THOMAS HEALEY died very suddenly Thursday [10/16/1902] night in the shanty on Big Island, where he and Irwin Johnson were camping. His death is supposed to have been due to heart failure. Healey went up to visit Johnson’s camp yesterday. That evening he visited the camp of C. G. Davis, farther up the river. Mr. Davis states that he seemed to be in the best of health, and gave no indication of having been drinking. He returned to the camp on the island after a short visit with Davis, and he and Johnson both went to bed in the shanty. This morning when Johnson awoke he endeavored to wake Healey, but could not do so. He immediately rowed to Davis camp and brought him back to camp with him. The men quickly learned that Healey was dead, and Davis then came to Sterling and notified Mayor Lawrie, who in turn notified Coroner Conger. The coroner arrived in Sterling at 3:29 this afternoon and took a jury to the camp on Big Island, where the inquest is now being held. The deceased was about forty-five years of age. He has resided in Rock Falls for many years, and was a tinner by trade, having been an employee of the tinning department of Janssen’s hardware store for a number of years. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Healey, reside in Chicago. He also leaves the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. Ella Mangan of this city, Mrs. Maggie LeFever, Mrs. Kate Knee and Mrs. Mary Mericks of Rock Falls; Mrs. Rose of Chicago, and one brother, James Healey of Chicago. Although given to strong drink, he had numerous friends. He was an expert tinner, and was well liked by all who knew him. His sudden death has caused a great shock to his relatives, who have the sincere sympathy of the community. The remains will be taken to the home of his sister, Mrs. Merrick’s, in Rock Falls, after the inquest. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made. (The Sterling Evening Gazette, October 17, 1902, page 4, column 2)

INQUEST: Did Thomas Healey die from the indirect results of a blow, or was his death due to natural causes? That was the question the coroner’s jury facted at the inquest held over the body Friday [10/17/1902] evening. His death was first supposed to have been due to heart disease, but Coroner Conger was not fully satisfied, having learned of a fight Saturday night, in which Healey was worsted, and at the inquest Dr. Anthony examined the body before the injury. A contusion was found on the right temple and the top of the head scratched. The doctor thought it probable that death was the indirect result of the blow on the temple, and that a blood clot might have formed on the brain, but could not tell positively without a post mortem examination, which he made at the direction of the coroner. The post mortem showed the left side of the brain badly inflamed, and in his testimony before the jury the doctor gave as his opinion Healey’s death was due to inflammation of the brain. He stated the inflammation might possibly have been caused by the blow on the temple, but that in his opinion it was not and that death was due to inflammation of the brain produced by natural causes. The jury rendered a verdict to that effect. J. F. Healey, senior member of the shoe firm of Healey & Drew of Dixon, and a brother of the deceased, was present at the inquest and is still of the opinion that his brother’s death was the result of the blow on the head. The inquest attracted quite a crowd, and several were inclined toward Mr. Healey’s opinion. The jury was composed of S. D. Gossert, foreman; R. C. Hill, John G. Koberstine, J. W. McDonald, W. F. Lawrie and J. H. Williams. The coroner arrived on the 3:30 train from Morrison, and he and the jury left at once for the shanty on Long island where Healey died, the trip up the river being made in the Simplex. The jury viewed the remains and was sworn in its presence. The body was then placed in a trailer and taken to Johnson & O’Malley’s undertaking rooms, where the inquest was held at 7:30 o’clock. Only three witnesses were examined, the first one being Charles Davis, whose story was practically the same as appeared in Friday’s Gazette. Charles Johnson, who was asleep with Healey when he died, was then called. He stated that Healey complained a number of times of a pain in his side in the region of his heart, and that toward evening he seemed to grow worse. Healey rowed over to Davis’ camp in the evening and returned in a short time, greatly exhausted by the row. The two men sat on the edge of the bed and talked for some time, when Healey said his side hurt him so badly he thought he had better go to sleep. The men then retired, and Healey entered the sleep from which he never awoke. Johnson stated that he heard nothing of an unusual nature from Healey during the night. He arose about daylight and thought Healey was still sleeping. When it became light he looked at him, and noticed from his appearance that some thing was wrong. A quick examination convinced him that Healey was dead, and he went immediately to Davis’ camp for assistance, as was told in Friday’s paper. Healey had told him Saturday night that he had been beaten in a fight in Rock Falls a short time before, but refused to divulge the name of the man who had worsted him. As near as can be learned the man was a farmer. Dr. Anthony was then called and testified as has been said. He stated also that the pain Healey felt in his side was caused by the inflammation of the brain and the consequent stagnation of the blood. The funeral services were held at 2:30 o’clock this afternoon at the home of Mrs. Mary Merricks, a sister of the deceased, Rev. J. J. Bennett officiating. A large number of friends of the deceased and the family gathered at the funeral. The interment was in Calvary cemetery in this city.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Evening Gazette, October 18, 1902, page 1, column 2

PAUL ROBERT HERNANDEZ , 38, of 1610 Griswold in Sterling downed while swimming in the Illinois Mississippi Feeder Canal south of the Ramada Inn in Rock falls. Funeral services will be Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the Grennan Funeral Home in Sterling with Mass of the Resurrection at St. Mary’s in Sterling at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Robert Camacho officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Sterling. Visitation will be Monday after 2 p.m. at the funeral home with Rosary recited at 7:30 p.m. Roy was born on Jan 26, 1948 in Elgin, Ohio. He moved to Sterling and attended local schools. The deceased did custodial work for several businesses. Survivors include his father, Secundino, with whom he made his home in Sterling his children, Mrs. Manuel (Jessie) Miniel of Rock Falls, Jose Zalasar of Rock Falls, Mrs. Clyde (Alice) Tipton of Carbin, Ky., Mrs. Frank (Carmen) Cantu of Sterling, Josephine Hernandez of Rock Falls, Crispin Hernandez of Galesburg, Mrs. David (Mary) Ortiz of Sterling. He was preceded in death by his mother, and grandmother Mrs. Carmen Flores.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - Aug 11, 1986 Daily Gazette

ELI C. HESS pioneer contractor of Whiteside and Lee county and the best known man in the building trades in Sterling, passed to his reward of a well spent and useful life Thursday, Sep. 14, at 12:30 o'clock noon at the home of his niece, Mrs. Oscar Eversole, on East Fourth street. Though he had not been in good health for some time past, Mr. Hess was well known to the people of this community throughout a generation past as a man so full of vital energy that it is hard to realize that eternal rest has succeeded the valued labors of his busy life. A cancerous affection on his hand caused him considerable annoyance and suffering for a considerable time before the affliction affected his general health, which gradually became less able to resist the encroachment of age. It was less than two weeks ago that he was confined to his bed and even when weakness overcame him he suffered but little, the final struggle following days of rest, with his genial nature revealed in smiles of welcome to the many friends who called at his bedside. His sickroom was kept bright with flowers that testified to the esteem in which he was held in both city and countryside. Lancaster county, Pa., the home of so many Whiteside pioneers was the birthplace of Mr. Hess on August 11, 1849. There he recieved his schooling and grew into robust years of youth before he came west with his family. His parents, Michael and Magadela Hess, settled in Penrose and there about 45 years ago, the son began his career as a carpenter, after helping on the farm for several years. An incessant worker, he followed his trade and profession with tireless industry and marked a life stretching beyond the allotted threescore years and ten with the erection of houses and public buildings that stand as a monument to his skill and honest workmanship. Among such, the Sterling township High School and the Sterling National Bank are notable. On January 2, 1879, Mr. Hess was married to Miss Clara Huber in Sterling. They made their home for a time near Penrose and later, were esteemed residents of Prairieville for ten years. Affection for that favored locality always remained with Mr. Hess, and one of the last requests he made was that he be laid to rest in the little cemetery on the edge of Lee county at Prairieville. Beside the wife who so faithfully and helpfully shared the duties and purposes of his lifetime, two of the four children born to them survive their father. They are Fred R. Hess, Berwyn, Ill., and Earl L. Hess of Van Petten, Ill., one daughter, Nora May, died at the age of three and one son, Arthur H., died August 3, a year ago.

