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close WILLIAM H. “BILL” YAEGER, 73, of Jefferson City, Mo., born February 12, 1935 in O’Fallon to the union of Harold T. and Marcella E. Reinhardt Yaeger, died Saturday, November 22 at his home.
Bill graduated from O’Fallon Township High School and served in the United States Army, mostly in Germany, from 1954 until 1956. He became employed with Ameren UE in 1956, working at the Cahokia Power Plant. He served as a volunteer on the O’Fallon Volunteer Fire Department until he was transferred as a lineman to Bagnell Dam, at the Lake of the Ozarks, in 1965. He later became the manager of Ameren’s fish hatchery at Osage Beach, serving in that position for seven years. In 1990, he became warehouse manager at Bagnell Dam, retiring in 1995 with more than 39 years of service.
The Yaegers lived in Eldon, Mo. for many years, where he was active in the Boy Scouts, Sacred Heart Church and the Knights of Columbus. He was a member of the Eldon Board of Education from 1979-1983, serving as president for two and a half years.
After retirement, Bill and Ruth moved to Jefferson City and built a home in the country near Wardsville, Mo. Bill loved to work outdoors, hunt, and always had a large garden, giving fresh produce to friends, neighbors, Hospice House and the Samaritan Center. He was a strong supporter of Special Olympics and Jefferson City High School athletics, especially volleyball.
Bill is survived by his wife, Mary Ruth, nee Hesse, Yaeger, whom he married August 7, 1954 in O’Fallon, five children, Colonel Jeffrey W. (Yolanda) Yaeger (US Army, Retired) of Clarksville, Tenn., Elizabeth R. (Ted) Wood of Corrales, N.M., Barbara J. (Jeruld) Weiland of Davisburg, Mich., Carl J. (Sheila) Yaeger of Overland Park, Kan., Curtis L. (April) Yaeger of Jefferson City, Mo.; eight grandchildren, Lucas J. (Emily) Yaeger of Evansville, Ind., Calvin P. Yaeger of Atlanta, Ga., James W. Wood of Seattle, Wash., Benjamin J. Wood of Albuquerque, N.M., Maureen R. Weiland of Bozeman, Mont., Eric J. Weiland of Vancouver, British Columbia, Nicholas J. Yaeger of Jefferson City, Mo., Emily B. Yaeger of Jefferson City, Mo.; a great granddaughter, Lila J. Yaeger of Evansville, Ind.; two brothers, Richard A. (Doreen) Yaeger of Palm Desert, Calif., Dewey A. (Kathy) Yaeger of DeKalb, Ill.; and a sister, Audrey L. (John) Pugh of Dover, Del.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Stanislaus Church or the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
A visitation and memorial service was held Saturday, Nov. 29 at the Schildknecht Funeral Home with Father James Deiters officiating. Burial immediately followed at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Shiloh.
MELBA C. THOMAS, 71 of O’Fallon, born May 30, 1937, in Edgewood, Illinois, died Saturday, Nov. 29 at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Melba was a member of O’Fallon United Church of Christ and retired as a manager at Dickerson Petroleum.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Lorene, nee Hockman, Reeder and husband, Charles Thomas.
Melba is survived by two sons, Steven Thomas of Inverness, Fla., Jeffrey (Sandy) Thomas of O’Fallon; two grandchildren, Kerri (Patrick Jr.) Curtis, Charles “Chad” Thomas; and a great granddaughter, Amelia Irene Curtis.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to O’Fallon United Church of Christ or 32nd Degree Masonic Learning Center for Children with Dyslexia. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, Dec. 2, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
Funeral service will be held Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Dr. Martha Thierheimer officiating.
At her request, after all services, Melba’s body will be cremated. Private burial will be held at a later date at St. John’s Cemetery, Breese, Ill.
Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon, is in charge of arrangements.
JOHN D. DEWITT, age 81, born March 14, 1927 in East St. Louis, died Friday, November 21, in Highland.
John worked as a truck driver for Campbell 66 Express in St. Louis, retiring in 1983.
John was preceded in death by a former spouse, Verna Lee and a daughter, Paula Baker.
He is survived by five children, Marylee (William Joseph) Gream of Kansas City, Mo., John Michael (Millie) DeWitt of Ullin, Ill., Cheryl (Dave) Witt of Shiloh, Mary (Jim) Ping of Highland, and John D. (fiance Kim Butler) DeWitt II of Fairview Heights; grandchildren, Tammy Gream, Judy Case, John Gream, Christy Black, John Glenn DeWitt, Jason DeWitt, Justin DeWitt, Kenny Wright, David Wright, Tim Baker, Theresa Pitts, Dave Witt Jr., James Ping II, Robin Butler, Samantha Ann DeWitt; 18 great-grandchildren; former spouse, Judith Ann DeWitt of Carlyle; and step-brother Lloyd Candler of Kansas City, Mo.
The family kindly requests no flowers. Memorial donations may be designated to the family and will be accepted at the funeral home. Condolences may be extended by visiting www.wfh-ofallon.com.
Friends may call today from 10 to 12:00 p.m., at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington Street, O’Fallon.
Funeral service was at at Wolfersberger Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Rusty Mosley officiating. Burial followed at St. Joseph Cemetery in O’Fallon Township. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
KATHY CLARK, 86, of O’Fallon, born May 24, 1922 in Glasford, Ill., died Saturday, Nov. 22, at her son, Jim’s home in O’Fallon.
Mrs. Clark worked at McDonald’s Mobile Home Sales as a secretary. After retiring, she traveled and along with her husband, Silas W. Clark, became camp attendants, a position she loved and shared with her husband of 37 years, until his passing in February 2004.
She was preceded in death by her parents John and Pearl, nee Hodson, Breese; husband, Silas W. Clark; four brothers, Delmar Breese, Clyde Breese, Billy Snyder, Gordon Snyder; and three sisters, Genevieve Edwards, Joanne Terrell and Phyllis Lockwood.
She is survived by four children, James “Fuzzy” (Lisa) Mettille of O’Fallon, Michael (Diane Paquet) Link of Belleville, Kathy (Dan) Cape of Bartonville, Ill., Kay (Randy) Reiger of Chillicothe, Ill.; nine grandchildren, Heidi Mettille, Erin Cook, John Burns, Kristin Link, Stephanie Link, Casey Smith, Christopher Cape, Kara Reiger, Stacey Reiger-Downard and 10 great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
Visitation will be Friday, November 28, from 11 to 12 at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon, followed by a memorial service at noon with Rev. Hal Santos officiating.
At her request, Dorothy was cremated.
JEAN CLARK, 89, of O’Fallon, born December 12, 1918 in Ellington, Mo., died Sunday, November 23 at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Mrs. Clark was a member of the First Baptist Church in Ellington, Mo. and the O’Fallon Senior Citizens.
She was preceded in death by her parents, E.G. and Alma, nee Copeland, Haywood; husband, Everett Clark; a grandson, Michael Montgomery and 11 brothers and sisters.
She is survived by two daughters, Janice (Kenneth) Halbrook of O’Fallon, Joyce (Stanley) Glastetter of Lakeland, Fla.; a granddaughter, Amy (Dan) Boaz; two great grandchildren, Danielle and Samantha Boaz; four stepgrandchildren; a special nephew, Bob Nevelsick and numerous other nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Assn. Condolences may be made to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 25, from 1 to 2 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
Funeral service will be held Tuesday, November 25, at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with Father Robert Bosworth officiating.
Burial will be at Ellington Cemetery, Ellington, Mo.
MELINDA MCMILLAN, 78, of St. Peters, Mo., formerly of O’Fallon, born December 14, 1929 in Crystal City, Mo., died Friday, November 21, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital.
Melinda was a member of the Shiloh Valley Senior Citizens, a past member of the White Shrine of Jerusalem, and member and past Matron of the Eastern Star in Bonne Terre, Mo. and Eastern Star in O’Fallon. She was also a member of the Eastern Star Past Matrons Club in Bonne Terre.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Taylor and Mary E., nee Evans, Barton; first husband, Aubrey E. Mitchener, second husband, Leroy McMillan; a daughter, Alice Renee Mayfield; a brother, Wayne Barton; and two sisters, Maxine Simms and Marie Bratcher.
Melinda is survived by a son, Michael Mitchener; a sister, Sonia; five brothers, Chadburn, John, Bernard ‘Buddy’, Donald, Robert ‘Jr’, and numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Barnes Children’s Center. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
Visitation will be held Monday, November 24, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon, with an Eastern Star service at 6 p.m.
Funeral service will be Tuesday, November 25, at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Walter P. Gerth officiating.
Burial will be at Lakeview Memorial Gardens.
THOMAS R. BLEAU, 75, of O’Fallon, born December 23, 1932 in Burlington, VT, died Wednesday, Nov. 19. Tom was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church, retired from Local 670, as a laborer for the City of O’Fallon, a member of the O’Fallon Sportsmans Club, a grand knight & member of the Knights of Columbus 4239. He was elected into the O’Fallon Volunteer Fire Department in October 1962, elected as chief in May 1981 and retired from the department in May of 1985. Tom also served in the US Air Force.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rupert and Retta, nee Quinn, Bleau; his first wife, Lenora, nee Nevenner, Bleau and a sister, Darlene Irvin.
He is survived by his wife, Doris, nee Retherford, Bleau, of O’Fallon, whom he married December 7, 1982 in Belleville; a son, Timothy (Dianne) Bleau of Stafford, VA; stepchildren, Sandy (Jim) File of Carrolton, Ill., Larry (Susie) Bradshaw of Mexico, Mo., Eric Bien of Jacksonville, Ill., Doug Bien of Colorado Springs, Colo.; two brothers, Paul Bleau, Duane (Joyce) Bleau, both of Burlington, VT and seven grandchildren, Paul Bleau, Kate Bleau, Ciara Bien, David Bradshaw, Suzette Bradshaw, Derrick Bien and Jeffery Bien.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
The Bleau family would like to thank Doctors Burstein, Kurichety and Stanczyk, the nurses and staff at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and a special thank you to the staff at Hospice of Southern Illinois.
Visitation will be held Sunday, November 23, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home. There will be a Fire Department Service held at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Funeral service will be held Monday, November 24, at 11 a.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home with Monsignor William Hitpas officiating.
Burial will be at O’Fallon City Cemetery.
DALE CHARLES HOLTGRAVE, 48, of Fairview Heights, born on August 16, 1960 in Belleville, died on Sunday, November 16.
Dale was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fairview Heights, and worked at Prairie Farms for 24 years in O’Fallon. He was a member of the Teamsters Union Local 50 in Belleville. Dale loved life and was willing to help anyone whenever they needed help. He will truly be missed and loved by all.
Surviving are his loving parents, Charles F. and Gertrude C. Holtgrave of Fairview Heights; his brother, Gary (Kathleen) Holtgrave of O’Fallon, and a sister, Doris (Morris) Grotsky of Swansea; nephews, Scott (fiance’ Angie Albrecht) Grotsky of Swansea, Matt Grotsky of Swansea; nieces, Valerie (Kirk) Hancock, Marlaina Holtgrave, Rachel Holtgrave, and Jeanine Holtgrave, all of O’Fallon; many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Memorials may be made to the Holy Trinity Capital Campaign.
Visitation: Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 19 at Lake View Funeral Home, Fairview Heights.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, November 20, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 505 Fountains Parkway, Fairview Heights, with Father Ray Schultz officiating. Interment will be held at a later date.
JOSEPH T. MULHERAN, age 85, of O'Fallon, born December 25, 1922 in Pittsburgh, Penn., passed away Tuesday morning, November 4, at Belleville Memorial Hospital.
He attended University of Pittsburgh for a short time until his induction into the US Army in 1943. He was trained as an aerial turret gunner on the B-24, where he flew many daytime missions during World War II. He was an expert marksman and was awarded the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters. He relocated to Scott AFB near the end of the war, where he met Eleanor Rothkegel of O'Fallon. They married August 10, 1946 at St. Clare Catholic Church. They remained in O'Fallon for most of the next 60 years.
Mr. Mulheran worked for Monsanto for over 30 years, retiring in 1985 as Chief Chemical Operator.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents Michael T. and Alice, nee Nolan, Mulheran; a brother and two sisters.
