Barbara L. Allen

QUINCY — Barbara L. Allen, 82, of Quincy, formerly of Homer, died Thursday (Dec. 27, 2018) at 2:39 p.m. at Good Samaritan Home, Quincy.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2019, at Kirby Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St., Homer, with the Rev. Teri Shane officiating. Burial will take place in G.A.R. Cemetery, Homer. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Barbara was born May 26, 1936, in Chicago. She grew up in Homer, the daughter of Ruth Miller Allen. She was a graduate of Homer High School and received her bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University in Normal, where she was a member of the marching band. Barbara went on to earn her master’s degree in education and was a dedicated teacher at Quincy Senior High School and the Quincy Vocational and Technical Center for 28 years. Barbara taught accounting and business courses at the high school.

Barbara had a passion for traveling. She was an avid Quincy High Blue Devils fan and was a serious “Trekkie.” Barbara was devoted to being with her family and loved spending Christmas Eve with them each and every year.

Barbara is survived by her brother, Robert (Mary Lou) Allen of Oakwood; two nieces, Cindy (Jeff) Acton of Danville and Susan (Doug) Canfield of St. Joseph; and five great-nieces and -nephews, Katie Acton of Des Moines, Iowa, Kelly (Andrew) Kaufmann of Paxton, Cole Acton of Danville and Shane and Stephanie Canfield of St. Joseph.

Barbara was preceded in death by her mother, Ruth Miller Allen, and a sister, Pat Allen.

Memorials can be made to the Illinois Adams County Retired Teacher Association (One Room School Project).

NG 12/30/2018

James D. Goff

SIDNEY — James D. Goff, 61, of Sidney passed away at 6:10 p.m. Thursday (Dec. 27, 2018) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Dec. 31, 2018, at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney, with the Rev. Tabitha Nelson officiating. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery, Sidney.  Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Mr. Goff was born April 2, 1957, in Danville, a son to Thomas and Mildred Johnson Goff.

Surviving are two children, Delanie (Jason) Menacher of Monticello and James (Kristin) Goff II of Sidney; six grandchildren, Brendan James, Camryn, Seth and Avery Menacher and Cadence and Makayla James Goff; a sister, Diana (Gene) Christenson of Tolono; and four nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Gail McCall; and a nephew.

He was a member of Plumber and Pipefitters Union Local 149. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the National Rifle Association.

Judy Kurlakowsky

OCALA, Fla. — Judy Kurlakowsky, 73, passed away peacefully Monday (Dec. 24, 2018) at her home in Ocala, Fla., with her husband of 53 years, Mike Kurlakowsky, at her side.

Born in Urbana on May 1, 1945, Judy attended Franklin Junior High and Champaign High School. She lived in St. Joseph for 21 years and worked for St. Joseph Grade School, the University of Illinois Athletic Department and Sun Trust Bank.  She has resided in Ocala for the past 19 years.

Judy was a loving wife, mother and homemaker who enjoyed cooking and baking and loved desserts. No one was a stranger to Judy, and she enjoyed talking to everyone she met. Judy was an avid card player and volunteer, serving on the St. Joseph-Ogden school board and St. Joseph Township library board.

Survivors include her husband, Michael Kurlakowsky Sr.; children, Melinda "Mindy" Buford and Michael Kurlakowsky Jr.; son-in-law, John Buford, and daughter-in-law, Kate Kurlakowsky; grandchildren, Dustin Buford, Erin Kurlakowsky and Stacey Kurlakowsky; uncle, Harold Millis; aunts, Donna Millis and Jane Millis; and lifelong friend Bonnie Vaughn.

Preceding her in death were her grandparents, William and Cora Humphrey; parents, Arthur and Rose Millis; uncles, Gordon Millis, Glenn Millis, Wilber Millis and Roy Humphrey; aunts, Alice Scales, Alma Farmer, Minnie Stevens, Bertha Reinhart and Betty Biggerstaff; and grandson, Randall Buford.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, remembrance can be made through a donation in honor of Judy Kurlakowsky to the St. Joseph Township-Swearingen Memorial Library, St. Joseph, Ill.

Judy will be buried in St. Augustine, Fla., in a private memorial service.

Carl D. Lewis

OGDEN — Carl D. Lewis, 93, of Ogden passed away at 9:56 a.m. Tuesday (Dec. 25, 2018) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, with Pastor Kathy Murphy officiating. Burial will be in Stearn Cemetery, Fithian. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Masonic rites will follow. Military honors will be done by Legion Post 996 at the cemetery.

Carl was born July 23, 1925, at El Cajon, Calif., the son of Oatis and Susan Waters Lewis. He married Charlene Denhart on Dec. 7, 1944, at MacDill Field, Tampa, Fla. She preceded him on Jan. 5, 2017.

He is survived by his sons, Carl W. (Linda) Lewis of Ogden and Richard(Kathy) Lewis of Marshall;

seven grandchildren; and 10 greatgrandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Steven R. Lewis; and daughter-in-law, Maureen Lewis.

He was a member of the Ogden United Methodist Church. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corps, serving in World War II as a ball turret gunner on a B-17.

Carl worked for Standard Oil. He ran his own heating and air company.

He enjoyed woodworking. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge Ogden 754 and Homer 199 and Ogden American Legion Post 998.

Memorials can be made to the Ogden Masonic Lodge 754 or the Ogden-Royal Volunteer Fire Department.

