TAZEWELL COUNTY ILLINOIS	GENEALOGY TRAILS	CURRENT OBITS PAGE THREE

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TRUEBLOOD, GARY PEORIA ~ Gary Eugene Trueblood, 64, of 217B Milner, Newbern, Tennessee, died at 4.38 a.m. Thursday, August 4, 2005 at Jackson General Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee. He was formerly of 1506 Hendryx Lane in Peoria.  Born July 27, 1941 in Assumption to Mathew and Lottie Meyerholz Trueblood, he married Gloria J. Enos on August 17, 1963 in Tekonsha, Michigan. She survives.  Also surviving are three sons, Todd A. (Margaret) Trueblood of Appleton, Wisconsin, Gary Rae (Angela) Trueblood of Mossville and Darren Eugene (Tara) Trueblood of Chicago; four grandchildren, Matthew Allen Trueblood, Kayla Malaney Trueblood, Malinda Jean Trueblood and Emma Kathryn Trueblood; two brothers, Raymond (Esther) Trueblood of Pekin and Billy Joe (Sue) Trueblood of Peoria and four sisters, Lou (Ben) Boles of Washington, Shirley (Alvin) Kempton of Coldwater, Michigan, Carol Phillips of Midwest City, Oklahoma and Elaine (Fred) Gebbink of Elmwood.  He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sisterHe was a former member of the Jaycees in East Peoria. He was a past president of the Mossville Little League for six years and was a former volunteer fire fighter for the Chillicothe Fire Department.  .  His funeral will be at 10 a.m. Monday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Creve Coeur Chapel. Pastor Fred C. Gebbink will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Hillcrest Memory Gardens in rural Morton.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to an educational fund for his grandchildren in care of any CEFCU Member Center. source Pekin Daily Times, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

SCHNEIDER, FRANK PEKIN ~ Frank Edwin Schneider, 89, of 1611 Sommerset Street in Pekin, died at 1:14 a.m. Friday, August 5, 2005 at Pekin Hospital.   Born October 8, 1915 in Bement to Harry Edwin and Mabel Edna Shaw Schneider, he married Dorothy J. Olinger on August 10, 1935 in Bartonville. She survives.  Also surviving are one son, Donald E. (Nancy) Schneider of Canton; one daughter, Jan Schneider of Pekin; three grandchildren, Dean E. Schneider, Jodi (Tony) Erickson, both of Pekin and Roberta “Bobbi” (Bill) Powell of Oak Harbor, Washington and four great-grandchildren.  His parents preceded him in death.  He worked at Caterpillar, Inc. for 35 years, where he was a gauge inspector at East Peoria in Building HH and later in Building LL, retiring on December 1, 1976.  He was a 51-year and life member of Empire Lodge No. 126, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Illinois in Pekin. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.  His graveside service will be at 2:30 p.m. Monday, August 8, 2005 at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. The Rev. Gary L. Ford will officiate. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Monday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel, with Masonic rites at 2 p.m.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Tazewell Animal Protective Society, 2675 Allentown Road, Pekin, Illinois 61554. source Pekin Daily Times, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

KERKER, DELLA (POTTER) PEKIN ~ Della Mae Potter Kerker, 71, of 1419 North 5th Street, died at 7:20 a.m. Friday, August 5, 2005 at Pekin Living and Rehabilitation Center in Pekin.  Born November 16, 1933 in Peoria to Eugene and Mildred Grogan Roberts, she married Charles Maureen Potter in 1953. He died February 17, 1980 in Pekin.  She later married Raymond Lee Kerker on April 23, 1988 in Pekin. He survives.  Also surviving are five sons, Robert L. (Kim) Potter, Donald E. (Ann) Potter, and David M. (Kathy) Potter, all of Pekin, Timmy Joe (Janice) Potter of Topeka, and Charles M. “Chucky” (Vicky) Potter of Bartonville; one step-son, Edward A. Kerker of Fort Wayne, Indiana; two step-daughters, Cheryl A. Boelk of Mendota and Deborah L. (David) Runkle of Fort Wayne, Indiana; fifteen grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one step-great-grandson; and two sisters, Virginia Szlabick of Marshfield, Wisconsin and Barbara Eakle of Peoria.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, and two step-grandsons.  She worked as a beautician for several years in the Pekin area including the Texas Barber Shop in Pekin. She then worked for the Eagle Food Center in Pekin as a cashier for several years. She later was the manager of the Brookmeadow Apartments in Pekin for over seven years. She last was a receptionist for Dr. Robert Van Horn in Fort Wayne, Indiana for seven years, retiring in 1995.  She was a member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin and a former member of the Pekin Women of the Moose, and an avid bowler, she was a former member of several bowling leagues.  She enjoyed making crafts, cooking, and spending time with family.  She enjoyed making crafts, cooking, and spending time with family.  Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 9, 2005 at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Deacon Charles Murray will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, August 8, 2005 at the Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel.   Memorial contributions may be made to the family for expenses. source Pekin Daily Times, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

