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STAUNTON
Clarence E. Bohlen
Clarence E. Bohlen, 81, of Staunton, died on Fri., Nov. 20, 2009 at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Staunton.
He was born on February 3, 1928 in Mt. Olive, Ill., the son of the late Arthur H. Bohlen and the late Anna M. (Thunhorst) Bohlen.
He married Darlene Bruhn Johnson on July 31, 1993 in Staunton, Ill., and she preceded him in death on January 29, 2005.
He was a retired chief petty officer in the United States Navy for 32 years until his retirement. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and Vietnam War. He was a member of Staunton VFW Post #1241; a member of Staunton American Legion Post #362; and a member of the Moose Lodge. He was baptized at Zion Lutheran Church in Mt. Olive.
He is survived by two daughters, Alice Teed and her husband, Grant of Windsor, N.Y. and Mary Ann Bohlen; one son, Allan Bohlen of New York; three grandchildren, Allen Bohlen Jr., Kelly Bohlen, and Patrick Ranger; one great-grandchild, Ireland Ranger; four step-children, Rick Johnson and his wife, Lydia of Staunton; Alva Tevini and her husband, Jon of Staunton; Mike Johnson and his wife, Marianne of Staunton; and Diane Knackstedt and her husband, Harold of Worden, Ill.; 14 step-grandchildren; 1 sister, Lucille E. Skinner; several nieces and nephews also survive.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Harry, George and Arthur Bohlen; and two sisters, Marie A. Willis and Ida A. Skinner.
Friends were able to call on Tues., Nov. 24 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. Funeral services were held on Tues., Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. Burial was held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to Staunton VFW Post #1241. To sign the guestbook or leave an online condolence, visit the website at www.williamsonfh.com.

Gillespie
Alice I. Konopka
Alice I. Konopka, 96, of Gillespie, died on Thurs., Nov. 19, 2009 at St. Francis Hopsital in Litchfield, Ill.
She was born on Feb. 26, 1913 in Buxton, Iowa, the daughter of Gus Cadell and Gertie (Anderson) Cadell.
She married Joseph A. Konopka on Nov. 14, 1936, and he preceded her in death on Feb. 4, 1983.
She was a homemaker.
She is survived by two daughters, Jolene K. Kocis and her husband, Phil of Gillespie and Sharon L. Bridgewater and her husband, George of Highland; four grandchildren, Jeffrey A. Kocis, Michael A. Kocis, Tammy Wellen, and Kristen Switzer; five great-grandchildren, Michael Wellen, Ashley Wellen, Jessica Wilson, Brooke Wilson, and Skyler Kocis.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her spouse; one grandson, Scott A. Bridgewater; one sister, Louis Guiliani; and one brother, Chester Cadell.
Visitation was held on Sun., Nov. 22 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie. Funeral services were held on Mon., Nov. 23 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Rachel Stockle officiating. Burial was held at Gillespie City Cemetery in Gillespie on Mon., Nov. 23. Memorials are suggested to United Methodist Church of Gillespie or American Cancer Society. Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com.
DECATUR, Miss.,
FORMERLY OF EDWARDSVILLE
Linda Susan Dragovich
Linda Susan Dragovich, 59, of Decatur, Miss., formerly of Edwardsville, died on Sun., Nov. 15, 2009 at Rush Foundation Hospital in Meridan, Miss.
She was born on Oct. 11, 1950 in Sikeston, Mo., the daughter of the late Rev. Bedford Lee Robinson and Augustine Olive (Barter) Robinson.
She married Thomas Bertrand Dragovich on August 21, 1987 in Granite City, Ill., and he survives.
She attended Edwardsville High School and graduated with the Class of 1969. She was a member of Meadowbrook First Church of God. She was employed by Rush Foundation Hospital for almost nine years.
Along with her husband, Tom Dragovich of Decatur, Miss.; she is also survived by her mother, Teena Robinson of Little Rock, Ark.; one son, Matt Reiter and his wife, Angela of Troy, Ill.; her daughter, Sheila Renee Alexander and her husband, Chad of Edwardsville; three brothers, Terry Robinson and his wife, Cheryl of Odessa, Texas; Gary Robinson and his wife, Jean of Bethalto; and Larry Robinson and his wife, Cheryl of Cypress, Texas; one sister, Bonnie Willis of Little Rock, Ark.; two grandsons, Jackson Bruce Reiter and Benjamin Charles Alexander; and her new granddaughter, Melanie Elaine Alexander, who is expected to arrive on Feb. 22, 2010; several nieces and nephews also survive.
She was preceded in death by her father, Rev. Bedford Lee Robinson.
Visitation was held on Thurs., Nov. 19 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive. Visitation continued on Fri., Nov. 20 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Meadowbrook First Church of God. Funeral services were held on Fri., Nov. 20 at 10 a.m. at Meadowbrook First Church of God in Meadowbrook, Ill. with Rev. Bill Strawn officiating. Burial was held at Calvary Cemetery in Mt. Olive. A funeral lunch was held for family and friends in the Ascension Church Hall in Mt. Olive folliwng the committal service. Memorials are suggested to Calvary Cemetery Improvement Fund; the American Heart Foundation; The Lung Association; and Meadowbrook First Church of God.
 

STAUNTON
George M. Payad
George M. Payad, 86, of Staunton, died on Thurs., Nov. 19, 2009 at Community Memorial Hospital in Staunton.
He was born on July 23, 1923 in Gillespie, the son of the late George Payad and the late Ruby (Tulley) Payad.
He married Eleonore Mack on December 31, 1948 in Germany and she passed away on July 3, 2000.
He had a military service career and served in the U.S. Army for 33 years. He was engaged in North African & Italian Campaigns as a Combat Engineer in World War II. He served one year in the Korean Conflict. He served five tours of duty in Vietnam, retiring shortly after returning from Vietnam. He was a member of several Masonic Lodges, having received his degrees in Staunton Lodge #177 AF & AM. He was also a member of the Royal Arch Masons, Knights Templar & Scottish Rite Masons. Having held positions in several of the Masonic organizations, he was inducted into the KYCH Organization of Masons.
He is survived by two daughters, Marlene E. Wright and her husband, Harold of Denton, Texas and Ella Hartsook and her husband, Greg of Carlinville; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; and one brother, Harold Payad and his wife, Doris of Staunton.
In addition of his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Harald of Lewisville, Texas, who passed away on Nov. 13, 2009.
No services were scheduled. His remains were cremated. Memorials are suggested to Staunton Masonic Lodge #177 AF & AM. Williamson Funeral Home, Staunton, is in charge of arrangements. To sign the guestbook or leave an online condolence, visit our website at www.williamsonfh.com.

NEW DOUGLAS
Ronald Patton
Ronald Patton, 65, of New Douglas, died on Mon., Nov. 16, 2009 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Ill.
He was born on Nov. 25, 1943 in Belleville, Ill. to Richard W. and Rohma (Wisely) patton.
He married Sharon Nickels on Nov. 25, 2000 in Vandalia, Ill.
He was a member of Bethel-Baptist Church in Vandalia. He worked as a General Contractor on Construction. He enjoyed working on computers and loved his dog, Prancer.
Along with his wife, Sharon Patton of New Douglas, Ill., he is survived by four children, Robin Patton of Dupo, Ill.; Rodney Patton of Sharpsberg, N.C.; Crystal Goodin and her significant other, Tracey of St. Elmo, Ill.; Tina Strague of Vandalia, Ill.; his mother, Rohma F. Patton; his brothers and sisters, Bill Patton and his wife, Sharon of Oakdale, Ill.; Connie McCain of Breese, Ill.; Rick Patton of Oakdale, Ill.; Tamela Loos and her husband, Dennis of Belleville, Ill.; three grandsons, many nieces and nephews also survive.
He was preceded in death by his father, Richard W. Patton.
A memorial visitation was held on Sat., Nov. 21 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Highland Hope United Methodist Church in Highland. A memorial service was held on Sat., Nov. 21 at 4 p.m. at the church with Rev. Dan Perry, Pastor, officiating.



STAUNTON
David L. Struebig
David L. Struebig, 72, of Staunton, died on Fri., Nov. 20, 2009 at Christian NorthEast Hospital in St. Louis, Mo.
He was born on January 22, 1937 in Staunton, the son of the late Christopher J. “Cushion” Struebig and the late Daisy B. (Leonard) Struebig.
He married Sue Bird on June 27, 1964 in Staunton, Ill., and she survives.
He was a forklift operator in the Brass Department at the Olin Corporation in East Alton, Ill. for 43 years until 1999. He served in Germany with the U.S. Army in 1960 and 1961. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church of Staunton.
Along with his wife, Sue Struebig of Staunton, he is also survived by one daughter, Deborah Albertini and her husband, John of Memphis, Tenn.; one son, Eric Struebig and his wife, Penny of Shiloh, Ill.; five grandchildren, Joshua Mathenia, Ian Reynolds, and Amanda, Nicole, and Sarah Albertini; one sister, Helen Johnson and her husband, Harold of Staunton; several nieces and nephews also survive.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Eugene and Fred Struebig.
Friends were able to call on Mon., Nov. 23 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. Funeral services were held on Tues., Nov. 24 at 10 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Staunton with Rev. Joel Fritzsche officiating. Burial was held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to either Zion Lutheran Church of Staunton or to Community Memorial Hospital of Staunton. To sign the guestbook or to leave an online condolence, visit the website at www.williamsonfh.com.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas
Vivian B. Essenpreis

Vivian B. Essenpreis, 94, of San Antonio, Texas, died on Sat., Nov. 21, 2009 in San Antonio, Texas.
She was born on June 12, 1915 in Highland, Ill., the daughter of the late Harry Roy Zeller and the late Alma D. (Burch) Zeller.
She married Orville D. Essenpreis on January 1, 1934 in Highland, Ill., and he preceded her in death on December 30, 1999.
She was born and grew up in Highland and graduated from Highland High School in 1933. Although she was primarily a housewife, she did help her husband with the operation of Essenpreis & Ziegler Conoco Gas Station and later Orv’s County Store in Highland. She and her husband had enjoyed winters (six months) in the Rio Grand Valley of Texas for over 25 years. She had belonged to several Card Clubs; loved to sew and participated in Square and Round Dancing groups in Texas with her husband. For many years, she had belonged to a group, “Dancing Grannies” that did softshoe tapdancing performances for old folks, nursing homes in the Valley. She was a member of Evangelical United Church of Christ; a former member of Pythian Sisters; and an honorary member of Women’s Guild of the church.
She is survived by her daughter, Carol A. Essenpreis and her husband, David Essenpreis of San Antonio, Texas; one son, Larry D. Essenpreis and his wife, Sarasue of Gig Harbor, Wash.; one grandchild, Robin L. Hill and her husband, Jay of Medina, Texas; two great-grandchildren, Wm. Pierce Gibson IV of Medina, Texas and Chaney E. Hill of Medina, Texas; and one sister, LaVelle Braun of Colorado Springs, Colo.
She was preceded in death by her father, Harry Roy Zeller, who died on July 25, 1956; her mother, Alma Doris (Burch) Zeller, who died on January 9, 1972; her husband, Orville D. Essenpreis, who died on Dec. 30, 1999; two sisters, Ione G. Drda, who died on August 7, 2001 and Doris E. Riggs, who died on July 17, 1989; two brothers, Harry L. Zeller, who died on August 25, 1982 and Dewey A. Zeller, who died on September 17, 2005.
Visitation will be held on Mon., Nov. 30 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland.
Funeral services will be held on Mon., Nov. 30 at 11 a.m. at the church with Rev. Christopher W. Hill, Senior Pastor of Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland. Interment will be held at Highland City Cemetery in Highland.
A funeral lunch will be held at Evangelical UCC and will be served by the Women’s Guild. Memorials are suggested to Evangelical United Church of Christ.STAUNTON

John P. Bergen

John P. Bergen, 95, of Staunton, died on Mon., Oct. 26, 2009 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia, Ill.

He was born on March 27, 1914 in Gillespie, Ill., the son of the late James T. Bergen and Catherine (Veiling) Bergen.

He married Irene Fellin on April 19, 1947 in Gillespie, and she survives.

He was a self-employed attorney in Staunton for many years. He was a past city attorney and a past assistant state’s attorney for Macoupin County. He served as a Corporal in the Medical Corps during the European Campaign. He was also a lifetime member of Staunton VFW Post #1241 and a lifetime member of Staunton Lions Club.

He is survived by his son, Jack Bergen and his wife, Kathy of Centralia, Ill.; one grandson, Capt. Justin Bergen, U.S. Army, stationed at Ft. Hood, Texas, and his wife, Leah; one granddaughter, Emily Bergen of Chicago, Ill.; two sisters-in-law, Louise Bergen of Gillespie and Elizabeth Portugal of Gillespie; numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, James and Francis Bergen; and four sisters, Genevieve and Gertrude Bergen, Josephine Rolando, and Sister Mary James (Bergen).

Friends were able to call on Fri., Oct. 30 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. Funeral services were held on Sat., Oct. 31 at 10 a.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton with Rev. George Radosevich officiating. Burial was held at Holy Cross Cemetery in Gillespie. Memorials are suggested to either Community Memorial Hospital of Staunton or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

BENLD

James R. "Bud" Tarro

James R. "Bud" Tarro, 85, of Benld, died on Tues., Oct. 27, 2009 at his residence in Benld.

He was born on July 21, 1924 in Carlinville, Ill., the son of the late Ben Tarro and the late Honora (Gillen) Tarro.

He married Roseann (Florian) Tarro on January 18, 1947 in Mt. Olive, and she survives.

He was a retired grocer. He operated Tarro’s Market and Coliseum Ballroom. He was a veteran of World War II and served with the U.S. Army.

Along with his wife, Roseann Tarro of Benld, Ill., he is also survived by three sons, Rick Tarro and his wife, Jeannette of Decatur, Ill., Kent Tarro and his wife, Susan of Gillespie, Ill., and Dennis Tarro of Gillespie, Ill.; four grandchildren, Eric Tarro, Adam Tarro, Mikayla Tarro, and Miranda Tarro; and two sisters, Joan Larson of Wilmington, N.C. and Jo June Duncan of St. Charles, Mo.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Darlene Tarro.

Visitation was held on Thurs., Oct. 29 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kravanya Funeral Home in Benld. Funeral services were held on Fri., Oct. 30 at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in Benld with Monsignor Larry Auda officiating. Burial was held on Fri., Oct. 30 at Holy Cross Cemetery in Gillespie.

Memorials are suggested to Coal Complex Foundation. Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com.

GILLESPIE

Eleanor J. Reiniesch

Eleanor J. Reiniesch, 80, of Gillespie, died on Sat., October 24, 2009 at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield, Ill.

She was born on September 9, 1929, the daughter of the late Roy Kulenkamp and the late Carrie (Taylor) Kulenkamp.

She was a homemaker for many years. She was a member of Town and Country Home Extension.

She is survived by two sons, David Reiniesch and his wife, Connie of Gillespie and Michael Reiniesch and his wife, Peggy of Gillespie; two daughters, Ruth Garbin and her husband, Tom of Staunton and Janet Seketa and her husband, Paul of Gillespie; one sisters, Gloria Henschen of Alhambra; 9 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren; and her sister-in-law, Alice Kulenkamp of Gillespie, Ill.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her spouse; her grandson, Charles Joseph Reiniesch; two brothers, Ralph Kulenkamp and his wife, Ina and Carl "Pete" Kulenkamp; and her sister, Bertie Hammann and her husband, Leonard.

Visitation was held on Tues., Oct. 27 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie. Funeral services were held on Wed., Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie with Monsignor Larry Auda officiating.

Interment was held on Wed., Oct. 28 at Holy Cross Cemetery in Gillespie. Memorials are suggested to American Heart Association or American Diabetes Association. Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com.

HIGHLAND

Lorraine I. Weiss

Lorraine I. Weiss, 94, of Highland, died on Sat., Oct. 24, 2009 at Faith Care Center in Highland.

She was born on December 4, 1914 in Greenville, Ill., the daughter of the late Matthew Kircher and the late Elizabeth (Berner) Kircher.

She married August Benedict Weiss on November 15, 1938 in Jamestown, Ill., and he preceded her in death on April 5, 1983.

She was born in Bond County, southwest of Greenville. She attended Potts School. She lived on the family farm until 1968 when she and her husband moved to Highland. After moving to town, she did cleaning for several families in Highland, until her health no longer allowed her to do so. She enjoyed quilting (making many quilts for family members), watching TV, gardening and flowers. She moved to Highland Health Care Center in February 2008. In April 2008, she moved to Faith Care Center in Highland. She was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ in Jamestown, Ill.; a member of Wodmen of the World; and a member of Highland Camp 1957.

She is survived by her brother, Ellsworth (Neva) Kircher of Edwardsville, Ill.; many nieces and nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death by her father, Matthew Kircher (1882-1960) ("Matthias" on Tombstone); her mother, Elizabeth (Berner) Kircher (1888-1940); her husband, August Benedict Weiss (03/12/1903-04/05/1983); her son, Richard Weiss (who died as an infant in 1950); four brothers, Lester A. Kircher (who died on September 16, 1982); Delmar F. Kircher (08/24/1921-11/10/2006); and Orville Kircher (02/17/1912-04/17/1976); and one who was stillborn in Nov. 1923; and two sisters, Lucille Gruenenfelder (Dec. 1910-Sept. 2005) and Lorette Kircher as an infant (July 1917-August 1917).

Visitation was held on Tues., Oct. 27 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Wed., Oct. 28 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Funeral services were held on Wed., Oct. 28 at 1 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland with Pastor Donald Propeck of St. Paul United Church of Christ in Jamestown, Ill. officiating. Interment was held at Highland City Cemetery in Highland. Memorials are suggested to Saint Paul United Church of Christ and Faith Countryside Homes. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

MORIARTY, N.M.

Adelia F. Rusteberg

Adelia F. Rusteberg, 85, of Moriarty, N.M., died on Mon., Oct. 26, 2009 at her residence.

She was born on May 18, 1924 in Valmeyer, Ill., the daughter of the late Herman Louer and the late Ollie F. (Illert) Louer.

She married Homer C. Rusteberg on October 17, 1941 in St. Louis, Mo., and he preceded her in death on September 16, 1983.

She was born near Valmeyer, Ill.; and grew up on the farm. She married Homer C. Rusterberg and she and her husband farmed at Valmeyer. They moved to Highland in 1962 to a farm northeast of town. They moved into the town of Highland in 1969. She moved to Moriarty, N.M. in the late 1990s to be with her daughters. Besides farming, she worked many jobs for numerous companies. She was an excellent seamstress and did alterations and sewed dresses in her home. She was a former member of Evangelical United Church of Christ; a former member of Order of the Eastern Star Chapter in Columbia, Ill.; a member of Estancia Valley VFW Aux. to Ike Cole Post 3380.

She is survived by her son, Homer H. Rusteberg and his wife, Sharon of Highland; her daughter, Shirley J. Ashton of Moriarty, N.M.; two brothers, Herman H. Louer and his wife, Margaret "Maggie" of Highland; and Carlyle W. Louer and his wife, Phoebe of Swansea, Ill.; one sister, Arline M. Gappa and her husband, John of Las Vegas, Nev.; four grandchildren, Melissa K. "Missie" Grapperhaus and her husband, Kenneth of St. Charles, Mo., Timothy M. "Tim" Rusteberg and his wife, Michelle of Highland, Christina M. Thacker of Albuquerque, N.M., and Matthew G. "Matt" Rusteberg of Highland; one step-granddaughter, Dr. Jennifer R. Martin, DC of St. Charles, Mo.; and nine great-grandchildren, Gage S. Grapperhaus, Kahlea R. Grapperhaus, Carmyn M. Grapperhaus, Marissa A. Rusteberg, Emma E. Rusteberg, Maximus "Max" A. Martin, Charles L. Smelley, and Kristie Amanda Lee Thacker also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her daughter-in-law, Nancy A. (Rutz) Rusteberg, who died on February 10, 1990; and three brothers, Louis Knobloch, Warren "Bud" Louer, and Floyd Louer (as an infant.)

A memorial service was held at Harris-Hanlon Mortuary on Mon., Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. Visitation will be held on Fri., Nov. 6 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland. A memorial service will also be held on Fri., Nov. 6 at 11 a.m. at Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland with Pastor Will Ver Duin, Associate Pastor at Evangelical United Church of Christ. Interment was held at Highland City Cemetery in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at EvUCC and was served by the Women’s Guild. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com. Memorials are suggested to Heritage Hospice and to the donor’s choice.

GRANITE CITY

Paul Edward Cuppett Sr.

Paul Edward Cuppett Sr., 76, of Granite City, Ill., passed away on Thurs., Oct. 29, 2009 at his home.

He was born October 27, 1933 in Granite City, the son of the late Elwood and Lela (Byington) Cuppett.

He married Gayle A. (Lancaster) Cuppett on June 15, 1968 in East St. Louis, and she survives.

He retired in 1996 from Tension Envelope in St. Louis after over 50 years of dedicated service as a machine adjuster. He was a member of New Creation Fellowship and had a special love of music. He enjoyed his years of playing gospel music throughout the area and had played with "The Revelators," "The Beacon Lights" and Barbara and Denver Stark. He also enjoyed his days of fishing and hunting and will be remembered for the love of his family and friends.

In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by three sons and two daughters-in-law, Paul Cuppett Jr. of Springfield, Mo., Jimmy and Tina Cuppett of Livingston, and David and Denise Cuppett of Granite City; five daughters and four sons-in-law, Etta and William Fey of Gillespie, Tammy and William Kline of Springfield, Mo., Sandra and Frank Makler of Staunton, Paula Stufflebean of Granite City and Alicia and Gilbert Landreth of Benld; 21 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Lorraine Foster of Ariz., Lucille and Bill Kimbro of Granite City and Alma and Cecil Stacey of Granite City; other extended family and friends.

In addition to his beloved parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Elwood Cuppett Jr.; one sister, Marie Cottrell and one infant brother, Richard Cuppett.

In celebration of his life, visitation was held on Mon., Nov. 2 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Irwin Chapel in Granite City. Funeral services were held on Tues., Nov. 3 at 10 a.m. at the chapel in Granite City. Burial was held at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon. Memorials may be made to the family and may be accepted at the funeral home.

 

HIGHLAND

Donald M. "Donnie" Bircher

Donald M. "Donnie" Bircher, 65, of Highland, died on Sun., Oct. 18, 2009 at his residence in Highland.

He was born on May 30, 1944 in Highland, Ill., the son of the late Monroe J. Bircher and the late Eleanor (Wiese) Bircher.

He married Jane F. Buchmiller on July 4, 1969 in Highland, Ill., and she survives.

