Dolores Lockenvitz

Dolores J. Lockenvitz, 78, of Bloomington, passed away at 3:41 a.m., July 12 at Heritage Health in Normal.

Her funeral will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday at Historic St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Bloomington with Rev. Jeffery Windy and Rev. Douglas Hennessy officiating.  Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Normal.  Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m., Friday at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington with a prayer service at 3:15 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association or St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry.

Dolores was born Sep. 21, 1937 in Springfield, the daughter of Edward B. and Bernice Page Berberet.  She married Ronald T. Lockenvitz on Aug. 16, 1958 in Bloomington.  He preceded her in death on Dec. 3, 2011.

Surviving are her children, Jeff (Gina) Lockenvitz of Normal, Brian (Lisa) Lockenvitz of Hudson and Laura (Todd) Miller of Bloomington; eight grandchildren, Michael, Mitchell and Thomas Lockenvitz, Sarah and Alison Lockenvitz and Blake, Cassidy and Ashley Miller; a sister Patricia (James) Kane of Roscoe, Ill. and a brother-in-law, Roger (Linda) Forrest of Bloomington.

She was also preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Regina Forrest.

Dolores was a 1955 graduate of Trinity High School.  She was a legal secretary for over 25 years for numerous attorneys in Bloomington and had also been awarded the Illinois Legal Secretary of the Year.

She was raised at Historic St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and was a current member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church.  Dolores had a strong Roman Catholic faith and it showed throughout her life.

Dolores was a caring, loving and generous person who was always putting others first,  She was a caregiver for nearly all her family that passed before her.

She was a longtime member of Lakeside Country Club.  Dolores would often say “life is too short” and would remind others to have fun.

Dolores enjoyed reading and frequent trips to Destin, Florida.  Her family was her life, especially her grandchildren.

Her family would like to thank the physicians, nurses and staff at Heritage Health’s Legacy Unit for all their care and support given to Dolores. To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.

Marilyn Bland

Marilyn A. Bland, 90, of El Paso, formerly of Bloomington, Las Vegas and Rockford, passed away at 1:05 p.m. on July 12 at Heritage Health Care Center in El Paso.

Her Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials may be made to Heritage Health Care Activity Fund El Paso. Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Marilyn was born on Oct. 15, 1925 in St. Joseph, Missouri, a daughter to Frank and Leona Hoskins Baker. She married James L. Bland in Queen City, Mo. on April 17, 1943. He preceded her in death in 2007.

Surviving are two sons, James (Karen) Bland, Hudson and Jody (Stina) Bland, Denver, Co.; three grandchildren, Jayme (Lora) Bland, Hudson, Hannah and Alex Bland, Denver, Co.; two step-grandchildren, Doug (Michelle) Robinson, St. Charles, Donnie (Jonna) Robinson, Bloomington; eight great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Helen and Martha.

Marilyn was very creative and enjoyed sewing, working with stained glass, gardening, and quilting. She worked at Barber-Coleman in Rockford before retiring in 1977. She also enjoyed traveling the world with her husband.

The family would like to thank the Staff at Heritage Health Care Center for the loving care they gave Marilyn while she was there.

Online condolences and memories of Marilyn may be left for the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.

By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON – He’s considered one of the legends of Illinois Wesleyan athletics even though many might not have known him.

That’s because Ed Alsene spent much of his time promoting the achievements of others. Alsene died on Sunday at age 92. His death comes eight months after the university named its Sports Information Department in his honor – an office he served with distinction for 23 years from 1965 to 1988.

PODCAST: Listen to WJBC’s interview with Dennis Bridges.

“It’s amazing the number of athletes – the guys that were on the team who appreciated and recognized what Edgar had done for them – and came back,” retired IWU athletic director Dennie Bridges said.

Bridges said Alsene brought professionalism to an athletic program at a time when coaches were used to doing everything, including stats and player information on their own.

“He just made us a much more professional organization,” Bridges said. “At that time I don’t know whether Augustana and Millikin and the other schools had SIDs, but boy it was really great that we did.”

Bridges added Alsene was instrumental in helping Wesleyan students become Academic All-Americans. To this day, IWU ranks among the best in the country in that area with more than 100.

In 1986, Alsene was elected to the Hall of Fame of the College Sports Information Directors of America, at the time becoming only the second person from a small, private school to be so honored, according to IWUsports.com.

Funeral arrangements are pending at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home in Bloomington.

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

Lowell Winterland

Lowell Eugene Winterland, 83, Fairbury, died at 9:28 p.m. July 16 at Evenglow Inn, Pontiac.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, rural Colfax with Pastor Jon Berg officiating.  Burial will be in the Immanuel Lutheran Church Cemetery, rural Colfax.

Visitation will be 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury.  The family suggests memorials be given to the Fairview Haven Retirement Community for the planned Memory Support Unit.

Mr. Winterland was born Jan. 30, 1933 at the Winterland homestead north of Colfax, the son of Ben and Catherine Ficken Winterland.  He married Betty Freeman on Dec. 22, 1960 in Peoria.  She survives in Fairbury.

