Farmer’s Bank of Mount Pulaski.
 
Survivors: His parents, Glen and Donna (Donath) McLaughlin; his wife, Tara, Mount Pulaski; his children, Lane Davis and Wade Davis, of Mount Pulaski; Luke McLaughlin, Annie McLaughlin and Jenny McLaughlin, of Tamms; and Meghan McLaughlin, of Mount Pulaski; and his sister, Lynette (Bryan) Cavinder of Normal.

Larry Lohrenz

Larry L. Lohrenz, 76, of Lincoln passed away at his home on Thursday, February 23, 2017.
 
Larry was born on August 8, 1940 in Lincoln, IL, the son of Stanley and Leona (Bentley) Lohrenz. Larry married his high school sweetheart, Karen Newman, on August 26, 1961 in Lincoln, IL, she survives.
 
Larry is also survived by his children; Eric Lohrenz, Todd (Lynn) Lohrenz, and Michelle (Glenn) Putnal; his brother, David (Sheila) Lohrenz; and his grandchildren, Courtney Lohrenz, Evan Lohrenz, MacKenzie Putnal, Glenn “Bro” Putnal, Cooper Putnal, and Mallory Putnal.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents and his twin sister, Linda Robinson.
Larry was a member of Holy Family Church in Lincoln. He was a carpenter by trade; he lived with his family for over 40 years in the house that he built. Larry retired from Logan Correctional Center as a carpenter. He had a true passion for woodworking; he enjoyed making many different pieces of furniture and loved all kinds of music. Larry also served as a member of the Carroll Catholic School Board.
 
Services for Larry will be held at 11:00A.M. on Saturday, February 25, 2017 at Holy Family Church in Lincoln, with Rev. Jeffrey Laible officiating. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service (9:00-11:00A.M.) also at the church. Burial will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Lincoln following the service.
 
Memorial donations may be made in Larry’s name to Carroll Catholic School or Holy Family Parish. Services have been entrusted to Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home, Lincoln.
 

Imogene Skaggs

Imogene Skaggs, 88, of Mt. Pulaski passed away on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at The Christian Village Nursing Home in Lincoln, IL.
 
Imogene was born October 27, 1928 in Horntown, KY, the daughter of Clovus and Ethel (Fulkerson) Williams. She married Lester Skaggs on April 26, 1947 in Louisville, KY. He preceded her in death on March 23, 2002.
Imogene is survived by her daughter, Nena (Tony) Parn of Groveland, IL; her sisters, Betty Whitfill, Shirley (Bob) Jones, and Maxine Bentley all of KY; her six grandchildren, Crystal Thomas, Dawn Musick, Katie Darnall, A.J. Parn, Rob Parn, Beth Anderson; and twelve great-grandchildren.
 
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, her son, Alan Skaggs, two brothers, Rupert, Arlee, and one sister, Freda.
 
Imogene was a hard working woman and an avid gardener; she loved the outdoors. Above all else, Imogene loved her family.
 
Services for Imogene will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Saturday, February 25, 2017 at Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home in Mt. Pulaski, with Pastor Chuck Brannock officiating. Visitation will be held Saturday, February 25, 2017 two hours prior to the service (10:00 A.M.-12:00P.M.) also at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Lake Bank Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Imogene’s name to The Christian Village or Prayer Shawl Ministry.

Erma Holderly

Erma Irene Holderly, 92, of Farmer City, Illinois passed away at 6:45 P.M., Sunday, February 19, 2017 at Farmer City Rehabilitation and Health Care.
 
Funeral service will be at 2:00 P.M., Thursday, February 23, 2017 at Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home, Farmer City, Illinois with Pastor Jeremiah Thompson officiating. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Farmer City, Illinois. Visitation will be from 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M., Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Erma I. Holderly memorial fund c/o First Farmers State Bank, 101 S. Main St., Minier, Illinois 61759 to be used for something at the Farmer City Rehabilitation and Health Care.
 
Erma was born September 11, 1924 at Colfax, Illinois, a daughter of Oscar P. & Irene Sweet Morefield. She married Harvey Kenneth Holderly February 12, 1950 in Colfax, Illinois. He passed away July 9, 2011.
 
Survived by her children, Karen (Mark) Harvey of Ellsworth, IL; Alan (Clarice) Holderly of Arrowsmith, IL; Don Holderly of Farmer City, IL; 8 Grandchildren, Kevin (Jennifer) Lambert; Wesley Harvey; Dylan Harvey; Christopher Holderly; Alex Holderly; Matthew Holderly; Christina Holderly; Emily Rauschenberger; 5 Great-grandchildren; Brother, Floyd (Carol) Morefield of Bloomington, IL; Sister, Ellen (Don) Runge of Waynesville, IL; Sister-in-law, Donna Morefield of Bloomington, IL.
 
Preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Bob Morefield.
 
Erma was a member of the First Christian Church, Farmer City, IL.

Vicki Kammeyer

Vicki Kae Kammeyer, 61, of Bloomington, formerly of San Jose, IL, was called to the Lord at 2:45 p.m. on Friday, February 17, 2017 at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.
 
She was born May 10, 1955 in Lincoln, daughter of Carlyle and Mary Worstall Manus. 
 
Surviving are her husband and high school sweetheart, Bruce A. Kammeyer, Bloomington; her son, Aaron Kammeyer, Clinton; one brother, Greg (Rhonda) Manus, Lincoln; two sisters, Carla (Rick) Sellers, Green Valley and Carol (Russell) Hancock, San Jose, IL.  Also surviving are her step-mother, Nadine Harvey Manus, Mason City abd several nieces and nephews. 
 
Cremation rites have been accorded by Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington.    A Celebration of Life gathering will be held from 11 to 1 p.m.  on Saturday, March 4, 2017 at the San Jose United Methodist Church, fellowship hall.  Inurnment will be at Green Valley Cemetery, San Jose, IL, at a later date.
 
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois Heart Association or the Humane Society of Central Illinois.

Dr. William Johnston

Dr. William Lee Johnston, 95 of Bloomington, IL passed away 7:30 A.M. February 19, 2017 at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, Normal, IL.
 
Memorial services will be 11 AM, Friday, February 24, 2017 at Calvary United Methodist Church, Normal, IL with Rev. Randy Reese officiating. Private graveside services were held at Pleasant Valley Cemetery, Kenney, IL with Military Honors. Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL is in charge of arrangements.
 
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Calvary United Methodist Church, 1700 Towanda Ave. Normal, IL 61761.
 
William was born February 3, 1922 in Clinton, IL the son of William Henry and Ora Lee (Ford) Johnston. He married Bette Jean Daily December 24, 1943.
 
