HENRY DAMBMAN SR. , of Rock Creek Township, Carroll County, Illinois died at 2 o’clock in the morning Friday, October 15, 1909. He was born in Rudingsein, Hessen Darmstadt, Germany, January 15, 1833, where his childhood days were spent. When about twenty years of age he emigrated to America and located in Rock Creek Township, which has been his home ever since. In July, 1857 he was joined in wedlock to Anna Marie Peters, his bereft and sorrowing widow. For almost fifty-eight years they lived together sharing their joys and sorrows until death took him. Mr. Dambman always had a high ideal of the home and family life and all his energies and talents were consecrated to the one end of doing his best for them all whom he so dearly loved. Beginning in a humble way by diligence, sacrifice, and persistent hard toil, he made his way to success. The hardships of his life seemed to strengthen him for future battles. His robust, healthy young wife seconded his every effort and together they securing a comfortable competence to bless them in their declining years. The first thirty-eight years they lived on the farm now owned by their son Henry and since then resided in the home where he died. In all these years he close to his early training. (Transcriber’s note: there are missing words here.) He sincerely believed and through precept and example sought to impress it upon his family that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom. And he always gave most credit to God who had helped and bless them so wondrously. He loved the Bible and often quoted of its sacred and comforting passages from his memory. It contained rich treasure for him. Ten children graced his home; two of them preceded their father in infancy while eight, three sons and five daughters, remain to follow a loving parent to his grave. However his life and admonition to be honorable and good will not leave them. He was all a father could have been to his family. Mr. Dambman was a patient sufferer during his prolonged illness. Bronchitis was his main trouble. At the hands of a kind and beloved wife he received only the best of care and devoted children did all that loving hands and hearts could do for his comfort and rest. He ended his sojourn in triumph at the age of seventy-six years and nine months. In his departure the community, friends, and neighbors have suffered a great loss, but they are richer for his having lived among them. He leaves a sorely bereft companion and eight children viz: Mrs. H. Boettscher, Traer, Iowa; Mrs. L. Appel, Waterloo, Iowa; and Frank Dampman, Henry Dampman, Will Dampman, Mrs. J. E, Rahn, Mrs. O. Tallman, Mrs. W. Livengood, all of Lanark, Ill.; twenty-four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Also one brother, Mr. C. Dambman, of Montrose, So. Dakota, and one sister, Mrs. C. Traum of Lanark, Ill. The funeral service was held in the home. Rev. J. G. Eller, of Chicago, a warm friend and former pastor of the deceased, conducted the service and spoke words of tribute in memory of the deceased based on the scripture, 2 Tim. 4:7-8. Internment was made in the beautiful cemetery at Lanark, Illinois where he was laid to await the trumpet sound on the great resurrection day.
Lanark Gazette 20 October 1909. This obituary came from the collection of the Lanark Public Library, Lanark, Illinois (Lanark Gazette 20 October 1909) and was transcribed by Alice Horner.

LAURA (KIMPAL) DAMBMAN , 91, of Lanark, died on Thursday morning in Johnson nursing home at Shannon, where she had resided for some time. The former Laura Kimpal was born May 1, 1875 at Brookville, the daughter of Isaac and Mary (Shafer) Kimpal. She was married to Henry Dambman. Mrs. Dambman was a member of the Lanark First Brethren church. Survivors include two sons, Lloyd of Milledgeville and Clarence of Lanark; one daughter, Mrs. Harry (Mary) Kosher of Mt. Carroll; five grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and a sister, Mrs. Frank Bowers of Western Springs. Preceding her in death were her husband, three brothers, and a sister. Funeral service was held on Saturday May 7 (Note: Etta Horner Bowers notes year of death as 1966.) At 3 PM in the Frank funeral home at Lanark with Rev. Merle Hawbecker, pastor of the West Branch Church of the Brethren officiating. Organist was Mrs. Wayne Derrer. Caring for the flowers were Mrs. Paul Diffenderfer, Mrs. Harlan Carbaugh and Mrs. Arthur Guentner. Pallbearers were Richard Dambman, Bennett Dambman, Robert Dambman, LaMoine Mohlenkamp, Alvin Hoffman, and Donald Anderson. Burial was in Lanark cemetery.
Contributed by Alice Horner

