Gary Sage

 
Gary Sage, 67, of rural Thomasboro died at 8:36 a.m. Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville with Rev. Scott Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Beckman Cemetery, Rantoul.  

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 2, in Diers Hall, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.  Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is handling arrangements.

Gary was born December 20, 1956, in Champaign the son of Merle K. and Sylvia Albers Sage.  He married Susan Day Swain.  She survives.

Along with his wife, Susan, he is survived by three sons, Ryan (Angie) Sage of Thomasboro, Chad Sage of Vass, NC; Tyler Sage of Oswego; his mother, Sylvia Sage of Thomasboro; seven grandchildren, Carmen, Haley, Henry, Sophie, Adrian, Avery and Mason; three brothers, Perry (Marcia) Sage, Danny (Sheri) Sage, Troy (Maria) Sage; one niece, Stacey; four nephews, Spencer, Brad, Trent, Clayton and several great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Gary graduated from Rantoul Twp. High School in 1975 and was an Honor Roll Student throughout his school years.  He attended Parkland College.  Gary farmed for the past 57 years and his love for farming began when he helped his Opa Sage with cattle.

He was a life-long member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville and had served on the church council.  He also served on the Farm Service Committee.  He was a member of the Illinois Tractor Pulling Association and the 2019 Points Champion.  Gary was very involved with the I & I Antique Tractor Club and the Half Century of Progress Show.

Gary enjoyed restoring trucks and pedal tractors.  He looked forward to working in his shop and visiting with friends.  His family was the love of his life.

Gary received a heart and kidney transplant in 2017.  The family would like to pay tribute to his donor for giving him over six wonderful years with his family.  They would also like to pay tribute to his brother, Troy, for donating his kidney which also enabled Gary to live a longer life.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville or I & I Antique Tractor & Gas Engine Club.  Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com

Alan M. Carroll

 

URBANA - Alan M. Carroll died unexpectedly the morning of Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023, at his home in Urbana. He was 60.

Alan was born Jan. 24, 1963, in Baltimore to Arthur and Majorie Carroll. The family moved to St. Joseph, where Alan and his brothers grew up. Alan married Susan Hinrichs in 1989. They have three children.

Growing up, the Carroll boys were very active, delivering newspapers, making candles in the backyard and being a center of energy for the neighborhood. Alan was involved in many activities in high school, including marching band, Scholastic Bowl and the underground newspaper. 

Alan referred to himself as a "code slinger." He started programming as a teenager for his father's touchscreen company. He was involved in programming and gaming on the PLATO system at the University of Illinois.

After graduating high school, Alan studied computer science at the UI, eventually earning a Ph.D. He loved teaching and was a teaching assistant for the computer-architecture and systems-programming course in the computer-science department for many semesters. Throughout his career, he taught and mentored many people. His Ph.D. research was on collaboration systems. As part of this work, his team developed the first multiple-window Emacs system called Epoch. 

Alan worked on a variety of projects throughout his career, including network-security management at Cisco Systems and internet proxy work at Yahoo and LinkedIn. He was a significant contributor to the Apache Traffic Server project and a member of the Apache Software Foundation. 

Alan was very active in his kids' lives, photographing park district soccer games, helping with Boy Scouts, being Mr. Science for Vacation Bible School, and helping kids create and launch rockets. As his kids moved away, he would have online gaming nights with them. 

Although he spent most of his life in Illinois, Alan was a person of the world both through travel and by collaborating with people all over the world. While growing up, his family spent many Christmas holidays driving down to Mexico and playing on the Mexican Pacific coast. In graduate school, he spent one summer working in Tokyo. He traveled to Europe several times with the family, visiting the north coast of Scotland, London, Ireland and Germany. He traveled to Beijing for a Traffic Server conference.

In addition to his life in Illinois, Alan bought a ranch in the mountains of New Mexico with his brother, Craig. Alan and Susan frequently traveled to the ranch to enjoy the mountains, trees and nature.

Alan is survived by his wife, Susan; his children, Corwin Carroll, Charles Carroll and Alice Carroll; his mother, Marjorie Carroll; his brothers, Bruce Carroll (Holly Tuccio), Dean (Julie) Carroll and Craig (Linda) Carroll; and his nieces and nephews, Ashlyn Carroll, Bryson Carroll, Dawson Carroll, Nick Tuccio, Ronin Carroll and Aya Carroll. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Arthur Carroll. 

A funeral service followed by a celebration of Alan's life is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 2101 S. Prospect Ave., Champaign. 

Alan was very concerned about constitutional rights and avoiding abuse of power. For a memorial, please consider a donation to the Institute for Justice or a similar organization.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/news-gazette/name/alan-carroll-obituary?id=53947471

Gebka Sage

 
Gebka Sage, 102 of Oakwood our beloved mother and grandma was called to Heavenly glory  on Wednesday December 21, 2023 at 11:56 A.M. at Goldwater Care in Danville.

