O B I T U A R I E S
For
Whiteside County Illinois


K

ALFRED JAMES KAEHLER , 75, of Sterling died July 5, 2005 after an extended illness. He was born on June 16, 1930 in Sterling the son of Virgil & Neva (Williams) Kaehler. He was a 1950 graduate of Sterling High School where he played football and was in the band. He married Shelby Near on April 6, 1957. He was employed first at King Welding and later at Sauk Valley Equipment, Rock Falls. He was a member of Harvest Time Bible Church, Rock Falls and a past member of 4 seasons CB Club and Rock River Snowmobile Club. Surviving are his wife, their children, Deb of Sterling, Cindy Scheelk of Chicago, Linda Taylor, Kim Preston and Phil all of Rock Falls and Terry, not of the area; special friend Ruth Cowley of Rock Falls; 20 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Burial at Oak Knoll Memorial park.

EVELYN KANE , Prayer services where held Saturday at 8:45 a.m. at Brennan Funeral Home for Miss Evelyn Kane. Mass of the resurrection was held at 9 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church with the Rev. Ron Jones officiating. Soloist and organist was Mrs. Mary Fecht. Burial was in Calvary Cemetery . Pallbearers were; Joseph G. Novak, Lester Jacobs, Arlie Sigman, O.L. McGinn, Harold McGinn and A.J. VanDe Mark.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - Dec 26, 1974 Sterling Gazette

JAMES KANE , 58, a well-known farmer and lifelong resident of this county, was instantly killed wednesday afternoon at 2:30 when crushed beneath a grain binder. He was making repairs to the binder and the jack slipped allowing the binder to fall upon him. The body was removed to the Trouth funeral home. It will be returned ot the late home six miles northwest of this city on the Coleta road late this afternoon. Funeral services will be Saturday at 8:30 at the home and 9 at St. Mary's Catholic church. Burial will be in Calvary cemetery. Cornoer C.M. Frye will conduct the inquest this afternoon at 1:30 at the trouth funeral home. Mr. Kane was a highly respected, hard working man. He was a kind and loving husband and father and a good neighbor. He was born near Tampico Aug. 19, 1887. For the past 28 years he had farmed near the city. He was a life-long member of St. Mary's and a member of the Holy Name Society. He is survived by his wife, four daughters, Mary of Chicago, Margaret in nurse's training at Mercy Hospital, Clinton IA, Joan and Rita at home; three sons; T/Sgt James Joseph Kane of Dalhart TX; A.C. John Kane of Douglas AZ and Cpl. Frank Kane of Galveston TX. The sons are expected to arrive home tonight. He is also survived by a brother Frank Kane of Chicago, three sisters, Katherine and Evelyn of Chicago and Mrs. Mary Burden of Joliet. A son, Sgt. Charles Kane was killed in a training plane accident in Mexico June 7, 1943.

EDWARD KANNAKA , a prayer service was conducted for the late Edward Kannaka by the Rev. Eldor Mueller at the Behrens Mortuary at 11 a.m. Monday, prior to the removal of the body to Messiah Lutheran Church. The two o'clock service was introduced with the reading of Isaiah 40:1-5 and Luke 2:22-31. Mrs. Harry Robinson sang Beautiful Savior before the sermon and What a Friend We Have In Jesus afterward. Mrs. M H. Mueller was the organist. The pastor's message of comfort unfolded the prayer of aged Simeon, with the baby Jesus in his arms: "Lord, now lettest Thou Thy Servant depart in peace, according to Thy Word. For mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people.: Luke 2, 29-31. The pallbearers were Raymond Loos, Otto Wenk, John Wenk, Lawrence Myers, Robert Sangrey and Ted Newton. A number of memorial were given in memory of the departed, the exact nature of which will be determined later by the family. The floral tributes received the attention of Mrs. Alvin Ericksen, Mrs. Clarence Pratt, Mrs. Ed Neitzke Sr., and Mrs. Louis Mennenga. Interment was made in Oak Knoll Memorial Park.
Obituary: Edward Kannaka, son of Fredericka, nee Wehling, and Emanuel Kannaka, was born in Clinton, Iowa, July 24, 1883. He was baptized there by the Rev. H. S. Morril and attended the public schools of Clinton. In 1904, he came to Sterling. On May 27, 1908, he was united in marriage with Emelia Otto, the Rev. Louis Gresens of Second Avenue Lutheran Church reading the service. He became a member of that congregation Dec. 18, 1938, when he was confirmed by the Rev. W. J. Voeltz. Ed was a quiet, faithful Christian. He established and maintained a commendable pattern of use of the means of grace. Seldom did he miss an hour of worship, often he was a guest at the Lord's Table. While he did not take an active roll in congregational life other than the use of God's means of grace, he did take the time and trouble to speak a word of encouragement to his pastor whenever the opportunity presented itself. He loved his Savior very much. This devotion to the Author of his life and salvation was also evident during these months he was confined to his home. Ed Kannaka was employed in the shipping department of Frantz Manufacturing Co. for more than 32 years. He retired in 1947. Death came quietly to him in his home at 1408 6th Ave. Friday afternoon after an extended illness. He is survived by his wife; one son Robert, and one daughter Florence (Mrs. Thomas) Heckert, both of Sterling; five grandchildren and one great grandson. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and two sisters.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois December 13, 1960 - Tuesday, page 2

JESSIE (GOULD) KEISER , died this morning at the Harbor Crest Nursing Home in Fulton after and extended illness. She had been a resident there for the past 3 1/2 years. The body was removed to the Melvin Funeral Home, where friends may call from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 Sunday. At noon Monday, the body will be taken to the First Baptist Church to lie in state until the time of the service at 1:30pm. The Rev. Glen Sgively, pastor of the church will officiate and burial will be in the Mennonite section of Riverside Cemetery. A memorial has been established to the First Baptist Church. Born August 27, 1879 in Sterling, Mrs. Keiser was the daughter of Darius and Unice Green Gould. She received her education in 1897, and married Charles E. Keiser on April 19, 1899. He preceeded her in death October 10, 1949. Mrs. Keiser was a member of the First Baptist Church for 79 years and was active in the wonen's work in the church, the choir and Sunday School. She was a member of the Rebekah Lodge and Woman's Relief Corps. Five children survive her, two daughters, Mrs. Alberta Foote, and Mrs. Ralph (Ruth) MeCormick, both of Sterling; three sons, Paul C. Keiser of Rock Falls; Roy A. Keiser of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Earl W. Keiser of Oxnard, Calif. A daughter-in-law, Mrs. Arthur (Myrtle) Keiser of Sterling; ane niece, Mrs. Angie Bressler of Rockford' 14 frandchildren' and 35 great-grandchildren. One son, Arthur G Keiser, preceded in 1967.
Contributed by Sheila Smith

FRANCES BROPHY KELLY , 74, of Morrison, IL, died Saturday, August 30, 2008 at Morrison Community Hospital, Morrison, IL. Frank was born January 7, 1934 in Tampico, IL, to Francis E. and Helen (Brophy) Kelly. He attended Morrison grade schools and graduated from Morrison High School in 1951. He later graduated from Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL in 1959 with a degree in Mathematics. Frank was a veteran of the Korean War, serving as a sergeant in the United State Marine Corps from 1952 to 1955. He married Janice Aggen on June 6, 1959 in Morrison, IL. Frank worked for General Electric for 34 years, including employment as technical representative, sales manager and manager of international sales in Japan and New York. Frank returned to Morrison in 1972 to work at the Morrison General Electric Plant. He was a member of the Morrison High School Hall of Fame for his football and basketball careers. Frank served as president and a coach for the Morrison Little League and was a member of the Morrison American Legion Post #328, Morrison VFW #8281, and St. Mary's Catholic Church in Morrison. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed golfing and won many awards at the Morrison Country Club. Other interests included gardening and the study of Mathematics in nature, especially Fibonacci's Golden Ratio. Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Janice; two daughters, Kim (Greg) Kembitzky of Hilliard, OH and Katrina (James) Kuhn of Winfield, IL; two sons, Mark (Sandra) Kelly of St. Charles, IL and Rodney (Robin) Kelly of Lombard, IL; five grandchildren, Nolan, Madeline, Hannah, Aaron, and Jacob Kelly; five sisters, Mrs. Mary Renkes of Morrison, Mrs. Helen Millerschone of Shabbona, IL, Mrs. Margaret Foreman of Morrison, Molly (Kenneth) Jones of Morrison and Rita (Burt) Seaman of Morrison. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, James E. Kelly and a nephew, Robert J. Renkes.

HELEN KELLY - Funeral services for Mrs. Helen Kelly, who died Thursday morning at her home at 1004 W. 2nd St., in Rock Falls, will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday from the family home with Rev. Harry E. Shiffer, officiating. Friends may call after 2 p.m. Friday when the body will be taken to the family home from Wheelock's Funeral home. Burial will be in Rock Falls Odd Fellows Cemetery.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois October 15, 1954 - Friday pg 2

LEROY J. KELLY , 74, of 110 S. Freemont St. in Tampico died Saturday morning at Community General Hospital. Funeral prayer services will be Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the Garland Funeral Home in Tampico with Mass of the Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. in St. Mary's Catholic Church in Tampico with Rev. James Tranell officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary's Catholic Church in Tampico. Visitation will be Monday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the funeral home with Rosary recited at 8 p.m. A memorial has been established to the Tampico Ambulance and St. Mary's Catholic Church in Tampico. Mr. Kelly was born on Jan. 30, 1913 in Fairfield Township, the son of Richard and Nellie Burden Kelly. On May 1, 1937 he was united in marriage to Margaret Warner in Chicago. The deceased farmed in the Tampico area until retiring in 1976. He was a past road commissioner for Fairfield Township and a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Tampico. Survivors include his wife, Margaret of Tampico; two sons, Ronald and Donald both of Tampico; five grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and one sister.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, IllinoisFebruary 2, 1987 - Monday, pg A2

LOUIS KELLY - Funeral services for Louis Kelly were held at 2 p.m. Monday in the Reynolds Funeral Home with Rev. David Fouts officiating and burial in Grove Hill cemetery. Pall bearers were all grandsons and were Lloyd and richard Shepard, Eldon Cherry, Raymond Weeks, Ray Harris and John Isenhart. Friends in charge of flowers were Mr.s Glenn Williams and Mrs. Brooks Given. Mrs. Abe Renkes was the organist. Mr. Kelly died at the Morrison Hospital Friday morning, having been in failing health about a year. He was born in Morrison November 1, 1886, the son of John and Charlotte Andres Kelly and received his education in local schools. For many years he was employed by Smaltz Brothers. In 1904 he married Lottie Birely. Survivors are two daughters, Mrs. Frank (Inez) O'Donnell of Stevens Point WI and MRs. Charles (Ethel ) Heath of Morrison; three sister, Mrs. Grace Smith of Morrison, Mrs. Carl Clausen of Clinton and mrs. Ruth Shepard of Sterling; 17 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He was preceded by his wife, a son Robert and three brothers, Warren, Carl and Ray.
From the Odell Library Collection