He is survived by his wife, Eleanor; two sons, Kevin of O'Fallon and Thomas of Denver, Colo.; and his granddaughter, Kate Akhtar of San Francisco, Calif.
Memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice. Condolences may be extended to the family by visiting www.wfh-ofallon.com.
Visitation: Friends may call from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Monday, November 10, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington Street, O'Fallon.
Funeral Service: 1:30 p.m., Monday, November 10, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home chapel with Rev. Von Deeke, Associate Pastor of St. Clare Catholic Church officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis.
Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O'Fallon.
RICHARD B. PERRINn, age 77, of O’Fallon, peacefully made his way to heaven surrounded by his children in his home Monday, October 20.
Richard was born in Sioux City, Iowa on July 26, 1931. He graduated from the University of Nebraska, Omaha. Richard served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He retired from AT&T after 28 years of service.
Richard and Barbara were joined in marriage on Dec. 1, 1956 and together raised six children. He was a 55-year member of American Legion Post 2 in Council Bluffs, member of the O’Fallon Knights of Columbus 4239 and the O’Fallon Sportsman Club.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara (nee Fischer) Perrin, his daughter, Susan Spencer and his parents, Boyd and Winifred (nee Dumkriger) Perrin.
He is survived by his children, son, Scott (Kelley) Perrin of Olathe, Kan., daughter, Jean True of O’Fallon, daughter, Jennifer (Robert) Magrath of Troy, son, Joseph (Pam) Perrin of Swansea, daughter, Nanette (Hank Barnett) Perrin of Olathe, Kan; son-in-law, Donald Spencer of Kansas City, Kan.; grandchildren, Kyle and Katie Spencer, Zach and Kole Perrin, Michelle and Scott (Tiffany) True, Nathaniel, Nicholas, and Abigail Magrath, Kyle Dent, and Kassandra Sue Barnett; great-grandchildren, Lexa Nash and Kaelyn True; and sister, Constance Turner of Sun City, Ariz.
Memorials may be made to BJC Hospice or St. Clare Catholic Church. Online condolences and tributes may be made at www.wfh-ofallon.com.
Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, October 22, and 10 to 11 a.m., Thursday, October 23, at St. Clare Catholic Church, O’Fallon. The K of C will conduct a walk-through Wednesday evening at the church.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 23, at St. Clare Catholic Church. Burial will take place October 25, at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Council Bluffs, Iowa, alongside his wife.
Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home.
DELRAY C. DEIBERT, 71, of Highland, born Nov. 24, 1936, in Highland, died Saturday, Oct. 18 at his residence.
Born in Highland, Mr. Deibert grew up in Marine. He graduated from Highland High School in 1954; served with the US Army; worked at Wick’s Organ for a few years before starting at Shell Oil Company in 1959, where he retired from in 1992 as supervisor of pipefitters, insulators. In his retirement, he worked at Aviston Lumber Co., until 2005. He loved sports, Bonnie’s Baseball Team, which he managed for years, girls basketball, Tyler’s stockcar racing, granddaughter’s softball at Rolla. He collected Jim Beam bottles. He did Quarter Midget Race Cars with Bruce and Bonnie. For a number of years, he operated the first landscaping business in Highland and had sold real estate for Holzinger Reality.
He was a member of Evangelical United Church of Christ, Charter Member of Highland Jaycees, Junior Highland Volunteer Fire Dept., Highland Lodge 583 AF & FM; (Shriners) A.A.O.N.O.M.S. at East St. Louis; Highland Booster Club; Former Cub Master of Pack 43; and Board of Directors of Highland Khoury League.
He was preceded in death by his father, Oscar Jacob Deibert, who died Jan. 24, 1992; a nephew, Dana W. Deibert, who died in the 1970’s; maternal grandfather, William Wiesemeyer; maternal grandmother, Sophia, nee Aldrup, Wiesemeyer Prott; paternal grandfather, Daniel Deibert; and paternal grandmother, Bertha, nee Neumann, Deibert.
Surviving are his wife, Carole Ann, nee Fitch, Deibert whom he married on Aug. 29, 1959; mother, Cleda I., nee Wiesemeyer, Deibert; son, Bruce N. (Wendy) Deibert of Highland; daughters, Billie J. (Scott) Gray of Arnold, Mo., and Bonnie K. (Randy) Riggs of Highland; brother, Wayne O. (companion Darleen Phillips) Deibert of Highland; grandchildren, Tyler C. and Kassi L. Deibert of Highland, Kendra D. and Erika P. Tharp of Arnold, Mo., Lauren C. Riggs, twins, Ryan T. and Kagney R. Riggs of Highland, twins, Audra G. and Alycia S. Gray, of Arnold, Mo.; nephew, Dean (Cheryl) Deibert of Highland; and niece, Denise (Ray) Joseph of Highland.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois or Shriner’s Hospital for Children. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family by visiting www.spengel-boulanger.com.
Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 20, and from 8 to 11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 21, at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home, 1501 9th at Lemon St., Highland.
Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the funeral home with Rev. Christopher W. Hill, officiating. Interment will be at Highland City Cemetery.
SHIRLEY KAY WELLMAKER, 70, of O’Fallon, departed this life on Thursday, October 16, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born October 11, 1938 in Lovejoy, Ill. to the union of William and Elnora, nee Townsend, Lewis. Shirley had been employed as a cook at Our World Day Care Center in O’Fallon.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Willie J. Wellmaker, three brothers; Frank “Bill” Drain, Eddie Lewis, Sonny Lewis and two sisters; Ophelia Hall and Sarah Winchester.
She is survived by seven children, Bobbie Oakley of O’Fallon, Sandra Henderson of Edwardsville, Johnny (Felicia) Oakley Jr. of Swansea, Sakina (Clarence) Robinson of Aurora, Colo., Donnell (Cassandra) Oakley Sr. of Waddell, Ariz., Paula Oakley of Collinsville, Courtney (Fonda) Oakley Sr. of O’Fallon; 21 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, four sisters, Ora Lee Rivers of O’Fallon, Georgella Combs of Lebanon, Early Mae Lewis of Omaha, Neb., Frenchie Lewis of Compton, Calif.; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, October 21, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
Funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 22, at 9 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Donnell Oakley Sr. officiating.
Burial will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis.
JOSEPH POEPPING, 85, of Lebanon, born October 21, 1922 in E. St. Louis, died Wednesday, October 15, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Joe was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church. He, along with his wife Charlotte, owned and operated Bel-Vista Mobile Homes for many years and was a charter member and a past President of the Illinois Manufactured Housing Assn. Joe and Charlotte raised and trained German Shepherds for many years, bringing home the top winner in the United States, in 1970. He was also an AKC Registered Judge. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Henry B. and Mary M., nee Fallon, Poepping, his 1st wife, Genevieve, nee Edmonds, Poepping, 2nd wife, Charlotte K., nee Smith, Poepping, a sister, Mary Claire Bach and a brother, Howard Poepping Sr. He is survived by four children, Martin “Marty” Joseph Poepping of O’Fallon, Michael Alan (Betsy) Poepping of Tallahassee, Fla, Elise Marie (Tyler) Fernsler of Ballwin, Mo., Darlene (Doug) Eskra of Smithton; two sisters-in-law, Ruth H., nee Moore, Poepping of Belleville, Delores Gatty of Arkansas; nine grandchilden, Jessica Poepping and Nicholas “Nick” Poepping, both of O’Fallon, David Poepping and Amelia Poepping, both of Tallahassee, Fla., Randell Marie Fernsler of Ballwin, Mo,, Jenna Elise, nee Fernsler, (Ensign Brandon, USN) Wellman of Marceline, Mo., Mitchell Fernsler, of Ballwin, Mo., Kelly Hawkins of Calif., Scott (Patty) Eskra of Alton; and three great grandchildren, Erin Arnold of Swansea, Devin Eskra of Smithton, McKenzie Grace Matthews of Tallahassee, Fla., a niece, Mary Lois (Marc) Decker of Naperville, a nephew, Howard Poepping Jr. of Belleville; a great nephew and four great nieces. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Nicholas Catholic Church. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Monday, October 20, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Memorial service will be Monday, October 20, at 7 p.m. at the funeral home, with Monsignor William Hitpas officiating. At Joe’s request, his body will be cremated.
ROBERT LEE LILLIE, age 81, of O’Fallon, born November 2, 1926 in O’Fallon, passed away Monday, October 13, at his home.
A lifelong resident of O’Fallon, Bob retired in 1986 from the US Postal Service, where he worked as an O’Fallon letter carrier for 27 years. He was a 50-year member of the American Legion Fischer-Solis Post 137 and served the O’Fallon community as a volunteer fireman for 16 years. Mr. Lillie served on the O’Fallon Township High School Board of Education from 1966-97. He was a past city alderman, township trustee and treasurer for the O’Fallon Homecoming committee. Bob was also a member of A.F. & A.M. Lodge 576 for 55 years and a life member of Scottish Rite Bodies of the Valley of Southern Illinois, Ainad Shrine Temple and Ainad Roadrunners. He was a life member of Ainad Color Guard, serving as past president, marching in many parades over the years, and Dania Shrine Club. Bob was a lifelong member of O’Fallon United Church of Christ, where he served on the consistory. He was a World War II veteran, serving in the US Army. His favorite things included playing cards, spending time with his family and the mornings that he spent at Engine House #2 with his fellow retired O’Fallon firemen. He was a faithful supporter of O’Fallon’s Panther Band and was an OTHS sports fanatic. Bob was a friendly, well-liked gentleman and will be missed by his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Jean nee Dauber, Lillie, whom he married November 16, 1949 and who passed away August 8, 1984; his parents, Robert and Josephine, nee Bernhardt, Lillie; grandson, Robert Zanfes; brother, DeWayne Lillie and wife Chris; and brother-in-law James Bond.
He is survived by his wife, Janice, nee Libell, formerly Meyer, Lillie whom he married March 1, 1986; daughters, Debra Shelton of Freeburg, Pamela Zanfes of O’Fallon, and Maureen (Dennis) Blumberg of O’Fallon; step-son, Jeff Meyer (fiance Ronda Billington) of Bingham, Ill.; step-daughter, Sally (Keith) Zeisset of Waterloo; grandchildren, Jaime (Mark) Little, Kristin (Patrick) Jackson, Adam Swedo, Emily Zanfes, Jennifer Zanfes, Sara Blumberg, Scott Blumberg, Sean Blumberg, Josh (Charis) Meyer, Haley Meyer, Megan Meyer, Maggie Zeisset, Will Zeisset, Mollie Zeisset; great-grandsons, Tanner and Trenton Little, Connor Jackson, and a great-grandson due any day; and sister Eunice Bond of McDonough, Ga.
Memorial donations may be made to O’Fallon United Church of Christ Scholarship Fund or Family Hospice and will be accepted at the funeral home. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the online guest book.
Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Thursday, October 16, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington St., O’Fallon. The O’Fallon Fire Department will conduct a walk-through at 6:30 p.m. A Masonic Service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue at 10 a.m., Friday, October 17, at O’Fallon United Church of Christ, 206 W. Adams St., O’Fallon.
Funeral service will be at 11 a.m., Friday, October 17 at O’Fallon United Church of Christ with Rev. Dr. Martha Thierheimer officiating. Following the graveside service, a luncheon will be served at the O’Fallon United Church of Christ.
Burial will follow at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville.
Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home.
DONALD P. SWEITZER, 71, of O’Fallon, born May 8, 1937 in Chippewa Falls, Wisc., died Wednesday, October 8, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Belleville. Donald was a member of Grace Church in Fairview Heights. He was the owner and operator of Sweitzer Mobile Home Sales. He had been employed by Illinois Power for 10 years and then worked in the manufactured housing industry for 40 years. He was also the past president of the Manufactured Housing Industry. He was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore John and Alice L., nee Adams, Sweitzer and a brother Roger Sweitzer. Donald is survived by his wife, Sondra J., nee Hodge, Sweitzer, whom he married in Decatur, on January 21, 1955; two daughters, Lorie Diane McKinna of San Diego, Calif. and Lynette (John) Pickett of St. Jacob; three grandchildren, Jayma Cook, Tyler Crebbs, Emily McKinna; and a great grandchild, Aidan Cook. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grace Church Building Fund. Condolences may be made to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Friday, October 10, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon. Funeral service will be held Saturday, October 11, at 10 a.m., at the funeral home, with Rev. Hal Santos officiating. Burial will be at O’Fallon City Cemetery.