 Mother was born to John and Grace (Freiden) Ehmen in Stanton Twp. She was baptized into Christ and later confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran in Flatville.

 She married George Sage at Immanuel Lutheran in Flatville. He preceded her in death on April 3, 1992.

 She is survived by daughters Carol (Cliff) Peak, Helen Green and grandson Jeff Green. Her son-in-law Bill Green preceded her in death as well as brothers Menne, Chester, Henry and Bill and sister Anna Mennenga.

 Mom and dad were farmers their entire life. Mom worked fields along with dad as well as being a super cook and skilled seamstress.

 We give thanks to God for our loving parents, always there to discipline, help, encourage and guide us. Her life is a blessing and memory to treasure, and will be missed beyond measure.

 Funeral services will be at 2:00 P.M. Tuesday December 26, 2023 at St. John Lutheran Church, Royal. Pastor Emil Blobaum will officiate. Burial will be St. John Lutheran Cemetery, Royal. Visitation will be from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. at the church.

Memorials may be made to St. John Lutheran Church or Cemetery. 

Freese FH 12/22/2023

Polly Baker

 ST. JOSEPH - Polly Baker was born Feb. 4, 1952, to J. Osborne and Mildred E. (Hussey) Baker, in Ossining, N.Y.

She attended St. Augustines grade school and graduated from Briarcliff Manor High School. She received a B.S. degree in pyschology from Cornell University. She held an M.S. degree in education from Syracuse University and a Ph.D. in computer science from Illinois University.

Polly was on the faculty of the School of Informatics at Indiana University (IUPUI), where she was director of the Media Arts and Science program. She also directed the Visualization and Interactive Spaces Lab, part of the Pervasive Technology Institute at Indiana University. She greatly enjoyed working with Indianapolis school children in an after-school program teaching coding with robotics.

Before moving to Indianapolis, Polly was the director of visualization and virtual environments at the National Center for SuperComputing Applications (NCSA) at the University of illinois. She also co-authored several computer-graphics books.

After retirement, Polly split her time between Indianapolis and St. Joseph, enjoying the best of what city and rural life have to offer. While in St. Joe, she enjoyed baking, gardening, sewing and walks around Homer Lake. When in Indianapolis, she enjoyed the museums, the zoo, football and walks around the downtwon area. She participated in the Indy Mini and the Monumental Marathon for at least the last 10 years. She was a member of ava.org and achieved centurion status twice, walking 100 sanctioned walks in one year.

She is survived by five brothers, Bob, Bill, Thom, Mike and Tim, and one sister, Peggy. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Jim.

There will be no service. She will be cremated and her ashes scattered by her siblings at a later date.

Published by The News-Gazette on Dec. 22, 2023.

Phyllis Place Koski

 Urbana - Phyllis Place Koski, 98, of Urbana, passed away Saturday morning, December 16. 2023.

Graveside services will be at 2:30pm, Wednesday, December 20, at G.A.R. Cemetery,
Homer, IL.
Phyllis Place Koski was born April 26, 1925, Sidney, IL, the youngest of 9 to Chester "Chet"
and DeEtta Place. Phyllis grew up on the family farm between Sidney and Homer and after
graduating Homer High School, started her career with the Army Corp of Engineers, where
she retired, along with working at Quaker Oats, both in Chicago. Her adult life was spent
living in Wheaton after marrying Marvin Koski in 1965; he proceeded her in death October
2018.
Phyllis is survived by many nieces and nephews as she was called "Aunt Phyllis" by many
having been an aunt, great aunt, great-great aunt and great-great-great aunt.
She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings.
Special thanks to our caregivers for the wonderful care they gave to Aunt Phyllis allowing
her to remain at home while making her transition as comfortable as possible.

Freese Funeral Home 12/18/2023 https://www.freesefh.com/notices/Phyllis-Koski

Norma L. Vineyard

 
Norma L. Vineyard, 96, passed away on December 1, 2023 at Peoria, IL.

Norma was born on October 4th 1927 in Hartford, Illinois to Hugh and Erma (Farmer) Manahan. After graduating from East Alton-Wood River High School, she earned a degree in secretarial science from Shurtleff College in Alton.

On March 19th, 1949, she married her high school sweetheart, Marvin L. Vineyard.

She worked as a secretary in the offices of the University of Illinois as Marvin earned degrees in agriculture. Norma then began her career as a homemaker and mother, a role she truly loved. She dedicated her life to her family.

Norma carried a love of music throughout her life, playing the piano into her 90’s.

She especially enjoyed playing traditional hymns. She played for her family, her church, and was a volunteer pianist for the Hammond-Henry Long Term Care Center.

Her favorite activities included playing games, reading books, and working on puzzles with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was also a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and enjoyed watching University of Illinois basketball and football games.

Norma was preceded in death by her husband, her parents and her brother, Paul Manahan.