He was born at Highland; grew up on the family farm southeast of town; and graduated from Highland High School in 1962. While in high school, he excelled in football, wrestling, and was in FFA. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1962 to 1966. After the service, he worked on the family farm, for Alton Box Co., at Basler Electric, drove for Kustermann Trucking; purchased and operated a mobile feed grinding & suppliment business; and purchased a farm with his brother in 1971. He has also worked for Bill Ambuehl farms. She started to work for Truck Centers in 1981 and retired from there in December 2006 because of poor health. He helped organize and coached for the Highland Quarterback Club for many years. Anything that had wheels and motors he would repair/work-on. Don enjoyed participating in and watching football; following baseball; fishing; and collecting guns and knives. His life was his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his mother, Eleanor (Wiese) Bircher of Highland; his wife, Jane F. (Buchmiller) Bircher of Highland, Ill.; two daughters, Jene’ L. Alldredge and her husband, Jeffrey, of Edwardsville and Andrea L. Glasson and her husband, Jason of Cape Coral, Fla.; one brother, Richard L. "Dick" Bircher and his wife, Janis of Highland; one sister, Linda Blue and her husband, Allen of Scottsdale, Ariz.; one brother-in-law, James N. Cagle of Highland; four grandchildren, Alyssa R. Bircher of Highland, Brayden A. Bircher of Highland, Jordan L. Bircher of Highland, and Addison C. Alldredge of Edwardsville; two step-grandchildren, Brock A. Alldredge of Decatur, Ill. and Taylor S. Alldredge of Highland, Ill.

He was preceded in death by his father, Monroe J. Bircher, who died in 1960; and his sister, Karen L. Cagle, who died on August 5, 2009.

Visitation was held on Wed., Oct. 21 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Thurs., Oct. 22 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Funeral services were held on Thurs., Oct. 22 at 11 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland with Rev. Philip H. Kershner, Pastor of Marine United Church of Christ in Marine, Ill. officiating. Interment was held at Highland City Cemetery in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at Lindendale Park Ballroom. Memorials are suggested to BJC Hospice, Highland Quarterback Club, and Amyloidosis Research. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

HIGHLAND

Shirley M. Loomis

Shirley M. Loomis, 75, of Highland, died on Tues., Oct. 20, 2009 at Saint Joseph Hospital in Highland.

She was born on September 13, 1934 in Highland, Ill., the daughter of the late Harold M. Jackson and the late Hilda Margaret M. (Naab) Jackson.

She married Robert Loomis on May 30, 1956 in Highland, Ill., and he survives.

She was born at Highland; graduated from Highland High School in 1952; after graduation, she worked for Old Judge Coffee in St. Louis; after her daughter’s birth, she became a full time homemaker. She and her mother enjoyed bowling together. She liked stock car racing and annual trips to Branson. She enjoyed making crafts-tole painting; crossword puzzling and cards. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her priority. She was a member of Hope Lutheran Church in Highland; and a member of the Class of 1952 Ladies Lunch Group.

Along with her husband, Robert Loomis Jr. of Highland, she is also survived by her son, Michael E. Loomis and his wife, Peggy of Aviston, Ill.; her daughter, Robin R. Loomis and her significant other, Gerald W. Ripperda of Highland; her foster daughter, Denise Getz and her husband, William of Highland; four grandchildren, Rachel M. (Price) Finley and her husband, Anthony Finley Sr. of Alhambra, Ill., Riva M. (Price) Weiss and her husband, Justin of Highland, PFC Ronald S. Price, US Army and his wife, Jennifer of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Jason A. Kreke and his wife, Julie of Saint Louis, Mo.; seven great-grandchildren, Anthony M. Finley Jr. of Alhambra, Ill., Alexis M. Finley of Alhambra, Ill., Emma I. Price of Pocahontas, Ill., Wyatt C. Weiss of Highland, Isabella G. Kreke of Saint Louis, Mo., Leo J. Kreke of Saint Louis, Mo., Leo J. Kreke of Saint Louis, Mo., and Carlee J. Price of Colorado Springs, Colo.; one brother, James H. "Red" Jackson and his wife, Carolyn of Highland; and his sister, Gloria D. Carson and her husband, Wayne Carson Sr. of Saint Jacob, Ill.

She was preceded in death by her father, Harold M. Jackson, who died on February 6, 1976; her mother, Hilda Margaret M. (Naab) Jackson, who died on January 10, 2005; and two grandchildren, Robert Michael Price (twin)(stillborn) and Ray Charles Price (twin)(stillborn).

Visitation was held on Fri., Oct. 23 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland and continued on Sat., Oct. 24 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church in Highland. Funeral services were held on Sat., Oct. 24 at 10 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church in Highland with Rev. Leonard C. Laetsch, Pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in Highland officiating. Interment was held at Robinson Cemetery in Pocahontas, Ill. A funeral lunch was held at Hope Lutheran Church Hall in Highland, Ill. Memorials are suggested to Heartland Hospice. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

HIGHLAND

Betty J. Denahy

Betty J. Denahy, 82, of Highland, died on Tues., Oct. 20, 2009 at Saint Louis University in St. Louis, Mo.

She was born on October 25, 1926 in Oxford Junction, Iowa, the daughter of the late Godfrey Roubinex and the late Gladys (Kohl) Roubinex.

She married Peter LaVerne Denahy on November 28, 1945 in DeWitt, Iowa, and he preceded her in death on October 12, 1997.

She was born at Oxford Junction, Iowa; grew up in Maquoketa, Iowa in the eastern part of the state. After graduation, she was a telephone operator and later worked for Dr. Frank in Maquoketa. She and her husband had lived in Michigan during the mid-1950s and moved to Highland, Ill. in 1960. She worked at St. Joseph Hospital as a medical secretary in the Lab and X-Ray Department for 26 years, retiring in 1992. She and her husband had traveled extensively in their motor home. She enjoyed TV; her toy poodle "Mitzi" was a constant companion.

She is survived by two daughters, Patricia A. Frey of Highland and Barbara J. Schmitt and her significant other, James R. Harpstrite of Trenton, Ill.; and four grandchildren, Corey J. Frey and his wife, Edie of Grantfork, Ill., Kelley A. Frey of Highland, Ill., Nathan J. Schmitt of Breese, Ill., and Tyson R. Schmitt of Breese, Ill.

She was preceded in death by her father, Godfrey Roubinek; her mother, Gladys (Kohl) Roubinek; her husband, Peter LaVerne "Vern" Denahy; her son-in-law, Lonnie Frey, who died on January 22, 2008; and her grandchild, Jason J. Schmitt, who died as an infant in 1979.

Visitation was held on Thurs., Oct. 22 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Fri., Oct. 23 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Sts. Philip & James Catholic Church. Funeral services were held on Fri., Oct. 23 at 2 p.m. at Sts. Philip & James Catholic Church in Grand Mound, Iowa with Rev. Father David Brownfield, Pastor of Saints Philip & James Catholic Church in Grand Mound, Iowa officiating. Interment was held at Calvary Cemetery in Grand Mound, Iowa. Memorials are suggested to the charity of the donor’s choice. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

CHICAGO, Ill.

Gary E. Steiner

Gary E. Steiner, 62, of Chicago, Ill., died on Sat., Oct. 10, 2009 at his residence.

He was born on April 5, 1947 in Moline, Ill., the son of the late Eldon F. Steiner and the late Beatrice F. (Johns) Steiner.

He was never married.

He was born at Moline, Ill.; he grew up in Bloomington, Ill.; and graduated from Bloomington High School in 1965. He earned a degree from the University of Illinois and a Master’s from Loyola University, Chicago. He died unexpectedly at his home in Chicago. Prior to retiring, he had been a well-known manager of the bar at Melvin B’s Restaurant and Bar in Chicago. Gary had worked in the hospitality business in Chicago for many years. He was a sports fan who loved the St. Louis Cardinals and baseball in general. He was a founder of the Fantasy Baseball League in Chicago. He also enjoyed reading mystery novels.

He is survived by one sister, Patricia J. Steiner of Romeoville, Ill.; many aunts, uncles, and cousins also survive.

He was preceded in death by his father, Eldon F. Steiner, who died on May 11, 1995; and his mother, Beatrice F. "Bea" (Johns) Steiner, who died on August 10, 2007.

No visitation was scheduled. A funeral service was held on Sat., Oct. 31 at 11 a.m. at Highland City Cemetery in Highland, Ill. with Rev. Christopher W. Hill, Pastor of Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland officiating. A funeral lunch was held at EvUCC Social hall and was served by the Women’s Guild. Memorials are suggested to University of Illinois Alumni Association Foundation. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

Stewart, Tenn.

Ostell Hallow

Ostell Hallows, 83, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at Signature Health Care in Tennessee.

She was born on September 27, 1926 in Houston County, TN, daughter of John & Linnie (Lyle) Mathis.

She married Olen Hallows, and he preceded her in death.

She is survived by two sons, Herbert Hallows of Stewart, TN and Ronald & Kathleen Hallows of Washington, MO; four grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Chapel Cemetery service was held on Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 12:30 pm at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens Chapel in Bethalto with Pastor Charles West officiating.

An online condolence and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandshcaaf.com.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.

Robert Eugene Proper

Robert Eugene Proper, 72, of Oklahoma City, Okla., died on Mon., Oct. 12, 2009 at Oklahoma City, Okla.

He was born on June 28, 1937 in Union City, Penn., the son of the late Harold L. Proper and the late Jesse (Vancort) Proper.

He was a member of the United States Army, retiring after 21 years as an E7 Sergeant. He served in Germany and Vietnam, where he was wounded in the line of duty and received the Purple Heart. He was also awarded River Patrol, Staff Sergeant, and Boat Commander medals.

He is survived by two sisters, Evelyn May Proper of Tahlequah, Okla. and Yovonne Gwinn and her husband, Seago of Carlinville, Ill.; two brothers, Richard Lee Seago of Mechesny Park, Ill. and Carol Seago of Carlinville; two granddaughters, several nieces and nephews also survive.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Jesse (Vancort) Proper; his brother, Hearld Loyed Proper Jr.; his sister, Bernice Calcott; and his daughter, Tina Marie (Colburn) Proper.

Visitation was held on Tues., Oct. 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive. Funeral services were held on Tues., Oct. 20 at 1 p.m. at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, Ill. with full military honors. Burial was held at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, Ill. Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive is in charge of local arrangements.

MARINE

Lelon J. "Lee" Crum

Lelon J. "Lee" Crum, 80, of Marine, died on Wed., October 14, 2009 at Montauk State Park near Salem, Mo.

He was born on March 7, 1929 in St. Louis, Mo., the son of the late James E. Crum and the late Eula B. McColgin.

He married Dorothy Ann "Dot" DeWitt on April 18, 1948 in St. Louis, Mo., and she survives.

He was born at St. Louis; grew up on the north side of St. Louis. He attended Hadley Technical High School. He was a partner in direct mail with National Mailing; he later worked for Commercial Letter Company; then became Vice President of Sales and Marketing with Direct Mail Corp. of America. He retired in 1996. He was a good Christian man; great fisherman, avid golfer, enjoyed gardening, and was a great family man. He loved his family and church. He was a member of Highland Community Church.

Along with his wife, Dorothy A. "Dot" (DeWitt) Crum of Marine, Ill., he is also survived by three sons, Raymond L. Crum and his fiancee, Marty Yardley of Hazelwood, Mo., Steven J. Crum and his wife, Sue of Florissant, Mo., and Jess W. Crum and his wife, Jan R. Crum of Edwardsville; eight grandchildren, Michelle "Cheli" Crum, Stacy A. Meier and her husband, Matt, Jason Schweffermann and his significant other, Erica, Steven J. Crum Jr. and his wife, Kara, Shannon Crum and his wife, Carrie, Sara Crum and her significant other, Bryan Behan, Josh Crum, and Melissa Davis and her husband, Aaron; one sister, Donna M. Dowell and her husband, Homer of Bridgeton, Mo.; two brothers, Leonard J. "Len" Crum and his wife, Nancy of St. Charles, Mo. and Larry R. Crum of Hazelwood, Mo.; one sister-in-law, Susan J. DeWitt, who was raised as a family member of Highland; and a special nephew, Jamie DeWitt.

He was preceded in death by his father, James E. Crum; his mother, Eula B. McColgin; and three sisters, Ada Medlock, Esther Crum at age 32, and Sherly Crum at age 3.

Visitation was held on Sun., Oct. 18 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Mon., Oct. 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Highland Community Church in Highland. Funeral services were held on Mon., Oct. 19 at 11 a.m. at Highland Community Church in Highland with Don L. Gunther Jr. officiating. Interment was held at Highland City Cemetery in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at Highland Community Church in Highland. Memorials are suggested to H.I.S. K.I.D.S. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

MT. OLIVE

Elsie Hovanec

Elsie Hovanec, 92, of Mt. Olive, died on Mon., Oct. 12, 2009 at Heritage Manor of Staunton.

She was born on September 15, 1917 in Darzell, Ill., the daughter of the late Guerino Gisolo and the late Irma (Baima) Guerino.

She married Andrew "Tarz" Hovanec on June 5, 1937 at Holy Trinity Church in Mt. Olive, and he preceded her in death on September 18, 1970.

She attended Benld Grade School and High School. She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Mt. Olive and a member of the Holy Trinity Quilters. She was a waitress at the 66 Terminal Restaurant in Staunton. She worked at Accu-Rule Plant in Mt. Olive until it closed. She retired from working for the State of Illinois in 1980. She loved traveling and quilting.

She is survived by one son, Alan Hovanec of Birmingham, Ala.; two daughters, Marlene Zangriles and her husband, Tom of O’Fallon, Mo. and Sherry Sullivan and her husband, Jerry Sullivan Sr. of Mt. Olive; one sister, Olga Freeman of Mt. Olive; five grandchildren, Gustave Zangriles and his wife, Lisa of O’Fallon, Mo., Lisa Copeland and her husband, Greg of O’Fallon, Mo., Douglas Hovanec and his wife, Nikki of Birmingham, Ala.; Jerry Sullivan Jr. and his wife, Jenny of Taylorville, Ill., and Jennifer Clayton and her husband, Jason of Mt. Olive; 8 great-grandchildren, Alexander, Connor, Madison, Nicholette, Dylan, Jackson, Kaitlynn, and Kailee also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and one brother, Harold Gisolo.

No visitation was held. A funeral Mass was held on Thurs., Oct. 15 at 10 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Mt. Olive with Father Larry Anschutz officiating. Organist Ruth Zubal accompanied the Holy Trinity Choir during the funeral services. Her son, Alan Hovanec; her sons-in-law, Jerry Sullivan and Tom Zangriles; and her grandsons, Jerry Sullivan Jr., Douglas Hovanec, and Gus Zangriles served as pallbearers during the funeral service. Memorials are suggested to Holy Trinity Cemetery.

 

MT. OLIVE

Daniel Primo Mancini

Daniel Primo Mancini, 86, of Mt. Olive, died on Tues., Oct. 13, 2009 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, Ill.

He was born on January 2, 1923 in Dorchester, Ill., the son of the late Angelo Mancini and Enricha (Passini) Mancini.

He married Faye Belle Zarr on February 18, 1950 at Church of the Ascension in Mt. Olive.

He attended Bunker Hill Grade School and High School. He was a member of Church of the Ascension in Mt. Olive. He was a truck driver for Pacific Intermountain Express, St. Louis, Mo. for 31 years until his retirement in October of 1989. He received an award for 3 million accident free miles. He was a retired member of the Mt. Olive Fire Department. He was a Retired Teamster; a member of Mt. Olive Knights of Columbus Father Knaperak Council #8716; and an avid Cardinal baseball fan. He was an Army Sgt. in World War II and Korea; a member of the 7th Calvary Regiment, 1st Calvary Division. He was awarded a Purple Heart. He was Commander of the Yurkovich-Beck American Legion Post #594; a member of Mt. Olive VFW Post #5790; a member of Mt. Olive AMVETS Post #55; and a member of Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter #159.

Along with his wife, Faye Mancini of Mt. Olive, he is also survived by three sons, Dan Mancini and his longtime companion, Connie of Pinellas Park, Fla.; John Mancini of Grand Junction, Colo.; and Bob Mancini and his wife, Betty of Mt. Olive; one daughter, Lynne Gray and her husband, Bob of Girard, Ill.; one granddaughter, Ulinda Minatel and her husband, Bryan of Moore, Okla.; one grandson, Robert Mancini Jr. of Mt. Olive; several nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Ida Giaromona and Mabel Teeter; and two brothers, Ezio and Asio Mancini.

Visitation was held on Sat., Oct. 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Church of the Ascension in Mt. Olive. A funeral mass was held on Sat., Oct. 17 at 11 a.m. at the church with Fr. Larry Anschutz officiating. His three sons, Dan, John and Bob Mancini; his son-in-law, Bob Gray; his grandson, Robert Mancini Jr.; and his neighbor, Larry Pruden served as pallbearers during the funeral services. Honorary pallbearers were his brother-in-law, John Zarr, his nephew, Terry Zarr, and four of his friends, Tom Kilduff, Elmer Roeder, Glenn Scroggins, and Delmer Bequette. A lunch was served for family and friends following the service at the Church of the Ascension Hall and was served by the Altar and Rosary Society. Memorials are suggested to Mt. Olive Fire Department; Calvary Cemetery; and Beverly Farms.

 

BREESE, FORMERLY OF HIGHLAND

Coral "Lucille" Heeren

Coral "Lucille" Heeren , 96, of Breese, Ill., passed away on Monday, Oct. 12 2009 at 11:04 a.m. at The Villas at St. James in Breese.

She was born on Sunday, August 31, 1913 in Walshville Township, Ill., to Arthur and Anna (Grubb) Hoisington.

She married Clyde H. Heeren on June 27, 1936 in Lincoln, Ill., and he preceded her in death on September 17, 1989 after 53 years of marriage.

She graduated from Litchfield High School, and then attended Eastern Illinois University before her teaching career. She began teaching in Walshville IL.

During the 1930’s she taught school at the Davis School in Montgomery County, Ill.. Lucille and her husband Clyde lived in New Douglas and Quincy before returning to Montgomery County in 1950 for farm life.

She is survived by her daughter, Kay Gaines of Highland; and a her brother, Everett Hoisington of Breese.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Col. Robert U. Gaines, U.S. Air Force, retired.

A private graveside service was held on Wednesday, Oct. 14 at the New Douglas Cemetery, with Rev. Paul Sowden officiating.

Memorials are suggested to the New Douglas Cemetery or the Hospice of Southern Illinois, Hospice Residence.

The Lesicko Funeral Home in New Douglas, IL is in charge of arrangements.

To sign a guest book or to leave a private condolence please visit www.lesickofuneralhome.com

Bethalto

Morris D. "Moe" Stilley

Morris D. "Moe" Stilley, 66, passed away at 4:30 am on Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at his home with his family by his side.

He was born on March 3, 1943 in Harrisburg, Illinois, to Earl and Grace (Grisham) Stilley.

He married Jackie K. Williams on June 22, 1967 in Rosewood Heights. She survives.

Moe served his country in the US Navy during the Viet Nam War. He worked at Corley Printing Company in Earth City, MO as a printer for 40 years. He enjoyed working on and owning classic street rods, loved antiques, music and dancing to the "Blues". He lived in the area all of his life.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Kim & Jay McClellan of Wood River; a grandson, Christopher & Jenie McCellan; one brother & sister-in-law, John & Johnnie Stilley of Lubbock, TX; 3 sisters and a brother-in-law, Delores Ringuette of Carbondale, IL, Earlene & Jeff Jefferson of Atlanta, GA and Diana Crader of Bethalto; his mother-in-law, Marie Williams of Wood River and a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Sherry & Don Smith of Alton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Gina Baker.

In celebration of his life, visitation was held from 4 pm to 8 pm on Friday, October 16, 2009 at Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto.

Funeral services were held at 10 am on Saturday, October 14, 2009 at the funeral home with Brother Kenneth Clark officiating. Military rites were conducted by Alton VFW Post 1308 Ritual Team.

Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, 5 A’s or Hope Animal Rescue in Alton.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.

 

Alton

Kathleen E. Krumm

Kathleen E. Krumm, 49, passed away at 8:31 am Sunday October 11, 2009 at Alton Memorial Hospital.

She was born on April 16, 1960 in Pennsylvania, the daughter of James & Joan (Conrad) Kinchloe.

She married John Krumm on July 16, 2005 in St. Louis, MO. He survives.

She worked as a registered nurse and was a member of River of Life Family Church in Alton.

She is survived by her husband, John Krumm, her step-father, John Hendrix of Suffolk, VA; four children and a son-in-law, Kimberly & Donnie Melton of Savannah, GA, Mickey Usry of Eden, GA, Darrell Usry of St. Louis, MO, and Elizabeth Usry of Metter, GA, two step sons, Jacob Krumm of Collinsville and Jared Krumm of St. Louis, MO; two brothers, John and Joseph Kinchloe of Port Smith, VA.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by a brother, James Kinchloe.

Cremation rites were accorded.

In celebration of her life, visitation was held from 11 am until time of memorial services at 12 pm Friday, October 16, 2009 at Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home in Alton.

Memorials may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association or the American Lung Association.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaf.com

 

Alton

Ann Jane "Jean" Kistner

Ann Jane "Jean" Kistner, 89, passed away Saturday, September 26, 2009 with family at her side. She went to join Bob, her husband of 63 years who died in 2003.

The daughter of Edward and Clara Schubert, Jean was born December 12, 1919, in Streator, Illinois. She moved to Alton with her family when she was 13 years old, and lived here for most of her life. She was living in Tacoma, Washington, near her daughter, at the time of her death.

Jean graduated from Alton High School in 1938, and on June 10, 1939, she married the love of her life, Arthur Robert (Bob) Kistner. She was very devoted to her family, and will be greatly missed. After her primary passion of raising her family, she was an avid reader, loved travelling, and enjoyed playing bridge. She and her family were parishioners of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church for most of their time in Alton, with some of that time at Saint Matthew’s Catholic Church.

Jean is survived by one daughter and son-in-law, Judy (Gene) Hussey of Fircrest, Wash.; two sons and daughters-in-law, Michael (Donna) Kistner of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; and Mark (Meme) Kistner of Glenwood Springs, Col.; five grandchildren, Megan (Scott) Matthew of Federal Way, Wash.; Erin (Steve) Keller of San Jose, Calif.; KellyAnn Hussey of Tacoma, Wash.; Kathleen (Tom) Ellis of Columbia, Mo.; and Steven (Jen) Kistner of Tewksbury, Mass.; 14 great-grandchildren; and other extended family and friends.

Besides her parents and husband, Jean was preceded in death by her brother and sister-in-law, Kenneth (Pat) Schubert; and her niece, Ann Schubert.

A Funeral Mass was held at Saint Rita Catholic Church in Tacoma, Wash. on October 9, 2009. A graveside ceremony was held on October 17, 2009 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Cemetery in Alton, led by a clergyman of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Memorials may be given to Saint Mary’s Catholic School.

The obituary and guest book may be found at www.staten-fine.com or www.legacy.com

Alton

Roy Donald (Don) Moran

Roy Donald (Don) Moran passed away Tuesday, October 13, 2009 under the care of BJC Hospice Care at his home with his family by his side.

He was born to the late Harley E. and Martha L. (Lawrence) Moran on July 17, 1932 in Fidelity, Illinois.

He married Carol A. (Ripplinger) Eschbach on March 14, 1968 in Alton, Illinois. She survives.

He retired from Olin Corporation in 1994 where he worked for 42 years as a strip anneal operator in the Brass Mill. He was a member of College Avenue Presbyterian Church in Alton. Don was a St. Louis Cardinal fan and enjoyed bowling. One of his favorite things to do was walking the beloved family dog, a yellow lab named "Libby". He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and uncle.

