Doris Hoveln

 ST. JOSEPH — Doris M. Hoveln, 87, of St. Joseph passed away at 2:35p.m. Friday, May 28, 2021, at Reflections Memory Care, Savoy.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 802 E. Douglas St., St. Joseph. Pastor Andrew Jones will officiate. Burial will be in Kopmann Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the church. Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, is in charge of arrangements.

Doris was born Jan. 4, 1934, in Ogden, the daughter of Howard and Ellen (Orr) Jacobs. She married George Hoveln on Dec. 28, 1952, in Ogden. He preceded her in death on Sept. 3, 2005.

She is survived by four children, Sharon (Ralph) Brown of Naperville, Carol (Keith) Watson of Wausau, Wis., Keith (Lynne) Hoveln of Sidney and Donna (Mark) Luedke of Broadlands; 11 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Robert (Ann) Jacobs of Bowling Green, Ky.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Donald, Larry, Charles; and two sisters, Wilma Bensyl and Vivian Wood.

Doris was a charter member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, St. Joseph. She worked at the University of Illinois as a bookkeeper at the Illini Union, retiring in 1989.

She enjoyed crocheting, cross stitching, sewing and cooking. Doris also had a green thumb.

Memorials may be made to Kopmann Cemetery or Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.

Wayne Edward Musson

 SIDNEY — Wayne Edward Musson, 67, of Sidney transitioned peacefully at home, with his loving wife and children by his side, on Tuesday (May 25, 2021).

He was born on July 12, 1953, in Sidney, N.Y., the son of Floyd A. and Jean M. (McGibbon) Musson.

Wayne graduated from Cortland High School in 1971. He married Carol Kinne on May 2, 1981, at St. Mary’s Church in Cortland, N.Y.

Wayne worked for several years stringing tennis rackets at Wilson’s Sporting Goods in Cortland until it closed. He also enjoyed roofing with his brother, Dennis. He attended Tompkins Cortland Community College and later was employed as a personnel technician for Cortland County, where he worked for 23 years before retiring in 2016.

Wayne and Carol were married for 40 wonderful years and always loved an adventure.

They traveled to Italy, Hawaii and throughout the continental United States.

One of their favorite places was Myrtle Beach, S.C., where they spent many vacations with their children over the years.

After retiring, they eventually chose to reside there for three years before moving to Illinois to be near family.

An avid sports fan, Wayne loved watching football, running, riding his motorcycle and playing basketball with his many friends. His real passion was playing racquetball whenever he could. He also loved his family dearly and adored his four grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

He will be fondly remembered by his family and friends for his wisdom, support and great sense of humor. He was a cherished father and grandfather, lovingly called “Pop” by his two little granddaughters. His influence and impact on others will be greatly missed.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Carol; two children, Gail C. Riggs (Darin) of Sidney and Ryan W. Musson (Aimee) of Niskayuna, N.Y.; a sister, Diana Woodworth; and grandchildren, Jameson and Julian Musson and Anna and Lilly Riggs.

Wayne is also survived by three half brothers and sisters, Ronald and Raymond Musson and Ramona Pike.

He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Dennis Musson; and half sister, Janice Thacker.

A celebration of life service will be held at Freese Funeral Home, 202 W. Main St., Sidney. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 29, at the funeral home with services at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery, Sidney. Please share your memories and condolences for the family at freesefh.com

Dennis Daniel Freeman

 ST. JOSEPH — Dennis Daniel Freeman, 91, of St. Joseph passed away at 10:30a.m. Sunday (May 23, 2021) at home.

Funeral services will be at 11a.m. Friday, May 28, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Broadlands. Pastor John Sharp will officiate. Burial will take place in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Broadlands. There will be a visitation starting at 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Kirby Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St., Homer, is handling the arrangements.

Dennis was born Oct. 8, 1929, in Ogden, the son of Roland and Francis Elliot Freeman.

He married Doris Irene Wienke on Oct. 29, 1950, in Broadlands. She preceded him in death on May 9, 2013.

