Donna J. Bixler

 Donna J. Bixler, 64, of Homer passed away at 10:02 a.m. Friday (March 17, 2023) at home.

Visitation will be from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, March 23, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. Memorial services will be at 1 p.m. The Rev. Dean Rose will officiate. A graveside service will be held at a later date.

Donna was born Feb. 7, 1959, in Champaign, the daughter of Joseph D. and Wilma (Smith) Humphrey. She married Bryan K. Bixler on Aug. 26, 2000. He survives.

She is also survived by her mother and her siblings Judy (Frank) Costa, John Humphrey and Mary Jane (William) Hancock.

She was preceded in death by her father and two brothers, Clifford Humphrey and Stanley "Mick" Puckett.

Donna was a member of the Sidell Assembly UPC Church. She enjoyed canvas needlepoint. Donna loved her dogs, Peanut and Ms. C.

She worked at Cap and Gown for 25 years. She then worked at Crawfords Tranmission until retiring.

Donna was loved by her family and friends. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help with expenses. Condolences may be made at freesefh.com.

Freese FH 3/21/2023

Karl E. Drake

 ST. JOSEPH — Karl E. Drake, 72, of St. Joseph, died at 1 a.m. Wednesday, March 1, 2023.

He was born Jan. 31, 1951, in Monroe, Mich., the son of Ernest and Doris (Kobel) Drake.

Survivors include his son Nicholas (Jennifer) Drake, and their children Liam and Aiden Drake of Knoxville, Tenn., and grandchildren Izabella Schumacher and Bayleigh Drake of Rantoul.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Drake, and son, Matthew Drake.

He graduated from the University of Illinois in Champaign, earning his bachelor’s degree in accounting. Karl held multiple roles as a CPA, but much of his career was as a partner at Bray, Drake, Liles and Richardson in Urbana.

Karl was a dedicated husband and father who always provided opportunity for activities, hockey, education, and adventure to his family. Karl also served for many years in Champaign- Urbana Lions Club as well as supported his churches and children’s sports teams as a sponsor and volunteer.

Freese FH 3/19/2023

Clinton Aaron Stayton

 CHICAGO - Clinton Aaron Stayton, 48, of Chicago, formerly of Homer, died Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023.

Clint was born June 6, 1974, to John Michael (Mike) Stayton and Linda Lee (Boys) Stayton. Clint was an extremely talented artist, having attended the American Academy of Art and School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Clint served in the Navy, including a tour on the USS Constellation in the Persian Gulf. While stationed at the naval base in San Diego, he was commissioned to paint several murals in offices of commanders and in the galley.
Clint was employed at Jesse Brown VAMC and Loyola University and enjoyed working at several local bicycle shops in his spare time. Clint loved his family and friends and enjoyed art and biking.

He most loved his three sons, Kyle Stayton (Ellie) of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Phoenix and Axel Stayton of Chicago; and his dog, Romeo.

His family also includes his mother, Linda Beason of Homer; five siblings, Chris Stayton (deceased), Crystal (Jim) Allen of rural Homer, Jenna (Mike) Zeidler of Champaign, Djenane Blane of Chicago and Jessica Stayton of Colorado; and several nieces and nephews.

Published by The News-Gazette on Mar. 15, 2023.

Mary "Lorraine" Willfong

 Mary “Lorraine” Willfong was a loving mother, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend. She left this world on Tuesday, March 14th, 2023, at 3:15 pm at the age of 80. She passed peacefully with family by her side at Carle Hospital in Urbana, Illinois.  A visitation will be held at Freese Funeral Home in Sidney on Sunday, March 19th from 3:00-5:00 pm.  Mass services will be held at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Philo on Monday, March 20th at 10:30 am with burial at Mount Hope Cemetery, Sidney. 

She was born Mary Lorraine Dowling on November 14th, 1942, at the Chicago L.I. Hospital in Chicago, Illinois.  She was born to Lillian Volay Dowling and James Elroy Dowling who have both preceded her to heaven.  She was a beloved sister to Elroy (Nancy) Dowling and the late Frances (Carol) Dowling.

She was baptized and attended St. Basil’s Church as a child, and she attended St. Rose of Lima during her school years. She joined Edward J. Haas in her first marriage on October 27, 1962.  They began their family in Chicago, Illinois before making Sidney, Illinois their family home in 1975, where she stayed for her remaining 47 years.  Lorraine married Larry Willfong later in life on November 3, 1998.

