Francis Heeren Lucht quietly passed away Monday morning, October 21, 2024 at his home in rural Milford. He attained the age of 92 years, 9 months, and 28 days, having the distinction of being the oldest male member of St John Lutheran Church. Francis was born at Watseka Memorial Hospital on 23 December 1931, the son of Harm Jonas and Anna Mathilda Heeren Lucht. He was welcomed home by his sister, Thelma Pearl, who survives.

On January 3, 1932, Francis was made a child of God through baptism at the altar of St John, sponsored by two uncles, George Gerdes and John Frerichs. On 14 April 1946, he claimed the baptismal vows as his own through the rite of Confirmation at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Idaville, with Pastor Henry Geise. He chose Psalm 1:1&2 as the verse to lead him through life: “Blessed is the man who walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in that law doth he meditate day and night,”

Formal schooling was in the one-room schools in the area. His class was the last class to graduate from the Pleasant Hill School, and from there he entered and graduated from Milford Township High School. His father later purchased the Pleasant Hill School building and moved to the farm, where it stands today.

November 27, 1951, Francis entered the U.S. Navy and proudly served his country during the time of the Korean Conflict 1951 – 1955. His service was a Structural Mechanic of the Naval Aviation Branch. His Sea Duty was aboard a Blimp Squadron ZP-4 (Zephlin-Patrol Squadron 4), Francis received the National Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal.

On February 22, 1953, while still in the Navy, Francis married Doris Elaine Henrichs of Onarga at St. Paul in Woodworth. After his tour of duty in the Navy, Francis and Doris moved to the farm and began farming and raising hogs, which became their way of life for the next forty-eight years. Along with his business of life, Francis enjoyed his hobbies of hunting, fishing, camping, and shop work. He also served on a number of county ag committees and was chairman of the Iroquois Soil and Water Conservation District, was a Ditch Commissioner for his local drainage district, was a member of Farm Bureau, and the National Rifle Association.

Country life is a great place to raise a family. To Francis and Doris were born four sons and one daughter: David (Joy) now living in Jamestown, IL; Paul (Stacy) of College Station, TX; Dennis, now deceased; Dianne (Dean) Grimes now deceased; and Kevin (Peg) of Lexington, IL. As a family, they were faithful members of St John, Schwer. Francis served four terms on the church council, and five terms as usher. He enjoyed the record of being the oldest person to serve as usher.

He retired from farming in 2003, and on September 19, 2006, Francis had to say goodbye to the love of his life as Doris passed away. This was a new way of life for him, being alone in the house, having meals by himself, but Francis was still young at heart and on December 11, 2009 he and Eunice Holland eloped to Effingham, Il where they were married. This lasted only a few years, when Eunice, too, passed away from illness in 2018. In 2019 a biopsy confirmed a cancer diagnosis. Undaunted, Francis declared he felt blessed: he was raised in a Christian home, had good health, two good wives, good family and good friends.

He leaves to mourn his passing: three sons, David (Joy); Paul (Stacy); Kevin (Peg), and one son-in-law Dean (Kelly Cundiff) Grimes. Eleven grandchildren: Amy (Culley) Medley; Justin Knight (Harry Rambarran); Jacob (fiancé Sarah Turner) Lucht; Rachel (Logan) Mace; Chad (Kelly) Lucht; Jordan Lucht; Brooke (Jose) Robles; Megan Grimes; David (Billie) Young; Travis Young; Tammi (Pat) Noonan. Nine great-grandchildren: Kenley Medley; Landry Medley; Ryan Lucht; Luis Robles; Sydney Sparks; Brendan Noonan; Gil Noonan, Daniel Young, Derek Young. Two great-great-grandchildren: Finn Sparks; and Goldie Guerrero; one sister, Thelma Pearl; and countless relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by wives, Doris and Eunice; son Dennis; daughter, Dianne Grimes; two great grandchildren Kaylyn and Jayden Medley.

Visitation will be at St. John, Schwer, November 2, 2024 beginning at 9:30a.m. A memorial service with Pastor Joe Frech officiating will be held at 11:00a.m. followed with a lunch.

Memorials may be made to the St. John Schwer, IMH Hospice, or the donor’s choice.

