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Stephenson County
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EMMA SAEGER
, 70, widow of Conrad Saeger and a resident of Freeport for sixty years, passed away at a local hospital yesterday afternoon. She underwent major surgery one week ago. Funeral services will be held at the Walker mortuary, West Main street, at 1:30 o'clock Saturday afternoon. Dr. Edwin A. Arends, pastor of St. John's Evangelical and Reformed church, will conduct the services and interment will be made at Oakland. Emma Egdorf, daughter of the late Fred and Caroline Egdorf, was born in Germany, April 2, 1875. She came to the United States at the age of nine and had since resided in Freeport Her marriage to Conrad Saeger took place Nov. 4, 1891. The husband and six children preceded her in death. Surviving are four sons and two daughters, Herman and Roy Saeger, Mrs. Helen Harpst, Freeport; Paul, Rockford; Sgt. Carl Saeger, now serving in India Mrs. Ruth Recoy, Pecatonica, nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. There are also six brothers, Charles Egdorf, Clay Center, Kan.; John, Herman and Frank, Chicago; Ernest, Waterloo, Ia.; Louis, Freeport.
EMIL EARLE SAMELS
, 51, farmer in Peck addition, died of a heart attack in his home at 8 a.m. today, March 16, 1946. He was born July 21, 1894 at Basewood, Illinois and came to Buhl in 1910 from Freeport, Ill. He was graduated from Buhl high school in 1914. Mr. Samels married Ethel May Gilmour at Twin Falls, November 1, 1915.
Surviving are his widow; two daughters, Iona L. Samels of Buhl and Mrs. Rosella E. Bertschy, Washington state; one brother, John Samels of Spokane, Washington; his father-in-law, W. S. Samuel of Buhl; a sister-in-law, Mrs. W. W. Hubbell of Denver, Colorado; and two brothers-in-law, Gail Samuel and Glen Samuel of Buhl.
Services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the Buhl Methodist church, with the Rev. Lee A. Wilbur, pastor, officiating. Interment will be in Buhl Cemetery under direction of Albertson Funeral Home.
LEONARD T. SAMELS
, 69, Castleford, died Wednesday in Castleford of an apparent heart attack. He was born October 8, 1904 at Freeport, Illinois, and came to Idaho in 1910. (Alice Horner’s note: His parents were John D. and Lydia Pauline [Moellenberndt] Samels.) He worked on farms in the area and for several years was employed by the Sumner Sand and Gravel Co. Mr. Samels is survived by one niece, Florence Samels of Spokane; one nephew, Leslie C. Samels of Bellevue, Washington, and one sister-in-law, Mrs. Blanche Samels, of Spokane.
Funeral services will be at 11 a. m. Saturday at the Dickard Funeral Chapel by Pres. Delbert Alexander of the Castleford branch of the LDS Church. Concluding rites in the Buhl Cemetery.
WILLIAM F. SAMELS
, 65, died Thursday morning at his residence of a heart attack. He was born January 21, 1903 in Rock Grove, Illinois and came to Idaho in 1910, working on farms in the Castleford-Buhl area all of his life. Mr. Samels never married. (Alice Horner’s note: His parents were John D. and Lydia Pauline [Moellenberndt] Samels.) Survivors include one brother, Leonard Samels of Castleford; one niece, Florence Samels, of Spokane, Washington, and one nephew, Leslie Samels of Seattle.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Albertson-Dickard Chapel by President Delbert Alexander, Castleford LDS branch. Final rites will be held in the Buhl Cemetery.
ESTHER (EICHMEIER) SCHASKER
, 87, of 933 S. Adams Ave., died Saturday morning at Freeport Memorial Hospital. She was a member of First Lutheran Church. Burn July 10, 1895, in Stephenson County, she was the daughter of Herman and Louise (Stephan, [error, should be Steffen]) Eichmeier. She married Charles E. Schasker Feb. 17, 1916, in Pearl City. He died Sept. 1, 1967. Surviving are one son, Mervin of Freeport; two brothers, Oscar Eichmeier of Ackley, Iowa and Henry Eichmeier of Freeport; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by one sister and four brothers. Services will be...Tuesday at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home with the Rev. Arthur R. Stees, pastor of First Lutheran Church, officiating. Burial will be in Chapel Hill Cemetery....A memorial fund has been established.
MARGUERITE (SENNEFF) SCHIMELPFENIG
- After a brief illness, Marguerite Schimelpfenig (93) died peacefully at FHN on Friday morning,
June 3rd, 2011 surrounded by most of her family.
Marg was born on October 6th, 1917 in Freeport, IL to Asa and Eva (Gibbs) Senneff. She married Eugene Schimelpfenig in July 1939. She lived all of her life in Northern Illinois (Freeport, Rockford, and Mendota). Her last home was at Hawthorne Inn at Liberty Village in Freeport.
Marg's great joy in life was her role as mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was always focused on the care and comfort of others. She supported her entire family, including nieces and nephews, with babysitting and comfort- giving whenever asked without hesitation. She will be remembered as the strongly independent matriarch to her loving family and friends. While her focus and empathy was in caring for others, her family almost never remembers her being ill or asking for any attention for herself. She will be remembered for her smiling face, her positive attitude, and her beautiful white hair.
Marg's life spanned an era that pre-dated the concept of retirement, and in addition to being financially self-sustaining, she found joy and social contact through her work. She worked as a retail clerk in the grocery business, and later retired from the Del Monte Corporation where she worked in the cannery at Mendota, Il. She was active until the end of her life, and a week before she died was still volunteering as a teacher's aide at the local Jones Farrar Magnet School. She especially enjoyed riding the Senior Center bus with her friends, the bus drivers.
Grandma Marg was preceded in death by her parents, her former husband, and her brothers Robert and Leroy. She is survived by a son, Craig (& best friend Lisa), Buffalo, Wyoming, and a daughter, Jean (Jim) Laible, Freeport. She is also survived by her nephew, Bill (Kittye) Senneff and family with whom she shared a special relationship. Also surviving is her nephew, Steven (Connie) Senneff, Englewood, Colorado and several cousins. Her grandchildren include Jennifer (Jeff) Schierer, Julie (Tim) Ferguson, Rylan Schimelpfenig, Ashley Schimelpfenig, and Brandon Schimelpfenig, and great-grandchildren, Megan, Emily, and Allison Schierer, Lauren and Logan Ferguson, Preston Schimelpfenig, and Malachi Schimelpfenig.
Visitation will be from 9 to 11 am Tuesday, June 7 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 2700 W Stephenson St., Freeport. A memorial service will be held immediately following the visitation beginning at 11 am at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 2700 W. Stephenson St., Freeport with Pastor Mark Luepke officiating. Cremation rites have been accorded.
A memorial fund has been established in her name.
ASA F. SENNEFF
, 404 W. Galena Ave., a Freeport resident for the past 40 years, died at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, June 22, 1958 at a Freeport hospital. Senneff was born in Carroll County August 30 1885, the son of Mr. and Mrs. William F. Senneff. He married Eva Gibbs November 26, 1910 at Oregon. He was an employee of Union Dairy for the past 32 years.
He is survived by his wife; two sons, Leroy and Robert, both of Freeport; one daughter, Mrs. Eugene (Marguerite) Schimelpfenig of Freeport; four sisters, Mmes. Sherman Oakley of Chadwick, A. M. Shipman of Milledgeville, Fred Kness of Clark, South Dakota (Kness is misspelled as Kneff in the newspaper); and Miss Alice Senneff of Milledgeville; and five grandchildren. One brother and one sister preceded him in death.
Funeral service will be at 3 p.m. Wednesday at Walker Mortuary. The Rev. Virgil Smith, pastor of Pearl City Methodist Church, will officiate. Burial will be in Grand View Cemetery. Friends may call at the mortuary.
VIOLA L. (EULER) SMYTH
, 72, 208 Miriam Ave., died Wednesday evening in Rockford Memorial Hospital Emergency Room, apparently of a heart attack. Born Jan. 23, 1909, [Ridott Twp, Stephenson Co, IL] daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Herman Euler. Married to Richard B. Smyth; he preceded her in death. Formerly employed at Nelson Hotel, Didier Greenhouses, Testor Corp, and Shamrock Motel. Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Theodore (Koleen) Marlowe, Rockford; a son, James, Ouray, Colo.; a sister, Louise Bricklyn [Bricklen], Freeport, and a brother [son] Francis Brenner, Dakota; and five grandchildren. Services...Saturday in Julian-Poorman Funeral Home, 304 N, 5th St. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.
JOHN C. SPRINGMAN
, 88, former resident of Cedarville, passed away at 10 o’clock Saturday night, January 11, 1936 following an extended illness. Friends may view the body at the Wiese & Tempel Funeral Home, South Adams Avenue, until Tuesday noon when it will be taken to the home of his daughter, Mrs. Effie Zimmerman, 902 South Globe Avenue. Brief funeral service will be conducted there at 1 o’clock Wednesday afternoon with services at Cedarville Evangelical Church at 1:46 o’clock. Rev. Aaron Wagner will conduct the services and interment will be made in Cedarville Cemetery. James Madden will have charge of funeral arrangements.
