OBITUARIES
Pantagraph
Jan. 6, 1967
Bloomington, IL
MERLE ARBOGAST, RETIRED POLICE CAPTAIN DIES
Merle Arbogast, 67, of 212 Florence Ave., a veteran Bloomington police
officer who retired in 1954, died at 3:15 p.m. Friday in Brokaw Hospital. He
had been under a physician's care for some itme
His funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday in the Metzler Memorial Home, with
the Rev. Robert Ashman officiating. Burial will be in East Lawn Cemetery,
Visitation will be 3-9 p.m. Sunday at the memorial home. Members of Voiture
40 et 8, American Legion will conduct a memorial service at 3 p.m. Sunday in
the memorial home.
Mr. Arbogast joined the police department in 1929 and during the next 25
years, moved up through the ranks, ultimately being named night captain in
1949, the post he held at his retirement.
He was appointed identification officer in 1940 and set up the department's
first records and fingerprint system, after receibing training a the Federal
Bureau of Investigation school for police officers, in Washington D.C. He was
promoted to sergeant of police in 1944.
While police captain, Mr. Arbogast also served as McLean County assistant
juvenile probation officer for six years. He resigned from that post in 1952.
He was born Nov. 15, 1899 in Downs, the son of Bernard and Nettie Phillips
Arbogast Evans Crowder. He was married July 22, 1930 to Pearl Willavize in
Joliet.
Surviving are his wife, a son, Dan Arbogast, 810 Sheridan, Normal; his
mother, 1305 W. Monroe; a sister, Mrs. Mary Sheehan, Long Island, New York;
three grandchildren. His father, a brother and a sister preceded him in death.
Mr. Arbogast, a veteran of World War l, was a member of the American Legion
and a past commander of the Louis E. Davis Post, a member of the 40 et 8,
Bloomington Masonic Lodge No. 43, Bloomington Consistory and of Centennial
Christian Church.
The Pantagraph
Dec. 27, 1966
Bloomington, IL
McLean County
Euel M. Roberts
Heyworth - Euel Morton Roberts, 63, was dead on arrival at Brokaw Hospital at
3:20 p.m. Friday (Dec.25, 1966).
McLean County Coroner Curtis Gilberts will conduct an inquest.
His funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday at the Metzler Memorial Home in
Bloomington, with the Rev. Dennis Blankenship officiating. Burial will be in
Park Hill Cemetery.
Visistation will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday at the memorial home.
He was born July 16, 1903 in Breckenridge County, Ky., son of Charles F. and
Ida Smith Roberts. He married Evelyn Mae Phillips Sep. 4, 1934.
Surviving are his wife; his father, Charles F. Roberts, McLean; three sons,
Gerald E. Roberts, 303 E. Wood, William C. Swanson, and Donald E. Roberts,
Mundelein; two daughters, Mrs. Euline Murphy, South Roxanne; Mrs. Beverly
Wyatt, Downs; two sisters, Mrs. Hallie Howard, McLean; Mrs Phillips Cianni,
Portland, Ore.; three brothers, Loys, Heyworth; Wallace, Shirley; C. Ted,
Portland, Ore. and 17 grandchildren; Two brothers preceded him in death.
He was a farmer.
Pantagraph
Oct. 4, 1992
Bloomington, IL.
McLean County
Evelyn Mae Roberts
Heyworth-The funeral of Evelyn Mae Roberts, 75, of Heyworth will be at 1 p.m.
Monday at the Metzler-Froelich Funeral Home, Bloomington. The Rev. Richard
Gray officiating.
Burial will be in Park Hill Cemetery, Bloomington.
Visitation will be 5 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home.
Mrs. Roberts died at 3:50 p.n. Friday (OCt. 2, 1002) at St. Joseph Medical
Center, Bloomington.
She was born July 5, 1917, in Bloomington, the daughter of Elmer and Mayme
Bebout Phillips. She married Euel M. Roberts, Sep. 4, 1934, in Bloomington.
He preceded her in death.
Surviviors include one son, Gerald E. Downs; two daughters, Euline Murphy,
Wood River, and Beverly Wyatt, Downs; one sister, Georgia Roberts, Muncie,
Ind; 12 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.
Two brothers and one sister preceded her in death.
Mrs. Roberts was a social worker in Wood River before becoming head dietitian
for Shamel Manor, Normal. She was retired.
Pantagraph
September !9, 1979
Bloomington, IL
RUTH PHILLIPS
Ruth H. Phillips, 87, formerly of 1502 S. Main St., more recently of
Americana Healthcare Center, died at 7:45 p.m.Tuesday (September 18, 1979) at
St. Joseph's Hospital Medical Center, where she had been a patient since
August 31.
Mrs. Phillips was former owner of The Bloomington Hotel, 313 N. Center St. It
is now known as the Mar-Len Hotel.
Her funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Beck Memorial Home, with the Rev.
Samuel Buck officiatin. Burial will be in Park Hill Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 7 - 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Mrs. Phillips was born March 19, 1892, in Louis County, Ky., a daughter of
Benjamin Franklin and Nancy Melvine Mason Ferguson. She married Milton
"Smokey" Phillips. He died in 1952.
Survivors include a sister, Nellie Hill, 20 Harwood Place; a grandson; tow
grandaughters; eight great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandson.
Pantagraph
Feb. 6, 1933
Bloomington, Illinois
DOWNS - Mrs. Clara B. Baylor died at her home three miles southwest of Downs
at 1:25 a.m. Saturday (Feb. 5, 1933), following a two week illness.
She was the daughter of Theophilus and Lavina (WIlcox) Phillips. She came
west with her parents in the fall of 1864 and was married Nov. 19. 1865 to
David F. Baylor and had resided on the home farm since that time.
Mrs. Baylor is survived by the following children; Florence, Burl, Elliott
and Una, all living in the vicinity of Downs, also one step-daughter, Mrs.
John M. Armstrong of 101 W. Irving Avenue, Normal.
Mr. Baylor died Jan. 26, 1883, one son and one stepson are also dead.
The funeral will be held Monday at 10:30 a.m. at the late residence. Burial
will be in Diamond Grove Cemetery.
Pantagraph
Jan. 23 or 24, 1938
Bloomington, Illinois
DOWNS - Francis Burl Baylor, township school treasurer for 25 years and
former vice president of the Downs Bank, died at 11:30 p. m. Saturday (Jan.
22, 1938) at St. Joseph's Hospital.
The body was removed to the J.H. Iden Funeral Home in LeRoy pending funeral
arrangements.
Mr. Baylor was a son of David F. and Clara B. (Phillips) Baylor. Surviving
are two sisters and a brother; Miss Florence, Miss Ura and Elliott, all of
Downs.
Mr. Baylor lived all his life in Downs. He was a member of the Diamond Grove
United Brethren Church.
Pantagraph
Nov. 13, 1947
Bloomington, Illinois
Miss Margaret Florence Baylor of 506 North School Street, Normal, died
Wednesday (Nov. 12, 1947) morning in Brokaw Hospital. She had been ill three
weeks.
Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday in Stubblefield Memorial Home.
Burial will be in Diamond Grove Cemetery at Downs.
Miss Baylor was born Feb. 12, 1887, near Downs, a daughter of David and Clara
(Phillips) Baylor. She had lived in Normal a year. She is survived by a
sister, Miss Ura Baylor, at home, several nieces and nephews. Her parents,
four brothers and a sister preceded her in death.
Pantagraph
March 10, 1958
Bloomington, Illinois
Miss Ura Baylor, 82, of 506 N. School St., Normal died at 2:15 a.m. Sunday
(March 9, 1958) at Brokaw Hospital. She had been ill two weeks.
Her funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Stubblefield and Son Memorial
Home, with the Rev. Gordon White officiating. Burial will be in Diamond Grove
Cemetery, Downs.
She was born Oct. 8, 1875, at Downs, a daughter of Daniel and Clara
(Phillips) Baylor.
Surviving are 13 nieces and nephews.
Six brothers and sisters preceded her in death.
She was a member of the Diamond Grove United Brethren Church.
Pantagraph
March 12, 1959
Bloomington, Illinois
DOWNS - Milton Phillips, 73, of Downs died at 5:05 p.m. Monday (March 10,
1959) at St. Joseph's Hospital in Bloomington. He had been a patient there
since Feb. 28.
His funeral will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Stensel Funeral Home in LeRoy,
with the burial in Hopewell Cemetery, Downs.
Friends may call at the funeral after 7 p.m. Tuesday.
Mr. Phillips was born Nov. 5, 1885, in Downs, a son of Solomon and Sarah
(Teter) Phillips. He was a Bloomington barber more than 40 years.
