OBITUARIES

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 Millersburg in 1967. She had worked as a sales clerk in several stores and had last worked at the Millersburg Store. She had served as an election judge in E. St. Louis and Millersburg. She was a member of the Wisetown Baptist Church and also the Women's Democratic Club. Mary Doris married Earl Slape of Belleville on October 24, 1942. He died on Nov. 18, 1956. She then married John Richee on May 22, 1959 in Nashville, Ill. He died April 23, 2003. She is preceeded in death by her parents, Adrian L. and Eulah (Ramage) Beard; both her husbands; five brothers, Thomas Beard, Charles Beard, Eugene Beard, Billy Beard and Edward Beard; and a sister, Barbara Childerson. She is survived by her son, Michael (Jean) Slape of Belleville; two daughters, Carolyn Masterson of Pocahontas, and Cathy (Ken) Frutiger of St. Jacob; a brother, Adrian L. “Junior” (Deanna) Beard of Pocahontas; three sisters, Edith Waterman of O’Fallon, Betty Bieri of O’Fallon; and sister, Joyce (Kenneth) Royer of Pocahontas; nine grandchildren, Tim Slape, Lori (Patrick) Foley, Erin (Donnie) Smith, Lindsey (Brent) Blacharczyk, Tara (Jon) Thompson, Kaitlin Slape, John Masterson, Michelle (Tim) Aldrich, and Mike (Lisa) Frutiger; and eight great grand children, Jacob, Sean, Alex, Emma, Caroline, Bryant, Dylan, and Elise. Memorials may be made to Wisetown Baptist Church or Unity Hospice. Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m., May 22 at Young Funeral Home in Greenville, Ill. The funeral service will be 11 a.m. May 23 at Wisetown Baptist Church with Rev. Tom Rankin officiating. Interment will be at Hug Cemetery in Pocahontas, Ill.

DORIS C. KERN, 87, of Palm Harbor, Florida, formerly of O’Fallon, died May 2, in Florida. Doris was a member of the O’Fallon United Church of Christ. She was a teacher, beginning her career in a country school in Mascoutah. She also taught in Belleville, Urbana, and retired, after teaching over 20 years at Roosevelt School. She is preceded by her parents, Julius and Matilda Hamann and a son, Robert J. Kern, who died May 17, 1977. Doris is survived by her husband, former veterinarian and owner of O’Fallon Animal Hospital, Dr. Robert G. Kern of Palm Harbor, Fla.; a daughter Kimberlee Bauman and granddaughter, Cherrilee Bauman of Mo., and a sister, Leona (Kenneth) Waldorf of Conn. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation or the American Heart Association. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Thursday, May 22, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. A memorial service will be held Thursday, May 22, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Walter P. Gerth officiating.

JEROME W. SOUDER, 65, of Shiloh, born September 13, 1942 in Maysville, Ky., died Tuesday, May 20, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Jerome was a Senior Master Sergeant in the US Air Force, retiring after 20 years of service. He was preceded in death by his parents Edgar and Hester, nee Jolly, Souder and a son, Michael Scott Souder, who died February 16, 1991. Jerome is survived by his wife Carole S. nee Bierlin, Souder of Shiloh; a son, Gary Souder of Shiloh; a daughter, Tracy (Michael) Kohler of Waterloo; a sister, Elizabeth (Paul) Wood of Tucson, Ariz.; two brothers, Stephen (Sheila) Souder of Danville, Ky., David (Toni) Souder of Winchester, Ky.; and two grandchildren, Tarah Kohler and Christian Kohler. Condolences may be made to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Friday, May 23, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Knox & Brothers Funeral Home, 625 E. 2nd Street, Maysville, Ky. 41056. Funeral service will be held Saturday, May 24, at 11 a.m. at Knox & Brothers Funeral Home, Maysville, Ky. Burial will be at Brooksville Memorial Cemetery, Brooksville, Ky. Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon, was in charge of local arrangements.

BENJAMIN E. HAMM, 86, of O’Fallon, born April 1, 1922 in O’Fallon, died Saturday, May 17, at Cedar Ridge Health Care Center, Lebanon. Ben was a member of the O’Fallon United Church of Christ, a lifetime member of the O’Fallon American Legion Post 137 and the O’Fallon Masonic Lodge 576 AF & AM.
He retired from the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier and retired from the O’Fallon Fire Department after 30 years of service. He was the city clerk for the City of O’Fallon for 16 years, and served on the O’Fallon Park Board, the O’Fallon Veterans Monument Committee, the Board of Directors of the O’Fallon Savings and Loan and owned a newspaper delivery business in O’Fallon for 12 years.
He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the US Army and receiving two Bronze Stars.
Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin H. and Hilda E., nee Gross, Hamm and a brother, Leroy W. Hamm.
Ben is survived by his wife, Marian, nee Roberts, Hamm of O’Fallon, whom he married February 28, 1948 in O’Fallon; four sons, Michael (Suellyn) Hamm of O’Fallon, Randy (Jane) Hamm of Belleville, Robert (Linda) Hamm of Hillsboro, Richard (Michelle) Hamm of Freeburg; a brother, Vernon (Colleen) Hamm of O’Fallon; ten grandchildren; three great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to the O’Fallon United Church of Christ. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com.
Visitation will be held Monday, May 19, from 4 to 8 p.m. with an O’Fallon Fire Department service at 7 p.m. from the Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon.
Funeral service will be held Tuesday, May 20, at 10 a.m. at O’Fallon United Church of Christ with Rev. Dr. Martha Thierheimer officiating. Burial will be at O’Fallon City Cemetery.