Survivors include her daughter, Erin (Mike) Brya of St. Joseph; son, Brian Freeman of Oakwood; and grandchildren, Joselyn Howell, Dustin Howell, Jordan Freeman and Casey Freeman.

He was also preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Crawford.

Dennis was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Broadlands. He served in the Army National Guard. Dennis was a farmer.

He loved big-band music and was a great musician and singer and played in a band for many years.

Memorials can be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church.

NG 5/25/2021

Martha C. Buhr

 GIFFORD — Martha C. Buhr, 65, of rural Gifford passed away at 6:15a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2020, at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

A funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 29, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, with the Rev. James T. Lehmann officiating. Burial will follow in Kopmann Cemetery. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville, is handling arrangements.

M a r tha was born Oct. 25, 1955, in Champaign, the daughter of Charles and Wilma Erke Sherman.

She married Steve Buhr on Aug. 4, 1978, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville. He survives.

Along with her husband, Steve, she is survived by two sons, Jeffrey (Aimee) Buhr of rural Urbana and Thomas (Molly) Buhr of Ogden; six grandchildren, Avary, Broden, Declan, Emmaline, Sophia and Mason; her mother, Wilma Sherman of Gifford; three sisters, Deanna (Gene) Osterbur of Ogden, Marilyn (Russell) Buhr of Saint Joseph and Lilliam (Dennis) Neef of Mansfield; three brothers, Robert Sherman of rural Champaign, David (Mary) Sherman of Mansfield and Daniel (Mary Kae) Sherman of Bloomington; numerous nieces and nephews; mother-in-law, Irene Buhr of Thomasboro; sister-in-law, Marcia Buhr of Saint Joseph; and a brother-in-law, Kenny (DeAnn) Buhr of Thomasboro.

She was preceded in death by her father; one sister, Donna Sherman; and father-in-law, Siegfried Buhr. Martha graduated from Mahomet-Seymour High School in 1974 and from Parkland College as a legal secretary with an associate degree. She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Flatville, where she had been a Sunday school and vacation Bible school teacher.

She loved flowers and had a passion for gardening.

But nothing meant more to her than spending time with those she loved, especially her grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to Mills Breast Cancer Institute or the American Diabetes Association. Please share your memories and condolences with the family at baierfuneralservices. com.

NG 5/25/2021

Don Allen Smith

 Don A. Smith of St. Joseph passed peacefully at home on May 23, 2021. He was 90 years old. Don, was known affectionately as D.A., was born on January 4, 1931 in Altamont, IL to Maynard Allen Smith (Peck) and Marion (McCoy) Smith (Billie). At age 12 the Smith family moved to St. Joseph. Don graduated from St. Joseph High School and joined the Army. He served in Fort Leonard Wood, MO, Fort Benjamin Harrison, IN and Fort Lee, VA. After returning from the Army he attended the University of Illinois.

 On August 17,  1956 he married Gertrude Archer. In 1958 he went to work for the USDA Soil Conservation Service and worked 30 years for them before his retirement in May of 1987. In 2017 when he had been retired thirty years, he often joked that he had been retired longer than he had worked!


 Don and Gertrude were the proud parents of three children, Jackie Revis (Ron) of Inman, SC, Janet Welch (Jan) of Woodstock, GA and Gregory Smith (Darla) of St. Joseph. They were even prouder grandparents of Jesse Smith, Hannah Seaton (Charlie) and Rachel Smith (Spencer) all of Nashville, TN, Derek Revis (Courtney) of Simpsonville, SC. Drew Read, Madison, WI and Lucas Read (Katie) of Birmingham, AL. Their greatest pride was in their six great grandchildren, Adelaide Smith, Theo, Rowan and Bob Seaton and Sawyer and Bailey Revis.


 Don was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Dean "Luke" Smith and Stanley Smith, and infant sister, Mary Lou Smith, and his nephew Jeff Welch. In addition to his wife, Gertrude of 64 years, and those listed above, he is survived by his sister Jane Dowling of Okeechobee, FL.


 If you knew Don for longer than thirty minutes you would quickly learn that he loved and adored his wife. Since he retired he drove her to/from work almost every day until she retired three years later. He took great pride in his yard and his home and could often be seen driving his Allis Chalmers/Simplicity garden tractor with his head phones on while cutting grass.


