Carolyn Jane "CJ" Sperry Sadler

Carolyn Jane "CJ" (Sperry) Sadler, 84, died July 7, 2025, at her Autumnwood Village home in Tipton, Ind.

Born June 8, 1941, in Danville, she was the daughter of Glenn R. Sperry (1916-1995) and Leah E. Sperry (1919-2023). She married John Wm. Sadler on June 11, 1961, in Danville. He preceded her in death along with a grandson, Thomas R. Kuhn.

She is survived by daughters, Marcella "Marcy" (Thomas) Kuhn of Noblesville, Ind., and Michelle "Mick" Sadler Williams of Vancouver, Wash; grandchildren, Kenzie, Bram, Tynan (Mattie) Williams and Madeline Ling Kuhn; her brother, Larry (Jamie) Sperry; and many other family members and friends.

Carolyn graduated from Oakwood High School and St. Elizabeth Hospital's Medical Secretary School in Danville. With an incredible work ethic and boundless energy, she was employed at several businesses in Danville until her marriage. Once living on the Sadler farm west of Fithian, she was soon busy raising daughters with John and in-laws, John R. and Zelma Sadler. The rather impatient Carolyn soon found she was better suited for work in town than waiting in line at the grain elevator during harvest. She joined James L. Myers at his Ogden insurance agency and then at the First National Bank of Ogden as his secretary. Active in the National Secretaries Association, she was

honored as the Illinois Secretary of the Year. Her integrity and strength of character cracked her generation's glass ceiling from administrative work to loan officer and vice president. She thrived on helping customers' start and grow businesses as well as leading the bank's compliance and trust departments.

While her daughters were pursuing their educations, Carolyn continued hers, graduating from the School of Banking at Southern Illinois University (Carbondale) and the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

She left the bank to pursue new opportunities including the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, University of Illinois Credit Union, Frey Finance and the Champaign County Circuit Clerk's office. After retirement, Carolyn and John moved to Leesburg, Fla., where they spent nearly a decade enjoying palm trees, sunshine and entertaining. She gained new friends, created beautiful quilts and learned to paddle on a senior dragon boat team. John and Carolyn were at their best entertaining friends and family on the farm, on the Sadler boat "Seabear", or in Florida. She loved decorating her homes, shopping for beautiful clothes, especially shoes, twirling her baton and driving fast cars. CJ kept the "pedal to the metal" either when driving or operating her sewing machines.

She was a member of the Ogden United Methodist Church, Ogden and the First Presbyterian Church, Leesburg, Fla., and Fithian Woman's Club.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Rita Britt McSorley

On Thursday, July 10, 2025, Rita Britt McSorley passed peacefully into eternal rest after a long and valiant battle with cancer. She was at home surrounded by her loving family.

Rita was born December 10, 1950 in Urbana, Illinois and grew up on the Britt Farm near Ogden, Illinois. Rita was the oldest of four children born to Alfred Frank Britt and Ellen Ackerman Britt. She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Thomas Lee McSorley Jr. of Moseley, Virginia, her son Charles McSorley (Deborah) and daughters Carolyn McSorley (John) and Erin McSorley (Meghan) and two grandsons, Micah and Evan. She is also survived by one sister, Melinda (Hector) Trevino and two brothers Tracy and Gary (Margaret) Britt.

In addition to being a dedicated and loving mother, Rita was a diligent and successful business owner. Rita and her husband Thomas (known to many as "Mac") met while attending the University of Illinois in 1969 and worked alongside each other ever since, eventually creating Mastercraft Design, Inc., based in Manassas, Va. Together they were faithful servants to their community and members of their local church: most recently Swift Creek Presbyterian Church in Moseley, Va. formerly Chapel Springs Church (Manassas, Va., 26 years) and founding members of Harvest Church (1984-1989.)

She will be remembered by friends and colleagues as generous, joyful, and kind. A storyteller and historian, she made friends wherever she went and remembered each one.

Rita's life will be celebrated on September 5th, 11am at Swift Creek Presbyterian Church (5900 Woolridge Road, Moseley VA 23120.) The service will be live-streamed on the church website for those who would like to join virtually.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Rita's name to:

The Wood Laboratory at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, https://labs.pathology.jhu.edu/wood/ or The University of Illinois Cancer Center, https://cancer.uillinois.edu/about-us/giving

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

Published by InsideNoVa on Aug. 11, 2025.

