Raymond Jackson Griffet

 ST. JOSEPH — Raymond Jackson Griffet passed away Thursday, July 25, 2024, at home in St. Joseph.

His family and many friends called him Jack. To most others, he was Ray.

Jack was born May 13, 1934, in Champaign. His parents were Ira Griffet and Helen (Bogue) Griffet. He attended Gregory and Columbia schools and Champaign High School, graduating in 1953. His first jobs were as a shoe salesman at Sholem’s Shoes and at Montgomery Ward in Urbana. He entered the U.S. Air Force in 1954 and trained in electronics. He was stationed in Korea for a year in 1956 and later at Foster AFB in Victoria, Texas. After leaving the Air Force, he attended DeVry Technical Institute in Chicago. He then worked as a radio engineer at WILL and later at TV Channel 15 in Champaign. This was followed by employment at Manny and Martin TV Sales and Repair. In 1971, Jack and two partners, Wayne Byers and John Felt, formed their own TV sales and repair business, Television Associates/ Old Town Storage in Champaign. They retired in 2000 and closed the business.

Jack and Carol Knott of Champaign began dating at age 16. They were married on Feb. 16, 1957. They became the parents of Keith Griffet and Alison Griffet.

Surviving are his wife, Carol of St. Joseph; son, Keith of Champaign; daughter, Alison of Hurst, Texas; and stepgranddaughter, Betty Stanciuc of St. Joseph.

Jack was the youngest of the 10 children of Ira and Helen Griffet.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Otis, Herb, Bud, Ed and Russell; and sisters, Bea, Maxine, Lillian and Lois.

Watching old western movies on TV was one of his favorite pastimes, especially any movie with Gene Autry, his childhood hero. He never wanted to miss “Wheel of Fortune” and “Family Feud.” He was an avid Illinois basketball and football fan. He and Alison, Daddy’s girl, shared by telephone a strong interest in Illinois basketball and football, as well as the Dallas Cowboys. He had a wry sense of humor that kept us entertained.

He loved animals. Through the years, he rescued several dogs and cats and made them part of the family. Whenever he saw a wild animal or someone’s pet, he worried whether that animal needed water. An example: He placed a pan of water in our backyard for the snake that lived there. Our family will laugh forever about that.

Our Jack was a kind, sweet and loving father and husband. He gave us a good life. He did his part to help make the world a better place. We miss him so much.

There will be no service. Evergreen Cremation Services assisted the family.

NG 8/27/2024

Richard "Dick" Early

 PENFIELD — Richard “Dick” Early, 96, of Penfield passed away Saturday morning (Aug. 24, 2024) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

He was born Dec. 4, 1927, at the family house in rural Penfield, a son of John and Rose (Silvers) Early. He married Sharon Sconce on Feb. 17, 1962, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Penfield. She survives.

Also surviving are a son, Harold (Mary Beth) Early of Champaign; five daughters, Linda Monroy of Penfield, Sandra Early of Paxton, Mary (Scott) Cropper of Alvin, Charlotte Early of Urbana and Valeria (Jason) Smith of Champaign; a sister, Barbara Overholt of Thomasboro; 10 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by five brothers; three sisters; a son-inlaw, Augy Monroy; a son, John Russell Early; and a granddaughter, Jamie Monroy.

Dick was a graduate of Armstrong High School. He then entered the U.S. Army and served five years during the Korean War. He owned and operated the Gulf Service Station and The Oasis, both in Penfield. He then worked at Griders Truck Repair in Urbana as a mechanic. He retired from the University of Illinois in 2002 from the car pool.

He was a member of the Penfield American Legion for over 60 years. He was a lifelong member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church.

Dick dearly loved his family.

A funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at St. Lawrence Church. Burial will follow in St. Lawrence Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 Tuesday evening at Lux Memorial Chapel, 1551 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul.

Emma Jeanne Gaff

Emma Jeanne Gaff, 97, of Wolf Lake, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, in Winchester, Indiana.