Don Alsip

ST. JOSEPH — Don Alsip, 78, of St. Joseph, formerly of Ogden, passed away at 11:17 a.m. Tuesday (Dec. 11, 2018) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018, at St. John Lutheran Church, Royal. The Rev. Jay Johnson will officiate. Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery, Royal. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the church. Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, is in charge of arrangements.

Don was born Aug. 18, 1940, in Hammond, Ind., the son of Stanley and Cecile Chevront Alsip. He married Branda Duitsman on June 16, 1963, in Royal. She survives.

He is also survived by his daughters, Lori (Greg) Frerichs of Ogden and Michelle (Mike) Trame of St. Joseph; four grandchildren, Brandon (Kirsten), Trevor, Stephanie and Mackenzie; brother, Larry (Kathy) Alsip of Paxton; and sister, Sue (Merrill) Norton of Englewood, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ann Miller; and brother, Robert Alsip.

Don was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Royal. He retired as a carpenter from Local 44. Don was a veteran of the U.S. Navy.

He was a past member of the Ogden Grade School Board, the Ogden Village Board and the Ogden Volunteer Fire Department. He most enjoyed his grandchildren and traveling to Flordia in the winter.

Memorials may be made to the St. John Lutheran Cemetery, St. John Lutheran Church or family choice.

Rick L. Ehmen

GIFFORD — Rick L. Ehmen, 66, of Gifford passed away at 1:22 p.m. Monday (Dec. 10, 2018) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 14, 2018, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, with the Rev. James T. Lehmann officiating. Burial will follow in Beckman Cemetery with military honors. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville, is assisting the family with arrangements. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, in Diers Hall, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.

Rick was born May 31, 1952, in Urbana, the son of Elmer and Erna Blue Ehmen. He married Sandra S. Vogel on June 4, 1977. She preceded him in death on Dec. 30, 1992. He married Colleen South on March 25, 1995, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.

He is survived by his wife, Colleen; children, Darcy (Brian) McMahon, Eric Ehmen, Michael Rascher, Amanda Rascher, Karey (Sam) Gocken, Sommer (Steven) Sills, Carly Rascher and Clayton Seggebruch; 14 grandchildren; motherin-

law, Marjorie Pickett; three sisters-in-law; two brothers-in-law; and several nieces and nephews.

Rick was also preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Ronald and Alan Ehmen; and a nephew, Dirk Ehmen.

Rick graduated from Rantoul Township High School in 1970, attended Parkland College and received an automotivedegree. He served in the U.S. Army from 1972 to 1975, obtaining the rank of sergeant. He was an automotive technician at Rogers Chevrolet, Wright Way, Rantoul Motors and Shields Auto Center, retiring in 2017.

He was a lifelong member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, and a former Boy Scouts leader. He enjoyed shooting pool, hunting and fishing.

Memorials may be made to an organization of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be offered online at baierfuneral services.com.

Amos "Bud" Motsinger III

ST. JOSEPH — Amos "Bud" Motsinger III, 63, of St. Joseph passed away at 3:20 p.m. Thursday (Dec. 6, 2018) at Champaign County Nursing Home, Urbana.

He is survived by his sister, Melia Motsinger-Kingery (Steve) of St. Joseph; a brother, Dennis Motsinger of Danville; nephews, Justin (Mindy) Kingery and Joshua (Amber) Kingery; and aunts, uncles and cousins. He was also very close to our friend, Cheryl Peters, who helped with his care.

Bud loved anything with a motor. In his younger years, he always was building and working on anything with wheels. He and his buddy, Joe Shaffer, once souped up a lawn mower to run 40 mph, until his dad took a sledgehammer to it because they wouldn't stay off the highway.

His life changed forever in 1972 when he was carbon monoxide poisoned. He led a challenged life after that but was always happy just to be alive.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, please give generously to the St. Joseph Community Food Pantry at St. Joseph Church of Christ, 226 E. Sherman St., St. Joseph, IL 61873, attention Chris Cox. They were so good to him and helped him when he needed it.

Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018, at Mount Olive Cemetery, Mayview. Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, is in charge of arrangements.

Virginia Lee Woller Sadler

URBANA — Virginia Lee Sadler, 86, of Urbana died at 6:04 p.m. Friday (Nov. 30, 2018) at Reflections Memory Care, Savoy.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, at Renner-Wikoff Chapel & Crematory, 1900 S. Philo Road, Urbana, with burial in Mount Olive Cemetery, Mayview. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Virginia was born Sept. 10, 1932, in Somers Township in Champaign County, the daughter of Paul W. and Marie Amy (McCormick) Woller. She married Jacob “Pete” Sadler Jr. on July 27, 1952, in Urbana. He preceded her in death July 4, 2012.

She is survived by a son, Roy Sadler of Urbana; daughters, Jan Sadler of Savoy and Cathy Shaw (Michael) of Urbana;grandchildren, Jeremy Shaw (Jennifer) of Virden, Amanda (Mal) Summers ofUrbana and Katie Shaw (Eric Moody) of Urbana; great-grandchildren, Jacob and Norah Moody and Jaymason Shaw; sisters, Virgie Roberts of Sidney, Patricia Mitchell (Nolan)

of Omaha, Neb., and Amy Martin (Virgil) of Urbana; brothers, Jerry Woller (Marilyn) of St. Joseph and Earl Woller (Julie) of Urbana; and brother-in-law, Ernie Sadler of Dexter, Mich. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a son, Robert Sadler; sisters, Jean McCall and Wilma Harrel; and a brother, William Woller.