She is survived by her three children, Laura (Terry) Machetti of Peoria, IL;

Martha (Arnold) Taube of Wichita, KS and David (Linda) Vineyard of Kenosha, WI.

In addition, she is survived by five grandchildren: Katie (Dylan) Hagen, Kristen (Mark) Shekleton, Erik (Carrie) Taube, Tracie (Luke) Arens, and Hannah Vineyard.

She has thirteen great grandchildren: Landon, Molly, Shane, Hudson, Joshua, Mitchell, Fletcher, Andrew, Eliza, Ellianne, Shepherd, Brooke, and Brooklyn.

Funeral services will be held at Freese Funeral Home at Sidney, Illinois at 10 am, Monday December 11th, 2023 with burial in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Sidney IL. Visitation will be from 9 to 10 AM Monday at the funeral home.  Norma appreciated the Women’s Fellowship of Sidney Christian Church who faithfully remembered her with cards. Memorials may be sent to them at Sidney Christian Church, 205 E. Main Street, Sidney, IL 61877, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

https://www.freesefh.com/obituary/Norma-Vineyard

Albert N. Hacker

 SIDNEY, IL-  Albert N. Hacker, 88, of Sidney, IL, passed away at 5:02 PM, Sunday, December 10, 2023 at Country Health Care & Rehab in Gifford, IL.

There will be no public services.  Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana, is assisting the family with cremation for Albert.

Albert was born on September 27, 1935 in Urbana, a son of Lawrence and Helen(Wingler) Hacker.  He married Bobbe Weeks on October 3, 1975 in Urbana.  She survives.  Also surviving is a son, David Hacker  and three step-children, Mike, Brian and Cheryl Krutsinger.  Also surviving are three grandchildren, Nate, Amber and Taylor, and three step-grandchildren, McKenzie, Briana and Alyssa, and a brother, Jim Hacker.

Albert was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Suzie, a son, Greg, and five siblings, Marge, Janet, George, June and Donnie.

Albert worked as a Union carpenter for Local 44 for many years.  He enjoyed the outdoors and was a life long hunter and fisherman. He relished his grandkids and enjoyed going to all their sporting events.

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

https://www.renner-wikoffchapel.com/obituary/Albert-Hacker

Dorothy Dottie Parke

 

Dorothy "Dottie" Parke, 85 of St. Joseph passed away at 4:13 P.M. Saturday December 9, 2023 at her home.

 A Celebration of Life visitation for Dottie will be held from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday December 19, 2023 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph.

 Dottie was born August 27, 1938 in Nashville, TN. The daughter of Leonard Earl and Ula Irene (Bloodworth) Arbuckle.

 She is survived by her son Brian (Karina) Parke of Covington, IN. Sister Rhonda (Greg) Hughes of Bismark, 3 grandchildren; Dr. Jacob Parke, Meaghen (Eddie Wells) Hale, Addy (Jason) Bowman, great-granddaughter Emma Hale, niece Debbie (Fred) Smith, nephew Tony Hughes and great niece Hailey Smith.

 She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Joan McDougal.

 Dottie worked in banking in the area at Palmer Bank, First national Bank Westville, and Lakeshore Bank, Danville.

 She enjoyed shopping and collecting items.  She especially enjoyed playing dominos and going out to eat on Friday's with her friends; Shirley, Nancy, Bonnie, Sue, Diane, Lois, Carol, Kate, Cherie, Paula and Alta.

Freese FH 12/12/2023

Lou Ann Carper

 Lou Ann Carper, 70 of Champaign passed away at 6:33 P.M. Friday December 8, 2023 at her home.

 Funeral services will be at 12:00 P.M. Saturday December 16, 2023 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Burial will be in Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

 Lou Ann was born April 11, 1953 in Decatur. The daughter of Elmer and Mary Ann (Dellert) Woodard.

 She is survived by her children Cathy (Kevin) Wingler of Urbana, Brian (Tarah) Carper of Mahomet. Mother Mary Ann Woodard of St. joseph. Five grandchildren Katherine (Patrick) Carlin, Cody Carper, Dylan (Anna) Carper, Benjamin Carper and Taelyn Bach. Brothers George (Dena Strong) Woodard, Bob (Kathy) Woodard both of St. Joseph. Her dear friend Bob McMahon.

 She was preceded in death by her father.

 Lou Ann loved to fish with her grandsons. She spent a large part of her life taking care of other people.

 She enjoyed cooking and baking, her Wednesday morning breakfast club, going on motorcycle rides with her son in law. Most of all she loved spending time with her family and Bob.

Freese FH 12/12/2023

Darrell E. Cox

 
Darrell E. Cox, 85, of Urbana passed away peacefully, Wednesday November 22, 2023, at Bridle Brook Assisted Living in Mahomet. He was born August 25, 1938, in Effingham, the son of Wiley and Mary (Quick) Cox. In 1965, he married Carol Devore, and she preceded him in death in 2005. A daughter, Jennifer Marie, also preceded him in death in 1984.