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.

Lisa Marie Huls

 

Lisa Marie Huls, of Earlham, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 48, after a courageous battle with ALS from a VCP gene mutation. A Celebration of Life will be on Sunday, July 20 from 2pm to 5pm at El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant, 7420 Douglas Ave, Urbandale.
Lisa was born February 19, 1977, in Urbana, Illinois to John George and Cleo Ann (TeKippe) Scheidel. She grew up in Ogden, Illinois and graduated from St. Joseph-Ogden High School with the class of 1995.
With a love story beginning in 1992, Lisa married Josh Huls on September 21, 1996. The birth of their daughter, Alexis, on November 6, 2000, made them complete. They moved to Iowa in 2002, and soon after planted roots in Earlham.
Lisa retired from American Prosthetics & Orthotics (Clive, Iowa) in 2021. She was known for her big heart, delicious cooking (especially pickle rollups and cheesecakes), and unwavering support for family and friends. From Sir Mix-a-Lot to Backstreet Boys to George Straight, she loved belting out tunes and busting some moves. Her light-heartedness and humor were her shining light.
Lisa is survived by her husband, Josh; daughter Alexis Huls of Earlham; sister Karla (Brian) Gundersen of Adel; nephew Cameron (Brey) Wright of Minneapolis, MN; and many loving aunts, uncles and cousins. She was proceeded in death by her parents and grandparents.
In appreciation of their support for Lisa's care, and in hopes of continued research to find a cure, memorial contributions may be made to The ALS Association and Cure VCP Disease, Inc. in lieu of flowers.
Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/lisa-huls-obituary?id=58874992

Shirley Joan McDuffie

 Shirley Joan McDuffie, 89, of Ogden and formerly of Mahomet, died on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at Newman Nursing and Rehab in Newman.

Blair-Owens Funeral Home will conduct a graveside funeral service on Saturday, June 14 at 10am at Shiloh Cemetery in Mahomet.

Shirley was born on Dec 13, 1935 in Decatur, a daughter of John and Rosalie (Nichols) Schuman. She married Clifford McDuffie in Decatur on March 24, 1955 and together they had 6 children. She was preceded in death by her husband in 2011, by 2 sons, Patrick in 2007 and William in 1980; 9 brothers and 1 sister.

She is survived by 4 children, Denise Arie of IN, Peggy Hawkins of Homer, Clifford (Pam) McDuffie of Seymour and Kevin (Janet) McDuffie of IN and her brother, Darrell (Lynn) Schuman of MD. As well as 15 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Shirley’s grandchildren and great grandchildren were the joys of her life and kept her very busy.

Blair-Owens Funeral Home https://www.owensfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Shirley-McDuffie

 

Geraldine "Gerry" Ann (Shortsleeve) Truett Osterbur

 Geraldine “Gerry” Ann (Shortsleeve) Truett Osterbur, 97, of Royal, IL, died Thursday, April 24, 2015 at Country Health Care in Gifford IL.

Visitation will be at 10AM, April 29, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church in Royal, followed by the funeral service at 11AM. Burial will be at St. John Cemetery in Royal. Freese Funeral Home in St. Joseph, IL is in charge of arrangements.

Gerry was born on March 14, 1928, the daughter of Roland H. and Gertrude E. (Kienietz) Shortsleeve of Royal. She was married twice; first to Vernon C. “Charlie” Truett on September 11, 1949, and then to Robert E. Osterbur on October 18, 1980.

In addition to her husbands, Gerry was preceded in death by her parents and her twin sister Polly
(Shortsleeve) Collins. She is survived by her son Scott (Leigh Lindahl) Truett of St. Peters, MO, her
grandson Chris (Abbie) Truett of Kansas City, MO, and 4 great granddaughters...Aliviah, Alexis, Chloe, and Madison.

Gerry was a lifetime resident of Royal, a lifelong member of St. John Lutheran Church, and a long-time member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Royal.

After graduating from Ogden High School, Gerry attended Mercy Hospital School of Nursing. 