In addition to his wife, he will be sadly missed by their seven children, Jeanette D. (Randy) Wade of Alton, Cheryl E. Wenstrom of White Cloud, MI, Robert J. (Jill) Eschbach of Alton, Cheryl L. (Steven) Haas of Alton, Lisa M. Mason of Cocoa, FL, Cynthia K. (Larry) Hardgrave of Cottage Hills and Tina L. (Brian) Bacigalupo of Bay City, MI; eleven grandchildren, Cammie L (Michael) Gray, Brian (Angela) Wade, Brett (Raquel) Eschbach, Sarah (Steve) Payne, Thomas Wenstrom, Christopher (Emily) Wenstrom, Meghan and Andrew Kayser, Leah Mason, Lindsay and Carter Bacigalupo; six great grandchildren, Jacob McCann, Breanna Gray, Kalsey & Hannah Gray, Ember Wade and Abigail Payne; siblings, June Read & Lois Green of Hardin, Joan (Jack) Payne of Edwardsville, Janet (Norbert) Diveley of Arnold, MO, Jeanie (Bud) Spangler of Lawrenceville, IL and Hope (Richard) Cox of Alton and numerous nieces and nephews of whom he was very fond of.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by two brothers, Lawrence and Harold Moran and four sisters, Mary Nodiff, Kathryn Stewart, Joyce and Kathleen Moran and a son-in-law, Thomas E. Wenstrom.

In celebration of his life, visitation was held from 10 am to service time at 12 Noon on Friday, October 16, 2009 at Elias Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto with Rev. Janet Reily officiating.

Burial followed at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey.

Memorials may be made to BJC Hospice or the College Avenue Presbyterian Church.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.

STAUNTON

Matthew S. Penrod

Matthew S. Penrod, 30, of Staunton, died on Tues., Oct. 6, 2009 in Staunton.

He was born April 11, 1979 in Litchfield, Ill., the son of John E. Wells II and Betty L. (Penrod) Wells.

He worked in fire restoration and was a tattoo artist for five years until May 2009.

He is survived by one son, Kade Eben Walker Penrod of Staunton; one daughter, Joplin June Paige Penrod of Staunton; his parents, John and Betty (Penrod) Wells of Staunton; one brother, John Wells III of Staunton; one sister, Brittney Wells of Staunton; his grandparents, Calvin and Alma Penrod of New Douglas; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his dear friend, Beth Westbrook.

He was preceded in death by his grandparent, Betty Penrod of New Douglas; his grandparents John and Nettie Wells of East St. Louis, Ill.; and his dear friend, Carl Machuga of Staunton.

Friends were able to call on Sat., Oct. 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. Funeral services were held on Sat., Oct. 10 at 1 p.m. at the funeral home in Staunton. Burial was held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to Kade and Joplin Penrod. Friends may sent condolences to matthewpenrod.yolasite.com.

Staunton

Edna J. Kinnikin

Edna J. Kinnikin, 87, passed away at 7:30 p.m. at Hitz Memorial Home in Alhambra, Ill.

She was born on July 7, 1922 in Olive Township near Livingston to Louis and Alma (Ruehrup) Schuette.

She married Grover Kinnikin on October 13, 1940 and he preceded her in death on March 30, 1974.

Edna graduated from Livingston High School. She loved baking, she was a musician, who played piano and organ. She loved taking care of her family and helping others. She volunteered at Hitz Memorial Home over the years.

She was a member of the St. Paul United Church of Christ in Staunton.

She is survived by her daughter, Sharon and her husband Larry Kuba of Staunton; her son, Bryan Kinnikin and his wife Sandy of Princeville, Ill.; six grandchildren, Alison and her husband Vince Hasquin of Staunton, Justine and her husband Mickey Bryant of Lexington, N.C., Andy Kuba and his wife Jennifer of Massillion, OH., Beth and her husband Ryan Mouw of Brookfield, Ill., Janelle and her husband Jeramie Krey of East Peoria, Ill., and Jenna and her husband Jake Krones of Chenoa, Ill.; eleven great-grandchildren, Eric and Emily Hasquin; Lauren, Mackenzie, and Addison Bryant; Megan and Kaitlyn Kuba; Brett and Brooke Mouw; and Savannah and Caleb Krey; two brothers, Raymond Schuette and his wife Dorothy of St. Louis, Mo., and Art Schuette and his wife Bev, of Willmington, NC. Many nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Jerry T. Kinnikin; and one brother; Elmer Schuette.

No services are planned, a private committal service for her remains will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to Hitz Memorial Home in Alhambra IL or the donor’s choice.

Lesicko Funeral Home in Livingston is in charge of arrangements.

To sign a guest book or to leave a private condo--lence please visit www.lesickofuneralhome.com.

STAUNTON

Alba A. Odorizzi

Alba A. Odorizzi, 88, of Staunton, died on Mon., Oct. 5, 2009 at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Staunton.

She was born on Oct. 8, 1920 in Benld, the daughter of the late Joseph Barra and the late Angelina (Nardin) Barra.

She married Harry J. "Tuck" Odorizzi on Nov. 27, 1943 in Benld, Ill., and he preceded her in death on June 25, 1999.

She was a homemaker for many years. She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church of Staunton; a member of Altar & Rosary Society; a member of Legion of Mary; a member of Women’s Catholic Union; and she was also a volunteer for many local organizations.

She is survived by three sons, Terry Odorizzi and his wife, Sue of Staunton, Larry Odorizzi and his wife, Lana of Staunton, and David Odorizzi and his wife, Debby of Staunton; two daughters, Sherry Millner and her husband, Charles of Staunton and Mary Sherfy and her husband, David of St. Louis, Mo.; 11 grandchildren, Valerie Sprague, Joseph Odorizzi, Patrick Millner, Elizabeth Brown, Mary Millner, Kathryn Sherfy, Elizabeth Sherfy, Hilary Odorizzi, Joshua Odorizzi, Elizabeth Wesbrook, and Heather DeValle; nine great-grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Gerry Barra of Hamel, Ill.; several nieces and nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death by an infant son, Kerry; two brothers, Joe Barra and Bruno Barra; and three sisters, Rena Carey, Aurora Obertino, and her twin sister, Mary Heigert.

Friends were able to call on Thurs., Oct. 8 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. A prayer service was recited at 5 p.m. on Thursday evening. Funeral services were held on Fri., Oct. 9 at 10 a.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton with Rev. George Radosevich as celebrant. Burial was held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to either St. Michael’s Catholic Church of Staunton or to the Staunton Food Pantry.

STAUNTON

Irene M. Masinelli

Irene M. Masinelli, 89, of Staunton, died on Sun., Oct. 11, 2009 at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Staunton.

She was born on September 9, 1920 in Livington, Ill., the daughter of the late Pete Fortuna and the late Ricca (Spinavello) Fortuna.

She married Michael A. Masinelli on November 2, 1937 in Livingston, Ill., and he preceded her in death on April 30, 2004.

She was a homemaker for many years and also was a self-employed beautician. She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton; a member of Quilting Ladies of St. Michael’s; a member of Altar & Rosary Society of the Church; and a member of Concordia Hall of Staunton.

She is survived by two sons, Wayne Masinelli and his wife, Maggi of Staunton and Russell Masinelli and his wife, Anita of Staunton; one daughter, Coyla Struthers and her husband, Douglas of Lake Tahoe, Nev.; 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Lee Rodriguez and her husband, Joe of Staunton and Florene Hainaut of Staunton; several nieces and nephews also survive.

Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Thurs., Oct. 15 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton. Funeral services will be held on Thurs., Oct. 15 at 11 a.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton with Rev. George Radosevich as celebrant. Burial will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to either St. Michael’s Catholic Church or School, Hospice of Southern Illinois, or to the Staunton Education Foundation. Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton is in charge of arrangements.

GILLESPIE

John P. Madden

John P. Madden, 78, of Gillespie, died on Sat., Oct. 10, 2009 at St. John’s Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, Mo.

He was born on August 23, 1931 in Litchfield, Ill., the son of the late John P. Madden and the late Florence J. (Fitzpatrick) Madden.

He married Barbara (Resnik) Madden on June 23, 1962 at Christ The King Catholic Church in University City, Mo., and she survives.

He was an attorney at law; Law Office: John P. Madden, Attorney. He was a veteran and served with the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He graduated from SS Simon and Jude Grade School, Gillespie High School in 1949, Blackburn College in 1953 with a bachelor’s degree and from St. Louis University with a J.D. Degree. He was a member of the Macoupin County Bar Association and Knights of Columbus-Gillespie Chapter. He was a former member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce and Gillespie City Cemetery Board. President member of the SS Simon & Jude Church and Choir. He was a former Macoupin County Public Defender and Royal Lakes and Dorchester City Attorney. He was a former Golden Gloves Boxer. He was a little league coach. He won the 2001 Gillespie Civic Achievement Award. He was an organizer of the 5K run at Black Diamond Days. He was a Gillespie city attorney for 43 years, retiring in 2004.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Madden of Gillespie, Ill.; four sons, John P. Madden of St. Cloud, Minn., Paul F. Madden of Gillespie, Timothy J. Madden of Lemont, Ill., and David W. Madden of Urbana, Ill.; four grandchildren, Colleen Elizabeth Madden, Joseph Mark Madden, Peter John Madden, and Clare Marie Madden.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Mark D. Madden; two brothers, Francis Paul Madden and Daniel James Madden; and one sister, Mary Ann Madden Hall.

Visitation was held on Tues., Oct. 13 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie. A prayer service was held on Tues., Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held on Wed., Oct. 14 at 10:30 a.m. at SS Simon & Jude Church in Gillespie with Monsignor Larry Auda officiating. Burial will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery in Gillespie on Wed., Oct. 14. Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com.

HIGHLAND

Gerald W. "Jerry" Koch

Gerald W. "Jerry" Koch, 81, of Highland, died on Tues., Oct. 6, 2009 at Alhambra Care Center in Alhambra, Ill.

He was born on March 28, 1928 in Highland, the son of the late Elmer J. Koch and the late Corine R. (Haas) Koch.

He married Shirley Marie Zurliene on May 30, 1956 at St. Mary’s Church in Trenton, Ill. and she preceded him in death on May 30, 2006.

He was born in Highland and grew up there; he graduated from St. Paul High School in 1946. He served with the U.S. Army. In the early 1970’s, he purchased Highland Pontiac which he and his brother operated for many years after taking it over from their father. He retired in January 1989. He and his wife enjoyed vacations in Fla. He was a member of Saint Paul Catholic Church in Highland; a member of Knights of Columbus Council #1580 in Highland; a member of Fourth Degree Assembly #0231 K of C, Highland, Ill.; and a member of American Legion/Lee Iten Post #439, Highland for over 50 years.

He is survived by his son, Thomas J. Koch of Highland; and his sister, Esther Pike and her husband, Edwin of Milford, Conn.

He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer J. Koch; his mother, Corine (Haas) Koch; his wife, Shirley M. (Zurliene) Koch; his son, Gerald Koch, who died in 1957 as an infant; his brother, Bernard O. "Benny" Koch, who died on December 11, 2002.

Visitation was held on Fri., Oct. 9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Sat., Oct. 10 from 8 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Funeral services were held on Sat., Oct. 10 at 9 a.m. at Saint Paul Catholic Church in Highland with Father Aloysius Ndeaneafo, Parochial Vicar of St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland. Interment was held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Highland, Ill. A funeral lunch was held at K&C Hall and was served by Daughters of Isabella. Memorials are suggested to Alzheimer’s Association, 9378 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132-2134. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

HIGHLAND

Howard E. "Woody" Isaak

Howard E. "Woody" Isaak, 72, of Highland, died on Tues., Oct. 6, 2009 at his residence.

He was born on April 14, 1937 in Carlyle, Ill., the son of the late Paul Isaak and the late Dorothy "Dot" (Dieckman) Isaak.

He was divorced.

He was a shift superintendent and worked in manufacturing. He was born in Carlyle and grew up there. He started working at a local bowling alley setting pins. At age 15, he started working at Alton Box Co. (now Smurfit-Stone Container Corp.) He served with the U.S. Army from 1955-1957. He returned to Alton Box and retired at age 62. He was an avid card player.

He is survived by two sons, Terry T. Isaak and his wife, Tina of Highland, Ill. and Todd A. Isaak and his wife, Jan of Trenton, Ill.; three daughters, Tina L. Boehne and her husband, Fred of Highlands Ranch, Colo., Tammy S. Isaak of Highland, and Shirleyjean Carvalho of Kamuela, Hawaii; 11 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; one brother, Paul A. Isaak and his special friend, Mindy Jacobson of Millersburg, Ill.; one sister, Gay Rensing and her husband, Maurice of Ohio; and his former wife, Mary Lou (Meyer) Isaak of Highland.

He was preceded in death by his father, Paul Isaak; his mother, Dorothy "Dot" (Dieckman) Isaak; and his grandchild, Blake W. Boehne, who died on December 3, 1988.

Visitation was held on Thurs., Oct. 8 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Fri., Oct. 9 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Fri., Oct. 9 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home in Highland with Fr. Aloysius Ndeaneafo, Parochial Vicar of St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland. Interment was held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at Cypress Lounge.

New Douglas

Shirley E. Lingner

Shirley E. Lingner, 74, passed away at 8:15 a.m. on October 6, 2009 at the Hillsboro Health Care Center in Hillsboro.

She was born on January 23, 1935 in Lake Fork, Ill., to William and Bessie (Sherwood) Koehler.

She married Robert A.E. Lingner on May 16, 1955 in Little Rock, Ark. He preceded her in death on September 10, 2003.

She is survived by her two sons, Robert L. Lingner and his wife Donna, of Glen Carbon, and Brion A. Lingner of New Douglas/Binney, IL; two grandchildren, Suzanne and Stephanie Lingner of Glen Carbon; three brothers, Mike Koehler of Mount Pulaski, Ill., Dave Koehler and his wife Blanche of Morton, Ill., and Gary "Pudge" Koehler of Lincoln, Ill., one sister Betty Johnson of Illiopolis, Ill.; and two sisters-in law, Phyllis Koehler of Carlinville Ill. and Doris Faith of Lincoln, Ill. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law, Rebecca Lingner; two brothers , Harold Koehler and Edward Koehler; and three sisters, Della Mae Bradley, Norma Jean Ubbenga, and Linda Gressel.

Visitaion as held on Sat., October 10 from 9 a.m. until the time of service at Lesicko funeral home in Livingston, Ill. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Kevin Cook officiating.

Burial was held at the New Douglas Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association or American Diabetes Association

To sign a guest book or to leave a private condolence please visit www.lesickofuneralhome.com.

MARINE

Cletis L. Eggimann

Cletis L. Eggimann, 43, of Marine, Ill., died on Mon., Oct. 5, 2009 at 4110 Yann Road in Marine, Ill.

He was born on May 23, 1966 in Marine, Ill., the son of the late Farrell A. Eggimann and Lulla May (Allen) Eggimann.

He was never married.

He was born in St. Louis, Mo. He moved to Marine in 1977; graduated Triad High School in 1984; attended and graduated truck driving school; operated vending company, "Cletis Eggimann Vending"; processed scrap metal; opened and operated Marine Bar and Grill in Marine, Ill. in September 1999. He loved farm work, hunting, and riding motorcycles. He was a member of Men’s Auxiliary to VFW Post 5694 in Highland; a member of YMCA in Edwardsville; a former member of J.C.’s in Edwardsville.

He is survived by his mother, Lulla May (Allen) Eggimann of Marine, Ill.; one brother, Curtis R. Eggimann of New Douglas, Ill.; his grandmother, Myrtle M. Allen of Marine, Ill.; aunts, uncles, and cousins also survive.

He was preceded in death by his father, Farrel A. Eggimann, who died on February 12, 2003; and two sisters, Dianna G. Eggimann and Debra K. Eggimann, both as premature infants.

Visitation was held on Tues., Oct. 6 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Marine. Visitation continued on Wed., Oct. 7 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Wed., Oct. 7 at 10 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Marine, Ill. with Rev. Philip H. Kershner, Pastor of Marine United Church of Christ in Marine. Interment was held on Wed., Oct. 7 at 2 p.m. at Russell Heights Cemetery in Jackson, Mo. Memorials are suggested to American Heart Association, 624 Bollman Avenue, Edwardsville, IL 62025 or American Diabetes Association, 2650 S. Hanley Rd., St. Louis, MO 63144. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

CHATHAM, FORMERLY OF HILLSBORO AND STAUNTON

Peter John Patton

Peter John Patton, 81, of Chatham, formerly of Hillsboro and Staunton, died on Wed., Sept. 30, 2009 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Ill.

He was born on May 31, 1928 in Staunton, the son of the late John and Elaine (Golianis) Patten.

He married Rosemary Ann Baumann on October 8, 1950 in St. Joseph, Mo.; and she survives. They would have celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary on October 8, 2009.

He graduated from Staunton High School in 1947 and shortly after, joined the U.S. Army and was discharged in 1950. He attended St. Louis Mortuary School and had been a licensed funeral director for over 50 years. He and his wife, Rosemary, purchased the Carroll Funeral Home on Main Street in Hillsboro in 1955, named it Patton Memorial Home, and later moved it to its present location on Main and Tremont. It was purchased by Todd and Lora Dean and is now known as Bass, Patton, Dean Funeral Home.

He had a Nursing Home Administrators License and built and operated what is now Montgomery Nursing & Rehabilitation. He also built and operated a nursing home in Jerseyville, Ill., Hardin, Ill., and Jacksonville, Ill.

A scholarship is given from the Patton Family to several Hillsboro High School students who are going to Lincoln Land Community College each year.

He was a member of the Hillsboro Lion’s Club, Hillsboro Moose Club, Charter member of Knights of Columbus 4608 (he donated the land where the new K of C Building is now located in Taylor Springs), VFW Post 1306, Mt. Moriah Masonic Lodge, Hillsboro #51, and ANSAR Shrine, Springfield, Ill.

Visitation was held on Sat., Oct. 3 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Bass, Patton, Dean Funeral Home in Hillsboro, Ill. with a graveside service following at 3 p.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton with Rev. Fr. Peter Harman, Pastor of Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield, Ill. officiating. Military rites were held at graveside by Staunton VFW.

STAUNTON

David Lynn Payton

David Lynn Payton, 67, of Staunton, died on Wed., Sept. 30, 2009 at the home of his daughter, Janet Readenour, in rural Mt. Olive, Ill.

He was born on May 27, 1942 in Tunnelton, Ind., the son of the late Wayne Payton and the late Ruby Ethel (Martin) Payton.

He married Diane Elizabeth Czhor on July 27, 1974 in Hammond, Ind., and she preceded him in death on Feb. 7, 2009.

He attended Tunnelton Elementary and graduated from Tunnelton High School with the Class of 1960. He served as Terminal Manager for Crausa-Cartage Trucking Company in St. Louis, Mo. until his retirement. He loved fishing.

He is survived by three sons, Gerry Dmochowski and his wife, Laura of Worden, David Payton of Ind. and Christopher Payton of Ill.; two daughters, Kim Bouse and her husband, David of Cincinnati, Ohio and Janet Readenour and her husband, Mike of Mt. Olive; one brother, Roger Payton and his wife, Kay of Ind.; four sisters, Janet Hobson and her husband, Roland of Ind., Priscilla Smoot and her husband, Dennis of Ind., Martha Strunk and her husband, Elmer of Ind., and Annetta Moore and her husband, Dean of Ind.; 12 grandchildren, Brooke, Gerry Jr., Josh, Nick, Zac, Spencer, Alex, Trevor, Summer, Madison, Sydney and Lili Anne also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Ruby Ethel Martin Payton; his wife, Diane Elizabeth Czahor Payton, who died on Sat., Feb. 7, 2009; five brothers, Morris, Donny, Bobby, Jim and Harold Payton; and two sisters, Joyce Terry and Mary Bewley.

Visitation was held on Fri., Oct. 2 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive. Funeral services were held on Sat., Oct. 3 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Ed Fogle officiating. Burial was held at Mt. Olive City Cemetery in Mt. Olive. A funeral lunch was held following the service for family and friends and was served at the Mt. Olive Area Veterans Hall in Mt. Olive. Memorials are suggested to Mt. Olive City Cemetery Improvement Fund.

STAUNTON

Alba A. Odorizzi

Alba A. Odorizzi, 88, of Staunton, passed away on Mon., Oct. 5, 2009 at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Staunton.

Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thurs., Oct. 8 at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton with prayer service to be recited at 5 p.m. on Thursday evening. Funeral Mass will be held on Fri., Oct. 9 at 10 a.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton, with burial in Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to either St. Michael’s Catholic Church of Staunton or to the Staunton Food Pantry.

A complete obituary will be published next week.

AVA, Ill., FORMERLY OF STAUNTON

William R. "Jim" Adler

William R. "Jim" Adler, 68, of Ava, Ill., formerly of Staunton, died on Fri., October 2, 2009 at Sparta Community Hospital in Sparta, Ill.

He was born on August 1, 1941 in Cleaton, Ky., the son of the late Otha Adler and Alice E. (Denson) Adler.

He was engaged to Bettie Rackley.

He was the owner of Adler & Barrett Pest Control Company in Staunton. He was a member of Pleasant Hill Christian Church in Murphysboro, Ill.; a member of the NRA; and an avid outdoorsman.

He is survived by four sons, Vince Adler and his wife, Cathy of Highland, Ill., John Adler and his wife, Shannon of Festus, Mo., Brian Adler of Granite City, Ill., and Christopher Adler of Ava, Ill.; eight grandchildren, Vince Adler Jr., Cassandra Townsend, Krystalle Adler, Serenity Adler, William Adler, Trevor Adler, Jeremy Adler, and Michaela Adler; three great-grandchildren, Hunter Adler, Chloe Townsend, and Wyatt Adler; one sister, Diane Barthelemy of Pontoon Beach, Ill.; one step-sister, Ruth Nadorff of Louisville, Ky. eight step-grandchildren; and his extended family, Terry and Susie Rackley, Deb and Dean Cleeton, Brenda Rackley, Patricia Rackley, and Kelly Rackley.

He was preceded in death by one grandson, Anthony Adler.

Friends may call from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wed., October 7 at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. Funeral services will be held on Thurs., October 8 at 11 a.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton with Rev. Jason Brandon officiating. Burial will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society in Murphysboro, Ill.

STAUNTON

Agnes V. "Ronnie" Rothgangel

Agnes V. "Ronnie" Rothgangel, 71, of Staunton, died on Sat., Oct. 3, 2009 at Community Memorial Hospital in Staunton.

She was born on December 19, 1937 in Chicago, Ill., the daughter of the late John Kilduff and the late Agnes Kosowski.

She married Edward C. Rothgangel on October 3, 1959 in Staunton, and he preceded her in death on December 25, 2004.

She was a clerk at Fashion Lane in Staunton for many years. She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton; and a member of Staunton VFW Ladies Auxiliary.

She is survived by one son, Edward Rothgangel and his life partner, Ron Fields of Staunton; three grandchildren, Nicholas Rothgangel, Nathan Rothgangel, and Andrea Rothgangel, all of Staunton; two sisters, Harriet Halpin and D.I. Rae, both of Staunton; one brother, Ray Kilduff of Benld; several nieces and nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death by one son, John Frederick Rothgangel; five brothers, Roy, Bob, Jack, Bruno, and Stanley Kilduff; and one sister, Margaret Scheller.

Friends were able to call on Tues., October 6 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. Funeral services were held on Tues., October 6 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. George Radosevich officiating. Burial was held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to the family.

GILLESPIE

Mary (Philp) Bertetti

Mary (Philp) Bertetti, 100, of Gillespie, Ill. died on September 14, 2009 at Wingate Nursing Home in Andover, MA, just shy of her 101st birthday.