Survivors include his wife of 73 years: Bette Johnston, Bloomington, IL; son: William Grant (Debbie) Johnston, Schoolcraft, MI; grandson: William Douglas Johnston and granddaughter: Laura Ann (Greg) Hunt; great-grandson, Carter Hunt, all of Schoolcraft, MI; several nieces and nephews also survive.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Mary Beth Johnston.
 
William graduated from Kenney Community High School in 1939 and Illinois State University with a BS in 1946, attended the Trinity College of Music, London, England in 1946, the University of Illinois with an MS in 1948 and an Ed. D. in 1966. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Force – 759th AAF Band from March 3, 1943 to March 16, 1946 and served with the 9th Air Force in the European Theater for a period of 15 months.
 
His memberships include: Music Educators National Conference; Illinois Music Education Association; National Council of State Supervisors of Music (Chairman); Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development; Society of Consumer Professionals in Business; Association for Consumer Research; National Coalition for Consumer Education; American Council on Consumer Interests; and several other music and consumer education associations. Dr. Johnston was also a member of Phi Mu Alpha, honorary music fraternity; Phi Beta Mu, honorary bandmasters fraternity and the American School Band Directors Association.
 
He was a professional musician in Bloomington from 1940 to 1943, playing saxophone with the “Hank” Messer dance band and in the Bloomington Municipal Band. From 1948 to 1957, he was the Director of Instrumental and Vocal Music in Plainfield, IL; Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Wisconsin-Madison from 1957 to 1961; State Supervisor of Music Education, Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction with the State of Illinois from 1961 to 1971; Director of Curriculum Services, Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, State of Illinois, 1965 to 1971; Director of Consumer Education, New Jersey State Department of Education 1971 to 1977; Adjunct Professor of Curriculum and Instruction, Rutgers University 1972 to 1976; Professor of Consumer Studies, Director of the Center for Consumer Services and Director of the National Consumer Internship Program at Oklahoma State University 1977 to 1987 and Professor Emeritus of Consumer Studies since 1987.
 

Genevieve Farnsworth

Genevieve Louise Farnsworth, 95 of Clinton, IL passed away February 15, 2017, Ollie Steele Burden Manor, Baton Rouge, La.
 
Services will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, February 23, 2017 at the Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Greg Taylor officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Clinton, IL. Visitation will be at 5:00 – 7:00 PM on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at the Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, Il.
 
Memorials may be directed to Little Galilee Christian Assembly.
 
Genevieve was born September 3, 1921 in Heyworth, IL the daughter of Clyde and Ruby (Roark) Padgett. She married Harry Farnsworth May 6, 1942 in Fullton, MO. He passed away October 25, 2000.
 
Survivors include her Children, Diane Sympson, Gonzales, LA, Paul (Bonnie) Farnsworth, Fort Pierce, FL, 3 Grandchildren, Shawn (Tracy) Smith, Prairieville, LA, Jeff (Kristy) Sympson, La Place, LA, John Sympson, La Place, LA, 4 Great-Grandchildren, Jordan (Jacob) Cross, Lauren Smith, Kelsey Smith, Maddie Sympson and Harper Sympson; Sister, Helen Polley, Clinton, IL. Also surviving are Step-Brother: Raymond (Anna Marie) Moss, Clinton, IL, 3 Nephews, Mike (Sharon) Polley, Bloomington, IL, Kenneth (Camelia) Dieckmann, San Clemente, CA, and Joseph (Sandy) Johnson, Gettysburg, PA.
 
Genevieve was preceded in death by her Parents, one sister Catherine Dieckman, and one Granddaughter, Leslie Sympson.
 
Genevieve was a retired school teacher and taught over 30 years at Webster and Washington Elementary schools. She was a member of the Myrtle Chapter #131of the Order of Eastern Star.
 
Genevieve was a lifelong member of Clinton 1st Christian Church and served faithfully there as a Sunday school teacher, as well as registrar for Little Galilee for over 50 years.
 
Genevieve was an honest, generous, and caring person who set an example for how to lead a life worth living as a Christian. She has left a legacy that will last beyond a lifetime and will be missed dearly by friends and family.

Thomas Polston

Thomas O. Polston, 77, of Clinton, IL passed away at 9:25 AM, February 15, 2017 at Decatur Memorial Hospital, Decatur, IL.
 
No services are planned at this time. Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL assisted the family with cremation rites.
 
Thomas was born October 14, 1939 in Lincoln, IL the son of Otho Cleveland and Alberta Lee (Allison) Polston. He is survived by many cousins.
 
Thomas was an artist.

Nancy Day

Nancy B. Day 78 of Maroa, IL passed away 3:20 AM February 18, 2017 in her home surrounded by family.
 
Services will be 10 A.M. Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at the Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Pastor Nic Showalter officiating. Burial will follow at Maroa Cemetery, Maroa, IL. Visitation will be 5 – 7 P.M. Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at the funeral home.
 
Nancy was born February 14, 1939 in DeWitt County the daughter of Gilbert and Alice (Armstrong) Florey. She married Maurice W. Day July 28, 1956 in Clinton, IL.
 
Survivors include her husband: Maurice W. Day, Maroa, IL; sons: Michael (Kim) Day, Decatur, IL and Les (Jenny) Day, Herrick, IL; daughter: Pamela (John) Vogel, Decatur, IL; grandchildren: Andrea Cullison, Stephanie Kiley, Heather Hodges and Melanie Casner; 7 great grandchildren and several step grandchildren and great grandchildren.
 
She was preceded in death by her parents and son Melvin Day.
 
Nancy’s greatest joy in life was her family; she was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She leaves behind many broken hearts and will be truly missed by all that knew her. Nancy had retired from Kay’s Merchandise in Decatur, IL.
 
The family wishes to extend a sincere “Thank You” to Becky of DMH Hospice for her loving care of our Mother and Grandmother.

Roger Witt

Roger Brent Witt 80 of Clinton, IL passed away 1:55 AM February 18, 2017 at Henry & Jane Vonderlieth Living Center, Mt. Pulaski, IL.
 
A Celebration of Life will be held 1 – 3 PM, Sunday, February 26, 2017 at the Buttered Bun, Maroa, IL. Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL is in charge of arrangements.
 
Memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Association, American Cancer Society or Second Chance for Pets Adoption.
 
Roger was born May 3, 1936 in Liberty, Kentucky the son of Paul and Mary (Taylor) Witt.
 
