Rachel Wenta

ST. JOSEPH – Rachel Wenta, 88, of St. Joseph passed away at 5:45 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, 2016, at Champaign County Nursing Home, Urbana.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, with Pastor Paul Dinges officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olive Cemetery, Mayview. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Rachel was born April 20, 1928, in a farmhouse in Owen, Wis., the daughter of Josef E. Serafia Haapaniemi Bjorn.

She married Joseph Wenta on April 10, 1948, at Great Lakes. He preceded her in death on Dec. 7, 2002.

She is survived by her son, David (Kelly) Wenta of St. Joseph; daughters, Anona Stack of Cleveland Heights, Ohio, Sanna (Patrick) King of Winchester, Mo.; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; one sister, Elvie Fredbeck of Gurnee.

She was preceded in death by her parents, six brothers and three sisters.

Rachel worked many years at Champaign County Bank and Trust and Busey Bank and later Collegiate Cap and Gown.

She was a member of the Mayview Methodist Church and later the St. Joseph United Methodist Church. She was a member WSCS out of the Methodist Church. She taught Sunday School and Bible school and Methodist Youth.

She enjoyed baking and won numerous ribbons at the Champaign County Fair.

Rachel and her husband welcomed for many years international students from the University of Illinois into their home.

The family would like to thank Amber Glen, Champaign County Nursing Home, Habour Light Hospice, St. Joseph United Methodist Church, friends and neighbors.

Memorials may be made to the St. Joseph United Methodist Church.

Keith Kropp

SIDNEY – Keith "Keeter" Kropp, 48, of Sidney passed away at 9:04 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2016, at home.

Graveside services will be 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017, at Bill Huss Chapel Cemetery, Sidney. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney. Family asks that you wear casual attire.

Mr. Kropp was born Oct. 11, 1968, in Champaign, a son to Martin "Marty" and Susan Mitchell Kropp.

He married Teresa Feldkamp on May 12, 1990, at Sidney. She survives. Also surviving are his dog, Hannah, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Kevin.

He was owner/operator of Redneck Apparel Company, Sidney. He was a lieutenant on Sidney Fire Department.

He was considered a pillar of the community always wanting to help anybody, showing his big heart. He was instrumental in the car show during Sidney Fun Daze for 15 years.

Memorials may be made to Sidney Fire Department.

Phyllis May Hale

OAKLAND – Phyllis May Hale, 88, of Oakland passed away Saturday (Dec. 24, 2016) at Hilltop Nursing Home in Charleston.

She was born Sept. 20, 1928, in Ishpeming, Mich., the daughter of Madge and J. Kenneth Smith. She married the Rev. Charles E. Hale on June 30, 1950. He passed away Dec. 11, 2000.

Phyllis is survived by three sons, Stephan (Priscilla) of St. Joseph, Robert (Donna) of Oakland and Donald (Chris) of Oakland; seven grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a brother, David (Toodie) Smith of Marion, Ind.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; a brother, Lt. Richard Smith; and a sister, Mary Alice Yates.

Phyllis graduated from Franklin College and earned her master's from the University of Illinois. She taught home economics, high school English, remedial reading and second grade and third grade at schools in central Illinois. Towns included were Champaign, Decatur, Oakland, Niantic-Harristown, Heyworth and Wapella.

She was a member of the Oakland United Methodist Church and was an active member of the United Methodist Women. She loved to sew and make blankets and quilts for the Baby Fold and relief organizations. She made several beautiful wall hangings for the church in Oakland. Phyllis was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma in Douglas County.

Phyllis and Charles served many churches together in East Central Illinois. Churches included were Clifton, Danville, Hume, Metcalf, Kansas, Harmony, St. Joseph, Decatur, Oakland, Hindsboro, Chatsworth, Heyworth, Gays and Edgar, Ill.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Oakland United Methodist Church, Oakland Memorial Library or Oakland-Hindsboro Charitable Foundation.

Services will be at Krabel Funeral Home in Oakland at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, with a visitation one hour prior to the funeral. Burial will be in the Harmony Cemetery north of Kansas. Online condolences may be left at www.krabelfuneralhome.com.

Forrest Edgar Anderson

DANVILLE - Forrest Edgar Anderson, 82, of Danville, passed away at 2 a.m. on Dec. 17, 2016 at Heritage Health in Hoopeston. 

Forrest was born on Sept. 11, 1934, in Homer, the son of Edgar J. and Nellie Mae (Yeazel) Anderson. 

He married Carolyn Lavonne Lusk on Oct. 20, 1957, in Rossville, and she survives. 
Other survivors include his son, Mark Russell (Lisa) Anderson of Sunrise, Fla.; one grandson, Ryan Matthew Anderson of Sunrise, Fla.; three sisters, Shirley (Donald) Kelly of St. Joseph, Judith (Henry) Dunn of Lehigh Acres, Fla., and Karen (Ken) Currier of Lakeland, Fla.; and one brother, Donald (Gayle) Anderson of Las Vegas, Nev. as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Forrest is preceded in death by his parents; one son, Richard Dean Anderson; two sisters, Jean Murray and Barbara Anderson; and one brother, Larry Anderson. 