LOIS (HUMMERMIER) DAMBMAN , 68, of Milledgeville, died Monday, March 15, 1999 at Rockford Memorial Hospital . She graduated from Pearl City High School in 1948 and from the University of Dubuque in 1952. She and her husband farmed near Milledgeville for many years and she served as a teacher’s aide at Milledgeville. She was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church in Shannon . She was born September 25, 1930 to Oscar and Alice (Deuth) Hummermeier. She married Richard Dambman April 29, 1961 in Shannon . Survivors include her husband; three sons, David (Valerie) Woessner of Thrumbull , Conn. , Robert (Julie) Woessner of Sterling, and Curt (Shelly) Dambman of Forreston; six grandchildren; her mother; and one sister, Jean (John) Kirby of Carmel, Indiana. She was preceded in death by her first husband, William Woessner, her father, and one brother. Funeral services were held Friday, March 19, at Bethel United Methodist Church in Shannon with the Rev. Larry Thomson officiating. Burial was in Lanark Cemetery in Lanark. A memorial has been established for the Bethel United Methodist Church .
Contributed by Alice Horner

CHARLES F. DAUPHIN , 89, of Villas of Shannon, a former Savanna area farmer, died Saturday, September 12, 1992 at the nursing home. For 60 years, he farmed on Weidman’s Hill in the Savanna area. He was a past member of the Illinois Farm Bureau. His hobbies were gardening and playing the fiddle. He was born January 24, 1903 in Savanna Township, son of C. Daniel and Dora (Weidman) Dauphin. He married Edna B. Deuel on January 1, 1938 in Kentland, Ind. She died April 15, 1969. Surviving are two daughters, Diana (Jim) Mellor of Lake Carroll and Gloria (Del) Roberts of Freeport; two sons, Charles F. Jr. (Paulette) of Burns, Tenn. and Burdette (Peg) of Pearl City. Also six grandchildren; and three sisters, Margaret Thomasson of Polo, Frieda (Forrest) Adams of Hanover and Betty Perrin of Charlotte, NC. Preceding him in death, in addition to his wife, were one infant son, Jason; one brother, George; and one sister, Blanche Heisler. Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday in Law-Jones Funeral Home, Savanna. The Rev. David Decker of First United Methodist Church of Pearl City will officiate. Burial will be in Savanna Township Cemetery. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home. A memorial fund has been established.
Contributed by Alice Horner

LAURA LEE DAUPHIN , 18, of rural Savanna died Monday, June 1, 1998 at Samaritan Hospital North in Clinton , Iowa . Daughter of Robert and Kay (Haas) Dauphin, she was born May 21, 1980 in Clinton . On May 31, 1998 she graduated from Mount Carroll High School , the salutatorian of her class. She was an Illinois State Scholar, earned the DeKalb Agricultural Achievement Award and Illinois Principals Association Leadership Award, and was named the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen of the Year. Her other awards included James Mark Browning Scholarship, Carroll County Soil and Water Conservation Scholarship, Farm Credit Services of Northern Illinois Scholarship, Highland Community College Academic Scholarship, and William G. Handel Rural Youth Scholarship. During her years at Mount Carroll High School , she was a member of the National Honor Society, served as senior class president and FHA president. Extremely involved in FFA, she served as president and vice president of the Mount Carroll chapter and Section II treasurer. She participated on the Parliamentary Procedure Team that earned first place in state competition. She loved the family farm and her pet cats, she enjoyed FFA, tutoring, her trip to Paris , and she especially loved the time spent with her friends. Her family members include her parents; two brothers, Robert W. Dauphin of Malta and Douglas Dauphin of rural Savanna; paternal grandmother, Barbara Dauphin of rural Savanna; and maternal grandparents, Warren and Annabel Haas of Mount Carroll. Her paternal grandfather, Julius Dauphin Jr. died in November 1997. Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Mount Carroll Church of God. The Rev. Brent Todd of the church will officiate. Burial will be in Adam-Daggart Cemetery in rural Mount Carroll . Friends may call from 5 to 9 p.m. today at Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home in Mount Carroll .
Contributed by Alice Horner

