Carroll County Obituaries
C

ALFRED C. CALEHAN , a former resident of Dubuque, died Saturday morning in a hospital at Savanna, Ill., following a lingering illness. The body will be returned to Dubuque Monday for burial in Linwood Cemetery. Mr. Calehan, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. J.D. Calehan, had been employed in the offices of the Chicago, St. Paul and Milwaukee Railroad here before being transferred to Savanna. He was active in Masonic circles. Surviving is his daughter, Doris
Contributed by Janet Crossman

ABRAM CALKINS , was born on Feb 19, 1839, at Westbury, Town of Butler, Wayne Co., N.Y. He received a common school education and when seventeen years old his parents moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan where Abram attended a law school for eight or nine months until stricken with typhoid fever. In 1858 he moved to the vicinity of Milledgeville where he has since resided. He taught school at the Bushman, Compton and Steuben districts. He was a farmer and local dairyman and for twenty-one years he has distributed mild in Milledgeville where many men and wonem, as well as children, will never forget the patience, the cheerful words and the bell of the "milk man" as they called him. In 1862 he was united in marriage to Mary J. Scoville. To this union was born four children, Lydia, wife of H. Maberry, Mary who died at the age of three years, Clarence who lives in Sterling, Ill., and George who lives in Aurora, Ill. Mrs. Calkins died in 1881 and in 1884 Mr. Calkins was married to Mrs. Emma Gabrelson. One child, John, who lives at home, was born to this union. Mr. Calkins was a man of marked individuality. He possessed a logical mind, was a great debater and was especially strong in mathematics. He was a member of the Baptist church for over thirty years. He has been in failing health for the last few years and for six months he has been confined to the house. He died Thursday, Sept. 17, 1908, aged 69 years, 6 mo., and 28 days. Besides the children above mentioned he leaves to mourn his departure his wife, two stepchildren, Charles Gabrelson and Ella Frankfuther and two brothers Stephen and William H. Clakins. Funeral services conducted by Rev. L. P. Warrington were held at the home on Saturday afternoon. Interment in the Bethel cemetery. The music was furnished by a quartet composed of C. E. Johnston, J. E. Miller, Mrs. C. A. Straka and Mrs. W. B. Holly. The pall bearers were C. H. Bushman, Harlem Bushman, John Miatke, J. E. Milroy, Geo. Olmsted and David

EMMA CALKINS - The death of Mrs. Emma Calkins, of Milledgeville, occurred yesterday afternoon at 2:40 o’clock at the home of her daughter, Mrs. John Frankfather, near Coleta, after an illness lasting several months from cancer. Mrs. Calkins was 52 years of age and leaves besides her daughter, Mrs. Frankfather, two sons, John Calkins and Charles Gabrielson. The funeral services will be held at 2:00 o’clock at the home of the daughter Saturday [10/06/1917] afternoon, in charge of Rev. Suduck, pastor of the Radical U. B. church of Coleta. The interment will be in Bethel cemetery, at Milledgeville. (The Sterling Daily Gazette, October 5, 1917, page 1, column 1) Mrs. Emma Calkins was born May the first, 1855, in Somerset County, Ohio, and was called to her eternal reward at her daughter’s home, Mrs. John Frankfather, near Coleta, Ill., Oct. 4th, 1917, age 62 years, 5 months and 4 days. She was united in marriage to John B. Gabrielson, June 3, 1875. To this union were born three children, Charels V. Gabrielson, Elnora B. Frankfather and Willie E. Gabrielson, who preceded her in death. Her first husband passing away, in later years she was again married to Abram Calkins. To this union were born one son, John William. She had been in former years a member of the Baptist church. She was patient in her suffering and had a bright hope of heaven. She leaves to mourn her loss, two sons, one daughter, two step sons, Clarence and George Calkins, one step daughter, Mrs. Henry Mayberry, one brother, three nieces and several grand children, also a large host of friends and neighbors. The funeral services were conducted at the home of her daughter, by Rev. C. J. Ludwick. Interment in the Bethel cemetery. (The Sterling Daily Gazette, October 8, 1917, page 5, column 4) Mrs. Emma Calkins, whose death has been noted by The Gazette, was born May 1st, 1855, in Somerset County, Ohio, and was called to her eternal reward at the home of her daughter, Mrs. John Frankfather, near Coleta, Ill., October 4th, 1917, age 62 years, 5 months and 4 days. She was united in marriage to John B. Gabrielson, June 3, 1875. To this union were born three children, Charles V. Gabrielson, Elnora B. Frankfather and Willie E. Gabrielson, who preceded her in death, her first husband passing away, in later years she was again married to Abram Calkins. To this union was born one son, John William. She had been in former years a member of the Baptist church. She was patient in her suffering and had a bright hope of Heaven. She leaves to mourn the loss, two sons, one daughter, two step-sons, Clarence and George Calkins, one step-daughter, Mrs. Henry Maberry, one brother, three neices and several grand children, also a large host of friends. The funeral services were conducted at the home of her daughter, by Rev. C. J. Ludwick. Interment in Bethel cemetery.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, October 11, 1917, page 2, column 2

JOHN CALKINS ,the oldest resident of Milledgeville, died at the home of W. J. Griswold Monday morning. Aged 92 years and 3 weeks. He leaves three sons, William and Abe of Milledgeville and Steven of Quincy, Ill. The funeral services were held today (Wednesday) at one o'clock from the house and two o'clock from the Methodist church. The pall bearers were Frank Snell, N. C. Eastbrooks, David Bussel, Benj. Hendrick, Whitney Inman and David Fulton.

Newspaper Unknown. John was born 22 Feb 1813 & died 20 Mar 1905. He was married to Sally Ann Valkenburg who died in NY and Nancy Frazier who died in 1901. John was the son of James & Hannah (Fox) Calkins. I received this information from the website of Thomas Calkins on Rootsweb trcalk@aol.com 2nd OBIT: John Calkins was born at Sandlake, New York, February 26, 1813 and died at the home of Wm. Griswold in Milledgeville, Monday, March 20, 1905 at the age of 92 years and 14 days. The subject fo this sketch grew to manhood in the state of his birth, following the occupation of farming. He was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Ann Vanvolkenburg of Wayne county, New York, and to this union were born six children two of whom died in infancy. Mary who became the wife of the late David Bushman is also deceased. The sons who survive their father are Abram who resides on a farm south of Milledgeville, Stephen Q. who is at Quincy, Illinois and William H. who resides in Milledgeville. Mr. Calkins was called upon to mourn the death of his wife in 1852. He was again married to Mrs. Nancy Jane Meeker also a native of New York, and to this union was born one child, Clarence, who died when three years of age. In the year of 1858 Mr. Calkins in company with his family left the state of New York and came to Illinois and settled on a farm which he rented in Jordan, Whiteside county, He afterwards purchased this farm and resided on it until he gave up farming in 1886 and came to Milledgeville where he lived until his death. December 29, 1901 his second wife died. Since last August he had been making his home at William Griswold's. "Uncle Johnnie" Calkins as he was familiarly called was a very active man for many years but gradually old age began to creep in upon his once robust form and for the past year he had been in quite feeble health, although not confined to his bed until a week previous to his death. He was perhaps one of the oldest men in Carroll county. He was honored and respected by all who formed his acquaintance. He first became a member of the Christian church but later on coming to Milledgeville, he united with the Baptist church and was a faithful attendant as long as that denomination held services in the village. He has gone to his reward after a well spent life. The funeral services were conducted from the Methodist church Wednesday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock. Rev. Marlow, the Christian minister from Coleta, officiating. The interment was made in Bethel cemetery. The funeral was in charge of Fraser & Son.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - Undated Scrapbook Clipping

WILLIAM H. CALKINS , was born in Wayne county, N.Y. July 1,1843. In 1855 he accompanied his parents to Michigan, and, later after a short residence he moved with them to Milledgeville, Ill. When he was twelve years of age he started to work on a farm, and during the winter months attended the public school. At the age of twenty one he enlisted for the service in the Civil war, entering Company M, Eighth Illinois Calvary. His regiment was stationed at Fairfax C. H., Va. In the spring of 1865 it was ordered to Missouri for services there, but before reaching that place the war ended and he was honorably discharged, after which he returned home and resumed work on the farm. He was married on Feb. 2, 1870 to Miss Emma Scoville and settled on a farm three and one-half miles from Milledgeville in Whiteside County. Mrs. Calkins died on April 11, 1884, being the mother of three children, namely: John Earnest, who lives near Fonda, Ia; Elvin E., who resides on the home farm; and May L., who died April 26, 1884. On Feb.9, 1890 Mr. Calkins was married to Mrs. Carrie Hendrick Bushman, and to this union was born Zola Iona Calkins, who is in her Senior year in the DeKalb Normal School, DeKalb Ill. During his long life Mrs. Calkins was a useful and public-spirited citizen and good neighbor. He united with the Brethren church at Milledgeville, Ill. Feb. 25,1894 under the ministry of Rev. J. O. Tally. He was also an active member of the Grand army of the Republic and a number of other local organizations. For several years his health was failing. A few weeks ago with the hope of getting relief he went to the Freeport General hospital, and on Oct. 24th underwent a surgical operation from which he never fully rallied. He departed this life on Nov. 7, 1916, aged 73 years, 4 moths, and 6 days. His departure is mourned by his widow, the children about mentioned, his stepdaughter, Mrs. Herbert Page, Rockford, Ill., a brother, S. I. Calkins, Quincy, Ill., and a host of friends who during his life learned to respect, honor and love him. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at the Brethren church in charge of Rev. Miles J. Snyder assisted by Rev. Geo W. Welch. The singers Mrs. Edith Holly, Mrs. C.D. Miller, Dr. C.C. Goldthorpe and Mr. J.E. Miller; Mrs. W.W. Fike Pianist. Pall bearers were Messrs, W.P. Hacker, George Seng, Ed. Dale, C E. Mortenson, H.H. Olmstead, and John Bracken, Burial at Bethel cemetery.

