Reta M. Myers, 84, of Watseka passed away on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at her residence. She was born on July 4, 1940 in St. Anne, a daughter of Rudolph J. and Anna Marie (Rabideau) Ahrens Sr. Reta married Kenneth Myers on July 14, 1957 in Watseka and he preceded her in death on December 16, 2009. They were married for 52 years.

Reta is survived by her three children, Gregory (Toni) Myers of Watseka, Kendra (Jeff) Ritter of Iroquois, and Kevin (Denise) Myers of Watseka; seven grandchildren, Danielle (Ian) Pendergast-White, Krista (Jason) Duzan, Jordan (Katie) Myers, Nichole (Kevin) Schroeder, Kenton (Amber) Kunsch, Ashley (Kenneth) Scowden, and Brock (Kelly) Myers; 12 great-grandchildren; one brother, Rudolph (Patricia) Ahrens Jr. of Watseka; two sisters, Anita (Darrell) Speers of Palm Bay, FL and Kay (Jim) Green of Georgetown; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Harold and Francis; and six sisters, Joanna, Doris, Geri, Ruth, Lois, and Betty.

Reta was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka, where she was confirmed and married. At church, Reta served as a Sunday School Teacher and was a member of the Ladies Guild. Reta was employed for many years as a secretary for several businesses. She was also a care giver for her father-in-law and her husband after he had several strokes. Reta loved to bowl and even went to local, state, and national tournaments. She was the local president for the Watseka bowling league for many years. Reta also enjoyed watching the Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Illini, and Bears play. She was also a great fan of NASCAR racing.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Friday, April 4, 2025 all at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka with Rev. Aaron Uphoff officiating. Burial will be at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Calvary Preschool or the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are by the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

George “Harry” Riemer, 73, of Watseka, IL and formerly of Chicago, IL passed away on Tuesday, March, 18, 2025 in Kankakee Illinois with his daughters and wife by his side.

Harry was born on August 4, 1952, in Chicago, IL. He is the son of Conrad Aubrey Riemer and Ida Jean “Penny” Karno and brother to Kim Riemer who all proceeded his death.

He is survived by his wife Mary “Margaret” Lowe, his two daughters, Ashley Riemer (Husband, Patrick), Courtney Riemer, and grandson Jael Riemer, step children Danielle, Levi, Pam and step grand children Sydney, Julian and Layla.

Harry was a member of Trinity Church in Watseka. He enjoyed, traveling, great food, and family time. Harry was a heavy machine operator for local 150 union (retired) and owner “Cindy-Rella’s” Studio apartments in Watseka.

If you ever had the pleasure to meet Harry, you would instantly feel his warmth, humor, kindness, and love. He was larger than life always looking to help others either with the church or community. He would lead by example and provide mentorship to anyone who needed it, especially those whom lived in the building. Upon moving to Watseka in the late 1990’s he restored the original “Bon-Air” Hotel into a sanctuary for those seeking a safe place to call home.

Services to be held April 4, 2025, 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM at Trinity Church in Watseka. If you will be attending the service and are comfortable doing so, please bring your favorite memory of Harry to share with us. Reception to follow at Silo Pub and Eatery (117 W Walnut St, Watseka, IL 60970) from 6:45 PM to 8:45 PM. Food and drinks will be served.

George H. Tammen, 94, of Danforth passed away on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Faith Place in Danforth. He was born on July 7, 1930 in Danforth, a son of George J. and Hannah (Wilken) Tammen. George married Phyllis Johnson on February 4, 1951 in Danforth and she preceded him in death on December 22, 1998. He later married Beverly A. Eimen in Danforth on June 9, 2002 and she preceded him in death on July 1, 2017.

He is survived by two sons, Robert (Elaine) Tammen of Danforth and William (Carol) Tammen of Maryville, Tennessee; five grandchildren, Kerry (Brian) Johnson of Mahomet, Wyatt (Heather) Tammen of Danforth, Jennifer (Josh) Leonard of Danforth, Ashley Tammen of Cortland, New York, and Kelsey Tammen of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin; ten great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Skylar (Courtney), Karlie, Claire (Chet), Garret, Clayton, Cannon, Cort, Phylicity, and Lillian; and two great-great-grandchildren, Hank and Harley. Also surviving are Beverly’s children, Randy (Melody) Eimen and Gayle (Larry) Walsh, Janet (Phillip) Meyer, Sheila (Mike) Ubelhor, Carol (Roger) Heideman, Eric (Lisa) Eimen, Ken (Yoko) Eimen, and Alan (Lori) Eimen.