 He was a long time member of the St. Joseph Church of Christ where he sang in the choir, served as an elder and served as the Chairman of the Building Committee when the new sanctuary was built in 1978.


 Memorials may be made to the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame, 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.

 Funeral services will be held Friday May 28, 2021 at 12:00 P.M. at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. His son Greg will officiate the service. Burial will be in Patterson Cemetery, St. Joseph. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. Friday at the funeral home.

Ronald "Bud" Willard Taylor

 IDNEY — On Tuesday (May 18, 2021), Ronald “Bud” Willard Taylor passed away at age 55.

Bud was born Dec. 26, 1965, in Champaign County, to Ronald and Phyllis (Dodd) Taylor. He attended Unit 7 schools and was a lifelong resident of Sidney. Bud has a passion working outside and with his hands. He was a jack of all trades. He enjoyed helping others.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald, and mother, Phyllis.

He is survived by his four kids, John Michael, Justin, Elizabeth and Ashley Taylor; grandchildren, Donavan and Izaiah Taylor, Kaison Johnson and Landon Roberts; siblings, Cathy Thomas, Debbie (Roy) Rutherford, Becky (Bob) Martin, Wendy (Kevin) Samson, Bernie (Jandee) Taylor and Ronna (Stefan) Benoit; and

11 nieces and nephews.

A public visitation will be held Tuesday, May 25, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney. Condolences may be made at freesefh.com.

Richard Douglas "Doug" Nesbitt

 SIDNEY — Richard Douglas “Doug” Nesbitt, 59, died unexpectedly March 31, 2021, at his rural Sidney home.

The family invites all who knew him to join them in a memorial celebration of Doug’s life at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 26, at Windsor Road Christian Church, 2501 W. Windsor Road, Champaign.

Doug was born Jan. 14, 1962, to John and Shirley Gardner Nesbitt. They preceded him in death, along with his grandparents, two aunts and an uncle.

Doug graduated from Jamaica High School in 1980 and went on to earn a B.S. in plant science from Illinois State University, an M.S. in plant science from Southern Illinois University and a PhD. in plant breeding and genetics from Purdue University. He was also a founding father of FarmHouse fraternity at Illinois State University.

Doug married Lisa Rosdail on Sept. 15, 1990. She survives, along with their children, Lauren Alicia Nesbitt of Decatur and Noah Douglas Nesbitt of Sidney.

Also surviving are a brother, David (Sandy) Nesbitt of Georgetown, and sister, Nancy (Roger) Burris of Indianola; in-laws, Duane and Barbara Rosdail of Indianola and Eric (Lisa) Rosdail of South Carolina; nephew, Bryant Burris; nieces, Chelsea (Daniel) Dalenberg, Danielle (Jason) Smith, Haleigh (Blake) Wadsworth, Megan Burris and Bailey Rosdail; several cousins; three great-nieces; and two great-nephews.

Doug worked as a plant breeder and agricultural seed researcher for over 25 years, amassing a huge catalog of seed and plant knowledge. Doug enjoyed what he did so much, he never considered it work.

At home, he was an avid gardener, experimenting with plants and seeds and collecting hostas. Doug also collected toy tractors as a tribute to the generations of farmers in his family.

He was a loyal fan of St. Louis Cardinals baseball, Illini men’s basketball and all things Purdue. He also loved traveling, particularly to places with great snorkeling or hikes to beautiful waterfalls.

But his greatest love was his family, whom he adored and spoiled for more than 30 years.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made in Doug’s name to Cunningham Children’s Home or the Noah D. Nesbitt college fund, in care of Robison Chapel, P.O. Box 79, Catlin, IL 61817. Condolences may also be left on Doug’s guest book at robison chapel.com.

Oscar William "Bill" Adams

 ST. JOSEPH — Oscar William “Bill” Adams II, 70, passed away at 9:24a.m. Wednesday (May 19, 2021) at home in Saint Joseph.