Darrell is survived by three daughters: Cynthia Coleman (Gabe) of Urbana, Stacey Plotner (Tony) of Chapin, SC and Debra Ward (Michael) of Edwardsville, IL; four granddaughters: Marielle, Faith, Emma, and Alexandra; and two grandsons: Tanner and Weston.  

Darrell graduated from the University of Illinois with a PhD in Botany and worked at the University of Illinois bookstore for 37 years. His research focus was mycology, and he spent much of his free time foraging, photographing, and eating mushrooms, especially the illusive morel. He was a two-time Grand Champion of the Illinois State Morel Hunting Championship and an expert beekeeper, gardener, and conservationist. He was a consummate bowler and even bowled a perfect game. You would hardly ever see him without a camera dangling from his neck as he photographed every significant and mundane event in his children’s lives. His greatest pride and joy were his daughters (his little bears) and his grandchildren, and he was their ultimate supporter.

Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Saturday December 2 at Renner-Wikoff Chapel & Crematory with visitation an hour before service time. Burial will be at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview.

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

Joanna Ingrum

 
Joanna was born on July 8, 1927, in Charleston, Illinois to Noel and Kathryn (Briscoe) Byrd. She graduated from Charleston High School in 1945, then moved to Indianapolis to study art.

Upon returning to Charleston, she met the love of her life, Vernon Ingrum. They married on April 24, 1947, celebrating 67 years together in 2014, the year Vern passed.

Joanna’s main passion in life was her family. She loved being a mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and, of course, dog mom. She was also passionate about University of Illinois football and basketball, as well as the St. Louis Cardinals -- win or lose.

She carried her love of art throughout her life, doing needlepoint, crafting wreaths, and baking (particularly Waldorf Astoria red velvet cake from scratch and the best cherry pe in the world). She was also an avid reader throughout her life, even learning how to navigate a Kindle the past few years. She was a regular at the St. Joseph Township-Swearingen Memorial Library and kept the library staff busy with her ongoing list of book requests. Spirituality was very important to her and she was a regular attendee at Number 10 Church of Christ in Potomac, Illinois.

Joanna is survived by her children; Joy (Ralph) McClaugherty, of St. Joseph, grandson Noah McClaugherty, son Jim (Sharon) Ingrum, granddaughter Hannah (Ross) Johnson, grandson Layne (Kate) Ingrum, daughter Jill Ingrum of St. Joseph, two great-grandchildren Isla Johnson , Blair Ingrum, and her dog Dani.

 

 She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Bill Byrd and Bob Byrd, one sister Dessa Reed.

Her family would like to give heartfelt thanks to her doctors, nurses, and staff at OSF Heart of Mary Emergency Department for their exceptional care and comfort, to Dr. Alina Paul for her years of loving and attentive care, and to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the OSF Cancer Center, Danville, and the Christie Clinic Cancer Center for their support and kindness during her cancer treatments. The family would also like to thank Shannon and the Southern Charm Day Spa and Salon, St. Joseph, for ensuring that, no matter what else, Joanna’s hair always looked good.

Memorials may be made to the St. Joseph Township-Swearingen Memorial Library or the CU Feed the Need food pantry, St. Joseph, Illinois.

A  Celebration of Life service will be held for Joanna at a later date.

Freese FH 11/25/2023

Phillip M. Brown

 

Philip M. Brown, 72, of St. Joseph passed away at 7:19 PM Friday, November 17, 2023 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Philip was born on Sept. 29, 1951 in Danville, IL, son of Jack and Patricia (Gaydos) Brown. He married Cheryl A. Kemmer on Dec. 31, 1987 in Danville.

Philip is survived by his wife, daughter, Amy Dorsey (Jake), sons, Ryan Roberts (Cara), Travis Brown (Samantha), and Mark Brown; grandchildren, Hanna, Patrick, Henry, Isabel, Owen, Jack; mother, Patricia Brown; brother, David Brown; and his beloved cocker spaniels, Ruby, Katie and Trubel. He was preceded in death by his father Jack.

Philip graduated from Purdue University with an Engineering Degree. He worked at Tepper Electric in Champaign for 20 years. He owned and operated Hoagies Bar and Grill in Danville until his retirement in December of 2013. Most recently he and Cheryl own and operate Brownies Gaming Parlor and Laundromat in Homer, IL.

Visitation will be held at Freese Funeral Home in St. Joseph on Sunday, Nov. 26 from 2-4:00 PM.

The family would like to specially thank nurses Max and Maria that cared for Philip in his final hours.

Freese FH 11/20/2023

Robert C. Landreth

 Robert C. Landreth, born May 13, 1938, to Clem and Lily (Green) Landreth in St. Joseph, Illinois. He graduated St. Joseph high school in 1956. He attended classes at University of Illinois Champaign and transferred to Aurora University where he ultimately graduated with a master’s degree.

