JOSIAH SCOTT , passed away Monday evening at about 12 o'clock at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Bernard Miller, on Third avenue, Rock Falls, after a lingering illness of nearly two years. Mr. Scott fell and broke his hip a year ago last July and owing in his advanced age, being over eighty-seven years old, never recovered from the accident and was bedfast during the last year, his son Orange Scott of Emmelshurg, Iowa has been with him constantly during the past year and gave the best of attendance, but he gradually grew weaker, until dissolution took place last evening. Mr. Scott was one of the familiar characters, of this part of the county, and was well known and highiy respected by all. He was one whose history touched the pioneer epochin the annals of Whiteside county and whose days linked the early formative period with that of latterday progress and prosperity. He bore an active and prominent part in the early development and prosperity of the county, and now from an honorable life has been called beyond.

The deceased was born in Morgan county, Ohio, May 18, 1819, or the same year that Illinois was admitted as a state. The Scotts were the first family to locate in Ohio where in the midst of the wilderness they cleared and improved lands. Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Scott, the parents of the deceased, and their thirteen children built a large river boat which they launched on the Muskingum river and from there came by the Ohio river to the Mississippi river and then up the river to the Rock river and on to Como, arriving June 1, 1839. The boat was supplied with sails which were used when the wind was in the right direction. The older Mr. Scott then sold his boat and took up a homestead in this country. Here Mr. Scott senior passed away in 1879. As Josiah Scott had no schooling in his youth he was wholly a self educated man. For a number of years he worked at the cabinet and carpenter's trade, and in March 13, 1846, returned to Delaware county, Ohio, and was married to Miss Harriet J. Coryell. He brought his bride to his new home in Whiteside county where he had purchased a tract of 160 acres of land from the government, and later added another 320 acre tract. He also taught and improved other tracts of land, and was one of the extensive land holders of the county. He was one of the first men in this vicinity to engage in breeding of pure blooded short horn cattle and standard bred horses. Renting his farms in 1883 he moved to Rock Falls and lived here to the present time. Mrs. Scott departed this life in 1899 and was buried in Riverside cemetery in Sterling , and since that time Mr. Scott had made his home with his daughter in Rock Falls; The children born to Mr.and Mrs. Scott are as follows: Walter a father of Cordova IL, Edwin formerly a physician of Oakland, IL, who died in 1892; Eleanora who died in infancy, 1851; Celestia Richardson of Santiago, Cal.; Professor H.B.Scott of Cheyenne, Oklahoma; Mrs. Bernard Miller and Mrs. Frank McNitt of Rock Falls; Franklin A. who died in infancy; Mrs. Alice Hollis, who died in 1901; Dr. F.J.Scott of Rock Falls, one of the leading practioneers of the two cities; Orange M, a farmer living near Emmetsburg, Ia, and Mrs. Bertha Jenkins of Panora, Iowa, a brother living in Como, IL, is the only surviving member of the family of thirteen children; Mr. Scott cast his first presidential vote for Martin Van Buren and supported the democratic party until 1860, since which time he had been an ardent republican In early life he was a Presbyterian in religous faith, but soon after the founding of the Rock Falls M.E. church he affiliated with this church organization and had been one of its most active members ever since. He made his home in this county since May, 1839, and has witnessed almost the county's entire development. He has seen the wild and swampy land drained and transformed into highly cultivated and productive farms, and ever bore his part in the work of imprivement. As an honored pioneer and representative citizen of the county he was honored and esteemed by all No definite arrangements have been made for the funeral services, as the relatives here are awaiting word from relatives elsewhere who have been apprised of the death. It is probable the services will be held at the late home at Bernard Miller's on Third avenue and Rev. F.W. Nazarene be in charge. Interment will he made in Riverside cemetery in Sterling,;John E, Scott was the only surviving member and lived in Como, IL,
Contributed by Jean Portner

KENDALL F. SCOTT , 75, of 424 N. Pine St. Burlington Wisc., formerly of Sterling, died Friday morning in Burlington following an extended illness. Funeral services will be Monday at 2 pm in the Grennan Funeral Home with Rev. Geoffrey Wirth of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Sterling. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. Kendall was born on March 11, 1911, the son of Frank and Bessie Scott. The deceased was a former Sterling City Councilman, who moved to Burlington Wis. a number of years ago. Survivors include his wife, Ruth of Burlington; his mother, Bessie Scott of Sterling; two daughters, Mrs. Ed (Sally) Sanders of Ft. Wayne Ind. and Mrs. B.K. (Sue) Klingenberg of Sterling; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and twin brother Kenny.
Contributed by Jean Portner

KENNETH ARTHUR SCOTT , 28, of Rock Falls passed away at 10 p.m. Tuesday in the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank C.Scott in Galt. Death resulted from a complication of diseases following an accident five years ago. Funeral rites are to be held Friday afternoon with a private service at 1:30 in the Wheelock funeral home, followed by the public service in the Rock Falls Methodist church, Rev. James R. Rhling will officiate and interment will be at Riverside. Kenneth Arthur Scott was born March 1 (or 11) in Sterling Township the twin son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Scott. He wsa baptized April 9, 1912 by Rev. J.L ANderson at the Fourth Streeth Methodist church. His education wsa received in the Galt Grade school and Sterling Townshiphigh school, and later he entered Browns' Business College. Mr. Scott was united in marriage to Henrietta Olds of Rock Falls on August 18, 1932. Besides his widow and parents he leaves a twin brother Kendall F. Scott of Galt, a niece and nephew, and his grandfather John R. Fry of Morrison. Since his marriage Mr. Scott had attended the Rock Falls Methodist Church. He ws popular among the large circle of young people in which he moved.
Contributed by Jean Portner

LORRAINE RENEE (DECKER) SCOTT , 77, of 2022 E. Seventh St., Sterling, died Sept. 29, 1992 at Sterling Care Center following a long illness. Funeral services will be at Grace Episcopal Church in Sterling with the Rev. Wm. B. Eastes interim pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Sterling. Arrangement by Allen Funeral Home in Sterling. Mrs. Scott was born on May 9, 1915 in Sterling, the daughter of John J. and bertha (Guinther) Decker. She was employed as a dental assistant for Dr. Harold Readel for 25 years. She was a member of Grace Episcopal Church in Sterling. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Edward (Sally) Sanders of Ft. Wayne, Ind., and Mrs. Ben (Sue) Klingenberg of Sterling; five grandchildren and three great grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. John (Ruth) Overholser of Springdale, Arl, and several nieces.
Contributed by Jean Portner

