Marjorie was born on Aug. 17, 1922, in Taylorville, Ill., to Frank and Margaret (Lupton) Curtin.

After WWII, during which she worked at an aviation plant, Marjorie finished beauty school in Springfield, Ill., and became a licensed beautician. She practiced her art in Decatur, Ill., where she partnered with her friends in her first private enterprise.

After marrying Bill Salins, she moved to Chicago with her children, Judy and Billy, and operated Avalon Beauty Salon in Maywood and Bellwood.

Even after retiring, she continued to work for Hair Crafters in Elgin.

Marjorie was involved with the Holy Name Society, Elburn Book Club and Senior Vitality of Delnor in her later years. She did the crossword puzzle everyday.

Marjorie was a member of St. Peter & Paul Church in Virgil, where a memorial mass will be held in her honor on Saturday, Aug. 21, at 11 a.m.

Survivors include her son, Bill (Christine) Youmans; her grandson, S. Aaron Etienne; and her niece, Marjorie Ann (Jim) Schick and their son, Robert.

Marjorie is preceded in death by her daughter, Judith K. Etienne; and William D. Youmans, Bill Salins and Ralph Klein, her loving husbands.

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to The American Cancer Society in honor of Marjorie at www.cancer.org or American Cancer Society, 225 North Michigan Avenue #1210, Chicago, IL 60601-7833 (312) 372-0471.

She was born on May 26, 1936, in Aurora, the daughter of Lloyd and Helen (Schuld) Fritsch.

Joan was raised on a farm outside of Big Rock and went through 12 years of school there. After graduating from Big Rock High School, she entered the Copley Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in Aurora, and made many lifelong friends there.

Joan was united in marriage on Sept. 23, 1956, at the Baptist Church in Big Rock, to Mr. Donald C. Needham. They made their first home in Maple Park.

Joan went to work as a registered nurse at the Sycamore Municipal Hospital and continued there until 1970. She held many positions, including charge nurse of pediatrics, evening house supervisor, and assistant night house supervisor.

Joan’s family began to grow; Pamela Jo was born in 1957 and Peggy Ann was born in 1960. In 1969, Joan accepted a position at the new Mid-Valley Area Vocational Center, where she was one of the eight “original” teachers who developed curriculum and taught junior and seniors from the participating schools.

Joan went back to school and earned her baccalaureate degree from the College of St. Francis in 1977. After completing her degree, Joan moved on to Delnor Hospital in St. Charles for three years, working as an in-service education instructor. In 1980, she was hired as director of education at DeKalb County Rehab and Nursing Facility.

Joan graduated in 1981 from Northern Illinois University with a master’s degree in adult education. She also taught continuing education courses for nurses and nursing assistants at Kishwaukee Community College, Elgin Community College and Waubonsee Community College.

Joan’s career expanded when she began writing textbooks for Delmar Publishers in New York. She authored, co-authored and contributed chapters for a total of 13 books. In addition to writing, she served as a consultant for the development of media materials used in teaching nurses and nursing assistants.

Through the years, Joan was active at Grace United Methodist Church in Maple Park, serving as a Sunday school teacher, and on various committees at First United Methodist Church in DeKalb, and as secretary for two years for the United Methodist Women. Joan was also a member of the Illinois Nurses Association and Delta Kappa Gamma sorority for women in education.

Joan was an original board member establishing the Maple Park Public Library in 1963 and continued to serve on the board for 20 years. She volunteered at both the DeKalb County Hospice and the DeKalb County Rehab and Nursing Center.

In her spare time, Joan enjoyed several hobbies, including photography, needlework, sewing, genealogy, traveling and entertaining.

Joan is survived by her daughters, Pamela Needham-Volkert of Rochelle, Ill. and Peggy (Jeff) Yagen of Maple Park; her grandchildren, Samuel Volkert of Rochelle, Ill., Margaret Joan Yagen of Maple Park, Kim (Todd) Stecker of Creston, Ill., and Stephanie (Eric) Kersten of Ashton, Ill.; her great-grandchildren, Noah and Luke Steckert, and Madison and Elias Kersten; her brothers, Ken (Barbara) Fritsch of Wheaton, Ill., and Ron Fritsch of Chicago; her sister, Beverly (Gene) May of Sugar Grove; her good friends, Blen and Perry Lakin, Gwen and John Fox, Barbara Hoffman, Myrna and Bob Stouffer; and many nieces and nephews.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Needham; and her parents, Lloyd and Helen Fritsch.

A funeral service will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 31, at the First United Methodist Church, 321 Oak St., DeKalb, with Reverend Laura Crites officiating.

Friends may visit from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, July 30, at the Nash-Nelson Memorial Chapel, 141 N. Maple St., Hinckley. Interment will follow in the Ohio Grove Cemetery in DeKalb.

Memorials in Joan’s name made by made to either the DeKalb County Hospice, 2727 Sycamore Road, DeKalb, IL 60115, or to the First United Methodist Church, 321 Oak St., DeKalb, IL 60115.

Joan’s family would like to thank the DeKalb County Hospice for their wonderful care of Joan.
Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory, (815) 286-3247. For information, visit www.NelsonFuneralHomes.com.

She was born Dec. 15, 1933, in Elmhurst, Ill., the daughter of Donald and Mable (Anderson) Talty.

Before she was 1, her father took a different path. Mable then married Edward Reinink Jr., who became the man she always saw as her father.

Donna jumped on a train each day to attend Wheaton High. Her younger years were filled with happy memories and times spent in the family-owned meat market and general store, Andersons, in Elmhurst.

She found love very early in life and caught the eye and the heart of William Crook. They were united in marriage on Oct. 21, 1950, in Warrenville, Ill. Donna and Bill spent many years raising a family and making their house a home.

When Bill became afflicted with MS, Donna became his caretaker for more than 20 years. Their love increased with every day; their bond becoming unbreakable until his passing in 1993.

They began their new life together on the family farm for a time until 1953, when they moved to Lily Lake. They built a new home two years later. After Bill’s passing in 1993, Donna moved to live with her son, Tom, and his family for the next 13 years.

Donna’s heart was big enough to care for the world and everyone in it. For most of her years, she was affectionately known by all as “Grandma.” She never met a stranger, and very few ever left without having their lives changed for the better.

Never one to brag about herself, Grandma could do anything. She worked on the farm, at a pickle company for a time, worked as a welder, and later worked many years in the restaurant industry. Grandma worked at The Farm Inn in Wasco, Campton Inn in Lily Lake, and later at the Kountry Kettle in Elburn.

Family was most important in her life, so for the next many years she helped take care of her grandchildren, spoiling them rotten and loving every moment. Grandma was a fixture in their lives, present for every step and every accomplishment.

She went back to work after the grandkids were grown at her best friend and daughter Linda’s restaurant, Gert’s Place in Batavia, before dedicating her energy and care for the next many years at the Valley Sheltered Workshop until December 2009. It was the perfect place for a woman with an unlimited amount of love to give, and it didn’t take long for her to adopt “her kids” as her own. They adopted her as well, and the legend of Grandma grew exponentially.

Later she was featured in several newspaper articles lauding her hard work and determination, and deemed her the reason for the continued success of the shelter. After meeting Grandma, no one was ever the same, and the mark she left on the hearts and minds of all she knew will last for generations and beyond.

She is survived by her son, Tom (Deborah Lee) Crook of Elburn; seven grandchildren, Ted Crook, Jenny (Jason) Peak, Billy Norton, Eleni (Mark) Zelazoski, Cynthia Higgins, Kit Crook and Cody Crook; seven great-grandchildren, Emma Peak, Danielle Norton and her daughter, Lilly Ann; William Norton Jr., Brandy Norton, Joey Melby, Ashley Zelazoski and Derek Zelazoski; one sister, Charlene Terlecki; many nieces, nephews and a countryside of “family” that will never forget her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, William; daughter, Linda Runge; son, Willy (Doreen) Crook; sister, Kaye Brogie; and brother, Ed Reinink.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate her life on Saturday, July 31, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Lily Lake Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in hers name to benefit Valley Sheltered Workshop and other favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Donna Crook Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

Beverly was born July 7, 1939, in Mattoon, Ill., the daughter of Paul and Lois (Grant) Jones.

Bev grew up in Mattoon but moved to the Elburn area in 1949 and attended local schools.

On June 30, 1956, Beverly married her high school sweetheart, David Siebert. They made their home in California for a time but soon returned to Illinois, settling in the Elburn-Kaneville area, where they would share most of the next 48 years together. David and Bev moved to Yorkville in 1996. She continued to make her home there following David’s passing in 2004.

Though Bev worked at various jobs over the years, she made it her job to raise her children and care for David. There wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do for her children, even pulling them in a wagon for over eight miles to a friend’s home who had a swimming pool. She truly made her house a “home,” making not only delicious meals but everlasting memories.

When the holidays came around, Bev was unofficially credited with inventing Chex Mix, a mixture of seasoned cereal now sold in bulk, but was once uniquely her own. She was firm but fair with her children, but when grandchildren came along, Bev found her calling, taking them shopping, teaching them how to bake, and she attended nearly all the various school events. Her family was her life, and she wouldn’t have had it any other way.

She is survived by three children, Paula Siebert of Yorkville, Terry (Sarah) Siebert of Manatee County, Fla., Trent (Dawn) Siebert of Sugar Grove; four grandchildren, Krista (Jay) Lutz and their son, Jayden, of Manatee County, Fla., and Jake Siebert of Oswego, Ill., Kylie and Tyler Siebert of Sugar Grove; one sister, Claudette Liehr of Oswego, Ill.; many nieces, nephews; and a family of friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; a step-father, Walter “Bertie” Gregory; husband, David; and brother-in-law, Rick Liehr.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, July 24, with a service to conclude visitation at noon at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. Interment will follow at Blackberry Township Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in her name to benefit her favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Beverly Siebert Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or at www.conleycare.com.

Services were held June 21 at 7 p.m. at Salerno’s Rosedale Chapel in Roselle, Ill. Internment services were private.

John was a good friend and neighbor who always gave a helping hand. John will be missed and long remembered for his care of people and the land. May the Lord bless John’s daughter, Sara, family and many friends with his comforting hand.

Thank you for being there for us in our time of grief and honoring Meridith is such a positive way. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

Al and Linda Albrecht
Mexico Beach, Fla.
labeach@mchsi.com

She was born Aug. 18, 1919, in Hobart, Tasmania.

She met her late husband, Dr. Edward Frasz, a naval officer during World War II in Sydney, Australia, and they corresponded for the duration of the war. After losing her two brothers in the war, she traveled to San Francisco to marry Ed on Sept. 10, 1945 and became a U.S. citizen.

They started their life together in Chicago before moving to Geneva in 1950 where Marie raised a family and assisted in running the office of Ed’s Geneva dental practice for 30 years.

Marie was a curator, docent and resident at the Fabyan Villa for 12 years, a volunteer at the Geneva History Center, and had a life long passion for flower arranging and was proud of her status as a senior member of the Geneva Garden Club.

She is survived by her two sons, Geoffrey (Margie) of Las Vegas, Andrew “Drew” (Gail) of Elburn, and a daughter, Paula of Plano; also her grandchildren, Laura, Aaron Frasz, Sephanie, Samantha, and Jerry Henrickson.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ed in 1983, and a son Noel in 1954, and her parents, two brothers and a sister.

Marie would say “Have a long, wonderful life. I sure did !”

Visitation was held Sunday, June 20 at the Yurs Funeral Home in Geneva. Burial took place Monday at Oak Hill Cemetery, in Geneva.

William was born June 12, 1925, in Virgil on the family farm. He was the son of William. N. and Emma Berens.

He grew up in Virgil. When a young man, he became a carpenter/contractor and worked as a carpenter until he retired in 1980.

After retirement, he repaired furniture for just about anyone in the area.

Through the years, Bill had acquired many friends that he never ceased to remind you about.

His breakfast club buddies, for instance, whom he met with at various local restaurants, would always stir some kind of comeback remarks when William had an enlightening remark or catch phrase to throw out to them—which were all in good fun of course.

He was formerly married to Francis A. Berens and had four children. Later in his life he married Vivian Butts.

He is survived by four children, David (Wanda) Berens Maple Park, Richard (Georgia) Berens Maple Park, Michael (Toni) Berens Maple Park, and Bonnie (Jeff) Worland Jamestown, N.Y.

He had five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and two sisters, Joan (George) Potter of Canada and Dorothy (Chuck) Bristol of Virgil.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and sister, Dorothy Bristol, and his beloved dog, Susie.

A memorial service was held on his birthday, Saturday, June 12, at the Church of Christ, Sycamore.

She had been a resident of Campton Township for 64 years.

She was born June 4, 1909 in Plato Township, the daughter fo the late John and Elizabeth Beith Muirhead.

Lucinda graduated from Plato Township High School in1927 and also was a graduate of Wheaton College in 1931 and Northwestern University M.A. in 1938.

She taught English at Plato High School until her marriage to Robert Corron on June 14, 1946.

Her memberships include the Wasco Ladies Aid, St. Charles Women’s Club and she was a former member of the Plato Methodist Church. She was also a volunteer at the Elgin Mental Health Center.

She is survived by two sons, Robert (Jane) Corron of Campton Township, and David Corron of Campton Township. One Daughter, Sarah (Larry) Toms of Oregon, Ill., and one granddaughter, Ashley Corron, of Chicago.

Lucinda was preceeded in death by her husband, Robert, two sisters, Elizabeth Muirhead and Lillian Dahlstrom, and two brothers, Donald and John Muirhead.

Lucinda and her family appreciated the loving care given to her by Mary Niceley and Norene Milligan.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 16 at Whitney Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. June 15 at Yurs Funeral Home in St. Charles.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Wasco Ladies Aid, the American Cancer Society, or to the Parkinson’s Sisease Foundation.

She was born Dec. 17, 1919, in Richardson, Ill., the daughter of Anthony and Susan Roberta (Deutsch) Heyob.

When Marie was only a child, the family moved to the Virgil area, where she attended S.S. Peter and Paul School. She graduated from Mt. St. Mary High School in St. Charles.

She was united in marriage to Walter “Bud” Phillips on July 13, 1940, at S.S. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Virgil. They began their new life together in St. Charles before moving to their home in Elburn in 1946. When her health began to decline, Marie moved to the DeKalb County Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

Marie worked in the Elgin Watch Factory through the war but also worked for a number of businesses in the Kaneland area, including Smith’s Grocery in Elburn and the County Line Restaurant in Maple Park for 15 years before retiring at the age of 75.

She was a faithful member of St. Gall Catholic Church for 64 years, was a former member of the Altar and Rosary Society, was a choir member for many years, and provided transportation to the nuns from Virgil and St. Charles for the religious education programs.

Marie was a private person and always found the comforts of home to be “just what the doctor ordered.” Her sense of humor was only a breath away and always on the dry side. Through her working years, she made many friends among the area farmers and neighbors whom she served at various restaurants and establishments where she worked.

She is survived by two daughters, Rose Marie Newcomb of Harrisburg, Ill., and Laura Sheehan of Chana, Ill.; three sons, Walter A. Phillips of St. Charles, Gerald (Judy) Phillips of DeKalb, and Raymond (Susan) Phillips of DeKalb; three siblings, Marcella Turk of Sycamore, Jacob (Marilyn) Heyob of St. Charles, and Richard Heyob of Russelville, Ark.; 12 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, especially Cheryl Nicolaou and Bernard Blasch, and a family of friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Walter (1974); her brother, Anthony “Tony” (Jean) Heyob; brothers-in-law, Edwin F. Turk and Donald (Virginia) Blasch; sisters-in-law; and Taomi Heyob.

A wake service concluded the visitation on June 8 at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St. , Elburn, IL 60119. A mass to celebrate her life was held at St. Gall Catholic Church, Elburn, on Wednesday, June 9. The Rev. Karl Ganss, pastor of the church, officiated, and interment followed at St. Gall Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in her name to benefit her favorite charities.Checks may be made to the “Marie Phillips Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or online at www.conleycare .com.

The family passed along a heartfelt thank you to all the dedicated staff and volunteers at the DeKalb County Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

She was born Dec. 8, 1917, in Aurora, the daughter of Richard and Mary (Gatzke) Dumdie.

Helen grew up in Aurora on Union Street and was able to walk to school every day. She graduated from East Aurora High School. Afterward, she began working for Miller, Bryant & Pierce Manufacturing, where they made typewriter ribbons.

Helen was 27 when she met the love of her life, Glenn Kahl, in August of 1945. After a whirlwind two-week courtship, Helen found a ring on her finger and was told, “You are it.” They were united in marriage the following year on Feb. 2, 1946. Sixty-four years of love, laughter and family later, it still was the best decision Glenn ever made.

They began their new life together in the Maple Park area and never left, making their house a home and a haven for friends and family.

Helen was a member of the UMW at the Grace United Methodist Church in Maple Park, as well as Sunday School teacher for many years. When she wasn’t at work she found herself at a table among friends playing cards, especially Pinochle.

Helen loved to sew for her family, making endless flannel shirts, night gowns and even most of her own clothes. She was a fabulous baker known for her pies and coffee cakes. You knew she was baking the minute you walked into the house, because the intoxicating aroma coming from the kitchen instantly brought a smile to your face. Helen was especially proud of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She had a kind and compassionate soul, never said a bad word about anyone and was endlessly devoted to her “man,” loving him until the very end.

She is survived by her husband, Glenn, of 64 years; five children, Roger (Pat) Kahl, Dennis (Karen) Kahl, Carol (Ron) Williams, Allen (Mary) Kahl and Janet (Ken) Stoll; eight grandchildren, Grant (Cindy) Kahl, Brandon (Dana) Kahl, Chris (Kim) Kahl, Tiffany (Lori Angstadt) Kahl, Heather (Bert) Veldhuizen, Addam Kahl, Nick (Loren Thompson) Kahl and Breanne Kahl; eight great-grandchildren, Trevor Kahl, Kailyn Kahl, Brock Kahl, Mackenzie Kahl, Brooke Kahl, Peyton Kahl, Aidan Kahl and Garrett Veldhuizen; one brother, Paul (Audrey) Dumdie; an aunt, Bernice Helmeker; one sister-in-law, Lucille Johnson; two wonderful caretakers, Bev Roethlisberger and Krystyna Struzik; the compassionate hearts of DeKalb County Hospice; many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends from church.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Mary Dumdie; five sisters, Lucille Fritz, Ella Bastion, Minnie Wennemaker, Evelyn Shevlin and Mary Cross; her father and mother-in-law, Ray and laura Kahl; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Alice and Orvis Schroyer, Dorothy and Bill McAdams, and Merle Johnson.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. with a funeral service to celebrate her life to begin at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, June 3, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL, 60119. Burial will follow on Friday morning, June 4, at Gardner Cemetery, Maple Park, at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name to benefit Grace United Methodist Church and DeKalb Hospice. Checks may be made to the “Helen Kahl Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com. A full life story is also available on the website.

She was born Dec. 1, 1918, in Hinckley, the daughter of Louis and Pauline (Pfisterer) Riedelsperger. Elsie grew up in Hinckley, where she attended local schools.

Elsie was united in marriage to Walter M. Rissman on Feb. 8, 1938. They made their home in Aurora for a time until 1947, when they began farming in rural Hinckley. In 1952, they moved to the Rowe farm on Keslinger Road, and for a time, she worked at National Electronics (formerly Cetron). They continued to make their home on the farm until 1968, when they purchased the H-Way Lounge in Shabbona, Ill. Retiring in 1979, they continued to make their home in Shabbona, where Walter passed away in 1988. In the years since, Elsie continued to make her home in Shabbona with the help of her loving family.

Like her mother before her, Elsie was a good homemaker and housekeeper. They might have lived on a farm, but she would have no animals in her house, except the dog that David would sneak into the basement on cold winter nights. Elsie’s word was law, and the punishment for breaking the rules would often be being chased out the door with a broom.

Elsie loved to collect antiques: figurines, paper weights, antique furniture and antique dolls all had places in her heart and home. Although she had no hobbies, she was an avid Walmart shopper. Her travels never brought her farther from home than where she could get back to her own bed at night. Elsie was a good cook, always making something to make your mouth water. During their farming years, Elsie took charge of the house while Walter took care of the farm. Later they ran the Hi-Way Lounge, where she helped in the kitchen.
She is a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Hinckley.

She is survived by four children, Marcia (Bill) Mikesell of South Elgin, Ill., David (Karren) Rissman of Elburn, Vicki (Ken) Lackey of St. Charles, Gary (Beverly) Rissman of Sugar Grove; 17 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren; former son-in-law, Larry (Diana) Erickson of Kaneville; former daughter-in-law, Dianne Rissman of Buena Vista, Calif.; many nieces and nephews, and a countryside full of friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Walter; one son, Darryl; one daughter, Connie; and five siblings, Florence, Clara, Martha, Walter, Ronald and Ella.

Visitation was Wednesday, June 9, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL, 60119. A funeral to celebrate her life will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Hinckley, on Thursday, June 10. Interment will follow the service at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.

A memorial will be established in Elsie’s memory to benefit the Immanuel Lutheran Church and other charities. Memorials checks may be made to the Elsie Rissman Memorial and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address or through the obituary at www.conleycare.com.

She was born Nov.5, 1921, in Maple Park, the daughter of John and Grace (Birkeneder) Neisendorf.

Fran grew up in rural areas around Maple Park and attended local schools. She graduated Maple Park High School with the class of 1939.

Fran moved to Geneva for a time and attended a beauty school. She made use of her newly acquired education doing hair for various local beauticians.

Fran met her future husband, Edward Koenig, while still in high school. Their friendship would turn into love following his discharge from the United States Navy during WWII. They were united in marriage on Feb. 11, 1945, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Maple Park.

They would begin their new life together in their hometown of Maple Park and spend the rest of their lives raising a family and making enough memories to last a lifetime.

Ed and Fran ran the Dairy Bar on Main Street for a time while living above the shop. When they sold the Dairy Bar, Fran opened the Powder Box Beauty Shop next to Kahl’s Appliance Store. Later, when they built their home, Fran brought the Powder Box into her home and did hair for friends and family for the next 40 years.

In the 1970s, Fran not only was Sexton for St. Mary of the Assumption Cemetery on County Line Road in Maple Park, she also mowed it on a weekly basis.

In 1983, Fran put down her scissors and put away the curlers to begin a 21-year career at the Maple Park Post Office. In earlier years, both Fran and the Legion wives catered events for the American Legion. Later, she became the bar manager for many years. She retired from the Maple Park Post Office on May 31, 2005, and when her health declined a year later, she put down the books she kept for both the American Legion and the cemetery.

Fran was a member of the Maple Park American Legion Wives for many years. She was a parishioner of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, where she was a member of the Church Board, Cenacle Guild and helped count money on Sundays.

Fran was a woman who never seemed to stop moving or helping those in need within her community. When she wasn’t working or attending various meetings, you could find her sitting around the table with friends playing Pinochle or at the Legion playing Pitch. She also enjoyed her time trying to beat the house at different casinos, and when Bingo came calling, Fran always answered.

Fran was also known to hit the links in her late 60s with a local women’s golf group. In later years, Fran made many trips and cruises with friends across the country and abroad. From Las Vegas and Atlantic City and across the globe to Africa, Egypt, China, Ireland, Europe and Australia, Fran saw it all. Every night, Wheel of Fortune was an event, along with whenever her beloved Cubbies would play.

She is survived by five children, Rodney (Jacque) Koenig of Norwood, Colo., Stephen (Billie) Koenig of Rhinelander, Wis., Julia (Scott) Eyster of Rochelle, Ill., Patricia (Mike) Pomatto of Batavia, and Susan (Randy) Ekstrom of Elburn; six grandchildren, Aaron Eyster, Nathan Eyster, Christa Pomatto, Sarah Pomatto, Halie Ekstrom and Brooke Ekstrom; three siblings, Helen Strausberger of Sandwich, Ill., John (Rose) Neisendorf of DeKalb, and Bud (Betty) Neisendorf of Burlington, Ill.; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends the world over.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Edward; and three sisters, Mary Eder, Babs Barsic and Agnes Neisendorf.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m., Thursday, June 10, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL, 60119. A mass to celebrate her life will be held at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Maple Park, Friday, June 11, at 11 a.m. The Rev. Joachim Tyrtania, pastor of the church, will officiate, and interment will follow at St. Mary of the Assumption Cemetery.

For those unable to attend the mass, it will be available online at www.conleycare.com five minutes prior to the service. You may also view the service in an on-demand format 48 hours following the service at the same address.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in their her name to benefit St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, specifically the cemetery and organ restoration funds. Checks may be made to the “Fran Koenig Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Nov. 30, 1958, in Effingham, Ill., the son of Lynn and Vera Graham.

He grew up spending many years on his grandparents’ farm, and although he built his knowledge in local schools, his character was built on each acre of that farm.

Greg attended St. John’s Lutheran School and graduated from Glenbard East High School with the class of 1977. Greg found excavating and demolition work in the construction trade, working long hours but always finding time to work on various motorcycles and cars.

Greg found the love of his life just down the road from his home, but never met her until after graduation while camping with mutual friends. Tracy Gilman stole his heart while she gave him her own when they were united in marriage in 1982.

They began their new life together in Lombard for a time, where they began raising a family that would include two sons, Austin and Mason. In 1988, the family moved to Elburn, where he built the house where they would make their home.

Greg never found a motorcycle or car that he couldn’t fix up and sell for more than he paid. In recent years, a 1950 Ford brought him many hours of happiness as well as accolades when he won the First Place Friday Night Award in Lombard. His vehicle was also chosen to continue with an entry into the World of Wheels.

Greg hosted great parties and huge bonfires that originally just “happened” but quickly became an annual event that brought friends and family from around the country.

Greg was one of a kind. His strength of character that was forged on the farm combined with his infectious unique laugh and warmth of spirit made him unforgettable in every sense of the word. Gone but not forgotten, his presence can still be found in the legacy of memories he left behind for all those who loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Tracy; two sons, Mason Graham of DeKalb and Austin Graham of Elburn; five siblings, Marcia Catalano of Lombard, Kevin Graham of Lombard, Carole (Mark) Roberts of Wheaton, Ill., Jeff (Ann) Graham of Downers Grove, Ill., and Tim Graham of Lombard; his parents, Lynn and Vera Graham of Lombard; and many nieces, nephews and a family of friends who will miss him dearly.

He is preceded in death by both his paternal and maternal grandparents.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 27, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL, 60119. A funeral to celebrate his life will begin at 11 a .m., Friday, May 28, also at the funeral home. The Rev. James Ilten, pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Lombard, will officiate. Private family interment will follow cremation at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit the American Cancer Society. Checks may be made to the “Greg Graham Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

Following cremation, a public memorial service will be held Saturday, June 12, at 11 a.m. at the Elburn American Legion Post 630, in Elburn.

Lyla was born the daughter of D. Clyde and Bessie B. (Brundige) Divine on Dec. 19, 1925, in Geneva.

She grew up in the La Fox area and attended both La Fox and Wasco schools. She graduated from Geneva High School with the class of 1942. After graduation, like many of her generation, Lyla found work at Burgess-Norton, where employees made tank piston pins in support of the war.

