Joann Spence Dyer 

Joann M. Spence Dyer, 80, Fairbury, died at 5:30 am Thursday, February 16, 2017 at her residence surrounded by her loving family.

Her funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, February 23, 2017 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Chenoa with Fr. Carl LoPresti officiating.  Burial will be in Payne Cemetery, rural Chenoa.  Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Chenoa is assisting with arrangements.  The family suggests memorials be given to South East Livingston County Ambulance Service; Prairie Central Boys and Girls Club; or Fairview Haven Retirement Community.

Joann was born May 11, 1936 in Chenoa, IL the daughter of Harold and Bernadine Schopp Nicol.  She married Robert G. Spence on November 7, 1953 in Chenoa.  He died on August 27, 1996.  She then married Bert Emery Dyer on November 6, 1998 in Chenoa.  He died on November 23, 2016.

Survivors include her children, Debra Spence, Fairbury; Vicki Burney, Bloomington, IL; Mary (Tim) Wimp, Heyworth; Anthony (Leatrice) Spence, Billings, Montana, Curtis (Teri) Spence, Boone, IA; Harold (Carol) Spence, Boone, IA; David Dyer, Cropsey; 20 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by 4 grandchildren.

Joann was a graduate of Chenoa High School and the Mennonite School of Nursing, Bloomington.  She was a Licensed Practical Nurse working at Bromenn Regional Medical Center, OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, McLean County Health Department and Fairbury Medical Office.  She also owned and operated Green Towers in Latham, IL with her husband Robert for 16 years.

She was a member of St. Andrew Catholic Church, Fairbury.

Joann will be greatly missed by all who loved her.  She was a kind, soft hearted person who saw good in everyone.  Our lives will be greatly changed by her passing.  We have countless wonderful memories to draw from, especially her quirky sense of humor.  We will love you forever!

An online guest registry is available at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

Marjorie Baker

Marjorie J. Baker, 85, Forrest, died at 2:10am Friday, February 17, 2017 at OSF St. James-John Albrecht Medical Center, Pontiac.

Mrs. Baker was born December 29, 1931 in Forrest, IL the daughter of Lawrence and Polly Ann Baysinger Whitfill. She married Russell D. Baker on February 3, 1948 in Fairbury. He died on February 17, 2007.

Surviving are her children, Russell David (Vicki) Baker Jr., Earl Baker, Theresia (Denny) Quigley, all of Forrest; James Baker, Piper City; John (Glenda) Baker, Chatsworth; Michael (Laurie) Baker, Fairbury; Randy (Shelia) Baker, Forrest; Suzanne (David) Johnson, Russell Springs, KY; Julie Reynolds, Paxton; 17 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren and 1 sister, Helen Meyer, Fairbury.

She is preceded in death by 2 brothers, 3 sisters and 1 son.

Graveside inurnment will be Saturday, May 20, 2017 at 10:30 am in Forrest Twp. Cemetery. Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury is in charge of arrangements. The family suggests memorials be given to the charity of their choice.

An online guest registry is available at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

Marjorie Kuntz

Marjorie J. Kuntz, 89, a resident of Fairview Haven Retirement Community in Fairbury, IL formerly of Forrest, IL, passed away at 2:14 am on Saturday, February 18, 2017.

She was a member of the Forrest Apostolic Christian Church where funeral services will be held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 with ministers of the church officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:15 am on Wednesday, prior to

the service at the church. Burial will take place following services at the South Apostolic Christian Cemetery in rural Fairbury, IL. Calvert & Martin Funeral Home in Forrest is handling arrangements for the family. Memorial contributions may be made to

Fairview Haven Retirement Community in Fairbury.

Marjorie was born June 3, 1927 in rural Forrest, IL a daughter of Sam and Lydia (Sohn) Maier. She married Leland E. Kuntz on November 26, 1949 in Fairbury, IL. He passed away on January 29, 2011.

She is survived by one daughter, Carla (Curtis) Stoller of Gridley; one son, Kevin Kuntz of Forrest; three granddaughters, Carrie (Troy) Blunier of Oakbrook Terrace, IL; Christy Stoller of Croton on Hudson, NY, and Chelli Stoller of Princeton, IL; three

great grandsons: Peter, Lincoln and Miles Blunier; her siblings: Thelma Maier of Forrest, IL and Vernon (Beth) Maier of Fairbury, IL; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and one infant granddaughter.

Marjorie was a homemaker as well as working at Forrest Savings and Loan until 1986 and being the Forrest Township Clerk for many many years.

She enjoyed seeing and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Marjorie was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who will be greatly missed.

This obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

Gary L. Smith, 68 of Bloomington, passed away on Friday, February 17, 2017 at 12:04pm at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.

Gary’s service will be held on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at 2pm at Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington with Pastor Jason Collins officiating. Following services burial will be at Blooming Grove Cemetery, Bloomington. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 12-2pm at the funeral home.

Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington, Illinois is in charge of arrangements.

Gary was born on June 22, 1948 in Bloomington, the son of Leslie and Mildred (Long) Smith. He married Mary Lake on September 27, 2013 in Bloomington.