REE (CASSELBERRY) DAUPHIN , 89, of Minneapolis , Minnesota and formerly of Savanna, died Thursday, January 21, 1999 at the University of Minnesota Medical Center in Minneapolis . She worked as a teacher at various country schools in Carroll County and retired as a sixth grade teacher from Lanark Grade School . She enjoyed reading, gardening, volunteer work at a local hospital, and working in the nursery at her church Sundays in Clairmont , Florida where she and her husband Neal lived after retirement. A graduate of Mount Carroll High School , she attended Frances Shimer Academy in Mount Carroll and the University of Colorado in Greeley . Born October 5, 1909 in Peru , Illinois , she was the daughter of Charles and Ella (O’Neal) Casselberry . She married Neal Dauphin December 28, 1940 in Savanna. He died July 21, 1986. Survivors include three sons; Neal (Sheron) Dauphin of Phoenix , Arizona , Erwin (Marcia Schaaf) Dauphin of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Edward (Cheryl) Dauphin of Apple Valley, Minnesota; one daughter, Joan (Richard) Taylor of Chevy Chase, Maryland; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Edwin and Erwin Gummels of St. Louis , Missouri . Funeral services were held Sunday, January 24 at the Catholic Eldercare St. Anthony Padua Catholic Church in Minneapolis . Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery , Mount Carroll .
Contributed by Alice Horner

VICTOR J. DAUPHIN , age 91, of Savanna, Illinois, died Sunday, August 27, 2006 at Mercy Medical Center, Clinton, Iowa. Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 30 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Savanna, with Reverend Robert Hamilton of the Community United Church of Christ officiating. Burial will be in Savanna Township Cemetery, Savanna. Visitation will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 29 at the Funeral Home. Memorials may be given in Vic's name for Mercy Hospice, Clinton, Iowa. Vic was born October 13, 1914 in Savanna, the son of Victor E. and Mattie (Palmer) Dauphin. He attended the Union Grove Country School, rural Savanna. Vic married Vera Ruth Gillespie August 18, 1939 at Hanover, Illinois. She passed away August 24, 1995. Vic farmed all of his life near Savanna. He also worked eight years for the Savanna Twp. Road Commissioner and eight years for the Savanna School District as the Grounds Keeper. Vic enjoyed farming, gardening and tinkering with his old tractors. In younger years he liked to hunt, fish and camp. He was known by many as a very considerate and thoughtful person. Vic was a member of the Savanna Community United Church of Christ and the Savanna Moose Lodge.

Vic will be dearly missed by his two sons, Howard (Diane) Dauphin of Mt. Carroll, Illinois and Victor E. Dauphin of Savanna; three grandchildren, Darrin Dauphin, Eric (Bridget) Dauphin and Dennis Dauphin; two step grandchildren, Robbie Bahr and Lisa (Phillip) Mills; six great grandchildren; three sisters, Lessetta (Joe) Seitz of Savanna, Dorothy Malone of Savanna and Hazel (Harold) Brinkmeier of Mt. Carroll; two brothers, Fred (Geraldine) Dauphin of Savanna and Palmer (Margaret) Dauphin of Savanna; and special friends, Harold and Marlys Drier. Vic is preceded in death by his wife; granddaughter, Victoria; two brothers, Paul and Ben; and both parents.

ARCHIE DAY , 68, retired locomotive engineer and a resident of Savanna for the last 43 years, died at 12:45 p.m. Wednesday at his home here at 103 Dewhurst Street. He had been in ill health for the past five years. Mr. Day was born January 24, 1881 in Lakeside, Minn., and was married to Eva Sader in Minnieski, Minn., in 1903. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge of Savanna. Surviving are his widow; three daughters, Mrs. W. B. Mattern, Camden, N.J., Mrs. A. A. Anderson, Glen Ellyn, and Mrs. A. N. Adams, McMindville, Ore.; one brother, Clarence Day, Tulsa, Okla.; one sister, Mrs. John Hause, Fort Lupton, Colo., and two grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday in the Fuller funeral home with the Rev. H. Foster Whitney, pastor of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, officiating. The body will be taken to Davenport, Ia. for cremation.
Contributed by Alice Horner (Savanna IL September 28)