During her younger years on the family farm, Lyla got to know her “farm neighbor,” a 13-year-old boy named Jay Johnsen. Their farms were adjoined on a creek, and through the passing of time, friendship grew into love, and love into marriage on June 19, 1946.

They made their home with Lyla’s brother Bill and his wife until they could save enough money to have a dream farm of their own.

Lyla and Jay began farming on the Beith farm, where they farmed for three years until 1949, when Lyla and Jay moved to the Warne farm west of Elburn. There, they bought their first herd of dairy cows. In 1952, they moved to the Zeller farm on Shoefactory Road near Elgin, Ill., and farmed there until 1960, when they purchased the present family farm homestead, where Jay’s family lived when he was a boy.

Through the years they would farm many acres throughout the area. The Johnsen families eventually purchased 1,000 acres near DeKalb.

Besides working on the farm and raising her family, Lyla spent many years as a teacher’s aide at Wasco Elementary School, where many friendships were made with many generations. She also was a Sunday school teacher at United Methodist Church of Geneva.

Lyla had a giving heart and always found ways to give back to her neighbors and surrounding communities. She was a 4-H leader for more than 20 years, first with the Elgin Eagles and then with the La Fox Boys. When the boys were young, Lyla also was a Cub Scout Leader.

Her family ties were strong to the old one-room Sholes School house. Many members of her family were taught as students with her aunt, Emma Divine, being a teacher, as well. She was instrumental in the moving of the school house from Burlington and its refurbishing when it finally found its home in Le Roy Oaks Forest Preserve. When an election time came around on the calendar, she could always be counted on as an election judge.

Lyla also was a member of the Wasco Ladies’ Aid and the Aurora Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Later, she helped to organize and became a charter member of the Elias Kent-Kane Chapter of the DAR on December 10, 1980. Jay and Lyla both were active together, starting the Lords and Ladies Square Dance Club in Elgin. They also were very involved in the La Fox Farmers’ Club and the Associated Milk Producers Inc. For more than 20 years, Lyla was the superintendent of the Hobby and Crafts Building at the Kane County Fair.

Lyla had a love for travel with her sister, Merilyn, and later Jay, with destinations in every state as well as into Canada and Mexico. Lyla and Jay could always be found in the stands rooting on their children and grandchildren at nearly every single game, no matter the sport or the weather. Lyla will be missed by many and forgotten by none.

She is survived by four sons, Steve Johnsen of Denver, Colo., Rodney (Diane) Johnsen of Elburn, K.C. (Phyllis ) Johnsen of Batavia, and Todd (Linda) Johnsen of St. Charles; seven grandchildren, Marc-Paul (Melissa) Johnsen and their children, Evelyn and Leia of Denver, Colo., Grant Johnsen, Ryan Johnsen, Nicole “Coley” (Dan) Pawlikowski, Ben Johnsen, Kaitlyn Johnsen and Tara Johnsen; one sister, Lois Divine, of St. Charles; four sisters-in-law, Marcia Filip of Vancouver, Wash., and Marilyn Divine of Wisconsin, Judy Johnsen of Florida and Viola Johnsen of Geneva; one brother-in-law, Merle Johnsen of southern Illinois; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and a countryside of friends.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jay (2008); her parents; two brothers, Bill and Ramon; and one sister, Merilyn Divine.

Visitation was Tuesday May 25, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. A funeral service to celebrate her life was held Wednesday, May 26, also at the funeral home. Lyla’s son, Steve Johnsen, pastor of the Denver Inner City Parish, officiated, and interment followed at Garfield Cemetery, Garfield Road, Campton Township.

A memorial has been established in her name to benefit Denver Inner City Parish, and the Garfield Farm. Checks may be made to the “Lyla Johnsen Memorial” and mailed in care to P.O. Box 66, 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address or through her obituary at www.conleycare.com. For additional information, call (630) 365-6414

He was born March 21, 1941, in Aurora, the son of J. Raymond and Gladys (Severtson) Harter.

John grew up in the Elburn area on several farms over the years and attended Kaneland High School.

John was lucky in love twice, marrying Margaret Keierleber in 1959, and later, Linda Macon in 1969. He was blessed with nine children and a lifetime of memories.

John spent his first adult years in Elburn before living in Aurora, Sugar Grove and Yorkville. Most recently, he called Northlake home for 13 years.

Though he farmed like his family in his younger years, before long he traded a tractor seat for a seat in a tractor trailer. He drove a truck for many companies, most recently for Chicago Sweeteners Inc.

He loved to fish for anything that swam in any body of water big enough to hold them. The term Dad never encompassed what John was to his children. He was a dad to more than just his children, adopting not by law, but by love, children that weren’t his own.

John also was a loving grandfather to all his grandchildren, but over the years developed an especially close relationship with his granddaughter, Olivia Harter.

He was a man large in stature, but even bigger when it came to how he cared for others. A better friend no man could find. His loss can’t be measured in size but found in the number of footprints that were uniquely his, alongside his family and friends as he walked with them through their lives.

He is survived by his mother, Gladys Harter; nine children, John Maseman of Burlington, Wis., Byron (Sue) Maseman of Titusville, Fla., Steve (Donna) Maseman of Sandwich, Ill., Deb (Che) Gonzalez of Rockford, Ill., Teresa (Richard Givens) Harter of Joliet, Ill., Kenneth A. (Roberta) Kassinger of Yorkville, Phil (Becky) Kassinger of Sugar Grove, Tim Kassinger of Scott City, Mo., and Nina Lynn (Steven) Saindon of Colorado Springs, Colo.; 36 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; one sister, Kathryn Zawacke of Morristown, N.J.; one brother, Dennis (Diane) Harter of Keller, Texas, many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends along each country mile.

He is preceded in death by his father, J. Raymond; and one grandson, Jeremie Maseman.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m., Monday, May 24, at Kaneville United Methodist Church, Kaneville. A memorial service hosted by his family with the help of the church will begin at 7 p.m. Rev. Jason Turner, pastor of the church, will officiate, and private interment will follow cremation.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit American Lung Association. Checks may be made to the “John Harter Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

Nita was born Aug. 8, 1941, in Jeffers, Minn., to Lloyd and Clara (Greiner) Shaw; they preceded her in death.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, Theresa Jean Cornell; brothers, Duane Vincent Shaw, Lawrence Shaw and Tommy Shaw; a sister, Joan Kay Shaw; maternal grandparents, Matthias and Anna Greiner; paternal grandparents, Jacob and Lottie Shaw; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Henry and Marion Quigley.

She married Paul Anthony Quigley on Oct. 9, 1976, and he survives in Trenton.

Also surviving is a son, Bradley John (Debra) Cornell and a daughter, Elizabeth “Beth” Joan (Curt) Meredith, all of Elburn; grandchildren, Jason Lloyd Bradley (Jaclyn) Cornell, Christopher Len (Jeny) Cornell, Angeline Joan Meredith and Madeline Elyse Meredith; great-grandchildren, Noah Lloyd Bradley Cornell, Caleb Christopher Cornell and Landon Levi Cornell; step-sons, Paul Quigley, Jr. of Dublin, Ireland, and Michael Patrick (Jeanine) Quigley of Schererville, Ind.; siblings, Douglas Robert (Sherri) Shaw of Bertha, Minn, Michael Allen Shaw of Junction City, Wis., Mary Jean (Wayne) Herzog of Plover, Wis., William Steven (Jean) Shaw of Bertha, Minn., Gregory Mark (Pam) Shaw of Florida, Kathryn Joan (Scott) Oines of Park Rapids, Minn., Victoria Renee Kapphahn of Hoffmann, Minn.; a brother-in-law, Hank Quigley of Gary, Ind.; honorary sister, Sherry (Ron) Deien of Trenton; special friends, Charlotte (Gary) Reymond, Annie Duing all of Trenton, and Mary Douthitt, of Belleville; and a host of relatives and friends.

Nita retired as a CMSGT after 26 years in the USAF. She was an honor graduate of Basic Military Training, Personnel Training School, Air Force Recruiting School and was awarded Outstanding Recruiter of the Year, a Wing Career Advisor where she created the Career Counseling that is still used today. She was a Personnel Specialist and achieved Personnel Assistant Manager status, Special Duty Assignment at AMC, IMA Chief for TACC and developed numerous guidance policies and were relied on and trusted to manage that command function. Nita was given the Air Force Meritorious Medal with Cluster, three Air Force Accommodation Medals and three Achievement Medal Awards, and also received numerous awards and was selected for Senior NCO of the Year for AMC in 2000.

She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church and Altar Sodality, where she served as a Lector and Eucharistic Minister, Trenton American Legion, Trenton VFW Auxiliary and Lifetime Member, Hospice of Southern Illinois volunteer, Multiple Sclerosis. She was a fundraising volunteer and participant in the 50-Mile MS Challenge Walk, Christian Missionary, and was a professional clown. Nita formerly worked as a beautician and was the past owner/operator of Skeeter’s Cut & Curl Beauty Salon and Boutique in Elburn.

Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was Monday, May 18, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Trenton, with Msgr. Donald Eichenseer and Fr. Eugene Kreher officiating. Interment with full military honors followed in St. Mary Cemetery, Trenton.

Visitation was Sunday, May 17, and Monday, May 18, at the Moss Funeral Home in Trenton.

Memorials can be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois or to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and will be received at the funeral home.

The Trenton VFW Auxiliary held services on Sunday at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy can be sent to www.mossfuneralhome.com.

He was born on May 15, 1929, in Kaneville, the second child of Alan and Edith (Brackett) Phelps. He married Charlene Volkers on June 9, 1951, while serving with the Army Corps of Engineers and was later deployed to Kaiserslautern, Germany.

Robert went to school in Kaneville, graduating with the class of 1947.

He moved with his family to Oklahoma in 1966. Years later, he began the R.A. Phelps Equipment Co., selling and servicing heavy equipment for street sweeping and sewer cleaning. He later designed, manufactured and sold the Line King sewer root saw for commercial use.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Barbara Snyder. He is survived by his wife, Charlene; a son, Brad Phelps and his wife, Joyce Polkinghorne; a daughter, Cheryl Davidson and husband, Dale; a brother, Keith Phelps and wife, Kay, of Indianapolis; a sister, Lynette Werdin and husband, Dave, of Kaneville; and three grandchildren, Sarah and Alan Davidson, and Killian Phelps.

In honor of Robert, gifts may be made to Clarehouse of Tulsa and The American Heart Association.

Robert’s funeral and burial were held in Tulsa, Okla., on May 14, 2010.

He was born Aug. 1, 1919, in Annawan, Ill., the son of Hobart and Bertha (Cryer) Gaumer.

Bud spent his early years in Annawan on the family farm but moved to Geneseo at age 13 when his father passed away. Typical of his time, Bud only attended school until the eighth grade but possessed a mind as quick as a calculator and as sharp as a two-edged sword.

Bud found work at the age of 16 in the local coal mines. His time spent in the dangerous depths helped to forge his hardened work ethic and steel determination to not only survive but to succeed despite his hardships.

Bud enlisted in the United States Army and faithfully served his country during WWII, becoming one of the thousands to arrive on the second day of the Normandy invasion. Later, he braved the Battle of the Bulge and came home a man who had seen the worst of humanity. Following his discharge, Bud came home to a new day and with the hope of a new love.

He met Martha Kirchman in 1943 and by the time he came home in 1945, their relationship blossomed into marriage on Oct. 19 of that same year.

For a time, they made their home in Bellwood, Melrose Park and Maywood, Ill., until 1951, when they moved back to Bud’s hometown of Geneseo, Ill. In 1956, they moved to Kaneville, where except for a brief period in West Chicago, they made their home for 25 years.

Bud worked at John Deere in Moline, Ill., for five years before beginning at Western Electric in Montgomery, now Lucent Technologies, and retired after 25 years in 1981. No matter where he worked in a full-time basis, he always helped on neighboring farms, giving release to his love of the land.

He was a member of the VFW in Batavia, as well as a faithful member of St. Gall Catholic Church in Elburn.

Bud was a farmer at heart, but when he couldn’t tend the fields, he tended his garden with a passion. The other passions that shared space in his heart including the Chicago Bears, Chicago White Sox and NASCAR, especially No. 5, Mark Martin. Bud also loved to play the odds by scratching his instant lotto tickets and waiting for a big win.

In his younger years, he worked as a pin setter at the local bowling alley, and booming crashes echoed long after he stopped setting and began bowling himself on local leagues. The biggest loves of his life were his three great-grandchildren, affectionately known as “Ugly,” “Knucklehead,” and “Squirty.”

He is survived by one daughter, Joan (Tom) Roberts of Maple Park; one grandson, Tim (Michaeline) Roberts of Bartlet, Ill., three great-grandchildren, Trisha Roberts of Maple Park, Denise Roberts of Bartlett, Ill., and Jason Roberts of Bartlet; several cousins, including Arden Hoowerfer of Geneseo, and a family of friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Martha; and one son, Frank Gaumer.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, May 14, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. A funeral to celebrate his life will be held Saturday, May 15, also at the funeral home, at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at S.S. Peter & Paul Cemetery, Virgil.

A memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Bud Gaumer Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

Meridith was the beloved daughter of Al and Linda Albrecht of Mexico Beach, and the sister of Brooke Mullen (Guy) of Cave In Rock, Ill. She was very artistic and loved animals, especially her cats and her dog Onyx. Meridith will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

A memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 15, at the Dunham Woods Riding Club, Wayne, Ill. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Meridith’s name may be made to AID Crisis Line, 1230 N. Highland, Aurora, 60506, or to the STARR Center, 4101-B W. 21st Street, Panama City, FL 32405.

He was born Sept. 7, 1935, in New Holland, Ill., the son of Dewey and Agnes (Swingle) Stout.

Dale grew up in both Lincoln and Aurora, and attended local schools. He graduated from Lincoln High School with the class of 1953. Following high school, Dale worked locally for a time before finding a job at Allsteel in Aurora. In the beginning, Dale worked in the shop but later moved to the advertising department. He finished his tenure in the computer department, retiring in 1998.

During his time at Allsteel, Dale enlisted in the Army National Guard and received training, though he never actively served.

Dale met Marjorie “Marge” Wagner at Allsteel, and before too long, more than just steel was formed. Dale and Marge were united in marriage on April 15, 1961, in Aurora.

They began their new life together outside of Elburn until 2000, when they moved to their present home in DeKalb.

Dale was a man of motion with a heart dedicated to fitness. He was always on the move, and if you were anywhere near him you were taken along for the ride. Dale was an outdoorsman who felt at home around a campsite, on a bicycle or a motorcycle, both on and off the road.

His family chronicled years of memories traveling to camping sites around the country in an RV packed to the hilt. Later, when the children were grown, Dale and Marge continued to travel together, albeit in a “newer model,” much to the chagrin of his kids who likened the original to a “Port-O-Potty On Wheels.”

Dale spent many years among his friends in North Aurora aiming for strikes on the local bowling league and later at Funway in Batavia. Dale rarely played golf, but when he did, he made it count. His documented “hole-in-one” is a proud achievement that is framed and hangs proudly in his home. These memories and thousands more have been shared over the years. Gone, but not forgotten, Dale lives on in the stories and hearts of all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Marge, of 49 years; three children, Aaron Stout of Mesa, Ariz., Jeff (Linda) Stout of Steward, Ill., and Jennifer (Jason) Estes of Elburn; three sisters-in-law, Betty (George) Gould, Lorraine Seavey, and Donna (Glen) Vining; one aunt, Berneda Biggs; many nieces, nephews, cousins; and a countryside of friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, May 13, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL, 60119. A funeral service to celebrate his life will follow visitation at 1 p.m. Interment will follow at River Hills Cemetery, Batavia.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Dale Stout Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born July 13, 1931, in Fort Atkinson, Wis., the daughter of Edwin and Helen (Paulson) Gilkey.

In 1939, the family moved to a farm in the Elburn area, and she graduated from Elburn High School. Following high school, Clem went to college for a year before having the distinction of being the first waitress at the local Dairy Joy and worked at the Kountry Kettle for 20 years. She then spent more than 30 years working between the stacks at the Elburn Library.

Clem’s brother had a good friend in Frank Wood, and before long, the introduction was made, and then history was made as well when they were united in marriage in 1954.

They began their new life together in Batavia for a time before moving into town for a time. Many years were spent on a farm on Keslinger Road until they made their home in town once more in 1970.

Clem was an active member of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Elburn American Legion, Post 630. She also was a member of the Community Congregational Church in Elburn.

Clem was a picture of opposites at times. In her younger years, she rode her pony, Amigo, was a “biker” and later a librarian. She was a crafter who enjoyed crocheting and macrame but also bowled more than 40 years of frames and knocked down thousands of pins on a local league. She enjoyed garage sales but also trips to Chicago to see the latest play.

Her biggest passion and pastime, no matter her age, was playing cards, especially Liverpool Rummy. Clem was known for her softball skills, and later her coaching skills, leading team after team to local championship games, many times hoisting the trophy after the final out. Her grandchildren were the best part of her life, and the years of memories were chronicled by the “quirky” one-of-a-kind gifts that no one else could ever, and most likely will ever, give. Thousands of memories, hundreds of gifts, and 78 years were the legacy she left those who loved her most.

She is survived by her husband, Frank; two daughters, Deborah A. Faber of Maple Park, and Jami B. (Todd) Haffner of Elburn; four grandchildren, Christopher (Kari) Faber and their daughter, Addison of North Aurora, Michelle (Charlie) Worthley of Geneva, Matthew Haffner of Elburn and Casey Haffner, also of Elburn; two siblings, Jean Harrington and Robert (Jan) Gilkey; and many nieces, nephews and a family of friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents and one brother, James Gilkey.

Visitation will be from 3 to 6:30 p.m. with a memorial service to celebrate her life to follow at 7 p.m., Friday, May 7, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. Private family interment will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name to benefit Town and Country Library in Elburn. Checks may be made to the “Clarice Wood Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or online at www.conleycare.com.

Marie was born in Spokane, Wash. She attended Sacred Heart School of Nursing as well as University of Washington. She worked at Sharp Memorial Hospital and retired from Doctor’s Hospital in San Diego. She was an avid traveler and a longtime member of Trinity Methodist Church. Her kindness, wit and wisdom will be greatly missed.

He was born Oct. 8, 1928, in Minonk, Ill., the son of Peter and Edith Waldschmidt.

Gene grew up in Blackstone and attended St. Paul School in Odell, Ill., where he graduated with the class of 1946.

Gene faithfully served in the Illinois National Guard before defending his country during the Korean War.

There was only one woman for Gene, and her name was Dorothy Dutko, whom he met on a blind date. Fate joined them in marriage when they were married at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Bloomington, Ill., in 1954.

They began their new life together in Streator, Ill., and later moved to Wheaton. Following Gene’s retirement, they moved to Morton, Ill., before returning to Maple Park to be closer to their family.

Gene’s first job was tending to the fields as a farmer with his father for a time. He also was a truck driver until he left for Korea. Upon his return, he worked again as a truck driver and later was a salesman for both Doenges Stationary in Wheaton and J.A. Sexauer Plumbing and Heating Supply.

Gene was a faithful member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Maple Park and was proud to ride as a member of the Streator Motorcycle Club, as well as the infamous “Blackstone Cowboys” that was made up of Gene and three of his brothers.

Gene also seemed to be busy and his mind always working. He loved working puzzles, playing Scrabble and reading his favorite mystery authors such as Jack Higgins and Robert Ludlum. He also loved to garden and work with wood, creating one of-a kind birdhouses and Christmas decorations for family and friends. His faith was his bedrock, and no time was more treasured than those times he was surrounded by family.

He is survived by his wife Dorothy, seven children, Aline Waldschmidt of Geneva, Kevin (Ella) Waldschmidt of Las Vegas, Mark (Lori) Waldschmidt of Winfield, Ill., Melanie (Robert) of Wheaton, David (Donelle) Waldschmidt of Aurora, Joseph (Stephanie) Waldschmidt of Batavia, and Neil (Melanie) Waldschmidt of Geneva; 16 grandchildren, Brian, Lisa, Jessica, Joshua, Stephen, Michael, Matthew, Robyn, Thomas, Alicia, Katie, Brandon, Ethan, Nathaniel, Claire and Matison; four great-grandchildren, Kayla, Madeleine, Jayden and Caleb; three sisters, Lorraine (Bob) Simpson of Largo, Fla., Mary Lou Bedeker of Blackstone, Ill., and Edith (Harvey) Grieff of Odell, Ill.; many nieces, nephews and a family of friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, John, Richard, James and Bernard; and two sisters, Norma and Mary Margaret.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m., Thursday, April 29, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. Rosary will be said at 5:30 p.m. with a wake service to follow at 6 p.m. A mass to celebrate his life will be Friday, April 30, at 10:30 a.m. at the St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Maple Park. Fr. Joachim Tyrtania, pastor of the church, will officiate. Private family interment will occur at a later date following cremation.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit St. Mary of the Assumption, Maple Park Maintenance Fund. Checks may be made to the “Eugene Waldschmidt Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born Oct. 4, 1918, in Ainsworth, Neb., the daughter of Edd and Anna (Steiger) Jones.

She grew up in Ainsworth and attended local schools. Anna passed away when Ella was young, so Ella entered the working world earlier than some to help support the family. At age 16, she traveled to Illinois to live with relatives in the Fox Valley area.

Ella worked various jobs in the area. She met the love of her life at a party, where she was introduced to Earl J. Wilkison. That meeting proved providential as they married in St. Charles on Feb. 27, 1940, and made their home in Elburn above the village bakery for a time.

As the family grew to include six children, Ella and Earl moved to Babcock Street and later to a farm on Beith Road, where generations of memories were made. In 1985, Earl and Ella visited family in Arizona and stayed after their daughter-in-law passed away unexpectedly. Four months later, Earl passed away. Ella continued to make her home in Mesa, Ariz., until failing health brought her back to Illinois in 2004. Most recently, she made her home with her son Earl back in her hometown of Elburn.

Ella was a member of the Elburn Community Congregational Church, Ladies Auxiliary of the Elburn American Legion, the Five C’s and the Women of the Moose Chapter 83.

When she was young, Ella loved to ride horses, especially her favorite, Old Bonnie, who she rode to school and back every day. Throughout her life, Ella was always busy. Whether she was working or at home, her hands never slowed down. Ella made dresses for the girls, knitted and crocheted baby sweaters, hats and booties. When she cooked in the kitchen, word spread throughout the family as well as the neighborhood.

Ella was famous for her Christmas cookies, Divinity, and all kinds of fudge each winter. Her cakes knew no season, as they made their mark on birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and every day in between. In earlier years, both she and Earl loved to bowl and spent many years knocking down pins with friends on Thursday nights. She was a life-long bingo and card player who loved to play Kings on the Corner, Canasta and Pinochle, among others.

She now leaves six children, Karen (Robert “Buck”) Sivert of Elburn, Marilyn Long of Elburn, Elma (James) Wilmath of Elburn, Arlene Wilmath of Chouteau, Okla., Earl G. Wilkison of Elburn, and Ella ”Sally”(John) Malnar of Fort Atkinson, Wis.; 15 grandchildren, Brenda (Randy) Swanson, Cindi (Paul) Paschal, Daniel (Adrienne) Sivert, Missi (Jon) Lewis, Randy Long, Richard (Susan) Wilmath, Joseph Wilmath, Jerry Wilmath, Kenny (Sara) Wilmath, Penny Moore, Martin (Kristi) Wilmath, Adam (Courtney) Wilkison, Chris (Andrea) Malnar, Kurt Malnar and Kelsey Malnar; 25 great-grandchildren; seven great-great grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Ann Gliddon of Sugar Grove and Lillian Windisch of Arkansas; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Earl, siblings, Lena Cole, Frank Jones and Gladys Smith; and one grandson, Earl G. Wilkison.
Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m., Thursday, April 22, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL. A service to celebrate her life will also be held at the funeral home on Friday, April 23, at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Blackberry Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name to benefit her favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Ella Wilkison Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family through www.conleycare.com.

He was born Aug. 23, 1912, the son of John and Frances (Gurecki) Sikon in Chicago.

Gramps grew up in Chicago, where he attended local schools and graduated from Carl Schurz High School.

Gramps found the love of his life early and never looked back. Dorothy K. Sabala won his heart and before long they were united in marriage and became an instant family when he adopted Dorothy’s son, Henry, whose father had passed away in an accident.

Shortly after, Gramps began faithfully serving his country in the United States Army. He worked as a mail carrier, which would foreshadow a career in civilian life that would span many years and see Gramps rise to the rank of Supervisor for the Chicago Branch of the United States Postal Service.

His homecoming was marked with excitement. Not only was he returning to his bride but also a son, who was born shortly before he left. Joseph Q. Sikon was 3 years old and seeing his father for the first time. They made their home in Chicago for a time before Gramps built their house in Bensenville, filling the house with love, laughter and memories.
During that time, Gramps worked as a butcher some days and as a carpenter on others before working for the U.S.P.S. He retired in the mid 1970s, and then he and Dorothy moved down to Boynton Beach, Fla. There, they shared many years until her passing in 1997. In January of 2001, his grandson Joseph and his family closed on their new home in Elburn, complete with room for Gramps. He would spend the next nine years making unforgettable memories colored with laughter and smiles.
Gramps was a member of the Letter Carriers Association and the carpenters union.
Gramps was “The Energizer Bunny.” His family thought he was going to live forever because of the way he would bounce back after every illness or set back in his health. Gramps loved to garden, pruning his grapefruit, orange, key lime and mango trees in Florida.
Deep sea fishing was a favorite pastime, always waiting to catch the next “whopper” or thinking up a story for the one that “got away.” Gramps loved to talk, and whether he was in Florida or Illinois talking to a friend, neighbor or the meter man, his conversations were as long as they were memorable. He possessed a kind and gentle spirit, one that a stranger could see from a mile away. His memories are a priceless gift he leaves to family and friends who will miss him greatly.
He now leaves his son, Joseph Q. (Beverly) Sikon of Penrose, Colo.; two grandchildren,Joseph J. (Chris) Sikon and their children, Morgan, Zachary Casimir, Makenna all of Elburn; and Jennifer (Clay) Hahn and their daughter, Kelsey of St. Charles; one great-great grandson on the way; many nieces, nephews, cousins and a family of friends from Illinois to Florida.

He now joins his parents and wife, Dorothy; two siblings, Henry J. Sikon and Helen Mahal, who preceded him in death.

The family is hosting a memorial Mass beginning at 7 p.m., Friday, April 16, at St. Gall Catholic Church, Elburn. Private family interment will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Casimir Sikon Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or online at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Jan. 1, 1930, the son of Fred and Veronica Pinne on the family farm in Genoa, Ill.

Orville grew up in his home town of Genoa and attended local schools.

When his nation called, Orville responded by enlisting in the United States Army in June 1945 and serving his country faithfully until his honorable discharge on Dec. 23, 1948.

Soon after returning to civilian life, Orville married his sweetheart, Doris Daniels, in the Sycamore United Methodist Church on May 14, 1949.

They began their new life in Sycamore for a time before moving to Sugar Grove. In 2005, they moved to their present home in DeKalb.