Lorraine loved and adored her family, including her three children: the late Edward Haas Jr., David (Stephanie) Haas of Philo, and Bridget (John) Hillier of Sidney.  Her late husband Larry Willfong also preceded her in death. She was a loving stepmother to Kenneth (Charlene) Willfong of New Braunfels, TX and Gina (Rich) Wilson of Tipp City, OH. The lights of her life were her five grandchildren, including Lily Haas & fiancé Jackson Dimmick of Memphis, TN, Lauren, Natalie and Nora Haas of Philo, IL, and Ayla Hillier of Sidney, IL; and four step-grandchildren Hannah (Dalton) Logan and Wyatt Wilson of Tipp City, OH and Campbell Willfong of New Braunfels, TX & Maggie Willfong of Carmel, IN. She also formed a close bond with her extended family, including many wonderful cousins, sisters and brothers by marriage, nieces, and nephews.

The home she created became a home of laughter, comfort, and love.  Her home was a place where many would gather for fun, friendship, and the many Haas Family 4th of July parties and pool parties. Her house was often filled with the sounds of her beautiful voice singing to the Supremes or other Motown oldies.  You were always greeted with the warmest of smiles in her presence.  She loved and needed nothing more than to have her family around her, laughing and enjoying each other’s company with one of her signature Bloody Mary's in hand. She opened her doors to all who needed it and provided support in any way she could. To many throughout Sidney, she became "Mom”, and she was proud of all her kids, blood or not.

She served as President of the Alter & Rosary Society and was a member of the Champaign-Urbana Elks Lodge.  During her life, she held various jobs, which included serving as a Clerk for the Champaign County Courthouse and a Sales Associate at Spritz Jewelers.  She loved to cook and was always festive in attitude and wardrobe. Her favorite color was pink, which was evident in her choice of home décor, clothing, flowers, and all other things. She loved NASCAR racing and reading a good book. If she was watching television, it was likely an episode of Wheel of Fortune or Law and Order.  She loved wearing jewelry and she loved spoiling her kids and grandkids with it even more.  She gave the best back scratches and liked to point her fingers when she danced.  She got a kick out of giving Soap on a Rope at Christmas, and never came without her famous Pineapple Upside Down Cake. 

To everyone she met, she was a sweet, caring, fun-loving soul who made sure everyone was taken care of before herself.  She will be missed immensely by all who were blessed to have known her. 

Freese FH 3/17/2023

Loren "Pete" Bensyl

 Loren "Pete" Bensyl 87, of Ogden passed away with his family by his side at 6:30 P.M. Saturday, March 11, 2023, at Cleveland Clinic Hospital in Vero Beach, Florida. Funeral services will be held at 11:30 A.M.Tuesday March 21, 2023 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 802 E. Douglas Street, St. Joseph. Pastor Dennis A. Meyer will officiate. Burial will be at St. John Lutheran Cemetery, Royal. Visitation will be held from 9:30 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. Tuesday at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. Freese Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 

Pete was born April 8, 1935, in Ogden, Illinois as one of eleven (11) children between the marriage of Ora and Bessie (Bradley) Bensyl. He married his beloved wife Constance "Connie" Cribbett at St. John's Lutheran Church, Royal, on April 17, 1959.

He is survived by his wife Connie, sons Kenneth (Susan) Bensyl, Fredrick (Trini) Bensyl, grandchildren Erin Bensyl, Cole Bensyl, Ty Poole, Tegan (Parker) Poole, great grandson Kendall Bensyl, and many nieces and nephews.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, daughter Kelly Bensyl, and siblings Mary, LaVisa (Jayne), Pauline, Norma Jean, Ora, Vance (Jack), Don, LaVern, Roy, and James.

Pete graduated from Ogden High School in 1953 and later enlisted in the United States Army as a reservist at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He began his employment with the University of Illinois in September 1962 and joined the Krannert Center staff in March of 1969 where he was a Building and Operating Engineer. He was the recipient of the Chancellor's Distinguished Staff award in 1993, was granted several promotions, and retired as Krannert Center's Facility Manager in April 1996, dedicating nearly 34 years of service. After retirement, he continued to work part time to oversee several renovation projects in the building. Pete also was an active member at the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in St. Joseph where he volunteered for twenty (20) years.