Of the family of twelve brothers and sisters, six brothers and three sisters survive as follows: Zachariah Hess of Penrose, Jeremiah Hess of Penrose, Jacob Hess of Kansas, Manuel Hess of Penrose, Ephriam Hess of Dixon, Theodore Hess of Elgin, Mrs. Ripley Stauffer of Penrose, Mrs. Emma Mellinger of Penrose and Mrs. Jacob Trouth of DIxon. Six grandchildren also survive. Mr. Hess was for many years a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and in recent years was an enthusiastic member of the Elks. He was a companionable man, respected and popular among his associates in all walks of life. The members of the bereaved family, who have lost a husband and father who gave and recieved more than the usual meed of affection, have the sympathy of the community which lost one of the constructive personalities that have helped to make it what it is. The funeral will be held from the late home, 705 East Fourth street, at 2 o'clock, and from the St. John's Lutheran church 2:30 o'clock. Rev. E.C. Harris, pastor of the church will conduct the rites. Members of the Sterling Lodge of Elks, of which the decedent was a member, will act as pallbearers. They will be S.M. Coe, John W. Farrell, A.A. Wolfersperger, W.T. Galt, S.G. Crawford and G.E. Bishop. The Elks will have charge of the service at the Prairieville cemetery, where the body will be taken for burial.
Contributed by Tom Hess

EMANUEL HESS ,a resident of Jordan township for three score and more years, passed away at 8:30 o'clock Friday night at a hospital in East Moline where he had been a patient for treatment about 10 months. Mr. Hess suffered painful injuries to his head about three years ago, when he fell while engaged in carpentry work on his home near Penrose. Since that time he has been in poor health, gradually declining until death came to relieve his sufferings. Mr. Hess was a carpenter by trade. Until he retired from active work about six years ago his services were in demand for the construction of homes, barns and other buildings on farms north of Sterling. Even after he had retired at the age of 74 years, Mr. Hess did odd jobs for friends and neighbors. It was while he was remodeling his own residence that he fell, suffering injuries that hastened his death. Emanuel Hess was a youth of 17 when he came to Whiteside County with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hess, who purchased a farm of 40 acres and settled in Jordan township. The family came here from Lancaster County, Pa., where Emanuel was born on Dec. 17, 1851. Several years later, in 1876, Emanuel was married to Caroline Trouth, who preceded him in death more than 25 years ago. Two sons and three daughters survive to mourn the loss of their father. They are U.S. Hess of Beloit, Wis., Miss Minnie Hess of Chicago, Mrs. Stacy King of Perry, Ia., Mrs. Roy Scott of Dixon, Harry Hess of Dixon. The body was taken overland from East Moline to the Preston Chapel in Dixon, from where the funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon. Interment will be in the Mennonite cemetery north of Sterling.
Contributed by Tom Hess

JEREMIAH HESS , passed away suddenly at 1:10 o’clock Saturday afternoon at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ida Dawson of Lyndon, where he had been living for some time. His death was caused by the general infirmities of old age. Saturday morning he complained of feeling tired and did not care to get up, otherwise he showed no signs of being ill. The body was removed to the Melvin funeral home in this city where the funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 o’clock and at 2:30 o’clock at the Science Ridge Mennonite church. Rev. A.C. Good, Pastor of the church, will officiate. Burial will be in the cemetery adjoining the church. Jeremiah E. Hess, twin son of Michael and Mary Magdalena Eshleman Hess, was born March 16, 1845 at Safe Harbor, Pa. He was married to Lydia E. Millhouse on July 3, 1873. She passed away on December 28, 1881. Following the Civil War, he and his twin brother, Zachariah Hess, who passed away July 7, last, came west and settled in Jordan township, where they resided many years. Mr. Hess also resided in Lyndon for about 10 years and of late years reside with his children, returning to the home of his daughter, Mrs. Dawson at Lyndon last spring. The brothers enlisted at the age of 17 as privates in Co. A, 203rd Regiment Pennsylvania volunteer infantry on August 16, 1864, at Lancaster Pa., and served in the U.S. Army for a period of 21 months. On March 16, 1933, when they celebrated their eighty-eighth birthday, they were believed to be the only surviving twin veterans of the Civil War. Mr. Hess is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Ida Dawson of Lyndon, Mrs. Margaret Peterson of Dixon and Mrs. Lizzie John of Jordan. Twelve grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and one brother, Theodore Hess of Elgin, the latter the last of the family, survive. In March of this year, the twin brothers wee featured in a Ripley “Believe It or Not” sketch.
Contributed by Tom Hess

MARY MAGDALENA (ESHLEMAN) HESS : Across the Whiteside county line, near Penrose, yesterday occurred the funeral of one of Jordantown's best respected residents, Mrs. Michael Hess, who died very suddenly at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Ripley Stauffer, on Friday noon. For a number of years she had been a helpless invalid from heart disease; but her condition on the day of her death seemed no more precarious than usual. Mary Magdalena Eshleman was born in Lancaster county, Pa., October 20, 1820. She spent her girlhood there and nearly sixty years ago was married to Michael Hess. They came west in the spring of 1868 and Mr. Hess, who had worked as a mason and shoemaker in the east, became a successful farmer in Penrose. Twelve children were born to them, ten of whom survive, Benjamin having died in the east and Michael is buried in Alaska, where he died seven years ago. Three daughters and seven sons, besides her husband survive. They are: Mary, wife of Ripley Stauffer of Jordan; Zachariah, who is out west; Emma, wife of Henry Mellinger of Jordan; Eli, Sterling; Emanuel, Jordan; Jacob, Spearville, Kan.; Susan, wife of Jacob Trouth of Dixon; Ephriam, Dixon; Theodore, Sterling. Her long illness prevented Mrs. Hess from being well known by the younger people of her vicinity, but her many older friends will remember her always as a woman of splendid character, a devoted wife, loving mother and kind neighbor and friend. In health she was a regular attendant at the old Mennonite church in Science Ridge.
Contributed by Tom Hess