Surviving are a son; Carroll, 1410 S. East St., Bloomington; three brothers,
William T., LeRoy; James, Shaw, S.C.,; Elmer, 606 S. Clinton St.,
Bloomington; two sisters, Mrs William Crowder, Sunnyside Ct., Bloomington;
Mrs. Lillian Honnor, with whom he lived, Downs; tow granddaughters and a
grandson. A son, a sister and a brother preceded him in death.
Pantagraph
Nov. 1983
Bloomingotn, Illinois
DOWNS - Lillian (Phillips) Honnor, 96, of Rialto, Calif, a retired teacher
and Downs native, died Nov. 13, 1983, in Rialto.
Cremation rites were accorded. Her graveside funeral will be at 2 p.m. Nov.
30, at Hopewell Cemetery, Downs, the Rev. Fred Belcher officiating.
Mrs. Honnor was born Nov. 1, 1887, a daughter of Solomon and Sarah (Teter)
Phillips. She married George Honnor in 1911. He preceded her in death.
Survivors include several nieces and nephews.
Five brothers and four sisters preceded her in death.
Mrs. Honnor began teaching at age 16 and continued for 12 years.
She was a member of the Downs United Methodist Church for many years and was
active in the Farm and Home Bureaus.
Memorial may be made to the Downs United Methodist Church.
Pantagraph
July 23, 1952
Bloomingotn, Illinois
LEROY - Mrs. Irene Belle Wahls, 77, died at 7:35 a.m. Tuesday (July 22, 1952)
at St. Joseph's Hospital, Bloomington, where she had been a patient since May
30.
She was brought to the Stensel Funeral Home in LeRoy. Funeral services will
be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at the LeRoy Methodist Church, with the Rev. E.A.
Houldridge and the Rev. Bruce Badger officiating. Burial will be in Oak Grove
Cemetery, LeRoy.
She was born Aug. 25, 1874 at Downs, a daughter of Solomon B. and Sarah E.
(Teter) Phillips. She married John Wahls Oct. 1, 1892.
Surviving are seven sons, Fred C., Saybrook, Roy, LeRoy, Russell A., Gridley,
Charles H., Downs, Glenn J. and Irvin, Bloomington, and Earl (Jack )
Towanda,; one daughter, Mrs. Mildred Thompson, LeRoy; five brothers, Laban T.
Phillips, James Phillips, Milton Phillips and Elmer Phillips, all of
Bloomington, William T. Phillips, LeRoy and two sisters, Mrs. William
Crowder, Bloomington, and Mrs. Lillie Honnor, Downs.
Eighteen Grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren also survive.
She was a member of the LeRoy Methodist Church.
Pantagraph
March 9, 1932
Bloomingotn, Illinois
LEROY - John C. Wahls, 54, died at 8:30 p.m. Saturday (March 8, 1932),
following an illness of six days with influenza and pneumonia. He was the son
of Frederick and Esther Wahls, born May 25, 1868, at LeRoy. In 1891 he
married Irene B. Phillips of Downs and the have lived in and around LeRoy
Since.
Survivors are Mrs. Wahls and nine children, one daughter, Mrs. Roy Thompson
of LeRoy, and eight sons, Fred C. of Saybrook and Roy T., John W., Russell
A., CHarles H., Glenn J., Irvin E., and Earl H., all of LeRoy and one
brother, Andrew J. Wahls of Lancaster, Kan. and six grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements have not been completed.
Pantagraph
Dec. 9, 1967
Bloomington, Illinois
SAYBROOK - Fred C. "Hap" Wahls, 75, was found dead about 1:30 p.m. Thursday
(Dec. 8, 1967) at his home, apparently a victim of a heart attack.
His funeral will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Methodist Church, with the Rev.
C. Don Ferrill officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Saybrook.
Visitation will be Saturday afternoon and evening at the Stensel Funeral Home
in Saybrook.
Mr. Wahls was born Aug. 18, 1892 at LeRoy, a son of John C. and Belle
(Phillips) Wahls. He married Elizabeth Roach at Thawville in 1920. She died
in 1963.
Survivors are a son, Donald F. Wahls, of Fort Leonard Wood, MO., Recreation
Area; a daughter, Mrs. Paul (Janis) Mallon, Denver, Colo.; and three
grandchildren; five brothers, Glenn J., 1207 West Miller, Bloomington;
Charles, 706 W. Wood, Bloomington; Ervin, Hopedale; Russell, Gridley; and
Earl "Jack" Wahls, Lexington; a sister, Mrs. Roy (Mildred) Thompson, LeRoy.
Two sons, three brothers and a sister preceded him in death, in addition to
his wife.
He was a member of American Legion Post 427 at Saybrook, and in August he
received his 50 year membership pin.
He was a retired livestock dealer, and had lived in the Saybrook vicinity 50
years.
Pantagraph
Aug. 11, 1972
Bloomington, Illinois
LEROY - Mrs. Bertha V. Wahls, 62, died at 3 a.m. Wednesday (Aug. 10, 1972) at
her home. She had been in failing health three years.
Her funeral will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Stensel's Funeral Home, LeRoy, with
the Rev. Bernard Johnson officiating. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery,
LeRoy.
Visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home.
She was born July 13, 1910, at Sadalia, MO., a daughter of John H. and
Josephine (Perkins) Sledge. She was married to Charles H. Wahls Sept. 5,
1929, at Decatur.
Surviving are her husband; a son, Oscar, Bloomington,; a daughter Mrs. Loren
McGrew Jr., Bloomington; 14 grandchildren; three brothers, John H. Sledge,
Mattoon; Fred Sledge, Wapella, Irvin Sledge, Melvin; a sister, Mrs. Mae
Prosser, Saybrook.
A son and a brother preceded her in death.
She was a member of the LeRoy Baptist Church and had worked as a cook at the
Victory Inn and P.and J. Restaurant until her retirement three years ago.
Pantagraph
Nov. 25, 1994
Bloomington, Illinois
Charles H. Wahls
The funeral of Charles H. Whals, 89, of 706 E. Wood St. Bloomington, a
retired cook, will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Beck Memorial Home, Bloomingotn.
The Rev. Glenn Harms will officiate. Burial will be in Park Hill Cemetery,
Bloomington.
Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Monday at the memorial home.
Mr. Wahls died at 9: 45 a.m. Wednesday (Nov. 23, 1994) at BroMenn Regional
Medical Center, Normal.
He was born Sep. 5, 1905, at LeRoy, a son of John C. and Irene B. (Phillips)
Wahls. He married Clara Thompson July 4, 1938, in Bloomington. She survives.
Other survivors include one daughter, Mildred McGrew, Bloomington; one
sister, Mildred Thompson, LeRoy; three brothers, Jack Wahls, Lexington; Glenn
Wahls, Bloomington; and Irvin Wahls, Morton; grandchildren and
great-grandchildren.
Two sons, two stepsons and four brothers preceded him in death.
Mr. Wahls retired in 1989 as a cook for Beer Nuts Inc., Bloomington.
April 30, 1920
Owen W. McClellan was born near Colfax on January 31, 1894. After graduating from the
Colfax high school in 1912 he attended college at Iowa Falls for a year, then one year at
Wesleyan going from there to Chicago where for the past three and one-half years he has been
a student of the Medical School of Northwestern University. Last November because of ill-
health, he was compelled to leave school in his senior year and for the past five months has
been confined to his bed almost entirely. Last week he started for California where he hoped
he might regain his health and while enroute, he passed away April 30, 1920 at the age of
twenty-six years and three months.
He was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon, literary fraternity; of Phi Beta Pi, medical
fraternity of Ptolemy, Masonic fraternity and the T.N.E. fraternity, also he was a member of
the Masonic Lodge.
When fifteen years of age he united with the Methodist Episcopal church of Colfax and
retained his membership there until his death.
On July 24, 1918 he was united in marriage with Miriam S. Scott, younger daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. Carlile Scott of this place. Besides his wife he leaves his father and mother, Mr.
and Mrs. Wm. McClellan, two brothers Homer and Harvey, all of Colfax and a host of relatives
and friends.
The funeral services were held from the M.E. church this afternoon at one-thirty, Rev.
J.W. Ferris assisted by Rev. Attree Smith and Rev. H.H.H. Jenner officiating.
May 1, 1920
The death of Mrs. D.A. Wood occured on Saturday May 1, 1920 at 11:30 am at the Wesley
Memorial Hospital in Chicago after an illness of about a year with Brights' Disease and
Pernicious anemia.
Elizabeth Green was born at Mason, Ills., May 9, 1870, coming to Colfax in 1880 and
was married September 24, 1889 to D.A. Wood of Coflax.
She is survived by her husband and one daughter, Miss Mabel, two sisters Mrs. Fannie
Dale, of Chicago and Mrs. John Pendergast of Colfax and by two brothers, William of
Freeport and Charles of Chicago.
