David D. Gilman, 83, of Donovan passed away on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at his home. He was born on August 23, 1942 in Oblong, IL, the son of William and Irene (Yankee) Gilman. He married Carol Tallon in Kankakee on September 19, 1992.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Gilman of Donovan. Also surviving are Terri (Gerald) Mayfield of Chebanse, Scott (Jennifer) Tallon of Knoxville, TN, Kelly Tallon of Kankakee, and Vickie Tallon (Ed Whitecross) of Kissimmee, FL.

David served in the United States Navy. He owned DCG Express and had the CB nickname, “Cowboy”. Mr. Gilman was an avid horseman with his wife Carol. He loved watching Westerns and was a racecar and truck connoisseur.

Cremation rites are being handled by Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Graveside services will be held at a later date at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL.

Memorials may be made to the Veterans Affairs.

Please share a memory of David at baierfuneralhome.com.

Seth Micah Raines, 23, of Chebanse, was joyously embraced in the eternal love of Jesus Christ on Sunday, October 26, 2025. After suffering a seizure in his home, he passed away shortly at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. Born on July 12, 2002, in Kankakee, Seth was a beloved son of Robert J. Raines and Jeanine C. Simmons.

"Setty," as he was affectionately known, was a shining light to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth, though brief, was profoundly marked by unwavering faith in Jesus, boundless love, and genuine compassion. He possessed a rare and beautiful gift for making others smile and laugh, and his infectious spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who crossed his path. Seth's commitment to spreading love and kindness was evident in every interaction.

His passing leaves a deep void, but we ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived and for the profound impact it had.

A graduate of Clifton Central High School in 2020, Seth immediately dedicated himself to service by enlisting in the United States Coast Guard, where he served honorably as a Boatswain's Mate.

Shortly after, Seth married his high school sweetheart, Kaitlyne Beherns, on December 5, 2020, in Lake Village, Arkansas. They welcomed their beautiful son, Hudson in June of 2025. His greatest earthly treasure was his family.

Seth is survived by his beloved wife, Kaitlyne Raines of Chebanse, and their son, Hudson; his dog, Sissy; his father, Robert (Debbie) Raines of Panama City, FL; his mother, Jeanine (Zach) Dhans of St. Anne; three brothers, Trevor (Ariel) Raines of Jacksonville, FL, Gavin Wren of St. Anne and Jobe Raines of Panama City, FL; nephew Rocco Raines of Jacksonville, FL; paternal grandparents, Jessie Raines Jr. of Panama City, FL and Kathy Isley of Panama City Beach, FL; maternal grandmother, Andrea Kopsell of Onarga; grandparents, Louis (Loretta) Rouse of Kankakee; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Chad (Erin) Beherns of Ashkum; sister-in-law, Kourtnie Beherns; and countless uncles, aunts, cousins and friends all who he called family.

Seth was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Richard (Rick) Simmons, and his grandfather, Gary “Pa” Isley.

Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton, IL.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests memorials be made to an account for Seth’s son, “Hudson Raines,” at the Federated Bank of Chebanse (Remitted to Kaitlyne Raines).

Please share a memory of Seth at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Clyde “Burley” Burnell Bargmann, 90, of Gilman passed away on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at Bickford Place in Bourbonnais. He was born on November 1, 1934 in Danforth, a son of Harvey W. and Annabelle (Warder) Bargmann and they preceded him in death in addition to four brothers, Leo D. Bargmann, Lloyd S. Bargmann, Francis H. Bargmann and John R. Bargmann; one sister, Mary Ruth Bargmann; and two sons, Michael Bargmann and James “Bo” Bargmann.

He married Carol Ann Rademacher on July 11, 1953 in Gilman and she survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Candy (Bret) Schmid of Gilman and Cindy (Bob) Miller of Danforth; one son, David “Dink” (Jacquie) Bargmann of Gulf, NC; daughters-in-law, Brenda Bargmann of Foley, AL and Mary Bargmann of Champaign; twelve grandchildren; and twenty-one great-grandchildren.

