BARBARA ELLEN (ACKERMAN) GARWICK , Many friends and relatives were grieved to learn of the passing of Mrs. C. P. Garwick, at the home of her daughter in Milledgeville Friday, Nov. 1. Her illness covered a period of one and a half years, and when an operation was thought necessary for her recovery, she submitted with characteristic bravery, hoping that thus she might be spared for further service to those she loved. It was not so to be, and in her last days she was ever cheerful and thoughtful of those about her Barbara Ellen Ackerman was born near Dixon, Ill., Aug 18, 1859. Seventy years were lived in the vicinity of Coleta, where she was known and loved by everyone. December 18, 1877, she was united in marriage to Charles Phillip Garwick. For a number of years they lived on his father’s farm, afterward moving to Coleta, which has been the home for thirty-six years. Four children were born to them, Elizabeth Overholser of Milledgeville, Jacob and Lettie of Coleta, and one child, who died in infancy. Besides these there were in the home two nieces, Elizabeth and Clara Ackerman, who were given a mother’s love and care for a number of years. These children, with their father and five grandchildren and three great grandchildren can truly “rise up and call her blessed.” Constant devotion and care were given by them to help ease the pain of her long illness, and the mother was always cheered by the presence of her loved family. Especially is this true of her daughter Lettie in the home, who was ever her mother’s steadfast companion. One brother, Christian Ackerman of Milledgeville, survives, two brothers, Charles and Randolfe preceding her in death, a half sister, Mrs. Martha Wayman, lives in Madison, Wisconsin. Mrs. Garwick was a member of the Lutheran church from childhood. When she became a resident of Coleta she united with the Methodist Episcopal church. Her religion was lived each day in her family and among her neighbors with a quiet devotion, to all, that was kind and just and helpful. Those in sorrow or distress found in Mrs. Garwick a wise and willing comforter. Her home was beautiful because she made it so with a wealth of love and wisdom and kindness. Here she preferred to be with her husband, her children, and her friends about her, and here will her influence be greatly missed. A long period of life, as was Mrs. Garwick’s lived with such earnest devotion to all that is best for home and church and community, leaves an inheritance which is priceless. While she is sadly missed, a host of friends can sincerely say that the world is richer because she has lived. A large concourse of friends and relatives attended the funeral services of Mrs. Gawick. which were held at the M. E. church at two o’clock Monday afternoon. They were conducted by Rev. B. C. Halloway, pastor of the M. E. church at Milledgeville, assisted by Rev. B. R. Foltz, pastor of the Grove street U. B. church and Rev. G. P. Ventura, pastor of the Christian church. Appropriate selections were sung by Mrs. Ray Freas of Milledgeville with Mrs. Gladys Wolber at the piano. The floral tributes were rare in beauty and profusion, and were numerous, covering a large portion of the church Rostrum. Attending the casket were C. M. Peugh, Bert Lenhart, G. A. Wink, C. W. Deets, F. R. Overholser and John Eckel. Interment was in the Bethel cemetery.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, November 6, 1929, page 14, column 5

LOUIS GARWICK was the fifth son of a family of eight sons born to Jacob and Magdeline Garwick. He was born in Shultz, Alsace France, Feb.24, 1849. At the age of three he emigrated to this country with his parents, residing in Pennsylvania with them and migrating to Illinois with them in 1858. From Chicago they traveled by ox team to Fair Haven where they built a home on a farm. When Lois grew to manhood he bought a farm adjoining his father's and lived there untill he moved to Chadwick in 1897. During his life time he held various public offices in the town of Fair Haven and village of Chadwick, being Justice of Peace for over thirty-two years. Mr Garwick was a man of tremendous vitality and energy. He loved the out-of-doors and thoroughly enjoyed his vacations which he devoted to hunting and fishing. He was a man of high principle, progressive and always true to his convictions of right and wrong. Besides his two brothers, Charles of Coleta and Fred of Chadwick his death is mourned by his widow and three children Carl of Olivia, Minn., Bettina Smith of Stevens Point, Wis., and Olive Crawford of Fort Rilley, Kanasa and five grandchildren
Contributed by Myrna Bowman

HANS GEHLSEN , formerly a farmer residing in Clinton county, died Saturday afternoon at four o'clock at his home five miles east of Thomson, Ill. Mr. Gehlsen had been ailing since last November and underwent an operation some time ago, later being taken to the Hans Graves home west of this city and later, when he was thought to be improving, to his own home near Thomson. Perhaps no other farmer in this vicinity was better known than Mr. Gehlsen and his many friends will be deeply grieved to learn of his death. He was born in Osterrade, Germany Oct 20, 1858 and was 57 years of age at the time of his death. Mr. Gehlsen is survived by his wife, six sons and five daughters. Funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon at one o'clock at the home and burial will be in the Thomson cemetery. They had 13 children in all.
Contributed by Barbara Nugent