While in college, Robert met and married his wife, Ruth Ann Cratz. They had three children, David, Mark, and Jill Suzanne. In 2017, Robert married Jo Ann Schwallier in St. Joseph, Illinois.

Robert worked at Austin Western, Caterpillar, Barber Green and Agfa-Gevaert. He also designed homes for many local builders. He finally started his own business, Garob, in 1974, where they did data processing and microfilm services.

He had a wide variety of interests. He enjoyed sailing and trains. He also did woodworking, building furniture, clocks, etc. Robert was involved in Cub Scouts. His real passion was airplanes. He was extremely knowledgeable of all types of planes, whether military or private. He also held a pilot’s license and enjoyed flying his family and friends in his planes.

Robert is survived by his sons Mark & Susan (Symons) Landreth of North Aurora, IL and David Landreth of Sugar Grove, IL; his daughter, Ann Heath; her sons, Shawn & Rylan Heath; his son Robert & Brittney (Koontz) Landreth; their daughter, Hailey; and his son, Christopher Landreth, all of Sugar Grove, IL. He is also survived by his wife, Jo Ann Landreth of Urbana, IL, stepsons; Ronald (Donna) Townsley of Armstrong, IL; Kenneth (Kelly) Townsley of Las Vegas, NV; Rick (Kim) Townsley of Fairmont, IL; and Gary Townsley of Urbana, IL; and 8 step grandchildren and 4 step great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 42 years, Ruth Ann in 2002, his daughter, Jill Suzanne in 1990, and his siblings Russell, Mary & Kenneth Landreth.

Donations can be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/aurora-beacon-news/name/robert-landreth-obituary?id=53620870

Marilyn Peters

Marilyn Peters, 91 of St. Joseph, IL passed away at 1:31PM, November 16, 2023 at Amber Glen Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, Urbana, IL.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, November 25, 2023 at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Urbana, IL.

Mrs. Peters was born June 21, 1932 in Charlotte, Michigan, daughter of Claude and Elsie Schartiger.  She married Ray G. Peters on June 25, 1950 at St. Joseph, IL.  He preceded her in death on December 30, 1999.  She is survived by son Michael (Cheryl) Peters of St. Joseph, Il, daughter Sharon (Brian) Ball of Dewey, Il, daughter in law Peggy Ball of Savoy, Il, 5 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, 3 sisters, one son Kevin Peters and a great-great-grandchild. 

Mrs. Peters was a member of the Church of Christ, St. Joseph.  She was also a member of the St. Joseph American Legion Auxiliary, Post 634 and the Chapeaux Passe Parly 8/40.  The family would like to thank the employees of Amber Glen Alzheimer’s Special Care Center for the wonderful care that was given to Marilyn for the last 5 years, as well as Traditions Health for making Marilyn’s transition as comfortable as possible.  Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or donor’s choice.

Condolences may be made at freesefh.com

NG 11/19/2023

Gregory Alan Hicks

 
Gregory Alan Hicks, 61, of St. Joseph, Illinois, passed away Sunday, November 5 at Carle Hospital. He was born in Champaign, Illinois on March 29, 1962 to Robert and Wilma Hicks. He is survived by his wife of 33 years Debbie (Morgan) Hicks of St. Joseph, his two sons, Dakota Hicks (Kelsey) of Ogden, and Austin Hicks of Sidney, and three grandsons: Dallas, Tanner, and Houston. He also leaves behind his two sisters, Debbie Burch (Todd) of St. Joseph, and Teresa Hicks of Tennessee, as well as six nieces and nephews, Katelyn, Tyler, Taylor, Lacey (Cameron), Laramy (Bradley), and Landon. He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Wilma Hicks of St. Joseph, and brother-in-law Jeff Morgan of Thomasboro.

Greg lived all of his life in St. Joseph, and he was a tri-sport athlete in high school. After high school he began his more than 40 year career at Kraft. At the age of 27 he married the love of his life and they went on to have two boys. When he wasn’t rooting on the Cubs or the Tar Heels, Greg stayed busy with one of his many pastimes. He loved being part of both a bowling league and softball team. He also spent many hours on the golf course and in his tree stand. More than anything, Greg loved his family. He was active throughout his sons’ lives and never missed one of their sporting events; even into adulthood he maintained a close relationship with both of them. His three grandsons were the joy of his life and he took great pride in them. He loved watching them play sports and run around in the yard, and was always eager to hold his newest grandson.

Greg will be remembered for his orneriness and his sense of humor. He left his family and friends with an abundance of wonderful memories. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. A celebration of his life is planned for Sunday December 3 from 1-3 at the Salt Fork Center at Homer Lake 1229 Flicker Dr. Homer, IL. 61849.