Virginia graduated from St. Joseph High School and was a self employed seamstress for over 50 years. She was also a member of Grace United Methodist Church for over 50 years, where she was custodian and provided event support planning for over 15 years. She was currently a member of Countryside United Methodist Church near Sidney.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the Danville VA (VA Illiana Health Care System, Danville). Condolences may be offered at renner-wikoffchapel.com.

Champaign News-Gazette 12/2/2018

Judith Arlene Corray

ST. JOSEPH — Judith “Judy” Arlene Corray, 79, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2018, at Country Health Care & Rehab, surrounded by loving family.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2, and a memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 3, both at Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 Philo Road, Urbana, IL 61802. Per Judy’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded, and burial will take place at a later date.

The oldest of five children, Judy was born at Mercy Hospital in Urbana on Sept. 29, 1939, to William Paul Sr. and Erlene B. (Cook) Cedusky. She married Roger M. Corray on Oct. 26, 1957, in Urbana.

Judy is survived by her husband of 61 years, Roger Corray of St. Joseph; daughter, Elizabeth “Katie” (Terry) Andersen of St.Joseph and grandchild Kimberly Andersen and great-grandchildren Lindsey and Jacob Rowland of Hampton, Va., and grandchildBrian (Amanda) Andersen and greatgrandchild Brooke

of Mahomet; daughter, Debbie (Max) Corray Calvo of St. Joseph and grandchild Emily Corray of Urbana; son, Michael (Denise) Corray and grandchildren Aidan, Jaren and Shannon Corray of Charleston; sister, Jaci (Bob) Nickelson- Smith of Urbana; sister-in-law, Norma Pittman of Bayles Lake; sister- in-law, Judy Cedusky of Winter Haven, Fla.; brother-in-law, Robert Corray of St. Joseph; and many loving nieces, nephews, family members and close friends near and far.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Frances Koster; and two brothers, William Paul Cedusky Jr. and Daniel Cedusky.

Judy touched countless people in her professional life, which included many years at The Andersons Grain Elevator, over 30 years as a Mary Kay consultant, and ended with a long, successful career at the University of Illinois, where she was an active member of The Secretariat and the Business and Professional Women’s Club. After retirement, she remained involved as a member of the St. Joseph Village Gardeners and St. Joseph Home Extension.

Judy was a strong supporter

of her children, enthusiastically helping whenever and wherever she could with their businesses, and she loved attending all school events for her grandchildren.

She will be greatly missed by all who knew her, as she was a kind, thoughtful and loving wife, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend.

Roger and family thank Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Country Health Care & Rehab and Transitions Hospice for their care during Judy’s last weeks and days. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to The Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital/Siteman Cancer Center (foundationbarnesjewish. org/), 1001 Highlands Plaza Drive West, Suite 140, St. Louis, MO 63110-1337.

A. Lucille Fiscus

ST. JOSEPH — A. Lucille Fiscus passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones Sunday (Nov. 18, 2018) at Country Health Care and Rehab, Gifford. Scriptures were read, prayers were given and Amazing Grace was sung to her as she entered God’s holy place, joining precious family loved ones who have gone before her. 

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. with funeral services beginning at 11 Monday, Nov. 26, at Freese Funeral Home, St. Joseph. Burial will be in Mount Olive Cemetery, Mayview, Champaign County. Pastor Darrell Howard, nephew-in-law of Lucille, will officiate. 

Lucille was born Feb. 18, 1926, in LeRoy, the daughter of Herschel and Ethel (Petty) Messenger. She married Wendell B. Fiscus on April 20, 1947, in Sumner.

Lucille is survived by her daughter, Candice J. Sullivan (Richard) of St. Joseph; granddaughter, Holly L. (Sullivan) Mollicone (John) and their new baby daughter, Ava Jacqueline, of Cranston, R.I.; daughter-in-law, Amy Fiscus (Mike) and their daughter, Jennifer, of Wrightstown, Pa.; a brother, Wendall Messenger (Alice) of Oklahoma; sister-in-law, Lois Messenger (Kenneth) of Oklahoma; and several nieces and nephews, along with their families.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Wendell B. Fiscus; son, Michael B. Fiscus; brother, Kenneth Messenger; sister, Edith Wells; and brother-in-law, Ray Wells.

Lucille worked a variety of retail positions during the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s in Urbana and Champaign, including Carson Pirie Scott, Fannie May Candies, the Treadle Sewing Center and Willow Springs Salon and Tanning. Lucille enjoyed gardening, board and card games and spending time with her family. She was an avid Illinois men’s basketball fan. Following Lucille’s move to assisted living in 2015, she and her daughter enjoyed playing dominos, bingo, attending various facility activities and weekly luncheons.

By God’s grace, Lucille was able to see the face of her precious great-granddaughter, who was born the morning of her passing. They will forever be bound together, signifying as one precious life begins, another precious life comes to an end. Lucille will be greatly missed by her family, as well as all who knew and loved her.

Lucille’s daughter and her family want to extend special thanks to the administrators and staff of The Villas of Holly Brook in Savoy and Country Health Care and Rehab in Gifford. There are many at these institutions who selflessly contributed to helping provide Lucille with the best quality of life possible in her final years and last days. 