LYLE ELWOOD SCOTT , 40, of Sterling, 1315 Woodburn Ave., died at 7:20 today in Hines Veterans Hospital after an extended illness. The body will be brought to the Melvin Funeral Home where arrangements will be completed. A veteran of WW II, he was a lifelong resident here and was employed at Parrish Alford Company until 1953 when he was taken ill. He was a member of the Rock Falls American Legion post and the First Christian Church of Sterling. He was born Sept. 11, 1915, in Hopkins Township, son of Fred L. and Nellie Fry Scott. Surviving are a daughter Ruby Lou, and a son James Lyle, both at home, his father, Fred Milledgeville, and his mother Mrs. Nellie Scott, Sterling. Three brothers Arthur, Lyndon, John, Durand, and Asa Rock Falls; four sisters; Mrs. Carl Portner Galt; Mrs. William Metcalf, Coleta, Mrs Joseph O'Bryan, Como and Mrs. Steve Prelesnik, Milledgeville.
Contributed by Jean Portner

MYRTLE (MORSE) SCOTT : Family memorial services wereheld at 1:30 p.m. Monday at the Gardner Chapel in Prophetstown for Mrs. Arthur (Myrtle) Scott, 64, of Lyndon who died Saturday at M orrison Community Hospital. The Rev White officiated. The body was creamated and the ashes were interred in Oak Knoll Memorial Park in Sterling. Myrtle Irene Scott was born 4 Jul 1917 in South Haven, Michigan to Frank and Hattie (Schecter) Morse. She moved to the Sterling area when she was a young adult and was ducated in the Sterling schools. She was united in marriage to Arthur L. Scott Sr. on Jan 29, 1934 in Oregon. The cuple resided in the Galt and Lyndon areas for several years. She is survived by her husband, one daughter, Mrs. James 9Joyce) Breedon of Lyndon; six sons, Garry L and Robert E both of Lyndon, Jerry L of Morrison, Arthur L Jr and Neal both of Sterling, and Wayne E of San Jose Calif. One sister Mrs. Eleanor Woods of Branson MO and one brother Howard Morse of Rock Falls.
Contributed by Jean Portner

NELLIE (FRY) SCOTT , former resident of Galt, died Saturday evening in Eveningside Nursing Home at morrison after an extended illness. Funeral services will be held 1:30 Tuesday in the Melvin Funeral Home, the Rev. Brace E. Johnson, pastor of the First Christian Church of Sterling,will officiate and burial will be at Riverside Cemetery. Born Dec. 8, 1885 in Jordan Township, Whiteside County, Illinois. Mrs. Scott was the daughter of John R. adn Amanda E. Sigler Fry. She resided in this area her entire life and was married to Fred L. Scott. Dec. 14, 1910 at Dixon. Mr. Scott preceded Feb. 22, 1970. She was a member of the First Christian Church of Sterling. Surviving are three sons; Arthur L. Scott of Lyndon, John F. Scott of Stillman Valley and Asa L. Scott of Rock Falls; four daughters, Mrs. Carl (Vida )Portner of Galt, Mrs. William (June) Metcalf of Lyndon, Mrs. Joseph (Betty) O'Bryan of Como adn MRs. Steve (Melba) Prelesnik of rural Sterling. She also leaves one brother, Arthus S. Fry of Sterling and two sisters, Mrs. Bessie Scott and Mrs. Maude Boyd of Sterling.
Contributed by Jean Portner

OSCAR H. SCOTT : The funeral over the remains of Oscar Scott will be held at his home in the First ard Sunday at 2 o'clock. The services will be in charge of Rev. Theodore Crowl of the Congregational church. The burial will be in Riverside. The names of the pall bearers were published in the Standard friday Evening. Oscar Scott was born in Como in 1859. He resided in Como till he was 21 years of age when he moved to Sterling and has lived her ever since. He was married in 1879 to Miss Emma Cramer. She, with his parents, Mr. and mrs. Scott of Como and two sisters, Mrs. D.A. Donichy of Nelson and Mrs. O.S. Partridge of Como remain to mourn his death. One other sister died in infancy and still another Mrs. C.A. VanDrew passed away 7 years ago.
Contributed by Jean Portner

WAYNE E. SCOTT - The remains of Wayne E. Scott, who died last Monday at Seattle Wash. arrived here today and were taken to the home of his mother, Addie C. Scott of Wallace street. The funeral will be held Tuesday at 2:30 at the Congregational church, Rev. C.A. Riley officiating. At the request of Berwyn IL lodge A.F. and A.M. number ??? Rock River lodge number 612 will attend in a body and will be in charge at the grave. All members are requested by the worshipped master Judge R.W.E. Mitchell to be present. Mr. Scott was also a member of Maple Grove lodge, Knights of Pythias at Downers Grove and of the Modern Workmen. Wayne E. Scott was born in Montmorency township Dec. 5, 1878. He attended the country schools and Sterling high school, and learned the trade of telegraphy under Harry Miller, fo ryears was the manager of the Western Union of Sterling. After learning the trade, he was assigned to several very important positions by the Burlington RR for 10 years was the station agent at Berwyn Ill, which position he resigned lat November and went west for his health. He was taken ill at Seattle the later part of January and later taken to the hospital at Seattle where he died Monday morning. Death was due to typhoid fever, although his death was unexpected. Wayne Scott was a dutiful son, a kind brother and true friend, and his passing has cast a gloom of sorrow over friends and relatives. He is survived by one son, Wayne, his parents and the following brothers and sisters; Charles, Goldie, Pearl and Ruby. The following relatives are here to attend the funeral; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Miller of Kenosha Wis., Mr. and Mrs. frank W. Harper of Downer's Grove, Ill., Charles P. Scott of Sacramento, cal., and Mr. and Mrs. C.G. Harraden of Seattle Wash.
Contributed by Jean Portner