George was also preceded in death by his parents and sister, Eloise Haag.

George was a lifetime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Danforth and a lifelong farmer in the Danforth area. He served on the board of the Farmers State Bank in Danforth. George was Superintendent of the Iroquois County Fairgrounds for many years. He served as an Iroquois County Board Member, District Ditch Commissioner, Danforth-Gilman Grain Company Board, and Ford-Iroquois Farm Bureau Board. After retirement, he was known for George’s Tomatoes.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Danforth with Pastor Tim Tammen officiating. Burial will follow in the Danforth Cemetery in Danforth.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Faith Place or St. John’s Lutheran Church Organ Fund.

Barbara Joan Rudisill, 85, of Gilman passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. She was born on April 7, 1939 in Kidderminster, England, a daughter of Ronald and Eileen (Dadford) Sly. Her father was killed in France during WWII. Eileen and her two daughters, Barbara and Patricia, were living in England when Donald “Boob” Goller was wounded in France and transferred to England where he eventually met them and married their mother, Eileen.

Barb married Harold Rudisill on May 12, 1962 in Kankakee and he survives.

Also surviving are four sons, Harold (Jeanne) Grimm of Watseka, Ronnie Rudisill of Sheldon, Billy Rudisill of Crescent City, and Mike Rudisill of Sheldon; one sister, Anita “Neets” Goller (Jim) Honn of Gilman; one brother-in-law, Roland; niece, Ann Ledoux of Florida; ten grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather; sister; two daughters and sons-in-law, Cindy (Dick) Corke and Mary Ann (John) Skawinski; and one nephew, Jeff Ledoux.

Barb was employed by Littlefuse in Watseka. She loved garage sales, playing bingo, and having coffee with her friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with burial in the Sheldon Cemetery.

Baier Funeral Home in Watseka is in charge of arrangements.

Edward E. Johnson, 92, of Watseka passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. He was born on November 19, 1932 in Martinton Twp., a son of Gilbert and Loretta (Bear) Johnson. Ed married Norma Wieringa on March 12, 1955 in Watseka and she preceded him in death on December 14, 2003.

Ed is survived by one daughter, Gloria (Ivan) Haste of Donovan; two sons, Bruce (Lucinda) Johnson of Bismarck and Tim (Sherry) Johnson of Sheldon; 10 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; 10 step-grandchildren; many step great-grandchildren; two sisters, Delores Redman of Watseka and Rose Mae Stone of Pensacola, Florida; and brother-in-law, Richard (Susie) Boomgarden of Watseka.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; brother and sister-in-law, Louis and June Johnson; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Shirley and Louis Newbury and Alice and Leo Grabow; and three brothers-in-law, Frank Redman, Burgess Stone, and Gordon Heck.

Ed was a proud veteran of the United States Army and member of the Watseka American Legion Post 23. He worked for UARCO for 36 years as a pressman. Ed loved to camp and was a member of a camping club. He enjoyed woodworking and graphic communications. Ed was a member of the Sheldon Church of Christ.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the 1:00 p.m funeral service on Monday, March 31, 2025 at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka with Rev. Van Haas officiating. Burial will follow in the Sheldon Cemetery in Sheldon with graveside military rites by the Watseka American Legion Post 23.

Memorials may be made to the Sheldon Church of Christ or the Watseka American Legion Post 23.

Please share a memory of Ed at www.baierfuneralhome.com.

Cheryl A. Gerdes, 73, of Ashkum passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on June 19, 1951 in Kankakee, a daughter of Roland and Louretta (Regnier) Lafond and they preceded her in death along with two brothers, Tom and Darrell.

Cheryl married Ron Gerdes on December 11, 1971 in Beaverville and he survives. Also surviving are two sons, Rick (Carrie) Gerdes of Champaign and Randy Gerdes of Ashkum; six grandchildren, Hailee (Jason) Williams of Mattoon, McKinley Gerdes (Joseph Murphy) of St. Louis, Missouri, Cassidy (Max) Price of Onarga, Caitlyn Gerdes (Nic Vaughn) of Peru, Kylie Gerdes of Champaign, and Camden Gerdes of Clifton; two great-grandchildren, Wesley and Everly Williams and one due in November; and many nieces and nephews.

Cheryl was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her grandkids were her pride and joy, rarely missing any event they participated in. She loved having the family all in one place, listening to the stories and telling many herself. During her time at Clifton Central High School, she was known as "Mom Gerdes" to her sons’ many friends. She was loved by so many, and will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton and also one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral services will be on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. also at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Burial will follow in the Ashkum Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Ashkum Fire Department or Ashkum Lions Club.