She was born on Sept. 30, 1926, to Nathaniel Prentice and Mildred (Drake) Wiley. in Wolf Lake.

On March 10, 1947, she married Clarence Spencer Gaff.

After graduating from Wolf Lake High School in 1944, she lived in South Whitley, Indiana, Urbana, Illinois, and St. Joseph, Illinois, before returning to her family's farm outside of Wolf Lake. She spent most of her adult life in the area.

She attended Ligonier Church of Christ and Wolf Lake United Methodist Church.

Her working career after raising six children included farming, the RV industry, real estate and running the Deer Lake Campground.

Emma Jeanne loved farming, fishing and fast cars. She also made some delicious pies and rolls.

Emma Jeanne and Clarence had six children: Anthony (Peggy-deceased) Gaff, of Bement, Illinois, Timothy (Joyce) Gaff, of Kimmell, Indiana, Frances (John) Hawley, of Winchester, Indiana, Cynthia Gaff (deceased), Nicholas (Sandi) Gaff, of Osceola, Indiana, and Mark Gaff (Jack Tindal), of Louisville, Kentucky. Emma Jeanne greatly enjoyed her 10 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Clarence; and four brothers, Junior, Don, Pat and David Wiley.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway South, Ligonier IN 46767.

Graveside services will follow at Stringtown Cemetery.

Friends and family will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., on Friday, Aug. 23, 2024, and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at Yeager Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association, www.act.alz.org.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.yeagerfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by KPCNews on Aug. 20, 2024.

George W. Schiff

Mr. George W. Schiff, of Waltham, died Saturday, April 5, 2008 at Lahey Clinic Medical Center in Burlington. He was 87. Born in Urbana, Illinois, a son of the late Philip and Ruth (Mann) Schiff, George had been a Waltham resident for the past sixty years. During World War II he served with the United States Army and attained the rank of major. 

After the war he also served for a time with the Army Reserves. He was a graduate of the University of Illinois and spent his career working as an engineer for the Raytheon Company. He retired as the Director of Engineering at Raytheon's headquarters in Lexington several years ago. After he retired, George volunteered for 14 years with the Waltham Public School system, installing computers and networks in the schools. The computer lab at the newly re-opened Kennedy Middle School on Lexington Street was named in George's honor in recognition of his efforts. 

He leaves his wife, Vera R. (Olivieri) Schiff; three children, George W. Schiff, Jr. and his wife, Teresa, of Stamford, Connecticut, Janet L. Rogan and her husband, Rick, of Mansfield and David L. Schiff and his wife, Jean, of Bolton; one grandson, Daniel Rogan; his brother, Robert Schiff of St. Joseph, Illinois and many nieces and nephews. He was also a brother of the late Maurice Schiff. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral at 9:30 a.m. Thursday from The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham followed by a Funeral Mass in Saint Jude Church, 147 Main Street, Waltham at 10:30 a.m. Visiting hours are Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/george-schiff-memorial?pid=178409310

Ricky K. Casteel

Ricky K. Casteel, age 78, of Newton, Illinois, passed away at 12:52 PM – Friday, August 23, 2024, 
at his home.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 AM – Friday, August 30, 2024, at the Meyer Funeral Home in Newton, Illinois, with Masonic rites will follow.  The burial will be in the Old St Peter Cemetery east Newton, Illinois, with military rites by the members of the Jasper Post #20 American Legion.  In loving memory of Rick, memorials may be made to the Shriner’s Ronald McDonald House.  The obituary can be viewed, and condolences left at www.meyerfh.com.

 

Ricky was born on February 18, 1946, in Danville, Illinois, the son of George Kenton and Eunice (McClellan) Casteel of Oakwood, Illinois.  He attended school in Oakwood.  Following high school, Ricky entered the service, serving in the United States Air Force from November 12, 1965, until his honorable discharge on November 11, 1969.  While serving in Aero Space Ground Maintenance, he was stationed at Chanute AFB in Rantoul, Kirkland AFB in New Mexico, Wheelus AFB in Libya, Egypt and McGuire AFB in Maryland.  