MARGARET (LUEDERS) GEHLSEN , died this morning at 7:15 o'clock in the Mercy Hospital, Clinton, Ia., where she was taken 11 days ago after an illness of several months of a complication of diseases. The body was brought to the Trouth funeral home where it will remain until time of the funeral, which will be held at 1:30 o'clock Saturday afternoon at the home, 10 East Seventh street, Sterling, at 2 o'clock in the First Presbyterian church, Rev. C. M. Irwin officiating. Internment will be in the Lower York cemetery at Thomson, Ill. Margaret Lueders was born in Clinton, Ia., August 14, 1865, and spent her girlhood and early womanhood there. She was married December 18, 1886, to Hans Gehlsen, who passed away in 1917. Shortly after his death she removed to Sterling, where she has since made her home. Eleven children are left to mourn her death. They are: Mrs. Otto Sorensen of Savanna, Chris Gehlsen, Morrison, Mrs. C. D. McKee of Ideal, Gus Gehlsen of Chicago, Hans Gehlsen of Lyndon, Mrs. Frank Remrey of Clinton, Ia., Mrs. Walter Healey of Holland, Mich., Raymond Gehlsen of Sterling, Herbert Gehlsen of Chicago, John Gehlsen of Milwaukee, Wis., and Miss Florence Gehlsen of Sterling. Two Children preceded her to the Great Beyond, Harry, who died in 1912, and Clarence, who passed away in infancy. She is also survived by four brothers and two sisters, Henry Lueders, Gus Lueders, John Lueders and Hans Lueders of Clinton, Ia., Mrs. Gus Horn of Low Moor, Ia, and Mrs. Herman Renthall of Charlotte, Ia. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren and five great grandchildren
Contributed by Barbara Nugent from "The Dierks Family" compiled by George A. Eggers, Andover, Iowa.

ARTHUR H. GEHLSEN , 85, a native of the Chadwick area, died at his home at Algonquin, Tuesday. Funeral services and burial were in Elgin, Friday. He was born in Chadwick, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Gelmacher and grew up there. He is survived by his widow, Kay of Algonquin; two daughters, Gladys and Dorothy of Elgin; a brother, O. L. Geldmacher of Bradenton, Fla., formerly of Detroit; and a sister, Mrs. Robert (Marion) Coleman, Milledgeville. He was preceded in death by two brothers.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois September 23, 1975 - Tuesday, pg 6

GLADYS GETTY , 63, of Savanna, died Sunday at Savanna City Hospital. (Note: The Social Security Death Index gives the date as December 1982.) She was a member of the Wa-Tan-Ye Club and was employed as secretary at the Savanna Savings, Building and Loan. Born November 6, 1919 in Savanna, she was the daughter of William and Ora (Stulken) Getty. Surviving are two sisters and one half-sister. Service will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna with the Rev. Jean Saltzman, pastor of First United Methodist Church of Savanna, officiating. Burial will be in Savanna Township Cemetery. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home. A memorial fund has been established for the Wa-Tan-Ye Christmas Basket Fund.
Contributed by Alice Horner

DENNIS A. GETZ , 40, of Savanna died Saturday, June 19, 1999 at Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Mount Carroll . He was born January 7, 1959 in Freeport , to Arthur G. and Eleanor L. (Michael) Getz. A 1977 graduate of Freeport High School , he continued his education at Hamilton Technical College in Davenport , Iowa . He was employed at Atwood Corp. in Stockton , and formerly was a member of Savanna Jaycees and Friends of Savanna Township Library. He was a diehard Star Trek fan and attended several “Trekkie” conventions, and also enjoyed watching television and being outdoors. He was especially fond of spending time with his nieces and nephews. Surviving are his parents of Savanna; one brother, Richard (Denise) Getz of Monticello, Iowa ; two sisters, Deanna (Craig) Hessenius of Freeport, and Doreen (Matt) Adlfinger of Milan; five nieces and three nephews. His grandparents died previously. The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. Burial will be at Savanna Township Cemetery .
Contribued by Alice Horner