SANDRA J. SCHMITTLING, 71, of Shiloh, born May 21, 1936 in Belleville, died Tuesday, May 13, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville. Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Clara, nee Karius, McClary; three sisters, Ruth Golab, Garnet Warchol, Henrietta Daniels; and a brother, Fred McClary. She is survived by four sons, Bryan Schmittling of Shiloh, Mike (Shirley) Schmittling of Fairview Heights, Randall (Donna) Schmittling of Belleville, Russell Schmittling of Shiloh; a sister, June “Susie” Herman of Shiloh; nine grandchildren, Rachel (Phil) Allen, Andrew, Nicholas, Andrea, Ciara, Alexsis, Emily and Jacob Schmittling and James Legg, six great grandchildren, Isabella Allen, Aleaha Lynch, Alyse Lynch, Sophie Schmittling, Sequoia Kadel, Julian Kadel, 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. Visitation will be held Friday, May 16, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral service will be held Saturday, May 17, at 10 a.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home with Rev. Georgia White-Kisslring officiating. Burial will be at Shiloh City Cemetery.

ROBERT L. KEATON, 60, of O’Fallon, born June 14, 1947 in St. Louis, died Thursday, May 8, in O’Fallon. Robert was a retired machine mechanic at General Electric in St. Louis. He also was in the U.S. Army, serving in Vietnam. Robert’s love for the outdoors was found at Owl’s Bend. He enjoyed the woods, camping, campfires, family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Jennie (nee Dawson) Keaton and a stepson, Carl L. McCoy. Robert is survived by his wife, Gala (nee VanOver) Keaton of O’Fallon, five children, Amy (Rev. L.P.) Cook of Holts Summit, Mo., Richard (Alice) Keaton of Pearland, Texas, Mickey (Joe) Curry of Boulder, Ill, Ruth (Mike) Mason of Neoga, Ill, Teresa (Mark) Clark of Oklahoma City, Okla.; two sisters, Norma (Robert “Corky”) Karsteter, Sharon Yarber; a half brother, Jim (Beth) Jones, 12 grandchildren and one great grandchild. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital or the Siteman Cancer Center. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. The visitation was held Saturday, May 10, at Schildknecht Funeral Home in O’Fallon. The funeral service was held at 7 p.m. Saturday, May 10 at the funeral home with Rev. L.P. Cook officiating. At Robert’s request, after all services, his body will be cremated.

ELMER B. HEITMAN, 83, of O’Fallon, born November 13, 1924 in O’Fallon, died Monday, April 21, at Clinton Manor Living Center, New Baden. Elmer was an avid golfer and was one of the first members of Tamarack Country Club. He traveled extensively, enjoying rounds of golf everywhere from The Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland to Pebble Beach in California. Elmer retired after a long career from Oliver C. Joseph Dodge Dealership in Belleville, where he always appreciated being treated more like family than an employee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Louis and Alma Amanda, nee Stoecklin, Heitman; a brother, Dean Louis Heitman; and sister-in-law, Suzanne, nee Harding, Heitman. Elmer is survived by two nephews, Kenneth (Kelly) Heitman and Kurt (Natalie) Heitman. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. At his request, Elmer was cremated. Visitation will be held from noon until 1 p.m., Saturday, May 10 at Schildknecht Funeral Home followed by a memorial service with Rev. Dr. Martha Thierheimer officiating. Burial of the remains will be held at O’Fallon City Cemetery.

JONATHAN JAMES SORY, 13, of Lebanon born August 17, 1994 in Belleville, died Sunday, May 4, in O’Fallon. Jonathan was a student at Fulton Junior High School in O’Fallon. He loved riding his skateboard, music, riding his bike and hanging out with his friends, especially Jessie and Collin. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Alfred Stern. Jonathan is survived by his parents, David Sory and Tonya Stern of Lebanon, a brother, Matthew Sory of San Antonio, Texas; two sisters, Christina Sory of St. Louis, Mo. and Andrea Sory of Lebanon; maternal grandmother, Beth Vissell of Ellis Grove, Ill.; paternal grandparents, Thomas and Marjorie Sory of Belleville; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Edgemont Bible Church, Fairview Heights, Ill, 62208. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. At the request of the family, all services are private and will be held, at a later date, at Edgemont Bible Church in Fairview Heights. Arrangements handled by Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon.

LOUISE LANGENBERG, nee Logue, 97, of Highland, born May 20, 1910, in Highland, died Friday, May 2 at Faith Care Center, Highland. Mrs. Langenberg was born and raised in Highland. She worked at the Moulton-Bartley Shoe Factory in the office for 131/2 years prior to her marriage. She also worked in St. Louis, Mo., for the Pet Milk Company for three years. She lived all of her life in Highland and was a well-known vocalist and soloist for her church, civic functions, and funerals. A member of the now Evangelical United Church of Christ since 1924, she taught Sunday school at the church for over 18 years and sang in the choir for 75 years. She was also a member of Women's Guild of the Church (Honorary Member); Highland Historical Society; Saline/ Helvetia Homemakers Extension; former member of the Ladies Harmonie (a civic singing group in Highland); driver for Meals on Wheels; Weinheimer Senior Citizens Association; J.O.Y. Singers (Just Older Youth); Highland Area Christian Women's Club (longtime member, held various positions); and Highland Senior Citizens. Mrs. Langenberg also enjoyed doing crafts. She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer L. Langenberg, whom she married February 8, 1945, and who died February 28, 1976; her father, Michael E. Logue; her mother, Louisa M. Wilhawk, nee Butcher, Logue; a daughter-in-law, Anna Ruth, nee Laughmiller, Langenberg, who died Oct. 2, 2007; and a half sister, Ruby Kircher, who died April 21, 1979. Surviving are two sons, Robert L. (Manon) Langenberg of Littleton, Colo., and William J. Langenberg of O'Fallon; two granddaughters, Michelle L. Langenberg of Charlotte, N.C., and Christina L. Langenberg of San Jose, Calif.; two great-grandchildren, Brandon Veliz of Charlotte, N.C., and Domonick Ennis of San Jose, Calif.; and a step-grandson, Clayton Vincent of Littleton, Colo. Memorial contributions may be made to Evangelical United Church of Christ. Visitation: Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 5, at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home, in Highland, and from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 6, at Evangelical United Church of Christ, Highland. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 6, at Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland, with the Rev. Christopher W. Hill, Senior Pastor Evangelical United Church of Christ officiating. Interment will be at Highland City Cemetery.

