Lawrence Patrick Toohill 89 of Heyworth, IL passed away peacefully at 7:01 PM November 21, 2023 at his family residence, Heyworth, IL.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 AM, Friday, December 1, 2023 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Wapella, IL with Fr. Derick Mwesiga, Celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Wapella, IL with Military Honors. Visitation will be 5-8 PM, Thursday, November 30, 2023 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Wapella, IL with a Rosary Service at 4:30 PM. The family has entrusted Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with arrangements.

Memorials may be directed to the DeWitt Co. Farm Bureau Foundation or St. Patrick’s Outreach Program.

Lawrence was born January 31, 1934 in DeWitt Co., IL the son of Lawrence James and Mary Louise (O’Rourke) Toohill. He married Bernadine North August 9, 1958 in Wapella, IL. She passed away March 31, 2019.

Survivors include his children, Cheryl (Robert) MacKichan, Champaign, IL; Clara (Mark) Gresham, Heyworth, IL; Mary (Gene) Whitted, Wapella, IL; Rose (Dave) Szymkiewicz, Bloomington, IL; Paula (Jim) Kreie, Champaign, IL; Raymond (Martina) Toohill, Wapella, IL; Rebecca (Nick) Buraglio, Savoy, IL; 16 grandchildren, Cameron (Hanna) MacKichan; Ian (Tess) MacKichan; Lauren MacKichan; Tyler (Christa) Haynes; Bryce (Emily) Haynes; Neil (Breanna) Whitted; Ross (fiancé, Cassie Runge) Whitted; Cole (fiancé, Tori Bavaro) Szymkiewicz, Dmitri and Victor Szymkiewicz; Jordan (Megan) Kreie; Mary Allison (Griffin) Meeker; Haley and Ashley Toohill; Luke and Zach Buraglio; nine great grandchildren, Averie, Hadley, Blakely, and Macie Haynes; Kaylee, Michael, and Wyatt Whitted; Brylee Toohill-Summers; and Ella MacKichan; and one on the way;  seven siblings, Martin “Pete” (Sally) Toohill, Clinton, IL; Michael (Kathryn) Toohill, Quail Valley, CA; Mary Ann Hirsch, Rockford, IL; Ellen (Paul) Schweri, Chicago, IL; Julia (Sid) Johnston, Acton, MA; Winifred (Tom) Adler, Lafayette, IN; and Rich (Nancy) Toohill, Davenport, IA; sisters-in-law; Kay Toohill, Wauwatosa, WI; Cleo Toohill, Peoria, IL; Donna North, Clinton, IL; Rose (Charlie) Wilson, Clinton, IL; and Marilyn North, Clinton, IL;  and brother-in-law, Bernard (Pat) North, Clinton, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers:  David Toohill, Robert Toohill, and Donald Toohill; sisters, Catherine (Tom) Dennis; sister-in-law, Cathy Toohill; and brother-in-law, Frank Hirsch.

Lawrence was a selfless man of faith who loved his family and farming.  He farmed in DeWitt County all of his life.  Lawrence was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Wapella, IL and a US Army Veteran.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

Bob Van Apeldoorn, a long-time resident of Clinton, Illinois, passed away at the age of 79 on Wednesday, November 22, 2023. Bob was born October 7, 1944, in Den Dolder, Netherlands to Hendrik and Anthonia Van Apeldoorn. Bob proudly served in the Royal Dutch Air Force, prior to migrating to the U.S.

Upon arrival in the U.S., Bob started working for a natural gas conversion company that traveled across the states, until he made residency in Clinton, IL.

Using his unique mechanical skills, he was later hired by the Clinton Power Plant in the 1970's to help with construction.

Being a car-aficionado and hard worker, Bob worked for Shell Downs Motors, then opened his own business, Bob’s Import Sales and Service, where he specialized in foreign cars for many years and enjoyed collecting many of his own.