Other survivors include one daughter, Debbie (Rob) Carney, El Paso; two sons, David Winterland, Minonk; Michael (Valerie) Winterland, Fairbury; nine grandchildren, Amanda, Ben, Jocelyn, Ethan, Braden, Katelind, Emma, Carson and Dylan; one brother, Robert (Virginia) Winterland, Colfax; mother-in-law, Dorothy Freeman, Fairbury; sisters-in-law, Louise Winterland, Colfax; Barbara Winterland, Fairbury and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Wilma Harms and Fern Smith; two brothers, Glenn and Dale Winterland.

Mr. Winterland was a 1950 graduate of Octavia High School and a lifetime farmer.  He served in the United States Army during the Korean War (1953-1955).  He was a member of the John Joda American Legion, Fairbury and the First Lutheran Church, Pontiac.

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

Margaret Johnson

Margaret R. Johnson, 90 of Chatsworth passed away at 4:50 p.m., Sunday at Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Fairbury.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m., Friday at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, Chatsworth; with Pastor Mauricio Vieira’s officiating.  Burial will follow in Chatsworth Township Cemetery, Chatsworth.

Visitation will be 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury and one hour prior to her service on Friday at the church in Chatsworth.

The family suggests that memorials be directed to St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, Chatsworth or Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Fairbury.

Margaret was born Aug. 25, 1925 in rural Fairbury; the daughter of Harry and Emma (Frohling) Mehrings.  She married Wesley Johnson on Dec. 19, 1943 in Crescent City.  Her husband preceded her in death in 1999.  Her parents and a son in-law, Dale Miller also preceded her in death.

Survivors include her children, Virginia Miller and Harry (Til) Johnson, both of Forrest; two sisters, Elizabeth Engelbrecht of Paxton and Mary Ellen Sanders of Fairbury; seven grandchildren, Michael (Marcie) Miller, Michelle (Gregg) Honegger, Matthew (Tammy) Miller, Marcus (Alicia) Miller, Trent (Jennifer) Johnson, Travis Johnson and TeAnna (Dan) Herr and 19 great grandchildren.

Mrs. Johnson was a member of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church and the American Legion Auxiliary, both of Chatsworth.  She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

A guest book is available at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com to leave condolences for the family.

Virginia Brannan

Virginia Dowdall Brannan, 85, of Bloomington passed away at 11:00 p.m. on July 16 at Heritage Manor in Bloomington.

Her funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday at First Baptist Church in Bloomington with Pastor Adam M. Davis officiating. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 p.m. on Friday at Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington and one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Interment will be at Carrollton City Cemetery in Carrollton. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church. Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Virginia was born on Jan. 17, 1931 in Carrollton, Ill., a daughter to Leven Marwood and Abbie Voorhees Dowdell, Sr. She married Charles “Charlie” Brannan on Feb. 7, 1953 in the Baptist Church in Carrollton. He preceded her in death on Oct. 25, 1994.

Surviving are her two children, David (Lezlie) Brannan of Bloomington and Linda (Chris) Witte of Shirley; seven grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Lucille Farnsworth; two brothers, Leven Marwood Dowdell, Jr and Russell Dowdell.

Virginia was educated in Carrollton schools and was the first Homecoming Queen of Carrollton High School where she also had a street named in her honor.

She graduated from Illinois State Normal University with a degree in education. She taught second grade in Phoenix, AZ for two years while her husband was in the Air Force. They returned to Bloomington and Virginia was a teacher in District 87 schools while Charlie attended ISNU, she taught for seven years. Later, she worked as a substitute teacher within District 87 for 30 years, retiring in 1995.

Virginia was a long time member and an active member at First Baptist Church where she was a trustee and in charge of receptions.

She always said Carrollton was a great town to grow up in, she had so many happy memories of her childhood there.

Virginia was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was deeply loved and will be truly missed.

Online condolences and memories of Virginia may be left for the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.

James Platt

James “Jim” Paul Platt, 63, of Normal, formerly of Carlyle, passed away at 3:15 p.m. on July 18 at McLean County Nursing Home in Normal.

His funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday at Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington with Bill Platt officiating. Visitation will be two hours prior to services at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Jim was born on July 10, 1953 in Carlyle, Ill., a son to James and Jean Frerker Platt. He married Nancy McNiff on Oct. 15, 1983. She survives.

He grew up in Carlyle, Ill., was a graduate of Eastern Illinois University and later moved to Bloomington where he began his career with State Farm Insurance Company. Jim was employed with State Farm for 33 years, retiring in 2011.

Surviving are three sons, James Platt of Dallas, Texas, David Platt and Michael Platt both of Normal; three sisters, Jean “Missy” (Steve) Holtgrave of Carlyle, Mary “Mimi” (Phil) Rapp and Caroline “Gigi” Platt both of Centralia and a brother, Bill (Diane) Platt of Tulsa, Okla.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Paul Platt.

