Lois A. Frerichs

 
Royal - Lois A. Frerichs, 93, of Royal passed away at 11:21 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, at her home.

She was born Aug. 6, 1933, in Ogden, the daughter of Robert D. and Dorothy (Edwards) Hunter. She married Herb Frerichs on Jan. 10, 1954, in Royal. He preceded her in death on Aug. 11, 2015.

Lois is survived by her children Susan (Mark) Loschen of Royal, and Tim (Teri) Frerichs of St. Joseph; 10 grandchildren, Shannon, Jamie (Erin), Beth (Greg), Josh (Jen), Timbra (Paul), Alyssa (Trever), Thea, Kristin, Tenneal (Griffin), and Kenna; two stepgrandchildren, Travis (Megan), and Brandon; 22 great-grandchildren; and sister Kay Fiscus.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two daughters, Lori and Judy.

Lois was a life member of St. John Lutheran Church, Royal, where she had played the organ and piano.

She loved spending time with family, and attending her grandchildren's sporting events.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026, at St. John Lutheran Church, Royal. Pastor Ryan Sage will officiate. Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery, Royal. Visitation will be Wednesday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the church.

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

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

Linda Ann Marron

Fithian - Linda Ann Marron, 71, of rural Fithian passed away on Sept. 15, 2026, at Indiana University Hospital in Indianapolis.

Born in Danville on Jan. 20, 1955, Linda was the only daughter of the late John H.E. and Marjorie M. (Gilbreath) Camp. Linda grew up in Collison and graduated from Armstrong High School. She attended the University of Illinois for both undergraduate and graduate studies.

Linda will be remembered for a life centered on education, service, faith, and family. She was a junior high school teacher at Prairieview-Ogden for many years, where she made a lasting difference in the lives of her students. In addition to her work in the classroom, she also assisted in coaching the school's volleyball, track, and basketball teams throughout her career.

Linda's favorite job was being a grandma, supporting her grandchildren in everything near and far. She encouraged her grandkids in all their activities: traveling to rodeo competitions, watching endless hours of baseball, enjoying the performing arts, entertaining all their interests and endeavors, and teaching them to find joy in everything they did.

Her love for family ran deep, extending warmly to family near and far. She also found joy in serving as a host family for two foreign exchange students - opening her home and her heart - bringing both into her family. She also loved to travel, and she especially loved having her toes in the sand of any beach in Florida.

She was a member of the Psi Iota Xi philanthropy sorority for several years and was also a member of Collison United Methodist Church.

Linda is survived by her husband of nearly 52 years, Pat Marron; her sons Mike (Brandy) Marron of Fithian, John (Stephanie) Marron of Indianapolis, and Jim (Megan) Marron of Dublin, Ireland; and her grandchildren Ainsley, Charles, Lucy, and James Patrick. She is also survived by her siblings John (Lora Palmer) Camp of Potomac, William (Martha) Camp of Vonroe, Tenn., Mike (Kristin) Camp of Collison, and Jeff (Wendy) Camp of Armstrong, as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Linda was preceded in death by two grandsons, Henry Ellis Marron and DH Marron.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, located at 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville. A funeral service celebrating her life will take place the following morning on Monday, Sept. 21, 2026, at 10 a.m., also at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest at Embury Cemetery in Fithian following services that day. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Toys for Tots or the Collison United Methodist Church. Online condolences, fond memories, and photographs can be shared with her family on her Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Melvin Dean Myers

 

Danville - Melvin Dean Myers: A life rich in laughter, legacy, and love.

Born on April 21, 1938, in Hutchinson, Kan., Mel Myers has lived a life marked by grit, generosity, and good humor. From childhood summers on his grandparents' Kansas farm with his beloved brother Marvin, to owning and operating a successful business in Danville, Mel has always followed his own path, with passion and purpose. For 52 years, Mel has shared his life with his wife, Judith (Judy) A. Myers nee Smith, creating a loving blended family together.

Mel's early years included a wide range of jobs, from roofing to retail. But in 1966, a chance meeting with Herb Depke changed his course. Mel joined Depke Welding Supply, quickly proving his knack for business and people. He would go on to purchase the company, growing it into a thriving enterprise until his retirement. His entrepreneurial spirit became a cornerstone of his life, earning respect throughout the community.