CLINTON R. SHEPHERD , 55, of Fulton, died Saturday. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Lemke Funeral Home South, formerly Nelson Heesch Funeral Home, 2600 Lincoln Way. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Clinton Lawn Cemetery. He was born Jan. 22, 1948, to Robert and Erma Fuller Shepherd. He married Donna Ashpole in Low Moor on Oct. 2, 1965. He later married Sharon Lage in Clinton on Aug. 16, 1991. He was employed with Drives, Inc. for more than 33 years. He began as a welder and later became a foreman. He was an active member of The Eagles Club. Survivors include his father, Robert R. Shepherd of Clinton; three sons, Clifton L. Shepherd of Clark, Mo., Christopher Shepherd of Clinton and Curtis (Kim) Shepherd of Davenport; two daughters, Mrs. Cindy (Brian) Lynch of Clinton and Mrs. Charlene (Brian) Bacunawa of Clinton; six sisters, Mrs. Ralene (David) Ludvigsen of Clinton, Mrs. Shirley (Alex) DeMarr of Clinton, Mrs. Geraldine (Robert Jr.) Weber of Camanche, Mrs. Cathy (Charles) Andres of Reedsburg, Wis., Mrs. Gladys (Richard) Radcliff of Mauston, Wis., and Joyce Shepherd of Corbin, Ky.; five brothers, Robert H. (Judy) Shepherd of Clinton, James Shepherd of DeWitt and David (Pam) Shepherd of Clinton, Richard (Tami) DeMarr of Inergrove, Minn., and Russell Good of Cedar Rapids. He was preceded in death by his mother, a brother, a niece and a nephew.
Clinton Herald October 23, 2003

MAE S. (BECK) SHEPHERD , 88, of Erie, died today in Community General Hospital, Sterling. The funeral will be 1:30 p.m. Thursday in Gibson Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday. Burial will be in the Erie Cemetery. Mrs. Shepherd was born Aug. 8, 1899, in Malvern, Ill. to Jacob and Lena Behler Beck. She married Frank Shepherd, Feb. 2, 1919, in Morrison. He died in 1967. She was a former employee of Shaheen's Grocery Store, Erie. Survivors include two daughters, Evelyn Knox and Arlene Blixt, both of Rock Falls; seven grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Grace Johnson, of Prophetstown.
Contributed by Liz Eads

JACOB R. SIDES , is dead. These tidings will carry grief to many hearts, although it was not altogether unexpected. Those who knew his robust frame and his strong will had hoped that they would bear him through his severe illness, and this hope was clung to so long as a spark of life remained. He passed away quietly, without a struggle, scarcely, at 1:15 this afternoon. Mr. Sides went east soon after the distillery closed down and remained there until about two weeks since. While there the heat was excessive and on one of the hottest days he was so nearly overcome of the heat as to have a partial sunstroke, and it is supposed that this superinduced the congestion at the base of his brain from which he died. He was sick for about two weeks before his return, but his iron will resisted the disease, step by step, so that he was confined to has house, we believe, but half a day. He was anxious to get home, and hastened his departure. Reaching here as he did two weeks since, he was confined to his room and bed. All that love could do for him was done. He was watched tenderly and nursed with unremitting skill. Through all the hours of his illness, when he would arouse from his state of unconsciousness, his sole anxiety would appear to be to avoid making trouble. His solicitude was for others, not for himself, In these conscious moments, his mind was clear. He was aware that he must die and was not afraid of death’s terrors. Mr. Sides was born at Strasburg, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, September 2, 1844. He came to Sterling sixteen years ago. During the past eight years he has had charge of the grain department of the distillery of J. S. Miller & Co., and the fidelity, the excellent judgment, and the thorough business knowledge he brought to bear in that position are well known by the people of Sterling. He was widely known, and wherever known was warmly esteemed for his many excellent qualities. He was a whole-souled, big –hearted man, live and progressive. His purse was always ready to relieve distress, and his heart was always touched by a story of woe. Sterling has sustained a deep loss in his death. He was warmly interested its welfare and worked to its advancement. Ever since his return all Sterling has asked anxiously after his health, and expressed earnest wishes for his recovery. Men will find it hard indeed to realize that the bright, cheery face of Mr. Sides has disappeared from sight forever; that his bright, clear eye is closed; that his manly step is stopped. They will miss him in the business world and in the social circle, and their sympathy will run out for the family of the deceased. Mr. Sides leaves a widow and four children comfortably provided for. The funeral services take place at the residence next Sunday afternoon at 3 o’clock, the Rev. E. Brown officiating. After the service by Mr. Brown, the Knights Templar will take charge of the body.
Contributed by Diane Patterson

JOHN HERR SIDES , died this morning at 5 o’clock at his home in Rock Falls, aged seventy-seven years. For some time has been rather feeble, but he was ill only a short time before his decease. Mr. Sides was born in Lancaster county, Pa., August 2, 1818. At the age of twenty-eight, he moved to Illinois and settled in Sterling. He was married fifty-seven years ago to Miss Maria Rohrer. Six children blessed their union, three of them having preceded their father to the better land. The oldest child died in infancy, John R. died seven years ago in Sterling and Mrs. Lydia Hack a daughter died nine years ago in Kerwin, Kan. Those who survive are: Mrs. Jacob Eshelman, now visiting in Pennsylvania, Mrs. Nelson Smith of Rock Falls and Mrs. F. E. Andrews of this city. Mrs. Sides the aged wife of the deceased lives to mourn his death. Mrs. Barbara Cochran and Mrs. Fannie Quint are his sisters and he also has two sisters and a brother in the east. John Herr Sides was one of Whiteside’s pioneers, and he has long been an honored and respected man, enjoying the friendship of many people all over the county. He lived until recently at the home of his daughter Mrs. F. E. Andrews. Funeral services will be held tomorrow at 3 p.m. at the home of F. E. Andrews, Rev. Cass Davis officiating. None of the relatives at a distance will be able to reach Sterling in time to attend.
Contributed by Diane Patterson

ANNA (BOS) SIKKEMA , 91, of Harbor Crest Nursing Home died this morning (26 January 1987) at the nursing home. Funeral services will be Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes-Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Fulton Cemetery with Cary Winn, intern pastor of the Second Reformed Church of Fulton officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. A memorial has been established. Mrs. Sikkema was born on May 18, 1895 in Fulton, the daughter of Enno and Benje Shipma Bos. On Dec. 1, 1914 she was united in marriage to Jacob "Sly" Sikkema in Fulton and he preceded her in death on Aug. 31, 1976. She had resided at Harbor Crest Nursing Home since Jan. 6, 1976. THe deceased was a member of the Second Reformed Church of Fulton and the Home Department of the Ladies Missionary Society of the church. Survivors include two sons, Wayne Sikkema of Fulton and Lauren of Lyndon; five grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren; and two sisters, Mrs. August (Grace) Luckritz of Clinton, Ia., and Mrs. Reka Kooi of Rockford. She was preceded in death by three brothers.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois January 26, 1987 - Monday, pg A2

