'S' Woodford County Obits

Illinois Genealogy Trails

Florence E. Snyder
Florence E. Snyder, 94, Minonk, died at 8:22 a.m. Sunday (June 18, 2006) at Heritage Manor Nursing Home, Minonk. Her funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Calvert & Froelich Memorial Home, Minonk, with the Rev. Daniel Gansch-Boythe officiating. Burial will follow at Minonk Township Cemetery. Visitation will be for one hour before the service Wednesday at the memorial home. Memorials may be made to Heritage Manor activity department in Minonk or to her church. She was born April 15, 1912, in Roanoke, the daughter of Joe and Mattie Marie Buck Snyder. She is survived by her cousins. She was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ, Minonk, and had worked for Minonk Baking Co. for 12 years.

JOSEPH SCHERTZ DIES OF APOPLEGTIC STROKE

Stricken Saturday Night and End
Comes on Sunday

WAS PROMINENT CITIZEN

Had Been a Resident of this County for 45 Years. Funeral Services Held Wednesday Morning

95-YEAR-OLD WASHBURN WOMAN DIES SATURDAY
contributed by Jane Foster

Mrs. Marcia L. Snider, 95, of Washburn died at 11:59 p.m. Saturday at the Roanoke Manor Nursing Home, where she had been a patient over a year.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Pacey Memorial Home in Washburn, the Rev. Ralph Fitch of the El Paso Methodist Church officiating.  Burial was in Linn-Mt. Vernon Cemetery, Washburn.

She was born on Nov. 6, 1869, in Crawford County, Ind., a daughter of James H. and Mary A. Johnson.  She was married Aug. 27, 1892, in Crawford County to Roscoe Grand, who died March 3, 1896.

She later was wed to John S. Snider at Marengo, Ind., on Aug. 14, 1902.  They moved to the Washburn area in 1908 and retired to town in 1940.  He passed away June 10, 1954.

Surviving are three sons, Russell Grant, English, Ind.; Forest K. Snider, Chicago; and Guy N. Snider, Peoria; four grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and one great great grandchild.

Four brothers preceded her in death.

Robert Lee Samuelson
Robert Lee Samuelson, 82, of Minonk, died at 2:37 p.m. Monday (March 6, 2006) at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.

His funeral will be 1 p.m. Friday at Calvert & Froelich Memorial Home, Minonk, with the Rev. Ryan Garner and the Rev. David Steidel officiating. Burial will follow at Minonk Township Cemetery, with military graveside rites. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the memorial home.

He was born Oct. 29, 1923, in Quincy, the son of Frank and Verna Worthington Samuelson. He married Lola M. Clarkson on March 18, 1944, in Kirksville, Mo. She survives.

Also surviving are three sons, Ronald (Marsha) Samuelson of San Janicto, Calif.; Vernon (Patricia) Samuelson of Lebanon; and Timothy (Midge) Samuelson of Minonk; one daughter, Aleta (Michael) Rossman of Roseville; 12 grandchildren; five stepgrandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 10 stepgreat-grandchildren; and five stepgreat-great-grandchildren.

Robert lived in Chicago until he enlisted in the Navy on Sept. 19, 1941, until July 8, 1948, where he saw action around the world until his honorable discharge. He attended schools in Chicago, attended Kletzing College in Oskaloosa, Iowa, and graduated from Olivet Nazarene College in 1953. He was a member of the Under Water Demolition Team 6 and the Navy Seal Museum in Fort Pierce, Fla.

He retired from teaching High School in 1986 where he taught at Minonk-Dana -Rutland High School for the last 28 years of his 32 years in teaching. He also worked as a security guard in Bloomington and served on the Minonk and Washburn police departments.

He enjoyed sailing, traveling, target shooting, reading and writing poetry. He loved and enjoyed his family and was successful in researching his family history to become eligible and joined the S.A.R (Sons of the American Revolution) in 2005. He recommitted himself to the Lord July 4, 1999. He was a member of the Church of the Nazarene in Streator. For the past year he was a volunteer at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Minonk and enjoyed it very much.

MRS. LEWIS (Annie Margaret Timmerman) SCIFERS IS CALLED UNTO ETERNITY
Passes Away In Streator Hospital on Friday – Funeral Here Monday 
contributed by Virgil (Timmerman Fischer) Whitaker

Annie Margaret Timmerman Scifers was born 4 miles east of Minonk on August 31, 1890, and died at St. Mary’s hospital in Streator on Dec. 16, 1932, at 9 p. m., at the age of 42 years, 3 months, and 15 days.

Besides her sorrowing husband, she leaves the following children to share his grief: Mildred, Loraine, age 10; Lewis Junior, age 8, Leslie Dean, age 6; Victor Lee, age 4, and John Harold, age 2; also her mother, Mrs. John Timmerman of Minonk,  and the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. Katherine Gerdes, Mrs. Minnie Fischer, Mrs. Elizabeth Barth, Mrs. Hannah Sullivan, Mrs. Madeline Beal and Herman, Henry and John Timmerman, all of Minonk and vicinity, besides a host of other relatives and friends.
Her father and one brother, Peter, preceded her in death.
She had spent her entire life in this vicinity and was favorably known by all with whom she came in contact.  In her youth she united with the German Baptist church of Minonk, later transferring her membership to the First Baptist, church.

On March 6, 1922, she was united in marriage to Lewis E. Scifers of Minonk. For her, life revolved about her home and family, devoting all of her time to the welfare of those she loved. It may well be said of her that she was a good and faithful servant.

Funeral services were held at the First Baptist church on Monday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock. Because of the illness of Rev. Oltrogge, Dr. L. C. Taylor was summoned from Clinton to give the sermon. The pallbearers were Bernard Hindert, Sr., Ed Janssen, Henry Harms, George Jochums, Frank Tucker and Sam Wylie. The flower bearers were Helen, Florence and Lucile Fischer, Hannah Barth, Minnie and Anna Cirks. The American Legion Auxiliary members attended in a body and took part in the services at the church, and at Minonk cemetery, where burial took place.

