'R' Woodford County Obits
Woodford County, Illinois Genealogy Trails

Priscilla J. Ryan
Priscilla J. Ryan, 81, of 130 Short St., Minonk, passed away at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday (April 11, 2006) at BroMenn Regional Medical Center, Normal.  Priscilla was born May 30, 1924, at Minonk, a daughter of John C. and Myrtle Eich Danforth. She married John H. Ryan III on Oct. 16, 1943, in Minonk. He died March 8, 2006.  Survivors include two sons, John H. (Mary) Ryan IV and Tom D. (Linda) Ryan, both of Minonk; four grandchildren, John H. (Susan) Ryan V, Minonk; Kevin Ryan, Bloomington; Leigh (Carrie) Ryan, Gibson City; and Tracy Ryan, Peoria; and five great-grandchildren, Madeline, Jared, John H. VI, Paul and Jade.  She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Marion; and a grandson, Todd P. Ryan.  She was a member of the Matrons Club and Chapter BP of PEO. Priscilla also served on the Filger Library Board in Minonk.  Her family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home, Minonk. A private family service will follow. The Rev. Craig Swenson will officiate. Interment will be in Minonk Township Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be directed to the Filger Library, 261 E. Fifth St., Minonk, IL 61760, or any charity of the donor's choice.  Online condolences may be sent to the family at ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com

James Ramsey - contributed by Jane Foster
The death of James Ramsey, aged about 80 years, occurred Friday after a lingering illness at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gibson, two miles south of town.  Funeral services were held Sunday at Deer Creek, the home of another married daughter, Mrs. W. H. Mooberry and his son, ________ Ramsey.  (Could be Walter --- W_ _ _ er.)

John H. Ryan III
John H. Ryan III, 81, of 130 Short St., Minonk, passed away at 10:09 a.m. Wednesday (March 8, 2006) at BroMenn Regional Medical Center in Normal.  A private family funeral will be at Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home, Minonk. Rev. Craig Swenson will officiate. There will be no visitation. Interment will be in Minonk Township Cemetery, Minonk.  John was born May 19, 1924, at Pontiac, a son of John H. and Florence Hawk Ryan Jr. He married Priscilla J. Danforth on Oct. 16, 1943, in Minonk. She survives.  Other survivors include two sons, John H. (Mary) Ryan IV, and Tom D. (Linda) Ryan, both of Minonk; four grandchildren, John H. (Susan) Ryan V, Minonk; Kevin Ryan, Bloomington; Leigh (Carrie) Ryan, Gibson City; and Tracy Ryan, Peoria; five great-grandchildren, Madeline, Jared, John H. VI, Paul and Jade; and one brother, Warren Ryan, San Franciso, Calif.  He was preceded in death by one grandson, Todd P. Ryan, and one brother.  John farmed the family homestead in Clayton Township for 50 years, retiring in 1986. He and Priscilla moved into Minonk in 1997. He was a member of the Woodford County Farm Bureau.  John's family was very important to him. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He enjoyed teaching and playing checkers with his children and grandchildren. He was an avid Cubs and Bears fan.  Memorial contributions in John's honor may be directed to the Filger Library 261 E. Fifth St., Minonk, IL 61760. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.

Thomas Richardson
On Sunday night, shortly after coming from church, Deacon Richardson died very suddenly while sitting in a chair talking to the inmates at John Rowell's residence. The Deacon and Mr. Rowell started home together after attending service at the First Baptist church, both living in the west part of town, Mr. Rowell remarked on the way that the Deacon walked as fast as a young man, the latter giving as a reason that the night was cold and he had neglected to bring his overcoat. He seemed to get out of breath, and had to stop several times on the way to recover it, and when he got as far as Mr. Rowell's house, the latter invited him in to rest, which he accepted. After the usual salutations he sat down, apparently as well as usual, and was conversing, when he suddenly put his hand up over his heart and made a low exclamation, his head falling over on his breast. Mr. Rowell threw his arms around him to hold him up, and messengers were sent for medical aid. Both Drs. Evans and Blanchard hurried up, but before they arrived, life was extinct, he dying apparently without a struggle in Mr. Rowell's arms. The body was afterwards taken home to his sorrowing wife, who had to summon all her fortitude to bear up under the sad affliction. It appears it was the first time in may years she failed to be with him at church.

Thomas Richardson was born in the town of Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, England, June 17, 1810. In the year 1831, when he had arrived at the age of manhood, he married Miss Rachel Richardson, a second cousin. A large family favored their union- 4 sons and 7 daughters, but some of them died young. In 1853, the Deacon and his family came to this country, settling for a few months at Evansville, Ind., but finally located about 3½ miles northeast of Pattonsburg, Marshall county, in 1854 where he bought three 80's. Here he lived with his family for thirty years, and here his wife died in 1871, his daughter Minnie five years after, and his son Joseph in 1880, the three falling victims to consumption. Two other daughters also died in the same fell disease - Mrs. John Richardson in Nebraska tp., and Mrs. Portor Harkness abut three years ago.

The only children living are Ezra, in Flanagan, Ills., Ebenezer in Glen Elder, Kansas; Mrs. M. Gray in Cropsey, Ills.