BERNICE (KLIMSTRA) SIKKEMA , 81, of 20366 Acker Road, Fulton, IL, died Thursday, August 10, 2006, at Mercy Medical Center North in Clinton, IA. Bernice was born June 4, 1925 in Fulton, IL, to John and Margaret (Balk) Klimstra. She was educated in the Fulton grade schools and was a graduate of Fulton High School. Bernice married Allen Sikkema on September 17, 1943 in Fulton. He died July 2, 2005. She was employed by the former A.C. Nielsen Coupon Clearing House in Clinton, IA, then employed as a cook at the former Brick House Restaurant in Morrison, IL, and most recently as Pro Shop manager at the Fulton Country Club in Fulton. She was a member of Trinity Reformed Church in Fulton and past president of the Fulton Country Club Ladies Golf Association. She enjoyed golfing and spending time with her grandchildren. Survivors include three daughters, Sherry (Mrs. Rick) Beckhart of Bonita, CA; Barbara (Mrs. James) Mc Climon of Runnels, IA; and Nancy (Mrs. Dave) Hanson of Dubuque, IA; one son, Gregg (Krista) Sikkema of Fulton, IL; eight grandchildren, Michael (Christy) Beckhart, Samantha Beckhart, Erin and Courtney Mc Climon, Michelle and Elizabeth Hanson, Klark and Kiana Sikkema. She was preceded in death by her husband, Allen; one son, Allen Sikkema, Jr. in infancy; and one sister, Alvina Klimstra. INTERMENT: Fulton Township Cemetery – Fulton, IL

DONALD SIKKEMA : An official two - hour period of mourning has been proclaimed here Wednesday for Donald J. Sikkema, community leader who died Sunday in Mercy Hospital after suffering what is believed to have been a stroke. Funeral services for Mr. Sikkema, who was 50, will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the Second Reformed Church. The Rev. Jack Van Heest will officiate. A family prayer service will be conducted at 1:45 p.m. in the church parlors. Mayor Warren Wiersema today proclaimed the hours of 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesday for "all citizens of this community to pay their last respects" to Mr. Sikkema. The proclamation requests business places to close and flags to be flown at half-mast. It says, "all of the people of this community owe a deep debt of gratitude to this outstanding community leader." Friends may call after 7 p.m. today at the Sikkema funeral home, which Mr. Sikkema had operated since 1937. Burial will be in Fulton cemetery, Fulton Whiteside Co. Illinois. Mr. Sikkema was president of the Fulton Community High School board of education; a director of the Fulton cemetery, Fulton Whiteside Co. Illinois board; president of the Fulton Business Men's Association; a member of the Illinois Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors Association; and past president of the Fulton Kiwanis Club. He had served as an elder and deacon in the Second Reformed Church. He had been chairman of an industrial development drive in Fulton. Donald J. Sikkema was born June 15, 1912 in Fulton, a son of Joseph D. and Cornelia Buikema Sikkema. He was a graduate of Fulton High School and Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Chicago. On June 3, 1939, he married Helen Kamphuis in Fulton. Surviving are his widow; one daughter, Carol of New Brunswick, N.J.; his mother, Mrs. John H. Dykema of Fulton; one brother, Joel of Chicago; one sister, Mrs. Marjorie Kisthard of Fulton; and two nephews.
Contributed by Bonnie Pillers - Clinton Hearld 10 Feb. 1963

DOROTHY (HOUZENGA) VOS SIKKEMA , 87, of Fulton, died Friday at Mercy North Hospital, Clinton. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home in Fulton. The Rev. Wendell Davelaar, pastor of the First Christian Reformed Church in Fulton, will be officiating. Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Fulton Township Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Henry Luttikhuizen, Doug Sikkema and Matt, Mike, Tim and Todd Wessels. She was born May 14, 1916, in Fulton to Henry J. and Rena Balk Houzenga. She married Clarence B. Vos on Oct. 3, 1935, in Fulton. He died in 1977. She then married Ralph Sikkema on Oct. 18, 1980, in Fulton. He died in 1999. She was a member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Fulton and the church's Rebecca Society. She also belonged to the Christian Women's Club. She volunteered her time to the Christian schools in Fulton. She had worked as a clerk with the National Tea Food stores in Savanna, Ill., and Clinton. Survivors include one daughter, Lorraine Vos of Jenison, Mich.; one stepson, Lawrence (Elaine) Sikkema of Fulton; two grandchildren; five stepgrandchildren; five great-grandchildren; nine stepgreat-grandchildren; one brother, Gerald (Pat) Houzenga of Morrison, Ill.; and one sister, Mrs. Marlene Wessels of Fulton.

HELEN KATHERINE (KAMPHIUS) SIKKEMA , 83, Harbor Crest Nursing Home, Fulton, died Thursday, Aug 1, 1996, at the home. Services are 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Second Reformed Church, Fulton, preceded by a 1:15 p.m. family prayer service. Burial is in Fulton Cemetery. Visitation is 5 to 8 p.m. today at Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, Fulton. Memorials may be made to the church, where she was a charter member. The former Helen Kamphuis was born Jan. 31, 1913. in Fulton, the daughter of Henry J. and Lutie Wiersema Kamphuis. She married Donald J. Sikkema June 3, 1939, in Fulton. He died Feb. 10, 1963. She was employed as a clerk by the former Fidelity Life Insurance Company, Fulton and then as a representative for the Clinton Federal Bank. She owned and operated, along with her husband, the former Sikkema Funeral Home, Fulton, from 1936 to 1963. She was a member of Willing Workers, Ladies Aid and Missionary Circles, all at the church. She taught catechism and Christian Endeavor classes for many years. She was a long time member of the Fulton Women's Service Club. Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Rueben Kamper, Rochester, Minn.; grandchildren, Donald and Kimberly Kamper; a great-grandson, Brien Joseph Kamper; and a sister-in-law, Marjorie Kisthard, Fulton.
Contributed by Bonnie Pillers

ELLA CORDELIA (WILLMAN) SISSON , 95 of Sterling died Saturday, May 24, 2003, at CGH Medical Center. Mrs. Sisson was born Dec. 26, 1907, in Greenville, the daughter of Mathias and Mary Etta (Smith) Willman. She married Lloyd "Mike" Sisson on Feb. 28, 1927, in Morrison. He died Dec. 27, 1985. She was a past member of Sterling Moose and St. John Lutheran Church, Sterling. She enjoyed crocheting. Survivors include two daughters, Betty (Augie) Gomez of East Moline and Sandy (Will) Ackland of Rock Falls: four sons, Lloyd `Sonny" (Marge) Sisson Jr. and Lee (Carol) Sisson, both of Sterling, Rich (Geneva) Sisson of Rochelle and Tom Sisson of Port Byron:. 23 grandchilden: and many great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two daughters, Pat Wyckstand and MaryLou Pratt: a grandson: a granddaughter: four brothers: and five sisters. The funeral is at 11 a.m. Wednesday at McDonald Funeral Home, Rock Falls, with the Rev. David Beckstrom, pastor of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Sterling, officiating. Burial is at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling. Visitation is from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

LORETTA SISSON , 77, of Sterling died Monday, Dec. 23, 2002, at Sterling Pavilion Nursing Home. She was employed as a housekeeper. Mrs. Sisson was born April 23, 1925. There are no known survivors. Graveside service is at 1 p.m. Thursday at Riverside Cemeter, Sterling. There is no visitation. Arrangements completed by Allen-Grennan Funeral Home.