Ricky was united in marriage to Joan Schuch on July 26, 1970, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Urbana, Illinois.  A marriage which lasted over 54 years!  To this union was born a son Randy Kenton, wife Melissa (Tucker) Casteel, and they presented to them their favorite granddaughter Elizabeth Karen (Miss Ellie).  Grandpa’s favorite grandchild!!!

Ricky was a musician from the age of 13, until his passing.  He played in many country and western bands, and some of the venues included the Rose Bowl in Urbana, The Old Mill Inn in Newton, and Poor Richards in Olney.

Ricky worked in major appliance repair and heating and cooling repair.  He worked at Carle Foundation Hospital Refrigeration in Maintenance, General Electric Major Appliance Repair and Champaign County Maintenance, to name a few.

Ricky was active in the American Legion, as a member of Oakwood Post #610 in Oakwood, Illinois; Urbana Post #71 in Urbana, Illinois; St Joseph Post #634 in St Joseph, Illinois.  He served on the board of the Boy Scout Troop 40 in St Joseph, Illinois.

Ricky was a member of the Masons, joining at Ogden Lodge #754 and then moving to Newton Masonic Lodge #216.  He was a member of the Valley of Danville Scottish Rite where he was honored to receive the Meritorious Service Award and Mason of the Year.  He was also Assistant Coordinator of the Southern District for the Illinois Child Identification Program, now the Illinois Masonic Family Program.

Ricky is loved and will be missed by his family and friends.

https://www.meyerfh.com/obituary/ricky-casteel

Robert Keith Parrish

ST. JOSEPH - Robert Keith Parrish, 70, of St. Joseph went to be with the Lord on Aug. 7, 2024, at home surrounded by his loved ones.

Everyone knew him as Keith. He was the son of Len and Wilma Parrish of DeLand and beloved brother to Pat (Phil) Wehrle of Monticello, Steve (Pam) Parrish of DeLand and late brother, David (Kim) Parrish of Monticello.

Keith was born and raised in DeLand, and after graduating, embarked on a career as a machinist at SLM-Aminco and Hansvedt Industries before dedicating 20 years of service to the University of Illinois. In 2010, Keith was honored with the Chancellors Distinguished Staff Award for Excellence. He retired in 2014 as a research lab supervisor in the mechanical science and engineering department at the university.

Keith shared 28 wonderful years of marriage to Elaine, creating cherished memories through fishing trips, camping adventures, travels and many fun-filled family celebrations. They found each other late in their lives, but appreciated and grew more in love each year that they had together.

He was a devoted stepfather to Richard (Mary Jo) Winn of Florida, Chris Hitz of Sidney, Keri Palmisano of St. Joseph and Amber (Chad) Dalton of St. Joseph. Keith will be deeply missed by his ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

A true outdoorsman at heart, Keith enjoyed hunting, fishing and target shooting every chance he got. After retirement, he spent his time in his workshop machining projects, drinking coffee with his friends while telling tall tales and solving world problems.

There will be a celebration of Keith's life on Saturday, Sept. 21, at 11 a.m. at the Sidney United Church, 501 E. Main St., Sidney.

As a member of the Sidney United Church, Keith requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the church.

Till we meet again.

Howard Erb

Erb, 90 of Sidney passed away at 8:52AM, Sunday August 18, 2024 at Autumn Fields, Hoopeston.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM, Wednesday August 21, 2024 at Sidney Christian Church, Sidney.  Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Sidney.  Visitation will be from 10 to 11AM Wednesday at the church.  Freese Funeral Home, Sidney is assisting with arrangements.

Mr. Erb was born October 28, 1933 in Sidney, a son to Floyd and Margaret Leerkamp Erb.  He married Marilyn Parks on November 1, 1953 in Villa Grove, she preceded in death on December 21, 2021.