In 1871 he married Mrs. Ann Skeels in Washburn, Ills. who survives him, but has no issue. In 188? he rented his farm to John Hollenback and moved to Minonk, where he has lived ever since a quiet, peaceable life, free from the cares and perplexities of business. The Deacon was a strong, vigorous man, always enjoying good health. He commanded the respect of all by the uprightness of his character and the moral life he led. He would never accept any office, we are told, although he was a school director several times. His society was much sought after in his younger days, the geniality of his mature and his thorough good nature making him very popular. Although the suddenness of his death has shocked most of us, yet it is a consolation to know that as far as we can tell he was prepared for the great change from mortal to immortal life. He was a good man in every sense, and as such his death is not only a loss to his family, but to the whole community, who will naturally extend their sympathy to the afflicted wife and children.

The funeral services were held Wednesday morning at the First Baptist church, the late pastor, Rev. Coffman, having come from Tiskilwa to officiate. A large audience listened to the discourse, which was able and instructive. Elder Sands, Rev. A. Kerrick, both old friends and neighbors of deceased, followed in a feeling tribute to his unsullied character and moral worth. The remains were taken to Pattonsburg for interment in the family plot. The large number present at the grave, where the final services were conducted by Rev. Kerrick, and where a last view was taken of the honored dead, showed that his thirty years of active life among them had been warmly cherished and lovingly remembered.

The pallbearers were Deacons Danforth, N. E. Davison, A. Pickard, James Ridge, S. Wylie and J. S. Burt.

The widow and children of the late Deacon Richardson return thanks to the friends who so kindly aided them during their late sad affliction.

Hazel Dennis Roark - contributed by Jane Foster

Washburn --- Hazel Dennis Roark, 82, formerly of Washburn, died at 9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, 1993, at Monte Cassino Health Care Center in Toluca.

Born Sept. 6, 1910, in Washburn to Alfred and Nora Kenyon Calvert, she married Asa J. Dennis.  He died in 1959.  She later married James Long.  He died in 1965.  She then married Howard Roark.  He died in 1977.  Four brothers also preceded her in death.

Surviving are two sons, Cecil Dennis of Brandford and Darrell Dennis of Washburn; three daughters, Edith Frye of Henry, Doris Spears of Bolivar, Mo., and Della Egli of Washington; two brothers, Fred Calvert of Toluca and Raymond Calvert of Peoria; one sister, Lila Ballance of Patoka; 14 grandchildren; five stepgrandchildren; 11 greatgrandchildren.

She was a member of Metamora Church of Christ.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Monday at Newton Memorial Home in Washburn, where visitation will be one hour earlier.  Burial will be in Fort Dever Cemetery in Washburn.

Memorials may be made to the Washburn Ambulance Service.

Will Roth
Monday forenoon at 9:30 at his home just west of Shiloh Church, Panola township, Will Roth passed away, after a long illness from lung trouble. For two years he has been a constant sufferer but most of tht time has been up and around, yet gradually growing weaker from the ravages of disease. His last illness was not in any way severe, but he passed away very peacefully, having been bedridden but a few days. He was able to be in this city as recently as Independence Day.

The funeral services were held at Shiloh church at 9:30 Wednesday and were conducted by Rev. Schantz of Hudson, and Staley of Flanagan, both of the ? Church, assisted by Rev. Pinkney, of Shiloh UB Church. The remains were laid to rest in the Baughman cemetery in the family burying ground.

Deceased was the third son of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Roth, of Panola township and had spent the greater part of his life in the locality where death overtook him. He was born Ja. 21, 1865. He leaves a wife and one child, the latter a girl of about 2 yeras of age. Mrs. Roth is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Chris Donner and has also been a resident of Panola township since childhood. She is a sister of Mrs. J. M. Shaw of this city. Mr. and Mrs. Roth were married Sept. 2?, 1890 and have lived on the old Geo. Horner farm ever since that time.

The esteem in which Mr. Roth and family were held was shown by the extremely large assemblage of friends to pay the last tribute to the dead. Over 100 carriages followed the remains from the church to the cemetery. Friends and relatives wre present from Peoria, Washington, Roanoke, Danvers, Hopedale, Hudson, Flanagan and other places.

John Robert Ramsey - contributed by Jane Foster
Word was received here Tuesday of the death of Mr. Ramsey, of LaRose.  He was killed by some cattle.  No particulars known.

Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Clilngman, Mrs. O. E. Clingman, Mrs. Robertson and Miss Agnes attended the funeral of John Ramsey, of LaRose, Friday. There was a large crowd in attendance for Mr. Ramsey had many friends who showed their regard both by their presence and the many beautiful floral offerings. The Modern Woodmen took charge at the grave and buried their brother with the beautiful services of that order.