LEO F. LUGGE, 83, of O’Fallon, born April 1, 1925 in Belleville, died Wednesday, April 30, at Cedar Ridge Health Care Center, Lebanon. Leo was a member of St. Clare Catholic Church, a former alderman for the City of O’Fallon for 10 years, a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 4239, the American Legion Fischer-Sollis Post 137 and the Sheet Metal Workers Local 268 for over 50 years. He was the former owner-operator of Bel-O Cooling and Heating and served in the US Army. Leo was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Olivia, Beucherie, Lugge and a brother, Paul Lugge. He is survived by his wife, Mary R., nee Wieman, Lugge, whom he married at St. Peter'sl Cathedral in Belleville on September 29, 1951; two sons, Richard Leo Lugge of Hawaii and Don (Peggy Schofro) Lugge of O’Fallon; a sister, Mary Ann (Dan) Groghan of Creve Coeur, Mo; two grandchildren; Chris Lugge and Nicole Lugge, both of O’Fallon, nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice or St. Clare Catholic Church Building Fund. Condolences may be made to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Monday, May 5, from 4 to 8 pm at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon and Tuesday, May 6, from 9 to 10 a.m. at St. Clare Catholic Church, 1411 Cross Street, Shiloh. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, May 6, at 10 a.m. at St. Clare Catholic Church with Father James Deiters and Monsignor Donald Eichenseer officiating. Burial will be at College Hill Cemetery, Lebanon.

JOHN PARKER SHEEHAN, 61, of O’Fallon, born February 1, 1947 in Frankfort, Germany, where his family was stationed in the military, died Thursday, May 1. He grew up in Jacksonville, N.C. and graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. In 1972, he was awarded a Master of Arts Degree from East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C. John served in the U.S. Air Force at Scott Air Force Base, achieving the rank of captain. In 1972, he left the Air Force and entered the civil service work force at Scott AFB where he served as a computer programmer/analyst, until his retirement in 2002. Upon retirement from the civil service, he worked as a substitute teacher in O’Fallon. John was an avid, lifelong supporter of UNC athletics and took great pride in wearing the Carolina Blue attire. John also achieved national status as a volleyball player. He began playing volleyball as a member of the Scott AFB team. He played many years with the St. Louis Turner Organization and other U.S. Volleyball Association teams. While a member and player in the USVA, John was selected to the All American Men’s Senior First Team in 1983 as a setter. John also coached numerous volleyball teams over the years, to include McKendree University and the SWIC Volleyball Club. The last five years of coaching at SWIC Club, he focused on helping student athletes obtain scholarships. Among his numerous volleyball friends, he was lovingly known as “Papa Sheehan”. One of John’s all-time, favorite enjoyments was watching his sons and grandsons playing sports. John received great joy in traveling the U.S. and visiting historical battlefields and enjoyed running, hiking and camping. He was also an American Red Cross blood donor, donating over 200 times. He maintained a life-time status as a member of the UNC Alumni Association Live Member and always believed in supporting education. He was also a member of St. Clare Catholic Church in O’Fallon. John was preceded in death by his parents, William and Jane Sheehan. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, nee Halsey, Sheehan of O’Fallon, three sons, Kenneth (Amy) Sheehan and Donny Sheehan, both of O’Fallon, Greg (Jessica) Sheehan of Millstadt; a brother, Thomas (Debbie) Sheehan of Wilmington, N.C.; a sister, Anne (Jim) Schleining of Jacksonville, N.C.; two grandsons, Connor and Camryn Sheehan; and two nephews, David and T.J. Sheehan. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the John Sheehan Volleyball Scholarship to support the SWIC Volleyball Club. Donations to the fund will be accepted at the funeral home or can be sent to Bank of O’Fallon, 901 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon, IL 62269. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. The family offers a special thanks to Father Jim Deiters and the Parish at St. Clare Catholic Church, Dr. B. Tan, Dr. Fong and their staff at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Dr. P. Malcharek, Dr. V. Pai and staff at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, and to Hospice of Southern Illinois for their support. We would also like to thank all of our many friends for their prayers and support. Visitation will be held Sunday, May 4, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, May 5, at 10 a.m. at St. Clare Catholic Church with Father James Deiters officiating. Burial will be at Lakeview Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights.

THOMAS P. BLAISE, 51, of Mascoutah, formerly of O’Fallon, born November 29, 1956 in E. St. Louis, died Monday, April 28, in Mascoutah. Tom was an avid Nascar fan, loved the outdoors and enjoyed doing Civil War and Revolutionary War re-enactments. He was a member of the United States Bowling Congress and bowled at many alleys in the metro east. He was a member of the Bowling Hall of Fame, earning a ring for bowling a 300 game. He was also a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Local 268 and had been employed by Brinkmann's Heating and Cooling in Waterloo. He was preceded in death by his mother, Johanna C. (nee Boyne) Blaise; his paternal grandparents, Stephen and Julia Blaise; maternal grandparents, Patrick A. and Johanna C. Boyne. Tom is survived by his father, Ernest “Ernie” Blaise of Swansea; two sisters, Stephanie (Louis) Feist of Ballwin, Mo. and Mary Ann (Joe) Lanza of Springfield, Va; a brother, Ernest Blaise Jr. of Atlanta, Ga; nieces and nephews, Joshua Feist, Emily Feist, Crystal (Richard) Sanders, Ernest Blaise III, Brenda Lanza, Joe Lanza Jr, Ashleigh Lanza, many cousins and close 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 Saturday, May 3, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, O'Fallon. Funeral service will be Saturday, May 3, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Father James Deiters officiating. At the family’s request, Tom will be cremated, with burial of the cremains to be held at a later date.