Orville worked for a number of companies, including the city of Sycamore for a time, at Barber Green in both Aurora and DeKalb, and drove a semi for Stover Brothers. He also drove a pigeon truck out west with his grandsons to release them. Then they raced home, many times finding that the pigeons got home first.

Orville was a life member of many organizations, including the Moose Lodges of Sycamore and Aurora, Outer Door Guide, the Tiger Club and the Phoenix Clubs of Aurora, as well as the Montgomery Veteran’s Association and the United Veteran’s Association in Sycamore. He was also an election judge for over 10 years in Sugar Grove.

In his younger years, Orville could be seen touring the countryside many times with Doris on the back of his Gold Wing motorcycle. As his children grew, Orville was a coach for baseball and softball.

He also loved the outdoors, spending many hours with his family on outings, camping and especially fishing in Canada. He always had a garden, and every year it seemed to get bigger and bigger. In addition to being a liturgist at Sugar Grove United Methodist Church, helping with the reading of scripture and prayers, Orville also participated in the hand bell choir and served on many committees. At home, his walls and shelves were adorned with John Deere figurines, barbershop music filled the house, and John Wayne and Chuck Norris movies were never missed when they played on T.V.

Survivors include his wife, Doris; two daughters, Andrea (Tom) Ball and Connie (David) Siebens; eight grandchildren, Mark and his girlfriend Laura, Monika, Elizabeth, Tiffany, Scott and his wife Whitney, Sheila and her husband Miguel, Stacy and her fiancee Mike, and Shayna and her husband Josh; nine great-grandchildren, Alura, Sandra, Daniel, Duston, Devon, Destani, Ambyr, Christopher and Brandon; one brother, Donald Pinne of Genoa, Ill.; two sisters, Dorothy Eicksteadt of Delavan, Wis., Shirley Overton of Sycamore; and his mother-in-law, Helen Daniels, and many friends who will miss him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Veronica Pinne; his father-in-law, Herchel Daniels; three brothers-in-law, Richard Daniels, Cliff Overton and Rudy Eicksteadt; and one sister-in-law, Evelyn Pinne.

Visitation will be from 2 to 3:30 p.m., Saturday, April 17, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A memorial service to celebrate his life will begin at 3:30 p.m. The Rev. Steve Good, pastor of the Sugar Grove United Methodist Church, will officiate, with private family interment to follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Orville Pinne Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family through the same address and on www.conley-care.com.

He was born on March 26, 1951, in Geneva, the son of George and Phyllis (Johnson) Kohley. Dennis retired in 2008 after many years with Local 150. He also served as a member of the Elburn Fire Department for 15 years.

He was an avid fisherman and loved to golf.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Wendy; daughter, Heather (Bert) Veldhuizen; grandson, Garrett; mother, Phyllis Wallman; father-in-law, Denis Till; sister, Susan (Bob) Farrell; brother, Mike (Lynn) Kohley; and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, George Kohley; and mother-in-law, Bonnie Till.

Friends called on Monday, March 22, with a memorial service at the Hamre Funeral Home in Lodi, Wis.

She was born May 7, 1915, the daughter of Ralph and Anne (Dwyer) Briggs in Houston, Minn.

She grew up in Houston and attended local schools. The family spent some of her younger years between Houston, Minnesota, Chicago, and Madison, Wis. Myrtie graduated with the class of 1933 and began working as a teller for First National Bank in Chicago.

Myrtie saw the man she would marry every day at work; and in uniform, no less. Rudolph Kern was a security guard at the bank, and before long a friendship bloomed into love as they were united in marriage at Queen of Angels Catholic Church on July 26, 1941.

They began their new life in the north side of Chicago and welcomed four daughters, Patricia, Carol, Joan, and the family became complete with the arrival of Barbara.

Myrtie made her life’s work raising her children and making their house a home. Myrtie loved to be outside in her small garden, tending to her flowers and watching all the colors bloom. The time she cherished most was when she was with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. When Myrtie was young, the family always ate at home, but she made up for it later, jumping at the chance to eat out seven days a week. Trips to get ice cream at the corner store in Kaneville were a special weekly event, and when she was in Elburn, the destination was Alice’s Place, where a special treat always awaited her. She also loved to go to the movies and watch the newest love story or tear-jerker. Though she left this earth and claimed the promise of her savior, Myrtie left behind a treasure trove of memories to be cherished by all who knew her.

She now leaves her four children, Pat Fitzgerald of Westchester, Ill., Carol (Dennis) Warszona of St. Charles, Joan (Roger) Ax of St. Charles, Barbara Kern of Bartlet, Ill.; seven grandchildren, Lisa (Steve) Touloumis, Michael Fitzgerald, Laura Fitzgerald, Brian Fitzgerald, Kathleen Zehelein, Ted (Annette) Zehelein and Christie Zehelein; five great-grandchildren; many cousins and a family of friends.

She now joins her parents and her husband, Rudolph, who preceded her in death.

Visitation was Monday, March 29, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. A mass to celebrate her life was Tuesday, March 30, at St. Gall Catholic Church. Fr. Karl Ganss, pastor of the church, officiated, and interment followed at All Saints Cemetery, Des Plaines, Ill.

A memorial has been established in her name. Checks may be made to the “Myrtie Kern Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

Louise was born on March 14, 1919, in Blackberry Township, Ill., to parents Wallace and Mabel (Swanson) Peterson.

On May 2, 1942, she was united in marriage to William “Bill” Guth in Aurora. While living in the Chicago/Aurora area, she found work as a seamstress. The couple resided in the Chicago/ Aurora area until 1965, when they moved to Elburn, and finally moving to Drummond in 1986. She was a member of the United Church of Christ in Cable, Wis., and enjoyed reading and sewing. She loved to help others, and was loved by others.

Louise is survived by her husband of 67 years, Bill; sons, Kenneth of South Elgin, Ill., Charles (Barbara) of Richmond, Ill.; two grandchildren, James of Hebron, Ill., and Laura (Eric) Hanson of Waukee, Iowa, and many nephews and nieces.

Louise is preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Mary, Hazel, Rose; and brothers, Clarence and Charles.

A memorial service for Louise Guth will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 27, at the Congregational United Church of Christ in Cable, Wis. Pastors Lynn Larson and Deb Pyne will officiate the memorial service. A time of gathering with family and friends will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. at the church on March 27. Interment will be at a later time in the River Hill Cemetery in Batavia, Ill.

Online condolences may be left at www.andersonnathan.com

Evelyn was born in Elburn and lived there until her marriage to Randy Johansen—when she moved 11 miles to Geneva. There, Evelyn and Randy ran Johansen’s Dairy together for many years until their retirement in 1980. Evelyn moved to San Mateo after Randy and Evelyn’s mom, Edna Coryell, passed away.

Evelyn lived her life by the motto “I’ll bloom where I’m planted,” which she first saw on a banner in the Methodist Church in Geneva, where she was an active member for many years. Evelyn also worked closely with both the Girl and Boy Scouts as her kids grew up.

Even though she had been deeply rooted in Illinois, she blossomed again in California. Evelyn volunteered at Call-Primrose, a local service for homeless people, and was on the board of her Condominium Association. She grew new roots through her many friends in California and was deeply involved across generations with her family.

Evelyn was a humble, caring person who was nurturing by nature. She leaves many memories and touched many people in her own quiet and gentle way. She passed away just as Lawrence Welk (one of her and Randy’s favorites) played Sentimental Journey on the iPod next to her bed.

No services will be held. Donations in Evelyn’s name can be sent to Call-Primrose in Burlingame, Calif., or visit www.callprimrose.org.

For information, call Sneider & Sullivan & O’Connell’s Funeral Home, (650) 343-1804.

She was born Jan. 10, 1933, in Elgin, the daughter of Flyd and Geraldine Warren Bierman. She was a graduate of Elgin High School in 1950 and then attended Elgin Community College in the nursing program. She was a registered nurse and was employed by Provena St. Joseph Hospital in Elgin for 20 years before retiring.

She was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church, Elgin.

Surviving are her husband, Clayton C. Holcomb, whom she married on Sept. 21, 1952; one son, Mike Holcomb of Edwardsville, Ill.; three grandchildren, Jason, Ian (Lindiwe) Holcomb and Marissa (Joe) Austin; one great-granddaughter, Natasha; and one sister, June (Loyd) Sybert of Ft. Pierce, Fla.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a son, Marc G. Holcomb.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 4, at 10:30 a.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church, Elgin, with the Rev. Mark Bestul officiating. Burial will follow in Lakewood Memorial Park, Elgin. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. at Laird Funeral Home, Elgin, and Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of services in the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Provena St. Joseph Hospice, Elgin, or Visiting Angels, South Elgin. Visit www.lairdfamilyfuneralservices.com.

He was born May 30, 1945, in Aurora, the son of Ture and Marion (nee Kiefer) Paulson.

On Feb. 13, 1970, he was united in marriage to Robin Bartholomew at the Union Congregational Church; they just celebrated their 40th anniversary.

During the late 1950s until 1965, William and his father owned and operated Paulson’s Pure Oil, located at the corner of Prairie Street and Wilson Street in Batavia. William then worked at Par Gas in Batavia; it was there he met his loving wife, Robin. He later purchased his own truck and formed Paulson Trucking, where he leased to several different companies. In 1999, due to health issues, he took employment part-time with United Express. He was a member of the Union Congregational Church in North Aurora.

He is survived by his wife, Robin; two daughters, Kathryn (Gary) Stover and Melody (Jeff) Sexton; one son, Charlie (Julie) Paulson; six grandchildren, Aimee (Matt) Lewis, William Stover, Brett, Jacqui and Ture Paulson, and Jeffrey Sexton; five great-grandchildren, Dylan, Aaron and Paige Lewis; and Alexzis and Kloey Stover; and a special pal, Buddy.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Dorothy Swan.

Visitation will be held 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, at Moss Family Funeral Home, 209 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia, IL.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 26, at Union Congregational Church, 405 W. State St., North Aurora, Ill., where he will lie in state from 9 a.m. until the time of the service. Rev. Mark Alvis will officiate. Interment will be in River Hills Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family, where a memorial gift will be designated at a later time.

For additional information, contact Moss Family Funeral Home at (630) 879-7900 or at www.mossfuneral.com.

Martha was born on March 28, 1924, in Flint, Mich., the daughter of Rev. Percy and Roberta Ward Spangler. Martha was the youngest of four girls.

She was married to Henry L. Volkening on Oct. 5, 1946. She was a loving, devoted wife and mother. Martha and her husband, Henry, celebrated 63 years of marriage last year.

She was renowned for her many abilities, a highly creative and artistic woman, long involved in her faith communities, in leadership capacities, and a friend to many in need. Her many gifts blessed her family, friends and community. She operated a cake decorating business until she became unable due to a diagnosis of scleroderma in the late 1950s. In spite of her illness, she continued on, sustained by her faith, the prayers of many, her indomitable spirit and the grace of God.

Martha is survived by her beloved husband, Henry; her sons, John (John Schuh) Volkening of Chicago, Jim (Christy) Volkening of Sugar Grove; her daughter, Susan Volkening, who resides with and cares for her parents; three grandchildren, Jennifer (Paul) Mulder of Ozark, Mo., Joshua (Debbie) Volkening of Sugar Grove, Nick (Liz) Volkening of North Pole, Alaska; and nine great-grandchildren. Martha leaves behind many wonderful brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, lifelong friends and neighbors who meant the world to her.

She was preceded in death by three sisters, Mary Kowalczyk, Roberta Hammer and Ruth Kingsley.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 4, at the Norris Funeral Home, 100 S. Third St., (three blocks west of the Fox River and one block south of Route 64) St. Charles.

The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. at Fox Valley Bible Church, 4N780 Randall Road, St. Charles, IL 60175, where visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the hour of the service. Burial will be in Burlington Cemetery, Burlington, Ill.

Contributions in Martha’s memory may be made to Fox Valley Bible Church.

For information, call (630) 584-2000 or visit www.NorrisFH.com.

She had been a resident of Elgin for the past 25 years. She had been employed as an Avon Representative for the past 25 years.

She was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church, Elgin.

She was the devoted mother of Alan (Vicki) Lettow of Sugar Grove, and Carol (David) Bartels of Caledonia, Ill.; six grandchildren, Scott Lettow, Dana (Tim) Wagner, Lisa (David) Anderson, Stacy Lettow (Zach Moneypenny), Brad (Hilary) and Doug Bartels; six great-grandchildren, Kyle, Michaele Lettow, and their mother, Janet Tomesko, Cal, Reece, and Sydney Wagner and Brayden Anderson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 52 years, Robert W. Lettow; and one sister, Florence O’Brien.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, Jan. 23, at Laird Funeral Home, Elgin. Burial followed in Bluff City Cemetery, Elgin. Memorials may be given to Calvary Lutheran Church, Elgin.

He was born on Nov. 26, 1934, in Gyomro, Hungary, the son of Joseph and Julia (Hutwagner) Bisztriczky.

Joe grew up in Gyomro and attended local schools. At that time, children were only required to attend school for eight years, but Joe continued his secondary education into the 12th year in what we would now call “Pre-Med.” Due to family hardships, he was unable to finish his studies, which frustrated him greatly. Instead of giving up, he completed an apprenticeship as a loom fixer in the textiles industry.

It was this change in vocation that gave Joe the opportunity to meet the love of his life, Elizabeth Ivan, who also worked in the textile industry in her hometown of Szentgotthard. They were united in marriage on Sept. 18, 1954.

Two years later, Joe and Elizabeth escaped under gunfire during a revolution against the suffocating Communist rule in November of 1956 and lived in a refugee camp in Austria until their immigration to Canada on April 22, 1957.

It was in Lindsay, Ontario, that they were blessed with a son, Joseph, named in honor of his father and grandfather. In December 1965, the now-growing family settled in Reedsburg, Wis., where they welcomed a daughter, Julie. Because of the limited job opportunities in the textile industry, the family moved where Joe could find work. Over the years, they made their home in Baraboo, Wis., where their second daughter, Jeanne, made their family complete in September 1968.

Eventually the family moved to Millington, Ill., for a time and then to Plano, to be closer to Joe’s mother, who also escaped Hungary in 1956. In 1992, after the children were grown, Joe and Elizabeth moved to Oswego. Seven years later they made their final home in Elburn, where they continued to make memories, which now included many grandchildren.

Joe was a faithful member of St. Gall Catholic Church in Elburn for many years.

Joe was happiest outdoors fishing, hunting, tending to his fruit trees or just taking long hikes and taking in all Mother Nature had to offer. His dedication to his craft of looming in the textile industry helped him construct his own loom where rugs, placemats, table runners and more were born from his imagination.

Joe also had a passion for history and life in the Wild Wild West. His musical tastes rarely strayed from Pavarotti, and in his spare time you couldn’t find a better opponent across the chessboard.

Nothing made Joe happier than being with his family, reading to his grandchildren and telling stories of his childhood. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, in the stories of his youth and in the pieces of wisdom given over the years, including the saying, “What you learn is something that no one can ever take away from you.”

He now leaves his loving wife, Elizabeth; three children, Joseph Bisztriczky of Elburn, Julie (Tony) Crabb of Maple Park, and Jeanne Bisztriczky and her husband Robert Steller of Lake In The Hills, Ill.; five grandchildren, Megan Crabb, Jonathan Crabb, Madelyn Crabb, Zachary Steller and Matthew Crabb; two step-grandchildren, Rachael Steller and Alexander Steller; one sister, Ilona Bukovits of Mende, Hungary; many nieces, nephews; and an extended family in Hungary.

He now joins his parents and two grandsons, Daniel and Benjamin Crabb, who both died in infancy.

Visitation was from 10 to 11 a.m., with a memorial mass to celebrate his life following at 11 a.m., at St. Gall Catholic Church, Elburn, on Monday, Jan. 18. Interment followed at St. Gall Cemetery, Elburn.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities, including the Arbor Day Foundation. Checks may be made to the “Joseph F. Bisztriczky Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born on April 20, 1915, in West Chicago, the fifth child born to George and Catherine Weimer. By the time Beatrice was 11, she had lost both parents and an older sister.

The family, then numbering five children ranging in age from 9 to 23, remained together in their West Chicago home with the eldest sibling as their only provider. Although they were eventually joined by a widowed aunt who helped maintain the family unit, each child went to work as soon as they were able and helped support the family. To their credit, every one of them graduated from West Chicago high school.

Bea married John Hunter of La Fox on July 7, 1945. They made their first home in Geneva for a time until 1953, when they purchased John’s parents’ home in LaFox. Tragically, John passed away in that same year, and Bea worked hard to keep their family home.

Through the ensuing years, she succeeded and continued to reside there until her death. Bea loved the La Fox area, where she was surrounded by fields of corn or beans. She found great pleasure in gardening and tending her family home, where she hosted many family gatherings and entertained her beloved grandchildren. Bea was also a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan and seldom missed a game.

She is survived by one daughter, Judy Hanson of St. Charles; two sons, John (Kathy) Hunter of Oak Forest, Ill., and Joe (Deb) Hunter of St. Charles; a step-daughter, Barbara (Skip) Lassen of West Chicago; nine grandchildren, Jeff (Jenn) Hanson of Elburn, Matt (Steph) Hanson of Virgil, and Chris (Alexis) Hanson of South Elgin; Lauren (Mike) Corsi of Shorewood and Adam Hunter of Oak Forest, Jennifer (Jeff) Fritsch of Aurora, and Phil Lawson, Kevin Lawson and Jonathan Hunter, all of St. Charles.

In addition she leaves a growing family of great-grandchildren; one sister, Rosemary Welter of Elmhurst, Ill., many nieces, nephews and a close family of friends.

Bea was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sisters, Katherine and Florence; and two brothers, Frances and George.

At her request, there will be no visitation, and interment is private.

A memorial has been established in Bea’s name to benefit CNS Hospice, 690 East North Ave., Carol Stream, IL 60188-2178 and The Neediest Children’s Fund, in care of WGN Radio, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611. Memorials checks may be made and mailed directly to either charity. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family through her obituary at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Oct. 31, 1943, the son of Benjamin and Frances (Flanders) Gramley in Aurora.

Leon grew up in Kaneville and spent his whole life making memories and taking care of his community. He attended local schools and graduated from Kaneland High School in 1962. He attended Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, for a time before graduating from DeVry School of Electronics in Chicago.

Leon married Margaret Myers in 1965, and they were blessed with two sons, Philip in June of 1967 and Stephen in November of 1969. In later years, Leon would say he met the “love of his life” in 1991, when he met Mary Fecht, a nurse who worked at Delnor Community Hospital. They were married a year later on Sept. 6, 1992, and shared the love of a lifetime, going to concerts and traveling extensively with Disney World high on their list of favorite destinations.

Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. In December of 1967, Leon returned to civilian life and worked for Illinois Bell. In 1971, he began farming alongside his brother Elmer on the family farm in Kaneville.

Leon was a volunteer fireman with the Kaneville Fire Department, later becoming an EMT and paramedic with Elburn Ambulance for 13 years. He served on the Kaneville Township Board and was elected Kaneville Township Supervisor in 1994. Leon was also the Vice President and sexton for Kaneville Cemetery and was very active in the Kaneville Memorial Day service, serving in the Color Guard and Honor Guard, as well as identifying the graves of all the veterans, making sure no one was ever forgotten.

He devoted his life to the service of his community. Leon’s thoughts were always of family and community first. Whether it was answering phone calls at all hours, going to the community center late into the evening whenever there was a problem, or checking his answering machine nightly while on vacation just in case there was someone in need of his help.

He also was the driving force behind Kaneville Township’s designation as a village, dedicating untold hours until it was official in 2007.

Even in death, Leon gave to his community by donating his eyes to those without sight. He was an avid NASCAR fan, cheering on Dale Earnhardt with every turn.

Leon was a man of many talents, though few knew that while growing up Leon took tap dancing for a time and played the French horn as well as the piano. He also was proud of his collection of Mickey Mouse ties, hats and watches.

Every Christmas, Leon made the trip to Marshall Fields, now Macy’s, and brought home two shopping bags full of Frango Mints, which he loved to pass out to family and friends, but his generosity waned when it came to his favorite, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Leon was always fixing anything for anyone, from friends to his granddaughters, who were always saying, “Papa fix it!”, though the end result was always “neat and tidy” it oftentimes included a fair share of electrical tape and form wire. A “papa band aid” was a folded napkin and electrical tape, which the granddaughters proudly displayed. He will be remembered by many different people for many different things for generations to come, but when anyone thinks about Leon, they all think of the same thing, “Kaneville.”

He now leaves his loving wife Mary of Kaneville, three sons, Philip (Christine) Gramley of Chicago, Stephen (Leanne) Gramley and their children Lillian and Robert, of Kaneville, and Albert (Lori) Fecht and their children, Joshua, Hannah and Emilee, of Leland, Ill.; one brother, Elmer (Janet) Gramley and their daughter Sara, of Kaneville, and a countryside full of friends.

He now joins his parents, Ben and Frances Gramley, who preceded him in death.

Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 21, at Kaneville United Methodist Church, Kaneville. A remembrance service will begin at 6 p.m., where friends and family are encouraged to share their favorite memory of Leon.

A funeral service to celebrate his life will be Friday, Jan. 22, at St. David Episcopal Church at the corner of Randall and Illinois in Aurora, at 1 p.m. The Rev. Susan Holstrom, pastor of the church, will officiate, and interment will follow at Kaneville Cemetery, Kaneville.

Those unable to attend the services at either church may view them live at www.conleycare.com beginning five minutes prior to each service. The services will also be available in an on-demand format 24 to 48 hours after the services at the same website.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Leon Gramley Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or online at www.conleycare.com.

Kathy’s passion was for God, her family and her students. She never missed an opportunity to share the message of God’s love with others. Her faith and dedication touched countless lives, including her many kindergarten students at Parkview Christian Academy in Yorkville and her church family at First Presbyterian in Aurora. She cherished the time she spent with her family and loved ones, and constantly nurtured and supported them.

She is survived by her loving husband, Robert Porter of Elburn; parents, Richard and Shirland Groh of Roselle, Ill.; children, Vicky (Gary) Spratt and their children, Kailey, Ryan, Aiden and Casey, of Yorkville, and Brian (Jamie) Porter and their children, Kyle and Allison, of Batavia; siblings, Carol Fitzpatrick of Roselle, Chris (Tonya) Groh of Lima, Ohio, Nancy (Arnie) Lamoso of Cary, Ill., and Janet (Howard) Rosenbach of Huntley, Ill.; Robert’s siblings, Dorothy (Dick) Barclay of Montgomery, Mary (Oscar) Sliva of Galesburg, Ill., Kathy (Tim) Borgstrom of West Bend, Wis., Margaret (Roy) Wackerlin of Oswego, and Ginger (Jeff) Ellis of Aurora; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son, Daniel Porter; father and mother-in-law, Robert and Jeanette Porter; grandparents, Sarah Crawford, Fred and Emma Groh; and niece, Amy Berkeland.

Services were held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 18, at First Presbyterian Church, 325 E. Downer Place, Aurora, IL 60506. The family greeted guests on Sunday, Jan. 17, from 4 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m., also at First Presbyterian Church.

Arrangements were handled by The Healy Chapel, 332 W. Downer Place, Aurora, IL 60506. For information, please call (630) 897-9291 or visit www.healychapel.com to sign the online guestbook.

Larry was born on March 23, 1923, in Chicago, the son of Albert Lawrence Sr. and Nigel Naomi (Baer) Suggett.
He grew up in Evanston and attended local schools.

Larry was drafted into the U.S. Army Air Force Engineers only one day after his marriage to Elva Beck on Nov. 26, 1942, in the Maple Park Methodist Church. He served for three years, serving most of his time in the South Pacific Theater before being honorably discharged on Dec. 11, 1945.

Larry returned to his wife in Maple Park, and they began raising a family. Larry found work in the construction trade for 10 years, using the knowledge he gained in the service. In 1956, Larry began working in sales full time. He worked for many companies over the years, realizing his gift for sales.

His last job was for Equipto Electronics in Aurora, where his expertise increased and he became national sales manager. They began with 326 customers, and before he left 10 years later, they had served over 1,300 customers and increased their business by $1 million dollar a year. From “mom and pop” companies to fortune 500 companies and the government, Larry served them all faithfully, and upon his retirement in August of 1985, he had 105 sales persons under him throughout the United States and Canada. He was a man devoted to his work, but his family was his prized possession. Following his retirement, Larry loved to take many trips with his wife all around the U.S. and Canada.

He was a member and Past Master of the Maple Park Masonic Lodge for many years before becoming a member of the DeKalb Masonic Lodge when the two joined in the early 1950s.

A lifelong student, Larry was never content to rest on his high school diploma. In 1961, Larry gave of his time to disadvantaged youth at the Boys Home, helping them to read. In addition to taking 12 classes through the military, he continued to take more than 20 different courses throughout his life at Waubonsee Community College. He then turned from student into teacher from 1986 to 1988, when he taught an antique class at Waubonsee Community College for a time, where they sent him to various locations in the community including Elburn, the Tri-cities, the College of DuPage and on to Chicago.

In 1994, he made display cases for the Schingoethe Center to display the Schingoethe Indian artifacts, which is located at Dunham Hall at Aurora University. Another project that Larry volunteered to take on was the rehabilitation of a home in Aurora that became the original Hesed House. Later, he specialized in restoration of Victorian homes in the Fox Valley.

In his spare time, Larry enjoyed staying at his “second home” in Nigel’s Point in Land O’ Lakes, Wis., cooking every meal over an open fire in the summer and navigating the snowcapped peaks and valleys on his skis in the winter. Later, he made the local trip to Villa Olivia to satisfy his cravings. In his younger years, he indulged in his passion for speed by flying his Cessna ZO6 and driving his Jaguar K150 whenever he could. He also was a faithful Santa’s helper, dressed to the hilt in red and white, bringing the joy of Christmas to all he met. His hands crafted hundreds of letters to friends and family, and his eye for taking pictures produced priceless gifts for many.

He leaves now two daughters, Susan Joy (Charles) Gates of Campton, Teri Ann Suggett of Kaneville; seven grandchildren, Kimberly Skaper of Sycamore, Kelly (Mark) McCarney of Aurora, Carrie, Tanya and Chuck Gates of Campton, and Joscelyn and Chanel Suggett of Kaneville; five great-grandchildren, Andrew and Steven Skaper, Shawn, Sharon and Christine McCarney; one great-great grandson, Michael Skaper; one step-sister, Dorothy Anderson of Southern Illinois; and a community of friends.

He joins now his wife, Elva; one daughter, Sharon K. Orr; and his parents, who preceded him in death.

Visitation was from 3 to 4:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010, at Kaneville United Methodist Church, 46W764 Main Street Road, Kaneville, IL 60144. A funeral to celebrate his life followed the visitation. The Rev. Jason Turner, pastor of the church, officiated, and private family interment followed at Kaneville Cemetery on Monday, Jan. 11.

A memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Albert Lawrence “Larry” Suggett Jr.” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Aug. 11, 1927, the son of Frederick and Florence (Lenz) Schuppner in Elgin.