Survivors include lifelong companion Vernadine Witt, Clinton, IL; daughter: Tammie (Jim) Inman, Clinton, IL; step children: Carol (Waylon) Burton, Scottsdale, AZ, Donna (Bob) Turney, Clinton, IL, Nancy (Rick) Jackson, Mesa, AZ, Barb (Tony) Scogins, Decatur, IL; 2 granddaughters: Heather (Adam) Blue, Normal, IL and Latonia Eagleson, Olney, IL; great grandson: Gavin Blue; sister: Joyce Witt, Oregon; along with several step grandchildren and step great grandchildren.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter: Paula.
 
Roger enjoyed riding motorcycles and bicycles. He was also a member of the Clinton Eagles Lodge.

Robert Yeagle

Robert Albert Yeagle, 56, of Farmer City, passed away at 7:53 a.m. Tuesday (Feb. 14, 2017) at his home.
 
A Mass of Christian burial will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Farmer City, with Father James P. Henning, O.F.M., Conv., officiating. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, with the rosary recited at 5:30 p.m., at Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home, Farmer City. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
 
Robert was born Nov. 5, 1960, in Bloomington, a son of Ambrose N. and Eleanor M. Thoms Yeagle. He is survived by his son, Seth A. Yeagle, Farmer City; daughter, Kayla (Joseph) Kyrouac; five grandchildren; brothers, Mark A. Yeagle, Farmer City, and William A. Yeagle, Farmer City; sisters, Ann E. (Greg) Petry, Champaign, and Sallie M. (Ted) White, Farmer City.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Matthew A. Yeagle; and nephew, Nicholas Yeagle.
 
Robert worked as an electrician and was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
 
A Mass of Christian burial for Matthew A. Yeagle will be at the same time as for Robert A. Yeagle.

Roberta Cowgur

Roberta Cowgur, 92, of Chestnut, IL passed away at Autumn Accolade Assisted Living in Green Valley, IL on February 13, 2017 at 10:21 a.m.
 
Roberta was born October 22, 1925; daughter of Ernest W. and Essie (Tackett) Koehler. She married Maxwell Eugene Cowgur on October 18, 1947 in Vandalia, IL ( 59 years). He preceded her in death in August of 2006.
 
Surviving her are two sons: Lester E. (Patsy) Cowgur of Chestnut, IL and Brian Cowgur of Springfield, IL; one daughter: Becky Landis of Danville, IL; seven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; one brother: Richard Koehler of Brownstown, IL; one sister: Iris Bernhardt of Green Valley, IL; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, son: Bruce E. Cowgur, granddaughter: Alaina Landis; and great grandson: Brian Harmony Jr.
 
Mrs. Cowgur worked at the Sangamon Ordinance Plant west of Illiopolis, IL in the mid 1940’s. She was a dedicated homemaker for many years and later worked at Landauer’s Clothiers in Lincoln in where she served as seamstress before retiring in 1976. Mrs. Cowgur loved to cook and to garden. She was most famous for always having homemade cookies in abundant amounts for family and the neighborhood kids. She also loved to crochet and made everything from Christmas Tree ornaments to blankets for friends and family. Roberta will be greatly missed by family and friends.
 
Services for Roberta will be Monday February 20th 11am At Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home in Mt. Pulaski, IL with Rev. Jack Wolf officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial at Mt. Pulaski Cemetery will follow the service.
 
Memorials may be made in Roberta’s name to:
Bridgepointe Kids, Bridgepointe Christian Church
850 Waterman Ave 
East Providence RI 02914
https://​https://www.bridgepointechristian.com/h

Thomas Hunter

Thomas Hunter, 85, of Lincoln, passed away at 12:01 a.m., Feb. 8, 2017, at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, Ill.
 
Thomas was born June 30, 1931, in Lincoln, Ill., son of Samuel Hunter and Ernestine Sparrow Hunter. He married Mary B. McKinney on Aug. 28, 1965, in Lincoln, Ill. She preceded him in death on June 9, 1998.
 
He is survived by nieces and nephews. 
 
Thomas was the last of his immediate family. He was preceded in death by parents; one daughter, Cheryl; one sister, Norma; and two brothers, George and Ernest.
Thomas was a U.S. Air Force veteran. 
 
He was a member of Lincoln Christian Church, and Heritage In-flight Museum at the Lincoln Airport.
 
Services for Thomas will be held at 11 a.m., Feb. 11, 2017, at Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home in Lincoln, Ill., with Ron Otto officiating. 
 
Visitation will be one hour prior to the service from 10-11 a.m.
Burial at Zion Cemetery will follow the service where full military rites will be accorded by the Lincoln American Legion Post #263.

D. Marlene Howell

D. Marlene Howell, 71, of Lincoln passed away at 3:07 P.M. on Monday, February 13, 2017 at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Lincoln.
 
Marlene was born on October 13, 1945 in Effingham, IL, the daughter of Lester and Deloris (Morton) Manuel. Marlene married Ronald Howell on February 5, 1966 in Altamont, IL. He survives in Lincoln.
 
Marlene is also survived by her children, Marnie (Ronald) Harris of Lincoln, Blaine Howell of Chestnut, and Laura (Eric) Davis of Streator; her sister, Florence (Delbert) Mooney of Plainview, TX; and her five grandchildren, Caleb Harris, Daniel Harris, Lauren Harris, Lance Davis, and Holly Davis.
 
Marlene was preceded in death by her parents.
 
Marlene worked for the State Street Baptist Academy. She lived for her husband, kids, and grandkids; Marlene also loved gardening and raising flowers. She loved the Lord and wanted her family to.
 
Services for Marlene will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, February 17, 2017 at Park Meadows Baptist Church in Lincoln, officiated by Pastor Jeremy Vance. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service (11:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M.) on Friday, February 17, 2017 also at the church. Burial will be held at Zion Cemetery after the services. Memorial donations may be made in Marlene’s name to Park Meadows Baptist Church. Services have been entrusted to Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home, Lincoln.

Sandra Doty

Sandra M. Doty, 78, of Lincoln passed away at 3:25P.M. on Saturday, February 11, 2017 at The Christian Village Memory Unit, in Lincoln.
 
Sandra was born on February 4, 1939 in Bloomington, IL; the daughter of Earl and Mabel (Montgomery) Jenkins. She married Thomas H. Doty on June 5, 1982 in Buffalo, IL.
 
Sandra is survived by her daughter, Valerie (Clem) Martin of Waynesville; her son, Mitch (Missy) Graham of Lincoln; her brother, Monte (Pam) Jenkins of Bloomington; her granddaughter, Shyanne Martin of Waynesville; and her niece, Julie Jenkins of Bloomington.
 
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents and her husband of 33 years, Thomas H. Doty.
 