John Robert Ramsey - No recent event has startled the people of Marshall and Woodford counties as did the shocking, untimely, accidental death of Mr. John Robert Ramsey, occassioned as it was by the attack of a maddened bull Tuesday, Oct. 25th, 1904.  The funeral services were conducted on Friday by the life-long friend of the Ramsey family, the Rev. Dr. Comelison of Washington, Ill. Rev. Cornelison had married Mr. Ramsey's parents, William J. Ramsey and Mary A. Dodds, and officiated at the funeral of both his parents and grandparents and assisted at his marriage to Miss Clara E. Sharp, and was now called upon to minister on this sad occassion at his funeral in which service he was assisted by the Revs. Thomas Martin of La Prairie Centre, G. M Boswell of Washburn and Dr. William H. Pomphrey of Peoria. Dr. Cornelison's discourse was a most feeling and fitting one, based on Psalm 46-10: "Be still and know that I am God." and called the attention of all ho heard them to the great truth - God's hand no human life, the basis and inspiration for a true life and hope and consolation in times of breavement and sorrow. A quartette consisting of Rev. and Mrs. Dudman, Mrs. Stevenson and Mr. Golliver rendered most acceptably music well adapted to the sad circumstances. The Modern Woodmen of the community attended in a body and rendered their burial service at the grave most fitting and feelingly. From the home in which he was bom Nov. 21st, 1861, and to which he brought his bride on Dec. 28th, 1883, his remains were borne away and laid to rest in the Crow Meadow Presbyterian cemetery to which
they were attended by not less than a thousand neighbors and friends who gave their silent yet emphatic witness to the universal esteem in which Mr. Ramsey was held and paid their sad, yet fitting tribute to his worth and worthiness.  Mr. Ramsey had three children, Laura Althea, Irma Dell and Frank W. who with his widow in their great sorrow, remains behind to await that day of family reunion in the "Mansion in our Father's house". Meanwhile their grief is relieved by memory of a husband and father's love--a legacy prized and cherished, and the darkness of their sorrow is alleviated and even illuminated by the light of gospel hope, for Mr. Ramsey had for over eleven years been a professing christian, a member of the
Crow Meadow Presbyterian church, a christian without ostentation, consistent and humble.  In his sudden and shocking death the community has lost one of its most energetic and capable men of affairs. As a friend he was genial, kind, steadfast and true; a neighbor considerate, thoughtful and obliging, a husband tender and devoted; a father fond, faithful and gentle; a man in all life's relations; in a very high degree an exemplary, a model man, who virtues others will do well to imitate and whose memory shall by many.  Mrs. John R. Ramsey and children wish to thank the many friends for their sympathy and services shown them in their great and rare sorrow and overwhelming loss in the death of their dear husband and father. (transcribed by D. Whitesell from data provided by Jane Foster)

William John Ramsey - contributed by Jane Foster
Rev. I. A. Cornelissa attended the funeral of John Ramsey, at Washburn, Sunday.  Mr. Cornelissa and the deceased were oldtime friends---News

Peter Roth
Last Friday night at 10:30 o'clock occurred the death of a wel known and highly respected citizen of Panola township in the person of Mr. Peter Roth. Mr. Roth was born in Alsace, Germany, Feb. 12, 1829. His father died when Peter was four years of age and three years later Mrs. Roth brought her children, Peter being third in order of birth to America. They were forty two days on the ocean landing at New York City, and locating in Butler county, Ohio. Peter was early compelled to earn most of his own living. At the age of 16 he commenced to make his own way, first as a farm laborer for a period of twelve years. In 1856 he came to Tazewell county, this state, and soon after married Miss Bena Naffziger, which event occurred Feb. 8, 1857. To them nine children were born, six of whom with their mother are living. The three who preceded their father to the great beyound were Peter Jr; Lydia, wife of John Krug and William. The six living children are Daniel, John, Jacob, Mrs. S. E. Schertz, Mrs. Jas. Holt and Ella, the latter living at home. The family moved to this county in 1874 and have lived in Panola township ever since.

The funeral services were held in Shiloh church last Monday morning at 10 o'clock, Revs. Lackland, of Gridley; Schantz, of Hudson, and Egle, of Waldo officiating. A large number followed the remains to the Baughman cemetery, where the interment took place.

James E. Ramsey - contributed by Jane Foster
James E. Ramsey, 49, husband of the former Miss Marguerite Getz of Metamora, died suddenly at 11 a.m. last Friday while at work in the Walworth Manufacturing Co. plant in Kewanee.  He had been talking to two fellow employees when he sank to the floor and was pronounced dead witthin a few moments.

Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey and daughter, Barbara, spent the Memorial day weekend in Metamora with Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Williams and at that time Mr. Ramsey appeared in good health.

He was born in Kewanee May 5, 1903 and had spent his entire life there.  On Aug. 11, 1945 he and Miss Marguerite Getz of Metamora were united in marriage in St. Mary's church here.

He is survived by his wife, one daughter, Barbara, three sisters, Mrs. Roy Lyle of Kewanee Mrs. Bessie Peterson of Berwyn and Mrs. Roy Reed of South Bend, Ind, and one brother, Dan of Kewanee.
    
Friends were received at the Cavanaugh & Schuneman funeral home in Kewanee on Sunday afternoon and evening, many from Metamora being in the throng.  Funeral services were held Monday morning at 9 o'clock in Visitation Catholic Church, Kewanee, and burial was in the church cemetery.
    