Funeral Services from the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Pendergast to St. Joseph's church
at 9 am on Wednesday. Requiem High Mass sung by Mrs. Walter Pendergast of Roberts and Mr.
William Gould of Merna.
The pall bearers were five nephews of the deceased, Fred Dale, Leo and William Green,
Walter and James Pendergast and Henry Myers.
July 4, 1924
David Blair, an old resident of this vicinty died at his farm home near Colfax on
Friday, July 4 at the age of 60 years. He was born at Tremont in Tazewell county on June
28, 1864. At the age of 11 years he moved with his parents to the farm south of Colfax
which has since been the family home. They were among the first settlers in Martin township.
He is survived by two brothers, Thomas and William of Colfax; four sisters, Mrs. Jane
Stewart of Edmonds, Okla., Mrs. Anna Gillan, Lida and Addie of Colfax. His father and
mother preceded him in death a number of years ago.
The funeral services were held from the home Sunday afternoon at two o'clock, with Rev.
S.S. Langdoc, pastor of the Colfax Methodist Church officiating, who preached a most
comforting sermon and in his eulogy and at the grave said we bury today the body of a man
who has lived 60 years and I believe he has harmed no one. He lived a quiet, honest and a
good life. He lived up to what he believed was right and no one feared him who met him on
life's pathway.
The pallbearers were Edgar Wilson, Frank Gray, James Gaddis, Frank N. Stauffer, Turner
Bennett and Everett Douglass.
Many relatives and friends from distant places attended as well as from our own
comminity to show their esteem of the deceased.
A quartet composed of Mrs. Harvey Hamilton, Mrs. James Wood, Samuel Bane and J.R.
Williams sang several appropriate selections and they were accompanied on the piano by Mrs.
Harry W. Corpe. Interment was in Wiley cemetery.
DEATH OF IDA DAMERON
The death of Mrs. Ida Dameron accurred Saturday morning at 3:30 o'clock at her home in
Colfax. Mrs. Dameron had been in poor health for several months but she had gradually failed
since January and had been bedfast only for the past two weeks. Leakage of the heart was the
cause of her death.
Ida Taylor was born on February 4, 1862 in the vicinity of Evergreen near Colfax. Her
mother died when she was 18 years of age and she was taken into the home of her aunt, Mrs.
Martin Batterton, where she was treaed as one of the family and here she received her early
training. She was married to Edward Dameron, of this vicinity on March 27, 1878 who preceded
her in death about seventeen years ago. To this union were born four children, Roy, who
passed away at the age of seven; Bertha, at home; Mrs. Faye Bunn and Iral Dameron all of
Colfax. She is also survived by one sister, Mrs. Almeda Miller of Arkansas City, Kansas and
two grand-children who have given her much comfort owing to her extreme fondness for children.
Mrs. Dameron ever mindful of the mother's care she received in the home of her aunt,
never failed to extend the same kindness to those about her, expecially to Clyde Taylor,
who made his home with her for the past fifteen years. She was converted in young woman-
hood and was a liberal contributor to the church.
Mrs. Dameron was a home lover, a good mother, a good neighbor, and will be misssed by
all those who knew her.
funeral services were held from the home Monday afternoon, and were in charge of Rev.
H.M. Bloomer, a former pastor of the Colfax M.E. church, now of McComb, Mrs. Bryce Knight
and Miss Rickey Grendling sang during the services. Interment was in Wiley cemetery. The
pall bearers were Arthur Callard, Erle Mitchell, Bab Noll, Claud Hasty, H.J. McKeehan and
Ernest Hyatt.
DEATH OF SETH HENLINE
Seth Henline, a highly respected resident of this place and one of the pioneers of
McLean county and Lawndale township passed away at his home here Sunday evening, at 9:40
o'clock, following an illness lasting over a period of three years duration.
Seth Henline, second son of Martin and Feraby Cunningham Henline was born near
Evergreen church in Lawndale township on October 9, 1847. On November 12, 1866 he was
united in marriage to Amanda Ellen Hughes and she with five of the daughters were at his
bedside when death came. Another daughter, Mrs. Grant Hare, had visited him a few days
ago before going to her home in Hot Springs, Ark. The other daughters surviving are Mrs.
J.T. Dameron of Weston; Mrs. Allie Wood, Mrs. A.D. Withers, Mrs. Addie Fleener and Mrs.
Grace Hutson all of Colfax. There are two brothers, William of Hunter, Okla., and Pierce
of Gray, Okla. and two sisters, Mrs. Ella Woodard of Helena, Okla.; Mrs. Lucretia Harris
of Bellflower. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Mr.
Henline was a member of the Methodist church.
Mr. Henline was a man of strong will power and during his long years of suffering he
followed strictly the doctor's directions even to the state of intense hunger, many
doctors commenting on his faithfulness and patience. He was a man of sterling qualities
and high ideals and being a member of one of the pioneer families he did much for the
up-building of the community. His family esteem him as a loving father, his neighbors
as a true friend. During his active life in Lawndale township he took great interest in
public affairs having filled the offices of road commissioner and collector and for many
years he served as school director.
Seth Henline was a neighbor,
A friend to every man,
He did his might while here on earh
To forward God's great plan.
No stranger e'er went from his door
Without a word of cheer and
It's these little things in life,
That makes his memory dear.
And now since God has called him
From this vale of toil and woe,
His life will be a guiding star,
As on this life we go.
With loving thots and kindly deeds,
His pathway here he trod,
But now his work on earth is o'er;
He has gone to be with God.
O, God, that we may all hold fast,
The principles so dear
That we may be esteemed on earth,
While we're so-journing here.
The funeral services were held from his late home Tuesday afternoon, conducted by
Rev. O. McNemar of the Christian church. The large crowd of sorrowing friends showed the
esteem in which he was held. The pallbearers were: David Hutson, Frank Hutson, Marion
Hutson, Fred Dale, Ivan Getty and R.W. Langstaff. The honorary pallbearers were: Charles
Atkinson, Robert Greenlee, Morgan Reynolds, Saul Nafziger, Wm. McClellan and Henry
Meyer. Interment was in Wiley cemetery.
EMANUEL MILLER - CARLOCK - Emanuel Miller, 67, died at Brokaw hospital at
1:15 am Sunday after being confined there a week. Funeral services will be at
1:30 pm Tuesday from the residence and at 2 pm from the Carlock Christian
church with the Rev. Myrtle Storm officiating, assisted by the Rev. E.V. Hallock.
Burial will be in North Danvers Cemetery. Pallbearers will be nephews of the
deceased and honorary pallbearers will be deacons of the church. He was born
Aug. 21, 1870, near Gridley, son of Christian and Elizabeth Bricklebaw Miller.
He was married in 1896 to Miss Maude Sparks. He was a farmer and stock byer
in the Carlock vicinity for 28 years. He is survived by his widow and four
children: Mrs. Bruce Hamilton, Carlock; Artie, Ellsworth; Mrs. Floyd Stevens,
McLean and Mrs. Claude Otto, Danvers. There are five children. A sister, Miss
Fannie Miller, Bloomington, also survives. He was a road commissioner nine
years and a school director many years.
MRS. EMMA GADDIS DIED IN MICHIGAN SUNDAY
Mrs. Emma Gaddis, formerly of Colfax, passed away Sunday, October 27, at the
home of her daughter, Mrs. Harlan Stuckey, at Mt. Morris, Mich. The funeral
party arrived in Colfax Tuesday evening with the body and the funeral services
were held from the Colfax Christian church, Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock.
Rev. O.L. Hawkins, the pastor, officiated. Miss Ricky Grending and Mrs. S.
Weed sang a duet. The pallbearers were: C. Scott, James Fielding, J.H. Discho,
Frank Ingram, O.H. Knight, and W.H. Nickerson. Burial was in Wiley cemetery.
Mrs. Emma Gaddis was born at New Salem, Ohio on June 19, 1860, the
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Waltmire. The family removed to Tremont in
1868. She was married to William Gaddis on Feb. 9, 1882 and they resided on a
farm south of Colfax, for several years, moving into Colfax in 1885. They moved
to Cleveland, Ohio in 1927. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Helen Lavely
of Flint, Mich.; Mrs. Grace Stuckey of Mt. Morris, Mich.; two sons, Byron and Dr.
Leo Gaddis of Cleveland, Ohio, and six grandchildren. She is also survived by
three brothers, Joseph of Flint, Mich.; Charles of Florida, and Elmer of Ft.
Wayne, Ind. Among those from out of town attending the funeral were: Byron
Gaddis and family, Dr. Leo Gaddis and family of Cleveland, Ohio; Mr. and Mrs.
