Ruth Ann Stockon, 82, of Scotsdale, AZ, formerly of Taylorville, passed away Thursday, November 26, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. at Scottsdale-Osborne Hospital in Scottsdale, AZ. She was born April 23, 1933 in Taylorville the Daughter of Minor and Bertha (Moutrey) Riggins. She married Harold “Boy” Stockon on August 11, 1951 and he later preceded her in death on May 7, 2010. She worked as a Dietitian and was a member of the Church of the Nazarene in Taylorville, IL. 

She is survived by her Son: Todd Stockon of Taylorville, IL; Daughter: Christina Epley of Scottsdale, AZ; Grandchildren: Grant, Cole and Jack Epley; Sister: Mary Lou Sharp of Cottonwood, AZ. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Harold, one brother and 3 sisters.

Visitation will be held Saturday, December 5, 2015 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 5, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Chad Foster officiating. Burial will be in Anderson Cemetery in Rural Palmer, IL.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Robert Otto Oseland, 85, of Springfield, passed away Sunday, November 29, 2015 at 9:50 a.m. at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL. He was born June 5, 1930 in Taylorville, IL the Son of Otto and Lula (Hixon) Oseland. He Lawanda Walker in September of 1965 in Las Vegas, NV. He worked as a bank executive and was a member of Laurel United Methodist Church, Ansar Shrine of Springfield and Mound Lodge 122 AF&AM. 

He is survived by his Wife: Lawanda and Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins.He was preceded in death by his Parents, 1 brother Archer, 2 sisters Agnes and Hattie

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, December 2, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield with Rev. Dr. Kent Lolling officiating. Burial will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL.

Memorials may be made to Laurel United Methodist Church 631 S Grand Ave W, Springfield, IL 62704 or to Shriner’s Hospital for Children 440 Clayton Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Mario E. Podeschi, 90 of Taylorville passed away at 7:15am, on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at his home.  He was born on August 22, 1925 in Taylorville, the son of Joseph and Susan DePolo Podeschi.  He married Della Jo Check on September 5, 1948 in St. Mary Church in Taylorville.  She preceded him in death on October 25, 2010.  Mario was a member of St Mary Catholic Church, was a past Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus.  He worked for the City of Taylorville Street Department and was also a meat cutter at My Store.  He served at a Taylorville Alderman for 24 years.  Mario was an avid golfer, with 5 hole-in-ones at Lake Shore Golf Course. 

He is survived by his son: Mark Podeschi, wife Marianne of Taylorville; daughters: Sue Podeschi of Carbondale, and Donna Kovack of Taylorville; Grandchildren: Jennifer Tuton, (husband James), Laura Wolpert, husband Tyler, Jessica Podeschi, Sherri Stinnett, Terri Stinnett, Jeff Kovack, (companion Shannon Buschon), and Brad Kovack; 6 great grandchildren, 5 great great grandchildren; Sister: Jeanette Coady(husband Gene) of Taylorville.  He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son: Ray Podeschi; brothers: Raymond Podeschi and Joseph Podeschi Jr.

A funeral mass will be held at 10am, Tuesday, December 1, 2015 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Taylorville with Msgr. David Lantz officiating.  Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.  A visitation will be held from 4 until 7pm on Monday, November 30 at McClure Funeral Home.  Memorials for Mario may be left to St. Mary’s Catholic School or the American Cancer Society.  McClure Funeral Home is assisting the Podeschi family with arrangements.  Memories of Mario or condolences to the family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com

Irma Ruth Ahlberg, 91, of Taylorville, passed away Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at 10:47 a.m. at Decatur Memorial Hospital in Decatur, IL. She was born December 6, 1923 in Morrisonville, IL, the Daughter of Ira Willis and Lela (Waddle) Fleming. She married Merle Gustaf Ahlberg on October 6, 1941 in Hannibal, MO and he later preceded her in death on March 25, 1995. She worked as a homemaker.