An artist and craftsman at heart, Mel's hands were rarely idle. Whether he was building, sketching, or cracking a joke over a glass of good Scotch, he found joy in creation and connection. He was an active figure in Danville civic life, proudly serving on the boards of the Danville Chamber of Commerce, the Boys & Girls Club, the Danville Sanitary District, and more. A lifelong Republican, Mel also remained active in the Vermillion County Republican Party and was a longtime member of the Danville Country Club.

Mel and Judy's blended family was one of the great accomplishments and joys of their life together. Their children are: Mimi (Myers) Brunson and husband Tracie; Scott Towne and wife Jane; Felicia Chunges (deceased); Melanie (Myers) Dougherty and husband Robert; Curtis Towne and wife Toni; and Jennifer (Myers) Souza and husband Keith.

Mel was also preceded in death by his infant son, Melvin.

His legacy continues in his cherished grandchildren - Peter, Lewis, Brennan, Kate, Easton, Emma, Truce, Ava, and Maya - and his great-granddaughter Vivia. He is also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews who treasure his wit, warmth, and wisdom.

Mel was preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Donna Myers; his brother, Marvin Myers; and his sister, Marilyn (Myers) Bolyard. He is survived by his sister Marsha (Myers) Ray and her husband Randy.

A devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, accomplished businessman, and irrepressible jokester, Mel's life is a testament to hard work, deep roots, and joyful living. He continues to inspire all who know him.

He died Sept. 10, 2026.

A visitation will be held from 1-3 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026, at Sunset Funeral and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville. A funeral service celebrating his life will take place immediately following at 3 p.m. that afternoon, also at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest at Spring Hill Cemetery following a private family service. Online condolences, fond memories, and photographs can be shared with his family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Ervin F. Woller

Ervin F. Woller, 79 of Urbana, died at 8:44 a.m. Monday, September 7, 2026, at Carle Hospital, Urbana.

A graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, September 20, 2026, at Yearsley Cemetery, Urbana with Rev. Michael Stoerger officiating.

Ervin was born July 18, 1947, in Urbana the son of Victor and Clarice Deedrick Woller. He married Diane Burklund June 27, 1969, at the Evangelical Covenant Church, Paxton. She preceded him in death April 8, 2020.

He is survived by a daughter, Michelle (Todd) Hesterberg of Gifford; a son, Darren (Chris) Woller of Urbana; six grandchildren, Cullen Hesterberg, Connor Hesterberg, Corbin Hesterberg, Avery Woller, Ava Bronowski, Eli Bronowski; eight great grandchildren; his fiancée, Ruthann Champagne and a sister, Lavonne (Don) Gillespie of Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, who he had cared for many years and lived out “til death do us part”.

Ervin graduated from St. Joe-Ogden High School in 1965. He received an associates degree from Parkland College and attended the University of Illinois Dairy Sciences. He worked for Flo-Con/Vesuvius in quality assurance.

He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church, Thomasboro and the Champaign County Riding Club where he served as past president as well as the M&W Saddle Club. He had a passion for horses and was an avid flag and barrel racer. Ervin qualified for the NBHA World Show multiple times. He loved to compete and socialize with his horse friends. His greatest joy was attending his grandchildren’s athletic events.

Memorials may be made to an organization of the donor’s choice. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com. 

https://www.baierfuneralservices.com/obituaries/ervin-woller

Gloria Harms

 Gloria Harms, 65, of Champaign passed away at 8:20 P.M. Sunday September 6, 2026 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

  Graveside services will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday September 12, 2026 at Kopmann Cemetery. Pastor Ryan Sage will officiate.

 Gloria was born January 4, 1961 in Urbana. The daughter of John and Margaret (Bruns) Harms.

 She is survived by her niece Jami Harms of Mahomet, nephew John Harms of Humbolt, IA. 2 great nephews Camden and Grady Harms. 2 nieces Grace and Emmi Harms.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Leon Harms, sister Barbara Harms.

 Gloria was devoted to her niece and nephew and great nieces and nephews.

 Memorials may be made to Kopmann Cemetery.

https://www.freesefh.com/obituary/Gloria-Harms

Rebecca Wagner

 
Rebecca Wagner, 76, passed away on September 3, 2026. She was born on January 29, 1950, to Marion Agnew Wagner and Wayne Wagner.

