TAZEWELL COUNTY ILLINOIS	GENEALOGY TRAILS	CURRENT OBITS pg 10

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WEBER, BENJAMIN South Pekin IL- Benjamin J. Weber, 80, of Centralia, Ill., formerly of South Pekin, died at 1:26 a.m. Monday, July 13, 2009, at Fireside Nursing Home. He was born July 13, 1929, in Pekin, the son of Arthur B. and Elizabeth H. (Stecken) Weber. He married Patsy R. Rench. She preceded him in death. He also was preceded in death by his parents. He served in the U.S. Army in Korea from 1951 to 1953. A graveside service will be at 1 p.m. Thursday at Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin. Irvin Funeral Home in Centralia is in charge of arrangements. submitted by dlbr 12/26/10 PJStar

SULLIVAN, BRETT East Peoria IL-Brett A. Sullivan 48 of East Peoria, died at 6:10 p.m. Wednesday, December 22, 2010, at his home. A funeral service will be tonight, December 27, at 7 p.m. at Deiters Funeral Home & Crematory in Washington. Burial will be private in Fondulac Cemetery in East Peoria.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. submitted by dlbr 12/27/10 Pekin Daily Times

DAVIS, RANDALL Creve Coeur IL- Randall L. ‘Randy’ Davis 50 of Creve Coeur, formerly of St. Petersburg, Florida., died at 5:16 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18, 2010, at his home.  A memorial service will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, December 30, 2010, at Deiters Funeral Home & Crematory in East Peoria.  Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home. submitted by dlbr 12/27/10 Pekin Daily Times

WHISLER, BETTY Tremont IL- Betty Lynn Whisler 60 of Tremont, passed away at 9:45 p.m. Thursday, December 23, 2010, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born January 02, 1950, in Bloomington, to James C. and Elsie Mae Crosby Trigg. She married Bill Whisler on June 01, 2002 in Tremont and he survives. Also surviving are her father, James Trigg of Weldon; one son, Ryan (Jessa) Grant of Pingree Grove; one stepson, Tim (Ronda) Whisler of Morton; one daughter, Wendy (Jim) Schweigert of Washington; one stepdaughter, Tami (Scott) Chamberlain of Oshkosh, Wisconsin,  six grandchildren, Cameron and Cade Whisler, Audrey and Jeeter Schweigert and Aidan and Ashton Grant; one brother, Tom (Janet) Trigg of Monticello; one stepsister-in-law, Joan (Ron) Brubaker of Mackinaw. She was preceded in death by her mother. Betty graduated from Illinois State University with a master’s in teaching. She was a  junior high teacher and coach for over 32 years, having taught in Atlanta and Tremont school districts. She retired from Tremont School District in 2005. She was a member of Tremont United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir and served on various committees. She was a former member of Tremont Garden Club.  Betty enjoyed traveling with her husband to experience God’s creation. She was an avid golfer and was a member of El Paso Golf Club, where she played in many leagues and tournaments in the Tri-County area. She also had a newfound love of fishing. She enjoyed spending time and doing creative crafts with her grandchildren. Her funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, December 28, 2010, at Tremont United Methodist Church. Pastor Chet Travis will officiate. Burial will be in Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw. Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. today at the church. Davis Mortuary in Tremont is handling the arrangements. Memorials may be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or to her church. The family would like to honor Betty’s life by asking all to wear cheerful and colorful attire. submitted by dlbr 12/27/10 Pekin Daily Times

KEEFER, ROBERT Pekin IL- Robert I. Keefer 89 of 2203 Granada Drive,Pekin, passed away at 7:55 a.m. Friday December 24, 2010, at his home. Bob was born on August 24, 1921 in Beardstown to Irvey and Etta Mudgett Keefer. Bob was the last surviving member of the Keefer family. His parents, seven sisters and three brothers preceded him in death. He is survived by many nieces and nephews. Bob leaves his best friend, Carl Krakel, with whom he made his home. He lived in California for many years where he was employed by Atlantic Richfield Oil (BP). He retired in 1978. Bob was a member of the Ventura, Calif., Elks Lodge and also was most recently a member of Pekin Moose Family Center 916. Bob enlisted into the United States Army on August 06, 1941, and served until January 1946. He served in the Middle East Theater and the Asiatic Pacific Theater during World War II. Bob has requested that there be no visitation nor memorial service. Cremation will be accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Memorial contributions may be made to the Tazewell Animal  Protective Society, 100 Taps Lane, Pekin, IL 61554. submitted by dlbr 12/28/10 Pekin Daily Times

KELLEY, WILLARD Washington IL-Willard Gilbert Kelley 79 of Washington died at 4:35 p.m. Saturday December 25, 2010 at his residence. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday December 30 at Deiters Funeral Home & Crematory in Washington. Robert Martin, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Hillcrest Memory Gardens in Morton. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. submitted by dlbr 12/28/10 Pekin Daily Times

PALM, PATRICIA Pekin IL- Patricia Ann Palm 74 of 1507 Terrace Blvd Pekin, passed away at 10:30 a.m. Friday, December 24, 2010, at her home.  Born January 12, 1936 in Springfield to William and Hannah Murphy Stone, she married Kenneth Palm on December 31, 1960, in Peoria. Surviving are her husband; two daughters, Debra (Patrick) Fitzanko and Tina Cunningham, both of Pekin; three sons, Ralph Patrick Garmon, Kenneth “Eddie” Palm, and Francis “Frankie” Palm, all of Pekin; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents. A caregiver, Patricia last worked for Community Care in Pekin from 1995 to 2000. Previously, she had been a long-time day care provider. She enjoyed gardening and was a member of Pekin Garden Club. She also enjoyed jig saw puzzles, oil painting, traveling, and was a big Elvis Presley fan. Patricia was a member of the New Life Fellowship in Pekin. Patricia’s funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec 29, at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, 2700 N. University St., Suite 92, Peoria. IL 61614-5849; or to the American Diabetes Association, 2580 E. Federal Drive, Suite 403, Decatur, IL 62526. submitted by dlbr 12/28/10 Pekin Daily Times

KITCHELL, EDNA Pekin IL- Edna Mae Kitchel, 91 of 2400 N. Eighth St., Pekin, passed away at 8:39 a.m. Monday December 27, 2010, at Lake Manor. She was formerly of 1514 Martha St., Pekin. Born January 18, 1919, in Fountain Run, KY to Layton and Nettie Myrtle Walbert Layne, she married George W. Kitchell on October 12, 1935, in Sadorus, Ill. He died September 11, 1998, in Peoria. She also was preceded in death by one son, Jackie Ray Kitchell; three grandchildren; and three brothers. Surviving are one daughter, Winona (Robert) Hayden of Pekin; nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and one brother, Jerry (Ruby) Layne of Pekin. Mrs. Kitchell and her husband owned and operated Farmer’s Market on South Second Street in Pekin from 1944 to 1969. They later worked together at Morgan Drive Away Inc. for many years. She was a member of Pekin First Church of the Nazarene, where she taught Sunday school for 30 years. Her funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, at Pekin First Church of the Nazarene. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Memorial contributions may be made to Pekin First Church of the Nazarene, 3414 E. Broadway Road, Pekin, IL 61554. submitted by dlbr 12/28/10 Pekin Daily Times