Oscar was born Nov. 18, 1950, in Urbana, to Oscar Way and Alice Bernice (Kimpel) Adams. He was a 1968 graduate of Urbana High School and a graduate of Eastern Illinois University. He also attended Danville Area Community College, where he learned to fly. He worked for Northern Illinois Water Co./Illinois American Water as a plant operator for 42 years.

He married Adana Thompson on May 8, 1971, in Urbana. As a father of three and grandfather of four, his greatest pastime was spending time with his family. He was extremely proud of each grandchild. He was known for his infectious smile and kind and compassionate spirit. He enjoyed traveling, gardening and coin collecting.

Oscar was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Hagen Nathaniel.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Adana; daughter Sarah Yvette of Tolono; son, Colin William- Way (Andre) of Des Plaines; and daughter Emily Elizabeth Chilton of Sidney; grandsons, Bryce Alan, Tanner Alexander and Skyler Andrew; siblings, Barb Adams, Bonnie Renfrew, Richard Adams, Stephen (Terrie) Adams of Dekalb and Nancy (Craig) Davidson of Danville; and cousins, nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 11a.m. to noon Saturday, May 22, at Morgan Funeral Home, 1304 Regency Drive West, Savoy, IL 61874. Graveside services will be private.

The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at Carle Heart & Vascular Institute, the Carle Urology Department and Carle Hospice for their outstanding care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations be made in Oscar’s memory to Crisis Nursery, 1309 W. Hill St., Urbana, IL 61801, or crisisnursery.net/, Carle Philanthropy or to a place of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be offered at morganmemorialhome. com.

NG 5/21/2021

Dorothy L. "Dot" Albers

 Dorothy L. “Dort” Albers, 68 of Urbana, passed away at 8:02 p.m. Monday, May 17, 2021, at her daughter’s home in Ogden.

Visitation will be from 3-6 p.m. Thursday, May 20, in Diers Hall, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville with a Prayer Service at 6:00 p.m. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Dorothy was born November 12, 1952 in Urbana the daughter of Edwin and Marguerite L. Maier Ehler. She married Steve Albers July 28, 1972 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville. He survives.

Along with her husband Steve, she is survived by one daughter Dina (Kerry) Fox of Ogden, a son Doug Albers of Champaign; two granddaughters Emilie and Hannah and a brother Kenneth (Christine “Charlie”) Ehler of rural Thomasboro.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Dorothy graduated from St. Joseph-Ogden High School in 1970. Her favorite job was being a waitress at The Apple Dumpling, Urbana. Her work ethic was second to none and she always looked forward to going to work.

She was a life-long member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville. Dorothy took great pride in knitting hats for OSF cancer patients and the homeless. She enjoyed RVing but nothing meant more to her than family and spending time with her granddaughters.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville. Please share your memories and condolences with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.

Suzanne Marie-Jacqueline Nash

 JACKSON, Mo. — Suzanne Marie-Jacqueline Nash, 79, of Jackson, Mo., formerly of Homer, passed away at 2:40 a.m. Saturday (May 15, 2021) at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 22, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Homer. Father Michael Menner will officiate. Burial will take place in Old Homer Cemetery, Homer. There will be a visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. prior to the service at Kirby Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St., Homer.

Suzanne was born Aug. 11, 1941, in Metz, France, the daughter of Arthur Marshk Lay and Jacqueline Bintz. She married Robert E. Nash on May 30, 1960, in Metz. He preceded her in death on July 27, 2010.

Survivors include her daughter, Chris Suzanne Epley of Jackson; five sons, Rodney Michael Nash of Sidell, Patrick Sean Nash of Oklahoma City, Okla., Robert Allen Nash of Jessup, Ga., Georges Henri Nash of Evansville, Ind., and Jean Philippe Nash of Stuttgart, Germany; grandchildren, Hunter Nash, Jacqueline Nash, Devon Nash, Alexis Nash, Garek Nash, Zane Nash, Keegan McDuffie, Calleena Mulderink, Kyra Nash, Aimee Nash, James and Dawn Jennings, Judy Davis, Robert Nash, Meghan Stewart, Eric and Alex Nash and Jimmy Rearick; and great-grandchildren, Isabella, Claudia and Vincent Angelo, Aurora Mulderink, Caleb Nash, Justin, Christopher, Alyssa and Michaela Davis, Tyler and Kaitlynne Jennings and Chiara and Gage Nash.