Following her graduation in 1948, she worked as a nurse at Mercy and for several doctors in the
Champaign/Urbana area.

In the 1960s Gerry became a bookkeeper for her father at the Royal Insurance Agency, a position she held into the 1980s.

Gerry and her sister Polly were best known as “The Shortsleeve Twins" in the Royal area, and they used their nurse’s training to provide emergency first aid and medical care for dozens of people over the years. Gerry was an avid gardener and loved to cook and bake. But most of all, she was a loving and caring wife, mother, and grandmother, and she was a friend to everyone she met.

Memorials can be made to St. John Lutheran Church in Royal, Country Health Care in Gifford, or to the Crisis Nursery in Urbana, IL.

Gerry’s family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Country Health Care for the care they have provided to Gerry over the last 9 years.

Freese FH 4/25/2025

Marjorie L. Dodd

OGDEN — Marjorie L. Dodd, age 93, of Ogden, formerly of Homer, passed away at 9:05 a.m. Thursday April 10, 2025, at Blair House, Normal.

Private graveside services will be held at G.A.R. Cemetery, Homer. Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, is in charge of arrangements.

She was born July 8, 1931, in Danville, the daughter of Harold and Katherine Kizer. She married Elmer R. Dodd on April 26, 1953. He preceded her in death on Nov. 29, 1996. Also preceding her in death, were her parents, son Greg Dodd, son-in-law Carl Hawkey, a brother and two sisters.

She is survived by her daughters, Susan Hawkey of Tucson, Ariz., Nancy David of Ogden, and daughter-in-law Sheila Dodd of Normal. She also has five grandchildren, Jessica Hawkey, Josh Hawkey, Kaylah Reece, Leah Brooks, and Zach David. Four great- grandchildren, Scarlett Hawkey, Bryce Hawkey, Morgan Reece, and Natalie Reece. One surviving sister, Jean Ireland. Jeff David, former son-in-law, and Ryan Reece, former grandsonin- law, also remained very close to her.

Condolences may be left at Freesefh.com.

NG 4/13/2025

Mike Behrens

Behrens, 61, of Ogden passed away at 9:23 A.M, Saturday April 5, 2025 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

 Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday April 9, 2025 at St. John Lutheran Church, Royal. Pastor Gary Maxwell will officiate. Visitation will be Wednesday from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at the church.

 Mike was born November 22, 1963 in Urbana. The son of Gary L. and Connie (Sharp) Behrens. He married Kristie Baker on September 12, 1987 in Royal. She survives.

 He is also survived by his children; Katelyn (Calvin) Carter of Sidney, Jacob Behrens of New Mexico, Abby Behrens of Ogden. Granddaughter Lilith "Lily" Carter. Brother Doug (DeAnn) Behrens of St. Joseph. Aunt Sandra Criss of Mendota, IL. Brother in law Blaine (Darcy) Baker. Nephew Mason Behrens. Nieces Anna (Adam Cass) Behrens, Kylie (Dylan) Kaufmann, Karlie Baker, and two great-nieces.

 He was preceded in death by his parents.

 Mike was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Royal where he previously served as the youth group leader, on the church council and as council president. He also served at Ogden Township Supervisor.

 He was a graduate of the University of Illinois in 1993, Eastern Illinois University with a Master's in 2000. He taught school at Deland-Weldon and coached for one year. He then went to work at St. Joseph-Ogden High School and taught and coached football, girls basketball, boys basketball and boys baseball for 20 years. He taught math at parkland College at night for nine years. He then served as the Director of the Assessment Center at Parkland College for 10 years.

 Mike and his brother Doug competed in Dart tournaments, they also had a catering business together called Fat Stacks.

 Mike coached all of his kids in various sports t-ball, baseball and softball and basketball.

 He looked forward to Pheasant hunting with his son, brother, nephew and cousin's every year. He was a huge St. Louis Carninal fan, enjoyed making homemade pizza and trying new recipes.

About 10 years ago he became a health and fitness enthusiast. He loved to ride his bike and on his 61st birthday rode 61 miles. He competed in a Spartan race with his son.

 Mike was a hard worker and could fix anything. He loved family vacations and was very devoted to his family. Mike was loud, loved to laugh and loved being a gramps.