Harlan Stuckey of Mt. Morris, Mich.; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Woltmire of Pekin; Mr.
and Mrs. C. Davis and Mr. and Mrs. P. Davis of Tremont; Miles Hicks of
Cleveland, Ohio.
COLFAX MAN DIES
William Gaddis, former citizen there, expires in hospital in Cleveland.
Word was received at Colfax Tuesday evening by Mrs. A.M. Hicks that her
brother, William Gaddis had died in a hospital at Cleveland, Ohio. William
Gaddis, the son of Reese and Martha Bennet Gaddis, was born in Tremont, Ill.,
June 30, 1857. He was married to Emma Waltmire of that place on February 9,
1882. To this union were born four children, Leo, Grace, Byron and Helen. In the
spring of 1885 Mr. Gaddis came to Colfax to live, locating on a farm southwest of
Colfax. About fifteen years ago he purchased the telephone exchange and
conducted that business until four years ago, when he retired because of ill
health. For the past year Mr. Gaddis has been living in Cleveland, Ohio, and in
Michigan, where he has spent much of his time in out of door sports, with the
hope of regaining his health. Several months ago he submitted to an operation
of a serious nature in a Cleveland hospital, and recovered temporarily, but the
old trouble returned which resulted in another operation, followed by his death
on Tuesday. Mr. Gaddis was a prominent citizen, an efficient worker in the
Christian church of Colfax and a member of the Masonic lodge. Mr. Gaddis is
survived by his wife, Mrs. Emma Gaddis, and four children, Dr. Leo Gaddis of
Cleveland, Ohio; Byron of Cleveland; Mrs. Grace Stuckey of Mt. Morris, Mich.,
and Helen of Colfax. One sister, Mrs. A.M. Hicks, and two brothers, Alpheus
Gaddis of Beaver City, Neb., and James Gaddis, of this place. The body arrived
at Colfax Wednesday evening. As yet no funeral arrangements have been
made.
MARTHA GADDIS DEAD (date of obit, August 10, 1916)
Aged resident of Colfax passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. A.M. Hicks, at
5:30 o'clock last Friday morning following an illness of several months. Martha, the
daughter of John and Sarah Bennett, was born January 14, 1832, at Dillon, Illinois,
the first white settlement in Tazewell County. Her father, John Bennett, being a
fuller by trade, and operated a mill at one time on the Mackinaw between the villages
of Dillon and the town of Delavan, and later one on his farm in Elin Grove township.
He was one of the organizers of the church at Antioch, Dillon township, and filled
the office of elder until his death. He was also connected with Eureka College in its
organization. On March 2, 1851, she was united in marriage to Rees Gaddis. Six
children have blessed their union, two of whom died in infancy or early childhood.
The home of Rees and Martha Gaddis became the topping place of the preaching brethren
of that day. Such men as Alfred and John Lindsay, Elder James Robinson, R.B. Chaplin,
James and Nathan Mitchell, Elder Mass and his son Rufus, H.W. Everest, Eli Fisher, and
many others were often in the home and J.E. Beekman, one well known as an eloquent
preacher and temperance worker., who also was a step-brother of Mrs. Gaddis. The family
continued to reside in Tazewell county until 1885 when they removed to a farm they
purchased near Colfax. Here the husband died in 1891, since which time Mrs. Gaddis has
made her home with her children, nearly all the time with her son, William, or her
daughter, Mrs. A.M. Hicks. She obeyed the gospel and united with the Christian church
in her youth and when they came to Colfax she took membership with the church here and
continued this relationship until her death. She had the joy of seeing her daughter
and sons actively identified with the work of the church. She was sustained by her
faith in Christ and frequently recited the 23rd Psalm in her last illness. She was
industrious and forgetful of self in her readiness to be of service to others. She was
like a mother to a niece, who found a home with Mrs. Gaddis, after her own mother
died. About a year ago she suffered a paralytic stroke, since which time her decline
strength has been gradual.
J.E. STUCKEY PASSES AWAY
After an illness, which lasted for only one week, Joseph E. Stuckey, who made his home
with his daughter, Ms. Wm. McClure of North Danvers, passed away on Wednesday morning
at 11:15 o'clock. It was not thought that he was in serious condition until about
thirty-six hours before the end. Mr. Stuckey was born near Washington, IL., on Nov. 16,
1857, and therefore 66 years, 2 months and 14 days of age. He was the oldest son of Mr.
and Mrs. John Stuckey, who were pioneers in this portion of Illinois. He was married to
Miss Kate B. Miller on Feb. 22, 1882. To this union six children were born, Mrs. Olive
M. McClure, Danvers, IL.; Harley M. Stuckey, Mr. Morris, Mich.; Mrs. Etta McClure, New
London, IN.; Mrs. Luella Gray, Colfax, IL.; and Mrs. Gladys E Whitaker, Napoleon, Ohio.
One son died in infancy. There are eleven grandchildren. The wife preceded his death on
Sept. 23, 1913. There are also the following brothers and sisters who survive him. Mrs.
Anna Stahley and Mrs. Ernest Wappier, Washington, IL.; E.M. Stuckey, Chicago, IL.; P.J.
and Louis Stuckey, Lisbon, North Dak.; Mrs. John Wells, Jerome, Idaho; Miss Nettie A.
Stuckey, Glenns Ferry, Idaho. A brother, Jacob Stuckey, of Carlock, preceded him in
death in 1914. he was a man greatly beloved by his family, a kind and loving father;
reserved in temperament, but genuine in character. He united with the Mennonite church
of Washington, IL. in early childhood, continuing his membership in that church. The
final funeral arrangements depend upon word from distant relatives. The services, how-
ever, will be held from the North Mennonite church. The funeral services will be held on
Friday afternoon, leaving the home at 1:30 and continuing the services at 2 o'clock at
the North Danvers Mennonite church, Rev. L.C. Voss preaching the sermon and Rev. W.B.
Weaver assisting. Interment will be in the North Danvers cemetery.
THOMAS AYLWARD (Feb. 15, 1901 edition of The Colfax Press)
Thomas Aylward died in St. Mary's hospital at Quincy last Friday. He was the
only brother of Mrs. Keefe of Colfax, and spent part of his time here the past few
years. Mrs. Keefe and son, Ben attended the funeral.
DEATH OF MRS. WOODARD (APRIL 12, 1901 edition of The Colfax Press)
Dora Susan Woodard, nee Arnentrout, was born March 26, 1873 and died April
3, 1901, at the Deaconess hospital, in Bloomington where she had undergone
an operation which she had hoped would be the means of relieving her suffering
and restoring her to health and vigor.
She was married to Wesley Woodard August 31, 1894. Mrs. Woodard was a
woman who was well liked by all who knew her; a kind and faithful wife and a
loving neighbor, who was always ready to do anything in her power to relieve the
wants and cares of those about her. She was a regular attendant upon the services
of the church, and a member of the Ladies' Aid, from whom she will be missed for
her kindness and assistance. Some two years ago she began to be troubled by a
complication of diseases. Last winter she had a very severe attack of the grip,
from which she never fully recovered. The immediate cause of her death was heart
failure.
There survives a mother, three brothers and three sisters at Harrisburg, Va.,
her husband and one brother of this place. The funeral was held at the
Methodist church Friday at 1 pm. The sermon was preached by the pastor from
Jer. 15.9. Rev. Cully, pastor of the Presbyterian church, and Rev. Loughbrake,
assistant pastor of the M.E. church assisted in the services. The sudden death
of Mrs. Woodard enlisted for her husband and friends the sympathies of the
entire community.
OLD CITIZEN GONE - Patrick Leonard (SEPT. 28, 1901 edition of The Colfax Press)
The death of Patrick Leonard occurred at his home in Lawndale township
Sunday morning at 4 o'clock. He had been in bad health for a long while and had
been quite feeble for several weeks. His death was caused by stomach trouble.
The interment took place in the Catholic church at Chenoa on Tuesday after
services by Rev. Father O'Callahan.
Mr. Leonard was born in county Mead, Ireland, Sept. 8, 1834 and came to
America in 1853. After four years in the east, most of his life was spent in
McLean County. The last twenty-three years he lived in Lawndale township. On
July 2, 1869, he married Bridget Crayon. Eight children were born to them. The
wife survives, together with seven of the children: James, Thomas, Joseph, Mrs.
Dan Fitzpatrick, Mrs. Tim Shine, Mrs. Frank Fishback, and Mrs. Edward Gross.
He was thrifty and industrious and at his death owned 382 acres of land, and
other property. He was partially blind for six years, and totally blind for twelve
years. He bore his affliction without a murmur, and was esteemed as a good
citizen and a kind neighbor.
Allen Morgan Williams (DEC. 13, 1901 edition of The Colfax Press)
The funeral of Allen Morgan Williams, the four-year-old son of Robert Williams,
was conducted by Rev. D.G. Murray Monday morning in the M.E. church.