Jim raised his sons in Bloomington who he was very proud of and was a dedicated father as well as a friend to many.

Online condolences and memories of Jim may be left for the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.

Jimmy Larsen

Jimmy R. Larsen, 63, of Bloomington, passed away on July 21 at his residence.

His funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday at Eastview Christian Church in Normal with Pastor J.K. Jones officiating. Visitation will be from 9-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church on Monday. Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Interment will be at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery in Bloomington. Memorials may be made to Salem4Youth, Flanagan.

Jimmy was born on Feb. 4, 1953 in Mishawaka, Indiana, a son to Walter and Gertrude Drada Larsen. He married Michele Drolet on July 24, 1985.

Surviving is his wife, Michele Larsen of Bloomington; three children, Sara Larsen of Chicago, Holly (Caleb) Muir of Bloomington and Sean Larsen of Bloomington; two sisters, Jan Asbury and Joanna Flory; and one brother, Jerry Larsen.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, John Larsen.

Jimmy was the owner and operator of Central Illinois X-Ray in Bloomington.

He was a member of Eastview Christian Church in Normal where his Savior Jesus Christ was his guiding force. His passion was serving as a counselor and mentor at Salem4Youth, a boys home in Flanagan, Illinois.

Jimmy was a hard working, committed, loving husband and father. He fought a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was greatly loved and will be truly missed by his family and friends.

Online condolences and memories of Jimmy may be left for the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.

Walter Mounce

Walter E. Mounce, 90, of Bloomington peacefully passed away at 1:30 a.m. on July 21, at McLean County Nursing Home in Normal.

His funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, at Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington. Visitation will be from 9-11:00 a.m. prior to the service on Monday at the funeral home.

Internment will be at Pennell Cemetery in Towanda where Military Rites will be accorded by Bloomington-Normal American Legion Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association – alz.org.

Walter was born Aug. 30, 1925, in Decatur, a son to Virgil and Fannie Devore Mounce. He married Luella Perkins on July 12, 1947, in Bloomington. They just celebrated their 69th anniversary.

Surviving is his wife, Luella Mounce of Bloomington; son, Michael A. (Pam) Mounce of Normal; daughter Susan E. Stewart of Champaign; brother, Ron (Janet) of Bloomington; sister Beverly (Warren) Amberg of Danvers; granddaughter, LeAnn (Chad) Jennings of Bloomington; grandson Bryan (Sara) Mounce of Bloomington; three great grandchildren, and three step-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Donald Mounce.

Walter joined the United States Marines Corp. in 1943 at the age of 18. He fought at Saipan and Tinian, islands in the northern Mariana Isles in the western Pacific. Wounded twice, he received the Purple Heart from the country he most dearly loved. He was discharged as a Corporal in 1945.

He served as a Bloomington Policeman for 22 years. He was promoted to Sergeant and Lieutenant of Traffic before retiring in 1977. While leading the traffic department, the city went one year without traffic fatalities.

Walter was a member of the American Legion Carl S. Martin Post #635; VFW Post #454; Bloomington Elk’s Lodge #281 and Illinois Police Association #7816.

He was a sportsman and a sports fan. He was a Dodger fan mainly due to his friendship with fellow Marine, Gil Hodges. They served together during WWII and kept in touch. He saw his dearly loved Bears win the Super Bowl 1985. He was an avid golfer, fisherman, and he loved to hunt in his younger years.

Walter was loved by his family, colleagues, and friends. He never met a stranger and wherever he went, someone always knew him. He lived and shared his values. He was honest man, found humor in almost every situation, had a strong work ethic, and gave his love freely. He will be missed but never forgotten.

Online condolences and memories of Walter may be left for the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.

Tara Thompson

Tara Thompson, 31, of Bloomington went to see her “Maker” on July 20.

Her visitation will be from 2-5:00 p.m. on Sunday at Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home. A private service for the family and close friends will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

Interment will be at Park Hill Cemetery.

Tara was born on March 15, 1985 in Bloomington, a daughter to Larry Thompson and Bobbi Case, both of Bloomington. She is survived by her sister and best friend, Krista Thompson of Bloomington and three brothers, Tyler and Blake Thompson, both of Bloomington and Justin Case of Elkton, Ky.

The family would like to thank everyone who knew Tara and was a part of her fun, loving life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contribution can be made to the Tara Thompson Memorial Fund % PNC Bank, 202 E. Washington St. Bloomington, Ill., 61701 or can be dropped off at the funeral home.

Please share your condolences and memories of Tara at kiblerbradyruestman.com. Where you may view the full obituary.

Carol Hanover

Carol Jean Hanover, 71, of Bloomington, passed away at 2:06 p.m. on July 24 at Bloomington Rehabilitation Health Care in Bloomington.

Her Graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday at East Lawn Memorial Gardens in Bloomington. Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorials may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Carol was born on Aug. 11, 1944 in Bloomington, a daughter to Carl W. And Ruth M. Hight Hanover.