Sandra worked for Hoagland Transfer in Lincoln as a bookkeeper for many years. She was a longtime member of The Eagles Lodge #2708 in Lincoln as well as The Moose Lodge #1441 in Lincoln. Sandra enjoyed spending time with her family whether it was camping, or watching her beloved Illini. Sandra also enjoyed watching The Chicago Cubs, The Chicago Bears, and NASCAR; Sandra loved watching her soap operas too. Above all else, Sandra loved her family; she will be greatly missed by anyone fortunate enough to have known her. Especially the squirrels that lived near her house, whom Sandra would feed from her hand.
 
A private family graveside service will be held at a later date at Lexington Township Cemetery, Lexington, IL. Memorial donations may be made in Sandra’s name to The Christian Village in Lincoln. Services have been entrusted to Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home, Lincoln.

Kay Ann Schmid

Kay Ann Schmid, 65 of Waynesville, IL passed away 11:16 A.M. February 10, 2017 at Manor Court, Clinton, IL.
 
Services will be 10:30 AM Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Ernie Harvey, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Wapella, IL. Visitation will be 5 – 8 PM, Tuesday, February 14, 2017 at the funeral home.
 
Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital because of her love of children.
 
Kay was born February 18, 1951 in Lincoln, IL the daughter of Roger and Wilma (Nichols) Sampson. She married Richard “Dick” Schmid February 8, 1969 at St. John’s Catholic Church, Clinton, IL.
 
Survivors include her husband: Dick Schmid, Waynesville, IL; children: Travis (Andrea) Schmid, Clinton, IL; Trent (Paula) Schmid, Teutopolis, IL; and Misti (Doug) Tucker, Clinton, IL; grandchildren: Aaron Sams, Carson Schmid, Jordan Williams, Julia Schmid, Brylee Williams, Tanner Schmid, Tessa Defebaugh, Tatum Defebaugh; two sisters:  Carol (Jack) Sampson, Waynesville, IL and Karen TeVoert, Waynesville, IL; many nieces and nephews also survive.
 
She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers: Charles “Bud” Sampson and Duane “Duke” Sampson.
 
Kay was the previous leader of the Jimtown 4-H Club.  In 1993, she started Kay’s Collectibles at the Clinton Antique Mall, booth #41. Always looking for that special bargain, Kay loved going to auctions, garage sales and tag sales. Kay’s love for her family was more important than any special bargain.
 
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Liberty Village for the special care that Kay received.

Rev. Richard Vettrus

Rev. Richard Vettrus, age 78, interim pastor of Ebenezer Lutheran Brethren Church of Rolette, ND, passed away on Monday morning, February 6, 2017 at Trinity Hospital, Minot, ND after an extended illness.
 
Richard Vettrus was born the third child of Rev. Ole and Clara (Olson) Vettrus when they served Zoar Lutheran Brethren Church in Superior, WI, on October 23, 1938. He is preceded in death by his parents, as well as his youngest sister, Jean Vettrus Spahn. Richards grandparents, Kolben and Bertha Vettrus homesteaded south of Rolette in the North Ox Creek area.
Pastor Vettrus graduated from Hillcrest Lutheran Academy and later Lutheran Brethren Seminary, both is Fergus Falls, MN. He also attended Fuller Seminary in Pasadena, CA and received a Masters in history from Wagner College in Staten Island, NY. Richard served congregations in Floral Park and Brooklyn on Long Island, NY as well as Nanuet, NY, Princeton, NJ, Pasadena, CA, West Union and DeWitt, IA with interim pastorates in Arvada, CO, Eugene, OR, and Rolette, ND.
Richard is survived by older siblings, David Vettrus of Minnesota and Donna Vettrus of California, and younger siblings, Rhoda Vettrus Rubey of Oregon, Joel, Jerome, and Rev. Timothy Vettrus, all of Wisconsin.
 
Honorary Bearers are all family and friends.  Music by Judy Martinson and Timothy Vettrus.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, February 10, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Ebenezer Lutheran Brethren Church, Rolette, ND with Pastor Dan Chell and Pastor Bob Overgard officiating. Burial will be in North Ox Creek Cemetery, Rolette, ND in the spring.  Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.

George Armstrong

George R. Armstrong 80 of Clinton, IL passed away 2:35 PM February 9, 2017 at his family residence, Clinton, IL.
 
Services will be 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, February 14, 2017 at the Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Ernie Harvey, Jr. officiating. Military honors will follow the services. Visitation will be 5 - 7 P.M. Monday, February 13, 2017 at the funeral home.
 
Memorials may be directed to Clinton AM Vets Post 14.
 
George was born March 28, 1936 in Tunbridge Township, DeWitt County, IL the son of George E. and Marie (Thomas) Armstrong. He married Betty F. McKinney March 14, 1959 in Phoenix, AZ.
 
Survivors include his wife: Betty E. Armstrong, Clinton, IL; children:
Lisa (David) McMurtry, Channahon, IL, Dee Kirwan, Macomb, IL, Ron
Armstrong, Clinton, IL, Robert (Jen) Armstrong, Decatur, IL;
grandchildren: Derek Vickers, Drew Vickers, Sean Kirwan, Brent McMurtry,
Morgan McMurtry, Hope Kirwan, Natalie Kirwan, Nathan Armstrong; great
granddaughter: Sophia Jordan; siblings: Joyce Zieters, Bloomington, IL,
Janice Laramee, Clinton, IL, Marilyn (Joe) Bourn, Lisle, IL, Carol (Noel)
Hutchcraft, Gibson City, IL, and David (Mary) Armstrong, Mansfield, IL.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother: Walter A. Armstrong.
 
George was a member of the Clinton First Christian Church and a U.S. Army
veteran serving with NATO in Izmer, Turkey.
 
He loved to fish and had been a mail courier and farmer.

Virginia Samuel

Virginia Mae Samuel, 85 of Decatur, IL passed away 4:04 P.M.  February 7,
2017 at Manor Court, Clinton, IL.
 
No Services are planned at this time. Calvert Funeral Home assisted the
family with cremation rites.
 
Virginia was born October 3, 1931 in Decatur, Il. the daughter of Arthur
and Sophie (Stogsdill) Gordon.
 
Surviving, Daughter, Tracey Tull, Indianapolis, IN.
 

Laura van Dyk

Laura van Dyk 85 of Clinton, Illinois passed away 4:21 PM February 5, 2017
at her family residence, Clinton, Il.
 
Services to celebrate Laura's life will be 11 AM, Monday, February 13,
2017 at the Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, Il. with Rev. Father James
Henning officiating. Visitation will be 10-11 AM, Monday, February 13,
2017 at the funeral home.
 
Memorials may be directed to the DeWitt County Friendship Center.
 