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

Donald George Hemp, 88, of Watseka passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025 at Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. He was born on March 16, 1937 in Watseka, the son of George and Della (Soucie) Hemp. He married Sheryl Seibring in Watseka on September 2, 1977.

Surviving are his wife, Sheryl Hemp of Watseka; one daughter, Robin (Jeff) Hildenbrand of Crescent City; three sons, Larry (Brenda) Hemp of Whigham, GA, David (Debbie) Hemp of Wildersville, TN, and Michael (Julie) Hemp of Beaverville; eight grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

He was preceded in passing by his parents; one brother; one sister; and a son, Mark Hemp.

Donald grew up on the farm and continued farming himself into adulthood. He had a passion for woodworking, specifically making wooden tulips and clocks. He enjoyed yard work, gardening, RFD television, and all things Christmas lights. Mr. Hemp was a fan of the Illini, Purdue, Chicago Cubs, Bulls, and Bears.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 from 4:00-6:00 pm at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at Centennial Christian Church in Watseka. Joe Hughes will officiate.

Private burial will take place at a later date at Prairie Dell Cemetery in Iroquois.

Memorials may be made to Parkinson’s Foundation.

Please share a memory of Donald at baierfuneralhome.com.

Phyllis Anne Anderson, 85, of Casa Grande, AZ and formerly of Cissna Park passed away on Sunday, March, 16, 2025 at her daughter's residence in Arizona.

Phyllis was born on May 11, 1939 in Tremont, the daughter of Philip and Anna (Hodel) Sauder and they preceded her in death along with one brother, Curt Sauder and one great-grandson, Emmit Damas.

She is survived by one son, Seth (Kristen) Anderson of Wautoma, WI; one daughter, Lisa (fiancé Duane Collins) Damas of Casa Grande, AZ; and one sister, Sharon (Kenny) Eisenmann of Cissna Park; one sister-in-law, Elaine Sauder; seven grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren.

Phyllis was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park and Phoenix, AZ. She enjoyed sewing, traveling, photography, and family time. Phyllis taught at Wasco Elementary School for many years and retired from the St. Charles school district.

Visitation will be from 9:00 until the 10:00 a.m funeral service on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at the Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park. Ministers of the church will officiate. Burial will follow at the Apostolic Christian Cemetery in Cissna Park.

Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

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

Aaron Dean Taylor, 59, of Donovan passed away on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at his residence. He was born on January 16, 1966 in Watseka, the son of Robert and Sharon (Varbounker) Taylor. Aaron married Angela Lavoie on November 11, 1989 in Watseka.

Aaron is survived by his wife, Angie Taylor of Donovan; one son, Jacob Dallas Taylor (Angie Boesche) of Urbana; one daughter, Jenna Ann (Tyler) Riem of Champaign; two grandchildren, Ezra Jacob and Soren Paul Riem both at home; his mother, Sharon Taylor of Iroquois; aunt and uncle, Janet and Jerry McVey of Donovan; sisters-in-law, Jean (Ty) Herron of Crescent City, Mary (Scott) Quinn of Bloomington, and Michel Lavoie of Austin, Texas; brothers-in-law, Dave Fink of Onarga and Kenton Munsterman of St. Anne; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bob Taylor; and two sisters-in-law, Pam Fink and Barb Munsterman.

Aaron was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Crescent City. Aaron retired after 31 years from IBEW Local #176. He was a founding member of the Illiana Pulling Association. Aaron loved truck and tractor pulling, all motor sports, and farming. He enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs and bowling. Aaron found joy in cooking for others, but most of all he loved his family and spending time with the grandchildren.

Visitation will be on Monday, March 17, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at the Iroquois Community Center in Iroquois with Rev. Brent Salm officiating. Burial will follow in the Morris Chapel Cemetery near Donovan.

Memorials may be made to the Concord Fire Department, Iroquois Community Center, or the Family’s Wishes.

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

Carol Sue Shortsleeve, age 79, passed away peacefully at her home on February 27, 2025, following a brief illness. She was born on December 5, 1945, in Watseka, IL, to Arthur and Delores Hewitt. On October 2, 1965, she married Richard Shortsleeve, with whom she shared 59 years.