ANNA (BEEKEN) SPANGLER : Funeral services for Mrs. S. Arthur Spangler, aged 69, of Albany, were held at two p.m. Saturday in the Fay Funeral Home. The Rev. E. J. Blair of the Fulton Presbyterian church officiated and burial was in Minta cemetery, Garden Plain township. Social chapter O. E. S. of Albany also conducted rites. Casket bearers were Dr. William L. Coleman, Charles Sharer, Lydon Drury, Charles Daw, Lester Rasmussen and Lester Huggins. Flowers were cared for by Mrs. Warden Welch. Mrs. Spangler, who died at two p.m. last Thursday in the Riverside nursing home at Rock Falls, after an extended illness, was the former Anna Mae Beeken. She was born Nov. 16, 1885, in Warrington, Minn., the daughter of the late William Drews and Armina Smith Beeken. When a small child, she moved to Albany with her parents. Following the death of her parents, She went to Omaha, Neb., to make her home with an aunt, Mrs. Mary Drury. In October 1915, she was married to Robert Carlyle of Omaha. He died April 17, 1930. On Jan. 29, 1941, she was married to S. Arthur Spangler in Clinton and they made their home in Albany. She was a member of the Albany Methodist church and Social chapter O. E. S., which she joined in 1913. Surviving are her husband; three step-daughters, Mrs. Edward S. Beckworth of Omaha, Mrs. Mabel McCammon of Topeka, Kan., and Mrs. P. J. Luther of Portland, Ore., a nephew, Charles Harold Beeken, and three grandnieces in Albany; and an aunt, Mrs. Tilly Smith, and four cousins in Clinton.
Contributed by Liz Eads

EARL LINDOLN SPANGLER : News was received Tuesday evening by the relatives in Garden Plain of the death at the Watertown hospital of Earl Spangler, who went there voluntarily for treatment about three weeks ago. He was taken with an illness that was of the nature of typhoid fever. Earl L. Spangler, eldest child of Lincoln and Dora Spangler, was born on the old Spangler homestead in Garden Plain, Whiteside County, Illinois, March 26, 1890, and departed this life Tuesday May 9, aged twenty-six years, one month and seventeen days. A devoted father and mother, a loving wife and a family of brothers and sisters are called upon to mourn the demise of Earl Spangler, young and in vigorous manhood but a few weeks ago. Funeral services were held this morning at ten o'clock in the Methodist church in Albany, the pastor Rev. Ross officiating. The pall-bearers were chosen from the Masonic lodge of Albany, of which the deceased was a member. The burial was in the Albany cemetery.
Contributed by Liz Eads

HAROLD L. SPANGLER , 80, of 12791 Fenton Road, Morrison, died Friday May 25, 2001, at his home. He farmed in the rural Whiteside County area and also was employed by Whiteside Highway Department. Mr. Spangler was born July 23, 1920, in Garden Plain, the son of Ray S. and Ethel M (Ferguson) Spangler. He attended rural Whiteside County schools. He married Mary H. Harridge on June 11, 1941, in Fenton. He was a member of Fenton United Methodist Church. He enjoyed boating and was a self-developed handyman. Survivors include his wife, two daughters, Beverly (Larry) Jensen of Morrison and Linda (Jim) Blunt of Portland, Ore.; two sisters, Verna (Harold) Pace of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Carol (Lyman) Lawrence of Davenport, Iowa; two brothers, Leland Spangler of Erie and Leonard Harlen (Lois) Spangler of Fulton, five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a step-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by a son, Ray H. Spangler; and a brother, Howard Spangler. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home. Burial will be at Lusk Memorial Cemetery, Albany. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation.
Contributed by Liz Eads - Sterling Gazette May 26, 2001

MARY (SLOCUM) SPANGLER , 57, one of Albany's best-known and respected residents, died in her home here at 2 p.m. on Tuesday. Death was attributed to heart failure. She had been in ill health for about eight years and her condition had been serious for a week before the end came. As Irene Slocum she was born in Garden Plain township on Sept. 11, 1878, a daughter of the late Lyman and Mina Slocum. When she was three years of age her parents transferred their residence to Albany. Mrs. Spangler was a lifelong residence of Albany and vicinity with the exception of a brief period while her family resided in Clinton, IA. She received her education in the Albany schools up to her last year as a student, which was spent at the Clinton public schools. Her marriage to Samuel Arthur Spangler took place at the Methodist parsonage in Albany, and was performed by Rev. Gospelow, the pastor at that time, on Oct. 8, 1899. After their marriage they resided in Albany continuously with the exception of several years spent in Iowa and Colorado. She leaves to mourn her passing her husband and the following brothers and sisters:Mrs. George Olinger of Erie, E. H. Slocum of Rock Island, L. L. Slocum of Albany, Mrs. E. B. Switzer of Berkley, Calif., Fred Slocum of Newton Township, and Mrs. Glenn Olinger of Chicago. A sister Edith died in infancy. Her father, Lyman Slocum died in Rock Island on Aug. 12, 1914. Her mother preceded her in death by about two months, having passed away in Chicago on Oct. 8, this year. Mrs. Spangler was a faithful and active member of the Albany Methodist church, and was known to everyone as a very Christian woman. For a number of years she was superintendent of the junior department of the Sunday school. She invariably took a prominent part in all devotional as well as social activities at the church, and directed a great many church plays during the years before her health began to fail. She was universally respected, and always had a kind word for everyone. Funeral services were arranged for 2 p.m. Friday at the home, and at 2:30 p.m. at the Albany M. E. Church with Rev. George Gable officiating.
Contributed by Liz Eads