Rebecca grew up in rural Ogden, Illinois in a farming family. The daughter of a farmer and a teacher, she was raised in the close-knit Ogden community that remained an important part of her life until death. She graduated from St. Joseph-Ogden High School before attending the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She later earned her medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine, completing her medical education in Rockford, Illinois, followed by her residency training in Portland, Oregon.

Dr. Wagner returned to the Champaign-Urbana community and built an extraordinary career as an obstetrician-gynecologist at Carle Hospital, where she practiced for 35 years. A trailblazer in medicine, she was the first female physician in her field at Carle and in the Champaign community. During her career, she delivered thousands of babies and cared for generations of women and families throughout the area. Her 35 years of service left a lasting impact on her patients, colleagues, and the community she called home.

Rebecca was also a member of Ogden United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marion and Wayne Wagner. She is survived by her five daughters, Elizabeth Wagner (Duane), Elena Stimmel (Zach), Alexa High (Billy), Abigail Wagner, and Ana Wagner; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. She is also survived by her brother, Chris (Rebecca), and her sister, Elizabeth (Michael).

Rebecca’s life was one of remarkable accomplishments, service, and devotion to her family and community. From her roots in a farming family in Ogden to the thousands of lives she touched through medicine, her legacy will continue through her daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchild, siblings, patients, colleagues, friends, and the many families whose lives she helped bring into the world.

Private funeral services will be held at Freese Funeral Home in St. Joseph, Illinois.

https://www.freesefh.com/obituary/Rebecca-Wagner

Carol Ann Trexler

 St. Joseph - Carol Ann Trexler, 86, of St. Joseph, died on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Haven of Tuscola.

Published by The News-Gazette from Aug. 28 to Aug. 29, 2026.

Connie Lou Ray

 
Urbana - Connie Lou Ray, 86, of Urbana passed away on the morning of Aug. 30, 2026, at

Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.

Born Jan. 23, 1940, in Danville, to Ivan and Helen Yount. Connie grew up in St. Joseph before making her home in Urbana. She married Jerry W. Ray on Feb. 2, 1962, in Vermilion County. They remained lifelong friends.

For over 60 years Connie provided in-home daycare. She loved children, and they loved her.

Connie was a wonderful cook and would love to share a meal. She enjoyed her coffee while visiting with family and friends. Connie also loved animals and made sure the wildlife around her was always well fed and cared for.

Connie is survived by her children Richard Thompsen of Urbana; Lonnie Ray of Urbana; Tim W. Ray and his wife, Talor of Homer; Betsy Banks and her husband Tony of Urbana and Glenview.

Grandchildren Adam Thompsen, Aaron Thompsen, Chaz Ray, Ross Ray, Collin Ray, Lauren Ray, Mason Ray (Ali), Cody Kern (Liberty), and Aubrey Kern (Isaiah). Great-grandchildren Landon Ray, Ace Ray, Benson Kern and Brother Dean (Deb) Yount of Oklahoma.

She was preceded in death by her parents Ivan and Helen Yount, and her sister Rita Wingler.

Connie loved to wear flannel shirts and be comfortable; casual clothing is preferred at the visitation.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. A private burial will take place at a later date.

Condolences may be made at Freesefh.com.

Doug Emrick

 Danville - Doug Emrick, a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend, peacefully departed this world on Aug. 29, 2026, after a medical emergency.

Born on Aug. 17, 1952, in Urbana, Doug was the beloved son of the late Ronald and Judith Emrick, who predeceased him in 2008 and 2004, respectively.

Doug was a graduate of St. Joseph-Ogden High School, class of 1970, where he began cultivating his lifelong love for Western movies and TV shows. His extraordinary memory for family events, birthdays, and details of old Western films and actors was a source of wonder and pride for his family and friends. He could astound anyone with his ability to recall the ages of his many cousins and recount the details of his favorite Westerns. Doug was a true aficionado of Western wear, often seen proudly sporting his cowboy hat, boots, and bolo tie on special occasions.

He is survived by his loving sister, Julie Brinkley, and her husband, Chuck, of Elliott, and his brother, Shawn Emrick, and his wife, Michelle, of Michigan City, Ind. Doug's legacy continues through his nephews, Jon Swanson and his wife, Ashleigh, Joe Emrick and his significant other, Kelly, Erika Swanson, and her significant other, Casey. He also leaves behind great-nieces Bella, Kaydence, and Payge, who will carry forward the fond memories of their beloved great-uncle.