GRACE VELMA (DOWNING) GETZ , 88, of 200 E. Center St., Mount Carroll, died Monday, Jan. 6, 1992 at Freeport Memorial Hospital. She attended Frances Shimer Academy in Mount Carroll and taught in area rural schools for several years. She and her husband farmed in the Savanna (Jacobstown) area. In 1929, she was one of the original organizers of the Jacobstown Community Club and was a lifetime member. She attended the Center Hill United Brethren Church and was part of the church’s Ladies Aid Society. She also was a member of the Preston Prairie Household Science Club. Born on July 8, 1903, in Mount Carroll, she was the daughter of H. Loomer and Eva (Bickelhaupt) Downing. She married Lawrence Getz on Dec. 27, 1923 in Mount Carroll. Her husband died in 1964. Also preceding her in death were one brother and one great-grandchild. Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Marilyn (Allen) Becker of Savanna, Mrs. Doris (Melvin) Schubert of Freeport, Mrs. Florence (Ray L.) Sisler of Elgin, and Mrs. Marcia (Robert) Hessenius of Punta Gorda, Fla.; one son, Leroy (Hazel) of Savanna; four sisters, Mrs. Florence (H. Reid) Horner of Freeport, Mrs. Eva (Paul) Metz of Mount Carroll, Mrs. Georgia (Henry) Stubbe of Anaheim, Calif., and Mrs. Vivian (Clifford) Luettig of Pearl City; two brothers, Harvey (Ruth) Downing of Lanark and Preston W. (Bessie) Downing of Mount Carroll; 14 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren. Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home, Mount Carroll. The Rev. Lawrence Shuman will perform the services. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Mount Carroll. Memorials are to be made to the Jacobstown Historical Marker.
Some Family Photos & Stories     Contributed by Alice Horner
History of Jacobstown

LAURA (WEBER) GETZ , 87, formerly of Chadwick, died Friday (8 Sep 1989) at the Big Meadows Nursing Home in Savanna. Services were held today at the Evnagelical Free Church in Chadwick. Burial was in Chadwick Cemetery. Mrs. Getz was born March 7, 1902 in Chadwick, the daughter of Henry and Effie Spealman Weber. She married Walter P. Getz on June 9, 1926 in Chadwick. Mrs. Getz lived in Chicago before moving to Chadwick 16 years ago and was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church in Chicago. She is survived by her husband; one son, Evan W. of Rockville, Md., one daughter, Mrs. Robert (Miriam) Lehman of Naperville, six grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and one brother, Elmer Weber of Chadwick. She was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois September 11, 1989 - Monday pg A2

THELMA L. GETZ , 83, of rural Savanna died Friday January 7, 2000 at her home. She was born September 16, 1916 in Woodland Township , Carroll County to Charles and Emma (Randecker) Wurster. She attended Zion Public School from the first through the eighth grades. At 18, she found employment as a maid as well as caring for the children of several families in the Carroll County area. She married Jacob Glenn Getz on August 4, 1941 at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Champaign . They lived on the Getz homestead in rural Savanna where they farmed for over 50 years. Her employment also included 14 years at National Lock Company in Savanna until her retirement in 1979. She was a member of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church , the Lydian Society at the church, and the Jacobstown Club in rural Savanna. She enjoyed quilting, gardening, and traveling, visiting all 50 states, Canada and Europe . Her family said she always found time for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Surviving are her husband; two sons, Arnold (Phyllis) Getz of Chadwick and Kurt Jacob ( Crystal ) Getz of Savanna; three daughters, Joan (David) Cassellius of Portage, Wisconsin, Jean (Larry) Messmer of Savanna and Joyce (Dennis) Bonnet of Kent; thirteen grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren, and one sister, Edna (George) Gotschall of Bellview, Florida . Preceding her in death was one brother, Glen Wurster. The funeral will be at 1 p.m. Monday at St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Savanna with pastor Wayne Schneider officiating. Burial will be at Center Hill Cemetery in rural Mount Carroll . Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. today at the church. A memorial fund has been established.
Contributed by Alice Horner