Expressions of sympathy can be made with contributions in Lucille’s name to the American Cancer Society, 675 E. Linton Ave., Springfield, IL 62703.

John K, Compton

ST. JOSEPH — John K. Compton, 78, of St. Joseph died at 5:02 p.m. Wednesday (Nov. 14, 2018) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. with funeral services at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 21, at Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 S. Philo Road, Urbana. Pastor Bill Henry will officiate. Burial will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens, Champaign. Military rites will be accorded at the cemetery.

John was born Aug. 2, 1940, in Champaign Township, the son of John A. and Ruby Ione (Paul) Compton. He married Joyce Mackey on Sept. 10, 1960, in Amarillo, Texas, and she survives. He is also survived by two daughters, Angi Landis (Tim) and Tami Biehl (Rob) of St. Joseph; grandchildren, Ashley Langley (Chris), Katie Landis, Austin Anderson and Bryant Anderson; and a sister, Jeanine Taylor (Gene) of Sadorus.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

John retired from Illinois Bell/AT& T. He enjoyed making items, which he sold at flea markets; owned and operated a food truck for many years; and worked for St. Joseph Grade School in the cafeteria. He was a life member and past commander of American Legion Post 634, St. Joseph. John served in the U.S. Navy from 1963-67 and served at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and on the USS Denebola and the USS Truckee.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post 634. Condolences may be offered at renner-wikoffchapel. com.

News-Gazette 11/19/2018

John (Jim) Mullen

ST. JOSEPH — John (Jim) J. E. Mullen, 79, of St. Joseph passed away peacefully at 4:20 a.m. Thursday (Nov. 15, 2018) at Carle Foundation Hospital.

Jim was born Feb. 18, 1939, in Champaign, to Bernard and Ruth (Patterson) Mullen. He had three siblings, Bernadean (Tom) Hammersmith, Susan Yount and Rick (Mary) Mullen. His parents and sisters preceded him in death.

Jim is survived by his three children, William (Elie) Mullen of San Antonio,Texas, Sharon Gibson of Mesa, Ariz., and Marianne Douglas of Mesa, Ariz.; as well as his eight grandchildren,

Breanna, Danielle, Taylor, Ashlyn, Davin, Zach, Alyssa and Jayden. Jim was a proud firefighter with the University of Illinois for 30 years until his retirement. He enjoyed spending time with familyand friends, working on his land and being a part of the local retired firefighters group.

Memorials can be made to the International Association of Fire FightersFoundation.

Per his request, in lieu of a funeral, the family will be hosting a celebration of life Saturday, March 16, 2019, at O’Charley’s restaurant in Champaign from 1 to 3 p.m.

Margaret Jane Widick

St. Joseph IL– Margaret Jane Widick, 85, loving mother of 6, grandmother of 6, and great-grandmother of 1, passed away at home on Tuesday, November 13, 2018.

​Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., Saturday, November 17th, with services to follow at 11 a.m. at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, IL. Pastor Scott Millis will officiate. Burial will follow at Patterson Cemetery, St. Joseph.

​Margaret Jane was born Aug. 19, 1933, in Urbana, Illinois, the only child of Edward C. Leigh and Ruth Parrett Leigh. She was raised and lived nearly her entire life on the family farm in St. Joseph and was a descendant of some of St. Joseph’s earliest pioneers. She married Robert (Bob) Dale Widick at the Church of Christ in St. Joseph on June 8, 1952, and together they raised 6 children. Bob preceded her passing in 1991.

Of Margaret Jane’s 6 children, her much beloved sons Timothy Dale Widick and Charles Edward Widick preceded her in death. Surviving are 4 children: David Leigh (Candy) Widick of St. Joseph, Deanna Sue (Rick) Richards of Urbana, John Robert (Nancy) Widick of Champaign, Jeffrey William Widick of San Diego, and her daughter-in-law Elizabeth (Charles) Widick of East Moline; grandchildren Jarrod, Daniel, Blake, Brandon, Jesse, and Timothy; and great-granddaughter Lillie. Margaret Jane loved her grandkids & great-granddaughter deeply, and her face would always light up brightly when she would see them.

​Margaret Jane was a long-time member of the St. Joseph Church of Christ and very active for over 25 years in the Illinois Federation of Women’s Clubs, having served as local chapter president. She loved attending their annual conventions in Chicago.

​Bob and Margaret Jane were long-time leaders of the Mustangs 4-H club in St. Joseph and saw many of St. Joe’s children as members throughout the years, including all 6 of theirs. The highlight every year was the annual 4-H tour and BBQ as well as the Champaign County Fair, where, first as leaders of the Mustangs and then for many years on their own, they would run the food stand by the livestock barns.

​Margaret Jane loved to travel at every opportunity throughout her life. First, with her beloved parents who would take her on car trips around the country in the 1930’s & 40’s. Then, with her husband and kids to many destinations in the US but, especially, Tuscon, Arizona, every year where her parents retired. In later years, she loved taking trips with friends to Branson, Missouri, casinos, the Dells, and absolutely loved to travel to visit her son in San Diego.

​Memorials may be made to the organization of the donor’s choice.

11/15/2018 News-Gazette

Rick McKinney

ST. JOSEPH — Rick McKinney of St. Joseph came into this world Feb. 26, 1952, and soared high Monday (Nov. 12, 2018). He was welcomed into heaven by his parents, Virgil “Mac” and Wanita McKinney, and older brother, Richard Dean (Feb. 26, 1950), with open arms.