He is survived by his wife Mary of Bloomington, his children; Alicia (Mike Simpsen) Smith, Gary A. (Marie Murphy) Smith and Robyn Smith all of Bloomington. Also surviving are his grandchildren; Zackare, Dalton, Ethan, Tessa and Connor, and a great granddaughter; Astella, his brothers and sisters; Leslie Ray Smith Terry Smith Jackie Smith Danny (Tina) Smith Tammy (John) Sudduth Carmela Smith Carol (Mike) Carmichael Barbara Smith Kurt Smith and his beloved dog Lexus.

He is preceded by his parents and 1 brother; Ron Smith.

He was a member of the Bloomington VFW Post 454. Gary loved animals and loved working on cars and fixing all types of engines from small lawn mower engines to the larger car engines. There truly wasn’t any engine he couldn’t fix.

The family would like to thank the staff of OSF St. Joseph Medical Center for their compassionate care and support they gave to Gary and the family through this difficult time.

Online condolences may be made to www.beckmemorial.com

Arnold Carls

Flanagan – Arnold E. Carls, 78, of Flanagan, Ill. passed away at 2:12 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2017 at Flanagan Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at Calvert & Martin Funeral Home in Pontiac with Pastor Patrick Embley officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the funeral home on Tuesday. Burial will follow services at South Side Cemetery in Pontiac, Ill. where military rites will be accorded. Memorial contributions may be made to Flanagan Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, Flanagan Christian Church, Flanagan American Legion Post 456, or Graymont Baptist Church.

Arnold was born February 15, 1939 a son of Melvin John and Florence Johanna (Fischer) Carls. He married Sandra Meyer on November 25, 1962 in Pontiac, IL. She passed away on April 7, 2011.

He is survived by one son: Kevin (Sharon) Carls of Pontiac; two daughters: Kristyn (Jarred) Durre and Kathleen (Dan) Schopp both of Flanagan; four grandchildren: Amanda Carls, Jarred Durre Jr., Katrina Durre, and Jacob Schopp; two brothers: Dennis Dune Carls and Steven Lynn Carls both of Flanagan; many nieces and nephews; and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; one granddaughter: Kayla Carls; two brothers: Kenneth Leroy Carls and James Melvin Carls; and one sister: Judith Melvada Weber.

Arnold was educated in the Flanagan schools. He served his country in the National Guard.

He worked at Finkenbinder Feed Mill in Cornell, Hatzer’s in Cornell, Pontiac Chair, Skelgas, and he retired from FS as a propane salesman.

Arnold was a member of the Flanagan American Legion Post 456 and the First Baptist Church in Minonk.

He had a great sense of humor and was always giving the grandkids a hard time. Spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren mattered most to Arnold. He enjoyed fishing and always recalled with fondness his trips to Las Vegas.

This obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

Betty Hering

Betty Hering, 84 of Normal, passed away on Feb. 18 at 1:09 p.m. at Advocate BroMenn Regional Medical Center, Normal, Illinois.

Betty’s service will be held on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Luke’s Union Church, Bloomington with Pastor Andy Gifford officiating.

Following the service burial will be at East Lawn Memorial Gardens, Bloomington. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington.

The family suggests memorials to be made to St. Luke’s Union Church, Bloomington.

Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home is in charge of arrangements.

Betty was born on July 14, 1932 in Danvers the daughter of J.

Kenneth and Ada (Zook) Wright. She married Arnold Hering on Jan. 30, 1953 in Bloomington.

Betty is survived by her husband Arnold of Normal, their son; Daniel

(Theresa) Hering of Bloomington, her sister; Kay (David) Franz of Bloomington, sister-in-law; Marlene Wright of Bloomington and brother-in-law; Richard Bartal of Williams Bay, Wisconsin.

She was preceded by her parents, one brother; Kenneth D. Wright and one sister; Marilyn Bartal.

Betty worked as a key punch operator for State Farm Insurance Co., she was a member of St. Luke’s Union Church, a charter member of the Genealogical Society of McLean County and was a member of Lakeside Country Club. Betty also directed the Junior Bowling Program at Circle Lanes for many years and was herself an accomplished bowler and was inducted into the Bloomington/Normal Bowling Hall of Fame in 1985.

Betty and Arnold enjoyed traveling and attending Jazz Festivals around the country and was an IWU Basketball fan. Most of all she loved spending time with her family and friends.

The family would like to thank the Doctors and Staff of the Community Cancer Center for their wonderful care and support.

Online condolences may be made to www.calvertmemorial.com.

Dolores Taminger

Dolores E. “DeDe” Taminger, 82, of Bloomington, passed away at 8:55 a.m., Feb. 20 at her home.

Her funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday at Historic St. Patrick Catholic Church, Bloomington with Rev. Jeff Windy officiating.  A private family burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bloomington.  Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m., Thursday at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington.

Memorials may be directed to Historic St. Patrick Catholic Church or the Humane Society of Central Illinois.