MARGARET E. (WARNER) KELLY ,78, formerly of Tampico, died Saturday, May 4, 1996, at Sterling Pavilion. Prayer services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Garland Funeral Home, Tampico, with a 10:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Tampico, with the Rev. Vincent J. Shindelar, pastor, officiating. Burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery, Tampico. Visitation will be from 5-9 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established for the Tampico Rescue Unit or the St. Mary's Altar and Rosary Society. Mrs. Kelly was born Oct. 3, 1917, in Prophetstown, the daughter of Hamden and Emma (Toppert) Warner. She married Leroy J. Kelly on May 1, 1937, in Chicago. He died Jan. 31, 1987. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Tampico, the Altar and Rosary Society, was 50 year member of the Whiteside County Homemakers, a member of the Whiteside County Hospice, the Royal Neighbors, the Tampico Long Range Committee, and the Dixon Singles Club. She was a volunteer teacher's aide at Tampico Grade School for many years. She enjoyed painting, traveling, sports and fishing. Survivors include two sons, Ronald (Kathy) Kelly and Donald (Jolene) Kelly, both of Tampico; five grandchildren, Steven (Nora) Kelly, Karla Kelly, Mark (Liz) Kelly, Michael Kelly and Matt Kelly; one great-grandson; three sisters, Althea Larson of Sterling, Rogene McGuinn of High Point, N.C., Phyllis Nieland of Monee; one brother, Emmitt Warner of Tucson, Ariz.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois May 6, 1996 - Monday, pg A2

PETER JAMES KELLY , 67, a resident of Morrison his entire life, died unexpectedly at his farm home on the northeast edge of the city at 8 o'clock Thursday morning. He had been in poor health for some time but lately had been feeling better and psent Wednesday afternoon downtown. Funeral services will be 10:30 Saturday at the Carney Funeral Home with Rev. E.J. Connolly of the St. Mary's Catholic Church officiating. Burial will be in Grove Hill cemetery. The deceased better known as Jim, as born in the home where he died on March 26, 1876, the son of James & Bridget Brennan Kelly. For many years he was a cement contractor and also laid many sewer lines in Morrison, Fulton and other surrounding towns. During later years he and his brother had operated the Kelly farm. He was unmarried and made his home with his brother, Thomas Kelly and his sister, Margaret Kelly, his only survivors. He was preceded by his parents and two brothers.

PATRICK DONOVAN FINKLE KELLY , infant son of LaVon Finkle, 310 7th Ave., in Sterling, died Wednesday at Rockford Memorial Hospital. Memorial services will be Sunday at 7 p.m. in the Trinity United Methodist Church in Sterling with Rev. Ray Rebuck officiating. Funeral arrangements were completed by the Melvin-Schilling Funeral Home in Sterling. A memorial has been established to the Trinity United Methodist Church of Sterling. Survivors include his mother, LaVon Finkle of Sterling; his father, Kevin Kelly; one sister, Emily Buikema and one brother, Andrew Buikema, both at home; also maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Finkle of Sterling.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois June 12, 1987 - Friday, pg A2

ROBERT L. KELLY , a young Morrison man who has spent his entire life here, passed away at the Morrison hospital at 1:05 Tuesday morning, death being due to a ruptured appendix. He was taken there last Saturday but his condition was such that he could not be operated on at that time. He was born Dec. 26, 1910 and reached the age of 24 years and two m onths. He is survived by his father, Louis Kelly, his mother, Mrs. Earl McDaniel, both of this city. He is also mourned by two sisters, Mrs. Inez Tankersly of Rockford and Mrs. Charles Heath of Rock Falls and his grandparents, MR. and Mrs. Walter Birely of this city. Although not a member of any church, he was a Bible tudent and was also greatly devoted to his mother. He had been in ill health for a number of years, but nevertheless had a great desire to work and when not employed would make all effort possible to secure a job. He was well liked by his acquaintances. Funeral services will be conducted THursday afternoon at the Reynolds Funeral home and burial will take place in Grove Hill cemetery. Rev. H.V. Meima pastor of the First Baptist church officiating. From the Odell Library Collection

ROBERT KELLY , 77, of FL, formerly of Morrison, IL died Saturday, December 1, 2007 in Florida. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date at Grove Hill Cemetery - Morrison, IL Rev. Mike Winkelman, pastor of St. Peter's Lutheran Church - Morrison, IL There will be no visitation, the Morrison Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Grove Hill Cemetery - Morrison, IL

WALTER KELLY , 86, a former Rock Falls resident, died Monday, Feb. 2, at the Amery Constant Care Home in Amery, Wisconsin. Funeral services were held Wednesday, Feb. 5, at the Williamson Funeral Home. The Rev. Roy E. Johnson officiated. Interment will be held in the Traveler's Rest Cemetery in Amery, Wisconsin. Mr. Kelly was born April 6, 1884 in Hamilton, Alabama, the son of William R. and Permellia F. Kelly. He was united in marriage to Ada Mae Crow on Aug. 3, 1913 in Hamilton, Alabama. He farmed for many years, living in Alabama during the early years of his life and later in Arkansas. He spent seven years in the Rock Falls area and was employed at Northwestern Steel and Wire Company. Mr. Kelly is survived by his wife, Ada Mae of Amery, Wisconsin; two daughters, Ora Callaway of Sterling, and Martha Baker of Amery, Wisconsin; one son, Lee Olun of West Helna, Arkansas; one brother, Ernest of Alabama; seven grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and four great great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sons, two daughters, four brothers and four sisters.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois February 20, 1981 - Friday, pg A4

VERA M. (STERN) KELM , 75, of 26115 Star Road, Tampico, IL, died Friday, February 17, 2006 at CGH Medical Center in Sterling, IL. Vera was born on January 14, 1931 in Sterling, IL, the daughter of Frank E. and Anna C. (Fulfs) Stern. She was educated in Sterling Schools and was employed at Frantz Manufacturing in Sterling, Illinois, for 29 years, retiring in July of 1996. She was a member of the Hume Extension Unit, Tampico Women’s Club, and the Community Club of Tampico where she served as secretary. She was baptized and confirmed at the West Jordan Lutheran Church in Sterling, Illinois and was an active member of the First Lutheran Church of Prophetstown. She enjoyed sewing, baking for her family and spending time in her garden. She was loved by her family and will be deeply missed. She is survived by two sons, Gordon Kelm of Tampico, Illinois, Gary (Susan) Kelm of Mineral Point, WI; three grandchildren, Emily, Katie, and David Kelm of Mineral Point, WI; two brothers, Donald (Ruth) Stern of Sterling, Illinois, Kenneth (Eva Fritz) Stern of Rock Falls, Illinois; two sisters-in-laws, Gladys Stern and Phyllis Stern both of Sterling, Illinois and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers Harold and Lawrence. Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at the First Lutheran Church of Prophetstown with the Rev. Greg Olson, pastor officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in Prophetstown. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Garland Funeral Home in Tampico. A memorial has been established in her memory to the First Lutheran Church of Prophetstown
Contributed by Debbie Thormahlen from the Prophetstown Echo

ROLAND L. KELSEY , 75, of Sterling died Jan. 15, 2005 at his home after an illness. He was employed by Illinois Bell Telephone as a plant assignor in Sterling, retiring in 1982. Mr. Kelsey was born Dec. 17, 1925 in Prophetstown, the son of George and Ina (Hill) Kelsey. He attended Sterling High School. He served in the Marines during WW II in Iowa Jima and later in China. He married Jean Hoffman on May 28, 1948 in Sterling. He was a member of Sterling American Legion Post 296 and IBEW 399. Survivors are his wife; four daughters, Ann Kelsey, Karen Clayton, Marcia Walish and Pat Schmitt; a sister Lois Cassens and nine grandchildren along with two great-grandchildren. He was preceded by a sister Helen Pratt. Services at McDonald-Allen-Grennan Funeral Home in Sterling with Rev. Joseph Cassady officiating.

MARGIE (GREENE) KEMPSTER - 66, passed away Wednesday night (24 Aug 1962) in the Community General Hospital in Sterling. She was born March 24, 1896 in Prophetstown, the daughter of A. S. and Agnes Warner Greene. She was educated in the Prophetstown schools and the University of Wisconsin, where she was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma. She taught school in Chicago for a number of years, moving back to Prophetstown in 1959. She was a member of the Congregational Church. She married Arnett Kempster of Prophetstown in 1918. Surviving are one brother, Jack Greene of Park Ridge, Ill., and one niece and a nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents. Funeral services will be held at the Gardner Chapel, Friday at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Kenneth Dotson officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after 7:30 p.m. tonight.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois August 25, 1962 - Thursday, pg 2 col 2

O.W. KEMPSTER - Funeral services for O.W. Kempster, 79, of St. Petersburg, Florida, were held Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in the Melvin-Schilling Funeral Home. Rev. John M. Coppie, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Sterling officiated. Burial was at Riverside Cemetery in Prophetstown. Mrs. Wesley H. Koster was the organist.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - Feb 9, 1980 Daily Gazette

AGNES (JONES) KENNEDY , of 503 E. Main St., Morrison, died at 6:40 p.m. Friday at the Morrison Community Hospital where she had been a patient for the past seven weeks. Mrs. Kennedy had been ill for two years. The body was taken to the Reynolds Funeral Home where it will remain until 9:30 a.m. Monday when it will be removed to the residence for services at 2 p.m. The body will then be returned to the funeral home for services at 2:30 p.m. The Rev. Roland T. Kamm, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, will officiate. Burial will be in Grove Hill Cemetery. Agnes Jones was born Dec. 5, 1878 in Clyde Township, Whiteside County, to John M. and Mary Gondlelock Jones. She was reared and educated in Clyde Township. On Jan. 27, 1898, she was married to Harvey J. Kennedy at the home of her parents. After their marriage the couple farmed in Clyde Township at Kennedy's Corners until 1918 when they moved to Morrison, where they resided until their death. Mr. Kennedy died Dec. 4, 1948. Mrs. Kennedy was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, the Rebekah Lodge, and the Progressive Reading Circle. She attended the Presbyterian Church. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Harry A. (Gladys) Johns of Shaker Heights, Ohio; nieces and nephews and one cousin, who is 96 years old. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; four sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Mathew, Mrs. Margaret Davis, Mrs. Jeane Alldritt and Mrs. Mary Pierson, and four brothers, William, John M., Alexander and Robert Jones.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois October 2, 1954 - Saturday pg 2