Left to cherish the wonderful memories are the love of his life, Vikki Crnekovic (her children: Ryan, Joe, Stefi and Dani); sisters, Patti McKee and Lori (Bob) Bell; nephews, Troy (Jen) Bowman, Travis Bowman and Matt Curtis; nieces, Becky (Stevie) Hall, Trisha McKee and Lindsay Curtis; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, great-nephews and great-nieces.

A celebration of Rick’s life will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, at Hudson Farm, 1341 CR 1800 E, Urbana. Family and friends are welcome to bring their favorite stories or photos. Casual attire, casual food and lots of memories to share.

Rick was employed by Illini Pella Windows in Champaign for 35 years. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan and had a natural talent for the sport himself. He loved reading, history and old Westerns.

Rick enjoyed motorcycle racing (another sport he accomplished) and took many motorcycle trips with wonderful friends throughout the years. He had a need for speed; 2, 3, 4 or 18 wheels, a true road warrior.

The family requests donations in his memory be made to the ALS Foundation or Carle Hospice.

NG 11/15/2018

Frances M. Hixson

ST. JOSEPH — Frances M. Hixson, 87, of St. Joseph passed away at 10:35 p.m. Monday (Nov. 5, 2018) at Country Health Care & Rehab, Gifford.

Funeral services will be at noon Friday, Nov. 9, 2018, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. Pastor Greg Smith will officate. Burial will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens, Champaign. Visitation will be Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at the funeral home.

She was born Feb. 5, 1931, in Homer, the daughter of Charles and Vinne Boise Varvel. She married F. Earl Hixson on June 9, 1951, in St. Joseph. He preceded her in death July 17, 1999.

She is survived by her children, Mike Hixson of Fithian, Jan Walsh of St. Joseph and Terri Miller of Evansville, Ind.; six grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother and one sister.

She was a member of St. Joseph Church of Christ, St. Joseph Home Extension and Illinois Heartland Decorative Artist. She worked for Dr. Keck in Sidney for 27 years as a receptionist.

Memorials may be made to St. Joseph Church of Christ or donor's choice.

News-Gazette 11/7/2018

C. Everett Walters

HOMER — C. Everett Walters, 88, of Homer passed away at 4:15 a.m. Tuesday (Nov. 6, 2018) at his home.

A graveside memorial service will be held at noon on Sunday, Nov. 11, at GAR Cemetery in Homer. A celebration of life open house will be from 1 to 5 p.m. at Uncle Boonie’s Bait Shop after the graveside service. The family requests casual attire, jeans preferred. Kirby Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St., Homer, is handling arrangements.

Everett was born June 20, 1930, in Fairmount/ Conkeytown, the son of Paul Nye and Florence Edith Tracy Walters. He married Olive June Cromwell on Nov. 11, 1948, in Santa Cruz, Calif. She preceded him in death on Jan. 7, 2001.

Survivors include his son, Randy (Cindy) Walters of Covington, Ind.; daughter, Debbie (Doug) Sears of St. Joseph; grandchildren, Sara (Mike) Allen, Jackie (Matt) Hamann, Kim (Jon) Chastain and James Walters; great-grandchildren, Gracie Chastain, Kadence Chastain, John Donelan, Nicholas Donelan, Andrew Donelan, Olive Hamann and Fletcher Hamann; and stepgrandchildren, Lana Turner and George Sears.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, one son, four brothers and three sisters. He was the last remaining sibling of eight.

Everett was a member of Homer United Methodist Church. He owned and operated Uncle Boonie’s Bait Shop in Homer for over 30 years. He was a former member of the volunteer fire department and Boy Scout master for 10 years. His hobbies included hunting, fishing and gardening. Everett enjoyed playing euchre with his friends.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, please make memorial donations to Homer Fire and Rescue or Homer Library.

NG 11/9/2018

Clara Ann Louise Roessler Hill

ST. JOSEPH — Clara Ann Louise (Roessler) Hill, 87, of St. Joseph went home to be with the Lord on Monday (Nov. 5, 2018).

The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 10. Visitation will be from 9 to11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 10. Both the service and visitation will be held at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, St. Joseph. Freese Funeral Home, St. Joseph, will be in charge of arrangements.

Clara Ann was born May 15, 1931, to Sophia and Carl Roessler. She was the youngest of seven children. She graduated from Rantoul High School in 1949. She went to Chicago and earned her pediatric nursing degree from Augustana. After receiving her license, she stayed in Chicago to work for families taking care of their newborn children. She worked in Chicago for several years and returned to the Champaign-Urbana area when she learned her older brother, Walter, had been taken prisoner during the Korean War. Then, she started working as an LPN at the Outlook Tuberculosis Sanitarium in Urbana.

Through some mutual friends, Clara Ann met a handsome young man named George Hill. They started dating and eventually married on Sept. 20, 1953, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gifford. In 1957, the couple built a home in St. Joseph. Clara Ann and George had two children, Terry Hill and Laura Mae Hill. Clara Ann continued to work nights as an LPN at Greenbriar Nursing Home. Unfortunately, their daughter, Laura, had some health problems as a young child. So, Clara Ann quit her nursing job and started a day care business in her home. She loved and took care of many children over the years. One very special child she took care of was her own grandchild, Jared Hill. She continued taking care of children until she was in her 80s.