Dolores was born Nov. 30, 1934 in Odell, the daughter of Joseph J. and Helen E. Nolan Schultz.  She married Clark J. Taminger on June 11, 1997 in Bloomington.  He survives.

She is also survived by her children, Karen (Tom) Chiodo, Rick Prather, both of Bloomington; Lisa Taminger of Bloomington, Karla (Joe) Jenkins of Downs, Amy (Ron) Drane of Bloomington and Karen (Russ) Bell of Heyworth; twelve grandchildren, Anna (Matt) Polick, Jacob (Christine) Chiodo, Nick, Nina and Vinny Chiodo, Sydney, Chase and Michele Jenkins, Caleb and Olivia Drane, Dalton Hogan and Parker Bell; four great grandchildren, Bella, Addison and Dominic Chiodo and Thomas Polick; a brother, Bob (Carmen) Schultz of Bloomington and many nieces and nephews.

Dolores was preceded in death by her parents, Joe Schultz and Helen Schultz Hughes, a son, Russell Prather and a brother, John Schultz.

Dolores was a 1952 graduate of Trinity High School.  She worked as a legal secretary for Larkin and Larkin and later Pratt, Larkin and Williams.  She was a member of the McLean County Legal Secretary’s Association and had been legal secretary of the year.  Dolores also had a real estate license and began working for State Farm Relocation Services in 1990, retiring in 2007.

Dolores was a member of Historic St. Patrick Catholic Church in Bloomington.  She had a great faith in the Lord, love for her family and would do anything for anyone in need.  She was a caring and compassionate woman with a great sense of humor.

Dolores was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend that will be sadly missed.

To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.

Mary Orth

Mary E. Orth, 90, Fairbury, died at 6:45 pm Monday, Feb. 20, 2017 at Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Fairbury.

She was born Oct. 19, 1926, to Paul and Frances Speece Workman. She was educated in Mackinaw area schools. Because of a shortage of male students during World War II, she entered Illinois Wesleyan University following her junior year of high school. There she earned her Bachelor of Science degree and later her Master of Science degree.

She married William H. Orth of Fairbury on April 29, 1949, in Mackinaw. He preceded her in death on Sept. 17, 2010.

The Orths farmed in the Fairbury area. Through the years, Mrs. Orth taught girls’ physical education, history, geography, science, Illinois history, and health in junior high and high school in the Chenoa, Fairbury Township, Fairbury-Cropsey, and Prairie Central school systems. She also taught fourth grade for one year at Westview Grade School. She sponsored the Girls’ Athletic Association, cheerleaders, and Illinois History Club. In 1984, Gov. James Thompson named her Illinois History Teacher of the Year and she received the Outstanding Teacher Award from the Illinois State Historical Society. She enjoyed helping students discover their potential, especially through project work.

Mrs. Orth was a past member of Kappa Delta sorority, Country Domestic Science Club, Order of the Eastern Star, Indian Creek Country club and various local bridge clubs. She was an avid golfer and football fan. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Fairbury where she sang in the choir and served on various committees.

She is survived by one daughter, Ann (Jay) Nussbaum of Bloomington, two grandchildren, William (Alexis) Nussbaum of Bloomington and Casey (Tyler)Zimmerman of Bloomington, and three great-grandchildren, Kayla and Seth Nussbaum, and Jaycee Zimmerman, at home.

According to her wishes, there will be no visitation and graveside services will be private. Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury is in charge of the arrangements.

The family thanks Dr. Sam Steffen, the staff of Fairview Haven in Fairbury, and OSF Home Care Services for their excellent care and suggests that memorials be directed to Fairview Haven Retirement Community or Dominy Memorial Library, both in Fairbury.

A guest registry is available at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

Erline Long

Erline Long, 76, of Meadows Mennonite Retirement Community, Chenoa formerly of Fairbury passed away at 6:01 p.m., Feb. 23 at Advocate BroMenn Regional Medical Center, Normal.

Her funeral service will be 11 a.m., Monday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury with Pastor Jane Roeschley officiating.  Burial will follow at South Graceland Cemetery, Fairbury.

Visitation will be 9:30 to 10:45 a.m., prior to her funeral service on Monday also at the funeral home in Fairbury.  In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorials be directed to Meadows Mennonite Retirement Community, Chenoa – Activity Fund.

Erline was born April 2, 1940 in Grassy, Mo.; the daughter of Earl and Ruby (Durham) Hedrick.   She married Scotty Long on Oct. 12, 1957 in Cullom.  He died Oct. 3, 2016. Her parents, one brother and one sister also preceded her in death.

Survivors include her two daughters, Patsey (Randy) Masching of New Salisbury, Ind.; Wendy (Steve) Hall of Fairbury; one brother, Doyle Hedrick of Pontiac; sister in-law, Marge Hedrick of Fairbury; one brother in-law, Bud Woodward of Forrest; five grandchildren, Erin Hubbard, Ryan Masching, Emily Masching, Nikki Hall and Dillon Hall and eight great grandchildren.