BERNADINE (ANDERSON) CALSYN , age 83, of Mt. Carroll, Illinois, died Friday, June 20, 2003 at her son's home, rural Mt. Carroll. A Funeral Mass will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 23 at SS. John and Catherine Catholic Church, Mt. Carroll with Father Moises Apostol as Celebrant. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Mt. Carroll. Visitation will be held from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Sunday, June 22 at the Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home, Mt. Carroll with a Rosary Service held at 6:30p.m. A memorial fund has been established in Bernadine's name. Bernadine was born June 19, 1920 in Cambridge, Illinois, the daughter of Charles G. and Catherine (Goodley) Anderson. She was a Cambridge High School graduate. She then graduated from the Moline Business College, Moline, Illinois. Bernadine married Alphonse Calsyn August 11, 1945 in Geneseo, Illinois. He died September 29, 1980 in Mt. Carroll. Bernadine liked to cook for family and friends. She loved the time spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. For many years, Bernadine enjoyed craftwork, traveling to many craft shows. She had also worked at the Rock Island Arsenal during WWII and Shimer College of Mt. Carroll during the late 60s and early 70s. Bernadine was a member of SS. John and Catherine Catholic Church where she also belonged to the Altar and Rosary Society. She served as a co-chairperson of the Mayfest Craft Fair in Mt. Carroll for many years. Survivors include a daughter, Sharon (Don) Hulin of Cambridge; a son, Rodger (Jane) Calsyn of Mt. Carroll; six grandchildren, Katy (Tom) Hasson, Karl Hulin, Collin (Deb) Calsyn, Amber (Bill) Walters, Heather (Joel) Speakman and Hannah Calsyn; and 11 great grandchildren. Bernadine is preceded in death by her husband; a brother, Russell; and a sister, Mary K. Johnson.
Prairie Advocate June 25, 2003

KENNETH W. CALVERT , 77, of Savanna, died Sunday at the Big Meadows Nursing Home, Savanna. Graveside services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Greenwood Cemetery, Galena, Ill. The Rev. Diane Jochum will be officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today at the Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. He was born Oct. 8, 1926, in Galena to Walter L. and Gayle A. Callahan Calvert. He married Rosalyn M. Leifker on Nov. 18, 1950, in Galena. He attended Galena High School. He served in the United States Navy during World War II. He was a retired truck driver. He was a member of the Galena Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Savanna American Legion. Survivors include his wife; two daughters; Bobbi Harrell (Brian Kamen) of Savanna and Mrs. Mary (Dennis) Hebeler of Thomson, Ill.; three sons, Kenneth (Cathy) Calvert of East Dubuque; Ill., Walter Calvert of Cuba City, Wis., and Michael (Joy) Calvert of Clinton; 12 grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; and one brother, Robert (Carole) Calvert of Bellevue, Neb. He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial fund has been established in his name.
Clinton Herald November 4, 2003

EILEEN (BULLIS) CAMPBELL - Mrs. Samuel (Eileen) Campbell, 87, of Mount Carroll, died Monday night in Tucson, Ariz., following a long illness. She was a member of Mount Carroll Baptist Church, Daughters of the American Revolution and Woman’s Community Club. Born Aug. 10, 1890 in Colton, Calif., she was the daughter of William and Annie (Stephenson) Bullis. She married Samuel Campbell Oct. 10, 1914 in Los Angeles, Calif. Surviving are her husband; two brothers, Dr. Richard Bullis and Dr. John Bullis, both of California. Funeral service will be 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Frank Funeral Home in Mount Carroll, with the Rev. George Munger, pastor of Mount Carroll Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery. Friends may call from 8 a.m. Saturday until time of service at the funeral home.
Contributed by Alice Horner

JENNIE (GILLESPIE) CAMPBELL , 64 passed away about 3 o'clock this morning at her home in Mt. Carroll. Mrs. Campbell was born in this community, the daughter of Robert and Margaret Gillespie. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Eugene Carr and Mrs. Kenneth Schneider, of Mt. Carroll, one son, Clair Campbell of Muncie, Ind. and one sister, Mrs. Charles Bickelhaupt, of Mt. Carroll. Her husband, two brothers and one sister preceded her in death. Funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon from Frank Brothers chapel and at 2:30 o'clock from the Methodist church. Burial will be made in Oak Hill cemetery.
Freeport Journal Standard 09 Mar. 1940

JULIA CAMPBELL died at the home of her son, Truman J. Campbell, of Manilla, Iowa, on the 26th day of May, 1898. She was born in Saratoga County, New York, May 6, 1816, thus was 82 years and 20 days old. In 1847, she was married to John B. Campbell, and settled where the town of Milledgeville now stands in Carroll Co., Ill. There she lived to raise a family of four children, three of whom survive. While the children were comparatively small she was left a widow with scanty means for support. Bravely and willingly she toiled to care for, and educate those she loved as her very life, trusting in the Father of the fatherless and the One that sticketh closer than a brother. During her declining years she made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Geo. W. Bidlack, and son, Truman J. Campbell both of Manilla Iowa. In her last hours kind friends were at her bedside and heard the testimony of triumphant faith in her Savior. She asked for a peaceful death, and as she was passing away that peace which passeth all understanding adorned her brow. She was buried in the Manilla cemetery with many loving respects shown by her friends and neighbors.

SAMUEL J. CAMPBELL 20-year chairman of the board of Catalina Savings & Loan Association, died Thursday at Tucson Medical Center. He was 89. (Note: The Social Security Death Index gives the date as September 1981.) Campbell, who visited Tucson regularly for 25 years before he moved here in 1954, participated actively in local business and civic affairs, and was a philanthropist and major financial supporter of the University of Arizona. In January, Gov. Bruce Babbit sent Campbell a letter of congratulations that read, in part: “Your dedication and extraordinary efforts in service to others are well known throughout the state. As a leader in the fields of finance, education and philanthropy, you deserve recognition for your excellent work.” Campbell had been instrumental in directing the growth and policies of Catalina Savings since its formation in December 1960 and had served as chairman of the company’s board since March 1961. He had been a member of the board of directors of the University of Arizona Foundation since 1963, and had served as the board’s vice president since 1977. Also, he was a member of the foundation’s President’s Club of donors of $10,000 or more. Campbell’s donations to the foundation included his Catalina foothills home, Casa Camello, valued at about $250,000 in 1969, and $135,000 he gave last year for expansion of the cancer center at the University of Arizona Health Services Center. Also, in 1974 he set up a trust fund with proceeds to be used to expand the university’s performing arts center.

Richard Imwalle, executive director of the UA Foundation, said yesterday that Campbell was an important and active member of the foundation’s board until shortly before his death. Of Campbell’s financial support of the foundation, Imwalle said: “He was generous. He gave to the foundation on a regular basis, and then there were these special gifts.” Campbell’s support of higher education was not limited to the University of Arizona. In February, he donated $47,000 to Prescott Center College. He was also an honorary trustee for life of Shimer College of Mount Carroll, Ill., and Beloit College in Beloit, Wis., both of which he attended. He supported both Midwestern colleges throughout his life. His donations to Shimer reported exceeded $1 million, and last year he gave $500,000 to Beloit. Born in Mount Carroll on June 18, 1892 he graduated from Stanford University in 1914 with a bachelor’s degree in economics. He later received honorary law degrees from Beloit, Shimer, and Lincoln Memorial University in Memphis, Tenn. Over the years, Campbell parlayed businesses and agricultural properties he inherited into financial holdings that reached, in their operations, around the world. “He was a fantastic businessman. He had great, great successes, “ said Sam McMillan, president of the UA Foundation and a friend of Campbell for more than 20 years. Campbell’s full-time business experience began in 1914, when he became president of First Carroll County State Bank in Mount Carroll. He served in that position until 1929, when he became president and chairman of Kable News Co. in Mount Morris, Illinois. He reportedly bought that company when it was nearly bankrupt. Under his direction, it became one of the largest independent publishers in the nation and was an international magazine distributor with outlets around the world, including England and Australia. Campbell retired from Kable News in 1971 and later sold his interest in the company. He kept business offices in Chicago and New York City, and his other financial interests included more than 25 years as board member or director of Kemper Insurance Co. which controls several other insurance companies. He also increased his family’s agricultural holdings near Mount Carroll to 2,400 acres, and he raised Angus cattle there. His philanthropic activity included a $500,000 donation last year to local charities in Mount Carroll. He quietly and without fanfare, paid for the college educations of students in Illinois and Tucson, and supported 4-H activities here by purchasing blue-ribbon 4-H livestock each year at the Pima County Fair. Campbell was a well-known collector of Western Art and a trustee of Western Art Associates. He was a former board member of the Tucson Museum of Art and a trustee of the Grand Central Art Galleries in New York City. His local civic involvement included membership on the boards of the Southern Arizona Heart Association and the Hospital Planning Council of Greater Tucson Inc. Also he was a trustee of the Dragoon-based Amerind Foundation. He served as lieutenant commander in the U. S. Navy Reserve from 1942 to 1945. On October 10, 1914, he married Eileen Burris. Before she died in 1978, the couple traveled regularly to Europe by ship. Recently his health began failing. He was hospitalized about a month ago after a heart attack, and was released to his home until complications arose a few days ago. There are no survivors. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. next Friday at Dalton’s Palms Mortuary, 5225 E. Speedway. Interment will be in Mount Carroll. Remembrances may be made to the Tucson museum of Art or the University of Arizona Foundation.
Contributed by Alice Horner