Mr. Bargmann was a member of the Gilman United Methodist Church. Burley worked for Eastern Illinois Power Company and enjoyed fishing in Minnesota, the outdoors and carpenter work. He was a devoted family man and enjoyed all family gatherings and spending time with his friends.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at the Gilman United Methodist Church with Rev. Vicki Killus officiating. Burial will follow at Gilman Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025 at the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman and 1 hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Memorials may be made to Uplifted Care in Bourbonnais or Gilman United Methodist Church.

Please share a memory of Burley at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Janet Kay Guy, 81, of Ashkum passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025 at her residence.

Janet was born on November 23, 1943 in Atchison, KS, the daughter of Edward and Edith (Neese) Sullivan and they preceded her in death. She married Gary Mark Guy on April 3, 1966 in Vallejo, CA and he preceded her in death on September 26, 2019. Janet and Gary lived in California, where she grew up, until they moved to Ashkum in 1968.

Janet attended beauty school in California and was a hairdresser for over 40 years in both California and the local area. She was skilled at sewing and enjoyed crafting. Janet was known for her positive outlook, quick laugh, and bringing joy to whatever she was doing.

She is survived by one daughter, Kathy L. (Brian) Guthrie of Tampa, FL; one son, Mark E. Guy of Normal, IL; five grandchildren (Kinley, Katy, Austin, Chevy, and Tyler); one sister, Carole (Joe) Benton of Felton, DE; and one brother-in-law, Hanley (Patty) Guy of Clifton.

Janet was a member of the Askum United Methodist Church as well as American Legion Auxiliary in Ashkum. She also served as an election judge for many years.

A memorial service will be at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Burial will follow at the Ashkum Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospital.

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

Julie A. Dunn, 63, of Watseka passed away on Monday, October 27, 2025 at her home. She was born on March 24, 1962 in Watseka, a daughter of Lawrence A. and Rosemary (Loux) Dunn and they preceded her in death in addition to one nephew, Thomas Charles Devine.

She is survived by her sister, Kay (John) Devine of North Liberty, Iowa; three nephews, John L. Devine of Watseka, Daniel P. (Megan) Devine of Munster, Indiana and Nicholas M. (Lexi) Devine of Coralville, Iowa; and one great-nephew, Thomas Rizzo Devine of Munster, Indiana.

Julie was a member of Trinity Church in Watseka, Unit 9 Education Association, Academic Foundation Inspiration Award Committee, WCHS Alumni Association Committee and was the Director, Friends of Library Board, and Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. She taught religious education at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka for many years, was a social studies teacher at Glenn Raymond Jr. High School in Watseka, and was the district librarian for Watseka Unit 9 Schools. The Crescent City Grade School dedicated its library to Julie because she was their beloved librarian and founder where every child is invited to explore, learn, and grow.

A memorial visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. memorial service on Monday, November 3, 2025 at Trinity Church in Watseka. Pastor Ryan Mustered will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Church in Watseka or Crescent City Grade School Library Fund.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

James E. Carpenter, 80, of Loda and formerly of Chebanse passed away on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at Miller Health Care Center in Kankakee. He was born on June 16, 1945 in Kankakee, a son of Clifford and Ethel (Elliot) Carpenter and they preceded him in death in addition to his step-father, Richard Hopkins; one son, Timothy and one daughter, Kelly Barr.

He married Charlene Hemp on January 5, 1966 in Watseka and she survives in Loda. Also surviving are one son, Gregory (Deanne) Carpenter of Bourbonnais; one daughter, Kim White of Bourbonnais; daughter-in-law, Laura Carpenter; son-in-law, Mike Barr; eight grandchildren, Justin Hendrickson, Logan (Brittany) Hendrickson, Levi Hendrickson, Chandler Carpenter, Christin Carpenter, Zachary Carpenter, Josette Carpenter and Jonah Hendrickson; four great-grandchildren, Oakley, Aysa, Evan and Elodie Hendrickson; and one sister, Janice Faulkner of Ashkum.