Mr. Springman was born in Pennsylvania, April 19, 1847, the son of Mathias and Mary Magdalena Springman. He came here with his parents when a small boy and practically all of his life has been spent in the vicinity of Cedarville. He was united in marriage to Mary M. Garman August 24, 1868. To this union four children were born: Mrs. Venetia Yoder of Woodstock, Iowa; Mrs. Effie Zimmerman of Freeport; Mrs. Alice Ulrich of Dakota, Illinois; Mrs. Agnes George of Harlem Township. His wife passed away January 9, 1926. The following brothers and sisters survive: Mrs. Katherine Garman of Cedarville; Mrs. Mary Best, Mrs. Belinda Kleppinger, George D. Springfield, all of Freeport; Mrs. Della Bender of Dazey, North Dakota. One brother, Henry Springfield of Storm Lake, Iowa passed away May 4, 1935.
Mr. Springfield was a carpenter by trade and followed that occupation for many years. He was affiliated with Cedarville Evangelical Church.
ALBERT C. STEFFEN
- Private funeral services for Albert C. Steffen, 79, of ...San Jacinto Drive, will be conducted at...Thursday in the Palm Springs Mortuary Chapel. The Rev. Joseph Leissler, pastor of the St. Louis Catholic Church will officiate. He died Monday in Indio Convalescent Hospital following a lengthy illness. A native of Illinois, he was a resident of Palm Springs for four years. Mr. Steffen leaves a daughter, Mrs. Jean Blackstone of Palm Springs; a sister, Mrs. Clara Long of Kansas City, MO; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Burial will be in Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Glendale.
ARTHUR D. STEFFEN
, 88, of Freeport, died Friday March 27, 1998, in Freeport. Born Feb. 7, 1910, in Freeport, he was the son of Charles and Caroline (Miller) Steffen. On June 20, 1939, he married Esther W. Hurd. For three years he worked for Standard Oil Company, then for 15 years he worked at Keith and Steffen Oil Station. For five years he was with Steffen & Carter Wholesale Vegetables in Freeport, and from 1962 until 1978 he was with Stanley Foods in Rock Island. He is survived by his wife; two daughters, Karen (Ron) Raver of Cheney, Wash, and Susan (James) Sieck of Freeport; two sons, Charles Arthur (Sue) Steffen of Cherry Valley and Gregory Hurd (Phyllis) Steffen of Cedar Falls, Iowa; one brother, Frederick (Ardath) Steffen of Rockford; three grandchildren, Tim Raver, Scott Sieck and Becky Steffen; three great-grandchildren, Christopher and Nathan Raver and Carter Sieck. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Betty Smith; and one grandchild, Todd Raver. Cremation rites have been accorded and there will be a gathering for the family...Tuesday at Walker Mortuary...[The Journal-Standard
AUGUST STEFFEN
- Suffering with heart trouble but not considered in a critical condition, August Steffen, Battle Creek’s pioneer furniture dealer, died in his sleep early Sunday morning, presumably between 4 and 5 o’clock. He suffered an attack on Wednesday evening of last week and had since been under care of his physician. Funeral services were held at St. John’s Lutheran church at 2 o’clock Tuesday afternoon with Pastor A. H. Schleff in charge. Many Iowa relatives reached Battle Creek in time for the services and during the hour all business houses were closed. Burial was made at Union cemetery. Pallbearers were Fred Tegeler, Fred Prauner, August Volk, A. H. Gardels, Adolph Koester and Jacob Knapp....Born in Freeport, Illinois, April 15, 1863, Mr. Steffen had reached the age of 74 years, 6 months and 7 days. At the age of 17 he became a resident of Ackley, Iowa, and in 1887 he came to Battle Creek to follow his trade as carpenter. He was married to Miss Mary Mueller [changed to Miller by family members] of Ackley, Iowa in February, 1888, and a few years later he engaged in the furniture and undertaking business which he had since conducted alone until his son, Simon, became a member of the firm as junior partner. Mrs. Steffen died in 1910 and he was married in 1912 to Mrs. Clara Haman of Battle Creek, who passed away ten years later. The death of August Steffen removed another of Battle Creek’s staid business men whose success may be attributed to an unswerving adherence to a policy of honest dealings with his patrons and a marked loyalty to his church and to his friends. Surviving are his son, Simon, of Battle Creek, and a stepson, Otto Haman, of Omaha, three sisters, three half-sisters and one half-brother. There are six grandchildren. [c1937. Copies of obituary from Mabelle Steffen & Joan Struck]
CAROLINE (HOEBEL) STEFFEN
, widow of Frank Steffen and a native of Freeport, died in Cleveland, Ohio, Tuesday night (27 Aug 1956) after a brief illness. The former Caroline Hoebel was born in Freeport, Aug. 18, 1867. She was married to Frank Steffen. Surviving is one son, Fred Neidelmeyer, Cleveland. Her husband died previously. Services will be in the Schwarz Funeral Home at 10 a.m. Saturday with a Requiem Mass in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at 10:30 a.m. The Rev. N. J. Berg, pastor, will officiate. The Rosary will be recited in the funeral home at 1:30 p.m. Friday...
CAROLYN (MILLER) STEFFEN
, 61, wife of Charles M. Steffen, and lifelong resident of Freeport, passed away at a local hospital at 11:20 a.m. Saturday (16 Dec 1944) after several weeks' illness. She resided at 923 South Carroll avenue. Funeral services will be held at the Walker mortuary, West Main street, at 3 o'clock Tuesday...Rev. W. Ridley Parson, rector of Grace Episcopal church, will conduct the services and interment will be made at Oakland...
The daughter of Charles and Susan Miller, she was born in Freeport, Oct. 1, 1883. Her marriage to Charles M. Steffen took place July 12, 1906. Besides her husband she leaves three children, Mrs. Robert M. Smith, Arthur and Frederick Steffen, all of Freeport. Five granddaughters also survive. There are two sisters, Mrs. A. W. Place, Mrs. Margaret Boyer, Freeport. One sister preceded her in death. Her husband is a member of the firm of Steffen-Carter company.
CATHERINA STEFFEN
- It is with deep regret that we feel called upon to chronicle the death of a lady well known to the early settlers of Chicago, and Stephenson county, and one who has a large circle of friends who will also regret her loss. The lady the Bulletin refers to is Mrs. Catherina Steffen, wife of the late Nicholas Steffen, who died on the 15th of June, 1865. The deceased was taken ill last April, and was sixty-three years, four months and one day old. She expired at half past five last evening. The deceased was born Aug. 13, 1817, in the Kingdom of Prussia, where she was married to Nicholas Steffen. In the year 1840 Mr. and Mrs. Steffen and a son, Nicholas, came to this country and settled in the city of Chicago, being among the first settlers and having the first grocery on the north side. Here they remained until 1853, when they came to Stephenson county, and engaged in the brewing business. In 1863 the building was burned down, but was rebuilt in 1863-4. In the following years, as stated above, the head of the family died, and his wife carried on the business until 1878, when it was leased to Mathias and M. T. Steffen, two sons. These gentlemen continued the business up to last year. There were present at the time of the death Nicholas, M. T. Steffen, Charles and Emma Steffen, children of the deceased. Joseph, of Milwaukee, arrived too late, and Mrs. Mary Ochsel also of Milwaukee, a daughter, is sick, and possibly will not be here. Three children are dead—John, May, 1876, Peter, December, 1879, and Mathias, April, 1880. The deceased has thirty grandchildren alive. The highest tribute the Bulletin can pay to the lady is to say that she lived a life of usefulness, respected for her many good qualities of heart and head. The relatives are entitled to the sympathy of the community. At half-past 9 o'clock on Friday morning, the funeral services will be conducted by the Rev. Father Kavalege at the St. Joseph's Roman Catholic church. All friends of the family are invited.
CHARLES STEFFEN
, son of Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Steffen, living in Chicago died this morning after a short illness death is thought due to heart trouble and rheumatism being he weighed over 350 pounds, learned the blacksmith trade worked at Henny Buggy Co. at Freeport and for a short time he lived in Milwaukee. 25 years ago went to Chicago in the saloon business on Randolph St. Married 25 years ago, his wife died several years ago, leaves a daughter, Margaret, 12 years old and a sister, Mrs. B. Froehling at Chicago, a brother, the late Stephen Steffen, a former Freeport alderman, also Michael Steffen, Stephenson Co. clerk is a nephew. Burial will be in Chicago.