She was born October 6, 1908 in Lumphinans, Fifeshire, Scotland, the youngest of six children born to the late David and Agnes (Wood) Philp.

She married Louis D. Bertetti on July 4, 1932 in Bunker Hill, IL at the height of the Great Depression.

Mary emigrated from Cowdenbeath, Scotland to this country in 1922 at the age of 14 with her sister and her husband. They settled in Benld, Ill. where Mary went to high school graduating in 1926. She then went to Illinois State Normal School in Bloomington, IL and became a third grade teacher in the Benld school district. She was forced to stop teaching when she married because married women were not allowed to hold a teaching position back then.

Mary and her husband bought their first home in Gillespie, IL where she resided until 2005, when, at the age of 96, she came to Andover to be closer to her only child, David Dominic Bertetti and his wife Sandra. Mary was a resident at Marland Place for 4 years, until last June, when she moved to Wingate.

Mary was a loving mother, a wonderful grandmother and great grandmother. Her son once described her as "a quintessential homemaker - good cook, and an accomplished seamstress, knitter, and needlepoint worker." She was generous to all who knew her and will be sorely missed by her family.

Besides her son and his wife, Mary is survived by three grandsons: Scott Philp Bertetti of Park Ridge, NJ and his wife Karen, Stephen Metcalf Bertetti of Alexandria, VA and his wife Chuleekorn and Dr. Richard David Bertetti of New Orleans, LA and his wife Rebecca. In addition Mary had 4 beloved great grandchildren: Duncan, Macallan, and Petra of Park Ridge, NJ and Natasha of Alexandria, VA. Her nephews Robert Davidson of Benld, IL and his wife Mary; Andrew Philp of Brantford, Canada and his wife Peggy; nieces, Carol Henderson of Toronto, Canada and Nancy Porter of Inverness, Scotland, and several grand nieces/nephews also survive her.

There were no calling hours but there were two memorial services: one held on Oct. 3 at 10:30 a.m. at West Parish Church, Andover, MA with Reverend Tom McMillan officiating and a second to be held at the Kravanya Funeral Home, Gillespie on Oct. 11, again officiated by Rev. Tom McMillan. The service will begin at 2 p.m. followed by burial in the Benld Cemetery.

Montoursville, Pa. formerly of Alton

Delbert L. Jennings Jr.

Delbert L. Jennings Jr., 43, formerly of Alton and Edwardsville, passed away on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at his residence.

He was born on July 30, 1966 in Alton, Illinois the son of Delbert L. and Delores (Cathorall) Jennings Sr.

Survivors include his father Delbert L. Jennings Sr. of Lehigh Acres, Florida, his mother Delores Jennings of Lehigh Acres, Florida, two daughters: Brittanie Jennings and Tiffanie Jennings both of Lehigh Acres, Florida, one brother: Darrin Jennings of Mobile, Alabama, his paternal grandmother: June Stumpe of Alton, Illinois, several aunts, uncles, cousins, and his companion: Christi Bausinger.

He was a security guard. He attended the Bethalto Presbyterian Church. He was a 1984 graduate of Edwardsville Senior High School. He was active in the Salvation Army.

He was preceded in death by one brother: Dwayne Jennings, his maternal grandparents: Harold and Emma Cathorall, and his paternal grandfather: Elmer Jennings.

Visitation was held 10am until time of funeral services at 11am on Saturday, October 3, 2009 at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Pastor Joel Lohr officiated. Burial followed at Fosterburg Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Bethalto Presbyterian Church or the American Heart Association.

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com

HAMEL

Janis S. Vaughn

Janis S. Vaughn, 48, of Hamel, died on Sun., September 27, 2009 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, Ill.

She was born on December 15, 1960 in East St. Louis, Ill., the daughter of the late Robert E. Williamson and Pauline L. (Guse) Williamson.

She was divorced.

Raised in E. St. Louis, she moved to Edwardsville and graduated from Edwardsville High School in 1979; she was a resident of Hamel. She was a Certified Nurses’ Aid.

She is survived by her mother, Pauline L. (Guse) Williamson of Hamel; two sons, Jonathan A. Ziegler of Hamel and Jeremy N. Ziegler of Worden; two daughters, Jennifer N. Wallace and her husband, Frank of Livingston and Jessica R. Vaughn of Edwardsville; one brother, Ronald P. Williamson and his wife, Barbara of Aviston, Ill.; and one sister, Joan Hall and her husband, Glenn of Frankfort, Ky.

She was preceded in death by her father, Robert E. Williamson, who died on August 25, 1997.

Visitation was held on Wed., Sept. 30 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Hamel. Funeral services were held on Wed., Sept. 30 at 6 p.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Hamel with Rev. William Weedon, Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Worden.

Memorials are suggested to the family. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.daudermanmortuary.com or by email at condolences@daudermanmortuary.com.

CHATHAM, FORMERLY OF HILLSBORO AND STAUNTON

Peter John Patton

Peter John Patton, 81, of Chatham, formerly of Hillsboro and Staunton, died on Wed., Sept. 30, 2009 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Ill.

He was born on May 31, 1928 in Staunton, the son of the late John and Elaine (Golianis) Patten.

He married Rosemary Ann Baumann on October 8, 1950 in St. Joseph, Mo.; and she survives. They would have celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary on October 8, 2009.

He graduated from Staunton High School in 1947 and shortly after, joined the U.S. Army and was discharged in 1950. He attended St. Louis Mortuary School and had been a licensed funeral director for over 50 years. He and his wife, Rosemary, purchased the Carroll Funeral Home on Main Street in Hillsboro in 1955, named it Patton Memorial Home, and later moved it to its present location on Main and Tremont. It was purchased by Todd and Lora Dean and is now known as Bass, Patton, Dean Funeral Home.

He had a Nursing Home Administrators License and built and operated what is now Montgomery Nursing & Rehabilitation. He also built and operated a nursing home in Jerseyville, Ill., Hardin, Ill., and Jacksonville, Ill.

A scholarship is given from the Patton Family to several Hillsboro High School students who are going to Lincoln Land Community College each year.

He was a member of the Hillsboro Lion’s Club, Hillsboro Moose Club, Charter member of Knights of Columbus 4608 (he donated the land where the new K of C Building is now located in Taylor Springs), VFW Post 1306, Mt. Moriah Masonic Lodge, Hillsboro #51, and ANSAR Shrine, Springfield, Ill.

Visitation was held on Sat., Oct. 3 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Bass, Patton, Dean Funeral Home in Hillsboro, Ill. with a graveside service following at 3 p.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton with Rev. Fr. Peter Harman, Pastor of Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield, Ill. officiating. Military rites were held at graveside by Staunton VFW.

FORMERLY OF LIVINGSTON

George L. Robertson Jr.

George L. Robertson Jr., 71, of Auburndale, Fla., formerly of Livingston, Ill., died on Sun., September 20, 2009 at Winter Haven Hospital in Winter Haven, Fla.

He was born on Sun., October 3, 1937 in St. Louis, Mo., the son of the late George L. Robertson and the late Ann C. (Lipolsky) Robertson.

He married Ida A. Whitlock on May 9, 1959 at Sacred Heart Church in Livingston, Ill., and she survives.

He was an electrician and was employed at Monsanto Chemical Corp. in Sauget, Ill. for 31 years. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Livingston, Ill.; a former Parish Council Member and Parish Council President; a 3rd Degree Knight for Knights of Columbus Council 2197 in Staunton; a 50 year member of the Croatian Fraternal Society, Lodge 217 in Benld; a member of the Lake Juliana Home Owners Association; a 25 year and former member of the Staunton Country Club; and a former player for the 3M Amateur Baseball League.

He is survived by his wife, Ida A. Robertson of Auburndale, Fla.; three sons, Kevin Robertson and his wife, Peg of New Douglas, Ill., Raybob Robertson and his wife, Lavonda of Livingston, Ill., and David Robertson of Auburndale, Fla.; five grandchildren, Keith Robertson and his fiancee, Cassie Korunka of Livingston, Ill.; Danyelle Robertson of Livingston, Ill.; and Colin, Hope, and Audrey Robertson, all of Staunton, Ill.; one sister, Marjorie Kaminski of Portland, Ore.; two sisters-in-law, Linda Rutledge of St. Louis, Mo. and Judy Denney and her husband, Gary Dennyey of Livingston; one brother-in-law, Wayne Odorizzi and his wife, Janice of Canton, Ill.; nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Rosemary Odorizzi; and two brothers-in-law, Robert "Bob" Whitlock and Glenn Kaminski.

Visitation was held on Fri., September 25, 2009 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Lesicko Funeral Home in Livingston. Funeral services were held on Sat., September 26 at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Livingston with Fr. George Radosevich. Interment was held at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Livingston. Memorials are suggested to Sacred Heart Cemetery and Sacred Heart Altar & Rosary Society or the Staunton Country Club.

ALHAMBRA

Robert J. "Bob" Geschwend

Robert J. "Bob" Geschwend, 61, of Alhambra, died on Sun., September 20, 2009 near his home in rural Alhambra, Ill.

He was born on October 15, 1947 in Highland, Ill., the son of the late Joseph A. Geschwend and Evelyn D. (Ammann) Geschwend.

He married Karen Colleen Frandsen on July 14, 1979 in Alhambra, Ill., and she preceded him in death on October 27, 2000.

He was born in Highland and grew up in Edwardsville. He graduated Edwardsville High School in 1965. He worked for McDonald Douglas for a short while and started working for Operator Engineer Local #520 as a heavy equipment operator and he was a master mechanic. He retired in 2003, but continued doing dozer, welding and mechanic work for many local farmers. He was a member of Salem United Church of Christ in Alhambra, Ill.; a member of Staunton Masonic Lodge A.F. & A.M.; and a member of Operating Engineers Local #520.

He is survived by his mother, Evelyn D. (Ammann) Geschwend of Glen Carbon, Ill.; his son, Kurt M. Geschwend of Glen Carbon, Ill.; one daughter, Kristin M. Geschwend of Alhambra, Ill.; his sister, Susan M. Cox and her husband, Frank of Glen Carbon, Ill.; his aunt and uncle, Charles Geschwend and his wife, Janet of Glen Carbon, Ill.; his cousin, George Geschwend of Seattle, Wash.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph A. Geschwend, who died on October 1, 2005; and his wife, Karen C. (Frandsen) Geschwend.

Visitation was held on Thurs., Sept. 24 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Alhambra. Visitation continued on Fri., Sept. 25 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Alhambra, Ill. Funeral services were held on Fri., September 25 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Jerry Amiri, Pastor of Salem United Church of Christ in Alhambra officiating. Interment was held at Salem Cemetery in Alhambra. A funeral lunch was held at Galaxy Restaurant in Alhambra. Memorials in lieu of flowers are suggested to American Heart Association, Alzheimers Association, Madison County Humane Society, and Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

CAMDENTON, Mo.

Linda Hopper

Linda Marie Hopper, daughter of Robert Wayne and Janice LeMeres Jones Scates, was born February 20, 1941 in El Dorado, Ill.

She departed this life, Sunday, September 20, 2009 in Lake Regional Hospital, Osage Beach, Mo., at the age of sixty-eight years and seven months.

On December 8, 1959, in Port Angeles, Wash., she was united in marriage to Charles Kenneth Hopper. Together they shared the past forty-nine years.

She was preceded in death by her father.

Survivors include her loving husband, Charles Hopper of Camdenton, Mo.; her mother, Janice Scates of Godfrey, Ill.; three brothers, Rex Scates and his wife, Ann of Bethalto, Ill.; Robert Scates and his wife, Joyce of Wichita Falls, Texas and Geron Scates and his wife, Linda of Snyder, Texas; three sisters, Susan Peeler and Kathy Narens and her husband, Leo, all of Lake Ozark, Mo. and Sarah Terry and her husband, Brian of Moro, Ill., and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and other relatives and many friends.

Linda was raised in St. Louis and as a child, the family moved to Staunton, Illinois where she graduated from high school in the class of 1959. After high school, she moved to Washington where she and Charles were married. After two years in Washington, they moved to Illinois, then later to Texas, then back to Illinois. They retired to the Lake of the Ozarks in 2001. Linda was an excellent musician and served as Music Director at several churches. She also sang for special events and funerals. She was a talented organ player as well.

Linda made a profession of faith and was a member of New Life Church of the Nazarene in Camdenton.

Music was her passion and in her spare time, she enjoyed flowers of all kinds. She had a knack for growing beautiful flowers and making floral arrangements.

Linda was a loving wife, daughter, sister and aunt and a caring neighbor and friend. We celebrate her life and her accomplishments and will treasure the memories she created for her family and friends.

Visitation was held on Thurs., Sept. 24 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Funeral services were held on Thurs., Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. in New Life Church of the Nazarene, Camdenton under the direction of Allee-Holman-Howe Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to New Life Church of the Nazarene and left at the funeral home or the church the day of the service.

LITCHFIELD, FORMERLY OF STAUNTON

Lowell Dean Hopper

Lowell Dean Hopper, 71, of Litchfield, formerly of Staunton, died on Tues., September 22, 2009 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Ill.

He was born on March 20, 1938 in Roodhouse, Ill., the son of the late Benjamin K. Hopper and the late Clora Evelyn (Motley) Hopper.

He married Gloria F. Smiddy on May 18, 1956 in Worden, Ill., and she survives.

He was a retired machine operator for many years and was also employed as a custodian and bus driver in Staunton School District for 8 years. He also owned a small engine repair shop in Staunton for years. He served with the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War era. He was a life member of North American Hunting Club.

Along with his wife, Gloria F. Hopper of Litchfield, he is also survived by one daughter, Dixie Lee Hopper of Carlinville; two sons, Larry Dean Hopper Sr. of Staunton and Kenneth E. Hopper of Lake KaHo, Ill.; three grandchildren, Larry Dean Hopper Jr., Crystal R. Carrigan, Debra Lynn Beach; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Charles Hopper of Camdenton, Mo.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Wilma Westbrook.

No visitation or services were scheduled. His remains were donated to Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Mo. Memorials are suggested to the charity of the donor’s choice. Williamson Funeral Home, Staunton, is in charge of arrangements.

ST. LOUIS, ORIGINALLY FROM WILLIAMSON

Christina M. Barna

Christina M. Barna, 86, of St. Louis, Mo., originally of Williamson, Ill., died on Sat., September 19, 2009 at her residence.

She was born on Sat., December 30, 1922 in Williamson, Ill., the daughter of the late John Jacob and Mary (Sysak) Barna.

She was never married.

She was a quality control inspector and was employed for GE Lamp Plant in St. Louis, Mo. for 40 years. She was a member of All Saints Catholic Church in University City, Mo.; volunteer at St. Mary’s Health Center; a member of Legion of 1000 Men and Women of the Carmelite’s; and a member of the Pagedale Club.

She enjoyed going to the Muny; she enjoyed baseball and the St. Louis Cardinals. She was dedicated to the organizations that she belonged to. She was very religious and most of all, loved to be together with family whenever possible.

She is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and many close friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Jacob and Mary (Sysak) Barna; four brothers, Steve Barna, Andy Barna, John Barna, and Mike Barna, and three brothers in infancy; and three sisters, Anna Barna, Catherine Hesi, and Julia Boyd.

Visitation was held on Wed., September 23 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Lesicko Funeral Home in Livingston.

A funeral mass was held on Thurs., September 24 at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Livingston with Fr. Ted Schelich officiating. Interment will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. In lieu of flowers, Masses are suggested.

To sign a guest book or to leave a private condolence, please visit www.lesickofuneralhome.com.

 

LIVINGSTON

George L. Robertson Jr.

71 year old George L. Robertson Jr. of Auburndale Fla. formerly of Livingston, Ill.

Passed away on Sunday, September 20, 2009 at 1:43 p.m at Winter Haven Hospital in Winter Haven Fla.

Arrangements are pending at the Lesicko Funeral Home in Livingston

STAUNTON

Jennie Lawrence

Jennie Lawrence, 81, of Staunton, died on Tues., September 15 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Mo.

She was born on March 6, 1928 in Bankston, Ala., the daughter of the late Kolan Lee Vick and the late Jessie Venoy (Caraway) Vick.

She married George R. Lawrence on August 15, 1957, and he preceded her in death on January 4, 1979.

She taught elementary school for 41 1/2 years, 12 of which were out of state. She taught fourth grade for 29 1/2 years at Neidringhaus Elementary School in Granite City, Illinois, from which she retired in 1993. She was the director of Women’s Missionary Union (IL Baptist State Asso.) for 8 years from 2001 to present; she was a board member of Macoupin Baptist Asso. for four years from 2005 to present; was a Sunday School teacher for 45 years until early 2009; taught Vacation Bible School for 30 years; was Bethel Church Coordinator for His Service Station for 17 years from 1993 to April 2009; was Pink Lady at Community Memorial Hospital in Staunton of 12 years from 1993 to 2005; was missions volunteer for a week to Oneida, Ky. school for 2 consecutive summers; was a member of Staunton Retired Teachers Association; a member of Macoupin County Retired Teachers Association; a member of Illinois Federation of Teachers AFT/AFL-CIO; a board member with Alton Industrial Baptist Association/Gateway Baptist Association for 13 years from 1993 to 2005; a member of Granite City Retired Teachers Association; a member of Madison County Retired Teachers Association; was a Tour de Donut volunteer for two years; worked on Pastor Search Committee and Building Fund Committee at Bethel Baptist Church in Staunton, where she was a member. She was a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend.

She is survived by three daughters, Karyn Lawrence and her husband, Kurt D. Jeffries of Champaign, Ill., Ronda Lawrence of Staunton, and Pamela Lawrence of Staunton; one granddaughter, Jennifer Morris of Champaign, Ill.; two sisters, Anna Sue Vick of Inverness, Fla. and Dot Vick Rooks and her husband, Albert of Brooksville, Fla.; several nieces and nephews also survive.

Friends were able to call from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Mon., September 21 at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. Funeral services were held on Mon., September 21 at 4 p.m. at the funeral home in Staunton with Rev. Les Montonya officiating. Her remains were cremated. Memorials are suggested either to the family or to the American Cancer Society.

GILLESPIE

Emra J. Edwards

Emra J. Edwards, 72 of Gillespie, passed away on September 16, 2009 at 12:41 AM at her residence.

He was born on August 5, 1937 in Gillespie to Emra Edwards and Ada (Smith) Edwards.

He married Viola (Blevins) Edwards on June 13, 1959 in Gillespie, Ill.

He was retired from Monterey Coal Co. He was a member of the First Christian Church of Gillespie.

He is survived by his wife Viola Edwards of Gillespie, IL, one son, Jeffrey and his wife Teri Edwards of Mesa, AZ, one daughter, Marsha Mussatto of Gillespie, IL, one daughter -in-law, Kelly Edwards of Gillespie, IL, and five grandchildren; Marcus Mussatto, Ryan Edwards, Colin Mussatto, Jenna Edwards, and Haley Edwards.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Emra Edwards III, and four sisters; Ruth Edwards, Darlene Edwards, Dorothy Rademacher, and Doris Remer.

Visitation was held on Friday, September 18, 2009 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 19 at 10 a.m. at First Christian Church in Gillespie with Rev. Arthur Roemer officiating.

Burial followed at the Gillespie City Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to First Christian Church, Gillespie High School All Weather Track or St. Anthony’s Hospice.

Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com.

HIGHLAND

Evelyn C. Brenkendorf

Evelyn C. Brenkendorf, 83, of Highland, died on Tues., September 15, 2009 at Faith Care Center in Highland, Ill.

She was born on May 5, 1926 in St. Jacob, Ill., the daughter of the late Edgar B. Faires and the late Cleo L. (Geers) Faires.

She married Osmar William Brenkendorf on September 16, 1955 in St. Jacob, Ill., and he preceded her in death on June 6, 1990.

She was born on the family farm north of St. Jacob. She was a 1944 graduate of St. Jacob High School. She then worked for Standard Steel Spring Co. in Madison, Ill. for one and a half years; then worked for Lon W. Harlow Ins. Co. in St. Louis until May of 1947; then worked for Boatman’s Bank in St. Louis, where she worked for 36 years as an administrative secretary. She left the bank when her husband became ill and she cared for him until his death. She was active at First United Methodist Church in St. Jacob and substituted as church organist. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in St. Jacob; and a leader of the J.O.Y. Singers (Just Older Youth) of Highland, Ill.

She is survived by many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Edgar Bryan Faires, who died on August 22, 1975; her mother, Cleo L. (Geers) Faires, who died on July 28, 1998; and her husband, Osmar W. Brenkendorf, who died on June 6, 1990.

Visitation was held on Thurs., September 17 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church of St. Jacob in St. Jacob, Ill. Funeral services were held on Thurs., September 17 at 11 a.m. at the church with Pastor Pablo Marty of First United Methodist Church of St. Jacob officiating. Interment was held at Keystone Cemetery in Saint Jacob, Ill. Memorials are suggested to First United Methodist Church in St. Jacob, Ill. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

NEW DOUGLAS

Billie D. "Darlene" Davis

Billie D. "Darlene" Davis, 47, of New Douglas, died on Wed., September 16, 2009 at Greenville Regional Hospital in Greenville, Ill.

She was born on May 26, 1962 in St. Louis, Mo., the daughter of the late Ray Kearbey and Imogene (Kearbey) Kearbey.

She married Norman L. "Norm" Davis III on June 28, 1986 in Evening Shade, Ark., and he survives.

She was a homemaker. She was the former owner of Flicks Tavern.

She is survived by her mother, Imogene Kearbey of Sullivan, Mo.; her husband, Norman L. "Norm" Davis III of New Douglas; one son, Norman L. Davis IV "Buzzy" and his significant other, Crystal Connors of New Douglas; three step-children, Douglas D. Davis, Debra A. Davis, and Randy Davis; one brother, Terry Middleton, two sisters, Debra Westbrook and her husband, Mike of Kokomo, Ind., and Janet Stewart; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her sister-in-law, Holly E. Davis-Hager and her husband, Mark of Lake St. Louis, Mo.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ray Kearbey; one step-child, Tina M. Davis; and one brother, Gary Middleton.

Visitation was held on Sun., September 20 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Alhambra. Funeral services were held on Sun., September 20 at 4 p.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Alhambra with Rev. Tom Plog of Central Christian Church in Greenville, Ill. officiating. A funeral lunch was held at the family’s home. Memorials are suggested to the family. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.daudermanmortuary.com or email at condolences@daudermanmortuary.com.

HAMEL

Albert G. Ernst

Albert G. Ernst, 84, of Hamel, died on Sun., September 20, 2009 at his residence.

He was born on August 28, 1925 in Alhambra, Ill., the son of the late Albert G. Ernst and the late Mathilda A. (Boehme) Ernst.

He married Ruth Martha Schumacher on September 29, 1946 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hamel, Ill., and she survives.

He was born and raised east of Alhambra, Ill., attended Pisgah Grade School and graduated from Mt. Olive High School. He joined the U.S. Army after school. After his service, he worked for Western Cartridge in Alton. He later drove transport for Cassens until 1950 when he started Ernst Heating and Cooling. He retired in 1987. He drove a limousine from Jen’s Classic Limo Service in Hamel for five years. He and his wife loved to travel. He was a member of Saint Paul Lutheran Church-Hamel, Ill.; a member of St. Paul Men’s Club; a former St. Paul Trustee; a St. Paul Church Trustee; a Hamel City Board Member for 25 years; was on the Board of Directors w/ the Southern Illinois District of Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod; a member of Alhambra American Legion; and a member of Hamel Volunteer Fire Department.