MICHAEL RATHFORD HESS , an aged and highly respected citizen of Jordan township, died at 5 o'clock Friday evening at the home of his son in law, Henry Mellinger of Jordan. The funeral will be held Sunday at 1 o'clock at the Mellinger home and at 2:30 in the Reformed Mennonite church in this city. Burial will take place in the cemetery connected with the church. Six sons of the deceased will act as pall bearers and will lay the body of their father in its final resting place at the side of the wife and mother who passed away five years ago. Rev. Wiliam Miller will conduct the services. Michael Rathford Hess was born in Lancaster county July 7, 1816 and with one exception was the last surviving member of his generation of the family, one brother past four score who lives at the old home survives. Sixty years ago the deceased was married to Miss Mary Eshelman and in 1868 they came to Illinois and settled in Jordan township, where they spent the rest of their lives. Mrs. Hess preceded her husband to the grave five years ago. Twelve children were born of this union all but two of whom survive; Michael a son, dying in Alaska and Benjamin, another son, also passed away. The remaining sons are Zachariah and Jerimiah, twins, and Emanuel of Jordan, Eli of this city, Theodore of Mendota, Ephriam of Dixon and Jacob, who resides in Kansas. Three daughters, Mendames Mary Stauffer and Henry Mellinger of Jordan and Mrs. Susan Trouth of Dixon are surviving daughters. Previous to settling in the west Mr. Hess followed the trade of a mason, but has been a farmer during the thirty-four years of his residence in Jordan. He was a man of unimpeachable probity and highly esteemed by everyone with whom he came in contact. For several years he has suffered from the weakness attending his advanced years. For several months past he has failed rapidly and for a month has been nearly helpless. His death closes a blameless life, one that has been a honor to his kind. His example will live after his body has long returned to the elements from which it came and his name will be synonymous with upright, kindly manhood so long as his last acquaintance lives
Contributed by Tom Hess

THEODORE E. HESS , 91, former area teacher who died at 7 o’clock Friday night at Whiteside county nursing home will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Melvin funeral home. Bishop A.C. Good will officiate. Burial will be in Science Ridge cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after noon Sunday. Mr. Hess was born October 10, 1865 in Conestoga Centre Pa., son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hess. The family came west and located in Sterling. He taught school for 14 years in Ogle and Whiteside counties and was employed as a carpenter and a correspondence school solicitor. He was a mail clerk for six years with the Chicago and North Western railroad and later operated an advertising agency in Elgin. There are no immediate survivors.
Contributed by Tom Hess

ZACHARIAH E. HESS , 88-year-old Civil War veteran, died at 12:15 o’clock last night at the home of his niece, Mrs, Frank K. Barge, on the Freeport road, following a stroke he suffered while working in his flower garden yesterday morning at 6:30 o;clock. He never rallied. “Uncle Zach” as he was known to many relatives and friends lived a vigorous life, even to his death, having been engaged in his beloved flower garden. He and his twin brother, Jeremiah, of Dixon, were honored last spring at the Barge home with a birthday party, March 16, 1933. The twins were nationally known as having been among the last twin brothers who were survivors of the Civil War. Mr. Hess was born March 16, 1845, near Safe Harbor, Lancaster County, Pa., making him 88 years, 3 months and 21 days old. At the age of 17, he and his brother “Jerry” enlisted in the 20th Pennsylvania cavalry and served in it six months, when they were mustered out. They immediately re-enlisted in the 236th Pennsylvania volunteers, and fought continuously to the close of the Civil War, having been in the engagements at Fort Fisher, Petersburg, Gettysburg and other famous battles. At the end of the war, the brothers came west and made their home. Zachariah Hess was a carpenter and very fine cabinet worker while his brother Jeremiah was a stone mason. Mr. Hess was very fond of flowers and during the latter years of his life greatly enjoyed floriculture. He was one of a family of 12 children, nine boys and three girls. Surviving him are a son, Albert Hess of Reseda, Calif., his brother Jeremiah of Dixon, a brother, Theodore of Elgin and one sister, Mrs. Mary Stauffer of Penrose and a number of nieces and nephews. Word has been received from the son, Albert H. Hess in California that he will be unable to come to Sterling for the services. The remains have been removed to the Melvin funeral home, where they may be viewed until Saturday, after which they will be returned to the Barge home. Private services will be held at the home of Frank Barge, south of Penrose, Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock followed by services at the Science Ridge church at 3:00 o’clock. Rev. A.C. Good officiating. Burial will be in the Science Ridge cemetery adjoining the church.
Contributed by Tom Hess

CATHERINE (VOCK) HODGE , 87, of Sterling died Saturday, Jan. 29, 2005, at CGH Medical Center, Sterling. She was employed by CGH Medical Center in the dietary department for 13 years. Mrs, Hodge was born Dec. 16, 1917, in Sterling, the daughter of Edward Francis and Louise Irene (Ribordy) Vock. She married George Hodge on Nov. 24, 1937, in Polo. He died Dec. 14, 1968. She was a mem­ber of St. Mary Church, Sterling, and the Altar and Rosary Society, where she helped prepare funeral dinners. She also was a 50-year member of Homemakers Extension and a past volunteer at FISH Food Pantry. Survivors include three sons, Orville (Judy) Hodge and Joe (Pat) Hodge, both of Sterling, and James (Dawn) Hodge of Dixon; a daughter, Lucille (Herman) Michels of Moline; a brother, Francis Vock of Polo; five sisters, Bernadine Blum, Lorreta Carroll and Dorothy Clothier, all of Polo, Ruth Forrestall of Ohio and Eilene (Bruce) Wright of Lake Carroll; 12 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Louise Hodge; a grandson; and a great-grandson. Celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial is at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Sacred-Heart Catholic Church, Sterling, with the Rev. Paul White, pastor, celebrant, officiating. Burial is at Sacred Heart Cemetery.

KAREN (BALLARD) HODGES , 61, of Lanark died July 20, 2005 at her home. She was born Dec. 1, 1943 in Rock Falls, the daughter of Arthur and Emma (Gregory) Ballard. She married Gerald R. Hodges on Sep. 2, 1962 in Rock Falls. She enjoyed golfing and quilting. Survivors include her husband; a daughter Renai (Tom) Vodick of Woodridge; two sons, Jeffrey of Byron and Christopher of Roscoe; a sister, Lorraine Hendryx of Rock Falls; two brothers, Raymond D. of Sterling and Wayne W. of Lancaster KY; and seven grandchildren. She ws preceded by her parents; and her stepfather, Norval Gillman.

