Listeners Club

Forgot Password

Not a Member? Sign up here!

Obituaries Archives for 2025-09

Jackie E. Shrimplin, 78, of Sheldon

Jackie E. Shrimplin, 78, of Sheldon passed away on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at her residence. She was born on August 6, 1947 in Watseka, a daughter of Norman and Edna Mae (Montgomery) Smith.

 

Jackie married Leland Shrimplin on February 6, 1966 at the Christian Church in Sheldon and he survives.

 

Also surviving are one son, Rob Shrimplin of Sheldon; one daughter, Daphne Howell of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; nine grandchildren, Jake, Kaylee, Dane, Morgan, and Reid Shrimplin and Luke, Nate, Jack, and Gabe Howell; three great-grandchildren, Carter, Oliver, and Bella; one sister, Connie (Steve) Pluimer of Brook, Indiana; and many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

 

She is preceded in death by both of her parents; two brothers; and four sisters.

 

Jackie was the Director of Finances for the Ford-Iroquois Public Health Department. She was a member of Cornerstone Church in Woodland. Jackie loved to watch TV Ministry and enjoyed the Turning Point. She was a member of the Arbor Day Foundation. Jackie loved tending to her flowers, gardening, cooking, baking, and crocheting.

 

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 3, 2025 all at the Cornerstone Church in Woodland with Pastor Jerry Parker officiating. Burial will be in the Sheldon Cemetery.

 

Memorials may be made to the Cornerstone Church or to the Cornerstone Leadership Academy.

 

Arrangements are by the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

 

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

Rosemary Lois Sparenberg, 74, of Gilman

Rosemary Lois Sparenberg, 74, of Gilman passed away on Sunday, September 28, 2025 at Arcadia Care in Bloomington. She was born on January 22, 1951 in Farmer City, IL, the daughter of Melvin and Rowena (Butler) Beacher.

 

She is survived by two cousins, Norma Miller of Bloomington and David (Rita) Butler of Normal.

 

Rosemary was preceded in passing by her parents and two children, Jason Sparenberg and Lisa Sparenberg.

 

She worked as a nurse for over thirty years. Mrs. Sparenberg was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gilman where she played the organ and piano. She was very strong in her Christian faith.

 

Graveside services will be at 1:00 pm on Friday, October 3, 2025 at Clifton Cemetery in Clifton.

 

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

 

Please share a memory of Rosemary at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Earl R. LaReau, 81, of Watseka

Earl R. LaReau, 81, of Watseka passed away on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on April 24, 1944 in Kankakee, a son of Russell and Myrtle (Martell) LaReau. They preceded him in death along with three brothers, Romell LaReau, Merrill "Moe" LaReau, and Sylvanus LaReau.

 

Earl married Carol Lynn Schmidt on June 20, 1964 in Beaverville.

 

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Carol LaReau of Watseka; two daughters, Tracy (Mike) Harris of Naples, Florida and Shelli (Marty) Williams of Chicago; one son, Justin LaReau of Carolina Beach, North Carolina; and two grandsons, Sawyer Harris and Tanner Harris.

 

Earl was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. Earl enjoyed the many years he spent coaching his children’s sports teams. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and loved traveling especially to Florida. Earl spent years working as a barber and had a 30-year career, retiring from General Foods.

 

Visitation will be on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. until the 3:00 p.m. Funeral Mass all at St. Edmund’s Catholic Church in Watseka with Fr. Michael Powell officiating. A private burial will be held at a later date at the Sheldon Cemetery.

 

Memorials may be made to the St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka, Iroquois Memorial Hospital, or to the donor’s choice.

 

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

 

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

Clarence Leroy Saxsma 93 of Clifton

September 20, 2025. This is the day the Lord took Clarence Leroy Saxsma to his heavenly home. Clarence was born June 24, 1932 to Pete and Tena (Jansen) Saxsma. He attended a country school in Danforth. He started farming at age 16 until he retired in the Clifton area. He married Myrtle Kremer on February 20, 1954 at the Danforth Reform Church. They were blessed with 71 and a half years.

 

Surviving are his wife and children: Kent (Tracy) Saxsma, Karla (Ron) Siebring, Karmal (Lindon) Faull, and Kurt (Stephanie) Saxsma; 14 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; brothers, Don Saxsma and Marvin (Judy) Saxsma; sisters, Loretta De Roos and Ruth Kjos; and numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Richard, George, and James; sisters, Bernice Perzee, Dorothy Huzinga, Florence Selk, and Viola Blystra; and grandson, Josiah Faull.