Online condolences: www.rortvedtfuneralservices.com. 11/19/2023

Melvin D. Uden

 Melvin D. Uden, 78 of rural Paxton, died at 12:41 p.m. Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville with Rev. Scott Smith officiating.  Burial will follow in Beckman Cemetery, Rantoul.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Monday, November 20, in Diers Hall, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.  Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is handling arrangements.

Melvin was born July 9, 1945, in Urbana, the son of Jacob and Alice Roessler Uden.  He married Linda L. McKinley July 16, 1965, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.  She preceded him in death July 21, 2012.

He is survived by one daughter, Traci (Michael) Livermore of Mahomet; one son, Travis (Sarah) Uden of Paxton; twin grandchildren, Mason and Morgan Uden; one brother, Raymond Uden of Rantoul; and four sisters, Sylvia Wiese of Ursa, Phyllis Kopecky of Siren, Wisconsin, Barbara (Glen) Bush of Waterloo, Iowa and Lori (Bill) Price of Iowa City, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Melvin graduated from Rantoul Twp. High School in 1963.  He was a bricklayer and owned and operated Melvin Uden Masonry.  

He was a life-long member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.  He enjoyed farming and raising Angus cattle.  Melvin was an avid Green Bay Packers fan.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.  Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.

Baier Funeral Home https://www.baierfuneralservices.com/obituary/melvin-uden

Betty D. Bohlen

 

Betty D. Bohlen, 91, of Savoy formerly of St. Joseph, passed away on November 14, 2023 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana. She was born April 13, 1932 in Mahomet to Dale and Nellie  (Furnish) Warren. Betty attended schools in both Mahomet and Urbana.

 Betty married Harm Bohlen Jr. on November 17, 1951 and moved to St. Joseph in 1955 to raise their family. Harm preceded her in death in 2015. She was also preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Charles and Vincent, and her son-in-law, James Luecking.

 She devoted her life to her husband and her children, Stephen Bohlen of Louisville, KY and Brenda Luecking of Urbana. She was a proud and loving Grandmother to Sara (Matt) Cecil and Laura (Zeke) Evans both of Kentucky, and Gretchen (Nate) Pendell of Florida. She also has two great-grandsons whom she adored, Liam and Noah Evans of Kentucky.

 Betty was sweet natured and strong, even after facing several serious health issues over the years. She had a love of cooking and baking, and no one ever left her home hungry! Her family will always remember how she made the holidays magical and the wonderful meals she prepared. Betty and her husband moved to Lake Mattoon to live out their retirement years. they enjoyed "Lake Life" and having family and friends join them on weekends for boating, swimming and cookouts.

 When her husband passed away Betty chose to move closer to her daughter and son-in-law and called the Savoy Villas of Hollybrook home. There she made wonderful friendships with both staff and residents and enjoyed the many activities offered there. Her nickname was "Bingo Betty" for her love of the game and the many Bingo Bucks she won. 

 Visitation will be held Saturday November 18, 2023 from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Graveside services will immediately follow at Friends Cemetery in rural St. Joseph. Pastor Dennis Meyer will officiate.

 Betty and her family were members of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church and request memorial donations be sent to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 802 E. Douglas St. St. Joseph, IL 61873 

Freese FH 11/15/2023

Sara Nora Ross

 URBANA - Sara Nora Ross, 73, of Ogden died Saturday evening (Nov. 11, 2023) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

There will be a visitation Wednesday, Nov. 15, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St., C, with the rosary recited at 6 p.m. The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, Nov. 16, at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 708 W. Main St., U. Sara will be cremated after the Mass, and her cremated remains will be buried in St. Mary's Cemetery in a ceremony next week.

Sara was born on March 22, 1950, in Pennsylvania, to Charles and Frances (Leaman) Donelson. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Alan Donelson.

She is survived by her three children, Joan Crist (Josef Dou), Paul Ross and Charles Ross; her sister, Cecilia (John) Geist; and grandchildren, Willy, Jack, Katie and Taylor.

In her early years, Sara worked as a self-employed CPA. She was active in her parish (St. Andrews), where she created the youth program and was a Jesuit spiritual director.

She later earned a Ph.D. in interdisciplinary studies with a specialty in psychology and conflict resolution. She became a professor and program director at Antioch University and was a consultant for local government issues. Sara was also a co-editor for an academic journal. She completed her last edit just weeks before her death.

NG 11/14/2023

Harlin G. "Sam" Park

 

PENFIELD — Harlin G. “Sam” Park, 75, of rural Penfield passed away at 5:03p.m. Monday (Nov. 13, 2023) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 17, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, with the Rev. Scott Smith and the Rev. Steve Lombardo officiating. Burial will follow in Eden Park Cemetery, Rantoul, with military honors by American Legion Post 1153 Penfield-Gifford. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville, is assisting the family with arrangements. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16, in Diers Hall, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.