EVELYN L. (SCHULTZ) KENNEDY , 61, 811 Brook Rd., Rockford, died Tuesday (15 Aug 1983) at the Swedish American Hospital, Rockford, after a long illness. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma Funeral home with burial in the Calvary Hill Cemetery, Fulton. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. to the funeral on Friday at the funeral home. Evelyn Kennedy was born on Feb. 5, 1922, in Sterling, the daughter of Ernest and Gladys Dauen Schultz. She was educated in Sterling grade and high schools. On. Aug. 8, 1952 she was united in marriage to Leonard P. Kennedy in Walnut Ridge, Ark. She resided for the past 33 years in Rockford and prior to that in Stillman Valley. Surviving are her husband, Leonard; her mother, Mrs. Gladys Kane, Rockford; three sisters, Mrs. Kenneth (Arlene) Rennecker, Albany, Mrs. Dorothy Hathaway, Dallas, Texas, Mrs. Robert (Viola) Parkinson, Morrison; and one brother Donald Dauen. Preceding her in death was her father.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois August 16, 1983 - Wednesday, pg A4

HAL W. KENNEDY , 89, retired farmer, formerly of Morrison, passed away Saturday at St. Mary's hospital, Decatur. He had been ailing a year with a heart condition. The body was forwarded to the Reynolds funeral home in Morrison where services will be conducted Tuesday at 2 p.m. The Rev. Harold E. Olson of the Methodist church will officiate. Committal will be in Grove Hill cemetery. Mr. Kennedy was born in Whiteside county Oct. 8, 1862, the son of William A. and Emaline Bailey Kennedy. He retired to Morrison from a farm in Clyde township in 1915. He married Ann Haslam at Morrison Feb. 5. 1891. He was an active member of the Methodist church and served on the official board a number of years and had been a member of the Odd Fellows lodge for over 50 years. After his wife died in February 1946 he went to live with a son in Naperville and his daughter, Mrs. A. H. Berg, in Decatur. The son, William H., now lives In Pittsburg, Calif. Two daughters also survive. Seven brothers and sisters preceded him in death.
Contributed by Pam Pickens - Sterling Gazette 17 Sep 1951

HARVEY J. KENNEDY , was a son of William A. and Emeline (Bayley/Bayley)KENNEDY, and was born 16 May 1869, in Clyde Twp., Whiteside Co., Illinois, on the farm at "Kennedy Corners." He made his home here until 1918, when he retired and went to Morrison to make their home on East Main St. He had married Agnes Jones, 27 Jan 1898,in Clyde Twp. in the home of her parents. Officiating was the Rev. J.W. Skinner , then pastor of the local Presbyterian Church. Harvey & Agnes had one daughter, Gladys,who is the wife of Harry A. JOHNS of Naperville, Ill. They celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary last January 27. Harvey J. Kennedy died about noon Saturday Dec 4, 1949, in Morrison Community Hospital. He was a prominent resident of the community and city and had lived here all his life. Beside his wife and daughter, he is survived by one brother, Harold W. Kennedy. He was predeceased by his parents, five sisters and one brother. The sisters were Mary E.and Florence A.who died in infancy, Mrs. Julia Wetzel, Mrs. Lida C.Morrison and Cora Kennedy, while the deceased brother was Jeff Kennedy. Funeral services were Tuesday afternoon in the Reynolds Funeral Home,with the Rev.R.B.Heydinger of the First Presbyterian Church officiating. Interment was in Grove Hill Cemetery.

MIRIAM S. KENNEDY , age 94, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., passed away Oct. 21, 2007 She was born on Sept. 3, 1913, in Chicago to Arthur and Alice Seagren. Growing up in Sterling, Ill., she moved to California prior to World War II, and resided most of her life in Santa Monica and Warner Springs. She moved to Fort Walton Beach in 2005 to live near her son's family. Her time in Santa Monica was spent in raising two sons, and involvement in many charitable organizations. After her husband retired they moved to the Warner Springs Ranch in the mountains behind San Diego. she lived there for several decades, and was very involved in the ladies golf club, the investment club and the historical society. She treasured her many friends at Warner Springs, and in her later years she particularly enjoyed playing cards in the evening at the ranch's cantina. A truly amazing woman, she was an active and successful real estate agent well into her 80s. although suffering the loss of her youngest son and later her husband, she maintained a positive attitude toward life and was always up for an adventure - climbing Mount Whitney, going on safari in Africa, boating down the Amazon, and up the Yangtze. She continued to travel until she was 90, and visited every continent except Antarctica. Mrs. Kennedy was preceded in death by her husband, Bartlett Kennedy; and her youngest son, Bruce Kennedy.. she is survived by her remaining son, Charles Kennedy and his wife Patricia; and her grandson Brian Kennedy. As celebration of her life will be held in her condominium at noon on Oct. 25. she will be buried in Santa Monica next to her husband and youngest son. Her family would like to thank Dr. Russell, the staff at the Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, the Parthenon, and Covenant Hospice for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, her family requests that donations be made to Covenant Hospice. McLaughlin Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. www.McLaughlinMortuarry.com
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the Northwest Florida Daily News October 24, 2007

RICHARD YATES KENNEDY - The flag in the Plaza was at half mast today, as Coffeyville mourned the death last night of Mayor R. Y. Kennedy. A heart attack claimed the Mayor's life about 7:35 o'clock last night, shortly after he had left the KGGF studio in THE JOURNAL building, where he had delivered his weekly Sunday School lesson broadcast. The Mayor was found dying on the parking by Sgt Dick Smith, Army recruiting officer, in front of the Smith home, 210 West 7th St, as Sgt Smith left his home to go downtown. Smith summoned an ambulance and a physician, but it was believed the Mayor's life had ebbed away before aid came. In 1886 he was married to Miss Axa B Wink near Sterling, IL, and two years later they established their home on a farm in the Sandy Ridge vicinity, northwest of Coffeyville, Kansas. Mr Kennedy taught school in that vicinity nine years in addition to farming. Moving into Coffeyville, he became a member of the City Schools faculty, and retained his connection with the Coffeyville schools twenty-six years. He taught history and psychology. He retired from school work in 1917, to enter the real estate and insurance business with the late Andy Curry, a former Mayor of Coffeyville...Mr Kennedy was elected Mayor of Coffeyville last April 4...and took office April 15th.
(Note: R. Y. Kennedy was son of Robert M. Kennedy of Whiteside Co.) Contributed by: Jayne Kennedy Sweger

ROBERT M. KENNEDY , one of the aged and highly respected citizens of Clyde Township, has passed over the Great Divide. The death messenger summoned him at four o'clock on Thursday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs Edward Janvrin, in Clyde Township. He has enjoyed fairly good health until four weeks ago, when he was taken ill. Since that time he has gradually been failing until the fatal end, death being due to infirmities of old age. The funeral services will be held at the home of his daughter at 10:30 o'clock Saturday morning, Rev Abel officiating. The remains will be laid to rest in the Lutheran Cemetery in Genesee Township. The deceased was born in Huntington County, PA, Jan 30, 1823. He came west when seventeen years of age and settled in Dearborn County, Indiana, where he was united in marriage to Miss Martha Roberts. In the year 1855, the family moved to Illinois and settled on a farm in Clyde Township. Here Mr Kennedy engaged in farming which he followed until sixteen years ago when he and his wife went to make their home with their daughter. Mr Kennedy served in various positions of trust in Clyde Township, and was always held in high esteem by his friends and neighbors. To this union were born eleven children, six of whom survive: William E Kennedy of Sterling; Mrs Alice Sayres of Dayton, Washington; Mrs Kate Brown of Waitsburg, jWash; R Y Kennedy of Coffeyville, Kansas; Mrs Clara Crom of Twin Falls, Idaho; and Mrs Grace Janvrin of Clyde Township. Besides his children, he leaves a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his aged wife.
Contributed by Jayne (Kennedy) Sweger - Whiteside Sentinel, 9 December 1910 Jayne Kennedy Sweger

SUSAN ELAINE (DORATHY) KENNEDY Services for Susan E. Kennedy, 41, Fenton are 11 a.m. Saturday at United Methodist Church, Prophetstown. Burial is in Riverside Cemetery, Prophetstown. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Gardner Funeral Home, Prophetstown. A memorial fund has been established. Mrs. Kennedy died Wednesday, June 5, 1991 at the Skilled Care Facility at Morrison Community Hospital. The former Susan Dorathy was born April 14, 1950 in Moline, the daughter of Arlyn Sr. and Pauline Ottens Dorathy. She married Ralph Kennedy Aug. 14, 1973 in Fort Madison, Iowa. She graduated from Prophetstown High School in 1968. She was confirmed at the United Methodist Church, Prophetstown. Mrs. Kennedy was employed as an assembler for 10 years at General Electric Co., Morrison. Survivors include the widower, her parents, Morrison; sisters Corinne Osborne, Jacksonville, Il, and Kathleen Gerveler, Montrose, Iowa; and a brother, Arlyn Dorathy Jr., Morrison

WILLIAM E. KENNEDY passed away Wednesday morning at 8 o8clock, death being due to cancer, from which he suffered for a number of years. The funeral will be held at the home of Mr and Mrs Simon Matthew, 703 West Fourth Street, Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock. Rev. Fred Ingvelstad, pastor of the Fourth Street M. E. church, will officiate and will be assisted by Rev Harry Hostetter. The GAR, of which he was a member, will have charge of the services at the grave. The funeral of William E Kennedy was held Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at the Simon Matthew home on West Fourth St. The members of the GAR had charge of the service at the house, Rev. Fred Ingvolstad and Rev Harry Hostetter officiating. The American Legion had charge of the services at the grave and furnished the firing squad and bugler. Burial was in Riverside.
Contributed by Jayne (Kennedy) Sweger - The Daily Gazette, May 9, 1923 & 12 May 1923
(Note: William enlisted in 1864 in Co A 34th Reg Ill Vol. He was with Sherman in the Atlanta Camp; marched to the sea and through the Carolinas, was captured and a prisoner at Libby and Anderson Prisons, until the day before Grant took Richmond. Son of Robert Kennedy of Whiteside County)