She is survived by her Son: Jack G. (Connie) Ahlberg of Taylorville, IL; Daughter: Brenda (Phillip) Henning of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Tracy Daigh, Timothy Ahlberg, David Daigh, Noelle Ahlberg-Kleiterp, Tricia Henning, Matthew Ahlberg and Numerous Great-Grandchildren. Sister: Lillian Mae Pack; Nieces: Candy (Dan) Byers of Springfield, IL; Vickie (Bob) McGee of Woodson, IL; Cousin: Harold (Pat) Waddle of Las Vegas, NV. She was preceded in death by her Parents, husband Merle, and Son: Skipper M. Ahlberg.

Graveside services will be held Saturday, November 28, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Anderson Cemetery in Palmer, IL with Tom Bellegante officiating. Burial will be in Anderson Cemetery in Palmer, IL. There will be no visitation.

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Mr. Clarence E. “Pat” Gruen. 94, of Taylorville, IL passed away at 12:50 P.M. Tuesday, November 24, 2015 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

He was born in Rosamond, IL June 1, 1921 the son of Edwin and Doris (Wallace) Gruen.

Pat married Gloria Wells on March 7, 1953 at 1^st United Methodist Church, Taylorville, IL.

Mr. Gruen was a member of Taylorville United Methodist Church.  He served as a chef in the U.S. Army in the Philippines during W.W. II.  Pat and Gloria acquired the Green Gables Drive-In at Park and Washington Streets in Taylorville from Ivan and Catherine Vaughn.  They built a new restaurant and moved to Rt. 48 West in 1957 owning and operating the Green Gables Restaurant until his retirement in 1994.  It is now known as the Country Kitchen.  Pat was a member and Past-President of the Taylorville Lions Club, member of the Taylorville Methodist Men’s Club and was a Lifetime Member of the Taylorville V.F.W.

Surviving are his wife Gloria of Taylorville, IL 2 brothers Harold (Elaine) Gruen of Santa Barbara, CA Floyd (Phyllis) Gruen of Decatur, IL a sister Ruth Roth of Cuba, MO along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

A celebration of Pat’s life will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, November 27, 2015 at the Taylorville United Methodist Church.  Pastor Becky Lembke will officiate.  Visitation for Mr. Gruen will be held from 9 to 11 am at the church before services on Friday. Memorials in memory of Mr. Gruen may be made to: The Christian County Senior Citizens Center - 701 W. Adams - Taylorville, IL 62568 or Taylorville United Methodist Church - 200 S. Walnut Street - Taylorville, IL 62568.

Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid is assisting the family with arrangements.  

Nancy L. David, 62 of Sharpsburg passed away at 11:56 AM on Monday, November 23, 2015 at her home with her family by her side.

She was born on March 20, 1953 at Jacksonville the daughter of Charles Thomas “Keno” and Marilyn Frances “Sally” (Burrow) Vice. She married Joseph G. David on June 12, 1971 at Farmington Presbyterian Church in Farmingdale. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Richard Dean Vice.

Nancy had previously been employed at Park Glen Apartments. She specially loved spending time with her grandson and great grandson and her dogs Bambi and Foxy. She enjoyed gardening and was a member of Eagles Club 1425.

Survivors: Husband, Joseph G. David of Sharpsburg, IL; Daughter, Sue David Smith (Companion, Dennis Lawyer) of Sharpsburg, IL; Grandson, Tyler Joseph Smith (Companion, Samantha Dorsey) of Taylorville, IL; Great Grandson, Dawson Wyatt Smith; Sister, Vickie S. Olive of Taylorville, IL; Brothers, Thomas E. (Wife, Pat) Vice of Pontoon Beach, IL, J. Mike (Wife, Sara) Vice of Kincaid, IL and Larry D. (Wife, Vicky) Vice of Riverton, IL; Special Friend, Kenny Smith of Decatur, IL; Many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home with Deacon Dennis Hudson officiating. Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery in Sharpsburg. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 10:00 AM until time of service at Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home.

Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Condolences to her family may be left at www.perfettifuneralhome .com          

Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Barbara K. Larcher, 72, of Jeisyville, IL passed away at 2:25 p.m. Saturday, November 21, 2015 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

Barbara was born in Taylorville, IL February 24, 1943 the daughter of Johnson J. and Rose Marie (Stoll) Summers.  She was the beloved wife and best friend of Donald R. Larcher for more than 52 years.  They were married at the Midland United Methodist Church on November 9, 1963. 

