Obituaries 2024
KIM C. JOLLEY, 71, of Indianola, passed away at 9:32 p.m. Mon., Dec. 25, 2023, at his home.
Kim was born March 5, 1952 in Danville, the son of Keith and Barbara F. Wood Jolley. He married Janey Craig June 9, 1973, in Indianola. She survives. Other survivors include one son, Kevin (Kara) Jolley of St. Joseph; two sisters, Karla (Mike) Mullins of Oak Ridge, Tenn. and Leslie Barnett of Fairmount; two granddaughters, Kya and Kaelyn Jolley; sister-in-law, Gaile (Robert) Sekarka of Homer Glen; two nephews, Aaron Ferber of Oak Ridge, Tenn. and Austin (Katie) Ferber of Knoxville, Tenn. He was preceded by his parents.
Kim was a 1970 graduate of Jamaica High School. He was involved in various service activities including elevator and farm boards, township boards and was an active member of the Fairmount Lions Club. After finishing his basketball career at the U of I, he assisted Jamaica basketball teams, enjoying his own son’s participation. He took pride in growing sweet corn and sharing it with friends and neighbors. Kim was very passionate about farming. His community was important to him, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand.
Graveside services were Jan. 3 at Woodlawn Cemetery, Indianola with Pastor Craig Roller officiating. Visitation was at Catlin Church of Christ. Memorials may be made to the Salt Fork FFA or Woodlawn Cemetery. Robison Chapel in Catlin is in charge of service details. On-line condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
RUTH I. CALLAHAN, 91, of Sidell passed away on Sun., Dec. 31, 2023 at Pleasant Meadows Senior Living in Chrisman.
Ruth was born to Forrest and Della (Taylor) McDaniel on Dec. 17, 1932 in Tangier, Ind. She married Donald Callahan on May 3, 1959 in Sidell.
She is survived by two sons, Scott (Sharilyn) Callahan of Covington, Ind. and Gregg (Renee) Callahan of Rockville, Ind.; seven grandchildren, Scott (Kylie) Callahan II, Krista (Cody Peters) Reese, Katelyn (Jackson Priest) Callahan, step-granddaughter Kelsey Rush, Casey Callahan, Christopher (Annee) Callahan, and Cara (Tyler) Johnson; 12 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Wayne (Joan) McDaniel and Keith (Jane) McDaniel; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents, Forrest and Della McDaniel; three brothers, Donald, Larry, and Kenneth McDaniel; and four sisters, Aileen, Ester, Bettey and Shirley.
Ruth enjoyed spending time with her family and friends playing cards, camping, fishing, and gambling. She loved to travel and would often go on cruises or down to Fort Myers, Floria with her husband. She would also go on Florida trips with her good friend Jim.
Ruth worked as a head cook for Sidell Jr. High, at Magnavox, and at Hysters in Danville. She was also active in her community and served on the Sidell Cemetery Board, was a Cub Scout den mother, and a member of the Sidell United Methodist Church.
A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 5, 2023 at the Sidell United Methodist Church. Funeral service will be the following day (Saturday, Jan. 6) at 10 a.m. also at the church. Pastor Craig Roller will officiate. Burial will follow at the Fairview Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the Sidell United Methodist Church.
CAROLYN S. CARTER, 83, of Champaign passed away on Mon., Dec. 25, 2023, in Urbana. She was born on Dec. 16, 1940, in Danville, the daughter of Gordon and Alta (Jones) Carter. She was a 1959 graduate of Jamaica High School.
She is survived by her sisters, Connie Carter and Celia Carter Hitzeroth. She was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers, Charles and Clifford. Carolyn will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Graveside services were Dec. 29, 2023 at Woodlawn Cemetery in Indianola.
Memorials may be made in Carolyn’s name to Carle Hospice for the exceptional care that they provided.
The family has entrusted Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center with her arrangements. Please join her family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
DOROTHY E. JONES, 97, of Catlin, passed away at 6:14 p.m. on Sat., Jan. 6, 2024, in the home of her daughter in Indianapolis.
Dorothy was born in West Lebanon, Ind., July 22, 1926, to Carl E. Cornett and Doris Foster Cornett. She married James A. Jones Sept. 24, 1949, at the Catlin Church of Christ. He preceded her in death on June 10, 2014. Surviving are two daughters, Ellen Jones Carney and Beth Jones Gibson of Indianapolis; two sisters, Laura Bryan and Ruth (Ron) Sandburg; two granddaughters; five great-grandchildren; and one sister-in-law, Janet Cornett. She was preceded in death by an infant son; one brother, Merritt Foster Cornett; and one brother-in-law: Charles Bryan.