LAMBERT, ELMER PEKIN ~ Elmer LeRoy Lambert, 90, of 13634 First Street, Midway Addition, died at 8:50 p.m. Friday, August 5, 2005 at his residence.  Born October 3, 1914 in Wethersfield to Grover Cleveland and Grace Marie Lechner Lambert, he married Jessie Lavina Seaton on December 26, 1936 in Hennepin. She survives.  Also surviving are four daughters, Elma J. (Douglas “Jerry”) Chrestenson, Bonnie F. (James, Jr.) Boyd, Patricia G. (D. Neale) Hanley, all of Pekin and Connie L. Keiser, of Morton; seven grandchildren, Douglas (Lisa) Chrestenson of Elgin, David Chrestenson of Farmington, Stacey (Brian) Nannen, Christine (Rusty) Dunn, Jennifer (Chad) Hartley, Eric Weiland, all of Pekin and Jay Fulton of Morton; three step-grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; seven step-great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; one brother, Virgil Milo Lambert of Leesburg, Florida and one sister, Mabel Evelyn Howeler of Lake Oswego, Oregon.  He was preceded in death by one brother, one sister, two infant grandchildren and one step-granddaughter.  He had served with the Civilian Conservation Corps in Marengo, Wisconsin.  Mr. Lambert was an agent for Prudential Insurance in Pekin for 30 years, retiring on April 12, 1976. He previously had worked as a machinist at Northern Pump Company in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  He was a past president and former 10 year member of the South Pekin Grade School District No. 137 Board of Education.  A dog trainer in obedience and conformation, he showed at American Kennel Club events throughout the United States and Canada. He also was a 4-H Instructor in dog obedience for 15 years in Peoria, Tazewell and Fulton Counties. He was an honorary member and former instructor at the Peoria Obedience Training Club. He was a former member of the Illinois Valley Kennel Club, Mid-State Bird Dog Club and the Illinois Dog Club and Breeders Association. He also was a member of the German Wire Haired Pointer Club of Illinois and the Pimiteoui Poodle Club, Inc of Peoria.  He was a member of the South Pekin Congregational Church and served as Sunday school superintendent for many years.  His funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 10, 2005 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel. The Rev. Tom Cone will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, August 9, 2005 at the funeral home. Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin.  Memorial contributions may be made to the South Pekin Congregational Church Ladies Aide Society, P.O. Box 525, South Pekin, Illinois 61564 or to OSF Hospice, 2265 West Altorfer Drive, Peoria, Illinois 61615. source Pekin Daily Times, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

WEBSTER, N. EVELYN PEKIN ~ N. Evelyn Webster, 72, of 1425 Lake Street, died at 2:45 p.m. Saturday, August 6, 2005 at Morton Terrace in Morton.  Born March 8, 1933 in Sevierville, Tennessee to Thomas and Margaret Louise Johnson Justus, she married Thomas E. Webster on June 22, 1962 in Pekin. He died December 7, 1983 in Pekin. She was also preceded in death by one infant brother and one sister.  Surviving are one daughter, Lisa M. Webster of Ravenna, Ohio; two brothers, Thomas C. (Cindy) Justus of Mackinaw and James D. (Patricia) Justus of Pekin; ten nephews; two nieces; and a special friend, Crosby “Cuz” Oldham of Tremont who she helped care for.  Mrs. Webster worked at Pekin Hospital as a physical therapist assistant, retiring in 1978. Following retirement, she was a babysitter.  She was a member of the Pekin First Church of the Nazarene and the Salvation Army Home League. She was a former member of the Carrie M. Class at the Pekin Union Mission.  She enjoyed gardening, traveling, and collecting Santa Clauses.  Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, August 11, 2005 at the Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel. The Rev. Syl Carter will officiate. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will be at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Arthritis Foundation Central Illinois Chapter, 2621 North Knoxville Avenue, Peoria, Illinois 61604. source Pekin Daily Times, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

KRAGER, TRACY DeBOER PEKIN- Tracy Lynn DeBoer Krager, 49, of Austin, Texas, formerly of Pekin, passed away Sunday, August 10, 2008, in Austin.  She was born September, 8, 1958, in Pekin to Richard Victor and Charlene Louise Watkins DeBoer.  Her parents preceded her in death.  Surviving are her son, Thomas Cross of Austin; her twin sister, Terry DeBoer of Pekin; one brother, Raymond (Mona) DeBoer of Pekin; one niece, Brook deBoer; one nephew, Ryan DeBoer; and a special aunt, Donna Mercer of Chillicothe.  She was a 1976 graduate of Pekin Community High School.  Tracy worked for Austin Independent School District as a bus driver for 11 years.  She later owned and operated Flowers by Tracy in Austin.  She also taught informal floral design at the University of Texas for two years.  She loved flowers.  She was a member of River of the Hills Church in Lakeway, Texas.  A celebration of life gathering will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday at Marine Corps League, 12411 Shady Lane, Rural Pekin. source Pekin Daily Times, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