 

Clarence was a member of the River Valley Christian Fellowship Church. He enjoyed singing, refinishing furniture, taking care of his yard, and was a lifelong Cub fan. Clarence and Myrtle lived in the same neighborhood for 25 years and were blessed with wonderful neighbors. His faith came first, then family, friends, and farming (only with John Deere equipment).

 

The family would like to thank the staff of Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth and Uplifted Care for their wonderful compassionate, loving care.

 

Visitation will be on Thursday, September 25, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to the 11:00 a.m. funeral service at the Danforth Reformed Church with Rev. Donald J. MacDonald III, Lindon Faull, and Sam Gobel officiating. Burial will be at a later date in the Danforth Cemetery.

 

Memorials may be made to River Valley Christian Fellowship Church, Danforth Reform Church, or Prairieview Lutheran Home.

 

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

 

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

Michael F. Spade Sr, 83, of Crescent City

Michael F. Spade Sr, 83, of Crescent City passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at his residence. He was born on August 1, 1942 in Hammond, Indiana, a son of Ernest and Irma (Ivie) Spade. They preceded him in death along with his step-father, Robert Mapes; one brother, Larry Spade; one sister, Phyllis McKee; and one son, Ronnie Spade.

 

Mike married Lanetta Harwood on March 20, 1966 in Watseka and she survives.

 

Also surviving are his son, Michael (Diana) Spade Jr of Bourbonnais; and one brother, Phillip (Vickie) Spade of Kansas.

 

Mike was a proud veteran of the United States Army having served during the Vietnam War. He worked for many years as a custodian at Watseka High School. Mike was also a very talented carpenter and loved to fish.

 

Per his wishes, there will be no services.

 

Burial will be at a later date in the Flesher Cemetery near Crescent City.

 

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Ronald E. Boyer, 85, of Watseka

Ronald E. Boyer, 85, of Watseka passed away at his home on Friday, September 19, 2025. Visitation will be at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka on Friday, September 26 from 4-6pm. Additional visitation will be held on Saturday, September 27 at 10am with funeral services to follow at 11am at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Woodworth and then burial at the GAR cemetery in Watseka after the service.

 

Born May 4, 1940 at Paxton Community Hospital to Kenneth and Helen (Troutman) Boyer of Buckley, Ron attended school in Buckley before his family moved to Champaign. Ron graduated from Champaign Central High School in 1958. While he was accepted to Harvard University for both college and law school, he chose to attend the University of Illinois and graduated with a degree in Political Science in 1962 while a member of ROTC. After college, Ron attended the University of Chicago and received his JD in 1965.

 

After completing his education, Ron served proudly in the US Army from 1965-1969 and was stationed in Korea from 1966-1967. He was honorably discharged in 1969 after achieving the rank of Captain.

 

Ron practiced law in Iroquois, Kankakee, Ford, and Champaign counties for over 50 years and served as Iroquois County State’s Attorney from 1968-1976. Before the state moratorium, he was one of the few lawyers in the state qualified to represent defendants who were eligible for the death penalty.

 

Ron was married in 1967 to his first wife, Esther Deszcz. After divorcing, Ron luckily met and married the love of his life, Sandra Zeedyk, in 1996. They spent 29 loving years together building a life and home filled with family and friends while raising their grandson, Jordan.

 

Ron was proceeded in death by his parents and parents-in-law (Lambert and Lorene Zeedyk), siblings (Jack Boyer and Marlene Luecke), and one grandson (Bryant Boyer-Killion). He is survived by two children, Sarah Boyer, Anna Boyer-Killion (John); two stepchildren, Matt Clark (Melody), Michelle Fombelle (Rick); five grandchildren, Jordan Bradford (Jenna), Jacob Clark, Whitney White, Tyler White, Rylee Boyer-Killion; four great grandchildren, Ellie, Ayden, and Jaxon White, and Stone Bradford; four siblings-in-law, Sharon (Dennis) Huber, Duane (Shirley) Zeedyk, Nancy Gerdes-Hibsch, and Lial (Sherri) Zeedyk; and numerous nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Phoebe Buffay.

