SARAH (ROWLEY) O'BRIEN , 91, lifelong resident of Pleasant Hill , died Friday morning at 1:15 in a nursing home in Pittsfield . Mrs. O'Brien was born in Missouri , May 16, 1870, a daughter of John and Hannah Blane Rowley. Mrs. O'Brien was highly esteemed by the people of this community and had always assisted in times of sickness and sorrow. She was a member of the Baptist church in Pleasant Hill . Her husband, Edward O'Brien, died 25 years ago. Suviving are a brother, Lee Rowley of Mishawaka , Ind. , and two sisters, Mrs. Fannie Sealock of Pittsfield , and Mrs. Lillie Kraft of Ashley. Funeral services were held in the Baptist church in Pleasant Hill , Sunday afternoon at 2:30 with the Rev. Elmer Carter officiating. Burial was in Wells cemetery.
Contributed by Kathy Robinson

EVELYN OCKERHAUSEN , 83 of Eureka, formerly of Milton and Pittsfield died Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at the Maple Lawn Nursing Home in Eureka, IL. She was born May 20, 1926 the daughter of George John and Lela Bell Mattingly Goretzke in East St. Louis. She married Robert E. Ockerhausen April 22, 1950 in Bellflower, Mo. and he preceded her in death Aug. 21, 2003. Evelyn was an active member of the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Pittsfield, where she enjoyed the fellowship of her beloved church family. She worked for many years at the Pike County Health Department as a secretary. While living in Pike County, she and her husband were members of the Pittsfield Dance club, as well as the Pike County Pork Producers. They greatly enjoyed spending time on their forty-acre farm known as "Woodpecker Ridge," where they fished, played cards, and entertained friends with ice cream socials. Evelyn also was an avid gardener, and was proud of both her large vegetable gardens and her carefully tended flowerbeds. After moving to Eureka, Evelyn made many dear friends at Maple Lawn Apartments. They remained devoted after she moved to the Health Center, attending church, playing cards or taking her on outings. The staff at Maple Lawn became close friends as well, and she often spoke of her affection for them and her appreciation of their kindness. Evelyn also treasured the company of her son Eric's nieces, Kate and Emma Sylvester, who delighted her with love and companionship, and that of her "grandson" Maris Mednis, a foreign exchange student from Latvia that has made his home with Evelyn's son, Eric, and wife, JoAnne, for three years. Her parents, husband Robert, one son, Gary, in 1966, and seven sisters and four brothers preceded her in death. Survivors include one son, Eric and wife JoAnne Thomas Ockerhausen of Peoria; one brother, Glenn Gorentzke and wife Mary Ruth of New Florence, Mo.;and one sister, Lela Cook of Warrenton, Mo. Services were held at 11 a.m., Friday, July 24, at the First Christian Church in Pittsfield. Family and friends called from 10 a.m. until time of services at the church. Burial was in the Prices Branch Cemetery in Prices Branch, Mo., at 2:30 p.m. Friday, July 24. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements. A memorial service will be held at Maple Lawn, in Eureka, the first week in August, details pending. Memorials may be made to the Pittsfield First Christian Church Cross Roads Center
Contributed by Billie Browning

LOWELL ALLEN OFFENBACKER , 65, of Sugar Creek MO and formerly of Pittsfield died Monday morning, July 21, 2008 at Veteran's MO Hospital in Kansas City. He was born Nov. 11, 1942 in St.Charles MO a son of the late Herbert and Katherine Duff Offenbacker. He is survived by two daughters, Margie (Rich) Evans of Sugar Creek MO and Marcia (Nick) Marinucci of Elkridge MD; a son Lowell (Anda) Jr. of Odessa MO; two grandchildren, PFC Christopher (Tern) Holt of Twenty Nine Palms, CA, serving in the US Marine Corps; and Kayla Burns of Sugar Creek MO; one great-grandaughter, Eva Holt of Twenty Nine Palms CA and a brother Lindle D. of American Falls, ID. He was preceded by his parents. Mr. Offenbacker was a 1961 graduate of Pittsfield High School and was a US Army veteran serving in both Korea and Vietnam. He moved from Pittsfield to the Kansas City MO area in 1967 where he resided until his death. He received an associate degree in computer aided drafting from Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City in 2004 and did several projects with CAD. He was a millwright for Armco Steel in Kansas City for many year. He was an avid coin collector, kerosene lamp collector and was an unofficial family historian. He loved to "Tinker". Services were held Thursday at Airsman-Hires Funeral Home iN Pittsfield. Burial in Pittsfield West Cemetery.
Contributed by Billie Browning