Suzanne was affiliated with St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Homer. She was an avid gardener, loved knitting and painting florals and landscapes.

Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society.

NG 5/18/2021

Jessie Anderson Griffith

 URBANA — Jessie (Anderson) Griffith, 99, of Urbana passed away on Wednesday (May 12, 2021).

There will be a graveside service at 3p.m. Wednesday, May 19, at Grandview Memorial Gardens, Champaign. The Rev. Michael Elmore will be officiating.

Mrs. Griffith was born March 3, 1922, in Fairmount, the daughter of William Arthur and Mallie (Thompson) Anderson. She married Edward I. Griffith on Oct. 22, 1945, in Champaign. He passed away April 1, 2005.

Survivors include one sister-in-law, Sandy Anderson of St Joseph; one brother-in-law, Carrel Gosnell of Villa Grove; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Orvel, Ralph, William and Paul; and two sisters, Novelle and Barbara.

Mrs. Griffith graduated from Longview High School in 1941. After graduation she worked at the Grill Café for four years as a waitress. While working, she attended the Champaign Commercial College. She worked at Mel Roots Restaurant for 10 years as manager and waitress then worked at the State Universities Retirement System for 25 years and retired in 1987. Jessie loved waitress work and meeting people.

She loved good gospel music and singing with family and friends. She loved going to many gospel meetings and conventions.

Memorial contributions may be made to Living Hope Foursquare Church, 2101 E. Washington St., Urbana, IL 61802, or donor’s choice.

NG 5/16/2021

Darold D. Sage

 Darold D. Sage, 77, of Venice, FL passed away at 2:01 a.m. Saturday May 8, 2021 at Village On The Isle – Tidewell Hospice, Venice, FL.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 16, 2021 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 802 E. Douglas St., Saint Joseph, IL.  The service will continue at Kopmann Cemetery, Royal, IL immediately following the church.  Freese Funeral Home, Saint Joseph, IL, is assisting the family with arrangements.  There will not be a visitation.

Darold was born July 17, 1943, in Champaign County, the son of Fred and Reka Albers Sage.  He married Mildred “Millie” Wilken Sage on September 16, 1967 at Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church, Gifford, IL.  She survives.

Along with his wife, Millie, he is survived by a daughter, Heidi Sage of Evergreen, CO; sister Donna (Carl) Beard of Taveres, FL and brother Myron Sage of Gifford, IL, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Reka Sage, brother Wayne (Roxie survives) and a nephew.

Darold graduated from the University of Illinois in 1965 with Bronze Tablet University Honors.  He was a member of the National Guard.  He joined the bank, now known as Busey Bank, in 1966 and worked there for over 41 years as an Investment Officer.  After his retirement in 2008, Millie and Darold moved to Evergreen, CO where they lived for eight years before relocating to their current home in Venice, FL.  In retirement Darold enjoyed continuing to share his knowledge of investments with family, friends, and others.

He was baptized and confirmed at Saint John’s Lutheran Church, Royal, IL.  After marriage they were early members of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Saint Joseph, IL followed by being members of Evergreen Lutheran Church, Evergreen, CO and Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Venice, FL.  Darold enjoyed singing with the various choirs and men’s chorus at church throughout his life.

Darold loved being active in life.  Horses have always been his passion including raising horses throughout his life.  He continued to keep a horse in Colorado that he would ride on mountain trails while living in Colorado and while visiting his daughter, Heidi, in Colorado after the move to Florida.  He also loved riding his bike to the beach each morning while living in Venice, FL and spending time with family and friends.  Darold was a good Christian man of strong faith who read the bible daily and loved music and singing.  He was a kind man, a wonderful husband, and an extraordinary father who will be greatly missed.