As a season ticket holder for over fifty (50) years to the Illinois basketball and football games, he found joy in attending the games with his wife and grandchildren. He was also an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. Pete and Connie enjoyed many summers camping at Lake of the Woods in Mahomet where he served as a board member at the Champaign Sportsmen Club. They spent many winters in Vero Beach Florida where he ensured he partook in his daily laps in the pool. It was rare to see him without a smile and we could always count on him for an ornery joke or comment. While he accomplished many things throughout his life, his greatest achievements were found through his dedication as a husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, as he loved his family dearly. His legacy will carry on with us forever. 

Peace has been found within our family as we know The Holy Spirit unites us with Christ and through Him with the Father in His everlasting Home. We wish to express our heartfelt thanks to all whose expressions and helpful deeds of sympathy meant so much at the time of our loss. 
In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Prince of Peach Early Learning Center. 

Condolences may be left at Freesefh.com

Freese FH 3/17/2023

Teddy R. Cross

 

Teddy R. Cross, 75, of Ogden passed away at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, on Thursday (March 16, 2023).

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 20, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, at Locust Grove Cemetery, Philo.

Teddy was born April 11, 1947, in Flippin, Ky., the son of Henry Ted and Mildred L. (Atkins) Cross. He married Janine Pembor on Dec. 24, 1967, in Brocton.

He is survived by his wife, Janine; son, Tom Cross (Anne Carbonneau) of Champaign; daughter, Cathy Cross of Urbana; brother, David Cross (Mai) of Westmoreland, Tenn.; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Jayce Cross and Roger Cross; and his sister-in-law, Dee Cross.

Teddy was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in Vietnam. When he could, he loved spending time woodworking, going for drives and tinkering with lawn mowers. He also was always up for a game of Zilch or Yahtzee, where he undoubtedly dominated. Teddy collected lots of unique salt and pepper shakers. He loved his family unconditionally.

Memorials can be made to the Ogden-Royal Fire Protection District.

Freese FH 3/17/2023

Mary Lorraine Dowling

 Mary “Lorraine” Willfong was a loving mother, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend. She left this world on Tuesday, March 14th, 2023, at 3:15 pm at the age of 80. She passed peacefully with family by her side at Carle Hospital in Urbana, Illinois.  A visitation will be held at Freese Funeral Home in Sidney on Sunday, March 19th from 3:00-5:00 pm.  Mass services will be held at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Philo on Monday, March 20th at 10:30 am with burial at Mount Hope Cemetery, Sidney. 

She was born Mary Lorraine Dowling on November 14th, 1942, at the Chicago L.I. Hospital in Chicago, Illinois.  She was born to Lillian Volay Dowling and James Elroy Dowling who have both preceded her to heaven.  She was a beloved sister to Elroy (Nancy) Dowling and the late Frances (Carol) Dowling.

She was baptized and attended St. Basil’s Church as a child, and she attended St. Rose of Lima during her school years. She joined Edward J. Haas in her first marriage on October 27, 1962.  They began their family in Chicago, Illinois before making Sidney, Illinois their family home in 1975, where she stayed for her remaining 47 years.  Lorraine married Larry Willfong later in life on November 3, 1998.

Lorraine loved and adored her family, including her three children: the late Edward Haas Jr., David (Stephanie) Haas of Philo, and Bridget (John) Hillier of Sidney.  Her late husband Larry Willfong also preceded her in death. She was a loving stepmother to Kenneth (Charlene) Willfong of New Braunfels, TX and Gina (Rich) Wilson of Tipp City, OH. The lights of her life were her five grandchildren, including Lily Haas & fiancé Jackson Dimmick of Memphis, TN, Lauren, Natalie and Nora Haas of Philo, IL, and Ayla Hillier of Sidney, IL; and four step-grandchildren Hannah (Dalton) Logan and Wyatt Wilson of Tipp City, OH and Campbell Willfong of New Braunfels, TX & Maggie Willfong of Carmel, IN. She also formed a close bond with her extended family, including many wonderful cousins, sisters and brothers by marriage, nieces, and nephews.