From the May 1 O'Fallon Progress

ANNA E. VON SCHRILTZ, nee Harr, 92, of Lebanon, born June 2, 1915 in Colfax, New Mexico, died Monday, April 28, at Lebanon Care Center, Lebanon. Anna was a former member of the FBC in O’Fallon, and she loved traveling. Her last trips included China and Israel. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dick Von Schriltz; her three sons, Sam, Doug and Richard Von Schriltz; and her parents, Elmer and Elsie, nee Tucker, Harr; a brother, Robert Harr and a sister, Velma Green. Surviving are her loving son, Kurt (Donna) Von Schriltz of Morgantown, Ind.; her granddaughter, Paige Von Schriltz of Sacramento, Calif., several grandchildren and great-grandchildren through the union of Kurt and Donna Von Schriltz, and a dear friend and care giver, Susan Buchner and her family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice, 333 Salem Place, Suite 150, Fairview Hgts, IL 62208. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 10, at First Baptist Church, 1111 E. Hwy 50, O’Fallon, at 1 p.m. with Pastor Doug Munton officiating. Upon Anna's request, cremation was to be held. Interment of cremain will be held at a later date.

JAMES S. VAHLKAMP, of Belleville, born March 9, 1932 in Mascoutah, died Saturday April 26, at his home, surrounded family. He was a retired laborer for Local 459 in Belleville, Member of the Swansea Moose Lodge 1221 and the Forsythe, Missouri Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5869. He enjoyed camping, boating and fishing. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cornelius and Edmina Vahlkamp (nee Jung), grandson, “grandpa’s sunshine” Craig Biekert; sister and brother in-law, Delores and Sylvester Schanz; brother and sister in-law, Adrrian and Doris Vahlkamp; brother, Sylvester Vahlkamp; and brother in-law; Eldon Fohne. James is survived by three children, Ronda Bennett of Forsythe, Mo., Dale and Marty Vahlkamp of Gillette, Wy., and Karen and Glenn Biekert of New Baden; one sister, Cornelia Fohne of Godrey; four grandchildren, Ashley Bennett, Brandon Vahlkamp, Danea Keever and Diane Biekert; three great-grandchildren, Kaylee Marie Stout, Landon Keever, Leah Keever, and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois or Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. Online condolences may be made at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation was held Sunday, April 28, from 4 to 8 pm at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral service was held Monday, April 28, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Fr. Elmer Mauer officiating. Burial followed at Lakeview Memorial Gardens in Fairview Heights.

From the April 24 O'Fallon Progress

DOROTHY M. SHANKS, 84, of O’Fallon, born May 9, 1923 in Marion, died Monday, April 21, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Myrtle, nee Shanks, Connett; husband, Carl Shanks; and three sisters, Violet Bramlett, Eva Harris and Helen Furlow. She is survived by a son, Roy Shanks and a daughter, Mabel (Edward) Niehls, both of O’Fallon; grandchildren, Billy (Candi) Niehls, Michael (Brenda) Shanks, Michelle Lynn (George) Herrera; great grandchildren, Megan Shanks, Jennifer Herrera, Dakota Herrera, Austin Herrera, Dallas Herrera, Mary Case, Elizabeth Niehls, and many nieces and nephews. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 22, from 5-8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, April 23, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be Wednesday, April 23, at 2:00 pm, at Salem Cemetery, Carrier Mills, Ill.

From the April 10 O'Fallon Progress

MILTON L. HABERMAN, Chief Master Sergeant United States Air Force, Retired, 88, of Swansea, born September 1, 1919 in Town of York, Wis., died Saturday, April 5, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris J. Haberman (nee Jecklin); parents, Leo M. and Caroline L. Haberman (nee Fox); sister, Beatrice Lukes; brother, Lloyd E. Haberman; and a grandson, James Smith. Milton is survived by three daughters, Mary H. and (Michael) Bade of Lake Mills, Wis., Catherine A. and (Gary) Karraker of Lebanon, Barbara J. and (Richard) Abell of Ramsey; six grand children, David Bade, Shauna Sconce, Tucker Smith, Kevin Karraker, Leanne Abell and Jeffrey Abell; two great grand children, Jordan and Canyon Smith. Condolences may be made at www.schildknechtfh.com. Private graveside services will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Mo. Arrangements by Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Ave. O’Fallon.

DIANNE D. WILSON, 73, of Shiloh, born Jan. 18, 1935 in Belleville, died Monday, April 7, at Cedar Ridge Health Care Center, Lebanon. Dianne had been employed as a nursing assistant at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville. She was preceded in death by her husband, John M. Wilson; parents, Eugene and Helen, nee Faulke, Meyer and a sister, Gladys Meyer. Dianne is survived by four children, Randall Wilson of Shiloh, Jeffrey (Joyce) Wilson of Belleville, Lisa (John) Porter of Shiloh, Gina (Charlie) Klein of Shiloh, a sister, Sandra Schempp; sister-in-law, Wanda Creason of Mayfield, Ky., brother-in-law, Dickie (Loretta) Fleming of Mayfield, Ky; a dear grandson, Charles John Klein and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Condolences may be made at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 9, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. At the request of the family, after all services, Dianne will be cremated. Burial of the cremains will be held at a later date at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Shiloh.