Barbara was devoted to her two children John and Tamara.  She formerly worked for the Illinois Liquor Control Commission, the Illinois Society of Surveys and then later at the University of Illinois at Springfield, from where she retired.  A lover of all forms of art, she found solace in painting and enjoyed many happy evenings ballroom dancing.  She found great meaning in her volunteer work at the Midland United Methodist Church working in the food pantry, as a Trustee and Board Member and singing in the Choir.  In the last several years, her greatest joy was found spending time with her grandchildren.  She was loving and kind to all she encountered.

She will be greatly missed by her husband Donald Larcher, two children John (Beth Nolan) Larcher of Decatur, IL Tamara Larcher of Springfield, IL; three grandchildren Anne Elizabeth Larcher, Joseph Michael Larcher and Emily Katherine Larcher; her sister Loretta Davis of Kincaid, a brother Thomas (Helen) Summers of Naperville, IL a sister-in-law Joann Janesh of Nokomis, IL brother-in-law Chuck Heiple along with several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews

She was preceded in death by her parents, grandson Robert Keppler and a sister-in-law Pat Heiple.

Funeral services to honor Barbara’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at Midland United Methodist Church.  Pastor Linda Vonck will officiate.  Visitation for Mrs. Larcher will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday evening at the church.  Her family is being served by Masterson Funeral Home, Kincaid, IL.

Memorials in memory of Mrs. Barbara K. Larcher may be made to the Midland United Methodist Food Pantry, P.O. Box 560 - Kincaid, IL - 62540

Doris Ann Mundhenke, 88 of Morrisonville passed away at 12:45 PM on Friday, November 20, 2015 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.

She was born on July 24, 1927 at Taylorville the daughter of Charles and Flossie (Hunt) Lowe. She married James Paul Mundhenke on October 27, 1946 at First Presbyterian Church in Taylorville; he preceded her in death on February 7, 2010. She was also preceded in death by her parents; Brothers, Robert and John Lowe; Sisters, Hilda Klinger, Mary Jenkins and Pauline Lowe.

Doris Ann worked as a bookkeeper for Palmer Elevator for more than 40 years. She was a member of Moose Lodge 1516 and Royal Neighbors of America.

Survivors: Daughter, Sandra Osterholt of Morrisonville, IL; Son, Dave (wife, Cherilyn) Mundhenke of Morrisonville, IL; 4 grandchildren, Jodi (Brian) Lacey, Laurie VanOstran, Shane (Betty) Osterholt and Nathan (Carla) Osterholt; 9 Great grandchildren; 1 Great great granddaughter; Several nieces and nephews;

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at Perfetti Funeral Home in Morrisonville with Rev. Jim Ferrill officiating. Burial will follow at Morrisonville Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5:00-8:00 PM at Perfetti Funeral Home.

Memorials are suggested to the American Lung Association.

Condolences to her family may be left at www.perfettifuneralhome.com

Perfetti Funeral Home in Morrisonville is in charge of arrangements.

Pamela Rose Clay, 64, of Kincaid, passed away Thursday, November 19, 2015 at 9:40 a.m. at Taylorville Memorial Hospital in Taylorville, IL. She was born January 24, 1951 in Hillsboro, IL the Daughter of Chester Harold and Mary (Morrison) Skinner. She married Donald Ray Clay on July 24, 1970 at Nokomis First Baptist Church in Nokomis, IL and he later preceded her in death on July 12, 2011. She worked as a telephone supervisor for years at Illinois Consolidated in Taylorville, IL. Pamela also worked at St. Vincent Memorial Hospital as an emergency Room Clerk. She retired as a dental assistant at Mid-Illinois Dental in Taylorville, IL for Dr. Joseph Smith and Dr. Richard Zimmers. Most recently she was a dental assistant for miles for smiles. Pamela was a member of Faith Community Worship Center in Taylorville.