Surviving are two cousins, Harold Atkins of Brownburg, Ind. and Charles Ulrich of Gainesville, Ga.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Phyllis.

Online condolences and memories of Carol may be left for the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.

Raymond Cushing

Raymond Eugene Cushing, 60, of Bloomington, passed away on July 19 at 4 p.m. at Heartland Health Care, Normal. Cremation rites were accorded.

He was born Jan. 27, 1956 in Bloomington, a son of George W. and Marijane Woodward Cushing. Ray attended Bloomington Schools and worked most of his life as a chef, including many years at the Ozark House and most recently at IWU.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his long-time best friend, Calvin “Shorty” Gaston.

Ray is survived by seven brothers and sisters; Sara Cushing, Bloomington; George (Linda) Cushing, Rio Verde, Ariz.; Robert (Karen) Cushing, Normal; Theresa (Craig) Erikson, Benton Harbor, Michigan; Mary Cushing Resch, Springfield; Carol (Margo Chaney) Cushing, Urbana; and Tony (Kathy) Cushing, Bloomington; and by his life-long friend, Janet Goble of San Pablo, Calif. Nine nieces and nephews and seven great-nieces and nephews also survive.

Ray loved music and was also a voracious reader, saving years of back issues of National Geographic. His inquisitive mind and varied interests led to many lively conversations with friends and family.

The family would like to give heartfelt thanks to Dr. Pramern Sriratana; the nurses, aides and staff of Heartland Health Care; and the nurses and volunteers of St. Joseph Hospice for their care of Ray in his final battle with lung cancer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, 711 N. Main St., Bloomington, Ill. 61701.

Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington is in charge of arrangements.

Visitation and a Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, Aug. 19, 2016 from 12:30-2 p.m. at Beck Memorial Home. A luncheon will follow. Burial will be private.

Online condolences may be made to www.beckmemorial.com<http://www.beckmemorial.com/

Richard Walter

Richard J. Walter, 90, Fairbury, died at 5:00 a.m. July 25 at the Decatur Memorial Hospital.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the Apostolic Christian Church, Fairbury with ministers of the church officiating.  Burial will be in the Fairbury Apostolic Christian Cemetery.

Visitation will be 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury and 9:00 to 9:45 a.m. Thursday at the church.  The family suggests memorials be given to Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Fairbury for the planned Memory Support Unit.

Mr. Walter was born July 16, 1926 in Saunemin, Ill. the son of Samuel D. and Ruth Schlipf Walter.  He married Colleen R. Moser on Dec. 2, 1956 in Fairbury.  She survives in Fairbury.

Other survivors include their children, Julie (Mark) Runyon; Sam (Judy) Walter, both of Fairbury; Katie Walter, Normal; Daniel (Patti) Walter, Chatsworth; Alan (Linda) Walter, Fairbury; fifteen grandchildren, Trent (Shelley) and Josh Runyon; Kyle and Mackenzie (Josh Masching) Walter; Drake, Mikayla, Madyson, Mariah Walter; Travis (Kate), Dana, and Heather Walter; Jacob, Jared (Allison), Eli and Elizabeth Walter; one brother, Art Walter; one sister, Eleanor (Wayne) Honegger; and one sister-in-law, Arlene Walter, all of Fairbury.

He is preceded in death by one brother, Willard Walter and three grandchildren, Dustin, Maggie and Jacob.

Mr. Walter formerly owned and operated Sam Walter and Sons, Fairbury working in the family business from 1942 until his retirement in 2008.  He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church, Fairbury.

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

Richard Bromley

Richard J. Bromley, 79, of Bloomington passed away at 8:35 a.m. on July 23 at Advocate Bromenn Medical Center in Normal.

His Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday at Kibler- Brady- Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington. Cremation rites have been accorded. Internment will be at South Side Cemetery in Pontiac.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the American Heart Association.

Richard was born in Pontiac on May 5, 1937, a son to Frank and Ella McKinley Bromley.

He married Mary Alice Opperman in Pontiac on October 19, 1959. She preceded him in death on March 4, 2016.

Surviving are his children, Michael Bromley, Phoenix, Ariz.; Linda (Dan) Gerber, Bowling Green, Ohio; and two grandchildren, Davis and Drake Gerber, both of Bowling Green, Ohio.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and a son, Steven Bromley.

Richard was a member of First United Methodist Church in Normal. He retired from GTE in Bloomington in 1993. He was heavily involved in politics and was a proud member of the GOP.

He and Mary were graduates of Illinois Wesleyan University and enjoyed following Titan Sports. He loved fishing at Bayles Lake, especially when his grandsons were able to join him.

Online condolences and memories of Richard may be sent to his family at www.kiblerbradyruestman.com.

James Crowley

James W. Crowley, 82, of Normal, passed away at 11:50 p.m., July 26 at McLean County Nursing Home in Normal.

His memorial service will be at 4:30 p.m., Friday at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington.  Interment will be private.  Visitation will be from 2:00-4:30 p.m., Friday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Toys for Tots.