Along with his wife, Ruth M. Ernst of Hamel, he is also survived by his son, Roger L. Ernst and his wife, Millie of Edwardsville, Ill.; four grandchildren, Heather Reiseck and her husband, Kevin of East Alton, Ill., Cassie Ernst of Hamel, Ill., Roger Ernst II of Wood River, Ill., and Dustin Ernst of Edwardsville, Ill.; three sisters, Lonita Braundmeier of Highland, Ill., Iona Kline and her husband, Irvin of Franklin, Tenn., and Marie Buck and her husband, Dale of Wilsonville, Ore.; and one brother, John Ernst and his wife, Juanita of Alhambra, Ill.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Irma Clayton; and one brother, Vernon Ernst.

Visitation will be held on Wed., September 23 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Hamel, Ill. Visitation will continue on Thurs., September 24 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hamel, Ill. Funeral services were held on Thurs., September 24 at 10 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hamel with Rev. William Weedon, Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hamel officiating. Interment was held at Saint Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Hamel, Ill. Memorials are suggested to St. Paul Lutheran Church or KFUO Radio Station. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.daudermanmortuary.com or by email at condolences@daudermanmortuary.com.

NEW DOUGLAS

Robert L. "Bob" Langley

Robert L. "Bob" Langley, 57, of New Douglas, Ill., died on Wed., September 16, 2009 at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Staunton.

He was born on Tues., September 16, 1952 in Meriden, Conn., the son of the late Robert L. and Bertha (Warthen) Langley.

He married Rebecca Heberlein on May 28, 1982 in Broomfield, Colo., and she survives.

He was self-employed as a mechanic for 40 years. He had been involved with various EMT and paramedic programs since 1976. He served in the United States Air Force from April 1972 to September 1974 during the Vietnam War and was stationed at Loring Air Force Base in Loring, Maine. He was a member of New Douglas Volunteer Fire Department for the past six years; a member of Goldens Fire Department for five years; a member of Gilcrest Fire Department in Colorado for 12 years; and a member of Tobius Bilyeu American Legion Post 710.

He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Langley of New Douglas, Ill.; three daughters, Rachel Fogg and her husband, Christopher of New Douglas, Alison Langley of Troy, Ill. and Michelle Langley of Franklin, N.H.; five grandchildren, Joanna Fogg and Alexandra Fogg, both of New Douglas; Gabrielle Hill, Aurora Wood, and Travis Wood III, all of Franklin, N.H.; his step-mother, Ruby Langley of Boscowen, N.H.; three sisters, Sara Atkinson and her husband, Nathan of Boscowen, N.H., Mary DeGreenia and her husband, Alfred of Concord, N.H., and Barbara Roberts of Washington State; nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert L. Langley Sr. and Bertha (Warthen) Langley.

Visitation was held on Mon., September 21 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Lesicko Funeral Home in New Douglas. Funeral services were held on Mon., September 21 at 7 p.m. at the funeral home in New Douglas with Bob Couch officiating. Memorials are suggested to the Heartland Hospice, Fairview Heights, Ill., and the American Cancer Society. To sign a guest book or to leave a private condolence, please visit www.lesickofuneralhome.com.

STAUNTON

Barbara Ann Smith

Barbara Ann Smith, 59, of Staunton, died on Mon., September 7, 2009 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Ill.

She was born on December 26, 1949 in Litchfield, Ill., the daughter of Larry DeGuire and Emily (Raspica) DeGuire.

She married Michael C. Smith on March 22, 1975 in Middleborough, Mass., and he survives.

She was a superintendent at Salem High School in Salem, Ill. for the past seven years. Previously, she was superintendent at Waverly School for three years, was employed as a principal at Hillsboro and Gillespie school districts, and taught in elementary and special education at Litchfield, Worden and Staunton school districts. She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church of Staunton; President of Rotary Club in Salem, Ill.; named "Educator of the Year" by Salem Township, which she felt was the highlight of her career in education.

Along with her husband, Michael C. Smith of Staunton, she is survived by two sons, Michael C. Smith and his fiance Leighanne Kennedy of Collinsville, Ill. and James L. Smith and his wife, Sadie of St. Louis, Mo.; one daughter, Elizabeth A. Smith of Staunton; one grandchild, Brooke Ray of Collinsville, Ill.; her parents, Larry and Emily DeGuire of Staunton; one sister, Peggy DeGuire and her husband, Richard Supanich) of St. Louis, Mo.; one brother, John DeGuire and his wife, Kathy Cook of Eugene, Ore.; several nieces and nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death by one brother, Larry DeGuire.

Friends were able to call from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thurs., September 10 at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. Funeral services were held on Fri., September 11 at 10 a.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton with Rev. George Radosevich officiating. Burial was held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to St. Louis Children’s Hospital or to the Belize Children’s Program.

HAMEL

Hilbert E. "Hib" Schumacher

Hilbert E. "Hib" Schmacher, 85, of Hamel, Ill., died on Mon., September 7, 2009 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, Ill.

He was born on November 10, 1923 in Alhambra, Ill., the son of the late Erwin E. Schumacher and the late Emma M. (Blase) Schumacher.

He married Evelyn Marie Sliva on May 13, 1945 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hamel, Ill., and she survives.

He was born and raised in Alhambra Township. He graduated from Edwardsville High School in Edwardsville in 1942. He worked for a short time for Hamel Telephone Co.; then for Cassens Transport Co., as a parts manager; then 27 years for Klaustermeier Ford, Alhambra, Ill. as a manager, the last three years it was called Tri Ford, until retiring in 1988. He was currently and has been the Hamel Township Supervisor since 1975. He enjoyed woodworking. He was a member of Saint Paul Lutheran Church, Hamel, Ill.; a member of St. Paul’s Mens Club; and a member of Madison County Fireman Association.

Along with his wife, Evelyn M. Schumacher of Hamel, he is also survived by one son, David Schumacher of Edwardsville; three daughters, Diane Hotz and her husband, Joe of Durham, N.C., Debbie Rathert and his wife, Chuck of Edwardsville, Ill., Dinah Schultz and her husband, Rev. Randall Schultz of Burton, Mich.; one brother, Elmer Schumacher and his wife, Inez of Glen Carbon, Ill.; two sisters, Helen Klausing of Troy, Ill. and Ruth Ernst and her husband, Albert of Hamel; 10 grandchildren, Kristin Powell and her husband, Dr. Jim Powell, Nathan Schumacher and his wife, Beth, Simon Hotz and his wife, Emily, Andrew Hotz, Katie Kosten and her husband, Jason Kosten, DMD, Annie Frey and her husband, Jarrod, Joe Rathert, Michael Schultz, Joel Schultz, and David Schultz; and three great-grandchildren, Adam Powell, Tyler Powell, CeCe Belt also survive.

He was preceded in death by his father, Erwin E. Schumacher Sr.; his mother, Emma Marie (Blase) Schumacher; his brother, Erwin Schmacher Jr.; and two sisters, Hilda Moehle and Irma Ernst.

Visitation was held on Thurs., September 10 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Hamel. Visitation continued on Fri., September 11 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Saint Paul Lutheran Church. Funeral services were held on Fri., September 11 at 10 a.m. at Saint Paul Lutheran Church in Hamel with Rev. William Weedon, Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hamel officiating. Interment was held at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Hamel. A funeral lunch was held at Church Social Hall and was served by the ladies of the church. Memorials are suggested to St. Paul Lutheran Church. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.daudermanmortuary.com or by email at condolences@daudermanmortuary.com.

STAUNTON

Alfred B. Andersen

Alfred B. Andersen, 83, of Staunton, died on Thurs., September 10, 2009 at his residence in Staunton.

He was born on February 4, 1926 in Omaha, Neb., the son of the late Alfred Andersen and the late Marie (Blidegn) Andersen.

He married Virginia L. Godbey on November 23, 1946 in St. Louis, Mo., and she preceded him in death on March 10, 1994.

He was an x-ray service & installation technician with Westinghouse (later Dick X-ray) in St. Louis, Mo. for 40 years until 1988. He served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II and the Korean War as a Staff Sgt. as radio repairman. He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hamel, Ill.; a member of Staunton VFW Post #1241; a member of Staunton American Legion Post #362; a member of Staunton Senior Citizens; a member of Aquarium Society of St. Louis, Mo.; and a treasurer of St. James Lutheran Church in St. Louis, Mo. for many years. He belonged to several senior citizen organizations and military organizations.

He is survived by two daughters, Diane Schrader and her husband, Don of Staunton and Dorothy Andersen of Staunton; seven grandchildren, Sherry Andersen, Cindy Andersen, Brandy Roosevelt, Dawn Gehner, Kaitlin Schrader, Brittney Schrader, and Tessa Schrader; four great-grandchildren, Colton Schrader, Jim Kruta, and Damon and Jerry Roosevelt.

He was preceded in death by one son, Don Andersen; two sisters, Edna McKee and Mary Alice Ruskamp; two brothers, Elmer Andersen and Harry Mickey Andersen; and one great-grandson, Ean Michael Kruta.

Visitation was held on Mon., September 14 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton. Funeral services were held on Tues., September 15 at 10 a.m. at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton with Rev. Thomas Baker officiating. Burial was held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to the family. Staunton VFW Post #1241 conducted graveside military rites.

STAUNTON

Joseph John Monti

Joseph John Monti, 82, of Staunton, died on Fri., September 11, 2009 at his residence in Staunton.

He was born on May 29, 1927 in Sawyerville, Ill., the son of the late Joseph Monti and the late Lucille (Braden) Monti.

He married Ruth P. Weber on June 25, 1960 in Hamel, Ill., and she preceded him in death on December 22, 1997.

He was a factory worker in the Ammunitions Department at Olin Corporation in East Alton, Ill. for many years. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church of Staunton.

He is survived by one sister-in-law, Betty Monti of Staunton; one brother-in-law, Richard Weber of Edwardsville; one niece, Terri Monti of Staunton; and one great-nephew, Andrew Zenner of Staunton.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Tony Monti.

Graveside Memorial Services will be held on Fri., September 18 at 10 a.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton with Rev. William Gleason officiating. His remains were cremated and interred at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton. Memorials are suggested to Zion Lutheran Church of Staunton. Williamson Funeral Home, Staunton, is in charge of arrangements.

HIGHLAND

Betty R. Vaughn

Betty R. Vaughn, 76, of Highland, died on Sun., September 6, 2009 at his residence.

She was born on March 11, 1933 in Highland, Ill., the daughter of the late John H. Burger and the late Bertha A. (Oswald) Burger.

She married Donald Dean Vaughn on February 7, 1953 at E&R Church in Highland, and he preceded her in death on June 17, 2006.

She was born at Highland, and raised on the family farm east of town. She graduated from Highland High School in 1951. For the first 23 years of their marriage, they lived in Highland and then some 33 years ago moved to her family’s farm east of Highland and have lived there ever since. She had worked as a secretary in St. Louis, at Jakel Manufacturing, then Highland Supply, and at Highland News Leader. She then soldered circuit boards at Basler Electric in Highland. She retired from Basler Electric in 1992. She enjoyed playing cards (Euchre, Rummy, Poker), bowling, fishing, camping, and spending time with family and friends. She was a member of Evangelical United Church of Christ-Highland; and a member of International Union of Electrical Workers Local 840.

She is survived by her daughter, Debra R. Berndsen and her husband, Scott of Highland; one son, Larry D. Vaughn of Highland; four grandchildren, Barbara M. Barnett and her husband, Bob of St. Peters, Mo., Christa A. Huelskamp and her husband, Matt of Highland, Ill., Shana K. Knebel and her husband, Nathan of Pocahontas, Ill., and Lacey D. Barnett and her husband, Nick of Highland; three grandchildren, Zachary D. Barnett of St. Peters, Mo., Samuel V. Huelskamp of Highland, and Ada L. Huelskamp of Highland.

She was preceded in death by her father, John H. Burger; her mother, Bertha A. (Oswald) Burger; her husband, Donald D. Vaughn, who died on June 17, 2006; and her father and mother-in-law, Harry L. Vaughn and Mildred A. (Carroll) Vaughn.

Visitation was held on Tues., September 8 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland and continued on Wed., September 9 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Wed., September 9 at 10 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland with Rev. Christopher W. Hill, Pastor of Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland officiating. Interment was held at Highland City Cemetery. A funeral lunch was held at the family home.

Memorials are suggested to Heartland Hospice and EvUCC Radio Ministry.

Bunker Hill

Oscar M. Weber

Oscar M. Weber, age 73, passed away at 11:10 am, Monday, September 7, 2009 at his home with his family by his side.

He was born in Pana, IL on September 15, 1935, the son of Edward & Frances (Weekley) Weber.

He married Sheila Hunt on December 19, 1990 in Jerseyville, Illinois. She survives.

He worked as a furnace builder for 29 years retiring in 1995 from Olin Corporation in East Alton. He previously had worked for Jordan Farms. He was a member of the Meadowbrook Assembly of God Church and the Wood River Moose. He loved tinkering in the garage, camping and most of all spending time with his family and friends.

Besides his wife he is survived by his children and their spouses, Brian Weber of Dallas/Fort Worth, TX, Mike & Stacy Lewey of Bunker Hill, Rhonda & Jim Hebblethwaite of Wood River, Cheryl & Ron Coleman of Staunton and Mary Bort of Carlinville; 10 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren; 4 sisters and a brother-in-law, Darlene Cox of Pana, Il, Doris & Bob Milsap of AZ, Veeta Allen and Vera Klee both of Pana, IL and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, Eddie & Delbert Weber.

Memorials may be made to the Meadowbrook Assembly of God Church.

A celebration of Life memorial service was held Sunday, September 13, 2009 at 7 pm at the Meadowbrook Assembly of God Church with Pastor Alta Vaughn officiating.

Online condolences and guestbook can be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.

GREENVILLE

Dennis M. Iberg

Dennis M. Iberg, 54, of Greenville, Ill., died on Sun., September 6, 2009 at his residence.

He was born on June 21, 1955 in Highland, Ill., the son of the late Murl E. Iberg and Delores E. (Meyer) Iberg.

He was divorced.

He was born in Highland. He graduated Highland High School in 1973. He was a skilled farmer and always took pride in everything he did. He continued to farm for many years with his father and brother, Dave. He married Colette Balster in 1974 and had one daughter, Chasity. Dispite no longer being married to Colette, they remained close at heart. For a number of years, he sold DeKalb Seed Corn. He enjoyed time with his family. He was a member of Evanglical United Church of Christ in Highland.

He is survived by his mother, Delores E. (Meyer) Iberg of Greenville, Ill.; one daughter, Chastity L. Hyre and her husband, Brad of Highland; one grandchild, Kalysta A. Hyre of Highland; one brother, David L. Iberg and his wife, Lisa of Highland; two sisters, Marilyn C. Mueller and her husband, Clifford of Hillsboro, Ill. and Marlene L. Saathoff and her husband, Bradley of Boerne, Texas; his former wife, Colette (Balster) Biano of Glen Carbon, Ill.; four nieces, Kari A. Prinke and her husband, Kevin, Amy K. Frederick and her husband, Bryan, Karissa N. Iberg, and Grace E. Aizho Iberg; and two nephews, Jared M. Springer Saathoff and his wife, Laura and John D. Iberg.

He was preceded in death by his father, Murl E. Iberg, died on April 10, 2007; and his nephew, Chris M. Saathoff, who died on February 14, 2004.

Visitation was held on Thurs., September 10 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. No funeral services were held. Interment was held at Highland City Cemetery in Highland. Memorials are suggested to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

 

 

Worden

Jeanette L. Woods

Jeanette L. Woods, age 83, passed away at 10:20 pm. on Tuesday, September 8, 2009 at her home with her family by her side.

She was born on September 5, 1926 in Alton, IL, the daughter of Victor & Hilda (Meissner) Crain.

She married David F. Woods on November 4, 1950 in Arkansas. He passed away on March 29, 2005.

She was a homemaker for most of her life. She loved riding horses, John "Duke" Wayne and puppies. She was very family oriented and loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her children & and daughter-in-law, Dave & Mary Ann Woods of Bethalto, Susan Dever of Alton and Juanice Dixon of Cadiz, KY; thirteen grandchildren, Terry, Wendy, Shane, Rachel, David, Nathan, Michael, Amanda, Clint, Eric, Jake, Johna & Michael; twenty two great grandchildren; a sister, Joan Beckwith of Worden and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a son-in-law, Tom Dixon, 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

Cremation graveside services were Monday, September 14, 2009 at 11 am at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey with Pastor Charles West officiating for Jeanette and her husband David who passed away in 2005.

Memorials may be given to the St. Anthony’s Hospice.

An online condolence and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.

 

 

Alton

Michael J. Morales

Michael J. Morales, 67, passed away at 1:23 pm Wednesday September 9, 2009 in the emergency room at Alton Memorial Hospital.

He was born on August 13, 1942 in Alton, the son of Jose & Urvana (Macias) Morales.

He married Victoria Kratzer on August 26, 1967 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Alton.

He was a US Army Veteran; a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton, worked for Goodwin Brothers Printing Company as a paste-up artist for 35 years and retired from Alton Mental Health as a security therapy aid. He also owned and operated Morales Taco’s and volunteered as a coach for soccer and baseball with Alton Park & Recreation and St. Matthew’s Catholic School.

In addition to his wife he is also survived by three sons, Ramon Morales and his wife Ketra of Alton, Todd Morales and his wife Michelle of Jacksonville, FL, and Matthew Morales and his fiancée Jennifer of Alton; four grandchildren, Jordon Myers, Michaela Morales, Julian Mukerji and Jada Morales; two brothers and a sister-in-law, Jose & Linda Morales and Mario Morales, all of Alton; one sister, Rose Brewer of Cuba, MO and many nieces and nephew whom he loved and adored.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a brother, Ramon Morales and two sisters, Delores Voyles and Angela Hagen.

In celebration of his life, visitation was held from 4 to 8 pm Friday September 11, 2009 at Staten–Fine Funeral Home in Alton.

A Mass of Christian burial was held at 10 am Saturday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton.

Burial followed at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Alton with full military rites.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church building fund.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.staten-fine.com

Cottage Hills

Helen M. Shelton

Helen M. Shelton, age 77, went to be with the Lord at 5:02 a.m. on Thursday, September 10, 2009 at VIP Manor in Wood River.

She was born on February 3, 1932 in Eldorado, IL, the daughter of Joseph Thomas & Eva May (Cletcher) Grant.

She married Roy V. Shelton on December 17, 1950 in Eldorado, IL. He survives.

Helen was employed as a bookkeeper for the Bennet Auto Supply Company in Granite City for 30 years retiring in 2001. She was a member of the Bethalto Church of God, where she played the piano and the organ and was a Sunday school teacher for 35 years. She loved to spend time with her family, friends and especially her great-grandchildren.

She is survived by one daughter and son-in-law, Karen & Donald Phillips of Wood River; five grandchildren and their spouses, Erin Phillips, Amber & Ben Ellis, Adam & Taryn LeGette, Adam Phillips and Alicia Neal; five great, Erica, Emalee, Adaline, Milla and Taylor; seven brothers, sisters and their spouses, Chloe & Calvin Denny of South Roxana, Flo Headrick of Richland, Washington State, Sylvia & Don Beasley of Brighton, Rosalie & Donnie Tucker of Bethalto, Dale & Lynnette Grant of South Roxana, John & Judy Grant of Pekin, IL and Kathy & Ed Douglas of Norris City, IL; one brother-in-law, Richard and Sandra Shelton of MI, one sister-in-law, Melba Ramsey of Eldorado, IL; mother-in-law Clara Phelps of Harrisburg, IL and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one infant son James Roy Shelton and one brother Harold Wayne Grant.

Visitation was held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, September 14, 2009 at the Bethalto Church of God.

Visitation continued from 9 a.m. to service time at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 at the Bethalto Church of God with Pastor Jeremy Robinson officiating.

Graveside took place at 3:30 pm at Wolf Creek Cemetery in Eldorado, Ill.

Memorials may be made to Debt Retirement at the Bethalto Church of God.

An online condolence and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.

 

LIVINGSTON

Peter Paul Plovich

Peter Paul Plovich died on Saturday, August 15, 2009 at his home in Scottsdale, AZ at the age of 90.

He was born in Benton Village, Wisconsin on Monday, August 4, 1919 to Michael and Maria Plovich.

Peter married Mildred Marie Bellovich on October 4, 1941.

He was a graduate of Livingston High School where he was a star basketball player.

He served during World War II in the U.S. Army, D Company 407th Infantry and was a recipient of the Bronze Star for bravery and valor.

While living in Illinois, Peter was employed by Standard Oil Company and then worked for ARAMCO in Saudi Arabia for one year. He and his family moved to Arizona in 1960 where he became one of the original nine salesmen who sold property at Lake Havasu City while working for the Holly Development Company of the McCullough Corporation. After a successful career in real estate, he then worked for Courtesy Chevrolet of Phoenix, from which he retired in 1989. Peter enjoyed playing golf and poker throughout his life.

Peter is survived by two daughters, Mary Margaret Trausch, her husband Stephen of Scottsdale, AZ and Paula McLean, her husband Kevin of Unionville, PA; Three grandchildren, Dae Marie, Kendra and Peter and one great grandson, Jacob.

Peter was preceded in death by his wife Mildred of 50 years, who died on July 6, 1991, his brother Stephen, and his parents-in-law Joseph and Mary Bellovich and sister-in-law Betty Dal Pozzo.

A committal service will be held at the Sacred Heart Cemetary in Livingston, IL on Saturday, October 17, 2009 at 11:00 am. With Fr. George Radosevich officiating. The Lesicko Funeral Home, in Livingston IL is in charge of local arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to the Little Sister’s of the Poor, Villa Guadalupe, 1900 Mark Avenue, Gallup, NM 87301.

To sign a guest book or to leave a private condolence please visit www.lesickofuneralhome.com

STAUNTON

Marion R. Bahn

Marion R. Bahn, 79, died at Heritage Manor Nursing Home on Friday, September 4, 2009 at 11:55 p.m.

She was born January 4, 1930 in Washington, DC to Mr. and Mrs. Walter Robertson.

She married Gene Bahn, May 16, 1953 in Washington, DC and he survives. She was a homemaker.

She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church of Staunton and also a member of the Junior Service Club - St. Michael’s School Auxiliary.

The funeral will be held Wednesday, Sept. 9,2009 at 10 a.m.at St. Michael’s Catholic Church with Rev. George Radosevich officiating; burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton.

She is survived by her husband Gene and six daughters - Brenda (Charlie) Popovich - Staunton, Illinois; Susan (John) Caldieraro - Staunton, Illinois; Karen DeVries - Mt. Olive, Illinois; Vicki Pohlman - Clayton, Missouri; Leslie (Stanley) Pirok - Staunton, Illinois; Tracy (Jim) Bianco - Staunton, Illinois as well as two sons - Tom (Betsy) Bahn - Mercer Island, Washington and Steve (Tanya) Bahn - New Lenox, Illinois.

She is also survived by 23 grandchildren - Matt (Amy) Popovich, Kiersten (Alberto) Saenz, Michael Popovich, John (Kelli) Caldieraro, Andrew Caldieraro, Heidi Caldieraro, Wade DeVries, Casey DeVries, Cole DeVries, Derek DeVries, Dane Pohlman, Lydia Pohlman, Hannah Bahn, Sarah Bahn, Sam Bahn, Erin (Ted) Frank, Lukas (Jennifer) Pirok, Kelsey Pirok, Zac Bianco, Tyler Bianco, Meghan Bianco, Sophia Bahn, Cooper Bahn.