Mr. Carpenter was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Chebanse. He served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam. James was the owner and operator of Carpenter Automotive, Jim’s Texaco in Chebanse and Ashkum Standard Station. He loved golfing and bass fishing.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton and 1 hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Chebanse with Rev. Benjamin Hayter officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Chebanse with military graveside rites by the Chebanse American Legion.

Memorials may be made to Uplifted Hospice or Zion Lutheran Church in Chebanse.

Please share a memory of James at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Wilma M. Walters, 83, of Onarga passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at the Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka. She was born on November 16, 1941 in Tell City, IN, a daughter of Roy Lee and Esther (Harding) Walters. She married Paul Walters on May 18, 1969 in Onarga and he preceded her in death on April 6, 2001. She was also preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Leroy; one sister, Donna Kennedy; one daughter, Karry; and two great-grandsons.

She is survived by three children, Stacey (Brad) Ward of Onarga, Kevin (Paula) Gray of Gilman and Kelly Schmidt of Rantoul; fifteen grandchildren; twenty-eight great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

Wilma was a member of Life Church in Gilman and had We Do Ceramics Shop in Onarga for several years. She was an avid bowler in her youth and enjoyed crafts and scrapbooking.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Lyman Cemetery in Roberts.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga.

Please share a memory of Wilma at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Sharon S. Bretveld, 71, of Cissna Park passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025 at her home. She was born on February 12, 1954 in Kankakee, a daughter of Weldon and Florence (Leidecker) Arseneau and they preceded her in death in addition to five sisters, Judy, Sandy, Vickie, Pam and Karen; and one grandson, Jacob Rose.

She married Kenneth Bretveld Sr. on June 26, 1976 in Wichert and he survives. Also surviving are three children, Jennifer Bretveld of Watseka, Elisabeth Bretveld of Cissna Park and Kenneth (Erica) Bretveld of Rankin; one brother, Tennis (Lorraine) Arseneau of Chebanse; ten grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren and one more on the way.

Sharon was a member of the First Reformed Church of Wichert. She was a cook and crossing guard at Kankakee School District, dietary aid at Asta Care in Paxton, and a cashier at Shell Station in St. Anne. Sharon enjoyed playing cards, BINGO, and planting her marigolds in the spring. Most of all, she loved her children and grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at the First Reformed Church of Wichert with Rev. Wybren Oord officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Wichert.

Memorials may be made to American Alzheimer’s Association or to help with funeral expenses.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.

Please share a memory of Sharon at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Rosalia Rodriguez Soto, 68, of Watseka passed away on Sunday, October 19, 2025 at her home. She was born on September 4, 1957 in Veracruz, Mexico, a daughter of Moises and Isabel (Soto) Rodriguez and they preceded her in death along with one brother and one sister.

Rosalia married Hermilo Rodriguez in Kankakee and he survives.

Also surviving are four children, Jose Luis Rodriguez of Kankakee, Yazmin Rodriguez of Watseka, Uriel Rodriguez of Watseka, and Eli Rodriguez of Watseka; one son-in-law, Guillermo Ortiz of Watseka three grandchildren, Eddy Ortiz of Watseka, Brandon Ortiz of Watseka, and Jady Rodriguez; and one great-grandchild, Ezekiel Ortiz of Watseka.

Rosalia loved her garden, pets, fishing, and raising chickens.

Cremation rites will be handled by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with no services.

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

Evelyn L. Weber, 95, of Ashkum passed away on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Faith Place in Danforth. She was born on September 9, 1930 in Armstrong, a daughter of Lyle and Evelyn (Lopeman) Frye. Evelyn married Francis “Dale” Weber on June 30, 1951 in Piper City and he passed away on April 15, 2024.