EMMA (MILLER) CARTER , formerly of Lanark died in the home of her daughter, Mrs. Luella Mielke April 14, 1967 following an extended illness. Born Dec. 26, 1870 in Carroll Co., she was the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Fuchs) Miller. On March 29, 1888 she married Charles Carter in Lanark. She was preceded in death by her husband and two sons. Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Mielke, and Mrs. Dan (Clara Elizabeth) Southard of Viola, Iowa; a son, C. Donald Carter, Lanark, four grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren and a sister Miss Clara Miller of Lanark. Mrs. Carter was a member of the church of God of the Abraham faith. Funeral services will be 1:30 pm Monday in Offenheiser Funeral Home, Pearl City. Rev. Merle Hawbecker will officiate. Burial will be in the Lanark Cemetery. Friends may call after 2 pm Sunday at the funeral home
Contributed by Michaelene Smith

CLARINDA (SPENCER) CASE , born in Litchfield county, Connecticut, Dec. 13, 1829, was the daughter of Naaman and Diantha (Benham) Spencer. Died at her home in Eagle Point, Oct. 19, 1912 aged 82 years, 10 months, 16 days. When 9 years of age she accompanied her parents to Elkhorn Grove, in Carroll county, Ill. (1838). Their first home was a log cabin built by Samples Journey in 1831 on the farm now owned (1912) by T. G. Smith of Polo. About 1843 they moved to Eagle Point, in Ogle county, and settled upon the farm now owned by Isaac Spencer. Clarinda Spencer was one of the pioneer children who attended school in the Center schoolhouse, which was erected in the center of the grove on land now owned by Mr. George Wagner. She was one of ten children, i.e., five daughters and five sons; Mrs. Fanny Woodin, Mrs. Lucinda Jenkins, Mrs. Diantha Porter, Lorinda and the subject of this sketch. The sons were Allen Benham, Alanson, William, Naaman and Isaac. Of the ten brothers and sisters there are now living: Allen B., Naaman and Isaac. Clarinda was married June 12, 1843 to Luke Case, who died April 27, 1865. To this couple were born three sons and three daughters, i.e., Fanny Amanda "Michaels", Luna "Davison" and Orpha; Giles, Allen Henry and Elmer. Those now living are Mrs. Luna Davison, Miss Orpha and Elmer. During the past fifteen years the Spencer-Benham Reunion association have held their annual meetings at the home of Mrs. Case, and sorrow will fill the heart of every member when they learn that never again will they be welcomed to the banquet in the shade of the maples by "Aunt Clarinda." In addition to caring for her own children, she furnished a home and its comforts to two grandsons [i.e.;Fred Michaels and Luke Case] from infancy to young manhood. She loved to minister to the happiness and comfort of others. She loved the birds and flowers, music and song, the good, the true, and the beautiful.
Contributed by Steve Schack Tri-County Press, Polo, IL, pg, 1, 7 Nov 1912.

MERLE "PETE" CATE , age 81 of Savanna, Illinois, passed away on Friday, June 29, 2007 at his home. Cremation rites will be accorded. A Graveside Inurnment will take place at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 3, 2007 in Lower York Cemetery. Memorials may be sent in Pete’s name to Heartland Pet Welfare, Inc. 2720 Wacker Road, Savanna, Illinois 61074. Condolences may be sent to the family home at 706 Poplar Street, Savanna, Illinois 61074. Pete was born in Savanna July 25, 1925 the son of Hubert and Gladys (Millard) Cate of Thomson. Pete graduated from Thomson High School with the class of 1943. On March 27, 1948 he married Joyce Marshall in Clinton, Iowa. They celebrated fifty nine years of marriage. Pete served in the United States Navy during World War II in the South Pacific. He was employed by the Milwaukee Railroad for eighteen years. He also was employed at the Mississippi Palisades State Park for nineteen years and retired as Park Superintendent in 1987. Pete served two terms on the Carroll County Board and was a tax assessor in York Township and Savanna Township, and was a past member of the Thomson American Legion. Pete enjoyed playing golf, his bulldogs and his cats. He also loved driving his car through the Palisades State Park and Marquette Park where he loved to monitor the river. He was an avid reader and enjoyed going to the library from an early age. Survivors include his wife, Joyce of Savanna; two daughters, Charlotte Cate of Hampton Virginia and Charlene (Gene) Gale of Windsor, Virginia; a son, Bradley (Kay) Cate of Savanna; one granddaughter, Jessica Mabrey; one brother, Hubert (Carmen) Cate of Metropolis, Illinois; two sisters, Betty Smeltekop of Milford, Michigan and Norma (Cliff) Durward of Thomson; and many nieces and nephews; two sisters-in-law Carolyn Lancaster of Mt. Carroll, Illinois and Edith Cate of Thomson; and a brother-in-law Warren Waltrip of Byron, Illinois Pete was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Mary Waltrip; and a brother, Millard Cate.

MILLARD "PETE" CATE , 81, of Spartanburg, S.C., and previously of Thomson, died Wednesday (November 3, 2004) at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center. A memorial service will be 1 p.m. Sunday at York Community Church, Thomson, with Pastor Ron Abbott officiating. Inurnment will be in Lower York Cemetery, Thomson, with full military rites by the Thomson American Legion, Donald Ashpole Post No. 1025. He was born March 17, 1923, in Thomson to Hubert Arthur and Gladys Millard Cate. He married Edith Freeman on June 23, 1946, in Thomson. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He retired from the Milwaukee Railroad after 30 years of service. He also farmed for many years. He was a member of the Thomson Community Church and a lifetime member of the American Legion. Survivors include his wife; two sons, Jonathan (Sonya) Cate of Denver, N.C., and William (Diane) Cate of Alpharetta, Ga.; two daughters, Mrs. Judith (Merrill) Beck of Thomson and Mrs. Christine (Austin) McElhaney of Pauline, S.C.; two sisters, Betty Smeltekop of Michigan and Mrs. Norma (Cliff) Durward of Thomson; two brothers, Hubert (Carmen) Cate of Golconda, Ill., and Merle (Joyce) Cate of Savanna; a brother-in-law, Warren Waltrip; 15 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter and a sister.
Clinton Herald

ANN MARIA CHAFFEE , was born in Cayuga county, New york August 15, 1816, and died at the home of her sn, V.G. Chaffee, in Milledgeville, November 1, 1899, aged 83 years, 2 months and 16 days. Mrs. Chaffee was one of the early settlers of Carroll county, having come here with her husband in 1845. Since that time she has always resided in this county. She leaves to mourn her loss two daughters, Mrs. B.S. Hendrick, of this place, and Mrs. O. Lampman of Prairieville, and one son, V.G. Chaffee of this place. Mrs. Chaffee was widely known throughout this part of Carroll county and had a great many friends who knew her to be a kind friend and neighbor. The funeral services were held at the home Friday morning, November 3, and were conducted by Rev. J.H. Grimm of Coleta, assisted by Revs. Teeter and Davis of this place. Interment took place at the Bethel cemetery.

JAMES CHAFFEE - Death of James Chaffee, one of the Early Settlers of Elkhorn Grove, Saturday morning. James Chaffee, one of the early settlers of Carroll county, died at the residence of his son-in-law, M. Sarber, near Freemont, on Saturday morning, May 12, 1888. He.......(missing)
Contributed by Karen Fyock - Scrapbook Clipping

ROBERT CHAMBERLAIN , 71, of Thomson, died Saturday at Mercy North Hospital. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Savanna, Ill. The Rev. Moises Apostol will be officiating. Burial will be in the Calvary Hill Cemetery in Fulton, Ill. Full military rites will be presented by Miles American Legion Post 677. Following interment, a time of food and fellowship will be held at the church. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday with a Scripture service at 6 p.m. at the Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. He was born July 11, 1932, in Clinton to Ralph and Rose Hickey Chamberlain. On Sept. 14, 1979, he married Shirley Bailey. She died in 1986. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He worked as an ironworker for many years. Survivors include two stepdaughters, Cindy Hoffer and Candy Ertmer; one stepgranddaughter; two brothers, Jerald (Josephine) Chamberlain of Miles and William (Connie) Chamberlain of Rome, Ga.; two sisters, Madonna Forcier of Tucson, Ariz., and Maxine Mertens of Keystone. A memorial has been established at the funeral home in his name. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and three sisters.
Clinton Herald 10 May 2004

FRED CHAMBERS - The Old Pioneer and Well-Known Hotel Man of Savanna, Succumbs to the King of Terrors -
On Thursday afternoon of last week, at Savanna, Fred Chambers, Senior, a man closely connected with the early history of Carroll county, passed over to the great majority who have solved the problem of death. He had a stroke of Paralysis a couple of months ago and never recovered from the shock.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - July 12, 1888 Scrapbook Clipping

MARY ELIZA (WESTBROOK) CHAMBERS , was born February 16th, 1855 and died August 31st, 1895. The immediate cause of her death was inflammation caused by the bursting of an internal abscess. The lady had not felt well for a few weeks but had little thought that anything serious would result. On August 20th she was united in marriage to Fred A. Chambers and eleven days later her spirit took its flight to him who gave it. Mrs. Chambers was best known to her friends and the Savanna people as Metta Westbrook. She was born in Savanna and resided here ever since, with the exception of four years she was as Mt. Alger, Iowa, where her father was engaged in business. In 1881 she became interested in the Westbrook store and has been a familiar figure there ever since. She was of a quiet and retired disposition, but by her gentle manners she had hosts of acquaintances and none knew her but to love and respect her. She was the younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Luther H. Westbrook. Her parents were old settlers in Savanna and her father conducted business in the city for about thirty years. She leaves, besides her husband, an older sister, Mrs. Flora A., wife of Lester W. Bowen, and one brother, William, who as a partner of hers, has been conducting the store of Westbrook & Son. The funeral occurred on last Monday afternoon from the house, and was conducted by Rev. Erving. The husband of only a few days as well as the near relatives have the sympathy of all in the sad and sudden bereavement.
Posted by Michael Davis

VIRGINIA (SEIPLE) CHARNESKI , 81, of Savanna, died Sunday at her home. Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Savanna. Private family inturnment of ashes will be in the St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery, Savanna. There will be no visitation. She was born May 20, 1922, in Mount Carroll, Ill., to Harry M. and Mary E. Newell Seiple. She married Harry J. Charneski on Dec. 23, 1940, in Camanche. He died in 1986. She worked for many years until her retirement at the National Tea Grocery Store in Savanna. She also was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Savanna. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Letha (Tom) Robbe of Savanna; two sons, Ronald (Linda) Charneski of Savanna and Robert (Melody) Charneski of Savanna; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one sister, Gladys Brown of Savanna; and one brother, Harry (Barbara) Seiple Jr. of Freeport, Ill. Memorials may be made to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, four sisters, three brothers and one son-in-law.