NAOMI OFFENBACKER , age 65, of Quincy, Il. and formerly of rural New Salem, Il. died Tuesday evening (January 25, 2011) at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Il. She was born May 11, 1945 in New Salem, Il. daughter of the late Floyd and Hilda Gill Dusenbery. She married Herb Offenbacker on June 5, 1976 in Pittsfield, Il. and he preceded her in death December 23, 1994. Surviving is one daughter, Melissa Henson and husband Michael of Quincy, Il.; four grandchildren, Sheyanne, Kevin, Korbey, and Jacklynn Henson all of Quincy, Il.; a sister, Virginia Dusenbery of Quincy, Il.; and two brothers, Thomas Dusenbery of Beardstown, Il. and Alvin Elmo Dusenbery of Borger, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and one brother, William Dusenbery. Naomi was a graduate of Barry High School and attended nursing school in Jacksonville, Il. She loved spending time with her grandchildren. Graveside services will be held 4 p.m. Saturday (January 29, 2011) at Baylis Cemetery in Baylis, Il. There will be no visitation
Contributed by Billie Browning - Pike Express

AUGUSTUS OGLE , 83, Buried in Miller Cemetery. Agustus Ogle, known to his many friends as Gus, died at 2:30 last Wednesday morning at the Couch Nursing Home. He was born July 28, 1877 and had spent practically his entire life in Atlas township. His parents were Elick and Frances Doan Ogle. He was a farmer all his life until retiring some years ago. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at the Plattner Chapel, conducted by Rev. Joe Maynard. Mrs. Athena Schimmel sang two selections. Burial was in Miller cemetery near Atlas, and six of his nephews served as his pallbearers. Mr. Ogle is survived by his wife, Fanny Ogle, two sons and a daughter by a former marrriage, William Ogle, Kansas City; Homer Ogle, Rockport; and Mrs. Gertrude Long of Kansas City, Virgil Ogle of near Pittsfield is a brother.
Contributed by Kathy Robinson

BETTY OGLE , 76 of Indianola, Iowa, passed away Saturday, November 13, 2010 at the Indianola Good Samaritan Center in Indianola, Iowa. Bette enjoyed cooking and baking for her family, caring for elderly people and gardening, especially raising African Violets. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Don; daughter, Martha (Al) Fering; grandchildren, Christopher and Erica Fering; brother, Jerry Curry and sister, Nancy Goss. She was preceded in death by her parents, Everett and Mavis Curry and brother, Melvin Curry. Graveside services for Bette will be held at 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 17, 2010 at the Kinderhook Cemetery, Kinderhook, IL. Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m., Wednesday, November 17, 2010 at the Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to Knoxville Hospice of Central Iowa or Indianola Good Samaritan Society, c/o of Niebur Funeral Chapel, Barry, IL 62312. Online condolences may be sent to niebur@adams.net. Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry is handling the arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning

EVA M. OGLE , 96, of Pittsfield , Illinois died Thursday, June 24, 2010 at Illini Community Hospital , Pittsfield , Illinois . She was born near El Dara , IL . on August 23, 1913 to Carson & Nellie M. Betts Williams. She married Lyndle Ogle on January 12, 1932 and he preceded her in death in 1968. Eva was baptized at the Pittsfield United Methodist Church . She enjoyed sewing, gardening, canning vegetables out of the garden, collecting salt and peppershakers and small lamps. Eva also greatly enjoyed her family. Survivors: Son, Robert H. (wife Carol) Ogle. Daughter, Carolyn (husband Gene) Miller, both of Pittsfield . Five grandchildren, Mrs. Melanie (husband Brenton) Dean of Griggsville , IL , Mrs. Debbie (husband Carl) Breitweiser of Milton, IL, Mrs. Bobbi Jo Romero of Pittsfield, IL, Mrs. Lynn (husband Robin) Thompson of Wisconsin, and Greg Ogle of Wisconsin. Eight Great Grandchildren, Dustin Strother, Christian Dean, Caylin Dean, Andrew Thompson, Becky Thompson, Joshua Romero, Jason Ogle, and Justin Ogle. Nephew, Danny Williams. Niece, Brenda Osborne, both of Pittsfield.
Contributed by Billie Browning

HOMER N. OGLE , b: 14 Oct 1908, Atlas, Pike Co., IL.; d: 2 Jan 1989, Pittsfield , IL . (Illini Commty Hosp); Bu: Miller Cemetery, near Atlas, IL.; FA: Augustus A. Ogle; MO: Dilla Loutzenhiser; Resident of Pittsfield; formerly of J'ville, IL.; WWII Army Vet.; Survived by a sister: Mrs. Gertrude Long of Kansas City, Mo.; three nephews: Kenneth Ogle of Pittsfield, Carl Ogle of Beeville, Tex. and Robert Long of Kansas City, Mo.; and a niece: Mrs. Imogene Unverferth of Louisiana, Mo.