She is survived by three daughters, Mary Jane Down of Cabery, Paula (Pat) O’Connor of Kankakee, and Brenda (Rick) Adams of Bonfield; five sons, Bernard (Cheryl) Weber of Ashkum, Eric Weber of Kankakee, Leo (Kathy) Weber of Cabery, Duane (Chris) Weber of Beaverville, and Warren (Roxanne) Weber of Ashkum; son-in-law, Fred Lesch of Papineau; twenty-five grandchildren; forty-five great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; one brother, Jim Frye of Florida; and one sister, Marjorie Colravy of St. Petersburg, Florida.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers; one daughter, Ruth Lesch; and one son-in-law, Chuck Down.

Evelyn was a member of Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. Evelyn loved her time spent as Librarian at the Ashkum Grade School.

Visitation will be on Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum with Fr. Doug Hauber officiating. Burial will follow in the Ashkum Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.

Paul S. Conrad, 78, of Danforth passed away on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Faith Place in Danforth. He was born on May 22, 1947 in Kankakee, the son of Ervin and Madeline (Demers) Conrad. He married Dianna L. Sheets in Alabama on October 10, 1997.

Surviving are his wife, Dianna Conrad of Danforth; one son, Dustin (Jody) Conrad of Danforth; one daughter, Mandi (Ronald) Troli of Clifton; two brothers, Dennis (Louise) Conrad of Danforth and David (Joyce) Conrad of Haines City, FL; one sister, Beverly Kuipers of Danforth; step children, Terry (Lisa) Blankenbeckler of Crawfordsville, IN, Todd (Dawn) Blankenbeckler of Piper City, and Sheri Conrad of Veedersburg, IN; nine grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren.

He was preceded in passing by his parents.

Paul was co-owner at Conrad Trucking in Danforth. He served in the National Guard from 1967-1972.

Visitation will be from 11:00-12:45 pm on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

Private funeral services will be held with burial at Danforth Cemetery in Danforth.

Memorials may be made to Faith Place in Danforth.

Please share a memory of Paul at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Ashley B. Tucker, 37, of Milford passed away on October 19, 2025 at Loyola Medical Center in Maywood. She was born on April 11, 1988 in Poplar Bluff, Missouri a daughter of Chris Tucker and Merana Hollis.

Survivors include one daughter, Cloey Lietz of Danville; one son, Colton Leitz of St. Charles; two grandsons, Liam Lietz and Rykar Lietz; three brothers, Billy (Kim) Thiele of Plano, Dylan Elpers of Milford, and George Elpers of Milford; one sister, Crystal (Tim) Schwartz of Milford; one step-brother, Bradley Wagoner of Paxton; one step-sister, Cheyanne Wagoner of Hoopeston; step-father, Don Wagoner of Sibley; her adoptive parents, Steve Edmonds and Pamela Elpers; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one son.

Ashley loved her children, grandchildren, and hanging out with her friends. She enjoyed cooking, bonfires, fixing things, and the outdoors.

Memorial services will be on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Rev Brent Zastrow officiating. Burial will be at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston at a later date.

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

Sandra R. “Sandy” Kaufmann, 76, of Cissna Park passed away on Sunday, October 19, 2025 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells. She was born on September 27, 1949 in Watseka, the daughter of Francis and Lillian (Dubbel) Kietzman. She married Sidney “Sid” Kaufmann in Gilman on April 6, 1969.

Surviving are her husband, Sid Kaufmann of Cissna Park; six children, Valerie (Todd) Kaeb of Cissna Park, Vickie (David) Maul of Rankin, Veronica Kaufmann of Cissna Park, Anthony (Megan) Kaufmann of Cissna Park, Lynnette (Chris) Rudin of Danville, and Renee Kaufmann of Cissna Park; two brothers, Rich (Diana) Kietzman and Steve (Maureen) Kietzman; two in laws, Bonnie Jean Kietzman and Gary Bradshaw; sixteen grandchildren; and fifteen great grandchildren with two on the way.