James was born Aug. 12, 1933 in Chicago, the son of Merle F. and Mildred Angstrom Crowley.  He married Gloria Desideri on Sep. 12, 1959 and she preceded him in death on June 19, 2012.

James is survived by his son, Jim Crowley of Heyworth and was preceded in death by one sister.

James was a civil engineer and a project manager for many companies.  He had a very distinguished career and was a phenomenal speaker.

James had a love of the outdoors and was passionate about fishing.  He thought every child should have a fishing pole in their hands by the time they could walk.  His two favorite actors were John Wayne and Clint Eastwood.

The two quotable lessons he taught his son was “always shake a man’s hand while you look him in the eye” and “you never know a man until you spend a day in a boat with him.”

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

Linda Angus

Linda Lou Babbs Angus, 71, of Pontiac, passed away at 7:10 a.m., July 25 at Pontiac Healthcare and Rehab.

Cremation has been accorded.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Forrest. Pastor Corrine Blissard will be officiating.

Friends may greet the family from 1-3:00 p.m., on Sunday at the church.

Inurnment will take place at a later date in Graceland Cemetery, Fairbury.

Memorials may be made to the family or Livingston County Humane Society.

Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury is in charge of arrangements.

Linda was born Dec. 11, 1944 in Bloomington the daughter of Leslie and Alda Hartman Babbs.

Surviving are her daughter, Carrie (Clint Garrett) Eby of Bloomington; son, Bradley Vanderm of Ind.; grandchildren, Travis Baysinger, James, Joshua, and Sandra Lawhorn; great-grandchildren, Jenniffer and Jenna Lawhorn; sisters, Gloria Babbs of Ariz., Donna (Don Colvin) Stehle of Chatsworth, and Kathy (Randy) Rhoads of Fairbury; brother, Gary (Kim) Babbs of Pontiac; her best friends, Raul Rios and toni Brucker; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Russell Babbs, and grandson, Scotty Lee Sanches.

Linda worked for many years for Fosdicks Poultry in Fairbury.

She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Forrest and attended Kulture Church in Pontiac.

Condolences and tributes may be made to the family at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

Frances Larson

Frances K. Larson, 89, of Bloomington-Normal, passed away on July 28 at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center in Normal surrounded by family.

Her Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Bloomington with Fr. Anthony Lee officiating and Fr. Michael Pakula (cousin) concelebrating and officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the mass at the church.

Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Interment will be in St. Vincent’s Cemetery in LaSalle. Memorials may be made to Holy Trinity Church, or Long Meadow Rescue Ranch, Union, Mo.

Frances was born on Aug. 13, 1926 in LaSalle, a daughter to Frank and Stephanie Klopcic Kobilsek. She married John “Mel” Larson on Jan. 27, 1951 in LaSalle. They were married for 49 years, he preceded her in death on Feb. 11, 2000.

Surviving are her four children, Carol (Thomas) Kobza of Crystal Lake, Mary Ellen Larson of Normal, John (Ann)Larson of St. Peters, Mo. and Christopher J. Larson of Lavonia, Miss.; four grandchildren, Ann (Ian) Gindes, Steven Leszcynski, Richard G. Larson and Kaitlin A. Larson; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Daniel Kobilsek.

Frances became a registered surgical nurse through World War II-Army Nurse Corp program at St. Frances Hospital in Peoria. Over the years she worked at St. Margaret’s Hospital in Spring Valley, Mendota Community Hospital in Mendota and retired from St. Mary’s Hospital in Decatur.

She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Bloomington. She enjoyed cooking and baking, especially for family holiday celebrations. Frances enjoyed classical music and was proud to have been a member of the LaSalle Peru High School State Champion Orchestra of 1942.

Frances had a love for plants and flowers, especially African Violets. She was an enthusiastic photographer, always taking a camera with her and sharing photos with family and friends.

Online memorials and memories of Frances may be left for the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.

Olevia Fleming

Olevia Estella Fleming, 65, of Bloomington, formerly of Kansas City, Kan., passed away at 11:51 p.m. on July 26 at her residence.

Her funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday at Allen Chapel AME Church in Kansas City, Kansas with Rev. David Davis officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Interment will be at Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, Kansas. Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Olevia was born on June 9, 1951 in Kansas City, Kan., a daughter to James E. and Eugenia (Holmes) Turner. She married Stanley Fleming, Sr. on Dec. 20, 1969 in Kansas City, Kan.

Surviving is her childhood sweetheart and husband of 46 years, Stanley Fleming, Sr. of Bloomington; one son, Stan (Daphne) Fleming, Jr. of McKinney, Texas; two daughters, Teandra Fleming of Bloomington and Diah Conkrite of Des Moines, Iowa; eight grandchildren, Mariah, Elijah, Brandon, Bryan, Joshua, Jozalynn, Josiah and Justus; great grandson, Kaysen; mother, Eugenia McBride of Kansas City, Kan.; three sisters, Arlisha, Deitra (Darren), both of Kansas City, Kan. and Rochelle (Jefferson) of Independence, Mo.; one brother, Rodney of Kansas City, Kan.; half-brother, Vincent (Crystal) of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.; and half-sister, Lisa (Keith) of Kansas City, Kan.

