Tristin Fuqua

 
Tristan Fuqua, 21, of St. Joseph passed away on Thursday December 29, 2022.

 Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday January 3, 2022 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Burial will be in Patterson Cemetery, St. Joseph. Visitation will be Tuesday from 11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

 Tristan was born September 23, 2001 in Urbana. The son of Ryan Fuqua and Amanda Hart.

 He is survived by his father Ryan (Jenny) Fuqua of St. Joseph. Mother Amanda Hart of St. Joseph. Sister Zella Fuqua of St. Joseph. Paternal grandparents Doug and Evelyn Fuqua of Carterville. Maternal grandparents Frank and Sandy Hart of Urbana. two Uncle's Vincent Fuqua and Cory (Brittany) Fuqua both of Marion. Two Aunt's Cheri Soliday of Mahomet, Renee Hart of Urbana. Six cousins; Dylan Fuqua, Xander Fuqua, Dixi Fuqua, Nicole Helregel,  Natalie Helregel and Dathan Ellis. 

 Tristan was full of life and enjoyed new adventures. He grew up in scouting and was able to hike Philmont with his dad and troop. He received the highest achievement of the Eagle Scout Rank. With his background in scouting, he found a love of camping. He would go any chance he could. He graduated this year from lineman school. Tristan was an animal lover, and had a dog named Hobo at home. He could have a dog friend by the end of any gathering. He enjoyed wood working, and spending time making things with his own hands. He gifted multiple family members with things he had made. He was always excited for vacations with family, and was able to explore the country. 

 Memorials may be made to Camp Robert Drake in Fairmount, IL

FH 12/30/2022

Charlotte Sue McKitrick

 Charlotte Sue McKitrick 77, of Urbana went home to be with Jesus at 12:08 P.M. Saturday December 24, 2022 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

 Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday December 28, 2022 at Calvary Baptist Church 2106 E. Windsor Rd., Urbana. Pastor Gary Gritton will officiate. Burial will be in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Sidney. Visitation will be from 12;00 P.M. - 1:00 P.M. at the church Wednesday.

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

 Charlotte was born June 3, 1945 in Champaign. The daughter of Rufus and Meridith (Weaver) DeVore. She married Tom McKitrick in 1968 in Sidney. He survives.



 She is also survived by her son Phillip (Jennifer) McKitrick of Fairmount. Six cousins; Sandy (Bill) Campbell, Andy (Nancy) Ennis, Danny (Alice) Ennis, Carolyn (Duane) Blaney, Larry (Anna) Kammin, Johnny (Pam) Kammin.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Ron DeVore, Uncle Doyle Weaver.

 Charlotte was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, Urbana. She sang in the choir and played her Auto Harp at church.

 She was a wonderful wife and mother. She enjoyed working with the AWANA children, talking with family and friends.

 Memorials may be made to Calvary Baptist Church or St. Jude Children's Hospital.

Freese FH 12/26/2022

Margaret H. Harms

 

URBANA — Margaret H. Harms, 101, of Urbana passed away Friday morning (Dec. 23, 2022) at ClarkLindsay, Urbana.

She was born June 30, 1921, in Compromise Township, a daughter of William and Grace (Hoveln) Bruns. She married John Harms on Jan. 18, 1946, at Immanuel Lutheran Church. He preceded her in death in January 1972.

She is survived by a daughter, Gloria Harms of Urbana; two grandchildren, John (Andrea) Harms of Humboldt, Iowa, and Jami Harms of Mahomet; and four great- grandchildren, Camden Harms, Grady Harms, Grace Harms and and Emmi Harms.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Barbara Harms; a son, Leon Harms; and two brothers, Claus and Mayne Bruns.

Funeral services will be at 10 Wednesday morning at Lux Memorial Chapel, 1551 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul. The Rev. James Lehman will officiate. Burial will follow in Kopman Cemetery, St. Joseph. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service at Lux Memorial Chapel.

Memorials may be made to Kopman Cemetery.