CHARLES GUSTAVE STEFFEN
, one of Freeport's most prominent citizens, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Charles Guenther, 66 Prospect terrace at 3 o'clock this morning (29 Jan 1910). His death was due to heart trouble. Mr. Steffen has not been well for a long time although his illness was not of a serious nature. He had been troubled since last spring. However, about three weeks ago his illness became more serious and he had been confined to the house for the past ten days. Mr. Steffen was one of the pioneers of this country, having come here as a boy with his parents He was first employed in a dry goods store conducted by W. A. Stevens. Later he went into the grocery business with C. O. Collmann and still later with August Huenkemeier. He was also a partner with Frank Bangasser in the cigar manufacturing business at one time. For the past 40 years Mr. Steffen has been a traveling salesman and represented Sprague, Warner and company for the past 30 years. He enjoyed a large patronage, not only in Freeport, but also in the cities and towns in his territory. Mr. Steffen was born March 21, 1843 in Alsace, Germany. When still very young his parents came to this country and settled in Stephenson county. He was married in this city in September, 1865, to Miss Cornelia Bangasser, and five [10] children were born to this union. For many years Mr. and Mrs. Steffen resided on Carroll street, but for several years they have made their home with their daughter, Mrs. Charles Guenther, on Prospect Terrace. Mr. Steffen was a member of the Masonic lodge, a member of the Germania society since 1865, and a member of Freeport lodge No. 152, Freeport Commandery and United Commercial Travelers. He is survived by his wife and the following children: Frank, Charles, Albert and Mrs. Charles Guenther, of this city, and Mrs. John Long, of Kansas City. Everyone in Freeport knew Charley Steffen, and his death comes as a shock to his legion of friends. While many knew that he had been in poor health for the past several months, yet not one of his friends suspected that the end was so near for their old friend and companion. Mr. Steffen's duties as a traveling man called him from Freeport a great deal, but nevertheless he found time to visit his friends and pass many pleasant hours with them. His genial manner and gentlemanly traits endeared him to all. He was a staunch and loyal friend and as a father and husband his home life and the attitude of his children toward him speak more eloquently than mere words could tell. Perhaps the most lovable trait of his character was his great love for children. Every boy in his neighborhood was his particular friend. All boys were boys to Charley Steffen, and no greater tribute could be paid to his character than that he was the boys' friend. Mrs. Chas. Guenther is quite ill and may be unable to attend the funeral of her father. The Funeral Freeport Commandery No. 7, K. T., will have charge of the funeral which will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the home of C. P. Guenther, 66 Prospect Terrace. Interment will be in Oakland. The honorary pallbearers will be _ D. Kuehner, J. F. Fair, C. L. Snyder, C.C. Wolf, J. N. Galloway and W. C. Milner. Notice All members of Freeport Commandery are requested to meet at the Commandery room at 1 o'clock Monday afternoon to attend the funeral.
CHARLES M. STEFFEN
, died Wednesday afternoon in a Freeport hospital following a heart attack. He was born Dec. 22, 1881, in Freeport, the son of Charles G. and Mary Steffen. He married Caroline W. Miller on July 12, 1905 [conflicts with wife's obituary], in Freeport. She died Dec. 16, 1944. He was a past exalted ruler of the Elks and a member of Freeport Country Club. He organized the Eisenhower Fruit Co., which later became Steffen-Carter Produce Co. At the time of his death Steffen was operating Steffen-Sugar Brokerage Co. at 22 E. Spring St. He had resided at 1025 S. School Ave., with a son but after a recent illness moved to his daughter’s home, Mrs. Robert M. (Betty) Smith, 1421 W. Harrison St. where he was residing at the time of his death. Survivors include his daughter, Mrs. Smith; two sons, Arthur D. and Frederick C., both of Freeport; one brother, Albert, Hollywood, Calif.; one sister, Mrs. John Long, Kansas City, MO; and nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife and seven brothers and sisters. Funeral service...Saturday...Walker’s Mortuary with burial in Oakland Cemetery. The Rev. Anthony Landgraf of the Second Presbyterian Church will officiate.
CONRAD STEFFEN
, an old settler of Loran township, died suddenly at his home yesterday. In company with his son, Henry M. Steffen, he was husking corn in a field, and without a moment's warning he dropped to the ground, and when his son reached his side he was cold and still in death. Mr. Steffen had been subject to appopleptic [apoplectic] fits for some years, and it was thought that sooner or later they would cause his death, but the sad event came without warning, for he was enjoying the best of health and was rugged and robust for a man of his age. His body was conveyed to his home, where his family, stricken with grief, gazed upon the form that but a few short hours before was full of life and health, now silent in death. The shock to the family was a great one, for no warning had they that the end was near. When the husband and father went to his daily toil they confidently expected him to return in good health. But instead, the companion of years, the father who watched with tender care over his children, had passed from earth, and his kind words and advice would be heard by them no more. Mr. Steffen was 62 years of age and brother of Chas. G. Steffen, of this city [Another brother, Fred Steffen of Silver Creek, was still living at this time and was listed in a 2nd obituary in the Freeport Democrat, 20 Oct 1893.], and was well known throughout the country. He was one of the oldest settlers of Loran Township and for many years was engaged in farming. He was a successful farmer and was noted for his thrift and industry. Among his neighbors he bore the reputation of being a man who was strickly [strictly] honorable and honest in all his dealings. He was kind-hearted and generous, and all who knew him respected and esteemed him. In his home he was kind and gentle, and his wife and children now deeply deplore the death of a loving husband and an indulgent father. His wife and five children survive him. Two of the children are married, while three are at home. The children are Henry, Conrad, Simon, Mrs. Louise Eichman [Eichmeier] and Miss Sophia Steffen. The funeral will be held tomorrow afternoon at one o'clock, and Chas. G. Steffen and family of this city will attend.
DONALD STEFFEN
, 453 S. Locust Ave., was pronounced dead on arrival at Freeport Memorial Hospital by Stephenson Co. Coroner W. R. "Dick" Cramer late Wednesday night. (26 Sep 1973) Steffen died of a gunshot wound to the chest, Cramer said. The incident is still under investigation, he said, and no determination as to how it happened was available. Steffen, 42, was taken from his home to the hospital by the fire department rescue unit. Police said an unidentified caller phoned the police department. Cramer said an inquest will be held to investigate the incident. Mr. Steffen, who was supervisor of transportation at Micro Switch, was a member of the Elks Club and First Baptist Church. He was born July 2, 1931, in Freeport, the son of Walter C. and Gertrude (Feld) Steffen. On Sept. 1, 1952, he married Felicia Howell in Freeport. Surviving are his widow; two daughters, Debrah and Deanna, both at home; and his mother of Freeport. He was preceded in death by his father. Private funeral service...Saturday in Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home. The Rev. Edwin W. Bradley will officiate. Burial...Chapel Hill...(Freeport Journal-Standard, Thurs. 27 Sep 1973, p12, c4) Coroner Says Gunshot Death a Suicide
ELDRED L. STEFFEN
, 70, of Cedarville, died today, Feb. 20, (1986) in the Skilled Care Unit of Freeport Memorial Hospital. Until retiring in 1977 he was a section worker on the Milwaukee Railroad. He was a member of Richland Free Methodist Church and the Freeport Moose Lodge. On March 23, 1915, he was born in Freeport, the son of Elmer and Emmalin [Emeline] (Shippy) Steffen. . He married Erma C. Yeager on Aug. 6, 1977, in Red Oak. Surviving are his widow, three stepsons, Paul Haefner of McConnell, Charles Haefner of La Mirada, Calif., and Gerald Haefner of Orangeville; one stepdaughter, Mrs. Barbara (Cletus) Purdom of Nahunta, Ga.; one sister, Blanche Fakes [Frakes]; 27 step-grandchildren; and 22 step-great-grandchildren. Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Walker Mortuary. The Rev. Lyle Babcock, pastor of Richland Free Methodist Church will officiate. Burial will be in Chapel Hill Cemetery. A memorial fund has been established.
ELMER L. STEFFEN
, Orangeville, Route 1, died in a Freeport hospital early today. He was born April 26, 1892, in Silver Creek Township the son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Steffen. His marriage to Emoline [Emeline] Shippy took place in Oct. 1913. She died April 28, 1960. Survivors include a son, Eldred, and a daughter, Mrs. Blanche Suess, both of Freeport; two grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a sister, Mrs. William Brenner, Rockford, and a brother, Walter of Ridott. His parents, a brother and a sister died previously. Service will be in the Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home at 3 p.m. Friday. Rev. Earl Hartman and Rev. Henry J. Euler will officiate. Interment will be at Chapel Hill Cemetery.
EMELINE (SHIPPY) STEFFEN
, Dakota Route 1, died in a local hospital Thursday afternoon (30 June 1987). The former Emeline Shippy was born in Seattle, Wash. June 6, 1890, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sherman Shippy. Her marriage to Elmer Steffen took place Oct. 18, 1913. Survivors include her husband; a son, Eldred, and a daughter, Mrs. Blanche Suess, both of Freeport; two grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; seven sisters, Mrs. Walter Steffen, Ridott, Mrs. Mabel Euler, Freeport, Mrs. Martha Cross and Mrs. Avery Lenz, both of McConnell, Mrs. Fred Wehrenberg, Rock City, Mrs. Charles Traum, Davis, and Mrs. Charles Van Brocklin, Shannon. Service will be in Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home at 2 p.m. Sunday. The .Rev. Earl Hartman, pastor of .Westview United Brethren will conduct the service. Interment will be in Chapel Hill Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after 7 o'clock tonight.