Memorials may be made to any of the following:   Tidewell Hospice, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Evergreen Lutheran Church, or Saint John’s Lutheran Church.  Condolences may be offered at www.Freesefh.com

Merrell Shipman

Merrell Shipman 73, of St. Joseph passed away at 3:10 A.M. Monday May 10, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family and beloved cat Tiger.

Visitation will be held Friday May 14, 2021 from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph, IL. Masonic services will be held at 7;00 P.M. 

Graveside services will be held at a later date.

Merrell was born January 25, 1948 at Danville. The son of George H. and Thelma (Miller) Shipman.

He is survived by his former wife Irma Shipman of Urbana. Son Chris(Stacey) Shipman of Urbana. Daughter Michelle Powell-Johnson of Overland Park, KS. Six grandchildren; Katie Wygant, Marissa Lewis, Jocelyn Shipman, Mackenzie Leece, Brooklyn Shipmman, Brayden Shipman. Cousin Sonna Ellis. Several nieces and nephews.


He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Harry G. Shipman, two sisters Karol J. Hearell and Sharon K. Shipman.


Merrell retired from the University of Illinois after 29 years in the Transportation Department. He belonged to the Teamsters Local 26. 

Merrell was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force from 1967 to 1973. He also served in Vietnam.

 He was a graduate of Oakwood High School Class of 1966.  Member of Anchor Masonic Lodge 980.  He was also an avid Illini Fan following the football to many Bowl Games and basketball teams to many tournaments.

 Memorials may be made to Harbor Light Hospice.

Jean Elizabeth Fleming

 SAVOY — Jean Elizabeth Fleming, 104, of Savoy (formerly of St. Joseph) passed away at 9:17 p.m. Friday, April 30, 2021, at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells.

Jean was born Jan. 10, 1917, in Hopkins, Minn., the daughter of Frank and Ruth (Boyce) Nemec.

Jean is survived by her daughters, Muriel Wagner of Marengo and Roxanne Fleming of Savoy; five grandchildren, Benjamin Wolff, Amy Laughnan, Gwyn Warf, Bianca Green and Shane Truitt; and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, A.G. Fleming; her daughter, Penelope (Fleming) Avcin; her grandsons, Jeff and Scott Wagner; and her beloved brother, Boyce Nemec, a pioneer in the field of audiovisual communications, in-flight movie technology and standardization of the motion-picture industry.

Jean graduated from Hopkins High School in Hopkins, Minn., and subsequently received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota, where she majored in Interior Architectural Design. Upon graduation, she worked for the influential architect Elizabeth “Lisl” Close at Close & Scheu Architects in Minneapolis. When the United States became involved in World War II, Jean began working for International Harvester as an airplane cannon inspector.

After raising her children and moving to St. Joseph, she opened Skyre Croft Kennel, where she bred and showed AKC Miniature Dachshunds. Dogs bred from her kennel earned countless awards at shows across the country. She was a longtime member of the Champaign Illinois Kennel Club, the Danville Illinois Kennel Club and the Lincolnland Dachshund Club of Springfield.

Jean also served as a Steward for many area dog shows and had a particular affinity for Dachshunds, Papillons and German Shepherds.

Jean worked as a standardized patient for Carle Illinois College of Medicine and loved working for the Urbana Park District and the Anita Purves Nature Center. She was an avid gardener and skilled seamstress and regularly competed in the National Counted Cross Stitch Competition at Rockome Gardens.

“Gram” loved the challenge of hard crossword puzzles, cheered for all of the Illini sports teams and enjoyed watching musicals and classic movies.

A private service will be held at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Champaign County Humane Society. Condolences may be offered at renner-wikoffchapel. com.

John C. Reitmeier

John C. Reitmeier 81 of St. Joseph passed away at 2:52 P.M. Thursday May 6, 2021.

Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Monday May 10, 2021 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville. Pastor James Lehmann will officiate. Burial will be in Koppmann Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. to  10:30 A.M. Monday at the church.

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

John was born December 5, 1939 at Stanton Township. The son of Christon and Mary (Huls) Reitmeier. He married Norma J. Henderson on September 28, 1958 at Flatville. She preceded him in death on June 4, 2020.

