Marjorie Wolf

 ALLERTON - Marjorie Wolf, 96, of Allerton passed away at 5:35 a.m. Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Newman Healthcare in Newman.

There will be a private family burial at GAR Cemetery in Homer with the Rev. Clyde Snyder officiating. Cremation rites have been accorded. Homer Funeral and Cremation Services, 708 S. Main St., Homer, is assisting the family.

Marjorie was born June 15, 1927, in Homer, the daughter of Thomas and Nellie McClaren Morrison. She married Leslie Wolf on April 28, 1946, in Danville. He preceded her in death on Jan. 26, 2016.

Survivors include her daughter, Carole (Dave) Gillenwater of Allerton; two grandchildren, Taylor (Scott) Freidel and Robert (Chelsea) Anderson; three great-grandchildren; and a sister, Beverly Umbarger of Homer.

She was preceded in death by five siblings.

Marjorie was a member of Allerton United Methodist Church and graduated from Homer High School in 1945. She enjoyed shopping, camping and playing euchre.

Memorials can be made to Allerton United Methodist Church.

Published by The News-Gazette on Apr. 20, 2024.

Herbert Jack Mitchell

HICKORY, N.C. - Herbert Jack Mitchell, 92, of Hickory, N.C., formerly of Lincoln and Homer, joined loved ones who have gone to heaven before him on Monday, April 15, 2024.

Jack was born on Oct. 14, 1931, in Homer as the youngest son of Charles Mitchell and Clara Belle Gleason Mitchell.

He was brother to Juanita, Leland, Dale, Lamoine and Maxine, who all preceded him, along with three brothers-in-law, Jerry Fisk, James Fisk and Clifford Fisk.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife, Lonita ("Nita") Fisk Mitchell; a son, Timothy (Sheila) Mitchell of Perrysburg, Ohio; a daughter, Cathy (Matt) Parker of Conover, N.C.; four grandchildren, Jamie Naragon, Jeffrey (Connie) Mitchell, Zachary (Christine) Parker and Alexandra "Lexi" (Will) Dawson; five great-grandchildren, Beowulf, Sophia, Ella, Addy and Lucy; three sisters-in-law, Shirley Fisk, Jane Garrett and Terri Fisk; and several very special nieces, nephews, cousins, granddogs and grandcats.

After graduating from Homer High School as Homecoming King in 1949, Jack proudly served four years in the U.S. Navy during the Korean conflict, mostly aboard the USS Okanogan. While home on leave for his father's funeral, Jack met the love of his life, Lonita Fisk. They eloped on April 8, 1955, in Shawneetown and just celebrated their 69th anniversary.

Jack spent his career first as a lineman for Central Illinois Electric and Gas in Homer, then as a dispatcher for Central Illinois Light Company in Lincoln. In July 1966, at the age of 35, Jack was electrocuted when a 7,200-volt wire tipped off his hard hat and touched his head, causing extensive burns and other injuries. After many months of recovery and several surgeries, Jack went back to work for the power company and was transferred to Lincoln, where he worked until his retirement.

After retiring, he enjoyed driving cars for the local Ford dealer for many years. He was also finally able to pursue his lifelong love of flying, obtaining his pilot's license and co-owning a single-engine Cessna for several years. Nita often referred to Jack as one of God's miracles, having survived driving a car that was struck by a train (derailing the train) as a teenager, inexplicably surviving electrocution as a young husband and father, then surviving as a passenger in a twin-engine plane that crash-landed and flipped over in his later years.

Jack met his most formidable challenge when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2012. He was blessed with a very slow progression of this horrible disease until other complications developed over the past year. Jack and Nita relocated to Hickory, N.C., in 2023, to be closer to their daughter, Cathy, and her husband, Matt.

More than anything, Jack loved his family with all his heart. We will be eternally grateful for Jack's ability to both love and be loved, his gentle demeanor, quiet strength, his mischievous smile and infectious sense of humor, taking special pleasure in good-natured teasing, April fool's jokes and notorious love-taps with his cane in his later years. Jack's love of anything chocolate is legendary.