Doug's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who supported him throughout his life, particularly the Developmental Services Center for their dedication in helping him acquire essential life skills over the years. The family also wishes to acknowledge the compassionate staff at the Danville New Focus program for their unwavering care and support.

In honor of Doug's memory, the family suggests donations be made to DSC, in recognition of the invaluable services they provide.

Doug will be remembered as a gentle soul with a heart full of kindness and a mind rich with memories that he generously shared with those around him. His spirit will live on in the stories retold by his family, the laughter shared in recalling his quick wit, and the love that continues to bind his family together. His life was a testament to the power of memory, tradition, and the enduring bond of family.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave. Burial will be in Stearns Cemetery, Fithian. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home.

Marilyn R. Querry

 Urbana - Marilyn R. Querry, 97, died the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026, at Reflections of Hollybrook, Savoy.

Morgan Memorial Home of Savoy is handling the arrangements.

Marilyn was born on Sept. 24, 1928, in Decker, Ind., the daughter of Ralph S. Lane and Ruth Levron Lane. She married Harry R. Querry on June 29, 1947, at her parents' farm in Decker, Ind. She is survived by three daughters, Julie (Sam) Bellante, Linda Querry, and Janet (Walter) Wolfe. Other survivors include three grandchildren, Jennifer Houston, Kyle (Alyssa) Wolfe, and Erin (Brad) Atkinson. She is also survived by 6 great-grandchildren, Felicity, Elijah, and Madelynn Wolfe, and Maverick, Chase, and Payton Atkinson. Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and seven siblings, brothers Robert, John, and James, and sisters Marjorie, Julia, Newana, and Sandra, and her grandson Chance Houston. She was known as Aunt Ming to several nieces and nephews.

Marilyn received her bachelor's and master's degrees in education from Indiana State University and her advanced degree from the University of Illinois. She retired after 38 years of service as a public school educator. Her years were spent in the Lawrenceville city school system, Lawrence County Special Ed District, and Champaign Unit 4 school district as a teacher, curriculum coordinator, and principal in three different grade schools.

Marilyn was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Urbana, past chapter president of the Ambraw Chapter Exceptional Children, member of the Phi Delta Kappa Honorary Educational Fraternity, a lifetime member of the UI Alumni Association, and a member of The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Her hobbies included horses, camping, gardening, reading, cards, swimming, and time with family and friends.

Private burial will be in Mount Hope Mausoleum, Champaign, on Thursday, Aug. 27. Visitation will be held on Friday, Aug. 28, at 11 a.m. with services at 12 at Morgan Memorial Home in Savoy. The Rev. David Oliver-Holder of the Urbana First Presbyterian Church and Dr. Rev. Katherine Kussmaul, a long-time friend of Marilyn's, will perform the service.

Donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Marilyn's honor or to a charity of the donor's choice.

The family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Reflections Memory Care for the wonderful care Marilyn received for the last two years of her life. Your love for her was recognized and greatly appreciated.

Condolences may be offered at www.morganmemorialhome.com.

Roger Otis

 Homer - Roger Otis, 76, of Homer, formerly of Urbana, died on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at home.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/news-gazette/name/roger-otis-obituary?id=62235681

Margaret Ann Baker Eunice

St. Joseph - Margaret Ann Baker Eunice was born on July 27, 1938, in Sidney, and she passed into the arms of Jesus on Aug. 23, 2026.

Prior to her passing, Margaret raised her arms in song to Jesus, singing "He the Pearly Gates Will Open." In her final hours, she was surrounded by family, who prayed her home with hymns and gospel songs. She lovingly hugged her children and grandchildren, leaving them with precious words: "I love you and I'll be waiting for you."

Margaret gave her life to Jesus at a young age and attended Sidney Christian Church with her family. She was active at church and loved traveling to summer youth camps. Margaret graduated from Unity High School in Tolono in 1956 and faithfully attended class reunions at "the farm" with dear, lifelong friends.

Margaret's first job out of high school was at the University of Illinois, where she worked as a typist. She was later employed at R. H. Bishop Co. and then Busey Bank for 20 years, until she retired. Margaret was an accomplished seamstress, sewing clothes and wedding dresses for family and friends. She was a gifted pianist who played by ear and instilled a love for gospel music in her children and grandchildren. She had a beautiful alto voice and harmonized flawlessly.