Cremation rites were accorded and his remains will be buried in the St John Cemetery to await the final trumpet call of our Lord Jesus Christ on that Final Day.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Please share a memory of Francis at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Willie Ann Dotson Baird, age 87 of Watseka, was called to her heavenly home on Monday, October 21, 2024. She was a beloved mother, wife, sister, daughter, aunt, teacher, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Ann was born on April 2, 1937 in Clintwood, VA in the Appalachian Mountains where she spent her formative years. Young Willie Ann always wanted to be an educator; after graduating as valedictorian, she went on to major in education at Berea College in Berea, KY and then returned to serve her community as a teacher at Clintwood H.S. After marriage, she continued her career at Onarga H.S. and later at Unit 9 in Watseka from where she retired. Throughout her remarkable career that spanned thirty-five years, she was known for her hard work, dedication, and passion for helping her students.

But more than anything, Ann was devoted to her family. She was married to Albert Gene Baird of LaFollette, TN for almost fifty-three years. A few months after their Christmas Eve wedding, the happy couple moved to Onarga, IL where their first son, Brian, was born. A year later, they purchased a home on Mulberry Street in Watseka, IL where their second son, Joe, was born two years later. Ann’s devotion to her family extended to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was always present to offer guidance, support, comfort, and encouragement, no matter what challenges her family members faced.

Ann was an active member of Trinity Church. She appreciated the relationships that she cultivated in that loving community of faith. She also appreciated the influence of Trinity on her family throughout the years.

Ann was preceded in death by her husband, A. Gene Baird; her mother, Rosa Mae Dotson; her father, Nade Jennings Dotson; her younger sister, Mabel Lynch; her brother, Rev. N. N. Jennings Dotson; her sister-in-law, Ruth Dotson; her brother-in-law, Tommy Mullins; and her niece, Priscilla Lynch.

Mrs. Baird is survived by her loving sister, Versie Mullins of Virginia; her son, Dr. Brian Baird of Plymouth, IN; her ex-daughter-in-law, Laura Baird; her son, Mr. Joe Baird of Houston, TX; her son-in-law, Lacidez Mercado Gomez; and family friend, Duane Treybig. Grandma Baird doted over her five grandchildren: Stefan (Samantha), Brandon, Jasmine, Autumn, and Quintyn. In addition, Great-grandma Baird enjoyed her five great-grandchildren Addilynn, Gabriel, Maverick, Charlotte, and Zoe. Aunt Ann is also survived by her nephews Anthony, Newl, and Chris, and her nieces Teresa, Tamala, and Cecilia. Her legacy of love, dedication, and faith will be treasured by all who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held at Trinity Church in Watseka on Saturday, October 26. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. directly followed by her funeral service at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Ryan Mustered officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org).

Arrangements by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Please share a memory of Ann at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Paul Michael Nimz, 71, of Ashkum passed away on Sunday, October 20, 2024 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee.

Paul was born on February 28, 1953 in Watseka, the son of John and Lillian (Forrest) Nimz Sr. and they preceded him in death along with two brothers, John Nimz Jr. and Stuart Nimz; and one sister-in-law, Shawn Nimz.

Paul is survived by three sons, Tyler (Kim) Nimz of Watseka, Andy (Whitney) Nimz of Chebanse, and Aaron (Alyson) Nimz of Terre Haute, IN; five grandchildren, Phoenix Nimz of Colorado, Liam, Harper, and Addison Nimz of Chebanse, and Jacob Nimz of Terre Haute, IN; four step-grandchildren, Lukean and Becca Benoit, Ella Gottschall, and Hunter Kehrer; two sisters, Kimberly Shor of Palatine and Susan (Jon) Guimond of Kankakee; two sisters-in-law, Cheryl Nimz of Champaign and Margaret “Peg” Nimz of Watseka; friend and former wife, Connie Nimz of Wellington; and several nieces and nephews.

Paul started out working as a truck driver for Nimz Transportation, retired from Gould Battery, and after retirement he did maintenance work for several companies. He was an avid landscaper, loved fast cars, and enjoyed rescuing older dogs. He ran the sound for the band “Rhoades” and later ran the sound for Natural High.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 1:00 p.m. funeral service on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Rev. Jim Harkins will officiate. Burial will be held at a later date at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or The Grey Muzzle Organization (nonprofit organization focused on the well-being of senior dogs).