Surviving are two daughters; Jeri (Kirk) Kirkland of St. Petersburg, FL and Joni (Keith) O’Banion of Armstrong, 11 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister; Carol Shumacher and a daughter; Debbie Stacy.

Mr. Erb retired from Sears as a repairman.  He was an elder and member of Sidney Chisitian Church.  He also passed out Bibles for Gideon International.  He was the owner/operator on Howards TV Service as well.  He enjoyed going on motorcycle trip, traveling and gardening.  He was appreciated by everyone that knew him.

Memorials may be made to Sidney Christian Church or Gideon International.

Freese FH 8/24/2024

David Allan King

Allan King Sr., 69, of Champaign died at 9 a.m. Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, at OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center, Urbana.

Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, with funeral services at 1:30 p.m. at Renner-Wikoff Chapel & Crematory, 1900 S. Philo Road, Urbana, and burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, 1803 N. Coler Ave., Urbana, with military honors accorded by St. Joseph American Legion Post 634 and the U.S. Marine Corps.

David King was born April 25, 1955, at Paxton Community Hospital in Paxton, the second-to-youngest of four children born to Thomas and Vernelle King of rural Urbana. He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1973 and then immediately enlisted in the U.S. Marines.

After enlisting in the Marines in June 1973, Mr. King achieved the rank of sergeant E-5. He was stationed for four years at the Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, Ariz., prior to his honorable discharge in June 1977.

Following his service in the military, Mr. King worked for a few years as a draftsman at Battelle in Columbus, Ohio, before embarking at age 28 on what would end up being a 27-year career as a delivery driver for the United Parcel Service (UPS), culminating with his November 2010 retirement.

While stationed in the military in Yuma, Mr. King married the former Patricia Gale on Dec. 6, 1975, at the Yuma County Courthouse. Just six months earlier, they had met at a baseball field and quickly fell in love. She survives in Champaign.

Together, they had three children, all of whom survive: Callista Marie King, 47, of Champaign; Tricia Ann King, 45, of Ohio; and David Allan King II, 42, of Champaign.

Also surviving are five grandchildren, Alex Dustin York, 26, of Seattle; Aden Jacob King, 21, of Ohio; Grant Thomas Smith, 19, of Ogden; David Allan King III, 19, of Paxton; and Ava Renee King, 18, of Paxton.

In addition, surviving are Mr. King's mother and his three siblings: his older brother, Larry King of Urbana; his older sister, Linda King of Urbana; and his younger sister, Diane Scott of St. Joseph.

Mr. King also leaves behind his beloved 8-year-old dog, Blu, a German shepherd/blue healer mix.

Mr. King enjoyed playing poker with his kids, cooking out, listening to classic rock and watching television, especially shows about crime and politics. He was a die-hard Chicago Bears and Fighting Illini fan. When younger, he enjoyed playing basketball and bowling, along with fishing and golfing with his dad and only son.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, whose mission Mr. King supported throughout his life.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/news-gazette/name/david-king-obituary?id=56078761

Charles Michael Kuhs

 
Charles Michael Kuhs, known affectionately as Charlie, passed away on August 15, 2024, in Charlotte, NC, at the age of 80. Born on July 18, 1944, in Chicago, IL, Charlie lived a life marked by a profound dedication to his family, a passion for various hobbies, and a notable career.

Charlie spent 30 fulfilling years at IBM, where he started as a field engineer and later moved into product testing. His work was not just a job; it was a part of who he was, allowing him to use his hands and his mind to solve problems and create solutions.

Retiring in his 40s, Charlie discovered new passions, including cooking, which he pursued with the same intensity as his career. He was also an avid reader, a lover of crossword puzzles, and enjoyed gardening. Charlie’s musical talents were expressed through singing and playing guitar, and he took pleasure in woodworking and sailing.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Carol Kuhs, and his daughters, Angela Burroughs, Michelle Ramey, and Connie Radocha. He is also survived by his sister, Alice Tennis, and his daughter's families, Monte, Zeb and Nora Burroughs, Jeff Ramey, Austin, Taylor, and Jaxson Messer, Jeff and Amelia Radocha, and numerous nieces and nephews who will miss his guidance and affection.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, William Kuhs and Lucille Jacobson, his brothers Bill and David, and his sister Shirley Rholand.