Margaret was a true Midwesterner who loved farmland, gardening, country life, and Illinois basketball. Her family fondly remembers the age-old-question during visits, "Do you get the Illinois games?" Margaret enjoyed visiting the northeast, Gatlinburg, Savannah, and the Smoky Mountains, where she could attend gospel sings. Margaret loved her home church: Faith Church, in Urbana, of which she was a faithful congregant for decades.

After Jesus, Margaret loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren more than anything else, and she loved well. It is her presence that will be most missed. At the end of life, it is not material goods, degrees, or wealth that her family cherishes. It is the memories of her prayers, kind words, smiles, hugs, loving hands, and unconditional devotion that lives on in the hearts of her family.

Margaret was preceded in death by her beloved son, Danny; her parents Everett and Velma; her son-in-law Patrick; and siblings: Rosalie, John, and Donald.

She is survived by her children: John, Kim, Kenneth, Vickie, Tammy, Karla, and Lori; 18 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren; and her brother, Kevin.

To our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, truly, you can say: "Through many dangers, toils, and snares, I have already come; Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace has led me home" (Amazing Grace, John Newton).

The funeral service for this dear lady will be on at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28, at Faith Church, Urbana. Visitation will take place prior to the funeral from 10-11 a.m.

Memorials in honor of Margaret may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at stjude.org.

Renny Kay Greenwood Ehler

 
Champaign - Renny Kay (Greenwood) Ehler, age 85, of Champaign, passed away at 9:52 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026, at MeadowBrook Health Center at ClarkLindsey in Urbana.

Renny was born in Mattoon, on April 2, 1941, the daughter of Raymond H. and Lillian L. (Lewis) Greenwood. She moved to Shelbyville during her grade school years, graduating from Shelbyville High School in 1958. She married Richard D. Barker on March 18, 1961, divorcing in 1974. She married Charles "Chuck" L. Ehler on Feb. 22, 1975. He survives.

Renny graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Illinois (UIUC) in 1965 with a degree in the teaching of Spanish and French. In the 1960s and early '70s, she worked in various teaching roles for a few years and then took a position with Colwell's Systems. After her daughter, Jean Marie, was born, she eventually became a stay-at-home mom. She enjoyed volunteering for community organizations and at the schools Jean Marie attended.

Following Renny's marriage to Chuck, she became interested in supporting their farming operation. As a self-proclaimed "information junkie," she took on the role of grain marketer for their family farm. She was a strong supporter of the WILL-AM farm radio programming, which she relied on for a great deal of her farm market and weather information. She enjoyed being involved in agricultural issues through a variety of organizations and volunteer opportunities. She held a position on the board of directors for the Champaign County branch of the American Cancer Society. Renny was also a member of the UIUC American Association of University Women Writer's Group. Her dabbling in poetry even resulted in her selling one-liners for use on contemporary greeting cards.

Renny never met an animal she wasn't drawn to - whether cat, dog, racoon, or possum, she would care for them to the best of her ability. She often worked with local rescue organizations to help stray cats and dogs find homes. A few lucky cats and a dog managed to join the family.

Renny is survived by her brother, Randy Greenwood (Pat), of Neoga; her sister, Jan Greenwood (Ted Martz), of Conyers, Ga.; her daughter, Jean Marie (Barker) Wichman (Darrel) of Champaign; her stepdaughter, Amy (Ehler) Walmer (Ryan) of Mahomet; and three grandchildren, Ethan Walmer, Andrew Walmer, and Kyle Walmer; as well as many dear nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Thank you to all the special people who helped care for Renny in her declining years. Caregiving is a complex journey of deep love, hard work, and constant change. Renny's family is forever grateful for each person who helped Renny navigate her dementia journey.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, 9 to 11 a.m., with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. at Morgan Memorial Home, 1304 Regency Drive West, Savoy. Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to the Champaign Urbana Humane Society (www.cuhumane.org/donate/), CatSnap (www.catsnap.org/), the University of Illinois Veterinary Hospital, or any animal welfare agency of your choice.

Kenneth Thomason Heyen

 Kenneth Thomason Heyen, 91 of Broadlands passed away at 12:59PM, Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at The Haven in Tuscola.