WALTER A. GETZ , 97, of Naperville , a former resident of Chadwick, died Tuesday, August 17, 1999 at his home. He was born October 14, 1901 in Savanna to Jacob and Mary (Ripper) Getz. On June 9, 1926 he and Laura Weber were married. She died previously. He worked in the superintendent’s office of the Milwaukee Railroad in Savanna from 1920 to the time of his transfer to the accounting department of the railroad in Chicago in 1932. He retired October 14, 1966, as assistant chief disbursement accountant after 46 years of service. A long-time member of Grace United Methodist Church in Chicago , he served as a trustee, Sunday school superintendent and church choir member. He was an Illinois delegate to the United Conference and a delegate to the United Conferences of the Evangelical United Brethren and Methodist churches in Dallas , Texas . He was a researcher more than 20 years for the Carroll County Genealogical Society. Surviving are one son, Evan (Janet) Getz of Rockville, Maryland; one daughter, Miriam (Robert) Lehman of Naperville; three brothers, Ralph Getz of Dyer, Indiana, Melvin Getz of Milwaukee, and Jacob Glenn (Thelma) Getz of Savanna; six grandchildren, Judith (Robert) Busse of Naperville, Nancy (Mark) Scott of Jacksonville, John (Jeanine) Lehman of Naperville, Carol (Ron) Anderson-Lehman of Highland Ranch, Colorado, Gary Getz of Chamble, Georgia, and Gayle Getz of Decatur, Georgia; 13 great-grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his parents, two brothers, Lawrence Getz and Charles Goetz, and one sister, Louise Law. The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at Chadwick Evangelical Free Church with the Rev. Carl J. Zager officiating. Burial will be at Chadwick Cemetery . Friends may call from noon Saturday to time of service at Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home in Chadwick.
Contributed by Alice Horner

CLARA (ACKER) GHOLSON
95, of Savanna died Tuesday, February 6, 2001 at Mercy Medical Center in Clinton , Iowa . She attended Savanna schools and graduated from Savanna High School in 1924. She attended teachers’ college in DeKalb and taught school in Savanna for two years. She also worked for Randy Maytag, the Savanna Times Journal, and the City of Savanna before working in her husband’s chiropractic office in Savanna for 37 years. Memberships included the Community Church of Christ in Savanna, Savanna Women of the Moose Lodge #718, where she was a unior regent, Monday Afternoon Club, Savanna Golden Meals, Over Fifty Club, and Women’s Fellowship Club where she was Sunshine chairman. In 1998 she was awarded the Excellence in Community Service certificate of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She enjoyed people, playing bingo with her friends and neighbors and being involved in community activities. She also enjoyed the company of her cat, Shalimar, and traveling in her little yellow Volkswagon. Born July 27, 1905 in Savanna, she was the daughter of State Rep. John and Emma (Hoffman) Acker. She and Edward Gholson were married November 19, 1940 in Clinton , Iowa . He died February 26, 1978. Family members surviving her include Mary, Kelly, Lorna (Paul) Friederich, and Laurence (Jeannette) Boothby, all of Savanna; Carl (Pat) Orto of Loveland, Colorado; Lucille McCue of Largo , Florida ; and Ruth (Tom) Whalen of Boston, Massachusetts. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and one infant sister. The funeral service was held Saturday, February 10, at the Community United Church of Christ in Savanna with the Rev. David Boda-Mercer officiating. Burial was in Savanna Township Cemetery . A memorial fund has been established.
Contributed by Alice Horner

JUNIOR THOMAS "PAT" GILBERT , 78, of Savanna, died Monday (Nov. 20, 2006) at his home. Burial will be in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery, Savanna. He was born Sept. 8, 1928, to Thomas J. and Augusta W. (Dambach) Gilbert in Warroad, Minn. He married Cecelia M. Parker on Dec. 26, 1950, in Clinton. He was a member of Heavy Equipment Operator’s Union 150 and was employed with Herbert-Shelly Construction, Hanover, Ill., for more than 35 years before retiring in 1979. Survivors include his wife; one son, Thomas (Barbara) Gilbert of Savanna; nine daughters, Marilyn (Matthew) Altensy and Vickie Trybus, both of Savanna, Karin Molinari of Rockford, Ill., Pamela (Salvador) Mendez, Doreen (Butch Miller) Gilbert and Gail Ann Themas, all of Savanna, Cathy (Kyle Koeller) Eagle of Lanark, Ill., and Kim (Jeff) Knouse and Cece (Michael) Mallow, both of Savanna; 22 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one niece. He was preceded in death by his parents, two daughters, three sisters and two brothers.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