DeBOER, RAYMOND RICHARD "RAY" PEKIN ~ Raymond Richard "Ray" DeBoer, 51, of 216 Maple Park Drive, passed away at 11:41 a.m. Tuesday, September 16, 2008 in Buckhart Township, rural Fulton County.  Born March 8, 1957 in Pekin to Richard Victor and Charlene L. (Watkins) DeBoer, he married Mona Lyn Ryan on October 1, 1982 in Pekin.  She survives.  Also surviving are one daughter, Brooke L. (Craig Hopper) DeBoer of Bloomington; one son, Ryan R. DeBoer of Pekin; one sister, Terry DeBoer of Pekin; and one nephew, Thomas Cross of Austin, Texas.  He also is survived by Marvin and Bailey, his dogs.  His parents and one sister, Tracy L. Krager, preceded him in death.  He was a 1975 graduate of Pekin Community High School in Pekin.  A millwright for 32 ½ years, Ray began working as a millwright in January 1976 for Carpenter’s Local #644 in Pekin and in August 1989 transferred to Millwright Local #1051 in Lincoln, last working Tuesday.   He was a long-time executive board member for Local #1051.  He was a member of the Pekin Moose Lodge #916, Pekin Eagles Aerie #1869, Ducks Unlimited, Peoria Sportsmen’s Club in rural Manito, and an auxiliary member of the Tobin-Nanninga Marine Corps League Detachment #85 in Pekin.  Ray enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, and watching NASCAR.  He was a fan of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears.  His visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 20, 2008 at the Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel.  There will be no services and cremation will be accorded.   Following the visitation, the family will receive friends at a gathering at the Marine Corps League in rural Pekin. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ryan DeBoer Education Fund in care of CEFCU or the Tazewell Animal Protective Society, 100 TAPS Lane, Pekin, IL 61554. source Pekin Daily Times, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

McCARTHY, MILDRED McCORD LUTZ PEKIN- Mildred Jeanette Lutz McCarthy, 98, of Pekin, passed away at 10 p.m. Saturday, September 13, at Pekin Manor.  Born January 31, 1910, in Lawrence County to Charles and Eva Griffin McCord, she married Howard Lutz on November 21, 1929, in Green Valley.  He died February 25, 1978, in Pekin.  She later married Leroy McCarthy on April 8, 1979, in Green Valley.  He died November 27, 2000 in Pekin.  She was also preceded in death by one stepdaughter.  Surviving are three sons, John "Jack" (Phyllis) Lutz of South Pekin, Robert "Bob" A (Rose Mary)  Lutz and Eugene "Gene" (Sandra) Lutz, both of Pekin; one stepdaughter, Mary (Steve) Brooks of Chicago; 13 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.  She was one of the original settlers of South Pekin.  After her children were raised, Mildred worked as a beautician in her home from the early 1960's until retiring in the mid-1970's.  She had worked in the dry yeast department at Standard Brands Co., and in the bottling department at American Distilling Co., both of Pekin.  Her first job was as a telephone operator.  She was a member of St. John's Lutheran church in Rural Green Valley, where she had been active in Ladies Aid Society.  She was also a member of Tazewell County Home extension.  She enjoyed playing pinochle.  Her funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John's Lutheran Church, with visitationn one hour prior to service.  The Rev. Thomas R. Wenndt will officiate.  Burial will be in Sand Prairie Cemetery.  An additional visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.. tonight at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel.  Memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran School, 333 State Street, Pekin Illinois 61554 or St. John's Luteran church, 13443 Townline Road, Green Valley Illinois 61534. source Pekin Daily Times, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

TUMILTY, SHARON MONROE SOUTH PEKIN - Sharon M. Tumilty, 58, of 212 Fourth St. died at 3:28 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 6, 2004, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center. Born April 17, 1946, in Joplin, Mo., to Melvin William and Ileen H. Dotson Monroe, she married Arthur Michael "Mike" Tumilty on August 31, 1971, in Pekin. He survives. Also surviving are three sons, Anthony (and Heike) Goodin and Arthur Tumilty, Jr., both of Pekin, and Zachary Tumilty of South Pekin; three daughters, Chandra Kennedy of Pekin, Kamberly (and Tony) Rice of Washington and Ashley Tumilty of South Pekin; five grandchildren; one brother, Larry (and Janet) Monroe of South Pekin; and five sisters, Melba (and Gerald) Montgomery and Marilyn (and Robert) Stallwitz, both of Pekin, Loretta Faye (and Robert) Stymiest of Hot Springs, S.D., and Julie Breen and Sanora Monroe, both of North Pekin. She was preceded in death by her parents. She worked as director of nursing at East Peoria Gardens Health Care Center for the past three years. A registered nurse for 36 years, she received her training at Illinois Central College. There will be no services or visitation. Cremation will be accorded. Arrangements are by the Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel. source Pekin Daily Times, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