KANAYALAL R. MOTWANI, 74, of O’Fallon, born December 14, 1933 in Pakistan, died Tuesday, October 7, in O’Fallon. Mr. Motwani was employed in retail management for Walgreens. He was a member of the Hindu Temple of St. Louis and the Sadhv Vaswani Center in Dracut, Mass. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rupchand and Satibai Motwani. Kanayalal is survived by his wife, Rani, nee Mohini, Motwani of O’Fallon, three children, Rajni (Bruce) Hira of Rochester, NY, Lata (Rajesh) Sehgal of Chicago, Dr. Haresh (Hiroo) Motwani of O’Fallon; three sisters, two brothers and six grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hindu Temple of St. Louis. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 8, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon, services following at 11 a.m. with Pundit Rameshwar Das. After all services, Mr. Motwani will be cremated.
ROY MCGEATHY, 61, of Shiloh, born October 12, 1946 in Detroit, Mich., died Sunday, October 5, in Shiloh. Roy served in the US Air Force, retiring as a Chief Master Sgt. He was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign War Post 1739. He was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Lucille, nee Matte, McGeathy; father in law, Richard J. Addy Sr. and a brother-in-law, Mark Addy. Roy is survived by his wife, Mary Louise, nee Addy, McGeathy of Shiloh; a daughter, Jaime McGeathy of Ore.; two sons, Travis McGeathy of Mass., and Jacob McGeathy of Ill., a brother, Dennis (Pam) McGeathy of N.H.; three sisters, Bonnie (John) Johnson of N.C., Cheryle (Ray) Lickert of Ky., Davon (Jeff) Dunn of Mich.; mother-in-law, Elizabeth Addy of Mich., four sisters-in-law, Betty Anne (Thom) Horning of Fla., Gail (James) Osborne of Va., Sue Addy (Keith Matz) of Mich., Therese Neilson of Ohio; four brothers-in-law, Richard Addy Jr. of Ill., Peter (Cindi) Addy of Mich., Dennis Addy of Mich., David (Sherri) Addy of Mich. and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. There will be no visitation. At the family’s request, Roy will be cremated. There will be a memorial service held Friday, October 10, at 11 a.m., in the Chapel at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis.
MILDRED BADGLEY, 85, of O’Fallon, born November 12, 1922 in Belleville, died Wednesday, October 1, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Mildred was schooled in O’Fallon, graduating from O’Fallon Township High School in the Class of 1940. Mildred’s great, great, great grandfather, David Badgley, was the founder and pastor of the New Design Baptist Church, the first Baptist church founded in the state of Illinois, thus helping to form her strong religious and spiritual beliefs and her love of Jesus Christ as her savior. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of O’Fallon. At the age of 16, and for many years to come, Mildred taught the 2nd grade Sunday school class at the Baptist Church in O’Fallon, retiring only when her rheumatoid arthritis became too painful, not allowing her to sit on the smaller chairs with the children. She led a very good and courageous life, surrounded by her sister and church family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Christina, nee Schachner, Badgley. She is survived by her loving sister Virginia Badgley and the entire church family at First Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Building Fund. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Saturday, October 4, from 9 to 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church of O’Fallon. Funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. with Pastors Doug Munton and Skip Leininger officiating. Burial will be at O’Fallon City Cemetery.
ANNIS LORETTA BYRAM, nee Feig, age 93, lifelong resident of Caseyville, born Feb. 24, 1915, passed away Wednesday, October 1, at Lebanon Care Center. Mrs. Byram was preceded in death by her husband, Glenn Byram, whom she married October 28, 1939 in East Saint Louis; and who passed away January 22, 1995; her parents, George and Amelia, nee Pausch, Feig; one brother and three sisters. She is survived by her son, Gerald (Laura) Byram of O’Fallon; daughter Glenna (William) Streif of O’Fallon; grandchildren, Bridget Martini of O’Fallon, Aaron Byram of O’Fallon, and Alissa Vollmer of Millstadt; great grandchildren, Briana Klein, Brendan Martini, Annis “Annie” Byram and one little one on the way. Memorial donations may be made in her honor to Heartland Hospice and will be accepted at the funeral home. Online condolences and tributes may be made at www.wfh-ofallon.com. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, October 3, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon. Funeral service is at 10 a.m., Saturday, October 4, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home Chapel, 102 W. Washington St., O’Fallon, with Pastor Rodney Sloan officiating. Burial will follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home.
MARY PAMELA BURRALL, (nee Prullage), age 64, of O’Fallon, born January 9, 1944 in Vincennes, Ind., passed away Monday, September 29, at her home in O’Fallon. Pam grew up in Vincennes, graduated from St Mary-of-the-Woods College near Terre Haute, and earned her Master’s degree from Eastern Illinois University. She shared her love of music with others by teaching all grade levels at various schools, including Vincennes, Ind., Robinson, Ill., and the St. Louis area. She was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church in O’Fallon. Pam was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Irene, nee Grumieaux, Prullage; and one brother, Francis Prullage. She is survived by her husband, David J. Burrall, whom she married in St. Louis, on July 2, 1966; her daughters, Krystin (Steven) Trustman of Austin, Texas, and Kathleen (Ed) Justic of Brookfield, Ill; brother, Michael (Olivia) Prullage of Brentwood, Calif., and sister Diane (Alger) Stone of Plano, Texas. Memorial donations in honor of Mrs. Burrall are requested, in lieu of flowers, to National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. A memorial mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Friday, October 3, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, with Msgr. William Hitpas presiding. A gathering of friends and family, to include a luncheon, will follow at the parish hall. At Pam’s request, she has been cremated. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
PAUL EDWARD TONIES, 80, loving husband, father, grandfather, Godfather, brother, brother-in-law and uncle, of Waukesha, Wisc., with his wife and children by his side, was welcomed into eternal life on Saturday, September 27. Paul was born on July 16, 1928, in E. St. Louis, to Gerard and Evelyn, nee Vermeersch, Tonies. He was united in holy matrimony to Mercedes Anne Mudd on Dec. 29, 1956. Paul is survived by his wife, daughter, Rose Marie (Javier) Fernandez and their children, Roberto, Dominic, Maria, Isabel and Elena; daughter, Julie (Wil) Kalinowski and their children, Katharine, Samuel and Genevieve; daughter, Nancy (Paul) Heidel and their children, Jacob, Anne, Sean, Claire and May; son, Paul; son, Peter (Mary) and their children, Jacqueline and Nicholas; son, Patrick; daughter, Evelyn (Peter) Buss and their children, John, Ethan, Gemma and Sadie; son, Andrew; a brother, Gerard (Maxine); a sister, Mary Anne (Joe) Burroughs; Godsons, Ronald (Denise) Tonies and Michael (Terri) Burroughs; nieces, nephews, many other relatives and friends. Paul joyfully joins his parents in heaven. He was also preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Mary Edna, nee Donohoo, Mudd, and his father-in-law, James Victor Mudd. Paul worked at Inryco, Inc., as a project manager, in both St. Louis and Milwaukee. His hobbies and favorite activities revolved around his wife, children and grandchildren. Paul’s family will meet with relatives and friends from 4 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 2, at the Pete Gaerdner Funeral Home in Belleville. Paul’s funeral mass will take place at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Ruma, on Friday, Oct. 3 at 11 a.m. with Rev. John Myler and Rev. Dick Bresnahan concelebrating. Burial at the parish will follow the mass. A luncheon in Paul’s honor will follow at 3 p.m. at Fischer’s Restaurant in Belleville. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials to the Roman Catholic charity of choice.
JOAN R. FULFORD, 77, of Shiloh, born April 22, 1931 in E. St. Louis, died Tuesday, September 23, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Joan was a member of Sterling Baptist Church in Fairview Heights. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Margaret Wall; and previous husband, Herman Snapat, father of John Snapat. Joan is survived by her husband, Thomas Fulford of Shiloh; eight children, Mark (Lisa) Fulford of O'Fallon, Theresa (Larry ) Seipp of Trenton, Kathleen (Robert) Buehler of O'Fallon, John (Jamie) Snapat of Smithton, John (Calista) Fulford of Smithton, Larry (Liz) Fulford of O'Fallon, Barbara (James) Prokopf of Caseyville, and Jane (Michael) Shelton of Portland, Maine; a brother Gene Wall of Lebanon, 17 grandchildren and one great grandchild. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Baptist Childrens Home and Family Services, 949 County Road 1300 North, Carmi, IL 62821. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Memorial visitation will be held Saturday, September 27, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O'Fallon. Memorial service will be held Saturday, September 27 at 11 a.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, with Rev. Randy Loeschen and Don Word officiating. Committal service and burial will be immediately following at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Shiloh.
EILEEN RUTH VINK, nee O’Meara, age 92, of O’Fallon, born September 12, 1916 in Bay City, Mich., passed away Tuesday evening, September 23, at Lebanon Care Center. Mrs. Vink was a life member of O’Fallon Sportsman’s Club, had played in the Senior Citizens’ Kitchen Band, and volunteered for many years, leading sing-alongs at area nursing homes. She was a member of the Altar Sodality at St. Clare Catholic Church and also attended St. Nicholas Catholic Church. In the 1970’s and 80’s, she worked as a nurse’s aide at O’Fallon Health Care and other nursing homes. Mrs. Vink was preceded in death by her husband Virgil F. Vink, whom she married October 21, 1943 in Bay City, Mich.; and who passed away Jan. 6, 1978; her parents, Edward and Martha, nee Murphy, O’Meara; her five brothers and one sister. She is survived by her son, Harry (Rosemary) Vink of Lebanon; daughter, Gil (Roger) Taylor of Indio, Calif.; grandchildren, Stacey (Joe) Dean of Reynoldsburg, Ohio and Erica (Brandon) Cisan of Las Vegas, Nev.; four great grandchildren, Jed, Drake, and Zane Dean, and Cora Cisan. She will also be missed by her long-time, faithful kitty companions, Cleo and Kitt. Memorial donations in honor of Mrs. Vink are requested to either St. Clare Catholic Church or St. Nicholas Catholic Church. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. Friends may call from 9 to 11 a.m., Friday, September 26, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, O’Fallon. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Friday, September 26, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, with Msgr. William Hitpas presiding. Interment will follow at O’Fallon City Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon
WILBER R. "Scotty" SCOTT Jr., 78, of Fairview Heights, born April 17, 1930, in Belleville, died Wednesday, Sept. 17, at Jefferson Barracks Hospital, St. Louis, Mo. Mr. Scott worked as a truck driver for Dr. Pepper for many years. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and was a member of Swansea Church, the O'Fallon American Legion Post 0137, and a member of the D.A.V. Wilber loved fishing and was a big Cardinals baseball fan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilber R. and Dorothy E., nee Dessoir, Scott Sr.; a brother, Robert Scott; a grandson, Anthony Schaefer; and a granddaughter, Roxanne Scott. Surviving are his wife, Elvira R., nee Greenfield, Scott of Fairview Heights; three sons, Alan R. (Di) Scott of Fairview Heights, Dale R. (Barb) Scott of Mascoutah, and James E. (Lisa) Scott of Collinsville; two daughters, Karen L. (Paul) Schaefer of O'Fallon, and Nancy R. (Jeffrey) Wright of Murphysboro; a brother, Doug (Kathy) Scott of Lebanon; a sister, Dorothy Falk of O'Fallon; very special friends, Bob and Shirley Loomis of Highland; 11 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends. Memorials may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, the American Heart Association, or the Disabled American Veterans. A visitation was held Thursday, Sept. 18, at Lake View Funeral Home, Fairview Heights. Funeral service was held at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at Lake View Funeral Home, with Rev. Wilson Wickiser officiating. Interment was in O'Fallon City Cemetery.