NG 12/24/2022

Thomas Franklin Carter

 HOMER — Thomas Franklin “Frank” Carter, 94, of Homer passed away at 6:30 a.m. Thursday (Dec. 22, 2022) at home.

There will be no services. Cremation rites have been accorded. Homer Funeral and Cremation Services, 708 S. Main St., Homer, is handling arrangements.

Frank was born Feb. 24, 1928, at home in Vance Township, the son of Charles M. and Mabel Craig Carter. He married Beverly J. Moore on Aug. 23, 1947, in Homer. She preceded him in death on Aug. 15, 2002.

Survivors include two sons, Chuck (Karla) Carter of Homer and Todd Carter of Fairmount; a daughter, Kimberly (Christopher) Hays of Bloomington; one grandchild; and two great-grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by his parents and two older brothers.

Frank was a member of Homer United Methodist Church. He was an agricultural engineer for the Department of Agriculture. He was an animal lover and raised baby squirrels. Frank liked spending time in the woods and liked to roller skate, even having his own outdoor rink. He loved his family and will be dearly missed by them.

Memorials can be made to Homer United Methodist Church.

NG 12/24/2022

Catherine Wells

 
Catherine Wells 89, of St. Joseph passed away at 12:35 P.M. Thursday December 22, 2022 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

 Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday December 28, 2022 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joesph. Pastor Ken Young will officiate. Burial will be in Patterson Cemetery, St. Joseph. Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at the funeral home.

 Catherine was born June 4, 1933 in St. Joseph Township. The daughter of Elmer and Ethel (Wyant) Kammin. She married Raymond P. Wells on August 28, 1950. He preceded her on April 3, 2017.

 She is survived by her children; Tina (Bob) Gebbink of Milton, FL, Raymond (Pamela) Wells of St. Joseph, Karen Hughey of Dewey. Nine grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. Sister Helen Clodfelder of Mahomet.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, daughter Charlotte Wells Morse, grandson Michael Morse, granddaughter Janelle Wells, grandson Raymond Wells III and great granddaughter Murelle Plotner.

 Catherine helped her husband on the farm and with the trucking business. She enjoyed bowling, dancing, and sitting by a campfire. 

 She was lovingly known as "The Warden"

 Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Freese FH 12/23/2022

Nancy Johnson

 ST. JOSEPH - Nancy Johnson, 70, of St. Joseph passed away Monday (Dec. 19, 2022) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, surrounded by her loving family.

Nancy will always be remembered for her courage during her battles with breast and lung cancer. A special thank you to Dr. Kendrith Rowland and the staff at Mills Breast Cancer Institute and Carle Foundation Hospital for their special care and treatment through her struggles.

Nancy was born Oct. 28, 1952, the daughter of Robert and Winifred (Zander) Campbell, in Danville. She graduated from Oakwood High School in 1970. On May 16, 2002, she married Marvin J. Johnson in Danville.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Marvin; son, Joe (Heather) Carpenter of Bismarck; daughter, Beth (Jason) LeSure of Springfield; and granddaughters, Bailey (Nick) Boland of Eau Claire, Wis., Carissa (Devin) Smith of Danville and Kayla and Layna LeSure of Springfield.

She is also survived by her in-laws, Randell (Lorinda) Johnson of Rankin, Marlys Johnson of Gifford, Teresa Rademacher of Gifford and Gene (Beulah) Severins of Thomasboro. Additionally, she is survived by her aunt, Ruthie (Bob) Harrison; uncle, Raymond Thompson; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents, Elmer and Mildred Zander and James and Devora Campbell; brother, David Campbell; sister-in-law, Carol Severins; and brother-in-law, Randy (Rock) Rademacher.

Early in her working career, Nancy was employed by the Commercial News and later co-owned Carpenter's Wrecker Service. She began her banking career with CIB until retiring in 2014 from Gifford State Bank.

Nancy loved spending time with her family, especially her children and grandchildren, who were her whole world. She is fondly remembered for her love of playing the piano and teaching others how to play as well. She loved baking and leaves behind cherished family traditions of making her infamous Christmas sugar cookies for family decorating and dough-stealing mischief. She was very creative and crafty and loved sewing, especially her children's Halloween costumes. Nancy was known for her love of the water and beach, where special memories were made with family and friends.