Church was a very important part of Clara Ann’s life. She and her husband attended Prince of Peace Lutheran Church from its inception to the present. Clara Ann served the church in many ways, including participating in the church choir and maintaining the church’s sanctuary.

Clara Ann loved taking care of her husband, family and friends. She enjoyed providing people with home-canned peaches, green beans and homemade jelly (both strawberry and black raspberry). She made special sour cream date cookies for her children, grandchildren and friends for Christmas. She enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren, Jared, Alex and Michelle. As part of her family and friend circle, one could always count on Clara Ann to send cards for birthdays and special holidays.

Early in the marriage, Clara Ann once surprised her husband, George, with a new 1956 Harley-Davidson motorcycle for his birthday.

Survivors include her husband of 65 years, George; children, Terry (special friend Kim Blair) and Laura (Paul) Woodard; grandchildren, Jared Hill and Alex (aka Matthew) and Michelle Woodard. She has numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers, two sisters, one nephew and one niece.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in St. Joseph.

“Until we meet again, rest in peace, Mom. We love you, and we miss you. We know that you are in heaven with the Lord.“

Jerry D. Reifsteck Sr.

FISHER — Jerry D. Reifsteck Sr., 60, of Fisher passed away Wednesday morning (Oct. 31, 2018) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Lux Memorial Chapel, 1551 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul. Pastor Jeffrey McPike and Jerry Limp will officiate. Burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery, Fisher.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at Lux Memorial Chapel.

He was born Aug. 5, 1958, in Danville, a son of Melvin and Ara (Boyd) Reifsteck. He married Barbara Ashworth on Feb. 4, 1998, in Urbana. She survives.

Also surviving are seven children, Cory (Kim) Grissom of Roberts, John (Tina) Teter of Camargo, Kurt (Amber) Teter of Villa Grove, Amanda (Clint) Goodmann of Pesotum, Lacey (Marc) Thompson of Atwood, Kari (Chris) Genzel of Fisher and Jerry Reifsteck Jr. of Rantoul; four brothers, Mike Reifsteck of Royal, Steve (Becky) Reifsteck of Danville, Mark (Sherry) Reifsteck of Mahomet and Kurt Reifsteck of Mahomet; a sister, Terry (Virgil) Grant of Potomac; 27 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother and two daughters, Lisa Tatman and Joni Reifsteck.

Jerry worked for 33 years at ACH Humko, Champaign, retiring in 2009. He spent the past six years driving a truck, ending at Myerscough Trucking out of Seymour.

He was a member of the Eastern Illinois ABATE Inc., where he served as past president. Jerry loved the 10 years he served as honorary Santa for the Swann Special Care Center, Champaign. He was an avid hunter and camper.

Memorials may be made to the family.

Cleta Ameila Marsh

OSWEGO — Cleta Amelia Marsh, 92, of Oswego peacefully passed away Friday (Oct. 26, 2018).

She was born May 10, 1926, in Springfield, the daughter of the late Myron Lee Nicolls and Gladys Eva nee Eacret Nicolls Marcott.

Cleta’s married life started in St. Joseph, where she was a member of St. Joseph United Methodist Church. God and country have always been very important to Cleta. She loved music and was an avid reader in her spare time. She served by singing in choirs, working with youth and helping with elections for many years.

Cleta was an expert seamstress and industrious entrepreneur. She managed and provided training for fabric stores over the years and then transitioned to her own business ventures. Cleta opened Fabrics Unlimited in Oswego, where she taught many people, young and old, how to sew. In her retirement phase, she started making furniture and quilts. Her quilting became another busy venture, making over 300 quilts and selling many at the Oswego farmers market. She was a beloved resident of Heritage Woods of Batavia in her last few years.

She is survived by her children, Pamela K. (Arthur) Martin of West Melbourne, Fla., Dianna L. Marsh of Champaign, Gregory H. (Kim) Marsh of Downers Grove and Teresa L. (John) Richmond of Hinckley; five grandchildren, Dwayne “JR” Wilson, Mitchell Wilson, Angela Mitter, Michael Marsh and Kenneth Marsh; 12 great-grandchildren, Kyle Mitter, Kayla Mitter, Joseph Mitter, Jenna Mitter, Jacob Wilson, Lucas Wilson, Hannah Wilson, Vincent Marsh, Sophia Marsh, Henry Wilson, June Wilson and Keian Marsh; sister, Judith (Dick) Hutson of Oregon; and sister-in-law, Lucille Nicolls of New York.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Calvin Marsh; son, Kevin James Marsh; five sisters; and four brothers.

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018, at Dunn Family Funeral Home, 1801 S. Douglas Road, Oswego, IL 60543. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 2, 2018, at the funeral home. Burial will take place at 2:30 p.m. Friday in Grandview Memorial Gardens, Champaign.

Memorials may be sent to Church of the Good Shepherd, 5 W. Washington St., P.O. Box 695, Oswego, IL 60543. For information, call 630-554-3888 or visit dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Verne Anne Ihnen Ackerman

URBANA — Verna Anne (Ihnen) Ackerman, 84, of Urbana passed away peacefully at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, on Wednesday (Oct. 24, 2018). She was surrounded by her loving family.

Verna was born July 20, 1934, in Champaign County, daughter of Tjark and Emma (Saathoff) Ihnen.