Forrest graduated from Homer High School in 1952 and proudly served his country in the United States Army with Company A of the 70th Engineering Battalion in Salzburg, Austria and Germany. He was honorably discharged on Jan. 31, 1962 and attained the rank of SP-3. During his time in the service, he received the Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Army Occupation Medal. Forrest was a farmer for most of his life and during the off-season, worked seasonally at FMC Corporation as well as Stokely-Van Camp Plant. Forrest was a member of Rossville United Methodist Church in Rossville. 

In his free time, he enjoyed tinkering out in his tool shed, working on various projects, and maintaining his farm equipment. Forrest was amazing with his hands, passing those skills to his son, Mark. If it broke, he could fix it! He was known as the "go to guy" by everyone. 
A Chapel Committal Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 23, at Sunset Memorial Park Chapel Mausoleum, 3901 N. Vermilion St., in Danville. Raymie Gordon will officiate. Inurnment will be in Sunset Memorial Park Danville. 

Memorials may be made to St Jude's Children's Hospital. 

Please join Forrest's family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com. - See more at: http://obituaries.commercial-news.com/story/forrest-anderson-1934-2016-857520912#sthash.53lnKBjR.dpuf

Brian Lyn Kilian

SAN MATEO, Calif – Brian Lyn Kilian, 50, of San Mateo, Calif., formerly of Homer, passed away on Dec. 6, 2016, at AM Residential Care Home in Burlingame, Calif.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, at Homer United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Teri Shane officiating. Burial will take place in St. John's Cemetery, Broadlands. There will be no visitation.

Kirby Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St., Homer, is handling arrangements.

Brian was born on Aug. 31, 1966, in Champaign, the son of Harold Glen and Mary Anne Lee Kilian.

Survivors include his father, Harold Kilian of Homer; brothers, Keith (Anne) Kilian of Homer and Craig (Lorita) Kilian of Truman, Minn.; nieces and nephews, Tricia (Ryan) Kurtenbach, Reid (Shannon) Kilian, Wade (Mary) Kilian, Zachary Kilian and Cydney Kilian; and great-nieces and nephews, Gabriel Kurtenbach, Miranda Kurtenbach and Cameron Kilian.

He was preceded in death by his mother and brother, Brett.

Brian was an elevator mechanic. He was a member of International Union of Electric Constructors Local No. 8. He had a wonderful family of friends.

Memorials can be made to Homer United Methodist Church or Homer Fire and Rescue.

Steven Hodge

BROADLANDS – Steven Hodge, 62, of Broadlands passed away at 9 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, 2016, at Meadowbrook Health Care, Champaign.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 19, 2016, at the Joines Funeral Home, 401 W. Gillogly St., Newman, with the Rev. Kathy Murphy officiating. Burial will be in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, northeast of Newman. Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Steve was born June 17, 1954, in Danville, the son of Charles and Wilma Cross Hodge. He married Bobbi Gilstrap on Jan. 6, 1979, in Newman. She survives.

Also surviving are his mother of Decatur; one son, Adam Hodge, Champaign; one daughter, Bridget (Jim) Sellers of Rosewood Heights; three grandchildren, Landon, Haley and Kyle Sellers, of Rosewood Heights; one brother, Chris (Kathy) Hodge, Champaign; two sisters, Cha (Mike) Bishop, Decatur and Tina (Gary) Henderson, Allerton; several much loved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father in 2015.

Steve was a 1972 graduate of ABL High School.

He served as a medic in the U.S. Air Force. He was retired from the U.S Postal Service. Following retirement he returned to work as an EKG tech at Carle.

For many years, he coached football at both Heritage and Salt Fork high schools. He also coached both boys' and girls' basketball at Heritage. He enjoyed playing himself on the Nostalgia basketball team and on a slow pitch softball team.

Steve's hobby was ballroom dancing. He also enjoyed watching TV so much, especially the old black and white movies, that he earned the nickname of "TV Steve".

He belonged to the Masons and was a member of the Homer American Legion.

Memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors or to the American Cancer Society.

Joines Funeral Home, Newman, is in charge of arrangements.

Sandra K. Pinaire

URBANA – Sandra K. Pinaire, 70 of Urbana passed away at 1:45 a.m. Sunday (Dec. 4, 2016) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, 2016, at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph, with David Barcus officiating. Burial will be in Yearsley Cemetery, Urbana. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

Sandra was born March 5, 1946, at Clinton, the daughter of Ralph and Tressie Golden Tudor. She married Larry Pinaire Nov. 27, 1966 at Weldon. He survives.