Laura was born June 14, 1931 in Clinton, IL the daughter of Murrel Samuel
and Maude Louise (Wilson) Campbell. She married Richard Waranius in March
1951 in Las Vegas, NV.  She later married Frans van Dyk March 25, 1962 in
Long Beach, CA. He passed away March 25, 2008.
 
Survivors include her children, Kenneth (Connie) Waranius, Shasta, CA;
Lana (Case) Ophorst, Clinton, IL; Sharon Waranius, Redding, CA, Cyndi
(Tery) Beaver, Riverside, CA ; step-children, Dirk van Dyk, Strawberry,
AZ; Karl (Renee) van Dyk, Placerville, CA; 5 Grandchildren, 1
Great-Grandson, and 2 step-grandchildren.
 
She was preceded in death by her Parents.
 
Laura was a CNA for many years.  She lived in California from 1952 until
she moved to Clinton in 1985.  She was an avid reader and enjoyed going on
walks and riding the Show Bus.

 

Kole Bishop

Kole Frances Richard Bishop 25 of Peoria, IL passed away 11:43 AM, February 5, 2017. Born July 5, 1991 in Peoria, IL the son of William S. Bishop and Maureen (Dahman) Dubson, Kole graduated from Clinton Community High School in 2009. Known for his fierce love and loyalty to the Chicago Blackhawks, his ready smile and wicked sense of humor, he will be forever loved and missed by those whose lives he touched.
 
Survivors include his parents, William S. Bishop, East Peoria, IL; mother, Maureen (Odell) Dubson, Clinton, IL; sisters: Paiton Dubson, Clinton, IL and Skylar Bishop, East Peoria, IL; paternal grandmother, Charlene Bishop, Peoria, IL; and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Welcoming him to eternal life are five grandparents who preceded him in death.
 
Visitation will be 2 – 5 PM, Sunday, February 12, 2017 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL, with Celebration of Life services at 5 PM. Graveside services will be 1 PM, Monday, February 13, 2017 at Hewitt Cemetery, Lovington, IL.
 
Memorials may be directed to the Kole Bishop Memorial Fund.

Mary Helen Holt

Mary Helen Holt, 87, of Farmer City, passed away at 2:20 p.m. Saturday (Feb. 4, 2017) at the Farmer City Rehabilitation and Health Care.
 
Her celebration of life service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home, Farmer City, with Jerry Hawn officiating. There will be no visitation. Private family inurnment will be in Greenleaf Cemetery, Farmer City. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Mary Helen Holt Memorial Fund, in care of Heartland Bank, Farmer City. The funds will be for the Carle Hospice Program and Farmer City Rehabilitation and Health Care.
 
Mary Helen was born Oct. 18, 1929, in Blue Ridge Township, Piatt County, a daughter of Albert Linuel and Bertha Maude Van Gorder Larson. She married Richard Eugene “Gene” Holt on July 9, 1949, in Farmer City. He passed away Dec. 22, 2009.
 
She is survived by five daughters, Jan (Joe) Necessary, Heyworth; Chris (Ken) Hermann, DeLand; Anita (Mac) Harden, Farmer City; Diana (Chuck Penny) Thomas, Weldon; and Nanci Holt, Farmer City; eight grandchildren, Mike (Joanna Powell) Necessary, Travis (Melissa) Hermann, Brett (Janelle) Hermann, Daci (Joe) Lehnert, Josh (Jesse) Harden, Jessi (Aaron) Price, Kati (Nick) Bumgardner and Logan (Annie Shiley) Anderson; great-grandchildren, Bella Necessary; Naomi, Isaiah and Titus Hermann; Tate and Dane Harden; Landon Price; Emme Bumgardner; and three more on the way; several stepgrandchildren; several stepgreat-grandchildren; sister, Clara Belle (Junior) Lamb, Farmer City; and sister-in-law, Helen Larson, Sun City, Ariz.
 
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; two brothers, Charles William Larson and Albert Paul Larson; and sister-in-law, Laura Larson.
 
Mary Helen graduated from Moore Township High School in 1948, and attended Illinois State Normal University. She was baptized at Bethel Church, near Galesville, at the age of 12. She was a kindergarten aide and librarian aide for 35 years at the Farmer City elementary schools.
 
For 34 years, Mary Helen, along with Gene, furnished and chauffeured their classic convertible for Judy Frazier in the Farmer City Christmas Parade. In 1981, Mary Helen was chosen Mother of the Year in Farmer City. In 2005, Mary Helen and Gene were awarded Outstanding Volunteer of the Year from East Central Illinois Council on Aging. Over the years, Mary Helen was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader; delivered Peace Meals; was a Red Cross Bloodmobile worker; avid seamstress and quilter; and helper to many elderly and shut-in people. Mary Helen, along with Gene, restored several landmark homes, player pianos and antique furniture.
 
Most of all, she was dedicated to her family, always providing a fun place with lots of really good food and extravagant love. 
 

David Duff

David E. Duff, 75, of North Fort Myers, FL formerly of Clinton, IL passed away at 11:19 PM, February 6, 2017 at Cape Coral Hospital, Cape Coral, Florida.
 
Services will be 10 AM, Thursday, February 16, 2017 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with J. Kent Hickerson officiating.  Burial will follow at Mausoleum Park Cemetery, Clinton, IL.  Visitation will be 5 – 7 PM, Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at the funeral home.
 
Memorials may be directed to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
 
David was born April 21, 1941 in Gary, IN the son of Rex and Josephine (Oakman) Duff.  He married Judith L. Prawl July 1, 1960 in Clinton, IL.  She passed away September 17, 2007.  He later married Beverly J. Armstrong March 14, 2009 in Ormond Beach, FL.
 
Survivors include his wife, Beverly J. Duff, North Fort Myers, FL; children:  Dru Corwin, Clinton, IL and Dana Archer (Todd Burlingame), Battle Creek, MI; grandchildren:  Dave Corwin, Clinton, IL; Josh Girard, Nashville, TN; Lauren Archer, Battle Creek, MI; four great-grandchildren:  Chloe, Shay, Antonio, and Ashontez; step-children:  Teresa Armstrong, Clinton, IL and Debbie (Dave) Defebaugh, Sherman, IL; step-grandchild, Juston Triplett, Carlinville, IL; sister, Suellen (Ron) Randolph, Bloomington, IL; brother, Richard (Rose) Duff, Bloomington, IL.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, JoDean Koget and Mary Danison.
 
David worked for Caterpillar Tractor for 38 years before retiring in 2003.  He moved to Florida full time in 2014.  David was an avid Cub and Illini fan but most of all he was a devoted family man.
 