Those from Metamora who attended the services or visited at the mortuary were:  Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Williams, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Sullivan, Mr. and Mrs. R. J. Schneider.  Mr. and Mrs. Joe Waldschmidt, Mr. and Mrs. Francis Heinzmann, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Day, Mrs. Mlton Waldschmidt, Mrs. Ray Ralser, Mrs. Mollie Krans, Mrs. Margaret Rohman, Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Glaub, Mrs. Roy Eichorn, Mrs. Josie Waldschmidt, Mr. and Mrs. Fred McCullough, Joe Welte, Mrs. Chas. Welte and son.
    
Mrs. W. J. Williams of Metamora remained with her sister, Mrs. Ramsey over Sunday and until after the funeral.

William Rice - contributed by Jane Foster
Caught by a falling tree while at work in his timber on Wednesday of last week, William Rice, a wealthy bachelor residing between Cazenovia and Lowpoiint, sustained injuries from which he succombed last Friday afternoon.  The accident happened on the afternoon of Wednesday, and although the aged man's skull was crushed by the tree he survived for two days.

Mr. Rice and Ben Moreland were engaged in getting out saw logs for the mill the former has conducted near Lowpoint for years when the accident occurred.  A large tree had been severed and fell against another tree.  According to the current story, Mr. Rice undertook to fell the tree against which the tree was leaning, and while he was thus engaged the tree fell upon him, striking his head and crushing his skull.

The injured man was carried to the home of Mr. Moreland, with whom he had been residing, and medical assistance was employed in an effort to revive him.  It was evident that he was injured perhaps beyond assistance and on account of his age little hope was entertained for his recovery.

Mr. Rice was 73 years of age and was one of the early residents of this part of Illinois.  He came to the vicinity of Lowpoint in the year 1842, with his parents and three sisters, from Onandago county, New York.  For years his sister Rosanna, kept house for him after the parents passed away, but she too passed away some time ago.  Since that time he had made his home with Mr. Moreland's family.  He has been a hardworking man all his life and leaves considerable property.  This consists of about a section of land, the greater part of which is excellent farming land.  Mr. Rice was never married.  Few relatives survive.

The funeral was held Monday from the Moreland home.  Burial was in Buckingham cemetery.

Howard James Roark - contributed by Jane Foster

Washburn --- Howard James Roark, 72, of RR 1, Washburn, died at 5:50 p.m. Tuesday at Illinois Valley Community Hospital at Peru.

Services will be at 2 p.m. tomorrow at Pacey-Child Memorial Home.  The Rev. Robert Roark, his son, will officiate and burial will be in Fort Cemetery, here.  Private visitation will be from 7 to 9 tonight at the funeral home.

He was born on June 20, 1904, at Harmon, a son of Henry and Mary Etta Roark.  He married Hazel E.  Calvert on June 19, 1968, at Lacon.  She survives.

Also surviving are three sons, James Carl of Phoenix, Ariz., Robert Thomas of Longmont, Colo., and Paul Eugene of Kiowa, Kan.; one daughter, Mrs. Earl (Doris) Hiddleson of Denver, Colo.; one sister, Mrs. Ted (Helen) Knoll of Amboy; 22 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.  One son and one brother preceded him in death.

Mr. Roark farmed near Harmon most of his adult life.  He was a member of the Marshall-Putnam County Farm Bureau.

Jacobena Roth (Mrs. Peter )

Mrs. Peter Roth Sr., died at her home in Panola township January 17, aged 92 years and 9 days. On December 20, 1927, she was stricken with apoplexy and had since been confined to her bed. Jacobena Naffsiger was born in Butler County, Ohio, January 6, 1836. In her early youth she came with her parents to Partridge township, Woodford county and was married to Peter Roth February 8, 1857. The new home was made near Morton, Tazewell county, where they resided until 1874 when they moved to the present home near Panola, where the deceased had since resided. Mr. Roth died August 9, 1901. Nine children were born to this union, three of whom preceded the parents in death: Peter Roth August 27, 1875; Lydia Krug, February 16, 1890, and Will Roth July 9, 1894. Those who are left to mourn the loss of a loving mother are Daniel Roth of Gridley, John of El Paso, Jacob of Redlands, Cal., Mrs. Emma Schertz and Mrs. Amelia Holt of Panola and Mrs. Ell Klopfenstein of Siloam Springs, Ark. There also survive twenty-eight grandchildren, one having preceded her in death, and eleven great-grandchildren, besides a host of other relatives and friends. In early life Grandma Roth (as she was familiarly known by everyone) united with the Mennonite church and remained a faithful member until death.

Funeral services were held from the home Friday morning at 10:00 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Benjamin Rupp. The pallbearers were grandsons of the deceased. Among those from a distance who attended the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Roth of Gibson City; Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Baughman, Mrs. Anna Streid, Mrs. Naffsizer, Nornal; Mr. and Mrs. Sanuel Baughman, Mrs. William Forehlich, Miss Sadie Donner, Gridley; Joseph Baughman, Zion City; Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Rich, Mrs. Katie Kinsinger, Miss Kate Unsicker, Washington; Mrs. Anna Roth and daughter Blance of Whiting, Ind.