Clinton Herald 20 January 2004

ELAINE M. (REMMERS) CHASTAIN , 71, former Carroll County, Oklahoma and Missouri resident, died September 9, 2004 at St. John's Hospital in Springfield, MO. Elaine was born May 3, 1933 the daughter of Jake and Edna (Rademaker) Miller, and lived in the Lanark, Shannon area. She was a retired school bus driver and had worked as a security guard. Elaine is survived by her husband, Bill of the home; four sons, Keith Remmers, Michael Remmers, Terry Chastain and Ron Chastain; two daughters, Sharon Chastain and Patty Alcorn; a sister, Doris Bork; 20 grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren. Her first husband, Henry Kenneth Remmers precedes Elaine in death. Funeral services were held September 13, 2004 at Aurora Baptist Temple. Burial was September 14, in Fairview Cemetery in Augusta, Kansas. Services were under the direction of Greenlawn North Funeral Home of Springfield, MO.
Prairie Advocate September 2004

THOMAS COCHRAN , veteran Thomson merchant, passed away at his store at Thomson Tuesday noon. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 2 pm from the home of his son Ely Cochran with interment in Lower York Cemetery. Death claimed the end of a long career for Thomas Cochran, 85, who passed away Tuesday noon, just as the whistle blew, ending a career that started when he came west from an orphanage in New York state to Fulton in 1864. For the last 65 years Mr Cochran has been associated with the Fulton and Thomson communities. For the past 63 years he has lived in Thomson and operated a general store with the exception of a year or two some 40 years ago when he was obliged to give up because of ill health. His mind was always clear and bright , a remarkable faculty which he retained until the last. His health the past winter was poor, he being confined to his bed, and it was realized for some time that the end was not far away. Yet even during sickness Mr Cochran retained an active interest in business and those who wished to seek his advice could recieve the best of worthwhile information from him. Coming to Fulton in 1864, Mr Cochran was taken into the home of Mr Aylesworth who conducted a general store at that place. He served his apprenticeship in the Aylesworth store, and in 1871 the senior Mr Aylesworth started a general store in Thomson, placing his son and Mr Cochran in charge of same, and on a partnership basis. Mr. Cochran purchased the half interest of his partner in 1873 and has since remained in business here, with the exception of a year or so as previously mentioned, due to illness. His store for all these years has been in the same location. The stories about Mr Cochran as a merchant are legend. It has been said many times by older residents that in his prime he could wait on more customers at once than any man ever seen behind a counter. Not only that but as soon as the last item was purchased, Mr Cochran would tell to the penny the total amount of the bill, figuring the sums in his head as he made up the customer¹s order. In filling his orders he used a heavy grade of wrapping paper, which he made into a funnel, and then securely wrapped and tied at both ends. He carried carload stocks of flour and feed, and his shelves were always piled high with thekind of merchandise useful and needed in a smaller community. During his entire lifetime, Mr Cochran kept his own set of complete books, on his store, and tenants. He could tell to a penny just how all accounts stood without referring to his ledger and his mind has often been termed one of the fastest at calculating and figuring of any in Thomson. He lived a long and useful life and he too realized that the end was near. We are glad that he honored Thomson for so many years with his business and his presence.
Contributed by Richard Groharing

FLOYD COLBERT, JR. , 57, of Mount Carroll died Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2000, at Rockford Memorial Hospital.
Born Nov. 16, 1942, in Shannon, he was the son of Floyd and Ida (Kerkhoff) Colbert. He married Sandra Klosa Aug. 21, 1963, in Shannon. He later married Bonnie Kork Estabrook. He had served in the Air Force and had been employed as a maintenance supervisor at Good Samaritan Center in Mount Carroll. He also had done carpentry work for several years, working as a custodian at Shannon High School, and farmed for 10 years in the Shannon area. He was a member of Shannon Baptist Church. Surviving are his wife, Bonnie; one son, Clay (Katherine) Colbert of Shannon; two daughters, Robin (Jeff) Deneskas of Forreston and Coleen (Darren) Van Brocklin of Mount Carroll; eight stepchildren, Kim (Mark) Kirin of Idaho Springs, Colo., Jeff Estabrook of Pueblo West, Colo., Elaena (Tony) Miller of Baraboo, Wis., Melissa Estabrook of Sterling, John (Angelica) Estabrook of Manitou Springs, Colo., Jason (Amelia) Estabrook of Houston, Texas, Jeremy Estabrook of Mount Carroll, and Joshua Estabrook of Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas; four brothers, Don Colbert of Sun City West, Ariz., Jerry (Linda) Colbert of Dandridge, Tenn., Larry (Jean) Colbert and Robert (Gayla) Colbert, all of Shannon; nine grandchildren and 10 step-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Martha Zimmerman and Thelma Buckwalter; and twin brother, Lloyd Colbert. The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Monday at Shannon Baptist Church with the Rev. David Wood, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Hermann Funeral Home in Shannon. A memorial fund has been established.
Contributed by Judi Wirtjes - The Journal-Standard; Freeport, Stephenson, Illiinois

IDA (KERKHOFF) COLBERT , of Shannon died Friday afternoon (29 April 1977) at her home. She was born Oct. 3, 1910, in German Valley, the daughter of Frank and Lena (Julius) Kerkhoff. She married Floyd Colbert Oct 9, 1933, in Rockford. They lived their entire married life Shannon. Surviving are her husband; five sons, Donald of Wisconsin, Larry of Dakota, the Rev. Jerry Colbert of Freeport, Floyd of Shannon and Robert of Lanark; two daughters, Mrs. Robert (Thelma) Buckwalter of Lanark and Mrs. Ronald (Martha) Zimmerman of Shannon; 24 grandchildren; two great-grandchildre; sx brothers, Edwin, Frank Jr., Heiko, Thomas and John, all of Freeport and Fred of Lena; three sisters, Mrs. Wyatt (Tracy) Fredrick of Palo Alto, Calif., Mrs. Ray (Elta) Truckenmiller of Shannon and Mrs. Robert (Lena) Stenback of Savana. Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday in the Shannon United Methodist Church. Burial will be Chapel Hill Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 9 p.m. Sunday at the Scharman Funeral Home. A memorial fund has been established.
Contributed by Judi Wirtjes - The Journal-Standard, Freeport, Stephenson, IL Saturday, 30 Apr 1977

JEAN (SPINK) COLBERT , age 70, of Shannon died Sunday, January 4, 2004 in her home. Jean was born February 3, 1933 in Louisville, KY, daughter of Oscar and Helen (Watkins) Spink. She married Larry Colbert August 2, 1991 in Shannon. She graduated from the Presentation Academy, Louisville, KY in 1949. She was a member of St. Wendelin's Catholic Church in Shannon. She had retired from Micro Switch in Freeport in 1991, and she loved to read and do gardening. Jean is survived by her husband, Larry; two sons Charles (Becky) Brockmeier of Lewiston, MI and James Colbert of Freeport; one daughter, Sandra Lea (Nick) Hampton of Muskogee, OK; one brother, Richard (Toni) Spink of Glen, MS; two step sisters, Barbara Spink of Louisville, KY and Joyce (Jack) Harris of Des Moines, IA; eight grandchildren; and three great grandchildren. Her parents, one daughter, Kimberly Brockmeier, and one sister, Patricia Daniels precedes her in death. Memorial Services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2004 at St. Wendelin's Catholic Church in Shannon. A memorial fund has been established for the Freeport Memorial Hospice.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

BARBARA ANN (FIELDS) COOK , 77, of Savanna, Illinois, died Monday, November 17, 2008 at home. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 A.M. Friday, November 21, 2008 at the Church of the Open Door, Clinton, Iowa, with Pastor John Loyd officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 A.M. Friday in the church prior to the service. Burial will be in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery, McGregor, Iowa. Barbara Ann Cook was born January 24, 1931 in Marquette, Iowa the daughter of Raymond and Winifred (Boyle) Fields. She married William T. Cook on June 19, 1948 in MacGregor, Iowa. William passed away February 14, 1993. She worked for Interstate Power Company for twenty-six years, retiring in 1993. Barbara was a member of The Church of the Open Door, Clinton, Iowa. She had served as chairperson of Carroll County Right to Life and was active in the pro-life movement. Barbara was active in Girl Scouting as a leader and was past president of the Milwaukee Railroad Women’s Club. Barbara loved to read and play cards. She particularly enjoyed being with her grandchildren and friends. Barbara will be sadly missed by her two daughters, Marsha (Russell) Bedford of Hanover, Illinois and Cheryl (Jeff) Melhus of Galesburg, Illinois; nine grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Marjorie Cook of Marquette, Iowa and Betty (Don) Schott of Savanna. Barbara is preceded in death by her husband and parents.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