LETA A. (ENTWHISTLE) HODGES , 81, of 545 42nd Ave., East Moline, died Saturday afternoon at her home. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at the Trimble Funeral Home, 601 21st St., Moline, with Dr. Wayne C. Hess of the First United Methodist Church officiating. Graveside services will be held Tuesday at 3 p.m. in Morrison at the Grove Hill Cemetery. Visitation is 7-9 p.m. at the Trimble Funeral Home. She was born Leta A. Entwhistle in Morrison on July 7, 1897. She married Earl C. Hodge on June 27, 1918 in Lyons, Iowa. She was employed as a sales clerk at McCabes, and Peterson-Harned-VonMaur. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Moline, a 52 year member and past president American legion Auxiliary, 246 of Moline, past state officer for the State American Auxiliary, charter member of the Past Presidents Barracks 410 of Rock Island County Auxiliary to veterans of WW I. She was also past president of the Chapurx Salon No. 137, 8 and 40. Survivors include her husband, one daughter, Mrs. Rosalie Groves of Moline; one son, Robert Hodge of Silvis; two grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Contributed by Barbara Nugent from the Sterling Daily Gazette Obituary, Monday, August 28, 1978

ABBIE (LAIR) HOLCOMB : Last rites for Mrs. Abbie Holcomb, 73, who died Wednesday night (11 January 1950) in her home at 1012 Avenue b, Rock Falls, will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday in the Wheelock funeral home. She had been ill several years. Rev.LeRoy Gholson of the Jshovah Witnesses will officiate at the service. Burial will be in the Rock Falls IOOF cemetery. Mrs. Holcomb was born March 10, 1876 in Galva, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Lair. She was reared and educated in that city moving to ROck Falls 30 years ago after her marriage to Linus Holcomb, Dec. 8, 1894. The Holcombs were married in Dixon. Surviving are her husband, Linus, five sons, Linus Jr., Waukegan, Gerald, Harold and walter, all of Rock Falls, and Richard, of Winthrop Harbor; four daughters, Mrs. Arthur Langford, Mrs. Kenneth McNinch, Mrs Julia Bell and Mrs. Sherman Bonnell, all of Rock Falls. She was preceded in death by her paretns, and five children, Elmer, Helen, Bessie, Nellie and Isabelle.
Sheila Smith

ANNIE (BANNICK) HOLCOMB , of 1707 Ave. C, Sterling, died Wednesday evening at Orchard Glen Nursing Home in Dixon at the age of 81. Mrs. Holcomb was born in Cass County, Iowa on May 6, 1884, the daughter of Deltef and Cecila Hansen Bannick. She was united in marriage to Fred C. Holcomb on July 24, 1907 in Rock Falls. She was member of the First Congregational Church of Rock Falls. Mrs. Holcomb is survived by three duaghters, Mrs. Frank (Lena) Gisi of Rock Falls, Mrs. E. L. (Ethel) Homves of Wiggins, Colo. and Mrs. Leo J (Ida) Lauff of Sterling; one brother, Martin Bannick of Dexter, Iowa. 11 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded by her parents, husband, Fred in 1950, and seven brothers and sisters. Services will be 1:30 pm Saturday in the Wheelock Allen Funeral Home with the Rev. N. DEan Chasteen of the First Congregational Church of Rock Falls officiating with burial in Riverside Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after 7 pm Thursday.
Contributed by Sheila Smith

CHARLES HOLCOMB , sixty-two years old, died at the hoome of his daughter, Mrs. Walter Riley, on East Seventh street, Rock Falls, at 12:28 this afternoon. Mr. Holcomb is an old resident of Rock Falls and has been in poort health for the past year and bedfast for the past two months. He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Roy Thompkins and Mrs. Walter Riley, of Rock Falls, and one son,Fred Holcomb, of Atlantic Iowa, and three sisters, Mrs. Dollie Hatings, Mrs. Julia Lanford (Langford) and Mrs. Belle Wellman, of Rock Falls. Funeral arrangements have not been completed. (30 Mar 1856 - 19 Jun 1918).
Sheila Smith

FRED C. HOLCOMB , 1010 West Seventh street, Sterling, died in Home hospital at 12:09 a.m. Monday (24 July 1950) following a brief illness. The body was taken to the Wheelock funeral home where friends may call. He was born Jan. 14, 1885, near Amboy, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Holcomb. He is survived by his wife, Ann; three daughters, Mrs. Frank Gisi, Rock Falls, Mrs. Bud Holmes, Wiggins, Colo., and mrs. Leo Lauff, Sterling; 11 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Funeral servies will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. in the Wheelock funeral home with the Rev. Joseph B. Clyde, Pastor of the Rock Falls Congregational church officiting. Burial will be in Rock Falls (Sterling) Riverside Cemetery.
Sheila Smith

GERALD T. HOLCOMB , of 1012 Avenue B, Rock Falls, died Monday morning (01 Oct 1962) in his home at the age of 59 after a lengthy illness. Mr. Holcomb was born April 2, 1903 in Ambly, the son of Linus and Abbie Lair Holcomb Jr. He came to Rock Falls as a young man and worked many years at the International Harvester Co., retiring in 1957 due to ill health. He is survived by his wife Myrtle Baker, with whom he was united in marriage to September 27, 1924 at Dixon; two daughters, Mrs. Joseph (Ellen) Strolmayer of Rock Falls and Miss Juanita Marie Bell at home, two sons; S-Sgt Robert T. Holcomb of Oarswell AFB at Fort Worth, Texas and Pvt. Gary L. Holcomb of Camp Pendleton, Calif.; four brothers, Linus Jr. of North Chicago; Richard, Harold and Walter, all of Rock Falls; three sisters, Mrs. Sherman (Abbie) Bonnell of Lanark, Mrs. Kenneth (Bertha)McNinch of Rock Falls and Mrs.Julia Bell of Round Grove; six grandchildren. He was preceded by his parents, two sons, Gerald and glenn, one brother and four sisters. Funeral services will be Wednesday 1:30 p.m. at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home with Rev. H. C. Hatton, pator of the First Nazarene Church of Sterling officiating with burial in IOOF Cemetery in Rock Falls. Friends may call after non on Tuesday at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home.
Contributed by Sheila Smith

HENRY HOLCOMB , or better known by the children and many friends of this city as Grandpa Holcomb passed away at 11:13 o'clock Monday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Perry Hastings, 607 East Sixth Street. (Rock Falls, Il) His demise was due to the dropsy of which he has been a sufferer for several years. For the past few years he has made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Hastings. He leaves to mourn his death four daughters, Mrs. Emma Holden, Mrs. Julia Langford, of Walnut, Mrs. Dolly Hastings, Mrs. Belle Wellman, of Rock Falls, and one son, Charles Holcomb, preceded him to the Great Beyond five years ago.(This I don't understand, I have the son's death certificate and he died in 1918.) The funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the home of Mrs. Hastings.
Contributed by Sheila Smith

LINUS NOBLE HOLCOMB , 88, died at 8:10 p.m.(23 January 1953) at the Rock Falls home of her son Gerald Holcomb, 1012 Ave. B, after an extended illness. The body was removed to the Wheelock funeral home where friends may call after 7 p.m. Saturday. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at Wheelock's, Leroy Gholson, company servant for Jehovah's Witnesses officiating. Interment will in in Rock Falls Odd Fellows cemetery. Linus Holcomb was born Oct. 13, 1865 at Maytown Ill., son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Linus N. Holcomb. He is survived by four daughters, Mrs. Arthur (Myrtle) Langford, Rock Falls; Mrs. Sherman (Nora) Bonnel, Lanark; Mrs. Kenneth (Bertha) McNinch, Rock Falls; Mrs. Janet Bell of Rock Falls. Four sons, Linus Holcomb Jr. of Waukegan, Ill. Gerald, Herald and Walter of Rock Falls and Richard of Winthrop Harbor, Ill; two brother, Otis Holcomb of LaMoille and Roland Holcomb of Pound Wis., 43 grandchildren and a number of great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mrs. Abbie Holcomb who died Jan. 11, 1950; his parents, five children; Elmer, Bessie, Helen and twin daughters Isabell and Nellie.
Contributed by Sheila Smith