RAY SAMUEL SPANGLER : Funeral services for Ray. S. Spangler, 46, of Thomson, were held at two o'clock, Wednesday afternoon in the Methodist church at Albany. Mr. Spangler passed away 9:50 p.m. Sunday in the Jane Lamb hospital at Clinton after an extended illness with pneumonia. Burial was in the Oak Ridge cemetery at Albany. Mr. Spangler was born July 13, 1893, in Garden Plain township, Whiteside County, Ill. , and was the son of Mr. and Mrs. L. Spangler, 229 First Ave., Clinton, IA He was united in marriage to Miss Ethel Ferguson on Dec. 14, 1916 with Dr. D. H. Ross performing the ceremony. They farmed for many years in Ustick township and for the past couple of years they lived on a farm east of Thomson. Those left to mourn his passing are his widow; six children, Howard, Harold, Leland, Harlan, Verna Mae, and Carole, all at home; his parents; one brother, Paul H. Spangler, of Clinton, IA; and the following sisters, Mrs. C. R. Donnelly, Eagle Rock, Calif.; Mrs. J. A. Kofahl and Mrs. Alfred Hussman of Clinton, IA.; Mrs. W. H. Rogers, Davenport, IA.; and Mrs. F. L. Moran of Chicago. Mr. Spangler had served the last nine years as trustee of the Spring Valley, Ill., Presbyterian church of which he was an active member
Contributed by Liz Eads

SAMUEL ARTHUR SPANGLER : Funeral services for Arthur Spangler, aged 79, of Albany, who died at 9:45 p.m. Saturday Nov. 12, were held at two o'clock Tuesday afternoon in the Fay Funeral Home, Fulton. Rev. Alfred S. Dalrymple, pastor of the Albany Community Methodist church, officiated and burial was in Oak Ridge cemetery, Albany. Serving as casket bearers were Dr. W. L. Coleman, Roy Huggins, Charles Sharer, Lester Huggins, Lee Sharer and Charles Daw. Mr. Spangler was born May 7, 1876, in Garden Plain township to the late Samuel and Mary Merritt Spangler. He received his education in the Cedar Creek school. He has been a carpenter by trade all his life. He married Miss Mary Slocumb, who died in Dec. 1935. He later married Mis Mae Beacon, who died in Oct. 1954. He was a member of the Albany Methodist church. Only nieces and nephews survive. Besides his parents and two wives, he was preceded in death by eight brothers and two sisters.
Contributed by Liz Eads

WILLIAM SPANGLER : Following a protracted illness the final summons came suddenly and peacefully Thursday noon to William Spangler in the home of his sister, Mrs. Mary Bradley in Albany where he had been since early December, last, having come from his home in Rock Falls, Illinois. Although in a critical condition, Mr. Spangler was up a portion of the time and on Thursday morning had sat in his chair until the noon hour, when he told his sister he would lie down a while before dinner. He entered his room and lay down on the bed. Immediately Mrs. Bradley went to place cover over his shoulders when she noticed a change in his condition;hastily she summoned a neighbor and her niece, Mrs. Ranavola Snyder but in a few brief seconds the end came. William Spangler was born on a farm in Gardenplain township, May 9th, 1856 and passed away on May 31, 1931 at the age of 75 years, 12 days. He was the son of Samuel W. and Mary Merritt Spangler, pioneers of Whiteside County. He attended the Cedar Creek school and grew to manhood in this vicinity. On Nov. 23, 1881 he was united in marriage, with Miss Effie Plumley of Fulton, Ill. Nine children were born to them, eight of whom survive. In 1906 the move was made to Rock Falls, Illinois, where he had since resided until coming to this village. Mr. Spangler was a member of the Methodist church of Rock Falls and active in the Sunday school Brotherhood class. Funeral rites were held Sunday at 1:30 p. m. from the Albany M. E. Church with Rev. C. H. DuVall, pastor officiating. During the services Mesdames S. B. Dimond and E. J. Daw with D. A. Bohannon and W. C. Van Nest sang "The Old Rugged Cross", "In the Garden," and "Rock of Ages." Mrs. C. C. Ewing presided at the piano. The pallbearers were A. J. Huggins, W. E. Rowland, Alvin Slaymaker, Newman Rommell, Frank Huggins, and F. A. Snyder. Interment was in Minta cemetery in Gardenplain township on the family plot. Survivors are the eight children- R. W. Spangler and Mrs. Nellie Fields of Chicago; Misses Maude and Grace Spangler, of Harvard, Ill.; Mrs. Ada Belle Nelson, Bruce Spangler, Murray Spangler, and Carl Spangler of Sterling, Ill; Florence passed away when a small child. There are also brothers, Ed M. Spangler, Ames, IA.; Lincoln Spangler, Clinton, IA.; N. W. Spangler, Nivot, Colo.; L. W. Spangler of Temple City, Calif.; S. A. Spangler, Albany, Ill.; sisters, Mrs. Nancy DuVall and Mrs. Mary S. Bradley. The funeral was largely attended by relatives and friends. Among out of town attendants were R. Wayne Spangler, Mrs. Nellie Fields, Chicago, Mrs. Ada Belle Nelson, Bruce and Carl Spangler, Mrs. Effie Spangler of Sterling, Ill., E. M. Spangler of Ames, IA.; Lincoln Spangler, wife and son Paul, Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Moatt and son, Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Kofahl and daughter of Clinton, IA.; Mr. and Mrs. Ray Spangler of Morrison, Ill.; Mr. and Mrs. John Murray, L. A. Wheelock, Mrs. Harriett Dennison, Rock Falls, Mr .and Mrs. Charles Downs of Rock Island, Ill.; Frank Plumley and daughter of Fulton, Ill.; Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Hussman and children of Clinton, IA, perhaps others whose names escaped us.
Contributed by Liz Eads

EDITH (SPRANKLE) STERN , 90, of 3452 15 th. Ave. St. Petersburg, Florida, formerly of Sterling, Il. died November 21, 1994 at Edward-White Hospital in St. Petersburg. Edith was born March 9, 1904 in Amboy, Il. the daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Cox) Sprankle. She married John F. Stern June 9, 1921 in Clinton, Ia. He died Dec. 19, 1974. She worked in the plating Dept. at Lawrence Brothers for 20 years until her retirement. Survivors include one daughter, Betty Barnett of St. Petersburg, Fla.; four grandchildren; James Smith and Barbara Rotenberger of St. Petersburg, Fla.; Ronald Barnett of Seminole, Fla. and Kenneth Schuldt of Rock Falls Il.; 11 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one daughter in infancy. Graveside services were held at 100F Cemetery , Rock Falls Il. with the Rev. Roger P. Carlson, pastor of Berean Baptist Church officiating.
Contributed by Judy Hook