She is also survived by a son Bryan (Carla) Pinaire of St. Joseph; brother Carl E. (Linda) Tudor of Pearl, Miss.; six grandchildren Cortney (Craig) Hall, Austin Pinaire, Dakota Pinaire, Jacinta (Jesse) Smith, Jordan (Yaritza) Bladen and Chase Chapman; nine great-grandchildren Kylan, Reese, Zoe, Cheyanne, Jeese Jr., Loyatt, Karsyn, Drayven and Jasmyn.

She was preceded in death by her parents and an infant brother.

Sandra worked as a waitress, retail sales and babysitting children. She enjoyed attending her grandchildren's sporting events, spending time with family and decorating her house.

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.

Elvin J. Ackerman

RANTOUL – Elvin J. Ackerman, 88, of Rantoul died at 12:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville with the Rev. James T. Lehmann and the Rev. Barbara Busboom officiating. Burial will follow in Kopmann Cemetery. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is handling arrangements.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6, in Dier's Hall, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville followed by a prayer service.

Elvin was born Jan. 15, 1928, in Compromise Township, the son of Ehme and Ida S. Saathoff Ackerman.

He married Mildred Ehmen March 6, 1948, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville. She preceded him in death Oct. 20, 2010.

He is survived by three daughters, Linda (Tom) Finger, Barbara Hall, Lois (Gary) Sjoken, all of Rantoul; four grandchildren, Lisa (Pastor Nathan) Feig, James Finger, Jessica (Christopher) Baker, Timothy (Brooke) Sjoken; three great-grandsons and expecting a fourth great-grandson in May and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Elvin was a lifelong grain farmer. He was also a dairy farmer for a number of years raising registered Holstein cattle and a top milk producer in Champaign County. He later raised beef cattle, showing them at local county fairs and the Illinois State Fair winning many trophies and awards, including the Grand Champion Bull in the State of Illinois.

He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville and served on the church council. He was a 50-year member of the Gifford Lion's Club and a former school board member of the Flatville Grade School and Rantoul Township High School.

He enjoyed bowling and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. After his retirement, he pursued his passion for woodworking and worked on projects around the house.

He was a loving father, "opa" and friend and will be missed by all.

Memorials may be made to the Gifford Lion's Club, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville or an organization of the donor's choice. Condolences may be offered at www.baierfuneralservices.com

Annis Skinner

BROADLANDS – Annis Skinner, 93, of Broadlands passed away at 10:10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2016, at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 5, 2016, at Joines Funeral Home, 401 W. Gillogly St., Newman, with the Rev. Ben Williamson officiating. Burial will be in the Fairfield Cemetery north of Newman. Visitation will be one hour before service time.

She was born Oct. 28, 1923, in Indiana, a daughter of Everett and Mattie Chandler Wagoner. She moved to Illinois as an infant with her grandparents with whom she made her home. She married James R. Skinner on Nov. 22, 1942, in St. Louis. He preceded her in death in 1985.

Surviving are one daughter, Sue (Bob) Todd of LeRoy; two granddaughters, Tara (Jason) Bolding of LaGrange and Trina (Brent Wallace) Todd of LeRoy; and seven great-grandchildren.

Annis was one of 10 children, five brothers and four sisters. Several have preceded her in death.

She was a member of the United Community Church of Broadlands. She had been employed by the Heritage and ABL school districts and worked for the Jury Commission of Champaign County for many years.

She had resided for the past one and a half years at the LeRoy Manor in LeRoy.

Memorials may be made to the St. Jude Children's Hospital or to the donor's choice.

Patricia Diane Ronk Griffith

CHAMPAIGN – Patricia Diane Ronk Griffith went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday (Nov. 22, 2016) at her home in Champaign.

Patricia was born on July 9, 1946, to Nolan O. and Rosemary (Cummings) Ronk at Burnham Hospital in Champaign. She graduated from ABL High School in 1964. After graduation she went to work at Carle Clinic in Urbana as a pathology secretary. She worked there for approximately 13 years.

Patricia married Thomas L. Griffith on April 23, 1980, at the Webber Street Church of Christ in Urbana. Shortly after marrying, Thomas was transferred to the Kraft corporate headquarters in Chicago.

Upon moving to Chicago, Patricia returned to school studying business law and then went to work for Allstate Insurance Company at their corporate headquarters in Northbrook.

After Allstate sold their medical division, she went to work for Metlife until her retirement in 1999. After retirement, they returned to Champaign to be near friends and family.

Patricia is survived by her husband, Thomas; son, Greg (Misty) Nelson of Mahomet; daughter, Michelle (Neal) Scott of McHenry; grandchildren, Zachary Nelson, Brittany Nelson, Madisen Nelson, Morgan Scott and Morgan Scharf; and great-granddaughter, Jaden Prince.

She is also survived by brothers, John (Denise) Ronk, Ray (Cathy) Ronk and Paul (Kathy) Ronk; a sister, Donna (Mike-deceased) Fanakos; along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her oldest brother, Dick Ronk.

After her family (especially her grandchildren), Patricia loved vacationing at Kentucky Lake, boating, Sprint car racing, downhill skiing and the Chicago Cubs.