Donald Sanders
Donald R. Sanders, 55, formerly of Washburn, IL died at 12:24 p.m. Sat., Nov 18, 2006 at the Illinois Veteran's Home in Quincy where he has lived for the past 10 years. He was born January 15, 1951 in Peoria to the late "Gene" and "Jeri" Schoonover Sanders.He is survived by three daughters, Diane (and Stanley) Thompson and their son, Justin of Jefferson City, MO, Kendra Sanders of Gurnee, IL and Trista Sanders of Eldon, MO; two brothers, Steve (and Connie) Sanders of Washburn and Joe Williamson of Metamora.Donald was a U.S. Army veteran serving Vietnam from 1971 to 1972 where he attained the rank of SP 4. He was a 1969 graduate of Lowpoint-Washburn High School and later was employed by Caterpillar at the East Peoria Plant as a welder and assembler. He moved to Eldon, MO after retiring from Caterpillar due to ill health. Services will be at 2 p.m. Wed., Nov. 22, 2006 at Lenz Memorial Home in Lacon. Rev. Rick Williams will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service, also at Lenz Memorial Home. Interment will be in the Lacon Cemetery with military graveside rites conducted by Lacon American Legion Post #593. Memorials may be made to Illinois Veterans Home, Quincy, IL

Rosa SchlenkerOn Friday, March 10th at 11 o'clock a.m. Rosa, daughter of William Schlenker, age 16 years. About two weeks ago Miss Schlenker was taken down with diphtheria at the residence of Henry Saltaberger, in El Paso, where she died. The funeral was held at the German Lutheran church, last Sunday, at 1:30 p.m. Rev. W. C. Frey conducted the services. The remains were interred in the city cemetery.

Anna Sprehe - contributed by Amy Robbins-Tjaden
Anna Sprehe, 89, of 507 Pleasant St, died at 11:20 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2005, at Eureka Community Hospital.

Born July 6, 1915, in Benson to Harm and Minnie Tjaden Mennen, she married Julius "Polo" Sprehe on Feb. 16, 1950, in Benson.  He died Dec. 7, 1974, in Pontiac.  She also was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister.  Surviving are four nieces, Doris Tipler, Shirley Wolf and Joyce Trantina, all of Benson, and Betty VanMeter of Peroia; and two nephews, Duane Gerjets of Deer Creek and LeRoy Mennen of Eureka.  She was a member of St Peter Lutheran Church in Benson.

JOHN STRAUD SNIDER OF WASHBURN, 72 DIES
contributed by Jane Foster

John Straud Snider, 72 a resident of Washburn 46 years, died at 10:15 a.m. Thursday last week at the Sweeney Convalescent home, Peoria.  Born July 14, 1882 at Marengo, Ind., he was a son of Jacob M. and Minnetta Sturgeon Snider.  He married Marcia Grant of Marengo Aug. 10, 1902.  Surviving are his wife, two sons, Guy Snider of Peoria and Forrest Snider of Chicago; four grandchildren and five great grandchildren.  Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Rickett funeral home in Washburn.  The Rev. David Powell officiated.  Burial was in Linn-Mt. Vernon cemetery, at Washburn.  Visitation was at the funeral home after 2 p.m. Friday.  Mr. Snider was a member of the Washburn Methodist church.

Judy Ribbe Stewart
Judy Ribbe Stewart, 56, of 4 Memory Lane, El Paso, died at 1:20 a.m. Tuesday (Jan. 9, 2007) at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington. Her funeral will be at noon Thursday at Carmody-Flynn Williamsburg Funeral Home, Bloomington, with the Rev. James Smiley officiating. Burial will be in East Lawn Memorial Gardens, Bloomington. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation. Judy was born Jan. 2, 1951 in Urbana, the daughter of Raymond and Erline Taylor Ribbe. She married Cary “Lanny” Stewart on Nov. 14, 1980, in Bloomington. He survives. She is also survived by her father, Raymond Ribbe, Urbana; one son, Robbie (Amye) Sylvester, El Paso; two daughters, Mindy (Nick) Pepera, Florida, and Kari (Kyle) Jones, Minonk; two stepsons, Brett Stewart and Brian (Kristine) Stewart, both of Bloomington; three grandchildren, Brandyn and McKenzie Sylvester and Peri Jones; three sisters, Ruth (Morris) Miller, Arizona; Ida (Lynn) Carpenter, Peoria; and Brenda (Kenny) Merring, Danville; one brother, Carmen (Delois) Ribbe, St. Joseph; and a special friend, Carol Sue Sylvester, Bloomington. She was preceded in death by her mother. Judy went to school at ISSCS from 1960-1969. She was a Girl Scout leader for 10 years and worked at Head Start from 1979 to 1995. Judy loved life, her family and working with kids.

John Safford - contributed by Jane Foster
Tuesday morning John Safford, father of Mrs. Clingman and one of the early settlers in the county, followed his daughter to the great beyond.  Enfeebled by old age the strain was too much for him, and he succombed to a cold contracted on the day of his daughter's death.

It was in the year 1840 that John Safford came to Woodford county.  He settled on a farm two and one-half miles northwest of Cazenovia, with his wife.  Here were born three children to the couple.  The eldest, Sarah, who died last Saturday, was the wife of George W. Clilngman; David B., was formerly a resident of Metamora, in the meat market business with Joseph Theena, but now makes his home in Washburn; Melissa, who was the wife of Morgan Buckingham, died in 1875.  Mrs. Safford, the wfe and mother, died many years ago.  For many years the family remained on the farm, but of late years Mr. Safford had been making his home with his son at Washburn and with his daughter at Cazenovia.  He had been enjoying good health for one of his years, and was able to make his way about with little difficulty.  On the 29th day of March last the aged man celebrated his ninety-first birthday and he bade fair at that time to live for some years more, but the death of his daughter seemingly blighted his hopes and he passed away without an effort, three days later.