Bob was the proud father of Gina (Jason) Defebaugh, Jessie (Kat) Van Apeldoorn, and Erik (Tracy) Van Apeldoorn. He was Grandpa to Taelor, Morgan, Rylee, Brently, and Great Grandpa to Hazel. Bob had one younger brother, the late Dirk Van Apeldoorn. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Gea Van Apeldoorn, a nephew, Ray Van Apeldoorn, and a cousin, Carla Van Apeldoorn, all still of the Netherlands.

Bob loved to travel and went to his share of auto races and Mississippi golf courses. Bob was a past Exalted Ruler of the Clinton Elks Club 785 and enjoyed spending time with friends there, and at the Clinton Eagles Club.

Bob left his mark in life and will be missed by all who knew him.

Memorials may be made to: The Dewitt County EMS, The Kenney Fire Department, or The PC Project (Pachyonychia Congenita).

A celebration of life will be held 2 PM- 6 PM on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at the Clinton Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge located at 220 N. Center St. Clinton, IL. The family entrusted Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with cremation rites.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

Dorothy “Joan” Taylor, 87, of Weldon, IL passed away 1:32 PM November 14, 2023 at Decatur Memorial Hospital, Decatur, IL.

Private family graveside services will be Monday, November 20, 2023 at Weldon Cemetery, Weldon, IL with Pastor Jeremy Sawyer officiating. Visitation will be 5-7 PM Friday, November 17, 2023 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL.

Memorials may be directed to the Dorothy Joan Taylor Memorial Fund.

Joan was born January 16, 1936 in Macon, IL the daughter of Edd and Esther (Davis) Cunningham.  She married Elmer “Squeak” Taylor, Jr. March 3, 1956 in Clinton, IL.  He passed away September 19, 2015.

Survivors include her son, Steven D. (Sheila) Taylor, Winslow, AR; three grandchildren:  Rachel (Patrick) Costello, Clinton, IL; Joshua (Hannah) Taylor, Winslow, AR; and Ashley (Dillon) Barnard, Clinton, IL; seven great-grandchildren:  Mason Costello, Liliana Barnard, Lizzie Barnard, Lorelai Barnard, Lunaria Barnard, Sophie Linker, and Louis Linker, and one on the way, Tobias Taylor; and two sisters, Paulette Harper, Decatur, IL and Dolly (Butch) Zerfowski, Macon, IL also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Becki Farris; three brothers, and three sisters.

Joan was a member of the Clinton Assembly of God Church.  She was a beautician for over 20 years and worked at Eureka for 10 years.  Joan enjoyed taking care of her lawn and flowers.  She had many friends at the Friendship Center.  Joan especially loved spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

Rebecca J. Thoms, 76, of Clinton, IL passed away 3:25 PM, November 14, 2023 at HSHS St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, IL.

Memorial services will be held at a later date. The family entrusted Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with cremation rites.

Memorials may be directed to Second Chance for Pets.

Rebecca was born May 25,1947 in Clinton, IL the daughter of William Frank and Dorothy (Lambert) Black.

Survivors include her daughter Patricia “P.J.” (William “Bill”) Stacey, Illiopolis, IL; foster son Roger Griffieth, Clinton, IL; grandchildren Megan Massey and Miranda Massey; great grandchildren Carter Harris and Cohen Massey; and sister Linda Chockley, Lincoln, IL.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three children, Jesse William, Anthony “Tony” Ray, and Aretta Marie Thoms; two siblings, William “Frankie” Black and J.R. Black.

After over thirty years Rebecca retired from Revere Copper & Brass Inc. She loved animals and collecting angels.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

Gregory Edwin Hougham, 67, of Heyworth, IL passed away 7:26 PM November 8, 2023 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, IL.

Services will be 11 AM, Monday, November 13, 2023 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Josh Gorrie officiating. Burial will follow at Long Point Cemetery, Wapella, IL. Visitation will be 10 – 11 AM, Monday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed to Alcoholics Anonymous – Illinois District 11.