She is survived by her Daughters: Tracey Lynn Clay Mann and Husband Steve of Kincaid, IL; Tiffany Leann Clay McArdle  and husband Tim of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Elizabeth Mann, Steven Mann, Taylor McArdle, Tabitha McArdle; Sisters: Edna Brown-Sinclair-Kuhn of Virginia Beach, VA; Patsy Campbell of Cleveland, TN; Brother: John W. Skinner and wife Cheryl of Nokomis, IL; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband Donald, Sister Harriet Alvey, and Niece Bonnie Alvey-Hill.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 24, 2015 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Rev. Jerry Thorpe Jr. officiating assisted by Rev. Eric Wyzard. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorials may be made to the Wishes of the family C/O Sutton Memorial Home 327 N. Clay St. Taylorville, IL 62568

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

David E. “Hoov” Hoover, 62, of Edinburg, passed away Thursday, November 19, 2015 at 12:45 p.m. at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL. He was born March 10, 1953 in Taylorville, IL the Son of Dorice Hoover and Rosemary Hagen. He worked as a Union Laborer. 

He is survived by his Sister: Susan Ginger of Springfield, IL; Nephews: Bruce Ginger and Brad Ginger both of Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his Parents. 

Visitation will be held Sunday, November 22, 2015 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Graveside services will be held Monday, November 23, 2015 at 2:30 p.m. at Edinburg Cemetery in Edinburg, IL with Rev Dan Spruell officiating. Burial will be in Edinburg Cemetery in Edinburg.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Mildred Faye Smith Nee McKenzie, age 93, graduated from this life and joined her Savior on November 18, 2015. She was born in Cerro Gordo, IL on August 28, 1922. Her Parents Were Joseph and Ota McKenzie. She was preceded in death by her husband Harry who died on January 22, 1986. Siblings who preceded her in death were Norman, Elmer, Warren, Ruth, Eldon, Kenny, and Gerald. Her Son, Larry Webber who passed away in 2003.

She is survived by her brother Walter and his wife Lucille of Mattoon, IL. Surviving are Sons, Kenneth of Broken Arrow, OK and his wife Sharon, Randy, of Kingman, AZ and his wife Sharon and Don of Quincy, IL. She also was blessed with grandsons Travis and his wife Julie, Todd and his wife Tirzah, Randy, Matthew and his wife Yukari, a granddaughter Tracey, her husband Michael and another grandson, Mark and his wife Kerri. Several Great grandchildren survive her as well. They are Brandon, Michael, Nicole, McKenzie, Joshua, Lindsey, her husband Jake, Erika, Jared and Amber.

Our mother helped with farming for many years. She assisted her husband with dairy farming. When Dad was running gas stations, Mom helped to do that as well. Later she worked for a super market in Taylorville, IL making her noodles and other great delights. Then she worked in the floral department at Walmart which she enjoyed greatly. She drove a school bus for some time. Then she helped with transportation for seniors. She was a resident of North Adams Home in Mendon for several years. Staff at the home loved her very much. They talked highly of her and were deeply saddened by her passing. Their Wonderful care of her over the last several years is truly appreciated and cannot be adequately expressed.  Mildred was active in her local Baptist Church where she heard the wonderful truths of God’s mercy and his grace. A verse she loved was John 14:16 which told of the only one who could save any sinner if they would but trust him in repentance and faith. Having made that choice in 1971, she had peace about salvation and her eternal destination. She was a former member of Grace Baptist Church of Taylorville, IL and then later of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Quincy, IL. She loved hearing sermons and singing the old hymns. Many residents of North Adams would hear her yodel when given the opportunity. She would always say she was feeling good and in no pain. Her expressive joy at seeing her children and family members will long be remembered. She will be missed, but we know the she is home with her Lord.   

Visitation will be held Monday, November 23, 2015 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, November 24, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Gary Zdziarski, Tabernacle Baptist Church, 2410 Lind Street, Quincy, IL will be conducting services and the graveside memorial at Glen Haven Memorial Gardens in Taylorville, IL.