Charles’ family has given the family of Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home the privilege of caring for him and for them. A memorial service will be held at 7 pm on Monday, August 19, 2024, in the funeral home chapel, 4715 Margaret Wallace Road, Matthews. The family will receive friends from 6 pm until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society in Charlie’s memory, supporting a cause that was important to him. You may do that online at https://cancer.org/ Charlie's legacy will live on not just through his family, but also through the many lives he touched with his generosity and spirit.

https://www.loweneddofuneralhome.com/obituaries/Charles-Kuhs/?#!/TributeWall

Roy Dean Rutherford

 Roy Dean Rutherford, 92, of Urbana, passed away at 12:44AM, Friday, August 16, 2024 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM, Saturday August 24, 2024 at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney.  Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery, Urbana.  Visitation will be from 5 to 7PM Friday August 23, 2024 at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney.

Roy was born December 3, 1931 in Champaign, a son to Roy William and Elva Hazel Rutherford.  When Roy was 1 year old his father passed away and he was raised by Elva and Harold Nofftz.  He married Patricia Ann Miller on September 3, 1959 in Pesotum, she preceded in death on June 30, 2010.

Surviving are three children; Roy W. (Debby) Rutherford of Champaign, Jackie (Keith) Stone of Tolono, Rich (Lori) Rutherford of Sidney, five grandchildren; Travis Stone, James Rutherford, Kristina Gabbard, Kirsten Bruce, and Heather Stone, and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and step-father, two children; Roger and Tina and two foster sisters.

Roy served in the United States Army during the Korean War.  He was employed at Meadow Gold in Champaign, ConRail Railroad, and was a greeter at Meijer.  He also volunteered at the Korean War Museum in Rantoul.  He enjoyed model trains and HAM radio.

Memorials may be made to a Veterans Organization that supports the homeless or veterans with PTSD.

Memorials may be made at freesefh.com.

Freese FH 8/19/2024

Timothy Gene Morse

 
Timothy Gene Morse, known to everyone as Tim, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2024, in Urbana, Illinois, at the age of 61. Born on September 28, 1962, in Urbana, Tim was a lifelong resident of Champaign County and a prominent figure in the business community.

Tim graduated from Unity High School and pursued higher education at Illinois State University, studying criminal justice. Tim met his love, Nancy McPhee in 1983, married in 1985 until their divorce in 2013.
Tim started working in the heating and air-conditioning industry, helping to grow Morse Heating and Air-Conditioning with his father, William in 1983 and later establishing Morse Mechanical in 2008, where he continued to work with his son, Alex until his passing.

Beyond his professional achievements, Tim was known for his charismatic and energetic personality. A sedulous and hardworking individual, he loved his family deeply and was always there to support his friends and colleagues.  Tim never shied away from challenges and was admired for his perseverance and never-give-up attitude. This quality of Tim kept him with us for 9 more months following a stage 4 diagnosis of kidney cancer.

Tim was a master at the grill, known for his smoked meats and homemade barbecue sauces, which he joyously prepared for his family, especially his son. His passion for cooking and preparing food was evident to all who knew him.

Tim is survived by his children, Alex Morse (Justina) , Kalene Morse (Zach Johnson); his mother, Barbara Morse; siblings, William “Billy Joe” Morse, Bonnie Morse McArthur(Joel) , Julie Morse Cary (Jack) and numerous nieces and nephews; Grandchildren, Nora Morse and Elijah Johnson. He was preceded in death by his father, William “Bill” Morse.