OATS, BERTHA DeBOER Bertha A. Oats, 95, of 1014 S. 13th Street passed away at 6:50 am Sunday, May 27, 2007 at Pekin Hospital. She married Ray E. Oats December 24, 1933 in Pekin. Bertha was born on July 3, 1911 in Pekin to Hank and Tena Weber Everwien DeBoer. She married Ray E. Oats December 24, 1933 in Pekin. He passed away on August 4, 1984.  Preceding her in death are three brothers and seven sisters.  Surviving are one daughter, Gloria Pitts of Pekin; two grandchildren, Roy Pitts of Creve coeur and Raylene Pitts of Pekin three grandchildren, Charity, Zackary and Nicole; three great great grandchildren, Gage, Bryson and Jayden; one sister, Marion Hart of Pekin.   Bertha was a member of the Second Reformed Church in Pekin.  She had been active in many areas of the church including, Volunteer Society, Friendship Circle, Voyagers Ladies Bible Class, and she was on the prayer chain of the Church.  Bertha loved to bake.  She had been a clerk at Pekin Dry Goods and Carps Dept. Store in downtown Pekin.  Funeral services will be 2:00 pm Thursday, May 31, 2007 at Second Reformed Church.  Rev. Brad VanderWaal and Rev. Ralph Cordes will officiate.  Visitation will be from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm Wednesday at Henderson Funeral Home in Pekin and from 1:00 pm-to 2:00 pm at her church prior to the service on Thursday.  Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin. source Pekin Daily Times, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

ADCOCK, LUCILLE BRUDER PEKIN- Lucille J Adcock, 106, of 1520 El Camino Drive, died at 4:32 pm Sunday, August 13, 2006, at Pekin Manor.  Lucille was born 27 June 1900, in Pekin, to Roney and Ema Wombacher Bruder. She married William F. Adcock on July 2, 1921, in peoria.  He died in 1950.  Surviving are three daughters, mary maas, Beverly Bowman, and Patricia Lohmann, all of Pekin 23 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren, and 48 great-great-grandchildren.  Preceding her in death were two daughters, Rose Oltman and Dorothy Mellow; two sons, William and Richard Adcock, one brother and three sisters. Lucille was the owner of the Maid Rite restaurant during the 1950's.  She attended the First Baptist church.  She was a member of teh VFW Ladies Auxiliary and Celestial City Chapter 333 of the Eastern Star.  She was one of the survivors of the Columbia excursion boat, which sank July 5, 1918, in the Illinois River as it was returning after midnight from a July 4 excursion to Peoria.  Srvices will be at 10:30 am Wednesday, August 16, 2006, at Henderson Funeral Home.  Visitation will be from 5-7 pm today, August 15, 2006, at the funeral home. The Rev. Susan Curtis and teh Rev Ralph Cordes will officiate.  Burial will be at Lakeview Cemetery in Pekin.  Memoria contributions may be made to the Tazewell County Historical Places. source: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

EOFF, JOSEPH T PEKIN - Joseph T. Eoff, 65, of Pearland, Texas, formerly of the Pekin area, died Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2004, in Laredo, Texas.  Born May 13, 1939, in Woodward, Okla., to Ralph and Ester Eoff, he married Margaret L. Messer. She survives.  Also surviving are two sons, Michael (and Stephanie) Eoff of Houston and Dale (and Christina) Lutz of Havana; two daughters, Deborah Eoff of Houston and Shelly (and Ron) Kettle of West Jersey; one brother, Jim of Colorado; one sister, Carolyn Hook of Oklahoma; and several grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one brother.  He worked with the Pogo Producing Company in Texas.  Graveside services will be at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday at Lakeside Cemetery. The Rev. Gary Ford will officiate. Visitation will be from 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel.  Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

BEIMFOHR, DAVID H PEKIN- David Hallie Beimfohr, 19, of 13780 First St. Midway Addition, died at 7:04 am Friday January 14, 2005, at South Suburban Hospital in Hazelcrest.  He was born April 28, 1985, in Pekin to Hallie Lee and Rita Marie Wheeler Beimfohr.  Surviving are his parents of Pekin; three brothers, Dustin lutz, Jeremy Beimfohr and Daniel Lutz, all of Pekin; two sisters, Amber Beimfohr and Deanna Huffman, both of Pekin; his grandparents, Hallie and Judy Beimfohr, Bonnie Munson and Rich and Brenda Wheeler, all of Pekin; and his great grandmother, Betty Wiggins of Pekin. He enjoyed boating, swimming, riding his bike, listening to music and visiting his family.  Graveside services will be at 10am Tuesday at Lakeside Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm Monday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel.   Memorials may be made to a funeral expense fund in care of CEFCU. SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp NOTE: David's biological mother is Camillia J Lutz Coy Beimfohr (any later married name unknown).  Her parents, also his grandparents: Eugene & Sandra (Rohrs) Lutz.  David also has maternal aunts and uncles not listed in obituary. Submitted by D. Rodcay

RENNER, GEORGE J TREMONT - George J. Renner, 87, of 304 W. Jefferson St. died at 11:10 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 23, 2005, at his residence.  Born July 6, 1917, in Pekin to Leonard and Laura Lutz Renner, he married Shirley Davidson on June 15, 1940, in Peoria. She survives.  Also surviving are two sons, James (and Carol) Renner of Boynton Beach, Fla., and John Renner of Tremont; one daughter, Ann (and Gary) Williams of Stanford; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by one son, William.  He worked at Caterpillar Inc. in East Peoria for 44 years, until retiring in 1980. He was a member of Caterpillar Chapter of Toastmasters International.  He was president of American Field Service in Tremont and hosted Tremont's first AFS student, Daniel Lindahl, from Sweden.  He was a member of Northfield Christian Fellowship in Tremont, where services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday. Dwayne Stuber will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Davis Mortuary, Tremont Chapel. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery.   Memorial may be made to his church. SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp

WILKINSON, BRENDA L TOULON - Brenda L. Wilkinson, 44, of Toulon died at 12:10 a.m. Friday, April 29, 2005, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.  Born June 16, 1960, in Pekin to Darrell and Eleanor Lutz Heflin, she married John O. Wilkinson on July 20, 1996, in Toulon. He survives.  Also surviving are her mother of Oregon; one son, Kinsman (and Mandy) McGlothlin of Manito; two daughters, Audrey (and Charles) Hewitt of Toulon and Ella McGlothlin of Murfreesboro, Tenn.; three sisters, Genna Williamme of East Peoria, LeeAnn Williamme of Rushville, and her twin, Glenda Zaidenberg of Galesburg; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father and one brother.  She received her certified nurse's aide certificate in 1996 and had worked at Toulon Health Care Center.  Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel. There will be no services. Cremation will be accorded after the visitation.  Memorials may be made to OSF Hospice in Peoria SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp

ALLARD, VIOLET PEKIN - Violet Allard, 85, of Pekin died at 3:20 p.m. Monday, May 23, 2005, at Pekin Manor.  Born Nov. 23, 1919, in Sand Prairie to George and Viola Lutz Nickie, she married Clarence P. Allard on Nov. 15, 1942, in Palmyra, Mo. He died Feb. 27, 2001, in Pekin.  She also was preceded in death by one sister.  Surviving are two sons, Dale (and Joanne) of Lafayette, Ind., and Lloyd of St. Louis; one daughter, Bonnie (and Jim) Tometich of Pekin; and four grandchildren.  She worked at Arnett's Deli for 10 years.  She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Pekin and its Guild.\par   She was a volunteer at Ewe's Treasures.  Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at Woolsey Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel, where visitation will be one hour before. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens.  Memorials may be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran School in Pekin. SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp

SAYLOR, VIRGINIA CREVE COEUR - Virginia Margaret Saylor, 80, of 1110 New Castle Road, Washington, died at 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, 2005, at Proctor Hospital in Peoria. She was formerly of 101 LaSalle Ave. in Creve Coeur.  Born July 8, 1925, in Jacksonville to Gus L. and Margaret Teresa Blundell Abbott, she married Elwood Daniel Saylor on Nov. 22, 1947, in Peoria. Surviving are four daughters, Teresa L. Terri Montgomery and Danielle C. Dani (Mike) Watkins, both of Pekin, and Rhonda A. (Brad) Poff and Madonna D. Donna (Larry) Vaupel, both of Creve Coeur; one son, Stanley R. (Cathy) Saylor of Creve Coeur; six grandchildren, R. Perry Montgomery and Brian N. (Jenessa) Lutz, both of Pekin, Penny J. (Galen) Gathman of Topeka, Allison L. Poff and Alexandria M. Muir, both of Creve Coeur, and Nicolas R. (Kate) Saylor of Morton; and seven great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother (Francis Pete Abbott).   Mrs. Saylor worked for Boss Glove Company in Peoria and later was a telephone operator for Illinois Bell in Peoria. She then worked as a secretary for A.C.T. Bending and Steel in Peoria. She last was a bookkeeper for the Peoria Township Assistance Center, retiring in 1992. She was a member and former treasurer of Bethel Memorial United Church of Christ in Creve Coeur. She was a former member of AFSCME Union. She enjoyed crocheting and was a serious Wal-Mart shopper. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Creve Coeur Chapel. The Rev. Jim Gorby will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday and 30 minutes before services Monday, both at the funeral home. Burial will be at Sand Prairie Cemetery in rural Green Valley. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Memorial United Church of Christ, 201 S. Main St., Creve Coeur, IL 61610 or American Parkinson Disease Association, Midwest Chapter, 2050 Pfingsten Road, Suite 127, Glenview, IL 60025.  For additional information, visit www.preston-hanley.com. SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp

HEILMAN, NANCY SOUTH PEKIN - Nancy Heilman, 62, of 214 Second St., South Pekin died at 12:24 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30, 2005, at her residence.  She was born June 21, 1943, in Pekin to Lawrence and Kathryn Griffith Heilman. She worked as a cook at Andy's in Pekin, Jumers Restaurant in Peoria, Uncle Al's in Sunnyland and The Blue Max in Morton, retiring in 1996. Surviving are two brothers, Gerald (Beverly) Heilman of Tremont and Donald (Maxine) Heilman of Wolle, La.; and one sister, Phyllis (Jack) Lutz of South Pekin. She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister.Cremation rites will be accorded and a private graveside service will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Light Hospice. Arrangements are by Cremation Society of Mid-Illinois Co. Pekin/Peoria SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp

WHITE, DONALD R PEKIN - Donald R. White, 74, of Wyaconda, Mo., formerly of Pekin, Ill., passed away Tuesday morning, Nov. 1, 2005, at his home. He was born the son of Charles Ross and Hazel May (Woods) White on Oct. 13, 1931, in Fulton County, Ill. Don married the former Melba Hoyle on Oct. 29, 1970, in Pekin. She survives. Don worked at Caterpillar Inc. for 31 years, retiring in April 1980 as an engineering maintenance supervisor. An avid sportsman, he and Melba moved to the Wyaconda area because Don so enjoyed the deer hunting and fishing while visiting his stepsons. In Wyaconda, Don garnered the reputation as quite the handyman. He built three or four new houses, did countless repair jobs and continued to work until his health no longer permitted. One of Don's greatest joys was his faith. He was a deacon at the Wyaconda Baptist Church since 1981 and was a longtime Sunday School superintendent. Don was a moderator for the Pleasant Grove Association, and maintained Camp Leeper. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Vere White; and a daughter, Delores Scobee. He is survived by his wife, Melba of Wyaconda; daughters, Kristy and husband David Tarpein of Wyaconda and Sandy and husband Floyd Fulsom of Pekin, Ill.; stepson, Randy Paul of Fairmont; sister, Ethel Lutz of Vermont, Ill.; two grandsons; a granddaughter; four great-grandchildren; and many stepgrandchildren and stepgreat-grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 4, 2005, at the Wyaconda Baptist Church, with the Rev. Ernest Deatrick officiating. Burial will be in the Wyaconda Cemetery. Visitation is from noon to 8 p.m. today, Nov. 5, 2005, at the Gerth Funeral Home in Wyaconda, with the family greeting friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Memorials have been suggested to hospice or the family and can be left at or mailed to Gerth Funeral Service, 115 N. Main St., Wyaconda, MO 63474. Condolences may be sent to Mrs. White's family via e-mail at gerths@gerths.com.  Arrangements were under the direction of Gerth Funeral Service from their Wyaconda chapel. SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp

STANBERY, HAZEL J PEKIN - Hazel Jean Stanbery, 60, of 727 West Deerbrook Drive, Peoria, passed away at 3:10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, 2006, at Proctor Hospital in Peoria. She was formerly of Pekin.  She was born June 19, 1945, in Mattoon to Wiley O. and Lucy L. (Wiebe) Stanbery. Surviving are one sister, Rose Mary (Robert) Lutz of Pekin; one brother, Richard L. (Darlene) Stanberry of Maysville, Okla.; and one sister-in-law, Carol S. Stanbery, of Pekin. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Donald L. Stanbery, on December 23, 2005, in Peoria. Hazel had attended the First Church of the Nazarene in Pekin and enjoyed listening to music.  Private graveside services will be Tuesday at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. The Rev. Syl Carter will officiate. There will be no visitation.    Arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Church of the Nazarene, 3514 East Broadway Road, Pekin, IL 61554.  To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com. SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp

MEMKEN, NORMAN L CHENOA - Norman L. Memken, 81, of Chenoa, died at 2:15 a.m. Friday (June 2, 2006) at Heritage Manor, El Paso.  Mr. Memken was born Aug. 20, 1924, in Chenoa, to John H. and Bertha Stuckemeyer Memken. He married Bernadine S. Lutz, April 12, 1953, at Bloomington. She preceded him in death on Oct. 16, 1993. Surviving are two sons, Kenneth Memken, Pekin, and Kevin Memken, Phoenix, Ariz.; one daughter, Karla Brown, Troy; five grandchildren; and one sister, Frieda Durdel, Manito. He was preceded in death by one brother, Alfred Memken. Mr. Memken was educated in Chenoa schools. He had farmed and was later employed by Country Companies Insurance from 1958 to 1986. He was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Chenoa. He was also a member of several professional organizations, including the Chenoa Rotary Club and the McLean County Farm Bureau. He had served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home in Chenoa. His graveside service will be 10 a.m. Monday at the Chenoa Cemetery, Chenoa. The Rev. Jerry Koch will officiate. Memorials may be made to Heritage Manor of El Paso. SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp

LUTZ, WILLIS H GREEN VALLEY - Willis Henry Lutz, 86, passed away at 2:14 p.m. Sunday, March 18, 2007, at Pekin Hospital. His funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John's (Sand Prairie) Lutheran Church in rural Green Valley. Visitation will be from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday at the church. Burial will be in the Sand Prairie Cemetery. SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp

SURRATT, WILLIAM "Bill" PEKIN - William Leugene Surratt Jr., 54, of 1005 Chestnut St. passed away at 11:22 p.m. Friday, May 11, 2007, at Brook Haven Care Center in Far Rockaway, N.Y. Born June 7, 1952, in Peoria to William Leugene Sr. and Mildred Irene (Lutz) Surratt, he married Pamela Sue Hogue on May 25, 1985, in Pekin. She survives. Also surviving are his parents of Pekin; one son, Charles "Chad" Surratt of Pekin; one sister, Deb L. (John) Giffhorn of Pekin; one niece, Pamela K. (Rodney) Pichon of Pekin; and one grandnephew, Connor J. Pichon of Pekin. He was preceded in death by one infant son, Brennan Surratt; one infant brother; and one infant sister. A 1971 graduate of Pekin Community High School, Bill was a 1973 graduate of Illinois Central College in East Peoria. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in business from Illinois State University in 1975. He also was pursuing his master's degree in business from ISU. Bill was the director of the Tazewell/Pekin Consolidated Communications Center (TazCom) in Pekin for more than 20 years. He was instrumental in establishing the 911 system in Tazewell County. Bill also had been an auxiliary officer for both the Pekin Police Department and Tazewell County Sheriff's Department.  He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Pekin. Bill enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening and collecting model trains. He was a fan of the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Cubs.  His funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel. The Rev. Michael McLeod will officiate. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Private burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Chad Surratt Education Fund established at CEFCU. To express condolences, online visit www.preston-hanley.com SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Sara Hemp