The funeral was held Thursday, the remains being taken to the Methodist church at Lowpoint.  Rev. Bosworth, of Washburn, conducted the services and preached the funeral sermon.  The remains were laid to rest in the Buckingham Cemetery.

Michael Sterbenz
On Wednesday afternoon lst at 3:30 o'clock, Michael Sterbenz, the saloon-keeper, passed away. For many years he has battled with rheumatism then kidney disease, and finally a severe attack of dysentery, which developed a day or two ago, completed the work of destruction.

Mr. Sterbenz was born in Bresztovacz, unter Krein, Austria, on March 18, 1845. He got as good a common school education as could be afforded, and being a bright, intelligent lad, learned fast. In the course of his travels through the continent he picked up the knowledge of six different languages, and could speak them fluently.

In 1866 he came to this country, settling in Chicago and working in a lumber yard. This being too monotonous, in a short time he went to Peoria and began the occupation of a peddler, which he continued for some time. In 1867 he married Miss Elizabeth Rupp of El Paso. Here he learned the shoemaking trade and worked at it for eight years. Woodford was his next point and there he opened a saloon and a shoemakers shop, both of which he carried on until the fall of 1883, when he moved to Minonk. He purchased the Bruning property and saloon, which he has carried on to date. His wife, and four sons and four daughters, survive, the names of which are, according to age - Emil, Heine, Oswald, Josephine, Katie, Bruno, Isabella and Mary. None are married. Deceased's mother still lives in Austria at the age of 81. A letter was received Wednesday from a brother stating that his father died there July 15th last, aged 75.

As a citizen, he was quiet, genial and law-abiding. As a father and husband, devoted and attached. As a man, honorable in all his dealins, as far as we can judge. He did not belong to any of the churches, but was an Odd Fellow for 20 years, and a member of Bliss Encampment. The funeral arrangements will be conducted by the Odd Fellows, and the ritual of the order carried out at his funeral, which takes place at the house from 2:30 to 3 o'clock, this (Friday) afternoon. The interment will be in the cemetery here.

Cliff Shoemaker
Eureka - G. Clifford "Cliff" Shoemaker, 66, died at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2007, at Maple Lawn in Eureka. He was born Aug. 4, 1940, in Hillsboro, Ohio, the son of George and Lella Carrico Shoemaker. He married Ann Evans on Aug. 21, 1962, in Columbus, Ohio. She survives. Other survivors include one son, Chris (Julie) Shoemaker, Eureka, and two granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his parents and twin grandsons.

Shoemaker served in the Marine Corp Reserve from 1961 to 1967, obtaining the rank of Platoon Sergeant. He worked as a patrol officer for the Columbus Police Department from 1964 to 1967 and also worked as a personal director for 10 years at Traveler's Insurance. Shoemaker was a sergeant for the Eureka Police Department for 10 years and was the Woodford County chief probation officer from 1988 to 2005. He was a member of the Eureka Christian Church and the Rotary International Club, both in Eureka. Services were Sunday at the church. The Rev. Richard Richards officiated. Visitation was Saturday at Argo-Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home, Eureka, and before the service at the church Memorials may be made to the Eureka-Goodfield Fire Protection District or to the Ronald Reagan Leadership Program at Eureka College.

Ruth Scherer
Roanoke - Ruth E. Scherer, 84, died at 3:40 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 11, 2007, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria. She was a resident of the Apostolic Christian Home of Roanoke. She was born Feb. 18, 1922, in Roanoke, the daughter of David and Anna Martin Mangold. She married Robert Scherer on Jan. 28, 1951, in Roanoke. Survivors include two sons, David (Mary Faupel) Scherer, Eureka, and Mark (Tami) Scherer, Elmhurst; one daughter, Jeanne (Ron) Hinrichsen, Roanoke; one sister, Esther (John) Sauder, Roanoke and seven grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and one grandson.

Scherer was a homemaker and also worked for Illinois Builders in Roanoke. She also was a cook at the AC Home of Roanoke. Scherer was a member of the Roanoke AC Church, rural Roanoke.

Services were yesterday at the church. Ministers of the church officiated. Visitation was Tuesday at Knapp-Johnson-Harris Funeral Home, Roanoke, and before the service at the church. Burial was in the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to the AC Home of Roanoke.

Dorothy Sniff
Eureka - Dorothy A. Sniff, 97, died at 6:40 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5, 2007, at Maple Lawn in Eureka, where she was a resident. She was born June 1, 1910, in Roanoke, the daughter of Carl and Lena Bauman Tjaden. She married Harold Sniff on July 3, 1954, in Benson. He died March 3, 1991. Survivors include one stepson, Don (Colette) Sniff, Metamora; four stepgrandchildren and 11 step great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, one infant brother and one stepgrandaughter.

Sniff operated Dorothy's Cleaners in Metamora and later worked for SPAFAS of Roanoke. She was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church, rural Benson, where she was active in the Ladies Aid and the Circle Club. Services were Saturday at Knapp-Johnson-Harris Funeral Home, Roanoke. The Rev. William Hecht officiated. Visitation was held before the service at the funeral home. Burial was in the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to the church or to Maple Lawn.