 

Ron had a lifelong passion for the Cubs and often took the train alone as a preteen from Buckley to Chicago to watch them play. While in law school, he would regularly attend Cubs games and sat in the bleachers where tickets were only a nickel. Ron also loved to watch Illini and Bears games and to attend his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events. He was proud his granddaughter, Rylee, will graduate from Central in 2026, his high school alma mater. He loved to travel and went on many cruises and trips to England, Maine, Mexico, Biloxi, and Las Vegas.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Woodworth.

 

Please share a memory of Ronald at knappfuneralhomes.com

Denny W. Lowe, 79, of Watseka

Denny W. Lowe, 79, of Watseka passed away on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at his residence. He was born on October 8, 1945 in Watseka, a son of Lee and Arlene (Jessie) Lowe. Denny married Marilee Butler on June 6, 1965 and she preceded him in death on October 14, 1996.

 

Denny is survived by two sons, Brian Lowe (Jill Tarro) of Onarga and Brad (Andrea) Lowe of Fishers, Indiana; one sister, Bonnie Riggs of Orlando, Florida; longtime partner, Carla Massey; four grandchildren, Amanda Lowe, Brandon Lowe, Carlee Lowe, and Jackson Lowe; two great-grandchildren, Joplin Acevado and Ozzy Acevado; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by both of his parents; brother, Larry Lowe; and son, Michael Lowe.

 

Denny was a member of the Watseka Elks Club, Watseka American Legion Post 23 and the VFW. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army having served during Vietnam. Denny was a truck driver for Manito Transit in Ashkum.

 

A private graveside service will be at a later date at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka with graveside military rites.

 

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

Virginia Ann Moyer, 78, of Papineau

Virginia Ann Moyer, 78, of Papineau passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on March 13, 1947 in Kankakee, a daughter of Truman Perry and Helen Marie (Homberg) Correll. She married Larry W. Moyer in Kankakee on July 25, 1970 and he preceded her in death on August 25, 2004.

 

Virginia is survived by two daughters, Malyssa Roberson of Greeley, Colorado and Melody (Cory) Lanie of Bradley; two step-sons, Rich (Lynette) Moyer of Watseka and Rusty (Stephannie) Moyer of Clifton; one step-daughter, Vicki Moyer; ten grandchildren, Jaylene (Joe) Tysdal, Jamarr Roberson, Damien Williams, Shayla Williams, Jeremy Moyer, Brandon Moyer, Justin Moyer, Collin Moyer, Cooper Moyer, and Chloee Moyer; fourteen great-grandchildren; and sister, Nadine Davis of Huntington Beach, California.

 

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by both of her parents and four sisters.

 

Virginia loved camping, her dog, Gizmo, and riding around in her golf cart. She loved to be with her family and friends. Virginia retired after years of dedication as a cook at St. Anne High School. She was a woman that had no filter.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

 

Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.

 

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

Patricia "Patti" Elaine Johnston, 64, of Watseka

Patricia “Patti” Elaine Johnston, 64, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on January 19, 1961 in Portage, Indiana, a daughter of Wesley E. and H. Elaine (Miles) Johnston and they preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by one brother, Stanley Johnston; one sister, Merry Hill; two nephews, Randy Hill and Jeff Johnston; and one great-nephew, Aaron Lavoie.

 

Patti is survived by her brother, Jim Johnston of Valparaiso, Indiana; one brother-in-law, Richard Hill of Watseka; four nieces and nephews, Kathy Graves, Rod Hill, Stacey Fittipaldi, and Daymon Johnston; ten great nieces and nephews; and many cousins.

 

Patti was devoted to her family. She had a love for her siblings, nieces, and nephews. All of her cousins have always been special to her. Patti loved time spent with family and was always wishing she could visit more with them. She loved following all of their accomplishments. Of the Ten Commandments, she has been the most faithful to honor her mother and father as she lived and stayed with them from her birth until they passed away. Patti loved country music, reading, and cooking. She was very fond of animals and especially loved and missed her childhood dog, Brownies, and cat, Troubles.

 

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the 10:30 a.m. funeral service on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka with Joe Hughes officiating. Graveside services will be at 2:30 p.m. at the Calvary Cemetery in Portage, Indiana.

 

Memorials may be made to the ARC of Iroquois County.

 

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

Shirley Inez Davis, age 84 of Murfreesboro, TN

Shirley Inez Davis, age 84 of Murfreesboro, TN passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025.