Please share a memory of Paul at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Cynthia Tooley, 66, of Papineau passed away on Monday, October 21, 2024 at her home. She was born on September 15, 1958 in Watseka, the daughter of Joseph Edward and Marjorie Jean (Corkill) Fordyce and her father preceded her in death.

She married Troy Reed Tooley on October 15, 2004 in Watseka and he survives. Also surviving are her four children, Jeremy Laird of Watseka, Nathan Laird of Watseka, Taryn Tooley of Danville and Jason Tooley of Orlando, FL; two sisters, Debbie Hinrichs of Terre Haute, IN and Julie (Jim) Fredrick of Watseka; her mother, Marjorie Fordyce of Watseka; and three grandchildren, Jerzie Laird, Gannyn Laird and Ella Laird.

Cindy was the unit secretary at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka.

Cremation rites will be accorded by the Baier Funeral Home.

Please share a memory of Cindy at baierfuneralhome.com.

Dennis G. Boma, 73, of Mahomet, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, October 6, 2024, his middle daughter Jennifer Kay’s heavenly birthday. He was born on March 1, 1951 in Watseka, Illinois to Francis and Margaret Boma.

He is preceded in death by his father, Francis; mother, Margaret; brothers, Thomas and Anton Boma; his first wife, Marsha Boma and his daughter, Jennifer Kay.

Dennis is survived by his wife Nancy; daughters, Heather (Peter) Pintz of Glen Ellyn, and Laura Boma of Streamwood, Illinois. His loving grandchildren are Briyanah, Andrew, and Kevin.

He leaves behind his siblings: Roger (Gloria), sister- in- law, Barb (Tom), Mark (Mary), Bruce (Lori), Mary (Kevin) Schwenk, and Sheila (Harry) Sola; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Dennis was born and raised in Piper City, Illinois. The second-oldest of eight siblings, he worked to help support his family’s farm growing up and later attended Parkland College. He graduated from Southern Illinois University and received his Master’s Degree from Northern Illinois University. He married Marsha (Roche) and they raised three daughters in Schaumburg, Illinois. Among his accomplishments, he served as an industrial engineer and manager at GTE, Motorola, and Kraft.

Dennis loved to fish, and took many trips with friends and family to Southern Illinois and Wisconsin. Most recently he fished with his grandchildren at his favorite spots in Mahomet. He also planned family gatherings and with a large family, he would always make sure everyone was together for holidays and festivities. Dennis loved attending sports events, especially local U of I games (how he met his wife, Nancy) and the Chicago Cubs.

Dennis was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to so many. He had an extraordinary love for life and a great sense of humor, and everyone that knew him loved him. He will be greatly missed and always cherished.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2024 in the church parish hall at St. Peter Catholic Church in Piper City. An 11:00 a.m memorial mass will follow at St. Peter Catholic Church. Fr. Michael Powell will officiate. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery near Piper City.

Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are by the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

Louis Leroy Johnson, 88, of Thawville passed away on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at his residence. He was born on June 30, 1936 in Martinton, a son of Gilbert E. and Loretta (Bear) Johnson. Louis married Alberta June Whaley on April 14, 1956 in Martinton and she preceded him in death on February 7, 2021.

He is survived by five children, Roland (Cindy) Johnson of Thawville, Peggy (Les) Seefeldt of Watseka, Kevin (Lori) Johnson of Danforth, Allen Johnson (Fiancée, Cary Hagen) of Crescent City, and Laurie Mattheessen of Bartonville; twelve grandchildren, Angela (Marc) VonDrehle of Thawville, Abbie (Chad) Thompson of Gilman, Michael (Kate) Johnson of Washington, Casie (Jim) Hanson of Watseka, Darren (Marilyn) Seefeldt of St. Louis, Missouri, Calley (Michael) Kaeb of Cissna Park, Ashley Johnson of Watseka, Adam (Lauren) Johnson of Pontiac, Missouri, Amber Rippy (Fiancée, Andy Parker) of Bloomington, Brock (Heather) Johnson of Crescent City, Ethan Johnson of Loda, and Hayden Mattheessen of Bartonville; 19 great-grandchildren; one brother, Edward Johnson of Watseka; two sisters, Rose Mae Stone of Pensacola, Florida and Delores Redman of Watseka; and two step-grandchildren, Bryan Mattheessen of Dover, Delaware and Brandon Mattheessen of Marquette Heights; and several nieces and nephews.