Erline had a green thumb and loved being in her garden taking care of her flowers.  You didn’t want to bother her when she was in the middle of playing Bingo.  She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

A guest book and online condolences may be directed to the family at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

Nancy Bracken

Nancy E. “Kentucky Woman” Bracken, 78, Sanborn, NY and formerly of Crystal River, FL died Friday, February 24, 2017 at Northgate Manor, Wheatfield, NY.

Visitation will be 11:00 to 1:00pm Wednesday, March 1, 2017 at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury. Burial will be in Forrest Twp. Cemetery, Forrest. The family suggests memorials be given to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Mrs. Bracken was born in Jackson, KY the daughter of Johnie and Eva Jane Moore Mullins. She married James R. Bracken. He precedes her in death.

Survivors include their children, Mary Ann Cunningham, Peabody, KS; James Michael Bracken, Madison, WI; Paul (Kim) Bracken, FL; Rodney (Ronda) Bracken, FL; and Karen Grabski, Sanborn, NY; 7 grandchildren, Elizabeth, Michael, Roxanne, Russell, Jeremy, Jennifer and Melissa; 5 sisters, Zula LeGris, Weston, IL; Louise Neubig, Westville, IL; and Ida Mae Hogen, Beattyvile, KY. Patty Lawson, Chenoa, IL, Tonya Hobart, Pontiac, IL

She is preceded in death by 1 son, Lloyd Bracken, 1 grandson, Eric and 1 sister, Dorothy Goodale.

An online guest registry is available at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

Harvey Hardesty

Harvey J. Hardesty Jr., 79, Evenglow Lodge, Pontiac and formerly of Forrest, died at 7:20 pm Friday, February 24, 2017 at Evenglow Lodge, Pontiac.

His funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, February 28, 2017 at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury with Pastor Gretchen Stinebaugh officiating. Burial will be in Forrest Twp. Cemetery, Forrest.

Visitation will be 10:00 to 11:00 am Tuesday also at the memorial home. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be given to Evenglow Lodge, Pontiac.

Mr. Hardesty was born September 30, 1937 in Forrest, IL the son of Harvey and Carrie Ruth Sinnett Hardesty Sr. He married Sandy Oyer on August 25, 1957 in Forrest, IL. She died on August 7, 2011.

Survivors include their children, Karen (Keith Chambers) Stephens, Forrest; Rick (Robin) Hardesty, Bloomington; Dan (Lisa) Hardesty, Wildwood, MO; 5 grandchildren, Mark (Ashley) Stephens; Kacie, Alex, Jake & Aubree Hardesty; and 4 great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by 2 brothers, Gene and James.

Mr. Hardesty was a 1955 graduate of Forrest-Strawn-Wing High School. He was employed at Diller Tile, Chatsworth retiring after 43 years of service.

He had been an assistant coach for the CIFL Mighty Mites for 8 years, was an avid Cubs fan and enjoyed fishing. Harvey loved spending time with his grandchildren.

An online guest registry is available at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

Rolland Read

Rolland D. “Rollie” Read, 80, of Cullom passed away at 9:36 p.m. on Feb. 26 at Flanagan Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at Calvert & Martin Funeral Home in Cullom. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the funeral home on Wednesday. Burial will follow services in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Cullom. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Rollie was born Sep. 12, 1936 in Danforth a son of Donald and Margaret (Nightengale) Read. He married Elizabeth A. Edman on June 22, 1963 in Cullom. She passed away on March 25, 2016.

He is survived by two sons: Thomas (Rebecca) Read of Cullom. and Gerald (Krissandra) Read of Saunemin; three grandchildren: Dylan, Courtney and Kaitlyn (Jacob Mynatt) Read; one great grandson: Jason Mynatt; his siblings: Denny (Sandy) Read of Pontiac and Doug Read of Morris; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and siblings: Carolyn (Stan) McCulloh and Richard and (Ethel) Read.

Rollie graduated from Cullom High School. He served his country in the United States Army, being stationed in Germany just prior to the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he worked for Roper Stove Plant for twenty years in Kankakee. He then worked for the Pontiac Correctional Center for twenty years until his retirement.

He enjoyed watching sports, namely, basketball, baseball, football, and racing.

Rollie, affectionately known as “Boppy” by his grandkids loved spending time and being around them. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

This obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

Jon Serapin

Jon Serapin, 70, of Bloomington, passed away at 11:41 a.m., Feb. 22 at his home.

A brief memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington and will conclude with military rites by the Bloomington-Normal American Legion Honor Guard.Visitation will follow the service until 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.  A private family burial will being Calvary Cemetery, Quincy.

Memorials may be made to SPCA, USO, Wounded Warriors Project, Toys for Tots or any charity of the donor’s choice.

Jon was born April 7, 1946 in Chicago, a son of John A. and Lillian M. Prchlik Serapin.

Jon is survived by his mother, Lillian Serapin; a sister, Judy (Jerry) Dehart, two sons, Jon J. (Paula) Serapin and Timothy T. Serapin; a step-son, Jason M. (Cindy) Kamphaus; six granddaughters, Heather, Amber and Zoey Serapin, Gemma, Lily and Isabel Kamphaus; and his first wife, Denise Houchin Serapin.