 

She was born February 15, 1941, to the late David and Eula Hurt Huff.

 

Also preceded in death by her husband, Warren Davis; brothers, Wally Huff; Harold Huff; Leon Huff; Larry Huff; sisters, Katherine Huff; and Janice Balazs.

 

She is survived by her son, Steve (Katherine) Davis; granddaughter, Sloan Davis; brother, Donnie (Loretta) Huff and sisters, Louise Suver; and Phyllis Catron.

 

Shirley was generous and dutiful in each role she played - wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, & friend. She was born in Danforth, IL to a farm family of 10 siblings. Having lived in 10 different states (and traveled to many more states and countries) throughout her life, family was always central to Shirley no matter where she was. She loved to cook a hearty meal and a holiday treat for groups large and small and was the envy of many neighborhoods for her green thumb.

 

Don’t forget to water the flowers.

 

Visitation with the family will be held at Murfreesboro Funeral Home on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 5pm – 7pm. She will be interned at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland, IL.

 

Visitation in Illinois will be at the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

 

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

Antonia Sauceda of Peru, IL, formerly of Onarga, IL at the age of 91

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Antonia Sauceda of Peru, IL, formerly of Onarga, IL at the age of 91 on September 9, 2025.

 

Antonia was born to Nicanor and Felipa on December 27, 1933 in Ejido San Antonio Del Joral, General Cepeda, Coahuila, Mexico and they preceded her in death.

 

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Bernabe Sauceda; three siblings, Ventura Reyes, Mcliton Zamora, and Monica Saucedo; one son, Hector Lara; and one grandson, Joseph Lopez Jr.

 

She is survived by three daughters, Eva Lopez, Christina (Isaul) Martinez, and Eva (Oscar Robles) Sauceda; two siblings, Reyes and Juana Zamora; fifteen grandchildren, Alicia (Ernesto) Lemus, Nancy (Claudio) Garcia, Maria (Doug) Bridges, Oscar Jr., Nadia, Leslie, Alexis, Cynthia, and Sofia Robles, Ernesto Jr., Bibiana, and Nehirin Lemus, Austin, Isaul Jr., and Brandon Martinez; eight great-grandchildren, Sophia and Remington Bridges, Milla, Emma, and Tommy Martinez, Natache, Noah, and Nolan Garcia, and Arely Martinez; and her beloved dog Chippy.

 

She often spoke of her years spent with her paternal grandmother, Pascuala as some of the best years of her life. They both had a beautiful and close bond. Her favorite part of the day was gathering wood for her grandmother so she could start the fire for their meals. She later went on to marry whom she would always describe as the most patient and caring man in the world, her husband Bernabe Sauceda on December 17, 1969 in Watseka, IL. She spent most of her days caring for her family in the most loving way, helping raise her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and babysat many kids along the way. There was never a dull moment or an empty belly at Nana’s house. She would be up early in the morning preparing homemade flour tortillas for the day, often making smaller ones to fit her grandkids’ tiny hands and she would butter them up for everyone. Everything she did for her family was always above and beyond. She filled their minds with knowledge and stories from her past. She brought them up to love the country and to honor all of the sacrifices many have made for the freedom we have. She taught them to love their roots and to keep up with traditions. Antonia enjoyed sewing, long walks in the evening and loved John Wayne and Clint Eastwood movies. She was a woman who was very strong in her faith as she loved helping at her local church. She taught her family to pray the Rosary and to serve and trust in the Lord. She made life long friendships in her hometown, sharing family’s joys and sorrows. No one can replace the unconditional love she had for each and every one of them up until her very last day.

 

Visitation will be at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga on Friday, September 19, 2025 from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. Funeral Mass to follow at the Immaculate Conception Church in Gilman at 12:30 P.M. with Rev. Fr. Santiago Corona officiating. Burial will follow at Onarga Cemetery.

 

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

Marcia Kay Copher, 79, of Milford

Marcia Kay Copher, 79, of Milford passed away on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at Heritage Healthcare in West Lafayette, IN. She was born on August 12, 1946 in Quincy, IL, the daughter of Omer and Lucy May (Griggs) Larimore. She married Ed Copher in Hull, IL on September 25, 1965 and he preceded her in passing on June 23, 2020.

