Whiteside Co IL Obituaries

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Whiteside County Illinois

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ADA G. (FURRY) CAIN , 80, of Tampico, died at 7:30 p.m. Monday after suffering a heart attack. She had been in failing health for four years. The body was taken to the Parent Funral Home where funeral arrangements are being completed. The Rev. Stockton Swaney, pastor of the Methodst Church, will officiate and burial will be in the Tampico Memorial Cemetery. Mrs. Cain was born March 27, 1876, in Mendon, Mo., daughter of David and Mary Furry. She was educated in Missouri and Illinois schools. She married H. E. Cain at Tampico in October, 1903, and lived in Tampico for the past 60 years. Surviving are four sons, Fred, David and James, all of Tampico, and George, Boulder, Colo.; one daughter, Dorothy Albuquerque, N.M.; a brother, William Furry, Tampico; and two sisters, Mrs. Fanny Berge, Tampico and Mrs. Daisy Hinman, Macomb. She was preceded in death by her husband, who died in 1947, a sister, Emma Green, Mendota, and a brother David of San Diego, Calif.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois July 24, 1956 - Tuesday, pg 2 col 2
DAVID ELI CAIN , 52, 1210 15the Ave., Sterling, Sixth grade teacher in the Washington Elementary School, died Sunday eveing in the Community General Hospital following a heart attack. The body was taken to the Schmitt Funeral Chapel in Tampico where friends may call after 7 p.m. this evening until noon on Wednesday. It will be brought to the First Methodist Church in Sterling at noon Wednesday to lie in state until the hour of services. Funeral services will be conducted in the First Methodist Church at 2:30 p.m., the Rev. Ridell Kelsey, pastor of the church, officiating. Burial will be in Tampico Memorial Cemetery. Mr. Cain was born Sept. 10, 1908, the son of H.E. and Ada Furry Cain. He attended the Tampico grade and high schools and graduated from the University of Illinois in 1931. He did post-graduate work at both the University of Illinois and the University of Colorado. He married Kathryn Deets of Coleta on Aug. 1, 1956. He had spent his entire lifetime in Tampico until five years ago when he moved to Sterling to reside. He taught the Sixth grade in the Washington Elementary School for the past four years. He was a member of the First Methodist Church of Sterling; BPOE of Sterling; and was a member of honor of the National Education Fraternity. He served for some time as chief of the Tampico Fire Department. Survivors are his widow, one stepson, Lyle Deets, serving with the Armed Forces in the Panama Canal Zone; one granddaughter; one sister, Miss Dorothy Cain, Tampico; and three brothers, Fred, James E., and George, all of Tampico. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor from The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois March 6, 1961 - Monday, pg 2 col 2
GREGORY ALLEN CAIN - Rev C. Richard Dawson, pastor of the first Christian Church of Rock Falls, officiated at graveside services for Gregory Allen Cain, infant son of Arlyn and Judith Cain, 1502 4th Ave., Rock Falls at 10 a.m. today in Riverside Cemetery. The child died at birth Tuesday afternoon in Community General Hospital. The Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home had charge of funeral arrangements. The infant is survived by his parents; paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Cain of Rock Falls; maternal great grandmother; Mrs. Josephine Benton, also of Rock Falls; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers
ALDEN E. CALKINS , 74, of Goshen, Ind., a retired newspaper man, died Saturday [11/25/1972] evening in Goshen, Ind. Graveside services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday in Riverside Cemetery by the Rev. Jean Saltzman, pastor of Fourth Street United Methodist Church. There is visitation at Behrens Mortuary from 7 to 9 p.m. today and from 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday. Alden E. Calkins was born Aug. 30, 1898 in Rockford. He was a fomer editor of a Rockford newspaper. His wife, the former Harriett Church, preceded in death Feb. 4, 1970. Surviving are four nephews and three nieces, Don Church of Ontario, Calif., Kenneth Church of Mt. Prospect, Merrill Church of Goshen, Ind., Kenneth W. Church of Sterling, Mrs. Robert (Susan) Speirer of Deven, Colo., Mrs. Charlotte Zeliar of Franklin, Ind.; and Mrs. Brad (Betty) Jamison of Sterling.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, November 27, 1972, page 2, column 2
EMMA GABRIELSON CALKINS , was born May 1st, 1855 in Somerset County Ohio, and was called to her eternal reward at the home of her daughter, Mrs. John Frankfather, near Coleta, Ill., Oct. 4th , 1917, age 62 years, 5 month and 4 day. She was united in marriage to John B. Gabrielson June 3, 1875. To this union were born three children, Charles V: Gabrielson, Elnora B. Frankfather and Willie E. Gabrielson, who preceded her in death, her first husband passing away, in later years she was again married to Abram Calkins. To this union were born one son, John Williams. She had been in former years a member of the Baptist church. She was patient in her suffering and had a bright hope of Heaven. She leaves to mourn the loss, two sons, one daughter, two-step sons, Clarence and George Calkins, one-step daughter, Mrs. Henry Mayberry, one brother, three nieces and several grand daughter, also a large host of friends and neighbors. The funeral services were conducted at the home of her daughter, by Rev. O.J. Ludwig. Interment in Bethel cemetery.
WAYNE E. CALVIN of 2106 Canal St. , Rock Falls , will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday in the Melvin Funeral Home. The Rev. H. C. Hatton, pastor of the First Church of the Nazarene, officiating. Burial will be in Oak Knoll Memorial Park Cemetery Visitation will be from seven to nine o’clock this evening in the Melvin Funeral Home and for, 8 a.m. until noon Tuesday. Wayne E Calvin was born Oct 17, 1948 in Kankakee , Ill. , the son of Kenneth and Donna Wicklan Calvin. He attended the Sterling schools and Olive Nazarene College at Kankakee for two years. He was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene of Sterling as was united in marriage to Patricia Peugh in Sterling on Aug 5, 1967. Survivors include; his wife, Patricia; his mother, Mrs. Donna Calvin and two sisters Miss Shirley Calvin and Miss Barbara Calvin of Sterling . His father Kenneth preceded in death. (Aug 17, 1970 Sterling Gazette) The funeral of Wayne E. Calvin was held at 3 p.m. Tuesday in the Melvin Funeral Home with the Rev. H.C. Hatton, pastor of the First Church of the Nazarene, officiating. Mrs. J. H. Linn was at the organ and Gerald Pontsler sang “Jesus is Always There” and “Beyond Today.” Burial was in Oak Knoll Memorial Park Cemetery. Pallbearers were Dan Salisbury, Dennis Hadley, Donald Lee, R. H. Sharp, Wendy Parsons and George Lyons, Swartley florists were in charge of flowers.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - Aug 19, 1970 Sterling Gazette