ALLAN FRED SCHIEFER, age 95, of St. Jacob, died Thursday, September 18, at Highland Health Care Center in Highland. He was born May 17, 1913, in St. Jacob, the son of Peter and Ella (Graff) Schiefer. Allen grew up in a farm south of town. He served with the US Army in Europe, Africa, and the Middle Eastern Theater during WW II from 1942 to 1946. After the war he worked on the family farm and labored for over 50 years. In 1956 he moved into St. Jacob and worked for Worrior Oil Co. and then became Sexton of Keystone Cemetery until 2000. He moved to the nursing home in 2001. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards and having coffee with family and friends. He was a member of Bussong-Mersinger American Legion Post 66 St. Jacob, Lee Iten American Legion Post 439 Highland, Labor Local 670 formerly in St. Jacob. Survivors include sister, Eleanora F. Behrens of O Fallon, brother, Earl C. (Donna) Schiefer of O’Fallon, sister, Irma M. (Leto) Rinderer of Marine, many nieces and nephews. He was preceeded in death by his parents; brothers, Wilbur J. Schiefer, Milton "Dick" V. Schiefer; sisters, Viola K. Schiefer, Alice K. Miekamp, and Dorothy L. Fohne. Visitation was Monday, September 22, at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home. Funeral service was Monday, September 22, at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home with Rev. Gary Kniepkamp officiating. Interment will be at Keystone Cemetery in St. Jacob. Memorial contributions may be made to to the family or donor’s choice. Arrangements were handled by Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland.
VIRGINIA M. SCHEIBEL, age 87, of O’Fallon, passed away September 20 at Cedar Ridge Healthcare Center, Lebanon. She was born November 7, 1920 in O’Fallon to Fred and Stella, nee Wiemann, Hangsleben. She married Leslie Scheibel January 24, 1942; he passed away January 23, 1981. She married Adwir Kraemer in 1990; he passed away in 1994. Mrs. Scheibel was a member of O’Fallon United Church of Christ and Women’s Guild, O’Fallon Senior Citizens Club, and V.F.W. Auxiliary Post 8677. She had worked at Christian HomeCare Services, Inc., and was a volunteer for many community service activities. She was retired as an accountant from St. Clair County; she served on O’Fallon Township Board of Trustees for eight years, and served as Democratic State Central Committeewoman for four years and Democratic Precinct Committeewoman in O’Fallon for 42 years. Mrs. Scheibel was also a retired real estate agent. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, and brothers Fred C. Hangsleben, Jr. and Wesley Hangsleben. Mrs. Scheibel is survived by her son, Larry Scheibel of O’Fallon; daughter, Jacque (Kenneth, Sr.) Missey of Lebanon; grandchildren, Leslie (Mario) Ybarra of Shiloh, Michael Hock, Jr. of Houston, Mo., Debra (Shawn) Fohne of St. Jacob, Kenneth Missey, Jr., of O’Fallon, and Joseph (fiancé Amber Woods) Missey of Breese; and great-grandchildren Ashley Ybarra, Austin and Aubrey Fohne, and Carter Missey. She is also survived by siblings, all of O’Fallon, Harold (Belle) Hangsleben, Norman Hangsleben, Evelyn Bertram, Edith Bland, Blanche Scheibel, and Marlene Kaubreck. Memorial donations in honor of Mrs. Virginia Scheibel may be made to O’Fallon United Church of Christ or St. Paul United Church of Christ. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Monday, September 22, and after 9 a.m., Tuesday, September 23 Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 West Washington St, O’Fallon. The O'Fallon Senior Citizens will conduct a walk-through at 5:30 pm. Funeral will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, with Rev. Dr. Donald Wagner officiating. Burial will follow at O’Fallon City Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home.
CHARLES DELBERT DELL, 72, of Lakeview, Ark. died Sunday, September 14, in Lakeview. He was born Sunday, September 22, 1935 in Van Buren, Mo., son of Lelborn Earl and Virginia Reed Dell. He married Barbara Luminello on December 12, 1959 at N. Providence, R.I. He worked as a systems analyst for the federal government. Charles was a U.S. Air Force veteran of Korea. Charles lived in Lakeview for 16 years before moving to O'Fallon. He was a member of Knights of Columbus and past president of O'Fallon Lion's Club. He enjoyed music and old western movies. Charles Dell is survived by his wife, Barbara Dell; two sons, John E. and Thomas S. Dell both of Belleville; four daughters, Barbara C. (David) Morgan of Noblesville, Ill., Angela K. (Victor) White of Farview Heights, Teresa K. (James) Perkins of Shiloh and Linda R. (Adolfo) Mendoza of Jacksonville, Fla.; three sisters, Ruth (Charles) Hoagland of Lynden, Wash., Louise (John) Niedra of Salem, Ore. and Aimee Austin of Santa Maria, Calif.; and 15 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers. Burial was in the Kirby's Tucker Memorial Cemetery, Mountain Home with David Morgan, Victor White, James Perkins, Alexander White, Brandon Wesselman and Nicholas White as pallbearers. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Foundation or Kidney Foundation. Arrangements were by Kirby & Family Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral mass was held Friday, September 19, at St. Peter The Fisherman Catholic Church, with Reverend Charles Kanu officiating. Visitation was held Thursday, Sept. 18 at Kirby & Family Funeral Home with a Vigil Service. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.
DOROTHY MARY SHEPPARD (nee Schlueter), age 78, of O’Fallon, born June 9, 1930 in Belleville, passed away Sunday evening, September 14. Mrs. Sheppard attended Cathedral Grade School, The Academy of Notre Dame and St. John’s School of Nursing in Springfield, Ill., graduating in 1952. She worked as an OB Nurse at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Belleville, and many other hospitals during her travels with her husband while in the United States Air Force. She was preceded in death by her husband Charley F. Sheppard, Sr., CMSgt, USAF (retired) on June 7, 2001; her parents, Alphonse and Cecelia, nee Weimer, Schlueter; her son, Randal and her daughter, Cynthia. Surviving are five sons, Michael (Denise) Sheppard of Seattle, Wash., John Sheppard of O’Fallon, Ronald (Dianna) Sheppard of Jacksonville, Ark., Charley Sheppard, Jr. of Chicago, and Kenneth (Bethany) Sheppard, Sr. of O’Fallon; two daughters, Deborah Sheppard West of O’Fallon and Ann Marie Sheppard of O’Fallon. She is also survived by her sisters, Marjorie Warman of Rogersville, Mo. and Janet (Wilbur) Nold of Las Vegas, Nev.; her brother, Alphonse (Mary Lou) Schlueter of Mascoutah; grandchildren, Mark and Nathan Sheppard of Colorado Springs, Colo., Charlie Michelle Sheppard of St. Louis, Randall and Ryan Sheppard of Arkansas, Kenneth B. Sheppard, Jr. of O’Fallon, Melanie and Meghan Sheppard of Seattle, Wash., and one great grandson, Gabriel Alexander Lewis. Memorials may be made to Paralyzed Veterans of America, to enhance their quality of life, at 2235 Enterprise Dr., Suite 3501, Westchester, IL 60154. Condolences may be extended to the family by visiting www.wfh-ofallon.com. All services will be private. At Dorothy’s request, she was cremated and a portion of her ashes was laid to rest with her husband and a portion was “set free to fly with the eagles.” Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O'Fallon.
ERNIE BLAISE, 86, born January 15, 1922 in Divernon, Ill., formerly of O'Fallon and Washington Park, died Monday, September 8, at Gardenview Care Center, Valley Park, Mo. Ernie was a member of St. Clare Catholic Church, O’Fallon Democratic Club, a 4th Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus 4239, O’Fallon Sportsmans Club and the Ironworkers Local 392. He also served during WW II in the Coast Guard and Merchant Marines. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Julia, nee Bori, Blaise; wife, Johanna, nee Boyne, Blaise; a son, Thomas Patrick Blaise; a sister, Marcella Rickmann, a sister-in-law, Anna Lou Blaise, and four brothers-in-law; Patrick Jr. (Catherine) Boyne, George Boyne, Michael Boyne and Frank Boyne. He is survived by two daughters, Stephanie (Louis) Feist of Ballwin, Mo., Mary Ann (Joe) Lanza of Springfield, Va., a son, Ernest Blaise Jr. of Atlanta, Ga.; two brothers, William (Irene) Blaise and Elmer Blaise, both of Belleville; a brother-in-law, Richard Rickmann of O'Fallon; a sister-in-law Mary Boyne of Belleville; seven grandchildren, Joshua and Emily Feist, Crystal (Richard) Sanders, Ernest Blaise III, Brenda Lanza, Joe Lanza Jr., Ashleigh Lanza and many friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Clare Catholic Church. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held from 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, September 13, at St. Clare Catholic Church, 1411 Cross St., Shiloh. There will be a Knights of Columbus Chalis Service held at 9:00 a.m. and a Memorial mass held at 11:00 a.m. at St. Clare Catholic Church. At Ernie’s request, his body will be cremated with burial of the cremains to be held at 10:45 a.m., Monday, September 15, with full military honors, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis. Schildknecht Funeral Home in O’Fallon, is in charge of arrangements.
RUSSELL NEUNER, 66, of O’Fallon, born June 6, 1942 in E. St. Louis, died Friday, September 5, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Russell had been employed by Ree’s Contract Service as a security officer. He was a member of Moose Lode 2608. Russ enjoyed camping and fishing in Washington County, Ill.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Vincent G. and Mary Ellen, nee Jerrell, Nuener; stepmother, Dorothy Lee, nee Marshall, Neuner; and a brother, Vincent W. “Sonny” Neuner.
He is survived by his wife, Penny J. Morris, nee Macintyre of O’Fallon, a son, Matt (Karen) Neuner of Ga.; stepson, Wm. Dean (Julie) Neuner of Freeburg; stepdaughter, Kate (Tim) Rowe of Belleville; a brother, Vincent H. (Lynne) Neuner; and six grandchildren, Nathan, Brendan, Clayton and Dylan Neuner, Danny Neuner and Matthew Word.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Humane Society. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Monday, September 8, at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
At the request of the family, after all services, Russell’s body will cremated.
GLENN ALLEN RUCKER, age 49, of Caseyville Township, born Jan. 24, 1959, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 3 in his home. Glenn and the former Lisa Loraine Deraas, formerly of Bottineau, N.D. married Aug. 5, 1992. Glenn served in the US Air Force as a personnel craftsman retiring in 1996. He then continued work in Civil Service personnel, relocating to Scott AFB in the fall of 2007, from Kadena Air Base, Japan. Glenn was a Star Trek fan and enjoyed spending his free time relaxing with his family, watching science fiction or Discovery channel. He collected classic comic books and was a loving husband and supportive father. He liked to play sports, both as a child and an adult. He read his Bible daily and valued his family and his faith.
Glenn was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Rucker and his father, Luther L. Rucker; his parents-in-law, Maurice and Loraine Deraas and sister-in-law, Mary Lynn Deraas.
He is survived by his wife, Lisa Rucker and sons, Bryson and Devin, all of Caseyville; sisters, Teresa Rucker of Kennett, Mo. and Annette Williams of Kansas City, Kan.; and mother, Billie Faye McClinton of Kansas City, Kan.; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Ronald Deraas of Bottineau, N.D.; Nancy Christenson of Bismarck, N.D.; Kenneth Deraas of Bismarck, N.D.; JoAnne Cushing of Brookings, S.D.; Robert Deraas of Fargo, N.D.; Maureen Fischer of Nevis, Minn; and Duane Deraas of Cavalier, N.D.
Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, 5 Schiber Ct., Maryville, IL 62062. Condolences may be extended to the family by visiting www.wfh-ofallon.com.
Memorial service: 4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 6, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Michael J. Carey officiating. A reception will immediately follow the service and the family will receive friends at the funeral home until 6:30 p.m.
Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
VIOLA “VI” J. FUCHS
Viola “Vi” J. Fuchs, nee Lurtz, age 101, of Belleville, born April 23, 1907 in O’Fallon, passed away Friday, August 29 at Memorial Hospital, Belleville.
Mrs. Fuchs had previously worked at National Stock Yards Bank and later as a nurse’s aide at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows and Lincoln Home. Because Vi loved to be surrounded by the beauty of flowers, floral tributes are welcome.
Private condolences or online tributes may be made at www.wfh-ofallon.com.