WALTER WILLIAM GILBERT , A private family graveside service will be held at a later date at the Grove Hill Cemetery in Morrison, Ill., for Walter W. Gilbert Sr., of Davenport, formerly of Savanna, Ill. There will be no visitation. Mr. Gilbert died on Monday, August 14, 2006, at the Good Samaritan Center in Davenport. Cunnick-Collins Mortuary and Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements. Walter William Gilbert was born on June 18, 1925, in Warroad, Minn., the son of Thomas James and Augusta (Dambach) Gilbert. On August 6, 1943, he married Mary Sue Locey in Savanna. She preceded him in death on May 16, 1998. During World War II he served in the U.S. Navy in Africa, Sicily, Italy and Normandy, France. He retired from the City of Savanna after 20 years as Assistant Superintendent of the Water Department He was a Life Member and former Commander of the Savanna Veterans of Foreign Wars, serving in many positions and committees as well as proudly serving in the Honor Guard at military funerals and community functions. Survivors include one daughter, Sheryl Hamm, of Moline; two sons, Ronald Gilbert, of Fort Madison, Iowa, and Walt (Leola) Gilbert Jr., of Renton, Wash.; daughters-in-law, Lori Gilbert, of Lake Forest Park, Wash., and Doris Gilbert, of Savanna; one brother, Pat (Poppy) Gilbert, of Savanna; sisters-in-law, Judy Locey, of Clinton, Iowa, Elsie Turner, of St. Germain, Wis., and Irene Locey, of International Falls, Minn.; seven grandchildren; three step grandchildren' seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, one son, one sister, one brother, five half-sisters and one grandson. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to the Savanna VFW.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert from the The Quad-City Times, Davenport, IA

DAVID P. GIPE
was born June 3, 1839, in Franklin county, Pa., and on Jan. 16, 1862 was married to Miss Louisa C. Fecke of Franklin county. In 1889 they came to Carroll county and lived there until about three years ago when he bought a farm near Coleta and there resided until his death which occurred on March 5, 1904. Six children were born to them: Frank, Samuel H., Harry L., David M., William O. and Mrs. Emma Howe. Frank died in infancy and Harry L. was seventeen years old at the time of his death. Samuel lives in Coleta, David at Chadwick, William in Minnesota, and Emma just north of town. All were present at the funeral. He leaves also five sisters and two brothers living in Pennsylvania. The funeral was held Monday [03/07/1904] at 10 o’clock, conducted by the Rev. Teeter, assisted by the Rev. Marlow, Barton and Gordon of Coleta. The pall bearers, all neighbors and friends were J. Hannis, D. C. Overholser, C. P. Garwick, Herbert Cheeseman, Samuel Peugh and Philip Lenhart who bore him to his long home in Bethel cemetery. Mr. Gipe was a man who was a friend to all, a good neighbor, a kind and indulgent parent and a faithful husband. He was never happier than when in the presence of his children and was always striving to please those with whom he came in contact. The world is better by his having lived in it. The sympathy of the entire community is extended to the stricken wife and children in their bitter hour of sorrow.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Evening Gazette, March 11, 1904, page 7, column 6

FRED GOBLE
, 74, of Poway, Calif., formerly of the Milledgeville and Sterling areas, died July 13, 1987 in his home. Funeral services were July 16 at the Pacific Beach Mortuary and Chapel in San Diego, Calif. Burial was in El Camino Memorial Park. Mr. Goble was born and raised in Milledgeville and was united in marriage to Betty Miracle of Milledgeville. He owned and operated a hardward store and plumbing and heating business in Milledgeville for several years. He later moved to Sterling and served as National Sales Manager for Wahl Clipper Corp. until retirement. After retirement, the couple moved to California. The deceased was a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy during World War II, serving in the Pacific Theater. Mr. Goble was a member of the Masonic Lodge for over 50 years and a member of the Shrine Temple in Rockford. Survivors include his wife, Betty; one son, Fred Goble Jr. of California; two daughters, Judi and Anne, both of California; and five grandchildren.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois July 20, 1987 - Monday, pg A2

JENNIE DARLENE (LEONARD) GOETZ
, age 82, of Savanna, Illinois, joined her husband in heaven on Tuesday, August 26, 2008. Jennie had been a patient in Mercy Medical Center North, Clinton, Iowa. The funeral service will be held at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, August 30, 2008 at Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna with Reverend Horst Hehr officiating. Burial will take place in St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery, rural Savanna. Visitation will be held at the Funeral Home on Saturday, from 8:30 a.m. until time of the funeral service. Memorials may be given in Jennie’s memory to Mercy Medical Center North, Clinton, or St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church, Savanna,. Jennie was born on May 10, 1926 in Franklin Township, Appanoose County, Iowa, the daughter of Raymond John and Iva Genoia (Minks) Leonard. She attended Valley School, which was a one-room school house in Appanoose County, Iowa. She was named “Champion Speller” by the Des Moines Register in 1938. Jennie later attended and graduated from Cincinnati High School in Cincinnati, Iowa, with the Class of 1944. She married John Calvin Goetz on August 29, 1944 in Savanna. He passed away on May 12, 1995. Jennie moved to Savanna in 1944 and began working at the Savanna Army Ordinance Depot where she met her future husband, John Calvin. After they were married, Jennie became a homemaker and spent her days lovingly taking care of her family. Jennie was very musical and enjoyed playing guitar and singing with her brother, Charles Ray, in their church choir. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, and gardening and listening to music played by loved ones. She loved canning the vegetables from her garden. Jennie is survived and lovingly remembered by two sons, Freddy (Sandra) Goetz of Savanna, and Gary (Susan) Goetz of Las Vegas, Nevada; two daughters, Alishia Rubio of Savanna, and Myra Valladares of Silvis, Illinois; five grandchildren, Nathan, John Andrew, Andrea, Alexis, and Alex; four great grandchildren; one brother, Charles Ray (Margaret) Leonard of Bloomfield, Iowa; two sisters-in-law, Jeanette Goetz Gnade of Maquoketa, Iowa and Maxine Goetz of Savanna; several nieces and nephews; and three special kitties, Luke, Sasha, and Simba.. Jennie is preceded in death by her husband, John; one brother, Emil; and three sisters, Geneva, Hazel, and Emily.