Private graveside services will be held.  Freese Funeral Home, Tolono is assisting with arrangements.

Mr. Heyen was born Nov 15, 1934 in Petersburg, IL, a son to Julius and Ruby Thomason Heyen.  He married Awanda Lee Limkeman on Sept 20, 1958 in Sutter, IL.  She preceded him in death on August 31, 2023.

Surviving are two sons; Kevin (Susan) and Kendall (Brenda), a daughter; Alisa (Tim) grandchildren; Brandon (Hannah), Brittany, Makenzie (Alexis), Alexander and Maddison, two great-grandchildren; Cecelia Kay and Lucca and three step-great-grandchildren; Dean, Liam, and Ellie.

Mr. Heyen graduated from Ipava High School, then graduated from Western Illinois University with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Music Education.  While receiving his master’s degree with served in the U.S. Army Reserves.  He was employed at Unit 7 Schools as the band and music teacher from 1970 to 1991.  He grew up on the family farm in Carthage, IL, where he and his children would go back in the summers and help with planting and harvesting the crops.  He was an avid Illini sports fan.  He also enjoyed watching his children’s and then his grandchildren’s activities, playing the organ and accordion, and going to tractor pulls, he especially enjoyed the Allis-Chalmers tractors.

The family would like to thank the staff at Haven of Tuscola for their kindness and compassion.  Over the years, they became more than just Ken’s caregivers; they became family.  Their commitment to treating him with love, dignity, and respect will never be forgotten.

Memorials may be made to Unity Music Boosters at PO Box 1063, Tolono, Il 61880.

Robert Wayne Acton

 Collison – Robert Wayne Acton, 76, of Collison passed away at 3:25 PM on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield, IL. He was born on May 15, 1950, in Danville to Robert L. and Leone (Liggett) Acton. He married Deanna R. Armantrout on August 29, 1971, in Potomac. She survives.

Also surviving are three children, Jessica (Ted) Hartke of Sidney, Justin (Lisa) Acton of Rossville, and Jared (Kari Fowler) Acton of Collison; and five grandchildren, Phillip, Sophia, Ava, Ella, and Cooper.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a grandson, Gabriel Hartke.

After High School, Wayne went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Education from Illinois State University. His career was varied but always centered around his vast knowledge of the agricultural industry. Wayne shared this passion as an Ag Teacher at Oakwood High School before moving to livestock and ag equipment sales. He also operated the family farm where they specialized in raising Beefalo cattle. Wayne served as the Vice President of the American Beefalo Association due to his expertise with the breed. As a stroke survivor, Wayne volunteered as a lobbyist for the American Heart Association to support improved treatment options for stroke patients. He also worked in real estate as a realtor and broker.

Wayne loved the community he lived in and served as the Pilot Township Clerk and on the Middlefork Pilot Multi-Township Assessment District Board. He was a lifetime member of the Collison United Methodist Church and was recently honored as a 50-year member of the Collison Masonic Lodge. Music was also a very important part of Wayne’s life. With his band, Latigo, and other bands he performed with such as the Tumble Weeds and Yesterday’s Country, he played at numerous events such as the CU Arts Festival, several Cowboy Country Churches, and he organized outdoor concerts during the summer months at the Collison Masonic Lodge. He was a long-time Lions Club member and organizer of their annual “Potomac Goes Country” music show and later their “Let’s go Country” music shows. He received multiple songwriting awards and recognitions and a music video award and was President of the Illinois Group in the North America Country Music Associations International (NACMAI). He invested his time and support in grade school music programs to pass his love of music on to future generations.

Most of all, Wayne loved his family and enjoyed being present with them whenever he could. He will be missed dearly by them all.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Wayne Acton will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the Pilot Township Community Building in Collison, IL with visitation prior to the service held from 1:30-3:00 pm. Family and friends are invited to gather for a dinner and additional time for visitation from 5:00-8:00 pm that same evening. He will be laid to rest at Collison Cemetery. Cremation has been entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL 61834. In lieu of flowers, memorials made in Wayne’s name may be made to the Collison United Methodist Church (PO Box 103, Collison, IL, 61831) or to the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in St. Louis (Hope Lodge, 4207 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO, 63108).

Please join Wayne’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

https://obituaries.sunsetfuneralhome.com/robert-acton