EUREKA - Dorothy A. Sniff, 96, of 700 N. Main St., Eureka, died at 6:40 p.m. Monday (Feb. 5, 2007) at Maple Lawn Health Care Center in Eureka, where she was a resident.
She was born June 1, 1910, in Roanoke, daughter of Carl and Lena Bauman Tjaden. She married Harold Sniff on July 3, 1954, in Benson. He died March 3, 1991.
Surviving is one stepson, Donald (Colette) Sniff, Metamora; four stepgrandchildren; and 11 stepgreat-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; one infant brother; and one stepgranddaughter, Laurie Sniff. She ran Dorothy's Cleaners in Metamora before working for Spafas in Roanoke. She was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Benson, where she was active in the Ladies Aid and Circle Club.
Her funeral will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Knapp-Johnson-Harris Funeral Home in Roanoke. The Rev. William Hecht will officiate. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to her church or Maple Lawn Health Care Center. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.knappjohnsonharris.com. (submitted by Ida Maack Recu)

The following obits contributed by Amy Robbins-Tjaden

Mrs Anna Garrels [should be Folkers] Sakes

Mrs Anna Garrels [should be Folkers] Sakes, wife of Anton Sakes of Clayton township, died at her home on Saturday, August 22. Death was due to cancer, with which she had suffered for many years. Deceased was the daughter of Garries [should read Garrelt] and Harmke [Tjaden] Folkers. She was born in Linn township on Nov. 9, 1861. She was brought up in the Lutheran church and remained a member during life. On Feb. 14, 1883, she was married to Anton Sakes. This union was blessed by seven children, three sons and four daughters. The early years of her married life were filled with sadness, losing four of her children before they were a year old. There are left to mourn her death, the husband, two sons and one daughter, a daughter-in-law, her aged father, three sisters and four brothers and numerous other near relatives.

The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon from St Paul's Lutheran church, Rev. Fred Seifert officiating. Friends and relatives came from far and near, so that the church would not hold nearly all of them. The sympathy of the community is with the bereaved family. Those from a distance who attended were Mrs Kohl and son of Peoria, Mrs Ables and Mrs Mason of Flanagan, and Chas. Jaden [Charles Tjaden] from Low Point

Elizabeth Stimpert
Mrs. Elizabeth Stimpert, beloved and well-known 71 year old resident of Benson, passed away at 3:00 Sunday morning at her home at Benson, terminating a two weeks' illness of anemia. As Elizabeth Folkers, she was born at Benson, Feb 1, 1867, the daughter of Mr and Mrs Charles Folkers and had spent her entire lifetime in that community. She was united in marriage July 3, 1884, at Benson, with Philip Stimpert and they made their home in Benson. They were the parents of six children, one son, Charles Stimpert, preceding his mother in death Dec 31, 1934. Mr Stimpert preceded his wife in death in May 1918. Surviving to mourn her loss are two sons, Theo Stimpert of Benson and Oscar Stimpert of Streator; three daughters, Mrs Charlotte Hess of La Rose, Mrs Fern Molitor of Monmouth and Mrs Esther Young at home; three brothers, H.C. Folkers of Cicero, W.C. Folkers of Alma, Iowa, and George Folkers of Benson; a sister, Mrs Minnie Geiken of Benson. Two sisters, Mrs Anna Sakes and Mrs Tallie Woltzen and a brother, Fred C. Folkers, preceded Mrs Stimpert in death.
Burial was in the Benson cemetery. (St Peter Lutheran)

Phillip Stimpert
Came to Clayton Township in 1857, Where the Rest of His Life Was Spent; Funeral Held Tuesday

Phillip Stimpert, one of the best known citizens of the vicinity of Benson and a resident there practically all his life, died at the St Francis hospital at Peoria on Friday night at 10 o'clock, at which place he had submitted to an operation just a week previous.
Mr Stimpert had suffered much with gall trouble and an operation was deemed advisable. The operation, however, disclosed a cancerous tumor near the spinal column which could not be successfully removed. He seemed to regain strength after the operation and it was thought that he would be able to return home and enjoy life at least for a while. On Thursday a turn for the worse came and intense pain set in. It was then that the afflicted man realized what he must face and he made his last will and then gradually grew weaker until his demise the next evening. Funeral services were held at the German Lutheran church at Benson on Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Rev. Fred Seifert delivered an eloquent sermon, praising the many virtues of the deceased. Burial was made at the Benson cemetery. The pallbearers, all nephews of the deceased, were T.B. Stimpert, Louis Sake, Theobald Stimpert, John Folkers, Henry Stimpert and Frank Stimpert. Phillip Stimpert was the son of Theobald and Charlotte [Miller] Stimpert and was born at Boston, Mass. on Jan. 5, 1856. A year later the family came to Illinois and located on a farm three miles northwest of Benson and that vicinity had since been the home of the deceased. In the year 1884, Mr Stimpert was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Folkers and the happy couple moved on a farm south of Benson, which had since been their home. Six children were born to them, all of whom with the widow survive. They are Charles, Mrs Albert Hess, Oscar, Theodore, Fern and Esther, of whom the first three live in the vicinity of Benson, and the last three are at home. The deceased is also survived by four brothers, Daniel L., of Minonk; Adam, of Great Falls, Mont.; Benjamin, of Hudson, Kans; and Theobald Stimpert, of Panola. All of the brothers attended the funeral excepting Benjamin, who was unable to come because of sickness. Mr Stimpert was a practical farmer and he endeared himself to his neighbors by his willingness to ever lend a helping hand. His acquaintanceship was wide and all who knew him regarded him highly. Not only Benson, but Woodford county loses a valuable citizen.

Jasper Seggerman
Jasper Seggerman was born in East Friesland, Germany, July 14, 1830. In 1856 he came to America, locating near Eureka. Three years later, on March 26, 1859, he was united in marriage with Miss Reka [Rixte] Ludeman in Roanoke township. In 1874 they moved to Minonk township, locating on a farm one mile south and three miles east of this city. They lived there until 1894 when they moved to town, where they have since made their home. Nine children were born to them - Mrs. Maggie Huntling, Beatrice, Neb; John, of Amboy; Henry, of Minonk; Mrs. Aggie Johnson near Cornell. Dick and Albert of Minonk; Mrs. Sena Jenkinson, Archer, Iowa; Mrs. Lena Harms, near Panola; Mrs. Anna Eilts, Minonk. Mr. Seggerman took sick Monday, May 1st, with heart trouble but was up and around until last Sunday morning, when at 6 o'clock he had a stroke of paralysis. He lost the power of speech, and lingered along until 9 o'clock Wednesday evening, May 10, 1905, when death came to his relief. About 20 years ago the deceased became a member of the Advent Christian church and was baptized in that faith, and has ever lived a steadfast christian life. He was a man of strong principles, and leaves many warm friends besides his sorrowing wife and children, to mourn his death. At time of death he was aged 74 years, 9 months and 26 days. All the children were present at his bedside when death came. The funeral services will be held from the German Baptist church, Sunday, May 14, 1905, at 2 o'clock p.m.