MYRTLE (BAKER) HOLCOMB : Funeral services are complete at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home for Mrs. Myrtle J. Holcomb of 401 E. 8th St. Rock Falls, who was dead on arrival at Community General Hospital Wedneday evening (2 August 1967) at the age of 61. She was born Feb. 8, 1906 in Bakersfield, Mo., the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Baker. She was united in marriage Sept. 27, 1924 to Gerald T. Holcomb who preceded her in death Oct. 1, 1962. Mrs. Holcomb was a member of the First Nazarene Church in Sterling and a member of the KurnwickChapter of Missionary Societies. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs.Joseph (Ellen) Strohmayer, with whom she made her home; two sons, Robert of Westville, Mass. and Gary of Sterling; one foster daughter, Mrs. Lester (Juanita) Insley of Rock Falls; one sister, Mrs. Charles (Lillian) Harrison of Rock Falls; two brothers, Irving baker of Sterling and Samuel E. Baker of Hudson Fla.; nine grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Funeral Service at Wheelock Allen Funeral Home with the Rev. H. C. Hatton pastor of the First Nazarene Church Sterling on saturday. Burial at IOOF Cemetery.

RICHARD HOLCOMB , 75, Edgewild Nursing Home, Sterling, died Tuesday afternoon at sterling Community General Hospital. Funeral services will be Thursday at the Melvin-Schilling Funeral Home, Sterling, with teh Rev. James Werner, pastor of the Rock Falls Congregational Church officiating. Burial will be in I00F Cemetery, Rock Falls. Richard Holcomb was born on Aug. 6, 1909 in Amboy the son of Linus and Abbie Lair Holcomb. He was employed as a welder prior to his retirement for the John Mansvile Mfg. Co. Waukegan. Surviving him are one son, Daniel, Winthrop Harbor; one daughter, Patricia Heincy,Winthrop Harbor; one brother, Harold, Rock Falls; one sister, Mrs. Abbie Bonnell, LaGrange GA and four grandchildren.
Contributed by Sheila Smith

CHESTER L. HOLLAND , 77, of Erie died today at Morrison Community Hospital . Funeral services will be Thursday at 11 a.m. in the Gibson Funeral Home in Erie . Burial will be in Erie Cemetery . Visitation will be Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-0 p.m. with Masonic Services at 8 p.m. Mr. Holland was born on April 4, 1909 in Genesee , the so of Otto and Carrie Sickler Holland. On April 5, 1930 he was united in marriage to Mildred Dorathy in Sterling . He was employed in the maintenance department of the Village of Erie for 16 years and was a former Road Commissioner of Erie Township. Mr. Holland was employed by the Erie Fire Department for 31 years, 24 of those years serving as Chief until his retirement in 1974. He was also an Erie policeman for several years. The deceased was a member of Erie Christian Church, the Sauk trail Scottish Rite, the Scottish Rite Valley of Moline, served as past patron for the Erie OES and was past master of the Erie Masonic Lodge. Survivors include his wife; three sons, Neil of Oregon, Rodney of Kewanee and Dale of Genesee; one daughter, Joan Hawk of Fenton; seven grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren; and one sister, Gladys Bugby of Erie.
Contributed by Margaret Manger from the Feb 23, 1987 Daily Gazette

MILDRED (DORATHY) HOLLAND , 79, of Erie , died Friday (Feb 22) at Morrison Community Hospital . Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Erie Christian Church, with the Rev. Martin Stump officiating. Burial will be at Erie Cemetery . Visitation will be 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. today at the Gibson Funeral Home, Erie , with an Eastern Star service at 6 p.m. Mrs. Holland was born July 11, 1911, in Portland township, the daughter of Theodore and Ruth (should be Ruth) (Ross) Dorathy. She married Chester Holland, April 5, 1930, in Sterling . She was head cook for the Erie school system from 1966-1976. She was a member of the Erie Christian Church, the Bereans Class and Young at Hart Club of the church, the Erie Senior Citizens, Evangeline Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star, where she was past worthy matron, and member of the Past Matrons Club #52. She is survived by three sons, Neil of Oregon, Rodney of Kewanee and Dale of Prophetstown; one daughter, Mrs. Joan Hawk of Fenton, three brothers, Bruce Dorathy, Jr., of California, Ross Dorathy of Erie, and gene Dorathy of Tampico; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren.
Contributed by Margaret Maners from the Feb 25, 1991 Daily Gazette

ARTHUR G. HUBBARD , former city engineer, ended his own life at the Linton home, where he has been making his home, Monday [11/26/1945] afternoon about 3:45. Despondency caused by the death of his wife is believed to be the reason for his deed. The body was taken to the Meyer funeral home, where the funeral will be held Wednesday afternoon at 3 o’clock. Rev. Frederick Wyngarden, pastor of the First Presbyterian church, of which the deceased was a member, will officiate. Interment will be in the family lot at Riverside. Arthur Graham Hubbard, son of Solomon and Amanda Hubbard, was born in Dover, Ill., Nov. 9, 1863. He came to Sterling with his parents when a small boy. He attended the Sterling schools and graduated from business college, after which he engaged in the coal business with his father and brothers. He was also in the furniture business for a short time. Later he was in the drafting department of the International Harvester company for several years. While engaged in this work. Mr. Hubbard became interested in civil engineering and commenced the study of this profession by mail. Completing his course, he engaged in engineering for several years and finally was appointed city engineer, serving in this capacity for 15 years. He was city engineer while the First avenue bridge was erected and also, during his term a majority of the street paving was done in Sterling. Mr. Hubbard was a musician of outstanding ability and played trombone in the old Sixth Regiment band for many years. He also played in numerous orchestras, including the Academy orchestra. When the Sterling Municipal band was organized, he became a member of that organization and played with it a number of years. He was married to Miss Ida Rife in September, 1909. She died last July and Mr. Hubbard never recovered from the shock of her death. Since that time he has been steadily going down in health. He is survived by one nephew, Harry S. Hubbard of Sterling, and one niece, Mrs. Ada Hubbard Argraves of Milwaukee, Wis. Also by a number of grand-nephews and grand-nieces.