JOHN W. HENDERSON, 83, of Swansea, born September 25, 1924 in Central City, Ky, died Tuesday, April 1, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville. John was an owner/operator, driving for Stahly Cartage, retiring in 1987. He was a member of the Teamsters, Local 50. He was preceded in death by his wife, Louise, nee Moore, Henderson; parents, James Alexander and Nancy, nee Beuhler, Henderson; two grandsons, Joe Ybarra and Nolan Henderson; a daughter-in-law, Suzan Henderson; brothers and sisters. John is survived by three children, Mary Ybarra of O’Fallon, Charlie Henderson of Swansea, Kathy Coumbe of Omaha, Nebr.; six grandchildren, James Tevebaugh, John Tevebaugh Jr., Jeanice Vasquez, Logan Henderson, Kayla Sexton, Krystina Coumbe; four great grandchildren, Raelyn Sexton, Nikki Tevebaugh, Nicole Vasquez, Nick Vasquez; many nieces and nephews. Condolences may be made at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Thursday, April 3, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral service will be held Friday, April 4, at 1 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Georgia White-Kisslring officiating. At the families request, John will be cremated after all services, with burial of the cremains Tuesday, April 8, at 1 p.m. at Greenmount Cemetery, Belleville.

From the April 4 O'Fallon Progress

GLADYS H. SIMMONS, 91, of Lebanon, born January 16, 1917 in Vandalia, died Friday, March 28, at Cedar Ridge Health Care Center, Lebanon. Gladys was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Lebanon, and a 50+ year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Chapter 487. She was preceded in death by her husband, Irvin Kelley Simmons; parents, Arthur and Margaret, nee Combs, Webb; and a brother, Jack Webb. Gladys is survived by three children, Carol (Garey) Zimmer, John (Martha) Simmons, and Janet (Ron) Manning; a sister, Betty Bendix; five grandchildren, Michele (Charles) Jenkins, Jeff (Jennifer) Mitchell, Benjamin Simmons, Ethan Manning and Meredith Manning; six great grandchildren and three great, great grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Lebanon. Condolences may be made at www.schildknechtfh.com. At the families request, Gladys was cremated. There will be a memorial service Saturday, April 5, at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, Lebanon, with Rev. Joy Caschetta officiating. Burial of the cremains will be at College Hill Cemetery, Lebanon. Schildknecht Funeral Home, O’Fallon, was in charge of arrangements.

IONE MARIE (MANNZ) GRIBLER, age 88, of O’Fallon, passed away March 27 at Cedar Ridge Healthcare Center, Lebanon. She was born August 6, 1919 to Lawrence and Margaret (nee Dawson) Ardison of Collinsville. She attended Collinsville schools and later worked at the local sewing factory. She was married to Wilmer Mannz from October 9, 1937 until his death in 1967. Ione married Robert Gribler in O’Fallon on August 6, 1982 and deeply mourned his passing on July 24, 2005. She retired from PN Hirsch in 1984, was a member of the O’Fallon United Church of Christ and V.F.W. Post 805 Woman’s Auxiliary. She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, and a grandson, Anthony Mannz. Mourning her passing are a daughter, Patricia (Richard) Goheen of Benton, Ark., and a son, Ronald (Sandra) Mannz of Redwood Falls, Minn. Her beloved grandchildren are Christopher (Suzanna) Goheen of Vienna, Va., Angela Marie Thennes of Benton, Ark., Michael (Jean) Mannz of Redwood Falls, Minn., Andrea (Andy) Marshall of Owattona, Minn., and Robert “Jake” Goheen of Benton, Ark. Great-grandchildren include Anthony Natale, University of Central Arkansas; Jennifer Goheen, University of Illinois; Michael Goheen, Vienna, Va.; Bethany Thennes, Benton, Ark.; Jared and Riley Becker, Owattona, Minn.; Calvin, Nichele, and Jarrett Mannz, Redwood Falls, Minn. Ione is also survived by three dear sisters, Catherine Simon of Alton, Hazel Fitzpatrick of Little Rock, Ark., and Faye Mondy of Lakeside, Calif. Ione enjoyed pinochle, traveling, fishing, gardening, cooking, and visiting with her special neighbors. The family deeply appreciates the loving care given Ione by friends, family, personnel at Cedar Ridge, staff and members of O’Fallon United Church of Christ, and the excellent care team of Heartland Hospice. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. Memorial donations may be made to O’Fallon United Church of Christ, 206 W. Adams, O’Fallon, IL 62269; Heartland Hospice, 333 Salem Pl., Ste. 165, Fairview Heights, IL 62208; and Cedar Ridge Healthcare Center Activity Fund, 1 Perryman St., Lebanon, IL 62254. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Thursday, April 3, and from 10 to 11 a.m., Friday, April 4, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be at 11 a.m., Friday, April 4, at the Wolfersberger Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dr. Martha Thierheimer officiating. Interment will be at O’Fallon City Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home.