Mrs. Fuchs was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard M. Fuchs; her parents, Leander and Emma (nee Schildknecht) Lurtz; her two sisters, Delia Anthony and Lenora Taylor; and her two brothers, Arnold and Clarence Lurtz; her dear granddaughter, Tracey L. Klug; and great grandson, Tyler A. Stephens.
She is survived by her daughter, Nancy (Jerry) Hurst of Belleville; her granddaughter, Suzanne M. Stephens of Belleville; and great-granddaughters, Samantha L. Stephens and Amelia E. Hurs; sister-in-law Nidra Lurtz; three nieces and one nephew.
Graveside services will be 11 a.m., Wednesday, September 3, at College Hill Cemetery, Lebanon.
Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
GEORGE WAYNE STOREY, 56, of Troy, born June 4, 1952 in Granite City, passed away at his home Wednesday, August 20. George grew up in Troy, graduating from Triad High School in 1970. After moving away for a few years, he returned and has resided in Troy for the past 20 years. He has been employed at Cerro Copper as a production worker for 24 years. George lived a full and exciting life, always with a sense of humor and great smile. George lived his life knowing: Tomorrow may never come so live hard, laugh loud and never look back with regrets. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold Alvy and Melba Fae, nee Howell, Storey. He is survived by his five siblings, Nancy (Jerry) Hall of Granite City, Randall (Deb) Storey of Trenton, Leah Stilley of Breese, Gary (Pam) Storey of Freeburg, Mo., and DeeAnne (Tom) Byrne-Scott of Troy; his daughter, Melissa Knight of Springfield, Ill; his close friend and caregiver, Randi Marcordes of Breese; three grandchildren, and former spouses, Sharon Staggs of Granite City and Sharon Deppe of Edwardsville. Memorial donations in honor of George Storey are requested to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. A memorial service will begin at 4 p.m., Sunday, August 24, at Troy VFW Post 976, 123 West Market Street, Troy. A reception and gathering of friends and family will follow. In honor of George, please wear your favorite Harley t-shirt in tribute to him. At George’s request, his body will be cremated. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
DANIEL ROUMPOS Sr., 66, of O’Fallon, formerly of Chicago, born August 16, 1942 in Chicago, died Monday, August 18, in O’Fallon. Daniel was a carpenter and member of the Chicago Carpenters Local 250 and served in the US Army. He was preceded in death by his parents, Angelo D. and Emily D. Roumpos and his wife, Susan, nee Wells, Roumpos. Daniel is survived by four sons, Kenneth (Amy) Roumpos, Christopher Roumpos and Chad Roumpos, all of O’Fallon, and Daniel Roumpos of Orange County, Calif.; a daughter, Nikki (Jim Burmester) Eddy of DeForest, Wisc.; a brother, George (Diane) Roumpos of Darien, Ill., and grandchildren; Garrett and Haley Roumpos of O’Fallon, and Alexa and Adrianna of DeForest, Wisc. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to BJC Hospice. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Burial will be held Friday, August 22, at 11:30 a.m. at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis. Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon, was in charge of arrangements.
CHARISA L. JORDAN, 40, of Shiloh, born May 17, 1968 in Columbus, Ohio, died Sunday, August 17, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Charisa was a member of Encountering God Ministries in East St. Louis. She graduated from Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Mo., with a degree in accounting. She was very active in sports, especially playing basketball and softball. She retired from the US Army. She was preceded in death by her step father Joseph Thurman and an uncle Eugene Taylor. She is survived by her mother, Henrietta, nee Taylor, Thurman of Shiloh, father, John W. Williams of North Carolina, husband, Tyrone Jordan of North Carolina, four children, KeNeshia, DeVonte, DeVaree and William; a brother, Wayne Anthony Taylor of Calif.; a sister, Reflaye’ Williams of Shiloh; a nephew, Deonte Williams; an aunt, Bishop Winnie Hamilton; an uncle, Minister George Taylor; many cousins, other relatives and dear friends. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Thursday, August 21, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon. Funeral service will be held Friday, August 22, at 10 a.m. at New Life in Christ Interdenominational Church, 689 Scott Troy Road, Lebanon, with Bishop Winnie Hamilton and Pastor Ida Jackson officiating. Burial, with full military honors, will be Friday, August 22, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis.
RUDOLPH SCOBY, 85, of O’Fallon, born October 6, 1922 in St. Louis, died Wednesday, August 13, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Rudolph spent his childhood on Goose Hill in East St. Louis and attended Garfield and Carver Elementary Schools. Rudolph attended Du Sable High School in Chicago, and graduated from there. He then enlisted in the U.S. Marines and served honorably in the Pacific. He received an honorable discharge in 1946 and returned to East St Louis. He then was a Federal Records Clerk at the Federal Record Center on Page in St Louis, for several years before leaving to pursue ambitions to be an entrepreneur. He was proprietor of night clubs in both East St. Louis, and Waynesville, Mo. Rudolph's aunt, Josephine Hulett, organized the dayworkers in the U.S., receiving federal funding for the Household Technicians Organization. Rudolph worked as an area coordinator in the midwest and helped her to organize in this area. They were successful in accomplishing many well deserved benefits for this deserving group of women. Rudolph was the manpower manager for the City of East St. Louis and retired from that position. He was an avid St Louis Cardinals baseball fan and continued to support them until his death. Rudolph sang in the Federal Employees Record Center Choir while he was a federal employee. He was also a talented roller skater. He supported the Democratic Party in Illinois and proudly supported Barack Obama. He was preceded in death by his father, Willie Scoby; mother, Jeanette, nee Hulett, Scoby-Purvis and stepfather Johnny Purvis. Mr. Scoby is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, whom he married March 26, 1977 in Chicago, Verneter, nee Johnson, Scoby of O’Fallon; a daughter, Sharon Diann Scoby of Edwardsville; stepson, Harold (Wendy) Gregory of Shiloh; two sons, Dino and Mach; dearest and devoted grandson, Joshua Kent Gregory of Shiloh; two cousins, Ernestine (Roosevelt) Taylor of Fairview Heights, Virginia Clinton of Chicago; an aunt, Josephine Hulett of Youngstown, Ohio, brother in-law and sister in-law, Lawrence and Tremylla Johnson of Alorton; sister-in-law, Edwina DeBow of Huntsville, Ala.; longtime friends, Ather Lee Settles and Shelly Porter, other relatives and friends. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 20, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, August 20, at 12:30 pm, at the funeral home, with Evangelist Rose Pullum officiating. Burial will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis.
KEVIN BRONSMAN, 40, of Swansea, formerly of Granite City, born August 7, 1968, died Thursday, August 7. He was 40 years old. Kevin was an accountant and a Sarbanes Oxley auditor. He has worked for several companies in the St. Louis area. Kevin was a very loving and generous person. He lived and loved to the fullest and will be fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched. Kevin was preceded in death by his father, Brian Emil Bronsman, and his mother, Martha Eugenia Edwards. Surviving are his two sisters, Karen Bronsman and Kathy Smitherman; a brother-in-law Stuart Smitherman; two nieces, Liana Miller and Kayla Miller; a daughter, Kaia Lynn; a son, Dylan Wattler; a special friend, Sherri Martz and her family; many aunts, uncles, cousins and long-time friends. Memorials may be made to the family, who will make a contribution on Kevin’s behalf. Visitation: Friends called on Sunday, August 10 at Carrington Place Clubhouse, 3900 Essex Blvd. Swansea. Funeral services were private.
WILLIAM (BILL) J. MUNIE, age 77, born October 26, 1930 in O’Fallon, to Oscar E. Munie and Matilda (Rapp) Munie, passed away Tuesday, August 5, at Cedar Ridge Health Care in Lebanon. Bill was co-owner of Munie & Sons Garage in O’Fallon, he retired from O’Fallon Township High School as Director of Maintenance and was a lifetime member of St. Clare Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, Council 4239, Pope Paul First Assembly, Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus 1829. Mr. Munie volunteered his time working to help in the community. Mr. Munie was a Korean War Veteran in the U.S. Air Force. He was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine (nee Schumacher), whom he married September 8, 1951, and who passed away January 28, 2005; his parents, Oscar and Matilda Munie; and a sister in infancy, Connie Munie. He is survived by five children, Sharon (Len) Cuvar, of Middletown, Ohio, Marcia (Brad Warchol) Fix, Julie (Jim) Hicks, William P. Munie and Mary Munie, all of O’Fallon; 10 grandchildren, Kelly (Brad), Neil (Hilary) and Dan Cuvar, Amy, Dess and Brian Fix, Jamae Shubirg, Laura (Josh) and Adam Hicks and Ian Jentsch; three great grandchildren, Mason Shubirg, McKenna Spilker, and Chance Cuvar, six sisters, Mary Jean Wheatley, Delores Keller, Vernell Goodman, Janet Ranek, Pat Gagne and Karen Cotter, and a brother Jim Munie. Bill was a beloved uncle, cousin, in-law and friend. Memorial donations in honor of William Munie are requested to St. Clare Catholic Church building fund. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the online guestbook or offer condolences to the family. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Sunday, August 10, at St. Clare Catholic Church, O’Fallon. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 11, at St. Clare Catholic Church, O’Fallon, with interment at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Shiloh, with the Rev. James Deiters presiding. A special thank you to the staff at Cedar Ridge Health Care. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
JOHN LEO WALSH, 84, of O’Fallon, born January 6, 1924 in E. St. Louis, died Wednesday, July 30 at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville. John had been a bartender at Edgemont Bowling Lanes & Sports Bowl. He also had been employed at Hart Foods. He was a member of the Sportsmans Club and St. Clare Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by his parents John & Ester, nee Schlavik, Walsh, wife Dorothy, nee Meinen, Walsh, 4 sisters; Mildred Pensenau, Bernadine Higgins, Katherine Clark, Mary Schlobohm and a brother Thomas Walsh. He is survived by two daughters, Jane M. (Ken) Melton of Lebanon, Nancy A. (Ronald) Barberis of Memphis, Tenn.; a brother, James Walsh of Troy; two granddaughters, Vanessa (D.J.) Malechi and Jackie Weeks, both of Memphis, Tenn.; a great granddaughter, Leeann Weeks; and two brothers-in-law; Albert (Jeanne) Meinen of Belleville, and Elmer (Effie) Meinen. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Clare Catholic Church. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Friday, August 1, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral mass will be held Saturday, August 2, at 10 a.m. at St. Clare Catholic Church with Father Von Deeke officiating. Burial will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Shiloh.
MARILYN S. DARBY 66, of O’Fallon, born February 20, 1942 in Johnson City, Ill., died Saturday, July 26, at her residence in O’Fallon. Marilyn was a member of St. Clare Catholic Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Edna Bearden (nee Norman), and her sister in law, Audrey Bearden. Marilyn was the mother of two children, Anne Marie (Mike) Nowak of O’Fallon, and Raymond Edward Darby and girlfriend Leslie Bassett of West Palm Beach, Fla.; also surviving, a brother, Harold Bearden of Lockport, Ill. and seven grandchildren, Anthony, Colton, Rebecca and Victoria Nowak; Rowan, Natisha and Sonja Darby. Masses may be made to St. Clare Church. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 30, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, July 30, at the funeral home with burial at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Shiloh.
After a courageous fight against cancer, KAREN S. VERNON, 61, of O’Fallon, born March 1, 1947 in Colorado Springs, Colo., died Friday, July 25, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville. Karen was a dedicated Red Cross Volunteer for the 375th Medical Group Coumadin Clinic at Scott AFB. She was preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, MSgt Donald A. Vernon, and her parents, Alexander and Susie (nee Lockhart) Newsom. Karen was the mother of three children, Katherine (David Jolley) Weyhaupt of O’Fallon, Dawn (Tracy) Ruger of Arlington, Tenn., and MSG William (Janine Duschka) Vernon, of Saint Leonard, Md. She was the proud and loving MeMaw of six grandchildren, Karah Ruger, Megan Ruger, Allyson Ruger, Michelle Weyhaupt, Matthew Ruger and Madison Vernon. She was also survived by her brother, Steve (Kat) Newsom, a sister, Elizabeth Welch, a niece, Stephanie, nephews Josh and Andrew and her beloved canine companion, Mr. Tibbs. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Red Cross. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com Visitation will be held Monday, July 28, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon.. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, July 29, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Karen will be laid to rest along side of her loving husband at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo.