A private graveside service for family will be held at Grandview Memorial Gardens Mausoleum on Friday, Nov. 25.

Condolences may be offered at www.owensfuneralhomes.com.

Sonya Diana Pizell Phenicie

URBANA – Sonya Diana Phenicie, 76, passed away on Saturday (Nov. 19, 2016) at Presence Covenant Medical Center in Urbana.

She was born on March 19, 1940, to Arthur and Viola (Reed) Pizell in Champaign. Diane married Jerry M. Phenicie on Aug. 3, 1958, in St. Joseph.

Diane is survived by her daughters, Nancy Phenicie and Judy (Tim) Skinner; grandchildren, Zachary (Jessie) Skinner and Caleb Skinner; five great-grandchildren; brother, Raymond Pizell; and sister, Linda Bowlin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and three sisters, Edith, Delorse and Patty.

Diane loved cats. She enjoyed crocheting and sewing as well as cooking and baking. She and her husband enjoyed playing bingo together for many years.

A graveside committal will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 25, at Grandview Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made in Diane's name to the Champaign County Humane Society.

Sunset Funeral Home, 710 N. Neil St., Champaign, is in charge of arrangements. Please join her family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Ronald G. Munds

ST. JOSEPH – Ronald G. Munds, 70, of St. Joseph passed away at 11:04 p.m. Thursday (Nov. 17, 2016) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Nov. 22, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. Graveside services will follow at Patterson Cemetery, St. Joseph.

Ron was born on Oct. 18, 1946, in Champaign, the son of Alfred "Al" and Gladys Marsh Munds. He married Rosealice Smith in 1967. They were married for 25 years. They had two sons, Ron J. Munds of Monticello and Rob Munds of Tolono; three grandchildren, Alyson Warmbier, Kassidy Munds and Adam Munds; and two great-grandchildren, Parker and Jade Warmbier.

Also surviving are his mother, Gladys Munds of St. Joseph; siblings, Jerrie Ward of Princeton, Ind., Michael "Mick"(Monica) Munds of Monticello and Pat Munds of St. Joseph; several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Al Munds; brother-in-law, Bobby Ward; and nephews, Steve Ward and Brian Ward.

Ron worked at various local lumber yards. He enjoyed talking with the contractors and customers. He was a hard worker. He enjoyed going to auctions and refinishing furniture.

Donations may be made to a college fund for his great-grandchildren.

Donald Ray Williams

ST. JOSEPH – Donald Ray Williams of St. Joseph, 78, passed on from this life on Monday (Nov. 14, 2016).

Graveside service will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, at Patterson Cemetery in St. Joseph.

Don, the son of a coal miner and oldest of five children, was born on Aug. 18, 1938, to Lester and Alice (Wainwright) Williams. Don was preceded in death by his parents and his infant siblings, Carolyn and Jerry. His best friend and partner in crime Pete, a black Lab mix, also preceded him in death.

Don married Bonnie Jean McElwee on June 21, 1959. Don and Bonnie had three children, Rodney (Melissa) Williams of St. Joseph, Melinda (Greg) Campbell of Mahomet and Cathy (Kyle) Jorgensen of Bloomington. He is survived by his wife Bonnie, brother Dave Williams of Danville, and sister Linda (Bob) Adolph of Catlin.

Don is also survived by six grandchildren, Miranda (Adam) Groth of Kansas City, Mo., Andrew Kumler of Boulder, Colo., Kyle Williams and Jonathon Williams, both of St. Joseph, Arek Jorgensen and Seth Jorgensen, both of Bloomington; and lastly, Charlie Girl, his beloved black Lab.

Don was a 1957 graduate of Oakwood High School, Oakwood. He then began a long career as a grocery clerk, employed by A&P Grocery. Don worked at several A&P stores, including Champaign, Georgetown and Paxton. He also worked at Ayr-Way IGA, Prospect IGA and Rantoul IGA as produce manager.

Don retired and continued to do what he enjoyed - delivering fresh produce, which he sold to local grocers. In the summer, he'd drive to the "melon patch" for cantaloupe and watermelons and in the autumn pumpkins and firewood.

Don often displayed his goods in the front lawn of his home and sold them using the "honor system." Occasionally, Don gave away more than he sold but did not mind because he enjoyed visiting with both friends and people whom he did not know.

Along with the assistance of picking out the perfect melon or pumpkin came a "Hey, come on in" or a wave from him at the front door. No one left without hearing a story from Don or receiving a pleasant chat.

Don and Bonnie loved going to the Great Smoky Mountains, driving through Gatlinburg and continuing through to Cherokee, N.C. Don and Bonnie would sometimes make several trips a year to the Smoky Mountains, visiting Cades Cove in hopes of seeing a bear before returning to their favorite restaurant, Huck Finn's Catfish, and their favorite hotel, The Norma Dan Hotel. Don's favorite entertainment was the singer and comedian "High Pockets" at the Smoky Mountain Jubilee.