From the March 27 O'Fallon Progress:
NORMA GROVES, 73, of O’Fallon, born Dec. 13, 1934 in Bismarck, N.D., died Sunday, March 23. Norma was a member of Faith Lutheran Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Ann, nee Velinsky, Gothard; a son, Brian Yocum and a sister, Darlene Cremona. Norma is survived by her husband, James H. Groves of O’Fallon; a son, James D. (Renee) Groves; two daughters, Virginia Groves and Christiane (Curtis) Kimball; a brother, Donald (Mary) Gothard; three sisters, Jewel (Veryl) Lord, Cecilia (Raymond) Heimsness, and Irene Yocom; grandsons, Hazen Groves, James E. Groves and James Kimball; and three granddaughters, Brittany Kohlberg, Destiny Kimball and Gabrielle Groves. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the O’Fallon Food Pantry, the Love Fund at Faith Lutheran Church or the music program at the church. Condolences may be made at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral service will be held Thursday, March 27, at 10 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church with Rev. Freda Snyder officiating. Burial will be at Lakeview Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights.

JOHN J. “JACK” KILROY, 73, of O’Fallon, born May 19, 1934 in Boston, Mass., died Sunday, March 23. Jack retired from the US Air Force as a chief master sergeant and also retired from the civil service as a project manager in communications. He was a member of the Harbor Light Bay Landowners Association and truly enjoyed being on his boat at Carlyle Lake with his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents William F. and Margaret, nee Adams, Kilroy; and two sisters, Nancy Dinsmore and Betty Ramsey. Jack is survived by his wife, Sandra, nee Campbell, Kilroy of Marthasville, Mo.; three children, Jacqueline Schroeder of Lawson, Mo., Michael (Christine) Kilroy of Edmonds, Wash, and Patrick (Laura) Kilroy of Belleville; a brother William F. (Barbara) Kilroy of Bellingham, Mass.; five grandchildren, Ryan, Erin, Alexandra, Megan and Joey; and many friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Lung Assn. Condolences to the family may be made at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 25, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, March 26, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be private at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery with full military honors.

ADOLPH LOUIS “LOU” SCHEIBEL, age 92, passed away peacefully in Littleton, Colo. on March 13. He was born to Ludwig J. Scheibel and Emilie (Betteken) Scheibel on May 16, 1915 in O’Fallon. He was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph; his sister, Amelia Schwaegel; his wife of 53 years, Virginia Dell (nee Schaefer), and his daughter, Sandra Ann McDonald. Survivors include his daughter, Mary Dell Vinnola- (Bob) Prinsteiner; son, Robert Louis (Colonel, USAF, Retired) (Susan); son-in-law, Doug McDonald; four grandchildren and three great grandchildren. After attending St. Louis University for two years, Lou and Ginny were married on Oct. 20, 1937. They moved to San Diego, Calif. in 1939 where Lou began working for Consolidated-Vultee Aircraft Corporation on the B-24 Flight Line. Thirty-seven years later, he retired in 1976 from General Dynamics as an aerospace engineer. During his career, he was involved in flight operations of many different Convair aircraft including the B-36, T-29, 240, 340 and 440; numerous static rocket engine tests in the California “high desert”; the Atlas ICBM Missile Activation Program which took the family to Wyoming, Kansas, and Oklahoma; and dozens of missile launches at the Western Missile Test Range, Vandenberg AFB, Calif. He was especially proud of his contributions to his country during WWII and the Cold War. Lou’s passions included airplanes and rocketry, cars, tinkering, gardening, history, reading, dogs, traveling and cooking. A family tradition on Saturday night was his homemade vegetable soup. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 5, at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Shiloh, with Msgr. William Hitpas presiding. Burial will be for both Lou and Ginny who will be "brought home” together. Please make memorial donations to your favorite charity. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent by visiting www.wfh-ofallon.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington Street, O’Fallon.

From the March 20 O'Fallon Progress:
ALEX AUSTIN KECK, 18, of O’Fallon, born June 8, 1989 in Belleville, died Monday, March 17. Alex was a recent graduate of O’Fallon Township High School and an Eagle Scout. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, a graduate of the Latter Day Saints Seminary Program and a youth council member in the young men’s program at the church. Alex is preceded in death by a paternal grandfather, James E. Keck, a maternal grandfather and grandmother, Cecil and Helen (nee Turner) Shelton, and an uncle, James Allen Shelton. He is survived by his father, Wayne E. Keck of Fairview Heights, mother, Laureen, nee Shelton, Hughes and Colonel Kevin P. Hughes, retired USMC of O’Fallon; a sister, Amanda, nee Raisner, (Matt) Halverstadt of Arlington, Va, a brother Jameson Keck of O’Fallon, and a nephew, “Baby” Jack Halverstadt of Arlington, Va. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. There was no visitation. A memorial service was held Wednesday, March 19, at 10 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 255 Fairwood Hills, O’Fallon, with Bishop Joe Logan officiating. Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon, was in charge of arrangements.

CHARLES HENRY CARTER, 71, of Fairview Heights, born Nov. 7, 1936 in Potosi, Mo., died Monday, March 17, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville. Mr. Carter was a member of the Westside O’Fallon Club and the O’Fallon Trailer Club. He was a volunteer for the American Red Cross, responding to national disasters for 10 years. Charles worked for the Department of Defense as an instrument mechanic, retiring from Scott AFB. He also served in the US Air Force. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Minnie, nee Warden, Carter; a sister, Ruby Carter; a brother, Tom Carter; and a daughter, Barbara K. Davidson. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, nee Moes, Carter of Fairview Heights; a son, Tim Carter of Charleston, S.C., three daughters, Carol (Bob) Sapp of Fairview Heights, Cindy Davidson of O’Fallon, Theresa (Ronald) Robinson of St. Jacob; a brother, Willis (Janet) Carter of Arnold, Mo.; a sister-in-law, Shirley Carter of Old Mines, Mo.; two grandchildren, Jason (Mary Ann) Hoffman of Fairview Heights, Catherine Robinson of St. Jacob; three great grandchildren, two aunts, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of choice. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation was held Wednesday, March 19, from 3 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral service was held Thursday, March 20, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Father Ken Siefert officiating. Burial was at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Mo.