**Descendants of Archie Day
ARCHIE DAY was born 24 Jan 1881 in Lakeside, Minnesota, and died 28 Sep 1949 in Savanna, Carroll County, Illinois. His parents were Preston and Amanda B. (Morgan) Day. He married EVA SADER 1903 in Minnieski, Minnesota. She was born Abt. 1883 in Minnesota. He was a locomotive engineer in Savanna, Carroll County, Illinois. His children were Evangeline Day (born about 1905 in Colorado), Helen Day (born about 1910 in Illinois), Ruth Day (born about 1912 in Illinois), and Eleanor (born about 1915 in Illinois). Archie Day's obituary doesn't give the given names of his daughters, just their husbands names: W. B. Mattern, A. A. Anderson, A. N. Adams.But I don't know which woman married each man. Refer to Alice Horner's Rootsweb.com family tree, "The Downing, Bickelhaupt, And Preston Families of Carroll County, Illinois" for more information Archie Day's ancestors.

ANNE DEAN - Miss Anna Dean, at her home in Milledgeville; on Friday, Sept. 22nd, of typhoid fever. She was buried from the Baptist church on Tuesday last. Further particulars we were unable to obtain.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - dated 1891 Scrapbook Clipping

MRS. ANTONE DEAN - Funeral services for Mrs. Antone Dean of Shannon, were conducted Friday at 2 p.m. in the Frank Funeral Home at Lanark. The Rev. Merle Hawbecker, Lanark, and Rev. Russell McInnis, pastor of the Cherry Grove Church of the Brethren, officiated. Organist was Mrs. Wayne Derrer. Flower attendants were Mrs. Vernon Henry and Mrs. Earl Sturtz. Pallbearers were Edward Bast, Theo Erbsen, Alfred Hinrichs, Kenneth Erbsen, Elmer Hinrichs and Dwight Turner. Burial was in Lanark Cemetery
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois August 27, 1968 - Tuesday, pg. 6, col. 3

MALENA (SIDDLES) DEAN was born in Pa. August 25, 1838 and died at her home near Milledgeville, Oct. 2, 1908, aged 70yrs, 1 mo. and 8 da. She was married to Jas. Dean December 15, 1880. Besides her husband she leaves to mourn her departure two brothers, James Siddles of Coleta, Milan Siddles of Fran Valley, Cal. and two sisters Mrs. Jennie Burlingame of Clinton, Ia. and Mrs. Etta Todd of Milledgeville. She also leaves three step children Jas. Dean Jr. of Milledgeville, Mrs. Flora Miller of Livermore, Iowa and Mrs. Theressa Siddles of Coleta, Ill. The funeral services were conducted at the residence Sunday at 2 P.M. Rev. M. A. Witter officiating. The text used was Hos. 9;5. The music was furnished by members of the choir of the Brethern church. The pall bearers were Wm. Hacker, Nat Weaver, Albert Giese, Chas. Dieterle, Geo. Olmstead, and Walter Shoup. Interment in Bethel Cemetery.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - Undated Scrapbook Clipping

ALICE BELLE (HARRINGTON) DEETS , only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Harrington was born in Wysox Township, June 8, 1887 and died at her home near Oakley, Kansas June 16, 1911 at the age of 24 years and 8 days.

She was married to Charles R. Deets Jan. 2, 1907 by Rev. M. A. Witter. One son blest this union - namely Joe Edwin, who was born Jan. 4, 1911. The deceased resided in the vicinity of Milledgeville until February when the family moved to Kansas. Sister Deets leaves to mourn over her departure, her husband and a son about 5 months old, father and mother and two brothers Roy and Robert, and a host of relatives and friends.

Her sickness began in a serious form Monday, June 12, when she took to her bed. She died very unexpectedly and suddenly Friday morning at about 2 o'clock. Sister Deets united witb the Brethren church on Nov. 23, 1902, while R. R. Teeter was pastor here. Those who know say that sister Deets was faithful to her master and attended the services when she could, especially the communion service. Her earthly life was but a span. In the midst of her youth and in the blush and bloom of a maiden, death laid its cold, clamy hand upon her and claimed her as a victim.

She has gone to her long home and her reward. Peace be to her soul. The body arrived on the 12:48 train on Monday and the funeral was conducted from the Brethren church on Tuesday afternoon by Rev. Z. T. Livengood, assisted by Rev. Kleckner. Interment in the Bethel cemetry.