Louis was preceded in death by both of his parents; two brothers-in-law, Frank Redman and Burgess Stone; one sister-in-law, Norma Johnson; one son-in-law, Dave Mattheesen; and one grandson-in-law, Brent McTaggart.

Louis was a member of the Onarga Christian Church. He loved gardening, mowing, camping, and riding his golf cart. Louis enjoyed time spent wintering in Florida and Texas. He also took pride in working in the garage building special gifts for loved ones.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. memorial service at the Onarga Christian Church in Onarga with Rev. Austin Madewell officiating.

Memorials may be made to Onarga Christian Church, ARC of Iroquois County, or the Down Syndrome Foundation (425 Missouri Ave, Morton, IL 61550).

Arrangements are by the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

Please share a memory of Louis at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Isabelle was born December 3, 1918 to William and Minnie (Barth) Feller. World War I was just ending. Life was simpler then. She was raised on a farm south west of Cissna Park, went to church in a horse and buggy, attended a one room rural school, canned food from the garden, butchered hogs, and raised chickens. Her days were long, her work was hard, and her life was rich and good.

Education was always important to Isabelle. She obtained a teaching certificate from Illinois State Normal University, turned right around and began educating students not much older than herself, in a one room schoolhouse nearly identical to the one she attended as a child. On June 27, 1948 Isabelle married the love of her life, George Bauer. Together, they raised five children on a farm south of Paxton. During the course of her child-rearing years, she continued to pursue higher education. It took a number of years for her to complete, taking late afternoon and evening classes while she and George were busy raising a young family. Her dedication and hard work paid off when she received her baccalaureate degree from ISNU in 1962 and her Master of Education Degree from the University of Illinois in 1966. Altogether, she taught a total of 23 years.

Isabelle’s philosophy of life was simple: Keep learning, loving, laughing, laboring, listening, and most importantly, trusting God in all things. In her diary, she wrote, “Keep your mind active, have a joyful heart, be content with what you have and most of all, love your Savior and appreciate what He has done for you.” She gave her heart to the Lord and was baptized May 9, 1954 at the Apostolic Christian Church of Cissna Park, Illinois. There she spent a number of years teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible, imparting the truths of God’s Word to her beloved students.

On October 17, 2024 Isabelle passed away peacefully at Fairview Haven in Fairbury at the age of 105. Preceding her in death were her husband, George Bauer, seven brothers, Willis, Marv, Art, Bud, Chowie, Dick, and Glenn Feller, one sister, Rosella Bucher, one grandchild, Crystal Bauer, and one great-grandchild, Calvin Kaupp. She is survived by her five children, Lonnie (Kerry) Bauer of Oro Valley, Arizona, Gwen (Dick) Steffen of New Paris, Indiana, Lindy Bauer of Pagosa Springs, Colorado, Betty (Tim) Kaupp of Gridley, Illinois, and Sherman Bauer of Champaign, Illinois, 11 grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Monday, October 21 from 9-11AM at the Fellowship Hall of the Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park, IL. Funeral to follow at 11:00AM, also at the Fellowship Hall. Burial will be in the Apostolic Christian Cemetery in Cissna Park.

Memorial gifts may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in honor of her love for children.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Please share a memory of Isabelle at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Judy Kaye Engelbrecht, 67, of Clifton, went home to be with Jesus on Friday, October 11, 2024 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee.

Judy was born on March 2, 1957 in Kankakee, the daughter of Wallace and Marjorie (Rusk) Engelbrecht, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by one brother, Dean (Delphine) Engelbrecht of Bloomington; one sister, Peggy Lambert of TX; five nieces and nephews, Bryan (Mary) Engelbrecht of Downs, Michael (Laura) Engelbrecht of Wilton, NY, John (Laura) Engelbrecht of Decatur, Melody (Eric) Bauman of Normal, and Sean Lambert of TX; and four great nieces and nephews.