SEFTON, KENT A HENRY- Kent A Sefton, age 53, of 601 Edward St. Henry, passed away at 12:57 a.m. Monday, December 08, 2008, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria Illinois.  He was born April 06, 1955, in Pekin, Illinois, the son of Duane S. and Mary Lou Cottingham Sefton.  Kent and Linda J Kamp were united in marriage on March 25, 2006, in Chillicothe Illinois.  She survives.  Also surviving are his mother, Mary Lou Sefton of Henry; grandmother, Vi Cottingham of Pekin; stepdaughter, Mickayla Marsh of Henry; one brother, Kurt (Lori) Sefton of Maumee, Ohio; one sister, Kristi (Joe) Klein of Henry; three nephews; and three neices.  He was preceded in death by his father, Duane Sefton; grandparents, Elbert and Stella Sefton, and Gene Cottingham.  He was the operating manager for Henry Chevrolet, formerly Sefton Chevrolet, in Henry.  He was a member of the Chillicothe Bible Church, was a youth group leader, and was on the worship team.  Services willo be at 10 a.m. Friday, December 12, 2008, at Chillicothe Bible Church, with Pastor Joe Horn officiating.  Visitation will be from 6 to 8 pm Thursday, December 11, 2008, also at his church.  Burial will be in the Henry Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the missions of Chillicothe Bible Church. SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by Desiree Burrell Rodcay

STRASSER, MARION PEKIN- Marion Strasser, 79, recently of Chicago Heights, and a lifelong resident of Pekin, passed away Friday, January 09, 2009.  Surviving is his wife of 61 years, Shirley Yocum Strasser; two daughters, Shelley (Bruce) holland of Flossmoor and Cheryl Strasser of Charles Town, W.V.; and grandchildren, Kathryn "Katie" and Mary.  Strasser was an antique dealer and wood craftsman at Pleasant Hill Antique Mall in East Peoria and at Trolley Barn in Frankfort.  He was a machinist at Keystone Steel and Wire Co. in Bartonville, retiring in 1986.  His service will be held at a later date in Pekin.  Heartland Memorial Center, 7151 183rd St., Tinley Park, assisted family with arrangements. SOURCE: Pekin Daily Times, submitted by DRodcay

FULLER, RONNIE D PEORIA- Ronnie D. Fuller, 53, of 3615 W. Harmon Highway, No. 12, passed away at 6:05 p.m. Sunday, January 11, 2009, at his residence.  He was born December 18, 1955, to Delmar L. and Cora E. Tisdale Fuller.  He was preceded in death by his father in 2008, his mother in 2007, one brother, Larry Fuller, in 2002; three nephews, Vincent Fuller in 1978, Jacob "Jake" Barding in 2006 and Gregory "Greg" Johnson in 2008, and one great-nephew, Jacob Fuller in 2008.  Surviving are four brothers, Randy (Teresa) Fuller of Pekin, Delmar Fuller, Garry Fuller and Ricky "Rick" Fuller, all of Manito; seven sisters, Patricia "Patty" (David) Berry, Pamela "Pam" (Todd) Hallar, Deborah "Debbie" Tenney and Connie (Andy) Gale, all of Pekin, Sandra "Sandy" Davis and Iva (Bill) Barding, both of Manito, and Donna (William "Bill" Sr.) Johnson of Green Valley. Ronnie was of the Christian Faith.  He enjoyed riding bicicyles, playing cards, listening to Christian and Country  Music, recycling cans, writing, reading the local newspapers and helping out & riding on the Peoria City Link Bus.  He especially enjoyed being with his family and friends.  Cremation will be accorded.  Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Spring Lake Missionary Church in Manito with the Rev. Tom Schakat officiating.  Internment of cremains will be in Spring Lake Cemetery in Manito following servies.  Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of services at the church.  Maas Funeral Home Manito is in charge of arrangements. SOURCE: Pekin Daily Times, Submitted by DRodcay