STOUT, ELSIE Mackinaw IL- Elsie I. Stout 95 of Mackinaw, passed away at 1:17 p.m. Saturday December 25, 2010, at her home. Elsie was born March 15, 1915, in Morton, to William and Julianna Heins Denne. She married Clarence R. Stout on December 30, 1935 in Grants Pass, Oregon. Clarence passed away on November 25, 1992. Elsie was a homemaker. Elsie was a member of Mackinaw United Methodist Church and its United Methodist Women’s Club as well as the Mackinaw Young at Heart Club. Elsie is survived by four nieces, Betty (Frank) Bugg of Hemet, California; Verla McFarland of Sparland, Linda (Ronald) Pringle of Lacon and Linda Giles of Normal. Elsie is also survived by two nephews, Jack (Carol) Oltman of Lacon and Donald Denne of Danvers. Elsie was blessed with an extended family of special friends, including Sam and Mary Hovey, Mark and Dottie McGrath, Dan and Cheryl Thames, Mike and Nancy Boucher and Richard and Florence Grunert. Elsie received loving care from her caregivers, Carolyn McGinnis, Pam Sparks, Lori McGinnis, Candy Haynes, Dixie Pini, Stephanie Neeley, Nancy Payton and Libby Gibbs, for many years. Her funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, at the United Methodist Church in Mackinaw with the Rev. Jack Wolf and the Rev. Donald Doty officiating. Burial will be in Mackinaw Township Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday at the church. Haensel Funeral Home in Mackinaw is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the United Methodist Church in Mackinaw, Mackinaw Rescue Squad or Methodist Medical Center Hospices Services. submitted by dlbr 12/28/10 Pekin Daily Times

WAGNER, EVELYN Washington IL-Evelyn V. Wagner, 85, of Washington died at 10:41 a.m. Monday December 27, 2010, in the emergency room at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Evelyn was a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Washington, where funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, January -3. Richard Hanson, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery in Washington. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Deiters Funeral Home & Crematory in Washington. Additional visitation will be one hour prior to services Monday at the church. submitted by dlbr 12/29/10 Pekin Daily Times

HARPER, MARY Pekin IL- Mary Alyce Harper 50 of 1817 Crescent Drive, Pekin, formerly of Chicago, passed away at 6:37 p.m. Monday December 27, 2010, at Pekin Hospital. She was born May 22, 1960 in Chicago to Joseph and Gertrude Blazek Harper. Her parents preceded her in death. She was a sister to many brothers and sisters and an aunt to many nieces and nephews. Mary worked at Morton Highland Center, where she folded laundry and washed dishes. She participated in Special Olympics in track and field and bowling. She received the Greg Cook Good Sportsmanship Award. Mary was loved by all with whom she came into contact. Her teasing ways will be missed by everyone. At the time of her passing, she was comforted by her friends and family in Pekin. Her funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Friday, December 31, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 303 S. Seventh St., Pekin. The Rev. James Pankiewicz will officiate. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery in Pekin. Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the funeral Friday at the church. Arrangements are by  Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Memorial contributions may be made to Davies Square, 1817 Crescent Drive, Pekin, IL 61554, which is where she made her home for many years. submitted by dlbr 12/29/10 Pekin Daily Times

VALENTINE, DELIA Pekin IL- Delia Mozell Valentine 65 of 1016 Coolidge Ave., Pekin, passed away at 6:35 a.m. Monday, Dec. 27, 2010, at Pekin Manor. She was formerly of Creve Coeur. Born May 10, 1945, in Hardin County, Ky., to Alvie and Mitt Haycraft Miller, she married Lucius Valentine on Aug. 31, 1963, in Creve Coeur. He survives.  Also surviving are two daughters, Diane (Robyn) Gerdes of Banner and Brenda (James) Putney of West Harrison, Ohio; two sons, James (Lisa) Valentine of Peoria and Patrick Valentine of Pekin; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and one brother, Tom (Jody) Miller of Edelstein. She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother; and one sister. Delia was a homemaker, who enjoyed cooking. She also enjoyed working word search puzzles, playing cards and playing bingo. She was an avid sports fan of the Chicago Bears, Bradley basketball and Illinois basketball and football. Her funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. The Rev. John E. Plunkett will officiate. Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Midwest Affiliate, 4722 N. Sheridan Road, Peoria, IL 61614. submitted by dlbr 12/29/10 Pekin Daily Times

FOSTER, FREDERICK Washington IL-Frederick James Foster, 69, of Washington, died at noon Monday, Dec. 27, 2010, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 31, at Deiters Funeral Home & Crematory in Washington. Kirk Moser, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery in Washington. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, at the funeral home. submitted by dlbr 12/29/10 Pekin Daily Times

MARTIN, PAUL Bradenton FL- Paul Stanton Martin 74 Bradenton, Florida., died Sunday December 26, 2010, at Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton. He was born on March 15, 1936 in Pekin, Ill., to Nelson and Ada Gray Martin. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Chiquita on February 25, 2001; a stepson, Richard Sea; two brothers, Harvey and Lyle; and a sister-in-law, Karen Lyerla. He is survived by six sisters, Phyllis Ales of Manito, Ill., Carol McCabe of Bradenton, Helen “Betty” Wing of Pekin, Nancy (Noel) Kerr of Washington, Ill., Donna Edwards of Syracuse, NY, and Jodie Beebe Friend of Peoria, Ill.; 25 nieces and nephews; and a sister-in-law, Doris Martin of Pekin. Paul lived and worked in Pekin and Manito as a construction worker and carpenter before moving to Bradenton in 1976. Services will be at 3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, in the Chapel of Skyway Memorial Gardens in Palmetto, Fla. Arrangements are by Shannon Funeral Home Town Chapel in Bradenton. The family requests that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be made to a favorite animal charity in Paul’s memory. submitted by dlbr 12/29/10 Pekin Daily Times

NIEMAN, DELORES Pekin IL-A memorial service for Delores Nieman 89 of Pekin, who passed away Thursday December 16, 2010, in East Peoria, will take place at 2 p.m. Sunday, January 02, at First United Presbyterian Church in Pekin. Burial of cremated remains will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Memorial contributions may be made to Kemmerer Village. Arrangements are by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. submitted by dlbr 12/30/10 Pekin Daily Times

HARRIS, VELDIE Pekin IL-Veldie Howard Harri, 90, of Davis Oklahoma, passed away Monday December 27, 2010 at his home. Veldie was born on June 12, 1920, in Kilbourne, Mason County, Ill., to Howard J. and Mary M. Mann Harris. He married Lila L. Birchfield in 1943, and he later married Eleanor Brown on July 27, 1969, in Pekin. She preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were his parents, and one sister, Florence May. Veldie is survived by his brother, Ralph C. Harris of Pekin; his son, Ralph J. Harris of Pekin; his daughter, Sherry L. (Randy) Manser of Laconda, Iowa; four grandchildren, Cindy M. (Darrell) Hefley of Davis, Ralph J. (Jennifer) Harris of Leesville La., Karen Manser and Kevin Manser, both of Laconda, Iowa; and five great-grandchildren. Veldie worked as a machinist for Hyster Co. in Peoria, Ill. After the plant closed, he relocated to Arizona, where he made his home for many years. He most recently had moved to Davis to be near his granddaughter and family. He enjoyed traveling in his RV all over the USA. He also had a green thumb, loved to play pinochle, watch baseball and work with wood. Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, January 03, at Hale’s Memorial Chapel in Davis with the Rev. Randy Chapman officiating. submitted by dlbr 12/30/10 Pekin Daily Times