Sam was born Sept. 14, 1948, in Champaign, the son of John Carl and Mildred Rosetta Rewerts Park. He married Janet Ellis on Sept. 13, 1970. She preceded him in death Jan. 15, 2010. He married Judy Farmer Ideus on Dec. 8, 2016, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Gifford. She survives.

Along with his wife, Judy, he is survived by a daughter, K i m b e r ly (Bruce) Cline of Penfield; a son, Justin (Megan) Park of Rantoul; six grandchildren, Kaitlynn (Jade) Bruns, Jordan (Hailey) Park, Faith Cline, Joshua Park, Gracie Park and Andrew Potts; three great- grandchildren, Sage Park, Ryker Bruns and Avery Bruns; a sister, Georgene Gardner of Rantoul; a brother, Carl Park of Penfield; a stepdaughter, Darcy (Neal) Silver; two stepgrandchildren, Carlee (Brennon) Breymeyer and Kate (Layne) Ingrum; and three stepgreat-grandchildren, Brenley Breymeyer, Brody Ray Breymeyer and Blair Ingrum.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Sam graduated from Armstrong High School in 1966. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was an ironworker, certified welder and crane operator. He had also been an ironworker superintendent for Roessler Construction for many years. He was a former president of Ironworkers Local Union 380.

He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gifford, where he had served on the church council, and was an associate member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville. He was very involved with the men’s Bible studies. Sam was Kerr Township road commissioner and a member of American Legion Post 1153 Penfield-Gifford. At one time, he owned and operated the Middlefork Bow Shop and was currently in business with his grandson Joshua at the Park Wildlife Seed Company.

Sam enjoyed fishing, hunting and the outdoors. He was a man with a big heart and would help anywhere he was needed. His greatest joy was his family.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville, the American Diabetes Association or an organization of the donor’s choice. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at baierfuneralservices.com.

NG 11/15/2023

Johanne A. Bloch

 

Johanne A. Bloch, 81, was called to her eternal home on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at Aspire Senior Living in Kimberly, Wisconsin.  She was also formerly of St. Joseph, Illinois.  She was particularly dedicated to her family and loved small children, as they made her smile- even up to her last days.  Johanne loved baking, sewing, singing, and playing piano. She could often be found singing a song while baking for her family.  During her time in Canada and Minnesota, she directed children’s choirs for her church family.  Johanne enjoyed working with international students as the housing director for the YMCA of the University of Illinois at Champaign- Urbana. She will be remembered by all as a loving mother and grandmother, as well as a loyal and true friend. 

Johanne was born October 24, 1942, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Stewart) Pehkonen in Devils Lake, ND. She married James H. Bloch on April 7, 1962, in Milwaukee, WI. He passed away January 11, 2017.

Survivors include a son: Matthew Bloch; daughters: Rachel (Steven) Osthus of Greenville, Wisconsin; Rebecca (James) Cain of Wayne, Pennsylvania; and Sarah Bloch of Springfield, Illinois; her sisters: Elizabeth Schoessow, Karen (Richard) Timian, and Mara (Philip) Pehkonen; brothers Karl, William, and Eric (Kori) Pehkonen; five grandchildren: Michelle and Emily Osthus; Evan, Aidan, and Arla Cain; and a great-grandson Levi Osthus.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother John Pehkonen Jr., and a sister Carole Shaff.

The Christian Funeral Service for Johanne will be held on Monday, November 13, at 10:30 AM, at Faith Lutheran Church, located at 601 E. Glendale Avenue in Appleton, Wisconsin with the Rev. Adam Bridgman officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of the service.  Johanne and Jim will be buried together at Dartford Cemetery near Green Lake.

The family would like to express their thanks to the caregivers from Moments Hospice and the caring angels at Aspire Senior Living.  We know how much you loved Johanne and how she became part of your family.   We will never forget your kindness.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/johanne-bloch-obituary?id=53554396

Willodean Roberts Rusher

Willodean (Roberts) Rusher, 83, passed away peacefully while surrounded by family on November 7, 2023 at her home in Sidney.

Willodean grew up in Kentucky and later lived in Urbana, St. Joseph, and Sidney, IL.  She married Bud B. Rusher on May 5, 1958.  They were married for 43 years until she was widowed in 2001.  She spent the remaining 20 years of her life with her partner Elba Shelby of Sidney.

She was a stay at home mom and provider while raising her children.  She retired from Collegiate Cap and Gown in 2000.

She is survived by her five children, Kim Litchfield, Rod (Donna) Rusher, Vicki Rusher, Peggy (Matthew) Staske, and Gregory Rusher, 10 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild, her partner, Elba Shelby, her sister, Judy DeLong and brother, Terry Roberts.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a sister, three brothers, and a great-grandchild.

A very special thanks to the Carle Hospice team who took great care of mother.  She will be deeply missed by who knew and loved her.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Locust Grove Cemetery, Philo.

Condolences may be made at freesefh.com. 