 

Surviving are three children, Dawn (Lyle) Garrelts of Fowler, IN, David (Holly Logsdon) Copher of Fowler, IN, and Lance (Mindy) Copher of Milford; five grandchildren, Brock (Heidi) Garrelts, Jenna (Trenton) Fadness, Salem Copher, Logan Copher, and Kylee (Austin) Varnado; and two sisters, Donna Mibbs and Janet (Dan) Bingman.

 

She was preceded in passing by her parents; husband, Ed; two brothers, Neil Larimore and Marvin Larimore; and one sister, Maxine Sloniger.

 

Mrs. Copher was a member of Milford Christian Church and a supporter of NCEF. She was a hairdresser by trade and later managed Dollar General in Milford for over twenty years. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, playing games with her family, and was a loving mother and grandmother.

 

Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm on Monday, September 22, 2025 at Milford Chirstian Church in Milford. Rev. Brent Zastrow will officiate. Burial will follow at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland. A one hour visitation from 1:00-2:00 pm will take place Monday at church.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Milford Christian Church or IDES (International Disaster Emergency Services).

 

Please share a memory of Marcia at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Naomi Lucille Crist, 100, of Milford

Naomi Lucille Crist, 100, of Milford passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025 at Heritage Health in Hoopeston, IL. She was born June 20, 1925 to Martin and Gertrude (Sobkoviak) Nielsen.

 

Naomi married the love of her life, Duane Crist, and their love story unfolded gracefully on the dance floor, where each twirl and step in their square dances echoed their deep affection and joyful partnership they shared. During their marriage, they were blessed with three loving children: Cheryl (Kent) Jones of Lebanon, PA, Cynthia (Alan) Crow of Luxemburg, WI, and Bruce (Sue) Crist of Milford, IL.

 

Naomi was the heart and soul of the Crist family, her home was a sanctuary of warmth and comfort, where the aroma of her homemade chicken and noodles and sweet rolls always welcomed her 6 grandchildren: Allison (Mike) Austin, Andy Crow, Alicia Swope, Eric (Holli) Starkey, Drew Starkey (Sarah), and Brenna (Justin) Schroeder, as well as her 11 great-grandchildren: Lucy, Paige, Travis, Kendal, Brayden, Quinn, London, Avery, Nolan, Ryder, and Elliot.

 

Beyond her family, Naomi touched many lives through her community work and unwavering generosity. She served pie at the local sale barn, but it was her warm smile and kind heart that truly made their way into the hearts of everyone she met.

 

Waiting to welcome Naomi home are her loving husband, Duane, her parents, Martin and Gertrude, and her sister Ruth Harmon, her brothers Bob, Jim and Charles, her daughter Cynthia, and her granddaughter Rachel. We find comfort in knowing that our beloved Naomi is now reunited with her family, surrounded by love and cherished memories.

 

As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the beautiful long life she lived. Her spirit will continue to guide us, her love for her family will forever warm our hearts, and her memory will be a source of comfort and strength in our lives.

 

Per her wishes, cremation rites are handled by Knapp Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held Friday, September 19th, 2025 at 10:30 at Maple Grove Cemetery. A celebration of her life will be held following at the Crist Family Farm.

 

Memorials may be made to the Milford District Library.

 

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

Kevin Roy Redman 60 of Pekin, IL formerly of Milford

Kevin Roy Redman 60 of Pekin, IL formerly of Milford, IL passed away Sunday, Sept.7th 2025 at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria, IL. He was born Dec.1st 1964 in Watseka, IL the son of Roy Jr. and Sharon (Franklin) Redman.

 

He attended Milford High School, worked at Howard Ind. in Milford, and worked as a self-employed painter for several years. In 2018 became the lead painter at AECOM as a painting contractor at Caterpillar in Mossville, Illinois. He enjoyed camping, making beautiful wood working items, and watching his favorite NFL team Kansas City Chiefs.

 

Surviving Mr. Redman is his daughter Jasmine Redman, Pekin, IL, stepdaughter Jessica Turner, Glasford, IL, sister Kim (Mike) Schroeder Milford, nephews Kenny Jr and Randy Redman, Brandon and Kaden Schroeder Milford, one great nephew Devon, three step- grandchildren Aubre, Brynleigh and Clayten Glasford, IL, step-mother Diane Redman Milford, step-sister Melinda ( Ernie) McKay, step- brother Marc (Tammye) Deardorff Corydon, IN, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

 

Kevin married Kris Sturm in 1991 in Milford, then later married Debbie Turner.