He is survived by his children; J.C. (Karen) Reitmeier of St. Joseph, Jean Palmer of St. Joseph. Five grandchildren; Anna (Thomas) Levandoski, Austin Reitmeier, Kimberly (Justin) Girouard, Angela Palmer, Jessica Palmer. Two brother Ray (Andrea) Reitmeier of St. Joseph and Melvin (Marie) Reitmeier of St. Joseph.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Clara Buenting, brother William Reitmeier.

John was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.

He retired from the Wilson-Rector Fertilizer Plant, Fithian.

John farmed all his life in the area retiring in 2009.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, trap shooting and camping.

Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Aurettia June Gilmore Kobel

 ST. JOSEPH — Aurettia June (Gilmore) Kobel of St. Joseph, born June 5, 1930, daughter of the late Lawrence Gilmore and Hazel Marie (Beals) Gilmore Endsley, passed from this life on Thursday (May 6, 2021) at the age of 90.

She is survived by her son, James E. Kobel of Two Rivers, Wis.; daughter, Marla K. Kobel- Crook of St. Joseph; 10 granddaughters, Mallory Kobel-Hansen of Champaign and Ashley Kobel-Schworer, Alexis Kobel, Olivia Kobel Gauthier Laack, Abigail Kobel, Adaline Kobel, Aubrieana Kobel, Alynna Kobel, Gia Kobel and Lilly Kobel, all of Two Rivers; three grandsons, Quinten “Quinn” Crook of Champaign and Peter Kobel and Aric Kobel of Two Rivers; and two great- granddaughters, Ava Schworer and Briella Gauthier, also of Two Rivers.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Harry E. Kobel of St. Joseph; and one grandson, Abraham Kobel of Two Rivers.

A 1948 graduate of Sadorus High School, Mrs. Kobel was active in the drama and home economics departments. After graduation, she attended business school and was employed by the University of Illinois. When she retired from the university, Department of Dairy Sciences, in 1992, she had been recognized for her years of contributions to the Illini Dairy Club as their volunteer secretary and campus “Mom.” One of her most noted contributions was the creation of the “Milk a Cow” button, still being used by the club at the Illinois State Fair.

A member of Bondville United Methodist Church, she was active with the MYF, Sunday School programs, fundraising and was on the first committee helping to create a congregation cookbook. Traveling, quilting, sewing and her family were her passions. Serving as an ambassador for Brookdale Senior Living, Urbana, Aurettia took pride in welcoming and orienting new residents. She loved her friends, old and new, and she will be missed.

Private graveside services will be held at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a future date. Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences at freesefh.com.

NG 5/8/2021

Ellen Eloise Gunselman

 NIAGARA, Wis. — On Sunday (May 2, 2021), Ellen Eloise Gunselman, 95, a longtime resident of Homer, passed away peacefully at Maryhill Manor, Niagara, Wis.

Eloise was born April 10, 1926, to Clifford and Oma (Brown) Walters, in Spencer County, Ind. She grew up in Southern Indiana, graduating from Gentryville High School in 1945. After marrying Joseph Gunselman in Huntingburg, Ind., on Feb. 18, 1947, they moved to Homer to begin their lives together. Eloise was a stay-at-home mom when their daughter, Elaine, was young, and then worked in the sewing department of Collegiate Cap and Gown for many years.

After retiring, Eloise volunteered in the community, logging many hours at Provena Hospital as well as with the Peace Meal program. She was also an active member of Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Homer. In 2010, she moved to Upper Michigan to be close to her family and then became a member of Saint Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Kingsford, Mich.

Eloise loved to cook and bake, knit and crochet, make quilts as well as sew. She also enjoyed reading, playing cards, tending her garden in the summer and visiting with her many friends. Although all of these things were important to her, her greatest love was for her family.

She is survived by her daughter and son- in- law, Elaine and David Wagner of Iron Mountain, Mich.; grandchildren, Nicole (Eli) Ward of Iron Mountain, Amy (Jeremy) Rodriguez of Iron Mountain and Patrick Wagner of Ishpeming, Mich.; great- grandchildren, Abby and Layla Ward, Brayden, Evan, Juliana and Marina Rodriguez and Dorian and Nora Wagner; sister, Ruth (Rod) Butler; and sister in- law, Sister Betty Gunselmen.