A celebration of life for Nancy Johnson will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL 61834. Pastor James Blue will officiate. Burial will follow in Kopmann Cemetery, Royal. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. prior to the service Tuesday, also at Sunset in Danville.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorials to be made to Mills Breast Cancer Institute, 509 W. University Ave., Urbana, IL 61801. Please join Nancy's family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Published by The News-Gazette on Dec. 21, 2022.

Wanda Bohlen

 Wanda Bohlen 96, of St. joseph passed away at 3:19 A.M. Wednesday December 21, 2022 at Pleasant Meadows Senior Living, Chrisman.

 Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday December 27, 2022 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 802 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Pastor Dennis Meyer will officiate. Burial will be in Mt. Hope Cemtery, Sidney. Visitation will be from 9:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Tuesday at the church.

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

 Wanda was born October 13, 1926 in St. Joseph Township. the daughter of Ferrel C. and Icle Neta (McElwee) Gebbink. She married Bernard Bohlen on April 7, 1945. He preceded her on March 16, 2001.

 She is survived by her daughters; Bonnie Franzen of St. joseph, Linda Palmer of St. Joseph, Debbie Mason of Ogden, Karen Knipfer of St. Joseph, Sharon Bohlen of St. Joseph. Ten grandchildren, Fourteen great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers and two son in laws, Norbert Franzen and Chris Knipfer.

 Wanda was a 1944 graduate of St. Joseph High School. She was a member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, St. Joseph, St. Joseph Women's Club, St. Joseph Senior Citizens, Home Extension, and the American Legion Auxiliary.

 She liked to crochet and sew quilts. Most of all she liked being with family and attending her grandchildren's sporting events.

 Memorials may be made to donor's choice.

Freese FH 12/22/2022

Alice Marie Bates

 Mrs. Alice Marie Bates, 90, passed away Saturday morning, December 10, 2022, at Signature Healthcare at Parkwood in Lebanon, Indiana. She was born in Jamaica, Illinois on October 7, 1932, a daughter of the late Thomas Jefferson and Luanna (Hale) Philbeck.

She was first married to Robert Edward Scott, and they divorced. On April 30, 1955, she was married to Russell "Jr" Bates in Lebanon, Indiana. He passed away on December 23, 2002.

Alice lived in St. Joseph, Illinois until the age of nine when her family moved to Lebanon, Indiana. After her marriage, took care of their home while raising three children. Later she worked as a waitress for Proctor's Lebanon Café. For a period, she was employed by J & L Steel and also worked in housekeeping and laundry at Oak Park Manor. Prior to her retirement, Alice spent 15-20 years with Byron Christy Fair Concessions then Libbertt Concessions.

Family being the most important thing to Alice, she was a proud mother and adored her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren.

Survivors include a daughter, Marcia Lynn Minor of Lebanon; daughter-in-law, Vickey Scott of Greenwood; six grandchildren; several great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; two sisters, Mary Rudisill Butzow and June Wilson.
In addition to her parents and husband, Alice was preceded in death by two sons, Larry Michael Scott and Robert Keith Scott; brothers, Otis Philbeck and Gather Philbeck; and sisters, Martha Ayers, Lela McNew, and Myrtle Bailey.

Funeral Services are planned for 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 15, 2022, at Myers Mortuary, 1502 North Lebanon Street, in Lebanon, Indiana. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services. Interment will follow at Lincoln Memory Gardens in Whitestown, Indiana.

Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.
Online condolences: www.myersmortuary.com

Ella "Mickie" Wyant

 ALLERTON — Ella “Mickie” Wyant, 79, of Allerton passed away at 11:55 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022, at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022, at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney. Burial will be in Locust Grove Cemetery, Philo. Visitation will be from 11a.m. to 12:30p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Mrs. Wyant was born Feb. 23, 1943, in Tuscola, a daughter of Eulas and Willadean Copas Deckard. She married Billy Dean Wyant on Aug. 25, 1961; he preceded her in death on Aug. 31, 2017.