She is also survived by four great grandchildren - Ana Popovich, Tyson Leaser, Britton Popovich, Ella Pirok.

She is also survived by two brothers - Walter Robertson - Maryland and George Robertson - Colorado

Many nieces and nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death her parents Walter and Marion (Ramsay) Robertson, Father-in-law and Mother-in-law - Joe and Gertrude Bahn; two sisters - Lee Tatum and Isla Robertson; one brother - Tom Robertson.

Friends called from 5 to 8 p.m.on Tuesday at St. Michael’s Catholic Church. The prayer service will be private.

Memorials are suggested to either St. Michael’s Catholic Church, or to the Alzheimers Association.

Williamson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

MT. OLIVE, FORMERLY OF LITCHFIELD

Oma Virginia Small Day

Oma Virginia Small Day, 94, of Mt. Olive, formerly of Litchfield, died on Wed., September 2, 2009 at Heritage Manor of Litchfield.

She was born on December 27, 1914 in Taylor Springs, Ill., the daughter of the late Clair Compton and the late Pearl (Coffman) Compton.

Her first marriage was to William Youell Small on May 20, 1933 in Hillsboro, Ill., and he died on December 4, 1972. Her second marriage was to Paul Day on January 1, 1978 in Litchfield, Ill., and he died on October 6, 1983.

She was a member of St. Timothy United Methodist Church in Litchfield, Ill. She worked at Sydneys Women’s Wear on Litchfield Main Street for 32 years. She was a member of Mt. Olive Senior Citizens. She loved Cardinal baseball, bowling, dancing, swimming, and playing cards with friends.

She is survived by one daughter, Shirley Rull and her husband, Norman of Litchfield; one grandson, Jeff Rull and his wife, Laura of Mt. Olive; two granddaughters, Jane Warren and her husband, Bill of Staunton and Julie Griffith and her husband, Mike of Carlinville; six great-grandchildren, Alex and Jacob Rull of Mt. Olive, Carrie Hemken and her husband, Ben of Hillsboro, Kurt Warren of Litchfield, Ryan and Christian Griffith of Carlinville; one great-great-grandchild, Riley Hemken; one sister, Margaret Miller of Detroit, Mich.; many nieces and nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; and one brother, Wesley Compton.

Visitation was held on Sat., September 5 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive. Funeral services were held on Sat., September 5 at 11 a.m. at Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive with Rev. James Tinzmann. A funeral lunch will be served for family and friends at St. Timothy United Methodist Church by the women of the church. Memorials are suggested to St. Timothy United Methodist Church in Litchfield.

HIGHLAND

Joseph C. Hess

Joseph C. Hess, 63, of Highland, died on Tues., September 1, 2009 at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Belleville.

He was born on May 22, 1946 in Golden, Colo., the son of the late Joseph A. Hess and the late Helen (Anderson) Hess.

He married Jane Diane Weiss on April 24, 1971 in Highland, and she survives.

He was born in Golden, Colo. and at age 3, he moved to Highland after his mother’s death (he was raised by his aunt and her husband.) He graduated from Highland High School in 1964. In high school, he excelled in football, track, basketball, and was Athlete of the Year in 1964. He served with the U.S. Marine Corps. Reserves from 1964-1970. He briefly worked at Alton Box Co.; then started with Proctor & Gamble in 1966. He retired 38 years later in 2004. He and his wife operated the Globe Democrat Delivery Service in the early 1980s. He and his family loved to boat and ski at Vandalia Lake. He helped his son with Daddy Joe’s Lawn Service in the summer and fall. He served as General Handyman for his family. For many years, he was very active in the slow pitch softball league, where he was manager for Hi-Top-Zobrist Team. He was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church-Highland; and a former Jaycee.

Along with his wife, Jane D. (Weiss) Hess of Highland, Ill., he is also survived by two daughters, Michelle L. Blackwell and her husband, David of Highland and Kristin M. Hess of Highland; one son, Joseph A. Hess and his wife, Karen of Highland; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his uncle and aunt, who reared him, Clarence and Agnes (Hess) Jakel.

Visitation was held on Thurs., September 3 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Fri., September 4 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Fri., September 4 at 10 a.m. at Saint Paul Catholic Church in Highland with Father Aloysius Ndeaneafo, Parochial Vicar of St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland officiating. Interment was held at Saint Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at the KC Hall and was served by Daughters of Isabella. Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association; the American Cancer Society; and the Masses. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

LEBANON

Everett G. Bohnenstiehl

Everett G. Bohnenstiehl, 88, of Lebanon, died on Tues., September 1, 2009 at Saint Joseph Hospital - Breese in Breese, Ill.

He was born on September 16, 1920 in Edwardsville, Ill., the son of the late George J. Bohnenstiehl and the late Mathilda E. (Steinkoenig) Bohnenstiehl.

He married Vivette Arliss "Peggy" DeForest on September 16, 1941, and she survives.

Everett was born at Edwardsville and grew up between Marine and St. Jacob and attended Steinkoening School. He started working at Granite City Steel in 1950. He also hauled milk for Clarence Kohne and helped Everette Pyle farm. He retired in 1983 from Granite City Steel as a crain operator. He continued to farm and drove a school bus for 14 years. He enjoyed dancing, fishing, spending time with his family, raising roses at his home, and working in his garden. He had moved to Lebanon two and a half years ago. He was a member of Saint Paul United Church of Christ in Lebanon; a member of Helveteia Sharpshooters Soc. in Highland; United Steel Workers Local #16; and a member of Retirees Club.

He is survived by seven sons, Everett L. Bohnenstiehl and his wife, Pamela of Saint Jacob, Ill., Larry R. Bohnenstiehl and his wife, Peggy of Highland, Jerry W. Bohnenstiehl and his wife, Lynn of Lebanon, Gary M. Bohnenstiehl and his wife, Derice of Belleville, Ill., Billy J. Bohnenstiehl and his wife, Vicki of Lebanon, Ill., Rick Bohnenstiehl and his wife, Debra of Tarpon Springs, Fla., and Randy Bohnenstiehl of Belleville; one daughter, Terry D. Mikkel and her husband, Michael of St. Petersburg, Fla.; one brother, Earl G. Bohnenstiehl and his wife, Ruth of Pocahontas, Ill.; and one sister, Betty Jane Middleton and her husband, Joe of Henderson, Ky.

He was preceded in death by his father, George J. Bohnenstiehl, who died on February 5, 1988; his mother, Mathilda E. (Steinkoenig) Bohnenstiehl, who died on August 1, 1989; and his wife.

Visitation was held on Fri., September 4 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Saint Paul United Church of Christ in Lebanon. Visitation continued on Sat., September 5 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the church. Funeral services were held on Sat., September 5 at 10 a.m. at Saint Paul United Church of Christ in Lebanon with Rev. Dr. Donald C. Wagner, Pastor of St. Paul UCC, Lebanon. Interment was held at Highland City Cemetery in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at St. Paul UCC and was served by the Women’s Guild.

Greenville

Dennis M. Iberg

Dennis Murl Iberg, 54, of Greenville, Ill., died Sunday, September 6, 2009, at his residence in Greenville, Ill.

He was born June 21, 1955, in Highland, Ill., the son of Murl and Delores E. (Meyer) Iberg.

Dennis was born in Highland. He graduated Highland High School in 1973. Dennis was a skilled farmer and always took pride in everything he did. Dennis continued to farm for many years with his father and brother Dave. He married Colette Balster in 1974 and had one daughter, Chasity. Dispite no longer being married to Colette, they remained close at heart. He sold DeKalb Seed Corn for a number of years. He enjoyed spending time with his family.

He was a member of Evangelical United Church of Christ-Highland, Ill.

Survivors include Mother-Delores E. Iberg, nee Meyer of Greenville, Ill., Daughter-Chastity L. (Brad) Hyre of Highland, Ill., Grandchild-Kalysta A. Hyre of Highland, Ill., Brother-David L. (Lisa) Iberg of Highland, Ill., Sister-Marilyn C. (Clifford) Mueller of Hillsboro, Ill., Sister-Marlene L. (Bradley) Saathoff of Boerne, Texas, Former Wife-Colette Biano nee Balster, of Glen Carbon, Ill., Niece-Kari A. (Kevin) Prinke, Niece-Amy K. (Bryan) Frederick, Niece-Karissa N. Iberg, Niece-Grace E. Aizhuo Iberg, Nephew-Jared M. (Laura) Springer Saathoff, Nephew-John D Iberg

He was preceded in death by Father-Murl E. Iberg DOD 04/10/2007, Nephew-Chris Saathoff died Feb. 14, 2004

Arrangements are being handled by Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m.to 7p.m. Thursday, September 10, 2009, at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, Ill. There will be no services. Private interment will be at Highland City Cemetery in Highland, Ill.

Memorial contributions may be made to Michael J. Foxx Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

Alton

Rosemary I. Ohley

Rosemary I. Ohley, 88, passed away at 12:45 pm Friday August 28, 2009 at Jerseyville Manor in Jerseyville, IL.

She was born on February 5, 1921, in East St. Louis, IL, the daughter of Charles E. and Florence (Hetge) Schmitt.

Rosemary married Harold Ohley on January 17, 1947, and he preceded her in death on November 6, 1989.

She attended the Alton schools, graduating from Alton High School, she then attended Monticello College. During World War II she joined the Women’s Army Corp. Her service duty was on three South Pacific Islands. She was a secretary and sometimes a jeep chauffer for the Officers.

She is survived by a son, Steven C. Ohley of Florida, a brother and his wife Robert and Melba Schmitt of Godfrey, a sister in law Berna Ohley of Alton, three grandsons Nick, Charles and Jason Ohley, three great grandsons, and several nieces and a nephew also survive.

In addition to her parents, and husband she was preceded in death by her son Thomas H. Ohley.

Per her wishes cremation rites will be accorded, she wanted no services with burial at a later date at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.

OLD RIPLEY, Ill.

Alma C. (Taylor) Gruner

Alma C. (Taylor) Gruner, 94, of Old Ripley, Ill., died on Fri., August 28, 2009 at Alhambra Care Center in Alhambra, Ill.

She was born on August 16, 1915 in East St. Louis, Ill., the daughter of the late Zachary Taylor and the late Lillian (Garrison) Geiger.

She married Edward J. Gruner on September 2, 1933, and he preceded her in death on October 2, 1993.

Born and raised at East St. Louis, Ill., she was raised by James and Dolly Altic, and she always felt like they were her parents. After marriage, she lived all her life on the Gruner family farm in Old Ripley, Ill. She always worked on the farm; had a big garden; a special love for dogs and cats. Her grandchildren nicknamed her, "Grandma Kitty Cat." She was born on Grantfork United Church of Christ; and a member of Women’s Guild at the church.

She is survived by her son, Ronald J. "Rocky" Gruner and his wife, Maxine of Grantfork, Ill.; three grandchildren, Rhonda Brendel and her husband, Steve of Grantfork, Ill., Kurt Gruner and his wife, Kathy of Grantfork, Ill., Karl Gruner and his wife, Kristy of Grantfork, Ill.; one step-grandchild, Larry Novy; six great-grandchildren, Chelsey Alldredge and her husband, Dustin, Shea Brendel, Derek Gruner, Megan Gruner, Kayla Gruner, and Kara Gruner.

She was preceded in death by her parents; who she was raised by: James and Dolly Altic; her husband, Edward J. Gruner, who died on October 2, 1993; her daughter, Geraldine Blair; her step-daughter, Cleda Novy; and her brother, Roy Cox.

Visitation was held on Mon., August 31 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Grantfork United Church of Christ in Grantfork, Ill. Funeral services were held on Mon., August 31 at 11 a.m. at the church with Rev. Nancy S. Cahalan, Pastor of Grantfork United Church of Christ officiating. Burial was held at Brown Cemetery in Old Ripley, Ill. A funeral lunch was held at Grantfork UCC and was served by the Women’s Guild. Memorials are suggested to the Women’s Guild. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.daudermanmortuary.com or by email at condolences@daudermanmortuary.com.

STAUNTON

Shirley Marie Ahrens

Shirley Marie Ahrens, 78, of Staunton, passed away on Tues., August 25, 2009 at her residence south Staunton with her family at her side.

She was born on January 11, 1931 in rural Staunton, the daughter of Kenneth and Marie (Stiller) Wilder.

At the age of 2 1/2, after her mother’s death, she was raised by her aunt and uncle, the late Herman and Goldie (Wilder) Reener of Alhambra, Ill.

She married Aaron Ahrens on February 15, 1953 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Livingston, and he survives.

She was a homemaker and active on the family farm. She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church of Staunton; a member of Zion Ladies Aid; and a member of ATA Ladies Auxiliary #15.

She is survived by her husband, Aaron of Staunton; four daughters and a son, Carolyn Bomkamp and her husband, Keith of Wood River, Ill., Evelyn Bilyeu and her husband, Dan of Gillespie, Doris Coalson and her husband, Gary of Staunton, Janet Hall and her husband, Dave of Staunton, and Kenneth Ahrens of Creve Coeur, Mo.; 12 grandchildren, Benjamin Bomkamp and his significant other, Emily Bardsley, Heather Ortbals and her husband, Steve, Melanie Bauer, Thomas Bauer, Beth Bauer, Bradley Bauer, Kyle Bauer, Brian Coalson and his wife, Becky, Michael Coalson and his wife, Annie, Jeffrey Coalson, Sara Hall, and Kelsey Hall; four great-grandsons, Hugo Ortbals, Landon Bomkamp, Bryce Coalson, and Lucas Coalson; one step-great-grandson, Evan Bardsley; three brothers, Eugene Wilder and his wife, Carolyn of Decatur, Ill.; her twin brother, Clarence Wilder and his wife, Jeanine of Edwardsville, Ill.; and Maurice Wilder of Clearwater, Fla.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a grandson, Matthew Bauer; and a brother, Kenneth Dwane Wilder.

Visitation was held on Fri., August 28 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Staunton. Funeral services were held on Sat., August 29 at 10 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Staunton with Rev. William Gleason officiating. Burial was held in Spangle Cemetery located south of Staunton. Memorials are suggested to either Spangle Cemetery or to Zion Lutheran Church of Staunton. Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton is in charge of arrangements.

STAUNTON

Edith Oetken Arnold

Edith Oetken Arnold, 94, died at 11:20 pm Saturday August 22, 2009 at Heritage Manor in Staunton, Il..

She was born on December 19, 1914, in Fosterburg, IL. The daughter of Benjamine F. and Minnie (Kamper) Oetken.

Edith married Randall M. Arnold, on April 19, 1962 in Alton, IL he preceded her in death on November 3, 1976.

Edith was a graduate from the St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1935, in Alton, IL. She was a registered nurse, and a certified public nurse in Illinois. She was employed as a school nurse in the East Alton school district #13 for over twenty-seven years. She also did private duty nursing and was a camp nurse in the area. She was a member of the St. Joseph’s Alumni Association and the Delta Kappa Gamma. She was also a member of the Zion Presbyterian Church in Fosterburg, IL. After her retirement in Illinois, Edith then moved to Texas and joined the First United Methodist Church in Harlingen, TX.

Sue is survived by one niece; Barbara Oetken of St. Louis, MO. and four nephews; William Gabriel, G. Thomas Gabriel, James Gabriel and John Gabriel, all of Madison county, IL.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by two sisters; Adel Gabriel and Ellen Malloy, and one brother; Miles Oetken.

Per her wishes cremation rites will be accorded, with burial at a later date at Mont Meta Cemetery in San Benito, TX.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.

West Alton, MO

David W. Welcher, Sr.

David Wayne Welcher, Sr., 49, passed away at 7:03 p.m. Wednesday August 26, 2009 at his residence with his family by his side.

He was born on March 22, 1960 in St. Louis, MO. The son of Edward E. and Nelda Sue (Cook) Welcher, Sr.

David married Laurie Brais in 1981. She preceded him in death on March 6, 1990.

He worked at ADM making flour in the mill. David loved riding motorcycles, working on cars and spending time with his family and friends.

David is survived by his mother, companion of many years Deborah (Sego) Welcher, three sons David and his wife Hannah Welcher of Alton, Timothy Welcher of West Alton, MO and Kenneth Waller of Sullivan, MO, two daughters, Debra May Waller of West Alton, MO and Tonya Waller of E. Alton; seven grandchildren Kylee, Lauren, Colin, Cameron, Michael, Logan and Brennan; three brothers Edward Welcher of Granite City, Carl Welcher of Lake of the Ozarks, Russell Welcher of Granite City and one sister Susie Welcher of AL.

His father and wife preceded him in death.

Visitation will be from 10 am until funeral service time at 12 noon at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home, in Alton.

Burial will follow at Ebenezer Cemetery in West Alton, MO.

Memorials may be made to the funeral home in care of the family of David W. Welcher, Sr.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.

HIGHLAND

Zena M. Beichel

Zena M. Beichel, 95, of Highland, died on Wed., August 26, 2009 at Highland Health Care Center in Highland.

She was born on March 29, 1914 in Jamestown, Ill., the daughter of the late Edward Leu and the late Elise (Pfister) Leu.

She married William Albert Beichel on April 19, 1933 by Parsonage Rev. Otto Basler of E&R Church, and he preceded her in death of April 14, 1980.

She grew up on a farm east of Highland and attended Fricker County School. She moved to Highland as a young woman where she worked for Highland Embroidery Works. She also did babysitting in their individual homes. She loved to play Bingo and cards (she had been in a pinochle club for 45+ years.) She braided rugs, canned, took care of the family garden and fruit trees, and enjoyed her grandchildren. She was a member of Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland; a member of Royal Neighbors of America #1957; and a member of Weinheimer Senior Citizens Highland.

She is survived by her daughters, Shirley J. Stotko and her husband, Norbert of Denver, Colo. and Nancy J. Fenton and her husband, Wayne of Highland; four grandchildren, Jared W. Fenton and his wife, Elaine of Highland, Jason W. Fenton and his wife, Jennifer of O’Fallon, Mo., and Jeremy W. Fenton and his wife, Jessica of Highland, and Courtney E. Stotko of Lafayette, Colo.; six great-grandchildren also survive.

She was preceded in death by her father, Edward Leu; her mother, Elise (Pfister) Leu; her husband, William A. Beichel, who died on April 14, 1980; and her sister, Sadie L. Kustermann, and who died on August 19, 1991.

Visitation was held on Sat., August 29 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Funeral services were held on Sat., August 29 at 2 p.m. at the funeral home in Highland with Rev. Christopher W. Hill, Pastor of Evangelical United Church of Christ Highland, Ill. Interment was held at Highland City Cemetery in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at EvUCC Hall and was served by the Women’s Guild. Memorials are suggested to EvUCC or to Highland Home. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

HIGHLAND

Irene I. Gilomen

Irene I. Gilomen, 94, of Highland, died on Mon., August 24, 2009 at Highland Health Care Center in Highland.

She was born on May 31, 1915 in St. Jacob, Ill., the daughter of the late Adolph Buettikoffer and the late Julia F. (Giger) Buettikoffer.

She married Fred Christian Gilomen on May 7, 1938 in Marine, Ill., and he preceded her in death on March 20, 1973.

She was born in St. Jacob, Ill. She grew up in St. Jacob, Highland and Alhambra. Following her marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Gilomen lived in Marine, Ill., then Granite City for about 10 years. They then returned to Marine, Ill. for another 5 years. In 1960, they moved to Highland and had lived there ever since. She worked at Marine Garment Factory and did housecleaning in the Highland area for a number of years. She enjoyed her grandchildren, playing cards, dancing and crocheting. She was a member of Evangelical United Church of Christ; and a member of AARP American Association of Retired Persons.

She is survived by one son, Fred L. Gilomen and his wife, Susan of Troy, Ill.; two grandsons, Scott L. Gilomen and his wife, Stacy of Collinsville, Ill. and Ryan D. Gilomen of Troy, Ill.; and one great-grandson, Lennon L. Gilomen of Collinsville, Ill.

She was preceded in death by her father, Adolph Buettikoffer; her mother, Julia Felphina (Giger) Buettikoffer; her husband, Fred Christian Gilomen, who died on March 20, 1973; four sisters, Zelda M. Mugler, who died on August 30, 2000, Viola J. Anderson, who died on April 10, 1997, and Stella I. Becker, who died on January 1, 1930; and one brother, Wilbur A. "Bud" Buettikoffer, who died on July 18, 1997.

Visitation was held on Wed., August 26 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Thurs., August 27 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Thurs., August 27 at 10 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland with Rev. Christopher W. Hill, Pastor of Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland. Interment was held at Highland City Cemetery in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at Social Hall of EvUCC and was served by the Women’s Guild. Memorials are suggested to Evangelical United Church of Christ. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

GILLESPIE

Elizabeth JoAnn Semplowski

Elizabeth JoAnn Semplowski, 75, of Gillespie, died on Tues., August 25, 2009 at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield.

She was born on June 9, 1934 in Gillespie, the daughter of the late Michael Luketich and Elizabeth (Bain) Luketich.

She was a bookkeeper for Sydney’s Ladies Clothing Store in Litchfield and a clerk for Dollar General in Gillespie.

She is survived by three sons, Wally Semplowski and his wife, Tammy of Gillespie, David Semplowski and his wife, Patty of Gillespie, and Ron Semplowski and his wife, Tammie of Gillespie; one daughter, Diane Kozak and her husband, Karl of Bourbonnais, Ill.; 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; one brother, Don Luketich of Gillespie; one sister, Norma Kuciejcik of Gillespie; and one sister-in-law, Carol Luketich of Gillespie.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her grandson, Travis Semplowski; and her brother, Mike Luketich.

Visitation was held on Fri., August 28 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie. Funeral services were held on Sat., August 29 at 10 a.m. at Kravanya Funeral Home with Monsignor Larry Auda officiating. Burial was held on Sat., August 29 at Mitchell Cemetery in rural Gillespie. Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com.

SORENTO

Arthur F. "Skip" Means II

Arthur F. "Skip" Means II, 66, of Sorento, died on Tues., August 25, 2009 at St. Joseph Hospital in Highland.

He was born on November 3, 1942 in Granite City, Ill., the son of the late Herbert W. Means and the late Velma M. (Verling) Means.

He married Diana Lee Adams of January 11, 1963 in Granite City, Ill., and she survives.

He was born in Granite City and grew up in Venice and Madison, Ill. He worked at Johns Manville then at Gray Hound Bus Garage in St. Louis, and finally for Metro as a Body Repairman. Arthur enjoyed his grandchildren, and was a loving husband and father. He was a member of Teamster Local #788 in St. Louis, Mo.

He is survived by his wife, Diana L. (Adams) Means of Sorento, Ill.; two daughters, Tammy R. York and her husband, Robert of Granite City, Ill. and Sherry A. Ishum and her husband, Linwood Brown of Highland; five grandchildren, Arthur Means III, Jami Means, Robert Ishum and his wife, Corinne, Jennilee Ishum, and Savannah Ishum; two great-grandchildren, Kylee Means and Liberty Ishum; one brother, Danny Means and his wife, Brenda of Granite City; and three sisters, Donna Thomas of Granite City, Ill., Linda Wiesehan of Granite City, Ill., and Judy Jordin and her husband, Alvie of Jonesburg, Mo.

