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.

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.

Ruth H. Roderick

St. Joseph - Ruth H. Roderick, 89, of St Joseph, passed away at Kahl Home in Davenport, Iowa, on Aug. 8, 2026.

Ruth was born on Aug. 14, 1936, the daughter of Louis C and Lena (Kubler) Wendling in Altamont. She married John Roderick on July 17, 1966, in Altamont, and they raised three daughters.

Survivors include her husband of 60 years, John Roderick of St. Joseph, her daughters, Amy (Jim) Heise of Andover, Mass., Jennifer (David) Phillips of Dayton, Ohio, and Jill (Todd) Frankel of Bettendorf, Iowa, her grandchildren, Emery Heise, Wyatt Phillips, Elias Phillips, Jacob Frankel, Alexa Frankel and Helene Frankel, as well as two siblings, Bill Wendling of Altamont, and Jim (Gerry) Wendling of Overland Park, Kan.

Ruth is preceded in death by her parents and one sibling, Bob Wendling.

Ruth was a teacher and Sunday school teacher for many years. She was active in her church, Immanuel Lutheran, loved working with the preschool-age children, and enjoyed spending her free time gardening and giving away tomatoes.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1930 N. Bowman Ave., Danville, IL 61832. The Rev. James Yonkers will officiate. Burial will be in Walnut Corner Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026 at the church in Danville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ruth's memory to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1930 N. Bowman Ave., Danville, IL 61832. Please note: Vacation Bible School/Sunday School.

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL 61834 is assisting the family with arrangements.

The family invites you to share memories, photos, and messages of comfort on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com. 

NG 8/14/2026

Kim L. Plant

 
Kim L. Plant, 55 of Danville passed away at 4:07 P.M. Wednesday February 18, 2026 at her home.

 Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday February 27, 2026 at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview, IL.

 Kim was born December 1, 1970 in Vincennes, IN. The daughter of Leon and Beatrice (Davis) Plant.

 She is survived by her sisters Marie Anderson of Covington, IN, Debbie McCoy of Urbana, and Misty Maxon of Indiana. Aunt Tootsie Thorp. Several nieces and nephews.

 She was preceded in death by her parents.

 Kim dealt with numerous health problems in her life, but still found great joy in cats and watching her shows on T.V.

https://www.freesefh.com/notices/Kim-Plant

Marjorie Ann Izard

 Marjorie Ann Izard (Marge), age 89, of Homer passed away peacefully on Friday, August 22, 2025

Marge was born September 17, 1935 in Danville to Edward and Mattie Bateman Gogerty.  She attended Schlarman High School in Danville.  After graduation she met and married Ronald Izard on October 23, 1954 at St. Patrick’s Church in Danville.  Together they raised six children in Homer.  They enjoyed Euchre Club with friends, raising horses, and annual trips to Florida.  Above all Marge was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother embracing every moment with family.  She was a long-time parishioner of St. Thomas Catholic Church in Philo.

She is survived by four sons; Dan (Kelly) Izard of Danville, Tim (Kathy) Izard of St. Joseph, Greg (Julie) Izard of St. Joseph, Doug (Judy) Izard of Traverse City, Michigan, two daughters; Julie (Jack) Johnston of St. Joseph, and Lori (Ivan) Torres of Rantoul, fifteen grandchildren, and twenty-eight great grandchildren.  She is also survived by two brothers; Ed and Tom Gogerty, and one sister, Linda Heeren.

Marge was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Ronald, and one great-granddaughter.

Memorials may be made to St. Thomas Catholic Church or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 AM, Friday, August 29, 2025 at St. Thomas Catholic Church with Rev. Keith Walder officiating.  Burial will be at GAR Cemetery, Homer.  Rosary will be at 4:30 PM, Thursday at the church with visitation to follow from 5 to 7 PM.  Freese Funeral Home, Sidney is assisting with arrangements.

Freese FH 8/25/2025

Gary Gilliland

 
ST. JOSEPH - Gary Gilliland, 80, of St. Joseph passed away at home Sunday (Aug. 3, 2025) surrounded by family, after a courageous battle with brain cancer.

Born Sept. 19, 1944, in Danville, Gary was the son of Rosalie Lipscomb and Cloyd Gilliland. He graduated from Danville High School in 1962, where he was a standout on their golf team. He worked at Danville Metal Stamping and retired after 20 years, then began a career as an entrepreneur and painter.

Gary was preceded in death by his mother, father and brother, Jim Gilliland.

Gary is survived by his wife of 47 years, Judith (Fuller) Gilliland. He was a loving father and is survived by his children, Tod (Debbie) Gilliland, Tammi (Lou) Schurott and Jennifer Gilliland (Jason Dunavan); grandchildren, Matthew, Jayce and Cecelia; sister, Kathy (Steve) Seevers; sister-in-law, Kathy (Jim) Gilliland; and granddog, Denzo.

Graveside services will be at 2:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, at Sunset Memorial Park, 3901 N. Vermillion St., Danville. All are welcome to attend the service and are invited to gather at Snappers Bar and Grill at Turtle Run Golf Course following the service.

Flowers may be sent to the service as a tribute to Gary's life and legacy. The family wants to thank Becky Pitts, Transitions Hospice Care and Sunset Funeral Home for their compassionate care and support.

Published by The News-Gazette on Aug. 6, 2025.