Carol dedicated her career to education, serving as a beloved teacher at Donovan Elementary School. A longtime member of Donovan Methodist Church, she found joy in her faith and community. After retiring, she became an avid quilter, always eager to share her beautiful creations with friends and family. Whether visiting loved ones or heading to a doctor’s appointment, she never missed an opportunity to bring along a quilt to show. Carol also had a deep appreciation for nature, finding peace in her daily walks outdoors.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Richard (Jamie) Shortsleeve, Christine (Ralph) Waldo, and Carrie (Eric) Little. She was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren—Ty and Aaron Shortsleeve; Peyton and Emerson Waldo; Ava, Zachary, and Andrea Little; Orlando and Jaydon Casey, and Sawyer Shortsleeve—and a cherished great-grandmother to Amelia Shortsleeve.

Carol is also survived by her sisters, Linda Kohl and Mae Skidmore. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Ashley Casey, and her brother David Hewitt.

Visitation will be on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka, Illinois. There will be a graveside service at 1:30 p.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Carol’s kindness, creativity, and love for family will be deeply missed. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

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

Elizabeth A. “Bette” Fesselmeyer, 78, of Sheldon passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at her residence. She was born on April 19, 1946 in Fairbury, a daughter of William “Sonny” H. and Waltraud “Wally” (Krummel) Lyon III and they preceded her in death.

Bette married William Fesselmeyer on October 8, 1966 in Watseka and he survives in Sheldon. Also surviving are one brother, Richard Lyon of Thawville.

Bette retired as a legal secretary from Tungate Law Offices. She loved watching NASCAR and enjoyed riverboat gaming. Amongst her greatest treasures were her family and friends.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 17, 2025 at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. A private graveside service will be held at the Ridgeland Twp. Cemetery near Thawville with Joe Hughes officiating.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Please share a memory of Bette at www.baierfuneralhome.com.

Laura Ann Nehls, 65, of Milford passed away on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at her home. She was born on April 4, 1959 in Chicago, Illinois, a daughter of Dr. Erick C. and Dianne O. (Frerichs) Nehls Jr. Her father preceded her in death.

Laura is survived by her mother, Dianne Nehls; brother, Chris Nehls; sister-in-law, Heidi Nehls; aunts Annette Hari, Sandra Morgan (Frerichs), and Dawn Nehls; and many cousins.

She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church at Schwer.

Cremation rites by the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Graveside service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Central Illinois Riding Therapy, Inc. in Peoria, IL. (http://cirt.info/)

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

Dennis D. Kregel, 92, of Cissna Park passed away on Sunday March 9, 2025 at his home. He was born on February 23, 1933 in Watseka a son of William and Elise (Ehlers) Kregel. Dennis married Janice M. Breymeyer at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Idaville on January 19, 1958 and she survives. Also surviving are one daughter, Darla (Greg) Steffen of LeRoy; three sons, Dale (Theo) Kregel of Mt Prospect, Dean (Tricia) Kregel of Milford, and Darrin (Tammy) Kregel of Crescent City; 9 grandchildren, Stacey Kregel, Steve (Gauri) Kregel, James (Dawn) Bane, Marcus Kregel, Eric and Shannon Steffen, Cory Kregel, Emily (Pieter) Buckle, and Austin (Karlie Wilken) Kregel; three great-grandchildren, Abel Bane, Ben Bane, and Maya Kregel. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Allen Kregel, and two sisters, Viola Lucht and Joanne Luebchow.

Dennis was a member of St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Woodworth and served in the US Army during the Korean War. He was a lifelong farmer and enjoyed supporting his grandchildren in all their activities as they were his pride and joy. Dennis was a talented woodworker and enjoyed making many special items for his family.

Visitation will be on Friday, March 14, 2025 from 4-7 pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park and one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral services will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Woodworth on Saturday, March 15 at 11:00 am with Rev. Michael Ruhlig officiating. Burial will follow at St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery with graveside military rites by Cissna Park American Legion.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, St. Paul’s Lutheran School, or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

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

Kimberly Sue Cann, 55, of Milford passed away on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born on September 29, 1969 in Chicago Heights, a daughter of Emil and Peggy (Owens) Buchmeier and they preceded her in death.

Kim grew up in Monee, briefly living on her parent’s farm before moving into town. She loved animals - especially pigs. The only animal she disliked was the big white rooster her Mom and Dad had on the farm. It would wait for her to come home on the school bus and chase her all the way up their long driveway until she got to the house. She never liked chickens after that. Kim graduated from Crete-Monee High School in 1987 and went to Prairie State College, graduating in 1990 with an Associate of Arts degree.