Surviving are two sons, Jeff (Madonna) Wyant and Wayne Wyant, both of Sidney; eight grandchildren, Jenna (Travis Yoder) of Cannelburg, Ind., Jared (Hannah) Wyant of East Lynn, Brennen (Maggie) Black and Matthew Brady, both of Sidney, and Tanner, Cody, Mason and Brynna Wyant, all of Allerton; a great-grandchild, Bennett Yoder of Cannelburg, Ind.; and a sister, Pat (Robert) Constans of Danville.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a half-brother, H.B. Cary.

She enjoyed doing puzzles, playing the mandolin and guitar, singing old country songs, going to garage sales and mostly hummingbirds.

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

Condolences may be offered at freesefh.com.

Freese FH 12/9/2022

Emma Bluhm

 Emma Bluhm, of Ogden, passed from this life to her heavenly home on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, at Country Health Care and Rehab in Gifford at the age of 95 years.

 
Arrangements are being made through Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand, St. Joseph.  A graveside service will be held at St. John Lutheran Cemetery, Royal, at 1:00 on Friday, December 9, 2022.
 
Emma, a daughter of Simon L. and Anna (Huls) Osterbur, was born May 11, 1927 in Champaign County.  She grew up on a farm near Royal and attended a one-room schoolhouse.  She married Alvin “Kelly” Bluhm on November 25, 1945 near Royal.  He preceded her in death on November 10, 2015—15 days short of their 70th wedding anniversary.
 
Her surviving loved ones include her children: David (Ginny) Bluhm of Cicero, Indiana, Davida Bluhm of Champaign, Deanna Bluhm of Chicago, Dean Bluhm of Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, Debra (Rodney) Suits of Fisher; 15 grandchildren: Shawna, Sonya, Chris, Tabitha, Chad, Heidi, Holly, Toby, Matthew, Allison, Rosalee, Jeremy, Justin, Michele, Misty; 28 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-granddaugher; several nieces and nephews; 2 sisters-in law: Helen Comnick, Esther Lindsey.
 
She was preceded in death by her infant son Darrell; her parents; her twin sisters: Hannah Franzen, Thea Franzen; and her brother, Louis Osterbur.
 
Emma was a homemaker and helped her husband farm for the majority of their married life.  She enjoyed her retirement years in the home they built on the family farm.
 
She was a member of the Homer New Life Church of Faith.  Her love for the Lord was her guiding light in her journey of over 95 years.  God bless her memory.

Freese FH 12/7/2022
 

Jack L. Hepburn

 URBANA — Jack L. Hepburn, 90, of Urbana, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.

The co-owner of Illini Institutional Foods in Rantoul for over 40 years began his career working at a Grab-It Grocery store in Urbana in the 1950s.

He held numerous positions in local clubs, including president of AMBUCS and president of the Illini Quarterback Club, to name a few. A big University of Illinois fan, he held season tickets for Illini football and basketball for decades. Half his wardrobe seemed to be Illini orange.

Outgoing and always with a hello to everyone, Jack was respected by many for just being upfront and frank, with a cackle that made you laugh. His work ethic could never be questioned. He couldn’t sit still for long before jumping up to “do something.” His hobbies lasted a year or two before they bored him and he moved on to another. Fishing, golf, travel, ancestry, gardening — he would fully immerse himself, then move on to another challenge. Nothing was halfway done; he was all in at all times.

He married his wife, Norma Jean Franklin of Homer, on Dec. 22, 1953. Their 65 years of marriage was full of laughs and tears, as is everyone’s. They eventually had three boys who aged them quicker than they thought they would.

Jack was born on Dec. 22, 1931, in Fairmount, one of seven children of Cleland and Lois (Crawford) Hepburn.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Norma Jean (Franklin) Hepburn, in November 2019.

He is survived by a brother, Bill Hepburn of Ocala, Fla.; a sister, Sue Caldwell of Sebring, Fla.; three sons, Kirk of Chicago, Doug of Charleston, S.C. and Darin of Urbana; three grandkids, Nick, Alec and Lindsey, all of Charleston, S.C.; and a lot of great memories.