Sandy was preceded in passing by her parents, Francis and Lillian Kietzman; one brother, Don Kietzman; two sisters, Marsha Bradshaw and Beverly Horridge; two brothers in law, James Allen and Paul Horridge; and an infant daughter.

Sandy loved the Lord as her Savior and was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church of Cissna Park. She dedicated her days to serving Jesus, her family and those around her. Sandy enjoyed her days of caring for children with special needs at Wheeler’s Home Farm School. Sandy loved sewing, especially making quilts and pillowcases for her children and grandchildren whom she loved to spend time with. Gardening was a favorite pastime. She also had a love for fishing, spending summers in Wisconsin where she and Sid developed many friendships over the years.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park. There will also be a 1 hour prior visitation to the funeral service on Thursday at church, from 9:00-10:00 am.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at Apostolic Christian Church in Cissna Park with ministers of the church officiating. Burial will follow at Apostolic Christian Cemetery in Cissna Park.

Memorials may be made to Harvest Call, ACCFS – Apostolic Christian Counseling and Family Services, or Harvest Call/CVE.

Please share a memory of Sandy at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Richard “Dick” Mayotte, 92, of Watseka passed away on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at his home in Watseka. He was born on August 18, 1933 in Sheldon, the son of Clifford and Mary Ellen (Wall) Mayotte. Dick married Barbara Quinn in Earl Park, IN on August 2, 1958.

Surviving are his wife, Barb Mayotte of Watseka; three children, Cindy (Kevin) Coughenour of Watseka, Dave (Brenda) Mayotte of Monticello, IN, and Linda (Whitey) Hasbargen of Watseka; seven grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren.

Dick was preceded in passing by his parents; one brother, Arnold “Pretz” Mayotte, and one sister, Judy Lottinville.

Mr. Mayotte graduated from Sheldon High School in 1951. He served in the Korean War from 1953-1955 while serving in the United States Army. Dick was a member of Watseka American Legion Post 23 and was a past Commander. Mr. Mayotte was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka, a member of the Knights of Columbus, and Watseka Elks Lodge 1791. He was employed at UARCO in Watseka for thirty-eight years, retiring in 1995. Dick liked golfing, fishing, and spending time with his family. He could play a mean game of solitaire and euchre.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. A prayer service will be at 3:30 at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka. Fr. Michael Powell will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka. Graveside military rites will be provided by Watseka American Legion Post 23.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice, Watseka American Legion Post 23, St. Edmund Catholic Church, or Donor’s Choice.

Please share a memory of Dick at baierfuneralhome.com.

Nancy A. Hilgendorf, 87, of Donovan passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. She was born on July 4, 1938 in Watseka, a daughter of Fredrick and Louise (Disosway) Fletcher. Nancy married Onnie R. Hilgendorf on July 29, 1956 in Watseka and he preceded her in death on October 10, 2017.

Nancy is survived by two sons, Douglas (Lynn) Hilgendorf of St. Joseph and Craig (Debbie) Hilgendorf of Donovan; one daughter, Julie (Paul) Nourie of Lafayette, Indiana; one son-in-law, James Bruns of Watseka; 10 grandchildren, Joshua (Angi) O’Leary, Micah (Nicole) O’Leary, Heidi (Jeremy) Ellermeier, Marc (Lora) Hilgendorf, Aaron (Jennifer) Hilgendorf, Holli (Joe) Van Hoveln, Leah (Scott) Hulse, Laura (Craig) Carlson, Kaela (Ben) Jaeger, and Anna (Joshua) Jacobs; and 29 great-grandchildren.

Besides her husband, she was also preceded in death by both of her parents; one brother, David Fletcher; and one daughter, Connie Bruns.

Nancy was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to the 11:00 a.m. funeral service on Thursday, October 23, 2025 all at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka with Rev. Aaron Uphoff officiating. Burial will follow in the Prairie Dell Cemetery near Iroquois.