H.C. Henline (JUNE 6, 1902 edition of The Colfax Press)
IN MANHOOD'S PRIME
Death of H.C. Henline, near his birthplace -
Large and impressive funeral.
The death of Henry C. Henline occurred at his home in Lawndale township
Sunday at noon, after a lingering illness which has lasted several months and
defied the skill of his doctors. The funeral services were conducted at the
residence on Tuesday afternoon by his pastor, Rev. D.G. Murray. His text was
"The house not made with hands," upon which he preached an impressive
discourse, describing the growth of a Christian character, and speaking fittingly
of his acquaintance with the deceased. The greatest works of man, he said,
show the mark of time, but the soul that is touched by the finger of God grows
nobler and stronger continually. Earthly things are imperfect ass they are
perishable, but God's mansions are perfect and enduring. The funeral
procession was over half a mile long. The burial was in charge of the Masons,
the Odd Fellows and the Eastern Star attending. The casket was covered with
beautiful floral offerings.
The deceased was born on Nov. 9, 1853, within a mile of the place of his
death. On Aug. 19, 1875 he married Sarah L Wiley, who with five children
survives him. They are Mrs. Della Gillan, a widow; Mrs. Minnie Ward; Harrison,
Homer and Wiley. Two sisters also survive him, Mrs. Nelson Biggs and Mrs. J.M.
Reynolds. He had a large number of relatives, the family being the oldest and
largest in this part of the county. Eighteen years ago he joined the Methodist
church, and was at the time of his death a member of the board of stewards. He
was a successful farmer, and leaves family well provided. Last summer and fall
he built the finest residence in this vicinity, but he saw scarcely a will day in it,
his health breaking down soon afterward. Mr. Henline was a quiet man, without
any great endeavors, but he fulfilled every obligation, private and public, with
fidelity, honesty and unselfishness. He like his friends and all were such who
chose to be. He was a man of whom one could hear nothing but good, and of
whom those who knew him expected nothing but good. All join in deploring his
death and in offering their sympathy to those who have been deprived of his love
and care.
G.B. Woodard (AUG. 22, 1902 edition of The Colfax Press)
OLD RESIDENT GONE
G.B. Woodard died at the home of his son Frank in Colfax on Monday forenoon
after several months' sickness, which ended in an attack of paralysis. He was
born in Kentucky, in 1819, and came to Illinois fifty years afo. He settled first at
Bloomington and later near Fairbury, from which place he moved to this vicinity
many years ago. His wife died in 1891. Twelve children were born to them. Five
sons and two daughters survive him. They are Frank, and Martha J.
McReynolds, of Colfax; Mrs. Mary E. Moberly, and Charles, of Fairbury; James
of Kansas; Edward, of Stanford, and Greenbury, of Missouri. One daughter, Mrs.
Lavina Wiley, died in Colfax last spring, at which time the father also was very
low. He was a member of the Methodist church. Mr. Woodard was one of the
oldest residents and best known men, and was universally esteemed in the
community. The funeral was held Wednesday afternoon at the M.E. church, Rev.
D.G. Murray conducting the services. A large number of relatives and friends
were in attendance. The interment was at Evergreen.
Death of Allie J. Wood Sunday Eve, March 9
Allie J. Wood, youngest son of Amos and Pheobe Wood, was born near Lexington,
May 23, 1870. His parents moved to Colfax when he was 10 years of age and he grew
to manhood in this vicinity. He was united in marriage to Mina Henline on March 2,
1893 and the new home was made in Colfax. To this union was born one daughter,
Ilene, now Mrs. William Scholl.
Mr. Wood retired from business and moved to the farm in 1926 which has since
been his home. He had been in failing health for a number of years and in February,
1929 he underwent a surgical operation for the dreaded malady for which science has
not yet found a cure. He bore his suffeings bravely, shielding his family from
anxiety as long as it was possible to do so. When the last hope vanished he became
reconciled to his death and was lovingly cared for by his wife and daughter until
the end came.
Being of a kind and genial disposition he enjoyed the fellowship of a host of
friends and neighbors and their help and sympathy was a great comfort to him in his
last days.
He passed peacefully away on the evening of March 9, 1930, leaving many sad hearts
in this community.
He leaves besides his wife and daughter, on grandson, Nyle Scholl and one brother,
Isaac Wood of Herscher also several nieces and nephews.
The funeral services were held from the home north of Colfax on Tuesday afternoon
in charge of Rev. F. De Clark pastor of the Colfax M.E. church. Mrs. Harvey Hamilton
and Miss Rickey Grending sang two selections. The pallbearers were Andy and Tom Droham,
Fred Scholl, Ivan Getty, Earl Judd and Ralph Harris.
Burial was in Wiley cemetery.
Those from away who attended the services were: Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Wood and family
of Herscher; Mr. and Mrs. Fred Guth and family of Chicago; Mr. and Mrs. Jas. Wood of
Kankakee; Mrs. Chas. Garner, Robert Wood, Marjorie Wood, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Wright, Mrs.
Grace Robinson and son of Lexington; Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Dameron, Mr. and Mrs. H. H.
Dameron and son, Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Dameron of Weston; Mr. and Mrs. J.G. Hare, Mr. and Mrs.
Albert Loos, Mrs. Grace Hutson, Mrs. E.E. Hibbs, Noah Henline, Mr. and Mrs. John Ashabran
of Bloomington; Mrs. Oren Phillips of Heyworth; Mr. and Mrs. A.F. Rhode, Mrs. Ella Woodard
and Edward Rhode of Bellflower; Mr. and Mrs. Adam Withers and son, Mr. and Mrs. Roy
Snodgrass of Ellsworth.
The Colfax Press
Dec. 20, 1928
MRS. SETH HENLINE DIED HERE SATURDAY
Mrs. Seth Henline, who had been in failing health for some time
died at her home here last Saturday morning at 11 o'clock. Hardening of the
arteries was given as the cause of death.
The funeral services were held from the Colfax Christian Church at
3:00 o'clock Monday afternoon with Reb. O.L. Hawkins, pastor of the
church and Rev. O. McNemar of Lewistown, officiating. Burial was in Wiley cemetery.
The singers were Mrs. John Thedens, Miss Ricky Grending, H.C.,
Tipton and Seth Weed. Mrss Gladys White presided at the piano. The
pallbearers were; David Hutson, Erle Mitchell, Ivan Getty, Earl Judd
of Colfax; Marion Hutson of Cooksville; Frank Hutson of Lincoln. The
honorary pallbearers were R.W., Greenlee, Chas. Atkinson, Wm. H.
Nickerson, Frank Ingram, J.H. Discho and Wm. Huebner.
Amanda Ellen, the second of four daughters of Mary Ellen Corman
and Henry Hughes, was born on November 19, 1852 at Lexington, Ky.
When she was 14 years of age she came with her parents to Illinois,
settling on a farm in Lawndale Township, where she continued to live
until about eight years ago when she moved to Colfax.
She was united in marriage to Seth Henline on November 12, 1868
and they lived on the farm in Lawndale township. Mr. Henline died
three years ago. Six daughters were born to this union. They are Mrs.
Allie Wood of Colfax; Mrs. Vena Hare and Mrs. Grace Hutson of
Bloomington; Mrs. Emma Dameron of Weston; Mrs. A.D. Withers of
Ellsworth; Mrs. Addie Loos of Detroit, Mich. She is also survived by a
sister, Mrs. Mary Clark of Frederickstown, Mo. Seven grandchildren
and four great grandchildren.
May 22, 1996
Peoria Journal Star
COLFAX --
Clifford "C.L." Milton, 76, of Colfax for the past 43 years died at 1:30 p.m.
Monday, May 20, 1996, at his home. Born April 28, 1920, in Farmer City to
Orville and Pearl Edwards Milton, he married Mary Ann Reum on Nov. 1, 1947,
in Bloomington. She survives. Also surviving are two sons, Larry and Gary,
both of Colfax; four daughters, Janet Brumley and Penny Shoemaker, both of
Bloomington, Diane Conner of Peoria and Cindy Vance of Joshua, Texas; two
sisters, Elizabeth Harlan of Streator and Margurite Withrow of Casselberry, Fla.;
and 15 grandchildren. One sister preceded him in death. He was a World War II
Navy veteran and saw action at Okinawa. He was a member of American Legion
Davis-Kerber Post 653. He owned and operated C.L. Milton & Sons Welding Shop
from 1953 until his death. He was a member of the United Association of Plumbers
and Pipefitters Local 99 in Bloomington. He was a race car driver. He attended
Immanuel Lutheran Church in rural Colfax. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday
at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home. The Rev. Maureen Stein will officiate. Visitation
will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today and one hour before services at the memorial home.