ERMA C. (YEAGER) STEFFEN
, 68, of Cedarville died ...Jan 30, (1987) at her home. She retired from Structo Mfg., now...Halsey Taylor Thermos...member of Richland Free Methodist Church and Women of the Moose. She was born April 17, 1918 in Freeport, daughter of Charles and Ruth (Dittsmorth) Yeager. She married Eldred L. Steffen on Aug. 6, 1977. He died Feb. 20, 1986. Surviving are three sons, Paul Haefner of Orangeville, Charles Haefner of LaMirada, Calif., and Gerald Haefner of Orangeville; a daughter, Barbara (Mrs. Cletus) Purdom of Natunta, Ga., a sister, Doris (Mrs. George) Beer of Buena Vista; 27 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a sister. Services...Monday at Walker Mortuary. The Rev. Lyle Babcock, pastor of Richland Free Methodist Church, will officiate. Burial...Chapel Hill.
ESTHER W. (HURD STEFFEN
, 85, of Freeport died Thursday, April 9, 1998, at Freeport Memorial Hospital.
Daughter of Arthur and Margaret (Crotzer) Hurd, she was born Jan 1, 1913, in Pearl City. On June 20, 1939, she and Arthur D. Steffen were married. He died March 27, 1998. She received her bachelor of science degree in education from University of Illinois, Champaign, a master's degree in Latin from University of Wisconsin, Madison and did her post-graduate work at Eastern Washington University, Cheney. She was a teacher at Freeport Junior High School, Moline Senior High School and Wilson Junior High School, also in Moline. Surviving are two daughters, Karen (Ron) Raver of Cheney and Susan (James) Sieck of Freeport; two sons, Charles Arthur (Sue) Steffen of Cherry Valley and Gregory Hurd (Phyllis) Steffen of Cedar Falls, Iowa; three grandchildren, Tim Raver, Scott Sieck and Becky Steffen; and three great-grandchildren, Christopher and Nathan Raver and Carter Sieck. Also preceding her in death besides her parents and husband was one grandchild, Todd Raver.
FRANK A. STEFFEN
- Well known hardware merchant was one of city's leading business men.
Funeral services for the late Frank A. Steffen will be held on Saturday morning...at the late home, 159 Carroll street, and at 9 o'clock at St. Joseph's Catholic church. Rev. Father Kalvelage will officiate and interment will be made in Oakland cemetery...Mr. Steffen passed away at the family home at 2:30 o'clock yesterday (28 May 1919) after an illness of eight weeks...Mr. Steffen was a man who was held in high esteem by all of his friends and was looked upon as being one of the leading citizens of Freeport. He took an active part in many movements that were aimed for the growth of the city and was well liked. Frank A. Steffen was born in Freeport in March, 1868, being fifty-one years of age. He was a son of Charles G. and Mrs. Cornelia Steffen. His father, who was a former alderman in this city, passed away several years ago. His mother survives him. He was united in marriage to Miss Carrie Hoebel on November 26, 1895. Mr. Steffen received his education in St. Joseph's and the public schools. He was employed for a number of years by the German Insurance company and twelve years ago he entered in the hardware business with C.C. Seyfarth at the corner of Galena and Chicago streets. He was very successful as a business man. He is survived by his wife, his mother, two brothers and two sisters, viz. Albert and Charles Steffen and Mrs. Charles P. Guenther all of this city and Mrs. John C. Long of Kansas City, Mo. Deceased was a member of the Elks, Anchor society and the Germania society.
FRED STEFFEN
- With a sudden shock the sad intelligence of Fred C. Steffen's death struck the home community. He was gladly welcomed a year ago when he returned home from two years of military service. Somehow there seems to be a strange providence in escaping death during his active military career, facing the many dangers of a soldier, and then being suddenly swept into eternity by the unseen hand of death in the midst of his peaceful occupation. On June 26, 1917, Fred enlisted in the U. S. Army. He was first sent to Rock Island, then to St. Louis, and later to Houston, Texas. From there he was sent to France.
On June 8th 1919, just one year and one day before his death he received his honorable discharge. Since that time he was engaged in farming his fathers' farm. About five weeks before his death he was taken sick with appendicitis. After a successful operation, complications developed which caused his death. Fred Steffen was born in Loran Township, Stephenson Co., Illinois, April 22, 1891, and passed away on the morning of June 9. He reached the age 29 years, 1 month and 17 days. He was baptized at the Ebenezer Church at Loran Aug. 16, 1891. His brother Daniel proceeded him into eternity. He leaves to mourn his early departure his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Simon Steffen; and four sisters Mrs. Laura Kniss of Shannon, Mrs. Anna Kniss of Pearl City, Mrs. Rose Phillips of Freeport and Lillie at home and three brothers, Walter, Robert and Maynard. There are also many relatives and friends...On account of the pastor's illness Rev. G. J. Degenkolb of Florence officiated...
FREDERICK STEFFEN
, one of the best known of the older generation of farmers in this section of the county, died yesterday afternoon at 5 o'clock at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Edward Pfeil, in Florence township. Death was due to old age. The deceased gentleman was born Feb. 22, 1830, at Lippe-Detmold, Germany. He came to this section of the country in 1848 and for many years was engaged in farming in Silver Creek. For the past five years, however, he has lived at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Pheil. [Not with them in 1900 nor when he died.] Mr. Steffen's first wife
was Marie Hobelman, who died a number of years ago. By his first marriage he had four children, three of whom, Mrs. Wm. Geiger, of Baileyville; Fred Steffen, of Silver Creek, and Mrs. Edward Pheil, of Florence, survived him. His second wife, who also survives him, was formerly Mrs. Greel [Grell]. He also leaves one brother, C.G. Steffen, of this city. The funeral will be held from the Evangelical St. John's church of which the deceased was a member.
FREDERICK CARL STEFFEN
, 80, passed away at his home, 414 West Broadway, early today. Funeral services will be held at the Eichmeier & Becker funeral home, West Stephenson street, at 3 o'clock Thursday afternoon. Interment will be made in City cemetery. Mr. Steffen was born in Freeport Aug. 25, 1863. He engaged in farming many years, retiring some years ago. He is survived by his wife, three sons and a daughter.
HELENA STEFFEN
, aunt of Stephen and Michael Steffen, died yesterday at her late home in Ackley, Iowa, after an illness of some duration. The body of the deceased will arrive here tonight on the Illinois Central and the funeral will be held tomorrow at the German Catholic church, Rev. Fr. Clements Kalvelage officiating. The remains will be interred beside the body of her husband in the Irish Catholic cemetery. Mrs. Steffen was born 78 years ago in the Rhenish provinces in Germany and was married to Mr. Steffen when she was 21. They came to this country 28 years ago and the husband resided on a farm three miles northwest of this city for about 8 years. He died about 20 years ago and Mrs. Steffen removed to Ackley and resided with relatives there, since about 10 years ago. The deceased leaves 6 children surviving. They are Mrs. Holler and Mrs. Susanna Oberle, of this city, Mrs. Peter Auman, Mrs. Honach and John Steffen of Ackley, and Nicholas Steffen, of Kansas. The four latter will accompany the remains to this city and remain until after the funeral.
HENRIETTA LOUISE (BUSCH) STEFFEN
, wife of Simon Steffen, a farmer living near Eleroy, passed away on Tuesday morning [20 Dec 1921]. She leaves to mourn her death, her husband and seven children, the latter being Mrs. George Kniss, of Shannon; Mrs. Albert Kniss, of Florence township; Mrs. G. Phillips, of Florence, Lillian, Walter, Robert and Maynard, at home. Henrietta Louise Brusch [Busch] was born in Freeport on February 16, 1861. She was married to Simon Steffen on Nov. 5, 1886 [4 Nov 1885], and to this union the seven children were born [actually there were nine]. Mr. and Mrs. Steffen were residents of Freeport for ten years. Then moved to Iowa and...resided there for about 14 years. They returned to Illinois and lived near Pearl City for some time before going to the present home. Funeral services will be held on Thursday morning at 12 o'clock noon at the home. Burial will take place at Sabin's cemetery south of Pearl City.
HENRY STEFFEN
, an 81 year-old resident of Rock Grove, died Wednesday in a Freeport hospital. Born Aug. 27, 1875, the son of Conrad and Louisa Steffen, in Loran Township, Stephenson County, he had farmed near Rock Grove for the past 33 years. No immediate survivors are reported. The Rev. Leonard Sukut will officiate at the 1:30 p.m. service Saturday in Zion Evangelical and United Brethren Church, south of Pearl City. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call from Thursday noon until 11 a.m. Saturday in Greenfield Funeral Home, German Valley.