From the March 13 O'Fallon Progress:
CLETUS J. KOESTERER, 72, of O’Fallon, born May 14, 1935 in New Athens, died Wednesday, March 5. Mr. Koesterer was a retired grocery clerk and served in the United States Navy. He was a member of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 881. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carole, nee Weisbrod; his parents Theodore L. and Elizabeth, nee Glaus, Koesterer; father-in-law, Earl Weibord; three brothers, Ted, Larry and Lloyd Koesterer; two sisters, Stella Teel and Betty Koesterer; six half brothers, Edward, John, George, Pete, Henry and Clements Koesterer and a half sister, Kate Mueller. He is survived by three children, Brenda (Jeff) Cavins of Marine, Ken Koesterer and Jeff Koesterer both of O’Fallon; two grandsons, Blake and Austin Cavins; one brother, Martin (Karen) Koesterer of Belleville; three sisters, Theresa Duncan of Belleville, Ida Petroff of Ohio and Clara Neu of Texas; mother-in-law Vergie Weisbrod; seven sisters-in-law, Florence and Audrey Koesterer, Nancy (Tom) McCaw; Pat (Clarence) Hagene, Elcie McCaw; Sandy Wagner, Linda Noltkamper; many nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation was held Sunday, March 9, from 4-8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral service was held Monday, March 10, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Father James Deiters officiating. Burial was at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville.

From the March 6 O'Fallon Progress:
RITA H. GOOLEY, age 86, of O’Fallon, born Sept. 3, 1921 in Syracuse, New York, passed away Monday, March 3, at Cedar Ridge Healthcare Center, Lebanon. Mrs. Gooley had formerly worked in banking and bookkeeping, and most recently in the fine jewelry department at Famous-Barr, where she was recognized many times for her success in sales. She loved to travel with her husband, especially to Las Vegas. She enjoyed browsing garage sales and was a regular mallwalker when her health permitted. Rita was a longtime loyal parishioner at St. Clare Catholic Church, where she faithfully prayed the rosary. She will be fondly remembered as a devoted wife and mother and was very faithful in attending and supporting the activities of her grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Michael M. and Mary Ellen (nee Cummings) Halloran, and two sisters. She is survived by her husband, Philip E. Gooley of O’Fallon, whom she married Nov. 28, 1946; her daughter Marianne and her husband, Michael Juergensmeyer of Ellisville, Mo., and their children, Philip and Rachel; her daughter, Jeanne and her husband, Paul McCleery of O’Fallon; and her children, John Elafros of O’Fallon, Erin (Keith Shovlin) Elafros of Chicago, Michael Elafros of Collinsville, and Timmy Elafros of O’Fallon. The family is very grateful for the loving care given to Mrs. Gooley by the staff at Covenant Care of O’Fallon, and during her transition to Lebanon Care and Cedar Ridge Healthcare Center. Visit www.wfh-ofallon.com to sign the on-line guestbook or offer condolences to the family. The family strongly encourages in lieu of flowers, that memorial donations be made to the Pro-Life Society at St. Clare Catholic Church, 1411 Cross Street, Shiloh, IL, 62269. Visitation: Friends may call from 10 to 11:30 a.m., Thursday, March 6 at St. Clare Catholic Church. Funeral Service: Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, March 6, at St. Clare Catholic Church, with Rev. James Deiters presiding. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Shiloh. Arrangements were entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon.

YUKIE EMMERT, 80, of Mascoutah, born Dec. 25, 1927 in Aomori, Japan, died Thursday, Feb. 28, at Willow Creek Rehab and Nursing Center, Belleville. She was preceded in death by her parents, Toshio and Kimi Sato. Yukie is survived by her husband, James Emmert of Mascoutah, a daughter, Kathleen Emmert of Mascoutah, two sons, Kevin Emmert of O’Fallon, Keith (Christina) Emmert of Rockford, Ill, and brothers and sisters living in Japan. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation or the American Diabetes Association. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. A memorial visitation will be held Friday, March 7, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. At the request of the family, Yukie was cremated, with burial of the cremains to be held at a later date.

OTTO C. KAMPEN, 97, of O'Fallon, born August 9, 1910, in Lebanon, Mo., died Thursday, Feb. 28, at Rosewood Care Center, Swansea, Ill. Mr. Kampen, with his wife, Esther, owned and operated the Western Auto Store in O'Fallon from 1955 until he retired in 1983. As a young man, he was a schoolteacher in small country schools in Missouri for ten years. During that time he spent several summers attending Southwest Baptist College in Bolivar, Mo. He then opened his first business, a Western Auto Store in Pacific, Mo. This was followed by a Western Auto Store in Union, Mo., and a grocery/general store in Gerald, Mo. During World War II his business ownership wasinterrupted when he did defense work at the Curtiss-Wright plant in St. Louis.He was a member of the O'Fallon United Church of Christ and had served on the church consistory. He belonged to the O'Fallon Sportsmen's Club and was a former member of the Lions Club. In 1982 he received a business leadership award from the O'Fallon Chamber of Commerce. He was preceded in death by his wife, Esther, nee Roethemeyer, Kampen in 1998, whom he married on October 5, 1940, in the parsonage of the St. James Evangelical Church, Owensville, Mo.; his parents, August and Josephine, nee Reimer, Kampen; one brother, Herbert Kampen; and two sisters, Ada Heidel and Eleanor Conley. Mr. Kampen is survived by three children, Mark (Judy) Kampen of O'Fallon, Ill., Patricia (Gordon) Sisk of Williamsburg, Va., and Jeanette Kampen of Granite City, Ill.; four grandchildren, Jeffrey (Rita) Sisk of Hampton, Va., Randell (Cathy) Sisk of Yorktown, Va., Douglas Kampen of Prairie Village, Kan., and Renee (Christopher) Rhanor of San Diego, Calif.; three great-grandchildren, Tyler Sisk, Adam Sisk, and Brooke Umfleet; and his cat, Tammy, his "little friend" and great companion. The family wishes to thank the compassionate caregivers at Rosewood Care Center, Swansea, and Hospice of Southern Illinois. Memorials may be made to Hoyleton Children's Home, O'Fallon United Church of Christ, or Hospice of Southern Illinois. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation was Sunday, Mar. 2, at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Ave., O'Fallon, Ill. The funeral was held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 3, at O'Fallon United Church of Christ, with the Rev. Dr. Martha Thierheimer officiating. Graveside service was at 3:00 p.m. at the St. James United Church of Christ Cemetery, Owensville, Mo., with the Rev. Libby Brueseke officiating.