GOULIARD, LARRY Pekin IL- Larry G. Gouliard 72 of 1425 Arthur Street, passed away at 1:40 p.m. Wednesday December 29, 2010 at his home. Born November 24, 1938 in Pekin to Victor and Florence (Linebaugh) Gouliard, he married Thelma Virginia "Tootie" Horton on September 28, 1957 in Pekin.  She survives. Also surviving are one son, Larry G. Gouliard Jr. of Pekin; one daughter, Vicky E. Gouliard of Pekin; two grandchildren, Sarah Gayle Gouliard and Larry G. Gouliard III, both of Pekin; and one sister, Joyce E. Johnson of Pekin. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. Larry was a member of Second Reformed Church in Pekin. He served in the United States Navy. He was a firefighter for the City of Pekin for 20 years, retiring in 1981 as assistant fire chief.  He then worked as an investigator for the Janssen Law Center for 20 years, retiring in 2001. Larry had attended Bradley University in Peoria.  He also taught Fire Science at Illinois Central College. He was a member of Empire Lodge 126, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons in Pekin. A private graveside will be held Friday, December 31, 2010 at Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin.  Arrangements are by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Memorial contributions may be given to Second Reformed Church, 600 State St. Pekin, IL 61554 or the American Lung Association 3000 Kelly Ln. Springfield, IL 62711 or to Pets for Seniors P.O. Box 64 Edwards, IL 61528. To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com submitted by dlbr 01/05/11 Pekin IL-Larry G. Gouliard 72 of 1425 Arthur St. Pekin, passed away at 1:40 p.m. Wednesday December 29, 2010, at his home. A private graveside will take place at Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin. Arrangements are by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. submitted by dlbr 12/31/10 Pekin Daily Times Pekin IL- Larry G. Gouliard, 72, of 1425 Arthur St. passed away at 1:40 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2010, at his home. Private graveside services will be at Lakeside Cemetery. Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory is handling arrangements. submitted by dlbr 12/31/10 Pekin Daily Times

MASON, JOHN Jr Tremont IL-John Mason Jr. 77 of Tremont passed away at noon Wednesday December 29, 2010 at Morton Villa Care Center in Morton. Cremation was accorded. A memorial service will be at noon Monday, January 03, at Tremont United Methodist Church. Chet Travis, pastor, will officiate. A funeral dinner will follow the service in the church fellowship hall. Private burial will be at a later date in Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria. Visitation will be from 10 to 11:45 a.m. Monday, also at the church.  Davis Mortuary in Tremont is in charge of arrangements. submitted by dlbr 12/31/10 Pekin Daily Times

GOLIANIS, CONSTANTINE Pekin IL-Constantine Carl ‘Connie’ Golianis 82 of Pekin passed away at 12:10 p.m. Friday December 31, 2010 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. He was born August 18, 1928 to James and Helen Koehler Golianis, Sr. His parents preceded him in death. He also was preceded in death by two brothers, James Golianis, Jr. and George Golianis. Surviving is one sister, Jo Anne (Robert) Grendel of Wildwood, Missouri. He was a Korean War Army veteran. Connie worked for Caterpillar, Inc. as a bookkeeper in East Peoria for over 30 years. He was a member of AARP and enjoyed feeding and watching birds. His funeral will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2011, at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Elder Clayton Denning will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. tonight at the funeral home. submitted by dlbr 01/03/11 Pekin Daily Times

ALES, KEVIN Pekin IL- Kevin Gene ‘Bobo’ Ales Sr. 54 of 205 Birkett St passed away at 8:18 p.m. Wednesday, December 29, 2010, in the Pekin Hospital Emergency Room. Born July 23, 1956 in Peoria to Max and Wilma Hoerr Ales, he married Jodi Ellen Schott on June 16, 1978 in Pekin.  She survives. Also surviving are two sons, Kevin M. Ales and Jared A. Ales, both of South Pekin; his mother, Wilma Melton of Pekin; two sisters, Catherine Enlow of Springfield, Mo. and Christine Willis of Pekin and several nieces and nephews, including Lisa Kesterson of Missour, who he helped raise.He was preceded in death by his father; stepfather, Bill Melton and one sister, Karen Carter. Kevin worked as a master auto technician at Roland Rich Ford in Delavan for the past 11 years, last working Wednesday. Previously, he worked at several auto dealerships in the area. He was a member of the River Valley Sportsman’s Club in Germantown Hills.  Kevin was a musician at heart and loved playing music. He also enjoyed fishing. He was proud to be a conservative Republican. His funeral will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 05, at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Tazewell Animal Protective Society, 100 TAPS Lane, Pekin, IL 61554. submitted by dlbr 01/03/11 Pekin Daily Times

RIDDLE, WAYNE Pekin IL- Wayne T. Riddle 79 of 1512 Loretta St Pekin since 2005, passed away at 5:18 p.m. Thursday Dec 30, 2010 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. He was a former longtime Tremont resident. Born April 21, 1931 in Tremont Township, Tazewell County, to Clyde S. and Roma J. Deweese Riddle, he married Joyce Hundt on Jan 28, 1956 in Pekin. She survives. Also surviving are one daughter, Debra (Mark) Fandel of Pekin; one son, Steven Riddle of Santa Clara, California one grandson, Nick (Leslie) Fandel of Springfield; one granddaughter, Laura (Clint) Gossmeyer of Tremont; three sisters, Jan (Gary) Kerr of Murrieta, Calif., Sandra (Jerry) Method and Jean (George) Roberts, both of San Jose, California and one brother, Clarence Riddle of Concord, California/ He was preceded in death by his parents. Wayne was a 1949 graduate of Tremont High School. He was a United States Army veteran, serving in the Korean War with the Signal Corps in Asmara Eritrea in Africa. He attained the rank of corporal. He was a former member of Tremont American Legion. He was a member of Teamsters & Chauffeurs Union Local 627 in Peoria. He worked for Pekin Distributing Co. as a driver/salesman for 15 years. He last worked for Tazewell Publishing Co. as a custodian for 16 years. Wayne enjoyed bowling in several leagues in the Pekin and Morton areas. He liked sports of all kinds and was a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Bulls and Chicago Bears. He was a former member of Tremont Baptist Church and most recently attended and was a member of Christ Bible Church in Creve Coeur. 'Wayne also volunteered at the Peoria Rescue Mission and for a time drove the ambulance for Rescue 702 in Tremont. He liked to watch Les Feldick, an Oklahoma Bible teacher, weekdays on television. Wayne enjoyed traveling and one of his favorite places to visit was Candler, N.C., which is home to the Riddle Brothers and their Primitive Quartet, a southern gospel and bluegrass music group. His funeral will be at noon Wednesday, January 05, at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Tom Pisano, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin, with military rites accorded by the United States Army and the Tazewell Area Ceremonial Team. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. tonight, Tuesday, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Peoria Rescue Mission, P.O. Box 837, Peoria, IL 61652-0837; or to Christ Bible Church, 133 Elmridge Place, Creve Coeur, IL 61610. The family would like to thank the staff at OSF for the excellent care Wayne received in Cardiac ICU and Medical ICU. They were our “Angels of Mercy.” submitted by dlbr 01/03/11 Pekin Daily Times