Memorials may be made to the Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Jimmie “Jim” David Coplea, 80, of Gilman passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on July 29, 1945 in Saline, Michigan, a son of Melvin Leo and Rosella (Vermette) Coplea. They preceded him in death along with two brothers, Leo Coplea and Gene Coplea.

Jim married Mary K. Kuipers on September 18, 1965 in Gilman.

Jim is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary K. Coplea of Gilman; three daughters, Laura (Bill) Clark of Gilman, Deborah (Bill) Janssen of Milford, and Patricia (Gary) Peters of Ashkum; eight grandchildren, Jake Giroux, Kyle (Bailey) Clark, Kari (Kyle) Fisher, Will (Kiera) Clark, Brandon (Elizabeth) Peters, Joe Bernard, Josh Bernard, and Olivia Beatty; three great-grandchildren; and one sister, Sharon Credille of Chatham, Illinois.

Jim was a member of Immaculate Conception/ Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Gilman. Jim worked for General Foods in Kankakee for 33 years and worked at K&H Truck Plaza. He was a former president of the Gilman Jaycees. Jim started and coached the first Gilman girls’ softball team. He was a member of the Iroquois County Sheriff’s Auxiliary Department and helped with the Civil Defense. Jim loved animals of all kinds and his time spent gardening. He enjoyed playing fast pitch softball around the area. Jim was an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan, but most of all he loved supporting his grandchildren in all their sporting events and activities.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral mass all at the Immaculate Conception/ Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Gilman with Rev. Fr. Michael Powell. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Gilman.

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

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

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

Roger Dale Talley, age 67, of Woodville, Alabama, formerly of Watseka passed away on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. He was born on January 15, 1958.

Dale is survived by his wife, Lori Talley; son, Logan Talley; brother, Richard (Brenda) Talley; step-children, April Martinez, Crystal Blomlie, and Chuck Blomlie; 15 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and a host of family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Shirley Talley; brother, Mark Talley; and step-daughter, Bobbi Jo Blomlie.

Dale was a dedicated husband and dad and a loving person with a big heart, helping anyone he could. He was a millwright for many years at Incobrasa in Gilman, Illinois. Dale loved guitars and singing Blue Grass Gospel.

Visitation was held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Scottsboro Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Service was held on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Scottsboro Funeral Home Chapel. Burial was in Cedar Hill Cemetery in Scottsboro, Alabama.

Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 19, 2025 at Centennial Christian Church in Watseka with Joe Hughes officiating. There will be a luncheon following at the church.

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

Joy Ann Ready, 76, of San Antonio, Texas, formerly of Chatsworth, Illinois, passed away on October 7, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with endometrial cancer.

Joy was born on November 6, 1948, in Fairbury, Illinois, to Donald C. Gerdes and Luvern (Martin) Gerdes. She attended Chatsworth schools and graduated from Chatsworth High School in 1966.

Throughout her life, Joy worked in many roles, including office clerk at Nichols Homeshield, cook for Marshfield Public Schools, and teacher’s aide with Head Start programs in Marshfield, MO, and Effingham, IL. While never formally employed as one, Joy was truly a caregiver at heart. She devoted herself to caring for sick family members and could always be counted on to lend extra time and compassion to loved ones and neighbors in need.

Joy married Jack Mydler February 19, 1967. After their divorce, she married Johnny R. Ready, Sr. on May 22, 1980. From that time forward, her most cherished roles began being a farming wife and partner to Johnny, a devoted mother to their son Shawn, and a loving stepmother, grandmother, and great-grandmother to Johnny’s children and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Donald L. Gerdes; her stepson, Jeffrey S. Ready; and her beloved husband, Johnny R. Ready, Sr.