From the Feb. 28 O'Fallon Progress:
LILLIAN M. BROWN, 91, of O’Fallon, born March 18, 1916 in Greenville, Ill, died Sunday, Feb. 24, at Rosewood Care Center, Swansea. Lillian was a charter member of Central Christian Church in O'Fallon and had been a seamstress at the Glove Factory in Greenville and worked for 25 years at Sel-Mor Garment Factory in O’Fallon. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Mrytle, nee Harris, Bimes; her husband, Marshall J. Brown; a sister, Adele Rench; and three brothers, Eddie, Chester and Jessie Bimes. Lillian is survived by a daughter, Shirley M. Triplett of O'Fallon; two grandsons, Russell Pittman of St. Louis, Mo., Dan W. Pittman of Sedalia, Mo.; nieces, nephews and other relatives. Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice. Condolences may be made at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation was held Wednesday, Feb. 27, at the Schildknecht Funeral Home 301 S. Lincoln Ave., O’Fallon. Funeral service was held Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 12 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Darrin McCormick officiating. Burial was at Mt. Auburn Cemetery, Greenville.

SARAH LAKIN, 92, of Caseyville, born Dec. 31, 1915 in Tubor, Texas, died Sunday, Feb. 24, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville. Sarah was an avid bingo and poker player. She loved spending time with family, always having a houseful and loved to cook, always worrying that there wouldn't be enough to eat. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Anna Poletti; husband, Thomas H. Lakin; a brother, Joe Poletti; a sister and her husband, Christina (Lee) Dennis; two sons, Henry and Stanley Lakin; two grandsons, Eric ‘Rick’ Kmetz, Shawn Worthen; great granddaughter, Valerie Ballard; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Thomas Henry (Grace) Lakin; a daughter-in-law, Aileen Lakin; and a son-in-law, Frank Kmetz. Sarah is survived by daughters, Christine Kmetz, Maryann (Tony) Casiano, Carol Lakin; sons, Robert Lakin, Joe (Etta) Lakin, Leroy Lakin; daughter-in-law, Janice Lakin; grandchildren, Frank Kmetz, Kitty Kmetz, Alan Kmetz, Ricky Lakin, Robbie (Donna) Lakin, Vicki Worthen, Hankie (Debbie) Lakin, Alice Roedl, Donny Lakin, Judy (Kevin) Renth, Jimmy Lakin, Vanessa Casciano, Mathew Casciano, Bobby (Denise) Lakin, Rose Root, Russell (Terry) Lakin, Joely Lakin, Joe Lakin; 31 great grandchildren; 23 great great grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Condolences may be made at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation was held Wednesday, Feb. 27 at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral service was held Thursday, Feb. 28, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Father James Deiters officiating. Burial was at Lakeview Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights.

JAMES BOYD LOCK, 71, of Shiloh, born June 26, 1936 in Quincy, died Wednesday, Feb. 20. James was an OSI investigator for the US Government. He retired from the US Air Force. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Rosemary, nee Boyd, Lock and a sister, Diana Bolen. James is survived by his wife, Josephine, nee Tompkins, Lock, of Shiloh; three children, Christina (Amosa) Masaniai of Atwater, Calif., Karen (Karl) Schricker of Flower Mound, Texas, James (Laura) Lock Jr. of New Braunfels, Texas; and six grandchildren, James Masaniai of Los Angeles, Calif., Anita Masaniai of Atwater, Calif., Jason and Claire Schricker of Flower Mound, Texas, Madalyn and Jacob Lock of New Braunfels, Texas. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. There will be no service at the request of the family. Schildknecht Funeral Home, O'Fallon, was in charge of arrangements.

RUTH MARGARET HALCOMB FISK, 79, of Prunedale, Calif., formerly of Shiloh, born May 24, 1928 in St. Louis, Mo., died Sunday, Feb. 17, at Carmel Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, Calif. Ruth served 30 years of civil service at Scott Air Force Base as an administrative assistant, retiring in 1989. She was a member of the O’Fallon United Church of Christ and the Eastern Star. Ruth moved to California in 1998 to be close to her daughters but is returning home to Illinois to rest next to her mother, Agnes Reuss Baur in Shiloh. She was preceded in death by her parents Walter F. Cox and Agnes A. Baur. Ruth is survived by two daughters; Judelyn A. Peterson of Fallon, Nev., Janis A. Spencer of Prunedale, Calif.; a grandson, Jason DeAmaral; and a granddaughter Morganne Spencer of Calif. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.schildknechtfh.com. Visitation was held Friday, Feb. 22, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 S. Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon. Funeral service was held Saturday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Dr. Martha Thierheimer officiating. Burial was at Shiloh Township Cemetery, Shiloh.