Memorials may be made to the Unit at North Adams Home 2259 E. 1100^th St. Mendon, IL 62351

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Betty J. Berzinski, 93, of Taylorville, passed away Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at 3:10 a.m. at Prairie Rose Care Center in Pana, IL surrounded by her loving family. She was born November 14, 1922 in Taylorville, IL the Daughter of Roy and Lottie Pounds. She married Walter L. Berzinski on April 17, 1944 in Taylorville, IL and he later preceded her in death on October 5, 2003. She worked as a Returns Clerk at Sangamon Card Company in Taylorville, IL. 

She is survived by her Daughters: Linda (Michael) Maxwell of St. John’s, FL and Marilyn Berzinski and Companion Don Kramer of Taylorville, IL; Granddaughter: Erin Maxwell and partner Cynthia Barton of St. John’s, FL; Great- Grandchildren: Cooper and Elliot Barton-Maxwell of St. John’s, FL; Several Nieces and Nephews. She was preceded in death by her Parents, husband Walter, Sisters: Dolly Jayne, Lola Sitki, June Christian, Eleanor Christian, Brothers Troy Pounds, Roy Pounds and Tony Pounds.

Visitation will be held Monday, November 23, 2015 from 9:30-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral services will be held Monday, November 23, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Rev. Leon Geoff officiating. Burial will be in Glen Haven Memorial Gardens in Taylorville.

Memorials may be made to the Activity Fund at Prarie Rose Care Center 900 S. Chestnut St. Pana, IL 62557

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Connie Sue Herndon, 64, of Chatham, died at 12:03 p.m., Tuesday, November 17, 2015, at Memorial Medical Center, Springfield. She was born in Springfield on May 20, 1951, the daughter of Charles Allen and Ila B. (Hill) DeFoor.  She married Thomas R. Herndon in Blue Eye, Missouri, on September 4, 1992, and he preceded her in death on March 14, 2011. Connie worked as a Fiscal Officer for the State of Illinois Secretary of State for 30 years. In her spare time, she enjoyed reading and scrapbooking. Connie had a big heart, and she loved her pets, and she truly enjoyed spending time with her granddaughter.

She is survived by four siblings: Steve “Butch” DeFoor of Henderson, NV, Charles DeFoor, Jr. of Stonington, Carolyn Burkhart, husband Donald, of Blue Mound, and Laura Hubbard, husband Kent, of Auburn; 10 nieces and nephews; three step daughters: Sheri Castelli, husband Vic, of Decatur, Angela Sharer, husband Steve, of Taylorville, and Karyn Herndon of Auburn; and six grandchildren: Courtney, Morgan, Bianca, Austin, Rachel, and Kennedy. Connie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one niece, Megan DeFoor, and one sister-in-law, Judy DeFoor.

Private family services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 21, 2015, at McClure funeral Home, with visitation being held one hour prior. Rev. Steve Robinson will officiate. Burial will take place at Glenhaven Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to the Animal Protective League of Springfield. McClure Funeral Home is assisting the Herndon family with arrangements. Memories of Connie or condolences to the family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Ira Laverne Young, 102, of Taylorville, died at 5:10 p.m., Tuesday, November 17, 2015, at Meadow Manor. He was born in South Fork Township on February 8, 1913, the son of Louis and Elizabeth (Buesinger) Young. He graduated Taylorville High School in 1932. He married Eleanor Regina Long in Hannibal, MO, on December 10, 1941, and she preceded him in death on March 3, 1983. Mr. Young worked as a farmer, was a member of the Christian County Farm Bureau, and attended the Methodist Church. In his spare time, he enjoyed golfing, going to car shows, traveling, and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his son: Roger D. Young, of Taylorville; daughter: Norma, husband Peter, Englert, of Greenwich, CT; grandchildren: Melanie, husband Joel, Morefield, of Bloomington, IL, Timothy Young of Chicago, IL; and great-grandchildren: Evan and Oscar Morefield of Bloomington, IL. Along with his wife of over 42 years, Mr. Young was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, and his daughter-in-law, Janice Young.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Becky Lembke officiating.  Visitation will be held from 10 until 11am Saturday.  Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.  Memorials may be made to Win for the Gym, 210 N. Church Street, Owaneco, IL 62555. McClure Funeral Home is assisting the Young family with arrangements.  Memories of Ira or condolences to the family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Donna Marie Tipsword, 45, of Mt. Auburn, passed away on Friday, November 13, 2015 at 4:15 p.m. at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL. She was born April 22, 1970 in Springfield, IL the Daughter of Leo and Helen (Rench) Campbell. She married David Tipsword on January 24, 2003 in Mt. Auburn, IL. She was a homemaker throughout her life and was a member of the Mt. Auburn Christian Church in Mt. Auburn, IL. 