Dorothy was a graduate of Danville High School, Class of 1944, and Lakeview Hospital School of Nursing, Class of 1947. A long-time member of the Catlin Church of Christ and the Catlin Historical Society, Dorothy worked as a Registered Nurse and as a homemaker. She enjoyed traveling, reading, gardening and singing in the church choir.
Funeral service are 11 a.m. on Sat., Jan. 13, at Robison Chapel, Catlin. Burial in Oakridge Cemetery, Catlin. Visitation is 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday at Robison Chapel, Catlin. Memorial contributions can be sent to the Catlin Historical Society, P.O. Box 658, Catlin, Illinois 61817 or the Catlin Church of Christ, 715 W Vermilion Street, Catlin, Illinois 61817. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
YVONNE MARIE JOINER, 92, of Catlin, passed away peacefully on Fri., Jan. 5, 2023 at Hawthorne Inn in Danville. Born Oct. 7, 1931 to Edgar Jesse Nettro and Arlene Marie (Otis) in Reading, Mich. While attending Danville High School, class of 1949, Yvonne was active in Y-Teens, serving as President one year. Her favorite teenage stories centered on the Danville 5 – Dick and Jerry Van Dyke, Gene Hackman, Donald O’Connor, and Bobbie Short – and parties and interactions she had with Jerry and Gene who were in her class. Yvonne met the love of her life, Robert Allen Joiner, at a Covington basketball game and they wed on Aug. 7, 1949. They had a daughter, Chèrie (Stephen) Whipple of Chattanooga, Tenn, in 1957. Bob and Yvonne celebrated their 71 years of marriage prior to his passing in 2021.
For many years Yvonne worked in the Sales department of Illinois Bell but decided to dedicate her life to being a wonderful full-time mom. She devoted many volunteer hours to Catlin school’s PTA, teaching Sunday School at the Catlin Church of Christ, and attending events at the schools. Yvonne was a member of the Catlin Church of Christ for over six decades and attended the Back to Basic’s Sunday School class.
Reading, word puzzles, and baking were her passion. Playing cards with her sister, Yvetta, and beating the husbands was a favorite sport. No one loved college basketball or major league baseball more than Yvonne and Bob.
Yvonne was predeceased by her father, mother, her nephew, Steve Gilkison, and husband. She is survived by her daughter, sister, Yvetta; and brother-in-law, Jack Gilkison.
Visitation will be held at Robison Chapel in Catlin on Fri., Jan. 12, from 10-11:30 a.m. with a private, family service following. Yvonne will be interred at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Catlin. In lieu of flowers, family and friends are welcomed to donate to a charity of their choice in Yvonne’s name.
PATRICK MONROE McCARTY, 53, of Catlin, passed away Mon., Jan. 15 at 10:51 p.m. in his home surrounded by his wife and two boys. Patrick was born to Sam and Sandy McCarty, of Oakwood on July 5, 1970. Patrick’s father passed away on Jan. 14, 2007. Patrick has three sisters and one brother, Tracy Flock of Springfield, Norma Hoepner of Tilton, Gabby McCarty of Oakwood and Austin McCarty of Peoria.
Patrick married Vickie on Sept. 28, 2002 and they have five children, Chad Richardson (Bethany) of Indianapolis, Amy Kocher (Jake) of Sidell, Heather Fleming of Allerton, Camryn McCarty and Cadyn McCarty, both still at home. Patrick and Vickie have nine grandchildren, Ryker, Ellie, Avery, Addy, Kenna, Audrey, Hailey, Megan, and Rowan.
Patrick was a devoted husband, father, and Christian. He attended Sidell Assembly. He was always joking and teasing people which quickly became the standard if you were around him. He never met a person he couldn’t talk to and was a compassionate, and caring person. He was a very hard worker and took pride in everything he did. If a job was worth doing, it was worth doing right to Patrick.
He worked for McCormick Services in Champaign. He loved everyone he worked with and was very loyal to his employers.
Patrick enjoyed his work, going to church, spending time with his two youngest boys still at home, camping, and weekend getaways with his family.
Patrick left this world very unexpectedly. There will remain a void forever in his place. Patrick set the mark of excellence very high in everything he did and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Sidell Assembly Jan. 27. Visitation will be from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. with a memorial service following.
KATELYN JAYNE “KATIE” FOUREZ, age 33, of Sidell, passed away at 5:43 a.m. on Thurs., Feb. 1, 2024, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. Her immediate family was with her when she passed. Katie was born June 28, 1990, in Danville to Steve and Melinda Fourez of Fairmount. She attended Jamaica Schools, graduating in 2009. Katie was very active in 4-H, FFA, FCCLA, chorus, band and was a cheerleader for the Salt Fork Storm. During the summers she raised and exhibited beef cattle at numerous county fairs in the area, as well as helping with various chores around the farm. She was also active in many church youth group activities and played youth softball.