GARY K CASSENS , 65, of Sterling died Wednesday, March 20, 2002, at his home after an extended illness. He was employed by Northwestern Steel and Wire Co., Sterling, as a crane operator, retiring after 37 years. Mr. Cassens was born July 14, 1936, in Sterling, the son of Raymond G. and Lucy (Webster) Cassens. He served in the Army. He married Judith Pettorini on April 29, 1961, at St. Marys Church, Sterling. He enjoyed reading and researching family genealogy. Survivors include his wife; two sons, Marc (Terree) Cassens and Matt Cassens, both of Oklahoma; two sisters, Marilyn Gasper of Tamah, Wis., and Katherine (Gary) Arity of Sterling; and three grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Donna Mae in infancy. The Funeral is at 11 a.m. Friday at McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory, Rock Falls, with the Rev. Joseph Snider, pastor of Wesley United Methodist Church, Sterling, officiating. Visitation is from 10-11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home.A Memorial has been established to Hospice of the Rock River Valley.
Daily Gazette March 21, 2002

ELSIE (BOWDEN) CAMPBELL , 68, 209 Avenue C., Rock Falls, died at 7:25 p.m. Thursday (May 1, 1952) at the family home. She had been in ill health for about two years. The body was removed to the Wheelock funeral home, Rock Falls, where friends may call after 3 p.m. Saturday. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the funral home. Rev. Harry E. Shiffer, pastor of the Rock Falls Christian church, officiating. Interment will be in the Rock Falls Odd Fellows cemetery. Mrs. Campbell was born June 23, 1884, in Hanhover township, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bowden. Surviving are her husband, Russell Campbell; three children, Wayne of Sterling, Clarence of the U.S. air force, stationed at Topeka, Kan., and Mrs. Gladys Clifton of Rock Falls; one brothers, William Bowden of Lena, Ill.; one sister, Mrs. Paul Stanger of Elizabeth, Ill., and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and one sister.
Contributed by Melva Taylor from The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois May 2, 1952 - Friday, pg 2 col 2
HATTIE (SMITH) CAMPBELL , wife of J.E.W. Campbell, in the 22d year of her age, on Friday, August 3d, from chronic peritonitis with effusion and adhesion of the omentum. Mrs. Campbell was the youngest daughter of Hannah L. Smith; was married to Mr. Campbell last fall at Dixon. Thus early on life’s voyage has Mr. Campbell’s partner been called to her eternal home and from earthly friends who deeply mourn the loss of a highly esteemed lady. The funeral services took place at the residence of Nelson Smith, on Saturday afternoon, Rev. Mr. Bushnell officiating
Contributed by Diane Patterson
LYDIA MAE (COHENOUR) CARD - Funeral rites for Mrs. Lydia Mae Card were conducted at 2:30 pm Sunday in the Melvin funeral home by the Rev. Harry E. Shiffer of the Rock Falls Christian Church. Miss Gertine Schlough sang "In the Garden", and "Nearer My God to Thee" and Mrs. J. H. Linn played the organ music. Interment was in Riverside cemetery, the casket bearers being Charles Maxey, Joe Bradford, William Edens, Francis Goff, Walter Pfeiffer and Frank Duffy. The flowers were in charge of Mrs. Francis Goff, Mrs. Charles Gilroy and Mrs. George Hinrichs. Lydia Mae Card was born the daughter of Peter and Susan Cohenour in 1873 at Como, Illinois, where her girlhood was spent and schooling was completed. In young womanhood, she lived in Mendota and Sterling, Illinois, where she was employed in hotel office work and management. In 1893 she was united in marriage with William Shirley Card at Morrison, Illinois. They made their home at Dixon, Ill., where Mr. Card was employed in the old shoe factory; later moving to Lyndon and Como and then to Rock Falls where she has resided for many years. To this union the following children were born, Laura Elsie Zimmerman, Edna Marie McClure, Ella Isabelle Bruns, Robert James, Helen Thompson, Edwin Shirley, Donald Russell, William Shirley, Jr., Paul Thomas, Leslie Francis, Elizabeth Mae, and George. The following children survive. Edna Marie McClure, Ella Isabelle Bruns, Helen Thompson, Edwin Shirley, Donald Russell, William Shirley, Jr., Paul Thomas and Leslie Francis; also 18 grandchildren and six great grandchildren survive. Also two brothers, Sam Cohenour of Como and Frank of Sterling and one sister, Mrs. Lizzie Anspatch of Canajoharie, New York. Four children preceded their mother in death. Laura Elsie Zimmerman, Robert James, Elizabeth Mae and George. Mr. Card died December 28, 1942. Mrs. Card was a devoted member of the Good Samaritan circle of Kings Daughters, W. C. T. U. of Rock Falls and also a member of the Townsend club No. 2 of Rock Falls. She believed in and acknowledged a Christian God and Savior, tried always to help where help was needed, was a good mother and neighbor and in her passing will be greatly missed.
Contributed by Jueanne Meyers
LONNIE CHANDLER , 58, of Prophetstown died Saturday, June 17, 2006 at CGH Medical Center. He was employed by Tyson Foods/IBP, Joslin, for more than 30 years. Mr. Chandler was born May 2, 1948, in Morrison, the son of Lester “Bud” and Dorothy (Diephuis) Chandler. He served in the Navy during the Vietnam War. He married Nancy Snodgrass on June 23, 1969, in Morrison. Survivors include is wife, a daughter, Becky Chandler, a son, Billy Chandler, a brother, Larry (JoAnn) Frederick and two granddaughters, all of Prophetstown. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 21, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at Prophetstown United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery. Visitation is from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at the church. Arrangements were completed by Gibson & Son Funeral Home, Prophetstown.
Contributed by Debbie Thormahlen from The Prophetstown Echo – June 20, 2006
ARCHIE F. CHAPMAN , 78, Riverside Mobile Estates, Rock Falls, died Saturday at Community General Hospital in Sterling. Services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral home in Rock Falls with the Rev. Scott Porter, pastor of Abiding Word Christian Center, Sterling, officiating. Burial will be the the IOOF Cemetery in Rock Falls. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established to the American Cancer Society. He was born Aug. 7, 1910 in Keithburg, the son of William Lee and Nellie Mae Pruitt Chapman. He married Dorothy E Fehlman Brandford on June 19, 1950 in Rockford. Mr. Chapman was a retired tool and die maker for International Harvester, and was a member of the Rock Falls Christian Church and the Rock Falls Eagles Club. He is survived by two sons, Carroll Lee Chapman of Washington state, Gene Chapman of Aledo, stepson Joseph Branford of St Albans, W. Va., and stepdaughter Mrs. Robert (Karen) Altendorf of Cary, six grandchildren and five brothers, Ralph, Forrest, Robert and Dean Chapman of Rock Falls, and Howard Chapman of Dixon. He was preceded by his wife, his parents, two daughters and two brothers.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois March 7, 1989 - Tuesday, pg A2