Jon was preceded in death by his fatherand his second wife of 19 years, the love of his life, Mary J. Kamphaus.

Jon was a Sergeant in the United State Marine Corp.  He served in Viet Nam and was a Purple Heart recipient.  He was an electrician and a member of IBEW Local 197 in Bloomington.

To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.

Mary Beth Kirby

Marybeth Kirby, 46, of Colfax, passed away at 6:07 a.m., Feb. 28, at Advocate BroMenn Regional Medical Center, Normal.

Cremation has been accorded.

A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m., Sunday, at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Colfax.  Joe Goodman will be officiating.  Following the service please join the family for a celebration of life at the Colfax United Methodist Church.

Visitation will be held from 2-5:00 p.m., also on Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the Kirby Family.

Marybeth was born Nov. 29, 1970, in Bloomington, the daughter of David B. and Jeannette I. Butler Litherland.

She married Robert F. Kirby on July 8, 1998. He survives.

Also surviving are her mother, Jeannette Litherland of Colfax; her children, Alyssa Thorndyke, Jacob (Amanda) Cramer, and Tyler Cramer all of Colfax; sisters, April (Steffen) Myers of Normal, Joy (Adam) McKinney of Towanda, and Amy (Chase) Poff of Arlington, Texas; grandchildren, Landon, Chloe and Piper Thorndyke.

She was preceded in death by her father and one grandson, Robbie Cramer.

Marybeth was a registered nurse. She last worked for Gibson City Area Hospital and Advocate BroMenn Regional Medical Center, Normal.

She enjoyed golf and loved to travel. She had a caring heart which led to her passion and love of nursing.

Marybeth loved and was devoted to her family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

An online guestbook is available at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

Hazel Durflinger

Hazel M. Durflinger, 89 of Bloomington, passed away on Feb. 27 at 5:40 a.m. at her home.

Hazel’s service will be held on Saturday at 11 a.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church, Bloomington with Rev. Vaughn Hoffman officiating.

Following the service burial will be held at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Lexington. Visitation will be held on Friday from 4-6 p.m. at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington and also on Saturday from 10-11 a.m. at the church.

Memorials may be made to Wesley United Methodist Church, Bloomington.

Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home is in charge of arrangements.

Hazel was born on Aug. 8, 1927 in Towanda, Illinois the daughter of Glenn and Nellie (Ferguson) Ogden. She married Kenneth Durflinger on Aug. 10, 1946 in Bloomington. He preceded her in death on April 27, 1992.

Hazel is survived by her sons; Wayne (Jane) Durflinger of Bloomington and Paige (Sandy) Durflinger of Woodbury, New Jersey. Also surviving are her grandchildren; Nathan (Nicole) Durflinger and Jacob (Page) Durflinger, one great granddaughter; Lhotse Durflinger and a sister; Marjorie Barnard of Valparaiso, Ind.

She is preceded by her parents, one daughter, One granddaughter, two brothers; and two sisters.

Hazel was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church of Bloomington, she was a licensed beautician working in the Cooksville area, later she worked at Eureka-Williams retiring in 1994 and after retirement she worked at the McLean County Law and Justice Center as a Bailiff.

She was an avid Porcelain Doll collector and nature lover. The family would like to thank the staff at the Bickford House and Compassus Hospice for their wonderful care and support.

Online condolences may be made to www.calvertmemorial.com.

Theresa Champagne

Theresa Marie Champagne, 88, of Evanston, formerly of Normal, passed away on Feb. 24 surrounded by her family at the Frank B. Foster Pavilion at Westminster Place, Evanston.

A memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday at Epiphany Catholic Church in Normal with Rev. Eric S. Powell officiating.  Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Normal.  The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the Mass at the church.  Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Epiphany Catholic Church.

Theresa was born July 23, 1928 in Kenosha, Wis., the daughter of Eugene and HattieZicarelli.  She married Roger James Champagne on Sep. 12, 1949 in Kenosha, Wis. He preceded her in death on Aug. 7, 2010 in Normal.

Theresa was a member of Epiphany Catholic Church for over 50 years, and later a member of St. Mary Parish in Evanston. A devout Catholic, her faith was her foundation. She was also blessed with a long and happy marriage, loving children and grandchildren, and many cherished friendships.

Surviving are one daughter, Anne Champagne of Evanston; two sons, Paul (Betsy) Champagne of Macungie, Penn. and David (Jane Junn) Champagne of South Pasadena, Calif. and five grandchildren, Patrick, Margaret, Katherine, Eve & Juliet.  Also surviving are one brother, Richard Zicarelli of Naperville and one sister, Jean Smejkal of Crest Hill.

To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.

Lorraine Eymann

Lorraine Eymann, 85, of Chenoa, passed away at 1:17 p.m., March 1, at Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Fairbury.

Her funeral will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Chenoa. Fr. Carl LoPresti will be officiating.