JENNIE (SHIPPY) STEFFEN
, 84, of rural Rock City, died this morning at Freeport Memorial Hospital following an extended illness. She was a member of Zion Church, Ladies Aid Society of the church, Naomi Club and VFW Auxillary. Born March 29, 1893, near McConnell, she was the daughter of Sherman and Lydia (Stabenow) Shippy. She married Walter F. Steffen Aug. 21, 1919. He died Feb. 3, 1964. Surviving are one son, Albert of Augusta, Ga; one grandson, and five sisters, Mrs. Roy (Martha) Cross and Mrs. Avery (Edna) Lenz, both of McConnell, Mrs. Fred (Minnie) Wehrenberg of Rock City, Mrs. Charles (Rachel) Traum of Freeport, and Mrs. Charles (Elsie) Van Brocklin of Lanark. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by one daughter, one son, and three sisters. Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home, with the Rev. William Bankester, pastor of Zion Church, and the Rev. Carl M. Grahl officiating. Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery. Friends may call...Sunday at the funeral home. A memorial fund has been established for Zion Church Missions.
JOHN HERMAN STEFFEN
, age 23 years, died at St. Francis Hospital last evening 17 7 o'clock, after an illness of several weeks with typhoid fever. The young man was a son of Fred Steffen, residing near the poor farm. He was born on his father's farm and a few years ago he came to Freeport to learn the barbers trade. For a year or so he has been conducting a shop in one of the suburbs of Chicago, and while there he was taken ill with typhoid fever and came here for treatment. His mother died several years ago [in 1890]. The funeral of the young man will be held from St. Francis Hospital tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock.
LENA MINNIE (BRANDT) STEFFEN
, residing a short distance from the City Home [County Farm] in Silver Creed Township was found dead, a suicide, hanging from a closet door in an upper bedroom of her home, by her son, Walter, at about 2:30 o'clock yesterday afternoon. Deceased had been an inmate at the asylum at Watertown, but had been discharged from that institution as cured. Deceased was 47 years old, and leaves a husband and four children. Mr. Steffen and his two sons went to a farm about a mile distant yesterday afternoon for a load of straw. [They were working on their own land called The Point.] Upon their return to their home, Walter, the second oldest, went to the house and was much surprised to find the door locked. He found that the cellar door, however, had not been locked. On opening it he saw his mother hanging by a short rope which she had thrown over the corner of a closet door. He immediately went outside and called to the other men folks about the place. Perry Collins, an inmate of the County Home which is across the road from the Steffen home, was repairing a fence. He dropped his tools and went with the boy to the county home. Collins and young Steffen were the first to reach the room. Mr. Collin raised the body while the son of the deceased slipped the rope over the corner of the door. The remains were then laid on the floor, and Coroner Baumgartner was summoned. Mr. Eells arrived just as the remains were taken down.
F.C. Steffen, husband of the deceased, testified that his wife had been in poor health and that her trouble dated back about two years. At the beginning of that period, she complained of her head. That she became dizzy after sewing or doing work that required active use of her eyes. After she had been urged to have medical attention and after she had repeatedly refused, she finally consented and for a time was under a physician's care. A year ago last April she was taken to the Globe Hospital for treatment where she remained for about two weeks and was then taken to her home. For a time she appeared to improve but was again taken ill and was taken to the home of her brother, thinking that a complete change of surroundings would help her. She remained with her brother [Charles F. Brandt] for about two weeks and then returned home. In May of the same year she was taken to Watertown, having become unmanageable. She remained at the institution until Sept. 1.
She was brought home and a short time later tried to commit suicide by drowning in the creek in front of the country home. She was rescued by Mr. Eells. A short time later she was returned to Watertown, where she remained until April 12 last. The authorities at the asylum had written to her husband that Mrs. Steffen was as well as she would ever be. She was brought home and Mr. Steffen thought that she was cured and asked for her discharge. It had never occurred to the husband that she would commit suicide by hanging, but he had a fear of her drowning herself, as she had often made the remark that the only way she could die was in the creek. On another occasion prior to being taken to Globe Hospital [Freeport, IL] she had attempted to take her life by cutting her throat, but was prevented by her husband who took the knife from her. Deceased had been married for 25 years and is survived by her husband, F.C. Steffen, and four children: Walter, Ida, Elmer and Harvey, all of whom live at home except the daughter who is married. The funeral will be held from the home in Silver Creek tomorrow afternoon at two o'clock. Interment will be in the City Cemetery. Rev. E. Trager will officiate at the service.
LILY MARTHA STEFFEN
, 53, a native of Stephenson county, died in a Rockford hospital late Saturday, after an extended illness. Services will be held at the Eichmeier & Becker funeral home, West Stephenson street...Tuesday. Rev. L. B. Honderich, pastor of Main Street Evangelical United Brethren church will conduct the services. Interment will be made in Sabin cemetery, near Pearl City. Miss Steffen was born near Pearl City, Nov. 4, 1895, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Simon Steffen. Her parents and two brothers preceded her in death. Surviving are the following...: Mrs. Laura Kneiss of Rockford, Mrs. Albert Kneiss of Lanark, Mrs. Bryan Phillips of Pearl City, Walter Steffen of Freeport, Maynard of Rockford and Robert of Moline. She had been a member of Sabin Evangelical church.
LOUISE HENRIETTA (ASCHE) STEFFEN
, nee Asche, was born in Kalldorf, Lippendetdmolt [Lippe-Detmold], Germany, July 20th, 1836, and died at her home near Pearl City, Ill., on the 24th day of February, 1919. She reached the ripe age of 82 years, 7 months, and 4 days. At the age of 21 years she emigrated to the United States, arriving in Freeport, Ill. She lived there about one year, when in 1861 [married 28 Mar 1858] she was united in marriage to Conrad Steffen. They located near Loran for some time, then they moved to the farm on which they lived over 50 years. It was on this old homestead of the family that Mother Steffen closed her earthly life. Eight children were born to them. One died in infancy. Three sons, Chas., Fred and Conrad, died at a mature age. The father and husband also preceded the mother into eternity over 25 years ago. Four children remain, two sons, Simon and Henry, and two daughters, Mrs. Louise Eichmeier, of Freeport, and Mrs. Sophia Ochsner, of Dakota, Ill. She is also survived by a brother and sister, Mr. Henry Meyers [Mrs. Henry Meyer, a half-sister] and Henry Asche, of Pearl City. Mother Steffen was converted 55 years ago and then united with the Evangelical Association at the Loran church. Most of these years the family was associated with Zion congregation. During these many years she remained a faithful member of the church. She maintained a simple faith in her Savior and a living hope for life eternal which lighted up the evening of her life. There now remain to mourn her departure 2 sons, 2 daughters, 20 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, a brother and sister, and other relatives and friends. May all be permitted to reunite with the sainted mother in eternity.
MAGDALENE (KACHELHOFFER) STEFFEN
, whose death was announced in The World of December 3, (1897) was born at Buffalo, New York, January 12, 1841, and at the time of her death, Monday evening, November 27, was in her 50th year. From Buffalo she removed with her parents at the age of 12 years, to Silver Creek, near Freeport, Illinois, and it was there that she married. At a later day Mr. and Mrs. Nick Steffen removed to Waterloo, where they were among the earlier residents and where Mr. Steffen was engaged in business, and was prosperous; they removed to Freeport and from thence to Faulkner, and have resided there continuously fifteen years. Mrs. Steffen's maiden name was Magdalene Kachelhoffer and was married to Nick Steffen January 11, 1858 [error, 1859]. She was the mother of thirteen children, who with the husband survive her; they are Nicholas, of Goodell, Lenora, of Rock Rapids; Emma, of Freeport, Rose of Pipestone, Minn., August, Matilda, Charles, Clara, Edward, Cecil, Arthur, Freddie and Viola. Besides these she leaves three sisters, Mrs. Henry Metz and Mrs. Moreitz Richert of Freeport, and Mrs. Mary Lamm of Silver Creek, Ill.; three brothers among whom are A. T. Kachelhoffer of Rock Rapids. They were all present and at the bed-side before her death. The funeral at the Catholic church Thursday was attended by a large number of friends and acquaintances who knew the deceased's many excelencies and the Rev. Father Meagher delivered a touching tribute of her. Peace to her ashes.
MARIA/MARIE (HOBELMANN) MEYER STEFFEN
, an old resident of this county, expired at her home in the country near the poor farm, Saturday afternoon at 3 o'clock. The deceased had been sick for some time and Saturday morning her friends and relatives thought she was considerably improved, but the call of death came and her spirit winged its way to the other world. The deceased was well and highly known in this city and was an industrious, honest, Christian lady. The cause of death is attributed to an affection of the stomach. She was 65 years of age. She was a relative of Chas. Steffen, of this city, a sister [mother] of Chas. Myers [Meyer], a farmer living in Florence and the mother of Mrs. Ed Pfehl [Pfeil]. Her remains will be brought to this city and the services will be held at St. John's Evangelical church at 11 o'clock tomorrow morning. Her remains will be interred in the city cemetery.