Freese FH 11/9/2023

Janet Beck

 

Janet (Jan) Beck, 80 of Bella Vista, Arkansas, formerly of Decatur and St. Joseph, IL died on November 5, 2023, at Rogers Health and Rehabilitation Center surrounded by family.  She was born September 24, 1943, in Urbana, IL to J. Paul and Mary Ann (Arbuckle) Rayburn.  

Janet attended Champaign High School and worked for Country Companies for most of her working career.  She married Richard Beck on September 1, 1989, in Decatur, IL.  Janet and Dick loved the retired life in Bella Vista, AR where they could golf almost all year long and work on her beautiful flower beds as well. She also participated in a women's golf league, house walks, and was very active at the Highlands golf course where they lived.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son in law, Kenn Bialecke; and grandson, Kameron Bialecke.

She is survived by her husband, Richard Beck of Bella Vista; sister, Carol (Jon) Lindhjem of Omaha, NE; children, Sherilyn (Wilson) Bialecke of Ringgold, GA, Stephanie (Wilson) (Tom) Franey of Champaign, IL, and Chris Beck of Porter, TX; grandchildren, Lindsey Bialecke, Keagan Bialecke, Aubrey McKenna Bialecke, Elizabeth (Bailey) Beyers, JT (Emily) Franey, Mary Beth Franey, Alex Beck and Christopher Beck; and great grandchildren, Wren Beyers and Bo Beck; niece Allison (Ryan) Tickner; 
and nephew, Matt (Stephanie) Lindhjem.

A private service will take place at a later date. The burial will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens, Champaign, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations cans be made in her name to www.bestfriends.org/northwest-arkansas for her love of animals. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences may be made at www.funeralnation.com.

11/9/2023 https://www.funeralmation.com/obituary/janet-jan-beck

Norman "Norm" Paul

 
Norman "Norm" Paul, 84, of Urbana passed away at 5:41 P.M. Tuesday October 31, 2023 at his home.

 Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday November 4, 2023 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Urbana. Fr. Anthony Co will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Champaign. Visitation will be Saturday from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at the church.

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

 Norm was born August 7, 1939 in Urbana. The son of Austin and Beulah (Dunn) Paul. He married Marilyn Clementz on August 26, 1961 in Urbana. She survives.

 He is also survived by his son Austin (Brenda) Paul of Paris, KY. Daughter Ellyn (Karl) Mead of Kingwood, TX. 5 grandchildren Ross Mead, Paul Mead, Gretchen Mead, Spencer and Nelson Paul. 1 sister Kathy (Morris) Clabaugh of Tuscaloosa, AL.

 He was preceded in death by his parents.

 Norm was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church. He was a graduate of St. Mary's Catholic Grade School and University High School.

 He worked for the Illinois Department of Agriculture as a Inspector, then Supervisor and finally as the state Compliance Officer before retiring.

 Norm loved to fish and hunt. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, winters in Texas, classical guitar and country music. 

 In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church or St. Jude's Children Hospital.

Freese FH 11/1/2023

Phyllis A. McPherron

 

Phyllis A. McPherron, 86, of St. Joseph, passed away on Sunday, October 29, at home surrounded by family. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at the St. Joseph United Methodist Church.  The service begins at 11:30 a.m. followed by a lunch. Visitation will  be from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. at the church.

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

Phyllis was born October 27, 1937, in Stillwater, MN. She was the oldest daughter of Herman and Olga (Pederson) Reese. She married Thomas A. McPherron on March 29, 1956, in Northwood, IA.  Tom preceded Phyllis in death on May 5, 2023. She was also preceded in death by her parents.

Phyllis is survived by her children: Timothy McPherron of St. Joseph; Kelly (Dan) Molchan of Valparaiso, IN; and Stephanie  Neff of Ogden, IL.  Grandchildren Daniel (Courtney) Molchan – children Harper and Lennon; Cory (Katie) Molchan – children Baker and Lincoln.   Sister Rose (Jim) Joyce of Isle, MN; nephews Scott (Kim) Markgraf, Terry Markgraf and Michael Joyce.

A graduate of Stillwater High School in MN, Phyllis also lived in CO and IL.  She was a homemaker who also worked in hospital administration, floral design and spent several years at the Atkins Tennis Center in Champaign.  Passions included spending time with her beloved cats and dogs, creative flower gardening, playing tennis, singing, shopping, reading and watching her favorite series Outlander.   She was a Super Fan of Sam Heughan (Jamie Fraser in Outlander) and was a member of The Chorale, a singing group with whom she enjoyed traveling the world.  She was also a member of the St. Joseph United Methodist Church. Fun Fact … Phyllis won a Gold Medal in the Senior Olympics for Tennis Mixed Doubles. 

Memorials may be made to the McPherron Family Trust or to the St. Joseph United Methodist Church.

Freese FH 10/30/2023