JOHN D. OGLE ,72, of Hannibal, died at 6:41 p.m. Sun., May 12, 2002, at his home. Mr. Ogle was born March 6, 1930, in Rockport, IL, a son of W.A. "Wid" & Ola Mooney Ogle. He married Lucy P. "Polly" Megehe on Nov. 25, 1949, in Corinth, MS. She preceded him in death on Dec. 28, 2001. Judge Ogle received his Bachelor's degree from Bradley University in Peoria, and Juris Doctorate from St. Louis University. He served as a juvenile officer and spe­cial prosecutor for Rails County prior to being elected in 1962, as Associate Circuit & Probate Court Judge. He retired in 1996. Judge Ogle was a mem­ber of the First Christian Church, Scottish Rite, Hannibal Jaycees, Hannibal Chamber of Commerce and Missouri Bar. He served as past president and was a member of the Hannibal Lions Club and the Hannibal Country Club. He was one of the founders and longtime mem­ber of the Northeast Missouri Humane Society. He enjoyed collecting watches, pens, and antique cars. He loved cars, the outdoors and play­ing golf. Survivors include two daughters, Patti Hayes & her husband, Tommy, of Hannibal, and Cyndi Nam) & her husband, David, of Hannibal; one sister, Lois Ulrich of Morton; one sister- in-law, Berniece Doyle of Barry; two grandchildren, Holly Hayes and Heather Hayes; and one great-grand­child, Faith Hayes. He was also preceded in death by one brother, Vernon Ogle. Memorial services were held at 9:30 a.m. Wed. at the James O'Donnell Funeral Home in Hannibal, with Pastor Richard Ingmire officiating. Burial of Judge & Polly Ogle was at Riverside Cemetery in Hannibal. There was no visitation Memorials may be made to Northeast MO Humane Society
Contributed by Billie Browning

WILLIAM AUGUSTUS OGLE , The body of Private 1st Class William Augustus Ogle arrived at the Plattner Funeral Home Friday morning and was moved to the home of his parents Saturday morning. The funeral was held at 2 oclock Sunday in Atlas Church with Rev. Homer Brown officiating. Interment was at Miller cemetery at Atlas. William Ogle, known to his friends as “Gussie" is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm Ogle. He was born Jan. 18, 1923, at Atlas. He was educated in the Atlas schools, and on Oct. 31, 1942, he was married to Pearl Irvin of Atlas, now Mrs. Joe Powers of Quincy . He entered military service July 19, 1944 at Camp Blanding , Fla. , and went overseas to serve in the infantry of the seventh army with Gen. Patch. He was overseas but a week when he fell in combat at Nuernburg , Germany , on March 29, 1945. He is survived by his parents, wife and two sisters, Mrs. Roy Wernowsky of Louisiana and Mrs. James Griffen of Chicago; two brothers, Kenneth and Carl at home, his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Adams of Atlas and Mr. and Mrs. Gus Ogle of Summer Hill. Out-of-town relatives and friends attending the funeral were: Mr. and Mrs. James Griffen of Chicage, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Wernowsky, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Brinker of Louisiana, Mr. and Mrs. Lester Ogle of Alton, Staff Sergeant Ray Wernowsky and wife, Edna Godfrey, Tony and Erma Smith of New Canton, Juanita Schuler of Hannibal, Mrs. Nona Baxter, Mrs. James Bowen, Mrs. Cash Bowen of Bowling Green, Mo., Mr. and Mrs. Ray Pilling, Mr. and Mrs. Bowman, Mrs. Ida Pilling, Mrs. Silver Johnson, Mrs. Dolly Hull, Mrs. Nellie Hull, Miss Alice Pilling, Mrs. Minnie Curfman of Quincy, Mr. and Mrs. Wid Ogle, Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Ogle of Barry and Mrs. Glenn Long of Westin, Mo. Flower girls were Mary Helkey, Ruth Holcomb, Betty Robertson, Edith Cox, Marie Lawson and Lois Marshall. Pall Bearers were: Arthur Lowery, John Irwin, Orville Lawson, Dean Doran, Archie Wells and Charles Ogle. The music was by the Pleasant Hill quartet with Howard Goff at the piano. He is sadly missed by family and friends.

2nd Notice

Agustus Ogle, known to his many friends as Gus, died at 2:30 last Wednesday morning at the Couch Nursing Home. He was born July 28, 1877 and had spent practically his entire life in Atlas township. His parents were Elick and Frances Doan Ogle. He was a farmer all his life until retiring some years ago. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at the Plattner Chapel, conducted by Rev. Joe Maynard. Mrs. Athena Schimmel sang two selections. Burial was in Miller cemetery near Atlas, and six of his nephews served as his pallbearers. Mr. Ogle is survived by his wife, Fanny Ogle, two sons and a daughter by a former marrriage, William Ogle, Kansas City ; Homer Ogle, Rockport; and Mrs. Gertrude Long of Kansas City , Virgil Ogle of near Pittsfield is a brother.