Freese FH 4/7/2025

Betty Jean Shepherd

 

Betty Jean Shepherd, 98 of Ogden passed away at 10:10 AM Thursday, March 13, 2025 at Country Health Care and Rehab, Gifford.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM, Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at Muncie Baptist Church with Pastor Todd Creason officiating.  Burial will be at Stearns Fithian Cemetery, Fithian.  Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 AM Tuesday at the church.  Freese Funeral Home, St. Joseph is assisting with arrangements.

Mrs. Shepherd was born on the family farm north of Fithian on February 6, 1927.  A daughter to Roy F. and Marie Mills Eichhorst.  She married Vere M. Shepherd on November 5, 1944 in Muncie.  He preceded her in death on June 18, 2008.

She is survived by a daughter; Teresa “Terry” (Dale) Miller of St. Joseph, a son; Kenneth (Ivy) of Albuquerque, NM, four grandchildren, Lisa Marie Miller of Brownsburg, IN, Dr. Andrew Miller (Dr. Steven Koether) of Fort Worth, TX, John Shepherd and Sam Shepherd of Reno-Sparks, NV, a great-granddaughter; Isabella Koether-Miller, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded by her parents, a son; Max (Myong) Shepherd and a brother; William (Ethel) Eichhorst.

She was a member of Muncie Baptist Church and served there faithfully for over 80 years.  She helped Vere on the farm for 20 years until he went into insurance when she became his secretary/bookkeeper.  In 1981 she began studying nursing, her passion, and earned her LPN in 1983, retiring from nursing in 1998.   She loved and enjoyed all of her family, especially the grandchildren and great-granddaughter.  She also enjoyed reading and knitting.

Memorials may be made to Muncie Baptist Church.

Freese FH 3/16/2025

James Gilliland

 James Gilliland 76 of Ogden passed away at 6:50PM, Saturday, February 8, 2025 at home.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM, Friday, February 14, 2025 at Sidney Christian Church, with Rev. Doug Krukewitt officiating.  Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Sidney.  Visitation will be from 9-11AM Friday at the church.  Freese Funeral Home, Sidney is assisting with arrangements.

Mr. Gilliland was born January 18, 1949 in Danville, a son to Cloyd and Rosalie Lipscomb Gilliland.  He married Kathleen Lange on April 24, 1971 in Danville, she survives.  Also surviving are two children; Tony (Karen) Gilliland of Monticello and Tiffany (Mike) Barnfield of St. Peters, MO, five grandchildren; Brandon, Aubrey, and Colin Gilliland and Cadence and Connor Talbott, and two siblings; Gary (Judy) Gilliland of St. Joseph and Kathy (Steve) Seevers of St. Joseph, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Jim served in the Army National Guard from 1969 to 1978.  He was employed at Ameren Illinois.

He also served as Mayor of Ogden during the tornado of 1996.   He was a member of Sidney Chirstian Church.

Memorials may made to LovePackages.org.

https://www.freesefh.com/obituary/James-Gilliland

Joseph Vernard Maddox Jr.

 Joseph Vernard Maddox, Jr., age 86, of Palatine, died at home on Saturday Feb. 1. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Janice Corum Maddox, his sons Jack Peirce (Lorene), Dylan Maddox (Diana), and grandchildren, Evan, Ella, and Alex Peirce, Brynn and Finn Maddox. He is also survived by his brother William Clyde Maddox (Judy), seven nieces and nephews and their children. 