He was preceded in death by his father, Herbert W. Means; his mother, Velma M. (Verling) Means; and his brother, Terry Means.

Visitation was held on Mon., August 31 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Alhambra. Visitation continued on Tues., September 1 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Alhambra. Funeral services were held on Tues., September 1 at 10 a.m. at Dauderman Mortuary in Alhambra with Rev. Dr. Billy Blackmon, Pastor of Highland Southern Baptist Church in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at Sorento Baptist Church. Memorials are suggested to Highland Southern Baptist Church and Sorento Baptist Church. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.daudermanmortuary.com or by visiting condolences@daudermanmortuary.com.

 

Bunker Hill

H. Lucile Hess

H. Lucile Hess, 96, went to be with her Lord Wednesday, August 19 at Rosewood Care Center.

She was born March 7, 1913, in Wataga, Illinois, to Arthur J. and Nina O. (McDonald) Gehring.

She married Dr. George J. Hess December 27, 1937 in Jacksonville, Illinois, and he preceded her in death August 4, 1998.

Lucile earned a B.A. in Latin from MacMurray College, where she taught in the business department and served as a pre-college counselor. She resided in the Bunker Hill area for 67 years being active on the school board, PTA, and as a community volunteer. She served in youth, women’s, and hospitality ministries of Berean Baptist Church, and assisted her husband in his anti-communist work.

Her quiet, gentle spirit was a blessing to her family and all who knew her.

Surviving are a son and his wife, George A. and Marcia Hess of Urbana, Illinois; two daughters and their husbands, Mary and William E. Vaughn of Bunker Hill, Jane and Douglas Lightly of Peoria, Illinois; nine grandchildren; and 21 great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was also preceded in death by her brother Donald.

Visitation was held from 9:00 a.m. until service time at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2009, at Berean Baptist Church in Bunker Hill with Rev. Douglas Lightly and Rev. Ron Burnet officiating.

Burial was held in the Bunker Hill City Cemetery with her grandchildren serving as pallbearers.

Memorials have been designated to Camp Manitoumi.

Jacoby-Wise Funeral Home in Bunker Hill is in charge of arrangements.

HIGHLAND

William O. "Bill" McCaw Jr.

William O. "Bill" McCaw Jr., 58, of Highland, Ill., died on Mon., August 17, 2009 at Kaskaskia River at River Road in New Memphis, Ill.

He was born on August 13, 1951 in Highland, Ill., the son of the late William O. McCaw Sr. and the late Eileen V. (Zbinden) McCaw.

He married Nancy Ann Bastilla on October 3, 1987 in Highland, and she survives.

He was born and grew up in Highland and graduated from Highland High School in 1969. He worked at some gas stations for a while, then worked at Bennie Koch’s garage. Later he worked at EF Trucking, in 1990, he worked for Head Line Express, in 1993, he went to Kelcor Trucking where he drove local routes in the evenings.

He loved to play music. He started playing the fiddle at age 15 and played with his father and Jeanie Popkess as "The Two of Us." He also played with Ruth Marty annually on Labor Day in New Glarus, Wis.

He loved hunting, fishing, cooking, making wine and beer, and spending time with his family and cousins, Cliff and Ronnie Zbinden, Mike Renspurger, and good friends, Mark Riebold and Bill Braswell, on the Kaskaskia River at the Club House.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy A. (Bastilla) McCaw of Highland; his daughter, Amanda C. Schulz and her husband, Paul of Collinsville; his son, Robert O. McCaw and his special friend, Carla A. Hoedebecke of Highland; his grandchild, Blake A. McCaw of Highland; his sister, Hedy Hock and her husband, Leroy of Millersburg, Ill.; his mother-in-law, Shirley J. (Hug) Bastilla of Highland; his maternal grandmother-in-law, Della R. (Beinecke) Hug; his brother, James C. McCaw and his wife, Evelyn "Marie" of Highland; numerous cousins and many nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his father, William O. McCaw Sr., who died on December 21, 1973; his mother, Eileen V. (Zbinden) McCaw, who died on March 12, 1997; his father-in-law, Robert F. Bastilla; and his maternal grandfather-in-law, Waldo E. Hug.

Visitation was held on Thurs., August 20 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Fri., August 21 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Memorial services were held on Fri., August 21 at 11 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland with Rev. Leonard Pye, Pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Highland officiating. Rev. Polly McWilliams of Emmanuel United Church of Christ in Weldon Spring, Mo. also participated in the service. A funeral lunch was held at KC Hall in Highland and was served by Daughters of Isabella. Memorials are suggested to American Diabetes Association, Meals on Wheels, and to the family.

HIGHLAND

Permelia R. "Mickey" Gragert

Permelia R. "Mickey" Gragert, 78, of New Douglas, Ill., died on Mon., August 17, 2009 at Highland Health Care Center in Highland.

She was born on July 10, 1931 in Flora, Ill., the son of the late William and Laura (Gillespie) Welty.

She married Jesse L. Gragert on July 10, 1948, and he preceded her in death.

She was a homemaker.

She is survived by her daughter, Rhonda Gragert of Camby, Ind.; one son, Mike Gragert and his wife, Susan of New Douglas, Ill.; six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; one brother, Elza Welty of Flora, Ill.; three sisters, Laura Ray of Davenport, Iowa, Wilma Murphy and her husband, Kenny of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, and Mildred Fox.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Laura (Gillespie) Welty; her husband, Jesse L. Gragert, who preceded her in death on March 23, 1997; her brothers, Lawrence, Albert, Vaughn, John, Fred, Freddie, and Billie Welty; her sisters, Margie Bailey, Mary Magrew, and Rosie Leff.

A memorial service will be held on Sat., August 29 at 11 a.m. at United Methodist Church in Xenia, Ill. Interment was held at Tolliver Cemetery near Louisville, Ill. Lesicko Funeral Home in New Douglas is in charge of arrangements.

HIGHLAND

Wendy K. Miller

Wendy K. Miller, 47, of Highland, died on Tues., August 18, 2009 at her residence.

She was born on November 21, 1961 in Fallon, Nev., the daughter of C.M. Sgt. Don L. Agnew, USAF Retired and Patsy A. (Kaopuiki) Agnew.

She married John Allen Miller on August 15, 1988 in Las Vegas, Nev., and he survives.

She was born in Fallon, Nev., where her dad was stationed with the Air Force. She grew up in Hawaii; graduated Mascoutah High School in 1981. She worked at Scott Air Force Base Exchange for several years. She worked for McFadden Lighting in St. Louis; Edison Brothers as Payroll Clerk for 12 years; then A.G. Edwards for the past 11 years. She enjoyed her children and their sports activities. She enjoyed traveling with her family; they had been to every state in the USA and 7 Canada Provinces. Her dogs, Max (boxer) and Jassmine (pitbull terrier) were very special. She was diagnosed with lung cancer on April 1. Mrs. Miller was a life-long non-smoker). She was a seven-year Relay-for-Life participant.

She is survived by her husband, John A. Miller of Highland; her daughter, Alena K. Miller of Highland; her son, Quentin K. Miller of Highland; her father, C.M. Sgt. Don L. Agnew, USAF Retired of Rigby, Idaho; her mother, Patsy A. (Kaopuiki) Agnew of Belleville, Ill.; two brothers, Don Agnew Jr. and his wife, Pat of Fredericksburg, Va. and Danny Agnew and his wife, Elenora of Lompoc, Calif.; two sisters, Leann Smith and her husband, Shanley of Belleville, Ill. and Gaylene Davenport and her husband, Scott of Hillsboro, Ohio; his father-in-law, C.M. Sgt. Bruce A. Miller, USAF Retired and his wife, Elizabeth of Belleville, Ill.; and her sister-in-law, Sheryl M. Frierdish and her husband, Brian of Dupo, Ill.

Visitation will be held on Sat., August 29 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Private funeral services will be held on Tues., August 25 at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. A public funeral service was held on Sat., August 29 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Leonard E. Pye, Pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Highland.

MT. OLIVE

Suzanne Frances Helm

Suzanne Frances Helm, 100, of Mt. Olive, died on Sun., August 16, 2009 at Heritage Manor of Litchfield in Litchfield.

She was born on November 25, 1908 in Mt. Olive, Ill., the daughter of the late George Calvin and the late Anna Ludwig (Dzvonor) Calvin.

She married Herman Eduard Steinbach on November 19, 1932 in Mt Olive, Ill., and he preceded her in death on November 5, 1945. She married Carl Frederick Zagermann on February 16, 1948 in St. Louis, Mo., and he preceded her in death on October 31, 1961. She married Wilbert Edwin Helm on August 7, 1979 in Mt. Olive, Ill. and he preceded her in death on November 1, 1993.

She was a homemaker. She attended Mt. Olive Public School in Mt. Olive. She was a member of The Immanuel Lutheran Church in Mt. Olive.

She is survived by one stepdaughter, Arlene M. Cravens of Wildwood, Fla.; one step-granddaughter, Cynthia M. Estrada of Fla.; one great-granddaughter, Talia M. Estrada of Fla.; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Anna Ludwig Dzvonor Calvin; three husbands, Herman Edward Steinbach, Carl Frederick Zagerman, and Wilbert Edwin Helm; two sisters, Anna Calvin Wasenko, Mary Frances Godin;

Visitation was held on Sat., August 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive. Funeral services were held on Sat., August 22 at 1 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Daniel Barbey officiating. Burial was held at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Mt. Olive.

MILLERSBURG, Ill.

Daniel L. "Dan" Haberer

Daniel L. "Dan" Haberer, 57, of Millersburg, Ill., died on Wed., August 19, 2009 at his residence in Millersburg, Ill.

He was born on September 25, 1951 in Highland, Ill., the son of William E. Haberer and Betty M. Starner Haberer.

He was divorced.

He was born at Highland, Ill.; he grew up in Millerburg, Ill. He graduated from Greenville High School in Greenville, Ill. in 1969. He worked as a laborer in the Metro East, Ill.; sold Morman Feeds for several years; and worked as a painter. He lived 14 years in Alaska; worked as a painter; worked at a gold mine; lived off the land; enjoying the outdoor life. He returned to Illinois in the late 1990s and continued working as a painter. He enjoyed arrow head hunting, bird watching, mushroom hunting, Civil War history, Indian culture, cave exploring, and Bluegrass music. He was a member of Labors Local #100 in East St. Louis, Ill.

He is survived by his parents, William M. "Bill" and Betty M. (Starnes) Haberer of Millersburg, Ill.; his daughter, Jennifer Drgusica and her husband, Mike of Plainfield, Ill.; his son, Daniel W. Haberer of Hillsboro, Ill.; two sisters, Denise L. Taylor (twin) and her husband, Mike of Eagle River, Ark. and Deborah L. Williams (twin) of Glen Carbon, Ill.; five grandchildren, Bailey Drgusica of Plainfield, Ill., Dylan Drgusica of Plainfield, Ill., Blaine Haberer of Highland, Ill., Ashley Drgusica of Plainfield, Ill., and Jarron Haberer of Highland; many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews; his first ex-wife, Carol Litteken Anderson, whom he married July 17, 1973 of Marine, Ill.; his second ex-wife, Norma Eyman Virtue, whom he married September 1, 1973 of Dubuque, Iowa; and his third ex-wife, Cindy Dapkus Zweig, whom he married on August 4, 1979 of Palm Beach, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Charlie and Mae (Mollett) Starnes; and his paternal grandparents, William and Sylvia (Jakel) Haberer.

Visitation was held on Fri., August 21 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Sat., August 22 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Sat., August 22 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. David Trover, Pastor of United Methodist Church in Pocahontas, Ill. Interment was held at Hug Cemetery in Millersburg, Ill. A funeral lunch was held at St. Nicholas Parish in Pocahontas, Ill. Memorials are suggested to Bond County Hospice or Hug Cemetery.

GILLESPIE

Alex Guiliani

Alex Guiliani, 81, of Gillespie, died on August 24, 2009 at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield.

He was born on December 1, 1927 in Livingston, Ill., the son of the late John Guiliani and the late Edwina (Somariva) Guiliani.

He married Lois (Cadell) Guiliani on September 25, 1949 in Pocahontas, Ark., and she preceded him in death on March 14, 1988.

He was a retired pipefitter for Shell Oil Co. He was a veteran, serving with the U.S. Army. He was a member of American Legion of Staunton.

He is survived by his two daughters, Gale Bloemker and her husband, Dennis of Mt. Olive and Jane Baniak of Florissant, Mo.; two grandchildren, Steve Grejtak and his wife, Tessa and Devon Baniak; two step-grandchildren, Michael Bloemker and his wife, Anissa and Robert Bloemker and his wfie, Dawn; one great-grandson, Max Grejtak; two sisters, Olivia Dobrinich of Litchfield, Ill. and Rita Neumann of Livingston; his companion, Dolores Fassero of Gillespie and her daughter, Terri Fassero, and his dog, Sammy. He was preceded in death by his parents; his spouse; and three sisters, Pauline Cusimano, Edith Gori, and Carmella Kyle.

Visitation was held on Tues., August 25 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie. Funeral services will be held on Wed., August 26 at 10 a.m. at United Methodist Church of Gillespie with Rev. Rachel Stockle and Rev. Dennis Hill officiating. Burial will be held on Wed., August 26 at Gillespie City Cemetery in Gillespie.

STAUNTON

Helen A. Zarr

Helen A. Zarr, 89, of Staunton, died on Sat., August 1, 2009 at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Staunton.

She was born on January 26, 1920 in Livingston, Ill., the daughter of the late Stephen and Rose (Matesa) Zarr.

She was a general accountant and was employed with Beverly Bank in Chicago, Ill., retiring in 1965 after 25 years of service. She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton. She enjoyed ballroom dancing, attending church, going on short trips with her friends and most of all, spending time with her family.

She is survived by one brother, Stephen Zarr; one brother-in-law, Edward Ruzevick of South Holland, Ill.; and nieces and nephews, Michael Ruzevich of Berwyn, Ill., Laura Valdez of Sandwich, Ill., James Ruzevick of Coronado, Calif., and Linda Eton of Miami, Fla.; great-nieces and great-nephews, Jacob, Ryan, Dawn and Katie; and two cousins, Ivan Matesa of Karlovac, Croatia and Joe Matesa of Chicago, Ill. also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Stephen and Rose (Matesa) Zarr; four brothers, John, Michael, George, and Joseph Zarr; and two sisters, Rose Joerger and Dorothy Ruzevick.

Visitation will be held on Wed., August 5 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Livingston. A funeral mass will be held on Wed., August 5 at 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Livingston with Fr. George Radosevich officiating. Interment was held at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Livingston. Lesicko Funeral Home in Livingston is in charge of arrangements. To sign a guestbook or to leave a private condolence, please visit www.lesickofuneralhome.com.

Gillespie

Travis Dean Semplowski

Travis Dean Semplowski, 21 of Gillespie passed away on July 28, 2009 at 5:58 p.m. at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield, Ill.

He was born in Litchfield on August 21, 1987 to Ronald D. Semplowski and Tammie L. (Whitlow) Semplowski.

He worked as an automotive specialist for Walmart in Litchfield. He was a former member of the Gillespie F.F.A.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by two brothers; Tyler Semplowski of Gillespie and Austin Semplowski of Gillespie; one sister, Ashleigh Semplowski of Gillespie; his grandparents, Walter and JoAnn Semplowski of Gillespie; his girlfriend, Casey Canter of Litchfield; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph Tom Whitlow Sr. and Eleanor (Kahl) Whitlow, and his great-grandparents.

Visitation was held at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie on Friday, July 31 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a prayer service held at 8 p.m.

Funeral services were held at St. Joseph’s Church in Benld on Saturday, August 1 at 10 a.m. with Monsignor Larry Auda officiating.

Burial followed at Holy Cross Cemetery in Gillespie.

Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com

MT. OLIVE

Ramona Faye Korunka

Ramona Faye Korunka, 72, of Mt. Olive, died on Thurs., July 30, 2009 at Heritage Manor of Staunton in Staunton.

She was born on November 25, 1936 in Litchfield, Ill., the son of the late Raymond Simburger and the late Ila (White) Simburger.

She married James Louis Korunka on January 10, 1953 in Mt. Olive at First United Methodist Church.

She attended Mt. Olive Public School at Mt. Olive High School. She was a manager of Mt. Olive High School. She was a manager of Mt. Olive Turner Hall with her husband, Jim from 1984-1994. She was a life member of the Mt. Olive Turner Hall; a member of Turner Hall Poley League; a member of Mt. Olive VFW Post #5790 Ladies Auxiliary; and she loved bingo, gardening, hunting and fishing.

She is survived by her husband, Jim Korunka of Mt. Olive; two sons, Larry "Bud" Korunka of Mt. Olive and Jimmy "Bowie" Korunka of Mt. Olive; one daughter, Tammy Taylor and her husband, Aaron of Mt. Olive; one brother, Kevin Simburger and her husband, Janice of Coffeen, Ill.; 13 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and 3 step-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Ila White Simburger; her step-father, Steve Karlovic; one daughter, Shelly Osterman; one brother, Larry Simburger; and one sister, Kay Holt.

Visitation was held on Sun., August 2 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive. Funeral services were held on Mon., August 3 at 11 a.m. at Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive with Rev. Kevin Simburger officiating. Burial was held at Mt. Olive City Cemetery in Mt. Olive. A funeral lunch was held for family and friends and was served at the Mt. Olive Veterans Hall. Memorials are suggested to Mt. Olive Turner Hall or Mt. Olive Cemetery.

MT. OLIVE

Vernon Lee Lambert Jr.

Vernon Lee Lambert Jr., 24, of Mt. Olive, died on Fri., July 31, 2009 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital South, Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis, Mo.

He was born on November 19, 1984 in Springfield, Ohio, the son of Valerie Skaggs Whited and Clem Worland.

He graduated from Gillespie High School with the Class of 2004. He loved wrestling, Playstation, basketball, and four-wheeling.

He is survived by his mother, Valerie Skaggs Whited of Mt. Olive; his father, Clem Worland of Mt. Olive; his maternal grandmother, Ina Skaggs of Springfield, Ohio; two brothers, Michael Whited and his wife, Lori of Staunton and Alex Worland of Mt. Olive; and one sister, Cora Whited of Mt. Olive.

A celebration of his life will be held on Sat., August 8 at his residence in Mt. Olive beginning at noon. Memorials are suggested to the family.

WORDEN

Larry D. Jolly

Larry D. Jolly, 65, of Worden, died on Fri., July 31, 2009 at his residence in Worden, Ill.

He was born on June 26, 1944 in Granite City, Ill., the son of Raymond L. Jolly and the late Frances A. Jolly Anderson.

He married Marlene B. Shepherd on March 7, 1974 in Worden, Ill., and she survives.

He was a truck driver for Teamsters Local #525 in Alton, Ill. for many years. He also worked as an Electronics Technician for DaCom Corporation in St. Louis, Mo. He served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. He was a member of Teamsters Local #525 of Alton, Ill.

Along with his wife, Marlene B. Jolly of Worden, Ill., he is survived by one son, Rick Hammond of Granite City, Ill.; four daughters, Karen Brokaw and her husband, Jerry of Granite City, Ill., Marlena Mellenthin of Worden, Ill., Maranda Causey of Alton, Ill.; and Renata Pipkin and her husband, Joe of Roxana, Ill.; 17 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; his father and step-mother, Raymond L. and Ann Jolly of Clarksville, Tenn.; five brothers, Ronnie Anderson, Donnie Anderson, Raymond Jolly, Chuck Jolly, and James Jolly; and four sisters, Trudy Teeske, Brenda Howie, Jewell Cole, and Joyce Jolly; several nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Frances A. Jolly Anderson; two sisters, Elsie Anderson and Linda Williams; and her step-father, Stanley Anderson.

There will be no visitation. Private graveside services will be held on Wed., August 5 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo. with the Military Chaplain officiating. Burial will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo. Memorials are suggested to the family. Williamson Funeral Home in Worden is in charge of arrangements.

HIGHLAND

Genevieve M. "Jenny" Frey

Genevieve M. "Jenny" Frey, 73, of Highland, died on Wed., July 29, 2009 at Saint Joseph Hospital in Highland.

She was born on January 29, 1936 in Alhambra, Ill., the daughter of the late Arthur E. Sander and the late Martha S. (Renken) Sander.

She married Gerald Englebert Frey on May 19, 1956 in St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland, and he survives.

She was born on the family farm between Hamel & Alhambra, Ill.; she grew up there; attended Hoxsey Country School; and graduated from Edwardsville High School in 1954. She worked as a bookkeeper until 1957. She then raised her family. She and her husband moved from Pierron, Ill. to their farm home on January 1, 1960. She always enjoyed watching the cattle out in their pasture. She and her husband sold their home in August of 1999 and moved into the Faith Countryside Home Retirement Village. She had been a member of a Bunco Club for over 36 years; she also enjoyed bowling, reading, being with her grandchildren and was a very, very good bookkeeper. She was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland; and a member of Saint Anne Altar Society of the church.

She is survived by her husband, Gerald E. "Jerry" Frey of Highland; two sons, Gary J. Frey and his wife, Tracy of Highland and Kenny N. Frey and his wife, Kathie of Highland; three daughters, Chery A. Bates and her husband, Mike of Harleysville, Pa., Patricia E. "Patty" Mitchell and her husband, Jeffrey of Greenville, Ill., and Janean R. Zappia and her husband, Vincent of Highland; 11 grandchildren; and one brother, Oliver A. Sander and his wife, Jean of Highland also survives.

She was preceded in death by her father, Arthur E. Sanders; her mother, Martha S. (Renken) Sanders; and her daughter, Kathleen C. Frey, who died at the age of 2 months in 1962.

Visitation was held on Fri., July 31 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Sat., August 1 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Funeral services were held on Sat., August 1 at 10 a.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland with Rev. Fr. Charles A. Edwards, Pastor of St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland as celebrant. Interment was held at Saint Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at KC Hall and was served by Daughters of Isabella. Memorials are suggested to National Psoriasis Foundation. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

Bethalto

LeAnn Kabitzke

LeAnn Kabitzke, 52, passed away at 7:00 am on Monday, July 27, 2009, at her home with her family by her side.

She was born on July 25, 1957, in Mayfield, Kentucky, the daughter of the late Walter Weldon & Margaret Mary (Thomas) Wiman.

She married James H. Kabitzke Jr. at Zion Lutheran Church on January 23, 1982. He survives.

She was the treasurer at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Bethalto and she served on the landscaping committee. She also worked at Weight Watchers and was very actively involved. She loved cross-stitching and her dogs.

LeAnn is survived by her husband, James of Bethalto; one sister, & brother-in-law, Regina & Roger Malatt of Greencastle, PA ; a brother and sister-in-law, Fred & Barbara Wiman of Olathe, KS and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 30, 2009 at the Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2009 at Zion Lutheran Church with Pastors Mark Hofferber and Willard Meyer officiating.

Burial followed at Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Bethalto.

Memorials may be made to 5 A’s or Tuition Assistance Fund at Zion Lutheran School.

Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Bethalto

Peggy Louise (Fines) Reynolds

Peggy Louise (Fines) Reynolds passed away at 2:25 am on Friday, July 24, 2009, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, Illinois.

Born May 10, 1940, in Alton, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Mildred (Margie) Gray and Earl W. Fines, Sr.