She was preceded in death by her father.

Olevia graduated from Wyandotte High School. She worked at State Farm Insurance until her retirement in the CAT Dept. She was an avid reader and a writer of poetry.

She was baptized at Allen Chapel AME Church. Olevia was a member of Mt. Zion Christian Church in Bloomington.

Olevia was a wonderful wife and a exemplary mother and will be greatly missed.

Online condolences and memories of Olevia may be left for the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.

Fairbury – Charles M. Whitfill, 94, of Fairbury; formerly of Hot Springs Village, AR; passed away at 8:55 pm, Friday, July 29, 2016 at Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Fairbury.

Cremation rites have been accorded.  A private family memorial service will be held at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury.  There will be no public visitation and the family suggests that memorial contributions be directed to Fairview Haven Retirement Community, Fairbury or OSF Hospice.

Mr. Whitfill was born October 7, 1921 in Bloomington; the son of Lawrence and Polly Anna (Baysinger) Whitfill.  He married Betty Mae Scurlock on April 15, 1942 in Forrest, IL.  She passed away on February 25, 1970.  He later married Frances Ruth Kueper on July 6, 1974.   She passed away on January 21, 2008.

Survivors include four children, Michele (Jim) Paternoster of Fairbury, IL; Douglas (Sally) Whitfill of Mount Zion, IL; Stephen (Becky) Whitfill of Oakley, IL; and Tymori Slade of St. Charles, IL; two sisters, Marjorie Baker of Forrest, IL; Helen Meyer of Fairbury, IL; 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and four sisters.

Charles served our country from 1942 – 1945 as a medic in the U.S. Army during WWII. As a Staff Sergeant in the 382^nd Infantry, 96^th Division he was stationed on Leyte Island, Philippines and in Okinawa, Japan.  He was a decorated soldier who received two bronze stars and was awarded the Purple Heart in 1945.  Charles was a proud member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart and attended the Veteran’s Honor Flight to Washington DC in 2010.

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

Richard Alvis Sr.

Richard E. Alvis Sr., 65 of Metamora, passed away Aug. 2 at 3:30 p.m. at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home, Peoria.

Visitation for Richard will be held on Friday from 5-8 p.m. at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington. Cremation rites will be accorded. Internment will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to FBO Richard Alvis at CEFCU.

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

Richard was born on Nov. 18, 1950 in Bloomington to Howard L.

and Mary E. Deal Alvis. He married Penny Pinkston from 1980 – 2001.

Richard is survived by his son; Rick (Candace) Alvis II of Peoria, grandchildren; Jett Maddox and Max Grayson Alvis, Rick’s mom; Penny (Rick) Cozart of Cuba, Ill., his dear friend; Paula Dudas of Metamora, brothers and sisters; Steve (Crystal) Alvis, Robert (Denise) Alvis, Ellen Thomas and Waneta (Thomas) Moews all of Bloomington.

He is preceded by his parents, three brothers and one sister.

Richard graduated from Normal Community High School class of 1968. He was a member of the Teamster Union 627 of Peoria.

He was an avid golfer, enjoyed his cars and most of all he was proud of his grandsons and enjoyed spending time playing with them.

He will be dearly missed by all his family and friends.

Online condolences may be made to www.calvertmemorial.com<http://www.calvertmemorial.com/

Angela Steidinger

Angela N. Steidinger, 30, of Forrest and Bloomington, passed away at 6:23 a.m., Aug. 2 in Bloomington.

Her funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Forrest. Pastor Corinne Blissard will be officiating.

Burial will be in Forrest Township Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 11-1:00 p.m., Saturday, also at the Church.

Memorials may be made to the family.

Angels was born Nov. 27, 1985, in Fairbury the daughter of Vernon and Gina Runyon Steidinger.

Surviving are her children, DegunHutchcraft and ColtynSteidinger; mother, Gina (Ricardo) Gomez of Forrest; father, Vernon (Kimberly) Steidinger of Lexington; maternal grandparents, Jo Ann Runyon of Forrest and Nick Runyon of Chatsworth; paternal grandmother, Alice Steidinger of Fairbury; her Fiancé, Nikko Arnato of Bloomington; brothers, Justin (Tricia) Steidinger  and Brandon Long both of Forrest; sister, Abbey Steidinger of Lexington; nieces and nephews, Gabriel, Garrett, Ellie, Gage and Gretchen Steidinger.

She was preceded in death by four grandparents, one brother and one uncle.

Angela loved her jobs at Dave’s Supermarket in Fairbury and Ropp Farm and Nursery in Bloomington.