HARMS, DELBERT PEKIN- Delbert Harry Edward "Moe" Harms, 80, of 1320 Executive Drive, passed away at 2 a.m. Friday, Jan 02, 2009, at Timbercreek Rahab and Healthcare in Pekin.  He was formerly Forest City.  Born June 11, 1928, in Pekin to Fred J. and Ella Horn Harms, he married Virginia Mae "Babe" Benecke Hendricks on May 14, 1984, in Pekin.  He died March 20, 2007, in Pekin.  He also was preceded in death by his parents; stepmother, Carrie Harms; and two brothers, Benny Harms and Russell Harms.  Surviving are one daughter, Paula (Jack) Trone of Pekin; one stepson, Ernest P (Nancy) Hendricks III of Washington; six grandchildren, Ernest Paul Hendricks IV and Erica Lee Hendricks, both of Washington, Scott Trone of Norris, Kirk Trone and Corey Trone, both of Pekin, and Todd Trone of Glasford; three great-grandchildren, Kody Trone, Kayla Trone, and Jacob Buskirk; one brother, Howard (Loretta) Harms of Pekin; and two sisters, Orilla (Wayne) Wiseman of Green Valley and Myrna (Robert) Johnson of Forest City.  He served in teh United States Army during the Korean War, from December 15, 1950, to September 20, 1952.  He served on the front line, attaining the rank of corporal.  Harms worked for Catepillar Inc. from 1948 to 1950 and again from 1973 for a period of 10 years. He also farmed from 1953 to 1973.  He was a member of Sait John's (Sand Prairie) Lutheran Church in rural Green Valley.  He also was a life member of Roy L King Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1232 in Pekin.  Moe was known to his children and grandchildren as "Moesky Bones." He enjoyed fishing and playing euchre and poker machines during his freetime.  His funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel.  The Rev. Thomas R Wenndt will officiate.  Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. tonight at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Sand Prairie Cemetery, rural Green Valley.  Memorial contributions may be made to Saint John's Lutheran Church, 13443 Townline Road, Green Valley, IL 61534. SOURCE: Pekin Daily Times, submitted by DRodcay

MORE, JEAN H. PEKIN- Jean H More, 95, of Pekin, passed away at 2:03 p.m. Saturday, December 27, 2008, at the home of her son.  She was born Feb 11, 1913, in Berwick, PA, to Charles AW & Georgiana Wandell Hagenbach.  She married R.H. More September 01, 1938, at Christ Church in Berwick.  He died on June 13, 2000.  She also was preceded in death by her parents and one sister.  Surviving are one daughter, Terry (Calvin) Kohler of Sharpsburg, GA.; one son, Chester (Michele) More of Pekin; six grandsons; three granddaughters; three great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law, Ruth More Enger in California; on niece; and two nephews.  She was educated at Berwick Schools and Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA, where she graduated with Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts Degrees.  She also attended Pen State and University of Pennsylvania.  More taught English in Lewisburg High School; Green Bay East High School, Green Bay Wisconsin; Upper Darby Junior High in Upper Darby, PA; during the military service years of her husband.  She also taught at Pekin Community High School from 1946 to 1947 as a substitute there and at Washington Junior High School, both in Pekin.  She wrote a column, "Remember When," about Pekin people and events of the past for Pekin Daily Times for 12 years.  She was a member of Saint Paul's Episcopal Church, where she taught Sunday school for 25 years, served as a member of vestry of the church and on the Faith Alive Committee.  She also  was a former president and secretary of St. Mary's Guild and a member of St. Martha's Altar Guild.  Her community activity included serving as a Pekin YWCA board member for six years, was a current member of YWCA Reserves, Pekin Hospital Auxiliary as publicity chairman and volunteer for the library cart and surgical waiting room services, at the Dirksen guild as a docent, a charter member of guild board during publicity and member of the nominating committee, a member of Friends of the Library and former member of AAUW.  She and her husband were co-marshals of the 1987 Marigold Festival and served as co-chairmen of the Salvation Army Christmas campaign in 1996.  Cremation was accorded.  Her memorial service will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 14, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church.  The Rev. Brian Kellington will officiate.  Visitation will be one hour prior to service at the church.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's Episcopal Church office, 343 Buena Vista, Pekin, IL 61554 or Pekin Public Library, 301 S. Fourth St., Pekin IL 61554.  Henderson Funeral Home assisted family with arrangements.  SOURCE: Pekin Daily Times, submitted by DRodcay

STRASSER, DONALD W PEKIN- Donald W Strasser, 67, of 1017 Buff St. Died at 6:14 p.m. Friday September 15, 2000, at Methodist Medical Center in Peoria.  Born January 01, 1933, in Pekin to Jesse G and Cordia E Patterson Strasser, he (2nd) married Shirley Webb on June 10, 1989, in Spring Lake Township, Tazewell Co.  She survives.  Surviving are one daughter, Carrie (and Guy) Wallinger of Pekin; three sons, Richard (and Kathleen) of Pekin, Stephen (and Ann) of Stillwater OK, and Robert (and Kathy) of Bloomington; three stepsons, Dennis (and Sheri) Higdon of Mapleton, David (and Debbie) Higdon of Lafayette, IN and Dale (and Irlene) Higdon of Davenport, IA; one stepdaughter, Debi (and Kim) Young of Peoria Heights; one brother Bruce of Pekin; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild[ nine stepgrandchildren; and four step greatgrandchildren. He served in the Army during the Korean War.  He worked as a precision machinist at Caterpillar Inc's Mossville plant for 39 years, retiring Jan 01, 1990.  He was a volunteer for the Tazewell Youth Hockey in the 1970's serving as coach and referee.  He was a former Sunday School Teacher at the Pekin Union Mission.  He was a member and past master of Masonic Lodge Empire 126 AF&AM of Pekin.  He was a member and past patron of Order of the Eastern Star Chapter 974 in Morton.  Masonic services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Noel-Henderson Funeral Home, followed by additional services.  The Rev. Steve Roswell will officiate.  Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to any charity. SOURCE: Peoria Journal Star, submitted by DRodcay

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