Services are pending.

NG 12/7/2022

Rodney McCarty

 Rodney McCarty 61, of St. Joseph passed away at 4:27 A.M. Tuesday December 6, 2022 at Arcadia Care, Danville.

 Graveside services will be 10:00 A.M. Thursday at Mt. Olive Mayview, IL.

 Rodney was born September 29, 1961 in Champaign. The son of Monroe "Roy" and Phyllis (Price) McCarty.

 He is survived by his Mother of St. Joseph. Two nephews Bryan Cramer of St. Joseph, Joshua McCarty of Florida.

 He was preceded in death by his father, brother Roy Lee McCarty.

FH 12/6/2022

Gary S. Rogiers

 LAFAYETTE, La. — Gary S. Rogiers, 79, of Lafayette, La., formerly of Ogden, passed away Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022, surrounded by family.

He was born Jan. 24, 1943, in Deridder, La., to Richard A. and Birtha M. Rogiers. He graduated from Ogden High School, where he excelled in basketball and track. Gary married Margaret E. Rogiers on May 15, 1980; she survives.

He is also survived by five children, Jaime R. (Melissa) Rogiers, Rusty S. (Kelley) Rogiers, Trey (Holly) Ammann, Kate (Steve) Kintner and Brooke (Shannon) Irvin; the lights of his life, his 15 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren; and three brothers, Terry Rogiers, David Rogiers and Randy Rogiers (Jim).

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters-in-law, Liz Rogiers, Dee Rogiers and Mary Vinard; and one great-grandchild.

Gary was an HVAC maintenance technician for the Tippecanoe School Corporation. Gary loved to see people laugh; he was always ready with a joke and a helping hand.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Leukemia and Lymphoma Foundation or St. Jude’s Hospital.

Tippecanoe Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to assist the family with arrangements.

NG 12/6/2022

Marjorie Lucille Davis

 Marjorie Lucille Davis (Hughes) of Sidney passed from this Earth shortly after 2:00 AM, Saturday December 3, 2022 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, after a short illness, aged 84.  Freese Funeral Home, Sidney is assisting with arrangements.

Marj was born December 3, 1938, a daughter to Charles B. Sr and Marie Hughes of rural Urbana.  Marj lived most of her life in Sidney.  She married Richard E. Osterbur of Royal in 1957.  She later married Morris Davis of rural Longview in 1983.  They lived together on the Davis family farm, in rural Longview and later, upon retirement, in Sidney.

Marj retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 1981.  She began her career with the Postal Service working in the Sidney Post Office and later transferred to the main post office, in Champaign, until her retirement.  She was active in the Sidney PTA, the Sidney American Legion Women’s Auxiliary and several other civic organizations.  She was a member of the Sidney Christian Church.

Marj was preceded in death by her parents, a brother; Roger Dale, her husband Morris Davis, a sister; Mary Wilson and a great-grandson.  She is survived by her son Michael (Sandy) Osterbur of Tolono, step-sons; Rick (Linda)Davis of rural Longview, Greg Davis of Lafayette, Colorado, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be Friday December 9, 2022 at the Sidney Christian Church from 9:30 to 10:30 AM.  Funeral services at the church will follow at 10:30 with Rev. Doug Krukewitt officiating.  Burial will follow at Fairfield Cemetery, rural Newman.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorials be made to the Sidney Volunteer Fire Department.

Condolences may be made at freesefh.com

Freese FH 12/5/2022

Randy Routh

 

Randy Routh 75 of Thomasboro passed away at 6:18 A.M. Sunday December 4, 2022 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

 Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday December 10, 2022 at, Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Burial will be in Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview. Visitation will be Saturday from 9:00 A.M.- 11:00 A.M. followed by Masonic rite services by Ogden Masonic Lodge No. 754.

 Randy was born April 16, 1947 in St. Joseph. The son of Earl "Tuck" and Mary C. (Fiock) Routh. He married Karen Norton on August 6, 2022. She survives.