Tammy Chapman

Tammy Lynn Chapman, 51, of Clinton, IL passed away at 11:25 AM, Monday,
February 6, 2017 at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital, Lincoln, IL.
 
Services to celebrate Tammy's life will 10 A.M. Friday, February 10, 2017
at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Greg Taylor officiating.
Visitation will be 9 - 10 A.M. Friday at the funeral home.
 
Memorials may be directed to the Tammy Lynn Chapman Memorial Fund.
 
Tammy was born August 10, 1965 in Chicago, IL the daughter of Perry and
Judith (Centofonti) Renfroe. She married Gregory Wayne Chapman October 12,
1991 in Clinton, IL.
 
Survivors include her mother: Judith Renfroe, Lincoln, IL; children:
Elizabeth Marie Chapman, Clinton, IL, Emily Anne (Alex) Champion, Lincoln,
IL and Erika Lynn Chapman, Clinton, IL; fiancé: Gerald Robinson ,Peoria,
IL; brother: Tim Renfroe, Chicago, IL.
 
She was preceded in death by her father.
 
Tammy was a hair stylist for 19 years in Clinton.

Shirley Allspach

Shirley Jean Allspach, 90, of Mount Pulaski, died at 7:03 a.m. Saturday (Feb. 4, 2017), at Vonderlieth Living Center, Mount Pulaski.
 
Service: 10 a.m. Friday at Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home, Mount Pulaski, with Mark Weber officiating.
 
Burial: following the service at Steenbergen Cemetery, Mount Pulaski.
 
Visitation: 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Mount Pulaski Christian Church Family Life Center.
 
Memorials: Vonderlieth Living Center or Mount Pulaski Christian Church.
 
Survivors: one son, George (Karen) Allspach, Mount Pulaski; four daughters, Kathryn (Scott) Steinfort, Sunrise, Fla.; Linda (Dennis) Sheehan, Lincoln; Jerilee (Brad) Gibbs, Crawford, Colo.; and Jo Ellen (Mark) Gilbert, Paris, Ill.; 13 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.

LeRoy Black

Leroy C. Black 82 of Clinton, Illinois passed away 8:20 AM February 3, 2017 at Manor Court, Clinton, IL.
 
Graveside services will be 10 AM Thursday, February 9, 2017 at Oak Park Cemetery, Clinton, IL with military honors. Visitation will be 5 – 7 PM Monday, February 6, 2017 at the Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL.
 
Memorials may be directed to the Lincoln Gun Club.
 
Leroy was born May 8, 1934 in Addison Township, DuPage County, IL the son of William “Bill” and Dorothy (Morrow) Black. He married Carolyn J. Carter November 20, 1953. She passed away August 23, 2016.
 
Survivors include 2 grandsons, Ryan Black (Shelby), Clinton, IL; Daryn Black (Jennifer), Rogersville, MO; 5 great-grandchildren: Avery, Ethan, Saddie, Kyla and Lilly; daughter-in-law: Marjorie Black.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 sons: Randy Black and Carter Black, 13 brothers and sisters.
 
Leroy served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He was an avid trap shooter and worked for Illinois Bell, retiring as a foreman in 1989.

Richard Cleaver

Richard Lee Cleaver, 72, of Farmer City, went to be with the Lord at 6:05 a.m. Wednesday (Feb. 1, 2017) at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.
 
Richard was born Jan. 20, 1945, in Springfield, the son of Aubra E. Cleaver and first wife, Lula Mae McCubbin Cleaver Ryder. He married Jeanne A. Bollman on June 9, 1973, in Peoria.
 
Richard was a graduate of Bloomington High School, Class of ’63, and worked at Caterpillar Inc. in East Peoria for 35 years, retiring as a manufacturing engineer on April 30, 1999. He and his wife Jeanne moved to Stoutsville, Mo., where they started a construction business called RLC Deck Builders. In November 2001, they moved to Farmer City and Richard went to work for M & W Gear (now Alamo Group). He started as a CNC programmer and quickly worked his way up to manufacturing engineering manager. After leaving there, he and his wife developed and started a restaurant called The Whistle Stop Café in Weldon. It was sold and became Mama D’s Smokehouse.
 
He was a member of Tri-Valley Baptist Church in Downs and was past treasurer. He was also a member of Joe Williams American Legion Post 55, Farmer City, and served on the firing squad of the Honor Guard. Richard served in the Illinois Army National Guard for six years and in the Illinois Air National Guard for three years.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Josephine Cleaver and Betty Hughes, both of Springfield, and Mary Lou Gleason; three brothers, William Cleaver, Frank Cleaver and John L. Cleaver of Champaign. Richard was the youngest of nine children; still living are Joseph T. Cleaver and Virginia M. Dixon of Bloomington. He also has six half brothers and one half sister living in the Pekin area.
 
Richard is survived by his wife, Jeanne A. Cleaver, Farmer City; their children, Jennifer (James) Brown, Illiopolis; Chad Cleaver, Mackinaw; and Jesse (Keri) Cleaver, Peoria. He had five grandchildren, Sam and Mitchell Cleaver, Jora Cleaver, Fisher Cleaver and Briana Brown. Richard also had three grandchildren by a son from a previous marriage. They are son, Richard L. (Patti); grandson, Richard G.; and granddaughters, Jennifer and Summer Matheson, of Farmer City.
 
Family and friends will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home, 106 N. Main St., Farmer City.
 
His funeral will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home, Farmer City, with Pastor Ron Woodrum officiating.
 
Memorial contributions may be made to Tri-Valley Baptist Church Memorial Fund.
 
Interment service will follow the service at the funeral home at Camp Ground Cemetery, southwest of Farmer City on Route 54. Joe Williams American Legion Post 55 will perform military honors.
 
A meal will follow the burial at Tri-Valley Baptist Church in Downs; address is Tri-Valley Baptist Church, 8385 North 1900 East Road, Bloomington, IL 61704.
 

Jordan Brooks

Jordan Brooks, 25, of Atlanta, passed away 7:20 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 28, 2017) at Memorial Medical Center, Springfield.
 
Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Atlanta Christian Church. His funeral will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Atlanta Christian Church. Pastor Joe Bowman will officiate. Burial will follow at Zion Cemetery, Lincoln.
 
Jordan Lee Brooks was born March 14, 1991, the son of Rodney Brooks and Angie Leesman-Brooks.
 
He is survived by his parents; one son, Abel; the mother of his child, Kayla Bailey; one brother, Caedan Brooks; paternal grandparents, Dan and Linda Brooks; three uncles, Darren Leesman, Keith Brooks and Brad Brooks; and four cousins, Meagan, Ryan, Austin and Rebecca.
 