Paul spent his first years in Elgin and attended local schools, but graduated in 1945 from Plato Center High School, where he was a stand-out basketball player. Paul was a farmer his whole life, and it began on Witt’s farm.

Paul played basketball at Plato Center, but it was a certain cheerleader for Maple Park that caught his eye. Soon a courtship began, and in 1946, Paul and Adeline Helmuth were united in marriage on the Howard farm on Howard Road in Maple Park.

They began their new life together with Adeline’s parents in an apartment while Paul worked at Turner Brass. Then in a few years, Paul became manager on a farm in Sycamore for a time before finding a dairy farm in Virgil in 1951. After renting on a few different farms in the area, they moved into their present home on Meredith Road in 1981. They saved for 35 years to buy their home, and the moment they turned the key, it was theirs and theirs alone.

Paul was a farmer at heart, but later he would add driving a school bus to his daily regimen in 1959 in Maple Park, and spent the next 38 years making sure his charges were delivered to and from school safely. His rules were strict but fair, and many students who never rode his bus heard of his lore. He retired from farming in 1991 and driving a bus in December of 1997. Paul spent the next few years concentrating on making memories with his family and helping his son tend to his land and dairy cattle.

Paul was a past member of the Kane County Farm Bureau and the Loyal Order of the Moose, St. Charles.

Paul was a man who knew what he wanted and how he wanted it done. When a CB was brought in to help his farms communicate, there was no doubt that his “handle” would be “The Boss.” If Paul had a tough exterior and demeanor at times, it only provided cover for the biggest caring heart a man could have. No one knew that better than his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he cheered on at every possible opportunity at school functions and activities, including hundreds of basketball games. He loved to dance with his “honey” at the Blue Moon and play cards in a club full of friends and neighbors. In 1974, he and Adeline went to Hawaii and Las Vegas in 1975, making memories with every mile.

He now leaves his wife of 62 years, Adeline of Virgil; his son, Steve (Ruth Banas) Schuppner of Cortland, five grandchildren, David Schuppner and his children, Hannah and Kaleb, of Elburn; Paul W. (Nicole) Schuppner of East Lansing, Mich.; and Andrea (Josh) Pethoud and their daughter, Maysen of DeKalb; Renee (Adam) Real-Banas of Minneapolis, Minn.; and Andy (Shana) Banas of Roseville, Minn.; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

He now joins his parents; one son, Edward; one sister, Marilyn Schuppner; one grandson, Brian Schuppner; and one brother-in-law, Warren Klingenberg, who preceded him in death.

Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 3, 2010, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. A funeral to celebrate his life will be held at the funeral home on Monday, Jan. 4, 2010, at 11 a.m. The Rev. Ernst Rex, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Lily Lake, and the Rev. Paul Meyer, pastor of Cornerstone Methodist Church, Plato Center, will both officiate, and interment will follow at Blackberry Township Cemetery, Elburn.

A memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Paul Schuppner Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born on the family farm in Virgil on April 3, 1922, the daughter of Michael J. and Elizabeth K. Petit.

Lorraine grew up in Virgil and attended the S. S. Peter & Paul schools. She worked on the farm and in the home while the boys were off to war. In between milking the cows and cooking meals, Lorraine also worked at Elgin Watch Factory.

Lorraine loved to dance and spent many nights at The Grange, a dance hall on Plank Road. It was there that she caught a certain gentleman’s eye and shared a dance with Bob Miller. They were united in marriage on Oct. 6, 1951, at S.S. Peter & Paul Catholic Church.

They began their new life together on the Miller family farm in Dundee, Ill. They would spend the rest of their married life making memories and raising their daughter, Mary. She worked across the road for a time, making beds at their family-owned Dun-El View Motel in Dundee, Ill. When Bob passed away in 1995, Lorraine moved in with her niece, Mary Hindenburg, in Sycamore for a time before building a home in Virgil across the street from her childhood church and school, and next door to the old convent.

Lorraine was a faithful member of S.S. Peter & Paul Catholic Church and was a past member of the Altar and Rosary Society at St. Catherine Catholic Church. She started a sewing club, was involved in Country Cousins as well as the Kane County Home Extension. She also was a volunteer at St. Joseph Hospital in Elgin. Lorraine was active in Rural Life, a diocesan farm group.

Lorraine entertained everyone at anytime and possessed the gift of hospitality. She loved her time playing cards with the “Virgil Card Club” every week at different homes. She was “Mrs. Claus” to all her nieces and nephews, not only at Christmas time but all year round. In the summers she had pool parties and invited her family, and many times the rest of her neighbors as well. Lorraine loved to knit and crochet and passed on her wisdom and talent to the next generation.

In their younger years, she and Robert loved to travel on pilgrimages to different Marian Shrines around the country hosted by her brother, Fr. Clement Petit. Lorraine was the family historian and could be found behind the camera at many family functions chronicling the events for future generations. The Petit family reunions that she and Earlene Petit began continue annually. They also made sure never to miss a wedding or a funeral, no matter where they were being held.

Whenever her nieces and nephews came into town, there was no lap more comfortable or available for babies to snuggle and nap. For her granddaughter and her friends, tea parties were the norm and were complete with cups, saucers, tea (that was really Kool-Aid) and cakes.

She now leaves her daughter, Mary (Steve) Lemaster of Elgin, Ill.; two grandchildren, Kate (James) Freestrom of Sycamore and Jeremy Lemaster of Elgin, Ill.; three siblings, Frank M. Petit of St. Charles, Sister Marie Petit of St. Francis Convent, Milwaukee, Wis., and Peter M. Petit of Virgil; many nieces and nephews that were all close to her heart, especially Clete Zang and Mary Hindenburg; and a countryside of friends who will miss her dearly.

She now joins her parents; husband, Bob Miller; four sisters, Louise (Petit) Zang, Regina Petit, Julia (Petit) Dinges, and Sr. Donna Petit O.S.F.; five brothers, Herman, Clement, Carl and Michael; and one other brother, Michael, who died in infancy.

Visitation was from 4 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2009, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, 60119. A mass to celebrate her life was held at S.S. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Virgil, at 10 a.m., with a time of visitation from 9 to 9:45 a.m. at the church prior to Mass Wednesday, Dec. 30. Fr. Perfecto Vasquez, pastor of the church, officiated, and interment followed at River Valley Memorial Garden Cemetery in Dundee, Ill.

A memorial has been established in her name to benefit Provena St. Joseph Hospital or St. Francis of Assisi Convent. Checks may be made directly to either of the charities and mailed to Lorraine L. Miller in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Sept. 3, 1943, the son of Donald Sr. and Mary Helen (Klemm) Phillips in Aurora.

Dutch met his wife during high school, and though she stole his heart, she gave him hers in return. Dutch and Jane Schramer went to their first dance in 1960, and four years later, were united in marriage on Sept. 12, 1964, at S.S. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Virgil.

Dutch began working in the family egg business and also worked for a time at Zephyr Gas, a small gas station in Sugar Grove. He spent most of his years behind the wheel of a semi, driving for G. Baker Express and later Blackhorse Carriers.

He now leaves his wife of 45 years, Jane; four children, Deanna (Phil) McCarney and their children, Nicholas and Nolan, of Elburn; Denise (Mike) Thelander and their daughter, Jordan, of Elburn; Keith (Julie) Phillips and their children, Brandon and Katelyn, of Batavia; and Kevin (Aimee Lave) Phillips and their children, Cody, Cecily, and Courtney of Watertown, S.D.; four siblings, Jerry “Cork” (Sue) Phillips, Patrick “Skip” (Mary Perry) Phillips, Rita (Larry) Schmitt and Marcy (Randy) Vanatta; many nieces, nephews; and a countryside of friends who will never forget his smile.

He now joins his parents and one niece, Tiffany Vanatta, who preceded him in death.

Visitation was at St. Gall Catholic Church in Elburn from 4 to 9 p.m., with a wake service at 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 30. A Mass to celebrate his life and faith will be at 10:30 a.m., with a time of visitation to precede the mass from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, 2009. Fr. Karl Ganss, pastor of the church, will officiate, and interment will follow at Kaneville Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Donald Phillips Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born Nov. 29, 1929, the daughter of Willard and Dorothy (Henning) Murbach in Oak Park, Ill.

Mardelle grew up in Oak Park and attended local schools. She graduated with the class of 1948 from Oak Park Township High School. Following graduation, Mardelle continued her education at a local business school in Chicago, where she studied bookkeeping.

Mardelle worked for several companies in the Chicago area, including Borden Ice Cream Company and the Federal Reserve Bank. In 1972, Mardelle began working for the Little Traveler in Geneva for what was only supposed to be six weeks. Later in 1988, Mardelle worked her way to be the general manager and was in charge of purchasing. She would accumulate a history of over a dozen trips to England in search of the perfect antiques to bring home.

It was Christmas time in 1957, and Mardelle attended a party where she met her future husband, Vern Voigt, who was home for the holidays from working in Alaska. Eleven months later in November 1958, they were married and soon headed back up to Alaska, as a family, to finish the work he started previously. Upon completion, they headed to Elburn to construct their new home, where they eventually settled. The family traveled extensively with Vern’s job and worked in many places throughout the world, including England.

Mardelle was an avid reader of anything she could get her hands on, especially Danielle Steele romance novels and mysteries. Although Mardelle traveled for work extensively, she also took many trips just for pleasure, with destinations across the United States and abroad, such as Ireland and Germany. When home, traveling around her social circles made each day go by faster.

Mardelle was a member and past Worthy Matron of Eastern Star and the American Legion Auxiliary.

She now leaves one daughter, Catherine (Jeff) Mathews of Maple Park; one grandson, Bill (Alison) Donovan of St. Louis; one granddaughter, Bethany M. Donovan of Maple Park; one great-granddaughter, Kyla Rachas of Maple Park; one brother, John (Marti) Murbach of Florida; many nieces, nephews and a family of friends.

She now joins her parents; her husband, Vern; and one son, James “Jimmy,” who passed away as a toddler in 1955, who preceded her in death.

Friends called Monday, Dec. 21, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn.

A funeral service to celebrate her life was held at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 22, with the Rev. David Bateman officiating. Interment followed at Chapel Hill Gardens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name. Checks may be made to the “Mardelle Voigt Memorial” and mailed to P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119.

Mike was born on Oct. 12, 1958, the son of Paul and Diane (Rossi) Del Medico in Junction City, Kan.

Mike’s childhood was surrounded by generations of family who lived in Chicago. Following his schooling, auto body restoration caught his attention, and his career as a technician began in the local shops around the suburbs of Chicago.

Mike met the love of his life, Monica, in 1975 at the age of 16. Their two hearts became one on June 7, 1980, and their family became complete with the birth of their son Michael in 1981. Over the years, they made their home in many places throughout the suburbs, finally settling in St. Charles in 1992.

Mike’s passion for cars led to the opening of his first auto-repair business in 1982. His most recent and sustained venture was the opening of Mastercraft Autobody in Wauconda, Ill., in 1992.

In Mike’s spare time he loved to hunt and fish, and he also enjoyed many years as a member of the St. Charles Sportsman’s Club.

Mike was a perfectionist at heart and took incredible pride in everything he did. No one was more special to Mike than his son, and he was quick to share his accomplishments with everyone he met. He also made Michael his unofficial apprentice, teaching him the skills required to both renovate their home and complete minor car repairs and upkeep over the years.

Mike also had a special relationship with his nephew Matthew, whom he treated as a second son as he guided him through the trials of life. As a playful jokester, Mike loved to laugh, and his smile consistently brightened rooms. “Big Mike’s” heart was made of gold, and his generosity was unwavering. He will be missed for many reasons, but his life and memory will be cherished forever.

He now leaves his wife Monica; his son, Mike (Lindsay Wasenko) Del Medico; his mother, Diane Del Medico; two brothers, Paul and Mark Del Medico; his paternal grandparents, Frank and Philomena Del Medico; his mother-in-law, Marcie Vazquez; many aunts and uncles, including Mary (Frank) Donato; several brothers- and sisters-in-law, many nieces, nephews, cousins and a vast quantity of people who were lucky enough to call him friend.

He now joins his father; his grandfather, Steve Rossi; father-in-law, Gilbert Vazquez; and brother-in-law, Christopher Kapusta, who preceded him in death.

Visitation was from 3 to 9 p.m. at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn on Friday, Dec. 18. The Elburn Fire Department honored the family with a Catholic wake service. A funeral to celebrate his life was Saturday, Dec. 19, at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Mission Catholic Church, 6N491 Crane Road, St. Charles. Private family interment will occur at a later date following cremation.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities, including Illinois Children’s Burn Camp and the LivingWell Cancer Resource Center. Checks may be made to the “Mike Del Medico Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Sept. 23, 1921, in Chicago.

He was an entrepreneur and held many positions over his life, mainly in the building materials industry. On Dec. 8, 1945, he enlisted in the U.S. Marines, where he was assigned to the First Marine Division. He saw action in the first offensive against the Japanese at Guadalcanal and Tulagi. His tour of duty also included New Guinea, Cape Gloucester, Talasee and Pelileu in the South Pacific.

On Dec. 2, 1950, he married Erminia Panozzo, and they were happily married until her death on May 30, 1990.

He is survived by children Frank (Hope) Lo Destro, Peter (Cheri) Lo Destro and Michele (Roderick) Kelly; grandchildren, Tricia, Paula (Dennis) Paben, Julie, Bonnie, Brent (Natalia), Grant, Chana, Sonya, Brina; Katherine, Patrick and Peter; and great-granddaughter, Samantha.

Visitation was from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec 22, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. Mass began at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, Dec. 23, at St. Gall Catholic Church, Elburn. Interment was in Resurrection Cemetery, Geneva.

She was born April 8, 1940, the daughter of Charles and Katherine (Roper) Cronk in Chicago.

Judy grew up in Franklin Park and attended local schools. After graduating in 1958, she met James Coakley, and they were married soon after. They were blessed with five children, Gayle, Bryan, Roy, Michael and Patricia.

Judy and Jim and their growing family made their home in Melrose Park, Ill. Judy and Jim parted ways in 1979. Love found Judy once again, this time with a childhood friend named Boyd Watters after a serendipitous Christmas card found its way into her hands. His heart followed soon after, and they were united in marriage on June 20, 1981, on Boyd’s boat in Burnham Park Harbor, Chicago.

Boyd brought with him two blessings from his previous marriage, Jacqueline and Richard. Just as the number in the family multiplied, so did the blessings and memories during the next 28 years. The memories began where they made their home in Melrose Park until they moved to Bristol, Ill., in 1983. They left for the west coast in 1986 to be near Judy’s mom in California before returning to be near family in 2002, settling in Elburn.

Judy put her heart and soul into her family, which left little room for additional jobs outside the home.

Judy’s kitchen was a wonderland of delicious baked sweets, especially fudge, which was a family favorite. She was a great friend to those in need, and the friendships made spanned across the country and across generations. Judy was a very patient and kind person. She was an angel to many, but none more so than her husband, Boyd, who regularly told her that she made him want to be a better man. A loving wife, adoring mother and a favorite among the grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Judy will be missed by many for a long time to come.

She now leaves her loving husband, Boyd; seven children, Gayle (Curtis) Miller of Mendota, Ill., Bryan (Maggie) of Coakley of Palatine, Ill., Roy (Becky) Coakley of North Lake, Ill., Michael (Tracy) Coakley of St. Charles, Patricia Strayer of Aurora, Jacquelilne (Eric) Rothfone of Mokena, Ill., and Richard (Carol) Watters of Tinley Park, Ill.; 15 grandchildren, Melissa (Brian) Bembenek and their daughter, Angela of Downers Grove, Ill., Shelby Miller of Mendota, Ill., Leah Griffen of Palatine, Ill., Paige Coakley of Palatine, Ill., Maddy Coakly of North Lake, Ill., Jacqueline Coakley of North Lake, Ill., Jesse Coakley of North Lake, Ill., Lexia Coakley of St. Charles, Logan Coakley of St. Charles, Kalyn Strayer of Hebron, Ind., Stephanie Strayer of Hebron, Ind., Wendy (Shawn) Gamble and her children, Sara and Gage, of Bryan, Texas, Paul Armenia of Bourbonnais, Ill., Lauren Watters of Tinley Park, Ill., and Brian Watters of Tinley Park, Ill.; other extended family, and a family of friends.

She now joins her parents, who preceded her in death.

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. Following cremation, a memorial service will be held Saturday, Dec. 19, at the Kaneville United Methodist Church, 724 Main Street Road, Kaneville, at 11 a.m. The Rev. Lonnie Caha, pastor of the Parkview Christian Church of Orland Park, Ill., and Rev. Jason Turner, Pastor of Kaneville United Methodist Church, will officiate with private family interment to follow at a later date.

A memorial has been established in her name to benefit her favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Judy Watters Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born on Aug. 1, 1917, the daughter of Alice (Harrison) and Hermann Jonas in Minneapolis, Minn.

Reita grew up in Minneapolis and attended local schools before her family moved to St. Charles in 1938.

She was united in marriage to Joseph Zanardi in 1938 in Springfield, Ill., but spent 71 of her memory-making years in the Fox Valley area.

Reita worked at many different manufacturing companies over the years, but the one thing that remained constant was her involvement in the area of quality control as an inspector. Her longest tenure was with Campana in Batavia.

She was a member of the Batavia VFW Women’s Auxiliary and served her community by being an election judge in Kane County for many years.

Reita had a joy for learning new skills and information that was charming and delightful, and possessed a manner that belied her years. Never too young to learn, she attended college in her 80s to enhance her piano playing abilities.

Never a stranger to hard work, Reita dedicated herself to each task and each job, whether it was in the working sector or just working in her garden. Summers and sunshine were a balm to her soul, and the time spent picking grapes for jam or sweet peas growing on a trellis were a treat unlike any other. The smells from the kitchen wafted through her home as she cooked and canned and passed on her knowledge to the next generations, even teaching her son Curt to make gravy.

When not in the kitchen, Reita enjoyed crocheting afghans and garments for her granddaughters. She also enjoyed traveling the U.S., memorializing each trip with a bounty of pictures. When she and her husband Joe began to attend flea markets, they never could imagine that a favorite pastime would become a passion. They soon became dealers specializing in old glass and pottery.

After Joe died in 1975, she continued dealing in glass and flea markets for many years. Late in life, she had a special friend in John Murphy, with whom she would share trips and activities that made her later years an adventure.

She now leaves her son, Curt (Marlene) Zanardi of St. Charles; two granddaughters, Heather (Norman) Pink of Aurora and Joanna (Matthew) Janecek of St. Charles; four great-grandchildren whom she called her “Angels,” Miles Janecek, Caden Pink, McCoy Janecek and Dante Pink; one sister, Betty McKamey of Dixon, Ill.; many nieces and nephews and a host of good friends.

She now joins her husband, Joseph; her brothers, Bud Stadler and John Harrison; and her good friend, John Murphy, who preceded her in death.

Private family services were handled with care by Conley Funeral Home, Elburn.

A memorial has been established in her name to benefit her favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Reita Zanardi Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born Aug. 15, 1919, in Virgil, the daughter of Henry and Margaret (then) Kirchmann. She was married to George W. Karch.

Emma was a lifelong resident of Kane County and SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Virgil. She was a graduate of West High School in Aurora. She was a homemaker and enjoyed cooking and knitting. She made beautiful scarves, afghans and gloves for her family and people in need. She also loved to babysit for her grandchildren and friends in the community. She retired from Doan’s pill factory in Geneva after many years of service.

Emma is survived by two sons, George (Geri) Karch of Benton, Ken. and Jack (Pati) Karch of Manitowoc, Wis.; three grandchildren, Michelle Karch, Jack “J.B.” (Gretchyn) Karch and Todd (Aileen) Karch; six great-grandchildren, Madi, Cole, Katelyn Emma, Will, Alexandrea and Lea; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, one brother and six sisters.

Her Funeral Mass was Saturday, Dec. 5, at 11 a.m. at the SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 5N939 Meredith Road in Virgil, with Fr. Perfecto Vasquez officiating.

Her visitation was Dec. 5 from 9 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass at the church. A luncheon followed the Funeral Mass, and a graveside service was held at 1:30 p.m. at the Virgil Cemetery.

A memorial has been established for Emma Karch in care of the Butala Funeral Home and Crematory, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178. For information, call (815) 895-2833.

He was born Nov. 22, 1920, the son of Frank and Barbara (Esser) Jarvis.

Bill grew up in Aurora and attended local schools. Although his formal education only took him through his sophomore year in high school, he was a very knowledgeable man.

Bill was inducted into the U.S. Army on June 7, 1944. He served his country with valor and pride during WWII as a rifleman and postal clerk with Company 1, 85th Mountain Infantry, 10th Division in Italy.

Bill married his soulmate during a weekend furlough, Lois Gustafson, on Oct. 23, 1944. He would return to his bride on April 13, 1946, following his honorable discharge.

Bill would spend most of his life in his hometown of Aurora, where he was born and raised. In 1988, Bill and Lois moved to Sugar Grove.

He was employed by Trio Brass Foundry in Aurora for many years, eventually becoming manager until his retirement in 1988.

Bill was a faithful member of St. Gall Catholic Church, Elburn, was past president and a member of the Tiger Club, the Phoenix Club and the American Legion in Sugar Grove, Post 1271.

Bill was a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan through thick and thin. When he wasn’t rooting for his home team, he loved working in his garden. Whether it was flowers or vegetables, everything came up “roses.” He also enjoyed camping across Illinois and Wisconsin, but his favorite site was Devils Lake in Baraboo, Wis.

He now leaves his wife of 65 years, Lois; three daughters, Kay (Vince) Chawgo of Breese, Ill., Linda (Dave) Dugan of Leland, Ill., and Sandy (Daryl) Jones of Steward, Ill.; six grandchildren, Becky Chawgo of Lynnwood, Wash., Jeremy Chawgo of Breese, Ill., Josh (Anne) Thacker and their daughter, Isabel, of Montgomery, Adam Thacker of North Hills, Calif., Jason (Kim) Jones and their children, Halle, Quinn and Macie, of Yorkville, and Kristy (Chadd) Nelson and their daughters, Sophia and Olivia Nelson of Sugar Grove; one brother, John Jarvis of Aurora; a sister-in-law, Elnor Gustafson of St. Charles; and many nieces, nephews and a family of friends.

He now joins his parents; his brothers, Ralph and Francis; and sisters, Leona Bates, Marie Boylan, Margaret Ugoli and Catherine Castner, who preceded him in death.

Visitation was from 1 to 2:45 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A service to celebrate his life followed at 3 p.m. Private family interment will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit Seasons Hospice and Hillside. Checks may be made to the “William Jarvis Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

We will forever be thankful to everyone at Hillside for their loving care for Dad and Mom. We also want to thank Seasons Hospice for their compassion during such a difficult time.

“Lord, help us find our way through the changes in our lives.”

Joan was born April 5, 1926, the daughter of Charles Curtis and Katherine (McMullen) Printiss in Boston.

She grew up in Quincy Point, Mass., and attended St. Josephs Grammar School and graduated from Sacred Heart High School, Weymouth, Mass., in 1943. Following graduation, Joan worked in the front office of Bethlehem Steel, where she would find a life time of love with her boss, Jim.

Joan was united in marriage on Sept. 7, 1946, to James Edward McLaughlin in Quincy Point, Mass. They began their new life together in her hometown of Quincy, raising a family while Jim continued to work for Bethlehem Steel. A few years later, the family moved to Pittsfield, Mass. Ten years later, they moved to Galveston, Texas, for a time before settling in St. Charles in 1962. During their time in the tri-cities, Joan worked at Morgan’s Jewelry Factory and DuKane.

In 1975, they moved to Batavia, where she began working at Houghton Mifflin Publishing Company. Following Jim’s passing, she changed vocation once more when she worked as a receptionist for eight years at the Illinois Math and Science Academy (IMSA). Joan then moved to Elburn for six years before returning to Batavia, where she made her home until declining health brought her to Provena Pine View Care Center in St. Charles.

Joan was a member of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA), as well as St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, St. John Neumann and most recently Holy Cross Catholic Church in Batavia.

Joan had a giving heart and an unending love for her grandchildren. Her hands were always busy doing something. She loved to knit, crotchet and volunteer for a number of organizations, including the Batavia Fireworks Fund, RSVP an organization of senior citizens who volunteer at Delnor Hospital gift shop, where she earned her badge for 1,500 hours of service and also found time to prepare meals for Hesed House. She always had a special place in her heart for her pets, including Bucky, T-Bone and Kava. In her younger years, she also enjoyed camping with her family at Illinois Beach State Park, Starved Rock, Angola, Ind., and Fish Creek, Wis., much to the chagrin of her children.

She now leaves six children, Anne Marie Wyatt (Bill) Rogers of Newport News, Va., Charles Curtis McLaughlin of New Jersey, Virginia (David) Ritchie of Naperville, Ted McLaughlin of St. Charles, Paul (Connie) McLaughlin of Aurora, Peggy (Mark) Macaluso of Batavia; six grandchildren, Andrew Wyatt of Batavia, Alana McLaughlin of Prescott, Ariz., David and Robert Ritchie, both of Naperville, Andrea and Marc Macaluso, both of Batavia; one great-granddaughter, Abigail Jones; and many nieces and nephews and a family of friends.

She is preceded by her husband, James; one sister, Martha Murphy; and a daughter-in-law, Maggie McLaughlin.

Visitation, followed by a memorial service celebrating her life, was held Nov. 28 at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name to benefit her favorite charities, including the local food pantry and the Salvation Army. Checks may be made to the “Joan McLaughlin Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Dec. 17, 1931, the son of William Lawrence and Elizabeth Jane (McCabe) Sanders in DeKalb.

Bill grew up in Maple Park, where he graduated from Maple Park High School in 1949. Bill began what has become a long standing family tradition of distance running by setting the school record for the mile run. Bill’s love of the outdoors was kindled by his father with frequent trips “north” to their favorite fishing lakes.

Following high school, he attended barber college in Chicago and practiced his trade in the same shop operated by his father. For the next 20 years, Sanders’ Barber Shop would be not only a place for a trim and a shave, but also a place to learn the latest town news, hear the best jokes and to play a friendly game of billiards in the pool hall in back.

Bill met the love of his life, Ilene (Ike) Ryan at the DeKalb roller skating rink. Their 56-year marriage began on Nov. 14, 1953, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in DeKalb.

Bill and Ilene made their home in Maple Park, where they raised not only their own three children; but, as was the tradition in mid-western small towns, they played a role in the lives of many of the neighborhood kids as well.

While running his barber shop, Bill often made calls to shut-ins at their homes and the sick at the hospital. In the middle 1970s, Bill set aside his clippers and picked up hammer and nails, working as a carpenter until his retirement in 1994. He would often be found helping neighbors, friends and family with their construction projects well into his retirement.

Bill’s many interests included many close friendships. He was especially fond of the North Woods, in particular Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where he hunted, fished, camped and snowmobiled for more than 50 years. Bill was always eager to share his interests with others, especially the young neighborhood kids. He became an accomplished archer, wining many competitions, and was a successful deer hunter. Bill was also an avid golfer. In retirement, he and Ike spent many happy days in the company of their friends in Mercedes, Texas and Sardis, Miss., where they could golf, fish and enjoy their friendships in warmer climes. Bill’s kindness and friendship has deeply touched the lives of many people, and he will be terribly missed for a very long time.