Following graduation, she earned her AS degree from DACC, and went on to earn a BS degree in history from Indiana State University. While at ISU Katie was actively involved with the BCM christian youth group and participated in many activities on campus and at local churches.
After completing college Katie worked at the Neufields Art Museum complex in Indianapolis and at Cracker Barrel in Indianapolis. She enjoyed living in Fishers, Ind., was active in the E91 church and made many lasting friends. In 2023 Katie moved back to Illinois and lived in the family farmhouse in rural Sidell. Upon returning she worked at Premier Grain in Fairmount and had just begun work at Bright Beginnings Daycare in St. Joseph. She very much enjoyed working with children, especially the little ones.
In her free time, Katie enjoyed traveling throughout the United States. She even had the opportunity to visit Italy and a cruise of the Greek Islands. She was a history buff and many of her trips focused on historical sites and museums. Katie was also an avid reader and enjoyed doing art and craft projects.
Katelyn is survived by her parents, Steve and Melinda Fourez of rural Fairmount; her brother, Jeremy Fourez; and nephews, Alec and Wyatt Fourez, all of Kokomo, Ind. She is also survived by her uncles, David (Sue) Fourez of Florida and Ron (Sally) Schafer of Kokomo; and her aunt, Jocena (Rick) Miller of Kokomo. In addition, she is survived by five cousins whom she dearly loved and enjoyed the time she spent with them. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, William and Patricia Fourez of Sidell, George and Mary Schafer of Kokomo; and an uncle, Roger Schafer of Kokomo.
Katelyn loved being with family and friends. Her smile lit up the world whenever she was around. She will be missed by her friends and family.
Funeral services are at 1 p.m. today (Thursday), Feb. 8, 2024, at Robison Chapel, Catlin. Burial will be in Stearns Cemetery in Fithian. Visitation is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. before services. Memorials may be made to the Vermilion County Farm Bureau Foundation or the Shriners Hospital for Children. Online condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
STEVEN W. “OSCAR” WADE, 64, of Fairmount, passed away at 9:34 p.m. Wed., Feb. 7, 2024, at his home.
He was born on Sept. 23, 1959, in Kankakee, the son of Donald and Shirley Parks Wade. Survivors include one son, Logan (Reghan) Wade of Fairmount; one daughter, Mandy Wade of Nashville, Ind.; two brothers, David (Kelly) Wade of Bloomington and Rick (Chris) Wade of Belleview, Fla.; one sister, Diana Davis of Tilton; two grandchildren, Audric and Sierra, and one on the way; many nieces and nephews including a special nephew, Justin Eads; and a neighbor and best friend, Josh Campbell. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Wade and mother, Shirley Johnson.
Oscar worked as a truck driver for many years before retirement. He was a member of the Fairmount Quarry and the Fairmount Sportsman’s Club. He was an avid Cubs, Bears and Illini fan. He enjoyed riding around town on his side-by-side and didn’t know a stranger due to his gift of gab. He enjoyed scrapping and hunting mushrooms and deer antlers in his woods.
Funeral services 11 a.m. Fri., Feb. 16, 2024, at Robison Chapel in Catlin with Pastor Matt Filicsky officiating. Burial in Greenview Cemetery in Fairmount. Visitation 5-7 p.m. today (Thursday), Feb. 15, at Robison Chapel. On-line condolences at www.robisonchapel.com.
OVID EUGENE BARKLEY, 77, of Paris, passed away at 3:12 a.m. Sat., March 2, 2024, at his home, surrounded by family. He was a retired farmer and ordained minister.
He was born July 30, 1946, in Paris, the son of the late Donald Eugene and Mary Anna (Winans) Barkley. He married Jennifer Lynn Holcomb on August 10, 1968, at the Presbyterian Church in Paris, and she survives.
Other survivors include two daughters, Kara Lynn (Larry) Rose of Newburgh, Ind., and Jana Michele (Ryan) Holmes of Savoy; a brother, Dale (Diana) Barkley of Paris; and four grandchildren.
Gene was proud to serve as president of his 1964 Paris High School graduating class. He enjoyed helping with the planning of class reunions and get-togethers through the years, and he and Jenny cherished the bonds that they shared with their classmates. Gene went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from Illinois Wesleyan University in 1968 and his Master’s of Divinity from Wesley Theological Seminary in 1971. Rev. Barkley served as pastor of the United Methodist Churches of Ridge Farm and Indianola from 1971 until 1976, when he returned home to assist his father and brother in the family farming business.
Gene’s life was marked by selfless service to faith, family and farming. He was an active, devoted member of First United Methodist Church of Paris where he served on numerous committees as well as singing in the church choir, and he especially enjoyed fellowship with the United Methodist Men’s group. Although no longer serving in a full-time pastorate, Gene maintained his ordained status in the church. He felt honored when requested to serve churches as a guest speaker, interim minister, or officiant for weddings, funerals, and other ceremonies when the need arose. Gene’s natural qualities of sincerity, attention, and quiet encouragement made him someone who connected easily with others as a pastor and friend.