Burial will be in Chenoa Township Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 5-7:00 p.m., Friday, at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Chenoa and 9-9:45 a.m., Saturday at the church.

Memorials may be made to Fairview Haven Retirement Community or St. Joseph Catholic Church, Chenoa.

Lorraine was born March 7, 1931, in Chenoa, the daughter of Harold and Bernadine Schopp Nicol. She married Albert Lynn Eymann on Nov. 10, 1950. He passed away Dec. 12, 2014.

Surviving are her children, John Larry Eymann of League City, Texas, Dave Eymann of Chenoa, and Janice Eymann of Ellettsville, IN; grandchildren, AlliEymann, Nando, Nathan, and Manny Macatangay.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Joann Dyer and one son, Donald Eymann.

Lorraine worked for 21 years in the cafeteria for Chenoa Grade School.

She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and The Altar Rosary Society.

An online register book is available at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

James Everett, 69, of Shirley, passed away at 9:55 a.m., Friday, March 3, 2017 at his home.

His funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 7, 2017 at St. Mary’s Church, Bloomington with Rev. Gregory Nelson and Deacon Robert Hermes officiating.  Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Bloomington.  Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday, March 6, 2017 at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington, concluding with a Rosary service.

Memorials may be directed to Birthright, 505 N. Center St., Bloomington, IL 61701

Jim was born February 21, 1948 in Bloomington, the son of John C. and Ruth E. Blackwell Everett.  He married Mary “Anita” Hermes on July 26, 1969 in Bloomington. She survives.

He is also survived by a daughter, Bethany (Ritchie) Doran of El Paso and a son, Anthony (Rachel) Everett of  Champaign; five grandchildren, Elena (Chris) Funk, Jackson Hinthorn and Joel, Joseph and Jonah Everett; a great-grandson, Maxwell Funk; and two brothers, Jerry Everett of Normal and John (Merry) Everett of El Paso.

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant sister, Jane Ellen.

Jim began his 40 year career with Caterpillar in the machinist apprenticeship program and retired as Senior Systems Analyst in Information Technology in 2006.

Jim was very proud of his Knights of Columbus service.  He was a member of the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Council in El Paso and was a past Grand Knight.  He was a 4^th Degree Knight and past Faithful Navigator.  Jim also served as District Deputy from 2003-2007.

Jim was active in Bloomington-Normal Cursillo for 30 years and was Rector of Cursillo #815 in 2005.  He was a friend of Bill W. for 37 years.

Jim was an avid fisherman and hunter and had spent the past 10 years living full time in the family RV.

To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.

Dale H. Dameron, 89, Fairbury, died at 8:39 pm Friday, March 3, 2017 at Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Fairbury.

Inurnment will be at 11:00 am Thursday, March 9, 2017 at Graceland Cemetery, Fairbury with Pastor Ann Champion officiating. Full military rites will be accorded by the Fairbury VFW. The family suggests memorials be given to Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Brian Munz Safety Complex, both of Fairbury, or Dementia Society of America. Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury is assisting with arrangements.

Dale was born August 8, 1927 in Fairbury, IL the son of Harold and Beulah Cornwell Dameron. He married Florence E. Sutter on September 8, 1945 in Pontiac, IL. She preceded him in death on October 4, 2011.

Survivors include their children, Lynn (Judy) Dameron, Peggy (Dan) Vaughan, Carolyn (Wayne) Gerber, Barry Dameron, all of Fairbury; grandchildren, Dr. Heather (Jeff) Schweizer, Chris (Venessa) Dameron, Greg Vaughan (Jami Vaughan, former spouse), Amy (Mike) Klemmensen, Beth (Steve Igoe) Robert, Kelsey (Marlon) Layton, Ashley (Daniel) Mueller, Joel (Molly) Gerber, Macki and Delayni Dameron; great grandchildren, Sam and Aaron Herr, Sibelle and Eric Schweizer, A.J. and Olivia Dameron, Grant Dameron Vaughan, Bailey, Madelyn and Bodey Klemmensen, Drake, Drew and Danielle Robert, Ayden and Ashlynn Mueller, and Brinnley Huff; one sister, Marjorie Maley, Fairbury and several nieces and nephews.

Dale is preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Imogene Dameron and a brother-in-law, Charles Maley.

He was a 1945 graduate of Fairbury Twp. High School. He served in the US Army and owned and operated Dameron Plumbing and Heating until his retirement in 1992.

Dale was an avid Chicago White Sox fan. He was a high school star athlete in football, basketball, and baseball. He coached Little League and was also a Boy Scout Leader for many years. Dale enjoyed telling stories, especially his army ones on Flatbush Avenue in New York. He was tender hearted, loved to the fullest, and always put family first. He was a wonderful husband, dad, grandfather, and a friend to many.

An online guest registry is available at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

BLOOMINGTON – Bruce Eric Mitchell I, 59 of Bloomington, Illinois, passed away on Friday, March 3, 2017 at 2:45 a.m. at his home.