The home she created became a home of laughter, comfort, and love.  Her home was a place where many would gather for fun, friendship, and the many Haas Family 4th of July parties and pool parties. Her house was often filled with the sounds of her beautiful voice singing to the Supremes or other Motown oldies.  You were always greeted with the warmest of smiles in her presence.  She loved and needed nothing more than to have her family around her, laughing and enjoying each other’s company with one of her signature Bloody Mary's in hand. She opened her doors to all who needed it and provided support in any way she could. To many throughout Sidney, she became "Mom”, and she was proud of all her kids, blood or not.

She served as President of the Alter & Rosary Society and was a member of the Champaign-Urbana Elks Lodge.  During her life, she held various jobs, which included serving as a Clerk for the Champaign County Courthouse and a Sales Associate at Spritz Jewelers.  She loved to cook and was always festive in attitude and wardrobe. Her favorite color was pink, which was evident in her choice of home décor, clothing, flowers, and all other things. She loved NASCAR racing and reading a good book. If she was watching television, it was likely an episode of Wheel of Fortune or Law and Order.  She loved wearing jewelry and she loved spoiling her kids and grandkids with it even more.  She gave the best back scratches and liked to point her fingers when she danced.  She got a kick out of giving Soap on a Rope at Christmas, and never came without her famous Pineapple Upside Down Cake. 

To everyone she met, she was a sweet, caring, fun-loving soul who made sure everyone was taken care of before herself.  She will be missed immensely by all who were blessed to have known her. 

Freese FH 3/16/2023 website.

John Yearsley

 John Yearsley, 78, of Urbana, Illinois passed away on February 19, 2023 at North Florida Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida. He was born in Urbana, Illinois on February 7, 1945 the son of Emmett & Jean (Phillips)Yearsley. He married Cheryl Woolls DeLap on July 11, 2014.

Surviving are his wife- Cheryl; daughters- Jennifer (Doug) Bennett of Columbus, Ohio, Nikki (Brian) Mercer of Mahomet; grandchildren- Ava, Braxton, Charlotte and Jake;sisters- Mary (Bob) Lakey of Urbana and Dr. Martha (John Schmitt) Yearsley of Jasper, IN ;stepchildren- Karsten (Maggie) DeLap of Brevard, NC, Kristen (Todd Nadenichek) DeLap of Chicago, IL, step grandchildren- Soren & Isaac; Niece Jessie (Nate) Tate, Tolono, Nephews, Emmett Yearsley, Urbana and Jason Lakey Urbana. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother- Howard Yearsley and a step granddaughter Margo DeLap. 

John graduated from Urbana High School in 1963. His farming career was cut short when he was drafted into the Army in 1968. After serving in Vietnam in Charlie Company, Americal Division. John was honorably discharged with two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star, coming home to continue his lifelong farming career and resume as a DeKalb seed dealer. In between his planting and harvesting times, his love of dirt was carried over to racing late model stock cars and pulling tractors at county fairs and ag shows. 

He was a long-time member of the Prairie Gold Rush and his extensive collection of Minneapolis Moline tractors is widely known. After his racing career was over, he continued to attend several dirt racing events a year as a spectator and rarely missed the Daytona 500 race. He was also a long time board member of Yearsley Cemetery. 

Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 6, 2023 at Saint Matthew Lutheran Church, 2200 Philo Road, Urbana, Illinois 61802. Visitation will be from 11-1:00 p.m. at the church.  Pastor Paul Chapman will be officiating the service and Patricia Justice the graveside service at Yearsley Cemetery. Military Rites are accorded by American Legion Post 5520. Memorial contributions may be made to The Fisher House, Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, PO Box 5005, Bay Pines, FL 33744 or The Cindy Platt Boys and Girls Club, 11 Gallimore Rd, Brevard, NC 28712 Attention Margo DeLap Memorial Fund. Condolences may be sent at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com

Renner-Wikoff website 3/16/2023

Timothy L. Foutch

 

Timothy L. Foutch, 72, of  St. Joseph died at 1:48 a.m. Sunday (March 12, 2023) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

 Funeral services will not be held. Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 Philo Road, Urbana, is in charge of arrangements.

 Tim was born on Jan. 18, 1951, in Ottawa, a son of Lester and Audra Mann Foutch. He married Wendy L. Anderson on July 9, 1977, in Marseilles. She survives.