EILEEN G. (HUMMEL) COOK , 90, passed away Sunday, June 20, 2004. She was born in Savanna July 28, 1913, the daughter of George H. and Helen T. (Stephan) Hummel. Eileen married Harry L. Daly on Dec. 31, 1932. In 1945, the family moved to Winnebago. Eileen worked with the head chef in the cafeteria at Boylan High School in Rockford for 22 years. She was known for her excellent cooking skills and for baking and decorating many cakes for various occasions, including weddings. Eileen married George H. Cook July 2, 1977. He died Jan. 22, 1980. Eileen always gave a helping hand to those who needed it, and her wonderful sense of humor and grace were loved by all. Her greatest joy was her family and friends, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In September 1999, Eileen went to live with her daughter and son-in-law in Mount Horeb, Wis. For the past 3 1/2 years, Eileen resided at Sienna Crest, where she was much loved and cared for by the wonderful staff. Last July, she celebrated her 90th birthday with more than 100 guests. Eileen is survived by her children: Larry Daly of Lake of the Ozarks, Mo., Jane (Leo) Bier of Rockford, George (Barbara) Daly of Clarksburg, Calif., Dennis (Georgeanne) Daly of Winnebago, Dotty (John) Ivens of Mount Horeb and Kathy (Mike) Hoffman of Rockford; brothers and sisters: Agnes (Albert) Berger and MaryAnn (Mitz) Lineback, both of Rockford; sister-in-law: Barbara Hummel of Rockford; 29 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. Also predeceased by her parents; brothers, George and John; sisters, Ena Jane, Irma, Dorothy and Gwendolyn; and son-in-law, Steve Penne. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Friday, June 25, in St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 2400 Bell Ave., Rockford, with Father Pierre Polycarpe officiating. Burial will be in St. Thomas Catholic Cemetery in Seward. Friends may call from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Friday, June 25, at St. Bernadette Catholic Church. Ellestad Funeral Home, 500 N. Eighth St., Mount Horeb, is serving the family. Visit www.ellestadfuneralhome.com or call 608-437-5077.
Rockford Register Star

EUGENE COOK - Funeral services for Eugene Cook were held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the First Brethren church, Rev. Chester P. Zimmerman, pastor, officiating. Pallbearers were Roy Greenawalt, John E. Rahn, Spencer Peterman, William Johnson, Oscar Tallman, and Harry Gossard. Harry Tallman was soloist and flowers were cared for by Mrs. John Livengood and Mrs. J. G. Greenawalt. Burial was in the Lanark cemetery. (Transcriber’s note: The obituary doesn’t say this but the Illinois Statewide Death Index indicates he died April 27, 1940 at East Moline, Rock Island County, Illinois.) Eugene Cook, son of James and Katherine Cook, was born December 16, 1869 at Waynesboro , Pennsylvania . He married Miss Orpha Lynch February 1, 1894. She survives, also one son, Brice, and two grandchildren of Shannon, one brother, Harry, and one sister, Mrs. William Kennedy, both of Wilsey , Kansas , one brother, Charles, of Sanford , Florida , one step-brother, Albert of Waynesboro. A sister and two brothers preceded him in death. Mr. Cook was a member of the local First Brethren church, having united under the pastorate of the late Rev. Z. T. Livengood.
Contributed by Alice Horner May 1, 1940 edition Freeport Journal Standard

EVELYN ARLENE COOK , age 93, of Chadwick, Illinois, died Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at Manor Court Long-Term Care Facility, Freeport, Illinois. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 16, 2009 at Hope United Methodist Church, Chadwick with Pastor Melwyn Alagodi and Pastor Dave Davies officiating. A time of gathering will be held, one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will take place in Chadwick Cemetery, Chadwick. Memorials may be given to Hope United Methodist Church in Evelyn’s memory. Evelyn was born on September 28, 1915, the daughter of Charles and Adah (Buck) Schreiner in Chadwick, Illinois. She graduated from Chadwick High School with the Class of 1933. Evelyn attended Shimer College in Mount Carroll for two years, where she received her teaching certificate. Evelyn married Claude B. Cook on May 12, 1937 in Chadwick. Claude died on April 16, 1976. After graduation from college, Evelyn taught at Fairhaven Country School for several years. In 1943 Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed her as the first woman Postmaster in Chadwick. Evelyn was a compassionate woman, who loved taking care of her family. She was a member of the Chadwick Women’s Club and the Hope United Methodist Church. Evelyn was an unconditional Cub fan whose unwavering devotion to the team defied a century of disappointments on the field. She went to several Cub games over the years including a game with Atlanta in 1995 that she watched with family and friends from a sky box at Wrigley Field in celebration of her 80th birthday. Her last visit to Wrigley was in September 1999 to see the Cub's Team of the Century Celebration. Evelyn was an exceptional cook, known for her prize winning Dutch Apple Pie. She also enjoyed her flower gardens and crocheting dishcloths and potholders. Evelyn will be dearly missed by her son, Frank (Louise) Cook of Freeport; one daughter in-law, Diane (Steve) Frankeberger of Mount Carroll; four grandchildren, Monica (Kurt) Cook-Sunderman of Chicago, Illinois, Jessica Cook of Sterling, Illinois, Melinda (Chris Behmer) Cook of Chicago, and Caitlin Cook of Freeport; and one great granddaughter, Ruby Behmer. Evelyn is preceded in death by her husband, Claude; one son, Fredric; two brothers, Lloyd and Roy; and one sister, Regena.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

HULDA COOK - Died in Carroll county, Ill. February 17 (1863), HULDA, infant daughter of sister Martha COOK, aged 3 years, 4 months, 17 days. Funeral service by M. S. Wm J Slifer.
Contributed by Carol Parrish - with thanks to Dennis from "The Monthly Gospel Visitor" (1851-1873)

EMMA GRACE COOLEY , age 99, of Savanna, Illinois died Monday, October 6, 2003 at Big Meadows Nursing Home, Savanna. Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m. Saturday, October 11, 2003 at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, Savanna, Illinois. Russell Eggers will officiate. Burial will be in the Savanna Township Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Saturday, October 11, 2003 at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. Emma was born on Wednesday, August 10, 1904 in Washington Township, Carroll County, Illinois, to Elmer and Mary (Frey) Cooley. After High School graduation Emma graduated from Shimer College in Mt. Carroll, Illinois and then attended Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Illinois. She then taught school in Carroll and JoDaviess Counties. After retiring she did tutoring and substitute teaching. Emma never married. Emma was a member of the Savanna Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, the Illinois Retired Teachers Association, and the Carroll County Retired Teachers Association. Survivors include one nephew, cousins, and close friends. Emma was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, one brother at birth, and one nephew.
Prairie Advocate 15 October 2003

CLARA CORBETT , age 84, of Savanna, Illinois, (formerly Countryside, Illinois) died Wednesday, August 8, 2007, at Big Meadows Nursing Home, Savanna, Illinois. Cremation will take place and no services will be held. Clara was born on February 13, 1923 on a farm in Washington Township, Illinois, the daughter of Samuel and Mae (Davis) Corbett. She graduated from Savanna High School. Clara worked as a Nurses Aid at LaGrange Memorial Hospital, LaGrange, Illinois for fifteen years. She was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church. Clara will be dearly missed by a brother, Russell (Joyce) Corbett of Savanna; two sisters, Beulah Pratt and Grace Welsh, both of Savanna; two sister in-laws, Marcella Corbett of DeForest, Wisconsin and Wilma Corbett of Savanna; and many nieces and nephews. Clara is preceded in death by her parents; two brothers Fritz and Wilbur Corbett; and two sisters Helen Parker and Emma Isenhart.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

DELORIS RUTH (GROHARING) CORBETT , 76, a homemaker of Mt. Carroll , died March 14, 1997 at Samaritan North Hospital , Clinton , Iowa . She had worked as a presser for the Savanna Garment Factory until it closed, at the laundry at the Savanna City Hospital , and later as a cook at Pauley’s Restaurant, Mt. Carroll . She enjoyed crocheting, craftwork, reading and helping people in need. She especially enjoyed her great-grandchildren. Daughter of Howard L. and Jessie M. (Edwards) Groharing, she was born September 20, 1920 in Savanna. She attended Savanna High School . On July 4, 1939 in Lanark, she married Voris G. Corbett. He lives at Savanna. Other survivors are a daughter, Ruby (Dick) Handel of Mt. Carroll; a son, Jerry (Kandi) Corbett of Mt. Carroll; 7 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Hazel (Guy) Turney of Savanna, Opal Cross of Peachtree City, Georgia, and Jessie (Francis “Bud”) Riddle of Savanna. She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, and three sisters. Her funeral was March 16 at the Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home, Mt. Carroll , where visitation was also held on Sunday. Rev. Michael Pater of Hickory Grove Methodist Church , Wacker, officiated. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery , Mt. Carroll .
Contributed by Alice Horner

JAMES HAMILTON CORBETT , 78, of Rapids City and formerly of Savanna, Ill., died Wednesday (August 6, 2003) at his home on Elk Creek Road. Services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home, Mount Carroll, Ill. Visitation will be from 9 to 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Zion Cemetery at the corner of Elizabeth and Massbach Road near Savanna. Friends and family are welcome to attend a lunch at the Mount Carroll United Methodist Church following the services. Funeral arrangements have been made by the Kirk Funeral Home, Rapids City, and Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home. He was born Oct. 31, 1924, in Savanna to Joseph and Myrtle Johns Corbett. He married Donna Gage in Calamus on April 6, 1952. He lived and worked on the family farm near Savanna. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1946 and served until 1948. In 1950 he re-enlisted and was stationed in California. He and his wife owned J & D Grocery in Charlotte for two years. He then returned to the Marine Corps as an active duty reservist and they moved to Waterloo. In December 1956 he enlisted with the U.S. Air Force and was stationed for 16 years in Denver, Colo., Anchorage, Alaska, San Antonio, and retired from Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapids City. He was an active leader in the Boy Scouts and was a Hunter Safety Course instructor in several states. He also bred Siberian Huskies. Survivors include his wife, Donna, of Elk Creek Road, outside of Rapids City; a son, David (Rhonda) Corbett of Littlefield, Texas; three daughters, Mrs. Susan (Rex) Whitman of Ault, Colo., Mrs. Peggy (Hemo) Walters of Farmington, N.M., and Mrs. Nancy (Mike) Williams of Flora Vista, N.M.; eight grandchildren; and two sisters, Josephine Messmer and YaVonne Wells, both of Mount Carroll. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, two brothers and one grandson.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