WEST, MERLE Pekin IL- Merle J. West 83 of 6713 W. Wheeler Road Peoria, passed away at 10:15 p.m. Thursday December 30, 2010, at his home. Born June 09, 1927 in Audubon Township, Montgomery County, to Bert and Ada Johnson West, he married Joann Marie Michaelson on February 18, 1951 in Pekin. She died September 14, 2000 in Pekin. He also was preceded in death by one infant son, Daniel West; one sister, Ethel Bland; and six brothers, Orville, Mark, Floyd, Ray, Max and Charles West. Surviving are one daughter, Sue (Jerry) Varnes Herrin of Glasford; one son, Dennis (Cheryl) West of Glasford; six grandchildren, Keri Gillenwater of Pekin, Shannon (Bill) Hawkshaw of Springfield, Lindsay (Doug) Pinter and Kristin (Justin) Roberts, both of Mapleton, Zachary (Nissrin) Varnes of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and David (Erica) West of Farmington; and 12 great-grandchildren. He was a United States Navy veteran, serving in World War II. Merle worked at American Distilling Co. in Pekin for 27 years. He later worked in the maintenance department at Pekin Community High School for 10 years. He was a member of Tremont American Legion Post 1236 and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 1869 in Pekin. He was a fast-pitch softball catcher for 26 years, playing from 1942 to 1968. His lifetime batting average was .278. He played in 14 state tournaments and was chosen for four state all-star teams. He was elected president of the Greater Pekin Softball League for six years and also managed Hymbaugh Motors softball team for six years. He had played for the Caterpillar Diesels. He was inducted into the Illinois Softball Association Hall of Fame on May 25, 1985. Merle enjoyed hunting, fishing, and always had a large vegetable garden. He was a New York Yankees baseball fan. His greatest joy was his many grandchildren. He also enjoyed the companionship of his beloved dog, Jeter. His funeral will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, January 05, at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Keith Huff, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin, where military rites will be accorded. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. tonight, Tuesday, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Illinois Branch of the Lupus Foundation of Illinois. submitted by dlbr 01/03/11 Pekin Daily Times

STOVALL, ELLEN Pekin IL- Ellen Louise Stovall 91, of Pekin passed away at 11:55 p.m. Saturday January 01, 2011 at Hallmark House Nursing Center in Pekin. She was born May 19, 1919 in Hillsboro to William Henry and Lillian Mae Andrews Berger. Her father was killed in the Sugar House explosion and later her mother married Carl Nolte. She married Earl Bishop “Utay” Stovall on December 24, 1935 in Danvers. He died on February 26, 1994. She also was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Earl Michael Stovall; one daughter, Earlene Jean Mishler; three brothers; and two sisters. Surviving are one daughter, Pat Roeder of Pekin; Pat’s friend, Jim McMullin (who Ellen always said “was a keeper”); eight grandchildren, Renee Sharp, Rhonda Barksdale, Jennifer Peterson, Mary Terrell, Tee Rynerson, Roberta Blanquart, Jeff Stovall and Jason Stovall; 15 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.  A homemaker, she had worked at American Distilling Co. in Pekin. In her earlier years, Ellen loved to sew and had a special talent for making quilts and loved oil painting. Later her favorite pastime was reading. She loved her family and enjoyed many memorable get-togethers. She and Utay were fortunate to spend eight years living in Arizona. They also owned a small antique business for a few years. She was of the Methodist faith and had attended Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin with her daughter before her illness. She also was a member of the Pekin Hospital League and volunteered for many years at the Nearly Nu Shop. Her family always felt she had a direct line to heaven and could make prayers come true. Her funeral will be at noon Wednesday, Jan. 5, at Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin. The Rev. Gary L. Ford will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Visitation will be from 11 to 11:45 a.m. Wednesday at the church. Arrangements are by  Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 503 N. Fourth St., Pekin, IL 61554. The family would like to thank the staff at Hallmark for their kindness and loving care. submitted by dlbr 01/03/11 Pekin Daily Times

PARKHURST, BARBARA Pekin IL- Barbara E. Parkhurst 67 of Woodbridge,Virginia., formerly of Delavan, passed away at 5:10 p.m. Friday, December 31, 2010 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. She was born January 12, 1943 in Pekin, to William B. and Goldie T. Kleen Brinkman. She married Fred Parkhurst on September 18, 1965 in Delavan. He survives.  Also surviving are one daughter, Patricia (Wayne Dennis) Wysocki and one grandson, Jason Wysocki, all of Woodbridge, Virginia. She was preceded in death by her parents.  Barbara retired in June as a crossing guard for Prince William County with over 25 years of service.  She was a member of Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church in Woodbridge and was an avid quilter. A funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January  04, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Delavan. Father Gerald Verdun will officiate. Burial will be in Prairie Rest Cemetery in Delavan. Visitation will be one hour before the service on Tuesday at the church. Memorials may be made to the  Salvation Army. Davis Mortuary in Delavan is in charge of the arrangements. submitted by dlbr 01/03/11 Pekin Daily Times

HARRIS, DANIEL Pekin IL-Daniel Lee Harris 58 of Mason City, formerly from Havana and Delavan, passed away suddenly on Saturday, January 01, 2011, at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Lincoln. He was born January 17, 1952, in Pekin to Calvin C. and Hazel L. Griffin Harris. He grew up in the Green Valley/Delavan area. Dan married Patricia A. Thompson on September 19, 1970. She survives. Also surviving are their two sons, Russell L. (Angela) Harris and James E. (Carson) Harris, both of Mason City; six grandchildren, Cody, Taylor, Emily, Cole, Amy and Alyson; one brother, John E. (Marcia) Harris of Delavan; one sister, Linda L. (Larry) Gouveia of Pekin and many nieces, nephew, cousins and close friends.He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. Dan was active in the trucking industry for over 40 years, starting in the U.S. Army, then working for his Uncle Howard at Griffin Trucking, Ruan Transport, Morton Buildings and working with his father in Harris Pest Control. In 1986, Dan and Pat purchased Earl Tucker Trucking in Mason City. They later changed the name to Mason County Transfer. In 2005 the family started Midwest Wheel Polishers. Dan was a member of the Mason City Christian Church, where he served as a deacon and trustee. Dan enjoyed traveling with his wife, woodcarving, spending time with his family, working in his truck shop, going on wheel runs and spending time with his friends, especially his close friends, Randy Brownfield, Jerry Nelson and Luke Coriell. He will be missed by many for his quick wit and sense of humor. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 06, at Hurley Funeral Home in Mason City. Pastor Joe Briseno will officiate. Burial will be in Mason City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, January 05, at Hurley Funeral Home. Memorials may be left to the Convoy for Kids Truck Show, where the donations will be made to St. Jude. Hurley Funeral Home in Mason City is in charge of arrangements. To offer online condolences, visit www.hurleyfh.com submitted by dlbr 01/03/11 Pekin Daily Times

GOOD, MARIAN Pekin IL-S. Marian Good 89 a resident of the Apostolic Christian Restmor in Morton, formerly of Pekin, passed away there at 4:45 p.m. Saturday December 25, 2010. Born July 21, 1921, in Pekin to August and Sarah Ann Jones Bruder, she married Robert D. Good on January 27, 1946, in Pekin. He died on November 03, 2002, in Peoria. She also was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Audrey Thurwanger and her brother-in-law, Ray W. Thurwanger. Surviving are two nieces, Sara Ann (Ralph) Harrison of Austin, Texas and Maryellen (Robert) Gill of Peoria; four great-nephews, David J. Hart, Richard A. Hart, John A. Hart and Christopher R. Gill; one great-niece, Kimberly A. (Jeff) Schwarzentraub; three great-great-nieces, Emily Hart, Jamie Hart and Brooke Schwarzentraub and one great-great-nephew, T.J. Schwarzentraub.A 1939 graduate of Pekin Community High School, Marian was employed as a cashier/bookkeeper at the former A & P Super Market in Pekin and Peoria for 25 years. She also had previously worked at Lois’ Food Market in Pekin and as an assistant manager at the Miracle Mart in Pekin. Marian was active with the Caterpillar Retirees Club with her husband Bob. She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin since 1933, where she formerly taught Sunday school and later was a member of the Friendship Club. Marian was a much-loved aunt who will be fondly remembered as always being there for her family. May God bless her. Her funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 8, at Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin. The Rev. Gary L. Ford will officiate. Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Saturday at the church. Arrangements are by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 503 North 4th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or to One Heartbeat Ministries, P.O. Box 3529, Peoria, IL 61612. To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com. submitted by dlbr 01/03/11 Pekin Daily Times