WILLIAM KENNEDY Committal rites were held in Grove Hill Cemetery, Morrison, this afternoon for William Kennedy of Clinton, Ia., a Morrison area native, who died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Reynold Jurgensen, where he had resided since 1948. The funeral was held at the Bragonter-Fay Funeral Home at 1:30 this afternoon. The Rev. L. D. Havighurst of the First Methodist Church of Clinton, officiated. He was born in Clyde Township, Whiteside County, Nov. 28, 1877, the on of John DeWitt and Demarus Fisher Kennedy. He was married to Ivalyn Mason. They had lived in Clinton since 1914. He was a member of the First Methodist Church of Clinton and of the Masons for 49 years. At the time of his death he was a member of Western Star Lodge 100, AF & AM; also a member of the DeMolay Consistory and the Magi Shrine 26, of which he was a past watchman of shepherds. He is survived by three daughteers, Mrs. John Gehrmann of Folletts, Mrs. Philip Harris and Mrs. Jurgensen, both of Clinton; one sister, Mrs. Clarence Beswick of Morrison; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and several sisters and brothers.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - March 21, 1957 - Thursday, pg 2

HAROLD KENT , formerly of Sterling , died suddenly Sunday morning in his home 2431 8th Ave. , Moline . There is visitation today from 3 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. funeral rites will be conducted at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Melvin Funeral Home by the rev. Richard J. Hanson, assistant pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church . Burial will be in Oak Knoll Memorial Park cemetery. Harold L. Kent was born May 28, 1938 in Sterling , the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Schryeer. He was educated in the sterling schools and at the time of death was employed by National Life Insurance Co. in Moline . He served with the armed forces in Korea . Surviving are his parents, a brother and sister, Robert Kent of Sterling and Mrs. Francis (Peggy) Graham of Tucson, Ariz., his grandmother Mrs. Ida Schultz of rock Falls and five nieces.
Contributed by Margaret from the Feb 13, 1967 Sterling Gazette

JOHN KENT - At his residence in this city on Sunday evening May 31, 1891, Mr. John Kent, aged 74years, 11 months and 13 days. John Kent was born in Morrison, Morris COunty NJ, June 18, 1816. His father was a tanner and currier and also a shoemaker. The family moved from NJ to Knox COunty Ohio in 1827. In 1839 they came to IL and resided in Carroll county. John Kent shortly afterwards came to whiteside and located in Union Grove Township. He was married Oct. 7, 1841 to Miss mary Jeffers, to which union six children wer born - Sarah who is dead; Mary M. who is the wife of Volney Twitchell of union Grove; Ella A., wife of John Blue of Nebraska; Lewis H Kent of Neb.; John W. Kent of Union Grove. Mrs. Kent died July 13, 1876. Mr. Kent was married again on March 14, 1878 to Mrs. Diana Green of near thomson, Carroll county, who survives. Mr. Kent came to Whiteside county in the full flush of the strength and ambition of his young manhood and took a claim of 80 acres, which he secured when the land came into market and to which he added by further purchase until he had over 400 acres. He also owned property in this city and in Carroll county. At the date of Mr. Kent's arrival in the county, a condition of almost primeval nature reigned. Claims wer held by right of possession, households were like angel's visits, few and far between. There were privations, toil and hardship, but the season of prosperity was too near at hand and too certain for the admission of discouragement and the lovely prairie acres of today fully attest the quality of the energies brought to bear on their reclamation and conversion into fruitful fields. When Mr. Kent commenced housekeeping he left his wife to their log cabin alone and made a toilsome journey of twelve days to Chicago where he traded a load of winter wheat for a stove with which to commence housekeeping. Today MR. Kent's farms are among the finest and most advantageously located of any in the county. Several years ago he moed to this city where he has been failing and for the past eight months he has not left his home, but has been gradually wasting away until his spirit fled unto the God who gave it. He was an honorable and upright citizen, and has been a consistent member of the m.E. Chruch for many years, and an earnest christian. Rev. W.J. Libberton of DeKalb IL officiated the services. The remains were interred in Grove Hill cemetery.

RUSSELL G. KENT , 74, of 611 Eleventh Ave., Rock Falls, died suddenly Monday morning (22 Oct 1990) in Tavares, Fla., while vacationing. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Grennan Funeral home with Rev. Thomas Howard, pastor of Rock Falls United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be at IOOF Cemetery, Rock Falls. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Mr. Kent was born May 26, 1916 in Delavan, Wis., son of Gordon and Edna (Clay) Kent. He married Darlene Chriest on Jan. 16, 1936 in Tampico. He was a superintendant at Northwestern Steel & Wire until retiring May 31, 1980 after 33 years of service. He is survived by his wife, Darlene of Rock Falls; two sons: Chuck of Sarasota, Fla., and Doug of Rock Falls; one daughter, Mrs. Ron (Pat) Levschke of Rock Falls; 15 grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; three brothers; Jim, Gordon, and Loren, all of Wisconsin.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois October 23, 1990 - Tuesday, pg A2

EDWARD W. KETTEL - The Geneva Republican says E. W. Kettel, roadmaster for the C. & N. W. Ry., on the Galena Division, died suddenly of rheumatism of the heart, superinduced by the excessive heat, at 9 o'clock Saturday night at his home at Turner. The body was taken to Sterling for burial, by special train. He lived at Geneva (Kane County, IL) for some years, and was one of the best known and most highly respected railroad men along the line. His father, Geo. Kettel, held the position of roadmaster of the same division before him. [Contributed by Kim Torp from the Batavia Herald, 13 August, 1896]

BELLE (MILLER) KETTLER , 73, 708 6th Ave., Fulton, died Monday at Mercy Hospital, Clinton, Iowa. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma Funeral Home with the Rev. Warren Bovenkerk, pastor of the Second Reformed Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Fulton Cemetery. Visitation is set from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday. Born on March 28, 1909 in Thomson, the daughter of George and Lourilla Smith Miller, she attended the Thompson grade and high school. On April 28, 1931 she married Raymond Kettler in Fulton. He preceded her in death on Dec. 3, 1980. She was a member of the Second Reformed Church of Fulton, and was employed for many years by General Electric in Morrison, and had resided in Fulton since her marriage in 1931. Surviving are one sister, Mrs. Lloyd (Alta) Pannell of Port Byron.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois November 24, 1982- Wednesday page A4

GERTRUDE E. KETTLER , 81, of 606 N. 12th St. Fulton, died Tuesday, Dec. 29, 1998 at Pleasant View Nursing Home, Morrison. Arrangements are pending at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois December 30, 1998 - Wednesday, pg A2

ELIAS KILMER The funeral of E.H. Kilmer was held at the Leon church Thursday afternoon, and was attended by large numbers of people. Mr. Kilmer was formerly a resident of this place, having lived here a great many years until three years ago when he left the farm and moved to Prophetstown which place has since been his home. He was sick several months and suffered greatly during his illness. He was buried by the side of his wife who preceded him nearly two years. (From the Sterling Standard 15 April 1905 Elias H. Kilmer departed this life at his home in Prophetstown, Tuesday,. April 4, 1905, aged 65 years, death being caused by Bright's disease. He was a native of New York coming to Illinois in 1865 and settling in Leon where he resided until 3 years ago, when he moved to Prophetstown. His wife died about 2 years ago. Mr. Kilmer was a union soldier and served in Comany K 20th Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He leaves a brother in Iowa and an adopted daughter Mrs. GraceMapes to mourn his death. The funeral was held at the house Thursday. Rev. Funston officiated and interment made beside his wife in the Leon Cemetery
Contributed by Debbie Thormahlen form the Sterling Standard 17 April 1905

RUTH (EICHELBERGER) KINDLE , 96, of Sterling died Monday at Prophets River View Center. Mrs. Kindle was born April 15, 1909 in Sterling the daughter of Roy G. and Anna R. (Wolber) Eichelberger. She married Vernon V. Kindle on AFeb. 14, 1932 in Sterling. He died Aug. 22, 1996. She enjoyed sewing/crocheting and playing cards. Survivors include two sons, Jimmy E. and Danny L; a daughter Nancy Kendell; seven grandchildren; 14 great=grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. Burial at Maple Ridge Cemetery.

J.C. KINGSBURY for many years a resident of Genesee Township, passed away at the late home in Lanark at 10:15 o’clock Thursday night after an illness of several months. Mr. Kingsbury had a severe attack of the flu last spring, which left him with a weakened heart which had caused him much trouble of late. He was born in Genesee township, and for several years operated a grocery store in Coleta. Beside the widow, one daughter, Olive, who resides at home, and two sisters living in Kansas, survive. Funeral services will be held from the home in Lanark at 2 o’clock on Saturday afternoon
Contributed by Debbie Thormahlen

SILVIUS KINGSBURY - At his home in New Genesee on Sunday June 15, 1890, Mr. Silvius H. Kingsbury aged 62 years, 1 month and 24 days. Mr. Kingsbury was born in Antwerp Jefferson County NY April 21, 1828. He came to Illinois in 1854 and located in Genesee township. He was married to Miss Olive Pond, Feb. 11, 1860 at White Rock IL. Four children were born to them all of whom are living and are; Mrs. Mary Edson and Mrs. Carrie Mensch of New Genesee; Mrs. Emma Kennedy of Deering KS, and Cady Kingsbury who is living at home in New Genesee. Mrs. Kingsbury died Oct. 3, 1879. Mr. Kingsbury was again married on Jan. 20, 1886 to Mrs. Mary Jackson Wells. She died Oct. 6, 1889. Mr. Kingsbury now moved from his farm to Unionville, near Morrison, where he lived about one year. A month or so ago he returned to his farm, where he was more contented. He was taken ill with congestion of the lungs and inflammation of the kidneys and was sick only five days when he passed away. He was well known and highly esteemed as a friend and neighbor. Besides his near relatives there are many friends who mourn his loss.