Gene was pleased to put his family first and was a dedicated husband, proud father, and doting grandfather. He was more than happy to spend his spare time cheering on his daughters and grandchildren in their various endeavors, rarely missing an opportunity to do so. Gene and Jenny also enjoyed the relationships that formed as their family grew to include in-laws, friends, and friends of friends along the way. When health permitted, the Barkleys also enjoyed traveling, especially with family in tow.
Even after retirement, Gene was happiest when farming, whether on his family’s own Centennial Farm or helping others in their farming operations. Throughout his career, Gene worked diligently alongside local government, state and national legislators to make life better for farmers and their families. He was a longtime member of the Edgar County Farm Bureau where he had served as board president. In addition, Gene served on the boards of directors of the Illinois Farm Bureau, Country Companies Insurance, and Growmark, Inc. He was also a member of Prairie Lodge #77 Ancient Free & Accepted Masons for many years. Gene was awarded the 2022 Edgar County Farm Bureau Loyalty Award for his 43 years of service.
For those who wish, the family suggests that memorials be made to First United Methodist Church of Paris or to the IAA Foundation.
Services were conducted March 6 with Pastor Lance Leeds officiating. Burial was in Edgar Cemetery. Templeton Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
JAMES HENRY LUTZ, 70, of Chrisman passed away at 12:30 p.m. Friday, March 15, 2024, as a result of an automobile accident. He was a retired farmer and self-employed mechanic.
He was born Feb. 12, 1954, in Tuscola, the son of the late Leonard and Viola Evelyn (Marlett) Lutz. He married Penny S. Phillips on June 10, 1975, in Salem and she survives.
Other survivors include three children, James (Anna) Lutz of Belton, Texas, Pam Lutz of Chrisman and Shelly Lutz of Tuscola; two brothers, Joe and Gary Lutz, both of Danville; two sisters, Sandra McCarty of Oakwood and Linda Lemezis of Ridge Farm; seven grandchildren, Avery Lutz, Samantha James Harper, Christopher James Picazo, Meadow Picazo, Mya Picazo, Riggins Picazo, and Ryker Picazo; a great-granddaughter, Emery Tomes; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by four brothers, John, Robert, Tom and Leonard Lutz; and two sisters, Patty Jones and Kay Spencer.
Jim was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and he served in his younger years on the Fairmount Volunteer Fire Department. He was an avid John Deere enthusiast. Jim enjoyed being outdoors, especially fishing, hunting and mowing. In his spare time, he loved working on cars and caring for his cats. Above all else, Jim will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and proud grandfather who loved spending time with his grandkids.
For those who wish, the family suggests that memorials be made to the Edgar County Animal Shelter.
Services celebrating his life will be conducted at 3 p.m. Sat., March 23 at Templeton Funeral Home in Paris. Interment will follow in Young America Cemetery near Hume with military rites conducted by Hume American Legion Post #369. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until service time Saturday at the funeral home.
ELDON “SONNY” GOURLEY of Englewood, Fla. passed away March 7, 2024.
Sonny was born June 12, 1941, in Wilmore, Ky. to Eldon O. Gourley and Virginia E. (Davis) Gourley.
After graduating from Jamaica High School, Sidell, he attended Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in education and business administration in 1965. His career began teaching business, physical education, driver’s education and coaching baseball, basketball, and founded and coached the cross-country team in Newton. In 1970, Sonny joined Country Financial Insurance as a Public Relations Representative putting on safety programs for several years around Central Illinois. He was a qualified instructor for the National Safety Council’s Defensive Driving Course. He was a member of the Illinois High School and College Driver Education Association and the National Institute for Farm Safety. He then began selling memberships for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), a lobbying organization advocating for small businesses. He received honors as the leading salesperson nationally. Sonny rejoined Country Financial as an insurance representative in the Shelby County Agency in Illinois providing a combined total of 48 years of service, retiring in December 2019. During his career he received eight All Americans, was an 11-time Honor Roll recipient, a member of the Million Dollar Round Table, and in 2001, wrote the largest whole life policy ever written by a Country representative. He received the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) award and held the Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF) designation. Sonny’s dedication and involvement in various organizations showcase the commitment he made to making a positive impact on his community. Among these were: Newton Jaycees; volunteer and Chair of the Shelby County Cancer Crusade; three term board member of the Shelbyville Unit 4 School District, also serving as president; long time United Methodist Church member, volunteer, and board member; 15 years on the C.E.F.S. Economic Opportunity Corporation in Central Illinois, serving as vice-chair and receiving the Board Service Award; member and officer of Kiwanis for many years, devoting time to their projects including Thanksgiving food baskets, Head Start, Kids Awards, and Key Club; Masonic Rite Temple Member; member and auction volunteer of the Mattoon YMCA board. In his spare time, he managed to donate over nine gallons of blood through the American Red Cross!