ACOSTA, PEDRO Pekin IL-Pedro Nelson Acosta 93 of Pekin, passed away at 4:40 a.m. Saturday, January 01, 2011 at Hallmark House Nursing Center in Pekin. He was born March 03, 1917, in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, the son of Alfred Rodriguez and Juana Acosta. He married Bertha Williams of Tavistock, England, on December 15, 1945 while serving in the United States Army during World War II. He is survived by his wife, Bertha; daughter, Bonnie (Don) Murphy of Pekin; son, Nelson (Twyla) Acosta of Claremont, Calif.; five grandsons, Todd (Kim) Murphy of Mackinaw, Rob Murphy of Pekin, Jeffrey (Erin) Acosta, Stephen Acosta and Bryan Acosta, all of Calif.; seven great-grandchildren, Tabatha and Payton Murphy of Mackinaw, Makenna and Justin Murphy of Pekin and Samantha, Alexander and Kylie Jade Acosta, all of Calif. He is also survived by one brother, Freddie Ramirez of New York City and three sisters, Christine Martinez and Gladys Camacho, both of Florida and Rosita Lopez of Puerto Rico. He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Wilson, William, Felito, Carlos Ramirez and Alfred Rodriguez, Jr. and three sisters, Faya, Carmen, and Irma. Pedro attended school in Puerto Rico, joined the United States Army during World War II and owned his own grocery business for many years in Newark, N.J. He later resided in Watertown, Wis. before moving to Pekin in 2000. He was a member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church and Roy L. King Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1232, both in Pekin. He was a kind and gentle soul and a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who treasured spending time with his family. His funeral Mass will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 5, at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin. Father James Pankiewicz will be the celebrant. Burial will be in Saint Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Pekin, where military rites will be accorded by the United States Army and Tazewell Area Ceremonial Team. Visitation will be one hour before the Mass at the church on Wednesday. Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin is in charge of arrangements.  The family would like to express appreciation to the Hallmark House staff and OSF Hospice for their outstanding care during his final days. Memorial contributions may be given to OSF Hospice, 2265 West Altorfer Drive, Peoria, IL 61615. To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com. submitted by dlbr 01/03/11 Pekin Daily Times

DAGIT, RUSSEL Pekin IL-Russel Roy Dagit 86 of 1413 Charlotte St Pekin, passed away at 7:10 p.m. Friday December 31, 2010 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.  Born November 03, 1924 in Green Valley to Charles Adolf and Clara Elizabeth Volk Dagit, he married Alberta Florence Harlan on September 04, 1942, in Pekin. He later married Christal Elaine Miller on September 04, 1966, in Peoria. She survives. Also surviving are two sons, Roy (Debbie) Dagit of Pekin and Everett (Sheila) Dagit of Spring Hill, Florida.; one daughter, Marnie Linda (Tommy) Lively of Lawrenceville, Georgia.; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Louis Dagit; and one sister, Dorothy DeGroot. Russel was a stores control clerk at Caterpillar Inc., retiring in 1974 after 31 years of service. He had previously worked at Boss Glove Factory in Peoria and worked on the building of Camp Ellis during World War II. He was a member of the Tazewell County Historic Places Society and the Tazewell County Museum & Educational Center, where he was an active volunteer building bookcases, shelves and hanging most of the pictures in the picture gallery. He enjoyed building and repairing items for the museum. He helped in the research for the Dagit family history. Russel also was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Pekin, Peoria Motorcycle Club, the Caterpillar Camping Club and the McDonald’s Coffee Club. He was an avid motorcycle rider, enjoyed the outdoors, and working in his garage. He often stated that work was his hobby. His funeral will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday, January 05, at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin, where visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. The Rev. Glenn R.A. Niemann will officiate. Private burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tazewell County Museum & Educational Center, 2950 Court St., Pekin, IL 61554. To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com. submitted by dlbr 01/04/11 Pekin Daily Times

FITZANKO, PAMELA Pekin IL-Pamela Kay Fitzanko 60, of Pekin, passed away Sunday, January 02, 2011, at her residence. She was born July 21, 1950, in Canton, to Max and Virginia Wurtsbaugh Seward. She married Harold D. Fitzanko in August 1970. He survives. Also surviving are two sons, Kevin Bishop of Delavan and Andrew (Chelsey) Fitzanko of Pekin; grandchildren, Zachary Bishop of Delavan and Chelsea Bishop of Pekin; and her siblings, Max (Jay) Seward and Michael (Vickie) Seward of Pekin, Lu Ann (Butch) Lavin of Peoria, Steven (Bobbi) Seward of Banner and Paul (Melinda) Seward of Manito. She also is survived by 17 nieces and nephews and 17 great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 6, at Abts Mortuary in Pekin, with visitation one hour prior to services. The Rev. Frank Noyes will officiate. Burial will follow in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. To offer online condolences, visit abtsmortuary.com. submitted by dlbr 01/05/11 Pekin Daily Times

HAKES, ALBERT Pekin IL-Albert V. Hakes 90 of Pekin died at 2:23 a.m. Monday January 03, 2011 at Pekin Hospital. Albert was born on October 04, 1920 in Pekin, to Samuel and Kate Briggs Hakes. He married Esther Westerfield on May 11, 1952 in Pekin. She died on July 06, 1976. Also preceding Albert in death were his parents; one sister, Ollie Oats; two brothers, Howard Hakes and Edgar Hakes; and one nephew, Ernie Oats. Albert is survived by numerous nieces and nephews, including nephew Sam Oats of Lebanon, Indiana, and niece Shirley Martin of Pekin, with whom Albert was raised.  Shirley Martin was Albert’s caregiver, with lots of help from her cousin, Veva Martin. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday January 06, at Henderson Funeral Home. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. To offer online condolences, visit www.hendersonfuneralcare.com. submitted by dlbr 01/05/11 Pekin Daily Times

BRUNINGA, LINDA Pekin IL- Linda L. Bruninga, 62, of Pekin died at 9:43 p.m. Monday, January 03, 2011, at Manor Care at Riverview in East Peoria. Cremation has been accorded. There will be no services. Henderson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. submitted by dlbr 01/05/11 PJStar

WORTMANN, ETHEL Washington IL-Ethel M. Hauser Wortmann 92 of Washington passed away Saturday, January 01, 2011 at Cox South Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.  She was born August 12, 1918, in Deer Creek to William and Mary Schick Widmer. She married Bill Wortmann on October 30, 1965 in Washington. Bill died on December 25, 2009 in Eureka. Among those surviving are three sons, George (Katy Jo) Hauser of Mission, Texas, William (Bonnie) Hauser of Purdy, Missouri, and Les (Sharon) Hauser of St. Charles, Missouri; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Ethel had worked for many years as a waitress and cook at various Washington-area restaurants. She was a lifelong member of Evangelical United Methodist Church in Washington. Prior to Mr. Wortmann's retirement from Caterpillar Inc., they both served as board members for the Sheltered Workshop for the disabled in Peoria. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday January 07, 2011, at Mason-White Funeral Home, with Pastor John Hauck officiating. Burial will follow in Hillcrest Memory Gardens, south of Washington. Visitation will be an hour prior to services on Friday. Memorials may be made to the donor's favorite charity. submitted by dlbr 01/05/11 PJStar