KATHRYN (AMES) KLEINSCHRODT - The funeral services of Mrs. Kathryn Kleinschrodt were held on Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 22nd, at two o'clock at the home of her son, Michael, in this city. Rev. James Potter officiating. Interment took place in Grove Hill cemetery. Kathryn Ames was born in Germany June 22, 1833. She came to the United States in 1851 and was united in marriage to John G. Kleinschrodt in 1852. Mr. and Mrs. Kleinschrodt resided in or near Morrison for a number of years and have many friends in this vicinity. Nine months ago Mrs. Kleinschrodt went to Elgin to live with her daughter, where her death occurred Dec. 18. She was eighty-two years, five months and twenty-six days old. Mr. Kleinschrodt preceded her in death on Dec. 1st, 1909. To the union of Kathryn Ames and John Kleinschrodt there were born nine children, seven of them now living, Mrs. Maggie Westhaven and Mrs. William Pierce, of Elgin, John and William of Sterling, Michael and Henry, of Morrison, and Philip, of Granada, Minn. Besides these children she leaves to mourn her death one sister, Mrs. Joseph Geiger, twenty-five grandchildren and twenty-one great-grandchildren. The out of town attendants at the funeral were, William Kleinschrodt of Sterling, Roy Kleinschrodt, of Rock Falls, Mr. and Mrs. William Pierce and Mrs. Maggie Westhaven, of Elgin, Philip Kleinshcrodt, of Granada, Minn., and Mrs. A. J. Guthrie, of Des Moines, Iowa.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling, Illinois December 23, 1915, pg 2, col. 2
**John "KLEINSCHROTT" married Catharine Ames 14 October 1853 DuPage Co IL Book A/879

ARNOLD EDWARD KLOBES infant son of Edward G. and Edith L. Klobes, was born in Fairfield Township, April 14, 1930 and died April 28, 1930, aged 14 days. He is survived by his sorrowing parents, one sister, Helen Edith, and a host of relatives. Two brothers and one sister preceded him in death. The funeral was held at the home Tuesday, conducted by Rev. J. D. Williams. Music was rendered by Mrs. Minnie Bollman and Mrs. Cora Bard; Miss E. Ruth Crosell, accompanist. Interment was in the Greenville-Fairfield Cemetery.
Contributed by Melva l. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling, Illinois May 3, 1930 - Saturday, pg 8

CHARLES KLOBES - The funeral of Charles Klobes, held Friday afternoon at the Heim funeral home in Prophetstown, was attended by many old neighbors and friends. The funeral sermon was preached by the Rev. C. F. Chastern of the Lyndon Methodist church with the Rev. F. A. Grahm assisting. Mr. Graham held pastorates at the Leon Methodist church his first over 50 years ago, and performed the rites when Mr. and Mrs. Klobes were married. Lloyd Wildman sang "Abide With Me" and "Sweet Bye and Bye." Mrs Stella Wildman accompanist. The pallbearers were Glenn Brooks, Glenn Gooddell, Kennth Stewart and Harry --- (Barr?, can't read), of the Woodward's Bluff area. Those having charge of the many floral offerings were Mrs. Kenneth Stewart, Mrs. Glenn Gooddell and Mrs. Glenn Brooks. Burial was in the family plot in the Lyndon cemetery.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling, Illinois July 3, 1951 - Tuesday, pg. 2, col. 1

RUBY (SWANGER) KLOBES , 25, young Prophetstown matron, passed away Monday morning (3 Feb 1941) at a sanatorium in Rock Island, where she has been a patient since August, 1938. The body was removed to the Helm & Helm Mortuary at Prophetstown. Arrangements for the funeral are not complete. Ruby Swanger, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Swanger of Coal Valley, was born in April 1915, and was married to Ralph Klobes of Prophetstown Aug. 29, 1932. Since their marriage they had resided in Prophetstown and vicinity. Besides her husband and parents she is survived by a daughter, Gail; four brothers, Raymond Swanger, Lyndon; Morgan, Sherman and Edward Swanger, Coal Valley; one sister, Mrs. LeRoy Willett, Prophetstown; one half-brother, Levi Swanger, and two half sisters. She was preceded in death by a daughter, LaVona Jean, who passed away Sept. 7, 1940, at the age of seven years.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling, Illinois February 3, 1941 - Monday, pg 10(Buried Leon Cemetery)

SADIE KLOBES , died early Tuesday morning at her home in Lyndon. The body was taken to the Helm and Helm Funeral Home in Prophetstown where funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday. Burial will be in Lyndon cemetery.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois March 16, 1954 - Tuesday, pg 2
(Might have been buried at Leon Cemetery)

MARTHA J. (GENSER) KLOCKE 87, of Sterling, died Friday, March 30, 2007 surrounded by her family at the Don and Marilyn Anderson Hospice Center in Madison, Wisconsin. Martha was born on December 16, 1919, in Sheffield, Illinois, the daughter of Charles and Mary (Gorman) Genster. She married Lloyd (Sonny) Klocke on February 6, 1943, in Sheffield. Martha and Sonny owned and operated Klocke's Sinnissippi Barbeque, a Sterling landmark, for many years. Survivors include her daughters, Barb (Tom) Luther of Madison, Wisconsin, and Martie (Tom) Kojis of Green Bay, Wisconsin; grandchildren Karlene (Paul) Dockum, Lauri Wright, Julie (Jamie) Coker, Jodi (Courtney) Wood; Kevin (Tara) Luther, Greg (Jodi) Luther, and Joe Luther; Ben and Kelly Kojis. She is further survived by two brothers, Jack (Barb) Genster of Sheffield and C. Joseph Genster of Princeton, NJ, many nieces and nephews and 13 great grandchildren who gave her great joy. She was preceded in death by Lloyd and two daughters, Maricarole Jenner and Kathy Drynan; her parents and three sisters. Mass of the Christian Burial will be at 10 AM Tuesday, April 3, 2007, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with the Reverend Paul White, pastor, officiating. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7 PM Monday at the Schilling Funeral Home and from 9-10 AM Tuesday at the church, prior to services. Martha will be remembered by all of the people who had so much fun at Klocke's throughout the years. After retirement, she enjoyed the time spent with Sonny, family, and friends at their condo in Florida. Her entire family has many fond memories of playing dice, sharing laughs, and vacations with Grandma Klocke.

WILLIAM F. KLOCKE former alderman and chief of the rock Falls fire department and for 37 years a well known and highly respected citizen of this community, passed away at 8:20 o’clock Sunday evening at the home of his daughter, Mrs. George B. Gronis, 209 Tenth avenue, Rock Falls. While he had not been in good health for a year, his condition was not regarded as critical until a few days before the end. A year ago Mr. and Mrs. Klocke moved to Chicago to make their home, their son, Edwin r. Klocke came back to Rock Falls to visit other members of his family in hope that the change would be beneficial to him, as he realized that he was losing strength and gradually declining. But the change was of no avail, despite every care that could be given, and he gradually grew weaker until he lapsed into coma before the end and slept peacefully away. Mr. Klocke was born in Westfallen, Germany, Aug. 13, 1867, and came to America with his parents when he was only 18 months old. The family home was established in Freeport, when Mr. Klocke was married to Miss Julia Deery. Soon after his marriage he moved to Rock Falls, and for more then a third of a century he was actively identified with the affairs of the city. As a moulder in the Novelty Iron Works he was regarded as one of the most efficient and dependable of the company’s force for many years. He served as an alderman in the Rock Falls city council for three terms and was for a long time a member of the city fire department, serving one term as chief of the department. He was a member of the brotherhood of American Yeoman.

Besides his wife, Mr. Klocke is survived by five children and 14 grandchildren. The sons and daughters are: Grace, wife of Charles Belen of Rock Falls; William F Klocke, Jr., Rock Falls; Lloyd e, Sterling; Blanche, wife of George B Gronis. Rock Falls; Edwin F., Chicago. One son Leo, died in infancy. Two brothers and two sisters survive, as follows; Henry and Albert of Rock Falls, Mrs. Tillie Kurtz, wife of Hiram Kurtz of Detroit, Mich., and Mrs. Nellie Sabin, wife of Ralph Sabin of Freeport. A wide circle of acquaintances will also mourn the death of a valued friend and will extend sympathy to the family. Funeral services will be conducted by Rev. Fr. A. J. Burns, Wednesday morning at 8:30 o’clock at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Gronis in rock Falls, and at 9 o’clock in St. Mary’s church interment will be in Calvary cemetery.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the May 20, 1926 Sterling Gazette

LESTER KNABBE - Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home in Rock Falls for Lester Robert Knabe, 401 E. 7th St., Rock Falls. The Rev. Fred Anderson, pastor of the Rock Falls Methodist Church, officiated. Burial was in IOOF Cemetery. Mrs. Wayne E. Larson was at the organ during the service. The pallbearers were William Bryant, Joe Filbert, John McPherson, Neil Janssen, Charles Peugh, and Clifford Garriott. The flowers were cared for by Swartley’s.
Contributed by Barbara Nugent - Sterling Daily Gazette Tuesday 2 January 1968 2:4 Part II

MARION (TRACEY) KNABBE , 96, of Rock Falls died March 20, 2005 at Four Season Living Center at Morrison. Mrs. Knabe was born July 4, 1908 in Morrison, the daughter of DeForest and Cora (King) Tracey. She attended Brown Business College. She married Paul Knabe in Morrison. He died July 8, 1967. She was a member of FIrst Presbyterian Church, Sterling, the Women's Circle and volunteered at Meals on Wheels at the church; Rock Falls Women's Club; and also volunteered more thatn 3,000 hours at CGH Medical Center Gift Shop. Survivors include her daughter, Barbara Celletti of Rock Falls; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded by a daughter Nancy Dearinger; a brother and a sister. Burial at Grove Hill.

AGNES (TAYLOR) KNESS , wife of John Kness, died suddenly Sunday [02/05/1911] morning at the home of her sister, Mrs. Lorenzo Beswick [Lydia Luella Taylor Beswick], near Morrison. Mr. and Mrs. Kness were about to retire when Mrs. Kness suddenly became ill. She grew better and was able to undress and retire but in a few minutes she grew worse and before medical aid could reach her had died. Coroner Frye held an inquest Sunday, the jury finding death came from natural causes [heart problems]. Mrs. Kness was 23 years of age and was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Taylor of Malvern. She is survived by her husband, a small son, four brothers and six sisters [one sister is Jennie Viola Taylor Frankfather]. Funeral services will be held from the home in Malvern at 11 o’clock Wednesday morning. Burial will be made in the Coleta cemetery.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - Sterling Daily Standard, February 6, 1911

JOHN P. KNESS - The Reynolds Funeral Home was filled Saturday afternoon for the funeral of John P. Kness of Malvern who died Thursday at the home of his daughter in Aurora where he had resided for the past six months. The Rev. M. L. Schrettler of the Malvern EUB CHurch officiating, and burial was in the West Genesee Cemetery at Coleta. Pallbearers, all neighbors, were John Kophamer, George Fritz, Edward Caskey, Chester Deets, John Appel and Bert A. Nelson. The beautiful floral arrangements were in charge of Mrs. George Fritz and Mrs. Chester Deets.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois December 5, 1960 - Monday, page 2

ALBERT J. KNIGHT , 51, of Rock Falls died March 29, 2005 at his home. He was employed by Wayne-Dalton, Sterling prior to his illness. Mr. Knight was born Feb. 25, 1954 in Sterling the son of Albert W. and Susie (Murray) Knight. He married Cindy D. Hicks on Mach 24, 1978 in Rock Falls. He enjoyed NASCAR. Survivors are a son, Travis; two daughters Amy and Andrea; a brother Ray Claxton; four sisters, Wanda Sage, Linda Folsom, Barbara Delgado and Betty Keller; three grandsons; two great-grandaughters. He was preced by his parents and a sister, Mary McNinch. Burial in Coloma Twp. Cemetery.

