Kenneth F. Meier

 Kenneth F. Meier, 88, of Champaign passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at Memory Haven of Tolono.

Kenneth was born on January 9, 1938 in Champaign, IL the son of Jerry F. and Ida D. (Wolken) Meier. They lived in St. Joseph Illinois and Kenneth graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1956

He was baptized in January of 1938 at Flatville Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville. He was confirmed in April 1954.

Kenneth married Carol J. Janssen and they had two children. Steven Meier of Boulder Colorado who preceded him in death, and Brian Meier of Chicago Illinois.

Kenneth later married Karen G Helm and welcomed two stepchildren, Michael Helm of Dallas Texas and Stacey Helm (Stoner) of New Hampshire. Additionally, he is survived by one granddaughter; Raleigh Meier of Chicago Illinois and one grandson; Dane Meier of Hanford California. Kenneth had three brothers, Derald (Sandra), Dale who preceded him in death (Jean), and Virgil (Jane).

Kenneth attended the United Electronics Institute in Louisville Kentucky and subsequently worked at Magnavox in Urbana and Zenith Corporation in Paris Illinois. He spent many years working for Manny & Martin TV and Appliances in Champaign and ended his working career at Hobbico in Champaign. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Champaign.

Services for Kenneth will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 13, 2026 at Morgan Memorial Home1304 Regency Dr. West, Savoy with Rev. Jeff Caithamer officiating. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service from 10 to 11 a.m. (The family suggests casual attire) Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Kenneth’s name to Doctors Without Borders (doctorswithoutborders.org).

https://www.morganmemorialhome.com/obituaries/Kenneth-F-Meier?obId=49204257

Errol E. Bergman

 Rantoul - Errol E. Bergman, 83, of Rantoul died at 1:03 p.m. Saturday (Feb. 7, 2026) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, with the Rev. Scott Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Kopmann Cemetery, Royal. There will be no visitation. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville, is handling arrangements.

Errol was born Feb. 2, 1943, in Champaign, the son of Harm E. and Hilda L. Sieberns Bergman. He married Charlene A. Meier on Nov. 29, 1969, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Urbana. She survives.

Along with his wife, Charlene, he is survived by three daughters, Stacy E. (Cris) Wimmer of Eads, Tenn., Tina K. (Michael) Buhr of Gifford and Carrie A. (Jim) Conner of Thomasboro; four grandchildren, Mason and Camryn Conner and Henry and Christian Buhr; two sisters, Bernita (James) Rusk of Rantoul and Lau Rea (Jerry) Perkins of Monticello; and two brothers, Rodney (Peggy) Bergman of Rantoul and Dennis (Terese) Bergman of Rantoul.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Loren Bergman.

Errol graduated from Gifford Grade School and Rantoul Township High School. He was a life underwriter and certified financial planner for CUNA Mutual for 40 years. He was also co-owner of BP Cleaners in Rantoul for 12 years.

He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville, where he served on the church council and was a member of the Cathedral Choir and Men's Chorus. Errol loved golfing at the Brook Hill Golf Course and was a member of the Grasshoppers Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorials be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church of Flatville or the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at baierfuneralservices.com.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/news-gazette/name/errol-bergman-obituary?id=60751131

Ernest Frank "Ernie" Rademcaher

 

Gifford - Ernest Frank "Ernie" Rademacher, 89, of Gifford died at 1:54 p.m. Sunday (Jan. 11, 2026) at home.

Private family funeral services will be held at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Gifford.

Ernie was born May 24, 1936, in Fithian, the son of Frank and Hiske Schlueter Rademacher. He married Marleen Huls on June 16, 1957, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville. She survives.

Along with his wife, Marleen, he is survived by a son, Rich (Cindy) Rademacher of Penfield; a daughter, Ranae (Jeff) Ault of Penfield; eight grandchildren, Reanna Rademacher, Lindsey (Brian) Keyes, Michael (Kami) Rademacher, Justin (Kaitlyn) Rademacher, Jordan (Kendra) Rademacher, Austin Rademacher, Jenna (Preston) Miles and Joni (Anthony) Hornbeck; 14 great-grandchildren; his daughter-in-law, Teresa Rademacher; two sisters, Elaine (Marvin) Flessner of St. Joseph and Carolyn (Duane) Schluter of Penfield; three brothers, Norman (Jeanne) Rademacher of Gifford, Marvin (Shirley) Rademacher of Rantoul and Wayne (Glenna) Rademacher of Fithian; and a brother-in-law, Ron Suits of Urbana. He is also survived by Barry Vilven, who was like an additional son, and Tanner McLain, who was like a grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sons, Wesley Rademacher, Rodney Rademacher and Randy Rademacher; a grandson, Jared Rademacher; two brothers, Arnold and Vernon Rademacher; and a sister, Janet Suits.