CHRISTINA OITKER , 98, of Plainville died Friday, June 26, 2009, in the Barry Community Care Center in Barry. She was born Sept. 5, 1910, near Baylis to Edward and Pearl (Jackson) Embree. She married Fred Oitker, in 1951, in Reno, Nev. He preceded her in death July 21, 1984. She is survived by one daughter, Betty Stout, of Plainville. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, 24 Great-great-grandchildren and one great-great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her extended family of friends and staff at Barry Community Care Center. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one daughter, Leatha Cooper; one son, Edward Hull; three sisters, Ida McGraw, Ruby Pults and Ruth Dalton; one great-grandson, David L. Oitker; and two sons-in-law, Bill Stout and Vernon Cooper. Visitation was held from 5-7 p.m. Monday, June 29, at the Kirgan Funeral Home in Barry. Graveside services were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 30, at Shilo Cemetery, near Plainville. Burial was at Shilo Cemetery, near Plainville.
Contributed by Billie Browning

CLIFFORD OITKER ,71, formerly of Barry, died Sunday night (March 27, 1994) in the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy. Born Oct. 24, 1922, in Barry, Mr. Oitker was a son of Otis and Ina Woosley Oitker. An Army combat veteran of World War II, he served in Africa, Italy, France and was a troop member of the Fifth Army in the Anzio Beach (Italy) battle. He was a member of Barry American Legion Post 222. Survivors include two sons, Michael J. of O'Fallon, and Martin of Lebanon; two daughters, Maureen Borth of Granite City, and Michele Hatten of O'Fallon; two brothers, Lewis and Richard "Ike" Oitker, both of Barry; a sister, Mrs. Carl (Myrtle) Hart of Barry; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Denise Oitker. Graveside services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Wednesday in Park Lawn Cemetery in Barry. The Kirgan Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to Park Lawn Cemetery's veterans monument fund.
Transcribed by Rosemary Reeves - Contributed by Ella Tittsworth

INEZ OITKER , 81, retired Barry telephone operator, passed away Friday, Ma,y 17, 1968, at 7:00 P. M. in the Pittsfield Nursing Home where she had been a patient for ten weeks. She had been in ill health for about two years and was hospitalized last January. After being dismissed from the hospital she entered the nursing home. Born at Hannibal January 14, 1887, she was the daughter of Isaiah and Ella Early Matteson. Her mother died when she was eight years old, and she came to Barry to make her home with Mr. and Mrs. John C. Potter, who reared her as their own. She attended local schools and later, a business school in Hannibal. She then worked in Hannibal for several years before returning to Barry where she spent the remainder of her life. On November 15, 1915, she was married at Quincy to Charles Oitker who passed away in 1935. For a number of years, Mrs. Oitker served as clerk of Barry Township. She was a member of the Barry Christian Church, the Rebekah Lodge and a fifty-year member of the Barry 0. E. S. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon, May 20, at the Hufnagel Funeral Home, in charge of the Rev. John Hallock. Mrs. Vernon Ogle sang, accompanied by Mrs. Elfrieda Holton. Interment was in Park Lawn Cemetery. Serving as casket-bearers were Harry Uppinghouse, Ver­non Ogle, Charles Fish, William Sutton, Charles Wendorff Sr. and Richard Potter. Surviving are a son Arthur of Northbrook and three granddaughters, Sharon, Joan and Patricia Oitker. Preceding her in death, besides her parents, were three sons, Carl in 1924, Everett in 1930 and Raymond in 1936; two sisters; and a brother.
Contributed by Billie rowning

LEWIS A. OITKER , 82, of Barry died Thursday June 19,2008,in the Barry Community Care Center. He was born Sept. 20, 1925 in Barry to Otis and Ina ( Woosley ) Oitker. Babe graduated from Barry High School in 1943. He joined the Air Force in January of 1944 and was stationed at Biloxi, Ms.. After training, he was sent to Europe as a Tail Gunner in a B-25 with the 12th Air Force in Italy, with his service ending in May 1946. He later worked at Canton Auto Supply in Canton Mo. from 1952 until 1960, then operated Lew's 66 Service in Canton until July 1963. In March 1964 he joined Dohrn Transfer Company as an over the road truck driver, later driving for Hall's until he retired in September 1985. He always enjoyed taking vacations with his family. April 15, 1956 he married Laveta Blacketter in Barry, she survives in Barry. Babe and Laveta were blessed with a daughter, Debra, and her husband, Rod Hyer, of Camp Point. He is also survived by a brother, Richard ( Ike ) Oitker, and a sister, Myrtle Hart, both of Barry. He was preceded in death by a brother Clifford ( Bud ) Oitker. Funeral services were held Monday June 23 at 10 a.m. in the Kirgan Funeral Home in Barry. Visitation was from 3 til 6 p.m. Sunday June 22 in the Funeral Home. Burial was in Park Lawn Cemetery in Barry with graveside Military Rites by Barry American Legion #222 . Memorials are suggested to Barry American Legion, or the Barry Community Care Center Activity Fund.
Contributed by Billie Browning