She is survived by her Husband: David of Mt. Auburn, IL; Daughters: Lisa Marie Roher of Mt. Auburn, IL; Son: Justin Roher of Mt. Auburn IL; Brothers: William R. (Lucy) Campbell of Mt. Auburn, IL; Steven E. (Deana) Campbell of Keystone Heights, FL; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Brother: Stacie and Wife Cathy Campbell.

Visitation will be held Thursday, November 19, 2015 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 19, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Dan Armstrong officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Mt. Auburn, IL.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Mr. Thomas Eugene Unser, 69, of Morrisonville, IL passed away Sunday, November 8, 2015 in Harlingen, TX. Thomas was born in Litchfield, IL May 23, 1946 the son of Francis and Gwendolyn (O’Brien) Unser.

Mr. Unser retired from the Montgomery County Sherriff’s Office as a Deputy in 2010 after 33 years of service.  He still worked there part time when needed.  Thomas formerly worked as policeman in Nokomis, IL and before that worked at Caterpillar in Decatur.  He loved spending time with his family, friends and especially his grandchildren, camping near the Black River in Missouri, spending time at the Current River, motorcycle riding, scuba diving, and also wintering in Texas.  He was a member of St. Maurice Catholic Church and he also attended the Catholic grade school both in Morrisonville.  Mr. Unser is a member of the Morrisonville American Legion and is a former member of the Taylorville V.F.W. He served in the Army during the Vietnam war.

Thomas was formerly married to Jane Westphal, married in 1968 in Morrisonville and they had 3 children: Michael John (Husband Daniel) Unser of Olympia, WA Beth Unser of Morrisonville, IL and Christian (Kim Lincoln) Unser of Waterloo, IL.  Also surviving are siblings Jim (Sue Ann) Unser of Stonington, IL Kathy (Jerry) Swick of Coffeen, IL and Mike (Sheila) Unser of Morrisonville, IL along with 2 grandchildren Emily and Evan Unser.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Bob Unser and a nephew.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Monday, November 16, 2015 in St. Maurice Catholic Church, Morrisonville, IL.  Fr. Jerry Bunse will officiate.  Burial will follow in St. Maurice Cemetery.  Visitation for Mr. Thomas E. Unser will be held from 3 to 6:00 P.M. Sunday at Perfetti Funeral Home in Morrisonville.  Memorials in memory of Mr. Unser may be made to Shriner’s Hospitals or Backstoppers.org

Sara K McWard, 93, of Taylorville passed away at 8:05 am on Tuesday, November 10, 2015 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.  She was born on August 3, 1922 in Oswego, Kansas, the daughter of Edward and Hazel Sauter.  On July 21, 1945 she married Gail E. McWard in Oswego, Kansas.  He preceded her in death on November 22, 1985.  Sara was a homemaker and a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Taylorville.  She loved to garden and share her knowledge of gardening with those around here.  She was an avid reader and enjoyed knitting, painting and making wool rugs. 

She is survived by her daughters: Sharon A. Lowe and Linda M. Rakers, husband Richard, all of Springfield; grandchildren: Joshua Lowe, wife Megan, of Normal, Lindsay Rakers of Ballwin Missouri, Mackenzie Rakers of Chicago, and Caitlin Dicken, husband Joe of Danville; great grandchildren: Logan Lowe, Parker Rakers, and Sydney Rakers.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and daughter: Cynthia M. Megginson. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, November 15, 2015 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Michael Evanchak officiating.  Visitation will be held from 10 until 11am Saturday.  Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.  Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  McClure Funeral Home is assisting the McWard family with arrangements.  Memories of Sara or condolences to the family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com

John Evan Thomas, 78, of Taylorville, passed away Sunday, November 8, 2015 at 12:35 p.m. at his residence in Taylorville, IL. He was born April 5, 1937 in Taylorville, IL the Son of Evan and Esther Thomas.  