ENOS TERRY JONES, age 60, of Farmington, Mo., formerly of O’Fallon, born January 11, 1948 at Scott AFB, to Ancel A. and Irene V., nee Miller, Jones, passed away Tuesday, July 22, at his home in Farmington. Terry worked as a communication specialist for over 30 years. He served in the US Navy and was a Vietnam veteran. He was a dear son, father, brother, uncle, brother-in-law and cousin and will be missed by his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother Stanley Jones. He is survived by his parents, Ancel and Irene Jones of O’Fallon; three sons, Jason Jones of Dallas, Texas, Johnny Jones of Ft. Worth, Texas, and Ronald Jones of Dallas, Texas; two brothers, Ancel Gale (Jan) Jones of Leonardtown, Md., and Danny Dossen (Dawn) Jones of Carlyle; three grandsons, Brian, Johnny, and Benjamin Jones, all of Dallas, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of Enos Terry Jones are requested to Disabled American Veterans or American Heart Association and will be accepted at the funeral home. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences to the family, visit www.wfh-ofallon.com. Visitation: Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 25, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon. Funeral service will be at 8 p.m., Friday, July 25, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home with Pastor Terry Clayton officiating. Burial with full military honors will be 10:45 a.m., Monday, July 28, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis.
AMANDA JOAN ORTON, 28, of Kane, Ill., born March 28, 1980 in Lagrange, Ga., died Sunday, July 20. Amanda was employed as a warehouse manager. She was the daughter of Michael Orton and wife Deborah Ann of Lawrenceburg, Tenn. and Evelyn Manzi Wallace of Lawrenceburg, Tenn.; a son, Tristan Orton of Kane, Ill.; grandmother, Joyce Harris of Odenville, Ala.; grandfather, Norman Orton of Lawrenceburg, Tenn.; step-grandfather, H. I. Allen Jr.; a half sister, Maleah Orton of Jacksonville, Ala.; a half brother, Donald Allen Allison of Lagrange, Ga.; special friend, Robbie Benson of Kane, Ill.; several uncles, aunts and cousins. Visitation was held Tuesday, July 22, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Neal Funeral Home, 231 N. Military Avenue, Lawrenceburg, Tenn. Funeral service was held Wednesday, July 23, at 11 a.m. at Neal Funeral Home, Lawrenceburg, Tenn. Interment will be at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Lawrence County, Tenn. Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon, Ill. was in charge of local arrangements.
BETTY MCALLISTER, 78, of O’Fallon, born June 9, 1930 St. Louis, Mo., died Monday, July 21, 2008 at Swansea Rehab & Care Center. Betty was a member of the O’Fallon Woman’s Club, Auxiliary Life Member of the Air Force Sergeants Assn., a St. Clair County Election Judge and past member of the O’Fallon Senior Citizens and the Democratic Club. Betty was a die-hard Cardinal fan and will be remembered for her fun-loving, spit-fire personality, never hesitating to speak her mind. She was preceded in death by her parents; Albert W. and Mary, nee Boettger, Gruenke, husband Robert McAllister and two brothers; Albert A. Gruenke and Emory Gruenke. Betty is survived by five children; Carolyn (Dennis) Jung of Swansea, Linda (David) Meadows of Moore, Okla., Kathryn McAllister of Bellingham, Wash., Randy (Kathy) McAllister of Choctaw, Okla, Robert McAllister Jr. of Harrisonville, Mo., grandchildren; Kelly Jung, Brad (Emily), Joey, Andy, Kaitlin and Ian McAllister; step grandchildren, Janie Meadows, Marty (Kristina), Jeff (Jeannie), Greg (Angie) Jung; step great-grandchildren, Jacob, Kaitlyn, Megan, Logan, Hailey, Cindy, Madison, Morgan Jung and Tyson Meadows; two sisters, Lillian (Roy) Pickel, Laverene (Herbert) Pfingsten; a brother, Vernon (Virginia) Gruenke and a sister-in-law, Wilma Gruenke. Memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice, 333 Salem Place, Suite 165, Fairview Heights, IL 62208 or Swansea Rehab & Care Center. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Thursday, July 24, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon. Graveside service will be held Friday, July 25, at 10 a.m. at Calvary Cemetery, St. Louis, Mo., with Chaplain Jonathan Hubbard officiating.
MAURICE ARNOLD HIBBS, age 98, of Glen Carbon, formerly of West Des Moines, Iowa, passed away Monday, July 21, in Maryville. He was born September 12, 1909 near Enid, Okla., the son of the late John Loren and Eva Hibbs. The family moved to Kansas and then to several towns in Iowa until they settled in Des Moines in 1918. Maurice graduated from Lincoln High School in Des Moines and briefly attend the University of Iowa. He married Esther E. Lefevre, who preceded him in death in 1965. In 1966 he married Genevieve Alice Johnson Brown, who preceded him in death in 2005. His sister, Helen Burns, also preceded him in death. He is survived by a daughter, Pamela Hibbs Decoteau and her husband John “Jack”, and two granddaughters, Liza Decoteau and her husband, Alex Hertich, and Claire Decoteau and her partner, Andy Clarno; and great-granddaughter, Mirabelle Decoteau-Hertich. Mr. Hibbs held numerous jobs that allowed him to drive and travel, including long-distance truck hauling, and as a railroad caboose crewman. After retiring from a lengthy career with Delavan Manufacturing in West Des Moines, he drove a bus for West Des Moines schools and also drove a tractor at the Living History Farm. He was a member of the West Des Moines United Methodist Church. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the online guest book. All services will be private. Interment will be in Resthaven Cemetery, West Des Moines, Iowa. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
MYRTLE ESTHER BEUCKMAN, age 92, formerly of O’Fallon and East St. Louis, born November 21, 1915 in East St. Louis, to Lester A. and Louise, nee Adelsberger, Pfeiffer passed away Sunday morning, July 20. Mrs. Beuckman devoted her life to her children, grandchildren and her church as a member of St. Joseph’s Mothers’ Club, St. Joseph’s Altar Society, St. Henry’s Seminary Auxiliary and St. Clare’s Altar Society and Quilters. She was a former member of the O’Fallon Senior Citizens and was an avid quilter, seamstress, and crafter. She assisted her husband with his volunteer work helping the poor, sick, elderly and lonely, and they received many awards in recognition of their service. She was preceded in death by her husband, Florian, whom she married June 24, 1939, and who passed away September 13, 2002; her parents, a brother L. Edward Pfeiffer, a sister Thelma (Aubrey) Moore and a great-granddaughter Isabelle Yankey. She is survived by her son, Maurice (Sylvia) Beuckman of O’Fallon; a daughter Doris (Jim “Rocky”) Gagen of St. Libory, Ill.; grandchildren and great-grandchildren Kim (Lon) Dircks and children Emily, Lily, Jackson, and Amelia of Freeburg; Jamie Beliveau and children Joshua, Bryce, and Camden of Freeburg; Jeff (JoAnne) Gagen and children Alyssa and Brianna of Freeburg; Scott (Andi) Gagen and children Ryleigh, Connor and Olivia of St. Louis, Mo.; Sara (Chris) Yankey and daughter Sophia of Belleville; Kerri (Gil) Gutierrez and son Alexander of Belleville; Mark Gagen, Thomas Gagen, and Jonathan Gagen of St. Libory; Ed Reynolds of Austin, Texas; Steven (Brenda) Reynolds and children Steven and Megan of Starke, Fla.; Joseph Beuckman of Minneapolis, Minn; brother Charles (Doris) Pfeiffer of Belleville; and sisters-in-law, Idamay Pfeiffer, Josephine Beuckman, and Ernestine Beuckman. She was a dear sister-in-law, aunt, great-aunt, great-great-aunt, cousin and friend of many. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of Myrtle Beuckman are requested to St. Vincent de Paul Society, Catholic Urban Programs, or St. Clare Catholic Church. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home. A prayer service will be held at 6 p.m. at the funeral home. Visitation will continue at 9 a.m., Wednesday, July 23, at St. Clare Catholic Church, O’Fallon. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 a.m., Wednesday, July 23, at St. Clare Catholic Church, O’Fallon, with Rev. James Deiters presiding. Interment will follow at Mount Carmel Catholic Cemetery, Belleville.
ANDREW L. ECKHARDT, 48, of O’Fallon, born May 13, 1960 in Wichita Falls, Texas, died Wednesday, July 16. In 1999, Andy retired as a Master Sergeant in the US Air Force. He was employed as an aircraft mechanic for Flight Express at Parks Airport in Cahokia. He was a member of the VFW Fischer-Sollis Post 805 and was ordained as a deacon by the Aaronic Priesthood on July 16, 1972 for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Ray and Mary Grace, nee Kistler, Eckhardt. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca “Becky” J., nee Blankenship, Dale-Eckhardt of O’Fallon, stepmother, Fay Smithson of Mona, Utah, two stepsons; Michael (Becky) Evans of Belleville, Ryan (Erin) Dale of San Diego, Calif, a brother, Billy (Angie) Eckhardt of Spanish Fork, Utah, twin brother, Randy (Iva) Eckhardt of Cabot, Ark., a sister, Sherry (Randy) Baker of Salt Lake City, Utah, a grandson, Jordan Evans of Belleville, and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Sunday, July 20, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. There will be a VFW service at 6:00 pm. Funeral service will be held Monday, July 21, at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Patrick Durkee officiating. Burial, with full military honors, will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis.
AUSTIN ROBERT HANSLEY, infant son of Jared and Nicole, nee Jung, Hansley, of Belleville, born July 4 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, died a few hours later, surrounded by the love of his family. In addition to his parents, Austin is also survived by his paternal grandparents, Chris and John Hansley of O’Fallon, maternal grandparents Ken and Judy Jung of O’Fallon; great grandmothers, Joan Cook, Ruth Hansley and Mary Lou Walsh. Memorial donations in honor of Austin are suggested to March of Dimes, 2620 West Boulevard, Suite B, Belleville, IL 62221. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. Funeral service: In celebration of Austin’s time with us, a Graveside Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, July 12 at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Belleville, with Msgr. William Hitpas officiating. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
MATTHEW RYAN SELLERS, 24, of O’Fallon, born March 6, 1984 in Belleville, died Saturday July 5. Matthew was a member of the graduating class of 2002 from O’Fallon Township High School. Matthew worked for U.S. Express as an over the road truck driver.
He was our loving only child. All our family will dearly miss his fun loving spirit, personality and quick wit. He loved his family, especially his little cousins. He always called us and told us he loved us.
Matthew was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Lloyd and Berniece Wilson Sr. and paternal grandfather, Harold Sellers Sr.
He is survived by his parents, Kenneth and Diane Sellers (nee Wilson) of O’Fallon, paternal grandmother, Audrey Sellers of Steelville, Mo., Uncle Harold and Jeri Sellers of Brighton, Aunt Jeannette and Bob Scrivner of O’Fallon, Uncle Lloyd Wilson of Denver, Colo.; cousins, Susan and Jeff Freund, Michael and Kathy Sellers, Chris and Amanda Sellers, Jim and Gina Scrivner, Jeff and Suzi Scrivner, Michael Wilson, and Steven and Val Wilson. His family wants to acknowledge his loving pet, Athena.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Belleville Animal Shelter and Humane Society. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 8, from 6-8 pm at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon.
Funeral service will be held Wednesday, July 9, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Joel Catlin officiating.
Burial will be at Valhalla Gardens of Memory in Belleville.
FRANKIE F. CRAWFORD, 67, of O’Fallon, born September 3, 1940 in Bernice, La, died Monday, July 1, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville. Frankie was retired as a postal worker from the United States Post Office and member of the American Postal Workers Union, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3480 in E. St. Louis, and Base Chapel Two. Mr. Crawford was a retired member of the United States Air Force.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John Willie and Wila Mae Crawford (nee Davidson), his wife, Claire Crawford (nee Hughes), his sister, Billie Jean Crawford, and a niece, Dana Williams.