Don was also a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals.

The family would like to thank the wonderful and caring doctors, nurses and staff at Presence Covenant Medical Center who helped care for Don during his stay.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to St. Joseph Fire and Rescue for their wonderful care and service over the years.

Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, is in charge of arrangements.

Barbara J. Lane

OGDEN – Barbara J. Lane, 75, of Ogden passed away on Thursday (Nov. 10, 2016) at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.

Services will be at noon Thursday, Nov. 17, 2016, at Pape Family Funeral Home, 10 E. Williams St., Danville, with Pastor Dave Garver officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday. Burial will follow at Stearns Cemetery in Muncie.

Barbara was born March 6, 1941, in Muncie, to John and Ruby (Followell) Curry. She attended Tilton schools and worked as the head cook for D118 schools for more than 20 years before retiring in 2000. Barbara was a member of Muncie Baptist Church and could often be found playing cards and computer games, as well as baking (especially cakes).

Barbara married Bob Lane in 1982, and he passed away in July of this year. Surviving are two sons, Lawrence (Theresa) Long and Charles Frazier (Vickie Boehme); a daughter, Diane Lane; three grandchildren, Stephanie Vincent, Kalli Lane (Kyle) and Taylor Martin; a great-grandchild, Megan Vincent; and another great-granddaughter due in February, Kailynn.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bob; four brothers; and four sisters.

Messages and memories may be offered online at www.papefuneral.comor on the Pape Family Funeral Home Facebook page.

Memorials may be made in Barbara's name to Muncie Baptist Church.

Elizabeth Ann Wells

EFFINGHAM – Elizabeth Ann Wells, age 92, died peacefully on Monday, Oct. 31, 2016, at St. Anthony's Hospital in Effingham.

Born Elizabeth Ann Foss on June 21, 1924, in Bridgeport, Ann made her home in St. Joseph for 50 years. She worked in the University of Illinois' Physics Department before retiring in the 1990s.

The eldest of five children born to James and Cecil Foss, Ann is survived by her sister Phyllis Smith of Florida and her brother James Foss (Barbara) of Maryland. She was preceded in death by her sister Jeane Howard, brother William "Bill" Foss and beloved son-in-law Allen Satterfield.

Ann had three daughters with her former husband, Richard Wells, and was a beautifully loving mother. Her girls, Lucy Dorene Allis (Michael) of Effingham, Merry Sharon Satterfield (Allen) of Champaign and Melinda Kay Mabry (Frank) of Cornwall-On-Hudson, N.Y., all survive. Childhood memories of Pendleton skirts, black mary janes, Green Rivers and hot dog sandwiches wrapped in foil at drive-in movies made way for true friendship as they all aged together, and the girls spent untold hours together talking with, laughing with, and simply being near their mom. Those conversations continue, differently now.

"Grams" or "Grandma" to her family and most family friends, she was our beloved one, matriarch, trusted counsel and confidant.

She crocheted our children's first blankies (including a certain well-loved BoBo) and rocked the babies in her practiced arms, loving each for themselves. Grams held us, no matter our age, cared for us while we convalesced, sat vigil with us and otherwise created a home that was a sanctuary for her family.

Some memories of Grams' house are shared by us all, some are ours individually: The elephant plant stand at the door, the bird collection on the hutch, candies from the amber cut glass dish and pictures of all of us everywhere. Together, we tended the bird feeders and flower beds, and grilled on the backyard deck we designed and built for her 75th birthday.

Grams was unstoppable and unflappable. She walked the perimeter of St. Joe each morning for many years. She traveled frequently throughout her life, often with her friend Mary Jane and sister Phyllis, on countless impromptu road trips (made faster by Grams' lead foot), or longer vacations to Sanibel Island, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, numerous islands, parasailing at age 82, and frequently to her sister's in Lakeland.

Grams' legacy of love, strength and resilience carries on in her grandchildren, Samantha Toral (Tony Filardi), Rex Shaw (Sheri), Lisa Meid (Christopher Young), Michael "Tony" Shaw (Lisa), Brian Bialeschki, Rachel Bialeschki, Sarah Foss and Brandon Satterfield (Alex Thompson).

"We're going to Grams' house" was all it took to elicit a burst of excitement from her many great and great-great grandchildren, among them Lindsay Ronk, Ryan Toral, Samuel "Sam" Toral, Cameron Shaw, Madison Shaw, Danielle Almaraz (Antonio), Justin Meid, Katherine "Kate" Meid, Michael Young, Arbella Almaraz, Selene Almaraz, Emilio "Emi" Almaraz, Tyler Stewart (Bridget), William "Billy" Stevenson (Chelsea), Bethany Seefeldt (Braden), Adrian Stewart, Braxton and Beaux, Brendan Wells, Nicholas Wells and Courtney Paulter.

Our family is grateful for the love and care shown to Grams by Mary Aguilera, Trish and the staff from Brookstone Estates, and the nurses, doctors, and staff at St. Anthony's. Thank you.