EDNA (BEHRENS) STERN , 87, of Sterling died Tuesday, March 29, 2005, at her home. She farmed iwth her husband for many years. Mrs. Stern wsa born Dec. 26, 1917 in Morrison, the daughter of Bernhard and Mattie (Janssen) Behrens. She married Oscar R. Stern on May 15, 1937. He died Oct. 7, 2002. She was a member of Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church, Sterling, where she was active in Ladies Aid and Bible Study. She also wa a member of Merry Makers Home Extension Unit and enjoyed gardening and needlework. Survivors include a son, Lyle (Deborah) of Sterling; a daughter Joyce (Robert) Hollaway of Sterling; a daughter-in-law Carole Stern of Annawan; a sister Clara Crone of Mesa AZ; a sister-in-law Esther Behrens of Morrison; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded by a son Robert; a daughter Elaine; two sisters and two brothers. The funeral is Friday at Messiah Evangelical Church with Rev. Daniel Behmlander officiating. Burial in Our Saviour Lutheran Cemetery.

GLEN H. STERN , 64, of 15752 Habben Rd., Sterling, died early Monday morning (2 September 1985) in Community General Hospital after a short illness. Funeral services for Mr. Stern will be Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, Hopkins Township, with Rev. James Schouweiler, pastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church, officiating, with burial in Our Savior Lutheran Church Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Allen Funeral Home in Sterling, with family prayer service Wednesday at the church at 1:45 p.m. Mr. Stern was born Aug. 12, 1921 in Hopkins Township, the same home where he lived his entire life. He was the son of Carl F. and Emma M. Heyer Stern. He was united in marriage to Ruth H. Manon on Feb. 25, 1951. The deceased had served in the U.S. Army during World War II, was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, and was chairman of the congregatoin at the time of his death. He had farmed this entire life except for the time of his military duty. Surviving are his wife, Ruth; two sisters, Mrs. Carroll (Elda) Taylor and Mrs. Duaine (Lola) Hunsberger, both of Sterling; two brothers, Edwin Stern of Coal Valley and Paul Stern of Sterling; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial has been established in his memory to the "Lutheran Hour."
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois September 3, 1985 - Tuesday, pg A4

IDA M. (BULL) STERN , 97, Morrison, IL, passed away Thursday, March 2, 2006 at the Resthave Nursing Home in Morrison. Funeral services were held Monday, March 6 in the Morrison chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home in Morrison with the Rev. James Jaeger. Burial was in Grove Hill Cemetery, Morrison. Memorials have been established to the Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services, Inc. and the Alzheimer’s Association. Ida was born December 8, 1908 in Morrison, IL to Charles J. and Mary K. (Bogh) Bull. She was educated in the Morrison Grade Schools and graduated from Morrison High School. She married Harold A. Stern on May 1, 1930 in Morrison. He died March 6, 1977. She had lived in and around Morrison, moving to Round Grove, IL in 1944; she then moved to Morrison in 1976. She had been employed by the former Whiteside County Nursing Home and also the former Evening Side Nursing Home in Morrison. She later was employed by Vend-Omack Sales in Morrison, IL until retiring. She was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Hopkins Township, rural Sterling, IL and the church’s Ladies Aid Society. She had been involved in the Round Grove Grade School PTA. She enjoyed crocheting, baking and cooking. Survivors include two daughters: Mrs. Beverly Slade, Clinton, IA, Carolyn (Mrs. Dennis) Bramm, Lyndon, IL; one son, Harold E. (Joan) Stern, Sun City West, AZ; 8 grandchildren, Linda (Mrs. Steven) Hein, Tim (Tammy) Slade, Steven (Jan) Slade, Brett (Charlene) Slade, Kory (Paula) Slade, Amy Bramm; Larry (Deb) Stern, Dave (Val) Stern; 11 great grandchildren, one great great granddaughter; one sister, Shirley (Mrs. Clair) Hesler of Sun City, AZ. She was preceded by her husband , one great grandson, Steven Hein, three sisters, Via Crump, Jeanette McKee, and Hazel Temple, 5 brothers, Lyle, Herbert, Kenneth, Sherman & Lester Bull.
Contributed by Debbie Thormahlen from the Prophetstown Echo

JEAN ELIZABETH STERN - Funeral services were held Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at the Wheelock Allen Funeral Home for Mrs. Jean Elizabeth Stern, 48, of 2100 Freeport Rd., Sterlling. The Rev. Lowell D. Allen, pastor of the First United Methodist Church of Rock Falls officiated, and burial was in Oak Knoll Memorial Park. Mrs. Waye E. Larson was organist. Pallbearers were: Frank Pilgrim, Laurence Jensen, Fred Pope, Fred Spinden, Sievio Tintori and Lawrence Stern. Flowers cared for by Swartleys.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois March 24, 1977 - Thursday pg 4

JOHN F. STERN , 83, 408 11th. Ave. Sterling, died friday morning, Dec. 19, 1975 at Colonial Acres Nursing Home in Sterling, Il. John F. Stern was born Sept. 14, 1892 in Jordan Township, the son of Henry and Ida Burger Stern. He was united in marriage to Edith Sprankle on June 9, 1921 in Clinton, Iowa. He lived his entire life in the Sterling-Rock Falls area. For a number of years he was employed as a janitor at the Home Hospital in Sterling. He was also a volunteer fireman on the Rock Falls Fire Dept. retiring 1953 Surviving are his widow (Edith); a daughter; Mrs. George(Betty) Barnett of Rock Falls; four grandchildren, James C. Smith, Barbara McConnell, Kenneth Schuldt, Ronald Barnett; two brothers, Leroy Stern of Park Rapids, Minn. and Leslie Stern of Sterling, and one sister Mrs. Ada Walker,R.F. He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, one brother and one sister. Funeral Services were held at the Melvin Funeral Home with Rev. Nathan E. Williams, pastor of the First Baptist Church officiating. Burial was made in 100F Cemetery R.F. Pallbearers were John Stern, Ronald Barnett, Dan Smith, John Tiesman, Keith Scott and Lyle C. Dirks.
Contributed by Judy Hook