Ernie graduated from Armstrong High School in 1954. He was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Gifford. After graduation, he worked in construction, and in 1957, he started Rademacher Construction with his brothers, Arnold and Norman. He was also a grain and cattle farmer.

Memorials may be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church Youth Ministry in Gifford. Condolences and memories can be shared with family at baierfuneralhome.com

Published by The News-Gazette from Jan. 12 to Jan. 14, 2026.

Cynthia "Leigha" Youck

Cynthia “Leigha” Youck was called home to the Lord on September 17, 2025 in Portsmouth, Ohio surrounded by her loving family.  Leigha could light up a room with her smile and warm a heart with her kind words or the hugs she loved to give.  Leigha was an expert shopper, and she delighted in using her skills for all holidays (especially Christmas), birthdays, special occasions or a whim.  She was sweet, spunky and fun.  Leigha enjoyed decorating, gardening, dancing and relaxing on the boat with family and friends.  She was a devout Christian and was proud to proclaim her faith to those around her.  She strengthened her faith as an active member of several congregations and in private prayer and meditation.  Leigha was a loving wife and a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and loved being with the extended family.

Leigha was born in Rantoul, Illinois on August 7, 1955 to Samuel and Barbara Bever.  She had three sisters Elizabeth (“Lynn”), Lori, Lisa and a brother Matthew.  Leigh was a 1973 graduate of Rantoul Township High School (Illinois) and attended Eastern Illinois University where she studied Early Childhood Development.  She used those childhood development skills at Cunningham Children’s Home and Heritage School District but was happiest when nannying for individual families.  

Leigha is survived by her loving husband Bill, daughters Rebecca Davis (Gene), Kelly Youck, Caitlin Calloway (Adam), grandchildren Paige Flesner (Brandon), Parker Flesner, Peyton Flesner, Chloe Calloway and Vivian Calloway and one great-grandchild Kayson.  She is also survived by her sister Lori Ehmen (Charlie) and brother Matthew Bever (Natasha).  

Leigha is predeceased by her father Samuel and mother Barbara along with her sisters Lynn and Lisa.

Funeral services at 10:30 A.M. Thursday September 25, 2025 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Pastor Scott Smith will officiate. Burial will be in Beckman Cemetery,Rantoul. Visitation will be held Wednesday September 24, 2025 from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

Freese FH 9/19/2025

Shirley Huls

PONTIAC — Shirley Huls, a beloved daughter, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday (Sept. 6, 2025) in Pontiac.

Born Sept. 21, 1951, in Champaign, Shirley’s life was marked by her kind spirit and warm smile.

Shirley was involved in the Futures Unlimited Inc. program and was a resident at Mosaic Independent Living in Pontiac.

Shirley leaves behind her sister, Pat (Tom) Crane; along with several cherished cousins and her dear friend Marcie Buhr. Their collective memories of love will forever honor the joyful spirit and smile that Shirley brought into their lives.

She enjoyed her shared love of music with her mother, doing needlework, and spending time with her housemates, friends and family. She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church for many years and then became a member of First Lutheran Church in Pontiac. Shirley was a resident of Martin Luther Home in Beatrice, Neb., for several years. She later moved to a new location developed by Martin Luther Homes, which later became Mosaic in Pontiac.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Martin and Lorene (Aden) Huls, and grandparents.

A visitation to celebrate Shirley’s lifewill be held on Thursday, Sept. 11, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Sunset Funeral Home’s Lux location, 1551 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul, IL 61866. A service will follow at 11 a.m. Shirley will be interred in Huls Cemetery, Gifford.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made in Shirley’s name to Mosaic in Pontiac or Huls Cemetery in Flatville. Please join Shirley’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome. com.