 Also surviving are a son, Ben and wife, Angela, Foutch of St. Joseph; two brothers, twin, Jim and wife, Linda, Foutch and Doug and wife, Joyce, Foutch, all of Sebring, Fla.; three nieces, Laura Foutch of Montgomery, Alison (Tanner) of Peoria and Jenna (Adam) Spencer of Morton; a nephew, Dan (Teresa) Foutch of Mahomet; his sisters-in-law, Sherry Lowderbaugh of Apple Valley, Minn., Nona Anderson of Ottawa and Renee McDonald of Missoula, Mont.; and nieces-in-law, Kim Lowderbaugh and Kris Pelton of Apple Valley, Minn., Laurie (Mark) Budnick, Lynde (Curtis Posey) Downey, all of Ottawa, and Jen (Jake) Qualls of Lake Stevens, Wash.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters-in-law and three brothers-in-law.

 Mr. Foutch attended Marseilles schools, graduating from Marseilles High School in 1969. He attended UIUC for one year.

 He loved sports, starting very young practicing his baseball, softball skills. He was active in 12-inch fast pitch softball leagues, and was inducted into Illinois Valley Baseball Old Timers Hall of Fame. He bowled in many leagues and tournaments, traveling to Reno, Buffalo, Cincinatti and many towns in northern Illinois. He especially enjoyed competing with brother Jim in many of those. He also bowled in mixed leagues with Wendy. He was a member of Marseilles Bowling Association Hall of Fame. He participated one year in Norway, Ill. Olympic games. He was a fan of Cubs Baseball and UI Sports.

 Tim was able to enjoy living on the beach in Oahu for six months. He worked at Snap-on Tools, Ottawa, and was a laborer with Labor Local 393 in Marseilles for many years. While living in Champaign he was a Realtor and had served in the professional standards committee for Champaign County Board of Realtors, was a salesperson for Cotter Glass, auditor for E&M Consultants, night auditor for Chancellor and LaQuinta Inns and delivered for Rogards. He was a bartender and cooked fish on Fridays at Esquire Lounge for many years. His last job was at Heartland Library Systems delivering books to a large area of schools and libraries, until his health declined and lost most of his sight.

 He enjoyed all kinds of music, listening almost daily, especially classic rock, jazz, and later enjoying classic country. He attended many concerts over the years. He loved animals and the outdoors. He enjoyed trying all kinds of food. His favorite snacks were popcorn, vanilla ice cream and popsicles.

 Tim loved our Lord and Savior and was brought up in the Methodist faith, was a member of Marseilles United Methodist Church, and attended Faith United Methodist Church while living in Champaign. He loved his family with all his might and to the end was trying to help us. He was generous and liked helping others. He shared with us his wisdom, quick wit and sharp tongue, his daily sense of humor and 'wittyisms' as he would say, and singing and saying little ditties he would make up.

 Source:  www.renner-wikoffchapel.com 3/16/2023

William (Bill) H. Morse

 

William (Bill) H. Morse, 82, of Sidney, IL, took his last fishing trip to the big lake in the sky on March 12, 2023.  Bill was born on November 21, 1940 to Ira and Lorraine Morse, attended Taylorville schools and graduated Villa Grove High School in 1958.  Bill married his high school sweetheart Barbara Crouse Morse in 1960 and they lived primarily in Sidney Illinois where they had a family of four children:  William J. Morse, Timothy Morse, Julie Morse Cary (Jack Sr.), and Bonnie Morse McArthur (Joel).  

Retiring from a 30 year career at the University of Illinois, Bill was a lead operating engineer at Abbott Power plant. He also founded and owned Morse Heating and Air Conditioning. Bill was engaged in the community as President and member of the Unit 7 school board,  member and Past Master of the Sidney Masonic Lodge, a 32nd degree Mason for 38 years, and an Ansar Shriner.  Sidney United Methodist Church was an important part of Bill’s life and he helped build and relocate the church.  In his retirement, Bill and Barb traveled the Southwest fishing, camping, and boating and then enjoyed their Florida lake home.  

Preceding Bill in death are his parents Ira and Lorraine, his sister Marlana Hutchinson, and several in-laws from the Crouse family.   William is survived by his wife, Barbara, his four children, and seven grandchildren:  Alex Morse (Justina), Kalene Morse (Zac), Jenna Cary, Jack Cary, Jr., Lyndsay McArthur, Lauryn McArthur, Jacob McArthur, and two great grandchildren:  Elijah and Nora, along with his step brother Joe Morse (Mariah) and in-laws, nieces and nephews.  