FRED CHASE , 73, Fulton, died Sunday at the Nursing Home in Tulsa, Okla. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 1:30 p.m. at the Bosma Funeral Home in Fulton with the Rev. James Brown officiating. Burial will be in Fulton Cemetery. Visitation is from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Fred Chase was born in Jasckson County, Iowa, July 20, 1905, the son of Peter Chase and Georgia Simpson. Survivors include one sister, Mrs. Andrew (Mabel) Graham of Fulton; two brothers, John of Fulton and Charles of Clinton, Iowa. He was preceded in death by two wives, three sisters and five brothers.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois November 7, 1978 - pg 4
MATILDA (PETERSON) CHRISTENSEN , of RFD 2, Tampico, died Monday afternoon in the Rest Haven Nursing Home in Dixon at the age of 94. Mrs. Christensen was born Feb. 10, 1871, in Princeton, the daughter of the late Gustave and Mary Larson Peterson. She was a member of the Tampico Methodist Church for over 70 years. She was united in marriage to Christen Christensen, who preceded her in death Nov. 16, 1934. They had farmed many years in the Tampico area. She is survived by one son, Charles, of RFD 2, Tampico; three daughters, Miss Clara Marie, Miss Evelyn Mae, and Miss Myrtle Christena Christensen, all of RFD 2, Tampico; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded by her husband and four brotheers. Funeral services will be Thursday at 2 p.m. at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home with Rev. Roger Baumeister, pastor of the Tampico Methodist Church, officiating, with burial in Tampico Memorial Cemetery.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois November 2, 1965 - Tuesday, pg 2 col
CHARLES CHRIEST , 83, died at his home in Tampico at 2 p.m. Friday (February 4, 1949) . He had been ill in bed the past week. Funeral services will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. in Parent's chapel. Rev. Hollis Wharton, pastor of the Methodist church, officiating. Burial will be in Tampico Memorial cemetery. Mr. Chriest was born in Trenton, N. J., March 4, 1866. He came to Tampico as a child and had lived here ever since. A farmer, he moved to town 12 years ago. He was a member of the Methodist church. He was married April 21, 1908 in Rock Falls to Maude Kilroy, who preceded him in death in April of 1942. A son, Bill, 19, also preceded him in October of 1936. Surviving are two sons, Charles jr., of Tampico and Lester of Algonquin; four daughters, Mrs. Charles (Ida Mari) Adams, and Mrs. Charles (Nellie) Peterson, both of Tampico, and Mrs. Bill (Wilma) Hauck of Cary, and Mrs. Russell (Darlene) Kent of Rock Falls.
Contributed by Melva Taylor from The Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois Feburary 5, 1949 - Saturday, pg. 2 col. 2
A.C. CROUCH , one of the old residents of the county, died Friday [05/04/1901] morning at 8:30 o’clock at the home of his son, M. C. Crouch, in Ustick. He was 89 years of age, and his wife and one son, Melvin D., were with him at the old homestead where he resided for over 40 years. The funeral will be held at the home Sunday at 2 o’clock.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Standard, May 4, 1901, page 1, column 6
DASHAWNA ANN CHURCH , 5, died Friday, January 20, 2006 at CGH Medical Center, Sterling. She was born on November 21, 2000 in Sterling, the daughter of Shawn A. and Jessica A. (Reyle) Church. She attended pre-school in Prophetstown. Surviving is her mother, Jessica Church of Prophetstown; her father, Shawn A. (Angela) Church of Sterling; her sister Darian Church; her brothers Gage Church and Gavin Church; her step-brothers Dylan, Hunter and Noah; her maternal grandparents, Mary Garner and Jim Chase of Prophetstown; her paternal grandparents, Kathy Smith of Hitchcock, TX and Jim Church of Lyndon. Funeral services will be Tuesday, January 24, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. in the McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory, Rock Falls with the Rev. Nancy Dvorachek, pastor of Wesley United Methodist Church officiating. Visitation is Tuesday from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home.
News Article of the Accident: Heavy snow and treacherous icy roads were the conditions reported involving a tragic two-car accident resulting in the death of a five year old child and injuring three other passengers Friday evening, Jan. 5, east of Lyndon. Dashawna Ann Church was pronounced dead by Whiteside County Coroner Joe McDonald at CGH Medial Center in Sterling at 6:11 p.m. A van driven by Mary K. Garner was eastbound on Moline Rd. when it was struck by a car heading west driven by Gina M. Cornstubble, 19, of Lyndon. Other passengers in the Garner vehicle were Jessica Church, 21, of Prophetstown and her daughter, five year old Dashawna Church. Cornstubble was driving alone. The Whiteside County Sheriff’s Department responded to the accident report at 4:15 .m. All four victims were rushed to the hospital. The accident remains under investigation.
Contributed by Debbie Thormahlen from the Prophetstown Echo
NANCY M. (STONE) CHURCH , 66, of Barstow, IL died Saturday, July 1, 2006 at her home surrounded by her family. Services were held Thursday, July 6, 2006 at the Gibson & Son Funeral Home, Prophetstown. Burial followed in Sharon Cemetery, rural Erie, IL. Following the burial, the celebration of her life continued for all family and friends at the Barstow Fire Department. A memorial fund has been established for EMT and Nursing education. Nancy was born May 7, 1940 in Rutland, IL the daughter of Francis and Lila (Redell) Stone. She was a graduate of Prophetstown High School and Black Hawk College, Moline. She married M.L. Church in 1959. They divorced in 1979. She had worked at Purina Foods, Clinton, IA, and Volckmann’s Furniture, Morrison where she was a union steward. At the age of 54, she received her Registered Nursing Degree. She then worked for Trinity Hospital, A Plus, and Gentiva all in the Quad Cities. Nancy then worked for Trinity Home Health Care where she specialized in in-home pediatrics. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Fenton, IL, the Red Hat Society, and past Eastern Star member. She served the Barstow Fire Department in many ways. She was an EMT, Volunteer Firefighter, member of its ladies auxiliary and treasurer of the Barstow Fireman’s Association. She also taught EMT and First Responder courses for area fire departments. Her hobbies included gardening, crocheting, sewing and golfing. Nancy is survived by daughters and son-in-law, Sandy and Jim Gerrard, Spring Valley, MN, Kim and Tom Dolieslager, Erie, IL, sons Tim Church, East St. Louis, Randy Church, Erie, 10 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, sisters and spouses, Mary Ann and Marion Duuck, Clinton, IA, Lucy and Gene Ryan, Morrison, IL, Frannie and Carlyle Oleson, Hooppole, IL, brothers and spouses, Larry and Barb Stone and Frank and Kathy Stone, Lyndon, IL. She was preceded by her parents and a sister, Judy.
Contributed by Debbie Thormahlen from The Prophetstown Echo – July 11, 2006