 

Vernon Ray Buhr

 
FLATVILLE - Vernon Ray Buhr, 91, of Flatville passed away peacefully on Wednesday (Aug. 6, 2025), surrounded by his family.

He was born on Dec. 17, 1933, to George and Katherine (Schluter) Buhr. He was baptized at St. John Lutheran Church in Royal on Jan. 28, 1934. He was confirmed in his faith on April 10, 1949, at St. John Lutheran Church by Pastor K.C. Meyer. His confirmation verse was Psalm 143:10: "Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God; thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness."

He graduated from Ogden High School on May 27, 1953, as salutatorian of his class, where he was an active member of FFA. A lifelong farmer, he found purpose and joy working the land and serving his community. His dedication to farming was evident in the care he gave to every crop and animal, cultivating not only the land but also a legacy of hard work and tradition.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Robert, Harold and John Buhr; and nephew, David Buhr.

On March 17, 1963, he married Wilma Mae Hinrichs at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville, with whom he shared 62 years of love, laughter and cherished memories. Together, they were blessed with four daughters, Leanne (Larry) Kaiser of St. Joseph, Linda (Matt) Smith of Ogden, Lynette (Allen) Cravens of Gifford and Lonna (Chad) Pruitt of Urbana.

He was a proud and loving grandfather to nine grandchildren, Dalton (Sophie) Smith, Lauren (Michael) Rice, Kate Smith (Brock Seymour), Lacey Kaiser, Tristan Cravens, Cole Pruitt, Makenna Cravens, Leah Pruitt and Landon Cravens. His grandchildren brought him immense joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

A devoted member of St. John Lutheran Church in Royal his entire life, Vernon served faithfully as trustee, deacon and president of the church board in 1983. He also served many years on the Farmers Elevator Board and Champaign County Farm Bureau Board. 

His hands, worn from a lifetime of tending soil, now rest, but his legacy will endure for generations. Remembered for his faith, dedication to family, strong work ethic, and service to his church and community, he has created a foundation for his loved ones that continues to touch lives.

Visitation will be on Sunday, Aug. 10, from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, 203 Main St., Royal, IL 61871. A funeral service will be held on Aug. 11 at 10:30 a.m. at the church. Burial will be in Kopmann Cemetery, Royal. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville, is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Kopmann Cemetery and OSF Hospice.

Published by The News-Gazette on Aug. 7, 2025.

Marlan Ray Busboom

 
Marlan Ray Busboom, age 67, of Penfield, Illinois, passed away on August 2, 2025. 

Born on February 3, 1958, to Luella and the late Raymond Busboom, Marlan grew up in a family where hard work, sarcasm, and kindness ran deep. He graduated from Rantoul Township High School in 1976 and went on to Wyoming Tech to become a certified mechanic. His hands stayed greasy ever since. 

Throughout his life, Marlan held a variety of jobs, most recently at Plasticpak, but every fall he took off work for his real job—helping on the family farm. Nothing made him happier than being on the land. 

Marlan had a knack for helping people—usually with their vehicles, and always with his signature dry humor. If you asked for help, he was there, tools in hand and probably muttering about how it wasn’t in the budget. 

He was the proudest Papa to his grandchildren: Anton, McKenna, and Raven Cassell; Evan Ingalsbe and Kolbie Busboom; Landon and Rylee Brown. Marlan enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren with snacks and as they got older he was known to give a quick witted comeback or two. Though sports weren’t his thing, he made an exception for his grandchildren and was often found in the crowded bleachers cheering them on. 
Marlan leaves behind his wife, Dorothy; children Amanda Cassell, of Bloomington, Dustin (Tara) Busboom, of Rantoul, and Megan (Dale) Brown, of Harvard; his mother Luella; siblings Melinda Shafer (Bob Hendricks), Maury Busboom, and Melanie (Mark) Hamilton; and a crew of nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his father Raymond, his grandparents, two sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, and a nephew who are surely greeting him with open arms—and maybe asking for help fixing something. 

Visitation will be held Saturday, August 9 from 8:30 to 10:15 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville, with funeral services beginning at 10:30 a.m. Rev. Scott Smith and Greg Busboom will be officiating. Burial will follow at Kopmann Cemetery. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Kopmann Cemetery or the Vermilion County Animal Shelter. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.