Bruce’s service will be held on Wednesday, March 8, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington with Pastor Josh Beutow officiating. Following the service burial will be held at Park Hill Cemetery, Bloomington. Visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington, Illinois is in charge of arrangements.

Bruce was born on November 5, 1957 in Bloomington, the son of Fred and Marilyn (Schlueter) Mitchell. He married Debbie Phillips on July 3, 1976 in Normal.

He is survived by his wife; Debbie of Bloomington, his two sons; Bruce Eric (Britta) Mitchell II of Bloomington and Christopher Michael Mitchell of Plano, Illinois. Also surviving are six grandchildren, his brothers and sister; Richard (Mary Claire) Mitchell of Stevens Point, WI, Kevin (Debbie) Mitchell of Lake Mills, WI and Kim Mitchell of Bloomington.

He is preceded by his parents.

Bruce was a member of the Carp Anglers Group. He enjoyed fishing and socializing with his neighbors and family. He will be deeply missed by all of them.

Online condolences may be made to www.beckmemorial.com .

James Everett

James Everett, 69, of Shirley, passed away at 9:55 a.m., March 3, at his home. 

His funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday at St. Mary’s Church, Bloomington with Rev. Gregory Nelson and Deacon Robert Hermes officiating.  Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Bloomington.  Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington, concluding with a Rosary service. 

Memorials may be directed to Birthright, 505 N. Center St., Bloomington, Ill. 61701 

Jim was born Feb. 21, 1948 in Bloomington, the son of John C. and Ruth E. Blackwell Everett.  He married Mary “Anita” Hermes on July 26, 1969 in Bloomington. She survives. 

He is also survived by a daughter, Bethany (Ritchie) Doran of El Paso and a son, Anthony (Rachel) Everett of  Champaign; five grandchildren, Elena (Chris) Funk, Jackson Hinthorn and Joel, Joseph and Jonah Everett; a great-grandson, Maxwell Funk; and two brothers, Jerry Everett of Normal and John (Merry)Everett of El Paso. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant sister, Jane Ellen. 

Jim began his 40 year career with Caterpillar in the machinist apprenticeship program and retired as Senior Systems Analyst in Information Technology in 2006. 

Jim was very proud of his Knights of Columbus service.  He was a member of the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Council in El Paso and was a past Grand Knight.  He was a 4^th Degree Knight and past Faithful Navigator.  Jim also served as District Deputy from 2003-2007.   

Jim was active in Bloomington-Normal Cursillo for 30 years and was Rector of Cursillo #815 in 2005.  He was a friend of Bill W. for 37 years.   

Jim was an avid fisherman and hunter and had spent the past 10 years living full time in the family RV.  

To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com. 

By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON – A Bloomington man who is considered one of the top innovators in golf has died.

Mark Laesch died Saturday after a lengthy battle with ALS, Lou Gehrig’s disease. Laesch created Golfstat which the Golf Channel reports quickly became one of the most reliable tools for anyone with interests in or ties to the college game.

Laesch was part of the family that owned Laesch Dairy in Bloomington for decades before Oberweis Dairy bought the business in 1998.

He told GolfWeek.com last December his friends help him stay positive as be battled an incurable disease.

“I remember Lou Gehrig said, ‘I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.’ Well I’m not going to go there, because I’ve got this disease,” Laesch said. “But I do consider that I’ve got the finest friends on the face of the earth, and I have more people that love me than I deserve.”

Laesch was 62. His father, uncle and sister had also died of ALS. He is survived by a fiancee and his three children. He also has a sister who lives in the Chicago area.

Local golf instructor Rick Sellers said Laesch had a profound impact on the sport.

“As a golf instructor you kind of want to know what players need to work on and his statistics and his analytics began to show areas where players were weak in and maybe teachers along the way were missing,” Sellers said.

Sellers added he loved to pick Laesch’s brain about ways to help people golf better. He recalled Laesch once created a prototype the idea of a lighter golf cart that could be easily pushed.

Eric Stock can be reached at eric.stock@cumulus.com.

Maurice Koehl

Maurice James Koehl, 81, Fairbury, died at 7:37 p.m. March 5 at Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Fairbury.

His funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury with the ministers of the Forrest Apostolic Christian Church, officiating.  Burial will be in South Graceland Cemetery, Fairbury.

Visitation will be 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Wednesday and 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. Thursday also at the memorial home.  The family suggests memorials be given to South East Livingston County Ambulance Service; Dominy Memorial Library; or Fairview Haven Retirement Community, all of Fairbury.

Mr. Koehl was born March 26, 1935 in rural Strawn the son of Andrew and Martha Zimmerman Koehl.  He married Carol Sue Schenck on Aug. 2, 1964 in Chenoa.  She survives in Fairbury.

Other survivors include a daughter, Jill E. Koehl, Mt. Zion; a son, Andrew J. (Jennifer) Koehl, Greensburg, Penn.; a granddaughter, Heidi Koehl; two sisters, Bernice Cox and Velda Huette, both of Fairbury; two sisters-in-law, Gladys Koehl, Fairbury and Janita Koehl, Ohio.

He is preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters.