WILBUR CORBETT , 83, of Savanna, died Wednesday, September 22, 2004 at his home in Savanna, IL. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, September 27, 2004 in the First United Methodist Church, Savanna. Reverend Thomas Moe will officiate. Interment will be in the Savanna Township Cemetery, Savanna. The Savanna Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #2223 accorded full Military rites. Friends were asked to call from 5-8 p.m. Sunday, September 26, 2004 at the First United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the First United Methodist Church or Savanna Ambulance Association. Law -Jones Funeral Home in Savanna will be handling the funeral arrangements. Wilbur Corbett was born July 13, 1921, the son of Samuel and Mae (Davis) Corbett. He was a graduate of Savanna High School, Class of 1939. Wilbur served in the United States Armed Forces during World War II. On June 20, 1948, Wilbur married Wilma Buckwalter in the First United Methodist Church, Savanna, where they have been long time members. He worked for the Savanna Army Depot for almost forty years. Wilbur enjoyed his time with his children and grand children, especially the camping trips, traveling, and fishing. Wilbur was very active in his church, the President of the Men's Club. He was a member of the National Assoc. of Retired Federal Employees. He was a member of the Savanna Ambulance Assoc., the Savanna Fire Department Board, a 4-H leader, a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and also held former membership with the Savanna School Board. Wilbur will be deeply missed by his wife, Wilma, two sons Stan Corbett (Cassie Wang) of Machesney Park, and Brian Corbett of Savanna; one daughter, Colleen (Craig) Yudell of Northbrook; five grandchildren, Ryan, Sara, Valerie, Vanessa, and Vance; one brother, Russell (Joyce) Corbett of Savanna; and four sisters, Buelah Pratt, Emma Isenhart, Clara Corbett, and Grace Welsh all of Savanna. His parents, one sister, Helen, and one brother, Francis, precede Wilbur in death.
Prairie Advocate September 2004

ELSIE R. (MILLER) CRAM , 82, of Lanark, a former Lanark businesswoman, died Wednesday, April 3, 1991 at home. She and her husband, Lewis, owned and operated the Miller Hatchery in Lanark for 38 years. She was a member of Lanark United Methodist Church and was past worthy matron of Beltista Chapter, Order of Eastern Star, Lanark. Born June 13, 1908 in West Fork Township, Franklin County, Iowa, she was the daughter of Matthew and Julia (Bobst) Miller. She graduated from Hampton (Iowa) High School and attended North Central College in Naperville. She and her husband were married in 1932. He preceded her in death on Nov. 27, 1990. Surviving are two sons, Paul of Washington, Ill., and Mike of Rockford; and three grandchildren, Paul, Kary, and Michael. Also preceding her in death were three sisters and two brothers. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Lanark United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Bill Bailey and the Rev. Orville Cole officiating. Burial will be in Lanark Cemetery. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Russell-Frank Funeral Home, Lanark. Memorials have been established for the Lanark Fire Department and Lanark United Methodist Church.
Contributed by Alice Horner

IDA CRAWFORD - Died, at her residence in North Wysox, on Wednesday, Oct. 13, of a compilation of diseases, Mrs. Ida Crawford, wife of Gardner Crawford, in the 24th years of her age. Burial today at Union church cemetery. Funeral services announced hereafter. Mrs. Crawford's maiden name was Beatty, and she was born and grew to womanhood at Elkhorn Grove. She leaves a husband; mother, two sisters and a brother to mourn her early death, and to them the many friends extend a generous sympathy.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - dated 1886 Scrapbook Clipping

JAMES H. CRAWFORD - Funeral services for James Crawford were conducted Wednesday afternoon at the Woodin Funeral Home in Milledgeville, with the Rev. Clarence Stogsdill of the Milledgeville Brethren Church officiating. D. M. Tarvin, Virgil Beers, Orille Allen, Ray Miller H. R. Pilgrim and James Thorp served as pallbearers. The floral tributes were cared for by Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Eller and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bracke. Arthur Melville sang "In the Garden" during the service. Interment was in South Elkhorn Cemetery.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois August 12, 1960 - Friday, pg 6

VALENTINE GARDNER CRAWFORD - On Tuesday morning, Feb. 13, 1901, at his late home near Chadwick, occurred the death of Valentine Gardner Crawford, aged 42 years, 6 months and 20 days. He was born at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and was the second of the four children of Edmund and Mary Crawford, whose home was made desolate by the loss of the father during the Civil War. He came west when very young, and at the age of nine years went to live at the home of the late Charles H. Bennett. At this home he lived for ten years and since that time most of his life had been spent on the town of Wysox. In 1881 he was united in marriage to Miss Ida Beatty of South Elkhorn. To this union two sons were born, Ernest and Walter. His first wife having died, he was married Dec. 24 1889 to Miss Libbe G. Lamoreux, who with four children, Paul, Florence, Phoebe and Carrie survive him. To mourn his his departure he also leaves a mother in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and a brother, Edward, who is now stationed in the Philipines doing service for his country. He was admitted to the membership of the Methodist Episcopal church in Milledgeville, Jan. 23, 1893, during the pastorate of Rev. C. I. Larash. The deceaced during his lifetime was an industrious and hard working man, having always followed the occupation of farming. The illness which caused his death was of short duration. On Wednesday, Feb. 6, he was seized with symptoms of pneumonia and from that time his case gradually grew worse until death ended his suffering. He was a member of the Hope church in Chadwick. The members of Wysox Camp attended in a body and conducted the services. Rev. C.A. Gage of Milledgeville preached the funeral sermon. Interment was made in the Chadwick Cemetery.
From the Sterling Library Obituary Collection

HARRIET (CLARKE) CRISCI , 81, of Savanna, died Saturday (November 27, 2004) at Mercy North Hospital. Funeral services will be at noon Wednesday at the Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery in Savanna. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday at the funeral home. She was born July 17, 1923, in Chicago to Raymond and Lucille Christopherson Clarke. She married Samuel C. Crisci on Dec. 18, 1946, in Savanna. She was a homemaker. She also worked for many years as a clerk at Allied Furniture and Flooring in Savanna. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Charlene (James) Hunter of Sparta, Wis.; two sons, Joseph Crisci of rural Savanna and Raymond Black of Cheyenne, Wyo.; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Irene (Robert) Coon and Nancy Nelson, both of Rockford, Ill.; and one brother, Harry (Darlene) Clarke of Clinton. She was preceded in death by her husband, both parents and a great-granddaughter.
Clinton Herald

HOMER B. CROUCH , 93, of Milledgeville died Tuesday. June 3, 2003, at Pinecrest Community, Mount Morris. Funeral services will take place Sunday, June 8, 2003, at 2:30 p.m. at United Methodist Church. Milledgeville, with the Rev. Mary Flatness officiating Visitation will be Saturday, June 7, 2003, from 6 until 8 p.m. at Allen-Grennan Funeral Home, Milledgeville Chapel. Burial will conclude the services at South Elkhorn Cemetery Milledgeville. Memorials have been estabilished to United Methodist Church, Milledgeville, and Ogle County Hospice Association. Mr. Crouch was born July 11, 1909, in Champaign, the son of William Walker and Flora (Glenn) Crouch, He graduated from Donaldson School and Polo High School. He attended Mount Morris College in 1930-1931 where he played right end on the college's undefeated varsity football team. He worked as a farmer. He married Alice Mildred Weatherwax on Sept. 19, 1937, in Milledgeville. She died on Nov. 5, 1991. He lived in the Polo, Milledgeville and Hazelhurst area from 1921 until he moved to Pinecrest Village in 1992. He was a member of United Methodist Church, Milledgeville, and belonged to Ogle County Farm Bureau. Survivors include one son, Wayne (Joyce) Crouch of Amherst, Mass.; two grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and one niece. He was preceded in death by his wife, and two sisters; Madgelene Eykamp of Polo and Ella Kiapprod of Phoenix.
Dailey Gazette June 5, 2003

LUCY ANN LEONARD CROUCH died at the home of her son in Holton, Kansas APril 4, 1899, aged eighty-seven years, nine months and twenty days. Mrs. Crouch was born in Poughkeepsie, Dutchess county, New York, June 14, 1811. At the age of twenty, she was married to W.A. Leonard. To them were born three children, only one of whom survives, Mrs. L.M. Deihl of Gettysburg, PA. After her husbands death, she moved to Troy, NY, at which place she was converted and united with the M.E. church, of which she was a consistent member until her death. In 1841 she was again joined in marriage to Mr. Stephen Crouch, of West Junius, Senecca county, NY. To this union were born five children, the only survivors being Mrs. Mary S. Millard of this place, Mrs. Lucy A. Battis of Denver and E.S. Crouch, at whose home she died. Her husband preceded her in 1879 (28 May) at Friend, Neb. Mr. and Mrs. Crouch came to Illinois in 1850 and settled at Milledgeville when the country was new. They raised and educated their family under many hardships and disadvantages, and will be remembered by many in this community. They were among those of the early settlers who struggled so manfully to help build the old M.E. church and parsonage at this place, and also at Coleta, and were always ready and willing to give liberally of their means for all of the Lords work. They were strong believers in the beauty of holiness in the the Christian's life and manifested it in their daily walk and conversation before the world. Mrs. Crouch, at the death of her husband, moved to Holton, Kansas, to live with her son, E.S. Crouch, where she died. her sufferings were great for the last four years,yet through it all she was very patient and gentle. To her family and those who were privileged to know her most intimately, she showed forth her Savior's meek and gentle spirit. Her last days and months were spent in many pleasant and profitable talks or letters to loved ones. As she said to me last summer while visiting her, her hopes were built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness.