Gregory was born August 31, 1956 in Bloomington, IL the son of A.L. “Augie” and Burnetta (Bundy) Hougham. He married Trudy Long on December 30, 1988 in Clinton, IL.

Survivors include his wife, Trudy Hougham, Heyworth, IL; mother, Burnetta Hougham, Heyworth, IL; siblings, Alden Lee (Donna) Hougham, II, Heyworth, IL, and Stacie (Don) Raffety, Rock Hill, S.C.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Gregory was a member of the Wapella Christian Church.  He was a chemical dependency counselor in Bloomington, IL for over 20 years.  Gregory loved to ride his Harley Davidson and tell old stories.  He had recently celebrated receiving his 40 year pin from Alcoholics Anonymous.  Gregory loved spending time with his family and his beloved dog, Max.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

Russel A. VanOrman, 92, of Clinton, IL, passed away 12:50 PM, November 6, 2023 at the Arc at Normal, Normal, IL.

Graveside Services with Military Honors will be held 3:15 PM, Thursday, November 9, 2023 at Oak Park Cemetery, Clinton, IL with Pastor Nick Blacklidge officiating. Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Russel was born April 12, 1931 in Chicago, IL the son of Harry O. and Margaret I. (Moran) VanOrman. He married Eileen Followell on August 14, 1954 in Clinton, IL.

Survivors include his wife, Eileen VanOrman, Clinton, IL; children: Vickie Reynolds, Bloomington, IL; Jeff (Jan) VanOrman, Union Grove, AL; Valorie (Eric) Rempe, Clinton, IL; six grandchildren:  Ryan Reynolds, Seth Reynolds, Brian Rempe, Alex Rempe, Andrew Rempe, and Kathleen VanOrman; seven great-grandchildren:  Scarlett Rempe, Graham Rempe, Otto Rempe, Hayden Rempe, Gage Reynolds, Grady White, and Taylor Hennessy; five great-great-grandchildren also survive.   

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Rovenia M. Moles.

Russel served in the U.S. Marine Corps for three years one of which in Korea obtaining the rank of Sergeant.  He worked at Illinois Central Gulf for 10 years before retiring from Firestone in Decatur, IL after 30 years of service.  Russel loved Blue Grass music, camping, and giving candy to his friends and family.  Russel volunteered at the Clinton Christian Academy and was known as the “snackman” to the students.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

Barbara Ann Reynolds, 88, of Clinton, IL passed away at 12:40 AM, November 3, 2023 at Liberty Village, Clinton, IL.

Barbara was born in rural DeWitt, IL on November 13, 1934 to John and Delzena (Dolly) Reynolds.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, David Reynolds and brother, Russell Reynolds and special nephew, Terry Reynolds.  Surviving are 2 sisters; Beverly (John) Reynolds, Clinton, IL, Debbie Bair, Florida, 10 nieces and nephews, 24 great-nieces and nephews and 31 great-great nieces and nephews.

Barbara graduated from Clinton High School. After graduation, Barbara worked for the telephone company before starting a long career at Revere.  She eventually became the Buyer for the company before retiring after 39 years.   Barbara made many special friends at Revere.

She enjoyed traveling, baking, reading, movies, crocheting, and crafting.  Barbara’s friends and family benefited from the fruits of her labor.  She baked fabulous pies for family gatherings, and crocheted afghans for each of her family members. 

Barbara will be missed by so many who loved her dearly. She was a special lady.

Funeral services will be 3 PM, Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Scott Marsh officiating.  Visitation will be held 2-3 PM, Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will be held at DeWitt Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Dewitt County Friendship Center or to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

Lois A. (Roberts) Taylor Bell, 85, of Decatur, IL passed away 6:04 PM, November 2, 2023 at her family residence, Decatur, IL.