Sonny is survived by the love of his life, wife Sandra Jean (Wax) of 62 years; brothers: Elwood Gourley of Houston, Texas, Gary (Linda) Gourley of Danville, John (Joyce) Gourley of Georgetown; three children, Robyn (Mike) Wolters, Kara (Jeff) Johnston, Thad (Luciana) Gourley; Nine grandchildren: Jessica Cohlmeyer, Austin Wolters, Whitney Wolters, Alec (Kaylee) Johnston, Hannah (Chris) Butler, Nathan (Lauren) Johnston, Capt. Madison (Capt. Jack) Rossi, Max Gourley (fiancé, Tessa Koepp), Lauryn Gourley; nine great-grandchildren: Alexis, Charlotte, Leopold, Lillian, Greta, Lincoln, Abram, Grace and Everett.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and four sisters, Berdenia Gourley, Nancy Harlan, Eldenia Rogiers, and Mava Rogers.
Sonny loved his family fiercely. His humor, kind heart, and love for people is fondly remembered by those who had the privilege to love and know him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Country Club of Decatur, 135 N. Country Club Rd., Decatur on Sat., July 6, 2024. A Memorial Tribute will begin at 1:30 p.m., followed by a Celebration. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) on his memorial page at: https://www.classy.org/fundraiser/5345034.
About FTD: Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) is a form of dementia gradually eroding an individual’s personality: their ability to speak, make sound decisions, control their movements, behave within social norms, and relate to those they love. FTD devastates familial relationships, finances, and even the health of family caregivers themselves. Currently there are no approved treatments, and most providers lack knowledge of appropriate care. Average life expectancy is 7-13 years after the start of symptoms.
JIMMY L. TOBRIT, 79, passed away at his home in Westville on March 22, 2024. He was born on May 10, 1944 in Fairmount to parents Helen and James Torbit. He attended Jamaica High School. He married the love of his life, Luann, on May 8, 1965. He was buried next to her at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Westville.
Jimmy worked at Tee Pak in Danville for over 45 years before his eventual retirement. He made a close-knit group of friends throughout those 45 years, which were friendships he cherished even long after he retired. He also held the title of Union Rep for the UFCW Local 686 for several years during his service at Tee Pak. He enjoyed having an opportunity to travel and always looked forward to the chance to go fishing.
He is survived by his daughters Lori Harris of Hayesville, North Carolina and Lisa Innes of Westville as well as his grandson Eric Harris.
Fond memories and condolences can be shared with hi s family on his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com <http://www.sunsetfuneralhome.com/>
SAMUEL JUNIOR DRAPER, 75, of Fairmount, passed away in his home on the morning of Sunday, March 24, 2024. Junior was born to Samuel and Inez (Johnston) Draper on March 4, 1949 in Salem. He married Alice Bailey on Aug. 6, 2004. She survives.
Junior is survived by his children, Bruce (Nisa) Draper, Mark (Shannon) Draper, Brian (Tasha) Draper, Penny Gnaden, Amanda (David) Bradford, and Debbie Gnaden; 17 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.
Preceding him in death are his parents and sisters, Iris Graham and Donna May Draper.
Junior grew up in Salem and East St. Louis where he attended Cohokia Public Schools. He later moved to Fairmount in 1968. He worked at General Motors for 26 years and retired in May of 1993. He worked as clean-up crew in the basement scooping sand with a bobcat. He valued hard work, having never missed a day, always telling his sons that they could miss school when he missed work. His favorite holiday was Christmas and he enjoyed growing out his beard to look like Santa Claus. Junior was an avid hunter and trapper until his health declined and wouldn’t allow him to hunt anymore. His favorite hobbies were fishing, camping, mushroom hunting, and playing chess and cards. He loved sitting by the campfire telling his life stories, and most of all Junior loved spending time with his family.
A service in honor of Junior will be held at noon on Friday, March 29 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Danville with Pastor Mike Roberts of Fairmount officiating. Visitation will be held from 10 to noon on Friday, also at Sunset. Cremation will follow. Please share memories to his tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome.com.
MICHAEL ALLEN TRANCHANT, 64, formerly of Catlin, passed away on March 10, 2024 at his home in Port St. Lucie, Fla.
Michael was born on Jan. 21,1960 to Catherine (Concannon) and John “Pete” Tranchant in Danville.
He married Patricia Vasquez on Dec. 19, 2007. She survives him, along with his mother-in-law Blanca Vasquez; his stepchildren, Steven, Natalia, Tito, Jessica and nine grandchildren.