Baier Funeral Home https://www.baierfuneralservices.com/obituary/marlan-busboom

Charles "Charlie" Hedrick

 PENFIELD — Charles “Charlie” Hedrick, born June 27, 1948, in Urbana, passed away peacefully on Sunday (May 4, 2025) in Penfield.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather and lifelong farmer, Charlie made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A proud graduate of Illinois State University, Charlie dedicated his life to farming and was well-respected in his community for his hard work and integrity. He married his wife, Marcia, in 1971, and together they shared 53 wonderful years filled with love, laughter and resilience.

He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville. He found great joy in spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren, Gavin, Elie, Alivia, Jax and Janie. His spirit will forever be remembered through the love and values he instilled in them.

Charlie is survived by his beloved wife, Marcia Hedrick; their children, Staci (Matt) Lomax and Megan (Chris) Learned; siblings, Beverly (Delmar) Schmidt and Phyllis (Rudy) Schmidt; in addition to his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Tena Hedrick.

Visitation will be on May 8 from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by a funeral service at noon at Sunset Funeral Home — Lux location, at 1551 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul. Pastor Scott Smith will officiate the service, celebrating Charlie’s life and legacy.

Charlie Hedrick will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those he loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society or Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville. Please join his family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome. com.

Arrangements have been made at Sunset Funeral Home’s Lux Chapel

5/7/2025

Joane M. Wilson

 THOMASBORO — Joane M. Wilson, 83, of Thomasboro died at 6 a.m. Saturday (May 3, 2025) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at noon Tuesday, May 6, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, with the Rev. Scott Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Eden Park Cemetery, Rantoul. Visitation will be two hours before the service Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon at the church. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville, is handling arrangements.

Joane was born Nov. 25, 1941, in Urbana, the daughter of Ekke and Anna Johnson Flessner. She married Eddy R. Wilson on Nov. 21, 1970, in Rantoul. He preceded her in death April 9, 1989.

She is survived by two sons, Greg (Rhonda) Wilson of Thomasboro and Todd (Tammy) Wilson of Thomasboro; five grandchildren, Tyler (Brynn) Wilson, Allyssa (Scott) Wilson, Ashley (Justice) Long, Kaylie (Tyler) Brenner and Adam Wilson; four great-grandchildren, Hunter Wilson, Oliver Long, Auden Long and Elodie Brenner; and a brother, Clarence “Hans” Flessner of Rantoul.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and a brother, Robert Flessner.

Joane graduated from Rantoul Township High School in 1958. She retired as a dental assistant and had worked for Dr. Hewitt.

She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville. She enjoyed playing dominos with her friends. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at baierfunralservices. com.

NG 5/05/2025

Lela J. Huls

 FLATVILLE — Lela J. Huls, 92, of Flatville died at 2:58 p.m. Friday (April 4, 2025) at Country Health Care & Rehab, Gifford.

Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 10, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, with the Rev. Scott Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Huls Cemetery, Gifford. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Thursday, April 10, at the church. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville, is handling arrangements.

Lela was born Feb. 18, 1933, in rural Urbana, the daughter of Eilert and Johanna Ihnen Buhs. She married Melvin E. Huls on May 4, 1952, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville. He preceded her in death Dec. 24, 2015.

She is survived by one son, Marlon (Betsy) Huls of Bloomington; one daughter, Deanne Hinrichsen of Normal; six grandchildren, Kelly Borri, Andrea Loger, Jamie Daily, Laura Curtis, Carly Franks and Ross Hinrichsen; and 12 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a son, Leslie Huls; her sister Norine Rademacher; an infant sister, Marlys Buhs; and her son-in-law, Daniel Hinrichsen.

Lela farmed with her husband in the Flatville area. She was a lifelong member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville.

She enjoyed baking and teaching her grandkids to bake bread. Her family loved her biscuits and sausage gravy, taco salad and homemade bread.

The family would like to thank Country Health for caring for her the past three years, Carle 4NT for care during her recent stay and Carle Hospice during the last 24 hours of her life.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville or Country Health Care & Rehab. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at baierfunerlservices. com.