DON KNIGHT , formerly of this city, and brother of Mrs. L.F. Puffer, was so severely injured at the corner of Seventh and Poplar streets in St. Louis, on Sunday evening, the 5th inst. (1873) by a freight train of the Pacific Railroad backing into the street car which he was driving, that he died on the Thursday following. This news will make many hearts sad in this city and vicinity, where he had so long lived and was so well known. It seems that he was driving his cars along 7th street, going south, at the same time a freight train was being backed up Poplar street, going west. The watchman on the Pacific railroad was lounging in a saloon at the time, and consequently no warning was given him of the approach of the train. There was a blinding storm also raging at the time. The car had scarcely touched the track before it was struck by the rear car of the freight train, staving in the forward end of the car, and throwing it and the horses from the track. Mr. Knight was found horribly mutilated lying under the car. The wheels had passed over his legs, which were both broken, two fingers of his left hand were cut off, and he sustained other injuries about the head and face. He was taken to the Hospital immediately where he lingered until the 10th inst. That the Pacific Railroad Company are to blame for this sad occurrence was established beyond doubt by the evidence at the Coroner’s inquest. Indeed everything connected with the matter tends to show it. Mrs. Knight, mother of the deceased went down to St. Louis, where she was kindly treated by Col. Madison, the President of the street railway Company, and everything done to assuage her grief. The body was taken charge of by Col. M. and properly buried in Bellefontaine Cemetery. Mr. Knight was born in Hancock county in the State and was 29 years of age at the time of his death. He came to this city with his parents at an early age, and remained here until about eight years ago when he started for Kansas. He endeared himself to all with whom he became acquainted, by his many good qualities of mind and heart. Mr. Puffer visited St. Louis a day or two since, and brought Mrs. Knight back with him. He says the Pacific Railroad Co. refuse to pay her any damages, taking the ground that they are not responsible for the acts of the employees. If that is their only defence, it is a very flimsy one.” 
The Fulton Weekly April 18, 1873.

MICHAEL KNIGHT , 72, of Fulton, died Wednesday at his home. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home with the Rev. Phillip Sneller, pastor of First Reformed Church in Fulton. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Fulton Township Cemetery with graveside military honors. He was born Aug. 8, 1931, in Clinton to Lewis E. and Annabelle E. Striley Knight. He married Phyllis M. Engelkens on Feb. 26,1954, in Fulton. He was educated in the Clinton grade schools and was a graduate of Clinton High School. He served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He was employed for 37 years with the U.S. West Telephone Co., Clinton. He was a member of First Reformed Church, Fulton. He was a member and first president of the Fulton Athletic Club. He served as a Cub and Boy Scout leader. Survivors include his wife; two daughters, Mrs. Susan (Gary) Prins of Thomson, Ill., and Mrs. Lori (Kent) Linder of Morrison, Ill.; two sons, Michael (Peggy) Knight Jr., McHenry, Ill., and Randy (Barb) Knight of Fulton; eight grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Mary Jo (Arthur) Greve of Newton; and two brothers, James Knight of Mount Carroll, Ill., and Wayne (Wande) Knight of Phoenix, Ariz.

FREEMAN H. KNISKERN , was born at Middleburg, Schoharrie County, N.Y., on June 10, 1847. He was the eldest son of Bartholomew and Caroline Haines Kniskern. He came west with his parents to Lyndon in 1865, settling on the farm northwest of town. He was married in 1872 to Miss Mary Daggett. To them three children were born: Josephine, Claude and Nellie. Josephine died in infancy, Nellie five years ago. Surviving him are his wife, his son, Claude, and his sister, Mrs. Anna L. Bouck, of Lyndon. Mr. Kniskern's trade was that of a carpenter. He was a good workman and much of his building remains as proof of his skill. He took a deep interest in civic and public affairs of the town and was always a staunch supporter of the democratic party, for which he cast his first vote. He was a kind husband and father and leaves many friends who extend sympathy to the bereaved ones. Private funeral services were held at the home at 2 o'clock, Rev. George V. Herrick officiating. The pallbearers were R. I. Hardy, A. E. Parmenter, Will Holt, E. M. McKerg, J. G. Laxton, and H. H. Pittam. Burial was made in the family lot in the Lyndon Cemetery. Mrs. A. E. Parmenter sang a solo.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois December 7, 1918 - Saturday

ARCHIBALD KNOX
At his home in Mt. Pleasant township, Whiteside county, Illinois, Wednesday, May 4, 1898, ARCHIBALD KNOX, aged 70 years, 7 months and 23 days. The deceased was born in Aurora, Erie Co., New York, Sept. 11, 1827, and at the age of eight years came with his parents to Whiteside County, Illinois, and settled in the "Ox Bow Bend," across Rock river from Prophetstown. They resided there two years and then removed to Mt. Pleasant township, settling on the land where the city of Morrison now stands. He grew up in this vicinity, and from the time of his majority was associated with the interests and development of Whiteside county. In 1852, in company with four of his brothers, he crossed the plains to California in search of gold. After a two years sojourn in that State he returned home and engaged in farming. On Sept. 1,1856, he was united in holy wedlock to Miss Minerva R. Garrison. They settled on his farm near Round Grove station, where they resided for over forty-one years, with the exception of three years and nine months, during which time they lived in Morrison. Four children were born to bless their union, all of whom with their mother, survive the deceased. His life was a success, and the hand of Providence dealt benevolently and gently with him. He always enjoyed the possession of his own home and lived in comfort from the fruit of his industry. His family relations were such that to him home was truly "the place where the heart comes to anchor and the soul finds rest." Through all the years of his married life the "black-winged messenger" never hung the crape upon his door. After living three-score years and ten he finished his labors and turned over the management of the affairs of his farm to his sons. He was a sober, industrious and moral man in the highest sense of these terms; he was a good citizen, an obliging and hospitable neighbor and friend. His house was always open and his table always spread, and to all who might come there was a cordial welcome. He was an indulgent, loving and tender parent, and the welfare and happiness of his children was his chief concern. The attention and devotion manifested toward his wife in their early companionship increased as the years rolled by and the "silver threads appeared among the gold." The boy, the ambitious youth, the active man, the patient, contented and resigned man, has closed his earthly career, but his influence has not ceased. Although a good man rests from his labors his works do follow him. The funeral services were held at his late home at 2:30 o'clock Friday afternoon, May 6, being conducted by Rev. B. A. Morley of Chicago. The large concourse of friends and neighbors who gathered to follow his remains to their last resting place showed the respect and honor in which he was held in the community where he resided for more than half a century, and was a fitting tribute to his life.
Contributed by Linda Criswell

CYNTHIA P (LEWIS) KNOX , daughter of Rosseel and Lucinda B. Lewis, was born in Mt. Pleasant township, Whiteside county, Ill., February 26, 1866, and died In the City of Monrovia, California, August 17, 1897. She was united in marriage with J. B. Knox, January 15, 1881. Three children, Amy, Una, and Oscar, blessed their union, all of whom survive her. Most of her married life was passed in Plymouth county, Iowa. The failing health of her husband caused them to go to California eleven years ago, where under the influence of the genial climate, his health was fully restored, so that within a year they returned to their home. There they remained until the failure of her health caused them to go again to California, in October last, in hope of its restoration. But climate, medical skill and the loving ministrations of her husband and mother, were unavailing. Gradually she wasted away, but while "the Outward man was perishing the Inward man was renewed day by day." Calmly she went down into the valley, sustained by an unfaltering trust in the Divine Redeemer. Six years ago she gave her heart to God. A year thereafter her husband was converted and together they joined the United Brethren church, in whose membership she continued until going to Monrovia, and finding no church of that name there, she with her husband, united with the Methodist Episcopal church. She died in "full assurance of the faith." For her "to live was Christ,' to die was gain." Funeral services were held at the family home in Monrovia, at ten O'clock a. m. Aug. 19th, conducted by her pastor, Rev. F.D. Mather, The burial was in Live Oak Cemetery. She sleeps in Jesus. No more ill pain, but well, Healed, made whole and clean.
Contributed by Linda Criswell

KENNETH L. KNOX , Route 1, Prophetstown Road, Rock Falls, passed away at noon Saturday in Community General Hospital. He was born Sept. 21, 1914 in Tampico, Ill., the son of Ralph and Gertrude Yarde Knox. He has lived in this area his entire life and attended the Rock Falls Public Schools and graduated from Tampico High School. Kenneth L. Knox was united in marriage to Zilma Sears Dec. 25, 1938 in Clinton, Ia. He is a past patron of Rock Falls O.E.S. Chapter 706, member of Rock Falls Masonic Lodge 936 A.F. and A.M. and a member of the Rock Falls Christian Church. Surviving besides his wife are two sons, Ronald Knox of Rock Falls, and A 2c Kenneth G. Knox of Dover Air Force Base, Delaware; one daughter, Mrs. Lawrence (Peggy) Scanlan of Rock Falls; his mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Knox of Rock Falls, four brothers, Frank, Aaron and George Knox of Rock Falls and Ralph Knox Jr. of Sterling; two sisters, Mrs. Robert Bitzner of LaGrange and Mrs. Wayne Wagenknecht of Moline; five grandchildren and his father-in-lawp, Gilbert Sears of Rock Falls. The body was moved to the Melvin Funeral Home where friends may call any time today or evening. Funeral services will be held at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Melvin Funeral Home, Rev. Ronald C. Ward pastor of the Rock Falls Christian Church, officiating. Burial will take place in Oak Knoll Memorial Park Cemetery.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois May 13, 1963 - Monday - pg 2 col 2

LEONARD KNOX - Funeral services for Sp4 Leonard Wayne Knox, Sterling, who was killed in action in Vietnam on Sept. 29, 1970 will be conducted at the Melvin Funeral Home at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. Full military rites will be conducted by personnel from the Ft. Sheridan Army Base. Burial will be in Oak Knoll Memorial Park. Visitation will be from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Tuesday.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois October 12, 1970 - Monday, pg 2

LEWIS KNOX , one of the oldest citizens of Morrison, passed away Friday at his home, aged about sixty-four years. He was the youngest child of James and Ann Knox and was born in what is now Morrison, Nov. 8, 1842. He lived here all his life except a year and a half when he was serving his country in the 8th Ill. cavalry during the civil war. He was married Oct. 17, 1877, to Miss Emma Hulett and to their union one son, Lewis, was born, who with his mother still survives. Mr. Knox was an estimable citizen and always performed his duties faithfully and conscientiously. He was a kind husband and father and will be sadly missed by family and friends. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. M.G. Wenz Sunday at two o'clock at the home and interment was made in Round Grove cemetery.
Contributed by Linda Criswell