Ernest Redenius

Ernest A. Redenius, 84 of 538 Washington St., Minonk passed away at 5:20 P.M. Monday, February 26, 2007 at Wuesthoff Medical Center in Rockledge,FL.
Funeral services will be at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, March 3, 2007 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Minonk. Rev. Craig Swenson will officiate. Burial will be in Minonk Township Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday from 5 to 8 at Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home, Minonk and on Saturday for one hour prior to services at the church.
Ernest was born September 18, 1922 at Roanoke a son of John A. and Maddie Huschen Redenius. He married Mildred Householter on June 9, 1945 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Minonk. She survives.
Other survivors include a son; Larry (and Judy) Redenius, Minonk; a daughter, Linda (and Bob) Schoon Farrington, Cocoa,FL; two granddaughters, Heather (and Matt) Epps, Cocoa,FL and Angie Schoon, Cape Caneveral, FL; one great granddaughter, Reyann Epps; and one sister, Doris (and Vernon) Harms, Flanagan. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Herbert.
Ernie was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Minonk. He was mechanic for Orville Carls and later Sauder & Rippel Implement in Minonk for 36 years retiring in 1986. He then owned and operated Ernie’s small engine and repair shop in Minonk. At age 80 he restored a 1949 Allis Chalmers G tractor that he showed in many parades. He and his wife enjoyed wintering in Florida.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 318 W. Fourth St., Minonk,IL 61760.

Bertha Grace Ricksher - contributed by Amy Robbins-Tjaden
EL PASO - The Funeral Of Bertha Grace Ricksher, 101, a resident of Maple Lawn Health Care Center, Eureka, formerly of El Paso, will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Froelich Memorial Home, El Paso. The Rev. Timothy Sherman, her grandson, will officiate. A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Maple Lawn Health Care Assembly Hall, the Rev. Robert Harnish officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, El Paso.
Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home, with the rosary recited at 7 p.m. by the Rev. Eugene Kane. Mrs. Ricksher died at 1:20 a.m. Tuesday (Sept. 21, 1993) at the center. She was born Jan. 29, 1892, in Kansas Township, Woodford County, a daughter of C.C. and Lucy Potter Bateman. She married Walter Herget in June 1909. She later married A.G. Ricksher June 25, 1923, in Peoria. He died Nov. 11, 1982.
Surviving are one daughter, Imogene Sherman, Eureka; one sister, Helen Burroughs, El Paso; 10 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and 24 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one daughter, one brother, two sisters, one grandson and one great-grandson. Mrs. Ricksher was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, El Paso. She was a nurse at several area institutions. Memorials may be made to Maple Lawn Health Care Center or El Paso Rescue Squad. The obituary is being repeated to correct the dateline and add a daughter who preceded her in death. Metzler-Froelich Memorial Home, Bloomington, is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Hrejsa, who was born Sept. 25, 1917, at Shirley, donated her body to the Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois. Local survivors include a sister, Jessie Beeson, 406 W. Division St.

Rev. James Robeson
Bloomington, Ill, Jan 22 - The Rev. James Robeson, the oldest minister of the Christian church in Illinois, was buried today at Secor, Woodford county, where he died on Friday, age 91. He had been a minister for over fifty-five years.

Raymond H. Rocke - contributed by Amy Robbins-Tjaden
Raymond H. Rocke, 102, of Eureka passed from death to eternal life at 6:50 p.m. Saturday (June 14, 2008) at the Apostolic Christian Home of Eureka.

He was born, Raymond Harold Rocke, on Sept. 12, 1905, to the late Jeff and Lucy Rocke of Eureka. He was united in marriage to Louise Verna Getz of Morton, on Sept 13, 1931. She passed away on Oct. 26, 2007.

Ray, along with two brothers, Harry and Virgil, built and established Rocke Apiaries, "the Honey House" on the west edge of Eureka. Several years later, Ray left the family business to begin a new career in sales, with Christian Universal Life Insurance Company.

He was an active member of Eureka Apostolic Christian Church. He was a volunteer in various church and community functions which included helping to start the Apostolic Christian Home of Eureka in 1963, where he and his wife resided the last four years of their lives.

Raymond is survived by his (foster) daughter and her husband, Crystal and Charles Engels; four grandchildren, Brandon, Heather, Brittany and Joshua Engels; one great- grandchild, Chaya Engels, all of the Atlanta, Ga. area.

In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his wife, Louise; seven brothers, Jess, Joe, John, Alvin, Virgil, Orval and Harry; two sisters, Laura and Alvina; as well as three orphaned cousins who were raised as siblings, Ortie, Alma and Viola.

His service will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Eureka Apostolic Christian Church. Church ministers will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. He will be laid to rest in the family burial site, located in Roanoke. Argo-Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home, Eureka, is handling arrangements.

Thank you to the Apostolic Christian Nursing Home of Eureka and staff for the excellent care given to Ray. Memorials may be sent to the Apostolic Home of Eureka.