SAMUEL B. CROUCH was born in Saratoga county, N.Y., Feb. 25, 1813, and died March 12, 1890, being 77 years and 17 days of age. He was united in marriage with Sarah A. Baker, Jan. 14, 1841, making 49 years of married life. In May 1847, he moved to Carroll county, Ill. Mr. Crouch was the father of eight children, three of whom died in childhood, five remain, four sons and one daughter. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Drew, the U. B. pasator in the Christian church, after which his ramains were interred in the Milledgeville cemetery. Thus another landmark is gone.

STEPHEN CROUCH died in Friend, Neb., May 28, 1878 in his seventy-sixth year. He was born in Saratoga county, NY; converted and joined the M.E. church in Seneca county in his forty-fifth year. Here, on Milledgeville and Coleta charges, he was a leading and official member for twenty-four years, assisting in the erection of four houses of worship and as many parsonages. His Christian life was of the highest character. In 1875 he moved to Saline county, Neb., where he closed a long and useful life. Bro. Crouch was a patient sufferer for some months previous to his death. During his last days the sounds of the builders at work on the new chapel fell upon his ears and cheered him, as he saw in this the success of our church. To the last his great desire was the conversion of sinners and the sanctification of believers. "Old and full of years," he came to the grave "like a shock of corn fully ripe."

HOWARD M. CROUSE 82, died at his home 1 ½ miles southwest of here last night following a long illness. He was born Sept. 29, 1869 at Mt. Carroll, the son of John and Mary Eiser Crouse. In 1900 he married Nora E. Lambert. The couple settled at Pearl City where he worked in a lumber yard until 1939 when they retired to the present home. Mrs. Crouse died June 14, 1947. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Harry (Pearl) Campbell of Orangeville; a sister, Mrs. Media Mae Unger of Elizabeth; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter and a son. Services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday at the Burington Funeral Home here. Rev. Fred Anderson of the Methodist church will officiate, with burial in Yellow Creek Cemetery at Kent.
Contributed by Alice Horner

MABEL (MILLER) CROUSE died today at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Lloyd Edler, rural Shannon, following a short illness. Mrs. Crouse had been residing with her daughter. She was born near Lanark March 3, 1880, daughter of Hiram and Rosanna (Hoover) Miller. On Nov. 28. 1901 she was married to Frank Crouse at Milledgeville. The couple farmed in the Shannon area until retiring. Mr. Crouse died in May of 1943. Surviving are a son, Harold, and a daughter, Mrs. Lloyd (Katheryn) Edler, both of Shannon; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Mrs. Mazie Ditsworth of Lansing, Mich. One daughter and a son preceded her in death. Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday in the Frank Funeral Home at Lanark. The Rev. James Allen, pastor of the Bethel Evangelical United Brethren Church of Shannon, will officiate. Burial will be in Lanark Cemetery.
Contributed by Alice Horner (Death date 8 November 1967)

DELBERT V. CURLEY , 86, of Phoenix, AZ formerly of Thomson and Fulton, IL, died Sunday, December 17, 2006 in Phoenix. Delbert was born January 15, 1920, to Lynn V. and Bonnie (Robertson) Curley. He was a 1936 graduate of York Community High School in Thomson and attended the University of Illinois. He married Agnes Eble, of Clinton, IA, in 1941. After her death in 1945, he married Marian Huggins on July 25, 1946 in Davenport, IA. Delbert farmed until 1961 when a ruptured vertebra forced him to retire. He then was employed by Walnut Grove and Columbian Feed Companies until he founded Agri-King in 1968. Since its inception in his Fulton garage, its primary focus has been livestock nutrition and research. Today Agri-King is an employee-owned international company, employing about 250. He retired in 1985, but remained active in the company serving as Chairman of the Board Emeritus. After retirement he spent his summers in Fulton and winters in his Ahwatukee home in Phoenix. He and his three sisters developed Buck's Barn, LynnWood Estates and LynnWood Lynks on their family farm in Thomson. He was a member of the Thomson United Methodist Church and a past member of the Fulton Chamber of Commerce. He was inducted into the Sandburr Classic Hall of Fame and the Shoot the Bull Sports Hall of Fame, both of Thomson. He was an avid golfer, and a charter member of the Fulton Country Club, active in its establishment. He was a lifetime member of LynnWood Lynks and had recently retired from active membership in the Ahwatukee Country Club in Phoenix. Survivors include his wife, Marian; two sons, Clark (Ann) Curley of Fulton and Robert (Ann) Curley of Thomson; two daughters, Sharon Batterham of Las Vegas, NV and Nanette (Frank) Talbot of Fulton; nine grandchildren, David (Christa) Curley, Sean Talbot, Danielle Curley, Brian Curley, Dru Curley, Dane Curley, Adelle (Travis) Crotteau, Chad (Jill) Batterham, and Derek (Diane) Batterham; eight great grandchildren; three sisters, Edna (David) Mooney and Lila Ritchie, both of Phoenix, and Leona (Vernon) Mattie of Thomson. He was preceded in death by his first wife and one sister, in infancy.

FRANK CURLEY , 66, of Mount Carroll, died this morning at his home. He was a member of the Church of God of Mount Carroll. Born Dec. 30, 1914 in Chadwick, he was the son of Charles and Mamie (Sack) Curley. He married Anna Marie Gothard June 30, 1937 in Milledgeville. Surviving are his widow; one son, David of Mount Carroll; one sister, Mrs. Lucille Siedenburg of Mount Carroll; and one grandchild. Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at Frank Funeral Home with the Rev. George Reser and the Rev. Cyrus Pollard of the Church of God officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Mount Carroll. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Contributed by Alice Horner

FRANCIS CURRAN :
Sad and Sudden News The announcement of the sudden death of Francis Curran greeted this city of the family and numerous friends in this city early last Sunday and later the particulars of this extremely sad affair became known. The young man had been in the employee of the C. M. & St. P. company for several years and during the last ten months was braking between Savannah and Van Horne (Herne?). On Sunday August 11, 1889 Conductor Castle and his crew of which Francis was a member, were at Marion, and the boys were doing some switching early in the morning about 8:30. It was in the act of making a coupling of a flat car loaded with lumber that the unfortunate subject of this report, lost his life. The lumber upon the car extended beyond the end and over the draw bar, so that in order to effect a coupling it was necessary to stoop lower than is usual and reach in under the lumber. Francis attempted to make this coupling, and in doing so, his foot slipped or struck some slight obstruction and he was thrown across the rail. Hardly had he landed in this perilous position when the relentless wheels caught him at the hips and two of them passed over his body, the third stopping upon it. The other train men soon extricated his body, and medical aid as summoned, but nothing human could save him. Word was at once telegraphed to the parents, and the mother and brother Tim, after hasty preparation, took the night express West, which was held several minutes for their accommodation. Sad as it is to related, the poor mother failed to see her son alive, since he lived only about two hours. He bore his sufferings with uncommon fortitude, and died in full possession of his mental faculties about ten before six o’clock. (ten o’clock?) The remains were properly cared for and brought to this city arriving at six o’clock, in the afternoon. At the depot a large number of sympathizing friends had gathered to meet the sad party on the incoming train, and the remains were escorted to the family homestead. On Monday Afternoon at 4:30 o’clock, the funeral services were held by Rev. F. T. As the (Astie?) and the boy interred at the Catholic cemetery. Thus ends the brief early life of a bright and promising son and brother. Just entering a period of usefulness of help to himself and comfort to his parents-this young man is ruthlessly struck down without a moment’s warning. Francis was twenty-two years of age, and a youth well liked for his generous nature, and pleasant demeanor. He was the idol-=-the baby-of a proud mother and father and it is distressingly sad to dwell upon a loss of which can never be repaired. Numerous friends and intimate acquaintances most certainly extend the feelings of sincere sympathy in this time of their bereavement. August 22, 1990 p. 1 (weekly edition, one week later) Patsy Curran and family returned to Kingston on Monday after a brief visit with the bereaved family in Savannah. Patsy is agent for the C. M. & St. P. at the above station, situated between here and Chicago.
Contributed by Carmela Kelly Savanna Weekly Journal 15 August 1889

MARGARET THERESA CURRAN ,70 (should be 80) , Dies Late Friday Night in Dubuque; Resident of City for Many Years; Funeral in St. John's Church Monday Miss Margaret T. Curran, 70, native of Galena and resident of Savannah for many years, died shortly before 10'oclock Firday night in St. Joseph's sanitorium, Dubuque, IA. She had been a patient in the sanitarium for the past three years. The body was brought to Savanna this morning, and may be viewed in the Fuller Funeral home. Funeral services will be conducted in St. John's Catholic church at 9 a.m. Monday, with Fr. E.A. O'Brien, pastor, and Fr. J.S. Latchford assistant pastor, officiating. Burial will be in the family lot in St. John's cemetery.
Contributed by Carmela Kelly Savanna Daily Journal, 17 December 1938

MARY (GATELY) CURRAN , widow of Patrick H. Curran, died at her home, 19 Cook Street at 4:55 p.m. yesterday at the age of 91 years from a complication of diseases due to old age. She was born at Athlone, Roscommon County, Ireland, on July 15, 1836 and died Aug. 30 1927. She came to America with her parents at the age of 13 and settled with her parents in Portland, Maine. She was united in marriage to Patrick Curran in the year 1856* later moving to Savanna in the year 1864, which has since been their home. Ten children were born. Two children died in infancy. Patrick H. in 1913 and Francis in 1889. Those who survive are Mrs. Mary E. Conway and Elizabeth. Mrs. R. J. Tighe, of Pawtucket, RI Thomas of Chicago and Margaret, Julia and Timothy at home. Mrs. Curran's husband preceded her in death July 23, 1910.Mrs. Curran has been in very poor health for some time and has been confined to her room for the past 13 months. The funeral will be held at 9 a.m. on Friday from St. John's Church.