 

Kevin is preceded in death by both parents Roy Jr and Sharon Redman and one brother Kenneth W. Redman Sr and one step- son

Drew Turner.

 

Cremation rites have been accorded to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin, IL.

 

There are no services scheduled per his wishes.

Jesse Clay Reeder, 30 of Milford

Jesse Clay Reeder of Milford passed away 9-1-2025 at the age of 30.

 

He was born October 27,1994 in Watseka, Illinois to the parents Charles and Julie Reeder.

 

Jesse went to school in Milford graduating from Milford Township High School in 2013.

 

He is survived by his faithful companion Comet, both parents Charles and Julie Reeder of Milford, a brother Charles (Kristen) Reeder of Milford and a sister Katy Jo Beverage of Hoopeston and nephews Christopher Herchuee of Ten Mile TN, Wylee Herchuee of Hoopeston, Illinois and niece Madyson Reeder of Hoopeston, Illinois. Aunts and Uncles Mark and Judy Hart of Milford, Alan and Rhonda Henrichs of Onarga, Michael and Kim Schroeder of Milford, Donald and Tricia Schroeder of Loda, and many cousins and friends.

 

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Charles and Gladys Reeder and Melvin and Joyce Schroeder and a niece Bella Jo Beverage.

 

Since graduating he has worked various jobs, he was diligent in all that he did. At the time of his death, he was a freelance/entrepreneur. He never shirked a task or failed to do his duty especially when helping family and friends.

 

Jesse was a kind, soft spoken person who would do anything for anyone. He was our gentle giant. He loved hanging out with his best friend Cecil Grosvenor and family and friends playing video games and listening to music. He was a Chicago Bears fan.

 

Jesse was an avid reader. He read classics such as: Where the Red Fern Grows, To Kill a Mockingbird and Of Mice and Men, and many different comic books and he loved to watch anime. As a child he loved to read Green Eggs and Ham and the Foot Book by Dr. Seuss.

 

Services will be 9-13-25 at the Milford Christian Church in Milford officiating will be Pastor Tom McCann. Visitation 12p-2p with the service beginning at 2p. with a celebration of life to follow at the Crossroads Youth Center in Milford.

 

Arrangements are by Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

 

Memorials may be made to the Jesse Reeder and Cecil Grosvenor Memorial Fund.

 

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

Cecil James Grosvenor, 30, of Milford

Cecil James Grosvenor, 30, of Milford passed away on September 1, 2025 at his home. He was born on January 10, 1995 at Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois, the son of Connie Leppard and Brian Grosvenor.

 

He is survived by one daughter, Zoeyann Elizabeth Grosvenor of Watseka; mother, Connie Leppard of Milford; sister, Kali Baker of Sheldon; aunts and uncles, Lorie (Billy) Taylor of Milford, Cindy (Jerry) Baker of Milford, Laura Anderson of Watseka, John (Danielle) Grosvenor of Symsonia, Kentucky, Ricky (Kathy) Grosvenor of Woodland, Mark (Terrica) Grosvenor of Watseka, Loren (Laura) Grosvenor of Watseka, David Grosvenor of Pontiac, Amy (Greg) Howard of Clearwater, Florida, and Kevin (Sarah) Ridder of Crete.

 

He is preceded in death by his father, Brian Grosvenor; grandparents, Mary Jane and Oliver Ray Grosvenor and Ruth and Earl Leppard; aunts, Sarah Grosvenor Ridder and Sheila Leppard Jeffers; uncles, Steve Leppard and Allen “Jeff” Anderson.

 

Cecil loved spending time with his daughter, Zoeyann, his mom, Connie, and his best friend, Jesse Reeder. Cecil’s passion was playing his guitar for his friends and family in which he learned at the age of 10 years old. He was an outstanding young man. He was loved by everyone. Cecil was employed by T & D Metal in Watseka.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at the Christian Church in Milford with Rev. Tom McCann officiating. A visitation will be held two hours beginning at noon on Saturday at the church.

 

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

 

Memorials may be made to the Cecil Grosvenor and Jesse Reeder Memorial Fund.

 

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

 

 

Juanita J. Geiken, 98, of Claytonville

Juanita J. Geiken, 98, of Claytonville passed away on Friday, September 5, 2025 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton Senior Living. She was born on June 28, 1927 in Fountain Creek Township, a daughter of Bernand and Tillie (Brown) Mohler. Juanita married Marvin L. Geiken at St. John’s Lutheran Church at Schwer on April 28, 1946, and he preceded her in death on March 9, 2009.