Christian Reeser - contributed by Rollin Ulrich
Reeser - Christian Reeser was a native of Alsace , Lorraine , (Sangamese) which at the time of his birth was a part of France . He was born Sept. 15, 1819, a son of French and German parents. His father, whose name was John, was a Frenchman and native of Lorraine . While a soldier in France he met and afterwards married a German lady, who was born and reared in Germany . The father died while comparatively young, at the age of thirty-five years. His widow came to America and settled in Indiana , at which place she was laid to rest, at the age of sixty years. To this union were born four children, John, Joseph and Mary deceased; Christian, the subject of this sketch, being the only one living. He was reared in France and educated in the French language, but, as usual in those border provinces, he also learned to speak German. While a boy his occupation was herding sheep. In 1839, at the age of twenty years, he came to America with his brother John and a friend, Nicklos Murrier. The voyage was made in a sailing vessel, 45 days being spent on the Atlantic . He located on a farm in Butler County , Ohio . Thirteen years later, at the age of thirty-three years, in Delaware County , Ind. , he was married to Miss Barbara Zimmerman, a native of Baden , Germany . To this union were born thirteen children; Joseph and Andrew deceased. The living are: John P. Reeser and Mrs. Fannie S. Ulrich of Nampa, Ida.; C. B. Reeser and Mrs. Anna D. Ulrich of Eureka, Ill.; Jacob of Albany, Oreg.; Mrs. Barbara B. Ummel of Reeds, Mo.; Samuel of Goodfield, Ill.; Mrs. Wm. Plaag of Peoria, Ill.; and Peter E. of Seattle, Wash. There are also 82 grandchildren and 101 great-grandchildren. Christian Reeser came to Montgomery Township, Woodford Co., Ill. , in 1858 from Delaware Co., Ind. By wagon immigration. In 1895 he decided to quit farming and in doing so moved to Eureka , Ill. , at which place he lived ten years. In 1903, at the age of seventy-two, his wife died. He then made his home in Missouri , with his daughter, Mrs. Ulrich, and came back to Illinois with her about four years later. In 1867 he was called to the ministry in the Mennonite Church , with which he united when a young man. He experienced pioneer experiences in the work of the ministry. Years ago his services were used largely in the community at large for funerals. His period in the ministry was 56 years. When he was 100 years old he spoke the last time. He enjoyed his work greatly, and his death was appropriatey on the Lord's Day, for that is the day he appreciated most. He passed away on Sunday, Jan. 14, 1923. His age was 103 y. 3 m. 29 d. The funeral was held on Jan. 17. The church was crowded beyond capacity. Bro. Andrew Schrock preached in German on II Tim. 4:7, 8. Bro. Clayton F. Derstine preached in English on Acts 13:36. Bros. Sam Gerber and Valentine Strubhar assisted in the service. Peace to his ashes.

Fred M. Ritterbusch - contributed by Amy Robbins-Tjaden
Fred M. Ritterbusch, 82, El Paso, a retired pharmacist, died at 1:20 p.m. Monday (March 21, 1994) at St Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.  A memorial Mass will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at St Mary's Catholic Church, El Paso, the Rev Eugene Kane officiating.  As Mr Ritterbusch has donated his body to medical science, there will be no burial.
 
Mr Ritterbusch was born Dec. 18, 1911, in Springfield, a son of Fred and Nellie Power Ritterbusch.  He married Margaret Sudduth Oct. 5, 1937, in Paris, Ill.  She survives.  Other survivors include three daughters, Mary Ann Duncan, Metamora; Nancy Jarrett, El Paso; and Betty Bier, Bloomington; three sons, Michael, Maplewood, N.J.; Thomas, Peoria; and David, franklin, Mass.; a brother, Harold, Quincy; three sisters, Dorothy Brager, Sister Kevin, O.S.U., and Lorraine "Skip" Hamrick, all of Springfield; 13 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.   
He was preceded in death by one sister and one brother. 
 
Mr Ritterbusch was a member of 50 years of Knights of Columbus Council 574, Bloomington.  He was a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago Pharmaceutical College, a former member of the Corn Belt Pharmaceutical Association and a former member of the Illinois Pharmaceutical Association.  He was a pharmacist in El Paso until retiring.

Riemond H. Rippel Sr - contributed by Amy Robbins-Tjaden
Riemond H. Rippel Sr., 99, Eureka, passed away at 2:04 p.m. Sunday (Dec. 28, 2008) at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital

He was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Eureka, where his funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday. The Rev. Joe Burns will officiate. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. at the church before the service. Knapp-Johnson-Harris Funeral Home, Roanoke, is handling the arrangements. Burial will be in Secor Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Debt Reduction Fund. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com .

He was born Feb. 2, 1909, in Secor, a son of William and Caroline Wessel Rippel. He married Minnie I. Roth on Sept. 2, 1934, in Secor. She passed away on July 18, 1993.