ROGER CHURCH , 52, of Columbus, GA, formerly of Franklin Grove, IL, died suddenly Jan. 18, 2006 in Columbus. Services will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Gibson and Son Funeral Home, Prophetstown, IL. Burial will follow in the Riverside cemetery, Prophetstown. Friends may call on Tuesday from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. A memorial fund has been established. Roger was born Feb. 17, 1953 in Greenville, SC, the son of Richard D. and Sara (Griffin) Church. He was currently employed by Charbroil Co. as a maintenance supervisor. Roger enjoyed the outdoors and was involved in antique cars. He is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Rusty and Kellie Frey, Dixon, IL, Jonathan and Jessica Church, Galesburg, IL, three grandchildren, and sisters and brother—in-law, Sharon and William Creekpaum, Rock Falls, and Vickie Herwig, Dixon. He was preceded by his father in 1981 and mother in 1983.
Contributed by Debbie Thormahlen from the Prophetstown Echo
RALPH E. COATES - 77, of 3602 River Road, Sterling, died Thursday afternoon (29 August 1985) in Community General Hospital following a long illness. Memorial services will be held at a later date. The body was cremated. Arrangements were completed by the Allen Funeral Home in Sterling. Mr. Coates was born Feb. 7, 1908 in Bloomfield, Missouri, the son of James and Etta (Elmore) Coates. He was united in marriage to Elsie Buzzard on July 26, 1970 in Camanche, Iowa. He had been an auto mechanic in the area prior to his retirement in 1969. He is survived by his wife, Elsie E., one son, Gene Coates, Sarasota, Florida; one stepdaughter, Mrs. Doris Slater, Sterling; one sister, Mrs. Helen Todd, Flint, Michigan; two grandchildren and one greatgrandaughter; two great great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois August 30, 1985 - Friday, pg A4
GLORIA (VERACINI) COERS , 69, of Tampico died Sunday, March 2, 2008 at Rockford Memorial Hospital. Gloria was born November 22, 1938 in Chicago, the daughter of Angelo and Gina (Dotti) Veracini. She married Walter A. Johanssen, Jr. and he died November 22, 1997. She later married Russell D. Coers, Jr. on March 8, 2008 in Sterling. Gloria enjoyed sewing and gardening. Survivors included her husband Russell of Tampico; a daughter Debra (Dr. Thomas) Hogge, of Dixon; a son, Mike Johanssen of Dixon; a step-daughter, DeAnna Lynn Coers of Clinton, Iowa; 2 step-sons, Brian Scott (Tiffany) Coers of Florida and Russell Lee (Bridgett) Coers of Texas; a sister, Laura Tintori of Rock Falls; grandchildren, Alyvia Hogge, Carson Hogge, April Fitzgerald, Autumn Walters, Ali Johannsen, Chris Johannsen, Jessica Meiners, Ashley Coers, Lucas Hemminger, Jenna Coers, Jacob Coers and Ryan Coers. She also was preceded in death by her parents, and 3 brothers, Enrico, Rico and Leo Veracini. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at McDonald Funeral Home, Rock Falls with Monsignor Thomas Dzielak; pastor of St. Andrew Catholic Church officiating. Burial will follow at Tampico Memorial Cemetery. Visitation is Thursday from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Contributed by Denise McLoughlin - Prophetstown Echo, March 4, 2008 A2;1
DAVID C. COHENOUR (Funeral Notice) - The remains of David Cohenour, who passed away at Conrad, Wis., arrived in Sterling at 1 o'clock this afternoon and were taken to the home of a daughter, Mrs. C.E. Dunn, in Rock Falls. Short rites will be held at the home prior to the services at the Church of the Brethren at 2 o'clock Thursday afternoon. Rev. S.S. Blough will conduct the rites. Burial will be in Riverside. ( "The Sterling Daily Gazette" 27 Oct 1926 Pg. 2)
Obituary: David C. Cohenour was born in Orbisonia, Pa., Sept. 19, 1950, and died Oct. 25, 1926 at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J.W. Martin, at Conrath, Wis. He was united in marriage with Hannah C. Runyan in Carroll county, Ill., in 1874. To this union nine children were born, three having preceded him in death. He united with the Church of the Brethren at Hickory Grove in 1876. He leaves to mourn his death, his wife and six children they being, Mrs. G.E. Smith, Mrs. Alvin Hunsberger, David H. Cohenour, and Mrs. C.E. Dunn, all of Rock Falls, Mrs. J.W. Martin of Conrath, Wis., and Lloyd L. Cohenour of Sheldon. There are also grandchildren and other relatives and friends to mourn their loss. The deceased was formerly a resident of Sterling and Rock Falls but five years ago moved to Wisconsin, where he has resided since. Burial from the home of Mr. and Mrs. C.E. Dunn of Second avenue, Rock Falls, son-in-law and daughter of the deceased. Funeral services were held at the Church of the Brethren and burial was in Riverside cemetery. Six of the grandsons acted as pall bearers.
Contributed by Pamela Dollarhide - "Sterling Daily Gazette" 1 Nov 1926 Pg. 7
HANNAH (RUNYAN) COHENOUR - Funeral services for Mrs. Hannah Cohenour, who passed away at Glen Flora, Wis., at midnight Sunday, will be held from the Church of the Brethren at 2:30 Friday, Rev. Perry Hoover conducting the rites. The body arrived in Sterling by train Wednesday night and was taken to the Wheelock funeral home. Mrs. Cohenour, 92, fell at the home of her daughteer, Mrs. George Smith, route one, Rock Falls, last Septeamber and was bedfast for six weeks. Last month she made the trip to Wisconsin in an automobile and sat up the entire distance. Mrs. Cohenour was born April 1, 1854, and would have been 92 years old had she lived three months longer. She came to Illinois at the age of two, her parents first settling in Mount Carroll, where she and her late husband, David, lived until 1878 when they moved to Como. Mr. Cohenour preceded her in death. For the last 40 years she had made her home in Rock Falls.
Contributed by Pamela Dollarhood Sterling Gazette Sterling, Illinois January 2, 1947
PETER C. COHENOUR - Funeral of Peter C. Cohenour held from home of his daughter -- Many relatives and friends at services. Lyndon, Jan. 16 -- Peter C. Cohenour passed to his eternal rest Monday morning at half past two at the home of his daughter Mrs. George Anspach, 2 miles south of Lyndon. Mr. Cohenour suffered 9 strokes of paralysis. A short time ago and failed rapidly till death claimed him. Peter C. Cohenour was born at Orbisonia, Huntingdon county, Penn., in 1834. He was married to Mrs. Susan J. Hunt in 1864. To this union 6 children were born. Mrs. Geo. Anspach of Lyndon, Mrs. Shirley Card of Como, Frank of Lyndon, Samuel and Robert of Como, and Mrs. Olan Corgay of Prophetstown. Mr. Cohenour moved to Como, Ill. in 1866 where he resided till the death of his wife eight years ago. Since then he has made his home with his children. Mr. Cohenour was a skilled carpenter and followed his occupation until about 4 years ago when ill health prevented. The funeral was held from the Methodist church at 1 o'clock Tuesday. Interment at Lyndon cemetery. Mrs. Eliza Miller and son John came down from Milledgeville Tudsady to attend the funeral of Mr. Cohenour. Mrs. Miller was a sister of Mrs. Cohenour. Mr and Mrs. Will Hunt of Galt came down to attendthe funeral of Mr. Cohenour. Mr. and Mrs. Will Hunt are visiting overnight with Mr. and Mrs. H.C. Allen.
Contributed by Jueanne Meyers -- NOTE: I believe there is a typo in this obituary. Eliza Miller was not Susan's sister, she was Peter's sister, so the line should read "Mrs. Miller was a sister of Mr. Cohenour."