Coroner’s Inquest In A. G. Hubbard Death: A verdict of death by strangulation by hanging with self intent was rendered by a coroner’s jury Tuesday [11/27/1945] afternoon at the Meyer funeral home, inquiring into the death of Arthur G. Hubbard. Coroner C. M. Frye conducted the inquest at 4:30 o’clock. Witnesses examined by Coroner Frye were Mrs. Verna M. Linton, Katherine Guines and Chief Curtis G. Bucher.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, November 27, 1945,

DONALD FRANKLIN HUBBARD , 70, 206 Glassburn, Tampico, was pronounced dead on arrival at Community General Hospital, Sterling, Monday Funeral services will be held on Wednesday afternoon at 3 p.m. at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home, Rock Falls, with the Rev. Brad Wilson, pastor of the Tampico United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling. Friends may call at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home on Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. A memorial has been established in his memory. Donald Hubbard was born on May 12, 1914 in Whiteside County, the son of Frank and Minnie Fisher Hubbard. On Oct. 16, 1936 he was united in marriage to Esther R Scheler at the bride’s home in Rock Falls. He had been a farmer for 10 years, and worked for McCormick Oil Company for 15 years and the Village of Tampico for four years, retiring five years ago. He was a member of the Tampico United Methodist Church. Surviving are his wife, Esther; one daughter, Mrs. Cloyd (Donna) Southard, Sterling; one son, Larry E Hubbard of Rock Falls; eight grandchildren and one great grandson; two sisters, Mrs. Vera Moorehead, Sterling, and Mrs. Loretta Wagner, Rock Falls; four brothers, Lyle, Dixon, Melvin, Savanna, Lloyd, Rock Falls, and Kenneth, Rock Falls. He was preceded by his parents, two sisters and two brothers.
Dated: Oct 22, 1984
Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

ESTHER R. (SCHELER) HUBBARD 80, of Sterling Pavilion, Sterling, formerly of Rock Falls, died Monday, July 21, 1997, at CGH Medical Center following a extended illness. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home, Rock Falls , with the Rev Dalmus Meeks, pastor of Harvest Time Bible Church , Rock Falls , officiating. Burial will be at Oak Knoll Memorial Park , Sterling . Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. A memorial has been established for the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association. Mrs. Hubbard was born Oct 16, 1916, in Sterling , the daughter of Albert F and Jennie E. (Finch) Scheler. She married Donald Hubbard on Oct 16, 1936, in Rock Falls . He died Oct 22, 1984. She was a member of Tampico United Methodist Church Survivors include one son, Larry Hubbard of Rock Falls ; one daughter Donna (Cloyd) Southward of Sterling; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren’ one sister, Betty (Ward) Bucher of Rock Falls. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the Jul 23, 1997 Daily Gazette

FERDINAND B. HUBBARD an old settler and business man of this city died at 7:15 o’clock last evening at his home on the corner of First avenue and Fifth street, after a long and painful illness, a general breaking down of the system due to his advanced age he being two years past four score at the time of his death. The funeral will take place from his late home Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock. Rev. N.J. Harkness will officiate and the body will be interred in the family lot at Riverside, where the wife of the deceased has reposed for several years. Mr. Hubbard was a member of the Local lodge of Odd Fellows, which will attend the funeral in a body. Mr. Hubbard was born in New York State May 4, 1818. He came west in 1839 and located in the vicinity of Lyndon, where he taught at Princeton and then returned to his native state where he spent two years in the school room. He then went to Ohio, where he engaged in various mercantile enterprises until 1855, when he came to Sterling and a year later opened the first, but one agricultural implement depot west of Chicago, acting as agent in Illinois for a number of eastern factories. He continued in this business until 1878, when he retired from active business, though he has kept his office until his last illness, which began in November last. He led a very active life and accumulated a comfortable fortune. Mr. Hubbard married Mary O. Dorchester on April 17, 1855. Mrs. Hubbard has been dead for several years. Five children survive: Mrs. Wilkes Bunn of Rockford, Mrs. Herbert Anning, Ferdinand B, Charles, Miss Lena and Hattie Tilson. All of the children will be present at the funeral, with the possible exception of Charles, whose health is delicate.
Transcribed from newspaper clipping in the possession of Robert Tillson Silkett Jr., great Grandson to Harriet (Hattie) A. Hubbard Tillson, mentioned in the Obituary above. Based upon a letterhead that was found with the above Obituary, Mr. Hubbard’s business description was “F.B. Hubbard and Son, Dealers in Threshing Machines, Reapers, and General Farm Machinery”. The business was located for a time at “No. 77 Mulberry Street, Sterling, Ill.”

Another Obit: F. B. Hubbard died Friday [04/06/1900] evening at 7:15 o’clock after an illness of several months. His death was due to a general breaking down. The funeral will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock. The I. O. O. F. of which he was a member, will have charge of the services. Ferdinand B. Hubbard was born in New York May 4, 1818. He came west in 1839 and settled at Lyndon and for several years taught school. He then returned to New York where he remained for a number of years. In 1855 he again came back to Illinois and settled in this city where he entered the real estate business. In 1856 he started the first agricultural implement house west of Chicago. He followed this business until 1878 when he sold out and has since devoted his entire time and attention until a few months ago to the real estate business. He was married April 7, 1850 to Miss Mary O. Dorchester who died March 25, 1893. The following children survive him. Mrs. W. H. Bunn, Rockford; Charles Hubbard, Chicago; F. B. Hubbard, Jr.; Stockton, Cal; Mrs. Herbert Anning, Chicago; Mrs. Fred Tillson, Chicago; Miss Lena Hubbard, New York city. (The Sterling Daily Standard, April 9, 1900, page 1, column 4)

The funeral of F. B. Hubbard was held at the residence Sunday [04/08/1900] afternoon at 2 o’clock. Short services were conducted at the house by the Rev. N. J. Harkness. At the cemetery the services were in charge of the I. O. O. F. of which order Mr. Hubbard was a member. The attendance was large, the I. O. O. F. attending in a body. The floral offerings were numerous and appropriate. The following members of the I. O. O. F. acted as pall bearers: Messers Jonathan Morgan, P. T. VanHorne, E. V. H. Alexander, J. T. Miller, Samuel Sigler, Isaac Bressler.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

FRANK LEWIS HUBBARD - Funeral services for Frank Lewis Hubbard, 72, who died Saturday night at his home. 406 West Tweifth street, Rock Falls, following a prolonged illness, took place this afternoon at 1:30 o’clock form the Wheelock funeral home, Rev. Wayne Leighty, pastor of the Rock Falls Methodist church, officiating. Burial was in Ok Knoll memorial park, north of Sterling on Route 88. The casket attendants were Charles Cassell, Clifford Vramer, Ray Boehma, Ray Sanders, William Benton, and Fred Schwenk. . Hubbard was born in Montmorency township on May 16, 1871, and was reared and lived all his life in this vicinity. He married Miss Minnie E Fisher on February 24, 1904 in Montmorency. Surviving are his widow and six sons; John and Lyle of Rock Falls; Donald of Sterling; Melvin in army overseas; Lloyd in California, Kenneth at home; two daughters. Mrs. Glen Wagner of Polo; and Miss Vera Hubbard, at home, a brother Danna Hubbard, in Minnesota; three sisters, Mrs. Hattie Brus and Mrs. Nellie Van De Linder, both of Wheaton; and Mrs. Dan Schwenk of Rock Falls. He Hubbard farmed during his active years, retiring form the farm in 1936.
No date on obit. In family record it says he died Sept. 5 1943 - Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

GLENYS M (ROSENBREN) HUBBARD , 74, of 1203 10th Ave., Rock Falls, died Sunday evening in Sterling Care Center following a long illness. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home in Rock Falls with Rev. Donald George, pastor of the Rock River Christian Center of Rock falls officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in Sterling. Visitation will be 6 -8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established in her memory. Mrs. Hubbard was born on Feb. 6, 1914, in Rock Falls, the daughter of Lloyd and Anna Marie (Sonneman) Rosenbren. She married Lloyd G Hubbard on Sep 12, 1972 (??) in Sterling. She had attended the Rock River Christian Center in Rock Falls. She is survived by her husband, one son, Clair L Hubbard of Spartanburg, S.C. ; one daughter, Mrs. Jerry (Elaine) Holder of Sterling; three grandchildren and one great grandchild; two brothers, Donald and Elwin Rosengren, both of Rock Falls; also several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. (Dated: Feb 1988)
Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers (Glenys was married 1st to Lyle Glenn Hubbard in 1933 (her children are with him). She was divorced from Lyle in 1961 and married his brother Lloyd hubbard in 1972.)