He is also survived by his brothers Raymond (Nicki) of Kills Devils Hills, North Carolina, Jimmy (Carol) of Catlin, and a sister-in-law, Cindy Tranchant of Danville; along with his four nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death are his parents, a brother Patrick (Cindy) and a niece, Tessa Tranchant.
He graduated from Catlin High School in 1978. In junior high Michael was a three time state high jump champion and still holds the school record.
Michael’s dream of becoming a police officer started at an early age when he patrolled the Mae Drive neighborhood pulling speeders over on his tricycle. He was a volunteer fireman with the Catlin Fire Department when he was in high school and worked as an EMT for
Arrow Ambulance after school. After graduation he attended DACC for police science while working at Hyster. He was a deputy Sheriff for Vermilion County Illinois for six years. He then worked for the Jupiter, Florida police department and then the Palm Beach County Sheriffs department, retiring as a sergeant after 28 years. Michael also received his bachelors degree while working for Palm Beach County Sheriff’s dept.
Michael was passionate about life and especially any sports. His favorite pastime was watching the Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs and Fighting Illini. He held season tickets for the Bears and Miami Dolphins for several years.
Michael also enjoyed coming home for the Salt Fork football and basketball games. He was also a race fan and attended several Indianapolis 500 and Daytona 500 races. He loved taking his dog, Luna, to the beach and parks, spending time with his family and was always the fun loving Uncle Mike. Michael was truly one of a kind. He touched many lives and leaves behind many friends, who will miss him dearly.
Please join family and friends to celebrate Michael’s life at the Catlin Fire Station on Saturday, April 13 from 1 to 3 p.m.
Donations in Michael’s memory can be made to the Michael Tranchant Memorial Athletic Scholarship Fund at Salt Fork High School c/o of Fisher National Bank of Catlin or the Catlin Fire Department.
ROBERT “ROB” D.K. FOLEY, 35, of Batavia, passed away Tuesday, March 26, 2024, following injuries obtained in an automobile accident. He was born Jan. 26, 1989, in Danville, the son of Shane A. Foley and Dawn M.K. Payton.
Rob was a 2007, graduate of Jamaica High School where he excelled as an athlete. He took an athletic scholarship to Olivet Nazarene University where he continued his love for football and his academics. Following two years at Olivet Nazarene Rob wanted to focus more on academics and transferred to Eastern Illinois University where he graduated with a Bachelor Degree in finance and a minor in accounting in 2012. Following his graduation from college he took on employment at City Wide Title where he has shined in his career over the past 12 years.
He is survived by his loving parents, Dawn (Mark) Bushue of Covington, Ind. and Shane (Tish) Foley of Oakwood; his two children, Dexter Foley and Phoenix Foley; a brother, Sean Foley, a half-brother, Shane Foley, Jr.; a stepbrother, Darrin Blakeney; his maternal grandfather, Michael (Dorene) Payton; and his former wife Katherine Foley.
He is preceded in death by maternal grandmother Mary Ann Rodrigues and his paternal grandparents, Monty Foley and Paula Ewell.
Visitation and funeral service was April 1 at Moss Family Funeral Home, Batavia.
LARRY D. MEGENHARDT, 72, of Catlin, passed away at 11:53 a.m. on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. He was born on June 19, 1951 to John D. and Deloris V. (Bailey) Megenhardt. He married Darlene L. Current Jan. 27, 1990 in Covington, Ind. She survives.
Also surviving are two children, James (Cindy) Megenhardt and Gail Megenhardt; brother, John (Penny) Megenhardt; four sisters, Ginger (Paul) Singleton, Lacy (Tony) Walker, DeeAnn (Bob) Greenman and Barbara Braun; five grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Peggy Burger.
Larry was born and raised in Clay City, Ind. and graduated in 1969. He moved his family to Danville where he had the opportunity to work and eventually retire from Teepak after 42 years as a Research and Development Lab Associate. Prior to Teepak, Larry had also worked for the Saw Mill in Clay City, Pillsbury in Terre Haute, and the Newport Army Plant.
He was always active with chores, helping someone out, or traveling. He had done mission work in Kentucky, Illinois and Haiti and helped remodel the Fair Hope Building in Danville from a restaurant. He was also very involved in the children’s ministries at their church. Larry also worked on the family farm his entire life, up to last year. He was always willing to help anyone who asked for it. He could accomplish anything he set his mind to. He loved spending time with family, especially the grandkids. Larry lived the best life he could with guidance from God and his Bible.
A service to celebrate his life was held March 30 at Sunset Funeral Home with Pastor Robin Bolden officiating. Burial was Sunset Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the Fair Hope Children’s Ministry.
TONY RAY KINDRED, 54, of Paris, formerly of Chrisman, passed away at 6:40 a.m. Wed., April 3, 2024, at Carle Hospital in Urbana. He was retired from Paris Fire Department after over 30 years.