PAUL A. STERN , 88, of rural Sterling died Saturday, June 14, 2003, at CGH Medical Center. Paul Alfred Stern was born Dec. 9, 1914, in Sterling, son of Carl and Emma (Heyer) Stern. He married Marion Fane in June 1942, She died October 1982. He then married Arlene (Peters) Kaczinski on Dec. 1, 1984, Paul was engaged in farming for many years. He served his country in the Army during World War II. He was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, rural Sterling, Rock Falls American Legion Post 902 and a long time member of Morrison Veterans of Foreign War 8281. He enjoyed dancing an fishing. Surviving are his wife Arlene; his three Sons, Larry (Joanne) Stern of Rockford, Marvin (Beverly) Stern and James (Sue) Stern, both of Sterling, his daughter, Peggy(Jim) Taylor of Pennsylvania; four stepsons, Duaine (Cheri) Kaczinski of Maquoketa,Iowa, Darrell (Myrna) Kaczjnskj of Delmar Iowa, Jack (Penny) Kaczinski of DeWitt, Iowa, and James (Nancy) Kaczinski of Camanche, Iowa; his sister Lola Hunsberger of Arizona, his seven grandchildren, James (Tracy) Taylor Jr., Angela (Mark) Quinn, Laurie Taylor, Christina Soldan Amy Stern, Aaron Stern and Heather Stern; five great- grandchildren, 10 stepgrand children; and seven step-greatgrandchildren He was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 19, 2003, at Our Savior Lutheran Church, rural Sterling. Burial will follow at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling. Visitation is from 5-8 P m. Wednesday, June 18, 2003, at McDonald Funeral Home, Rock Falls.
Sterling Gazette 16 June 2003

AMY L. (EWER) STROUSS , 86, Morrison, passed away this morning in the Morrison Community Hospital after a short illness. She was born Feb. 12, 1880 in Paw Paw, Ill., the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. M. C. Ewer. On Feb. 12, 1901, she married John E. Strouss in Walnut. Her husband preceded her in death in 1951. Mr. and Mrs. Strouss resided in Tampico for 50 years. After her husband's death, Mrs. Strouss moved to Morrison where she has resided for the past 14 years. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters. She is survived by one son, Gene, in Amboy, one granddaughter, and one sister, Mrs. R. N. Dunlop, Council Bluffs, Ia. Funeral services have been set for Monday afternoon in Tampico. Friends may visit the Schmidt Funeral Home in Tampico, Sunday afternoon after 2. Burial will be in Tampico Memorial Cemetery.

Contributed by Dennis Krebs - Sterling Gazette June 18, 1966

GENE M. STROUSS , 73, of 4 N. Mason Ave., Amboy, died Sunday, Jan. 27, 1980. He was well known in this area, as he was co-publisher and editor of The Amboy News for the past 46 years. He suffered an apparent heart attack and fell one block from his home. He was taken to KSB Hospital in Dixon by the Amboy Rescue Squad where he died a short time later. Mr. Strouss started in the barber trade as a young man serving as an apprentice under his father. He started working in the newspaper business on the Tampico Tornado, then as a correspondent on the Sterling Gazette during his high school years. He later worked on the Tri-County Press in Polo, working for John J. Wagner. When Mr. Wagner bought The Amboy News in 1933, Mr. Strouss and his family moved to Amboy, where he has lived since. When Mr. Wagner died in 1961, Strouss became editor and co-publisher with Richard J. Wagner. He has held the office of vice president of the Northern Illinois Press Association, was a member of the Mendota Elks Club, the Chicago Motor Club, and was a member of the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Amboy. He served several years on the Library Board and on the city council in Amboy. He was born April 21, 1906 in Tampico, the son of John and Amy (Ewer) Strouss. He married Dorothy Kramer May 29, 1927 in St. Mary's Catholic Church in Polo. He was preceded in death by one brother and one sister. Survivors include his widow, and a daughter, Mrs. Charles (Beverly) Cramer of Dixon. Prayer service was held Wednesday morning at Mihm-Jones Funeral Home in Amboy, followed by 11:00 a.m. Mass of the Resurrection at St. Patrick's Church with Msgr. Raymond J. Wahl, pastor, officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Those serving as pallbearers were Jack Elliott, Robert Spenader, Larry Hawes, Charles Welty, Henry Mortensen and Thomas Shaw. A memorial has been established for the Lee County Diabetes Association.
Contributed by Dennis Krebs - Amboy News 31 January 1980

JOHN EDWARD STROUSS , 76, barber in Tampico for nearly fifty years, died at about 10:00 Sunday night, March 11, 1951, in the Amboy Public hospital. In failing health for the past five months, he had been a patient in the Amboy hospital since February 1st, following hospitalization the previous two weeks in Sterling and Rochester, Minn. Born December 23, 1874, near Fisher, Champaign county, Ill., a son of John and Mary Campbell Strouss, he grew to young manhood on a farm there. When he was twenty, the family moved to a farm in Hamilton Township, Lee County and he continued in the vocation of farming for several years, then learned the barber trade. He established a shop in Tampico in April, 1900, and operated it continuously until early in January, 1951, with the exception of two years during which he operated a shop in Crystal Lake, Ill. Mr. Strouss was married to Miss Amy L. Ewer on February 12, 1901, at the home of her parents on a farm in Lee County, north of Walnut. Surviving are his widow; on son, Gene, and a granddaughter, Beverly, both of Amboy; two brothers, A. G. Strouss of Mishawaka, Ind., and L. E. Strouss, Earlville; one sister, Mrs. V. J. (Cassie) McDougall, of Arlington Heights. He was preceded in death by one son, Kenneth, one daughter, Gwendolyn; his parents; two sisters and four brothers. With passing of Mr. Strouss, Tampico lost one of its most highly respected and best loved citizens. In point of years in business he was Tampico's oldest business man. His outstanding characteristic was his friendliness to those of all ages and in return everyone became his friend, as shown by their solicitude during his illness. It can truly be said of Mr. Strouss that "he lived in a house by the side of the road and was a friend to man." Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Frank Peterson at the Parent chapel Wednesday afternoon at two o'clock. Burial was in the Tampico Memorial cemetery with Richard Kelly, Dyson Kepner, J. E. Cain, Vernon Newman, W. Furry and Glenn Glassburn serving as pallbearers.

Contributed by Dennis Krebs - Walnut Leader Friday March 16, 1951 **Gene Strouss, the son of John E. Strouss is the Editor of the Amboy News. His grandaughter Beverly Strouss is Society Editor for the Dixon Telegraph.