HAZEL (SARBER _ GRAVENSTEIN - Funeral services for Mrs. Henry (Hazel) Gravenstein, 68, who died Tuesday in the Deaconess Hospital in Freeport, will be conducted at 1:30 p.m. (DST) Friday in the Frank Funeral Home. The Rev. Romain Penny, pastor of the Ashton Evangelical United Brethren Church, will officiate. Burial will be in the Lanark Cemetery. Mrs. Gravenstein was born near Lanark on Aug. 7, 1889, the daughter of Nathaniel and Anna Dumpman Sarber. She was married to Henry Gravenstein on Dec. 19, 1912. They were engaged in farming in the Lanark area for many years. She was a member of the Grace Evangelical United Brethren Church, Brookville. Survivors are one son Harold Gravenstein, Shannon; one daughter, Mrs. Ray (Hildred) Queckboerner, Chadwick, and four grandchildren.
Contributed by Melva Taylor -

LUVA (MYERS) GEARY - Services have been set for Mrs. Dan (Luva) Geary, 80, who died Wednesday morning. Funeral services will be held Friday at 1:30 p.m. in the Frank Funeral Home, Lanark, with the Rev. Kenneth W. Hollinger, officating. Burial will be in the Lanark Cemetery. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Mrs. Geary was born Sept. 2, 1890, in Mt. Carroll, the daughter of Henry and Arminda Eisenbeise Myers. She was a member of the Church of the Brethren. She married Dan Geary in 1911, in Lanark. He died in 1932. Survivors include one son, Wales A., Lanark; four grandchildren; several great-grandchildren. She was preceded by three brothers.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois January 21, 1971 Thursday, pg 2

BETTY JANE (EDWARDS) GREGG , 79, of Rivershore Resort , Arizona , formerly of Mount Carroll , died January 26, 2001 at Havasu Regional Hospital in Lake Havasu City , Arizona . She was born October 25, 1921 in Mount Carroll , the daughter of Floyd and Anna Mae ( Douglas ) Edwards. A 1939 graduate of Mount Carroll High School , she had lived in California and the River, Arizona area for 30 years. She and her husband Raymond resided and worked at Black Meadow Landing in Arizona until his death in 1987. She had resided at Rivershore Resort since then. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Floyd J., Harold, Robert and James Edwards; and four sisters, Margarita Sartwell, Anna Wilson, Mildred Thompson, and Marilyn Rogers. Surviving are two sons, Ron Gregg of Cypress , California , and Jeff Dale of Utah ; two daughters, Cindy Gonzales of Chino , California and Janie Hawkins of Parker, Arizona ; 11 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Florence Isenhart of Mount Carroll. A private funeral service was held.
Contributed by Alice Horner

HANS PETER GREISON , age 78, of Savanna, Illinois, died Thursday, August 4, 2005 at Good Samaritan Nursing Home, Mt. Carroll. A Memorial Service will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 12, 2005 at the Community United Church of Christ in Savanna. Pastor Robert Hamilton of Community United Church of Christ will officiate. Burial will be in BrSbol Church Cemetery in Haderslev, Denmark. Memorials may be given to the Community United Church of Christ in Savanna. Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna will be handling the arrangements. Hans was born January 16, 1927 in Haderslev, Denmark, the son of Peter and Angelika (Wilprecht) Greisen. On June 19, 1948 Hans married Emmy Neilsen in Staruup, Denmark. Emmy passed away July 25, 1997. Hans worked as a Security Guard in Denmark. He and Emmy immigrated to the United States in 1951. He worked for the Savanna Construction Company, Savanna, Illinois, the Savanna Meat Locker where he was a Butcher. Hans owned and operated the Brunswick Inn for a number of years. He was a General Manager to different hotels and motels in Kalamazoo, Michigan and Shakeys Inn in Escanaba, Michigan, then the Ramada Inn and Jumers Castle Lodge in Davenport, Iowa. Hans was a 32° Mason in the Savanna Mississippi Masonic Lodge #385 AF & AM and a member of the Savanna Jaycees. He served on the Savanna City Council in the 1960's. Hans will be dearly missed by his son, Peter (Lois) Greisen of Frazee, Minnesota; his daughter, Anne Marie (Jim) Wacker of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; two brothers, Gynther (Alice) Greisen and Aage (Benda) Greisen both of Haderslev, Denmark; one sister, Ingrid of Odense, Denmark; seven grandchildren and one great granddaughter. Hans is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Emmy; and one sister, Analisa Larsen