While there is great grief lurking around unexpected corners for all who loved this special man, there is great joy in knowing that he is now reunited with loved ones who have gone ahead, cane-tapping greetings to the angels, until we're one day reunited.

Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Christian Village in Lincoln, Kingston Residence of Hickory, Carolina Caring Hospice and to special caregiver Mary Cranford, as well as to countless family and friends for their unwavering love and support.

There will be a memorial service to honor Jack at 10 a.m. Monday, April 22, at Kingston Residence of Hickory, 904 Second St. NE, Hickory, N.C. Funeral arrangements in Lincoln and graveside services at GAR Cemetery in Homer will be announced at a later date.

Contributions in Jack's honor may be made to First United Methodist Church in Homer, First United Methodist Church in Lincoln, the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer's Association (act.alz.org/donate), 225 N. Michigan Ave., Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Condolences may be offered at hickoryfh.com.

As Jack would say, "See ya later, alligator!"

Published by The News-Gazette on Apr. 20, 2024.

Barbara "Bonnie" Helen Baker Kelly

 CHAMPAIGN — It is with profound sadness and boundless admiration that we announce the passing of Barbara “Bonnie” Helen Baker Kelley, 82, who left us peacefully on Tuesday (April 9, 2024).

Born on April 21, 1941, in St. Joe, Mo., to Charlotte and Richard Baker, Bonnie was a beacon of light and a source of unwavering support to all who knew her. As the cherished matriarch of her family, a pioneering professional and a dedicated community leader, her zest marks Bonnie’s legacy for life, commitment to education and trailblazing spirit.

Raised as the youngest of four siblings, Bonnie’s early years in Champaign plotted her path. Her academic and extracurricular achievements at Champaign High School, notably as a state champion baton majorette, foreshadowed a lifetime of leadership and excellence. Bonnie’s pursuit of knowledge continued at the University of Illinois, where she was a proud member and later an adviser of the Delta Delta Delta sorority, fostering lifelong friendships and instilling values of sisterhood and service.

After earning her bachelor of science in clinical pathology from Eastern Illinois University, Bonnie dedicated years to enhancing health care as a medical technician. Her transition to education saw her nurturing the minds of aspiring health care students at Parkland College, while she concurrently earned her master’s degree in education from the University of Illinois. Beyond her passion for teaching, Bonnie demonstrated visionary leadership in the funeral service industry, assuming the presidency of Kelley and Son’s Burial and Vault Co. in 1980. Under her direction, she broadened the company’s offerings and made historic strides by installing a crematory in 1981, initiating significant changes in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her exceptional leadership extended to her role on the Parkland College Board of Trustees, where she served with distinction for over 30 years, culminating in her recognition by the Illinois State Senate for her dedicated service. This dual impact in both education and business underscores Bonnie’s remarkable influence and pioneering spirit.

Bonnie’s impact extended far beyond her professional endeavors. Elected as the first woman to the Champaign Rotary Club (WGRC) in 1988, she broke barriers and set a precedent for future generations of women leaders. Her roles ranged from president of the Champaign Chamber of Commerce to co-chair of the Krannert Marquee Council, demonstrating her multifaceted leadership and her commitment to civic engagement.

Perhaps most profound was Bonnie’s unwavering belief in the power of education, not only in teaching but continuously learning. Her travels across six continents enriched not only her life but also those of her friends and family, whom she encouraged to pursue their dreams relentlessly. Bonnie’s legacy as a mother, grandmother, peer, teacher and mentor will live on through the countless lives she touched.

Bonnie was a beloved family member, cherished for her boundless love and wisdom. She is survived by her siblings Richard (MaryHelen) Baker and Mary Anne (Joe) Shaw; children, Libby (Rich) Herr and Matt (Deb) Kelley; grandchildren, Ricky (Olivia), Sophia, Noah, Max, Samuel and William; and great- granddaughter, Faye June Herr.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her beloved brother Daniel.