Ernest H. Schwitters
Ernest H. Schwitters, 53, died at 9 a.m. Saturday at Mennonite Hospital in Bloomington. He had been a patient there five days. He was brought to the Vincent Memorial Home in El Paso and will be taken to the Otto and Argo Funeral Home in Carlock. Visitation will begin there at 2:30 p.m. today. His funeral will be at 2 p.m. Monday at the Christian Church in Carlock, with the Rev. Mrs Myrtle Storm officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery in El Paso. He was born Dec. 13, 1904, near El Paso, a son of Schwittert and Maude Armstrong Schwitters. He married Mary Crout April 29, 1938, at Bloomington. He farmed near Carlock the last 16 years. Surviving are his wife; a son, Stephen, at home; two sisters, Mrs Ethelyn Beal, Chicago; Mrs Evelyn Blan, Minonk; a brother, Emerson, Island Lake.

Harry S. Schramm
El Paso - Harry S. Schramm, 66, died at 6:20 p.m. Thursday at his home in El Paso, following a 3 1/2 year illness. His funeral will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Vincent Memorial Home, with the Rev. Calvin R. Calhoun officiating. Burial will be in Gridley Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 2:30 p.m. today at the memorial home. He was born March 2, 1892, in Waldow Township, north of Gridley, a son of George and Mary Pfessinger Schramm. He married Ora Wiser of Gridley Aug. 18, 1913, at Jeffersonville, Ind. He was in business in Gridley and came to El Paso 17 years ago. He operated a shoe store and repair shop in El Paso. Surviving are his wife; three sons, Max, 313 1/2 S. Gridley St., Bloomington; Rex W., with the Air Force, Lake Charles, La., Robert, Stanford; two daughters, Mrs Ralph Jones, Heyworth; Mrs Oswald Haas, Washington; a sister, Mrs Alice Britten, Oliverhurst, Calif.; a brother, Frank, Gridley; 12 grandchildren and a great grandchild. A brother and a sister preceded him in death.

Eureka - Dorothy C. Sloter, 79, Eureka, died at 11:15 a.m. yesterday (March 21, 1992) at Maple Lawn Homes, Eureka

A memorial service was held at 1:30 p.m. in the assembly room at Maple Lawn Homes, the Rev. Robert Harnish officiating. Her funeral was held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Otto-Argo Funeral Home, Eureka, the Rev. John Manweller officiating. Burial was in Secor Cemetery. She was born May 4, 1912 in Secor, a daughter of Clara Kuhlman. She married John Sloter Feb. 25, 1936, in Secor. He died Dec. 7, 1986. Surviving are three sons, Dwight, Congerville; Gary, Eureka; and Keith, Heyworth; and 10 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one daughter. Mrs Sloter was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Eureka, to which memorials may be made.

Vera Irene Woltzen Seggerman
PONTIAC - Vera Irene Woltzen Seggerman, 94, a resident of ASTA Care Center, Pontiac, died at 5:35 a.m. Monday (Aug. 6, 2007) at ASTA Care Center. A private family service will be at Martin-Burke Funeral Home, Pontiac, with the Rev. Dieter Punt of the First Lutheran Church, Pontiac, officiating. There will be no visitation. Burial will be in Minonk Township Cemetery, Minonk. The family suggests memorials be made to Asta Care Center. Vera was born April 14, 1913, at Roanoke Township, Woodford County, a daughter of Albert and Rosena Uphoff Woltzen. She married John W. Seggerman on April 7, 1931. He preceded her in death in November of 1949. Survivors include: two sons, Allen (Dolores) Seggerman, Pontiac, and John (Kathy) Seggerman, Chandler, Ariz.; one daughter, Gladys (George) Schopp, Crossville Tenn.; nine grandchildren, Jacqui Walker, Allen Seggerman Jr., Karen Seggerman, Robert Seggerman, Valerie Casson, Kimberly Stewart, Laura Berg, Elena Casson and John Arthur Seggerman; and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one sister, Esther Pfister, and one brother, LeRoy Woltzen. Vera was educated in Woodford County schools. Online condolences may be made at www.martin-burkefuneralhome.com .

Viola M. Seggerman
EDWARDSBURG, Mich. -- Viola M. Seggerman, 78, of 67006 Harris St., died at 4:30 a.m. Saturday (Aug. 14, 2004) at Silverbrook Manor in Niles.

She was born May 11, 1926, in Secor, Ill., to Anton and Margaret (Seggerman) Everding. She married Arnold D. Seggerman on Feb. 1, 1946, in Cassopolis. He died in 1996.  She is survived by a son, Robert (Lorna) Seggerman of Niles; one grandson; and two great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by two sisters, Lucille Seggerman and Pauline Beckwith, and one brother, Henry Everding.

Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at Adamsville Cemetery in Adamsville.  Scott Labre, spiritual coordinator with Hospice at Home in Niles, will officiate. Connelly Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.  Mrs. Seggerman worked at Gohn's Drug Store in Cassopolis and retired from Klingler Pharmacy in Edwardsburg.

Emma Pearl Sommer - contributed by Amy Robbins-Tjaden
METAMORA - Emma Pearl Sommer, 101, Metamora, passed away at 3:35 p.m. Friday (Nov. 7, 2008) at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Peoria.