MARY E. GRIFFIN , 94, of Shannon died Sunday April 8, 2001 at Rockford Healthcare Center . Daughter of Edward and Maize (Shiley) Carbaugh, she was born March 9, 1907. She was a graduate of Shannon High School and was a cook at Swedish American Hospital in Rockford until retiring. Surviving are one son-in-law, Jesse Klagues of Rockford ; one daughter-in-law, Colleen Peters of Milwaukee ; one brother, Max ( Frances ) Carbaugh of Freeport; eight grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren. Preceding her in death were her parents; one son, Robert L. Peters; one daughter, Phyllis A. Klagues; and one sister, Marjorie Carbaugh. Graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Lanark Cemetery .
Contributed by Alice Horner

ALBERT G. GRINNAL age 80, of Savanna, died Tuesday, October 15, 2002 at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. Memorial services were held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, October 19, 2002 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Savanna. Inurnment was in the Rock Island National Cemetery. There was no visitation. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made in Albert's name. Albert was born on Monday, December 5, 1921 in Savanna, Illinois to George and Elizabeth (Ehredt) Grinnall. He attended Savanna High School. He married Gladys Dauphin on June 13, 1942. Albert worked at Burlington Northern Railroad as Yard Master for 42 years, retiring in 1983. He also farmed in rural Savanna. Albert served in the United States Army in field Artillery during numerous campaigns in Europe where he received the Bronze Star. Albert was a member of the Presbyterian Church, Savanna Moose, Railroad Retirees, Past Board Member of the Center Hill School, past 4-H Leader, and past member of the Mt. Carroll Lions Club. Survivors include, his wife Gladys; two daughters, Cheryl (Douglas) Rogers of Rockford, Illinois, Vicki (Dan) Becker of Platteville, Wisconsin; two sons, Steven (Michelle) Grinnall of Rockford, Illinois, Daryl (Mary Jo) Grinnall of Omaha, Nebraska; 16 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren; one sister, Betty Morris of Savanna, and one brother, Mick (Donna) Grinnall of Clinton, Iowa. Albert was preceded in death by his parents.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

CHANCEY A. GRISWOLD was born in Wysox Twp., April 9, 1857, a son of Eli & Elizabeth Griswold, who were among the early settlers of this place. On the 7th of December 1882 he was united in marriage to Mary Tucker. They lived together nearly seven years and their union was blessed with one child, a daughter who is now six years old. Mrs. Griswold died May 6, 1889. Chancey, as he was familiarly called by all who knew him, began failing in health two years ago, the 22nd of this month, and gradually grew worse, until a yera ago the 11th of last June, he was taken to the Northern Hospital for the Insane at Elgin IL. He seemed contented there, only when he met some one from this place, then he always felt as if he ought to be at home at work. After a brief sickness he died AUgust 1, 1895 of the softening of the brain. On the 6th of April, 1894 he united with the M.E. Church of this place, and was faithful to the church until he left. His parentage was of the old stock of early Methodists in this community. The first meetings of this society were held in his father's barn. He has lived in this vicinity from his boyhood days and is well known. He leaves a daughter, six years old, a brother and a sister in Missouri, a sister in Kansas, one in Nebraska, a brother in Pol and a brother in this place, with many friends to mourn his departure. The remains were brought to this place the funeral held Saturday April 3, 1895 at 2 o'clock in the M.E. Church, Rev. F.L. Baldwin officiating, asisted by Rev.J.o. Talley.