MICHAEL JAY OITKER , 55, of O’Fallon, born May 6, 1956, in East St. Louis, died Tuesday evening, May 10, 2011, at Gateway Regional Medical Center, Granite City. Mike was a graduate of Pleasant Hill High School, class of 1974. He was a 34 year member of Bricklayers Local 2 and 8. As early as 1986 till present, Mike was a member of the Benefit Stamp Committee. He was Recording Secretary 1993-1999; Belleville Chapter Chairman 1999-present, and member of the Negotiating Committee for Local 2 and 8. Mike was a Trustee for the Health & Welfare and the Pension and also an Executive Board Member. Mike adored his wife and daughter and enjoyed spending time with his nephews and nieces. He always had a story to tell and loved to laugh. Mike was an avid sports fan. He loved music, going to stock car & drag races, flea markets & yard sales, and he was a big trivia and history buff. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford L. “Bud” Oitker and Lois R. “Boots”, nee Prothero, Oitker, his brother Martin D. “Marty” Oitker, and an infant sister, Denise Oitker. He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Debbie, nee Boehmer, Oitker, of O’Fallon and daughter, Alyssa Oitker, a student at Southeast Missouri State University. Mike also leaves behind two sisters, Michele Hattan of O’Fallon and Maureen Borth, Pontoon Beach along with a large extended family. He was especially fond of his nephews, Daniel White, Shaun Hattan, and Jeremy White. Mike chose to be helpful in life and even in death as he was an organ and tissue donor. Mike’s wishes were to be cremated. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.wfh-ofallon.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for Alyssa’s college education and should be mailed to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington St., O’Fallon, Illinois 62269, or to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN. A prayer service will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, May 21, at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, 1411 Cross Street, O’Fallon, with Rev. James Deiters officiating. Following the service, a reception will be held from 10:45 am until 1:30 pm, at Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon Community Park, 308 East Fifth Street, O’Fallon. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
Contibuted by Billie Browning

RONALD K. OITKER , 75, of Barry, died Thursday, Nov. 24, 2011, in his home. He was born June 20,1936, in Quincy, to Clifton and Esther B. (Hull) Oitker. He married Beverly Sterling Sept. 5, 1954, in Barry. She survives in Barry. He is also survived by one son, Bruce Oitker and his wife Edith, of Quincy and one daughter, Deborah Landacre and her husband Dave of Barry. Also surviving are two grandsons, Brian Oitker of Columbia, Mo. and Randall Oitker and companion, Jackie Orr of St. Louis, Mo.;three granddaughters, Becky Walston and husband Jeremy of Barry, Lori Predmore and husband Tom of Barry and Lauryn Landacre of St. Charles; six great grandchildren, Tori, Emma and Anne Predmore, and Jordan, Ryleigh and J. T. Walston, all of Barry; one brother, Robert Oitker of Jacksonville; and one sister, Janet Oitker, of Quincy. Ronnie was a member of the Barry United Methodist Church. He and his family owned and operated the Gambles Store in Barry for many years. He served as Alderman for 36 years and served as Mayor pro tem at one time. Ronnie was a member of the Barry Fire Department for 51 years and served as Chief at one time. He drove a school bus for Barry School for 51 years and he assisted part time at Kirgan Funeral Home for 10 years. In his spare time he enjoyed his vacations, camping and collecting antique cars. Ronnie was always active in community events. Visitation was held from 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, at the Kirgan Funeral Home in Barry. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 28, at the Kirgan Funeral Home in Barry. Burial was in Park Lawn Cemetery in Barry. Memorials are suggested to the Barry Fire Department.
Contributed by Billie Browning - Pike Press

ELIZABETH ORR - It is our painful duty to record the death of Mrs. Elizabeth Orr, who departed this life on the 15th inst., after an illness of about eight days. She was the wife of the late Thos. Orr. Mrs. Orr was born in Washington County, Virginia, in the year A. D. 1796. In 1818 she, with her husband, emigrated to the then far west and first settled in Randolph County, Illinois, remaining there only a ___ time they removed to Pike County, Illinois, and settled on a farm about three miles west of Kinderhook, where they reared a family of eleven children, five of whom are dead and six living. She had been living with her eldest son since the death of her husband, whose family was very kind in contributing to the comforts of the aged mother. Mrs. Orr was over eighty years old. She leaves thirty-nine grand-children and nineteen great-grand children. She was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for more than fifty years....the church has lost a bold advocate of the christian religion, and the community a worthy member of society, but our loss is her eternal gain. The funeral took place on the 16th inst., at Akers' Chapel, the funeral discourse being by the Rev. Larimore...after which the remains were followed by a large concourse of relatives and friends to the chapel cemetery, and were there placed by the side of her husband's, where they will remain until the Christ's second coming. written by J**** Kinderhook, Feb. 17th 1877
Contributed by Virginia Gorton Bonne - [Pike Co. Democrat, 22 Feb 1877]