Her funeral will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Metamora Mennonite Church, with the Rev. Mike Danner officiating. Burial will be in Hickory Point Cemetery, Metamora. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today at Mason Funeral Home, Metamora Chapel. Additional visitation will be Wednesday one hour prior to her service at the church. Memorials may be given in her name to Snyder Village or to Metamora Mennonite Church.

She was born June 22, 1907, in Metamora, daughter of George I. and Anna Schertz Sommer.

She is survived by two nieces, Kristin Sommer Bernhardy, Metamora; and Georgia (Allen) Sommer Linscheid, Reedley, Calif.; two nephews, Wilbur (Lynne) Sommer, Metamora; and Robert (Sally) Sommer, Greensburg, Pa.; and many nieces and nephews of three additional generations. She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Mary Ann; three brothers, Albert, David and Joseph; and a great-niece.

A 1925 graduate of Metamora Township High School, she went on to graduate from St. Francis School of Nursing in 1931, after which she became a private duty nurse for most of her career. Emma was a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army Nursing Corps in 1944 and 1945, serving on the hospital ship U.S.S. Repose in the Pacific and Okinawa at the end of World War II.

She was a lifetime member of the Metamora Mennonite Church and was also active with the Washington Area Nurses Association.

For the last 10 years, she has been a resident of Snyder Village retirement community in Metamora, where she was very involved with the gospel choir and kitchen band.

She touched everyone she met with her zest for life, kindness, faith, sunny disposition, good humor and truly miraculous health. She will forever remain the butterfly on our shoulders.

Harvey A. Stimpert
Harvey A. Stimpert, 79, of 1210 Lowden Rd, Streator, died at 4:15 a.m. yesterday (June 1, 1992) at Heritage Manor Nursing Home, Streator.  He had been ill one year.

He was born Oct 4, 1912, in Benson, the son of Oscar and Catherine Woltzen Stimpert.  He married Bernice Louden Nov 26, 1958 in Streator. She survives.

Also surviving are two daughters, Lynn Stimpert and Sharon Ford, both of Chicago; one sister, Phyullis Shuck, Peoria; and three brothers, Herbert Stimpert and Earl Stimpert, both of Streator, and Jack Stimpert, Ottawa.

In 1958, he retired from the Navy as a full commander after 27 years.  He was in charge of ship-to-shore operations at Inchon Landing during the Korean conflict.  After retiring from the Navy, he was employed at Union National Bank in Streator.  He was director of Streator Unlimited and director of Streator Association of Commerce and Industry Retail Council.  Mr Stimpert was a member of First United Methodist Church and Streator Elks Lodge 591.  Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery, Streator.

Owen W. Schertz
Owen W. Schertz, 80, a retired farmer and member of the El Paso Farmers Club, died at 10:40 p.m. Thursday at Mennonite Hospital, Bloominton, where he had been a patient one day.
 
His funeral will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at Froelich Memorial Home, the Rev Edward Blumenfeld officiating.  Burial will be in Secor Cemetery.
 
Visitation will be an hour before the service.
 
He was born July 11, 1899, in Panola Township, northeast of El Paso, a son of Samuel and Emma Roth Schertz.  He married Mary Barringer Jan. 10, 1924, in El Paso.  She died March 30, 1968.
 
Surviving are four sons, Gene, Glenn and Robert, all of El Paso, and Duane, Houston, Tex.; two brothers, Roy, Benson, and Paul, El Paso; three sisters, Juanita Hansel, Imo Nemetz and Irene Sams, all of Des Plaines; and seven grandchildren.
 
A grandchild preceded him in death.
 
Mr Schertz was a member of the United Church of Christ, the El Paso Kiwanis Club, Blue Lodge Masons and Modern Woodmen of America.  He was a member and past commander of American Legion Post 59.
 
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice

Zachary Schertz
Metamora - Zachary G. Schertz, age 27, of Metamora passed away Friday, Nov. 10, 2006, at 2:10 p.m. from injuries sustained in a traffic accident. He was born May 14, 1979, in Peoria to Larry G. and Karen L. Schertz. He married Cheri L. Starkey on Sept. 30, 2000, in Izaak Walton Park in Metamora. Surviving are his wife, Cheri of Metamora; his parents, Larry and Karen Schertz of Metamora; two sisters, Annie Schertz and Amanda Schertz, both of Metamora; father- and mother-in-law, Robert and Carol Starkey of Forrest City, ILL; grandmother, Orpha Schertz of Metamora; one nephew; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by one baby, two grandfathers and one grandmother. He worked at Parsons Manufacturing in Roanoke, where he was a machinist. He enjoyed music, history and football. He loved to hunt and was a member of the National Rifle Association. He was a member of the Rock Church in Peoria. Zachary was an important part of the Cornerstone Fest in Bushnell, ILL. He cherished his family and friends.Services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Mason Funeral Home, Germantown Hills Chapel. The Rev. Chuck E. Tate will be officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home and also one hour before services. Burial will be at Hickory Point Cemetery in Metamora. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Zachary G. Schertz memorial established at Bank Plus in Metamora. A reception will follow immediately after the graveside service at the Rock Church, located in the Waterhouse Building at 619 Water St., Peoria, ILL., next to Kelleher's. A special going home party will be at 5 p.m. with the band Strangeland.

Mrs. Ollie C. Swan

Oldest Resident Buried Sunday - Mrs. Ollie C. Swan

Rev. John Duling officated at services Folkerts Froelich Memorial Home on Sunday afternoon for Minonk area's oldest resident, Ollie Swan, 101. Mrs. Swan of rural Minonk passed asay at 11:45 p.m. Thursday, June 28, 1984 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Roanoke, where she had resided for the past four months. Virgil Vivian of Rutland was the organist at the funeral service and James Meyer sang, "In The Garden". Palbearers were Dave Pelz, Vernon Pelz, Carl Matter, Eldon Folkerts, Dean Tucker and John Davison. Buriell was in the Minonk Cemetery. Mrs. Ollie C. Swan was born four miles east of Washburn, May 5, 1883, a daughter of Benjamin Franklin and Emmaline (McCune) Feazel. She married Frank S. Swan on March 5, 1913, at rural Washburn. He passed away December 16, 1972. She is survived by one son, Dr. Frank D. Swan of Oregon, Ill., and one sister, Mrs. Gertrude Ford of Lida Home, Minonk. She was preceded in death by a son, John Eldon Swan, two brothers and five sisters. Mrs. swan was a meber of the Minonk United Presbyterian Church and the Rebeka Lodge, and a charter member of the Minonk Matron's Club. Memorials may be directed to her church or to a charity of the donor's choice.