Judy was a longtime educator and administrator throughout her community. One of her greatest accomplishments came in 2001, when she became owner and director of Faithful Friends Christian Preschool & Daycare in Fairbury. We are deeply proud of her many years of service and devotion to children. In recent years she loved living on the farm where she grew up. Most importantly she loved Jesus as her Savior and wanted everyone to have salvation in Christ. She was a faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gilman and enjoyed teaching and attending Sunday School classes.

Judy enjoyed close friendships with her coworkers and families at Faithful Friends, her dear friends Rita Fitzpatrick, Bernie Hinrich, the Kol and Ron Siebring families and so many more. We give a special thanks to Rita and Bernie, especially as they helped her so much getting to appointments, caring for her and loving her extra in the last weeks of her life.

Visitation will be from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman on Sunday, October 20th. The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on October 21st at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gilman with Rev. Dr. Pete Hinrich officiating. Burial will follow at Danforth Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gilman.

Arrangements by Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

Please share a memory of Judy at www. knappfuneralhomes.com.

Robert D. Plante, 75, of Danforth formerly of Herscher passed away on Wednesday, October, 9, 2024 at Ascension St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee. He was born on July 21, 1949 in Watseka, a son of Eldon and Mona (Rowland) Plante Sr. Robert married Pamela Krueger on October 23, 1971 in Danforth and she survives.

Also surviving are one son, Christopher (Toni) Plante Sr. of Chebanse; two grandsons, Christopher Plante Jr. of Chebanse and Kyle Plante of Chebanse; one brother, Eldon (Sheila) Plante of Bourbonnais; and one sister, Diane (Larry) Buhr of Momence.

Robert was preceded in death by both of his parents and one brother, Frank Crabtree.

Robert was a member of the St. Mary Catholic Church in Herscher. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army and was a member of the Herscher American Legion Post 795.

Visitation will be on Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service all at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton with Rev. Benjamin Hayter officiating. Burial will follow in the Danforth Cemetery in Danforth with graveside military rites by the Herscher American Legion Post 795.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Please share a memory of Robert at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Eric Lee Norris, 46, of Watseka, IL, passed away on Friday, October 11, 2024, in Watseka, IL. He was born April 29, 1978, in Danville, IL, the son of Dennis Lee Norris and Merrie Lynn Lockhart.

He is survived by his mother and step-father, Merrie and Patrick Worner of Watseka, IL; his father, Dennis Norris of Hoopeston, IL; one sister, Cindy (Daniel) Johnston of Mahomet, IL; and one nephew, Cody Johnston.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Eric worked as a mechanic and later became a truck driver. His hobbies included fishing and riding dirt bikes.

A private graveside service will be held.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Eric to the First United Methodist Church, 118 W. Jackson St., Morris, IL 60450.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Eric’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Hugh C. Maine, USAF Lt. Col. (Retired), age 90, of Ashkum, Illinois, formerly of Belleville, Illinois, passed away on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at home, with his wife and family beside him. Born February 19, 1934 in Providence, Rhode Island, he was the eldest son of Hubert C. and Bella (MacTurk) Maine. He married Barbara H. Mack on November 7, 1955 at St. Mary Cathedral in Ogdensburg, New York.

Hugh is survived by his wife, Barbara and five children, Brenda (Jim) Pehle, Brian (Karen) Maine, Barb (Ed) Szymanski, Bruce (Colleen) Maine, and Brant (Stephanie) Maine; 13 grandchildren, Rachel Pehle, Rebecca Pehle, Brian (Jordan) Maine Jr., Calloway Maine, Carrington Maine, Ed (Bunry) Szymanski, Chris (Amanda) Szymanski, Beth (Nathan) Vrab, Andrew (Peyton) Maine, Theresa (Gordon) Bloom, Sarah (Sam) Kamba, Addison Maine, and Harrison Maine; 21 great-grandchildren, Liam, Penny, Elisa, Layla, Reed, Wren, Deacon, Hugh, Carter, Henry, Isla, Noah, Evelyn, Leon, Elora, Gordon Jr., Bruce, Matthew, Patrick, Micah and Gabriel; sister, Kay Sienkiewicz; brother and sister-in-law, Bruce (Beverly Bennett) Maine; sister-in-law, Barbara Mack; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers-in-law, Ed Sienkiewicz and Floyd Mack.