Her life was enriched by her marriage to Rolland Kelley from 1963 until 2000, a partnership filled with family and professional successes. She also leaves behind her cherished companion of many years, Jim Acheson.

Bonnie’s legacy of kindness, mentorship and leadership will continue to enrich all who knew her.

Bonnie’s life was a testament to her extraordinary capacity to love, lead and inspire. As we celebrate her remarkable journey, we find comfort in knowing her legacy will continue to influence generations to come. Bonnie’s light will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkland College Scholarship Fund, a cause close to Bonnie’s heart, ensuring her passion for education continues to empower and inspire others.

Visitation will be held at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St., Champaign, on Tuesday, April 16, from 4 to 6 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 403 W. Clark St., Champaign, on Wednesday, April 17, at 10 a.m. Burial will immediately follow in Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview.

Condolences may be offered at owensfuneralhomes. com.

NG 4/17/2024

Linda May

 Linda Mae May, born January 25, 1938 south of Fisher, IL, resided in Saint Joseph, IL, departed this earth surrounded by her loved ones on 4/15/2024. She married the love of her life Vernon L. May on August 8 1976.

Linda is joining in heaven by her son David, parents Chester and Virginia Reynolds, siblings Joyce Holladay, Carol Wheat and Russel Reynolds. Linda is survived by her children Debbie Bewsher, Tim Pittsley, Kevin May, also many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great granddaughter and many nieces and nephews.

She lived a life of laughter and love, and valued family over all. 

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Thursday April 18, 2024 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Pastor Sally Swaim will officiate. Burial will be in Eastlawn Memorial Park, Urbana. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Thursday.

Freese FH 4/16/2024

Sharon Rice

 
HOMER - Sharon Rice, 71, of Homer passed away at 10:30 p.m. Sunday (March 24, 2024) at home. She was welcomed with open arms by her family in heaven.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, March 29, at Homer Funeral and Cremation Services, 708 S. Main St., Homer, with the Rev. Chuck Alt officiating. Burial will take place in GAR Cemetery, Homer. There will be a visitation from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Sharon was born July 19, 1952, at Burnham Hospital in Champaign, to Melvin "Pete" and Betty Ann (Clem) Humphrey. Sharon married Donald Eugene Rice on Jan. 21, 1984, in Penfield. He survives.

Sharon was a lifelong resident of Homer and a member of the former Homer Church of Christ. She graduated from Homer High School in 1970. Sharon retired from Herff Jones Cap & Gown in 2015 after 45 years of dedicated service.

Sharon enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, who were her world. She enjoyed her long talks with her brother, Ron, whom she loved dearly. "Grandma" had many honorary grandchildren, including Chloe Shanks. Sharon was the nucleus of a large extended family. She kept in touch with many of her cousins, and the love and support they showed during her illness shows how they felt about her.

Sharon is also survived by her son, Joey (Stephanie) Rice of Homer; three grandchildren, Tristen Michael, Kaydence Elizabeth and Eliza Marie Rice; her stepson, Donald Eugene Rice Jr. of Buffalo, N.Y.; brother Ronald (Julie) Humphrey of Homer; sister-in-law, Cindy Humphrey of Paxton; nephew Donald (Jessica) Humphrey of Rantoul; nieces, Holly Humphrey of Villa Grove and Hanna Humphrey of Mattoon; great-nephews, Dalton, Dakota and Drake Humphrey; mother-in-law, Viola Rice of Fort Oglethorpe, Ga.; aunts, Irma Clem and Janice Humphrey; granddogs, Ruby, Coco and Cuddles; and many cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Donald "Sam" Humphrey; sister, Ann Marie "Rhea" Humphrey; nephews Kevin Humphrey and Adam Humphrey; and father-in-law, Donald Rice.

Memorials can be made to the Champaign County Forest Preserve District or a charity of the donor's choice.