HARRY (Jr) COLLIER , infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Collier, 1510 10th Ave., Rock Falls, died at St. John's Pre-Mature Center Hospital in Springfield at 3 p.m. Monday. The infant was born at 6:25 a.m. Monday in Community General Hospital. Graveside services were conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday in Calvary Cemetery, with the Rev. William Kreigsmann, pastor of St. Andrew's Church in Rock Falls, in charge. Arrangements were completed by the Melvin Funeral Home. Surviving are the parents, one brother, Michael, and two sisters, Jane Marie and Ginger Lee, all at home; the maternal grandparetns, Mr. and Mrs. John H. Mayberry, Sterling, and the paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Collier, Rock Falls.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, IllinoisMay 31, 1961 - Wednesday, pg 6

LEROY E. COLLIER , 57 of 2903 A. St., Rock Falls, died Thursday afternoon (29 April 1982) in Community General Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Melvin-Schilling Funeral Home with the Rev. Ray Rebuck, pastor of the Trinity United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. Vistation is from 7-9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established in his memory Mr. Collier was born Oct.9, 1923 in Glen Ellyn, the son of Fred and Mabel (Mayberry) Collier. He was a truck driver for the Teamsters and a veteran of World War II, service in the U.S. Army. He was a member of the Sterling VFW. He is survived by one step-son, John R., of Hennepin, one daughter, Peggy Hosteller of Mishawaka, Indiana; three brothers, Alfred of Red Bluff, California, Donald of Rock Falls, and Harry (Cubb) of Sterling, and three sisters, Mrs. Wayne (Evelyn) VanDusen of Coleta and Phyllis Sublett and Mrs. Robert (Marilyn) Dickson, both of Sterling. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois, April 30, 1982 - Friday, pg A4

BENJAMIN COLLINS , 80, passed away at his home in Galva, Ill., where he had resided for a number of years. He formerly operated a farm near Tampico. The body was brought to the Parent funeral home here where funeral services will be conducted at 3 p.m. Saturday. Bural will be in Memorial cemetery.
Contributed by Melva Taylor