WORTMANN, BILL Washington IL- Bill E. Wortmann 83 of Washington passed away at 8:30 a.m. Friday December 25, 2009 at Maple Lawn Health Center in Eureka. Bill was born January 10, 1926 in Kewanee to William and Myrtle Rosenow Wortmann. He married Ethel Widmer Hauser on October 30, 1965, in Washington. Ethel survives. Also surviving are three stepsons, George (Katy Jo) Hauser of Mission, Texas, William (Bonnie) Hauser of Purdy, Missouri, and Les (Sharon) Hauser of St. Charles, Missouri; one brother, Bob (Helen) Wortmann of Carrollton, Georgia; several grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren; as well as many loving nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents. Bill retired from Caterpillar Inc. in 1983 from the Morton parts facility, where he had worked as a manager in the packaging department. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and had served our country for 16 years. During that period he had been stationed in the South Pacific, the Philippines and the Pentagon. Bill was a member of San Bernardino Masonic Lodge 178 F&AM. In his spare time, Bill enjoyed watching football and shopping, as well as traveling in his younger years. Bill also was a member of Evangelical United Methodist Church in Washington. Funeral services will be held Tuesday December 29, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at Mason-White Funeral Home, with pastor John Hauck officiating. Burial will follow in Hillcrest Memory Gardens, south of Washington. Visitation will be on Monday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials can be made to the charity of the donor's choice. Those wishing to express condolences online can do so at www.masonfuneralhomes.com. submitted by dlbr 01/06/11 PJStar

EATON, ROBYN Morton IL-Robyn G. Eaton 68 of Morton died at 2:22 p.m. Tuesday January 04, 2011 at her home. She was born July 16, 1942 in Sydney, Australia to Thomas and Lillian (Jacobson) Little. She married Edwin Eaton Jr. on December 06, 1969 in Arlington, Virginiaa. Surviving are her husband of Morton; two sons, Terry (Jody) Eaton and Michael (Michelle) Eaton, both of Morton; one daughter, Karen (Brian) Hyde of Charlottesville, Virginia.; four grandchildren, Joshua Eaton, Jared Eaton and Alea Eaton, all of Morton, and Zachary Hyde of Charlottesville, Virginia.; and one brother, Tony (Bev) Little of Sydney, Australia. She was preceded in death by her parents. Robyn had worked at Home Interiors and Gifts for 27 years. She also had worked part time at Destinations Unlimited Travel Agency in Washington. An extensive traveler, Robyn visited countries throughout Europe, the Far East and returned to Australia many times for visits with family and friends. She especially enjoyed taking cruises in the Caribbean and vacations on the U.S. Virgin Islands. Cremation will be accorded. Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, January7, 2011, at Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton, followed by a celebration of life service, with Pastor Jeff Browning officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Midwest Kidney Center, 600 S. 13th St., Pekin, IL 61554 or to the American Cancer Society , Midwest Regional Office, 4234 N. Knoxville Ave., Peoria, IL 61614. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.knappjohnson.com. submitted by dlbr 01/06/11 PJStar

GRAWE, GEORGE Morton IL-George S. Grawe formerly of Cincinnati, Ohio and Chicago, died Thursday December 30, 2010 in Peoria, Ill, at the age of 74. He was the loving husband of Sharon (Silver/Baum); cherished father of Wanda (Bill) Schoenfeld, April (Paul) Renzenbrink, Denna (Ed) Reckers and Angie (Mike) Hanson; adored grandfather of 11; great-grandfather of six; and devoted brother of Joyce Arend. A career typographer, George was founder of Typo-Set and a previous president of Typographers International Association. He was an accomplished musician and a natural entertainer. A celebration of life will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, January 08, 2011 at Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Feed the Children, American Lung Association of Illinois or Tazewell Animal Protective Society (TAPS). To view the video tribute or to leave an online condolence for the family, visit www.knappjohnson.com. submitted by dlbr 01/06/11 PJStar

LANUM, LOUISE Washington IL- Louise C. Lanum age 96 of Washington, Ill, formerly of Texas, passed away at 6:35 p.m. Sunday January 02, 2011 at Hopedale Nursing Home in Hopedale, Ill.  She was born July 14, 1914, in Spencer, Indiana, to Samuel Harley and Stella A. (McIntosh) Coan. She married Samuel K. Lanum, and he passed away (born 1907)  October 05, 1976, in San Juan, Texas. She also was preceded in death by one daughter, Susan Hall; two sisters, Wilma and Maxine; and one brother, Charles. Survivors include one son, Col. (Ret.) Thomas R. (Charlene) Lanum of San Antonio, Texas; one son-in-law, Donald Hall; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Phil (Mary Lee) Coan of Gurnee, Ill.  Louise was a homemaker and a longtime librarian while she lived in Texas.  She was a member of the Daughters of the Nile.  Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, January 07, 2011 at Schmidt-Haller Burial and Cremation Services in Peoria. A memorial visitation will be one hour prior to the services on Friday at the funeral home. Inurnment will be in Parkview Cemetery in Peoria at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hopedale Nursing Home in Louise's name. Please view Louise's lifestory at www.SchmidtHaller.com. submitted by dlbr 01/06/11 PJStar

SEGLER, ROBERT Bartonville IL-Robert L. Segler 81 of Bartonville died at 3:43 a.m. Tuesday January 04, 2011 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Born January 14, 1929 in Bartonville, the son of Otto R. and Lena J. Reuter Segler, he first married Wanda L. DeLong. He later married Sarah L. Prince on March 15, 1958 in Peoria. She survives. Also surviving are four daughters, Sandra Segler, Deborah (Larry) Trollope and Cynthia Madrigal, all of Bartonville, and Valerie Sloka of Carlsbad, Calif.; three sons, Roger (Shari) Segler of Bartonville, George Segler of Peoria and Bradley (Sue) Goodapple of Bartonville; 15 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father and mother; his stepfather, Lyle Hollis; one brother, Clarence Segler; one granddaughter, Nicole Segler; and one son-in-law, Jose Madrigal. Mr. Segler was employed by Caterpillar Inc. for 37 years, retiring February 01, 1984, as a general foreman. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean conflict and a member of Limestone American Legion, Post 979 in Bartonville. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at The Wilton Mortuary in Peoria. His daughter, Deborah Trollope, will officiate. Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Bartonville. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the mortuary and one-half hour prior to the services. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.thewiltonmortuary.com. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital , Midwest Affiliate, or to the Bartonville Fire Department. submitted by dlbr 01/06/11 PJStar

TOSI, ALVADO Manito IL- Alvado Tosi 93 of Manito passed away on Thursday January 06, 2011 at Hopedale Hospital. Born in Pekin to Dominick and Eugenia Biordi Tosi on January 20, 1917. He married Sarah Ruark in Elko, NV on March 06, 1991. She survives along with his daughter Kay Tosi of Denver, Colorado, step-sons: Rick (Cathy) Ruark of Canton, Randy (Sherry) Wisenburg of Symsonia, Kentucky, step-daughters: Cathy Pearson of Peoria, Carol (Jerry) Bilyou of Burns Oregon, and his 10 grand and 14 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Louise Nelson, brothers: Lee and Marion Tosi and sisters: Norma Lawver and Alma Gianessi. Alvado served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945 and was a POW from 1944 to 1945 (9 months) in Germany. He worked as a Laborer at Corn Products for 25 years, retiring in 1980. Alvado was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church where a funeral mass will be held on Monday January 10, at 10 a.m. Father Jim Pankiewicz will officiate. Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Pekin with Military rite by the United States Army. Visitation will be at Abts Mortuary on Sunday from 5 to 7 pm.  On-line condolences may be made at abtsmortuary.com.  Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Abts Mortuary. submitted by dlbr 01/07/11