 He is also survived by his sons; Chuck (Danielle) Routh of Urbana, Chad Routh of Plant City, FL. Three grandchildren Madison (Isaac) Ambrose, Jared Routh and Tyler Routh. Step-children Christopher (Corrin) Heckman of Medford, NJ, Matthew (Andi) Heckman of Monticello, Samantha Heckman of Peoria and Kelsey Heckman of Urbana. Sister Diane (Charlie) Berry of St. Joseph. Brother Bill (Debbie) Routh of St. Joseph. 

 He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Linda Shunk.

 Randy was a 1965 graduate of ABL High School, and he also attended Danville Area College to play basketball. He was a member of the Ogden Masonic No. 754.

He worked for Coach House garages for 38 years and was a sales owner for the last 28 years.

 Randy never met a stranger. He most enjoyed spending time with friends and family and attending his grandchildren's events.

Freese FH 12/5/2022

Charlotte Brown

Charlotte Brown, age 74, of Ogden, IL, passed away at home on Saturday, December 3, 2022 surrounded by family. Her strong faith gives us comfort that she is resting peacefully in the arms of God.

Charlotte was an incredible person who treated everyone she met as family. She never met a stranger and had unconditional love for everyone she knew. She volunteered throughout her community as often as she could. She was a room parent for years. She helped with Parent Teacher Organizations. She was a member of the Maytag Collector’s Club. She later joined the Ogden Lions Club. She loved to cook for anyone and everyone.

Charlotte was born on December 7, 1947 in Shelbyville, TN to Austin Peay & Maudie Virginia (Holt) Simmons. Her family later located to the Fairmount, IL area and eventually settled in Ogden.

She was united in marriage to Kenneth E Brown on February 16, 1974. Together, they owned and operated Brown’s Appliance in Ogden, IL for over 40 years. They owned the Old Homer Hardware in Homer, IL for 8 years. Kenneth survives along with their beloved dog, Marie.

Her life will forever be cherished by her 2 children, Lisa (Chad) Hawes of South Beloit, IL and James (Kris) Brown of Covington, IN and her 7 grandchildren, Kendra, Dylan, Nolan, Joel, Kegan, Rogan, & Megan.

She was preceded in death by her parents and 3 brothers, Austin, Larry, and James Simmons. She is survived by her 3 sisters, Virginia Betts, Carol Lopez, and Opal Buoy. She will be deeply missed by all relatives and friends. She was the foundation to our family.

Charlotte's Celebration of Life will be at Ogden Methodist Church, 105 W Main St, Ogden, IL on Friday, December 9, 2022 at 5 pm.

Evergreen Cremation Services 12/5/2022

https://piccolo-wedge-23kl.squarespace.com/obituaries?name=charlotte-f-brown

Daniel "Danny" Ray Rasor

 RANTOUL — Daniel “Danny” Ray Rasor, 73, of Rantoul passed away Thursday morning (Dec. 1, 2022) at home.

He was born Dec. 8, 1948, in Urbana, a son of Russell Ray and Lorine Hilda ( Bergman) Rasor.

He is survived by a daughter, Lori (Dennis) Miller of Tell City, Ind.; two brothers, Verl Rasor of Gifford and Kevin (Juri) Rasor of Rantoul; a sister, Cheryl (Lyndon) Getty of Rantoul; and two grandchildren, McKinley and Michael.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Shane.

Danny was a graduate Rantoul Township High School. He handled outside work at many local grain elevators. He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Gifford.

He was a hunter and baseball fan, and he also enjoyed Illini basketball.

Funeral services will be at 10a.m. Monday at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Gifford. The Rev. Scott Guhl will officiate. Burial will follow in Kopman Cemetery, St. Joseph. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service at St. Paul’s.

The family has entrusted arrangements to Lux Memorial Chapel, Rantoul.

NG 12/3/2022

William Carico

 CHAMPAIGN — William Carico, 86, of Champaign passed away Tuesday (Nov. 29, 2022).

Graveside services will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview, with the Rev. Ken Young officiating. Freese Funeral Home, Tolono, is assisting with arrangements.