JOHN OLSON ,70, of Pittsfield died Thursday Aug. 21, 2008 at Blessing Hospital Quincy. He was born Dec. 29, 1937 in LaHarpe, to Roy Edwin and Florine Bergman Olson. He married Judy Orrill Jan. 18, 1958 at St. mary's Catholic Church in Pittsfield and she survives. Mr. Olson farmed near Perry, and was a self-employed over the road long haul truck driver. He served his country in the Army Reserve during peace-time. He was a member of the St. Mary's Catholic Church, Pittsfield, a 1955 graduate of Perry High School, a member of the Perry American Legion Post. He was a NASCAR fan who loved traveling and frequently the river boats. He loved working around his home and especially loved his family and his cat "Nadine." He is survived by his wife, Judy Olson; two sons, Monte (Debbie) Olson of Bowling Green KY and Andy (Shelley) Olson of Pittsfield; two daughters, Monica (Craig) Beard of Pittsfield and Angie (Kenny) Neff of New Salem; a brother Rex (Glenna) Olson of Perry; and a sister, Dee (John) Krugler ofMenomenee Falls, WI. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, Jodan, Jessica, Matthew and Carolyn Olson, Mallory (Jeremy) Davidsmeyer of Nebo, Alayna (Brian) Thomure of Ft. Gordon, GA and Carley Beard and Dylan Beard of Pittsfield, and Nancy and Vincent Olson of Pittsfield. He is also survived by one great grandchild, Jesse Davidsmeyer. Services were at 1 p.m. Aug. 23, 2008 at the St. Mary's Catholic CHurch in Pittsfield with Father Rodney Schwartz officiating. Burial was at the Calvary Cemetery Pittsfield.
Contributed by Billie Browning

JANET M. ORR , 63, of Milton died Monday, Oct. 15, 2007 at her residence in Milton. She was born July 4, 1944 in Chicago to Joseph V. and Catherine M. Wilke Crue. She married Paul Ferry Dec. 8, 1962 and he preceded her in death Dec. 30, 1998. She later married David Jeffrey (Jeff) Orr Sept. 11, 1999 in Troy, Mo, and he survives. Mrs. Orr was an Associate at the Pittsfield Wal-Mart for the last 5 years. She was a member of the Pike County Home Extension and the Pittsfield Garden Club. She enjoyed riding their motorcycle, rides in the convertible, eating out, and being around and with people. She also enjoyed her pet poodle, Gracie. Survivors include her husband, Jeff Orr of Milton; two daughters, Mrs. Audrey (Mike) Jacobs of Pittsfield and Mrs. Cathy (Brent) Bauer of Pearl; a brother, John Crue of Booneville, Mo.; a sister, Judy Crue of Tuscon, Ariz.; five grandchildren, Michelle Jacobs, Kenny Jacobs, Joey Jacobs, Lauryn Bauer and Andrew Bauer; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be held Friday, Oct. 19, at 2 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield, with Rev. Keith Warner officiating. Burial will be at the Smith Cemetery, Milton. Visitation will be held Thursday, Oct. 18, from 4 - 8 PM at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Family will meet with friends from 6 - 8 PM at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to the Blessing Hospice of Pike County or the Smith Cemetery.
Pike Press October 2007

JOHN ORR , was born in Lancaster county, Pa., May 4, 1810, and removed with his parents to Harrison county, O., in boyhood. Here he was married to Miss Ary (??) Moore and soon afterward moved to a farm near Deerville, O., where they resided until 1853 and where ten children, two daughters and eight sons were born to them. All the children survive except one son, who was killed at Jackson, Miss., during the war. His wife died October 15, 1860. Besides the children there are 33 grand, and 22 great grandchildren living. On coming to this state in 1853 Mr. Orr with his family settled upon a farm in Fairmount township, Pike county, where he resided until 1863, when he settled in Pittsfield, resided there with his son Jefferson till about seven years ago, when he came to this city and has since made his home with his son Frank. He died at the residence of his son, A. M. Orr, in Lee township on Tuesday, June 4, and on the following Thursday the remains were interred in the cemetery at Hinman Chapel, Pike county. Sevices were conducted at the house in the forenoon by Rev. Purdue.
Contributed by Sara Hemp - Brown County Democrat Message, Mt. Sterling, Illinois, June 14, 1890

MARY ELLEN ORR , 84, of Perry died Saturday, May 14, 2005, at St. John's Hospital. Her husband, Ralph J. Orr, preceded her in death. A daughter, Kay Ellen Orr, also preceded her in death. Survivors: daughter, Patricia Gail (husband, Richard) Emerson of Perry; three sons, David Jeffrey (wife, Janet) Orr of Milton, John Michael (wife, Kay) Orr of Jacksonville and Roger Alan (wife, Kathi) Orr of Danvers; 11 grandchildren; four stepgrandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; sister, Sarah Harriet Brooks of Springfield; two brothers, Clarence John (wife, Shirley) Browning of Springfield and David Harvey Browning of Chambersburg; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and companion, Elmer Bradbury of Perry. Services: 11 a.m. Wednesday, Arisman-Hires Funeral Home, Pittsfield. Burial: Wilson Cemetery, Perry.