NG 4/7/2025

Sharon Ann Hoveln

Sharon Ann Hoveln, 81, of Rantoul passed away at 8:42 p.m. Saturday, February 8, 2025 at the Villas of Holly Brook, Rantoul.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville with Rev. Scott Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Kopmann Cemetery, Royal. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 p.m. Friday, February 14, 2025 in Diers Hall, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.

Sharon was born July 25, 1943 in Streator, Illinois the daughter of Vernon and Helen Wilson Husted. She married Edgar E. Hoveln April 1, 1962 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville. He preceded her in death June 18, 2023.

She is survived by children, Brenda (Doug) Barr of Ogden, Jeff (Shari) Hoveln of Urbana, Nancy (Steve) Valenti of Scottsdale, AZ, Julie (Dan) Pappas of Springfield; nine grandchildren, Jesse (Kaylee) Barr, Trent (Bailey) Hoveln, Ross (Rachel) Barr, Leah (Mason) Lakatos, Brant (Kate) Hoveln, Cade Valenti, Braedyn Pappas, Shay Valenti, Josie Pappas; 6 great grandchildren; a brother, Rob Husted; and two sisters, Janey Huls and Susie (Allan) Schlueter.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Edgar and a sister, Judy Blackford.

Sharon graduated from Armstrong High School in 1961 and the Avenue School of Beauty Culture in Champaign and was a beautician for a couple of years. In 1977 she and her husband founded Hoveln Heating & Cooling, Inc. where she was the office manager.

Sharon was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville where she was a former member of the Altar Guild, the Church Choir, helped with Vacation Bible School and was a past Church Council Secretary. Sharon was also an associate member of LaCasa de Crista Lutheran Church, Scottsdale, Arizona. She was a member of the Prairie A’s Model A Club and past president of the Prairieview PTO.

Sharon enjoyed sewing, scrapbooking and playing Euchre with her card club.
She always looked forward to wintering in Surprise, Arizona.

Memorials may be made to Kopmann Cemetery. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com. 

Harold Paul Wilken

 
Harold Paul Wilken 84, of Gifford passed away at 9:28 A.M. Saturday February 15, 2025 at OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center, Urbana. Passed from this earth to join his family that proceeded him.

He was born in Stanton Township on October 12, 1940. To Meine Jacob Wilken and Grace Ella (Ackerman) Wilken. He attended grade school at Armstrong and Ellis, then graduated from high school at Rankin Township High School in 1959. In November of 1960, he married Linda Shroeder. Together they had two wonderful little girls, Sandra Lynn, and Patricia Ann. As a family they enjoyed many camping trips and attending the girls activities. That marriage was dissolved in 1979. In 1980, Harold met the love of his life and on July 18, 1981 he married Nancy Simmons. She was a wonderful step mother to the girls and a guardian angel to Harold as he went through several heart surgeries, and then in January of 2006 was blessed with a new heart. Harold was employed for many years at Campbell Dental Laboratory, where he got his start as a dental technician. In 1985, he joined Jerry Ragle at Ragle Dental Laboratory and retired from there in 1999, but did return for part time help when needed. He was always treated so well by his employers, who also helped him so much through his illnesses. 

 Harold is survived by his wife Nancy, daughters Sandra Mohr of Urbana, and Patricia (Keith) Ball of Lebanon, IN. Four grandchildren; Chris (Carly) Tatman, Matt (Autumn) Tatman, Hayley (Rachel) Tatman, Hannah (Steffen) Ferguson. Five great-grandchildren; Madilynn Tatman, Colton Tatman, Jaxton Tatman, Emory Tatman and Jameson Tatman. Sister Emma Johnson of Gifford.

 Harold was confirmed in the Lutheran faith on April 10, 1955 at St. Pauls Lutheran Church, Gifford by Pastor William Ferne. He later became a member of Immanual Lutheran Church, Flatville.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and two nephews.

 Funeral services will be held 10:30 A.M. Friday February 21, 2025 at Immanual Lutheran Church, Flatville. Pastor Scott Smith will officiate. Burial will be in Kopmann Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at Immanual Lutheran Church.

Memorials may be made to the Gift of Life Transplant House 705 2nd St. Rochester, MN 55902

https://www.freesefh.com/obituary/Harold-Wilken

Janet M. Huls

Janet M. Huls, 84, of St. Joseph, passed away at 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Carle Foundation Hospital, in Urbana.