FRANK E. COLLINS , 89, funeral services will be conducted at 9:30 a.m. Thursday in the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Tampico. The Rev. A. M. Weitekamp, pastor of the church will officiate. Burial will be in the St. Mary's cemetery. Friends may call at the Schmitt Funeral Chapel this afternoon and evening. The rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. this evening. Mr. Collins was born in Tampico, the son of Robert and Margaret Collins. He was reared and educated in the Tampico community. He was married to Julia Gahagan in 1894. He was employed as constable of Tampico for a number of years; worked as a blacksmith and operated a threshing machine in the area; was an engineer for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy railroad and for the H.Y. and T. railroad. He was a member of the St. Mary's Catholic Church of Tampico and was a past member of the Locomotive Engineers association. Survivors are one daughter, Ellen, San Francisco, Calif.; and one son, Thomas; three nieces, including Mrs. Gladys Rydbeerg, Galva and one nephew. He was preceded in death by his wife, who died in 1948, one child in infancy and his parents.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, IllinoisMay 24, 1961 - Wednesday, pg 2 col 4

ROBERT W. COLLINS , 76, of 307 N. Jackson St., Morrison, died Friday, July 25, 2003, at Mercy Medical Center North,Clinton, Iowa.He was formerowner and pastpresident of Climco Coils, Morrison. Mr. Collins was born Sept. 24, 1926, in Sterling. the son of Alfred W. and Katherine (Briggs) Collins. He was a 1944 graduate of Morrison High School, a 1946 graduate of Wayland Academy, Beaver Dam, Wis., and a 1948 graduate of Frances Shimer College, Mount Carroll. He served in the Navy during World War II. He married Marion F. Hook on Dec. 14, 1963, in Des Moines, He was a member and past commander of American Legion Post 328, and member of Dunlap Masonic Lodge 321, both in Morrison. He served as past president of Morrison Country Club and chairman of the Morrison Community Hospital board. He was a member of Morrison Barber Shoppers and past participant of Morrison Musical Theater Association. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Morrison, where he served as elder and sang in the church choir. He had a great love for his family and community. Survivors include his wife; a daughter, Patricia (William)Anderson of Morrison; a son, David (Linda) Hook of Morrison; a sister, Sue Wylder of Morrison; six grandchildren; and seven great- grandchildren. The funeral is at 10:30 am Tuesday at First Presbyterian Church. Morrison, with the Rev. Peter Wilkinson, pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Sterling, officiating. Cremations rites were accorded. Burial is at a later date. Visitation is from 6-8 p.m. Monday at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home. A memorial has been established to the American Heart Association
Daily Gazette July 27, 2003
LEROIS GERTRUDE (FRANK) CONERY , 27, passed away Saturday afternoon (31 May 1952) at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Frank. She had been in failing health for some time, and had lived with her parents the past six months. Friends may call at the chapel of the Gardner Mortuary, where the body now rests. The funeral will be held in the chapel there at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday (CST). Rev. Carl A. Bengston, pastor of the Prophetstown Lutheran church, will officiate. Burial will be in Yorktown cemetery. Mrs. Conery was born Leoris Gertrude Frank Nov. 30, 1924, at Tampico, the daughter of Ernest and Louise (Sandrock) Frank. She was educated at Hume Center school, and was a member of Lydon Methodist church. She married Adrian Conery of Erie at Morrison June 2, 1945. They have resided in the Lyndon and Prophetstown communities since their marriage. Surviving besides her parents and husband are: three daughters, Shirley Ann, Sally Marie and Linda Lous; two brothers, Arnold, stationed in Korea, and Everett at home; and one sister, Gladys at home.
Contributed by Melva Taylor from The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois June 2, 1952 - Monday, pg 2 col 2
WARD CONNER - Word was received here Friday evening (Oct 3, 1924) announcing the death of Ward Conner, formerly of this city, who passed away at a Waterloo, Iowa, hospital, Friday afternoon, following an operation on Wednesday when his leg was amputated in the hope of saving his life. Death was caused by diabetes. the funeral will be held her Monday morning at 9 o’clock at St Mary’s church, rev. Father A. J. Burns officiating. Burial will be in Calvary. The remains will arrive here Sunday afternoon at 1:00 o’clock (rest of article not copied)
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - Oct 4 1924 Daily Gazette
FIDELIA (LATHROP) CONNOR - whose death occurred in Chicago Tuesday of this week and whose maiden name was Miss Fidelia Lathrop, was born in Modoc, Canada, June 10, 1852 and died in Chicago, Ill., Aug. 31, 1915, making her aged 83 years, 2 months and 21 days. She was the daughter of Carlo and Rhoda Lathrop and was one of a family of thirteen children of whom she is survived by three brothers, Asa Lathrop, of Cary, Wyoming, Ariel P. Lathrop, of Persia, Iowa, and James Lathrop, of Buffalo, N. Y., also a sister living in Morrison, Ill., Mrs. Mary Woodruff. She was twice married, the first time to Jonathan G. Olmstead, April 29, 1854, in the province of Canada where they lived until 1856, when the came to Prophetstown, Ill. There was born to this couple two children, Emma and Ida Olmstead of whom the latter, Mrs. Ida M. Post, only survive of this union. On May 3, 1859 Mr. Olmstead died. On April 9, 1865 Mrs. Olmstead was again married, this time to Mr. Edward R. Connor. To this couple were born two sons, Asa W. and Albert B. Connor of whom the latter only survive her. She is also survived by a grand daughter, Miss Maud Post. Mrs. Connor was a Charter member of the Congregational church upon the organization of the society in Prophetstown and was always a faithful and devoted member Mrs. Connor lived in Prophetstown long enough to gain the respect of a large circle of friends in the town and community and it is with sadness that they learn of the death but to those who die in the faith there is blessing ever more. The funeral was held Thursday [09/02/1915] at two o’clock from the residence, LaFayette street, the Rev. Frank F. Fitch preaching a beautiful sermon. The music for the occasion being two solos which were very beautifully rendered by Mrs. H. E. Paddock with Mrs. Naomi Slocum presiding at the instrument in a manner adding to the service. The floral offerings were lovely and a tribute to her life in the community. Burial was made in Riverside, the Prophetstown cemetery. The pall bearers were: N. W. Paddock, Leaman Hill, M. S. Hill, C. W. Fenn, William J. Paxson and S. N. Warner.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds -

JANET M. COOK , 67, of 1712 Ave. C., Sterling, will be held Wednesday with a prayer service at 9:30 a.m. at the Grennan Funeral Home. Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 10 a.m. in St. Mary's Catholic Church with Father Geoffrey Wirth, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation is Tuesday from 2-8 p.m. with the rosary being recited at 7 p.m. at the funeral home. A memorial has been established in her name to the St. Mary's Building Fund. She is survived by one son, Dr. Gary Cook, Des Moines, Iowa, and one brother, John O'Connell, St. Petersburg, Florida. She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon, in 1972
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois August 19, 1985 - Monday, pg A4

BERNARD COONEY , 69 OF 1005 Ave. G., Sterling, died Saturday at St. Anthony's Medical Center in Rockford. Prayer services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Grennan Funeral Home followed by a 10:30 a.m. Mass of Resurrection at St. Andrew's Catholic Church, Rev. Thomas Risley, officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday at funeral home with a rosary at 7 p.m. A memorial has been established. Mr. Cooney wa born July 5, 1920 in Tampico, the son of Thomas and Mary Brophy Cooney. He married Nancy Segneri. Mr. Cooney was retired from Northwestern Steel and Wire and was a former member of the Whiteside County Board. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Navy. He is survived by his wife; two sons, Thomas of Naperville, Terrance of Cupertino, Cal.; three daughters, Sandra Adams of Rockford; Barbara Cooney of Minneapolis; and Christine Foley of Birmingham, Ala.; six grandchildren; and one brother, Paul of Ohio, Ill.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois September 18, 1989 - Monday, pg A2

PAULINE COONEY , 72, former resident of the Deer Grove community, died Thursday afternoon in River Forest. The body will be brought to the Schmitt Funeral Chapel in Tampico where friends may call afater 7 p.m. Saturday. The rosary will be recited in the chapel Sunday at 3 p.m. Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Monday in the St. Mary's Catholic Church, the Rev. A. M. Weitekamp, officiating. Burial will be in the Saint Mary's cemetery. She is survived by one daughter, Miss Muriel Cooney, River Forest. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Cooney.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - Sterling Gazette May 19, 1961 - Friday, pg 6

JEANETTE (DeVRIES) COVELL , 80, of Morrison, died Tuesday at CGH Medical Center, Sterling, Ill. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home. Dr. Calvin J. Rynbrandt, pastor of Ebenezer Reformed Church in Morrison, will be officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Grove Hill Cemetery, Morrison. She was born June 7, 1923, in Morrison to Harry and Jennie Smit DeVries. She was educated in Morrison grade schools and graduated from Morrison High School. She married Russell Kump on Feb. 16, 1952, in Rock Falls, Ill. He died in 1974. She then married Edward Covell on Feb. 20, 1983, in Las Vegas, Nev. He died in 1989. She was employed with General Electric in Morrison for 36 years. She was a member of Ebenezer Reformed Church, GEM Club and VFW Ladies Auxiliary 326 in Morrison. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Karen (Lyle) Upton of Morrison; three stepdaughters, Mrs. Linda (Dennis) Renois of Rock Falls, Ill., Mrs. Coleen (Roger) Hanabarger of Palmetto, Fla., and Mrs. Brenda (Charles) Brall of Morrison; three stepsons, Guy (Sheila) Covell of Rock Falls, Clair (Mary) Covell of Morrison and Cheyenne Covell of Sterling; two grandchildren; one stepgrandson; four great-grandchildren; and several stepgrandchildren and stepgreat-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by both husbands, one stepson and seven brothers.
Prophetstown Echo March 7, 1934

PAUL L. CRAMER , 91, of 383 E. Ferris St., Galesburg, and formerly of Rock Falls, died ( 3 Aug 1987) Monday in St. Mary's Hospital, here. Funeral services will be Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home in Rock Falls with Rev. James Werner, pator of the Rock Falls Congregational Church, officiating. Burial will be in the IOOF Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 1 p.m. until the time of services at the funeral home. A memorial has been established to the heart fund. Mr. Cramer was born on April 23, 1896 in Knoxville, the son of Haney and Lula Carothers Cramer. On Sept. 16, 1929, he was united in marriage to Naomi Marfleet in Rock Falls. She preceded him in death on Aug. 18, 1967. (more on this obit .....see paper)
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois August 4, 1987 - Tuesday, pg A2

ROLLAND CROFT , 62, formerly of Tampico, died Saturday, March 11, 2006 at Iowa Veterans Home, Marshalltown, Iowa. He was employed by Illinois Forge, Rock Falls, for several years before moving to Arizona where he was employed as a welder. Mr. Croft was born Sept. 1, 1943, in Streator, the son of Earl H. and Ruth (Quiram) Croft. He was a 1962 graduate of Tampico High School where he excelled in sports and went undefeated in the hurdles. He served in the Army during the Vietnam War. Survivors include his mother of Prophetstown; a brother, Vaughn (Connie) Croft of Tucson, AZ; and a nephew, Jarrett Vaughn Earl Croft and a niece Audra Lynn Ruth Croft, both of Tucson, AZ. He was preceded in death by his father, and a brother Royal. The funeral is at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, at the Garland Funeral Home, Tampico, with the Rev. Daniel Behmlnder, pastor of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Rock Falls, officiating. Burial is at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery, Washburn. Visitation is from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Contributed by Debbie Thormahlon from The Prophetstown Echo – March 14, 2006

SELME E. CRONE , 85, 403 Dixon Ave., Rock Falls, died Saturday afternoon (6 Aug 1978) at Rock Falls Colonial Acres. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home with Rev. Lawrence S. Anderson, pastor of the First Lutheran Church of Prophetstown officiating. Burial will be in Oak Knoll. Visitation is Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home. She was born March 12, 1893 in Wenona, Ill., the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. O. Flesburg. She married Ernest Crone on Feb. 3, 1915 at Wenona. The couple farmed in Wenona moving to Tampico in 1921 and farmed there until 1950 when they retired and moved to Rock Falls. She was a member of the First Lutheran Church of Prophetstown. Survivors include two sons, Ed Crone of Rock Falls and Robert Crone of Mesa, Ariz.; one sister, Mrs. Esther Palm and one brother, Oscar Flesburg, both of Varna, Ill., six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, two brothers and one sister.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois, August 7, 1978 - Monday, pg 4