Bill was a volunteer Maple Park fireman for many years, dashing out of the barbershop, sometimes with a half finished haircut in the chair when the call for help was sounded. He was also a charter member of the Kishwaukee Archers and the Maple Park Lions Club.

He now leaves his loving wife, Ike Sanders; three children, Susan (Tim) Sanders-Norris of Sugar Grove, Sally (Tim) Kennedy of Maple Park and Bill (Noreen Heitman) Sanders of Marquette, Mich.; six grandchildren, Carrie (Chris) Sanchez of Gilbert, Ariz., Henry Norris of Maple Park, Will Sanders of Marquette, Mich., Mickey Sanders of Marquette, Mich., Tom Kennedy of Maple Park, Elizabeth Kennedy of Maple Park; one great-granddaughter, Alyson Sanchez; one sister, Jane Ryan of Bourbonnais, Ill.; one brother, Jim (Mary) Sanders of Tucson, Ariz.; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Bill now joins his parents; one sister, Helen (Ike) Lawson; one brother, Tom Sanders; and one brother-in-law, Terry Ryan, who preceded him in death.

Visitation was Wednesday, Dec. 2, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A mass to celebrate his life was held Dec. 2, with a time of visitation preceding the service at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Maple Park. Fr. Joachim Tyrtania, pastor of the church, officiated, and interment followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in Bill’s name to benefit his favorite charities, including the Maple Park Lions Club. Checks may be made to the “Bill Sanders Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or made at www.conleycare.com.

She was born Dec. 10, 1929, the daughter of Archie and Margaret (McKinley) Schutzman.

Betty was born in Chicago and attended local schools, graduating from Harrison High School in 1947.

Betty was working at Woolworths Store in Chicago and found more than she bargained for when she met Charles M. Hartmann. They were united in marriage on May 22, 1948, at Resurrection Church in Chicago. They began their new life together in Chicago right off of Cicero Avenue in an apartment once owned by Al Capone.

In the mid 1950s, the now growing family moved to Bellwood, Ill., and then to Lombard, Ill., in 1973 and Villa Park, Ill., in 1976. Charlie and Betty moved to Geneva in 1986, but when Charlie passed away shortly afterwards on Aug. 2, 1989, Betty moved to Carol Stream, Ill. Then in 1999, Betty moved to Elburn to be near her son.

Betty worked at Turnstyle, once owned by Jewel. Venture soon bought them out, but Betty stayed for the next 25 years.

She was a faithful member of St. Gall Catholic Church, Elburn, and former member of the Corpus Christi Church in Carol Stream.

Betty was a member of the “Shop Till You Drop Club.” She always had an eye for a bargain, which allowed her to “spend a little” but “shop a-lot.” She also enjoyed spending time with her friends exercising at the Elburn Countryside Community Center. Above all, she loved her family and was happiest when they were together.

She now leaves two sons, Ed (Donna) Hartmann of Pecatonica, Ill., and Art (Linda) Hartmann of Elburn; five grandchildren, Bryan (Traci) Hartmann and their children, Brendan, Nicholas and Zachary of Dixon, Ill., Kristy (Brad) Huffman and their children, Ashlyn, Meghan and Ryan of Dixon, Ill., Dennis (Jennifer) Hartmann and their children, Tyler and Kyle of Cortland, Jerry (Patty) Huston of South Elgin, Ill., Jennifer Huston and her son, William of Eagle, Neb.; one brother-in-law, John LeVoy of Eagle River, Wis.; one sister-in-law, Vivian Schutzman of McHenry, Ill.; one nephew, John LeVoy of Florida; several nieces, nephews and a family of friends.

She now joins her parents; sister, Margaret LeVoy; and two brothers, Carl and Arthur Schutzman, who preceded her in death.

Visitation was Tuesday, Dec. 1, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A mass to celebrate her life was held Wednesday, with a time of visitation preceding the service at St. Gall Catholic Church. Fr. Karl Ganss, pastor of the church, officiated, and interment followed at Woodlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial to benefit her favorite charities has been established in her name. Checks may be made to the “Betty Hartmann Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Personal tributes and memories may also to the same address or forwarded to the family through www.conleycare.com.

Originally from Elburn, she was the daughter of the late June and Benjamin Waskow.

She was a vibrant person and a wonderful mother of two before PSP took her.

Surviving are a daughter, Kelley J. Stefka, of Greenville, S.C.; and a son, Kent D. Williams and wife, Lacey, of Charleston, S.C.; her best friend of 25 years, Linda Straughan; a sister, Penny Meyer of Big Rock; and a brother, Craig Waskow and his wife, Patty. She had the chance to be a part of her only granddaughter’s new life, Callie Hope Williams, of Charleston.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), Executive Plaza III, 11350 McCormick Road, Suite 906, Hunt Valley, MD 21031 or online at www.curepsp.org.

Visitation was from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 24, at Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home, 44 S. Mill St, Naperville, Ill. A private family interment was at Mount Emblem Cemetery, Elmhurst, Ill.

To read more and sign an online register book, please visit www.shulerfuneralhome .com. Shuler Funeral Home will assist the family with arrangements in North Carolina.

She was born April 25, 1924, near Steward, Ill., the daughter of Marguerite (O’Donnell) and Irvin Herrmann.

She grew up on the family farm the fourth of 11 children.

Following graduation from Shabbona Community High School, Winnie went on to become a registered nurse, graduating from St. Charles Hospital School of Nursing in Aurora with the class of 1947.

On June 19, 1948, she was united in marriage to Joseph G. “Jeff” Zimmer in Columbus, Ohio. They made their home in Virgil, where they were blessed with six children.

Winnie was employed at Sycamore Hospital for many years until the late ‘60s, when her nursing “ministry” became more focused on home and community nursing. In many ways, Winnie was the Virgil community “health department.” Whenever the misfortune of accident or illness occurred, the first person people called was Winnie. Her demeanor was always straightforward, but her heart was filled with love and never was there a road too long or a hill too high when you called her name.

For many years, she helped Conley Ambulance in countless ways and was highly respected among area physicians. In spite of her many responsibilities, somehow dinner was always on the table, even if she was headed out the door to help someone else before her family could sit down to enjoy the meal.

She is survived by six children, their children and families, Larry (Susan) Zimmer of Maple Park, and their family, Bart Zimmer and his children, Corey, Haley and Tyler, Sarah (Rob) Orth and Jeremy Zimmer; Patricia Zimmer of Miami, Fla.; Virginia (Ken) Stewart of Glendale Heights, Ill., and their family, Elizabeth Stewart and her son, Ethan, Rebecca (Mark Morozink) Stewart; Janet (Joel) Beck of Sandwich, Ill., and their family, Aaron (Teresa) Calhoon (and his two sons, Logan and Brandon) Lynn Calhoon; Diane LaFan of Aurora, and her family, Kendra Flowers and Jared Flowers (and his son, Bryce); Dann (Kathy) Zimmer of St. Charles, and their family, Robby and Margaret; six siblings, Leon Herrmann of Lincoln, Neb., Joyce Clinton of San Diego, Calif., Paul Herrmann of Shabbona, Ill., Thomas Herrmann of DeKalb, Ill., William (Linda) Herrmann of DeKalb, Ill., Irvin (Janie) Herrmann of Dayton, Ohio; one sister-in-law, Margaret Seisser of Jefferson, Wis., as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Joseph, she is preceded in death by two sisters, Madaline Barnes and Helen Inskeep; and two brothers, Joseph and Chester Herrmann.

Visitation will be held at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, on Sunday, Nov. 29, from noon to 3:30 p.m., with funeral services to follow at 4 p.m. Winnie’s long time friend and pastor, the Rev. George Williamson, will officiate. Following cremation, interment will conclude at S.S. Peter & Paul Cemetery, Virgil.

A memorial in her name has been established to benefit diabetes research, among others. Memorials in her memory may be mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address or through www.conleycare.com.

He was born July 30, 1923, the son of Oscar and Rose (Galle) Bernhardt in Oak Park, Ill.

Warren gained a sister two years later, Margeolaine, and both of them grew up and attended local schools in Maywood, Ill. He graduated from Proviso High School in 1941.

Warren found his true love early in life at a roller rink in Villa Park, Ill. Although Warren was 17 and Jeanne “Rae” Raiman was 13 at the time, their love never wavered and they were united in marriage six years later at the Methodist church in Maywood on June 28, 1947.

They began their new life together in the Glen Ellyn countryside and raised a family of four children; Ronald, Richard, Carol and Thomas.

Warren worked at a number of jobs to provide for his family and settled on Bar Vending in St. Charles for 26 years. He retired in 1986 and soon thereafter moved to Elburn.

Warren’s love of automobiles kept him busy repairing the family’s cars. His vegetable garden was a source of pride and always provided a bounty of everything from tomatoes to squash, zucchini and more. He loved to startle his wife and make her “eyes water” by wearing mixed plaids where no plaids should be worn.

He leaves his wife of 62 years, Jeanne, four children, Ron (Tracy) Bernhardt of Mesa, Ariz., Richard (Donna) Bernhardt of Grand Forks, N.D., Carol Syme of Glen Ellyn, Ill. and Thomas Sr. (Julie) Bernhardt of Sarasota, Fla.; seven grandchildren, Jill (Tony) Leitner, Jason Bernhardt, Rob (Lorine) Bernhardt, Michael Bernhardt, Timothy Bernhardt, Thomas Jr. Bernhardt and Victoria Bernhardt; four great-grandchildren, Anna, Charlie Warren, Elle and Kaylin; many nieces and nephews and family of friends.

He now joins his parents and one sister, Margeolaine Bernhardt, who preceded him in death.

Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 28, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A memorial service to celebrate his life will follow the visitation at 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Warren Bernhardt Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Feb. 15, 1946, the son of Delos and Vivian (Harrett) Bunce in Aurora, Ill.

Garry grew up on Lasher Road near Kaneville and graduated from Kaneland High School in 1964.

Garry was born a mechanic but grew into a “Diesel Mechanic Extraordinaire.” Garry never darkened a doorway at a traditional university, but he studied his craft relentlessly. He never stopped learning and soon he could fix anything with the exception of the TV, which was off limits per his wife.

He was united in marriage to Linda Price on May 1, 1965, at Wheatland Salem United Methodist Church in Plainfield.

They began their new life together in Hinckley and Big Rock for a time before moving to Aurora in 1975. In 1992, they made the move to Elburn, where they made memories for the next 17 years.

Garry worked at the Big Rock Truck Stop from 1964-71 before spending the next 38 years at Northern National Lease/Ryder. Garry’s talent for helping and inspiring people was amazing. He taught his employees the importance of doing the job the right way the first time, because public safety depended on their work.

He was a long time member of Wheatland Salem United Methodist Church and was proud to be a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace workers for 38 years.

Garry was a good and gentle man who was intensely devoted to his wife and family. He treated his wife like a queen and spoiled his children, making sure they always had their heart’s desire. Garry also wasn’t afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve and never missed an opportunity to tell his wife, kids and grandchildren how much he loved them.

Although his family always came first, he never hesitated to help others in need. His skills and friendly personality were known and acknowledged by everyone he met. Garry lived his life with a friendly smile and a contagious laugh.

He loved black-and-white movies, the hilarity of “The Three Stooges,” and never turned the channel when “Svengoolie” was on Channel 26.

Even when he wasn’t working, his hands never stayed still, or clean, as he worked on old motorcycles, making them run faster and stronger. He also worked on cars and trucks, leaving his mark on every one.

He loved to travel, go gem hunting in North Carolina and antique shopping with Linda wherever and whenever they could. Garry loved the times he spent hunting at his uncle’s, or fishing in the creek by his house, and he couldn’t help but join in the fun when his kids would go sledding.

Ready with a easy laugh, Garry loved to tell funny stories and play practical jokes. He also was an animal lover and kept a special place in his heart for his dogs, Fluffy, Sherry and Tina. The holidays spent at his home and games of horseshoes played in the back yard will never be the same without Garry. No longer able to leave his trademark crushed pop cans as a calling card, Garry leaves his mark on our hearts that will last for generations.

He now leaves his loving wife of 44 years, Linda; two children, Deanna (Karl) Martinek and Connie (Tod) Parish; four grandchildren, Shane (Amanda) Powell, Cami Powell, Megan Parish and Nicholas Parish, all of Aurora; one sister, Lavonne (Phil) Mahan, many cousins, nieces, nephews and countless friends across the countryside.

He now joins his parents; one grandson, Erin Martinek; a nephew, Jeremy Mahanl; one brother, Larry Bunce; his in-laws, Milford and Helen Price; and his grandparents, Forest and Blanch Harrett, and Arthur and Gretta Bunce, who preceded him in death.

Visitation was from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A funeral to celebrate was also held at the funeral home, Wednesday, Nov. 18, at 2 p.m. Rev. Jason Turner, pastor of the Kaneville United Methodist Church, Kaneville, officiated, and interment followed at Kaneville Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Garry Bunce Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or at www.conleycare.com.

She was born on March 4, 1937, in Detroit, Mich., and resided in Grosse Point, Mich., the daughter of Melville and Evelyn Mae (Kopp) Santmyers. She was married to Roy Kemp in 1956.

Sandra loved life and loved her family, friends, including the many friends she had made over the past 11 years at Tiller’s and Hillside, and her many pets. Sandy will be missed by all who loved her. She had a great sense of humor, was kind to everyone, and enjoyed life no matter what obstacles came her way.

She leaves behind a brother, Mel (Maria) Santmyers of California; two daughters, Cindy Jo (Steve) Cunningham of Algonquin, Ill., and Rebecca Lee (Mark) Johnson of Oswego, Ill.; three grandchildren, Kellen Jay Bain, Melissa (Brian) Scottberg and Troy Johnson; and two great-granddaughters, Kayla and Sarah Scottberg.

Preceding her in death are her parents and Roy Kemp, as well as her beloved grandson, Corey Joe Bain.

Friends may call on the family on Thursday, Nov. 19, from 5 to 7:15 p.m. at The Healy Chapel, 370 Division Drive, Sugar Grove, with a memorial service at 7:15 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, Sandy has requested that donations be made to an animal shelter/sanctuary of the donor‘s choice, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Provena Mercy Hospice or any other nonprofit organization.

The family wishes to thank Tiller’s Nursing Home and the many wonderful, compassionate and loving staff members that were a family to us and our mom for so many years.

For further information, call (630) 466-1330 or visit www.healychapel.com to sign the online guestbook.

She was born on Dec. 5, 1923, in Aurora, the daughter of the late William and Margaret (McClure) Seibert.

She and Donald G. Marshall were married 53 years before his passing in 2000. Survivors include their children, James (Peggy) Marshall of Aurora, Steven (Pamela) Marshall of Dunlap, Ill., Diane (Donald) Barrow of Montgomery and Cindy Tessmann of Warrenville, Ill. She delighted in being the grandmother of Steven and Lauren Marshall, Eric, Carly and Melissa Tessmann, and Derek Barrow. Left to mourn the loss in addition to immediate family are step-grandchildren, Dario, Emily, Matt, Ryan and Shaunna. She is also fondly remembered by several nieces and nephews, as well as all her friends at Wedgewood Manor Apartments.

Jeanette worked during WWII first in Washington D.C. and later in Aurora and Fort McDowell in the Government Accounting Office and for the U.S. Army. After their marriage in 1946, Don and Jeanette moved to Urbana while Don attended U of I Engineering School.

She was active in the community, church and school programs while raising her family and working part time. In her later years, she volunteered at the Fox Valley YMCA preschool. She loved working with children, indulging her animal friends and baking her special banana bread. Jeanette never knew any strangers, only friends she hadn’t met yet.

Along with her parents and husband, Don, she was preceded in death by her sisters and brother, Frank (Helen) Seibert, Ione (Richard) Lorang, Wilma (Leroy) Kewenig, Selma (Winnie) Johnson, Shirley (Charles) Harrington and Joyce (Jack) Legler.

Private services will be held followed by an interment of her and Donald’s ashes at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Arrangements were handled by The Healy Chapel, 332 W. Downer Place, Aurora, IL 60506. For further information, call (630) 897-9291 or visit www.healychapel.com to sign the online guestbook.

Remember Jeanette by donating to the Fox Valley Animal Welfare League, The Salvation Army or the charity of your choosing.

He was united in marriage to Ruth M. Bartimes on Sept. 11, 1954, in Aurora.

Frank graduated from East Aurora High School with the class of 1947. He began his employment with Illinois Bell in June of 1945, and retired from the company after 38 years. Frank joined the U.S. Navy in September of 1952 and proudly served his country until July of 1954.

On Feb. 4, 1959, Frank joined the North Aurora Fire Department. He was promoted to the rank of Captain in 1963, and later became Chief in 1976. On Oct. 2, 1972, he was able to carry out his ultimate dream of saving a life. In 1973, Illinois Bell awarded Frank with the Theodore N. Vail Bronze Medal for noteworthy public service.

Frank greatly enjoyed being a fireman and was active in many capacities of fire protection service. He trained EMTs in first aid and CPR certification for the Red Cross, and served on the Kane County Fire Chiefs Association as both treasurer and president.

In 1989, Frank celebrated 30 years as a fireman with a “roast” celebration hosted by the North Aurora Fire Department. He retired two years later as Chief and became Chief Emeritus after 32 years of service.

Outside of his work with the fire department and Illinois Bell, Frank served the community of North Aurora in the Lions Club (where he was on the board of directors), the Loyal Order of the Moose and the Telephone Pioneers. Frank was honored as the North Auroran of the Year for his countless hours of service to the community.

Frank is survived by his children, Terry Whelan of Kaneville and Linda (Dan) Revai of Plover, Wis.; his grandchildren, Heather, Nick and Danielle; a sister, Phyllis (Nick) Klein; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Frank is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruth; and daughter, Colleen Meggesin.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, Nov. 19, from 4 to 9 p.m. at Moss Family Funeral Home, 209 S. Batavia Ave. (Rt. 31), Batavia.

Funeral services will begin with prayers on Friday, Nov. 20, at the funeral home, before proceeding to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 801 Oak St., North Aurora, for Mass at 10 a.m., with Rev. Jack Heraty serving as celebrant. Interment will follow in Resurrection Cemetery in Geneva Township.

For additional information, call the Moss Family Funeral Home in Batavia at (630) 879-7900 or visit www.mossfuneral.com

Having battled aggressive congestive heart failure for many months, he claimed at last his heavenly home and a reunion there with his beloved daughter, Rebekah.

He was born Nov. 20, 1924, in Chicago, the son of Gove and Martha Mott Compton. He spent his early years in Chicago until 1934, when the family moved to a farm two miles west of Wayne on Dunham Road. Then, in January of 1937, they moved to the present family farm on Pouley Road. Dave attended some country schools in Wayne and St. Charles and later Riverside Military School in Gainesville, Ga.

World War II interrupted his education when he joined the Marine Corps. Shipping out to Iwo Jima, his convoy stopped in the Hawaiian islands, where it dropped off about 100 men, including Dave, at Pearl Harbor. Dave was among the few in his unit who returned.

After the war, Dave came back to the farm in 1946 and graduated from Elburn High School. Unlike many students, Dave was a lifelong learner, and a significant part of his education soon followed when he went to work on farms in Australia and New Zealand in 1950.

Throughout the rest of his life, David would take opportunities to travel whenever he could. Whether he traveled across the country to the mountains and the oceans or simply took a local train ride, David was a keen observer of the landscape, one who loved and appreciated people (Dave could make friends with a fence post), history and the fingerprint of God’s hand in every life.

He came back to the family farm, inspired to apply some of the unique farming methods he had learned. In the process, he discovered that Sally Bangs, daughter of long time family friends, would be the perfect “farm-wife,” someone who could be married to the “man and the land” and love them both. So it was that Dave and Sally were wed on Aug. 16, 1952, in Geneva, in the back yard of Sally’s uncle.

They moved into Dave’s one-room house on Pouley Road, where they lived for a year before moving to the present family farm on the Compton homestead. True to form, the two were inseparable from each other or from the farm.

An area leader in soil conservation, Dave began strip farming long before others and strove to leave every field better than he found it. He and Sally worked hard and raised their children to follow in that ethic. “Leave it on the track” David would say; his admonishment to always give your all.

Speaking of his life and passion, David said: “I have farmed this land as religiously and as faithfully as I could; trying as best I could, for no soil or water or nutrients to leave the land, irregardless of my financial bottom line. To me this has been my whole life.”

Though the farm was his life, David shared that life with his community in a number of ways. Many people knew David as the quiet Good Samaritan who helped them in their hour of need. He was also a long time member of the Community Congregational Church of Elburn, where he served for many years as chairman of the Memorial Committee, the Music Committee, the Board of Deacons, sang in the choir, worked long hours in the Elburn Days food tent and single-handedly kept the church’s recycling program active and functioning.

He was also a member of the Kane County Farm Bureau, Kane-DuPage Soil Conservation Board and a former Blackberry Township Trustee.

He is survived by his wife, Sally of Elburn; three children, David Mark ( Patty ) Compton of Oneida, Ill., Katharine “Kit” Compton of Batavia, Robin Urich of Elburn; five grandchildren, Krista (Greg) Peck of Galva, Ill., Kelly Compton of Oneida, Ill., Craig David Compton of Oneida, Ill., Amber and Rachel Urich, both of Elburn; former son-in-law and dear friend, Daniel Otto of Elburn; as well as several nieces and nephews.

David is preceded in death by his parents, Gove and Martha Compton; his daughter, Rebekah “Becky” Otto (1986); one son in infancy, Timothy Compton; two nephews, David and John Bates; and their parents, Linda and Samauel Bates.

A memorial open house will be held Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. Following cremation, David will be laid to rest on the family farm with generations of loved ones gone before him.

A memorial has been established to perpetuate his memory and the Elburn Town and Country Public Library, where David constantly sought answers for his searching mind. Checks may be made to the David Compton Memorial and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL. 60119.

Dee has been a compassionate caregiver since 1988 with Copley Home Care and Comfort Keepers. One of her favorite past times was playing the organ. She played a “mean” Beer Barrel Polka.

She is survived by her children, Nancy (Joseph) Myers III, Gary (Connie) Hunley and Marsha (Delvin) Noss Jr.; grandchildren, Lindsay and Kimberly Hunley and David, Ryan, Brianne McCoy; sister, Charleen Gray; niece, Janeen Pienkos; nephew, Scott (Diane) Gray; and special friend, Norma Hester.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her grandson, Joey Myers IV.

Visitation was held on Monday, Nov. 9, from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. at The Healy Chapel, 370 Division Dr., Sugar Grove, IL, 60554. Burial took place at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Sandwich.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

For further information, please call (630) 466-1330 or visit www.healychapel.com to sign the online guestbook.

Dee was a sweet and loving mother, grandmother and friend, and will be deeply missed.

He was born July 31, 1935, the son of George and Mary (Kessel) Herra in Ottawa, Ill.

While he was still young, the family moved to Elburn, where he would attend local schools and graduate from Elburn High School in 1953. Following graduation, he worked for his family at Herra Grocery and Market until his enlistment in the U.S. Marine Corps on April 29, 1954.

Jack faithfully served his country and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, until his honorable discharge on April 28, 1956. Upon his return to civilian life, Jack began working for A&P Food as a butcher in St. Charles.

Jack was united in marriage to Florence Altepeter on June 13, 1959. They were blessed with four children, Steve, Phil, Mary and Pattie. He later worked for his father-in-law, who owned a plumbing and heating business, H & L Altepeter.

Florence passed away on Feb. 10, 1973. Jack continued to work and raise his family in Elburn. In June of 1974, Jack and his brother Rich had the opportunity to buy the business and renamed it J & R Herra Inc.

Jack met Janet Sue Allen at the local bowling alley, and before long they were married on Nov. 23, 1974, at Kaneville United Methodist Church. They continued to live in Elburn and were blessed with two more children, Alan and Brian.

Jack poured his heart and soul into his business and not only watched it grow, but watched his sons walk in his footsteps and was blessed to be able to work side by side with them for many years.

Jack was a life member of the American Legion, Elburn Post 630. He also served as Captain of the Elburn and Countryside Fire Protection District and was known as “Capt. Jack” by his fellow fire fighters.

Jack was dedicated to all he put his mind to, whether it was serving his community on the Fire Department for more than 32 years, working to keep his friends and neighbors warm and dry though his business, or the hours spent hunting, camping and fishing with family and friends.

Jack hunted for many years in Lee and Bureau counties for deer and pheasant. Jack loved to go on his annual fishing trips beginning in the late 1960s with friends Stafford Meek, Marty Strausberger and Henry Swift in Shelbyville, Ill. In later years, more friends joined the gang, and the location moved to Kentucky Lake. In 2002, a dream was fulfilled when he finally made it to Canada with his son, Phil.

He also loved to travel with Jan all over the globe, and they especially enjoyed cruises with good friends Marty and Elverna Strausberger.

With every mile they made a memory on each trip and cruise. Destinations included the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Bahamas, London, Australia, Alaska and more. One of his best memories was made on his trip to Alaska, when Jack was reunited with Archie, a Marine he served with in Okinawa.

Jack also loved to dance, and if Jan wasn’t his partner, he found other willing souls regardless of their experience. Above all, his family was the most important, and he was very proud of all his children’s athletic and academic accomplishments. He will live on in his children and grandchildren, who will remember him always.

He now leaves his loving wife, Jan; six children, Steve (Carol) Herra and their children, Jordan, Megan and Shannon of Elburn; Phil (Linda) Herra and their children, John, Lindsay, Steve and Mary of Belvidere, Ill.; Mary (Chris) Heineman and their children, Dan and Jacob of Sugar Grove; Pattie (Randy) Pattermann and their children, Will, Justin and Kylen of Elburn; Alan (Dana) Herra and their children, Charlene Walker, Tasha Capes and Jackson Herra of Elburn; and Brian (Laura) Herra with one on the way in early 2010, of Elburn; four brothers, Richard (Mary) Herra, D. Larry “Bucky”(Maxine) Herra, Leroy (Carol) Herra and Dean “Yogi” Herra, all of Elburn; one sister, Darlene (Terry) Terrill of Knox, Ind.; many nieces, nephews, cousins and a family of friends.

He now joins his parents; two sisters, Marie Fraunberg, and Janet Kay, who died in infancy; and his first wife, Florence, who preceded him in death.

Visitation will be Sunday, Nov. 15, from 3 to 7 p.m., at Elburn Lions Park, 500 Filmore Drive, Elburn. Private family burial will occur following cremation at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Jack Herra Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Nov. 12, 1933, in Chicago, the son of the late John and Alma (Christiansen) Beary.

He is survived by his wonderful loving wife, Mersene (Schatz) Beary and their seven children; Catherine (Gary) Pack of St. Charles, Alma (John Siebold) Counihan of Cortland, Michael John (Diane) Beary of LaFox, Patty (Barry) Pazin of Elburn, Paula (Ken) Schatz of West Chicago, Theresa (Ed Grzesiak) Robnett of DeKalb, and Mersene (Lloyd) Fletcher of Aurora; 22 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, with one on the way.