Condolences and tributes may be made to the family at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

Mildred Smolik

Mildred M. Smolik, age 100 of Table Grove, Ill. passed away at 2:25 a.m. Thursday, August 4, 2016 at The Elms Nursing Facility in Macomb, Illinois.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 am Tuesday Aug. 9 at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home in Bloomington, Ill. with Fr. Anthony Lee officiating. Graveside Services will be 2:00 pm Tuesday August 9th at Bohemian National Cemetery Braidwood, Ill. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home with memorials being made to St. Jude’s or the American Heart Association.

Mrs. Smolik was born Sept. 8, 1915 in Chicago the daughter of Gustav and Jennie (Vacheron) Blazicek. She married Ernest H. Smolik on December 19, 1936 in Chicago. Mr. Smolik preceded her on May 31, 1983.

She is survived by daughters, Diane (James) Hermes, Table Grove, Illinois, Karen (John) Kress, Wiggins, Colorado and a son, Ernest James (Judy) Smolik, Wilmot, Wisconsin. Also surviving are 11 grandchildren, many great grandchildren and several great-great grandchildren. She was preceded by her brother, Anthony Blazicek.

In her early years she was a beautician on State Street in the Chicago Loop. She attended St. Paul Catholic Church in Macomb and until recently she was active with the Fulton County Meals on Wheels.

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

Ryker Messamore

Ryker James Messamore, infant son of Justin and Beverly Messamore, became an angel on Aug. 5.

Private family services are being held. Memorials may be made to the family.

Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury is in charge of arrangements.

Surviving are his parents, Justin and Beverly (Taksin) Messamore of Fairbury; maternal grandparents, Sam and Victoria Taksin of Fairbury; paternal grandparents, Brenda and Eric Fox of Cropsey; and Michael Messamore of Colfax; paternal great-grandparents, Phyllis Messamore of Bloomington and Marilyn Fox of Galva.

Condolences and tributes may be made to the family at www.duffypilsmemorialhome.com.

Beverly Rieger

Beverly Ann Rieger, 75, of Bloomington, died peacefully at 8:00 a.m. Aug. 1 at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

A celebration of Bev’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Eastview Christian Church, Normal with Jeff Elliott officiating.  Private inurnment will take place in Forrest Twp. Cemetery at a later date.  Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury is assisting with arrangements.  In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be given to the Home Sweet Home Mission, Bloomington or the Community Cancer Center, Normal.

Bev was born Jan. 22, 1941 in Strawn, Ill. the daughter of Hermie and Edna Kessler Shive.  She married Keith D. Rieger on June 18, 1961 in Fairbury.  He survives in Bloomington.

Other survivors include one son, Kurt D. (Cindy) Rieger, Lake St. Louis, Mo.; two grandchildren, Jamie E. and Joshua P. Rieger; one sister, Marlene M. Moore, Gibson City.

She is preceded in death by one son, Paige A. Rieger; one brother, Chuck Shive; and one sister, Wilma Gerber.

Bev was a 1958 graduate of Forrest-Strawn-Wing High School.  She formerly co-owned and operated The Figurine, Clifton and the Yearling Children’s Apparel, Bloomington.  Most recently she owned and operated Kebe Associates, Bloomington and had a positive effect on numerous people in the affiliate marketing industry.

She was a member of Eastview Christian Church, Normal and was very active member of the social committee at Crestwicke Country Club.

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

Grace Davies

Grace A. Davies, 98 years young, passed away peacefully Aug. 5, with one of her many nieces by her side, at Martin Health Center where she resided in Bloomington.  Grace was born Aug. 20, 1917, to Karl Simon Davies and Grace Cody (Quigley) Davies in Morris, Illinois.

After growing up on the family farm, Grace chose the life of an independent modern woman, working as a bookkeeper until her retirement in 1982.  A member of Wesley United Methodist Church in Bloomington, Grace was active in the women’s circle and enjoyed the fellowship and friendship found there. An accomplished seamstress and knitter in her free time, Grace frequently knitted sweaters for Guideposts’ Sweater Project through World Vision. Grace enjoyed traveling with friends and family and visited Hawaii, Europe and Canada. As the self-appointed family historian Grace enjoyed genealogy research.  She was a wicked Scrabble player!

Grace was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Earl (Betty) Davies, Simon (Rose) Davies, and Robert (Jane) Davies; as well as sisters Laurel (Horace) Shaw, Janet (John) DeLaurier, Joyce (Allan) Smith, Vivian

(James) Mount and Ellen Hulbert.  Grace will be greatly missed by her surviving sisters Lila (Frank) Wright of Burr Ridge, Marian (Richard) Campbell of Rockford, and Rose Marie Jewett of Janesville, Wisconsin.  Grace also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews and their families who even now miss her stories and wonderful sense of humor.  There will be a private memorial service for the family.  Donations may be made in Grace’s memory

to:  Advocate at Home Hospice Services, 303 N. Hershey Rd., Suite C, Bloomington, Ill. 61704 or Westminster Village Foundation, 2025 E. Lincoln St., Bloomington, Ill. 61701.