Burial will be in Wiley Cemetery, where military rites will be accorded by his
American Legion post. Memorials may be made to any charity.
The Colfax Press
Thursday, March 21, 1929
E.F. HENLINE DIED AT OMAHA THURSDAY, MARCH 7
The following item is taken from the Holdrege (Nebr.) Progress of Mar. 14. The
deceased was a grandson of J.J. Henline, who settled near Henline creek in
1828. He went to Nebraska with his parents in 1887:
E.F. Henline, son of Mr. and Mrs. Addison Henline was born July 30, 1874
near Colfax, in McLean county, Illinois, and died at Omaha, Thursday, March 7,
at 9 a.m. at the age of 54 years. His parents and three brothers are buried in
Evergreen cemetery near his birthplace.
For twenty five years he made his home with his uncle, the late I.F. Henline of
Kearney. The past five years he has lived in Omaha. Before Christmas he
suffered a siege of flu which with complications caused his death. About three
weeks ago when his condition became critical his only sister, Mrs. George W.
Cover of Atlanta, was notified and she left immediately for Omaha. When she left
him he seemed to be slowly improving. A week later he began to fail again so
she returned to Omaha and was with him the last week. He suffered greatly but
was glad to have her with him.
Funeral services were conducted from the Crosby Mortuary on Saturday,
March 9, Rev. J.L. Beebe, pastor of the Grace Evangelical church, officiating.
Burial was in West Lawn cemetery in Omaha.
Headline: Herman Bomgarden
Publication Date: July 30, 1991
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: D6
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: BLOOMINGTON _ Herman G. Bomgarden, 80, of Bloomington, formerly of Peoria and Morton,
died at 11:28 p.m. Sunday, July 28, 1991, at LeRoy Manor in LeRoy.
He was born Dec. 6, 1910, in El Paso to Eno G. and Kathryn Finck Bomgarden.
Surviving are four sisters, Eleanor Zehr of Bloomington, Ruby Vaughn of Mansfield, Helen Bachtol
Chenoa, and Lena Petersen of Colfax.
He worked for Caterpillar Inc. and REDCO in Peoria and later farmed in the Lexington area. He recently was
a foreman for Power Controls in Peoria, retiring in 1976.
He was a member of the Lutheran Church.
Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Metzler-Froelich Memorial Home, Bloomington, the Rev. Richard
J. Mick officiating. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 tonight at the memorial home. Burial will be in Park Hill
Cemetery, Bloomington.
Headline: James Ales Jr.
Publication Date: October 11, 1995
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: D7
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: COLFAX -- James O. "Dink" Ales Jr., 44, of Rainsville, Ala., formerly of Colfax, died at 9:50 a.m.
Saturday, Oct. 7, 1995, at St. Clair Correctional Facility in Springville, Ala.
He was born June 25, 1951, in Pekin to James O. and Phyllis N. Hasty Ales Sr.
Surviving are his mother of Colfax; one son, James O. III; one daughter, Josette Nadine Ales Koontz; four
sisters, Phyllis Ann Hill of Manito, Barbara Cox of East Peoria, Judy Buck of Rainsville and Beth Marie Jones
of Crossville, Ala.; three brothers, Tony William Ales of Ellsworth, Johnny Howard Ales of Bloomington and
Thomas Jess Ales of Colfax; 26 stepgrandchildren; and 10 stepgreat-grandchildren. His father and one
brother preceded him in death.
He was an Army veteran, serving as a private first class. He was a member of First Baptist Church in
Manito.
Memorial services will be at a later date at Turtle Mountain Indian Reservation in Bellcourt, N.D.
Arrangements are by Rainsville Funeral Home in Rainsville and local arrangements are by Duffy-Pils
Memorial Home in Colfax.
Memorials may be made to the Leukemia Foundation or any charity.
Headline: Jean Boyd
Publication Date: June 26, 1994
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: C15
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: BLOOMINGTON -- R. Jean Boyd, 72, of East Adams Street, Towanda, formerly of Bloomington,
died at 6:45 p.m. Thursday, June 23, 1994, at BroMenn Regional Medical Center.
Born June 13, 1922, in Lexington to Michael M. and Lola Ross Lucas, she married Carl T. Boyd on Dec. 10,
1938, in Illinois. He died Dec. 30, 1987. One son also preceded her in death.
Surviving are three sons, Carl E. of Cooksville, John of Forrest and Terry of Lexington; four daughters,
Evelyn Morgan of Normal, Charlotte Metz of Windsor, Colo., Norma Gilliam of Colfax and Mary Collins of
Morton; one brother, Fred Lucas of Dallas City; one sister, LaVerta Harlan of Quinlan, Texas; 17
grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
She retired from Eureka Williams Co. of Bloomington, served as an election judge in Normal and attended the
former New Testament Church of Towanda.
Services will be at 2 p.m. Monday at East Lawn Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour before services at
the funeral home. Burial will be in East Lawn Memorial Gardens.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.
Headline: John Gomien
Publication Date: September 13, 1997
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: D7
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: COLFAX -- John Richard Gomien, 82, of Bethesda, Md., formerly of Colfax, died Sunday, Sept.
7, 1997, at his home.
Born May 15, 1915, in Opheim, Mont., to Harry and Yarda Gomien, he married Glee DeVore. She survives.
Also surviving are three daughters, Dee Ann Gretz of Vienna, Va., Danice Moore of New York City and
Donna Gomien of Oslo, Norway; one brother, Robert of Morton; and one granddaughter.
He graduated from Gallagher Business College in Kankakee and earned his bachelor's degree from Strayer
College of Accountancy in Washington, D.C., in 1944.
He began as executive secretary to representative Everett Dirksen in 1940 and was administrative assistant to
Senator Dirksen from 1951 until his death in 1969.
He was administrative assistant to Sen. Ralph Smith from 1969 to 1970. He then was special assistant to Sen.
Robert Taft from 1970 to 1976.
He was a member of Concord-St. Andrews Methodist Church.
Services were Wednesday at his church. Cremation has been accorded, and burial was in the church garden.
Arrangements were by Robert A. Pumphrey Funeral Home in Bethesda.
Memorials may be made to his church, 5910 Goldsboro Road, Bethesda, Md. 20817.
Publication Date: December 04, 1995
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: D7
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: BARTONVILLE -- John S. Peden, 85, of Bartonville died at 4:05 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, 1995, at
Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
Born Jan. 15, 1910, in Glasgow, Ky., to Samuel and Pearl Hargrove Peden, he married F. Evelyn Beasley on
March 14, 1931, in Hammond, Ind. She survives.
Also surviving are one son, Roger of Morton; one brother, Edward of Paxton; two sisters, Gola Garrett of
Colfax and Earline Sweeney of Bloomington; three stepgrandchildren; eight stepgreat-grandchildren; and two
stepgreat-great- grandchildren.
He worked in management at Keystone Steel & Wire Co. for 39 years, retiring in January 1972.
He was a former director of the Redbrand Credit Union of Keystone. He served on the Bartonville Police
Commission for many years.
He was a member of Bartonville United Methodist Church.
Private graveside services will be Tuesday at St. John Lutheran Cemetery. The Rev. Dr. Alan Newhall will
officiate. There will be no visitation. Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Memorials may be made to the Bartonville Fire and Rescue Squad.
Headline: John Stein
Publication Date: April 18, 1994
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: A6
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: FAIRBURY -- John F. Stein, 82, of Fairbury, formerly of Sibley, died at 5:26 p.m. Saturday, April
16, 1994, at Fairbury Hospital.
Born Oct. 25, 1911, in Colfax to Henry and Lena Berck Stein, he married Mary O. Richardson on Feb. 11,
1944, in Colfax. She survives.
Also surviving are three daughters, Lois Farr of Canton, Sue Naffziger of Pekin and Cynthia Gierich of
Tremont; one son, Donald H. of Loami; one brother, Elden B. of Metamora; one sister, Margaret Thornton of
Washington; and seven grandchildren. One brother preceded him in death.
He farmed in the Sibley area, retiring in 1974.
He was a member of Ford- Iroquois Farm Bureau and the Farm Bureau Farm Management Association. He
served on the agricultural advisory council for the Melvin-Sibley High School and was president two terms.
He was a member of Northern Illinois Breeding Co- op and served on its board of directors. He served on the
board of directors of Sibley Locker Plant.
He was a charter member of Sibley Lions Club and a Sibley volunteer fireman. He was a member of Cropsey
United Methodist Church.
Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home in Fairbury. The Rev. Ray Hudson will
officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 tonight at the memorial home. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery
in Sibley.
Memorials may be made to his church or any charity.
Headline: Lydia Kuntz
Publication Date: January 23, 1993
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: C8
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: GRIDLEY -- Lydia Martha Kuntz, 94, of Gridley died at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, 1993, at her
daughter's home in rural Lexington.