Joe was born on April 14, 1938, in Montgomery, Alabama. He was the son of Joseph V. Maddox, Sr. and Mary Watson Maddox. Joe graduated from Stark University Academy and Sidney Lanier High School in Montgomery. While Joe was in high school the family moved to a farm south of Montgomery near Pike Road, AL.  He attended Auburn University and earned a B.S. and M.S. in Entomology. In 1961 he enrolled in the PhD. program at the University of Illinois but after a month in Urbana his Army National Guard unit was mobilized and he spent two years at Fort Polk, LA.  He completed his PhD in Entomology and Microbiology at the UI in 1966. Joe was then employed by the Illinois Natural History Survey as a research scientist in insect pathology.  In 1971 Joe married Janice and Jackie Peirce. Joe and Janice lived in Ogden, Illinois for 50 years. Joe served on the Ogden Grade School Board and coached Little League baseball. He continually remodeled their old house and built a two story barn. He retired in 1997 as INHS Principal Scientist and Professor of Agricultural Entomology, U.of I. After their retirements Joe and Janice enjoyed traveling and built a home near the Jack’s Fork River in the Missouri Ozarks. Joe loved the outdoors and spent many happy times with his sons and buddies, birding, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. They made many canoe trips to the Quetico National Park in Ontario, Canada. He especially enjoyed taking children on nature walks to discover insects and reptiles. In his retirement Joe developed the hobby of woodworking and built beautiful Shaker style cherry furniture. In 2022 Joe and Janice moved to Palatine, Illinois. Joe was known for his warmth, good humor and hilarious stories about his misadventures. He will be greatly missed and remembered with love. To honor Joe’s wishes no services will be held.

https://www.elegycremation.com/obituary/joseph-maddox

Loren Chesnut

 
 Loren Chesnut, 89, of Fithian passed away at 5:41 P.M. Tuesday January 28, 2025 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

 Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Friday January 31, 2025 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Pastor Todd Creason will officiate. Burial will be in G.A.R. Cemetery, Homer. Visitation will be Friday from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M.

 Loren was born September 25, 1935 in Danville. The son of Henry and Berice (Stewart) Chesnut. He married Mary Jo Burke on March 6, 1960 in Danville. She preceded him in death on April 16, 2016.

 He is survived by his children; Gary (Michelle) Chesnut and Lori (Raymond) Campbell both of Fitihian. Six grandchildren; Jerri Pine, Holly Milton, Travis Campbell, Chris Chesnut, Tyler Campbell, Hank Chesnut. Four great-grandchildren; Jobe Pine, Kade Pine, Charlie Milton and Dylan Milton.

 He was preceded in death by his parents.

 Loren farmed in the Fithian area all of his life. He also raised cattle and showed Shorthorn cattle. Loren loved to go fishing and traveling to Canada to fish.

 He was a member of the Ogden Christian Church and attended Hope UCC Church.

https://www.freesefh.com/obituary/Loren-Chesnut

Angela "Angie" Hunter

 

Angela “Angie” Hunter 53, of Ogden passed away at 4:15 p.m. on November 7, 2024, at Crawford Memorial Hospital, Robinson, IL.

Angie was born on April 27, 1971 in Corydon, Indiana the daughter of Richard & Mary (Cash) Henson. She married Scott Hunter on May 25th, 2003 in Mahomet, IL.

She is survived by her parents, husband- Scott; sons- Kalvin Kaufmann of Paxton, IL, Andrew Kaufmann of Buckley, IL and Brandon Hunter of Five Points, TN; daughter- Nancy Benko of Urbana, IL; Grandchildren- Saylor and Aspen Hunter, Maxwell Valdes, Liyah, Milo and Neal Kaufmann; sisters- Sherrie Henson of Newburg, IN, Emmy Clementz of Villa Grove, IL and Sophie Mitchell of Owensboro KY; niece- Erin Allen of Covington, IN and great nephew Tristan Lane of Covington, IN and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Angie graduated from Paxton High School in Paxton, IL. She was a member of New Hope Fellowship in Mahomet. In her spare time, she enjoyed crafting, writing poems and spending time with her family.

A Celebration of life service will be held on November 29th at her home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be sent to www.renner-wikoffchapel.com

https://www.renner-wikoffchapel.com/obituary/Angela-Hunter

Corey Steven Thompsen

Corey Steven Thompsen, 28, of rural St. Joseph died in the line of duty Friday afternoon, October 18th, at Carle Hospital. Corey was an Illinois State Trooper assigned to Troop 7 in Pesotum.

Corey was born August 28, 1996, in Urbana, Illinois, to Steve and Susan Thompsen of St. Joseph. He grew up in St. Joseph, graduating from St. Joseph-Ogden High School in 2014. He graduated from Danville Area Community College in the Criminal Justice Program, and then attended Western Illinois University. Corey graduated from Indiana State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in 2018. Corey was an avid runner and was a four year letter winner in cross country and track in high school and ran cross country for both Western Illinois University and Danville Area Community College. Corey married his best friend, Chelsea Blaase, on June 2, 2024, in the mountains of Tennessee. Their wedding was as beautiful as they are!