Published by The News-Gazette from Mar. 26 to Mar. 27, 2024.

Michael Lynn Eads

 CHAMPAIGN - Michael Lynn Eads, 74, of Champaign passed away at 5:07 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago.

Michael was born April 27, 1949, in Paris, Ill., the eldest of six children of Walter and Charlene (Bostic) Eads.

He is survived by his wife, Linda (Staehling); four children, James Eads of Oakland, Christopher Eads (Heather) of Villa Grove, Julie Staehling (fiancé Jayce Edwards) of Nashville, Tenn., and Rachel Stratton of Champaign; four grandchildren, Mitchell Gobert, Carley Eads, Delaney Eads and Violet June Edwards; two sisters, Donica Thompson (Jack) of Chrisman and Vicki Bussart (Leon) of Pesotum. A special mention goes to Michael's granddog, Riley Boo (Cray-Cray), whom he doted on and gave way too many treats, and an honorable mention goes to Sally and Dolly, his two feral cats that he made sure were always well fed and taken care of.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, David Eads, Gary Eads and Troy Eads.

Michael graduated from Brocton High School in 1967. He then attended Eastern Illinois University but got interrupted when life happened. Decades later, his wife, Linda, encouraged him to return and finish college. Michael graduated in 2009 and proudly walked the stage in full cap and gown at age 62 with a degree in accounting.

Michael was a veteran serving as a Seabee in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era.

Michael retired in 2016 after 30 years of service as an electronic technician with the U.S. Postal Service in Champaign. He liked his job and was a natural fit for the position and was always willing to help his co-workers.

Michael and Linda were married on Oct. 10, 2011, in Rockville, Ind., on a bet. They had no intention of getting married that day as they were in Rockville to attend the Covered Bridge Festival. They discovered they arrived a day too early and it was not open yet. With cash in his pocket and not wanting to waste a trip, they decided to get married at the courthouse. Michael always joked he got a bargain for $62. There were no rings, no flowers, no fancy wedding attire, just each other - and they never looked back.

Michael was an extremely talented man when it came to fixing things and making things. He could fix anything, and he enjoyed woodworking. One of his favorite things to make were birdhouses. He ran his own doggie day care from his home to accommodate Riley, as they were best buds.

Michael enjoyed going to the shooting range with his sister Vicki every week and enjoyed going to lunch with his friend Jerry.  He was a member of the American Legion Post 24 in Champaign and the Illini Collector Car Club.

The family would like to thank Dr. Odenike and her staff and all the wonderful, caring and compassionate nurses at the University of Chicago where Michael was fighting a relapse of acute myeloid leukemia. In 2019, Michael was a proud participant in a clinical trial for a new drug to treat AML. In addition, we want to thank Olivia and her team at Christie Clinic physical therapy. They helped Michael significantly during the last five years both physically and mentally, and he truly enjoyed his exercise class and new friends.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at Homer Funeral and Cremation Services, 708 S. Main St., Homer. Afterward, please join us in taking Michael to his final resting place in the Grand Army of the Republic cemetery in Homer. American Legion Post 24 will provide military rites.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Michael's name to American Legion Post 24, 705 Bloomington Road, Champaign IL 61820.

Published by The News-Gazette from Mar. 29 to Mar. 30, 2024.

Frank Boyd Dutton

 
Frank Boyd Dutton, 79, of Mahomet, IL, passed away on April 8th, 2024, after suffering from an unexpected cardiac arrest while at home. He will be deeply missed by his family and countless friends. 

Frank was born on June 19, 1944 to Richard and Hattie Dutton. After Frank graduated from Homer High School, he pursued a degree in education at Illinois State University where he also played football.

On June 30th, 1967, Frank married Diane Webb. They were preparing to celebrate their 57th anniversary this summer. Frank and Diane have two children, Doug and Beth.