Services will be held at Freese Funeral Home, 202 W Main St, Sidney, IL 61877. Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, August 21st, from 9:30 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Masonic and traditional service. Lunch will be provided at Countryside United Methodist Church,1807 County Rd 1000N Urbana IL 61802, following the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Champaign County Humane Society and the Eastern Illinois Food Bank. Freese Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

A short quote from Tim that was said frequently which helps us remember to live without hesitation or regret.
“No big deal”- Timothy Gene Morse.

Freese FH 8/19/2024

Deana F. Dohme

 
F. Dohme of Champaign passed away peacefully on Thursday morning August 15, 2024 at Tuscola Health Care Facility in Tuscola.

Deanna was born on March 26, 1942 to Clarence and Bertha (Rahn) Wienke.

She is survived by her two children; Libby Dohme of Champaign and Darren Dohme of Broadlands.

She was preceded In death by her parents, Clarence and Bertha Wienke, two brothers and five sisters.

Deanna graduated from ABL High School.  She loved classical music and had a beautiful singing voice.  She lived in Naples, Florida for 26 years.  She loved the sunshine and taking her 4-legged companion, Murphy, to the beach.

Graveside service and burial will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, August 22, 2024 at the Broadlands Immanuel Lutheran Church Cemetery with Pastor Sharp officiating.

Condolences may be made at freesefh.com.

Freese FH 8/15/2024

Janet Marilyn Hatfield Haggerty

 Janet Marilyn (Hatfield) Haggerty was born into eternal life on August 11, 2024, at Heritage Health in Hoopeston, IL, the daughter of Eustace Jennings and Josephine Mary Rose (Royer) Hatfield.

Janet is survived by three sons, Joseph Jr. (Karen) Haggerty, Mark Haggerty, and Michael (Gina) Haggerty; five daughters, Barbara (Daniel) Hoeft, Jean French, Elizabeth (Todd) Cessna, Alice (Roger) Jackson and Linda Berry; 26 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; sister, Dolores Gross; brothers-in-law, sisters-in law, and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.
Janet was proceeded in death by her husband, Joseph Sr.; son, Patrick Gerard; daughters, Karen Anne and Rita Lynne; her parents, Eustace & Josephine Hatfield; sisters, Phyllis Hatfield and Jacquelyn Farris.
Janet was born in Chicago, IL, on May 18, 1935. She graduated from St. Columbanus Grade School, 1949; Morgan Park High School,1953; Chicago Teachers College (Chicago State University),1957 where she received her B.E. Degree in Kindergarten-Primary Education. She taught in Chicago Public Schools for 3 years then substituted and tutored in Parochial Schools for 1 year before retiring to rear her family. From 1989 to 1995 she served as administrative assistant to the President of Demeter, Inc in Fowler, IN; the Hoopeston Public Library from 2003 through 2006, then provided elder care and housekeeping services.
Her hobbies included serving others, especially her family, any type of sewing, craft, home renovation work and enjoying her wonderful children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She traveled many miles over the years supporting all of her children and grandchildren in all of their activities.
Throughout her life she lived to serve others. She served in a wide variety of offices and on boards in many church, school, hospital, athletic, thespian, city, county, political and good-will organizations. Janet was an active member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Hoopeston, IL 1969-2014, and St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Urbana, IL since 2014.
Visitation will be held at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL, Saturday, August 17th from 10am-noon, with a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 423 S. 3rd St., Hoopeston, IL at 12:30pm. Burial to follow at Floral Hill Cemetery, Hoopeston, IL.
Donations may be made to St. Anthony Catholic Church, 423 S. 3rd St, Hoopeston, IL 60942; The AFA (American Family Association), P.O. Drawer 2440, Tupelo, MS 38803; The Hoopeston Public Library, 110 S. 4th St, Hoopeston, IL 60942, The National Scleroderma Foundation, 300 Rosewood Dr, Suite 105, Danvers, MA 01923; or a charity of your choice. NO FLOWERS PLEASE! Instead, give a gift of time and/or money to the elderly or needy cause and/or family and beyond all else pray and have faith in God.

https://www.anderson-funeral-home.com/obituaries/Janet-Hatfield-Haggerty/#!/Obituary

Larry Mennenga

 CHAMPAIGN - Larry Mennenga left this life on Thursday (Aug. 8, 2024) after a brief fight with cancer. 