Following his graduation from college, Corey then graduated from the Southwestern Police Academy-session 137 and began his law enforcement career. He worked with the Vermilion County Metropolitan Enforcement Group (VMEG) , then was assigned to the State Police District 10 in Pesotum. In 2022, Corey joined the Illinois State Police Motorcycle Enforcement Bureau. In 2023 Corey was assigned to the Central Special Operations Group (SOG) Fatal 4 Team, serving the Illinois State Police in Troop 7.

Corey loved being a State Trooper and was especially proud of being a part of the motor unit. They were his second family and a tight-knit group of friends. He participated in several escort details across the state, that included the President, Vice President, memorial services, and charity bike rides. Outside of his work, Corey loved vehicles. He was so particular about every one he ever owned and took meticulous care of them. He and Chelsea recently bought his family home and were looking forward to building their life together there.

But most of all, Corey was a family man. Chelsea, his parents, brothers, grandparents, and extended family were everything to him. He loved family gatherings and was a big part of all of them. Teasing and joking around were his favorite activities with his family, but he was always there when anyone needed him. Corey is survived by his wife, Chelsea, his parents, brothers Ryan of Naperville, Illinois, and Mitchell of Champaign, Chelsea’s parents, Doug and Nanci Blaase of Ogden, and brother-in-law Drew Blaase of Danville. He also leaves his maternal grandparents, Joseph and Barbara Peters, St. Joseph, and paternal grandparents, John and Donna Thompsen, also of St. Joseph, and his extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Corey loved his German shepherds, Garmin and Grimm; he spoiled them rotten!

Corey was a member of the FOP Troopers’ Lodge 41, Alpha Phi Sigma National Criminal Justice Society, and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Corey was a respected member of the Illinois State Police and a friend to so many. He was deeply loved and will be sorely missed. Nothing can take away Corey’s memory which is held dear in all our hearts.

Visitation will be Saturday, October 26, from 1 to 5 pm, at St. Joseph-Ogden High School with a First Responder walk through at 5 pm. The funeral service will be held Sunday, October 27 at Faith United Methodist Church,1719 S. Prospect in Champaign. Burial will be in Patterson Cemetery, St. Joseph.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a memorial fund set up in Corey’s name at any University of Illinois Credit Union branch. This will provide a scholarship to St. Joseph-Ogden High School students entering the field of Criminal Justice.

The family would like to express our sincere thanks to all the first responders, the Carle Trauma Team, the community, COPS, 100 Club, and the Illinois State Police for all their efforts and support.

Freese FH 10/22/2024

Eric Brent Witruk

 Eric Brent. Witruk, age 70, passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at his home in St. Louis, MO. Eric was born August 28, 1854 in Rantoul, IL to Alexander and Lucy Belle (nee Leffingwell) Witruk. He is survived by his wife, Deborah (nee Temple) Witruk and his son, Christopher Witruk of St. Louis; his siblings, Lexi (Chuck) Hartmann, Ernie Witruk, Neal (Adrienne) Witruk, Mike (Amy) Witruk, Myron (Rae) Witruk. His sister, Andrea Perry predeceased him. He is also survived by 15 nieces and nephews as well as close friends,Frank Schmaltz and Bob Muckerman, who as a trio survived the changing world of Southwestern Bell, AT&T, and AMDOCS.

Eric attended and graduated from Thomasboro Jr. High and Urbana High School in 1972 in St. Joseph. He earned a Bachelor degree in math in 1976 from University of Illinois and went on to earn a Master's degree in Education in 1978. He taught math, physics, chemistry, and geometry in El Paso, IL for a year. He also earned a Bachelor degree in Computer Science from IL State in 1985.

He attended additional computer programming classes at Parkland and IL State where he met Deb. They were married August 1, 1981.

They moved to St. Louis in 1985 and in 1991, welcomed their son, Christopher. Eric saw many changes in his career from the 1995 merger with PAC Bell and the restructuring of AT&T in 2000 when many employees were reassigned to AMDOCS. Eric earned the title "expert" as more and more employees were lost to retirement as they neared pension eligibility. By 2009, only two employees were left with AMDOCS. He finally retired in 2017.