Mr. Koehl was a 1953 graduate of Fairbury-Cropsey high School and served in the US Army from 1958 to 1964.  He formerly worked at Maurer and Roth Plumbing and Heating and later owned and operated Maurice Koehl Plumbing until his retirement.  He attended the Apostolic Christian Church, Forrest.

An online guest registry is available at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

BLOOMINGTON – Larry A. Ward, 65, of Bloomington, passed away on Saturday, March 4, 2017 at 2 a.m. in his home with his family by his side.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, March 9, 2017 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington. Military Honors will be conducted by the Bloomington/Normal American Legion Honor Guard at 4 p.m.

Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington, Illinois is in charge of arrangements.

Larry was born on November 25, 1951 in Bloomington, Illinois, the son of James and Rose (Steigberger) Ward. He married Pam Carter on November 5, 1977 in Downs, Illinois.

Larry is survived by his wife Pam of Bloomington, his daughter; Angela (Gered) Traurig of Normal, grandchildren; Adison and Reilly, sister; Nancy (Bill) Jones of Carlock and several nieces and nephews whom he loved very much.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister; Linda Ward.

He was a graduate of Bloomington High School Class of 1970, He served in the US Army during the Vietnam War and was a member of Vintage Wheels Car Club.

Larry was a diehard Green Bay Packers fan who liked fishing and watching NASCAR. He truly enjoyed using his skills to help build homes with Habitat for Humanity and was proud to serve as a project manager for several of them. Larry dearly loved spending time with his family and he will be truly missed by all of them.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation or Habitat for Humanity.

Online condolences may be made to www.calvertmemorial.com.

Richard Duff

Richard R. “Dick” Duff, 78, of Bloomington, passed away at 9:35 p.m., March 7, at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, Normal.

The Bloomington-Normal American Legion Honor Guard will provide military honors 4:00 p.m., Thursday at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home; visitation will follow until 7:00 p.m..

Memorials may be directed to Disabled American Veterans.

Dick was born Feb. 7, 1939 in Gary, Ind., the son of Rex Xavier and Josephine Oakman Duff. He married Rose M. Godsey on Sept. 22, 2001 in Bloomington. She survives.

Also surviving are his sister, Suellen (Ronald) Randolph of Bloomington; four children, Mike (Sarah) Cavinder of Saybrook, John (Kristin) Cavinder of Colfax, Tim (Heather) Cavinder of Bloomington and Bryan (Lynette) Cavinder of Normal; and eight grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, David E. Duff and two sisters, Jo Deane Taylo and Mary Danison.

Dick graduated from Clinton High School and then enlisted in the US Marine Corps, serving from 1956-1960.  He graduated from Eastern Illinois University, where he played football all four years.

After college he spent over 20 years in advertising in Decatur and moved to Bloomington in 1987, beginning his career with Dennison Ford.  He truly enjoyed sales and working with the public.  He looked forward each and every day, believing he could make new friends by helping them in a straight forward way.

Dick loved Frank Sinatra, the Chicago Cubs, but most of all, his grandkids.

To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.

Jerry Henderson

Jerry M. Henderson, 93 of Bloomington, passed away on March 6 at 2:12 p.m. at Heritage Health Care, Normal.

Jerry’s service will be held on Friday at 1 p.m. at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington with Pastor Kathy King-Nobles officiating. Following services interment will be held at East Lawn Memorial Gardens, Bloomington. Visitation will be held from 11-1pm on Friday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the Towanda Illinois Route 66 Parkway, 10 Bent Tree Lane, Towanda, Illinois 61776; Towanda Boy Scout Troop 56 c/o Mike Potts, P.O. Box 103, Towanda, Ill. 61776 or First United Methodist Church, 211 North School Street, Normal, Ill. 61761.

Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home is in charge of arrangements.

Jerry was born on June 6, 1923 at Normal, the son of Denny E. and Ruth Helen (Manford) Henderson. He married Ellen Jones on Nov. 29, 1947 at Bloomington. She passed away on April 25, 1988. He later married Mary Lou Birky on Aug. 21, 1991 at Seymour, Ind.

He is survived by his wife Mary Lou of Bloomington, his children: Hunt Henderson of Towanda, and Holly H. (Arnie) Lober of LeRoy and step children:

David Birky of Carlock and Nancy (Bill) McClarty of Bloomington. Also surviving are 9 grandchildren and step grandchildren and a number of great grandchildren and step great grandchildren.

Jerry was a graduate of Towanda High School and attended Illinois Wesleyan for a year. He served in the US Army Air Corps from 1943 until late 1945, having attained the rank of 2nd Lt. After his WWII service Jerry farmed in the Towanda area for 40 years. Jerry was quite active in a number of community programs and served as a trustee and several terms as Mayor of Towanda and Scoutmaster. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge and Scottish Rite and a member of the First United Methodist Church of Normal.

When Jerry was not busy you would find him relaxing with his favorite rod and reel. Jerry was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He will be truly missed by all of them.

Online condolences may be made to www.calvertmemorial.com.