[Freeport Daily Journal, Mon. 5 May 1890, p4]
MARY (SCHWARZE) STEFFEN
- We regret to learn the death of Mrs. Mary E. Steffen, mother of Mr. Chas. E. Steffen, which occurred on Tuesday morning. Mrs. Steffen had reached the advanced age of 78 years and 7 months. She was born in Caldorf, Lippe-Detmold, Germany and moved with her family to this city in 1856, where she has since resided. The funeral was held Thursday afternoon at St. John's Church, Rev. Hoffmeister officiating.
MARY (HUBER) STEFFEN
- Is Fatally Stricken While Attending Theatre. Widow of Former Alderman Expires Soon After Being Taken Ill. Being stricken with a heart attack while attending a motion picture theatre last evening, Mrs. Mary Steffen, widow of the late Steven Steffen and prominent resident of the city, passed away shortly afterward. Mrs. Steffen was taken ill while attending a motion picture show at the Strand theatre at about 7:30 o'clock. She was immediately taken to the home of her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Alex Krehl, at 290 Douglas avenue, passing away within a few moments after she was taken into the home...Mary Huber was born in Freeport, December 12th 1858 and had spent her entire life here. She was married in this city on October 1st 1878 to Steven Steffen, a former alderman. Mr. Steffen died September 25, 1910. She was a member of St. Joseph's church. The following children survive: Mrs. Alex Krehl, Mrs. Wm. Watson and Mrs. Theodore Secker all of Freeport. The following sisters and brothers also survive: Mrs. Mathias Schmich, Mrs. Rudolph Mertins, George Huber and Frank Huber, all of Freeport. Funeral services will be held from St. Joseph's church. Interment...St. Joseph's cemetery.
MARY CORNELIA (BANGASSER) STEFFEN
- Widow of C. G. Steffen expires last night (6 Aug 1929) after long illness. Mrs. Mary Cornelia Steffen, widow of the late Charles G. Steffen and for 85 years a resident of Freeport, passed away at the home of her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. P. Guenther, 304 East Prospect terrace, about 8 o'clock last evening after a lingering illness. She had been an invalid for the past two years, having twice incurred a hip fracture. Despite her long suffering Mrs. Steffen was cheerful at all times. She possessed a pleasing personality and was held in high esteem by all who knew her. Funeral services will be conducted from the Guenther home at 8:30 o'clock Saturday morning and at 9 o'clock from St. Joseph's Catholic church, of which she was a member. Interment will be made in Oakland cemetery. Mary Cornelia Bangasser was born in Freeport on March 13, 1844, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Bangasser. She spent her entire lifetime in this city. [Lived with her parents in Silver Creek Twp. in 1850. In September, 1865, she was united in marriage to Charles G. Steffen, who was for many years a well known commercial traveler. Mr. Steffen passed away in 1910. Ten children were born to their union, four of whom survive: Mrs. Chas. P. Guenther, C. M. Steffen, Freeport; Mrs. John C. Long, Kansas City, Mo.; Albert C. Steffen, Hollywood, Calif. There are also ten grandchildren and the following brothers and sisters: Frank E. Bangasser, Fred Bangasser, Mrs. John J. Lamm and Mrs. Catherine Weik all of Freeport, Matt Bangasser, Tracy, Minn.
NICHOLAS STEFFEN
- Died, at his home at Faulkner, Iowa, Tuesday afternoon at 5 A.M., of cancer of the throat, Nicholas M. Steffen, aged 62 years. Of a robust constitution, Mr. Steffen had enjoyed good health up to within a few years ago, when the affliction to which he at last succumbed, made its appearance. Friday last he left for Chicago, there to consult a specialist. Saturday evening his son, Charley, was telegraphed for, and together returned home Monday noon. He grew worse rapidly and on Tues. Afternoon, surrounded by his family, he gave up the battle of life. He was one of Franklin county's best known citizens, and has held numerous positions of trust in county. Deceased was born in Prussia, Germany, in the year 1836, and when four years of age came to this country, settling in Chicago where he resided until he was 17 years old when he moved to Freeport, where he resided until 1883 when with his family he removed to his large farm near Faulkner, Iowa, where he resided until three years ago when he built a store at Faulkner where he has since conducted a successful general merchandise business. While residing at Freeport he was married to Miss Magadelean Kachelhoffer. Fourteen children were born of that union, twelve of whom are living. They are Charley, Edward, Arthur, Fred, Clara, Cecil and Viola at the family home; August at Goodell; Mrs. Lenora Belzer, Rock Rapids; Mrs. Rosa Smith, Pipestone; Mrs. Tillie Houten, Sumner; Mrs. Emma Yaeger [Jaeger], Freeport; all of whom will be here to attend the funeral which will take place Thursday morning at 10 A.M., from St. Mary's Catholic church in this city, Rev. M. Meagher conducting the services, after which the remains will be interred in the Catholic cemetery beside those of his wife who preceded him to the land beyond but a few short months ago. The family, who have within the short space of less than a year, been called upon to suffer the loss of mother, father and brother have the heart-felt sympathy of all in this, their sad hour of bereavement.
PETER STEFFEN
- On Wednesday morning last week—in Milwaukee—Peter Steffen, son of Mrs. Cath. Steffen of the Western Brewery of this place [Freeport, IL] died of consumption aged 28 years. He was working in a brewery in Milwaukee when he took the illness. The body was brought here on Friday—numerous escorts—to the church. He is survived by a young widow, the aged mother, brothers and sisters and numerous friends. Rest in peace. (trans. from Deutscher Anzeiger, no date).
PHILLIP STEFFEN
, 82, former employee of the Illinois Central Railroad company, passed away early today (6 Aug 1940) at the home of his daughter, Mrs. George Pollock. He had been in ill health for several months. Mr. Stephan was born in Germany Jan. 16, 1858. He came to the United States with his parents when a small boy. His marriage to Sophia Eichmeier took place in 1882. The wife passed away in 1925. A daughter, Elizabeth Goodrich, passed away in 1937. Two children survive, Oscar Stephan and Mrs. George Pollock, both of Freeport. There are also six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. For many years he was employed at the Illinois Central shops. He was a member of Oak Avenue Evangelical church. Funeral services will be conducted at the Eichmeier & Becker funeral home West Stephenson street, at 2 O'clock Thursday afternoon. Rev. William Buscher, pastor of Oak Ave. Evangelical church, will conduct the services and interment will be made in City cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home.
ROBERT J. STEFFEN
, 87, of Freeport died Saturday, Oct. 9, 1999, at Freeport Manor Nursing Center. He was born Nov. 4, 1911, in Freeport to Edward and Helen (Eberle) Steffen. On June 12, 1935, he and Bernadine Kobbeman were married in Freeport. She died May 9, 1998. A lifelong resident of Freeport, he began his career as manager of the A&P, opening his own grocery business in 1935 known as Quality Food, on the corner of Carroll and Galena avenues. After retiring from the grocery business in 1976, he went to work for Walnut Hill Liquor Stores, of which he was a part owner. He retired from there in 1990. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, the former Germania Club and the Elks. An avid gardener, he enjoyed gardening, and tending to his flowers and yard. Surviving are one daughter, Joan C. Kuylmyer of Pearl City; two grandchildren; Leanne (Joe) Zid of Carol Stream and Susan Kuhlmyer of Lincoln; one sister, Catherine Fagan of North Shore, Calif.; one niece, Sandy (Bruce) Baker of North Shore; and one nephew, Jack Fagan of North Shore. Preceding him in death were his parents, his wife; and one son-in-law, Lee Kuhlmeyer. The funeral will be at...St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Officiating will be the Rev. Gerald Kobbeman of Holy Angels Catholic Church in Aurora and the Rev. John Cahill of St. Joseph Catholic Church. There will be no visitation. A memorial fund has been established for St. Joseph Catholic Church.
SIMON STEFFEN
, was born December 11, 1858 and has been a resident of this county all his life. He was one of eight children and grew up on a farm southwest of Pearl City. He was married to Henrietta Bush about 37 years ago. This union was blessed with nine children, two of whom, and the mother, have gone before. Three sons and four daughters survive the father. Mr. Steffen was converted and joined the Church early in his married life and was a faithful member to the end. Since the death of the mother two years ago, he kept house with his daughter Lillie. He was enjoying quite good health excepting some stomach trouble. He retired as usual last Tuesday evening and was found dead in bed the next morning. So he passed over to the better life while asleep at the age of 65 years, 1 month and 25 days....He leaves seven children, six grandchildren, a brother and two sisters and many other relatives and friends....Funeral services were held Saturday at the Sabins Church. A mixed quartet rendered good music. Interment was made in the adjoining cemetery. F. Schwartz, Pastor
SIMON STEFFEN
- The record is translated roughly: Simon Steffen, born in Dec. 1836 in Kalldorf, ...Lippe Detmold, died punctually of a falling tree on the 17 Mar 1868, buried 19 Mar 1868. He left a wife and three small children. Psalm 39, 5-10, Pastor H. Buchmüller.