She was born on December 17, 1940, in Urbana, the daughter of Charles and Margaret (Dorsey) Frye. She married Elmer Walter Huls on August 2, 1956, in Champaign County. He preceded her in death on January 14, 2020.

She is survived by one daughter- Karen (Ed) Ward of Gifford, IL; three sons- Larry Huls of St. Francisville, LA, Randy Huls of Prairieville, LA and Rodney Huls of St. Joseph, IL; two grandchildren- Adam Ward and Tyler Huls; one brother- Bob (Norma) Frye of Sudbury, MA; one sister- Caroyn Fitch of Ogden, IL; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two grandsons- Gregory and Caleb Huls, and three brothers- Don, Ron and Ralph Frye.

Janet was a member of the Penfield-Gifford American Legion and Immanuel Lutheran Church, in Flatville. She enjoyed wintering in Florida for many years with her husband Elmer and fishing. She also enjoyed a cold beer and watching the Chicago Cubs and Fighting Illini play. Janet also enjoyed following her children and grandchildren in all their activities.

A Celebration of Janet's Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 2498 County Road 2100 E, Thomasboro, IL 61878, with Pastor Scott Smith officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Thursday, at the church. 

According to her wishes cremation rites have been arranged. She will be buried at a later date in Stanton Cemetery alongside Elmer and Caleb Huls. Memorials may be made in Janet's name to the donor's choice. The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Janet's life. 

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/janet-huls-obituary?id=57452974

Delbert T. "Del" Dahl

 

RANTOUL - Delbert T. "Del" Dahl, 84, of Rantoul, formerly of Urbana, died Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, followed by funeral services at 3 p.m. with Pastor Scott Smith officiating. Graveside services will be at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 27, at Moss Ridge Cemetery, Carthage. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Del was born Jan. 28, 1940, in Macomb, to Mary (Duffy) and Adolph Dahl.

He is survived by his wife, Sara Powell Dahl; sons, Cody (Ellie) Dahl of Valrico, Fla., and Jeremy (Jennifer) Colby of Edmond, Okla.; and daughter, Natalie Colby (Justin)Thomas of Philo. He couldn't have been prouder of his seven grandchildren, McKenzie and Sarah Claudia Dahl, Meredith and Stella Colby, and Zachary (Madison), Andrew and Henry Thomas. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Linda and Carol.

Del grew up in Disco, in Hancock County, except for three years spent in the Deerfield, Wis., area where his family moved to farm with relatives before returning to Disco. He showed dairy cows, acted and sang in theater productions, sang in the choir and graduated from La Harpe High School as class president and valedictorian. He was active in FFA and 4-H, and he spent his adult life giving back to the programs that had benefited him in so many ways. 

As a UI student, he was the president of the IlliDell House, sang in the UI choir, and was a member of the Men's Glee Club. He graduated with B.S. and M.S. degrees in dairy science, and began his career as an assistant cooperative extension advisor in Stephenson County. But Del was an especially gifted writer, speaker and teacher, and he found his true calling when he joined the staff of the UI Extension Editor's Office on the UI campus in the 1960s.

In his 43 years as an agricultural communications professor and department head, he helped shape the lives and careers of generations of UI students. Del had a saying: "Give me kids who can think, and I can teach 'em how to write." For years, he coached teams of student interns who provided press coverage of the 4-H and FFA shows at the Illinois State Fair. They learned how to crank out accurate, well-written news stories on a tight deadline. In return, he promised "$25 a day and all the dust you can eat." Del also did international extension work in Africa and the Philippines.

Del was an avid Illini basketball and football fan, and especially loved spending time with his tailgating friends. Del loved music, and his talent brought joy to many over the years. Those who heard him often praised his musical abilities, particularly his voice and his ability to play almost anything by ear on the piano. As an internationally recognized poodle handler and breeder, he published Poodle Review Magazine and wrote a book titled "The Complete Poodle." He loved friendly competition, and also showed and bred dairy cattle and quarter horses. Win or lose, he was always ready to share a Jack and Coke after a competitive show - either back at the crates or among the stalls.

His favorite moments of all, though, were the ones he spent with Sara, Cody, Natalie, Jeremy and the grandkids - celebrating their successes and supporting them in whatever they chose to do. He was always there for them.