She graduated in 1958 from Civic Memorial High School. At her time of death she was enjoying her retirement and being with her family. She was an avid reader, loved traveling, especially to Florida and Hawaii, horses, playing card games, home interior decorating, teaching her grandchildren how to baking their favorite holiday treats and arts and crafts.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years Frederick Reynolds of Bethalto. The couple was married June 14, 1958 in Bethalto, Illinois.

She has four daughters, Michelle Chapman and Renaldo Titsworth of East Alton, Sheila and Cory Bowen of Meadowbrook , Lisa Bricker of Bethalto, Monica and Shawn Winstead of BFElizabeth, Arkansas, and William Ressler, Jr. of St. Louis, MO. She has ten grandchildren, Toinette Chapman, Brice Chapman, Natasha Albarran, Brittney Main, Travis Bricker, Aaron Bricker, Nicholas Bricker, William (Trey) Ressler III, Hunter Winstead, Buford Thomas (Baby Boo) Winstead; six great-grandchildren: two sisters, Vanessa Fines of Alton and Mary Beth Price of Edwardsville.

She is preceded in death by her brother Earl W. Fines, Jr. and her granddaughter Heather Bricker.

Visitation was held from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 30, 2009 at the Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2009 at the funeral home with Rev. Charles West officiating.

Burial followed at 1:30 p.m. at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo. A Memorial dinner was held at 2:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Forest Homes.

Memorials may be made out to Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home.

Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Alton

Maurice R. Roberts

Maurice R. Roberts, age 83, went to be with the Lord at 1:40 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at St. Clare’s Extended Care.

He was born on August 9, 1925 in Alton, IL, the son of the late Richard V. & Margaret C. (Schelle) Roberts.

He married Bernice T. Schmidt at St. Mary’s Catholic in Alton on November 8, 1947. She survives.

Maurie was a graduate of Shurtleff College receiving his Bachelors Degree in 1950. He served in the United States Navy Air Corps from 1943 until 1945. He was employed at Olin Corporation in Sales and Marketing for thirty-three years, retiring in 1982. He later accepted an appointment by Bishop McNicholas to serve as coordinator at Marian Heights Apartments in Alton, and served on its Board. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton, the St. Vincent DePaul Society and Alton Knights of Columbus where he was a third degree knight. Caring for and spending time with his wife, parents, children and grandchildren was always his priority.

Maurice is survived by ten children and their spouses, Mike & Lisa Roberts of Alton, Fr. Don Roberts of Meppen, IL, Debbie Roberts of Florissant, MO, Terri & Rick Martin of Raytown, MO, Jim & Stacey Roberts of Bloomsdale, MO, Jeff & Sandra Roberts of Dow, Jeanne & Joe Hoefert of Godfrey, Marci & Eric Wendle of Godfrey, Andy Roberts of Alton and Mary & John Johnson of Pineville, NC; twenty-nine grandchildren; six great grandchildren and one sister Marilyn (Roberts) Aulabaugh of Alton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Dale Roberts, and one brother-in-law, Gale Aulabaugh.

Visitation was held from 4 to 8 pm on July 31, 2009 at Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home, 1313 West Delmar, Godfrey. A private rosary service was held at 3:30 pm.

A funeral mass was held at 10 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton on Saturday, August 1, 2009 with Father Don Roberts officiating.

Burial followed at St. Joseph Cemetery in Alton, IL, with military rites being preformed by the Alton VFW Post 1308.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Alzheimer Association.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Moro

Dossie Elmore

Dossie Elmore, 82, passed away at 1:45 pm Tuesday July 28, 2009 at home with his family by his side.

He was born on August 31, 1926 in Camden, TN the son of Finis & Dolly Mary (Lewis) Elmore.

He married Betty Jean Sansom on March 27, 1950 in Corinth, MS. She survives.

He retired from Laclede Steel Company as a crane operator.

In addition to his wife, he is also survived by three daughters; Gloria Jean Clark of Alton, Dorothy Kay Mick of Bethalto and Sandra Fay Kessmann of Moro; five grandchildren, Nikki & Ashley Clark, Andy, Adam, and Alexis Mick; three great grandchildren, Michael McDonald, Jordan and Alea; and several brothers & sisters.

Cremation rites were accorded.

In celebration of his life, memorial services were held at 1:00 pm Saturday August 1, 2009 at the Kessman’s residence, 6422 Black Rail Dr. Moro, IL (Meadowbrook).

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Meadowbrook

Karen Lynn Fensterman

Karen Lynn Fensterman, 52 passed away in her sleep to be with her Father in Heaven on Wednesday, July 29, 2009.

She was born on July 6, 1957, in Alton, Illinois. Karen was the princess of John & Alberta (Peal) Fensterman who preceded her in death.

She was a lifelong resident of Meadowbrook. She graduated from Civic Memorial High School in 1975 and attended Lewis & Clark Community College. Karen was an active member of the Meadowbrook Assembly of God Church for many years. Karen enjoyed her volunteer work at both BJC Home Care Services and Alton Memorial Emergency Services. She was a recent graduate of Alton Community Counseling Center and a cherished client for many years. Karen’s favorite past time was listening to her favorite band "The Fine Times" and enjoying her well earned title as one of their "Gold Star Dancers".

Karen is survived by her treasured brother, Ronald Jeffery Fensterman and her best friend, Marco Parry, a brother, Donald Fensterman; a sister, Donna Gade-Wulf; two nieces, Dawn Church & her husband David and Rhea Gade and her partner, Billy McCane. Aunt Kay, Kay will be missed by her biggest joys of life, 3 great nephews, Alijah John and Noah Lee Church and Byron Dakota McCane.

Visitation was from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 31, 2009 at the Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto where funeral services were at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2009 with Pastor Alta Vaughn officiating.

Burial followed at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

Memorials may be made to Cerebral Palsy Association.

Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Los Angeles, Calif.

Robert L. Steele

Robert L. Steele passed away at 77 years of age on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at the Veterans Administration Hospital of Greater Los Angeles.

He was born on August 4, 1931 in Mullen, Nebraska and had resided in California since 1968.

Mr. Steele retired from IBM in 1986 and previously served as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps and Director of Recreation for East Alton, Illinois. He graduated from Wood River High School in 1949 and Southern Illinois University, Carbondale in 1958.

Survivors are his wife of 55 years, Isla (Leavell) Steele; two daughters, Toni Sue Steele and Jodi Lee Steele; two sisters, Nancy Parko and Lita McClellan and a brother, Virgil Steele.

Mr. Steele was preceded in death by his parents, Homer & Bertha (Inman) Steele, a daughter, Jana Lea and two brothers, Cecil and Donald Steele.

Funeral services were private. There was an open house for friends and family on Saturday, August 1, 2009 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Holiday Inn of Alton, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or Stem Cell Research.

 

 

 

STAUNTON

Helen A. Zarr

Helen A. Zarr, 89, of Staunton, died on Sat., August 1, 2009 at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Staunton.

She was born on January 26, 1920 in Livingston, Ill., the daughter of the late Stephen and Rose (Matesa) Zarr.

She was a general accountant and was employed with Beverly Bank in Chicago, Ill., retiring in 1965 after 25 years of service. She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton. She enjoyed ballroom dancing, attending church, going on short trips with her friends and most of all, spending time with her family.

She is survived by one brother, Stephen Zarr; one brother-in-law, Edward Ruzevick of South Holland, Ill.; and nieces and nephews, Michael Ruzevich of Berwyn, Ill., Laura Valdez of Sandwich, Ill., James Ruzevick of Coronado, Calif., and Linda Eton of Miami, Fla.; great-nieces and great-nephews, Jacob, Ryan, Dawn and Katie; and two cousins, Ivan Matesa of Karlovac, Croatia and Joe Matesa of Chicago, Ill. also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Stephen and Rose (Matesa) Zarr; four brothers, John, Michael, George, and Joseph Zarr; and two sisters, Rose Joerger and Dorothy Ruzevick.

Visitation will be held on Wed., August 5 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Livingston. A funeral mass will be held on Wed., August 5 at 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Livingston with Fr. George Radosevich officiating. Interment was held at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Livingston. Lesicko Funeral Home in Livingston is in charge of arrangements. To sign a guestbook or to leave a private condolence, please visit www.lesickofuneralhome.com.

Gillespie

Travis Dean Semplowski

Travis Dean Semplowski, 21 of Gillespie passed away on July 28, 2009 at 5:58 p.m. at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield, Ill.

He was born in Litchfield on August 21, 1987 to Ronald D. Semplowski and Tammie L. (Whitlow) Semplowski.

He worked as an automotive specialist for Walmart in Litchfield. He was a former member of the Gillespie F.F.A.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by two brothers; Tyler Semplowski of Gillespie and Austin Semplowski of Gillespie; one sister, Ashleigh Semplowski of Gillespie; his grandparents, Walter and JoAnn Semplowski of Gillespie; his girlfriend, Casey Canter of Litchfield; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph Tom Whitlow Sr. and Eleanor (Kahl) Whitlow, and his great-grandparents.

Visitation was held at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie on Friday, July 31 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a prayer service held at 8 p.m.

Funeral services were held at St. Joseph’s Church in Benld on Saturday, August 1 at 10 a.m. with Monsignor Larry Auda officiating.

Burial followed at Holy Cross Cemetery in Gillespie.

Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com

MT. OLIVE

Ramona Faye Korunka

Ramona Faye Korunka, 72, of Mt. Olive, died on Thurs., July 30, 2009 at Heritage Manor of Staunton in Staunton.

She was born on November 25, 1936 in Litchfield, Ill., the son of the late Raymond Simburger and the late Ila (White) Simburger.

She married James Louis Korunka on January 10, 1953 in Mt. Olive at First United Methodist Church.

She attended Mt. Olive Public School at Mt. Olive High School. She was a manager of Mt. Olive High School. She was a manager of Mt. Olive Turner Hall with her husband, Jim from 1984-1994. She was a life member of the Mt. Olive Turner Hall; a member of Turner Hall Poley League; a member of Mt. Olive VFW Post #5790 Ladies Auxiliary; and she loved bingo, gardening, hunting and fishing.

She is survived by her husband, Jim Korunka of Mt. Olive; two sons, Larry "Bud" Korunka of Mt. Olive and Jimmy "Bowie" Korunka of Mt. Olive; one daughter, Tammy Taylor and her husband, Aaron of Mt. Olive; one brother, Kevin Simburger and her husband, Janice of Coffeen, Ill.; 13 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and 3 step-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Ila White Simburger; her step-father, Steve Karlovic; one daughter, Shelly Osterman; one brother, Larry Simburger; and one sister, Kay Holt.

Visitation was held on Sun., August 2 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive. Funeral services were held on Mon., August 3 at 11 a.m. at Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive with Rev. Kevin Simburger officiating. Burial was held at Mt. Olive City Cemetery in Mt. Olive. A funeral lunch was held for family and friends and was served at the Mt. Olive Veterans Hall. Memorials are suggested to Mt. Olive Turner Hall or Mt. Olive Cemetery.

MT. OLIVE

Vernon Lee Lambert Jr.

Vernon Lee Lambert Jr., 24, of Mt. Olive, died on Fri., July 31, 2009 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital South, Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis, Mo.

He was born on November 19, 1984 in Springfield, Ohio, the son of Valerie Skaggs Whited and Clem Worland.

He graduated from Gillespie High School with the Class of 2004. He loved wrestling, Playstation, basketball, and four-wheeling.

He is survived by his mother, Valerie Skaggs Whited of Mt. Olive; his father, Clem Worland of Mt. Olive; his maternal grandmother, Ina Skaggs of Springfield, Ohio; two brothers, Michael Whited and his wife, Lori of Staunton and Alex Worland of Mt. Olive; and one sister, Cora Whited of Mt. Olive.

A celebration of his life will be held on Sat., August 8 at his residence in Mt. Olive beginning at noon. Memorials are suggested to the family.

WORDEN

Larry D. Jolly

Larry D. Jolly, 65, of Worden, died on Fri., July 31, 2009 at his residence in Worden, Ill.

He was born on June 26, 1944 in Granite City, Ill., the son of Raymond L. Jolly and the late Frances A. Jolly Anderson.

He married Marlene B. Shepherd on March 7, 1974 in Worden, Ill., and she survives.

He was a truck driver for Teamsters Local #525 in Alton, Ill. for many years. He also worked as an Electronics Technician for DaCom Corporation in St. Louis, Mo. He served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. He was a member of Teamsters Local #525 of Alton, Ill.

Along with his wife, Marlene B. Jolly of Worden, Ill., he is survived by one son, Rick Hammond of Granite City, Ill.; four daughters, Karen Brokaw and her husband, Jerry of Granite City, Ill., Marlena Mellenthin of Worden, Ill., Maranda Causey of Alton, Ill.; and Renata Pipkin and her husband, Joe of Roxana, Ill.; 17 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; his father and step-mother, Raymond L. and Ann Jolly of Clarksville, Tenn.; five brothers, Ronnie Anderson, Donnie Anderson, Raymond Jolly, Chuck Jolly, and James Jolly; and four sisters, Trudy Teeske, Brenda Howie, Jewell Cole, and Joyce Jolly; several nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Frances A. Jolly Anderson; two sisters, Elsie Anderson and Linda Williams; and her step-father, Stanley Anderson.

There will be no visitation. Private graveside services will be held on Wed., August 5 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo. with the Military Chaplain officiating. Burial will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo. Memorials are suggested to the family. Williamson Funeral Home in Worden is in charge of arrangements.

HIGHLAND

Genevieve M. "Jenny" Frey

Genevieve M. "Jenny" Frey, 73, of Highland, died on Wed., July 29, 2009 at Saint Joseph Hospital in Highland.

She was born on January 29, 1936 in Alhambra, Ill., the daughter of the late Arthur E. Sander and the late Martha S. (Renken) Sander.

She married Gerald Englebert Frey on May 19, 1956 in St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland, and he survives.

She was born on the family farm between Hamel & Alhambra, Ill.; she grew up there; attended Hoxsey Country School; and graduated from Edwardsville High School in 1954. She worked as a bookkeeper until 1957. She then raised her family. She and her husband moved from Pierron, Ill. to their farm home on January 1, 1960. She always enjoyed watching the cattle out in their pasture. She and her husband sold their home in August of 1999 and moved into the Faith Countryside Home Retirement Village. She had been a member of a Bunco Club for over 36 years; she also enjoyed bowling, reading, being with her grandchildren and was a very, very good bookkeeper. She was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland; and a member of Saint Anne Altar Society of the church.

She is survived by her husband, Gerald E. "Jerry" Frey of Highland; two sons, Gary J. Frey and his wife, Tracy of Highland and Kenny N. Frey and his wife, Kathie of Highland; three daughters, Chery A. Bates and her husband, Mike of Harleysville, Pa., Patricia E. "Patty" Mitchell and her husband, Jeffrey of Greenville, Ill., and Janean R. Zappia and her husband, Vincent of Highland; 11 grandchildren; and one brother, Oliver A. Sander and his wife, Jean of Highland also survives.

She was preceded in death by her father, Arthur E. Sanders; her mother, Martha S. (Renken) Sanders; and her daughter, Kathleen C. Frey, who died at the age of 2 months in 1962.

Visitation was held on Fri., July 31 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Visitation continued on Sat., August 1 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland. Funeral services were held on Sat., August 1 at 10 a.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland with Rev. Fr. Charles A. Edwards, Pastor of St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland as celebrant. Interment was held at Saint Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Highland. A funeral lunch was held at KC Hall and was served by Daughters of Isabella. Memorials are suggested to National Psoriasis Foundation. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com or by email at condolences@spengel-boulanger.com.

Bethalto

LeAnn Kabitzke

LeAnn Kabitzke, 52, passed away at 7:00 am on Monday, July 27, 2009, at her home with her family by her side.

She was born on July 25, 1957, in Mayfield, Kentucky, the daughter of the late Walter Weldon & Margaret Mary (Thomas) Wiman.

She married James H. Kabitzke Jr. at Zion Lutheran Church on January 23, 1982. He survives.

She was the treasurer at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Bethalto and she served on the landscaping committee. She also worked at Weight Watchers and was very actively involved. She loved cross-stitching and her dogs.

LeAnn is survived by her husband, James of Bethalto; one sister, & brother-in-law, Regina & Roger Malatt of Greencastle, PA ; a brother and sister-in-law, Fred & Barbara Wiman of Olathe, KS and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 30, 2009 at the Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2009 at Zion Lutheran Church with Pastors Mark Hofferber and Willard Meyer officiating.

Burial followed at Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Bethalto.

Memorials may be made to 5 A’s or Tuition Assistance Fund at Zion Lutheran School.

Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Bethalto

Peggy Louise (Fines) Reynolds

Peggy Louise (Fines) Reynolds passed away at 2:25 am on Friday, July 24, 2009, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, Illinois.

Born May 10, 1940, in Alton, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Mildred (Margie) Gray and Earl W. Fines, Sr.

She graduated in 1958 from Civic Memorial High School. At her time of death she was enjoying her retirement and being with her family. She was an avid reader, loved traveling, especially to Florida and Hawaii, horses, playing card games, home interior decorating, teaching her grandchildren how to baking their favorite holiday treats and arts and crafts.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years Frederick Reynolds of Bethalto. The couple was married June 14, 1958 in Bethalto, Illinois.

She has four daughters, Michelle Chapman and Renaldo Titsworth of East Alton, Sheila and Cory Bowen of Meadowbrook , Lisa Bricker of Bethalto, Monica and Shawn Winstead of BFElizabeth, Arkansas, and William Ressler, Jr. of St. Louis, MO. She has ten grandchildren, Toinette Chapman, Brice Chapman, Natasha Albarran, Brittney Main, Travis Bricker, Aaron Bricker, Nicholas Bricker, William (Trey) Ressler III, Hunter Winstead, Buford Thomas (Baby Boo) Winstead; six great-grandchildren: two sisters, Vanessa Fines of Alton and Mary Beth Price of Edwardsville.

She is preceded in death by her brother Earl W. Fines, Jr. and her granddaughter Heather Bricker.

Visitation was held from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 30, 2009 at the Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2009 at the funeral home with Rev. Charles West officiating.

Burial followed at 1:30 p.m. at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo. A Memorial dinner was held at 2:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Forest Homes.

Memorials may be made out to Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home.

Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Alton

Maurice R. Roberts

Maurice R. Roberts, age 83, went to be with the Lord at 1:40 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at St. Clare’s Extended Care.

He was born on August 9, 1925 in Alton, IL, the son of the late Richard V. & Margaret C. (Schelle) Roberts.

He married Bernice T. Schmidt at St. Mary’s Catholic in Alton on November 8, 1947. She survives.

Maurie was a graduate of Shurtleff College receiving his Bachelors Degree in 1950. He served in the United States Navy Air Corps from 1943 until 1945. He was employed at Olin Corporation in Sales and Marketing for thirty-three years, retiring in 1982. He later accepted an appointment by Bishop McNicholas to serve as coordinator at Marian Heights Apartments in Alton, and served on its Board. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton, the St. Vincent DePaul Society and Alton Knights of Columbus where he was a third degree knight. Caring for and spending time with his wife, parents, children and grandchildren was always his priority.

Maurice is survived by ten children and their spouses, Mike & Lisa Roberts of Alton, Fr. Don Roberts of Meppen, IL, Debbie Roberts of Florissant, MO, Terri & Rick Martin of Raytown, MO, Jim & Stacey Roberts of Bloomsdale, MO, Jeff & Sandra Roberts of Dow, Jeanne & Joe Hoefert of Godfrey, Marci & Eric Wendle of Godfrey, Andy Roberts of Alton and Mary & John Johnson of Pineville, NC; twenty-nine grandchildren; six great grandchildren and one sister Marilyn (Roberts) Aulabaugh of Alton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Dale Roberts, and one brother-in-law, Gale Aulabaugh.

Visitation was held from 4 to 8 pm on July 31, 2009 at Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home, 1313 West Delmar, Godfrey. A private rosary service was held at 3:30 pm.

A funeral mass was held at 10 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton on Saturday, August 1, 2009 with Father Don Roberts officiating.

Burial followed at St. Joseph Cemetery in Alton, IL, with military rites being preformed by the Alton VFW Post 1308.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Alzheimer Association.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Moro

Dossie Elmore

Dossie Elmore, 82, passed away at 1:45 pm Tuesday July 28, 2009 at home with his family by his side.

He was born on August 31, 1926 in Camden, TN the son of Finis & Dolly Mary (Lewis) Elmore.

He married Betty Jean Sansom on March 27, 1950 in Corinth, MS. She survives.

He retired from Laclede Steel Company as a crane operator.

In addition to his wife, he is also survived by three daughters; Gloria Jean Clark of Alton, Dorothy Kay Mick of Bethalto and Sandra Fay Kessmann of Moro; five grandchildren, Nikki & Ashley Clark, Andy, Adam, and Alexis Mick; three great grandchildren, Michael McDonald, Jordan and Alea; and several brothers & sisters.

Cremation rites were accorded.

In celebration of his life, memorial services were held at 1:00 pm Saturday August 1, 2009 at the Kessman’s residence, 6422 Black Rail Dr. Moro, IL (Meadowbrook).

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Meadowbrook

Karen Lynn Fensterman

Karen Lynn Fensterman, 52 passed away in her sleep to be with her Father in Heaven on Wednesday, July 29, 2009.

She was born on July 6, 1957, in Alton, Illinois. Karen was the princess of John & Alberta (Peal) Fensterman who preceded her in death.

She was a lifelong resident of Meadowbrook. She graduated from Civic Memorial High School in 1975 and attended Lewis & Clark Community College. Karen was an active member of the Meadowbrook Assembly of God Church for many years. Karen enjoyed her volunteer work at both BJC Home Care Services and Alton Memorial Emergency Services. She was a recent graduate of Alton Community Counseling Center and a cherished client for many years. Karen’s favorite past time was listening to her favorite band "The Fine Times" and enjoying her well earned title as one of their "Gold Star Dancers".

Karen is survived by her treasured brother, Ronald Jeffery Fensterman and her best friend, Marco Parry, a brother, Donald Fensterman; a sister, Donna Gade-Wulf; two nieces, Dawn Church & her husband David and Rhea Gade and her partner, Billy McCane. Aunt Kay, Kay will be missed by her biggest joys of life, 3 great nephews, Alijah John and Noah Lee Church and Byron Dakota McCane.

Visitation was from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 31, 2009 at the Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto where funeral services were at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2009 with Pastor Alta Vaughn officiating.

Burial followed at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

Memorials may be made to Cerebral Palsy Association.

Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Los Angeles, Calif.

Robert L. Steele

Robert L. Steele passed away at 77 years of age on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at the Veterans Administration Hospital of Greater Los Angeles.

He was born on August 4, 1931 in Mullen, Nebraska and had resided in California since 1968.

Mr. Steele retired from IBM in 1986 and previously served as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps and Director of Recreation for East Alton, Illinois. He graduated from Wood River High School in 1949 and Southern Illinois University, Carbondale in 1958.

Survivors are his wife of 55 years, Isla (Leavell) Steele; two daughters, Toni Sue Steele and Jodi Lee Steele; two sisters, Nancy Parko and Lita McClellan and a brother, Virgil Steele.

Mr. Steele was preceded in death by his parents, Homer & Bertha (Inman) Steele, a daughter, Jana Lea and two brothers, Cecil and Donald Steele.

Funeral services were private. There was an open house for friends and family on Saturday, August 1, 2009 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Holiday Inn of Alton, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or Stem Cell Research.