SIMON W. STEFFEN
- Funeral service for retired Battle Creek mortician Simon W. Steffen, 69, Battle Creek, will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at St. John's Lutheran Church in Battle Creek with Pastor Eugene Vetter officiating. Burial will be in the Lutheran Cemetery at Battle Creek. The body will lie in state from 3 to 8 p.m. Friday at Steffen Mortuary in Battle Creek. Burial services will be conducted by American Legion Post 75. Mr. Steffen died of an apparent heart attack during this week's snow storm. He was born May 17, 1896, at Battle Creek. He married Mabelle Grogninger in December 1925. After graduation from Concordia Teachers College at Seward, he taught in a mission school in Gary, Ind. While there he entered the service for World War I. After the war, he worked as a civil engineer then entered Worsham College of Mortuary Science at Chicago. He joined his father in the Steffen Furniture and Mortuary at Battle Creek after graduation. He retired from mortuary work in 1962. Survivors include his widow, two sons, Philip of San Jose, Calif. and Thomas of Battle Creek; a daughter, Miss Carol Steffen of Los Angeles, Calif.; a [step] brother, O. L. Haman of Omaha; and four grandchildren.
SOPHIA (EICHMEIER) STEFFEN
- wife of Philip Stephan, 351 West Elk street, passed away at 9:30 o'clock this morning at her home. She suffered a stroke of paralysis three weeks ago, but before that had been in poor health for a long time. She was 67 years old, a native of Germany, and had lived in Freeport and vicinity since she was three years of age. Besides her husband she leaves three children: Oscar Stephan; Mrs. Elizabeth Goodrich and Mrs. Carrie Pollock, all of Freeport. A brother, Herman Eichmeier, and a sister, Mrs. Lottie Brinkmeier, also survive. Funeral services probably will be held on Thursday afternoon at the Oak Avenue church, the hour and other arrangements to be announced later. (Freeport Journal-Standard, 3 Mar 1925, p6) Funeral services for the late Mrs. Philip Stephan were held this afternoon at 2 o'clock from the home at 351 West Elk street and at 2:30 o'clock from the Oak Avenue church. The Rev. Edward Burgi officiated and interment was made in the city cemetery. The pallbearers were Frank Dieley, Henry Krieg, William Jenssen, Frank Molter, Martin Swalze and E. L. Otto.
STEPHEN STEFFEN
, former alderman and one of the best known residents of Freeport, died yesterday morning (25 Sep 1910) at 7:10 in his home, 95 Lincoln avenue. He had been in poor health for the past year, suffering with lung trouble. Mr. Steffen was born December 4, 1854 in Freeport and was married October 1, 1878 to Miss Mary Huber of this city. Three children were born to this union who with the widow survive, being, Mrs. William Watson, Misses Laura and Mayme Steffen, all of Freeport. The deceased was a blacksmith by trade and was naturally a man of great physical strength. After following his trade for some time he engaged in the glass business and later formed a partnership with Mr. Alex Krehl in the saloon business. Politically Mr. Steffen was a Democrat and was elected alderman of the second ward for three consecutive terms, serving the council from 1901 to 1907. The decedent was devoted to his family and a man of high standing in the community. He was a member of the Germania society and of St. Pius society of this city. The funeral...Tuesday morning front of the house and at 9:30 from St. Joseph's church. Solemn high mass will be celebrated by Fathers Kalvelage, J. K. Niles and M. Schoelch. Charles F. Franz will have charge of the funeral and the interment will be in St. Joseph's cemetery.
WALTER F. STEFFEN
, a rural Ridott farmer, died Monday morning (3 Feb 1964) in a San Antonio, Tex., hospital, following a short illness. He was born Nov. 24, 1895, in Freeport, son of Frederick C. and Lena (Brandt) Steffen. His marriage to the former Jennie Shippy took place in Freeport, Aug. 21, 1919. Survivors include his widow; a son, Sgt. Albert Steffen, serving with the Army in San Antonio; and one sister, Mrs. William Brenner of Pecatonica. Mr. Steffen farmed in the Ridott area many years and served in France during World War I. He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post and Zion United Church of Christ in Freeport. Funeral service for Mr. Steffen will be Friday...in Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home.
LOLA STEINHAGEN
- Mrs. Roy Steinhagen died in her home Thursday night, April 5, 1956 after a long illness. She was the former Lola Ploeger, daughter of William H. and Minnie (Bremmer) Ploeger of Pearl City. Survivors include her husband; a son, Daryl; a daughter, Delores; and her mother, Mrs. Ploeger of Oregon. She was a member of the Oregon Lutheran Church. The body is at the Farrell Funeral Home. Arrangements will be announced.
(Freeport Journal Standard, Freeport, Illinois Saturday, April 7, 1956)
ARCHIE STONER
, 455 N. Trunck Ave., died Sunday morning, February 15, 1970, in Veterans Administration Hospital, Madison, Wis., following an extended illness. Mr. Stoner, a World War I veteran, was a member of Moose Lodge, Letter Carriers Association and American Legion. He was a mail carrier for 25 years, retiring 16 years ago.
Born August 18, 1898 in Columbia City, Indiana, he was the son of Joseph and Sidney (Haneline) Stoner. On November 29, 1922 he married Pearl Schmitt in Freeport. Surviving are his widow; a son, Robert of Freeport; two daughters, Mrs. Curlee (Lucille) Percey of Rockford and Mrs. C. William (Elveria) Keller of Albany, Georgia; seven grandchildren; a great-grandchild; a sister, Mrs. Harry (Leatha) Strom of Hobart, Indiana; and three brothers, Jack of Albuquerque, N. M., Empsey of South Whitley, Indiana, and Joseph of Hobart. Four brothers preceded him in death.
Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home. The Rev. Theodore Andrach, pastor of First Assembly of God Church, will officiate. Burial will be in Grandview Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home from 4 to 9 p.m. today.
PRESTON K. STONER
- Funeral service for Preston K. Stoner of Shannon, who died Sunday, October 27, 1968, of an apparent heart attack, will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Scharman Funeral Home here. The Rev. James Allen will officiate. Burial will be in Chapel Hill Cemetery, Freeport. Friends may call at the funeral home from 7 to 9 tonight.
Mr. Stoner was born March 18, 1914 in Shannon, son of John and Alma Stoner. He was married to Viola Bingner June 2, 1947. (Alice Horner’s note: Her maiden name was Viola Reeder.) He was a veteran of World War II and a member of the American Legion. Surviving are his widow; two stepchildren, Mrs. Paul (Norma) Meier and John Bingner, both of Shannon; four grandchildren; and four brothers, Kenneth J. and Harold, both of Shannon, Nelson of Freeport, and Arnold of Thorp, Wisconsin. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.
CHARLES C. STOUT
, 78, died about 4:20 o’clock Wednesday afternoon, April 6, 1938 at his home, 647 West Douglas Street, following an illness of several months. He was born in Erin Township November 5, 1859. He is survived by his widow, the former Addie Olthoff; one son, Milfred Stout, of Erin Township and one granddaughter. (Alice Horner’s note: His prior wife was the former Matilda Brandt, whom he married February 21, 1884 in Stephenson County. She divorced him in 1906. Their son Milfred Stout’s name is spelled Milford by many sources, but it is spelled Milfred by the Social Security Death Index.)
Mr. Stout spent most of his life on the farm, retiring in 1932. He then moved to Freeport, where he had since resided.
Funeral services will be held at the Walker Mortuary at 2 o’clock Saturday afternoon. Rev. J. M. Beck, of Pearl City, will officiate, and burial will be made in Oakland Cemetery. Friends may view the body at the home, 647 West Douglas Street, until 9 o’clock Friday evening.
HELEN I. (RICHARD) STOUT
, 83, of 805 W. Homer St., died Saturday, Sept. 27, at her Pompano Beach, Fla. home. Prior to moving to her present Freeport address in 1944, she lived on a farm west of Freeport. She was a member of Park Hills Evangelical Free Church. The daughter of John and Mary (Metz) Richard, she was born in Freeport on May 17, 1903. She married Milfred G. Stout on Sept. 21, 1921. Surviving are her husband and a daughter, Mrs. Virginia (Al) Ulrich of Freeport. She was preceded in death by three brothers. Services will be held Wednesday...at Park Hills Evangelical Free Church. The Rev. Clarence Balmer will officiate. Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery...A memorial fund has been established for the church.
MATILDA (BRANDT) STOUT
, 77, passed away Wednesday, January 29, 1941 at the home of her son Milfred Stout, 7 miles west of Freeport, where she resided for the past year. Mrs. Stout was born in Harlem Township November 6, 1863, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Brandt. Mrs. Stout resided at 224 South Walnut Avenue for a period of thirty years until she went to live with her son. She is survived by one son, Milfred Stout, west of Freeport, and one granddaughter. Three brothers and four sisters preceded her in death.
Funeral services will be held at 1:30 o’clock Saturday afternoon from the Walker Mortuary. West Main Street. Rev. Brainerd N. Covert, pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church, will officiate and burial will be made in Oakland Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home.