Hugh grew up in Connecticut and upstate New York where he graduated high school from Ogdensburg Free Academy in 1952 and graduated from St. Lawrence Hospital School of Nursing in 1954.

In May 1956, Hugh was one of the first male nurses to join the Air Force Nurse Corps. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for 25 years. In his travels around the world, he cared for countless sick and wounded with humility and tenderness. In his last four years of active duty, he was Chief Nurse of the 375th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron at Scott Air Force Base.

He founded Maine Chimney Sweep, Ltd., Belleville, IL in 1979. As a chimney sweep, member and vice president of the National Chimney Sweep Guild, Hugh was dedicated to wood burning safety and fire prevention throughout his 25 years as owner of MCS Ltd. In retirement, he continued to promote fire safety working part-time at Hearthside Fireplace.

In his retirement, he also worked Clinton Hills Golf Club and Effinger Nursery.

He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable, Illinois.

Over the years, Hugh had numerous interests, hobbies and collections, but he especially enjoyed photography, birding, gardening and singing. Most of all, Hugh loved his family. He cherished his wife Barbara with whom he shared nearly 69 years of marriage. He was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren, and delighted in their accomplishments and interests, cataloging keepsakes and photographs in countless albums. He considered every family gathering special and was deeply thankful for every moment shared together.

Hugh’s generosity, compassion, good humor and positive outlook were keenly felt by all who knew him. He knew no strangers and he welcomed everyone he met in life.

His family will always remember what a blessing he was.

Arrangements are pending with the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton, Illinois.

Interment will be at a later date at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Missouri.

Memorials may be given to the Uplifted Care Hospice of Kankakee Valley, Food for the Poor, Wounded Warrior Foundation, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or PGA Hope Gateway Chapter.

The family would like to express thanks and appreciation to Uplifted Care Hospice of Kankakee Valley for their care and support and the local EMS for their response and aid.

Please share a memory of Hugh at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Robert W. Williams, 85 of Watseka passed away on October 5, 2024 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. He was born on October 20, 1938 in Watseka a son of Warren E. and Ruth C. (Nally) Williams. Bob married Mary Ellen Keetley Smith in Watseka on May 10, 1986 and she survives. Also surviving are one daughter- Keela (Bob Kakiuchi) Williams of Seattle, WA; five sons- John (Lynette) Williams of Carrollton, Paul Williams of Chicago, Marty (Shelli) Williams of Chicago, Bill (Mark MacDougall) Smith of Boston, MA, and Mike Smith of El Paso, TX; six grandchildren- Elaena (Carson) Hoel, Daniel Williams, Rachel Williams, Claire Williams, Melanie Smith, and Aidan Williams. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister- Sue Pfingsten.

Bob graduated from Watseka Community High School in 1956. He attended Purdue University, Southern Illinois University and finished his degree at Governors State University after retiring from Uarco. He was a member of Watseka Elks Lodge having served as Past Exalted Ruler. His love of sports and his children found him active in Little League, Babe Ruth League, and Girls Softball League. Bob was a Webelos leader for the Scouts. He was active in the churches that he attended- serving as a Lector at St. Edmund Catholic Church and involved in many of the activities of the Knights of Columbus. Currently, he was very active in First Presbyterian Church in Watseka, even stepping up to the pulpit, if needed. Bob was in charge of the local United Way during the 1990’s and was past president of Shewami Country Club. Bob was involved with the Iroquois County Relay for Life as a member of Wolfie’s Walkers Relay Team, one of the top fundraising teams. Bob volunteered his time at Iroquois Memorial Hospital, administered the grant money for the Emergency Food and Shelter Program, and was chairman of the food committee for the annual Iroquois Memorial Hospice brunch. As a result of his years giving back to his community, Bob received the Watseka Times Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022.

Visitation will be on Tuesday October 8, 2024 from 4-7 pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka and one hour prior to the 11:00 am funeral service on Wednesday October 9, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church in Watseka. Pastor John Franklin will officiate. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice, First Presbyterian Church, Iroquois County Animal Rescue, Watseka Athletic Boosters or Watseka Band Boosters.