Services will be on Saturday, March 18th at Countryside United Methodist Church, 1807 County Road 1000 North, Urbana, IL. Visitation is from 1:30 pm to 3 pm with funeral and Masonic rights to follow.  Private graveside services will be held at a later date. 

Freese Funeral Home 202 W. Main Sidney is in charge of arrangements.

 Memorials may be made to Countryside United Methodist Church or Shriner's Hospital.

Source:  Freese FH website 3/16/2023

Ronald Ray Dodd

 Urbana – Ronald Ray Dodd, 87, of Urbana, IL, formerly of Homer, passed away at 12:12 am Monday, March 13, 2023, at Gardenview Manor in Danville.

He was born on December 25, 1935, in Homer, IL the son of Wilbur & Berniece Dodd. Survivors include two sons: Barry (Darla) Dodd of Homer and Royd Dodd of Deland. He grew up in Homer, IL, with his five brothers, Max, Jack, Elmer, Byron & David, who all preceded him in death. Ronald was a veteran of the US Army. He was a member of Living Word Family Church in St. Joseph, IL. He was a man who loved to work.

A private burial will be in G.A.R. Cemetery in Homer, IL. He’s free as a bird now. On-line condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.

source: Robinson Chapel website 3/16/2023

James Ransom Paden

 

JAMES PADEN OBITUARY

ST. JOSEPH - James (Jim) Ransom Paden, 87, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 10, 2023, at Stone Creek Health and Rehab in Asheville, N.C. 

He was born in Greenup on Christmas Day in 1935, to James Fredrick Paden and Irma Ennis.  He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Peggy Louise Paden. 

Jim and Peggy had one child, Jimmy Paden (LoriKay) of Asheville, N.C. Jim grew up in Champaign and graduated from Champaign High in 1954.

In 1968, the Paden family moved to St. Joseph, establishing many friendships that still exist today. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and worked for several tech companies such as Magnavox and Hewlett-Packard. He retired from HP in 1996 after working there for 29 years. 

Aside from work, his favorite pastime was spending time with Peggy and his family on trips, watching the grandkids' sporting events or just following Peggy around town. Jim volunteered wherever he was needed and loved spending time at the St. Joseph Church of Christ, Habitat for Humanity, and numerous mission trips. He was always there to lend a helping hand. Jim's wit and dry sense of humor were unique, and he could make you laugh when you would least expect it. After Peggy passed in 2017, he moved to the Asheville area to be closer to family.  He did love the mountains and the beautiful landscape of North Carolina. 

Jim loved the Lord with all his heart. His faith spoke through his actions more than his words.  His love for the Lord was modeled in such a way that his entire family will carry on and live out this faith for the Kingdom. Thanks be to God for his life and his legacy.

A celebration of life will be held in St. Joseph at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Jolee Paden and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) in Washington, D.C. www.fcadc.org.

Published by The News-Gazette on Mar. 12, 2023.

Mary Negangard

 

MARY NEGANGARD OBITUARY

SIDNEY - On Friday, March 10, 2023, an angel gained her wings when our good Lord delivered Mom to her heavenly home. At the age of 87, Mary Negangard has struggled with various chronic illnesses and with the help of her daughter, Sue, was able to maintain her independence at home, which is where she passed.

Mary was born Nov. 19, 1935, the daughter of Lowell and Mildred Davis, who preceded her in death, as did siblings Lowell Davis Jr. and Doreen Fitzgibbon.

Surviving are her four children, David (Dianne Noland) Negangard of St. Joseph, Jody (Doug) Reifsteck of Tolono, Susan (George) Lawrence of Sidney and Daniel Negangard of Catlin. Her family also includes 10 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild. Surviving siblings include Barbara Bonnell of Sidney, George Davis of Texas, Alice Hayes of Woodstock and Linda Allen of Crawfordsville, Ind. Mary has also been blessed with numerous nieces and nephews.

Always a working mom, she still found time to be a room mother, coach softball, drive kids to practice and never missed any of our special events. Mary was employed at Sidney Grain Co. as a bookkeeper for many years. She then moved on to Burnham City Hospital for multiple years in the accounting office. Eventually she joined the Circuit Clerk's Office for Champaign County. It was from there she retired.