Jordan was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Darrell Leesman and Linda Leesman.
 
Jordan attended Olympia High School and Heartland Community College. He was employed at Eaton Corp. in Lincoln. He was a self-taught musician who never found an instrument he couldn't learn to play, and he also had a keen interest in cars. Jordan was a devoted father. He took care of his son every day.
 
Memorials may be made to the Atlanta National Bank for an education fund for his son, Abel.
 
In this tragedy, his family has taken comfort in the knowledge that his life will continue through the gift of organ donation to multiple recipients.
 
Final arrangements are entrusted with Quiram-Peasley Funeral Home of Atlanta.

Connie Miller

Connie G. Miller, 61, of Waynesville, passed away at 10:45 p.m. Monday (Jan. 30, 2017) at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, Normal.
 
Her celebration of life visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at Waynesville United Methodist Church. A brief remembrance service will follow at noon. The Rev. William Ramsdale will officiate. Cremation rites have been accorded.
 
Connie Gail Stillwell was born April 8, 1955, in Frankfort, Ind., the daughter of William R. and Josephine L. Bybee Stillwell. She married Steven Lee Miller on July 12, 1974, in Bloomington. He survives.
 
Connie is also survived by their children, Brian (Carrie) Miller and William (Tanya Fancher) Miller; two brothers, Benjamin (Beth) Stillwell and Reece Stillwell; eight grandchildren, Emery Miller, Brody Miller, Brenley Miller, Braden Higdon, Tristan Higdon, Audree Miller, Avery Higdon and Laikyn Miller; and her loving pets, dogs Lady and Ozzy, and cat Cheyanna.
 
Connie was preceded in death by her parents and one grandson, Caleb Miller.
 
Memorials may be made to her family.
 
Final arrangements are entrusted with Quiram-Peasley Funeral Home of Atlanta.

David Camfield

David R. Camfield 73 of Argenta, Illinois passed away 3:38 AM February 2, 2017 surrounded by his sons at his family residence, Argenta, IL.
 
Services will be 10:00 AM, Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at the Argenta United Methodist Church with Pastor Bret Bone officiating. Burial will follow at Friends Creek Cemetery, Argenta, Il. Visitation will be 5 – 7 PM, Monday, February 6, 2017 at the church.  Calvert Funeral Home, Argenta, IL is in charge of arrangements.
 
Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
 
David was born June 17, 1943 in Decatur, IL the son of William “Chief” and Ima (Bean) Camfield. He married Joan Boyd and later married Rhonda F. Dively February 22, 1984 in Gainesville, Florida. She passed away September 27, 2014.
 
Survivors include his sons:  William W. Camfield, Decatur, IL; Jonathon W. Camfield, Illiopolis, IL; David L. Camfield, Decatur, IL; step-children: Jerry Reinstorf, KY and Amy McCoy; Bement, IL;  daughter-in-law, Sherri Camfield, Decatur, IL; 15 Grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; brothers:  Jerry (Sandy) Camfield, Decatur, IL; Joe (Carol) Camfield, El Paso, TX; Terry (Shelly) Camfield, Oreana, IL; Tom Benton, Maroa, IL; Dennis (Brenda) Crowder, Argenta, IL; sister, Patricia Camfield, Oreana, IL; many cousins, nieces and nephews.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Richard David Camfield, grandson, Jason David Camfield, and brother, Don Benton.
 
David was an entrepreneur of several businesses.  He co-founded, owned and operated the Soy City Sock Co. in Monticello, IL.  For 51 years, David was an avid Race Car driver and a member of the MARA, POWRi, and USAC race clubs.

Ernest Thorp

Ernest N. Thorp 95 of rural Clinton, Illinois passed away 8:47 PM, Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at Hawthorne Inn, Clinton, Il. Our family wishes to thank the staff at Hawthorne Inn as well as the 24/7 caregivers that gave such loving and dedicated care to Ernest.
 
Services for Ernest will be 11 AM, Saturday, February 11, 2017 at the Clinton United Methodist Church, 308 E. Main St., Clinton, IL, with Rev. C. Don Ferrill officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Clinton, IL with Military Honors. Visitation will be 4 – 8 PM, Friday, February 10, 2017 at the church with Masonic Rites at 4 PM. Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL is in charge of arrangements.
 
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to the Clinton United Methodist Church Endowment Fund or the American Red Cross, Central Illinois Processing Center, PO Box 811460, Chicago, IL 60681-1460 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
 
Ernest was born February 3, 1921 in Clinton, IL, the son of Claude W. and M. Louise (Carter) Thorp. He married Mary Ellen Harris in 1945, she passed away in 1986, Verneal Dunn in 1990, she passed away in 2005, and Helen Hume in 2006.
 
Survivors include his wife, Helen; son, Nelson I. (Linda) Thorp, rural Wapella, IL; daughters: Carol van Rossum, Lincoln, NE; Marjorie Thorp, Bothell, WA; and Zelda Lewis, Joliet, IL; and son, Lewis A. (Cathy) Thorp, Herndon, VA; 7 grandchildren: Jennifer (Trent) Klomhaus, Natalie (Rory) O’Connell, Jered (McKenzie) Thorp, Emily (Jason) Plourde, Kira (Gabrial) van Rossum, Sarah (Steve) Kaminsky, Doug (Emily) Lewis; 8 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters: Andrea Miller, Winston-Salem, NC; Ruth Lutz, Dewey, IL; and Norma Wedekind, Raymond, IL, and numerous nieces and nephews.
 
He was preceded in death by a brother, Carl E., 3 sisters, Evalyn, Mary Alice Moberly, and Sarah Jackson, and son-in-law, Charles van Rossum.
 
Ernest lived and thrived on the farm. He attended Thorp Grade School, Wapella High School Class of 1939, Illinois State Normal University for 2 years and then graduated from the University of Illinois in 1943. Ernest obtained his private pilot’s license in 1941. He served in the Army Air Corps 1943-1945 as a B-17 pilot.He was shot down over the North Sea and was a POW for 9 months. Upon coming home, he joined his brother and father in the family seed business, Thorp Seed Company. He retired from the US Air Force Reserve as a Captain. His community involvement included the Methodist Churches of Prairie Center and Clinton. He was proud to become a certified lay leader of the church and served on district and conference boards of the United Methodist Church.
 
He served on the Wapella School Board and was able to give all 5 of his children their high school diplomas.
 
Other involvements included being a director of First National Bank of Clinton, the Masonic Orders, Kiwanis, Farm Bureau, DeWitt County Housing Authority, DeWitt County Building Commission, DeWitt County Conservation Board, DeWitt County Co-op, and the Clinton YMCA.
 