Please share a memory of Bob at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Margaret Louise Daniel, 89, of Iroquois passed away on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at her granddaughter’s residence. She was born on September 26, 1935 in Watseka, a daughter of John and Emma (Haste) Taylor. Margaret married Robert Clayton Daniel on October 28, 1953, in Kankakee, Illinois. They had two children during their marriage. Robert died on March 21, 2007, in Watseka, Illinois, at the age of 73.

She is survived by her son, Michael K. (Susan) Daniel of Iroquois; three granddaughters, Kim (Tyler) Nimz of Watseka, Karlene Daniel of Newman, and Kate (Paul) Capell of Florida; six great-grandchildren, Lukean Benoit, Rebecca Benoit, Taylor Daniel, Emma Capell, Kendrick Capell, and Maggie Capell; and her special friend, Dawn Daniel of Danforth.

Margaret was preceded in death by both of her parents; one son, Mark Daniel; and one grandson, Kristopher Daniel.

Margaret loved her cats, enjoyed mowing, and visiting with others. She worked at Uarco for over 20 years and missed going out after work for social times with friends.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Funeral services will also be at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 11, 2024 with Rev. Kevin Nourie officiating. Burial will follow in the Morris Chapel Cemetery near Iroquois.

Memorials may be made to the Morris Chapel Cemetery or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Please share a memory of Margaret at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Russell L. “Butch” Schoon, 77, of Ashkum passed away on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at his son’s home in Bradley. He was born on June 23, 1947 in Chicago, the son of Esther Schoon. He was taken in and raised by his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. William Schoon. He married Linda Papineau on June 28, 1969 and she preceded him in passing on August 6, 2013. He was also preceded in passing by his mother; grandparents; and daughter, Darcy Lynn Schoon.

Surviving are one daughter, Carri (David) Gray of Clifton and one son, Dennis (Jenn) Schoon of Bradley; stepsister, Ruth McWhorter; grandchildren, Meghan (Luke) Johnson, Trevor (Heather) Farley, Hanna Gray, Fallon Gray, and Treyson Schoon; and five great grand dogs.

Russell worked for the Village of Ashkum full and part time for twenty-six years. He was a former member of The Ashkum Fire Department as well. Russell served in the United States Army from 1966-1968 and was a lifetime member of Central VFW Post #2131. Mr. Schoon was a member of the NRA, Delta Waterfowl, and Pheasants Forever.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Chebanse. Graveside military rites to be provided by Central VFW Post #2131.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Uplifted Care Hospice of Kankakee.

Please share a memory of Russell at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Gail W. Lambert Jr., 82, of Watseka passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at his home. He was born on March 7, 1942 in Sheldon, a son of Gail and Pearl (Heistand) Lambert Sr. He married Sherry J. Hammond on September 19, 1969 in Danville and she preceded him in death on May 18, 2014. He was also preceded in death by his parents; five brothers; and two sisters.

He is survived by two sons, Eric (Suzanne) Lambert of Hoopeston and Chris (Stacy) Lambert of Morocco, IN; two daughters, Kelly Lambert (Terry Patterson) of Effner and Renea (Mark) Coleman of Watseka; one sister, Shirley Prater of Watseka; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Gail served in the U.S. Army from 1962-1964 and was a heavy machine operator. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family.

Services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Please share a memory of Gail at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Rose Mary Letlow, eighty-eight of Claytonville, IL passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Dominion Senior Living in Sevierville, TN.

She was born on November 28, 1935, in Cissna Park, IL. She was a daughter of Wellington and Eunice (Bishop) Drilling.

Rose Mary married Milton Beecher Letlow in Cissna Park on November 20, 1955, and he preceded her in death on March 9, 1997.

Survivors include three daughters- Deborah (Paul) Weilmuenster of Catlin, Connie Cavitt of Ten Mile, TN, and Pamela (Doug) Johnson of Seymour, TN. Also surviving are one brother- Glen (Jean) Drilling of Buckley; sister-in-law Patricia Drilling of Woodland, CA; eight grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Lois, Doris, Ethel, Wesley, Donald, and Roy.

Rose Mary was a member of the Claytonville Civic Club and the United Methodist Church. She enjoyed playing card games, taking the grandchildren on golf cart rides, golfing, snowmobiling, and bowling with the Maytagettes.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 11:00 am at the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park with Pastor Mark Pitts officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am on Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Cissna Park Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the CP Fire Department or the CP American Legion.