V e r n a married Alvin H. Ackerman on Nov. 7, 1954, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville. She was a devoted, caring and loving wife, mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother. Her love was always present and will continue to touch the lives of her family.

She was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Venice, Fla., where she served as an usher and coffee host. She was an avid golfer, but her first love was her family.

Verna was employed at the Bank of Rantoul for over 30 years working in operations. After their retirement, she and Al moved to Venice, Fla., in 2002.

Verna was preceded in death by her son, Gary; parents; and brother, Melvin Ihnen.

Verna is survived by her husband of 63 years; two children, Rick (Annette) Ackerman of Urbana and Connie Wolken (Jeff Dore) of North Venice, Fla.; four grandchildren, Jason (Kelly) Ackerman of Edwardsville, Kelly (Kenny) Carter of St. Joseph, Brooke Wolken (Jacob Herbert) of Rantoul and Stephanie (Jason) Maier of Thomasboro; and seven great-grandchildren, Maddux, Payton, Lillian, Avery, Gunner, Emma and Jaxon.

Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 29, 2018, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 802 E. Douglas St., St. Joseph. Burial will be in Beckman Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.

Champaign News-Gazette 10/26/2018

Alma Joyce Ring

Alma Joyce Ring, age 96, of Carmel, Indiana passed away peacefully on October 9, 2018. She was born in St. Joseph, Illinois on September 20, 1922 to her parents Lester and Lois (Weaver) Marlowe. She married her high school sweetheart Hershel Eugene Ring, on February 15, 1941. He preceded her in death on January 5, 1994. A sister, brother, both parents, a son-in-law and a great grandson also preceded her in death.

Alma is survived by her loving children Rebecca “Becky” Pickett, Marvin (Toni) Ring, Michael (Linda) Ring, Mary Lois (Larry) Bullington; her grandchildren Jeff (Cassy) Pickett, Greg Pickett, Brad (Allie) Pickett, Mary (Russell) Fite, Bart (Ashley) Lawrence, Charles (Cindy) Ring, Erin Ring, Megan (Luke) Crawley, Bryan (Lauren) Bullington; and fifteen precious great grandchildren.

Alma “A.J.” traveled the entire U.S.A. with Hershel and the Holiday Rambler group. Her many interests included: singing, dancing, playing the organ, cooking, sewing, gardening, reading, enjoying lake life in summer and Florida in winter. Alma’s laughter, songs and joyful spirit will be missed by all who knew her, but especially by her family. Alma’s greatest love and accomplishment was caring for her husband and children. Her love and generous spirit lives on in them.

Services will be at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, October 14, 2018, at Flanner Buchanan – Carmel, 325 East Carmel Drive. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. (CST) Monday, October 15, 2018, at Mount Olive Cemetery in Urbana, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be shared by visiting flannerbuchanan.com.

Donna Clay

HOMER — Donna Clay, 64, of Homer passed away at 2:49 p.m. Saturday (Oct. 6, 2018).

Donna was born in Danville on March 19, 1954, the daughter of Alva M. and Mabel D. Jones.

Donna is survived by her husband, Daniel E. Clay Sr.; daughter, Tiffany L. (Jason) Clay Jeffers; brother, Chuck Jones; sisters, Doris Danner, Barb Pam and Maxine Collum; and grandchildren, Willow Jeffers and Rhiannon Jeffers.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Daniel Eugene Clay Jr.; nephews, Herbie Jones and Bradley Jones; great-nephews, Aden and Skyler Heins; nieces, Phyllis Fullerton and Kristi Hendricks; great-nieces, Cheri Johnson and Lauren Davis; aunt, Ethel Demoss; uncle, Gerald Demoss; brother, Richard D. Jones; and brothers-in-law, Jeffrey A. Clay and Ron Manuel.

Donna graduated from Oakwood High School Class of 1972. She was a devoted mother and truly loved helping others. Donna was the activity director at Danville Care and Vermilion Manor before becoming the day training tech at Crosspoint Human Services, where she worked until her passing. In her spare time, she enjoyed volunteering, gardening, making jewelry and spending time with family. She will be deeply missed by everyone that had the opportunity to meet her.

A celebration of life will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2018, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Childhood Cancer Organization. Please join Donna’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Champaign News-Gazette 10/9/2018

Carol Fry Horner

OGDEN — Carol Fry Horner, 88, of Ogden passed away at 10:11 a.m. Thursday (Oct. 4, 2018) at Illini Heritage Nursing Home, Champaign.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 8, 2018, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. Pastor Jerry Conner will officate. Burial will be in Stearns Cemetery, Fithian. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Carol was born Feb. 12, 1930, at Waukegan, the daughter of Sheppard and Eva Copper Buffington. She married James J. Fry on Nov. 9, 1951. He preceded her in death on Jan. 29, 1977. She then married Robert Horner on Oct. 10, 1980. He preceded her on Nov. 25, 1986.

She is survived by her children, Jerry Fry of Champaign, Linda (Russ) Kern of Champaign and Sharon (Donald) Johnson of Fairmount; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. Two stepchildren, Gene Horner of St. Joseph and Amanda Houser of Champaign, also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Thomas Fry; three grandchildren, Travis Fry, Jesse Kern and Jennifer Johnson; one brother; and six sisters.

Carol was a member of the Villa Grove Pentocostal Church. She retired from Collegiate Cap and Gown.

Carol was a avid reader and enjoyed family genealogy, collecting coins and doing jigsaw puzzles.