Survivors include one son, Riemond H. (Sharon) Rippel Jr., Burlington, Wis.; one daughter, Myra Rippel, Eureka; three granddaughters, Sheryl (Lane) Harrison, Zion; Loralyn (David) Placek, Kenosha, Wis.; and Janice (Mike) Conidi, Goodyear, Ariz.; one grandson, Kyle (Robyn) Rippel, Naperville; and nine great-grandchildren, Kristine Rippel (Eric Olriksen); Liam and Emma Placek; Corrine, Monica and Derek Conidi; and Mason, Charles and Elizabeth Rippel.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters.  Riemond farmed in the Secor area for 63 years before his retirement in 1972. He moved to Eureka in 1996.

James W. Riley - contributed by Ken Dickens
Eureka- Dr. James W. Riley, 91, of Eureka, IL, died at 1:50 am Monday March, 27, 2006 at Maple Lawn Health Care Center in Eureka, where he was a resident. 

He was born February 6, 1915 in Eureka to Edward J. And Ethel Hunter Riley. He married Margaret Eisiminger in 1944 at Monmouth. She died January 2, 2004. 

Surviving are three sons, James W. Riley II of Jacksonville, IL, Jerald Riley of Eureka, and William (Robin) Riley of Secor; four grandchildren, James W. Riley III of Jacksonville, IL, Susan Riley of Yukon, OK, Ashley (Matthew) Hueber of Creston, IL and Haley Riley of Lombard, IL. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter Barbara and two brothers, George and Edward. 

Dr. Riley attended Eureka public schools and graduated from Eureka College in 1933. He then attended Northwestern Medical School in Chicago, earning a bachelor of medicine in 1941, and a doctorate of medicine in 1942. He then served a four years residency in surgery at St. Luke’s Hospital in Chicago before and after World War II. He then returned to Eureka and began his medical practice in 1949, serving families of Eureka until he retired from practice in 1984. 

An veteran of WWII, he served on the Army Medical Corp as a major from 1943 to 1946. While serving in the army, he was on a six man team who helped change the treatment of osteomyelitis. 

Dr. Riley was a member of the Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity and Nu Sigma Medical Fraternity. He was a member of the Eureka Christian Church where he had served as Deacon as well as trustee. He was on the Woodford County Tuberculosis Board, and was a former member of the Olio Cemetery Board. 

He was a charter member of the Eureka Sportsman Club, and the Eureka Rotary Club. He was a past president of the Woodford County Medical Staff and the Eureka Community Hospital Staff. He was an active member at the Eureka Kaufman Park Golf Course and a past board member. 

Funeral services will be held on Friday at 10:00 am at the Eureka Christian Church. The Rev. Richard Richards and the Rev. Glenn Riddell will officiate. Visitation will be held from on Thursday from 5-7 pm at the Argo-Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home in Eureka. Burial will be in the Olio Township Cemetery, with military rites being conducted by the American Legion Post # 466 in Eureka. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Eureka Christian Church.  Online condolences may be sent to the family at ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.

Mary Grant Ramsey - contributed by Jane Foster
Stricken ill Monday afternoon at the close of school, complaining of a pain in her head, Mrs. Frank Ramsey, teacher of the Cazenovia school, died at her home in Washburn at 3:30 Tuesday morning.  Her death evidently was due to an apoplectic stroke.  Mrs. Ramsey, formerly Miss Mary Grant, came to Washburn a number of years ago and served as teacher of home economics in the high school there.  She was united in marriage to Frank Ramsey, who survives with one son, John, 11 years old.  She had been teacher of the Cazenovia school the last several years.  Funeral services were held in Washburn yesterday.

Rosanna Rice - contributed by Jane Foster
Miss Rosanna Rice, an aged maiden lady, died early Tuesday morning at the home of her brother, Wm. Rice, residing a mile and a half northwest of Cazenovia.  The cause of death was dropsy.  The Herald's Cazenovia correspondent gives the following particulars.

Deceased was born March 19, 1831, thus being 74 years and 9 months of age at the time of her death.  She was born at Cazenovia, N. Y., but most of her life has been spent near this place; and a life of service it has always been for her loved ones, for after caring for her aged parents until they were called home, she then took the lead in her family, keeping a pleasant home for her brother and sister until the latter was married.  For a few years life passed smoothly for her and she was often found helping others.  Then the sad news came to her that her sister's mind was hopelessly shattered and she immediately brought her to her home and cared for her until she became dangerous, when it became necessary to give her up, which to this sister was worse than death.  Then a niece became her charge and nobly has she watched over and shielded this dear one's failing intellect, until the death angel came with a summons for herself, and even then her last thought was choosing a home for her charge.  Her cares at home debarred her from helping her neighbors as much as she wished, but more than one has had a helper sent them whose services were paid for by this quiet, unassuming Christian who believed in not letting her left hand know what her right hand was doing.  She united with the Baptist church in youth and was a member of that body at the time of her death.  Funeral services were held at her late home on Thursday at 10 a.m., conducted by Rev. Musser of Metamora.  Deceased was an intimate friend in her youth of Cynthia (Fisher) Palmer, whose obituary follows this.