Mr. Carico was born Jan. 25, 1936, in Champaign C o u n t y , a son to Herman and Dorothy Slightom Carico. He married Mary Margaret Franklin on April 26, 1958, in Urbana. She preceded him in death on Jan. 1, 1964. He then married Pamela Ann Christian (143) on July 10, 1964, in Urbana. She preceded him in death on Jan. 11, 2013.

Surviving are two sons, Kim (Sherry) Carico of Kevil, Ky., and Kevin Carico of Homer; a sister, Diane (Chuck) Hulse of Tolono; five grandchildren, Kody (Tianna) Carico, Lindsay Carico, Jamie Lindsay, Amanda Lindsay and Brian Lindsay; and several great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Donna Lindsay; a brother, Ernest Carico; and a sister, Carol Hintz.

He was first and foremost a family man. He was a multi-business owner and founding father of Illini Siding and Insulation. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was a paratrooper. He was the founding father of the Champaign-Urbana Bass Club. He loved bass fishing and was a fishing guide in Florida as well. He enjoyed being with family the upmost.

Condolences may be made at freesefh.com.

NG 12/1/2022

Lonnie R. Freeman

Lonnie R. Freeman, 67 of Royal passed away at 7:40 A.M. Saturday November 26, 2022 at O.S.F. Sacred Heart Medical Center, Danville.

 A Celebration of Lonnie's life will be held from 3:00 P.M.-7:00 P.M. Friday December 2, 2022 at Freeman's Tavern in Royal.

 Lonnie was born July 1, 1955 in Urbana. The son of Richard D. and Joyce (Clark) Freeman. He married Debbie Pearson on May 5, 1984, in Royal. She survives.

 He is also survived by his daughters; Brooke (John Ross) Wilsey of Royal, Taylor (Ryan) Bird of Geneva, IL. Four grandchildren; Easton Dean Wilsey, Avery Leigh Wilsey, Tayleigh Elizabeth Bird and Jocelyn Anne Bird. Aunts Linda Hartley of Covington, IN, Suzanne Zumwalt of Danville. Several cousins.

 He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Larry Freeman.

 Lonnie graduated from St. Joseph-Ogden High School in 1974 and from DACC in 1976 where he played baseball.

 He retired from SuperValue in 2006. He then operated the family tavern in Royal.

 Lonnie loved the pool and watching his grandchildren swim. He was a Cubs and Bears fan. He enjoyed  E.I. Baseball which he played for many years. He also liked going to the movies.

 Memorials may be made to the Royal Youth League. 

Freese FH 11/28/2022

Ernest Lee Goyne

 Ernest Lee Goyne 85, of St. Joseph passed away Monday November 21, 2022 at home with his loving family at his side.

 Per his wishes, there will be graveside services for the family.

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

 Ernest was born October 18, 1937 in Urbana, son of Harold and Edna (Cox) Goyne. He married his true love Sue Marshall on January 11, 1958. She preceded him in death on January 14, 2019.

 They have two surviving children: Beverly (Jim) Barden of Urbana, and Donald (Mellisa) Goyne of Chattanooga, TN, 7 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Brother Richard (Wanda) Goyne of Sherman, IL.

 Ernie is preceded in death by his loving wife, their oldest son Larry and their youngest son Ronald Goyne, his parents and his sister.

 Ernie and Sue moved to St. Joseph in 1966 where they built a home and raised their family.

 Ernie started Ernie's Brake Shop and Garage in St. Joseph in 1970 and retired in 2011. After retiring he enjoyed doing a little wood working, helping his neighbors with auto repairs and being a handy man around the house. He will be remembered for his since of humor and growing tomatoes. He really enjoyed growing tomatoes and having bragging rights to the first ripe tomatoes. He would start them from seed in January and baby them to produce as many as they could.

 He also proudly served his country in the Army National Guard.  

Freese FH 11/22/2022

Barbara Silver

 

Barbara Silver, 86 of Champaign, formerly of Philo, passed away at 1:35AM, Monday, November 14, 2022 at home.