She is also survived by a very special friend who is considered a member of the family, LeAnn (Chuck) Benner.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph, on Nov. 18, 1990; brothers and sisters-in law, Castle and Marcella Walters, Arnold and Viola Walters and Daniel and Kathleen Walters; and brother-in-law, Gerald Jones.

The family would like to thank Evergreen Assisted Living and Maryhill Manor Nursing Home for the extraordinary care given to Eloise during the last years of her life. They will always be remembered for their loving care.

Visitation will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 8, at Kirby Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St., Homer, with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11 a.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, with Father Michael Menner officiating. Burial will take place in GAR Cemetery, Homer.

Memorials can be made to Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Homer, Saint Mary Queen of Peace Church in Kingsford, Mich., or a charity of your choice.

NG 5/7/2021

Roy A. Patten

 CATLIN — Roy A. Patten, 103, prominent Catlin resident, passed away at 9:50 p.m. Tuesday (May 4, 2021) at Pleasant Meadows Senior Living, Chrisman.

Roy was born April 2, 1918, in Homer to William Grant and Zora Cannon Patten. He married Rita A. Mauck on July 19, 1961, in Henning. She survives.

Also surviving are one son, David A. (Joy) Patten of Danville; one daughter, Nancy Boyd of Lafayette, Ind.; three grandchildren, Daniel (fiancée Bree) Boyd, Aaron (Chesley) Patten and Alex (Brittany) Patten; one great-grandson, Daniel Boyd II; and two greatgreat- grandchildren, Jaydan and Mia Boyd.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Walter and Arthur Patten; and one son-in-law, Jay Boyd. Roy graduated from Georgetown High School in 1936. He was a switchman for the Wabash Railroad, later the Norfolk and Western Railroad, for 36 years. He was a member of Catlin Church of Christ and taught Christian Men’s Builders Class. He was a member of the Catlin Masonic Lodge 285 and Danville Consistory and Shrine. He enjoyed fishing and helping people.

Funeral services will be at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, May 8, at Catlin Church of Christ, with Pastor Dustin Wells officiating, with Masonic rites at noon. Burial in Oakridge Cemetery, Catlin. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 8, at Catlin Church of Christ. Masks and social distancing are required.

Memorials to the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Robison Chapel, Catlin, is handling arrangements. Online condolences at robisonchapel.com.

Lois M. Prather

 URBANA — Lois M. Prather, 93, of Urbana passed away Saturday, May 1, 2021.

She was born July 16, 1927, in Hutsonville, the daughter of Roy and Mary Pearl ( Sackrider) Voorheis. She married Francis G. Prather on June 28, 1953. He preceded her in death in 1982.

Lois is survived by her sons, Mark Prather of Urbana and James Prather (Rebecca) of Urbana; three grandchildren, Philip Prather (Kathleen), Stephanie Stuart (Dustin) and Ashley Withers (Blake); five great- grandchildren, Calvin, Harper, Hailey, Lennox and Eloise; her brother, John Voorheis of Robinson; as well as many nephews and nieces.

Lois graduated from Hutsonville High School in 1945 and attended the Western Union School in Crawfordsville, Ind., shortly thereafter. After graduation, she moved to Waukegan and worked in the Western Union office until transferring to the Danville office. She transferred to the Champaign office in late 1949.

After her marriage to Francis, she was a fulltime homemaker and mother as well as assisting with the farming operation. She was active for many years with Mayview WSCS and Mayview Home Extension.

Lois was a devoted wife and mother as well as a doting grandmother, and also had the opportunity to meet and hold each of her five great- grandchildren. Her home was a place of comfort and family memories.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the staff at Brookdale Urbana for the exceptional care she received during her last years of life.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at Renner- Wikoff Chapel & Crematory, 1900 S. Philo Road, Urbana. The Rev. Jeff Graham will officiate. Visitation will be from noon to 2 p.m. Burial will in Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview. Condolences may be offered at renner-wikoff chapel.com.