Ira C. Stone
Ira C. Stone, 100 years, of Kappa, died at St. Josephs hospital at Bloomington last Saturday evening at 8:30 o'clock. He was born in Vermont August 15, 1810; went to New York in 1830 and located in Illinois in 1859. Funeral services were held Tuesday . He was the last survivor of his family, which consited of a wife and six children, and was the oldest resident of Woodford county.

Kathryn N. Schumacher
EUREKA -- Kathryn N. Schumacher, 101, of 610 W. Cruger died at 11:35 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4, 1995, at Eureka Apostolic Christian
Home. Born March 4, 1894, in Cissna Park to Albert and Kathryn Hoffman Swing, she married John H. Schumacher on Sept. 28, 1919, in Francesville, Ind. He died Aug. 17, 1972. She also was preceded in death by three sons, Stanley, Russel, John "Bill;" one daughter, Virginia; six brothers; and five sisters. Surviving are two sons, Lloyd and Dale, both of Metamora; four daughters, Lorine Stoller of Eureka, Evelyn Frantz of Peoria, Shirley Leuthold of Dunlap and Phyllis Kaufman of Cissna Park; 22 grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; nine stepgreat- grandchildren; nine stepgreat- great-grandchildren; and one sister, Esther Cox of Francesville, Ind. She was a member of Eureka Apostolic Christian Church, where services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday. Church ministers will officiate. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. today at Otto-Argo Funeral Home in Eureka. Visitation also will be one hour before services at the church. Burial will be in Roanoke Apostolic Christian Cemetery in rural Roanoke. Memorials may be made to the Eureka Apostolic Christian Home or the Eureka Apostolic Christian Building Fund.

Martha Schmitt - contributed by Darlene Garant
Mrs. Martha Schmitt, wife of Frank C Schmitt, Metamora contractor and builder, passed away at 1:45 Sunday afternoon, June 3 1907 of and illness of ten months of tuberculosis.

Deceased was stricken with the disease which terminated in her death in the prime of young womanhood and perfect health.  In   spite of youth and strength she declined gradually but steadily, until her desire to live for her family could no longer sustain her and the spirit of life ebbedout after she had mustered enough strength to bid those on earth held dear to her a final goodbye.

Deceased, whos maiden name was Marha Schupp was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adam Schupp nee Dubois of Worth township.  She was born November 30 1890 and grew to womanhood in Worth township. On February 12, 1907 she was united in marriage with Frank C. Schmitt of Worth.  Later the couple located in Metamora which has since been their home.  Five children were born, four sons and one daughter, the oldest being 8 years old and the youngest one year.  These and her husband, her parents, three brothers and one sister, John, William, Joseph, and Gertrude Schupp survive.

Though long prepared for the inevitable blow, the final parting has fallen heavily upon the family and their sorrow is shared by the many friends who ever held the deceased in the highest estimation.  The heartfelt sympathy of the community goes out to the bereaved in their hour of greatest tribulation.

The funeral was held wednesday morning.  The body was taken to St. Mary's church in Metamora at 8:00 where requiem high-mass was offered by Father Christian, the sermon being delivered by Father Eugene, which was message of hope and consolation for the bereved and a exgirtatuib ti true Christian lives to the relatives and friends gathered. Many of the former neighbors of the family in Worth township were present, as well as a good representation of St. Mary's married ladies society of which the deceased was a member.  At the close of the services the body was laid to rest in St. Mary's cemetary.

Emily Schneider
Emily Schneider, 96, of Minonk passed away at 11:18 p.m. Friday (June 20, 2008) at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Minonk, where she had been a resident.

She was born on Aug. 19, 1911, in Minonk, to John and Rose Hindert Schneider.  She is survived by four brothers, Louis (Dorothy) Schneider of Flanagan, U.J. (Ruth) Schneider of Minonk, Jim Schneider of Benson, and Frank (Mabel) Schneider of Paradox, Colo.; several nieces, nephews; and great-nieces and great-nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Bud, Zip, Ollie, Leland; and one sister, Mary.

Emily graduated from the St. Joseph School of Nursing, where she had received her RN degree.  She was a member of the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Minonk, where she had been active in the Altar and Rosary Society.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Minonk. Father Luke Poczworowski will officiate. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday before the service at the church. Burial will be in St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home in Minonk, is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.

Today's service will be held at 11 a.m. at King's Grace Fellowship in Junction City. Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Alsea
Cemetery in Alsea.

Eldon Snider
Eldon V. "Bud" Snider, 72, of San Bernardino, Calif., former of Washburn, died Sunday, Feb. 10, 2002, at St. Bernardino Medical Center in San Bernardino, Calif., of heart disease.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Louise.  Surviving are one daughter, Susanne Miller of San Bernardino, two sons, Eldon II of Ootis, Ore., and Ronald of San Bernardino, one sister, Velda Engel of Metamora, one brother, Kenneth of Venice, Fla; seven grandchildren, one cousin, Wanda Kelly of Peoria; and several nieces and nephews.  A memorial service was held Thursday, Feb. 14, at Babbitt Memorial Chapel, 1299 E. Highland Ave., San Bernardino.  Interment followed in Riverside National Cemetery. (contributed by Jane Foster)