William Boyes Ramsey - contributed by Jane Foster
Funeral services for William Boyes Ramsey, 68, of Washburn, who died Wednesday, Sept. 9, 1953, shortly after he was admitted to Methodist hospital, Peoria, were held at 2 pm Saturday at the Pacey memorial home in Washburn.  The Rev. M. G. Hershberger officiated.  Burial was in Magnolia cemetery.  Friends were received at the memorial home after 7 pm Friday.  Washburn Masonic lodge 421 had charge of Masonic rites.  Born Feb. 6, 1885 on a farm in Marshall County, he was the son of Stephen and Emily Boyes Ramsey.  He marriede Mabel Graves in Magnolia in 1909.  Mr. Ramsey was employed as a carpenter for Washburn contractors for a number of years.  He established his own cabinet shop about 20 years ago.  He was serving as city clerk of Washburn at the time of his death, an office he had held since 1937.  He was an active Mason and had held every office in the Masonic lodge.  Surviving are his wife and a number of nieces and nephews.

Earl A. Ramsey - contributed by Jane Foster
Earl A. Ramsey, 64, of El Paso died at 5 am Friday, April 20, 1951,  at his home in Galesburg.  He had sufferd a paralytic stroke Thursday afternoon.  Funeral services were held at 10:30 am Monday in Galesburg and the body was brought to El Paso where graveside services were held in Evergreen cemetery, El Paso, at 2:30 pm.  He was born March 25, 1887, in Marshall county.  He married Miss Hester Carrithers of El Paso on March 2, 1915.  He had been a carpenter in Galesburg the past 16 years.  Surviving are his wife, two daughters, Mrs. Evelyn Secrest of Galesburg and Mrs. Helen Bogard of Alexis; one brother, William of Washburn, and four grandchildren.

John Ropp
John Ropp, who was born near Mackinaw Dells, Woodford County, April 12, 1848, passed away Oct. 4, 1922 at his home in Bloomington.  He was a son of Rev. Christian and Magdalena Schertz Ropp and was one of nine children, all of whom are deceased with the exception of three brothers, Christian Ropp of Chicago, Peter and Jacob Ropp of Bloomington.  He is also survived by his wife.  Mr. Ropp  was a prosperous farmer in early life and had devoted his later years to philanthropic work.  He was one of the largest beneficiaries to Bluffton college, and Goshen college, both Mennonite institutions.  contributed by Jane Foster 

Irene Ramsey
The body of Mrs. Irene Ramsey was laid to rest in Glendale cemetery here Sunday afteroon.  (She died in April 1931)...contributed by Jane Foster

Samuel Ramsey
Samuel Robert Ramsey, aged 84, an early well known resident of Partridge township, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 11, 1932 at San Diego, California., where he had resided the last 21 years.  His wife, Margaret Snyder Ramsey, and daughter, Mrs. LuLu Foster, preceded him in death.  He leaves to mourn his departure the following children:  Mrs. Maude Kunkel of Lowpoint, Ill.; Mrs. Catherine Larson of Auxvasse, Mo.; Mrws. Hanna Rumph of San Diego, Calif.;  Mrs. Pearl Fisher of Colfax, Wis.; Ike Ramsey of Chillicothe, Ill., and Geo. Ramsey of San Diego, Calif.  Funeral services and burial took place at San Diego.)...contributed by Jane Foster

Mrs. Samuel Ramsey
Mrs. Samuel Ramsey, a well known former resident of Roanoke, died Monday at San Diego, Calif., where she had resided with her husband since last spring.  Besides her husband she is survived by four daughters and one son:  Mrs. Kunkel and Mrs. Foster of Lowpoint; Mrs. Larson of Toluca; Mrs. Fisher of Eu Claire; Wis; Mrs. Darling of San Diego, Calif.; and Isaac of Chillicothe, Illinois. (contributed by Jane Foster)

Richard D. Ramsey
The body of Richard D. Ramsey, 70, who died November 17, 1933  at the residence of his daughter,Mrs. L. E. Johnson, 242 Nevada Street, Peoria, last Friday was laid to rest in Oakwood cemetery, Metamora, Monday following services at the Gauss mortuary in Peoria at  2 pm.  No one seems to remember the connection of the deceased with Metamora, but it is said he was a printer during most of his lifetime and that in early days he may have been an employee of the old Woodfgord Sentinel...contributed by Jane Foster

Marguerite M. Ramsay
Marguerite M. Ramsay, 84, of 415 E. Oak St., Kewanee, died Feb. 10, 1992, at Kewanee Hospital.  Born Sept. 12, 1907, in Metamora to Joseph and Rose Rocke Getz, she married James R. Ramsay Aug 11, 1945, in Metamora.  He died June 6, 1952.  One sister also preceded her in death.  Surviving are one daughter, Barbara Gutschlag of Kewanee, and one granddaughter.  She was a clerk at Boss Glove Manufacturing Co. in Kewanee and at Dolly Hat Shop in Kewanee, retiring in 1972.  She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of Kewanee, its Altar and Rosary Society, and the Just Us Girls sorority.  Services were held Feb. 12 at her church.  The Rev. Duane Jack officiated.  Burial was in Mount Olivet Cemetery.  Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee was in charge of arrangements.  Memorials may be made to the Visitation Scholarship Building Fund Foundation of Kewanee...contributed by Jane Foster