He was born Feb. 18, 1970, in Danville, the son of Chuck R. and Ruby N. (Key) Kindred. He married Jodi Lyn Elmore of Sidell Feb. 21, 1998, in Las Vegas, Nev., and she survives.
Other survivors include his parents, Chuck and Ruby Kindred of Chrisman; two children, Colby and Samantha Kindred, both of Paris; a sister, Susan Kindred Dye of Kansas, Ill.; his granddaughter, Oakley Kindred of Paris; his parents-in-law, Bill Reagan and Wilma Ingram of Sidell; several aunts, uncles, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Tony earned his diesel mechanic certification from Lincoln College of Technology, graduating first in his class. He will be remembered as hard-working, generous, and helpful. He had a great sense of humor but was not good at sitting still. When not on duty, he enjoyed working part-time for Precision Towing, Goodyear and the Edgar County Animal Shelter. He was an avid motorcycle enthusiast and rode as many miles as he could on his Harley-Davidson. He was fiercely devoted to his parents and family, and even during his illness rarely missed a chance to support his children in their endeavors.
Memorials to an education fund for the benefit of his children and grandchildren c/o First Farmers Bank & Trust of Paris.
Services celebrating his life will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. today (Thursday) April 11 at Templeton Funeral Home with Pastor Nate Alexander officiating. Burial will follow in Cherry Point Cemetery west of Chrisman. Visitation was Wednesday.
Share memories at www.TempletonFuneralHome.com.
JACKIE “TOOT” PITLIK, 65, of Indianola, passed away on Mon., April 1, 2024, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
She was born June 20, 1958, in Danville, daughter of the late Charles and Christina (Nabors) Sills. She married Frank Pitlik Jr. on March 24, 1979, in Danville. He preceded her in death on Aug. 22, 2004.
Survivors include her significant other, Brian Barney; her siblings, Bonnie Crowder, Jeff (Rita) Sills, Michael (Joann) Estes; several nieces and nephews; and her beloved dog, Peppers.
Along with her parents and husband, Jackie was preceded in death by one brother: Kevin Sills; one sister, Karen Sills; a nephew, Jeffrey C. Sills and brother-in-law, Larry Crowder.
Jackie loved watching baseball and football and was an avid Cubs, Illini and Dallas Cowboys fan. When not watching her favorite sports teams, Jackie enjoyed crocheting, bowling, playing Bingo and listening to Elvis tunes. Celebration of Life was April 9 with Pastor Raymie Gordon at Sunset Funeral Homes Oakwood Chapel. Burial was at the Danville National Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children. Share memories, at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
CAROL JO HOLAVES, passed away at 7:39 a.m. on April 8, 2024 at OSF Sacred Heart Medical Center in Danville.
Carol was born on Aug. 9, 1936 in Danville, and raised in Champaign until her junior year of high school. Her family moved to Catlin where she finished high school and attended one year at the University of Miami after moving to Florida. Her adult life she lived in Florida, where she worked as a dental assistant.
Carol is preceded in death by her mother, Marjorie Kavanaugh; father, Shelly Bragg; husband, Gus Holaves; and son, Michael Bratton.
She was a member of St James United Methodist Church and belong to two Danville Garden Clubs, Red Hats and Old Town Preservation. .
Graveside Service will be held Sat., April 13, 11:30 a.m. at Woodlawn Cemetery, Indianola with Rev. Dr. Don Jackson. Sunset Funeral Home is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Carol’s memory to C.A.R.A. Animal Rescue in Tilton. Share memories at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
BARBARA JANE KNOTT passed away in Savoy on Sat., April 6, 2024, at the age of 97. She was born in Charleston to William Ross and Lena Ringo. She was predeceased by her husband, Lyle Lester Knott; brother-in-law, James Francis Knott and his wife, Beulah Delores Krick Knott; her son-in-law, Michael Lord (Rebecca); sister, Evelyn Ringo Johns; brother-in-law, Robert Wilson Johns ; nephew, Tyler Ross Mourning, and niece, Colby Michelle Mourning.
Barbara and Lyle were married on April 2, 1947, in the First Methodist Church in Charleston. Barbara is lovingly remembered by her children, Daniel Vincent Knott (Helen) of Cookeville, Tenn. and Lyle Alan Knott (Patti) of Champaign; one daughter, Rebecca Knott Lord of Springfield; five grandchildren, Melissa Knott Mendoza; Michael Patrick Lord, Ross William Lord; and Bryn and Taylor Knott; and three great-grandchildren, Justin Smith, Christian Worlein, and Emma Mendoza. She lived to see the birth of her great-great grandson, Liam Smith. She is also survived by her niece, Evelyn “Bitsy” Johns Mourning (Phil Boores) and nephew, Robert William Johns (Diana).