She married Jeffrey Ralph Cann Sr., on September 14th, 1991 and he preceded her in death on May 9, 2024. They moved to Sheldon and later Milford, where she resided when she passed. Kim worked for Sumner National Bank - now Iroquois Farmers State Bank - for over 20 years, where she made lifelong friendships and met many people throughout the community.

Kimberly is survived by four children, Jessica (Cole) Smith of Warren, PA, Jeffrey (Brooke) Cann Jr. of Milford, Khyler (Esme) Cann of Milford, and Kullen Cann of Milford, four grandchildren, Auden, Della, Evelyn, and Dax; five siblings, Connie Brittingham, Cliff (Kathy) Buchmeier, Gail (John) Nantz, Mike (Joanne) Buchmeier, and Laura (Bruce) Hallberg.

Kim was always a very artistic and crafty person. She loved making handmade gifts for each of her grandchildren and even had a whole room in their house designated for her crafting materials. She loved spending time with her family and friends and taking day trips with no particular destination. Playing card games with her family during the holidays and get-togethers was also one of her favorite things to do. Kim’s greatest accomplishment in life was her family and she will be deeply missed by them all.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 10, 2025 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford with Rev. Brent Zastrow officiating. Burial will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

Memorials may be made to her son, Kullen’s UTMA Account (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act) c/o Iroquois Farmers State Bank in Iroquois.

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

Connie R. Bruns, 64, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at her residence.

Connie was born August 23, 1960 in Watseka, the daughter of Onnie and Nancy (Fletcher) Hilgendorf. She married James K. Bruns on September 13, 1980 in Watseka and he survives.

Other survivors include two daughters, Leah (Scott) Hulse of Peoria and Laura (Craig) Carlson of Watseka; her mother, Nancy Hilgendorf of Watseka; two brothers, Douglas (Lynn) Hilgendorf of St. Joseph and Craig (Debbie) Hilgendorf of Donovan; one sister, Julie (Paul) Nourie of Lafayette, Indiana; seven grandchildren, Khloe, Addie, Dylan, Lydia, Grace, Evelyn and Lucy; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her father, Onnie Hilgendorf.

Connie was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka where she played the organ for 51 years. She loved reading, playing the piano and organ, and spending time with her family. Connie was employed for many years with Brock, Markwalder, Sunderland, and Spenn Law Offices as a legal secretary.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka. Rev. Aaron Uphoff will officiate. Burial will follow at Prairie Dell Cemetery in Iroquois.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:30 p.m. on Friday, March 7, 2025 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka as well as one hour prior to the funeral services at the church.

Memorials may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

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

Laura Elizabeth Hoffmann, 102 years old, left this world on February 27, 2025, in Joliet, Illinois.

On Thursday, October 28, 1943, she was joined in marriage to Wayne E. Hoffmann of Cissna Park, Illinois, where she lived most of her adult life. On January 18, 2007, after 63 years of a wonderful shared life, Wayne went home to his Heavenly Father. They were blessed with one daughter, Marsha Smith, widow of Ron Smith, in Plainfield, Illinois. A granddaughter, Dusti Magemeneas, Grandson-in-law, John Magemeneas, and a Grandson, Adam Smith, also survive. Her pride and joy were her six great-grandchildren: Mason, Gloria Lynne, Lydia, and Sylvia Magemeneas; and Connor and Emma Smith.

Laura is also survived by two younger brothers Bob (Norma) Dunbar and Darrell (Diane) Dunbar. Preceded in death also by her parents, Henry and Hazel Dunbar, three infant brothers, one brother, and four sisters.

Laura was a faithful member of the Cissna Park Union Church where she enjoyed working and fulfilling many roles, but the one closest to her heart was serving as church organist for over 49 years.

She will also be remembered for her artistic and creative ability and won several awards and honors, including the Illinois Governor’s Trophy, for her decorated eggshells. She and her husband owned and operated Hoffmann House, a Hallmark card and gift shop for many years in Cissna Park.

Laura was an avid reader, enjoyed playing card games, loved doing jigsaw puzzles, studied the bible, and was a fan of old television shows like M*A*S*H and The Andy Griffith Show. She was also passionate about making and sending her handcrafted cards.

Services are limited to private family graveside rites.

The family suggests that memorials may be given to the Christian Bible Church (1202 E North Road, Cissna Park, IL 60924,) Ina Missionary Baptist Church (200 W 3rd Street, Ina, IL 62846), or the charity of your choice.