Joy is survived by her son, Shawn T. (Katie) Ready, and her grandson, Johnny Michael Ready, of San Antonio, TX; her half-sister, Zoe VanDerryt (Glenn) Pearson of Lafayette, IN; her stepchildren Thomas Ready of Wilmington, IL; Johnny R. (Rena) Ready, Jr. of Caney, KS; Theresa (Edmond) Noffsinger of LeRoy, IL; Kimberly (Paul) Baumann of Travelers Rest, SC; Kathy (Bill) Abry of Pontiac, IL; and daughter-in-law Gina Ready of Bloomington, IL. In addition to her grandson, Joy is also survived by 22 step-grandchildren, 53 step-great-grandchildren, and two step-great-great-grandchildren.

Joy was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Chatsworth, IL, even after moving away, she kept close ties to many of the church family while also attending other congregations throughout the years. She loved spending time outdoors in her yard, wrangling cows with Johnny, traveling or attending shows with friends, and being with family. Though she often teased about disliking Shawn’s chickens, they were a frequent source of entertainment, joy and conversation for her.

Above all, Joy’s greatest pride and happiness came from her grandson, Johnny Michael, who was the light of her life. She fought bravely for more time with him and was filled with excitement to welcome her second grandchild, expected in January.

Per Joy’s request only graveside services will be held at the Chatsworth Charlotte Cemetery on Friday October 17th, 2025 at 12:00 pm. We will have a meal, fellowship and stories of Joy after the services at Chatsworth St. Peter and Paul Catholic Hall starting at 1pm. All are invited to eat and do one of Joys favorite things, converse. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter, PO Box 1302 Seguin Texas 78155, The Justin Boots Cowboy Crisis Fund - https://www.justincowboycrisisfund.org or another charity of your choice in memory of Joy Ready.

Arrangements are being handled by Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

Jacob Howard McMillan, 34, of Piper City passed away on October 6, 2025 as a result of an ATV accident. He was born on May 14, 1991 in Gibson City, a son of Donna Ann McMillan.

Jacob is survived by his fiancé, Alainie Measaw of Piper City; four children, Oliver, Cooper, Daisy, and Jainie McMillan; mother, Donna (Randy) McWendel; grandmother, Ruthanne McMillan; one brother, Joshua McMillan; one sister, Jillian (Charles) Myrick; two nephews, J.R. McMillan and Lincoln Myrick; one niece, Elouise Myrick; and additional family, Nikki, Valeria, Megan, and Rusty; and Scott (Kim) Kuhlmann.

Jacob loved the outdoors from snowmobiles to ATV’s and dirt bikes to camping. He took great pride in being an arborist and anything he could do outdoors. Jacob spent countless hours rebuilding motors and welding. Most importantly, he was a true family man and a true friend. He loved spending time with Alainie and the kids. Jacob was a member of the IBEW Local 51 and a mentor to his former crew at Kendall. He was also a former member of the Piper City Fire and Emergency Medical Responder.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to a memorial fund for the McMillan Children at the Vermilion Valley Bank in Piper City or plant a tree in his name.

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

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

Elsie Loraine Christensen, 98, of Kankakee passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025 at Arcadia Care in Watseka. She was born on December 25, 1926 in Thawville, the daughter of Edwin and Elsie (Baker) Roach. She married Loyde W. Christensen and he preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by her parents; two brothers, Edwin and Gerald Roach; and one sister, Floss Breeden.

She is survived by two sons, Carl (Linda) Christensen of Decatur and Brian (Judy) Christensen of St. Anne; six grandchildren, Carla (Jason) Stone, Dana (Jana) Christensen, Keith Christensen, Nick Christensen, Nicole Christensen, and Nathan Christensen; six great grandchildren; and one great great grandchild.

Elsie was a seamstress for many years.

Cremation rites are being handled by Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

Private family graveside services will be held at a later date at Clifton Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Donor’s Choice.

Please share a memory of Elsie at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Darlene E. LaReau, 97, of Ashkum and formerly of Chebanse passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on March 26, 1928 in Chebanse, a daughter of Frank and Minnie (Haslow) Emme. She married Rommell LaReau in Beaverville and he preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Dennis; one daughter, Vicki Wilkening; and ten brothers and sisters.