Curran Funeral Held Today, From Catholic Church.
Moved to Savanna in 1864 and Has Lived Here Since That Time Mrs. Mary Gatley Curran, widow of the late Patrick Curran, who died at home 19 Cook street, August 30, was buried from the Catholic church this morning at 9 o’clock. The pall bearers were John M. Mullen, Tom Nevins, Tom Donahue, Will Fulrath, Tom Bradley and J. Raymond. Mary Gatley Curran was born at Athlone, Roscommon county, Ireland, on July 15, 1836, and died in Savanna Aug. 30, 1927, at the age of 91 years. Death was due to a complication of diseases caused from old age. She came to this country with her parents at the age of 13 and settled in Portland, Maine. She was united in marriage to Patrick Curran in the year 1856, later moving to Savanna in the year 1864 which has since been her home. Ten children were born to this union. Two of the children died in infancy and Patrick H. died in 1913 and Francis in 1889. Those who survive are Mrs. Mary E. Conway and Elizabeth. Mrs. R. J. Tighe of Pawtucket, RI, Thomas of Chicago and Margaret, Julia and Timothy at home. Mrs. Curran’s husband preceded her death July 23, 1910.
Contributed by Carmela Kelly Savanna Daily Times Journal, Wednesday August 31, 1927

PATRICK H. CURRAN - residing on Hill Street received a message Sunday from Portsmouth, Ia., stating her son, Patrick H. Curran, passed away very suddenly at his home in that city. No particulars were given, but it is believed that heart disease was the cause of death. Mr. Curran had been ailing for some time with a nervous breakdown, complicated with grip and it is believed this caused his death. Mr. Curran was well known in Savanna which was his boyhood home. He was a son of Patrick and *Maggie Gately Curran and was born in Memphis, Tenn., April 23d, 1862 (**or 1861?). He came to Savanna with his parents when about three years of age. He was united in marriage some thirty years ago to Miss Lilly Rathz, who survives him with the following children, La Verne, a train dispatcher at Malden, Wash., Walter an operator at Council Bluffs, George who is on a homestead in South Dakota and Helen aged 12 years, at home. Beside his immediate family he leaves in sorrow his mother, four sisters Margaret and Julia Curran, Mrs. Mary Conway and Mrs. Elizabeth Kighe (s/b Tighe), also two brothers, Tom and *T. B. Curran. At the time of his passing Mr. Curran was station agent for the Milwaukee road at Portsmouth. He followed railroading the greater part of his life with the exception of a few years during which he was in the mercantile business. Mr. Curran will be remembered as a man of genial personality, of splendid character and one who was ever honorable and upright in his daily life. His passing brings to his relatives keen anguish, but they do not mourn as those without hope, for they realize that these partings come to all and their hearts find consolation in the hope of the reunion to come at the end of life's long day. All extend to the bereaved ones their tender and heartfelt sympathy. The body will be brought to this city and the funeral will probably be held Thursday at St. John's church. Announcement of the hour will appear later.
Contributed by Carmela Kelly Savanna Daily Times Journal, 1 December 1913

PATRICK CURRAN , one of Savanna’s old and well known residents, passed on to his last rest shortly after one o’clock at his home on Hill street today. (Saturday). The announcement of Mr. Curran’s death will be learned with surprise by many of our people, who, while they realized that his sickness was of a serious nature, did not realize that the end was so near. Mr. Curran had been ailing for about a year, but it is only about three weeks that his condition caused him to take to his bed the greater part of the time. A dropsical condition developed at the time and his decline was rapid. His daughter, Miss Julia, left her place as book-keeper in I. S. Williams’ dry goods store and with her mother and sister Maggie remained constantly at his bedside until the final summons came. While they realized that their loved one was in a serious condition, they felt hopeful that he would survive this attack, as he appeared somewhat brighter for several days past and his death is a severe shock to them. Mr. Curran has been a resident of Savanna for many years and is known to all older residents and many of the younger ones of this city, and these will learn with sincere regret of the death of the kindly old gentleman and fried. We will not attempt at this house to give a history of the life of our worthy citizen but will do so in our next issue. Mr. Curran was past eighty years of age and leaves to mourn his faithful wife and his daughters Maggie, and Julia of this city, Mrs. Mary Conway of Marlborough, Mass., Miss Lizzie Curran of Providence, RI and three sons, Patrick H. of Portsmouth Ia., Thomas of Chicago and T.B. of Eagan, S.D. The heartfelt sympathy of our people is extended to the afflicted wife and children who are separated from a beloved husband and father by the hand of death.

Monday Evening July 25 1910, Savanna Daily Times Journal - Patrick Curran was born in County Galway, Ireland, May 12, 1830 and came to this country at the age of seventeen years and settled in Portland, Maine. After a few years he left the east and came west and settled in Galena, where he was united in marriage on January 19, 1856* (County records show 1857), to Miss Mary Gately, also of Portland. After a residence there of several years the family went to Tennessee and in 1864 came north to Freeport where Mr. Curran entered the service of the first railroad running into Savanna. After coming to this city they first located near Plum River bridge and then came to town. During these years the subject of our sketch was employed as a section foreman on the railroad and held the place until his retirement from service about twenty-five years ago. Eleven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Curran. Three died in infancy and one son, Frank, lost his life in the service of the railroad company. Those who survive are Maggie, Patrick H., Mrs. Mary Conway, Thomas G., Timothy B., Lizzie and Julia. Mr. Curran was in poor health for about a year but at no time was his condition serious until about three weeks ago and from that time on his decline was very rapid, due to this advanced years. He suffered but little until the day pervious to his death and during the night appeared relieved. The end came rather suddenly but peacefully he passing away as if he was sinking into a peaceful sleep on Saturday July 23, at 12:40 o’clock. He was always patient and appreciative of every kindness shown him and all his family were ever ready with loving acts of thoughtfulness which made his sickness bearable, and the memory of which now lightens their grief. They know that all was done for him that human hands could do and in was given full value. The faithful wife who for fifty years was his constant companion and the children who survive mourn the passing of a good husband and kind, indulgent father as he was always a home man in every sense of the word and it was here he realized the supreme happiness of his life and they have the sympathy of the large circle of friends who have witnessed their devotion as shown throughout his illness. Those who were near attended him faithful and especially beautiful was the devotion of his daughter, Julia, who left her place in the store to administer to him and who with the wife and sister Maggie made his last days as comfortable as it was possible for loving hearts to do. Those at a distance sent daily messages of living cheer, and sympathy which were always eagerly watched for and appreciated by the voyager travelling toward the unseen shore. Patrick Curran was a man of warm and generous impulses. Possessed of much of his native wit combined with a kind sympathetic heart it was always a pleasure to meet him with his cheery, pleasant smile and friendly word of greeting. His neighbors can testify as to his character. He was a moral, clean man, a faithful Catholic and was honest and upright in all his dealings with mankind. He did by others as he would be done by. His nature was without envy, selfishness or ingratitude. He lived a peaceful, contented life in the home circle and passed from the scenes of earth at peace with the world and his God. May his spirit rest in peace and the last great day when all shall stand before the great white throne may he hear the welcome voice of his Savior saying “Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant.” The funeral will be held Wednesday morning at 9:00 o’clock St. John’s church. Requiem High Mass will be celebrated by Rev. R. J. Ande. Interment will follow in the family lot in the city cemetery.

July 25, 1910,
A message was received by members of the family from Miss Lizzie Curran of Providence RI states that she will arrive here tomorrow afternoon to attend the funeral of her father. In consequence the date of the service has been changed and will be held Wednesday morning at nine o’clock at St. John’s church. Mr. and Mrs. P. H. Curran of Portsmouth, IA, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Curran of Chicago and T. B. Curran at Eagan, S.D. arrived here to attend the funeral of their father, Patrick Curran.
Contributed by Carmela Kelly

TIMOTHY B. CURRAN ,70, died at 5:30 Friday afternoon at his home 19 Cook street, following a critical illness of only one day. He had been bedfast for a week and in poor health for the past two months. Services will be held Monday morning at 9 o’clock in St. John’s Catholic church. Born in Savanna June 11, 1865, Mr. Curran resided here for many years. He was the son of Patrick and Mary Gately Curran, deceased. He was employed by the Milwaukee railroad for 25 years and was serving as assistant yardmaster at the time he retired in 1907. After that time he went to South Dakota where he was in business until 1919 when he returned to Savanna. He had resided here since. Surviving are four sisters, Miss Margaret Curran and Miss Julia Curran at home, and Mrs. Mary E. Conway and Mrs. R. J. Tigh of Pawtucket, R.I., and one brother, T. G. Curran of Chicago. Two brothers preceded him in death. Mr. Curran was not married.

Requiem high mass was sung by Fr. John R. Quigley at the funeral services at 9 o'clock this morning at St. John's Catholic church for Timothy B. Curran who died Friday afternoon at his home in Cook Street. Burial was made in St. John's cemetery. Pallbearers were Hugh Kiley, Cornelius McGrath, Thomas Donahue, Andrew Bindrupt, Lee Nellis and A. J. Reinehr. Born in Savanna June 11, 1865, Mr. Curran spent practically of his life here. He was employed by the Milwaukee railroad for 25 years and was assistant yardmaster at the time he retired in 1907. Surviving are four sisters, Miss Margaret Curran and Miss Julia Curran at home, and Mrs. Mary E. Conway and Mrs. R. J. Tigh of Pawtucket, RI and one brother T. G. Curran of Chicago.
Savanna Daily Times Journal, Illinois Saturday, March 23, 1935

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