Memorials can be made to Villa Grove Pentocostal Church. 

Champaign News-Gazette 10/10/2018

Savannah J. Day

SIDNEY — Savannah J. Day, 18, of Sidney passed away at 6:40 p.m. Wednesday (Oct. 3, 2018).

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2018, at Vineyard Church, Urbana, with the Rev. Barry West officiating. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Sidney. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney.

Ms. Day was born Nov. 17, 1999, in Urbana, a daughter to Charles and Gloria Jaggers Day.

Surviving are her father of Champaign and her mother of Sidney; two sisters, Sydney E. Day and Summer N. Day of Sidney; her maternal grandparents, Rondal and Lois Jaggers of Sidney; her boyfriend, Derek Green of Champaign; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Garry Day; and paternal grandmother and stepgrandfather, Katherine and Ed Leischner.

Savannah was a 2018 Unity High School graduate. She was multiple state champion in cross-country and track and field. She was currently running on Danville Area Community College's cross-country team. She was very outgoing, never meeting a stranger. Her smile was infectious.

Memorials may made to the Savannah Day Memorial Fund at the Longview Bank, Sidney.

Champaign News-Gazette 10/6/2018

William L. Steffey Jr.

HOMER — William L. Steffey Jr. sailed on his final voyage from his home on Sunday (Oct. 7, 2018) surrounded by his family.

He was born Dec. 25, 1930, in rural Homer, a son of William and Dorothy (Bumgart) Steffey Sr. He grew up in the rural Homer/Ogden area and was a graduate of Ogden High School.

He is survived by his wife, Laura; three daughters, Yolanda (Tom) of Chattanooga, Tenn., Lisa (Jeff) of Mahomet and Sheree (Barry) of Normal; stepson, Keith (Sandy) of Carlinville; eight grandchildren, Stephanie (Neil) of Malden, Mass., Autumn (Jeremy) of Normal, Tiffany (Josh) of Glendale, Ariz., Janelle (Greg) of Downs, Brad (Denise) of Worden, Michelle (Shaun) of Rantoul, Steve of Champaign and Michael (Stephanie) of Mahomet; 10 great-grandchildren, Emma, Bradyn, Tristan, Caleb, Kylie, Lauren, Trey, Jacob, Saoirse and Ciaran; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Billy Steffey; sister, Dea Allison; brother, Charles Steffey; and stepson, Darrel Mears.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, at Kirby Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St., with the Kevin Little officiating. Burial will be in GAR Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Bill served in the Navy during the Korean conflict on board the USS Dashiell DD659. He spent the majority of his life in the rural Homer area, other than 11 years in Wisconsin farming. He worked at Humko in the boiler room and then Mercy Hospital, also in the boiler room, from which he retired in 1985.

He loved to travel and see the country. He and Laura visited all 48 continental United States plus Alaska, and he would stop and visit his shipmates, friends and family.

In 1982, he organized the first USS Dashiell reunion at his farm in Homer. This past June, he attended the 37th annual reunion in Harrisburg, Pa., and he was the only sailor to attend all 37 reunions held in 23 different states. Besides the love of his family, Bill felt starting the reunion was his greatest achievement. He loved spending time with his Navy buddies and reminiscing.

Bill attended the Bowman Avenue United Methodist Church for many years. He was a member of the Korean War Veterans Association and served on the Ritual Team/Color Guard for many years. At different times, he owned a pool hall and hobby shop in Homer.

He was a past member of the Homer Historical Society. Bill had a keen interest in genealogy and traced the Steffey family back to the 1600s. Bill was a jack-of-all-trades, including electrician, mechanic and logger. You name it. He could fix it.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to members of the Carle Hospice Team and Tiffany of ResCare for their excellent care to Bill.

Memorials may be made to GAR Cemetery.

Champaign News-Gazette 10/10/2018

Judy Farmer

OGDEN — Judy Farmer, 74, of Ogden passed away at 12:03 a.m. Monday (Oct. 1, 2018) at OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. Burial will be in Patterson Cemetery, St. Joseph. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday.

Judy was born Sept. 21, 1944, in Champaign, the daughter of James E. Velma (Braun) Nale. She married Loren Farmer on April 27, 1963. He survives.

She is also survived by her children, David (Heather) Farmer of Baltimore, Md., Julie (Andy) Hickey of Atlanta, Ga., Gary (RaDonna) Farmer of Murfreesboro, Tenn. and Brian (Penny) Farmer of Church Hill, Va.; 11 grandchildren, Tyler (Larna), Kalib, Andrew, Devin, Sarah, Alex, Gabriel, Trevor, Kendra, Levi and Jackie; three sisters, Elaine (John) Marett of Urbana, Nancy (Bruce) Paxton of Springfield and Peggy (Gregg) Deffley of Falls Church, N.J.; four brothers, Jim (Barb) Nale of San Marcos, Calif., Terry (Denise) Nale of Virginia Beach, Va., David Nale of San Diego and Richard Nale of Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Cele.

Judy’s passion was gardening and cross-stitching. She volunteered for the soup kitchen and library. She worked at Provena Covenant for 30 years in the physical therapy department. She was a longtime member of Church of Christ. Judy was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and aunt and most enjoyed spending time with her family.

Memorials may be made to the Ogden Food Pantry or the Daily Bread Soup Kitchen.

Champaign News-Gazette 10/3/2018