GIANESSI, ALMA Pekin IL- Alma Gianessi, 96, of 1405 S. Seventh St. died at 8:27 p.m. Sunday, July 21, 2002, at Hallmark House Nursing Center. Born February 26, 1906, in Italy to Dominnick and Eugenia Biordi Tosi, she married Cesare Gianessi on August 02, 1924, in Pekin. He died January 15, 1980. She also was preceded in death by four brothers. Surviving are one brother, Alvado (and Maxine) Tosi of Manito; and one sister, Norma (and Elmer) Lawver of Pekin. She and her husband owned and operated the Blue Gardens Tavern in Bartonville for many years, retiring in 1965. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin and the St. Joseph Council of Catholic Women. A funeral Mass will be at 9:30 a.m. Friday at her church. The Rev. Timothy Nolan will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Abts Mortuary, with recitation of the rosary at 7 p.m. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Hallmark House Nursing Center activities department. submitted by dlbr 01/07/11 PJStar

LAWVER, NORMA Pekin IL- Norma Lawver, 98, of Pekin, passed away Sunday, November 08, 2009, at her residence. Born May 07, 1911, in Italy to Dominick and Eugenia Biordi Tosi, she married Elmer Lawver Oct.ober 15, 1980, in Branson, Missouri. He survives, along with her son, Kenneth (Marachu) Sharp of Manito, a grandson, Todd Sharp of Oceanside, California; and a brother, Alvado (Maxine) Tosi of Manito. She was preceded in death her by brothers, Lee Tosi and Marion Tosi; a sister, Alma P. Gianessi; and a son, Vernell Sharp. Norma was a clerical worker at Caterpillar Inc. for 33 years. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin. Cremation was accorded. No services are planned at this time. Abts Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. To offer online condolences, visit abtsmortuary.com submitted by dlbr 01/07/11 Pekin Daily Times

ZIMMER, WESLEY Emden IL-Wesley William Zimmer 95 of Emden passed away at 12:55 a.m. Thursday January 06, 2011.  He was born on December 30, 1915 in rural Emden to William James and Tina West Zimmer. He married Agnes Lydia Miller on June 15, 1935 at Pekin. She preceded him in death.  Also preceding him in death were his parents and a brother, Gerald.  Surviving are his children, Maxine (Richard) Lolling of Lincoln, Bill (Janet) Zimmer of San Jose, David (Jayne) Zimmer of Lincoln, Judy (Bob) Taylor of Delavan and Carol (Joe) Egli of South Pekin. He also is survived by 12 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.  He worked on the family farm his whole life, first with his father, then later with his two sons. He also bred, milked, and showed Guernsey cattle. He was a DeKalb seed corn dealer. He served as 4-H Club dairy superintendent at the Logan County Fair. He served as a member of the Logan County Extension Council, the Emden Farmers Grain Company board, Hartsburg Emden unit school board, the Guernsey Breeders Association and the Emden Kiwanis.  He was a former member of Zion Methodist Church in Emden, where he served as a member and president of the church board, as a member and president of the Methodist Men, and as a teacher and superintendent of the Sunday school. He was most recently a member of Delavan United Methodist Church. Wes and his family were named the Peoria District Methodist family of the Year in 1962.  He was a member of Logan County Farm Bureau and served as president of that organization for eight years. He was a member of Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital board of trustees and served as treasurer of that organization. He was a member of Logan County Sheriff’s Merit Board.  Wes and Agnes traveled extensively for conferences and conventions concerning the church, the Farm Bureau and DeKalb Seed Corn.  His priorities, in his own words: “his home and family, his church, and his community.”  On Sunday, December 26, 2010, his family gathered to celebrate Wes’ 95th birthday.  His funeral will be at 10 a.m. Monday, January 10, at Delavan United Methodist Church. The Rev. Larry Moreau and the Rev. Kent Lolling will officiate. Burial will be in Green Hill Cemetery in rural San Jose.  Visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, also at the church.  Davis Mortuary in Delavan is handling the arrangements.  Memorial contributions may be made to Delavan United Methodist Church or to Emden Rescue Squad.  To express condolences online visit www.davismortuaryinc.com. submitted by dlbr 01/07/11 Pekin Daily Times

LANE, JAMES North Pekin IL-James William Lane 67 of North Pekin passed away Tuesday January 04, 2011, at his residence. He was born August 30, 1943 in Peoria to Tolbert and Elizabeth Jeane Bailey Lane. He married Wanda Roark in 1992 in Peoria. She survives. Also surviving are his children, Shannon (Gregg) Stewart of Peoria, Joel (Cindy) Lane of East Peoria, Robert Lane of Peoria, Sherry Boyd, Tom and Darrell (Tara). He also is survived by 10 grandchildren, two sisters and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents. James served in the U.S. Army, worked for Allied Welding until retiring in 2000, and loved the Green Bay Packers. Cremation was accorded and no services will are planned at this time. The Cremation Society of Mid-Illinois Co. Pekin/Peoria is in charge of arrangements. To offer online condolences, visit csmico.com submitted by dlbr 01/07/11 Pekin Daily Times

SISLER, LEONA Groveland IL- Leona Susan Sisler 54 of 258 Sheffield Road Groveland, passed away at 10 p.m. Tuesday, January 04, 2011, at her home.  Born October 25, 1956 in Peoria to Donald L. and Clarky Jane Bowden Holden, she married Steven J. Sisler on June 06, 1981, in Peoria County.  Surviving are her husband; her mother in Florida; two sons, Joshua Sisler and Benjamin Sisler, both of Groveland; one brother, Peter Holden of North Pekin; and one sister, Amy (Ken) Koch of Tremont.  She was preceded in death by her father.  Leona had received a B.A. degree in business education from Illinois State University and a M.A. degree in child psychology from Bradley University.  She was employed as a guidance counselor at Greenview School District 709, last working on May 31, 2010. She enjoyed taking her students to visit the Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania., every November.  Leona was a member of the Paul Towne Memorial AMVETS Post 169 Auxiliary in North Pekin. She was president of the Illinois AMVETS auxiliary in 1991-92 and president of the National AMVETS auxiliary in 2001-02.  She was most recently the National AMVETS Auxiliary treasurer.  She also was a member of the Pekin Eagles Aerie 1869 auxiliary and she enjoyed baking.  Cremation will be accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.  A Celebration of Life gathering will be from 2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 12, at the AMVETS Post 169, 660 Radio City Drive, North Pekin.  Memorial contributions may be made to the National AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary, 4647 Forbes Blvd., Lanham, MD 20706. To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com. submitted by dlbr 01/07/11 Pekin Daily Times

MILLS, MELVIN Cherokee Village AR- Melvin Charles Mills, 94, of Cherokee Village, Arkansas, died Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011, at Carriage Hill Retirement Community in Bedford, Virginia.  Born Saturday, Sept. 23, 1916, in Oakland, Iowa, he was a son of Laurence Mills and Gleeora Mills.  In addition to his parents, Melvin was preceded in death by his wife, Flo Kathryn; one son, Larry Mills; two brothers; and two sisters.  Melvin is survived by two sons, Edward (Jane) Mills of Batavia, Ohio, and Stephen (Julie) Mills of Vienna, Virginia.; one daughter, Jean Mills of Chantilly, Virginiaa.; three grandsons, Geoff (Amy) Mills of Peoria, Ill., Jared Mills of Pine Cliff, Colorado, and Josh (Keri) Mills of Centennial, Colorado; two great-grandsons, Nathan Mills and Caden Mills, both of Peoria; and one daughter-in-law, Margaret “Maggie” Mills of Bedford, Virginia.  He was retired from Centel Telephone Co. in Pekin, Ill., where he was district superintendent. Melvin received many outstanding citizen awards while serving on the Chamber of Commerce in Pekin.  He was a devout United Methodist Church member, both in Pekin and in Cherokee Village, where he served on many boards. He was a dedicated usher every Sunday morning at the early service at Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin, and then at Cherokee Village United Methodist Church in Cherokee Village.  He also was a longtime member of Lions Club International, where he held several positions in local clubs as well as serving as district governor of Northern Arkansas and several years on the board of the International Lions School for the Blind.  He and his family worked every Christmas in Pekin delivering food and toys to families in need and helped collect money on White Cane Day for the Lions Club International.  His family and friends feel blessed to have had this gentle, kind, patient and generous man in their life. He touched everyone with his humor and wit. He was one of those God touched with a quiet spirit that blessed all who met him. He will be sorely missed. A celebration of Melvin’s life will be conducted at a later date at Cherokee Village United Methodist Church in Cherokee Village, with the Rev. Jimmy Anderson officiating. Inurnment will follow in the church columbarium. Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory in Bedford is in charge of arrangements.  Memorial contributions may be made to Lions World Services for the Blind, 2811 Fair Park Blvd., Little Rock, AR 72204.  submitted by dlbr 01/07/11 Pekin Daily Times