Born April 29, 1898, in West Bend, Iowa, to Emil and Lena Habegar Bruellman, she married Raymond Kuntz
on April 17, 1924, in West Bend. He died Oct. 4, 1982. Five brothers, three sisters, one grandson and two
great-grandchildren also preceded her in death.
Surviving are two daughters, Rosella Knapp of rural Lexington and Lucille Romersberger of Gridley; two
sons, Clyde of rural Gridley and Ralph of rural Colfax; 15 grandchildren; and 33 great-grandchildren.
She was a member of Gridley Apostolic Christian Church, where services will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday.
Church ministers will officiate.
Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Froelich Memorial Home in Gridley and one
hour before services at the church. Burial will be in Gridley Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to her church.
Headline: Lyle Bradford
Publication Date: June 17, 1993
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: C7
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: DUNFERMLINE -- Lyle O. Bradford, 64, of P.O. Box 33 died at 9:03 p.m. Tuesday, June 15,
1993, at Graham Hospital in Canton.
Born May 31, 1929, in Anchor to Roy and Celia Stretch Bradford, he married Thelma Lee on Aug. 19, 1970,
in Bloomington. She survives.
Also surviving are four sons, Robert of Lexington, Mark of Bloomington, Russel and Charles, both of
California; one daughter, Azalia Mecham of Bloomington; a great-niece, Dawn White of Lewistown, who
was raised in the Bradford home; four grandchildren; four brothers, Bert of Colfax, Russel of Cooksville,
Roy L. Sr. of Bloomington and Erman of Gibson City; and two sisters, Alice Wyant of North Liberty, Ind.,
and Carol Hereford of Colfax. He was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister.
He worked in maintenance at Rice Lake, last working June 1. A Korean War Army veteran, he was a
member of American Legion Post 16 in Canton.
Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton, where visitation will be one hour
earlier. The Rev. John Beesley will officiate. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Wiley Cemetery in
Colfax. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Headline: Margaret McGowan
Publication Date: May 03, 1996
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: C6
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: PEORIA -- Margaret C. McGowan, 78, of 915 S. Helen died at 5:07 p.m. Wednesday, May 1,
1996, at her home.
She was born Oct. 15, 1917, in Colfax to James and Mary O'Rourke McGowan.
Surviving are one brother, Monsignor Joseph M. McGowan of Bloomington; and several nieces and
nephews. Five brothers and two sisters preceded her in death.
She worked at Saint Francis Medical Center as an elevator operator. She was a member of St. Francis Saints
Retirees Club, Secular Franciscans and St. Ann Catholic Church.
Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at her church. The Rev. Joseph M. McGowan will officiate. Visitation
will be from 6 to 8 tonight at Wright & Salmon Mortuary, with recitation of the rosary at 7:30 p.m.
Additional visitation will be one half-hour before services at the church. Graveside services will be at 4 p.m.
Saturday at St. Mary's Cemetery in Bloomington.
Headline: Marjorie Rawls
Publication Date: February 21, 1993
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: C14
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: Marjorie H. Rawls, 75, of 3829 W. Palmyra Court died at 2:10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19, 1993, at
Methodist Medical Center.
Born March 31, 1917, in Colfax to Roy and Cora Waugh Dillinder, she married William J. Rawls on May 2,
1936, in Dahlgren. He died Feb. 12, 1975, in Peoria.
Surviving are two sons, David of Fresno, Calif., and Steven of Peoria; one sister, Ruby Anstay of
Oconomowoc, Wis.; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
She was a laboratory technician at Northern Research Agriculture Laboratory for more than 20 years, retiring
in 1980.
She was a member of First Baptist Church of Peoria. She also was a member of American Association for
Retired Persons and Byerly Organ Club.
Private services will be Tuesday at Wilton Mortuary. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at the
mortuary. Burial will be at Swan Lake Memory Gardens.
Memorials may be made to her church.
Headline: Mary Talbert
Publication Date: April 10, 1993
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: C9
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: COLFAX -- Mary Elizabeth Talbert, 85, of Colfax died at 9:42 p.m. Wednesday, April 7, 1993, at
Octavia Manor Nursing Home.
Born Aug. 19, 1907, in Aden to Uriah and Martha Glenn Thomason, she married Walter O. Talbert on Oct. 5,
1925, in Nashville. He died June 17, 1990. Two brothers and one sister also preceded her in death.
Surviving are one son, Ray E. of St. Peters, Mo.; two daughters, Lois E. Schlueter of Colfax and Sharon K.
Bjelk of Tucson, Ariz.; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two stepgreat-grandchildren.
She and her husband managed Montclair Apartments in Peoria Heights for 15 years.
Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Johnson Funeral Home in Fairfield, where visitation will be from 6
to 8 p.m. Sunday. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery in Fairfield.
Local arrangements are by Duffy-Pils Memorial Home in Colfax.
Memorials may be made to Octavia Manor Nursing Home.
Headline: Mildred DeVore McDaniel
Publication Date: April 06, 1992
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: C7
Subjects:
Region: Illinois
Obituary: Mildred L. DeVore McDaniel, 77, of 2304 N. Sheridan Road died at 1:13 p.m. Sunday, April 5,
1992, at Saint Francis Medical Center.
Born April 22, 1914, in Colfax to William and Lydia Fuessley Ely, she married Harry DeVore on Aug. 22,
1933, in Colfax. He died on Jan. 27, 1969. She later married Kenneth McDaniel on July 22, 1978, in Peoria.
He died in 1982.
She is survived by three sons, Daryl DeVore of Flossmoor, Dean DeVore of Germantown Hills and Duane
DeVore of Melbourne, Australia; one stepdaughter, Jackie Holmes of Des Moines, Iowa; five grandchildren;
six stepgrandchildren; two great- grandchildren; and one stepgreat-grandchild.
She was employed for many years as a sales clerk at Kellstedt's.
She was an active volunteer with Troop 140 Cub and Boy Scouts.
She was a member of Forrest Hill United Methodist Church.
Services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home, the Rev. David L. Hurley officiating.
Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Burial will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Wiley
Cemetery in Colfax. Memorials may be made to her church.
Headline: Millard Hufford
Publication Date: October 22, 1993
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: A9
Region: Illinois
Obituary: COLFAX -- Millard F. "Wienie" Hufford, 66, of Colfax died at 6:20 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 20,
1993, at St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington.
Born Nov. 19, 1926, in Gardena to David and Bertha Moore Hufford, he married Eunice K. Stieglitz on Aug.
14, 1947, in Morton. She survives.
Also surviving are four daughters, Lynn McGowan of Peoria, Sandra Meyer of West Chester, Pa., Teresa
Lovett of Lincoln, Neb., and Susan Murray of Bloomington; one sister, Eva Egli of East Peoria; and eight
grandchildren. One brother and one infant sister preceded him in death.
He was a World War II Navy veteran.
He owned and operated Wiener's Restaurant in Colfax. He formerly owned the Ben Franklin and Clothing
Store in Colfax. He worked at Schwenk Supermarket in Morton and was a bus driver for Colfax High School
for nine years.
He was a member of the Colfax Chamber of Commerce.
He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5921 of Morton and Colfax American Legion
Davis-Kerber Post 653.
He was a member of Colfax Christian Church, where services will be at 1:30 p.m. Sunday. The Rev.
Stephanie Curran will officiate. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home.
Burial will be in Wiley Cemetery, where full military rites will be accorded by the Colfax American Legion.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or his church.
Headline: Nadean Colclasure
Publication Date: May 03, 1994
Source: Peoria Journal Star
Page: D5
Region: Illinois
Obituary: COLFAX -- Nadean E. Colclasure, 71, of Colfax died at 10:15 p.m. Sunday, May 1, 1994, at her
home. Born Aug. 26, 1922, in Dewitt to John Franklin and Norabelle Reynolds Lee, she married Percy Edward
Colclasure on Sept. 25, 1944, in Heyworth. He died Oct. 26, 1983. She also was preceded in death by one
brother and one daughter.
Surviving are three sons, John Edward of Bloomington, George E. of Normal and Ron G. of Eureka; one
daughter, Mrs. Jess (Paula) Northcutt of Bloomington; 12 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one
brother, John Franklin Lee Jr. of Heyworth; and six sisters, Mary Denniston of Bloomington, Julia M.
Mathews of Arthur, Maymie Deiters, Thelma VanWinkle and Ella Ferguson, all of Heyworth, and Helen
Kinsell of Normal.
A lifetime McLean County resident, she had been a Colfax resident since 1958. She was a nurse's aide at
Octavia Manor Nursing Home in Colfax for 16 years, retiring in 1990. She also worked at her daughter's
childcare center, Paula's Playpen in Bloomington.