HAZEL (MOORE) HUBBARD , 90, of Polo Rehab. & Health Care Ctr. died Monday AUg 8,2005 at the center. She was a homemaker. Mrs. Hubbard was born April 12, 1915 in Lime SPrings Iowa the daughter of Milton E. & Martha (Hodge) Moore. She married John E. Hubbard on June 13, 1932 in Rock Falls. He preceded her. Survivors include a son, Earl J. of Victoria MN; four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and three gg Grandchildren. The funeral is Friday at Benson Funeral Home, Polo with burial in Oak Knoll Cem. Sterling.

JEAN C (SCHINDIER) HUBBARD , of 1404 11th Ave., Rock Falls died Wednesday evening in Community General Hospital after a short illness. Funeral services will be Saturday morning in the Brechsler-Brown Funeral Home in Oak Park, with burial in the Forest Home Cemetery. Friends may call at the Drechsler-brown Funeral Home at 203 S. Marion St., Oak Park, Friday from 7 - 9 p.m. Local arrangements were completed by the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home. Mrs. Hubbard was born in Chicago, the daughter of Hugo Z and Lillian L Seafort Schindier. She was united in marriage to Lyle Hubbard who survives along with her mother, Mrs. Lillian Schindler of Oak Park; one daughter, Mrs. Barbara Scheuring of Oak Park and two grandchildren, Gary Michael and Stephen Joseph Scheuring both of Oak Park.
Dated: Feb 5, 1970, Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

JOHN E HUBBARD ,58, Polo passed away Sunday morning Sept 15. Mr. Hubbard was born south of Rock Falls March 7, 1905, the son of Frank and Minnie Fisher Hubbard. He was united in marriage to Hazel Moore June 15, 1932, in Rock Falls. Mr. Hubbard farmed and in later years worked at Industrial Manufacturing Engineering Co., Polo. Besides his wife, he is survived by a son, Earl, Grand Island, Nebr.; a daughter, Mrs. Robert (Veva) Buskohl, Polo; his mother, Mrs. Minnie Hubbard, Rock Falls; five brothers, Lyle, Donald, Lloyd and Kenneth, Rock Falls; Melvin, Morrison; two sisters Mrs. Vera Moorehead, Sterling, Mrs. Loretta Wagner, Rock Falls; three grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded by his father in death. Funeral services were held from McNabb Funeral Home, Wednesday at 2 p.m. with Rev. Richard Ferris, pastor of the Presbyterian church, officiating. Burial was in Oak Knoll cemetery. Casket bearers were William Beton, Earl Harle, Harold Hinrichs, Fred Schwenk, Elery Shank, and Robert Michaels.
Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

KEITH HUBBARD , seven week old, one of the twin sons of Mr. and Mrs. Frank L. Hubbard of Montmorency, was found dead this morning by its parents. The child had been ailing since birth. The remains will be buried in the Golder cemetery Thursday. ( September 24, 1924 Sterling Gazette) Keith Hubbard, one of twin sons of Mr. and Mrs. Frank L Hubbard, of Montmorency, was born August 10, 1924 and died Sept. 24 He leaves , besides his father and mothers and twin Kenneth, five other brothers and two sisters, John, Loretta, Lyle, Donald, Melvin, Lloyd and Vera, also his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Elias Fisher of Rock Falls.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers October 4, 1924 Sterling Gazette

KENNETH L HUBBARD , 65, of 1519 8th Ave. Rock Falls, died Monday in his home following an extended illness. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Friday, at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home in Rock Falls, with Rev. Russell Whitemore, pastor of the Rock River First Church of God, Sterling, officiating. Burial will be in Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling, Visitation will be 2-4 and 6-8 Thursday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established in his memory. Mr. Hubbard was born on Aug. 10, 1924 in Rock Falls, the son of Frank and Minnie Fisher Hubbard, He married Shirley L. Near on April 20, 1955 in Rock Falls. He was employed by the Fraternal Order of Eagles of Rock Falls. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #2783 of rock Falls. He is survived by his wife, Shirley; one son, Kenneth R., Rock Falls; and one daughter Mrs. Charles (Brenda) Terry, of Jonesville, NC; six grandchildren; two brothers, Lyle and Lloyd, Rock Falls; and two sister, Loretta Wagner, Rock Falls; and Vera Morehead, Chadwick; and a number of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by four brothers and three sisters.
Dated: Dec 25, 1989, Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

LLOYD G. HUBBARD , of 1203 10th Ave. , Rock Falls , 9, died Wednesday, Sept. 10, 1997 at CGH Medical Center . Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, at McDonald Funeral Home, Rock Falls , with the Rev. Don George, Pastor of rock River Christian Center, officiating. Burial with military rites will be at Riverside Cemetery , Sterling . Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., today at the funeral home. A memorial has been established for Hospice of Rock River Valley. Mr. Hubbard was born Aug. 28, 1918, in Rock Falls , the son of Frank and Minnie (Fisher) Hubbard. He served in W W II in the Pacific and received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He farmed for several years and was employed at the Parrish-Alford Division of Northwestern Steel and Wire Company, prior to retiring in 1982. Survivors include one son, Clair Hubbard of Spartanburg, S.C.; one daughter, Elaine (Jerry) Holder of Sterling; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Loretta Wagner of Rock Falls, and Hazel Hubbard of Polo. He was preceded in death by his wife, Glenys M. Hubbard on Oct. 2, 1988; four brothers; and five sisters.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the Sept. 12, 1997 Daily Gazette

LYLE HUBBARD , 84, of 1105 Fifth Ave. Rock Falls, died Tuesday, Oct. 26, 1993 at Willowood Nursing Home in Rock Falls. He was born on May 25, 1909 in deer Grove to Frank and Minnie (Fisher) Hubbard. He was preceded in death by four brothers and four sisters. Survivors include one son, Clair (Marie) of Spartanburg, SC; one daughter Elaine (Jerry) Holder of Sterling; one brother, Lloyd of Rock Falls; two sisters, Loretta Wagner of Rock Falls and Vera Morehead of Rock Falls; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Oak Knoll Memorial Park with Rev. Bernard J. Mullane, pastor of St. Andrew Catholic Church, officiating. There will be no visitation. Funeral arrangement were completed by Melvin-Schilling Funeral Home.
Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