He has five surviving siblings, Betty Shissler, Mary Sheldon, Nancy Stawnyczy, John Beary and Joe Beary.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his youngest sister, Alma Laura Long.

Visitation will be held Thursday, Nov. 5, from 3 to 8 p.m. at The Healy Chapel, 370 Division Drive, Sugar Grove. A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, Nov. 6, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Angels Catholic Church, Aurora. Interment will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery in West Chicago. For information, call (630) 466-1330 or to leave a condolence, visit www.healychapel.com

She was born March 30, 1914, on the Weisel farm on Peck Road west of Geneva, the daughter of Ben and Alma Sarah Elizabeth (Magnusson) Anderson. When she was six years old, the family moved to the Lawrence Olson farm on Francis Road. She attended a one-room school house where eight grades shared one room.

She graduated Valedictorian from Elburn High School with the class of 1932. Bernice went on to Aurora Metropolitan Business College and then began working for the Kane County Bank and Trust Company. 

She was united in marriage on Nov. 15, 1941, to Gordon Allan Bowgren at the Geneva Lutheran Church, where she was baptized and confirmed as a child. They began their new life together on the corner of 5th and State streets in Geneva. Gordon was drafted into the United States Navy at the end of 1943. On his return to civilian life on Oct. 1, 1945, he was greeted by his wife and his eldest son, Keith, now one year old, as he was born while Gordon had been overseas.

They continued to live at Fifth and State until 1947, when they built a new home on Oakwood Drive on Geneva’s east side.   Gordon had five brothers who helped him build the home. Bernice stopped working as soon as Keith was born, and later worked for Chronicle Publishing, now the Kane County Chronicle, until she was 70.

Bernice had a kind and gentle spirit, was unfailingly loyal and always cared for others before herself. The waters of her faith ran deep and strong, a lifelong trait born out of her upbringing. Family was of the utmost importance to Bernice. She enjoyed being at home and was a good cook. She was famous for her rice pudding, whipped cheese cake in various flavors, Swedish meatballs and fried chicken. Although the cooking kept her busy in the kitchen, her favorite place to be was outside, tending to the garden and mowing the lawn, even into her laten 80s.

She was a faithful lifetime member of Geneva Lutheran Church.

She is survived by her three children, Keith G. (Rita) Bowgren of St. Charles, Dale A. (Nancy) Bowgren of Watertown, Wis., Beverly A. (Michael) Fitzpatrick of Aurora; six grandchildren, Rebecca (Craig) Martin and their children, Nathan and Luke of Palmeto Bay, Fla., Matthew (Laura) Bowgren and their daughter Abigail, of Champaign, Ill., Debra (Paul) Degner and their children, Megan, Kadie, Kylie and Jaden of Elkhorn, Wis., Brent (Pamela) Bowgren and their daughter, Emily of Waukesha, Wis., Gregory Fitzpatrick of Aurora, Karen (Russ) Carter of Nashville, Tenn.; three sisters-in-law, Jewel (the late Clifton Bowgren) of Geneva, Nina (the late Stanley Bowgren) of Wasco, and Gladys (the late John Olson), of Batavia; many nieces and nephews and a family of friends.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Gordon; three brothers, Leonard (Joan) Anderson, Gunnar (Amy) Anderson and Harold (Gladys) Anderson; and twin sisters who died in infancy, Rose and Lillie.

Visitation was from 10 to 11:30 a.m. with a funeral to celebrate her life following at noon on Oct. 31, 2009, at Geneva Lutheran Church. The Rev. Doug Opp, pastor of the church, officiated, and interment followed at Garfield Cemetery, St. Charles.

A memorial will be established in Bernice’s name to benefit Geneva Lutheran Church,  and Moody Radio. Memorials checks may be made to the Bernice Bowgren Memorial and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address or through this obituary at www.conleycare.com.

Margaret Stevenson was born April 28, 1925, and grew up in Elburn. She graduated from North Central College in Naperville and the University of Chicago School of Law. She arrived in Davenport, Iowa, in 1948 to serve as both an associate and partner in the law firm of Lambach, Christiansen, Stevenson and Goebel. While there, she was also appointed as the referee for the Scott County Juvenile Court. In 1973, she became the Corporation Counsel for the City of Davenport and served in that post until 1977.

In 1977, Iowa Governor Robert Ray appointed Stevenson, now Margaret Briles, to the new judgeship in the Seventh Judicial District, the first woman district court judge in the state of Iowa. Known as “tough but fair,” she served on the bench for many years, assuming senior judge status in 1992.

During her long and distinguished career, Judge Briles had many accomplishments. She held the Martindale-Hubbel rating of valorem, the highest possible rank in legal listings. She is listed in the first and second editions of Who’s Who in American Women, and at one time was voted Woman of the Year for the tri-cities of Moline and Rock Island, Ill., and Davenport, Iowa.

In 1975, she was named an Outstanding Alumni for North Central College. She served on both the Davenport and Bettendorf school boards and many other boards and commissions. An avid supporter of the Equal Rights Amendment, she was a former parliamentarian of the Iowa League of Women Voters. In 2005, Judge Briles was honored along with five esteemed women judges from the state of Iowa, as pioneers in the field of law. She had a true love of law and an unwavering faith in the justice system.

Margaret Stevenson married Donald L. Briles in 1953, and they proceeded to have four independent-minded daughters. He preceded her in death on Jan. 17, 1987. She loved classical music and was an accomplished pianist. Her widely varied interests included films and theater, travel, cooking, gardening, history and crossword puzzles. While in private law practice, she became a licensed small passenger airplane pilot.

Margaret is survived by daughters and son-in-laws, Susan and Art, Sarah and Jeff, and Elizabeth; brothers and sister-in-laws, James and Bea, Robert and Virginia; a sister-in-law, Fran; grandchildren, Victoria, Nicholas, Ethan and Luke; a great granddaughter, Rayna; and former son-in-law, Gary and wife, Julie; along with her beloved cousins, nieces and nephews and their families. She will be forever loved and missed.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband; her parents, Eunice and Donald; a brother, Malcolm; a daughter, Martha; and a son-in-law, Dave.

Memorial services for Margaret S. Briles, 84, of Fort Myers, Fla., formerly of Bettendorf, Iowa, will be held 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, at Cunnick-Collins Mortuary in Davenport, Iowa. Family will greet friends on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009, from 4 to 7 p.m at the mortuary.

Memorials may be made to Iowa Public Radio or to North Central College in Naperville.

She was born April 9, 1945, in Waterford, Ireland, the loving daughter of Stephen and Margaret McCarthy.

She is survived by her husband, Jim Salerno; children, Joe Salerno and Paula (Mike) Edwards and her two grandchildren, Corey and Jason Edwards; older brother, Michael, and younger siblings John, Pat and Linda. Angela is preceded is in death by her father, mother and younger sister, Marie, who died in infancy.

Angela was so kind and always put others’ needs before her own. She touched the hearts of everyone that had the pleasure of meeting the Angel that she is. A memorial service will be held at St. Gall’s Catholic Church in Elburn on Thursday, Nov. 5, at 1 p.m. God rest her soul.

He was born Dec. 23, 1979, at Delnor Hospital in St. Charles.

He grew up in St. Charles, and attended local schools.

He graduated from St. Charles High School in 1998. Skip then attended Waubonsee Community College, where he graduated with an associates degree in small business creation and management, as well as certificates in small engines and welding.

Skip met his sweetheart Erika Houtz during high school while on a church canoe trip to Canada. They both knew in an instant that they had found something that was one in a million. Two strong independent people found the matching pieces of each other’s soul, defied the odds and were later married on July 21, 2001, at Rejoice Lutheran Church in Geneva,.

They began their new life together in Maple Park for a time before moving into Erika’s childhood home in Elburn.

Shortly after meeting Erika in high school, Skip began working for R. F. Houtz & Son, Inc., the Cub Cadet Tractor dealership in Elburn. He started out sweeping floors and cleaning mower decks, but gained confidence and skills over the years working alongside Rob Houtz, Erika’s father.

Skip’s work ethic and determination, as well as his attention to detail and the ability to do anything he put his mind to, proved his worth as not only an employee, but as one with the skills to guide the company’s future. Over the 13 years that he had worked there, Skip put his heart and soul into the business to make it successful and recently accepted the reigns to oversee all aspects of its operation.

Buying a building on North Street in 2008 and completing its renovation was fulfilling a dream for him and helped spur R. F. Houtz & Son, Inc. to be recognized as one of the top five Cub Cadet retailers in the nation in 2009. He enjoyed the challenge of management and was an amazing judge of character. When it came to his employees, he saw the best in people and encouraged them to find it in themselves. He was honored to be a part of the business’s 75th anniversary this year.

Skip was proud of all his accomplishments in life, including rising to the rank of Eagle Scout in 1997.

Skip loved building engines and muscle cars. He researched parts extensively and was determined to find exactly what he needed. On one occasion while looking for a Lanotti cam, he called the company and kept asking questions until he had Mr. Lanotti himself on the phone. He was known for doing things that everyone said couldn’t be done, like build a 1998 Firebird with a 454 blower motor. There was no such thing as “stock” in Skip’s life. Even an “oil change” could include a new computer chip and custom exhaust.

He would go out of his way to help his friends and family. He always put others before himself. He was so proud of his children and was a very involved dad, taking them for rides on tractors, forklifts and many other machines that would bring the biggest smiles and the loudest laughs.

He now leaves his loving and devoted wife, Erika; his son, Cole and daughter, Kiera; his parents, Chuck and Sharon Mennerick of St. Charles; three siblings, Jeanni (Chris) Bonine of Kirkland, and Kevin Mennerick and Katie Mennerick, both of St. Charles; grandparents, Marge Mennerick of St. Charles, Marilyn and Fred Sullivano of St. Charles, and Lois Stoos of Lawndale, S.C.; several aunts and uncles, Cheryl Mennerick of St. Charles, Tom (Regan) Jancauskas of St. Charles, Ed (Janet) Jancauskas of Batavia; mother and father-in-law, Robert and Laura Houtz of Elburn; brother-in-law, Carl Houtz of Chicago, along with many other extended family and friends.

He now joins his grandmother, Norma Clark; and grandfather, Thomas Hendry, who preceded him in death
Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 29, 2009, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. A funeral service to celebrate his life will be held at Rejoice Lutheran Church, 0N377 N. Mill Creek Dr., Geneva, at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 30, 2009. The Rev. Lou Quetel, pastor of the church, will officiate. Private family interment will follow cremation at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his children’s education. Checks may be made to the “Skip Mennerick Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born on Oct. 15, 1940, to Chic  KuYee and Lem GeeHung in Brooklyn, New York.

She is survived by her husband, the Rev. Philip M. Dripps, a retired United Methodist minister, whom she married on July 14, 1963; two daughters, Elizabeth Ying (Dripps) Selden of Los Angeles, Calif., and Maria Ying Dripps-Paulson (Timothy Paulson) of Sugar Grove; four grandchildren, Philip (6), Clara, Zoe and Naomi (triplets 2) of Sugar Grove; she is also survived by seven siblings, Wing Lem, Seau Simon, Yuk Kwok, Fong Yee, Pong Lem, Yippee Novotny, and Lily Siou. Seven siblings preceded her in death.

GamGee Dripps graduated from Bay Ridge High School in Brooklyn in 1958. She attended Brooklyn College and Hunter College in New York; Roosevelt University and Barat College (Lake Forest), from which she graduated with an economics major in 1984. She was employed by the J. Walter Thompson advertising firm in New York; following her college graduation, she was employed as a financial analyst by Van Kampen Investments (Morgan Stanley), Oakbrook, Ill., for 20 years, retiring in 2006.

GamGee loved the fine arts, especially choral music. She served four years on the Board of Directors of the St. Charles Singers, a professional choir which will sing the Requiem of Gabriel Faure at the service of the Commemoration of the Dead. The service will be held at the Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, Main Street (Route 64) and Fourth Avenue in St. Charles on Saturday, Oct. 31, at 11 a.m.

The Rev. William Nesbit, rector of the St. Charles Episcopal Church, will administer the eucharistic rites. The Rev. Ronnie Verboom, senior pastor of the Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, will share in conducting the service. The Rev. Ronald Graham, a retired United Methodist minister, will deliver the homily. The service will be followed by a reception and luncheon in Wiley Hall of the Baker Memorial United Methodist Church. A brief committal service preceded cremation of the body.

GamGee was a member of the Baker Memorial United Methodist Church; following her husband’s retirement, she, along with her husband, shared in the life of the St. Charles Episcopal Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in remembrance of GamGee Dripps may be made to the St. Charles Singers, at 617 Steeplechase Road, St. Charles, IL 60174 or the Baker Memorial United Methodist Church at 307 Cedar Avenue, St. Charles, IL 60174.

She was born March 22, 1924, in Aurora, the daughter of Herman A. and Alma L. (Merkel) Henne. She lived with her parents and brother Arnold on farms in Batavia, Yorkville, Sugar Grove and Kaneville.

After graduating from Kaneville High School in 1942, she worked in Aurora, until her marriage to Harold LeRoy Long on May 12, 1945. They established their home on a farm near Kaneville. Harold died in an accident in March, 1956.

Vera worked as a secretary in the administrative offices of the Kaneland School District from 1961 until her retirement in 1990. She moved to Yorkville in December of 1992, where she continued to enjoy such hobbies as flower gardening and crocheting. Vera also enjoyed traveling, both day trips and longer tours. She was a lifetime member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Yorkville, baptized April 20, 1924, and confirmed March 21, 1937. She served on the Altar Guild, was a member of the WELCA Ruth Circle, and was active on several committees within the church.

Vera is survived by four children, Douglas (Jean) Long of Galesburg, Ill., Rebecca Aldrich of St. Charles, Gerald (Diane) Long of Kaneville, and Gary (Linda) Long of Elburn; seven grandchildren, Capt. Jeffrey Long of Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., David Long of Galesburg, Ill., Elizabeth and Katherine Aldrich of St. Charles, Brett and Ashley Long of Kaneville, and Travis Long of Elburn.

Vera was preceded in death by her husband, Harold, her parents, her paternal and maternal grandparents, her infant son David, and her brother.

Visitation was Oct. 21, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St. , Elburn. Her funeral service will be at the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Yorkville at 11 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 22, with interment following at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery .

A memorial has been established in her name to benefit Immanuel Lutheran Church of Yorkville. Checks may be made to the “Vera Long Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born on Dec. 26, 1921, the daughter of John and Jennie (Olson) Seydel of Chicago.

Kay met her partner for life, Theodore (Ted) Uthe, just before he was deployed to South Africa in WWII. They were married in 1945 after Ted returned from Europe.

They started their life together in Orland Park, Ill., farming the family homestead and starting their own family. In 1958, Ted and Kay purchased the Old Outhouse farm north of Lily Lake, where their five children grew up.

As the children grew older, Kay worked out of the home at DuKane in St. Charles for a time. They built a new home on Empire Road after Ted was unable to farm.

Ten years later, they retired south to Lake Worth, Fla., and spent summers in Reno, Nev.

After Ted passed, Kay lived with her youngest daughter, Debra, and her family in Royal Palm Beach, Fla., but would travel back to Elburn every summer.

An avid Cubs fan, Kay loved looking after her grandchildren and great-grandchildren but was always ready for a good card game, bingo or a trip to the casino.

She now leaves a son, Thomas (Marvee) Uthe; three daughters, Beverly (Dale) Kuipers, Nancy (Mike) Shuey and Debbie (Ken) Vandeputte; nine grandchildren, Todd (Shanne) Kuipers, Karla Kuipers, Dawn Kuipers, Jason Shuey, Jackie Shuey, Ashley Vandeputte, Tiffany Vandeputte, Jennifer (Crook) Peak and Ted Crook; three great-grandchildren, Dylan Kuipers, Cierra Kuipers, Nolan Shuey and many nieces and nephews.

She now joins her loving husband, Theodore; brother, Jack Seydel; sister, Jean Andrews; daughter, Doreen Crook; and son-in-law, William Crook.

A memorial service was held in Royal Palm Beach on Oct. 3. The family asks that any contributions to be donated to hospice.

He was born Aug. 5, 1917, the son of Albert and Bertha (Leitner) Gliddon in Hampshire, Ill.

Almer’s dad drove a truck for Standard Oil while Almer attended and graduated from local schools in 1935. At the same time, Almer worked at the local pharmacy owned and operated by George Wilcox. As luck would have it, George had a daughter, Margaret, and before long she caught Almer’s attention as well as his heart.

The high school sweethearts took their love to the altar as they walked down the aisle as Mr. and Mrs. Almer Gliddon on Nov. 27, 1941. They made their home in Hampshire, but one year later, Almer answered his country’s call and enlisted in the United States Navy.

He served his country during WWII as a Pharmacist Mate, eventually traveling to Okinawa, Japan, as part of a Fleet Hospital. The war ended shortly after his arrival, and Almer returned to his bride and civilian life in late 1945.

They made their home in Hampshire for a time before moving to Elburn, where he and Margaret purchased the Hoffman Drug Store in Elburn in 1946. The legacy of Gliddon’s Drug Store continued after Margaret’s passing in February of 1982, when Almer sold the store to his daughter, Mary E. and her husband, Ken Gustafson.

He remained active as a pharmacist until April 1, 1988, and even then continued to work as a clerk until his 75th birthday. Almer found love once again and married Ann (Wilkison) Goetz on Jan. 15, 1994. Despite the frigid temperature of negative 26 degrees, Almer and Ann made warm memories that day and for more than 15 years afterward.

Almer was no stranger to serving his community, not only through his drug store, but through many service and veteran organizations as well, receiving prestigious awards and honors throughout the years. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Batavia Post 1197, Navy League of the United States, Voiture Local No. 592, 40 and 8 in Kane and Kendall counties, as well as lifetime member and Past Commander for both the Elburn American Legion, Post 630 and the Kane County Council of the American Legion.

Almer was a member of the Illinois Pharmaceutical Association, National Association of Retail Druggists and the American Pharmaceutical Association. He was a longtime member, present corresponding secretary and former president of the Chicago Veteran Druggists Association, honorary member of the Milwaukee Veteran Pharmacists Association and member of the Navy League.

Almer served his local community through the Elburn Business Council and on the Board of the Village of Elburn, and was a Republican precinct committeeman of Blackberry Township. He was a lifetime member of both the Masonic Lodge of Genoa (formerly Hampshire) and Elburn Lions Club, where he was a recipient of the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award.

Almer also a former member of the Board of Governors, the Men’s Foundation of Community Hospital and later a charter member of the Delnor-Community Healthcare Foundation Pillar Society.

Almer served as secretary of the treasury for the Elburn Unit of the Salvation Army, was past president of the Benevolent Order of Youthful Seniors of the Tri-Cities, and last but not least, was a member of the “Die Hard” Cubs Fan Club.

Almer was a giving soul and would never hesitate to lend a hand to anyone, including the children who walked into his drug store without enough money to buy candy. They may have come in empty handed, but they always left with a pocketful and a smile. He also fed the sweet tooth of both the young and the old while holding court behind the soda fountain, serving up root beer floats and vanilla Cokes for many years. Many of those children also came back looking for their first job, and Almer was only too happy to bring another young person into the “family fold.”

Anyone who passed through the door was met with a warm greeting and a smile that always left you with a feeling that you were part of his family. When he wasn’t working or serving his community, Almer was serving up winning hands in poker with friends, rooting for the Green Bay Packers and traveling to Arizona in the spring to bleed “Cubbie Blue” and cheer on the Cubs during spring training. Almer’s love of family, community and country all combined to make unique memories that will last for generations.

He now leaves his loving wife, Ann Gliddon of Sugar Grove; three children, Mary (Ken) Gustafson of Elburn, Steve Gliddon of Elburn, and Ethel (Bill) Cole of Manteno, Ill.; five grandchildren, Eric Gustafson of Wheaton, Ill., Jon Gustafson of Elburn, Jacklyn (Bruce) Campbell and their children, Logan and Timothy, of Yorkville, Ill., Diana (Howard) Bentley and their children Erica and Elizabeth of Concord, N.C., and Tom Cole of Salisbury, N.C.; sister-in-law, Mavis Bell of DeKalb, Ill.; many nieces and nephews, and a countryside of friends.

He now joins his parents; his first wife, Margaret; and two brothers, Percy and Leroy Gliddon, who preceded him in death.

Visitation was Oct. 7, at the Community Congregational United Church of Christ, Elburn, folled by a funeral service to celebrate his life. The Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Dire, pastor of the church, officiated, and private graveside service will be held at a later date following cremation.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Almer Gliddon Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born Aug. 16, 1922, the daughter of Mont and Lizzie (Freyling) Albert in Brandon, Iowa.

Dorothy grew up in Jesup, Iowa, and attended local schools. She graduated with the class of 1940 from Jesup Consolidated High School.

Following graduation, Dorothy attended nursing school, graduating as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Burlington, Iowa. Using her degree, she worked locally for a time before moving to Elmhurst, Ill., to help her sister Wilma.

It was during this time she met the man she would marry, Edwin Wold. He found Dorothy working behind a soda fountain, and before long, they fell in love and began a new life together on Oct. 23, 1942.

Shortly after, Edwin served his country in the Navy and upon his return to civilian life, they made their home in Elmhurst. They soon moved to Winfield, Ill., where they lived for 40 years, raising their six children. This is also when Dorothy began her 45-year career as a nurse at Community Hospital in Geneva. Dorothy worked straight through the Delnor and Community Hospital merger and retired in 1998. Dorothy and Edwin moved to Sandwich in 1991.

She was a proud and very active member of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. She also was a member and organist for 25 years at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Winfield.

Dorothy loved to knit and sew everything under the sun. From baby clothes, afghans and wedding gowns, nothing was too big or too small for Dorothy’s hands to make. Her garden was filled with everything from flowers to vegetables, and her table was always laden with its bounty.

She now leaves six children, Edwin Wold of Sandwich, Doug (Jan) Wold of Ft. Myers, Fla., Dennis (Jill) Wold of Aurora, Penny (Jeff) Janacek of Batavia, Dee (Pat) Dodd of Batavia, Mark (Jenny) Wold of Elburn; 16 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; four siblings, Alberta Collins of Montclair, Calif., John Albert of Pharr, Texas, Dale Albert of Adel, Iowa, and June Zhiss of Guttenburg, Iowa; many nieces, nephews, cousins and a family of friends.

She now joins her parents; her husband, Edwin; one sister, Wilma Jensen; and one brother, Donald Albert, who preceded her in death.

Visitation was from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27, 2009, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A funeral service to celebrate her life was held at 10 a.m. the following day at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Lee Road, Hinckley, Ill. Rev. Donald Balgeman, pastor of the church, officiated, and interment followed at River Hills Cemetery, Batavia.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name to benefit Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. Checks may be made to the “Dorothy Wold Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or at www.conleycare.com.

She now leaves four children, Anke (John) Roelle of Sharon, Wis., Peter (Deborah) Schafft of Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada, Ingrid (Don) Blahut of St. Charles, and Tom (Linda) Schafft of St. Charles; nine grandchildren, Christine, Shelley, Jennifer, Erika, Danika, Derek, Lisa, Brianna and Caleb; 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter; one brother, Ernie (Helga) Andresen on Vancouver Island, British Columbia; several nieces and nephews, both here and abroad, as well as a family of friends.

She now joins her parents; one sister, Inge Rehse; and both husbands, Karl and Hugo, who preceded her in death.

Visitation was Monday, Sept. 28, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A memorial service to celebrate her life followed the visitation at 8 p.m.

A memorial has been established in her name to benefit the American Heart Association and the National Kidney Foundation. Checks may be made to the “Marianne Schafft Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born April 21, 1917, the daughter of Peter and Mary (Bergthal) Oesterreicher in Chicago.

Theresa grew up in Chicago and attended local schools. She graduated with the class of 1935 and afterward went to work at Sloan Valve Company as a bookkeeper.

She met her husband in the shipping department, where Burdette kept making “mistakes” just so that Theresa would come back to see him. Theresa caught on quickly, and although she thought he was a “sly fox,” a friendship turned into love. Though the war intervened in 1943, the love between the farm boy and the city girl never wavered. They were married on Oct. 18, 1947, in Chicago, at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church.

They began their life together on the Hughes Farm on Route 38 in Maple Park. In 1956, they moved into town and had since made Maple Park their home.

In the late 1950s, Theresa began working for the First State Bank of Maple Park. Later in 1966, she worked at the Wurlitzer Piano Factory in DeKalb before her retirement in the mid-1970s.

She was a faithful member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Maple Park.

Theresa’s father ran a music store for many years as she was growing up, and as a result, Theresa learned to play many instruments. In addition to piano and organ, Theresa played the violin in the high school orchestra. As the years went by, she would continue to play only the piano and organ. She would later become an organist for St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Maple Park for more than 30 years.

After her retirement, Theresa began oil painting, which later led her to paint picturesque scenes that became keepsakes for family and friends. Her creative nature also was seen through the many afghans and doilies she crocheted.

Theresa also loved to travel and made many family camping trips across the country and into Canada. She and Burdette also made one–of-a-kind memories on vacations to Europe and later on annual trips to spring training in Sarasota, Fla., to support Burdette’s favorite team, the Chicago White Sox. Over the years, Theresa made special places in her heart and home for her dachshunds, Tina, Holly and Heidi.

She now leaves two sons, Dave (Rita) Campbell of Maple Park and Ed (Marilyn) Campbell of Maple Park; six grandchildren, Shawn (Julie) Campbell and their children, Christian and Aaron, of Webster City, Iowa, Sheri (George) Baumann and their children, Christina, George, and Elizabeth, of Hinckley, Sarah (Chris) McGreer and their son, Aiden, of Cortland, Kate Campbell of Maple Park, Kelly (Brian) Eigenberger of Dubuque, Iowa, and Steve Campbell of Maple Park; one brother-in-law, Jack Turk of Hampshire, Ill.; several nieces, nephews, cousins and a family of friends.

She now joins her parents; husband, Burdette; two brothers, Frank and Claude Oesterreicher; and one sister, Catherine Demski, who preceded her in death.

Visitation will be on Friday, Sept. 25, from 4 to 8 p.m., with a 4:30 p.m. wake service at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn.

A mass to celebrate her life will be held Saturday, Sept. 26, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Maple Park. Fr. Joachim Tyrtania, pastor of the church, will officiate, and interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. For those unable to attend the service, a live web-cast will be available by following a link at www.conleycare.com. The service will also be available the following day by going to the same website and accessing the service in an on-demand form to watch at any time.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name. Checks may be made to the “Theresa Campbell Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

As a young boy, growing up from a very humble beginning, Earl only attended school until he was 10 years old. At the age of 16, hoping for a better life, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, proudly serving his country for six years with the Special Amphibious Forces. Those battles included landing on Omaha Beach, Normandy, France, the Battle of the Midway, as well as many others. He served on the USS Hammond and the USS Saugus, and was awarded the Purple Heart.