Please share a memory of Rose Mary at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Douglas N. Karsgaard, 82, of Clifton passed away on Sunday, September 29, 2024 at his daughter’s residence in Clifton. He was born on August 11, 1942 in Milks Grove Township, the son of Edward N. and Dagmar (Christensen) Karsgaard. He married Judith Ann Hubert at St. Martin Catholic Church in Kankakee on September 11, 1965 and she preceded him in passing on January 3, 2015.

Surviving are one daughter, Stephannie (Rusty) Moyer of Clifton; one son, Stephen (Dawn) Karsgaard of Kankakee; three grandchildren, Collin, Cooper, and Chloee; two great grandchildren, Barrett and Liam; two honorary grandchildren, Calvin Hickson and family and Kyle Hickson and family; two sisters, Arlene Hendrickson and Lorraine Crabtree; and special niece and nephew, Kim Meyer and family and Rick Tjarks and family.

In addition to his wife, Judith Ann Karsgaard, he was preceded in passing by his parents and one brother, Dallas Karsgaard.

Douglas served in the United States Army Reserves. He worked for Nicor for over forty years. Mr. Karsgaard enjoyed hunting and trapping, woodworking, and attending to his garden. Douglas was an avid gun collector and enjoyed restoring old tools. He was of the Lutheran faith.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 pm on Friday, October 4, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

Funeral services will be at 9:00 am on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Clifton. Graveside military rites will be provided by Central VFW Post #2131.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Please share a memory of Douglas at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Betty L. Ahrens, 86, of Watseka passed away on Monday, September 30, 2024 at Watseka Rehab and Healthcare Center. She was born on November 7, 1937 in Limestone, a daughter of Rudolph J. and Anna Marie (Rabideau) Ahrens Sr.

Survivors include one brother, Rudolph (Patricia) Ahrens Jr. of Watseka; three sisters, Reta Myers of Watseka, Anita (Darrell) Speers of Palm Bay, FL and Kay (Jim) Green of Georgetown.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Harold and Francis; and five sisters, Joanna, Doris, Geri, Ruth and Lois.

Betty was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka where she served on the Altar Guild and Ladies’ Guild. She was a lifetime member of the Old Courthouse Museum in Watseka.

Funeral services will be on Friday, October 4, 2024 at 11:00 am at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka with Pastor Aaron Uphoff officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Calvary Pre-school.

Arrangements are by Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Please share a memory of Betty at baierfuneralhome.com.

Minerva Mae “Mini” (Behrens) Kessinger, 96, passed away Thursday, September 26, 2024 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. She was born in Burlington, Illinois, the second child of Harry and Dorothy (Wolfe) Behrens. She married her “home from the war boyfriend”, Linard Ray Kessinger on August 11,1946 in Watseka. He preceded her in death on December 24, 2019. She was also preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, three brothers, and one son-in-law.

Mini is survived by her daughter, Susan (Charles) Arbuckle of rural Dewey, Illinois; her son, Dennis (Dianne) Kessinger of Peyton, Colorado; three grandchildren, John (Holly) Arbuckle of Newcastle, Maine, Kristen (Tom Lalley) Arbuckle of Washington DC, and Dustin Kessinger of Parker, Colorado. She was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Noah and Zea Arbuckle and Jane and Eamon Lalley. She is also survived by nieces and nephews, Shirley Bratcher McCullough, Sharon (Jim) Rougk Brank, Cindy Kohlenberg Henry, and Wally (Colleen) Frohling, and many other nieces and nephews; and two sisters-in-law, Betty Kessinger and Ruth Behrens.

Mini was active in many organizations when the children were home, including Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. She was a lifelong member of Calvary Lutheran Church and perhaps the oldest, longest member. She was a terrific 1950s house wife and worked at Uarco. Mini’s interests and passions were her family, traveling in RV caravan with her family, card games with her family, and planning family parties. She was also a skilled crocheter and quilter.

Visitation will be on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service all at Calvary Lutheran Church with Rev. Aaron Uphoff officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials can be made to Calvary Lutheran Church or Calvary Lutheran Preschool.

Arrangements are by the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.