MARJORIE (DEEM) KNOX , 81 of Sterling died Tuesday April 9 2002 at CGH Medical Center. Mrs. Knox was born Aug 25 1920 in Sterling the daughter of William and Sarah Adeline (CONNER) DEEM. She married Ralph KNOX Jr. on Aug 16 1941 in Sterling. He died NOv 16 1989. She was a lifetime member and very active in church activities at Wesley United Methodist Church, Sterling. Survivors include two sons, Gerald A (Cindy) KNOX of Sterling and James K (Paula) KNOX of Galesburg; a sister Lucille FOULDS of Omaha NE; three grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren and a step great grandson. She was preceded in death by two brothers Blenn DEEM and George DEEM and three sisters, Bernice VAN DREW, Dorothy ROLF and Winifred HARTMAN. The funeral is at 1:30 pm Friday at Wesley United Methodist Church Sterling, with the Rev. Joseph Snider officiating. Burial is at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling. Visitation from noon to 1:30 pm Friday at the church . Arrangements were completed by Schilling Funeral Home, Sterling. A memorial has been established to Wesley United Methodist Church.
Daily Gazette April 10, 2002

MARY JANE (EMERY) KNOX , daughter of John & Lucinda (Tarbell) Emery, who were natives of Vermont, was born in the town of Moriah, Essex county, NY, Feb. 7, 1827 and died at her home three miles east of Morrison, March 13, 1905. October 8, 1839, the Emery family consisting of father, mother, Cyrus, Samuel, Josiah, Mary Jane, Lucinda and Jonathan, with the wife and child of a brother names Zarah, started westward in search of the latter, who had gone ahead to look out a location, their objective point being Maquoketa Iowa. Like so many pioneer settlers they made the journey with horses and wagons from Essex to Buffalo, thence across the lake by boat to Toledo, then overa a portion of Ohio, Indiana, Michigan into Illinois, through Chicago, Naperville, Aurora and Milledgeville to Savanna on the Mississippi river, where they expected to find the brother who had preceded them. Not succeeding in this they followed teh river down to Fulton where Zarah joined them, and eventually crossed to Lyons Iowa, where a cabin was built and the family resided there for some time. All were taken ill with the ague, the parents and the youngest son Jonathan dying within three months. The subject of this sketsh soon after went to the home of N.G. Reynolds in Prophetstown where she remained until her marriage with William Knox, August 21, 1842. The couple first lived on the Allison Knox farm, then took up government land, what is now known as the Dillenbeck place, making for themselves a home wherein six of their children were born. Later they purchased 160 acres in section 14, Mt. Pleasant township, where Mrs. Knox lived, toiled and labored in the activity of a dutiful farmer's wife until 1899, since which time she has resided with her youngest daughter, Mrs. Simon Whistler. Mr. Knox died Dec. 20, 1884. Mrs. Knox was the mother of eight children, six of whom, together with a sister Lucinda, widow of James M. Pratt of Erie and a sister-in-law MRs. C.P. Emery of Rock Island, survive her as follows; Harriet E. Scribner, Geddes SD; Walter E., Martin W., LaPlata MO; WIlliam H., Morrison; Clarence D., Sterling, and Clara M., Mt. Pleasant, the last two being twins. Sarah Jane died in childhood at the age of five and is buried in the Round Grove cemetery; Andrew J. died in 1902 at the age of 44 and was interred in the Morrison cemetery. There also remain 28 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. For a number of years prior to her death, Mrs. Knox had been afflicted with heart trouble which with complications of asthma and rheumatism, caused her great pain. Rev. M.g. Wenz of the M.E. church Morrison officiated the service - burial was in Round Grove Cemetery.

ROY C. KNOX - Funeral services for Roy C. Knox were conducted at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Melvin Funeral Home by the Rev. William D. Willoughby, rector of Grace Episcopal Church. Organ music was played by Mrs. J. H. Linn. The burial was in Oak Knoll Memorial Park Cemetery. Casketbearers were Fred Weber, Renato Adami, Paul Coppetelli, Sam Licocci, Lee Kerr and Peter VanLoo. Swartley Florists took care of flowers
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - Dec 31 1969 Sterling Gazette

ANNA (SMELSER) KOCHERSPERGER , of East St. Louis, Ill died suddenly Saturday afternoon at 4:50 o'clock at the home of M. S. Llewellyn on Fifth Avenue, death being due to heart disease. Mr. and Mrs. Kochersperger arrived here Friday morning, called on account of the serious illness of Mr. Kochersperger's father, George Kochersperger. On Saturday, Mrs. Kochersperger was in most excellent health, and she with her husband was on the way to his father's home, after enjoying a pleasant walk. On Fifth Avenue she was siezed with fainting and was taken to the Llewllyn home, and Dr. Frank and Jane Reid Keefer hurriedly summoned. Although every possible effort was made to relieve her and prolong her life, she passed away about thirty minutes after the arrival of the physicians. The sudden death of Mrs. Kochersperger, was indeed very sad. Friends of the family here rendered the grief stricken husband every possible aid, did everything possible to alliviate his grief. On Saturday evening an inquest was held, the report of the finding being that the deceased came to her death as above stated. The remains were taken to the home fo Mr. and Mrs. John Gould, 311 East Ninth Street, where bridf funeral services occured Sunday afternoon. This morning, the remains were shipped to St. Louis, accompanied by the grief stricken husband. Mrs. Kochersperger was about forty-five years of age. She was the mother of four children. She accompained her husband here to visit with his father, who is very sick and gradually failing. While apparently in the best of health, she was suddenly summoned. Just before she passed away turning to her husband she said, "It is all over, I am going, call the children."
Contributed by Sheila Smith

GEORGE JACOB KOCHERSPERGER , an old and highly respected resident of Sterling, passed away this morning at 12:20 o'clock. Hardening of the liver from which he has been a sufferer for over a year was the cause of his demise. The funeral will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the residence 907 Avenue, and at 2:30 o'clock at St. John's Lutheran church, Rev. E C Harris officiating. Interment will be in Riverside cemetery. The services will be in charge of the Odd Fellows of which Mr. Kochersperger had been a member for nearly fifty years. The members of Will Robinson Post, G A R Red Men and Modern Woodmen of America will also atend. The pall bearers will be selected from the members of the Odd Fellows, Grand Army and Red Men. George Kochersperger was born Feb. 6, 1841 in Philadelphia, Pa. He spent his earlyh life in that city and at the breaking out of the Civil war, enlisted in Company E, Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, serving for four years. He participated in the battles at Gettysburg, Lookout Mountain, and a number of the smaller engagements and also was with Sherman on his celebrated march from Atlanta, Georgia to the sea. In the Battle of Lookout Mountain, Mr. Kochersperger was severely wounded in the leg. Mr. Kochersperger was married in 1864 to Miss Mary Phile in Philadelphia. Mrs. Kochersperger, together with five children, survive him. They are Geroge Kochersperger, Jr. of Alton, Ill., William Kochersperger of St. Louis, Mrs. Nellie Gould, wife of John Gould of Sterling, John of Aurora and Marion, who resides at home. Mr. and Mrs. Kochersperger came to Sterling in 1882 and have made their home here since that time. Mr. Kochersperger for many years was employed in the factory of the Keystone Manufacturing Company, later resigning to officiate as janitor of the Odd Fellows temple. Nine years ago he was given the position of custodian of the post office, remaining in this position until Dec. 23, 1913 when he was taken ill. Since that time he has steadily grown worse despite the best medical treatment. George Kochersperger was a man who made friends rapidly and who had the ability to hold his friends throught the long years. Familiarly known as "Scoop", he was beloved by old and young for his unfailing nature and his many kind acts. During his long service at the post office he made aquanincence of hundreds of poeple by whom he was held in the highest esteem. He was a geniel, kindly friend and acquaintance, sincere and accommodating, a loving husband and father. As a soldier, he was brave and patriotic, his military record being without a blemish. The sorrowing family have the sincere sympathy of their many friends in Sterling and vicinity.
Contributed by Sheila Smith

MARY (PHILE) KOCHERSPERGER , aged 86 years, passed away at 11:15 o'clock Friday evening in her home, 907 Johnson avenue. She had been ill since December 29 of last year when she fell and fractured her hip. Her health has failed since that time. The body has been removed to the Melvin funeral home. Mrs. Kochersperger is survived by four sons and one daughter, George Jr., of Alton, William H. of East St. Louis, Mrs. John Gould of Sterling, John of Aurora and Marion at home. She also leaves 12 grandchildren adn 22 great-grandchildren. Her husband George Kochersperger, preceded her in death December 12, 1914 The deceased was a member of St. John's Lutheran church, Holtslandeer Rebekah Lodge No. 70 and the Will Robinson Relief Corps No. 45. The funeral service will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Melvin funeral home on Sixth avenue, Rev. F.C. Harris will officiate. he W.R.C. ladies will have charge of the service. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery.
Sterling Gazette May 9, 1931

MARION HERSH KOCHERSPERGER , former resident of Sterling, passed away early Monday morning at Whiteside Coiunty Nursing Home after an extended illness. Born May 16, 1886, in Sterling, he was the son of George and Mary Simpson Kochersperger Sr. For 24 years he was employed by the C B and Q Railroad. Surviving are two nephews in this area, George and Leon Gould both of Sterling, two nieces in California, and one niece at Alton, Ill. His parents, three brothers and one sister preceded. The body was moved to the Melvin Funeral Home where friends may call from 7 to 9 pm Tuesday. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 pm Wednesday in the mlvin Funeral Home, The Rev. Romaine W Tenney pastor of the Trinity EUB Chruch of Sterling will officiate and burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery.
Contributed by Sheila Smith

ARLENE (CURTIS) KOLB ,83, of Pleasant View Nursing home, Morrison, formerly of Prophetstown, died Friday, Sept. 6, 2002, at the nursing home. She taught school at rural schools in Salem, Neb., for three years, in rural schools near Tampico, and was a librarian at Prophetstown Library. Mrs. Kolb was born May 13, 1919, near Stella, Neb., the daughter of Tone and Dolly (Hager) Curtis. She attended Peru State Teacher's College. She married John "Jack" Kolb on Aug. 16, 1941, in Salem, Neb. He died Aug. 30, 2002. Survivors include two sons, Craig (Linda) Kolb of Davenport, Iowa, and Curtis (Nancy) Kolb of Erie; two brothers, Donnal Curtis of Hiawatha, Kan., and Carl (Ruth Ann) Curtis of LaCrosse, Wis.; six grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a sister, Faye; and a daughter, Lynne Marie. The funeral is at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Garland Funeral Home, Tampico, with Rev. Ralph I. Carr, pastor of Tampico United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial is at Tampico Memorial Cemetery. Visitation is from 5-7 Monday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois September 8, 2002 - Sunday, pg A5