Del belonged to Immanuel Lutheran Church of Flatville, "the cathedral in the cornfield," where he sang in the choir.

Memorial gifts may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church of Flatville or Hancock County Extension.

He was proud to be of Norwegian descent, and he would surely appreciate it if friends would enjoy some lefse in his memory this Christmas Eve.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/news-gazette/name/delbert-dahl-obituary?id=56568807

Lucille Mae Franzen-Ryan

 SAVOY — Lucille Mae Franzen-Ryan, 91, passed away at 7:23p.m. Saturday (Oct. 12, 2024) at home in Savoy.

Lucille was born on May 1, 1933, near Gifford- Flatville, the daughter of John and Grace Franzen. Lucille graduated from Rantoul Township High School in 1951. She married John R. “Rocky” Ryan on Feb. 27, 1954. Rocky passed away on Nov. 3, 2011.

Lucille is survived by two sons, Jeffery (Jill Burke) Ryan of Delray Beach, Fla., and Gregory (Barbara) Ryan of Urbana; and two daughters, Patricia J. Ryan of Dallas and Karen (Mark) Kennerly of Champaign. Lucille had 10 grandchildren, Meghan, Kelly, John, Phoebe, Sophia, Katie, Jamie, Ramy, Michael and Betty. She also had seven great-grandchildren, Avery, Turner, Liam, Ronan, Meesha, Leena and Danyal. Lucille is survived by one sister, Bernice Loschen. Lucille also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, whom she cherished.

Lucille was preceded in death by her parents, John and Grace Franzen; as well as three sisters, Annetta Frerichs, Erna Mennega and Evelyn Paul; and one brother, Norman Franzen.

Lucille was a devout Catholic and a longtime member of St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in Champaign. She was employed with the Champaign Telephone Company and the Hart Oil Company for many years. Lucille also volunteered for many years at the Daily Bread Soup Kitchen. Lucille absolutely loved life and had a great sense of humor. She was affectionately known by some of her family and friends as “loose wheel.” Wherever Lucille went, there was a party. She was an accomplished pianist and passed on her love of music to her family. She was a huge fan of Stevie Wonder and recently attended a Rolling Stones concert with her son, Jeff, at Soldier Field. She was a life master bridge player and was always up for a game of euchre at any gathering. Lucille was an avid bowler and golfer throughout her life. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting. Lucille also loved sports and was a huge fan of the Michael Jordan Chicago Bulls and the Steph Curry Golden State Warriors. She was an avid Cubs fan for many years until the Cubs let Greg Maddux go, and he signed with the Atlanta Braves.

Per Lucille’s wishes, she will be cremated. Lucille’s visitation will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 21, at St. Matthew Feeney Hall, 1307 Lincolnshire Drive, Champaign. The funeral Mass will begin at 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will immediately follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Champaign. A luncheon will be served after the burial in Feeney Hall, and all are welcome.

Memorials may be made in Lucille’s honor to the Daily Bread Soup Kitchen in Champaign.

Lucille enjoyed a rich, full life for over 91 years on this earth. Lucille was a fantastic daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister and friend. Lucille will be greatly missed by all who were touched by her life.

Condolences may be offered at owensfuneralhomes. com.

NG 10/17/2024

Florence Ackerman

 GIFFORD - Florene Ackerman, 81, of Gifford passed away peacefully at 8:55 a.m. Friday (May 17, 2024) at Country Health Care & Rehab, Gifford.

Florene was born in Champaign on Dec. 29, 1942, to Mane and Grace Buhs Fruhling.  She married Derald Ackerman on Dec. 4, 1963, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville.

She is survived by her husband, Derald of Gifford; two sons, Dion (Colleen) Ackerman of Sun Prairie, Wis., Michael (Cheryl) Ackerman of rural Rantoul; six grandchildren, Zachary, Ashlee, Kellie and Lane Ackerman, Danielle (Reid) Butts and Anthony Krizman; and her great-grandson, Brecken.

She is also survived by her sister, Rosetta Suits of Penfield; sister-in-law, Donna DeHaven of Springfield, Mo.; and many nieces, nephews and dear lifelong friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; parents-in-law, Arnold and Alma Ackerman; and brothers-in-law, Kenneth Suits and Delmar Ackerman.