MARGARET OSBORN , died , in Fairmount, April 21, Mrs. Margaret Osborn; aged 64 years. The deceased was born in Ohio, March 8th, 1822. She was united to Samuel Osborn in marriage in the same state, at Uricksville, Oct. 3d, 1844. In 1853, with her husband she moved to Pike Co., Ill., which has since been her residence. She was the mother of twelve children, only six of whom survive her, viz: Mrs. Wm. Laird, of Maysville, Thos. A., of Kansas, and Robert, Jane and Hester, who are still left with the sorrowing husband. In the morning of life in obedience to the command of the Master, seek ye My face, she responded, Lord thy face will I seek," and was soon made to rejoice in the possession of the pearl of great price. She cast in her lot with the M. E. church, with whom she walked a faithful member until a few years ago, when, with her husband, she withdrew by letter, and united with the Presbyterian church at New Salem, of which body she was an esteemed and honored member, until the day in which God transferred her from the church militant to the church triumphant. Although called to pass through great tribulations, and subjected to the severest trials, yet her confidence in the rock of her salvation remained unshaken. Her Christian experience was positive. Her path to the cross was well beaten, and her faith was beautiful and sublime, when crossing swords with the messenger on the pale horse, when informed by her physician that medical skill could do no more for her, and that soon she would find herself in the toils of man's last enemy, like the great apostle chieftain, she replied: "I am ready." Her house was set in order, her lamp was trimmed and burning; and attired in the wedding garment of the redeemers righteousness, in a peaceful slumber she crossed the mystic river, to receive a jeweled crown and to wave a golden censor before the throne in glory.
(Submitted by Sandi Donaldson from a newspaper clipping from a Pike county scrapbook - Dated May 3 1886)

ROSEMARY OSBORNE , 68, of Louisiana, MO will be held at 10:00 am Tues., Nov. 20th at the Samuel Taylor Cemetery in Rockport, IL. The Rev. Randall Cone will officiate. Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 pm Thurs., Nov. 15th at the Collier Funeral Home in Louisiana, MO. She died Mon., Nov. 12, 2007 at the Missouri Baptist Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Mrs. Osborne's desire was to be cremated. She was born Dec. 11, 1938 at Barry, IL to James and Anna Niffen Leeds. She is survived by one son, Lonnie Osborne, Sr. and wife, Stephanie of Louisiana, MO, One sister, Bernice Harrelson of Eolia, Missouri, Five grandchildren, Ashlee Chandler, Molly Chandler, Desirae Osborne, Lonnie Osborne, Jr. and Alexus Osborne all of Louisiana, MO and by nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, 3 sisters and one niece. She had been employed as a Teachers Aid for Head Start in Bowling Green, MO.
Contributed by Kathy Robinson

JEANETTE L. OTTWELL , 75, of Pleasant Hill died Sunday, Sept. 6, 2009, at Eastside Health and Rehabilitation Center in Pittsfield. She was born Sept. 9, 1933, in Brawloy, Calif., the daughter of Virgil Lloyd and Opal Clara Maxwell Mansker. Jeanette was a homemaker and an avid bingo player. She attended the Pleasant Hill Christian Church. Survivors include three daughters, Jorgeanna (Ronnie) White of Pleasant Hill, Emma (Jerry) Hausmann of Pleasant Hill and Deeann Tubbs of Victorville, Calif.; three sons, John (Judy) Dexter of Green Bay, Wisc., Andy (Debbie) Dexter of California and Sam Dexter of California; a brother, Dave (Dove) La Valley of California; and a sister, Nanette (Mike) Pearson of California;18 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Cindy Dexter; a son. Jim Dexter; a sister, Pam Burgiss, and a grandson. Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held Friday, Sept. 11 at 11 a.m. at the Pleasant Hill Christian Church conducted by Rev- Aaron McCombs. Visitation will be held Thursday evening from 5 - 8 p.m. at the Pleasant Hill Christian Church
Contributed by Billie Browning from Pike Press