JOHN L. KOLB , 81, of Harbor Crest Nursing Home, Fulton, formerly of Prophetstown, died Friday, Aug. 30, 2002, at the nursing home. He was employed by Sears Manufacturing, Davenport, Iowa, as an industrial engineer, retiring in 1986. Mr. Kolb was born April 8, 1921, in Tampico, the son of Henry and Lois (Denison) Kolb. He married Arlene Curtis on Aug. 15, 1941. He served in the Army during World War II. He was a member of the American Legion Post and the Prophet Hills Country Club, both in Prophetstown. Survivors include his wife of Pleasantview Nursing Home, Morrison; two sons, Craig (Linda) Kolb of Davenport, Iowa, and Curtis (Nancy) Kolb of Erie; six grandchildren; two step grandchildren; two great grandsons; and two step great grandsons. He was preceded in death by a daughter in infancy. The funeral is at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Garland Funeral Home, Tampico, with the Rev. Ralph I. Carr, pastor of Tampico United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial is at Tampico Memorial Cemetery. Visitation is from 4-7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois September 1, 2002 - Sunday, pg A5

TERRY D. KOLB , 40 of 1501 W. 4th St., Sterling, died at Community General Hospital shortly after being admitted as a result of an auto accident Saturday morning. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home in Rock Falls with the Rev. O. H. Kreiter, visitation pastor of Rock Falls Immanuel Lutheran Church, officiating. Burial will be Oak Knoll. Friends may call at the funeral home from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Monday. Terry Kolb was born on Dec. 18, 1935 in Rock Falls, the son of Ernest and Josephine Baker Kolb. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Josephine Kolb of Rock Falls; two sons, Terry 11, and Timmy, both of Walnut Ridge, Ark.; four sisters, Mrs. Ray (Marlys) Peugh and Mrs. Charles (Paula) Deyo of Sterling; Mrs. Earl (Judy) Aldridge of Rock Falls and Mrs. Donald (Jill) Hayes of Winterspring, Florida; four brothers, Gary of Charleston, W. Va.; Jack, Jeff and Marc all of Rock Falls. He was preceded by his father, Ernest on May 18, 1964.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois January 5, 1976 - Monday, pg 6

FRANK E. KREIDER , 74, died Sunday at his home at 503 4th Ave. The body was removed to the Trouth Funeral Home, where friends may call. Funeral services will be held Wednesday afernoon at 2:30 o'clock. Dr. Alfred L. Grewe will officiate. Burial will be in Riveside Cemetery. Frank E. Kreider was born June 18, 1879, east of Sterling, a son of John H and Magdeline Ebersole Kreider. He was educated in the rural schools. On Feb. 24, 1915 he was united in marriage with Miss Ida Shuler. They farmed north of Sterling until they retired in 1922 and moved to the late home 503 4th avenue. Mrs. Kreider passed away Feb. 6, 1952 and since that time Mr. Kreider had been very depressed. He had also been ailing for some times. He had remarked several times that there as nothing left for him to live for.
Contributed by Mike Hosler

GRETA J. KREIDER - Memorial services for Mrs. Greeta J. Kreider of Jacksonville, Fla., formerly of Sterling, will be held on Monday, Nov. 15, at 1:30 p.m. at the First Christian Church of Sterling, 3400 N. 6th Ave. Services will be conducted by John Vickery, pastor, in the church parlor. Mrs. Kreider passed away on Oct. 5, in Charlotte, S.C.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois November 11, 1982 - Thursday, page A8

LORNA (LANDHEER) KREIDER , 81, of Sterling died Monday, March 14, 2005, at Coventry Village, Sterling. She was employed by the for­mer First National Bank as a teller for many years. Mrs. Kreider was born May 2, 1923, in Morrison, the daughter of Edward and Martha (Oltmanns) Laridheer. She married Harold Kreider on May 12, 1943, in Sterling. He died Aug. 8, 2004. Survivors include two daughters. Pat (Dave) BrackeIl of Sun Gity.,Ariz. and Lynn (Jim) Sutton of Freeport; a son, Curt (Carolyn) Kreider, of Sterling; two sisters, Avis. (Doug) Chamberlain of Lyndon. and JoAnn F. (Paul) Vock of Morrison; two brothers, Edward Landheer of Sterling and Paul (Loraine) Landheer of Dixon; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. The funeral is at 10 a.m. Friday at St. John's Lutheran Church, Sterling. Burial is at Oak Knoll Memorial: Park. Sterling

BETTY L. (HENDERSON) KROPF , 75, died February 10, 2007, at Sterling Pavilion. Betty died of cancer, which was discovered a few weeks ago. She was born on August 24, 1931, the daughter of Earl and Lorene (Brunk) Henderson. Betty married Milo E. Kropf on September 6, 1951. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Milo, and granddaughter Faith Boettner. Survivors include her children; Jeanette (Steve) Boettner of German Valley, Merlin of Sterling, Sally of Dixon, Sandra of Rock Falls, Ann (Bob) Kurtz of Freeport, Rita (Derrick) Miller of Freeport, Dale of Des Plaines, and Noland of Davenport. 24 Grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. She has one brother, Ansel Henderson of Ohio. Betty always had a smile on her face. She loved to talk and visit with family and friends. She was a very giving person that would always want to help others. When it came to hobbies, she would always be knitting up some project for someone or creating something with her plastic canvas and yarn. Baking cookies for family and friends was also a way for Betty to put a smile on their faces. During her younger years, Betty would always have a flower garden that would make the air pleasing to smell and beautiful to see. When you went in the house, you were always greeted with Betty's friend, Tigger, who always wanted to be petted. Mom will be missed very much by her children, grandchildren, brother, relatives, and friends. Visitation will be Monday February 12, 2007 from 5-8 P.M. at the Schilling Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10 A.M. Tuesday February 13, 2007 at Science Ridge Mennonite Church at. Burial will be at Science Ridge Mennonite Church Cemetery for the family members and close friends.
Contributed by Paul Koehler

FERN E. (KROPF) KROPF , age 69, 25302 Starr Road, Tampico, Illinois died Friday, March 3, 2006 at her home after a lingering illness of strokes. She was born on August 10, 1936, near Shelbyville, IL, the daughter of Raymond and Esther (Shrock) Kropf. When she was two years they moved to Henry County. In 1943 they moved to the Tampico area where she resided except for four years. After he marriage to Wayne Kropf, they lived in Buffalo, MO. She survived by her husband Wayne of Tampico, IL; four brothers, Laurence (Ada Marie) Kropf of Tampico, IL, Leonard (Fannie) Kropf of Bolivia, Illinois, Harold (Rosanna Kropf of Tampico, Illinois, Oran (Miriam) Kropf of Middletown, Missouri; and one sister Lovina Kropf of Wheatland, Missouri. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother Ivan. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. at the Fairfield Amish Mennonite Church in Tampico, IL. Burial will be in the Fairfield Amish Cemetery. Visitation was held on Monday at the Fairfield Amish School in Tampico. Arrangements completed by the garland Funeral Home in Tampico.
Contributed by Debbie Thormahlen from the Prophetstown Echo

RAYMOND S. KROPF , 88, of rural Tampico, died Tuesday, Jan. 16, 1996, at his home. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Fairfield A.M. Church, rural Tampico. Burial will be at Fairfield A.M. Cemetery, rural Tampcio. Arrangements were completed by Johnson Funeral Home, Manlius. Mr. Kropf was born July 1, 1907, in Cass County, Wis., the son of Levi and Amanda (Yoder) Kropf. He married Esther M. Shrock on June 21, 1934, in Fisher. She died Nov. 22, 1984. He farmed for many years in rural Tampico. Survivors include five sons, Lawrence Kropf and Harold Kropf both of Tampico, Leonard Kropf of Santa Cruz, Bolivia; Ivan Kropf of Goshen, Ind.; and Oran Kropf of Middletown, Mo.; two daughters, Fern Kropf and Lavina Kropf both of Tampico; 38 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; four brothers, Allen Kropf and Owen Kropf, both of Missouri, David Kropf of Nashville, Ark., and Daniel Kropf of Green Forest, Ark.; and five sisters, Edna Shrock and Wilma Hostetler both of Missouri, Alice Kropf and Emma Kropf both of rural Tampico, and Ruth Hostetler of Arkansas. He was preceded in death by one brother; two sisters; and one grandson, James Kropf.
Contributed to Melva L. Taylor The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois January 18, 1996 - Thursday, pg A2

KATE (METER) KUEHL , died Wednesday, January 21, 1914 at her home in Morrison, after an illness of several months of Bright’s disease. Mrs. Kuehl was born in Holland in June 1871 and when twenty years old she came to America and located in Fulton, where soon afterwards she was married to Ren Shipman, who died in 1903. Two years later she was married to William Kuehl of Morrison. She leaves her husband, three children by her first marriage, three by her second, two sisters, Mrs. Henry Ten Boer of Fulton and Mrs. Harry Kopenga of Morrison, and two brothers, Louis and Nicholas Meter in Portland, Ore. Mrs. Kuehl was a good woman, a kind mother and loving wife. May friends of this family join in extending sympathy to the members in their sorrowful bereavement. The funeral services were held at 1 o’clock this afternoon in the Reformed church in Morrison, with burial in the Grove Hill cemetery.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Standard, January 24, 1914

JOHN E. KUSTES , 65, of Fulton, died Tuesday at Mercy North Hospital. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Fulton. The Rev. James R. Keenan, pastor of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, will be officiating. The service will be preceded by a 10 a.m. family prayer service at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Calvary Hill Cemetery in Fulton. He was born July 26, 1939, in Clinton to John E. Kustes Sr. and Bernadette Forman Kustes. He married Leah M. McKinstry on Nov. 4, 1978, in Fulton. He attended rural Whiteside County, Ill., schools. He graduated from Fulton High School. He was engaged in farming on the family farm. He was then employed with the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. He returned to farming and then was employed with the former Northwestern Steel and Wire Co. in Sterling, Ill., before retiring in 1999. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Fulton, the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Knights of Columbus, the Whiteside County Farm Bureau and Future Farmers of America. He also was a 4-H leader and had served as a Cub Scout and Webelo leader. Survivors include his wife; three daughters, Mrs. Laura (Chad) Hultman of Atkinson, Ill., Mrs. Lana (Joseph) Otten of Rock Island, Ill., and Mrs. Kimilie (Robert) Saiter of Clinton; six sons, Barry (Linda) Kustes of Clinton, Tom Kustes of Des Moines, Christopher (Amy) Kustes of DeKalb, Ill., Andrew (Kitka) Kustes of Cordova, Ill., and Keith (Tracy) Horton and Michael (Marlyce) Horton, both of Clinton; 25 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Mrs. Dorothy (Robert) Pannell of Thomson, Ill., Francis Powers of Sycamore, Ill., and Mary Biggs of Moline, Ill. Memorials may be made to Mass offerings. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.
Clinton Herald 20 January 2005

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