A private memorial will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, please consider a donation to be used for a memorial project at Kolb Park, named after Ann's friend and physician Dr. Kolb and near her home, where generations of grandchildren spent hours playing with their Grams.

Memorial donations can be directed to: Ann Wells Trust, 613 Erin Drive, Champaign, IL 61822.

Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be anxious, for I am your God. I will fortify you, yes, I will help you. I will really hold on to you with my right hand of righteousness. Isaiah 41:10

Jerry Grayfeather Ferguson

 St. Joseph - Jerry Grayfeather Ferguson passed away on 11/7/2016 in Champaign, IL. Jerry was born on March 2, 1946. He will forever be known as Cowboy. A private service will be held at a later date. Condolences may be sent to his family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

David Wayne Buck

HOMER – David Wayne Buck, 53, of Homer passed away at 5:40 a.m. Thursday (Oct. 27, 2016) at his home.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 31, at Kirby Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St., Homer. The Rev. Dennis Anglin will officiate. Burial will be in GAR Cemetery, Homer. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home.

David was born May 11, 1963, in Danville, the son of Charles Gordon and Shirley Spicer Buck.

He is survived by one sister, Sharon Weller of Ogden; two brothers, William Buck of Biloxi, Miss., and Charles (Darla) Buck of Homer; and several nieces and nephews.

David was a certified nursing assistant at the Danville Veterans Affairs hospital and later was employed at the Champaign Meijer as a sales associate. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion.

His hobbies included playing cards and going to ball games to watch his nieces and nephews play. He was an Illini fan, Bears fan and Cubs fan. He loved to play Monopoly and looked forward to the all-night Monopoly game they would have every Christmas Eve.

Memorials can be made to Homer Fire and Rescue.

Robert C. Reinhart

VILLA GROVE – Robert C. Reinhart, 86, of St. Joseph, formerly of Villa Grove, passed away at 3:30 p.m. Saturday (Oct. 22, 2016), surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Villa Grove, followed immediately by the funeral Mass at noon.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

The youngest of six sons, Bob was born on Sept. 4, 1930, on the family farm in Tuscola Township to Floyd and Anna (Scheurich) Reinhart. Bob married Kenneth C. Gentry on Oct. 11, 1949. She preceded him in death.

Survivors include sons, Michael (Phyllis) Reinhart of Villa Grove, Alan (Ginny) Reinhart of Sidney, Kevin Reinhart of Villa Grove and daughter Diana Cox of Murray, Ky.; grandchildren, Shane Cox of Murray, Ky., Eric Reinhart of Villa Grove, Elisha Reinhart of Urbana, Jessica Reinhart of Villa Grove, Dustin Reinhart of Champaign, David Reinhart of Homer, Tammie Reinhart of Springfield, Ga., Bobby Reinhart of Urbana and Michelle Malone of Lake Worth, Texas.

He is also survived by 24 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and friends, as well as his companion and partner in all things fun, Rosemary McDonald of St. Joseph.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Kenneth; his son, Kenny; and his five brothers, Donald, Leroy, William, Wilber and Eugene.

Bob worked for many years at USI in Tuscola and as a plumber followed by a career as a cryogenics technician at the University of Illinois.

An avid fisherman and bowler, he was also the owner and proprietor of the Villa Grove Bowling Alley.

Bob was also a member of the Loyal Order of Moose and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks organizations.

Katherine Layden

OAKWOOD – Katherine Joanne Layden, 67, of Oakwood passed away at 8:40 a.m. Sunday (Oct. 23, 2016) at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.

She was born on Sept. 22, 1949, in Danville, the daughter of Max and Winifred (Houldridge) Thomas. She married her grade school and high school sweetheart, Steve Layden, upon college graduation on Aug. 21, 1971. He survives in Oakwood.

She is survived by one daughter, Abbie (Ryan) Layden-Rogiers of St. Joseph; one son, Matthew Layden of Oakwood; one brother, Steve Thomas of Missoula, Mont.; five grandchildren, Raenen Pettit, Ollie Pettit, Taddy Pettit, Yelka Layden and Ave Pettit; two honorary grandchildren, Allison Mann and Christopher Mann; two godchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Max Thomas.

Katherine obtained a bachelor's degree in education from Illinois State University in Bloomington. After college, she taught fourth grade at Honeywell School in Hoopeston for four years and later taught first grade at Heritage Grade School until her retirement.

She was very active in volunteering her time in her church community, helping with vacation Bible school, teaching Sunday school and was a nursery volunteer.

Katherine also volunteered at the Danville Boys and Girls Club and helped with the annual cleanup at Lincoln Park and Kickapoo.

Her experience as a grade school and high school cheerleader carried on throughout her life and she enjoyed watching all the sporting events that Steve, Matt and Abbie participated in. She was of course the No. 1 fan for all of her grandchildren and they were always her No. 1 love and concern.

She enjoyed vacationing with her children and grandchildren, and took trips to Florida with her grandkids every year since they've been born.