 

Juanita is survived by two daughters, Donna Kopmann of Gifford, IL and Deborah Long of Lynnhaven, Florida; two sons, Deane (Cordelia) Geiken of Paxton, IL and Darryl (Tammy) Geiken of Crowley, Texas; one daughter-in-law, Karen Geiken of Cissna Park, IL; twelve grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

 

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by both of her parents; one son, David Geiken; one daughter, Darla Geiken; one sister, Barbara Saffell; and two sons-in-law, Stanley Kopmann and Bill Long.

 

Juanita was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church at Schwer. She was also a member of the Claytonville Civics Club. She worked for many years at the Tin Can Factory in Hoopeston and she enjoyed cooking for many restaurants and worked as a care giver.

 

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park as well as one hour prior to the funeral services on Wednesday.

 

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at St. John’s Lutheran Church at Schwer with Pastor Joe Frech officiating. Burial will be in the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery at Schwer.

 

Memorials may be made to the St. John’s Lutheran Church at Schwer.

 

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

Jean Evelyn Justice, 93, of Onarga

Jean Evelyn Justice, 93, of Onarga passed away peacefully on Aug 30, 2025 at her home. She was born on June 17, 1932 in Blue Island, a daughter of Roger and Janet DeGroot.

 

She married Wayne Rogers on September 5, 1953 in Blue Island, and together they adopted two children, Debbi and Mark. Shortly after the adoptions, Wayne passed away from cancer. Jean married Leon Justice on August 18, 1972, in Harvey. He died February 18, 2007.

 

She is survived by her son, Mark (Brandi) Rogers of Onarga; five grandchildren, Kiefer Rogers, Corey Rogers, Philip Nims, Ashley Rodak, and Sarah Rodak; one sister, Betty Ann Albers of Tinley Park, and her cat, Mittens.

 

She is preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Wayne Rogers; second husband, Leon Justice; and her daughter, Debbi Rodak.

 

Jean was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Thawville. She was known for her kindness to all. She loved visiting with friends at coffee hour, having card parties, and preparing holiday meals for her family. She was an avid bird-watcher, and always enjoyed watching the Fighting Illini.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to St. Peter Lutheran Church in Thawville.

 

A private graveside service will be held at the Onarga Cemetery.

 

Arrangements by the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga.

 

Please share a memory of Jean at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Archives:

2026-04 | 2026-03 | 2026-02 | 2026-01 | 2025-12 | 2025-11 | 2025-10 | 2025-09 | 2025-08 | 2025-07 | 2025-06 | 2025-05 | 2025-04 | 2025-03 | 2025-02 | 2025-01 | 2024-12 | 2024-11 | 2024-10 | 2024-09 | 2024-08 | 2024-07 | 2024-06 | 2024-05 | 2024-04 | 2024-03 | 2024-02 | 2024-01 | 2023-12 | 2023-11 | 2023-10 | 2023-09 | 2023-08 | 2023-07 | 2023-06 | 2023-05 | 2023-04 | 2023-03 | 2023-02 | 2023-01 | 2022-12 | 2022-11 | 2022-10 | 2022-09 | 2022-08 | 2022-07 | 2022-06 | 2022-05 | 2022-04 | 2022-03 | 2022-02 | 2022-01 | 2021-12 | 2021-11 | 2021-10 | 2021-09 | 2021-08 | 2021-07 | 2021-06 | 2021-05 | 2021-04 | 2021-03 | 2021-02 | 2021-01 | 2020-12 | 2020-11 | 2020-10 | 2020-09 | 2020-08 | 2020-07 | 2020-06 | 2020-05 | 2020-04 | 2020-03 | 2020-02 | 2020-01 | 2019-12 | 2019-11 | 2019-10 | 2019-09 | 2019-08 | 2019-07 | 2019-06 | 2019-05 | 2019-04 | 2019-03 | 2019-02 | 2019-01 | 2018-12 | 2018-11 | 2018-10 | 2018-09 | 2018-08 | 2018-07 | 2018-06 | 2018-05 | 2018-04 | 2018-03 | 2018-02 | 2018-01

On Air Now

Regular Programming
12:00am - 11:59pm
Regular Programming

Listen on Alexa

Facebook

Weather