After the war, Earl headed north to the Sugar Grove area, where he met and fell in love with his future wife, Delores Burridge. They were married on June 26, 1948, and were together 56 years, until Delores passed away in August 2004.

Earl first worked as a farm hand on the Hannaford Farm, and then the Leigh Sauer farm. While working on the farm during the day, every evening Earl worked on the new home he was building for his family in Sugar Grove. After moving to town in 1957, he decided he had enough of the farm life and started his own business in carpentry and home remodeling. In 1972, Earl and his wife moved once again into the new house he built in Big Rock for his family.

Earl was well known for his great stories, and he had many. While living in Sugar Grove, he was the first police magistrate, and many times would tell the story about holding court right alongside the road on Route 47 using a card table, once ticketing a U.S. Senator. He had a passion for collecting antiques and clocks.

In recent years, some of his favorite times were getting together with his friends at Candy’s restaurant. Earl was an intelligent and kind man with a huge heart, and would do anything for his friends, because they meant the world to him. He would strike up a conversation with anyone who crossed his path. He leaves behind an entire community of family and friends who will miss him very much.

Earl was able to visit the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC in August 2008, sponsored by “Honor Flight Chicago,” an organization that flies veterans to the memorial for the entire day, free of charge.

He is survived by his daughters, Dale Ann (Robert) Seidelman, of Aurora, and Doris (Robert) Field of Meridan, Idaho, and his sons, Earl D. Kirk, Jr. of Evansville, Ind., and Edward Kirk, of Aurora, his grandchildren, Eric, Kathryn, and Benjamin Seidelman of Aurora, Christian Seidelman of Aurora, Jessica Seidelman of Sugar Grove, Julie Kirk of New York, and Joseph Hollanback of Pa., and five great grandchildren. Earl is also survived by three sister-in-laws, Barbara (Tom) Greyer of Sugar Grove, Dorothy Fannin, of California, and Bettyjo Kirk of Independence, Mo., a nephew William (Judy) Kinsel of Spring Valley, Ill., as well as many other nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Delores Kirk, brother Von Kirk, a brother in infancy, and a sister, Flossie Kinsel.

A visitation was held on Friday, Sept. 18, at The Healy Chapel, 370 Division Dr. Sugar Grove. Funeral services took place on Saturday, Sept. 19, at the funeral home, with Pastor Ron Markese officiating. Interment will be at Sugar Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to “Honor Flight Chicago” in Earl’s memory would be deeply appreciated. Contributions will enable other World War II veterans to visit the memorial built in their honor.

Special thanks to Marguerite and Cindy from Provena Hospice for their loving care.

For further information, call (630) 466-1330 or visit www.healychapel.com to sign the online guestbook.

She was born Dec. 11, 1936, the daughter of Alfred and Norma (Hanson) Maier in Aurora.

Joanne grew up on the family farm on Tanner Road in Sugar Grove, attending local schools. She graduated from Elburn High School in 1954 and worked for the next 26 years as a buyer and manager of the stationery and bath department for the Little Traveler in Geneva.

The title of “buyer and manager” would become a staple for Joanne as she worked in that capacity for the gift shop at Fisherman’s Inn, as well as the Grimm’s Hallmark Shop in St. Charles. After becoming a sales representative for a time, she returned to her Hallmark roots by working for Nicole’s Hallmark at the West Aurora Shopping Plaza.

It was shortly before Elburn Days in 1965 that Joanne would meet the man that would walk beside her the rest of her days, Jim Gehringer. After a six-month whirlwind courtship, they were united in marriage on her birthday, Dec. 11, 1965.

They began their life together in a tenant house on the old Gehrke Farm on Lees Road in Virgil Township. Five years later, they moved to Lorang Road in Kaneville. In 2005, they moved once more to Leland. For the length of their marriage, she was a member of a neighborhood club of ladies from the Lee’s Road area.

Joanne was a member of the Kaneville United Methodist Church, and for many years was active in the women’s group and worked at its fall beef dinner.

Joanne was an entertainer at heart, and her home was always open to family and friends. It wasn’t a holiday without spending time with Jim and Joanne, eating home-cooked meals and fresh-baked desserts. Her home was filled with decorations for every season and every holiday, especially Christmas. Her collection of Christmas ornaments was large enough to decorate seven trees each December.

She also collected antique dishes and anything that pictured cats of all kinds and sizes. No matter the season, you could be sure that the house would be spotless, no matter where you looked.

Outside of the home, Jim and Joanne ruled the road on their Goldwing motorcycle. Cruising along the highway, their destination could be anywhere between Canada and Florida. She also loved to accompany Jim to the steam and power shows as long as she could walk among, the arts and crafts and shop until her heart’s content.

When they finally made it home, Rosey and Emily, her two favorite cats, welcomed them home. Once a month she met with her neighborhood club to play Uno, gossip and share desserts, but not necessarily in that order.

It was when she was living on Lees Road that Joanne opened her heart and home by rescuing a stray cat. This trend continued over the years as at least one cat, and sometimes up to five, called Lees Road home as evidenced by a little plaque on her wall that read, “You are never fully dressed without a little cat hair.”

Although rescuing stray cats became commonplace, she also rescued “stray” people who were lonely and in need of a friend and a home-cooked meal. Joanne’s open arms, loving heart and giving soul will be missed greatly by family, friends and the occasional feline in need of her care.

She now leaves her loving and devoted husband, Jim; one sister, Sharon (Ken) Needham-De Arvil of Oregon, Ill.; many cousins, nieces and nephews and a family of close friends.

She now joins her parents and one brother-in-law, George Needham, who preceded her in death.

Visitation was Thursday, Sept. 17, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A funeral to celebrate her life was Friday, Sept. 18, at Conley Funeral Home. Rev. Jason Turner, pastor of the Kaneville United Methodist Church, officiated, and interment followed at Jericho Cemetery, Sugar Grove.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name to benefit her favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Joanne Gehringer Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born Nov. 25, 1942, the daughter of Herman and Emma (Hoffmann) Goldenstein in Elgin, Ill.

Margaret grew up on the family farm in St. Charles, that changed over the years from a dairy to a grain farm. She attended local schools and graduated St. Charles High School with the class of 1960.

Margaret then began working at Delnor Hospital as an aid in Physical Therapy and was known in certain hospital circles as “Hubbard Tank Annie.” Later, she changed from full time to part time after her father had a stroke. She eventually retired shortly after her mother’s death to care for her father. Following his passing in 1993, Margaret continued to live on the family farm, and although she was technically “retired,” she never slowed down.

Up every morning to do chores, Margaret delighted in all of God’s creatures whether great or small, caring for them as if they were her very own children. During this time Margaret had a chance to help raise and care for Shannon Jungels, the infant daughter of her cousin Carol, on Jan. 30, 1981. Shannon very quickly became the daughter Margaret never had. They became inseparable, and a very special bond formed between the two. Margaret became a second mother and confidant to Shannon, walking side by side with her as Shannon grew into a young woman.

Later at a family wedding, Margaret would meet Bruce Conley, who once worked at Delnor for the now infamous “Hubbard Tank Annie.” Now a funeral director, the friendship between the two that began those many years ago blossomed again, and before long, Margaret began working at Conley Funeral Home in Elburn.

There, Margaret continued her ministry of care by helping grieving families in any way she could, including helping them to release a dove in their loved one’s memory. Her gentle hands would hold the dove and place it in outstretched hands which were already full of grief. In that very simple act, Margaret helped hundreds of people not only release the dove, but a portion of their grief as well.

Margaret was a member of the Kane County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee and participated in Agriculture Days at Mooseheart in Batavia, teaching fourth graders about agriculture. She also attended Grace Evangelical Church in Elgin.

She and her sister Kay were known for their avid love of garage sales and were proud to proclaim it to all who would listen. They would often spend whole days visiting garage sales across the countryside.

Margaret’s home was always open to any member of her large extended family or friends who would happen to come into town. Her yearly family reunion brought many together to celebrate their heritage and catch up all that had happened since the last time they met.

Unbeknownst to us, Margaret had to leave without saying goodbye. Margaret’s warmth of spirit still envelopes the hearts of all her family and friends, and the empty spaces that are left behind will be filled with her memory.

She now leaves her sister, “roommate” and constant companion, Katherine “Kay” Goldenstein of St. Charles; her “daughter,” Shannon Jungels of St. Charles; a great many cousins and relatives from the Goldenstein and Hoffmann families who are scattered across the globe, and a family of friends that stretch across the years.

She now joins her parents, who preceded her in death.

Visitation was Wednesday, Sept. 23, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held Thursday, Sept. 24, at Grace Evangelical Church, 1800 Bowes Road, Elgin at 11 a.m. Rev. Reuben Parlier, former pastor of the church, will officiate, and interment will follow at Bluff City Cemetery, Elgin. For those unable to attend the service, a live web-cast will be begin five minutes prior to the service by clicking a link at www.conleycare.com. The service will also be available on the website the following day in an on-demand format so anyone can watch at anytime.

A memorial has been established in her name to benefit her favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Margaret Goldenstein Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born Dec. 11, 1936, the daughter of Alfred and Norma (Hanson) Maier in Aurora.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 17, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A funeral to celebrate her life will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Conley Funeral Home. Rev. Jason Turner, pastor of the Kaneville United Methodist Church, will officiate, and interment will follow at Jericho Cemetery, Sugar Grove.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name to benefit her favorite charities. Checks may be made to the “Joanne Gehringer Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

He was born on the family farm on Feb. 14, 1933, the son of Joseph and Margaret (Mettle) Haug, in Marengo, Ill.

When he was small, they moved from the farm in Marengo to a farm in Virgil where Don and his siblings continued to help with chores on the family farm while attending local schools.

Don finished his schooling at Maple Park High School, then he promptly left to serve his country in the United States Army. He fought in the Korean War as a medic in 1950.

Upon his return to civilian life, Don began a 43-year career working for Elmer Larson’s gravel pit on Airport Road in Sycamore, Ill. He also drove a truck part time for Henry Theis, taking grain from the local elevators to other locations across the state. During the winter, Don plowed snow alongside Swede Severson and Slim Yagen, both then road commissioners, for Virgil Township, making sure the roads were clear and safe for his family and friends.

Don met the love of his life, Joan Pearson, in 1956 at the roller rink in DeKalb. What began on the rink was finished at the altar two years later when they were united in marriage on Oct. 4, 1958, at the Malta Methodist Church.

They began their new life together in Malta, Ill., for a time, before moving to their present home in Maple Park, where they raised a family of five children.

Don was a proud member of the Maple Park Volunteer Fire Department for many years, as well as a member and past commander for the Maple Park Legion Post 312. He was also a member of the Elgin Teamsters Union for many years.

Don loved to camp out under the stars and converted a 1951 Ford school bus to take his family camping along with friends and their kids for the weekend. After retirement, Don fished nearly every single day. Whether he was alone or with his family and friends, a rod and reel was all he needed to feel at home at his favorite local fishing holes in northern Illinois, Table Rock Lake, Lake Tanecomo in Branson, Mo., or Red Lake Ontario, Canada. When he wasn’t on the water he was on the links, enjoying time on the golf course. Saturdays and Sundays brought Don to the Maple Park Legion for games of Pitch as long as it didn’t interfere with his Chicago Bears on television. The winters drove both Don and Joan to Texas to visit friends and family where they enjoyed the respite from the cold and snow of Illinois. Later, his children grown with kids of their own, Don would always make time to go to sporting events, school plays and a myriad of graduations to cheer on and support his grandchildren. Gone without being able to say goodbye, his family and friends will pass on a lifetime of love and a legacy of stories about the man who was larger than life but as close as a memory.

He now leaves his loving wife of 51years, Joan, of Maple Park; five children: Tim (Cynthia) Haug of Cherry Valley, Ill., Jeff (Val) Haug of Sycamore, Curt (Brooke) Haug of Belvidere, Ill., Greg (Julie) Haug of DeKalb and
Dan (Christy) Haug of Sycamore; 11 grandchildren: Nathan and Travis Haug, Brandon and Brianna Haug, Jacob, Lucas, and Grace Haug, Rebecca and Emma Haug, and Zachary and Ian Haug; one brother, LaVern (Iris) Haug of Virgil; one sister, Carol Schultz of Sycamore; and many nieces, nephews and a family of close friends.

He now joins his parents, Joseph and Margaret Haug, mother and father-in-law, Spainer and Ruth Pearson, one brother, Eugene Haug and one sister, Virginia Haug, who preceded him in death.

Visitation and a Catholic prayer service were held Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2009, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A funeral service to celebrate his life will be held Thursday, Sept. 17, at 11 a.m. Conley Funeral Home. Rev. Mark Meyer, pastor of the Grace United Methodist Church in Maple Park, will officiate and private family interment will follow cremation at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in their name. Checks may be made to the “Don Haug Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She loved to cook and bake and was especially famous for her cinnamon raisin bread, cheesecake and lasagna. She was a member of Gospel Assembly Church in Oswego.

Mary is survived by her daughter-in-law, Charlene (Tom) Sineni-Jacobs; grandchildren, Tamara (Gregory) Poynter, Debra (Timothy) McGrouary, Michelle (Kevin) Craven and Joyce Jerolaman-Glynn; great-grandchildren, Christopher Poynter, Sean and Matthew McGrouary, Lucas Craven; sister, Connie Ousen; brother Joseph (Violet) Amodeo; and sister-in-law, Louise Amodeo.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; son, Jerry; stepdaughter, Marge Jerolaman; sisters, Rose (Raymond) Hall, Anna (Arthur) Price; brother, James Amodeo; brother-in-law, Eric Ousen.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009, from 1 to 3 p.m. with a funeral service to be held at 3 p.m. at The Healy Chapel, 370 Division Dr., Sugar Grove. Burial will be private at Oakridge Cemetery, Hillside, Ill.

For further information, call (630) 466-1330 or visit www.healychapel.com to sign the online guestbook.

She was born March 26, 1927 the daughter of Joseph (Angeline) Borek in Chicago.

Dorothy grew up on the northwest side of Chicago and attended local schools.

After graduating with the class of 1945, Dorothy worked at Avondale Savings and Loan as a teller. In January of 1950, she met the love of her life, Bill Wojtal, and following a whirlwind courtship, they were married on Oct. 14 that very same year.

They began their new life together in Chicago while Bill worked for two paint companies, and she continued to work for Avondale for a time before moving to Alliance Savings and Loan, which after several mergers became Bank of America. Dorothy retired as an assistant vice president in 1989. In 1991, Dorothy and Bill moved to Elburn behind Lions Park and made 18 years of memories, including the homecoming of their grandson, Peter, before Bill’s passing in February 2009. Declining health brought Dorothy into the care of Pine View Care Center in St. Charles until she moved to Apostolic Christian Resthaven in Elgin, where she would be closer to her family.

Dorothy was a devout Catholic and faithful member of St. Gall Catholic Church, Elburn, as well as the Polish Women’s Club and Elburn Seniors Club.

Dorothy was a crafter at heart and spent her time meticulously making baby and doll clothes, knitting scarves, hats, and loved to cross-stitch dogs and flowers for friends and family alike.

There was never a puzzle that Dorothy couldn’t conquer. The more pieces it had, the more her eyes would light up, and the speed in which she completed dazzled her friends even into her last months.

When her hands weren’t busy with needles, hooks or pieces, Dorothy loved to fill in daily crossword puzzles, Sudoku and word search magazines. She also grew over the years an extensive Pipka collection that eventually numbered over 200 ceramic statues.

Dorothy now claims the promise of her Savior and joins her beloved husband only months after his passing. Although she leaves behind broken hearts and falling tears, her memories will help heal the hurt and her legacy will help dry the tears of her friends and family.

She now leaves one son, Eugene (Denise) Wojtal, and their son, Peter, all of Burlington, Ill.; seven nieces and nephews, Paul (Mary) Borek, Pam (Mike) McDonald, Jim Borek, Connie (Bill) Piotrowski, Barbara (Ken) Littel and Susan (Jay) Picone, and Mary Pilat; two sisters-in-law, Helen Borek of Chicago and Pauline “Aunt Lee” Borek of Phoenix, Ariz.; a very special family friend, Sharon (Ted) Gressick and a family of friends.

She now joins her parents; husband, Bill; three brothers, Frank Borek, Walter (Bernice) Borek and Stanley Borek, who preceded her in death.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7:45 p.m. with a wake service to conclude visitation beginning at 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 11, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A Mass to celebrate her life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 12, at St Gall Catholic Church, Elburn. Fr. Karl Ganss, pastor of the church, will officiate, and interment will follow at St. Gall Cemetery, Elburn.

A memorial has been established in her name. Checks may be made to the “Dorothy Wojtal Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

Josephine graduated from Waltonville High School in 1932 and moved to Aurora. On June 2, 1939, she was united in marriage to Carl Stredde. After Carl’s death in 1985, she continued to maintain her Montgomery home until 2004, when she moved into Jennings Terrace. Josephine will be remembered for her red hair and manicured nails.

She is survived by her four nephews, Al (Diane) Baldridge of Sugar Grove, Charles (Linda) Baldridge of Marshall, Wis., Ernest (Martha) Baldridge of Kaneville, and Fred Baldridge of Hinckley; three nieces, Betty (Phil) Koukol of Oswego, Ill., Dorothy (Bill) Hanson of Elburn, and Gay (David) Lewis of Big Rock.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Stredde; and her brother, Clyde Baldridge.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 10, at the Healy Chapel 332 W. Downer Place, Aurora. Visitation will be begin at 10 a.m. and run until the time of service. Interment will take place at Lincoln Memorial Park.

For further information, please call (630) 897-9291 or to leave a condolence, visit www.healychapel.com.

She was born Nov. 21, 1947, the daughter of LaVerne “Bud” and Charlene (Wood) Ritchey in Aurora. Sharon grew up in Troxel, Ill. When she was 16, the family moved to the outskirts of Kaneville and later to the old Schleifer place.

Sharon graduated from Kaneland High School with the class of 1966 and began working for Farmer’s Insurance Group. She also helped her parents operate the Elburn Dairy Joy and worked part-time at Gliddon’s Drug Store. In November of 1968, Sharon began what would become a 31-year career at Richardson Electronics, Ltd. Although some predicted she would not last long, her determination and penchant for details moved her up the line through the years from assembly to engineering clerk, to accounting and to executive secretary to the Vice President of Manufacturing before retiring on Dec. 31, 1999, as the senior inventory control clerk.

On March 21, 1970, she was united in marriage to Gene Nier. They began their new life together in a house on South Street in Elburn. It was there they transformed the house into a home and made many improvements and thousands of memories.

Sharon turned their back yard into a virtual haven for a remarkable spectrum of birds, including Orioles, Indigo Buntings, Rose Breasted Grosbeaks, Cardinals, Brown Thrashers, Gold Finches, White Breasted Nuthatches, Hairy and Red Bellied Woodpeckers and many others. She also was fond of caring for her fox or red squirrels, as well as the grey and the little chipmunks for which her backyard was a playground. She knew what they loved to eat and saw that they had a year-round smorgasbord. Sharon’s knowledge of the birds was truly encyclopedic, and she enjoyed imparting that knowledge to her nieces, nephews and friends.

Sharon was a member of the “Women of the Moose” since 1975. She also bowled on mixed and women’s leagues through the 1970s and ‘80s, until her job became too demanding and she had to stop bowling.

Her family includes one step-son, Steven (Stacy) Nier and their children Drew and Katie, of Hale, Mo.; one brother, Ron (April) Ritchey of Elburn; seven nieces and nephews, Dawn (Keith) McLaughlin of Millington, Ill., Kelly Ritchey of Elburn, Dana (Alan) Herra of Elburn, Kim (Mike) Paulus of Sugar Grove, Susan Henne of Kaneville, Jeff (Cara) Nier of Hinckley, and Mark (Bethany) Nier of Chilton, Wis.; her mother-in-law, Doris Nier of Kaneville; one sister-in-law, Karen (Leonard) Heinberg of Kaneville, one brother-in-law, Myron (Lenore) Nier of Hinckley; 16 great-nieces and nephews, Jeff, Kevin, Charles, Kyle and Katie McLaughlin, Charlene, Natasha, and Jackson Herra, Chris and Ben Paulus, Nick and Melanie Henne, and Alex, Kourtney, McKenzie and Harrison Nier; three great-great-niece and nephews, Xavier, Luke and Mylie; and a family of close friends who will never forget her.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Gene; her parents, LaVerne “Bud” and Charlene Ritchey; one sister, Sandra Carroll; and her father-in-law, Arnold Nier.

Following direct cremation, a private family graveside service will be held at Kaneville Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Sharon’s wish was for you to plant something for nature in her memory. A memorial has also been established in her name. Memorials checks may be made to the Sharon Nier Memorial and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address or through her obituary at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Nov. 13, 1955, the son of Joseph and Edna “Babs” (Neisendorf) Barsic in Geneva.

Chas grew up on County Line Road in Maple Park with his parents, two sisters and three brothers, and continued to live in the family home until his death.

He attended Maple Park grade school and graduated from Kaneland High School, where he attended Mid-Valley Vocational School for drafting. This education gave him the foundation for his 30-year career at Caterpillar in Montgomery.

He retired as a design engineer from Caterpillar in October 2003. After his retirement, Chas loved to spend his time living life to the fullest, riding his Yamaha motorcycle nearly every day and spending as much time with his family and his friends as he could.

Following his father’s passing, Chas purchased and continued to live in his childhood home.

Though Chas never married, he dedicated himself to his family and friends. If you needed help, he was always there, and many can attest to the fact there was no better example of a Good Samaritan.

He was a faithful, dedicated member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church of Maple Park just down the street, often helping others at Mass, where he faithfully served as an usher.

Chas had many things in his life he loved, though none more precious than his nieces and nephews, who brought out the kid in him. When he wasn’t with his family or friends, Chas indulged in his love of flying, piloting his own Cessna for hours at a time.

Chas loved high-performance vehicles, especially his beloved Acura NSX or his Yamaha motorcycle. In high school, Chas was a multi-sport athlete who played many sports, including baseball, football and golf, although golf alone survived his path to adulthood. The game of golf not only gave him 30 years of happiness, but also much success, as evident from his many trophies.

He also loved to travel across the United States, visiting many parts of the country, especially the southern and western states. In later years, he used his breadth of knowledge and experience to begin designing his own house, as well as working on building his own experimental airplane.

He now leaves five siblings, Matt Barsic of Sycamore, Karen (Jim) Morris of Doha, Qatar, Mike (Connie) Koebke Barsic of Madison, Wis., Marianne (Mark) Gemmer of Maple Park and Jim (Brenda) Barsic of Elburn; nieces and nephews, Brian Gemmer of Kaneville, Megan (Brad) Thill of North Aurora, Emily Koebke Barsic of Madison, Wis., Paul Koebke Barsic of Madison, Wis., David Gander of Madison, Wis., Bob Gander of Rochester, Minn., Eric Gander of Rochester, Minn. and Jennifer (Ben) Halverson of Chatfield, Minn.; Kaitlyn and Kaley Barsic of Elburn; and a family of friends.

He now joins his parents and one niece, Kelsey Barsic, who preceded him in death.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m., with a service to follow at 7:30 p.m., on Thursday, Sept. 10, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. Private family interment will follow cremation at a later date.

A memorial has been established in his name. Checks may be made to the “Charles Barsic Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Aug. 22, 1922, the son of Edward and Susan (Schmal) White in Maple Park.

Bud grew up in Maple Park but moved to Beith Road before he started school at S.S. Peter & Paul Grade School in Virgil.

As most young men of his generation, he went to work as soon as he finished eighth grade. Bud was no different. He started hauling milk at the age of 15 and would continue for the next 37 years.

Bud and Lorraine Pobstman each had a friend that set them up on a date at the free movies in Maple Park. They sat on a plank and not only watched a movie, but watched their lives intertwine off screen for the next two years before they were united in marriage at St. Mary’s in Maple Park on May 4, 1946.

They began their new life together on the family farm on Keslinger Road before making their home seven years later on Kansas Street in Elburn. Many years later, the walls are filled with pictures and the air thick with memories of a growing family, a hard-working father and a loving husband.

Bud was a dairy man through and through and knew from a very young age the type of hard work, dedication and long days it took to make it work. He farmed with his brother for a time before working for two companies, Western United and Certified Grocers Inc., hauling milk from local farmers to the respective processing plants for 37 years.

Bud was a longtime member of the Kane County Farm Bureau, Aurora Moose and a lifetime member, honorary board member and recipient of the Melvin Jones Award of the Elburn Lions Club.

Bud was a “certified corn shucker” and helped in the donation of eye glasses for the Elburn Lions Club, but his favorite times came when the “Cancer Kids” weekend came about and he got to work with all the kids.

Over the years, Bud grew a collection of toy tractors that he used as a farmer, beer steins—a celebration of his heritage, and had them all proudly displayed in his home.

When Bud and Lorraine went out, they made sure to have shrimp at Red Lobster, though if asked he said he could live on candy alone. Alaskan cruises topped the list of favorite destinations, along with trips to Europe, Hawaii, dozens of bus trips around the country and memories of the fun had along Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Bud also loved to play 31 for nickels with friends and family. These and thousands more will be the legacy he leaves to his friends and family, especially his grandson, who will not soon forget him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lorraine; one daughter, Mary Frances (Edwin) Sherwood and their son William of Lake Charles, La.; one sister, Leona Thompson of Waterman, Ill.; two brothers, Robert (Beverly) White of Indio, Calif. and Arthur White of Waterman, Ill.; several nieces and nephews and a family of friends.

He now joins his parents, his brother, Charles, and his sister, Betty Moore, who preceded him in death.

Visitation and wake service was Friday, Sept. 4, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A mass to celebrate his life was held Saturday, Sept. 5, at St. Gall Catholic Church, Elburn. Fr. Karl Ganss, pastor of the church, officiated, with interment following at S.S. Peter and Paul Church, Virgil.

A memorial has been established in Bud’s name. Checks may be made to the “ Francis ‘Bud’ White” memorial and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address or through www.conleycare.com.

Patricia was born on October 19, 1946 in Chicago, the daughter of James B. and Barbara A. (Bailey) Sanderson.

Pat grew up in Wasco, and attended Wasco Grade school. After graduating from St. Charles High School with the class of 1962, Pat furthered her education on a scholarship to Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Shortly after, she moved to Heidelberg, Germany, and worked for the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General Office. Later, she returned to St. Charles, and worked for local lawyers before dedicating 17 years working for the State of Illinois. Upon her retirement she volunteered for the COPD Foundation that she helped establish.

Pat was always moving and always doing, especially when it came to winter activities such as cross-country skiing, tobogganing, sledding and more. Summers were full of adventure and filled to capacity with activities like rafting. She was also known for her peculiar (some say “twisted”) sense of humor that balanced out the graciousness, sincerity and generosity that spoke volumes of her spirit.

In her retirement, Pat saw a need for support groups for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). She was involved in the very early stages of the COPD Foundation and has spent countless hours on the call line, letting others know they are not alone in their struggles.

She now leaves her mother, Barbara, of Earlville; two sisters, Jane Sandison and Maureen (Gary) Ayala, both of Earlville; three nieces, two nephews, six great-nieces, one great-nephew, and a family of friends.