There will be no services held at this time. Inturnment will be held at a later date

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Maureen Elizabeth (Cekay) Appleton, of Taylorville, IL, passed away suddenly on Friday, November 6, 2015, in Springfield, IL. Mrs. Appleton, 65, died at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield after a 16-month battle against cancer. At the time of her death, she was surrounded by her loving family: husband William Roberts Appleton, to whom she was married for 41 years; and daughters Mary Elizabeth, of Kansas City, MO, Laura Ann Chau (Hanson), of Oswego, IL, and Carolyn Maureen Zinter (Kevin) of Elmhurst, IL.

Mrs. Appleton taught 6^th grade language arts for 18 years at Taylorville Junior High School. Before that she was director of development at St. Vincent Memorial Hospital, Taylorville. She also worked for many years as a flight attendant for United Airlines, based out of Chicago.

A long-time member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Taylorville, Mrs. Appleton also served on the Taylorville Area Arts Council, and the St. Vincent's Hospital Auxiliary.

Mrs. Appleton was born in Chicago, IL, in 1950, to Robert and Rita Cekay, who moved their family to Northlake, IL, then Melrose Park, IL, and eventually to Mundelein, IL, where Maureen was a student at Santa Maria Del Poppolo Elementary School and Carmel Catholic High School. She attended Adrian College in Michigan for her freshman year, then transferred to Mundelein College in Chicago, where she majored in theater, with a minor in education. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1972.

Family was central to her life. As a young girl, whenever her mother suffered pregancy-related illnesses, Maureen acted as the “little mother” to her six siblings. Those bonds grew stronger as the siblings grew up; Maureen was a role model to them, and her home in Taylorville became a gathering place for family holidays and parties. She was devoted to her parents, and ushered them through their senior years. Friends and colleagues remember her as smart, elegant, strong, and practical, someone who, in the words of one longtime friend, encouraged everyone, including her students, to “live your best life.”

She was preceded in death by her parents and by her brother Thomas G. Cekay (wife, Luann Zanzola).

Besides her husband and daughters, Mrs. Appleton is survived by: her brothers Robert Cekay (wife, Roberta), Dr. Daniel Cekay (wife, Susan), John Cekay (wife, Martina), and Patrick Cekay; her sister, Mary Eileen Cekay-Allen (husband, Rick); her grandchildren Benjamin, Ryan and Nora Maureen Zinter, and Emerson Grace Chau; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, November 10, at McClure Funeral Home, 302 W. Poplar St., Taylorville. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, November 11, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 108 W. Adams St., Taylorville. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery, 820 S. Cherokee St., Taylorville.

Memorials in Mrs. Appleton's name may be sent to the Christian County Senior Citizen Center, 701 W. Adams St., Taylorville, IL, 62568, or to St. Mary's School, 422 S. Washington St, Taylorville, IL 62528.

McClure Funeral Home is assisting the Appleton family with arrangements.  Memories of Maureen or condolences to the family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Baby Chandler Lloyd McConnell, of Taylorville, IL, passed away Sunday, November 8, 2015 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield. He was born Sunday, November 8, 2015 in Springfield, IL, the Son of Derek McConnell and Jacklyn Lunsford.

He is survived by his Parents: Derek McConnell and Jaclyn Lunsford of Taylorville, IL; Maternal Grandparents: Don and Cindy Lunsford of Decatur, IL and Tanya Reber of Taylorville, IL; Paternal Grandparents: Darlene McConnell of Taylorville, IL and Robert Tarrant of Taylorville, IL; Great-Grandparents: Fred and Dottie Durbin of Taylorville, IL; Mary Lunsford of Taylorville, IL and Jeannie McConnell, of Taylorville, IL;  Aunts: Rachel Robinson of Taylorville, IL, Danielle Lunsford of Taylorville, IL and Shawntay McConnell of Taylorville, IL. He was preceded in death by his Great Grandfather J. Lunsford and a Cousin: Addasyn Kuhns.