Mom was quite a cook, fixing Sunday dinner for all of us every Sunday until she couldn't anymore. Known mostly for her pies. She loved to garden and you could always find her there or sitting on her deck. The neighborhood birds who frequented her many feeders year round will miss her almost as much as we will.

She was a avid Illini fan. An accomplished seamstress many have been gifted one of her beautiful quilts. It was very apparent that Mary had an immense love of family as she always enjoyed talking about and visiting with her large family and friends.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or the Sidney Volunteer Fire Department.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, 2023, at Freese Funeral Home, 202 W. Main St., Sidney. The Rev. Jeff Stahl will officiate. Burial will be in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Sidney. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m.

Condolences may be left at Freesefh.com.

Published by The News-Gazette on Mar. 12, 2023.

Donald Patterson

 

Donald "Don" Patterson 72, of Homer passed away at 5:32 A.M. Thursday March 9, 2023 at Amber Glen, Urbana.

 Funeral services will be at 10:30 A.M. Monday March 13, 2023 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Rev. Heju Nam will officiate. Burial will be in G.A.R. Cemetery, Homer. Visitation will be Sunday from 2:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. at the funeral home. A Fire fighter walk through will be held at 4:30 P.M.

 Don was born March 21, 1950 in Olney, IL. The son of Earl and Joan (Roth) Patterson.

 He is survived by his sons; Shannon (Katie) Patterson of Homer, Jason Patterson of Tuscola. Four grandsons; Cody, Keagan, Zachary, Trenton Patterson. One brother Tom (Pam) Lynn. two sisters; Paula (Phil) Clark, Dee (George) Williams. Several nieces and nephews.

 He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister Cathy Vandegraft.

 Don retired from Frontier Communications working in Telecomm repair. He was a member of I.B.E. W. Local 51. Don also worked for the Illinois Department of Transportaion. 

 Don was a member of the Homer Volunteer Fire Department for 32 years and had served as a trustee. He was also had served as a trustee for South Homer Township. He was a member of the Homer United Methodist Church. Don was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

 Don was always willing to offer a helping hand to anyone in need.

 Memorials may be made to the Homer Volunteer Fire Department.

Freese FH 3/9/2023

Alma "June" Palmer

 

Alma "June" Palmer 92, of St. Joseph passed away at 12:36 A.M. Tuesday March 7, 2023 at Amber Glen, Urbana.

 Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday March 11, 2023 at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview. David Barcus will officiate.

 June was born April 24, 1930 in Stanton Township. The daughter of Ernest and Joyce (Anderson) Shirley. She married Reid Palmer on October 25, 1946. He preceded her in death on October 2, 2012. 

 She is survived by her sons; Michael (Linda) Palmer and Greg (Annette) Palmer both of St. Joseph. Five granddaughters, two great-granddaughters and one great-grandson.

 She was preceded in death  by her parents, 3 brothers, 1 sister and 3 half sisters.

 June was a member of the Church of Christ, St. Joseph. She was retired from Sears

 She liked camping, sewing and knitting.  

Freese FH 3/9/2023

Michael Olson

 

Michael was born February 22nd, 1966 and thankfully adopted by Mervyn and Velma Olson. Michael grew up working on the farm, loving animals, and working on all sorts of cars and machinery. In his adult years he was an amazing brick layer and mason, landscaper, baker, and all around handyman. He loved dogs, especially his prized Labrador bloodline, Ravens Prairie Magic and Carly. Michael is preceded in death by his father, Mervyn Olson, four infant siblings, and his grandparents. He is survived by his two children, Mckayla Olson (Cory Thurber) and Hunter Olson; his three granddaughters, Sophia, Wrenlee, and Josie; his mother Velma Olson, and his siblings Debra Olson, Laryn Olson, and Lacinda Olson-Carrington. Michael passed March 3rd, 2023 at Carle hospital in Urbana surrounded by family. He was a loving son, brother, and father and will be missed by many. Memorials can be made to Zion Lutheran Church in Philo. Visitation will be at Freese Funeral Home in St. Joseph, IL Tuesday March 7th, 2023 from 10am to 12pm with funeral service immediately following. Burial will be in Kopmann Cemetery.

Freese FH 3/8/2023