She now joins her father, James, who preceded her in death.

A memorial visitation was held Friday, Aug. 28, and a memorial service celebrating her life followed at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn.

A memorial will be established in Patricia’s name to benefit the COPD Foundation. Memorials checks may be made to the COPD FOUNDATION and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address, or through her obituary at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Sept. 17, 1933, the son of Hilmer and Irene (Powers) Bergquist in Aurora.

Al grew up on the family farm in La Fox and attended local St. Charles and Geneva schools. His two passions in life were farming and racing motorcycles. Years of memories were made in the fields and on the dirt tracks of raceways across the country.

He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1955 and faithfully served his country until his father suffered from a stroke and Al was discharged to help his family back home.

Al gave his heart to his high school sweetheart, Joan Oksas, whom he met through friends. Love only grew over the years and when he returned on leave their two lives became one when they were united in marriage Dec. 29, 1955.

They began their new life and spent their first holiday together making their home on the corner of Route 47 and Keslinger Road in Elburn. Later they would live in town at the Bateman’s house before moving to Pouley Road, where they have since made their home.

Al was a “jack of all trades” but he was a farmer at heart. He woke before dawn to tend the livestock, often only stopping after sunset. Always a hard worker, he also drove truck part time over the years for Stover’s, Bowgren’s and White Brothers Trucking. Later he served as the Road Commissioner for Blackberry Township for 20 years, retiring in 1997. Upon retirement Al continued to work for the township plowing the snow in winter. He helped put together John Deere lawn tractors for Ehlers Recreation, Lawn and Garden in Elburn for many years. In 1992, Joan and Al bought a used Goldwing motorcycle from a neighbor. Thereafter, they spent weekends on the road, riding from state to state and coast to coast from March through October. They traded up to a new one 1996 and moved to a Trike in 2003.

He was a life member of the American Motorcycle Association as well as the GWRRA Illinois B-2, DK of DeKalb, Chapter V in Batavia and was director of Enduros District 17. He followed family tradition by serving on the board of the Elburn Co-Op for 17 years and was a long-time member of the Illinois Highway Commissioners Association. When not riding or working, he and Joan loved their time dancing as part of the square dancing club, Fox Valley Mixers, later called the Sugar Squares. Al also was a member, along with many of his friends, of the Fox Hunters Club.

Al had adventure in his heart and participated in a 500-mile snowmobile race during Winter Carnival from Winnipeg, Canada, to St. Paul, Minn., in 1974 and 1975. In 1966, Al made a nine-pony hitch that was sponsored by Moorman Feed. They were featured in many parades here and in Chicago. As the children were growing up and helping on the farm, he often would remark when it came to dressing for the weather that you had to make a choice, “Do you want to be warm or do you want to look pretty?” The answer he preferred was the former, making them dress in overalls and snow suits. He made the miles fly by on his Goldwing, when he participated in the cross-country Enduros Race and won more nationals than he lost from 1950 until his last race in 1992. Al was a man unto himself and was never late to lend a hand to anyone. He would do anything for his family and has left thousands of memories scattered across the countryside and in the special place where he’ll live forever in the hearts of his family.

He now leaves his loving wife, Joan Bergquist; four children: Vicki Bergquist of Elburn, Al “Butch” (Connie) Bergquist of Troxel, Barbara (Patrick) Bradford of Maple Park, and Mary (Chuck) Liss of Elburn; six grandchildren: Rebecca, nee Bradford, (Ronald Jr.) Edwards of Sycamore, Ben Bradford of Maple Park, Blake Bradford of Maple Park, Mackenzie Liss of Elburn, Allison Liss of Elburn, Chucky Liss of Elburn; two great-grandchildren, Shelby and Bradford Edwards, both of Sycamore; three siblings: Carl (Sharon) Bergquist of St. Charles, Alice Nickels of Monroe, Wis., and Norm (Diane) Bergquist of Elburn; one sister-in-law, Carol Fabrizius of Maple Park, and one brother-in-law, Bob Oksas of Maple Park; many nieces and nephews and a family of friends.

He now joins his parents, one sister-in-law, Diane Oksas and a brother-in-law, Joseph Fabrizius, and a mother-in-law, Hazel Oksas who preceded him in death.

Visitation was Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2009, at the Lord Of Life Church, on the corner of Route 38 and LaFox Road in La Fox. A funeral service to celebrate his life was held at the church, Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2009. Rev. Phil Ressler, pastor of the church, officiated and interment followed at Blackberry Township Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in his name. Checks may be made to the “Al Bergquist Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com. Arrangements were handled with care by Conley Funeral Home.

He was born on Dec. 10, 1931, to Elias G. and Zelma (Storm) Siebens in Sycamore, Ill., and he farmed for many years with his father.

He graduated from Maple Park High School in 1950 and married Carolyn Nieminen of DeKalb on Aug. 7, 1954. The couple recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary.

The family lived on its farm in Maple Park for more than 50 years before moving to DeKalb five years ago. In addition to farming, George owned and operated Siebens Arctic Cat for nearly 20 years and was a founding member of the DeKane Snow Trackers snowmobile club. He also was an operating engineer for Stahl Construction Company in DeKalb, and later for Harry W. Kuhn Inc. of West Chicago, Ill.

He was an 18-year member of the Kaneland Community Unit School District 302 School Board and a lifetime member of the Local 150 International Union of Operating Engineers. He was also a member of Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church in DeKalb.

George was active in both his church and the Maple Park community throughout his life. He owned a log cabin in Sugar Camp, Wis., which was the favorite vacation spot for his large family. He often opened the cabin to friends and visitors, most notably from Maple Park, many summers for an annual softball tournament in Sugar Camp, and youth members of Bethlehem Lutheran Church for ski trips many winters. Along with his brother, Richard, he also owned a fishing cottage in Western Ontario, Canada, that was built by their father. That also became a favorite vacation spot for many family members and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his brother, Richard (Marie) Siebens of Maple Park; his sister, Joann (George) Seyller of Missouri; and eight children, Deborah (Dean) Helfers of Aurora, Tamara (David) Farley of DeKalb, Peter Siebens of Waterman, Ill., Timothy (Tammy) Siebens of Oswego, Ill., Daniel (Sandra) Siebens of Green Bay, Wis., Melissa (Dale) Wawracz of Lakeville, Minn., Nathan (Carlye) Siebens of DeLand, Fla. and Alicia (Randy) Holley of Malta, Ill.

He is also survived by 21 grandchildren, Katherine Signorella of Naperville, Ill., Kimberly (Scott) Martin of Maple Park, Todd Signorella of Omaha, Neb., Andrew and Jacob Helfers, both of Aurora, Allison and Kristen Farley, both of DeKalb, Angela Jaeger of North Aurora, Ill., Matthew Jaeger of Palatine, Ill., Aaron (Misty) Siebens of Jacksonville, Fla., Jessica Drake of Oswego, Lance, Laura and Alexandra Siebens, all of Green Bay, Elias, Emma, Sophie and Sylvie Wawracz, all of Lakeville, Landon Siebens of DeLand, and Jared and Christopher Holley, both of Malta. He leaves behind 13 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by both of his parents and an infant grandson, Quentin Richard Helfers.

Visitation was Wednesday, Aug. 26, at Conley Funeral Home, Elburn. A funeral service to celebrate his life will be at 10:30 a.m., with visitation to precede the service from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 27, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1915 N. First St., DeKalb. The Rev. Gary Erickson, pastor of the church, will officiate, and interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, DeKalb.

A memorial has been established in his name. Checks may be made to the “George Siebens Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

He was born March 1, 1923, in Maple Park. In high school, he worked for different farmers to help pay for his education.

He left Maple Park to serve his country in the Air Force for four years in WWII.

When he joined the Elgin Fire Department, he met Arlene Olesen at the Blue Moon Dance Hall, and they were married Aug. 9, 1948, in Elgin.

They were blessed with two children; a son, Dale Larsen, and a daughter, Janet Hebner.

Robert was a member of the Elgin Fire Department for many years. When he retired, he and Arlene moved to Clearwater, Fla., where they bought a mobile home and lived for almost 35 years.

When Arlene died Oct. 8, 2008, he moved to Yorba Linda, Calif., to be near his son and family.

He is survived by his son, Dale and his wife, Cheryl; grandchildren, Derek, Kristine, Steven, and David; great-grandchildren, Dylan, Drew, and Lilly Marie; a sister, Loretta Christensen of Maple Park; a brother, Alfred Larsen of Florida; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife Arlene. They celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary Aug. 9, 2008, with Daughter Janet, his parents, two sisters and two brothers.

A memorial service is being planned for October at Lakewood Memorial Gardens, Elgin.

He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during WWII and was a member of the LaVerne W. Anderson Post No. 729 and American Legion of Sheridan, Ill.

Arthur is survived by his children, Judy Dodge-Seitzinger of Dunnellon, Fla., and Arthur (Evelyn) Miller of Montgomery; five grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; 13 great-great grandchildren; brother, Russell (Thelma) Miller of Yorkville; and sister, Irene (Dean) Schultz of Boynton Beach, Fla.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Marie; grandson, Randy Dodge; and sister, Dorothy Smith.

Visitation was held on Tuesday, Aug. 25, at The Healy Chapel, 332 W. Downer Place, Aurora. Funeral services took place on Wednesday, Aug. 26, at the chapel. Burial took place at Lincoln Memorial Park.

For further information, please call (630) 897-9291 or visit www.healychapel.com to sign the online guestbook.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, Aug. 28, from 4 to 5:45 p.m., with a memorial service to celebrate her life following at 6 p.m. at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. The service will also be webcast live at www.conleycare.com, beginning five minutes prior to the service, and will later be available as an on-demand video on the website.

A memorial will be established in Patricia’s name to benefit the COPD Foundation. Memorials checks may be made to the COPD Foundation and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address or through her obituary at www.conleycare.com.

She was born Jan. 11, 1917, the daughter of George and Laura (Towner) Gehrke, in Prairie View, Ill.

Marion grew up in Crystal Lake, Ill., and attended local schools, graduating from Crystal Lake High School in 1934. She then worked at The Oaks, a local factory for several years before she met Eric Nelson at the Blue Moon. Over time, friendship bloomed into love over the 35 miles of road that separated their homes.

She was united in marriage to Eric G. Nelson on Aug. 6, 1949, in Crystal Lake. They began their new life together working alongside Eric’s family dairy near Elburn. She especially enjoyed feeding the small calves and all of the barn cats.

Following Eric’s passing in 1969, her son Ken continued the dairy operation for several years. In more recent years, her son David was in charge of the operation. Deteriorating health limited her ability to work on the farm and recently necessitated a move to Mattoon, Ill., to be closer to her daughter, Marge.

She was a faithful member for over 50 years of Grace Lutheran Church in Lily Lake, where she taught Sunday school for many of them.

Marion was a child of the Depression and knew the value of making the most of what you had. In that spirit, she always planted a big garden full of a vast array of vegetables, especially parsnips and green beans. When autumn came, canning was a priority, and pantry shelves were filled with the harvest of hard work. She also was infamous for her homemade apple sauce, making so much that to this day there are still jars in her freezer though the tree had died long ago.

Marion made the most of her kitchen, and the fresh-baked smell of cookies and cakes lingered long after the goodies were gone. They never stayed gone for long, however, especially when friends would drop by and she had an excuse to make her patented 20-minute coffee cake. Other family favorites included chocolate chip cookies, ginger snaps and special chocolate layer cake on birthdays.

Despite her age, Marion also enjoyed feeding the calves well into her 80s. Her love of cats also grew from her years on the farm, and in recent years, she would make oatmeal just for them.

Marion made many friends over the years, but everyone knew not to call her on Tuesday nights when she and June Reed had their weekly phone call that routinely lasted over two hours as they exchanged the latest news and gossip. A legacy of love and recipes will be passed down to the next generation who will no doubt enjoy one as much as the other.

She now leaves three children, Kenneth (Julie) Nelson of Maple Park, Marjorie (Durwin) Sanders of Mattoon, Ill., and David (Peggy) Nelson of Maple Park; six grandchildren, Dan (Heather) Nelson of Ashton, Ill., Kathy (Ryan) Gibbs of Monroe Center, Ill., Nicholas (Halley) Sanders of Paris, Ill., Neil (Erin) Sanders of Bloomington, Ill., Rebecca Nelson of Maple Park, Eric Nelson of Maple Park; one step-grandson, Gabriel (Laura) Sanders of St. Charles; five great-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews with whom she was very close; and a family of friends that span generations.

She now joins her parents; husband, Eric; and three siblings, Elsie Wiese, Bess Modin and George Gehrke, who preceded her in death.
Visitation was Tuesday, Aug. 25, at Grace Lutheran Church, Lily Lake. A funeral service to celebrate her life was held Wednesday, Aug. 26, also at Grace Lutheran Church.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name to benefit Grace Lutheran Church. Checks may be made to the Marion Nelson Memorial and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family through www.conleycare.com.

Nancy leaves her children, Steven (Cathy) Bower of North Carolina, Terri (Bob) Blahnik of Arkansas, Lyle (Liana) Bower of Illinois; eight grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; three siblings, Dorothy Struckman, Joe (Donna) Butts and Donna Vee (Don) Bower; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She now joins her husband of 50 years, Vernon (Butch) Bower, and her parents.

Burial will be at a later date. A memorial fund has been established in Nancy’s name, and remembrances may be sent in care of Bower, 615 W. State St., North Aurora, IL 60542.

He was born Sept. 26, 2003, in Hinsdale, Ill. He came home to his parents and two big brothers, Zachary and Joseph II, and a big sister, Starla, in Bolingbrook, Ill. His first years were full of all the milestones that make parents proud.

In 2005, the family moved to Montgomery, and in October, Nicholas was diagnosed with Leukemia (ALL). He began a battle that would last just under four years. Nicholas was a rapid responder to his treatments, but a relapse came in October 2008.

Good news was on the horizon when, thanks to his brother Joseph, Nicholas received a bone marrow transplant on Feb. 4, 2009. Everything was shattered when another relapse came in July of 2009. Through it all, Nicholas remained energetic and showed a strength of spirit that lifted the hearts of all around him.

Everything Nicholas did made his parents smile. In difficult times, his big brown eyes and infectious smile made all things better. He loved to listen to music, and when he sang, his voice rang down the halls. Even when you met him for the first time, you recognized something special inside Nicholas that radiated with every word and step. Even though he was small, his faith was larger than life. His relationship with Jesus was one that humbled everyone he met.

Nicholas loved to play basketball, baseball and when it came to fishing, you couldn’t find a more patient and dedicated angler. Wrestling, running, being chased and jumping off the couch made his laughter ring throughout the house. Chuck E. Cheese was a favorite destination, and when it came to television, Sponge Bob Square Pants and Patrick stole the show.

He also loved to play swords and left marks to prove it. Video games ruled the house when he could play Guitar Hero and on Nintendo Wii, carnival and boxing. The one thing Nicholas wanted most in life was to swim, but the doctors said he couldn’t get his chemotherapy port wet. Even a trip to Disneyland paled in comparison to his wish to have a swimming pool, and that wish came true when Make-A-Wish Foundation installed one of his very own in June.

At the end of the day, questions left unanswered must stay that way. One thing is known and will forever remain true, Nicholas lives on in the hearts of his family, and anyone that he met that was lucky enough to call him friend.

He now leaves his loving parents, Sherri (nee McNulty) Gura of Montgomery and Joe Gura of Westmont, Ill.; two brothers, Zachary and Joseph II of Montgomery; two sisters, Starla of Montgomery and Skylar of Westmont, Ill; two maternal aunts, Rose (nee McNulty) Hurst and Lakeisha McNulty; two maternal uncles, Vincent McNulty and Timothy McNulty; one maternal great-aunt, Delores (nee Mitchell) Smith; two paternal aunts, Donna (nee Gura) Tadey and Dawn Gura; three paternal uncles, Jim Gura, Jeff Gura and Jerry Gura; paternal grandparents, Emery Gura and Marlene Gura; and one paternal great-grandmother, Elsie McIntyre; and many cousins and a family of friends.

He now joins his maternal great-grandmother, Alberta “Mammo” Mitchell; maternal grandparents, Lee Edward and Shirley (nee Mitchell) McNulty; two maternal uncles, Derrick McNulty and Jimmy McNulty; two maternal aunts, Ella McNulty and LeEster McNulty; his parental great-grandfather, Joy “Mac” McIntyre.

Visitation will be on Friday, Aug. 21, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 21, at 11 a.m. at Conley Funeral home, with a visitation from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Interment will follow.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name. Checks may be made to the “Nicholas Gura Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119 or directly deposited in his name at the Old Second Bank, Elburn branch. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

She was born June 8, 1941, the daughter of Thomas Elizabeth (Saybo) Crowley in Chicago.

She grew up on the south side of Chicago and attended local schools. Joanne worked for Eastman Kodak for a time, and at the Chicago Tribune as an editor. Then she worked as a radiologist technician for both the Community Hospital in Geneva and St. Joseph Hospital in Elgin. Later, Joanne found her mission in life as a support specialist for the Elgin office of DCFS. There she fought valiantly for the children she was given to protect, and it was quickly known that she was a force with which to be reckoned.

Joanne met the love of her life in Ernie Doll. She was living across the street from his sister in Hanover Park, Ill., and before long they formed a friendship that bloomed into something more. They were united in marriage in 1971 in Chicago. They began their life together in Streamwood, Ill., for a time before making their home in Lily Lake.

Joanne and Ernie shared their life, love and home as dedicated foster parents through DCFS and Catholic Charities.

They provided a safe haven and a loving home to over 300 children, while eventually adopting seven children for their own.
She was a faithful member of S.S. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Virgil.

Joanne was a crafter, plain and simple. She loved to knit, sew, crochet and macrame anything at anytime. Family treasures include hand-sewed paper doll families and Santa hats with matching knitted scarves.

QVC was as close to her heart as her hand was to the remote. She called early and often, getting clothes, laptops, Christmas and birthday presents, as well as all the decorations that made their home festive for any occasion.

Never one to let technology pass her by, Joanne also was a faithful Nintendo Wii bowler with her children, passing the time frame by frame.

Through her work with DCFS and the thousands of children she cared for, Joanne never ran out of love, compassion and the passion it takes to care for those children who are left unprotected. Hundreds called her house a home, while only seven were lucky enough to call her mom. Her heart and soul left their mark on this world, and none will soon forget it.

She now leaves her loving husband, Ernie; seven children, Kim, Diontae, Krista, Brandon, Tera, Timothy and John; three brothers, Thomas “Junior” Crowley of Jim Thorpe, Pa., Francis “Corky” Crowley of Braidwood, Ill., and William “Bill” Crowley of Arizona; also many nieces and nephews, and hundreds of children and friends who became family when they walked through her door.

She now joins her parents, who preceded her in death.

Visitation was Friday, Aug. 14, at Conley Funeral Home, Elburn. A wake service concluded visitation. A Mass to celebrate her life was Saturday, Aug.15, 2009, at S.S. Peter & Paul Catholic Church Virgil—Fr. Perfecto Vasquesz, pastor of the church, officiated. Private family interment will follow cremation.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name. Checks may be made to the “Joanne Doll Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

David was born on May 12, 1948, the son of Harry Warner and Alice May (Carlson) Christenson in Geneva.

David grew up less than a mile from where he would raise his own family. He was a “fourth-generation Genevian” who would eventually raise two more generations in his hometown, and no one could be prouder.

David attended school in Geneva and graduated with the class of 1966 from Geneva High School. He then went on to attend and graduate from Bradley University in Peoria, Ill.

David was one of the last people in Kane County to be drafted into the armed services on Oct. 28, 1971. He served his country for two years, primarily honoring his fallen brothers on the funeral detail before his honorable discharge on Jan. 8, 1973.

Upon his return to civilian life, David took over his father’s business as a wood and metal pattern maker. He met his future wife, Barb, at Tin Cup Pass in November of 1977. She came in to pick up her friend, who was working at the restaurant and caught David’s eye as well. They had their first date a few days later at Pal Joey’s and were eventually married on Sept. 13, 1980, at the Geneva Lutheran Church in Geneva.

They began their new life together in their house that became the home where they raised their family and made thousands of memories.

He was a very active lifetime member of the Geneva Lutheran Church.

David was an intelligent man who knew “a little about everything,” which was evident in his “jack of all trades” persona. David also had a great sense of humor and could make light of any situation in life. He was a great craftsman and could build just about anything with his hands. He built a special table for his sister, all of his children’s bedroom furniture from three White Oak trees he cut down at his father’s house, put a beautiful addition onto his home that has been used for all of the family holidays, remodeled the upstairs and added a patio outside.

David had a great love of nature, as well as motorcycles, which led him and Barb to take the Harley for a “road trip.” It took three weeks as they rode along the Canadian border, over to Vancouver, down to Washington and back home. They camped out every night under the stars and just got back to nature.

David loved his family and all the memories they made together. From canoeing with his brother-in-law Ed, (even if the canoe tipped over and they got wet) to doing “donuts” in the car with his daughter and her friends, family vacations that took them across the country and beyond, family came first in his book. He was always there to help anyone with anything. Everyone admired David’s life, because he did what he wanted to do.

He now leaves his loving wife, Barb; two children, Matthew and Elizabeth; one step-daughter, Jennifer; one grandson, Joseph Michael; his mother, Alice of Geneva; one sister, Karen (Ed) Worst of Westmont, Ill.; his mother-in-law, Barbara Hoffman of St. Charles; one niece, Emma (Ken) Evans of Portland, Ore.; one nephew, Stan (Jessica) of Palatine, Ill., and a family of friends.

He now joins his father, Harry; and father-in-law, Joseph Hoffman, who preceded him in death.

Visitation was Sunday, Aug. 16, 2009, at the Geneva Lutheran Church. A funeral to celebrate his life was held Monday, Aug. 17, also at the church, with a brief visitation prior to the service. Rev. Doug Opp, pastor of the church, officiated, with private family interment following cremation.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit the Geneva Lutheran Church Building Fund. Checks may be made to the “David Christenson Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address or through www.conleycare.com, or www.davidwarnerchristenson.com.

He was born May 31, 1974, the son of Victor and Melinda (Benge) Nelson in St. Charles.

He grew up in Elburn and attended Kaneland schools. In 2004, the family moved to a home in West Chicago.

Josh was an exceptionally good tow truck driver, gaining access to locked cars in mere seconds. Later he was a concrete tester for PSC and also worked on lobster boats with Wade Thomas in Rhode Island.

He was a member of the Aurora Land Archers for a time.

Josh loved the outdoors and spent every year hunting deer in Spooner, Wis., during the “Nelson Family Weekend.” He also loved to fish for anything that would bite. Josh often spent time on Kress Creek in the back of the house but his favorite fishing hole was Smith Lake in Wisconsin.

A lover of animals, Josh kept a special place in his heart for man’s best friend, and Timber, Chance, Diablo, and Chica were fond of him as well. Reptiles also held a top spot in his life, and over the years he cared for two iguanas, Judas and Stoner, measuring five to six feet in length, a boa constrictor named Humphrey, a bi-polar lizard named Larry and a corn snake named Lenny.

Josh loved to play his music often and loud. His iPod was filled to the top with many kinds of music, but a song list wasn’t complete without a number of his favorite Grateful Dead songs.

In his younger years, Josh was known to take his grandpa’s ‘69 Chevy truck (that he painted purple) complete with a rebuilt engine and race on local roads, avoiding the attention of local police the best that he could.

Josh was larger than life to his family and friends. When he developed health complications as a boy, the doctors didn’t expect him to make his 30th birthday. Despite their predictions or maybe because of them, Josh lived every day like it was his last. He surpassed their predictions by five years but packed enough memories and stories to last two lifetimes. His family and friends have only Josh’s memory to fill the void he left behind. Though gone too soon, he will never be forgotten.

He now leaves his parents, Victor and Melinda; two sisters, Stormy (Cele Diaz) Benge and Lindsay (Antonio Jimenez) Nelson; five nieces and nephews; Kristopher Benge, Emily Benge, Noel Diaz, Magdalena P. Diaz and Tyler Rose, and a family of lifetime friends, including his “little firecracker,” Mary Rose.

He now joins both his maternal and paternal grandparents, his cousin and partner in crime, Wade Thomas, his uncle Eugene Spurgin, cousin Scott Kiefer, and his loving dog Chance, who preceded him in death.

Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 20, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A funeral to celebrate his life will follow visitation at 5:30 p.m. Private family interment will follow cremation at a later date.

A memorial has been established in his name. Checks may be made to the “Josh Benge” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

He was born Oct. 19, 1949, the son of Walter and Ellen (Freeman) Murray in Muskegon, Mich.

Rich grew up in Muskegon and attended local schools. He graduated from Ottawa Hills High School in 1968. Following graduation, he attended Ferris State University where he studied biology. Following his education, Rich began working in the building trades, eventually running his own business, Richard F. Murray Builders.

He was united in marriage to Marcia Veldman on June 30, 1973. They lived in Grand Rapids and welcomed their son, Michael, on April 10, 1975. A little more than a year later, they were blessed with their daughter, Megan, on June 29, 1976.

Rich moved to Illinois in 1997 and found love again when he married Nancy Myers McDade on July 15, 2000. Nancy and Rich began their new life together by making a home in Kaneville.

Rich was one of a kind and had a unique personality to match. When it found its counterpart in others, it bonded them together through thick and thin.

Rich had a love for the outdoors that could be traced back to his time in the Boy Scouts. He could spend all day at the beach, spending most, if not all, of it in the water. When the sun set, Rich loved to set up camp for the night and sleep under the stars.

As a man who made a living with his hands, Rich brought his talents home with him, often making furniture for family and friends. When his hands weren’t busy building, they were busy playing cards, especially bridge and cribbage—a pastime he handed down to his children.

Rich was a kid at heart as well. He made many fun memories playing Frisbee with his children and taking them on long and “torturous” walks where they were “supposed” to be learning things.

During the summers, Rich would never pass up a water fight, especially with the advent of Super Soaker squirt guns. When not playing outside, Rich found a home in the kitchen, often adding spices with abandon making adventurous meals. It was well known that when family and friends would eat these unique concoctions, they did so with the knowledge that Rich would become irritated if they didn’t love it as much as he did.

Although he left this world without being able to say goodbye, his life made an indelible mark on friends and family that will stand the test of time.

He now leaves his wife Nancy; four children, Megan (Fred) Russell of Comstock Park, Mich., Michael Murray in Grand Rapids, Mich., Stephanie (Ryan) Hooper of Toulon, Ill., and Bradley (Molly) McDade of Montgomery; eight grandchildren; and one sister, Helen “Toot” Milanowski of East Grand Rapids, Mich.

He now joins his parents and two brothers, Gib and Pat Murray, who preceded him in death.

A memorial service will held at Needham’s Woods, 4S662 Swan Rd. Big Rock, on Saturday, Aug. 22, at 4 p.m. with fellowship to follow at Grace Fellowship Church following service.

A memorial service will also be held at Calvary Chapel Riverside, 1950 Waldorf, NW
Grand Rapids, Mich., at 11 a.m. For more information, call (616) 988-9673.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name. Checks may be made to the “Richard Murray Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.