Memorial services will be 2:00 PM, Saturday, November 26, 2022 at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney.  Burial will be at Locust Grove Cemetery, Philo.  Visitation will be from 1:00 to 2:00 PM, Saturday, November 26 at the funeral home.

Mrs. Silver was born February 20, 1936 in Charleston, a daughter to Russell and Thelma Bryant Johnson.  She married Robert Silver on May 20, 1961, he preceded her in death on May 14, 2016.

Surviving are two sons; Aric (Laurie) Silver of Royal and Dale (Andrea) Silver of Champaign, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren with one on the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a son; Ted Silver, and a sister; Elizabeth Coffey.

She enjoyed camping, square dancing, playing cards, reading books and croetching.

She was a member of Ladies Auxiliary in Philo and St. Joseph and Philo Presbyterian Church.

She retired from Social Security Administration.  She also was employed by Unit 7 as an aid, and Philo Exchange Bank.

Memorials may be made to Philo Presbyterian Church.

Freese FH 11/19/2022

Carol Whitfield

 Carol Whitfield, 88 of Sidney passed away at 7:54AM, Friday, November 18, 2022 at home.

Graveside services will be at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Sidney.

Mrs. Whitfield was born September 24, 1934 a daughter to Ollen and Minta Liddle Shelby.  She was raised by Ollen and Helen Shelby.  She married Don Rusher he preceded in death in 1978.  She married Gary Whitfield on June 20, 1987, he preceded in death on January 21, 2004.

Survivors include; three children; Wanda (Johnny) Scott, Rex Rusher and Teri (late Dan) Weisman, six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren, two sisters; Kay Shelby Akers and Lois Ann Shelby Jaggers, and two brothers; Elba Shelby and Denny Shelby.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters; Marie Shelby, Shirley Scrimpsher, and Christine Raymond, and two brothers; Rusty Hadler and Earl “Skeeter” Hadler.

She was employed at Steak n Shake for 32 years, retiring at age 74.  She loved her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Condolences may be made at freesefh.com

Freese FH 11/19/2022

Mary T. Hull Evans

 ST. JOSEPH — Mary T. (Hull) Evans, 81, of St. Joseph passed away Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022, at her home surrounded by her family.

She was born in Howell County, Iowa, to Loretta and Fred Hull. Her parents and seven siblings preceded her in death. Mary married John Evans in 1968, and they had two sons, Michael of Lincoln and Kevin of Peoria. Mary had two daughters from previous marriage, Debbie of Long Neck, Del., and Vicki of Barrington. She had 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Mary enjoyed spending time with her family and her dog, Bart. She was a fan of Illini basketball.

She was an active member of St. Joseph Church of Christ.

A Gift of Life Celebration will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at St. Joseph Church of Christ. Donations can be made to the church at 226 E. Sherman St., St. Joseph, IL 61873.

NG 11/17/2022

Teressa L. Morgan

Teressa L. Morgan, 59, of St. Joseph, IL, died peacefully with her loved ones by her side on Saturday, Nov 5th, 2022, at Carle Hospital in Urbana following a 16 month battle with brain cancer. Teressa is survived by her mother, Pat (Smalley) Yates, her husband Dan Morgan, brother Chet Tussey and her ‘bonus' daughter, Alexis (Morgan) Call. She joined her beloved grandparents in Heaven. She graduated from Woodlawn, IL, High School in 1981, then from SIU-C in 1985. She worked in sales, often distinguishing herself through her efforts and personality.

Teressa loved to shop for antiques and go to auctions, read, garden, and indulge in chocolate. She spoiled her grandchildren, Carson and Caroline Call with love and adoration. Teressa was always thinking of others and lived her life, and faced her death, with a positive attitude and giving spirit. Finding the best in other people and putting them at ease was her superpower, and she wielded it freely. Despite some extraordinary challenges that life presented her she never waived from her optimistic outlook.

Teressa will be cremated. There will be a Celebration of Life gathering on Saturday November 12, 2022 from 1:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M. at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph.  

In lieu of flowers it is requested that donations be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Freese FH 11/7/2022