October 1, 2026
A sampling of headlines in this week’s Sidell Reporter. To read the stories that go with this, plus many more articles in this week’s issue, subscribe today to read the Reporter in print and/or online. For details click here.
Carroll finds new auditor for annual report
Catlin Museum to hold annual fall dinner
Tisha Kirby is rooted in Fairmount, driven to care
Salt Fork Sports
Defense posts shutout on Bismarck, 14-0
Salt Fork Homecoming this weekend. View homecoming court below.
Second halves give OSF Soccer team repeat problems
Salt Fork Netters win three to move their record to 14-4
Richard, Richardson run best times; Wells finishes 24th in Spartan Classic
Surowka, Donaldson are medalist in tri-meet
Salt Fork Band performs at U of I football game
Woestman, Harrold make Top 10, All-Conference honors
Obituaries
WAYNE LYNDELL JOHNSON of Coon Rapids, Minn. passed away peacefully on Sept. 20, 2026 at the age of 88.
Wayne was born on Dec. 27, 1937, in Springfield, Ill. to Paul and Frances (Bristow) Johnson. Wayne was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth Lee Johnson; his parents, Paul and Frances Johnson; and his son, Mark Kenneth Johnson.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Ana Jean (Swangle) Johnson, formerly of Sidell, whom he married on Nov. 11, 1960.
Wayne’s legacy lives on in his children, Barbara (Mike) Peterson and Alice (Steve) Yatckoske, and his daughter-in-law, Cathy Johnson. Wayne was a proud grandfather to Anthony (Ashley) Peterson, Amanda Yatckoske, Ryan (Kara) Peterson, Nathanial (Kiki) Johnson, Bethany Johnson, and Jacob Lutzke, and a great-grandfather to Addalynn and Oliver Peterson.
Wayne graduated from Springfield High School in 1956, and after graduating he joined the Navy where he proudly served from 1958 to 1962, which included a tour on the USS Saratoga. He loved to share stories of his time in the service.
After attending Central Technical School, he worked as electronic technician for several companies.
Wayne dedicated himself to his community and his faith. He was an active member of the West River Road Baptist Church. He served as a parent chaperone on many band competitions and trips with his daughters. His passion for mentorship was evident in his work with the Boy Scouts of America, where he served as a troop committee chair and volunteered as a leader, guiding many young boys, including his son. Wayne’s commitment to service extended beyond his immediate community. He was a Life Member of the Lions Club International in Coon Rapids and Andover, Minn., reflecting his enduring commitment to helping others.
In his leisure time, Wayne found joy in simple pleasures. He loved plowing snow for his neighbors, traveling and taking cruises with his beloved Ana Jean, listening to country and gospel music, and watching Hogan’s Heroes. He took great delight in feeding peanuts to the squirrels, a daily ritual that brought him countless hours of joy.
Wayne will be remembered for his sense of humor, his quirky smiles, and, above all, his unwavering love for family and friends. His spirit of kindness, service, and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.
TREVOR AUGUSTUS KARUZIS, 24, of Catlin, passed away on Sept. 19, 2026.
Born on June 20, 2002, in Danville, Trevor grew up with a passion for reading, bugs, story telling, and animals. He took great pride in his first job as a teenager at nearly all the Vermilion County McDonald’s and one in Champaign, proving early on that he was dependable, hard working, and always ready with a joke to lighten the shift. Trevor was truly happiest when he was spending time with his huskies. He also avidly enjoyed researching past and present world history.
Those who knew him will always remember his quick wit and his compassionate heart.
He was preceded in death by grandfather, Leonard Karuzis; grandfather, Dale Richter; and grandmother, Karen Gooch.
Trevor is survived by his parents, Michael and Tina Karuzis of Catlin; a brother, Tristan Karuzis of Catlin; a sister, Morgan Karuzis of Catlin; and a grandmother, Ruth Karuzis of Westville.
Visitation was Sept. 28, at St. Mary’s Church in Westville. Burial will follow at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Westville. Donations may be made to the International Bipolar Foundation https://ibpf.org/get-involved/donate/
Rortvedt Funeral Services & Crematory handled arrangements for the family. To leave online condolences, visit the Tribute Wall at rortvedtfuneralservices.com.
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