MELVIN F HUBBARD , 71, of Route 1, Thomson, died suddenly Thursday evening, in Bixby, Oklahoma, while vacationing at the home of his daughter. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home in Rock Falls, with Rev. James E. Werner, pastor of the First Congregational Church of Rock Falls, officiating. Burial will be in Oak Knoll Memorial Park in Sterling. Visitation will be at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home in Rock Falls Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. Military rites will be conducted at the grave. Mr. Hubbard was born Nov. 17, 1916 in Rock Falls, the son of Franklin and Minnie Fisher Hubbard. He married Irene Heinze in 1944 in Sterling. She preceded him in death. He had farmed in the Sterling-Rock Falls, and Morison area for many years. He was then employed in the parts department at Eaton Corporation in Savanna for 11 years prior to his retirement in 1981. He was an U.S. Army veteran during World War II and a member of the VFW Post in Savanna. He is survived by six sons, Frank of Conroe, TX. Roy of Savanna, George of Monroe, Wis., and Harry and Wayne, both of Bixby, Okla.; four daughters, Mrs. Charles (Kathy) Whitmeyer of Freeport, Mrs. Gerald (Bernice) Vincent of Bixby, Okla., Mrs. James (Barbara) Rodebaugh of Broken Arrow, Okla., and Mrs. Dinnis (Darlene) Euler of Freeport; 15 grandchildren; three brothers, Kenneth, Lloyd and Lyle Hubbard of Rock Falls; two sister, Mrs. Vera Morehead of Coleta; Mrs. Loretta Wagner of Sterling. He was preceded in death by one son, three brothers, and three sisters. (Dated:June 1988)

MINNIE E (FISHER) HUBBARD , 85, 602 W. 3rd St., Sterling, died Sunday evening in her home. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home with the Rev. Fred Anderson, pastor of the Rock Falls United Methodist Church, officiating and burial in Oak Knoll Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call at the Wheelock- Allen Home from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Monday. Mrs. Hubbard was born July 20, 1885 in Emerson, the daughter of Elias and Phoebe Bryson Fisher. She was united in marriage to Frank L. Hubbard who preceded her in September 1943. Mrs. Hubbard was a lifetime member of the Rock Falls United Methodist Church. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Loretta Wagner, Yeowardville, and Mrs. Vera Moorehead, Sterling; five sons, Lyle, Rock Falls, Donald, Tampico, Melvin, Savanna and Lloyd and Kenneth, Rock Falls; one sister, Mrs. Elva Crabb, Rock Falls; 29 grandchildren and 48 great grandchildren. She was preceded by her husband, Frank and five children. (Died April 18, 1971)
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - Apr 19, 1971 Sterling Gazette

NEVA ARDETTA HUBBARD , youngest child of Mr. and Mrs. F. I. Hubbard, was born July 28, 1926, in the same home in which she died Dec. 16, 1933, of heart trouble. Neva was a child of unusual happy disposition and loved by all who knew her. She was a pupil of room one of the Merrill school, of which Miss Waples is teacher. Neva leaves to mourn her loss besides her parents, seven brothers, and two sisters. They are John Hubbard of Nelson, Mrs. Glenn Wagner of Polo, Lyle and Donald of Rock Falls, Melvin, Lloyd, Vera, Kenneth in the home and her grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Elias Fisher of Rock Falls. Funeral services were held at the home on Ninth avenue, Rock Falls, Monday, Dec 18, at 1:30 p.m. by Rev. Furnish, pastor of the Rock Falls M.E. church. Miss Arvilla Anderson, a former teacher of Neva’s, sang “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Safe In the Arms of Jesus.” Miss Fern Yeager was pianist. The floral offering was especially large and beautiful. Pallbearers were four cousins, William Benton, Raymond Bohms, Harry and John Fisher. Interment was in Golder cemetery.
Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

SHIRLEY (NEAR) HUBBARD , 65, of 31363 Hahnaman Rd., deer Grove, died Sunday, June 15, 1997, following an extended illness. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Harvest Time Bible Church, Rock Falls, with the Rev. Dalmus Meeks, pastor officiating. Burial will be at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. today at the church. Arrangements were completed by McDonald Funeral Home, Rock Falls. Mrs. Hubbard was born July 21, 1931 in Deer Grove, the daughter of Russell and Ruby (Waltz) Near. She married Kenneth L. Hubbard on April 20, 1955, Rock Falls. He died Dec. 25, 1989. She was employed at Foodlane Restaurant, Rock Falls, for several years. She was a member of Harvest time Bible Church and a past member of the rock Falls Bagles Club. She enjoyed sewing. Survivors include one son, Kenneth (Vicky) Hubbard of Deer Gove, one daughter, Brenda (Charles) Terry of Boonesville, N C; six grandchildren; three sisters, three great grandchildren; three sisters, Beverly ( Clark) Nailor and Shelby (Jim) Kaehler both of Rock Falls: and Patsy Terry of Elkin, NC; and four brothers, Russell (Agnes) Near of Charlotte, NC, Bill (Shirley) Near of Vacaville, Calif., Everett (Linda) Near of Elkins, NC, and Marvin Near of Milledgeville. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Lester Near and Eugene Near; and one sister, Linda.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - June 16, 1997 Sterling Gazette

WILLIAM H. HUBBARD , 96, died Tuesday [12/04/1945] evening at 8:45 at the Whiteside county home at Round Grove. Old age and a general breaking down were the causes of death. The body was taken to the Trouth funeral home, where arrangements are being made for the funeral pending word from relatives in Los Angeles, Calif. Mr. Hubbard was born in Mt. Pleasant township, Whiteside county November 18, 1849, the son of Manoah M. and Florence Gilbert Hubbard. He was married to Miss Naomi Combs, the date not being known. She preceded him many years ago. The family moved to Sterling in 1852. That was before the days of railroad and Mr. Hubbard, senior, father of William, hauled the lumber overland from Dixon with which to build his home at what is now 1912 East Fourth street. Mr. Hubbard was engaged in various types of business in the east end of Sterling for many years finally retiring and entering the county infirmary where he has since made his home Mr. Hubbard was a man of kindly, jovial disposition and had many friends in Sterling and vicinity as long as his health would permit him to be up and around. He is survived by one son, Howard Hubbard, who is a resident of Los Angeles, Calif.

Funeral on Friday The funeral of William H. Hubbard will be held at 2 p.m. Friday [12/07/1945] in the Trouth funeral home, conducted by Rev. V. Edward Birch of Fourth Street Methodist church. Interment will be in Riverside cemetery.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, December 5, 1945

FRANK L. HUBBART , 83, esteemed resident of Erie for many years, passed away Saturday night at 8:45 o'clock at his home in Erie following an illness of a week. Funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock in the Erie Christian Church, with the Rev. Melvin Fiscus of Camp Point, a former pastor, officiating. Internment will be in the Erie cemetery. Mr. Hubbart, son of Simpson S. and Adaline Remer Hubbart, was born in Union Grove township Nov. 4, 1862. In his youth he came to Erie with his parents and had since made this place his home. In 1897 he purchased his farm at the edge of Erie and farmed it until retiring a number of years ago. His son-in-law, Judson Ashdown, now operates it. October 11, 1903, he was united in marriage to Mrs. Anna Moulton, who survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Judson Ashdown of Erie; a stepson, Lester Moulton of Galesburg; a sister, Mrs. Stella Coster of Geneseo; a brother, Franz S. Hubbart of Erie; three grandchildren, five step grandchildren and three step great-grandchildren. His parents and six brothers and sisters preceded him in death.
Contributed by Cyndie Dennis Greer