Her most cherished moments were spent reading stories, singing songs and playing silly games with her grandkids. All who were fortune enough to know Katherine appreciated her sweet, kind, gentle, loving persona.

Cremation rites will be accorded and a visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, at the old Rossville Grade School gym, 351 N. Chicago St., Rossville.

A memorial service will be held at noon Friday at the family lakeside property at 21 Ayrshire Court, Oakwood, with the Rev. Christopher A. Layden and Pastor Tony Thomas officiating. A private burial will be held by the family.

In lieu of bouquets, the family requests perennial plants or memorials be made to the Rossville Grade School Library, 350 N. Chicago St., Rossville, IL 60963.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Katherine's eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

David Lee Griffin

HOMER – David Lee Griffin, 42, of Homer, passed away after a long struggle with cancer at 10:40 p.m. Saturday (Oct. 22, 2016) at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.

A visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28, at Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory, 1900 S. Philo Road, Urbana.

A memorial reception will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Ogden Methodist Church, 105 W. Main St., Ogden.

David was born on March 26, 1974, in Urbana to parents Jeri Lea Buckley (Jim) of West Valley City, Utah, and Merle Griffin (Nancy) of Ogden. They survive.

His daughter, Haylea Michelle Griffin (or "Beautiful," as her dad called her), of West Valley City, Utah, also survives. David also leaves behind siblings: Amy Foster (Kelby) of Foosland, Tamara Demko (Josh) of Ogden, Duane Griffin (Emmy) of Ogden and J.T. Buckley (Sarah) of Bluffdale, Utah.

Also surviving are grandparents, Bill and Jo Gillespie of Ogden; girlfriend, Jamie Adams of Homer; four nephews; five nieces; five uncles; and nine aunts.

When he was 16 years old, David (and his biceps, "Thunder" and "Lightning") began work as a drywaller and painter. After graduating from Urbana High School, he continued in this line of work. Throughout the years, he was employed by JSM Commercial and Treat Brothers Company, both in Urbana, and Alpine Drywall and Floor Coverings in Utah.

David had a warm personality and endeared himself to those who knew him. He enjoyed fishing and collecting basketball cards. He enlightened everyone's lives whom he touched with his sense of humor and "awesomeness."

Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help with the support of his daughter.

Condolences may be offered online at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.

Dennis Ehmen

ST. JOSEPH – Dennis Ehmen, 69, of St. Joseph passed away at 3 a.m. Monday (Oct. 24, 2016) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, 2016, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, with the Rev. James Lehmann officiating. Burial will be in Kopmann Cemetery, Royal.

Visitation will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday at the church. Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, is in charge of arrangements.

Dennis was born April 26, 1947, at Champaign, the son of Menne J. and Grace Bruns Ehmen.

He is survived by his siblings, John (Roxie) Ehmen of Clinton, Ind., Charles (Lori) Ehmen of Penfield, Sherril (Dennis) Porter of Terre Haute, Ind., Kathy (Bob) Woodard of St. Joseph, Linda Ehmen of St. Joseph and Robert Ehmen of Peoria; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Dennis was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. He retired from Champaign-Urbana Regional Rehab as a cook. Dennis enjoyed cooking and working outdoors.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church or an organization of the donor's choice.

Margie L. Huls

GIFFORD – Margie L. Huls, 90, of Gifford passed away Tuesday evening (Oct. 18, 2016) at the Illinois Knights Templar Home, Paxton.

She was born Dec. 12, 1925, in Compromise Township, a daughter of Fred and Tennie (Aden) Olson. She married Ernest Jasper Huls on Jan. 26, 1947, in Gifford. He preceded her in death on Feb. 10, 1996.

She is survived by a son, Virgil L. Huls of Gifford; two daughters, Velma J. Huls of Champaign and Vera E. Huls of Gifford; four brothers, Eldred Olson of Colfax, Eugene Olson of California, Ervin Olson of Central America and Earl Olson of Leverett; a sister, Marcella Stephanou of Rantoul; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, a sister and a son, Vernon Huls.

Margie was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, where she played with the kitchen band. She also enjoyed sewing and baking.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 Saturday morning at Immanuel Lutheran Church. The Rev. Cindy Bisser will officiate. Burial will follow at Huls Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9 to 10:30 Saturday morning, also at the church.

Lux Memorial Chapel, Rantoul, is handling the arrangements.

Harriett Pauline Simpson

URBANA – Harriett Pauline Simpson, 99, of Urbana died at 7:23 p.m. Sunday (Oct. 16, 2016) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 21, at Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory, Urbana. Pastor Bob Hassel will officiate. Burial will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens, Champaign. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home prior to the service.

Harriett was born on July 21, 1917, in Talala, Okla., the daughter of Harry Lynas and Izora Rae (Shaw) Gifford. She married Rob Rylatt Simpson on May 11, 1941, in Liberal, Mo. He preceded her in death in 1976.