His personal interests starting with most importantly family, included golf, travel, Illini sports, the Cardinals, fantasy sports, board games, and word play. Lou Brock was his favorite Cardinal and baseball player. He enjoyed action-adventure books by Clive Cussler.

SERVICES: Services 3pm followed by visitation until 8pm on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at Hoffmeister South County Chapel 1515 Lemay Ferry Rd., Lemay, MO 63125. Additional services in St. Joseph, Illinois will be announced when available.

Interment Mount Olive Cemetery, Mayview, Illinois

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/fr-ca/obituaries/st-louis-mo/eric-witruk-12012336

William M. "Bill" Black

 PAWNEE— William M. “Bill” Black passed away peacefully on Aug. 23, 2024, in Springfield.

Bill was born Oct. 17, 1949, to John A. Black Jr. and JoAnn L. (Fry) Black of Ogden.

Bill overcame childhood polio and went on to play high school football. After graduating, he eventually became a member of the Laborer’s Union Local 703 of Urbana and later Local 477 out of Springfield. Bill was an avid NASCAR fan, as well as a die-hard fan of the Chicago Cubs, Fighting Illini and the Chicago Bears.

He married his wife, Rita, in Ogden on Nov. 13, 1981. She survives, along with his daughter, Kimberly Black; a son, Christopher Black; a granddaughter, Carlee Black; and a sister, Mary Black. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, E. Lynette Lemke; and a brother, John A. Black III.

The family will be hosting a celebration of life on Saturday, Oct. 19, at VFW Post 630, 1303 E. Main St., Urbana, from 2 to 4 p.m. Contributions may be made to his wife, Rita.

NG 10/5/2024

Kimberly Kay Osterbur Walden

  
Kimberly Kay Osterbur Walden passed on September 4, 2024 after a 4 year battle with metastatic breast cancer.

But REJOICE! She heard the country twang of Alan Jackson playing nearby, saw the campfire, and joined her sweet Waldo for eternity.

Kim was born to Randall and Sandra Harlan Osterbur on December 4, 1971 and had a magnificently average Midwestern childhood growing up in Ogden with her sister, Kelly (Eric) Kuchefski. Her parents always encouraged her interests in the sciences, and she fell in love with nature and insects, in particular.

 

Kim graduated from St. Joseph-Ogden High School in 1990 and earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Millikin University in Decatur in 1994. She was a member of the social sorority, Alpha Chi Omega and met life-long sisters there. She married Michael Lee Walden on January 1, 1994, her high-school sweetheart, and they were blessed with two children, Spencer Michael in 2000 and Samantha Grace in 2008.

 

Kim and Mike enjoyed almost 25 years together until he preceded her in death on February 4, 2011 due to septic shock. She earned her Master’s of Science Degree in Entomology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1996. She then worked as a lab manager for 20 years for Dr. Hugh Robertson, to whom she will always be indebted to for his kindness and generosity throughout her career in the Department of Entomology. When Hugh retired, Kim began working for the Carver Biotechnology Center in 2017, joining the High-Performance Computing in Biology research group.

 

Kim enjoyed reading, working in her flowers, watching the hummingbirds, but mostly chasing her favorite rascals, Spencer and Samantha. She occasionally taught Sunday School at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in St. Joseph, IL, actively volunteered in the kids’ Urbana schools as they grew up, and enjoyed working with the costume shop volunteers at the Champaign-Urbana Ballet Company.

 

Kim was preceded in death by her grandparents, Willard and Dorothy Cox of Ogden, IL and Ernest and Irene Osterbur of Ogden, IL. Kim is survived by her parents of Urbana, her sister and brother-in-law, Kelly (Eric) of Urbana, her son, Spencer (Shelby) of Urbana, her daughter, Samantha at home, Mike’s parents, Jimmy and Helen Walden of St. Joseph, Mike’s siblings Cindy (Chris) Little of Tuscola, Rich (Denise) Walden of Sidney, Denise (Scott) Jean of Ivesdale, and all her beloved nephews and nieces: Luke (Danielle) Little, Brody (Nikki) Little, and Jared (Kristin) Little, Miranda (Kyle) Logsdon, Brady and Bailey Walden, Calli and Carson Robinson, Reagan, Rush, Lincoln, Owen, Eli, Piper, Parker, and Kennedy Little. Kim also enjoyed the companionship of Allen Mohr of rural Philo for 12 years after Mike’s passing, despite Allen’s allegiance to the Green Bay Packers. Kim always appreciated Allen letting her be the best parent she could be.