Ernest was an active member of the International Flying Farmers and served through the executive offices. He received great satisfaction in speaking publicly about his World War II experiences. His passions were flying, accumulating over 7000 hours over 70 years, reading, trees, birds and his beloved Chicago Cubs baseball team. Numerous people had their first airplane ride with Ernest as a pilot.
 
Ernest was known about town for his 1977 White Ford LTD station wagon that he drove until 2014. Whether it be driving to the Post Office or busting snow drifts it was special to him in many ways.
 
Ernest was recognized by the community for his philanthropic gifts.
 
Ernest’s life was based on his faith, his love of family, flying and community. A man who made a difference to many, in many different ways. “He was just a boy that wanted to be home on the farm.”

David Buck

David N. Buck 77 of Clinton, Illinois passed away 1:18 A.M. February 1, 2017 at Manor Court, Clinton, IL.
 
Services will be 11 AM, Monday, February 6, 2017 at the First Christian Church, Clinton, IL with J. Kent Hickerson officiating.  Burial will follow at Mausoleum Park Cemetery, Clinton, IL.  Visitation will be 10 - 11 AM, Monday at the church. Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL is in
charge of arrangements.
 
Memorials may be directed to Young at Heart at First Christian Church.
 
David was born October 23, 1939 in Clinton, IL the son of Sherman B. and Virginia (Wilmore) Buck.  He married Judy Anderson June 21, 1962.
 
Survivors include his former wife: Judy Buck, Springfield, IL; three
daughters: Lori Markey, Springfield, IL Amy (Gary) Kiphart, Dalzell, IL
and Jenny (Matthew) Morrell, Springfield, IL; five grandchildren;
siblings: Charlotte (Jerry) Milton, Clinton, IL, Martha (Robert) Bray,
Wapella, IL, along with special friends: Lauren and Hannah Miles.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Craig and 1 sister, Jan
Eldridge.
 
David was a member of First Christian Church, Clinton, IL and Young at
Heart at the church.  He was a salesman for New York Life Insurance and
worked at Buck Appliance for several years.  He loved antiquing.

Robert Laramee

Robert "Bob" Lavon Laramee 80 of Clinton, IL passed away at 8:02 AM Wednesday, February 1, 2017 at St. Mary's Hospital, Decatur, IL.
 
Services will be 1 P.M. Saturday, February 4, 2017 at Christ Lutheran Church, Clinton, IL with Rev. David Dunlop officiating. Burial will follow at Laenna Cemetery, Chestnut, IL.  Visitation will be 5 - 7 P.M. Friday, February 3, 2017 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL.
 
Due to Bob's commitment to being a faithful servant of the Lord, in lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Christ Lutheran Church, Clinton, IL or to St. Mary's Hospital, Decatur, IL.
 
Bob was born December 29, 1936 in Lincoln, IL the son of Ed and Verna (Carlson) Laramee.  He married Janice Armstrong June 30, 1957 at the First
Christian Church in Clinton, after a longer courtship than Bob cared for.  They were happily and committed to marriage for 59 1/2 years and were expected to celebrate many additional years together.
 
Survivors include his wife: Janice M. Laramee, Clinton, IL; sons:  Michael (Lori) Laramee, Ft. Worth, TX; Alan (Cindy) Laramee, Vandalia, IL; Roger (Tim) Laramee, Champaign, IL; daughter, Margo (Ed) Hodges, Delavan, IL; 5 grandchildren:  Hanna (Gus) Schmillen, Blythe (Nathaniel) Bergstrom, Dillon Hodges, Sam Hodges and Charlie Hodges; 2 great-grandchildren:
McKay and Westin Bergstrom; sister, Kathy (Marlin) Roos, Lincoln, IL.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Duane Laramee; and twin brothers, Ronald and Arnold.
 
After graduating high school with the last class attending Kenney High School in 1955, Bob was employed as a Layout Developer for Caterpillar in Decatur for 30 years.  In addition, he was a long-time farmer and Chester White swine producer and showman within DeWitt County where he was a lifetime resident.
 
Bob was a compassionate, hard-working, generous and faithful husband, father, and grandfather.  He enjoyed fishing, chasing a little white ball around the golf course with his buddies, hunting, boating, playing cards with friends and at family gatherings, but most of all he was most proud
of his grandchildren and often boasted to his friends.
 
He was an avid Illini and Cubs fan - no matter their record; he also traveled many miles following his grandsons and cheering them in their many sports activities.  He was very proud of each of his grandchildren and was known as "Grandpa Bob" by his great-grandchildren who loved and
cared for him deeply.
 
Bob was a member of the DeWitt County Farm Bureau, Fire Protection Board,
Clinton Country Club and Christ Lutheran Church.
 
Bob's family wishes to extend sincere thanks and appreciation to Pastor Dunlop and to all the physicians, nurses and staff members of St. Mary's who kept fantastic care for both Bob and his family during such a difficult time.

Larry Edwards

A Celebration of Life honoring Larry T. Edwards will be held February 4, 2017, from 2-4 p.m. at the American Legion in Farmer City. Larry passed away December 8, 2016 at his home. Larry graduated from Monticello High School and resided most of his life in Cisco, moving to Farmer City in 2003.
 
Larry's wife, Martha, and his children and grandchildren invite his friends and family to come share memories and Oreos.
 

Ruth Markword

Ruth V. Markword, 95, of Lincoln, (formerly of Quincy, IL) passed away on January 29, 2017 at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Lincoln.
 
Ruth was born on February 15, 1921 near Hannibal, MO; the daughter of Charles and Floye (Oliver) Irwin. Ruth married W.E. (Sprout) Markword on October 12, 1959.
 
Ruth is survived by her son, Mark (Vicki) Kuhlmeier of Quincy, IL, her daughter, Barbara Hadsell of NV; her grandchildren, Steve (Teresa) Hadsell, Jay (Krishell) Hadsell, of NV, Scott Hadsell, of MO, Jean (Ted) Wagner, of TX, Brian (Kelly) Cale, Chad (Lisa) Cale of Lincoln, IL, Amy (Scott) Kuhlman, of New Holland, IL, Jeremy (Cindy) Cale, of IN, Lauren Kuhlmeier of  Hamilton, IL, Colby (Stasha) Kuhlmeier, of Quincy; her 13 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews including her beloved niece Delores Gunterman and family of SC.
 
Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, three brothers and three sisters, one daughter, Mary Colleen Cale, one son-in-law, Jerry Hadsell, two great-grandchildren, Ashley Bringer and Nick Cale.
Ruth will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Per Ruth’s request there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home, Lincoln.

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