Services will be 11 AM, Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Scott Marsh officiating.  Burial will follow at Oak Park Cemetery, Clinton, IL. Visitation will be 5-7 PM, Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed to Little Galilee Christian Assembly, 7539 Little Galilee Rd., Clinton, IL  61727 or the Maroa Christian Church, 430 E. Main St., Maroa, IL  61756.

Lois was born in 1938 in DeWitt County at the family’s farm home located between Lane and Weldon, IL.  She was the fourth and last child of Franz A. “Pete” and Irma C. (Brennan) Roberts.

Lois was married to John “Bill” Taylor from 1955 to 1980.  She married Allan Bell in 1990.

Survivors include her husband, Allan; daughter, Deanna Taylor Milanski; son, Terry Taylor; stepdaughter, Amy Bell Calhoun; stepson, Jim Bell; plus two unofficially adopted daughters:  Vicky Dunaway Niles and Amanda Bruce Krodel; four grandchildren; six step-grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two step great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren plus two step great-great-grandchildren.  On the Roberts branch of the family, she had 80 living nieces and nephews (not counting the spouses or the step nieces and/or nephews).  She was a great, great, great, great aunt to five of them as of 2023.  She also had seven nieces and nephews on the Bell branch and 22 on the Taylor branch for a total of 109 nieces and nephews.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Debra Kay Taylor; her sister Betty (Roberts) Rau and Floy (Roberts) Harmon; her brother, Robert Roberts; and her brothers-in-law Alex Stogsdill, Gerald Rau, and David Arthur Harmon.

During her working years she worked for numerous companies and held various positions including employment Manager at Revere Copper & Brass, Inc. and Employment Specialist at Illinois Power Company’s nuclear power plant.  Her favorite job was when she was 71 years old, she kept her great-grandson Dylan Taylor for two days a week from the time he was eight weeks old until he went to Kindergarten.  At the same time, she kept her grandson Jacob Taylor’s book for his AMS company.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

My dear mother, Alice Roberta (Van Fossan) Elsea sadly passed away on November 2, 2023 at the age of 101 years at Randall Residence of Decatur, Decatur, IL.

Services will be 11 AM, Monday, November 6, 2023 at the Bridge Church Fellowship, Argenta, IL with Chaplain Joe Bowman and Pastor Bob Baker officiating.  Burial will follow at Friends Creek Cemetery, Argenta, IL.  Visitation will be 10-11 AM, Monday at the Church.  Calvert Funeral Home, Argenta, IL is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be directed to the Bridge Church Fellowship.

Alice was born September 16, 1922 in Decatur, IL the daughter of Raymond and Pheobe (Ferris) Van Fossan.  She married the love of her life, Ralph Elsea, Jr. November 10, 1940 in St. Charles, MO and their marriage lasted 71 blissful years.  He passed away November 16, 2011.

She leaves two children, Paula (John) Hill, Decatur, IL, and Ted Elsea, Oreana, IL; four grandchildren:  Aaron Hill, Chad Elsea, Kelly (Craig) Brown, and Ryan (Allison)Elsea; five great-grandchildren:  Jaice Hill, Kirstin Elsea,  Jonas Elsea, and Lily Elsea; and sister, Betty Buck, San Diego, CA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters:  Mildred Turner, Mary Driscoll, Velma Edwards, Grace Arnett; brother, Howard “Bud” Van Fossan; one grandson, Todd Hill; and one great-grandson, Trevor Elsea.

Alice was a wonderful person who loved to cook and bake.  Her home often housed out-of-town relatives, for hers was the gathering place.  She enjoyed keeping a clean house with neatly tended vegetable and flower gardens.  Her interests included Bunco, attending her grandsons’ sports games, and watching her beloved St. Louis Cardinals baseball games.  She was a member of the Bridge Church Fellowship.  Mom worked as a cook for 17 years at the Argenta Grade School where meals were served homemade with love.  She and dad wintered in Florida in their RV for 20 years.

The family would like to thank Lisa Manning and Randall’s for their loving care and Elara Caring Hospice team.  “Until we meet again, Mom.”

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com