She is survived by one daughter, Diane Siebring of Ashkum; one son, Randy LaReau of Clifton; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; three sisters-in law, Marie Emme of Chebanse, Lois Emme of Danforth and Sharon Emme of Kankakee; and several nieces and nephews.

Darlene had worked at Mortell’s in Kankakee. She loved watching the Cubs and spending time with her grandchildren.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Chebanse.

Memorials may be made to the family’s wishes.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

Please share a memory of Darlene at knappfuneralhomes.com.

Theodore “Ted” John Gulczynski Jr., 82, of Clifton passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on December 2, 1942 in Bradley, a son of Theodore and Frances “Flossie” (Chambers) Gulczynski Sr. Ted married Evelyn Jean Butler in Clifton on December 3, 1966 and she preceded him in death on March 14, 2011.

Ted is survived by three daughters, Deb (Ron) Meents of Ashkum, Jackie (Trent) Chockley of Rushville, and Kim (Matt) Marcukaitis of Bourbonnais; one brother-in-law, Jodee Benoit of Kankakee; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Besides his wife, Ted was preceded in death by both of his parents; four sisters, Patricia Clary, Jackie Hammond, Janice Miller, and Marybeth Benoit; and one son, Timothy Gulczynski.

Ted was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Clifton. He was a previous member of the Knights of Columbus, Clifton Lions, Clifton Fire Department, and was an EMT. Ted also enjoyed golfing and worked for BASF in Kankakee as a supervisor. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy.

A prayer service will be held at 3:30 p.m. with the visitation to follow from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 all at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Funeral mass will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Clifton with Fr. Doug Hauber officiating. Burial will be in the St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Clifton.

Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice.

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

Patricia F. Flora, 84, of Watseka passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. She was born on August 26, 1941 in Brooklyn, New York, a daughter of George and Marian Golliver. Patricia married James E. Flora on July 11, 1959 in Brooklyn, New York and he passed away on December 2, 2014.

Patricia is survived by her two daughters, Patty King of Watseka and JoAnn Arseneau of Braidwood; one son, James (Melissa) Flora of Greeley, Colorado; six grandchildren, Shari (Craig) Dufrain, Brindy (Jeff) Whittum, Samantha Long, Brittney King, Jesse Long, and Baylee Flora; seven great-grandchildren; one brother, Edward Golliver of New Jersey; and one ex-son-in-law, Rolland King of Lafayette, Indiana.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by both of her parents; five brothers; and two sisters.

Patricia was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois with Pastor Jeff Whittum officiating.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Watseka American Legion Post 23.

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

Barbara Anne Pittman, 86, of Sheldon passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at her home in Sheldon. She was born on June 29, 1939 in Fairbury, IL, the daughter of Russell and Martha (Eggenberger) Fellers. She married Richard Pittman in Cullum, IL on December 22, 1962 and he preceded her in passing on November 16, 2007. She was also preceded in passing by her parents and one brother, Jerry Fellers.

Surviving are one son, Jeffrey (Corrie) Pittman of Sheldon; one daughter, Anne (Bradley) Porter of Brewer, Maine; one granddaughter, McKenna Porter; two step grandchildren, Amanda Auxier and DJ Reardanz; one sister, Eleanor Billadeau of Bourbonnais; and five great grandchildren.

Barbara was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Watseka.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm on Friday, October 3, 2025 at Faith Lutheran Church in Watseka. Pastor Scott Strohkirch will officiate. Burial will follow at Sheldon Cemetery in Sheldon.

Visitation will be two hours prior to the funeral service on Friday all at church, from 12:00-2:00pm.

The Baier Funeral Home in Watseka is handling the arrangements for the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Faith Lutheran Church or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Please share a memory of Barbara at baierfuneralhome.com.