Harriett is survived by her daughter, Betty Taylor of Urbana; a brother, Donald R. Gifford of Chelsea, Okla.; two sisters-in-law, Marjean (A.T.) Gibson of Tulsa, Okla., and Janet (Kenneth) Brooks of Nowata, Okla.; five grandchildren, Brenda (Steve) Beals of St. Joseph, Becky (Rick) Krall of St. Joseph, Kevin (Lori) Taylor of Ogden, Matthew Simpson of Utica, Mich., and Mark Simpson; 13 great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; one son, Carroll Simpson; one granddaughter, Marla Janko; six sisters; and one brother.

Harriett worked at J.C. Penney's for 36 years as a salesperson and supervisor. She enjoyed doing needlework and being with her family.

Her family would like to thank the staff at Country Health Care and Rehab, Gifford, for the kind, compassionate care she received during her stay there.

For those who wish, memorials may be made to Country Health Care and Rehab, Gifford.

Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.

Lori K. Krutsinger

THOMASBORO – Lori K. Krutsinger, 58, of Thomasboro passed away at 9:22 p.m. Sunday (Oct. 16, 2016) at her home.

Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19, at St. John Lutheran Church, Royal. Pastor Jay Johnson will officiate. Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery, Royal. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at the church.

Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, is handling arrangements.

Lori was born on Feb. 3, 1958, at Champaign, the daughter of Herbert "Herb" and Lois Hunter Frerichs.

She is survived by her daughters, Bethany (Greg) Maupin of Cooksville and Alyssa (Trevor) Baxter of Gifford; five grandchildren, Tucker, Calli and Tanner Maupin, Kayla and Gage Baxter; mother, Lois Frerichs of Royal; sister, Susan (Mark) Loschen of St. Joseph; brother, Tim (Teri) Frerichs; and fiance, Jerry Janeski of Buckley.

She was preceded in death by her father and sister, Judy Roach.

Lori worked at the Dutchmaster's Bar in Buckley.

Lori's greatest joy was her five grandchildren.

She graduated from St. Joseph-Ogden High School in 1976. Lori loved to cook and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.

Memorials may be made to Mills Breast Cancer Institute or Hospice Hearts foster-based care for pets.

Virgil "Dean" McGuffee

ST. JOSEPH – Virgil "Dean" McGuffee, 58, of St. Joseph passed away at 4:12 a.m. Wednesday (Oct. 12, 2016) at his home.

Celebration of Life services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday.

Dean was born on Jan. 20, 1958, at Paxton, the son of Mack and Florence Bemount McGuffee.

He is survived by his children, Chris (Kaylie) McGuffee of Homer, Tonia (Daniel) Ribbe of St. Joseph, Shanna Troyer of Fisher, Dylan Troyer of St. Joseph and Michael Troyer of Champaign; five grandchildren, Christian and Lexi Ribbe, Skylar Jennings, Jackson and Riley McGuffee; mother, Florence McGuffee of Potomac; brother, Bo McGuffee; and sister, Debbie Dean.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Dean formerly worked at Bell Helmets and ATT. He liked to fish, spend time outdoors and be with his grandchildren and family.

Reva F. Ingram

URBANA – Reva F. Ingram, 85, passed away on Saturday (Oct. 8, 2016) at the Champaign County Nursing Home, Urbana.

She was born on Feb. 23, 1931, in Homer to Howard and Vida Boise Lacey. They preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by an infant brother.

Reva married Jewel R. Ingram on Feb. 17, 1951. He preceded her in death in 1996. They raised their family in Homer and Ogden before moving to Palmetto, Fla.

Survivors include their three children, Vicki Kesler of Urbana, Connie Ingram of Urbana and Tim Ingram of St. Joseph; seven grandsons, Mitch (Katie Miller) Kesler, Shane (Lindsey) Kesler, Lemar (Jodi) Brown, Jasen (Tammy) Ingram, Andy Ingram, Brian Ingram and Tyler Ingram; a very special grand-dog, Tyson; nine great-grandchildren; a sister, Teresa Wilson; a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Doris and James Roush; as well as several cousins, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Reva was a room mother, a member of the Homer PTA, past president of the Homer Legion Auxiliary, a member of the Palmetto VFW Auxiliary and an active member of the American Business Women's Association.

After raising her children, she worked for the Champaign-Urbana Courier. After moving to Florida, she worked 20 years for the Bradenton Herald before retiring in 1998.

Reva returned to the Champaign-Urbana area in 2005. She volunteered at the Stevick Senior Center crocheting lap blankets for veterans, as well as blankets, hats and gloves for the Crisis Nursery.

Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, at Heath and Vaughn Funeral Home, 201 N. Elm St., Champaign.

Her children wish to thank everyone at the Champaign County Nursing Home for their care and compassion. She will be greatly missed.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, please send donations in Reva's name to Courage Connection (formerly A Woman's Place), 508 E. Church St., Champaign, IL 61820.

Condolences may be offered online at www.HeathandVaughn.com.