Graveside services will be held Friday, November 13, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville with Pastor Gerald McPhillips officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Hope (Schwab) Waterman, 97, of Taylorville, passed away Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at 7:10 a.m. in Taylorville. She was born October 13, 1918 in Taylorville, IL the Daughter of John & Louise (Ware) Schwab. She married Thelbert Waterman on November 7, 1936 in Taylorville. She was a homemaker throughout her life and was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Taylorville. 

She is survived by her Daughters: Marilyn (Don) Vedas of Pekin, IL, Kay Masterson, Coleen (Gerry Sr.) Gilpin and Kathleen Fritcher all of Taylorville, IL; Twelve Grandchildren; Twenty-Nine Great-Grandchildren; Five Great-Great Grandchildren; and Several Nieces and Nephews. She was preceded  in death by her Parents; Husband; Great-Grandson Johnathon, Great-Granddaughter April, Sisters: Kathryn and Anges and her Son-in-Law Jim Masterson.

Visitation will be held Saturday, November 7, 2015 from 9:30-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 7, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Becky Lembke officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorials may be made to the Donor’s Choice.

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

William Colbrook Curtin, 91, of Taylorville, passed away at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2015, at Meadow Manor Nursing Home in Taylorville.  He was born on September 16, 1924 in Bear Creek Township in Christian County, the son of Lawrence Frederick and Marie Ellen (Colbrook) Curtin. He married Margaret Kathleen “Marty” Unser, in Morrisonville on September 1, 1949, and she preceded him in death on August 6, 2010.

Mr. Curtin was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church. He served his country proudly in the US Army during WWII, in the European Theater. He belonged to a weapons platoon in the 26^th Infantry, and was awarded the Combat Infantryman’s Badge and a Bronze Star, as well as battle stars for the Ardennes (Battle of the Bulge), Central Europe, and Rhineland Campaigns. He was a member of the Stonington American Legion, Assumption VFW, American Angus Association, Illinois Angus Association, and the Christian/Montgomery County Livestock Feeders Associations. He was also active in several state cattle organizations, where he served as President of three of them in the 1960’s, 70’s, and 80’s. He worked until retirement as a farmer and cattle breeder in the Stonington and Taylorville area. Mr. Curtin served on the Christian County Historical Board for 25 years, and was director of the State Bank of Blue Mound from 1981 to 2013. He was also active in the Democratic Party throughout his life, serving on the Stonington Township Board of Auditors, May Township Board of Trustees, as well as serving 26 years on the Christian County Board, the last 8 years as Chairman.

He is survived by his two sons: Joseph Curtin of Encino, CA, Ben Curtin, wife Linda, of Taylorville; daughter, Ellen Curtin of Stonington; grandchildren: Lori Parks, husband Tim, of Taylorville; Jess Curtin of Taylorville; Margeaux Craske-Curtin of Los Angeles, CA; great grandchildren: Ian Parks, Evan Parks, Elliot Parks, Isaac Parks, all of Taylorville; siblings: Leo Curtin, wife Nancy, of Lafayette Hill, PA, Larry Curtin of Taylorville, Dorothy Tracy of Mt. Sterling, IL, Paul Curtin, wife Gail, of Austin, TX, John Curtin, wife Alice, of Taylorville; and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Curtin was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his sister: Catherine (Kay) Trueblood.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, November 5, 2015, at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Fr. Mariadas Chatla officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 4, from 5 – 7 p.m. at McClure Funeral Home. Burial will take place in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville, with Military Honors given by then Stonington American Legion and the Assumption VFW. Memorials may be made in his honor to: St. Mary Catholic School of Taylorville, or Holy Trinity Altar & Rosary Society of Stonington. McClure Funeral Home of Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences to the family may be left at: www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.