Ronald Falb

Ronald A. F. Falb, 84, of Normal, passed away at 6:45 a.m. on Aug. 6 at Meadows Mennonite in Meadows.

His funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at Christ Lutheran Church in Normal with Pastor Jonathan Huehn officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Interment will be at Lutheran Cemetery in Peoria. Memorials may be made to Christ Lutheran Church in Normal or The Lutheran Hour or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Ron was born on Oct. 3, 1931 in West Bend, Iowa, a son to Henry A. and Marie Kitzmann Falb.

Surviving is one brother, Henry O. (Wilma nee. Harms) Falb of Bloomington; two nieces, Kathlene (Gregory) Plunk of Mansfield and Candace Rutledge of Lincoln, Mon.; two nephews, Roland (Jean) Falb of Winlock, Wash. and Randel Rutledge; three great nephews, Joshua, Mark and Michael Plunk; one great niece, Alyssia Rutledge.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Marcella Rutledge; and a brother in-law, Myron
Rutledge.

Ron was employed for 37 years at Caterpillar Tractor, retiring in 1989, where he participated in the Caterpillar Retiree’s Group.

He loved traveling and was a world wide traveler. He was a former member at Christ Lutheran Church in Peoria and most recently, was a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Normal.

Online condolences and memories of Ron may be left for the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.

Donna Williams

Donna Lee Williams, 52, of Bloomington formerly of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away on Aug. 7 at 3:46 p.m. at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.

According to her wishes cremation rites will be accorded.

Memorials may be made to the Home Sweet Home Mission.

Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington is in charge of arrangements.

Donna was born on Feb. 11, 1964 in Wilmington, Delaware, daughter of Thomas B. and Elizabeth Urban Williams.

She is survived by her four children; Amanda, Travis, Rusty and Tommy along with her dear friend William Baker and his family Julie and Bob Dobski.

Donna had a kind heart and despite her many struggles throughout her life and trying to overcome them she was always there to help others.

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

Donald Carver

Donald Lewis “Donnie” Carver, 78, of Normal, retired 20 year USMC Gunnery Sergeant and former member of the Illinois National Guard, passed away at 10:33 a.m., Aug. 10 at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, Normal.

Per Don’s wishes, he was cremated and there will be no service.  Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home is assisting the family with cremation arrangements.

Memorials may be directed to Tutwiler Clinic, Tutwiler, MS, Boys Town of Nebraska, Lakota Sioux/St. Joseph’s Indian School, Chamberlain, S.D., the V.A. or to Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Don was born July 23, 1938 in Normal, the son of Odie and Helen Irene Sealey Carver Bausch.  They preceded him in death along with his step-mother, Helen Katherine Kline Carver; as well as four brothers, Francis Cleveland, Robert Earl, Odie Kline and Charles Bausch; two sisters, Mary Irene and Sally Jean. He was the last of his immediate family.

He is survived by two brothers-in-law, Darrell McWilliams and Paul Murphy, both of Arkansas, a sister-in-law, Cleonia Carver of Kansas; a niece, Tara Robinson and a nephew, Todd McWilliams, both of Illinois; nieces, Helen and Brenda and a nephew Odie, Jr; several great nieces and nephews and a great niece, all of Arkansas, Kansas, Hawaii and Oregon.

Don attended schools in San Francisco, Hudson and Normal including a one room school (Union) in rural Hudson, Hudson Grade School and was a 1956 graduate of Normal Community High School.

Don’s parents use to have a bait shop at Lake Bloomington called “Carver’s Corner” from 1949-1954 and had a road (Carver Road) named after them.

Don spent most of his military career as a court reporter and travelled to Japan, Okinawa and most Marine Corps bases in the U.S.

After retirement, Don spent time travelling to Hawaii, Mexico, Alaska and Canada.  He had missed his pets, Higgs, Snickers and Duster.  He loved the Colts and Cardinals.

Don enjoyed a long life and he knew he was going to a better place.  He never got over the passing of his siblings and parents.  Don came from a long line of Carver’sfrom Kentucky and Virginia with English and Irish heritage traced back to the late 1600’s.

Don wanted to mention his long time Marine buddy, Leigh Liden and his wife and sons as well as Linda and Steve Waters.

Don also enjoyed planting trees and “his” squirrels and birds.

Donnie sure did enjoy his sister’s home cooking, especially “SOS”, and his niece and nephews cooking in Deer Creek, IL.

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

Florent Nzita

Florent Nzita, 52, of Bloomington, passed away at 9:15 a.m., Aug. 10 at his home.

Service: 1:00 p.m., Aug. 19 at Epiphany Catholic Church, Normal with Rev. Eric Powell officiating.  Burial: Holy Cross Cemetery, Normal.  Visitation: One hour prior to the service, Friday at the church.

Memorials: To the family.

Survivors: wife, Evelyne MbumbuNganga; four children, HerveNzita, BenedicteNzita, Marie Judith Nzita and Joseph Nzita, all of Bloomington.

Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements and you may express condolences at www.carmodyflynn.com.