Florene graduated from Rantoul Township High School in 1960. She retired from Verizon Telephone Company on Rantoul.

She was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, serving on many committees and also working part time for the church. Florene was instrumental in the founding of the German Fall Festival Building in Gifford and also enjoyed cooking for events at the Gifford Community Building.

Florene enjoyed planting flowers, being around her many friends and helping in any way she could. She loved farming with her husband and sons.

Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 21, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville, with the Rev. Scott Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Beckman Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday at the church. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville, is handling arrangements.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at baierfuneralservices.com.

Published by The News-Gazette from May 18 to May 20, 2024.

Donna Hopkins

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

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

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

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

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

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

Freese FH 4/10/2024

Vernon Loeschen

 Vernon Loeschen, 84 of Paxton, died at 8:14 p.m. Sunday, March 1, 2020, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 6, 2020, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville with Rev. James T. Lehmann officiating. Burial will follow in Beckman Cemetery, Rantoul.

Visitation will be before the service from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. Friday at the church. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is handling the arrangements.

Vernon was born July 11, 1935 in Champaign County the son of William H. and Henrietta Weis Loeschen. He married Erika Eilts December 4, 1960 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville. She survives.

Along with his wife, Erika, he is survived by a number of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and one brother.

Vernon graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1953. He served in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. He was a member of Operating Engineers Local 841 and was a heavy equipment operator for Lehigh Paving, Paxton.

Vernon grew up in the Flatville area. He and Erika moved to Bayles Lake, Loda and then to Paxton for the past 19 years. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville and the Martin Luther Men’s Chorus.

Vernon enjoyed music, singing and wintering in the Tampa, Florida area.

Memorials may be made to an organization of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be offered at www.baierfuneralservices.com.

https://www.baierfuneralservices.com/obituary/vernon-loeschen

Anna Maria Duitsman

 FLATVILLE — Anna Maria Duitsman (Ackerman), 97, of Flatville passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday (Jan. 11, 2024) at Plainfield Healthcare Center in Plainfield, Ind.

There will be a visitation on Tuesday (Jan. 16, 2024) from 1 to 2p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Flatville, followed immediately by the funeral service. Interment and a short prayer service will be held at Huls Cemetery, Gifford. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Anna was born Jan. 19, 1926, along with her twin sister Ellen Britt, at the family home in Gifford to Emily (Olson) and Heinrich (Henry) Ackerman.

Surviving are her children Vaughn (Nadezhda), Marc, Deborah, Joanne and Brian.

Also surviving are eight grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, John A. Duitsman, who passed away in 2013. She was also preceded in death by her siblings Herman, Emma, Clara, Frederick (Fritz), twin sister Ellen, and Arthur (Art); and by her granddaughter Erin Ann (Brooks) Mann.

Anna was always caring and loving with all her family and friends. She was proud of her farming heritage and loved sharing stories with her family about childhood adventures on the farm. Before marriage, she attended Illinois Commercial College and was employed at Chanute Air Force Base helping with arriving troops during World War II. She was married to John A. Duitsman on Oct. 6, 1945. Anna loved assisting with the family farm alongside John and their sons, Marc and Vaughn.

Throughout her life, Anna was very involved in the church and loved singing in the choir with her husband, John. In the early 1990s, she sang with her twin sister Ellen Britt and their high school friend Mary Ellen Osbourne in the trio The Late Bloomers. They served their community by singing in different churches and at the Danville VA Hospital. Anna felt great pride in their going on to win second place at the Danville area talent show. She was also involved in the auxiliary for Country Health Nursing Home.

Anna loved serving the church, and loved designing and creating artwork for special events there. She was a skilled seamstress, designing and constructing many outfits, doll clothes, and costumes for her family. She was also very proud of her German and Swedish heritage and spent time researching her and John’s family histories. Anna spoke of fond memories growing up speaking Plattdeutsche in the family home. Later in life she took an interest in refreshing her knowledge of the language and was thrilled to have visited relatives in Ostfriesland to celebrate her 80th birthday with her daughter Deborah.

Anna will be greatly missed by her family and friends, and always remembered with love.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness at https:// www.nami.org/About-NAMI/ Donate-to-NAMI or the Empty Tomb at https:// missionmatch.org/donate.

Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices. com.