COREY, JOHN Peoria IL- John A "Jack" Corey 77 of Peoria, passed away at 2:25 am Friday January 07 2011 at Rosewood Care Center in Peoria.  At his request, cremation has been accorded.  No visitation or service is planned.  Private disposition of remains will be at a later date.  Davis Mortuary in Tremont is in charge of arrangements. submitted by dlbr 01/08/11 Pekin Daily Times

LAWSON, KENNETH Pekin IL-Kenneth E. Lawson 42 of Pekin passed away Tuesday January 06, 2011 in Peoria County. He was born April 03, 1968 in Pekin to Gary and Phyllis Strange Lawson.  His parents and a nephew preceded him in death. He is survived by his sons, Cory Lawson and Krystian Lawson, both of Pekin; sisters, Carol (Toby) Turner and Karri (Craig) Dunn, both of Pekin, and Cathy (Bob) Sanders of Lincoln; a brother, Kevin (Joni) Lawson of Pekin; grandparents Carl and Mary Lawson of Pekin; and several nieces and nephews. Kenneth worked in industrial maintenance for KM Plant Services and was a member of Painters Union Local 157 in Peoria. Cremation was accorded and a memorial service will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 10, at Lighthouse Church, 1112 N. 16th St., Pekin. The Rev. Tom Taylor will officiate. An open house will follow from 7 to 8 p.m. at 708 Washington St., Pekin. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family. The Cremation Society of Mid-Illinois Co. Pekin/Peoria is in charge of arrangements. To offer online condolences, visit csmico.com. submitted by dlbr 01/08/11 Pekin Daily Times

ZAPATA-NALL, CARRIE Pekin IL-Carrie Lee Zapata-Nall 82 of Pekin passed away at 3:30 p.m. Thursday January 06, 2011 at Greater Peoria Specialty Hospital in Peoria. Born March 03, 1928, in Asheville, N.C., to Cecil and Ollie Ballard Dockery, she married Manuel Zapata in 1943 in Reno, Nevada. He preceded her in death April 11, 1981 in Peoria. She later married Howard Nall on February 09, 1999 in Pekin. He survives. Also surviving are one daughter, Eugenia Zapata of Pekin; four sons, Albert (Debbie) Zapata of Pueblo, Colo, Manuel (Jan) Zapata of Lincoln, Emilio (Tammy) Zapata of Lincoln and Tony (Tonya) Zapata of Pekin; 14 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, one sister and one great-grandchild. A homemaker, Carrie sang for 10 years with the Family Circle Singers in Pekin. She also was active in nursing home ministries. Carrie was very close to all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Carrie was an active member of River of Life Church in Pekin. Her funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 11, at Lighthouse Church of God in Pekin. Mike Forbis, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to River of Life Church, 1216 S. 13th St., Pekin, IL 61554. To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com. submitted by dlbr 01/08/11 Pekin Daily Times

GRAFFIS, LORETTA Pekin IL-Loretta M. Graffis 80 of 1002 S. Seventh St. Pekin passed away at 7:27 p.m. Thursday, January 06, 2011, at Pekin Hospital. Born May 11, 1930 in Flanagan to George and Esther Augsburger Crumine, she married Clifford H. Graffis on August 13, 1949, in Pekin. He survives. Also surviving are two sons, Steve (Margi) Graffis of Washington, Ill., and Kevin (DeLisa) Graffis of Washington, Mo.; two daughters, Renae (Garry) Barker of Pekin and Diana (Mike) Woost of Oneida, N.Y.; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Robert Crumrine of Morton and Eugene (Arlene) Crumrine of Washington, Ill. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters; and one brother. Loretta retired as an underwriter with Auto Owners Insurance in Peoria after 25 years of service. She previously had worked for Lincoln Service in Pekin. She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin. She also attended the Friendship Club and was a member of the United Methodist Women and Susanna Circle at the church. She and her husband were longtime members of the Promenade Square Dance Club. Loretta enjoyed reading, liked to crochet and formerly enjoyed painting sweatshirts. She always enjoyed spending time with her grandkids. Her funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 11, at Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin. The Rev. Gary L. Ford will officiate. Private burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin, and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Tuesday at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 503 N. Fourth St., Pekin, IL 61554. To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com. submitted by dlbr 01/08/11 Pekin Daily Times

GRAFFIS, DOROTHY Pekin IL- Dorothy Louise Graffis, 84, of 1108 S. 10th St. passed away at 7:27 a.m. Saturday, January 16, 2010, at Pekin Hospital. Born July 14, 1925, in Madrid, Iowa, to George and Angeline Gregory, she married Merle Graffis in October 1941 in St. Charles, Mo. Surviving are her husband and a son, Sidney Graffis, both of Pekin. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Ernie, Al and John Gregory; and three sisters, Joanne Mayhue, Eva Splinter and Frances Yakoff. She worked for Caterpillar Inc. for 33 years, retiring in 1977 as a secretary in the planning department at Caterpillar Logistics Services Inc. in Morton. Dorothy was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin and the United Methodist Women. She and her husband enjoyed square dancing. They were founding members of the Caterpillar Square Dancing Club. They had also danced with the Peoria Red Hots and the Promenaders. Her funeral will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin. The Rev. Gary Ford will officiate. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Friday at the church. Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 503 N. Fourth St., Pekin, IL 61554; or the American Heart Association, Memorials and Tributes Lockbox, 3816 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60874. To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com. submitted by dlbr 01/08/11 PJStar

LAWSON, GARY Sr Morton IL- Gary L. Lawson Sr., 59, of 307 White Oak Drive, Morton, died at 3:37 p.m. Saturday, May 12, 2007, at Morton Villa Care Center. He was born Dec. 7, 1947, in Peoria, to Francis and Beulah (Smith) Lawson. Surviving are his mother, Beulah Lawson of East Peoria; one son, Gary Lawson Jr. of Morton; one grandson, Ethan M. Lawson of Morton; and one sister, Rosalie Cornish of Austin, Texas. He was preceded in death by his father. He was an Army veteran, serving as a combat infantryman for 10 months in Vietnam in 1969. Gary was employed as an over-the-road truck driver for over 30 years, working for Federal Warehouse in East Peoria, Bosch Transport in Bartonville and last at Star Transport in Morton. He was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans. Services will be held at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 16 at Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home in Morton, where visitation will be 30 minutes prior to the service. Burial will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, where military services will be conducted. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.knappjohnson.com. submitted by dlbr 01/08/11 PJStar

LAWSON, PHYLLIS Pekin IL- Phyllis C. Lawson, 58, of Pekin passed away on Friday, April 27, 2007, at Pekin Hospital. A memorial service will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Abts Mortuary, with visitation one hour prior. submitted by dlbr 01/08/11 PJStar

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