Frank was predeceased by his parents, his sister Joyce, and brothers Ted and Richard. He is survived by his sister LaVerne, wife Diane, son Doug, Daughter Beth, Son-in Law Jared Painter, and Daughter in Law Shorouk Ramahi. He is also survived by the Grandchildren he adored,  Branson ,his wife Teanna Painter, and Jillian Painter (Beth and Jared), and Laithe and Zaina Dutton (Doug and Shorouk), as well as his beloved great grandchildren Taelah and Jordan (Branson and Teanna).

In accordance with his wishes, Frank will be cremated and friends may greet the family at a visitation from 4:00-7:00pm on Friday, April 12 at Mahomet United Methodist Church (1302 E. South Mahomet Road).  A celebration of Frank's life will be at 3:00 on Sunday, April 14 at the church.  He will be buried at Riverside Cemetery in a private ceremony at a later date.  

In lieu of flowers, Frank wanted people to please consider a donation to either the American Diabetes Association, the Mahomet Cornbelt Fire Department, the United Methodist Church of Mahomet or other worthwhile charity of your choice.

Condolences may be offered at www.owensfuneralhomes.com

NG 4/11/2024

Andrew M. Bosch

 Andrew (Andy) M Bosch of Crawfordsville, IN, formerly of the Champaign, IL area, passed away peacefully with family by his side on April 8th, 2024 at IU Hospital in Indianapolis, IN. Andy was born July 8th, 1952 in Nurnberg Germany to Henry and Margareta Bosch. He was preceded in death by both of his parents, his baby brother Jared, brother Randy, nephew Jay, and great niece Madison.

He is survived by his longtime partner and fiancée Mary A. Clouse, his daughter Kira (Jake) Pirtle, two grandsons Tyler and Gage Casey, 5 step children, sisters Janet Woodworth (Bill Brannock), Sharon Bosch, Debbie (Todd) Whitt, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins.
He also leaves behind his beloved cats.
Andy grew up in the Broadlands, and Champaign area spending his early years riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, & racing stock cars. He was an avid car enthusiast, who spent his later years living in the Crawfordsville, Indiana area with his fiancée Mary. He spent his time working on his many hot rods, and traveling to car shows. He made many friends, and acquaintances within the car world, and relationships that he treasured dearly. He was also a member of the National Street Rod Association.
A visitation will be held in Tolono, IL. at Freese Funeral Home on April 20th, 2024 from 1-3pm. There will also be a memorial car show, planned in his name, in Waynetown, IN. in July, but details are incomplete at this time.

Freese FH 4/10/2024

Riley Snyder

 

Riley Snyder 28, of St. Joseph passed on Wednesday April 3, 2024 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

 Riley devoted his life to teaching at risk youth as the K-12 Art teacher with the Decatur School system. with compassion and fervor. Born in Elgin, Il he is leaving behind a close-knit family; father, Michael Snyder, mother Jeanne Lord, sister Anna Snyder, and grandma, Sandra Waller. He loved his two pets Mabel and Levi, and a host of extended family members and friends. His family finds solace in the knowledge that he lived life and loved others to the fullest despite his untimely death.

 Riley was a gentle soul who loved art, poetry, fishing, dogs, sitting on the front porch, hanging out in the garage, butter cookies and taco bell. He loved going to church and practicing his catholic faith. He treasured his runs and long walks outside with his sister, Anna, while blasting songs from Sister Act. The family recalls his random acts of kindness, bringing his mom flowers, and annual tradition of wearing "ugly sweaters" every day during Christmas time for his students.

 He valued quality time with family. He was known by all for having the biggest heart always willing to give. His generous spirit and willingness to help anyone in need helped aid his family's decision to continue his legacy of helping those in need in death as he did in life. And while they each are grieving the huge void of his physical presence; they are all tremendously blessed with invaluable memories of their time spent with their beloved Riley.

 A Memorial Mass will be held at 1:30 P.M. Friday May 10, 2024 at St. Patrick Catholic Church 708 W. Main St. Urbana, IL. Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph is assisting the family with arrangements. 

 Memorials may be made to a fund being established for the Decatur Alternative school education program in Riley's memory.