Ben Schneider
Mrs. Ben (Edna) Schneider, 85, of 121 W. Pine St., Metamora, died at 10:10 pm Sunday, October 13, 1974 at Roanoke Manor Nursing Home, Roanoke where she had been a patient for 1 1/2 years.  Services were Wednesday at the Lowpoint United Methodist Church, Lowpoint, the Rev. James Hutton officiated.  Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery.  Mrs. Schneider was born Nov. 13, 1888 at Lowpoint, a daughter of John and Mary Redenour Clark.  She married Ben J. Schneider on Jan. 8, 1913, in Spring Bay.  Mr. Schneider survives in Roanoke Manor Nursing Home.  Also surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Lester (Ruth) Trantina of Washburn, and Mrs. Clarence (Eunice) Ziegel of Hillsdale, Mich.; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.  Three brothers and two sisters preceded her in death.  Mrs. Schneider was a member of the Lowpoint United Methodist Church.  (contributed by Jane Foster)

James Sharp
The village of Washburn was again reminded of the uncertainty of life when James Sharp, a member of the Village Board was suddenly taken ill and within one week the sad news given out that he was dead.  He was born April 29, 1852 and brought to this community when he was about a year old and he spent his entire life here.  He was married April 4, 1872 to Mary L. Perry ( Chandler ) at Belle Plain , Ill.  To this union were born three children, two boys and one girl. The deal angel called tow of them in infancy.  Mr. Sharp leaves to mourn his loss a loving wife and son, Roy, four sisters, Mrs. Belle Stinger of Herrington, Kas., Mrs. Emma Ferriman, Peoria, Ill.; Mrs. Clara Ramsey of Washburn and Mrs. Eva Cavey of Chicago, Ill.  Also two grand-children who were his chums.  Needless to say that a host of friends will miss him, for he was held in high esteem by all who knew him and the people of Washburn have been the recipients of his services as he was very active in the affairs of the village, so we all shall miss him.  Realizing the great loss to the family we have laid aside our business and assembled there to extend our sympathy and lend every assurance of our willingness to do what we can in this sad hour for their comfort.  Mr. Sharp was stricken with a paralytic stroke Tuesday afternoon of last week and early Friday morning he suffered another stroke and died Monday morning. All that loving hands and science could do to ease his pain was done, but the hand of death was upon him and our genial, kindly and sturdy citizen of whom no one ever spoke ill and for whom now no sufficient eulogy can be written, went toe way of all flesh.  The funeral services were held in the Christian church this morning conducted by Rev. Jones and the lifeless clay laid to rest in the deep peace of the country cemetery west of La Rose. Contributed by Jane Foster, Transcribed by Nancy Piper

Anita Sansone
Anita J. Sansone, 75, Roanoke, passed away at 7:35 a.m. Monday (Dec. 8, 2008) at the Apostolic Christian Home of Roanoke, where she was a resident.  Her funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Roanoke. Monsignor Charles Bebee will officiate. Burial will be in Roanoke Township Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Knapp-Johnson-Harris Funeral Home, Roanoke, and from 9:30 to 10 a.m. Thursday at the church. There will be a rosary service at 5 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home before the visitation.  Memorial contributions may be directed to the Apostolic Christian Home of Roanoke.  She was born Nov. 13, 1933, in Roanoke, daughter of August and Jeanette Martino Sansone. She married Donald B. Phillips and then later in life married Ronald H. Waldschmidt.  Surviving are three daughters, Karen Phillips, Connie (Kevin) Lorance and Sharon Jamour, all of Roanoke; one son, Ray Phillips, Coxes Creek, Ky.; five grandchildren, Jayme Phillips; Nicole and Ashley Gerber; and Corey Aeschleman and Sara Jamour; and two stepgrandchildren, Kevin and Kourtney Lorance.  She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Marianne Jarrad.  Anita worked various jobs in Roanoke, including working at Rollies Kountry Kitchen and in the bakery at the Roanoke IGA.  She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where she had been a member of the Altar and Rosary Society. She was also a member of the Roanoke American Legion Auxiliary Post 463.  She had a love of clowns and was a member of the Emmett Kelly Society...contributed by Amy Robbins-Tjaden

Albert H. Seggerman
87, Retired Farmer, Died Last Monday Evening
Albert H. Seggerman, 87 died at the Mennonite hospital, Bloomington at six o'clock last Monday evening with a recent illness.  Mr. Seggerman was born March 11, 1872, near Benson, a son of Jasper and Rixte Ludeman Seggerman.  At the age of two his parents moved east of Minonk, where he was educated.  He was engaged in farming in the Minonk vicinity, with the exception of three years in Lee County, until he retired and moved to Minonk to make his home with his mother until she passed away in 1926.  He never married.  Surviving are a brother, Dick Seggerman of Chicago, and two sisters, Mrs. H.M. Harms and Mrs. Jesena Jenkinson, both of Minonk.  Three brothers and three sisters preceded him in death.  Funeral services are being held this afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Tallyn-Folkers Memorial Home, conducted by Rev. Leon Furrh, pastor of the Baptist church.  Burial is to be in the Minonk cemetery...contributed by Amy Robbins-Tjaden

Saathoff
Probably one of the saddest scenes ever witnessed in Minonk was the double funeral Wednesday of the Saathoff children.  A short time since, the two children were taken ill with summer complaint, which soon developed into a severe case of flux.  Death relieved the little ones from their sufferings Monday, Oct. 1st.  Frederick Janssen Saathoff, aged 7 ½ months, passed away at 9 o’clock a.m. and an hour and a half later, or 10:30 a.m., William Janssen Saathoff, aged 1 year, 10 ½ months, breathed his last.  The funeral service was held from the German Evangelical church Wednesday afternoon at 5 o’clock; Rev Nanerth delivering a touching tribute to the two young lives so suddenly taken away.  The parents, Mr and Mrs John Saathoff, who live on the Davison farm six miles southwest of town, have the sympathy of the entire community in their terrible bereavement.....contributed by Amy Robbins-Tjaden