Barbara graduated in 1947 from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston with a B.A. in education. She dedicated her life to education and enjoyed teaching a wide variety of subjects and found fulfillment in her profession. In 1988, she retired at the age of 65 from Jamaica School District in Sidell, Illinois.
The freedom of retirement allowed her to travel, spend time with her grandchildren, study the Bible, garden and one of her favorite past times, playing cards (Euchre and Kings on the Corner).
Barbara was a long-time, active member of the Sidell United Methodist Church. While heaven must be rejoicing at welcoming her, those of us who are left behind mourn her death and will continue to do so for the rest of ours.
Funeral services were held on April 10 at the Sidell United Methodist Church, Sidell with the Rev. Christopher Easton officiating. Burial was at the Resthaven Memorial Park, Mattoon. The family requests donations be given to Sidell United Methodist Church P.O. Box 49, Sidell, IL 61876.
Condolences may be offered at www.morganmemorialhome.com.
DANIEL EARL “DANO” TOMAW, 70, of Paris and formerly Sidell, passed away peacefully at 3:17 p.m. Sunday, April 21, 2024, at his home. He was employed with Herrington Transportation after over 35 years as a truck driver.
He was born Feb. 4, 1954, in Danville, the son of the Deward Earl and Rena Evelyn (Reynolds) Tomaw. They preceded him in death. He married Donna Louise Kafer on July 18, 1991, at the Ford County Courthouse in Paxton and she survives.
Other survivors include his children, Christinna Tomaw of Paris, Jacob Tomaw of South Bend, Indiana, and Dannyel Gray of Middletown; a sister, Chris Tomaw of Fairmount; a brother, Charles Tomaw of Fairmount; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Dan’s life was devoted to God, his trucking career, his wife, his family, and his community; and in that order. He was a member of Living Word Church of Roberts, where he had served as a deacon. Dano drove as a member of Teamsters Local #26 for many years before going to work for Herrington Transportation where he was affectionately called “Blueberry.” He was very proud of having achieved his goal of reaching 3 million miles this past December. In addition to trucks, Dan loved motorcycles and fast muscle cars, and he was a loyal St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Bears fan. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and looked forward to their annual canoe trips.
In keeping with Dan’s instructions to “celebrate my life, not mourn my death,” no formal services are planned. The family will organize a trucking convoy to celebrate Dan’s memory at a later date. Templeton Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Share memories with Dan’s family at www.TempletonFuneralHome.com.
MARJORIE WOLF, 96, of Allerton, passed away at 5:35 a.m. on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at Newman Healthcare in Newman.
There will be a private family burial at GAR Cemetery in Homer with Rev. Clyde Snyder officiating. Cremation rites have been accorded. Homer Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting the family.
Marjorie was born June 15, 1927 in Homer, the daughter of Thomas and Nellie McClaren Morrison. She married Leslie Wolf on April 28, 1946 in Danville. He preceded her in death on January 26, 2016.
Survivors include her daughter, Carole (Dave) Gillenwater of Allerton; grandchildren, Taylor (Scott) Freidel and Robert (Chelsea) Anderson; sister, Beverly Umbarger of Homer; and three great-grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by five brothers and sisters.
Marjorie was a member of Allerton United Methodist Church and graduated from Homer High School in 1945. She enjoyed shopping, camping and playing euchre.
Memorials can be made to Allerton United Methodist Church.
PATRICIA ANN FOX, beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away peacefully on Wed., April 17, 2024, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
She was born June 5, 1935, in Danville, daughter of the late Pearl William and Cleo Haze (Hopkins) Dowers.
Patricia married Joseph Fox on July 10, 1954, in Charleston and he preceded her in death.
She is survived by two daughters: Diana (Bob) Kmetz and Teresa (Mark) Steinbaugh; her grandchildren, Jocelyn (Matt) Zenk, Laura (Rob) Webb, John (Rachel) Kmetz and Rachel (Jacob) Campbell; 11 great-grandchildren; along with many life-long friends.
Patricia was preceded in death by her brothers: Bill (Franny) Dowers, Harold (Anita) Dowers and Dale Dowers; and a sister-in-law: Beverly Dowers.
Patricia retired from the Danville Post Office as a rural mail carrier for Danville and Fairmount. Among her favorite pastimes, she loved traveling with her daughters, and delighted in visits with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her devotion to her church and the teachings of the Bible shaped her life profoundly. She was a skilled baker, seamstress and gardener. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her love for her family and unwavering faith. Though Patricia’s physical presence is no longer with us, her spirit will continue to inspire and guide all who were fortunate to have known her.
A Celebration of Life was held April 21 with Pastor Greg Taylor officiating at Sunset Funeral Home, Danville. A private burial will take place at Springhill Cemetery in Danville at a later date.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Hospital for Children and Second Church of Christ in Danville. Memories may be shared at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.