Mr. Crawford is survived by three children, Tracey Lynn Crawford of Chicago, A`sta Crawford of O’Fallon, and Myatt Crawford of Belleville; a sister, Virginia Rae Crawford of Columbus, Ohio; and a brother, Thomas Wayne (Kathleen) Crawford of Columbus, Ohio; nine grandchildren, Nina Christmas, Brandon M. Crawford, Kala T. Christmas, Bryeez Crawford Beamon, Myatt E. Crawford, Ireina Star Crawford, Bryce S. Crawford Harwell, Blayze Crawford Beamon and Mycheal J. Crawford, many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
Visitation was Sunday, July 6, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon.
Funeral service was Monday, July 7, at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Ed Banks officiating.
Mr. Crawford will be buried with full military honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo.
CALEB JEFFREY ZARZECKI, age 15, of Troy, born April 28, 1993 to Jeff and Robin, nee Young, Zarzecki, passed away at home, Monday, June 30, surrounded by his family, after a long and courageous battle with multiple types of cancer. Originally diagnosed in his second year of life, Caleb was brave and heroic as he fought against the odds.
Caleb loved his Play Station, playing guitar and listening to music, especially AC/DC. He loved hanging out with his friends and his brother.
He was voted Most Friendly by his eighth grade class at Triad Middle School. Caleb was named an Honorary Illinois State Trooper and Honorary Troy Police Officer. He was the designated “Pilot for a Day” by the 375th Airlift Wing at Scott AFB. He was active in H.I.S.K.I.D.S., a support center for kids with cancer and their families.
Caleb was preceded in death by his maternal great grandfather Stilley Young; paternal great grandparents Helen and Stanley Zarzecki and Florence Wolf.
Caleb is survived by his parents, Jeff and Robin Zarzecki, of Troy; brother, Luke Zarzecki and baby sister due to arrive in October, Bela Cate Zarzecki; paternal grandparents, Frank and Carol Zarzecki of Maryville; maternal grandparents, Joyce Young of Paducah, Ky; and Jimmy Young of Calvert City, Ky.; maternal great grandparents, Albert and Bernice Robison of Reidland, Ky; and Ina Mae Young of Benton, Ky.; aunts Beth (Frank) Catanzaro of Troy; Gwendolyn (Mitch) Henson of Dallas, Texas, and Jimmi Lyn (David) Manion of Covington, La., his girlfriend Katie Brinkman, his school aide of seven years, Michelle Jefferson, and many cousins and friends.
Memorial donations in honor of Caleb are requested in lieu of flowers to H.I.S.K.I.D.S., 908 Laurel, Highland, IL 62249 or Wings Pediatric Hospice, 9890 Clayton Rd, Suite 200, St. Louis, MO 63124. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family.
Visitation: A gathering of friends and family will be held from 3 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, July 2, at Gateway Center, One Gateway Dr., Collinsville.
Funeral service: In celebration of Caleb’s life, services will be 11 a.m., Thursday, July 3, at St. Jerome Catholic Church, 511 South Main Street, Troy.
Arrangements were entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O'Fallon.
JAMES M. MCCAW, 81, of O’Fallon, born March 23, 1927 in Lebanon, died Monday, June 30 at Lebanon Care Center, Lebanon. Mr. McCaw was the owner operator of the Outdoorsman in O’Fallon for the last 47 years, retired laborer for local 670 in O’Fallon after 40-plus years, lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 805 in O’Fallon, veteran of World War II and the United States Navy. He was preceded in death by his parents George and Marjory McCaw (nee Feltman), sister; Martha Mae McCaw. Mr. McCaw is survived by his wife, Dorothy McCaw of O’Fallon, a half sister, Floy (Don) Henrickson of Mokane, Mo. and numerous cousins. Memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice and condolences may be sent to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m., Wednesday July 2, at College Hill Cemetery, Lebanon. Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon, was in charge of arrangements.
LORENE A. IRWIN, 84, of O’Fallon, born January 3, 1924 in Messler, Mo., died Friday, June 27 at Rosewood Care Center, Swansea. Lorene was a member of Faith Lutheran Church and retired from Travelers Insurance as the supervisor of the automobile department.
She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Nellie, nee Hartle, Anthony, two brothers, Earl and Harold Anthony; and a sister Irene Kuehle.
Lorene is survived by her husband, Walter G. Irwin of O’Fallon, a daughter, JoNell (Lesley) Zanders of O’Fallon, two granddaughters, Mitzi Zanders of Belleville, Renee (Danny) Neuner of O’Fallon; and three great grandchildren; Kyle, Torri and Casey.
Memorials may be made to the Faith Lutheran Church Music Dept. or The O’F.allon Food Pantry. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com
Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 1, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church 520 E. Highway 50, O’Fallon.
Funeral service will be held Tuesday, July 1, at 11 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church with Pastors Robert Downs and Freda Snyder officiating.
Burial will be at Lakeview Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights.
Schildknecht Funeral Home, O'Fallon, handled the arrangements.
HELYNNE FRANKLIN, nee Upham, 71, of O'Fallon, born April 10, 1937, in Crawford (Elmo), Texas, died on Friday, June 27, at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Belleville. The pillars of her life were her Bible, her family, art, and love of all animals. Helynne was an accomplished artist; her work was marketed in Taos, N.M., Palm Beach, Fla., Honolulu, Hawaii, and Peoria, Ill. She judged many art shows and acted as a juror for others. Her special passion was mentoring youth and children in painting; she was a signature member of the National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society and a member of the National League of American Pen Women's Art Section, the Peoria Art Guild, the St. Louis Artist Guild, and the Honolulu Academy of Art. She was a member of the Church of Christ, Fairview Heights. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, and grandmother and will be greatly missed. All animals mourn her passing. She was preceded in death by her birth father, Dwain Upham; and her parents, Valla Dee and Gaines Parker. Surviving are her husband, Retired Col. Maury A. Franklin, USAF; her three children, Kevin (Esther) Franklin of San Antonio, Texas, Kirk Franklin of Lebanon, and Misty (Jerry) Patzer of Snohomish, Wash.; her two grandchildren, Mary Esther Valdez of San Antonio, Texas and Ayiana Shawnee Patzer of Snohomish, Wash.; her two great-grandchildren, Sarah Emily Valdez and Robert Kevin Valdez; her five sisters, Annette Hilton of Malden, Mass., Janette (Dr. George) La Fon of Demming, N.M., Connie Sides of Rankin, Texas, Kathleen Pollard of Hurley, N.M., and Chris (Randy) Courington of Hurley, N.M.; and her brother, Dwain (Karen) Upham of Plano, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are preferred to any animal welfare organization. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.kasslyfuneral.com. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday, June 30 at Kassly Mortuary, Fairview Heights, and from 10 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1, at Church of Christ, Fairview Heights. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1, at Church of Christ, Fairview Heights, with R.C. Thompson officiating. Interment will be in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Mo. Kassly Mortuary, Fairview Heights, handled the arrangements.
CHRISTINE RAE SCHWAEGEL STEPHANS, 50, of Clarksville, Tenn. died Monday, June 23 at her residence in Clarksville after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Born February 6, 1958 in Belleville, Christy worked at the Parkview Animal Clinic as a veterinary technician. She loved all animals and thoroughly enjoyed her job. Christy attended Kirkwood Baptist Church in Clarksville. Christy was a fun-loving girl who liked horseback riding, played softball and volleyball, and loved fishing. She was a coach for her children and just loved to cheer them on and help with their sports. She loved searching the farm fields for Indian artifacts. Christy’s family wishes to thank Gateway Hospice in Clarksville for their care and support and also Dr. Gordon West and his wife Debbie, Dr. Jana Howard, and all the staff from the animal clinic for all their years of support, words of encouragement, countless visits at hospital and home, and always being able to help out at a minute’s notice. Also thanks to Dr. Pete and his wife Mary Kay who was a great go-between if Christy needed to reach Dr. Pete quickly. Christy was preceded in death by a sister, Jean Marie Schwaegel, who died June 22, 1961, her paternal grandparents, Adolph and Barbara (Fellner) Schwaegel, maternal grandparents Joseph and Wilhelmina (Neff) Mueth. She is survived by her husband Mark Stephans, whom she married September 15, 1978; one son Victor W. Stephans and his wife Crystal, and her son David; one daughter Jeannie Stephans; and parents Clete and Dorothy (Mueth) Schwaegel. Also surviving are sisters, Cheryl (Kyle) Kummer of North Attleboro, Mass., Jackie (Steve) Hausmann of Waterloo, Joan McNamara of O’Fallon, and Deanna (Jeremy) Buersken of Ogden, Utah; and nieces and nephews Leah Hendrickson and her daughter Emma, Kyle and Jesse Kummer, Katie, Hillary, and Bradley Hausmann, and Kayla McNamara. Memorial donations in honor of Christy are requested to Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, 5005 LBJ Fwy., Ste. 250, Dallas, TX 75244 or Gateway Hospice, 1606 Haynes Street, Clarksville, TN 37043. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. Memorial service: 11 a.m., Saturday, June 28 at Kirkwood Baptist Church, Clarksville, Tenn. Visitation: 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 2, at St. Clare Catholic Church, Shiloh. Memorial mass: 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 2, at St. Clare Catholic Church, Shiloh, with Rev. James Deiters presiding. According to her wishes, her body has been donated to science. Local arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home.
CARL A. “SMITTY” SMITH, JR, 59, of Lebanon, died June 20 south of Summerfield. He was born north of Lebanon, on June 29, 1948. Surviving are his parents, Carl A. and Edna W. (Rochell) Smith, Sr.; his wife, Betty Jo, nee Runyan, Smith, whom he married on March 17, 1984 at the First Methodist Church, Lebanon. He is also survived by three daughters, Carley Jo (Randy) Chambers, Arnold, Mo. Michelle (Asa) Turner, Sterling, Alaska, Kimberly Ann Holt, Blue Springs, Mo.; a son, Richard Carl Smith, Lebanon, 10 grandchildren, A.J., Shelby, Drew, Arend, Atley, Coleby, Lindsy, Kaelyn, Colin, and Chloe; three sisters, Diane Bohannon, Lebanon, Pat (Bob) Moss, South Carolina, Kathy (Terry) Rutherford, Tennessee; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, James “J.R.” Smith on May 13, 2008. He was a veteran and served in the US Army; his occupation was an Electronic Engineer Mechanic at Bo Beuchmann and then Jack Schmitt Ford in Collinsville, for more than 30 years where he also served as a shop steward. Carl was a member of St. Paul UCC, Lebanon, The Singers' Society of Lebanon; Lebanon Volunteer Fire Department; Machinists District 9 Local 313 of Caseyville, Shiloh Eagles, BPO Elk Lodge 664, Fairview Heights. VISITATION: Monday, June 23 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Meyer Funeral Home then Tuesday at the church from 10 to 11 a.m. FUNERAL: Tuesday, June 24 at St. Paul UCC, Lebanon, at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Dr. Don Wagner, Pastor, officiating, with burial in College Hill Cemetery, Lebanon. Memorials may be offered to the family.