MILFORD GEORGE STOUT
, 100, of Rockford, formerly of Freeport, died Wednesday, Sept. 30, 1998, in Swedish-American Hospital after an accident with his bicycle. Born March 20, 1898, in Freeport, the son of Charles and Matilda (Brandt) Stout. Married Helen Richard on Sept. 21, 1921; she died Sept. 27, 1986. He farmed his father's farm until 1944 and then was a livestock buyer in the Freeport area for Cudahy Packing Co. of Milwaukee, Wis. Member of Park Hills Evangelical Free Church, Freeport. "Even at age 100 he loved riding his bicycle and enjoyed good cigars," said his daughter, Virginia. At his 100th birthday party celebrated this past March in Florida, more than 130 people attended. Survivors include daughter, Virginia Ulrich of Rockford (formerly of Ulrich House in Freeport); granddaughter, Susan (Duane) Schmidt of Loves Park; great-granddaughters, Janice (Michael) McKee and Anita (Douglas) Jochims of Loves Park, Arlene (Robbie) Weber of Pekin, Andrea Cary of Chicago and Jennifer (Charles Jr.) O'Brien of Rockford; great-great-grandchildren, Miranda and Michael McKee and Allison and Jacob Jochims, all of Loves Park, Megan and Ryan Weber of Pekin and Charles O'Brien III of Rockford. Also predeceased by parents and son-in-law, Al Ulrich ...Services...Saturday, Oct. 3, in Park Hills Evangelical Free Church, Freeport...Burial in Oakland Cemetery...
R.G. STOUT
- The funeral of the late R. G. Stout was held Sunday morning from the family residence in Erin Township, and was attended by friends of the deceased from all parts of Stephenson County. The casket was surrounded by floral offerings, and the sad services were conducted by Rev. Beidler, of Yellow Creek. The pall bearers were COunty Clerk H. Pofffenberger, County Treasurer Frank Thompson, Elias Canfield, Ira Crippen, John Winters, George W. Kahl, M. Brobst and A. V. Sheetz.
BURDELLE H. (SMITH) SWALVE
, 74, a resident of Freeport Manor Nursing Center, died Mon., Mar. 6, 1995, at the care facility. Born Sept. 24, 1920, at Chicago, she was the daughter of Harvey and Caroline (Krueger) Smith. She married Shirl H. Swalve Nov. 6, 1943, at Chicago. She was a member of 1st Baptist Church of Freeport. Surviving are her husband; 4 sons, Gary (Diane) Swalve of Cedarburg, Wis., Stephen, Philip (Anne) and Todd (Lauri), all of Freeport; two daughters, Cheryl (Michael) Robertson and Debra (Ed) Milliken, both of Freeport; 8 grandchildren; and 1 brother, R. O. Smith of Wyoming, Mich. Two brothers preceded her in death. Funeral service...Thurs. at 1st Baptist Church with the Rev. Theodore R. Phillips officiating. Burial...Chapel Hill..
MARIE E. (PFEIL) SWALVE
, a native of Stephenson County, died in her sleep late Wednesday (21 Dec 1960) night at her home, Freeport Route 1. The former Marie E. Pfeil was born Christmas Day, 1894, the daughter of Mr. And Mrs. Edward Pfeil. She married Martin Swalve, Aug. 21, 1915. Mrs. Swalve was a member of Zion United Church of Christ and the Gideon Auxiliary. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Ted Buisker, Freeport, and Mrs. Howard Brubaker, Red Oak; a son, Shirl, Freeport; 2 brothers, Robert Pfeil, Tucson, Ariz., and Ray Pfeil, Freeport; and a sister, Mrs. Joseph Hille, Freeport. Funeral service...Saturday in Zion United Church of Christ with Rev. Carl M. Grahl, pastor, officiating. Burial...Chapel Hill Cemetery...
MARTIN SWALVE
- Freeport, Route 1, a carpenter, died in a local hospital at 1:45 p.m. Friday, (1 Jul 1997) a few hours after he had collapsed while working at 1508 Winter Dr. He apparently suffered a heart attack. He was born Dec. 28, 1887, in Forreston, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Swalve. He farmed in Silver Creek for several years prior to becoming a carpenter. His marriage to Marie Pfeil took place in Oregon Aug. 21, 1915. He was a member of Zion United Church of Christ and the Gideon Society. Survivors include his wife; a son, Shirl of Freeport, 2 daughters, Mrs. Howard (LaVonne) Brubaker of Freeport and Mrs. Ted (Murrell [Murrel]) Buisker of Forreston; 3 brothers, George of Lena and Jacob and John, both of Forreston; one sister, Mrs. Margaret Henricksen of Lena; and 12 grandchildren. His parents and a sister died previously. Service will be in Zion UCC...Monday. The Rev. Carl M. Grahl, pastor, will officiate. Interment...Chapel Hill Cemetery...A memorial fund...Gideon Soc.
SHIRL H. SWALVE
, 80, of 1500 Frances Drive, died Tues., July 1, 1997, at William C. Middelton Mem. Vet. Ad. Hosp. in Madison, Wis. Son of Martin and Marie (Pfeil) Swalve, he was born Mar. 24, 1917, in Forreston. He and Burdelle H. Smith were married Nov. 6, 1943, in Chicago. She died Mar. 6, 1995. Owner of Wee Tot Diaper Services, he operated the business 21 years. From 1959 to his retirement in 1981 he was a rural mail carrier. An Army vet. he served during WW II and was a member of Forreston American Legion. He was a member of 1st Bapt. Church and was president of the Ambassadors Sunday school class. Surviving him are 4 sons, Gary (Diane) Swalve of Cedarburg, Wis., Stephen (Cindy), [others same as Burdelle’s obituary]...and one sister, Murrell [Murrel] (Ted) Buisker of Freeport. One sister also preceded him in death. Funeral service...Thurs. at 1st Bapt. Church with the Rev. Theodore R. Phillips officiating. Burial...Chapel Hill...
DAVID G. SWANK
, 66, of Freeport, passed away Thursday, June 16, 2011 at Swedish American Hospital in Rockford. David was born August 15, 1944 in Freeport, the son of Gerald and Evelyn (Byrem) Swank. On August 12, 1966 David married Susan A. Awe at the First Lutheran Church in Kirkland, Illinois. David was a 1962 graduate of Freeport High School where he was class President.
As a James Scholar and member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, David graduated from the University of Illinois in 1966 with a B.S. in Business and Marketing. David went on to attend Law School at the University of Wisconsin-Madison He was the lead singer and guitarist in the band, Past and Present with best friend, Dan Heine, Forrest Deininger and John Mernits.
David began working at Rockford Business College in 1972 with 46 students. He and his wife, Susan purchased the school in 1986. David and Susan sold the school and retired in 2003 with enrollment over 500 students. After retirement David and Susan cherished their time together in their Florida condo with friends and family. David was very active in Muscular Dystrophy Telethons and many civic and community organizations. He was a member of First Lutheran Church.
David was a beloved, son, brother, husband, father and papa. Survivors include his wife; Susan Swank of Freeport, mother, Evelyn Plager of Florida, two daughters; Angela (Jon ) Spachman of Freeport and Melinda (Fletcher) Swank-Martin, two sisters; Luanne (Jim) Wright of Belvidere and Mary Lou (Bob) Newton of Avon Park , Florida, three grandchildren; Noah and Kennedy Spachman and Griffyn Martin. Also surviving is one aunt; Lorraine Miley of Rockford, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his father.
Funeral Services will be 11:00 A.M. Thursday June 23, 2011 at First Lutheran Church, 303 South Galena Avenue, Freeport. Pastor Keith Johnson will officiate. Visitation will be Wednesday evening 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at Burke Tubbs Funeral Home. Visitation will also be held Thursday from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service at First Lutheran Church. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery. Memorial fund has been established in his memory. Please visit www.burketubbs.com to sign the online guestbook and share memories.
GERALD L. SWANK
, 115 N. Park Blvd, Freeport, who was employed by Stover Tanks Division of ITT since April 27, 1936, died in his home Sunday morning, October 22, 1972 following an apparent heart attack. At the time of his death, he was manager of quality control at Stover’s. He was a member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Freeport Management Club, IEAA, Germania, and Elks Club. He was a Freeport High School graduate.
Born July 13, 1915 in Forreston, he was the son of Louis and Mary Jane (Adams) Swank. He married Evelyn Byrem June 4, 1937 in Freeport. Surviving are his widow; two daughters, Mrs. James (Luanne) Wright of Morrison and Mrs. Robert (Mary Lou) Mertes of Freeport; a son, David of Freeport; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, his parents, and two brothers.
Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in Walker Mortuary. The Rev. Kenneth Swanberg, pastor of Prince of Peace Church, will officiate. Burial will be in White Oak Cemetery, Forreston. Friends may call after 3 p.m. Tuesday at the Mortuary. A memorial fund has been established for the Heart Association.
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