Freese FH 4/10/2024

Donna Hopkins

 Donna Hopkins 75, of St. Joseph passed away at 2:00 P.M. Tuesday April 9, 2024 at Goldwater Care of Danville.

 Per her request private services will be held at a later date.

 Donna was born December 5, 1948 in Princeton, IL. The daughter of Robert and Judy (Jackson) Weller. She married James "Steve" Hopkins on August 5, 1983. He preceded her on September 18, 2020.

 She is survived by her brother Andy (Joanne) Weller of Philo, sister Carol Ingram of Tennessee, several nieces and nephews.

 She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister Lois Weller.

 Donna worked at Busey Bank for 20 years. She was a graduate of University of Illinois with a English degree. She was a member of Immanual Lutheran Church, Flatville. 

Freese FH 4/10/2024

David Carr

 

ST. JOSEPH - David Carr, 65, of Leesburg, Fla., passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Advent Health in Orlando, Fla., with his loving wife by his side. 

David was born on Jan. 7, 1959, in Vincennes, Ind. He is the son of the late Elizabeth Ann Clark (Davis) and the late Verl Wayne Carr. He was the stepson of the late Paul W. Clark. David was the devoted and loving husband of 43 years to Janet (Fritsche) Carr. 

David was a retired line technician of Kraft Heinz Company in Champaign. He was a loving husband, father and friend. He enjoyed nature and the outdoors - particularly traveling, camping, boating, hunting and fishing. He had a competitive spirit and enjoyed bowling, competitive shooting, and archery in earlier years and most recently playing cornhole since moving to Florida. He will be missed by all who knew him. 

Besides his loving wife, Janet, he is survived by his son, Michael David Carr and wife (Kathryn) and two granddaughters (Ella and Ava Carr) of Winter Garden, Fla.; brother, Jim Carr and wife (Ann) of Bridgeport, Ill.; two step-sisters, Paula Schemerhorn and husband (Joe) of Valparaiso, Ind., and Janet Nolan and husband (Michael) of Valparaiso, Ind.; sister-in-law, Linda Ray and husband (Jerry) of Surprise, Ariz.; and many loving nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; and extended family.  

The family will receive relatives and friends for a celebration of Dave's life in Florida on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 1 p.m. at the Activity Center at Holiday RV Village, 28229 CR 33, Leesburg, FL 34748.

We will be planning a celebration of Dave's life in Illinois during the summer of 2024.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Moffitt Cancer Center of Tampa Florida. Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremation.

Published by The News-Gazette on Apr. 6, 2024.

Dean Norman Essig

 Mr. Dean Norman Essig

Mar 13, 1961 - Mar 24, 2024

Dean Norman Essig, 63, of Homer, Illinois, died March 24, 2024, in Mobile, Alabama. He was born March 13, 1961, in Elgin, Illinois, to the late Alice (nee Rainey) and Norman Essig.

Dean was preceded in death by his wife, Sara; brother, Phillip Essig; sister, Nancie Marchetti; and by his parents.

He is survived by his children Rosalind Essig Fields (Kyle), Joseph Essig (Audra), and John Essig (Kendall); and two grandchildren, Arlow Essig and Cillian Essig.

Dean graduated from James B. Conant High School and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He served in the U.S. Army and in the Illinois National Guard.

A passionate military historian and designer, Dean built a successful wargame publishing business from the ground up with Sara. He created multiple game series with dozens of popular titles based on his meticulous research, design, rules and editing. The Gamers was based in Homer, Illinois, until its sale to Multi-Man Publishing in 2001.

Dean enjoyed spending time with family and pets, weightlifting, traveling to Civil War battlefields, and taking walks in Homer. Over the years, he also helped to coach baseball pitchers, became a licensed pilot, was a Civil War reenactor, ran marathons, earned a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and built telescopes.

A celebration of life will be held from 9-11 a.m. April 20 at the Essig home in Homer, Illinois. His ashes will be interred in a private service.