KEN OTTWELL , 70, died Friday, July 10. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Ken was born May 13, 1939, in Griggsville, to Albert and Betty Ottwell. Ken graduated from Griggsville High School in 1957 and went on to Bailey Technical School to train in diesel mechanics. May 30, 1959, he married Mary Wainman, and they made their home in Quincy. They moved to Ottawa, in 1966. After a family visit to Oregon, Ken decided to move the family to Portland in 1974. The family made their home in Boring for 34 years. Ken and Mary moved to Sandy in December 2008. Ken worked in the heavy equipment industry for 51 years and retired from Modern Machinery in 2007. He had served as an adviser to the diesel technology program at Portland Community College for many years and decided to continue his lifelong contributions to the industry by becoming a PCC instructor in September 2007. Ken's interests included spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and working on home improvement projects. Survivors include his wife; mother, Betty Hannant of Pittsfield; daughters, Natalia Sedgwick of Sandy and Joye Ottwell of Austin, Texas; son, Eric Ottwell of Sandy; brother, Bob Ottwell of Beardstown; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, 0330 S.W. Curry St., Portland, 97239. A scholarship fund will be established in his name for PCC students enrolled in the diesel technology program. Sandy Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning - Pike Press

LOREN L. OTTWELL , 82, of Pittsfield , IL and formerly of Pearl , IL died Monday, June 28, 2010 at his residence. He was born on November 7, 1927 near Bee Creek in Pike County , IL to Elmer and Nellie Lunsford Ottwell. He married Velma Faye Franklin at the Wood River Presbyterian Church, Wood River , IL on March 6, 1954, and she survives. Mr. Ottwell was a self-employed carpenter. He was a 1945 graduate of Pearl High School . After graduation he went to work with Gulf Mobile at the Ohio Railroad in Vincennes with the masonry gang. Loren was inducted in the WW II draft with the occupational forces for 9 months. He served his country in the US Army. After returning home to Pike County , Loren took up the carpentry trade after attending GI school to learn the trade. He worked for several contractors before going into the carpenter business for himself. He was a member of the Pittsfield Church of Christ. He enjoyed Bible study, gardening, and growing strawberries. He was also the author of three books. He became a member of the Church of Christ when he was 26 years old. He taught Sunday School for several years. His hobbies were traveling and writing. He and Faye spent a lot of time in Arizona and the state of Washington . He was known for writing articles for the Pike Press, Calhoun News, and the Yuma Daily Sun under the pen name “The Bard of Bee Creek. He was the author of three books, Drink at the Fountain, Fruits of Solitude, and A Spy in Yuma . Loren became an avid walker after his retirement and marked his 75th birthday by walking from his birthplace in Bee Creek to Pittsfield . Survivors: His wife Faye of Pittsfield, IL, five children: David Ottwell and Martha Ottwell of Pittsfield, Il, Paul Ottwell of Olympia, WA, Phillip Ottwell of Milton, IL, and John Ottwell of St. Louis, MO. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, two brothers, Ray Ottwell of Sara Sota, FL, and LeRoy Ottwell of St. Louis , MO. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, July 3, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield , Illinois with Bro. Don Crater officiating. Burial will be at the Greenpond Cemetery , Pearl , IL . A visitation will be held on Friday, July 2, 2010 from 4 until 8 pm at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield , Illinois . Memorials are suggested to the Relay for Life or Blessing Hospice of Pike County.
Contributed by Billie Browning

HAYS OWNBY - Miss Helen Ownby of the high school faculty, was called home to Barry Monday, by the death of her brother, Hay(e)s ownby. She was accompanied by Miss Louise Dawson. Mr. Ownby was a caller in Winchester Wednesday night of last week, having purchased some gent's furnishing stock from Sol Hainsfurther, that formerly belonged to the late P. D. Smith. He was taken ill Sunday night with a heart attack and passed away the next morning. Mr. Ownby was interested in three stores.
Source: Rootsweb Mailing List Pike County IL =
Unknown Newspaper, found in Winchester Public Library
He was born February 12,1897 and d; November 13, 1944 in Barry, Pike County, Illinois Colors of Pike

ROBERT L. OWNBY , 90, of Avon Park, Fla., formerly of Barry, died April 4, 2011, at Tampa General Hospital. He was born May 7, 1920, in Barry, the son of Hays and Helen Ownby. They preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Jane "Dee" of Avon Park; daughter, Nancy Kerley of Lakeland, Fla.; two sons, Bob Ownby and his wife, Carolyn, of Lawton, Iowa and Thomas Ownby of Longwood, Fla.; six grandchildren, Khris Wakeman, Stacie Kaylor, Rob and Ryan Ownby and Bradley and Alan Ownby; and seven great-grandchildren. Bob attended Culver-Stockton College in Canton, Mo. for three years and graduated from the University of Illinois in 1942 with a B.A. degree in Business. He owned and operated clothing stores and had ownership in a furniture store in Barry along with two farms until moving to Sarasota, Fla. in 1974. He was an active community participant and served on the Barry First National Bank Board of Directors and the Barry School Board for several years. While in Florida, he received his Real Estate Appraisal license and did property appraisals and real estate investing. He retired and later moved to Avon Park. Bob was a member of the Masons, Elk, and the Presbyterian Church, and enjoyed golfing, computers and socializing with friends. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 21, at Park Lawn Cemetery in Barry. Kirgan Funeral Home in Barry in charge of arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning - Pike Press