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte nee Musson. They have two kids, Debbie Heiser and Doug Mennenga; and grandchildren, Jed Chow and Jacob and Taylor Mennenga. He is also survived by five sisters, 11 brothers-in-law, three sisters-in-law and two aunts. 

Larry was born and raised on a dairy farm north of Champaign. He graduated from Champaign High School and went to work at Kraft Foods in Champaign. He retired from the Illinois American Water company after 25 years of service. He helped his parents every night on the farm after working his shift "in town." He loved playing softball and played as long as he could. We enjoyed many happy hours on the lake, water skiing and teaching others to ski. Larry always had a garden and enjoyed trying new varieties of vegetables. When his parents sold the dairy cows, Larry cleaned out one of the barns and had a pig roast. He roasted pigs for family and others in the following years. He continued to have an annual roast for his sister until last year. He enjoyed reminiscing with friends at morning coffee. In the winter, he enjoyed spending time in Florida or anywhere warm.

Please send your memories to morganmemorialhome.com.

Published by The News-Gazette on Aug. 14, 2024.

Cathy Rouse

 Homer - Cathy J. Rouse, 70, of Homer, Illinois, passed away at 2:13pm Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Carle Hospital in Urbana.

She was born September 20, 1953, in Champaign, Illinois, the daughter of Harold & Betty Bean Wilson. Cathy married John Rouse September 8, 1990, in Danville, Illinois. He survives, as well as her mother Betty Wilson. Also surviving is her son Brian Hueston of Danville, Illinois, one daughter, Carrie (J.J.) Jett of Danville, Illinois, A step-son Michael (Kellie) Rouse of Greenwood, Indiana, and a step daughter Brandi (Kyle) Winland of Wilson, North Carolina; Four grandchildren also survive, Daulton Hueston, Hanah Hueston, Taylor Jett, Ava Jett.  Four step grandchildren, Harley Ragle, Easton Ragle , Audria Rouse, and Grace Rouse; one great grandchild Caspian Hueston; two brothers, Steve (Leiah) Wilson of Alabama and Randy (Jan) Wilson of Danville, Illinois; one sister, Pam (Tim) Roberts of St. Joseph, Illinois, as well as her sister in law & brother in law Brenda (Bruce) Biage  of Panama City, Florida; several nieces & nephews and her funeral home family, Mike, William, Jeff. Cathy was preceded in death by her father and an infant child.

Cathy had been a licensed insurance agent with Elston State Farm Insurance of Westville, Illinois for 30 years. Upon retirement she joined the staff of Robison Chapel in Catlin, Illinois, and quickly endeared herself there. She had been active in the Homer American Legion Auxiliary, and enjoyed decorating her home, especially during the Christmas season, with trees throughout the house. She enjoyed lunch & shopping, and especially the times with her friend Tammy Hodgson. Shoes were a great passion and part of every outfit. Cathy loved spending time with her children & grandchildren and especially the trips to Panama City Beach, Florida to see Brenda & Bruce.

Funeral service 1pm Wednesday August 14, 2024, at Robison Chapel in Catlin. Pastor C.W. Greer to officiate, burial in the GAR Cemetery at Homer, Illinois. Visitation is from 5-7pm on Tuesday at Robison Chapel in Catlin. On-line condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.

https://www.robisonchapel.com/obituary/cathy-rouse

Candace Lynn Ray-Morehouse

 

ROYAL - Candace Lynn Ray-Morehouse, 56, of Royal passed peacefully at 12:20 p.m. Tuesday (Aug. 6, 2024) at home.

She is survived by her mother, Judith Reifsteck; three children, Jessica Ray, Jordan (Jenny) Ray and Joseph Howerton; five grandchildren, Kenley, Isaiah, Kambry, Mikaela and Kaily; and three siblings, Richard Morehouse, Danny Morehouse and Tadd Reifsteck.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ronald Morehouse, and a sister, Michelle Reifsteck.