 

Kim wanted to thank all of her family, friends, and caregivers through the Carle Cancer Center Network for their kindness and care over her years of treatment.

 

Visitation will be from 2 to 4pm Sunday, September 8th at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 802 East Douglas in St. Joseph, IL.

Funeral services will be at 10:30am Monday, September 9th at the church with burial following at Bill Huss Chapel Cemetery, rural St. Joseph, IL.

Freese Funeral Home in St. Joseph is in charge of arrangements.

 

Memorial contributions can be made at Central Illinois Bank for the benefit of Spencer and Samantha. With the checks made payable to Spencer Walden.

Freese FH 9/5/2024

Ricky K. Casteel

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Candace Lynn Ray-Morehouse

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patsy M. Bear Rowland

 
Patsy M. Rowland, 85, of Savoy, IL, passed away peacefully at home with her loving family by her side on Thursday, April 4, 2024.

Patsy Marie Beard was born on August 18, 1938 at home in rural Ogden, Illinois to Russell and E. Pearl (Haynes) Beard, and was raised on the family farm along with her two brothers. She was a graduate of Ogden High School.

Pat began working for the University of Illinois four days after graduating from high school, starting as a receptionist in the Maintenance and Grounds department, and eventually working as administrative aide to the assistant dean in the Educational Psychology department, where she spent the remainder of her 30-plus year career. During her retirement, she volunteered at the Champaign County Nursing Home, and the Champaign Public Library, working in the FriendShop Bookstore.

Pat married Larry Esworthy on August 4, 1957, and they lived on the Esworthy family farm near Ogden, later moving into Ogden. After they parted ways, she married Theodore Rowland on August 21, 1968, and they moved to Champaign.

Pat enjoyed reading, gardening, travel, needlepoint, knitting, decorating for the seasons and holidays, doing all types of puzzles, watching game shows, especially Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune, and spending time with family and friends. She started every morning with a cup of tea, her puzzles and newspaper, and a smile on her face, looking forward to whatever the day would bring. She especially loved watching her beloved Fighting Illini football and basketball games while listening to Brian Barnhart’s enthusiastic commentary on WDWS radio.

Pat’s surviving family members include daughter Lori (Esworthy) Chien and her husband Peter, Rome, NY; son David Esworthy and his wife Kristi (Thacker), Sanford, FL; and grandchildren Katherine and Sarah Chien, Megan Esworthy and her fiancé Nicholas Volence, and Drew and Emily Esworthy. She is also survived by her brother Darrell Beard and his partner Linda Waldron, Bloomington, IL, and a niece and several nephews. Also surviving her are stepson Theodore Rowland, Jr. and his wife Susan; stepdaughter Dawson (Rowland) Zimmerman and her husband Michael; stepdaughter Claire (Rowland) Brock; and step grandchildren Jennifer and Justin Rowland. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Richard Beard, sister-in-law Patricia (Taylor) Beard, and both of her ex-husbands.

The family would like to thank Dr. Lan Nguyen and Dr. Kendrith Rowland, the staff of Carle Hospital, and the staff of Carle Hospice, especially nurse Lisa, for their compassionate care of Pat.

Pat was a loving, kind, caring, and generous person, always putting others before herself. Her passing leaves a huge hole in the hearts of all her loved ones. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Pat’s memory to the Champaign Public Library Foundation, 200 West Green St. Champaign, IL 61820 or online at givetocpl.org ; or to Carle Hospice, 4116 Fieldstone Rd., Champaign, IL 61822 or online at carle.org/giving/make-a-gift .

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 P.M. Saturday July 13, 2024 at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand, St. Joseph, IL. Visitation will be from 12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

Freese FH 7/6/2024