She was a member of Colfax American Legion Auxiliary, 40 et 8 and the Never Too Old Club in Colfax.
She was a member of Colfax Christian Church and its Hustlers Society.
Services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home in Colfax. The Rev. Stephanie Curran
will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 tonight at the memorial home. Burial will be in Wiley Cemetery in
Colfax. Memorials may be made to her church or any charity.
DEATH OF GILBERT LAWRENCE (Colfax Press, Thursday, 22 July 1926)
Gilbert Lawrence, aged resident of Colfax, died at his home here at 3:40
o'clock, Friday afternoon following an illness of ten days with organic heart
trouble.
Mr. Lawrence was born near Cambridge, Ohio, August 10, 1837, a member of
a family of ten children. He spent his early life in that state and in 1861
he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Ross at Otsego. In September, 1864,
Mr. Lawrence, with his family came to Illinois and located on a farm in
McLean County, near Colfax. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence have lived in town for
twenty-four years.
After the death of his first wife, Mr. Lawrence was married to Eliza A.
Starkey at Cooksville on March 9, 1892. Besides his wife Mr. Lawrence is
survived by a brother, Newton Lawrence of Cambridge, Ohio, also two children,
Mrs. Lydia Harris and Wesley Lawrence of Colfax. Two children, Belle and
Avery died in infancy, and three daughters, Eliza, Mrs. L. E. Broadwell and
Mrs. Wesley Hurt, preceded him in death.
He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.
The funeral services were held from the Colfax Methodist church at 2
o'clock on Sunday afternoon, Rev. Arthur Cates, pastor officiating.
Interment was in Wiley cemetery.
The singers were Mrs. A. L. Hutson, Mrs. Arthur Cates, Don and S. Bane.
The pall bearers were Harvey Hamilton, Richard Hamilton, Frank Stauffer,
E. J. Harris, James Harris, and S. E. Daniels.
Those from away who attended the funeral were Newton Lawrence and
daughter, and Wesley Brower of Cambridge, Ohio; Earl Starkey of Mt. Pleasant,
Iowa; George, Harvey and John Swan and wife of Aroma Park; John O'dell and
wife, Miss Agnes Broadwell, and Mrs. James Lawrence of Fairbury.
Pantagraph
Jan. or Feb. 1949
Bloomington, IL
Elmer Phillips Reported Dead In German Camp
Mrs. Geraldine Phillips, 312 East Mulberry Street, has received word from the
War Department, stating that her husband, Sgt. Elmer D. Phillips, died from
wounds received Jan. 19, in Action one month after he was captured and placed
in a German prison camp.
Sgt. Phillips was born Feb. 24, 1913, in Bloomington, the son of Milton and
Ruth (Ferguson) Phillips. He graduated from Bloomington High School in 1931.
He married Geraldine Tuggle of Normal on June 27, 1934, in Bloomington. They
have always made their home in Bloomington except for periods when Sgt.
Phillips was employed in Detroit, Mich. His parents reside at 214 1/2 West
Jefferson Street.
Sgt. Phillips enlisted in June 1942, and completed his radio work at Fort
Know, Ky. He had been overseas since Sep. 1, 1944.
Surviving are his wife; one son, Jimmie; parents; brother, Carroll Phillips,
1410 South East Street.
Pantagraph
Friday, June 25, 1908 Pg. 5
Bloomington, Illinois
Death Near LeRoy
Mrs. Ella French Succumbs to Protracted Illness
News Notes of LeRoyMrs. Ella French, wife of George French, after a lingering
illness, died at her home, three miles west of LeRoy. at 9a.m., Thursday, age
48 Years.Mrs. French leaves her husband and seven children, four sons and
three daughters. She came to Illinois from Indiana. ( Originally from Powell
County, Ky. Stanton) and her maiden name was Hall. (She was the daughter of
Leonard and Angeline (Hammond) Hall) . The funeral services will be held
Saturday at 3p.m. at the Christian Church, conducted by Pastor L.E. Chase.
Interment will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, LeRoy. Pantagraph
Saturday Dec. 30, 1939 Pg. 3
Bloomington, Illinois
George Walter French, Retired Farmer Dies
George Walter French, 80, retired farmer, died at 7:02a.m. Friday at St.
Joseph Hospital, Bloomington, of a lingering illness.
The body was taken to the Beck Memorial Home. The funeral will be at 1:30p.m.
Monday at the Funeral Home. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery at LeRoy.
Mr. French was born Jan. 29, 1859 in Stanton, Ky. the son of Mr. and Mrs.
John French.
He married Miss Ella Hall, now deceased in 1884 in Stanton.Ky.
Of the eight children born to this union, five survive. They are: Mrs Ben
(Mabel) Timson, Warm Springs, Montana, Ross of Silvis, IL, Roy, Bloomington,
Mrs Orville Ennis, Maidstone,Ontario Canada and Miss Yula French, Chicago.
In Aug. 1931 He married Miss Mary Killion of Bloomington, who survives. Also
surviving are two brothers: C.M. of LaGrange and Eugene of Stanton, Ky. and
nine grandchildren. He was a member of the United Brethren of Diamond Grove.
LeRoy Journal Friday June 16, 1911
Death of Mrs. Elmer Phillips
Mrs. Elmer Phillips, who was Miss Elsie Hall, was born in LeRoy, IL. May 28,
1886, and was the fourth child of Mr. and Mrs. John Hall, who are now living
in Fisher, IL.
She departed this life very quietly last Mon. Evening (June 12, 1911), from
internal injuries.
At six years of age she entered school at Farmer City and after her parents
moved to LeRoy she continued her studies in the LeRoy School through the
eighth grade when circumstances compelled her to remain at home. She always
ranked high in her class and was well loved by all her school mates.
She was married to Mr. Elmer Phillips of Downs at Bloomington on July 12,
1905, and to them were born a family of four children: Evert Gale, six years
old; Rowena M., four years old; and Alva Kyle, seven months old. One
daughter, Eva Wanetta, died at the age of fourteen months last August and was
laid away in the Oak Grove Cemetery.
Saturday, June 12, she and her children were on their way to visit her parents
at Fisher, when at Laurette, while some switching was being done, she
attempted to give her baby a drink. At the same time a car was kicked against
the coach, jarring the little one out of her arms and throwing her over a
stool, which is used as an extra step for the coach when stopping at a
station.
At that time she received internal injuries which has resulted in her death
Monday evening. She suffered severely for several days, but bore it all
patiently and without complaint. At intervals she was semi-conscious and
continued to grow worse until the end came. About two hours before she died,
she became conscious long enough to bid farewell to those at her bedside and
also to request her parents to care for her children. Very quietly she
breathed her last.
She was a faithful Sunday School Scholar and dedicated her life to God during
a revival at Downs in the U.B. Church about five years ago.
Beside her husband, and three children, she leaves to mourn, two brothers,
Harry and Oscar; one sister, Mrs. Ida Forrest, of Glenavon; also four aunts
and two uncles. She was well known by nearly everyone and it is only too true
that to know her was to love her.
The funeral services were held yesterday afternoon at the Christian Church,
conducted by Rev. Mr. Harris of Bloomington, and the interment took place at
Oak Grove Cemetery.
Daily Pantagraph
Bloomington,IL.
Feb. 28, 1928
Mr. James T. Phillips
James Thompson Phillips, resident of McLean County for more than half
a century, died at 4:45 o'clock Monday afternoon at the home of his
daughter, Mrs. Adolph Roggy, 1105 E. Oakland Avenue, Bloomington,
Illinois, after a lingering illness from heart disease.
Mr. Phillips was born Feb. 23, 1851 in Pennsylvania and moved with
his parents to Illinois when he was a young man. He was married to
Martha Jane Killion March 12,1874 in LeRoy, Illlinois. She died twelve
years ago (March 26, 1916). To them were born six children: Mrs. Adolph
Roggy, James M. Phillips, 1602 S. Main St., Bloomington, Illinois. John W.
Phillips and Charles L. Phillips of Downs, Illinois, Mrs. Ross French of
Corydon, Iowa and Edward O. Phillips who died Feb. 18, 1923 after
serving overseas with the American Army during the World War 1.
There 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. He also leaves the
following brothers and sisters: L. Phillips of Los Angeles, Ca.,
Gideon, Jerry and Dave Phillips of McLean, Kansas, Mrs. Emma McGinn of
Webster Grove, Missouri, Mrs. H.E. Wilkonson of Cincinnatti, Ohio. Three
brothers and sisters are dead. He was a member of he United Brethren from
early manhood. Services will be held from the Second United Brethren
Church, Wednesday afternoon, the Rev. L.A. Whitesell, Pastor, will be
officiating. Burial will be in Hopewell Cemetery.
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