Candace's beautiful spirit will continue to shine through her children and grandchildren. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

A private celebrtation of life will take place at a later date.

Published by The News-Gazette on Aug. 9, 2024.

Michael K. Jones

 

Michael K. Jones , 67, of St. Joseph, passed away on the morning of Tuesday July 9, 2024 at home. He was born April 14, 1957 in Champaign to Gerald G. “Buzz” and Naomi E. McCorkle Jones in Champaign, IL.

Mike is survived by his son, Joshua (Randi) Jones; a sister, Carol Sue (Jones) Rasmussen; a brother, Steven Jones; sister-in-law Diana Jones; six grandchildren, Peyton, Quincy, Mia, Tyson, Mason, and Kinsleigh Jones; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Kenneth Jones; two sisters, Anita (Jones) Lewis and Dolores “Doe” (Jones) Havelka; and brother-in-law, Robert “Bob” Rasmussen.

Mike graduated from Champaign Central High School in 1975. After high school he continued working on the family farm, eventually going to work for the railroad. Mike left the railroad in the early 1980’s to pursue a career with the IBEW Local 601, where he worked until retirement.

In most recent years, Mike enjoyed living in St. Joseph near his son’s family, tinkering around the farm and watching his grandchildren play.

A private family graveside service will be held at Riverside Cemetery 506 County Road 350 E Mahomet Illinois on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at 11 am. Following the service, there will be a celebration of life, at Josh & Randi Jones home in St. Joseph.

https://evergreencremationservices.net/obituaries?name=michael-k-jones

Vareta Asher Hartley

 Vareta Asher Hartley, of Buckley, Washington, passed away peacefully this morning, August 7, 2024, in a special care home under the loving care of hospice. She was 99 1/2 years old. Vareta was a graduate of St Joseph High School. Prior to being cared for in the special care home, she resided with her oldest daughter, Linda Hartley also of Buckley, Washington. She and her husband, Lenau (Dell) Hartley, lived in LaGrande, Oregon for many of their 60 plus years of marriage. They were the parents of two wonderful daughters, Linda Hartley and Connie Hartley Pehrson.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, her daughter, Connie, grandson Scotty, her parents, Ruby and Andrew Asher, and siblings Frannie Asher Graves, Etha Asher Broom, Annette Asher Pinaire,Julia Asher Gorbett, Eula Asher Tucker, and Andrew

Asher.

Left to cherish her memory are her younger brother, Jim ,who resides in Liberty Township, Ohio,with his wife Ruby,and the youngest sister of the family, Roberta Asher Harriss, who lives in Harlem, Georgia with her husband,John.

She is also survived by three grandchildren, Michelle Smith, Anna Sisson ,Jenny Lucas,son in law,Carl Pehrson, 12 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to being a wife, mother and grandmother, Vareta worked for many years outside the home as a government employee. She was always in an upbeat mood. In her later years she enjoyed going to the senior center in LaGrande, Oregon, and playing cards. She was an avid reader and enjoyed crocheting. She followed sports, especially golf, since her husband was an avid golfer. In her retirement years, she enjoyed traveling with her husband and two of her older sisters, Etha and Frannie. Her husband, Lenau, was the chauffeur, and the three sisters enjoyed many trips throughout the USA.

On one occasion, they traveled all the way from Oregon to California (to pickup Frannie) to Illinois (to pickup Etha) to Ohio to visit brother Jim and family and finally all the way to Georgia to visit their youngest sister, Roberta and family.

She was instrumental in getting her younger sister,Julia,to move to Oregon and live with her for a while where Julia met the love of her life, Homer Gorbett, a sure enough cowboy and logger. She was a cancer survivor who lived over 50 years after her diagnosis and treatment.

Vareta lived a long, eventful life and will be so missed by her family and dear friends.