JERRY M. GRISWOLD , age 85, of Savanna, Illinois, died Friday, February 22, 2002 at Mercy Medical Center, Clinton, Iowa. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 27, 2002 at the First Presbyterian Church, Savanna. Reverend Alvin Sigafus will officiate. Burial will be in the Savanna Township Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00–8:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Savanna. . Jerry was born on Friday, January 16, 1917 in Savanna, Illinois to Merle and Lola (Dickinson) Griswold. He graduated from Savanna High School with the class of 1935. He served in the United States Navy during World War II from 1941–1945. He married Jean Peterson on July 8, 1945 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Jerry worked as a clerk for the Milwaukee Railroad for forty years, retiring in 1977. Jerry was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, the church choir and served as an Elder. He served on the Blackhawk Area Credit Union Board of Directors for over fifty years. Jerry enjoyed gardening, riding this bike, walking the dog along the Mississippi river, talking with people, traveling and riding on trains. Survivors include his wife, Jean Griswold of Savanna; one daughter, Judy (Mark) Rehm of Pine, Colorado; two sons, Jays (Mary) Griswold of St. Charles, Illinois and Jeff Griswold of Savanna; six grandchildren, Michael, Lisa, Mark and Ryan Griswold, Alexa and Jake Rehm; and one cousin, Berta Jean Detamore of Indianapolis, Indiana. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

LOIS (DICKINSON) GRISWOLD , 87, of Savanna, died today at Savanna City Hospital. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Savanna and was a Sunday school superintendent and teacher for more than 25 years. Born Sept. 16, 1892 in Elgin, Neb., she was the daughter of John and Annie Louise (Chestnut) Dickinson. She married Merle Griswold December 23, 1915 in Rock Island. Surviving are one son, Gerald, of Savanna; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, one sister, and one brother. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at First Presbyterian Church of Savanna with the Rev. Richard Johnson, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Savanna Township Cemetery. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday at Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna.
Contributed by Alice Horner

GERALD A. GROVE , 71, of Lanark died Thursday, April 20, 2006, at Good Samaritan Nursing Center in Mount Carroll. The son of Raymond and Neva (Lahre) Grove, he was born Oct. 1, 1934, in Lanark. He was a 1952 graduate of Lanark High School. On March 3, 1961, Gerald and Sally Jo Plum were married in Lanark. A veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy.
Contributed to Genealogy Trails by JoLyn Crofton-Kruse

VIRGINIA (THOMPSON) GRUMMETT , 74, of Savanna, died Tuesday July 23, 1996 at Big Meadows Nursing Home. She was a homemaker and had worked with her husband at Grummitt’s Tap for 15 years. She was a member of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church , the Ladies Auxiliary, Post 2223, all of Savanna, and enjoyed playing cards. She spent her life devoted to her husband and family. Mrs. Grummitt was born July 9, 1922 in Savanna to William and Magdelena (Wurster) Thompson. She married Harold Grummitt April 20, 1941 in Savanna. He died April 11, 1990 in Dubuque , Iowa . Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. George (Sandra) Allen and Mrs. Terry (Ruth Ann) James, both of Savanna; and four grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by one son, one granddaughter, one brother, and three sisters. The body was cremated. Memorial services were held Friday at St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Savanna with Rev. Wayne Schneider officiating. Inurnment was in Savanna Township Cemetery . Memorial may be made in her name to St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Savanna and Samaritan Hospice of Clinton, Iowa.
Contributed by Alice Horner

WILLIAM FRANKLIN GYGER , was born in Mitchell, Louis county, Ind., September 5, 1855, and died in Milledgeville, Feb. 4, 1907, aged fifty-one years, four months and twenty-nine days. Mr. Gyger was for many years a great sufferer. The disease which caused his death had its beginning eight or more years ago when he had a sunstroke while working on the railroad in Missouri. An attack of inflammatory rheumatism followed the sunstroke and from that time till his death he was a constant sufferer. For a time he was in the hospital in St. Louis in the care of the sisters of charity, and received the best of medical attention. For the last three years he has been at the home of his sister, Mrs. Jacob Hart of Milledgeville. All was done for him that was possible to be done. In all thirty-seven doctors had tried their skill, but he grew worse instead of better. Although he suffered so intensely the end came in a peaceful sleep Monday at noon. Mr. Gyger was left fatherless when an infant and made his home with his sister until his marriage. He was married July 16, 1890, to Miss Maggie Shaw. Three children were born to them. Now two are left of this family, the mother and the youngest child having died several years ago. The living children are Martha Elizabeth Gyger and William Oscar Gyger, both of whom live in Missouri. Before his death Mr. Gyger expressed his appreciation of the tender care he received in his sister’s home, and it is comforting to know that he said he was ready for death when it came. The funeral service was held at 10 a. m. at the house and at 10:30 at the church, the Rev. M. A. Witter officiating. The interment was in Bethel cemetery.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Evening Gazette, February 11, 1907, page 5, column 1