LATINA LOUISE (PATRICK) CRUM - Word has been received announcing the death of Mrs. Latina Crum, widow of the late William Crum, for many years a resident of Galt and Sterling, which occurred Feb. 15, 1933 in El Campo, Tex. Burial was made in that city February 17. Mrs. Crum had been in poor health for some time and was past 90 years old. During her residence here she was active in the ladies’ organizations of the city and in the Christian church.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds from the The Sterling Daily Gazette, February 25, 1933, page 2, column 5

LAWRENCE A. CRUM Lawrence, a son of Rev. and Mrs. S. Crum of Coleta, died at an early hour this morning of memoraneous [sic] croup. The funeral services will be held Thursday [10/23/1902] afternoon at two o’clock at the Radical U. B. church in Coleta and the remains will be laid to rest in the Bethel cemetery. The child was two and a half years old, and was only ill several days. The grief-stricken parents have the sympathy of their friends in this dark hour of sorrow. (From the The Sterling Evening Gazette, October 22, 1902, page 1, column 4)
In a conversation with a Gazette representative this morning a well known physician of this city expressed his regret to hear that a public funeral was to be held over the body of a child who died in Coleta Wednesday [10/22/1902] morning of membraneous [sic] croup. The doctor stated that the best medical authorities now pronounce this diphtheria, and that ninety-nine out of every 100 cases of membraneous [sic] croup are diphtheria, pure and simple. He state the only difference is that instead of showing in the throat the trouble is in the windpipe, where it cannot be seen. The funeral was held this afternoon and the local physicians fear an epidemic of diphtheria if the services were largely attended.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds from The Sterling Evening Gazette, October 22, 1902, page 1, column 4

REBECCA (OVERHOLSER) CRUM - Commissioner J. P. Overholser has received word of the death of his sister, Mrs. Rebecca Crum, at the home of her son in north-eastern Iowa, which occurred some time Wednesday [08/16/1916]. The body will be brought to Coleta today. The funeral will be held Friday from the Radical United Brethren church but the hour has not been decided upon. Rebecca Overholser was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, nearly eight years ago. With her parents and her brothers and sisters she moved to Illinois in the year 1854, the family settling near Coleta, where they lived many years. She married Martin Crum, he dying a number of years ago. Up to the time of his death he and his family resided on a large farm one mile north-west of Coleta. Since his death the wife and mother has been living with her children. Mrs. Crum had been failing for a long time and her death is thought to have been due to a general breaking down. She had been with her two sons in Iowa for over a year. Mrs. Crum leaves the following children to mourn her death: James, of Twin Falls, Idaho; Elias and Sullie, of north-eastern Iowa; Sumner, of Detroit, Mich.; Cephas, on the home farm at Coleta. She also leaves the following brothers and sisters out of a family of thirteen: James P. Overholser, of Sterling; Mrs. George W. Howe and Mrs. William Howe, of Morrison; Mrs. Henry Wetzel, of Rock Falls; Mrs. Anna Beers, of Coleta, and John, also of Coleta. Mrs. Crum was a woman who was loved by everyone. She did much church work during her life in Coleta, when she was able, and she will be mourned by many people in the vicinity of Coleta. (The Sterling Daily Gazette, August 17, 1916, page 1, column 3) Rebecca Overholser was born in Tuscaranas [sic] county, Ohio, May 25, 1836. Departed this mortal life at the home of her son, Sumner M. Crom, in Sabina, Ohio, Aug. 16, 1916, aged 80 years, 2 months and 22 days. She moved with her father’s, Martin Overholser, family to Illinois in the year 1854, settling near Coleta, where she lived the major part of her life. She was united in marriage to Martin V. Crom May 22, 1856, who preceded her to the spirit world 23 years ago. To them were born eight children, three of whom died in infancy. The following sons are left to mourn her departure: James A., of Twin Falls, Idaho; Jocephas C., of Coleta; Elias Y. and Sullivan O., of Chapin, Iowa; and Sumner O., of Sabina, Ohio. The following brothers and sisters also survive: James P. Overholser, of Sterling; John M. Overholser and Mrs. Anne Beers, of Coleta; Mrs. Catherine Wetzell, of Rock Falls; Mrs. George W. Howe and Mrs. Wm. J. Howe, of Morrison. Her passing is mourned by 26 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends. At an early age she embraced the Christian religion, joining the United Brethren church, of which she remained a zealous and efficient member more than three score years, instilling principals of love, industry and frugality into the lives of all with whom she came in contact. The later years of her life was spent with her sons in their various homes where she was loved and cherished and will be greatly missed. Her fatal illness covered a period of one year. Her suffering was intense. Her death triumphant. The funeral services were held in Coleta, Friday [08/18/1916], at 1:30 at the J. C. Crom home and 2:00 o’clock at the Radical U. B. church, Rev. Auman, pastor of the church, conducting the services, assisted by Rev. Geo. Lutts, a former pastor. Mrs. Myrtle Carbaugh, Dortha Maxwell, Chas. Garwick and Owen Harrison sang three songs. The pall bearers were the five sons and a nephew, Henry Overholser, of Sterling. The floral offerings were beautiful. Interment was in Hazel Green cemetery beside her husband.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, August 21, 1916, page 6, column 6

ORVILLE H. CURTIS - Funeral services for Orville H. Curtis of Morrison, who passed away Monday in the Morrison Community Hospital were held Wednesday afternoon in the First Baptist Church. The Rev. J. Soule Chapman of Cambridge officiated, assisted by the Rev. Nathan Althoff pastor. Burial was in Grove Hill cemetery. Pallbearers were Roy Digby, Ralph Domdey, Chris Gehlsen, Fred Beveroth, Sr., Harry Howe of Morrison and William Dowdall of Chadwick. The beautiful floral arrangements were taken care of by Mrs. William Dowdall of Chadwick, Mrs. Ralph Domdey and Mrs. Cecil George. Funeral arrangements were in charge of the Tomlinson funeral home.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor from The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois March 31, 1961 - Friday, pg 6, col 2