Knapp Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Brenda K. Eastburn, 80, of Sheldon passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025 at her home. She was born on January 2, 1945 in Danville, the daughter of Elmer and Clara (Cooksey) Long. She married Thomas J. Eastburn in Watseka on February 14, 1986 and he preceded her in passing on August 23, 2009.

She is survived by one son, Thomas H. Eastburn (Ginger Ade) of Otterbein, IN; two grandchildren, Tate (Betsy) Eastburn and Gabrielle “Gabby” Eastburn; five sisters, Barb Gosser of Pence, IN, Nancy (John) Neal of Chattanooga, TN, Winnie Roach of Wellington, Marsha (Don) Cropper of Armstrong, Sherrie (Steve) Leslie of Hoopeston; and she was the most loving Aunt to many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Brenda was preceded in passing by her parents; husband, Thomas; fiancé, William “Bill” McNeely; step mother, Clara Madison Long; three brothers, Herbert Long, James Long, and Ronald Long; and two nephews, Rodney Neal and Keith Long.

Mrs. Eastburn grew up and attended school in Hoopeston. After the passing of her mother in 1961, she raised her three younger siblings, Sue, Jim, and Ron. She worked for years at Howard Industries in Milford and later at Little Fuse in Watseka.

She married Tom Eastburn and moved to the family farm where she enjoyed gardening and reading. They enjoyed winters in Key West, FL and Friday night dinners at Karchi’s in Watseka. After Tom’s passing, she met William “Bill” McNeeley in 2014 where she embraced and shared the love and friendship of his children and siblings. They often gathered for family fun, playing games and enjoying snacks. Bill preceded her in passing in November 2022.

You could always expect a Christmas card or Birthday card from Brenda. She was the keeper of all family phone numbers and address and she will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be from 11:00-1:00 pm on Friday, March 7, 2025 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 pm on Friday, also at the funeral home. Dr. John Neal, Pastor Steve Adsit, and Joe Williams will officiate. Burial will follow at Sheldon Cemetery in Sheldon.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Please share a memory of Brenda at baierfuneralhome.com.

Patricia D. Cluver, 85, of Warren, Indiana and formerly of Watseka passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025, at Heritage Pointe in Warren, Indiana. She was born on November 17, 1939 in Milford, a daughter of Carl and Pearl (Hofer) Lauterbach. Pat married Dean C. Cluver on January 27, 1962, in Watseka at Calvary Lutheran Church, and he survives in Warren, Indiana.

Also surviving is one daughter, Lisa (Timothy) DeHaven of LaFontaine, Indiana; one brother, Charles (Judy) Lauterbach of Clifton; two grandchildren, Brandi (Sam) Johnson and James (Cassidy) DeHaven; three great-grandchildren, Alice DeHaven, Gracelyn Johnson, and Aggie DeHaven.

Pat was preceded in death by both of her parents; one brother, Russell Lauterbach; one sister, Delores Cushman; and one son, Matthew Cluver.

Pat was confirmed at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Crescent City, IL. Pat was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Huntington, Indiana. She was also a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka for many years. Pat was involved with the Ladies’ Guild and in the Grandmothers’ Club. She graduated from Watseka High School in 1958. Pat also graduated from Charm Beauty in Kankakee. She was a hair stylist and then worked in retail clothing / jewelry sales in upscale department stores for many years. Pat was employed at Superior Cleaners in Watseka. Pat was also the owner and operator of Mt. Etna Bait and Tackle in Indiana for 25 years.

Pat loved angels, cats, her grandchildren, and great-grand girls. She was always very “put together” and never left her house without being made up and dressed very nicely. She also loved shopping and especially enjoyed thrift shopping with Lisa and Brandi for great deals on clothing. Pat loved playing card and board games with Brandi and James.

Visitation will be on Friday, March 7, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka with Rev. Aaron Uphoff officiating. Burial will follow in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

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

John W. Hogle, also known as “The Bicycle Man”, 94, of Sheldon passed away on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at the Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. He was born on November 24, 1930 in Watseka, a son of William C. and Florence (Edgar) Hogle and they preceded him in death along with one sister, Jean Sancken.

John is survived by his son, Richard Hogle of Stephenson, Virginia; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

He was a member of the Sheldon Methodist Church. John was a proud veteran of the United States Army having served during the Korean Conflict. He was also a lifetime member of the VFW.

Graveside services will be at a later date in the Sheldon Cemetery in Sheldon.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to the Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Please share a memory of “The Bicycle Man” at knappfuneralhomes.com.