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Eva Mae Martin Murray

 
OGDEN - Eva Mae Martin Murray, 84, passed away Thursday (March 28, 2024) in Leawood, Kan., surrounded by her two children, Dawn Marie Babb (Ken) and daughters Nicole and Kaitlyn (Jesse and children) and Gregory Vernon Murray (Holly Beth) and daughters Mackenzie and Stella.

Eva was preceded in death by her father and mother, Vernon and Naomi (Loeffler) Martin of Ogden.

Also surviving are her brother, Earl V. Martin of Eureka; sister-in-law, Marlene Martin of Peoria; and Eva's husband of 39 years, Douglas Earl Murray of Mesa, Ariz.

Eva is also survived by her nephew Col. Paul Martin (USAF, Ret., Julie) of Tampa, Fla., and children and Linda Martin Sibio (Michael) of Ft Lauderdale, Fla., and children.

A visitation and celebration of life will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 6, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. Immediately following the celebration, Eva will be laid to rest in Patterson Cemetery alongside her beloved parents.

Eva's greatest love was her children, grandchildren, niece and nephew, all of whom received many handmade afghans, hats, scarves and other assorted products of her skill at knitting and crochet. She also possessed a clear knack at finding those little gems of mementos for birthdays and Christmases. Eva treasured family time and especially looked forward to the euchre games that would go late into the evening.

Besides being a dedicated daughter, mother and grandmother, Eva also was a professional with a successful career managing the office and finances of Unitherm Furnace and Missouri Heat Treat in Wentzville, Mo., until her retirement.

Eva then moved to Kansas City, Mo., enjoying retirement and being close to her children. While she was an avid Chiefs fan, she remained loyal to the St. Louis Cardinals, being sure to wear Cardinal red when she attended the I70 matchups between the KC Royals and Cardinals.

Published by The News-Gazette on Apr. 2, 2024.

Daniel P. Wright

Daniel P. Wright, 61, of Ogden, IL passed away at 2:10 P.M. Tuesday, March 19 th , 2024, in Vero Beach, FL.

A celebration of life will be held from 3:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Friday March 29 th at the Royal Community Building, 103 Park St. Royal, IL 61871.

Dan was born on December 1 st , 1962, in Champaign, IL to Martin and Vesta (Warren) Wright.

They both preceded him in death. His father-in-law David Fitch of Ogden, IL also preceded him in death.
Dan is survived by his wife Anita (Fitch) Wright; sons, Marty Wright (Corey) of Champaign, IL
and Mitchell Wright of Ogden, IL.; stepsons, Jason Johnson (Britney) of Sidney, IL and Tyler
Johnson (Kelly) of Royal, IL; grandchildren Brady Johnson, Evynn Johnson, and Ivy Johnson of
Sidney, IL and Kendyl Johnson and a new grandbaby coming in June of Royal, IL; and dog Zoe
Hingle McCringleberry.

Also surviving are two sisters Joan Roane and Mary Clark (Rod) both of St. Joseph, IL; three
brothers Paul Church (Lisa) of Rockmart, GA, Jim Wright, and David Wright both of Vero Beach,
FL; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dan graduated from Champaign Central High School in 1980. He worked as a loan officer for
many years, most currently at Longview Bank in St. Joseph, IL.

Dan was a former President of the SJO Fan Club, board member of the PVO School District,
the Lion’s Club of Ogden, IL, and the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. Dan was also a
current member of the SJO FFA Alumni.

Dan loved a variety of music, road trips with his family, and spending time with his dog, Zoe, at
Homer Lake. He also enjoyed working on the landscaping at his home in Ogden. He loved
attending SJO sporting events and spending time with his grandkids. His most recent hobby
included harvesting monarch butterflies to survive in the wild.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Dan’s name to Longview Bank. There will be an
account set up for the family to donate to the Champaign County Humane Society and the
Homer Lake Forest Preserve.

Freese FH 3/27/2024