DENNIS FRANK DEUTSCH, age 70, longtime resident of Shiloh, born October 15, 1937 in Shiloh, passed away June 18 at his home. Mr. Deutsch was preceded in death by his parents, Cardell “Mike” and Aurelia, nee Kreutzer, Deutsch, his infant son, Deron, and his brother, Duane. He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia L., nee Klich, Deutsch of Shiloh; a son, Mike Deutsch and his wife, Sharon; a daughter, Carolyn Parke; two grandchildren and a brother, Donald Deutsch of Shiloh. Because of Dennis’ love of animals, memorial donations are suggested to Spencer Pet Rescue, 1405 E. Highway 50, O’Fallon, Ill 62269 and will be accepted at the funeral home. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guest book or send condolences to the family. Visitation: Friends may call from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Saturday, June 21, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington St., O’Fallon. Funeral Service: 11 a.m., Saturday, June 21, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Shiloh Valley Township Cemetery, Shiloh. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
ROSS M. BLAKE, 87, of O’Fallon, born May 20, 1922 in New York City, died Wednesday, June 18, in O’Fallon. Ross was a member of the First United Methodist Church, VFW, Order of Daedalians, Disabled American Veterans, American Ex-Prisoners of War and the Military Officers Association of America, serving 25 years as the Treasurer. He also served on the Zoning Board for the City of O’Fallon. Ross was a pilot and retired from the US Air Force as a Colonel after 30 years of service. He fought in WW II, Korea and Vietnam. He was a POW in Germany and received a Purple Heart. He was an Eagle Scout and received the Silver Beaver Award for distinguished service. After retirement, Ross sold real estate for Plaza Realty, worked at Zale’s Jewelry at St. Clair Square and also acted in many productions at the Looking Glass Theatre in Lebanon. He was preceded in death by his parents Harold F. and Ethel, nee Goldsmith, Blake and two brothers; Hugh Blake and Gael Blake. Ross is survived by his wife Marcia, nee Nance, Blake, whom he married October 13, 1945 in Great Neck Long Island, NY; four sons; Bruce Nance Blake of Annapolis, MD, Leslie Ross (Janice Fielder) Blake of Waldorf, MD, Blair Mackenzie Blake of Los Angeles, Calif., Duncan Lamont (Vickey) Blake of Los Angeles, Calif. and two grandchildren, Christopher Blake and Meredith Blake, both of Waldorf, MD. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the MOAA Scholarship Fund, Okaw Valley Boy Scouts, First United Methodist Church of O’Fallon or Hospice of Southern Illinois. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. At the families request, Ross will be cremated with burial at Arlington National Cemetery. Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon, was in charge of arrangements.
DOROTHY R. “Aunt Dot” KENNEDY, 86, nee Getz, of Summerfield, formerly of Collinsville, died June 16, at her niece's residence in Summerfield.. She was born in Collinsville, on June 9, 1922 to Kenneth and Pearl (Hartman) Getz. Both are deceased. She married Roy Kennedy, April 30, 2004 and he preceded her in death September, 2007.
She is survived by one brother, Leroy (Janet) Getz, Belleville; two granddaughters, Sherry Frerk and Debbie Sperino; one grandson, Dennis Sperino; three great grandsons and one great granddaughter, many nieces and nephews.
Also preceded in death by one son, Charles Sperino; one sister, Irene Green and one brother, Eugene Getz.
Mrs. Kennedy retired from Krey Packing House, St. Louis after many years with Hunter and National vending. She was a member of Crossview Independent Assembly of God Church, O'Fallon, Senior citizens of Mascoutah and served on the board and was a volunteer.
Visitation was Wednesday, June 18, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Crossview Independent Assembly of God Church, O'Fallon.
FUNERAL: Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. at the church with Brother Kent Wilson officiating. Burial in Summerfield Cemetery, Summerfield.
MEMORIALS: Crossview Independent Assembly of God Church, or Family Hospice.
Meyer Funeral Home, Lebanon, handled arrangements.
ESTELLA CLAYBORN, 94, of Greenville, Ill, born April 10, 1914 in Aberdeen, Miss., died Tuesday, June 10, at Anderson Hospital, Maryville. Mrs. Clayborn was a member of the First Missionary Baptist Church, Royal Lake #2, Mulberry Grove, Ill. She was preceded in death by her husband Milton Clayborn, father Oliver Ewing and her mother Minnie Flowers. She is survived by two sisters; Catherine Johnson of Belleville, Charline Russell of Chicago, and other brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, great great nieces and great great nephews. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. At the families request, Estella will be cremated with burial of the cremains, next to her husband, at Mulberry Grove Cemetery, Mulberry Grove, Ill. Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon, was in charge of arrangements.
PAMELA CONRATH, 60, of O’Fallon, born January 16, 1948 in Alton, died Sunday, June 8 at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Pamela graduated from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, earning a Master’s Degree. She was a 2nd grade teacher at Whiteside School for 37 years, retiring in June 2007. She was a member of the Whiteside Federation of Teachers, Illinois Federation of Retired Teachers and Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville. She was the recipient of the Emerson Teaching Award and the St. Clair County Golden Apple Award. Pamela was an active member of the St. Elizabeth’s Life After Breast Cancer Support Group, a captain of the group’s Relay for Life team, and a supporter of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. She was preceded in death by her mother Annabelle, nee Montague, Kingery. Pamela is survived by her husband, Terry Edward Conrath of O’Fallon, her father, Joseph E. Kingery, formerly of Alton, currently residing in Shiloh, and many dear and special friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. A memorial service will be held Thursday, June 12, at 7:00 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 1300 Belt Line Road, Collinsville, with Pastor Michael Walthers officiating. Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon, was in charge of arrangements.
CLIFFORD "CLIFF" NELSON, 77, of Fairview Heights, born July 11, 1930 in Belleville, died Wednesday, June 4, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis. Mr. Nelson was a contract specialist for the U.S. Army and retired in 1991. He was a member of St. Clair Masonic Lodge 24, Belleville, and a member of Christ United Methodist Church, Fairview Heights. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Nelson and Mary E., nee Stephenson, Nelson; four brothers, and six sisters. Surviving are his wife, Aletha M., nee Braun, Nelson; two daughters, Diane (David) Trimble of Belleville, and Beth (Keevin) Higgins of Fairview Heights; four grandchildren, Stephanie and Stephen Trimble, Kristina (Travis) Dallas and Kayla Higgins; and a great-grandson, Teagan Dallas. Graveside services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 6, at Walnut Hill Cemetery, Belleville, with Pastor Jeff Bealmear, Christ United Methodist Church presiding. To sign the online guest book or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.wfh-ofallon.com. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
JOHN L. "JACK" FELTMAN, 76, of Lebanon, passed away on June 7 at Cedar Ridge Health & Rehab Center in Lebanon. He was born to William E. and Hester (Rabel) Feltman, Oct. 10, 1931 in Lebanon, Ill, both are deceased. Also preceding him in death are two sons, John Jr, and Todd Feltman; one brother William Feltman, Jr. Surviving are beloved Sarah Horne, Lebanon, four children, Renee (Shawn) Hughes, St. Louis, Mo., Steve Feltman, Belleville, Amy Sudholt, Aviston, Jeff (Susan) Feltman, Ashley, Ill; Sarah’s sons, Ronald (Carrie) Horne, Shiloh, Jeffrey (Jennifer) Horne, Ripon, Calif; three sisters, Virginia (Ted) Honer, Belleville, Lois Rizzie, Hazelwood, Mo., Carol Elledge, San Jose, Calif; one brother, Robert (Terri) Feltman, St. Louis, Mo.; four grandchildren, Rebecca, Michael, Justin and Alexander; Sarah’s five grandchildren, Malissa, Cheyna, Wyatt, Amanda, and Christyn; his furry friends, Mr. Screech, Pye, Spooky, Misty; Sarah’s sister and brother, Una (Rether) Johnson, Lebanon, Walker (Judy) Wolford, Colorado Springs, Colo. He worked as a Teamster and laborer at Local 670, O'Fallon, and was a member of the Laborer’s Local 670, O'Fallon. Jack played basketball and baseball at OTHS, coached American Legion Ball, and Greater St. Clair County League. He also played minor league ball in the Cardinal Organization and was voted into the Mon-Clair Baseball Hall of Fame in 2002. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed sharing his vegetables. No services will be held. Memorials may be made to Family Hospice, or Belleville Humane Society. Arrangements by Meyer Funeral Home, Lebanon.
ANTHONY IORIO, age 80, of O’Fallon, passed away May 25. A full obituary was previously published in the O’Fallon Progress. A Graveside Committal Service will be held at 3:00 pm, Friday, June 13, at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Shiloh, with Rev. James Deiters presiding. Military honors will be rendered by the US Army. Further information may be obtained at www.wfh-ofallon.com or by calling Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
CLEOPHA T. MERTZ, 95, of O’Fallon, born August 27, 1912 in Trenton, died Tuesday, May 27 at Maryville Manor, Maryville. She had been a clerk at Ben Franklin and at Keck’s Department Store in O’Fallon. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Amelia Quitmeyer; four brothers and three sisters; her husband, Emmitt Mertz; a daughter-in-law, Loretta C. Louis, Mertz and a son-in-law, Thomas McKune. Cleopha is survived by a son, Marvin E. Mertz of Troy; a daughter, Normajean McKune of Fairview Heights; a grandson, Allen (Diana) Mertz of Troy, seven great grandchildren, Christopher A. (Amanda) Mertz, Timothy S. Mertz, Christine M. Wheeler, Cynthia A. Dooley, Curtis E. Loucks, Craig J. (Christine) Loucks, Cheryl L. (Ted) Cherico, and seven great, great grandchildren. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. All services will be private with Rev. Georgia White-Kisslring officiating. Burial will be at O’Fallon City Cemetery, O’Fallon.
ANTHONY IORIO, age 80, of O’Fallon, born Nov. 26, 1927 in Marano, Italy, passed away Sunday evening, May 25, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville. Anthony grew up in Italy among 20 brothers and sisters. He immigrated to the United States in 1947 at the young age of 19. He was a veteran of the US Army and served during the Korean Conflict. He retired as a butcher and moved to O’Fallon seven years ago. Mr. Iorio was a parishioner at St. Clare Catholic Church, deeply devoted to his Catholic faith. He was a very kind and loving father and grandfather, tirelessly giving of himself to his family. He will be remembered for his generous spirit and loving devotion to his children and grandchildren, of whom he was very proud. He was preceded in death by his parents, Luigi and Rosa, nee Venezia, Iorio; his beloved wife Rosaria, nee Gioeli, Iorio, whom he married January 7, 1956 in Brooklyn, N.Y., and passed away April 9, 1996; and several brothers and sisters. Mr. Iorio is survived by his son, Louis Joseph (Denise) Iorio, MD, of Guilford, Conn.; his daughter, Rosemarie (Joseph) Gilroy of O’Fallon, and his very special grandchildren, Anthony Robert Iorio, Steven and Kathryn Gilroy. In honor of their father’s generosity and to follow his charitable wishes, the family requests in lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to EWTN Global Catholic Network, 5817 Old Leeds Road, Irondale, Ala., 35210-2164 or to a Catholic charity of one’s choice. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. Visitation: Friends may call from 2 to 3 p.m., Tuesday, May 27, at St. Clare Catholic Church, 1411 Cross Street, O’Fallon. Funeral: Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 3 p.m., Tuesday, May 27, at St. Clare Catholic Church, with Rev. Jim Deiters presiding. Burial of cremated remains with military honors will take place at a later date at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Shiloh. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.
BELVA NELL BUSH, age 96, of O’Fallon, passed away Sunday morning, May 18 at Cedar Ridge Healthcare Center, Lebanon. She was born February 3, 1912 in Farmington, W. V. to Martin H. and Dagmar, nee Groce, Rummager. Growing up the daughter of a railroad engineer, Belva Nell moved frequently during her childhood years. She married William J. Bush on November 10, 1939 in Catlettsburg, Ky. In 1971, upon his retirement, they settled in Venice, Fla. She lived there until 2000, when she moved to O’Fallon, to be near her son and his family. She was an avid reader and enjoyed gardening. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, William J. Bush, who passed away in 1996; her son, Col. William J. Bush, II, USAF (retired), who passed away June 10, 2007; her sister, Lois Flege and brother, Dallas Rummager. Mrs. Bush is survived by her daughter-in-law, Joan Bush of O’Fallon, her granddaughters, Alison Delgado and her husband, Peter, of Glen Ridge, N.J., Katherine Ruberton and her husband, Robert, of London, England; and three great grandchildren, Gabrielle and Alec Delgado and William Ruberton. She will also be missed by her friends and neighbors at the O’Fallon Apartments. Memorial donations in honor of Mrs. Belva Nell Bush may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois, 305 South Illinois, Belleville, Ill, 62222 or Mayo Clinic, Dept. of Development, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. There will be no public visitation. Funeral services will be private. At her request, her cremated remains will be scattered by air over Casperson Beach, near Venice, Florida, where she held many fond memories of time spent there with her husband.
MARY DORIS RICHEE, 81, of Millersburg, born January 23, 1927 in Cairo, Ill., died May 18 at Maryville Manor Nursing Home in Maryville, Ill. Mrs. Richee grew up in Cairo, Ill. and moved to E. St. Louis with her family when she was in the seventh grade. She moved to Mille