Oakley Kansas Obituary
Mrs. C. R. Deets, who lives south of town on the C W. Cook place, died very suddenly this morning from the effects of measles. Mrs. Deets has only been sick a short time and was not thought by her friends to be seriously ill. A sudden change for the worse came last mght and Mrs. Deets passed away this morning

The Deets fami1y came here about three months ago from Milledgeville, Illinois, and since that time have made many warm friends in their new home who are greatly grieved at their misfortune. Mrs. Deets, the only daughter of C. E. Harrington, a few miles north of Oakley. She leaves a husband, a four months old baby and many friends to mourn the The remains will be taken to Milledgeville, tonight for burial.

BETTY JANE (MILLHOUSE) DEETS , 79, of Milledgeville, died Thursday, October 17, 2002 at Coventry Village Nursing Home, Sterling. Funeral services were held Tuesday, October 22, 2002 at 10:00 a.m. at the Milledgeville Brethren Church with Reverend Russell Gordon officiating. Visitation took place on Monday, October 21, 2002 from 1-3 PM and 5-7 PM at the Allen-Grennan Funeral Home, Milledgeville and also one hour prior to the funeral at the church. Burial services concluded at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to the Milledgeville Brethren Church, Hospice of the Rock River Valley, and the Alzheimer's Association. Mrs. Deets was born January 18, 1923 in Sterling, Illinois the daughter of Glenn Arthur and Esther Mae (Shaible) Millhouse. After high school, she married Gail W. Deets on November 11, 1941 in Milledgeville. Betty was a member of the Milledgeville Brethren Church, was involved in the Women's Missionary Society, the Milledgeville Grange, and the Carroll County Help Center. Survivors include her husband, Gail W. Deets of Milledgeville; three daughters, Nancy Deets of Monroe, WI, Beverly (Paul) Capp of Rock Falls, and Rogene (George) Kepner of Lena; two brothers, Robert (Ann) Millhouse of Polo and Richard (Janice).
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

CHARLES B. DEETS , 82, of Freeport passed away Friday, March 31, 2006, at Stephenson Nursing Center in Freeport. Born Aug. 12, 1923, in Milledgeville in Carroll County, he was the son of John and Klea (Spencer) Deets. Charles married Christine D. Meile on Jan. 17, 1948. She died Sept. 17, 1988. On Aug. 1, 1989, he married Evelyn Jones Lewis in Las Vegas. Charles graduated from Stillman Valley High School in 1941. He retired from Micro Switch and then worked as a general contractor until retiring in 1990. In his earlier years Charles enjoyed fishing trips to Canada and bowling in his leisure time. He was fond of country living and working in his yard. Charles is survived by his wife, Evelyn; one stepson, James A. Lewis of Belvidere; three stepdaughters, Gloria (Donald) Julius of Lena, Melody (David) Meile of Baileyville and Mary Jo (Richard) Ames of Freeport; nine stepgrandchildren, Jolene (James) Jones of Stockton, David (Alysson) Julius of Freeport, Scott Lewis of Monroe, Wis., Daniel (Jenny) Lewis of Belvidere, Bradley (Caleen Mauerman) Meile of Forreston, and Stacy (Ron Houston) Meile, Charity Ames, Thomas Ames and Travis Ames, all of Freeport; 11 stepgreat-grandchildren, Lindy and Ryan Fleharty of Stockton, Kelsey Lewis of Freeport, Zackary and Danee Lewis of Belvidere, Schylar Meile and Nicklas Mauerman of Forreston, and Josey Slechta, Trey Meile, Dayton Julius and Austyn Menefee, all of Freeport; one stepgreat-great-grandson, Noah Hess of Stockton; one sister, Ruth (Lee) Darnell of Spokane, Wash.; two brothers, Martin Deets and John (Juanita) Deets, both of Estacada, Ore.; one brother-in-law, Robert (Audrey) Meile of Freeport; two sisters-in-law, Rosemary Roe and Virginia West, both of Freeport; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife; two brothers, Foster Deets and Lester Deets; and two stepgrandchildren, Sember Ames and Jamie Meile. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday in the Chapel of Peace at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport. Friends may call from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. today at Schwarz Funeral Home in Freeport.
Contributed by Joy Crofton-Kruse

EMMA MAE (MILLER) DEETS , 56, died Saturday, November 16, 1940 at 4 p.m. at her home here following a paralytic stroke on Wednesday. Funeral services will be Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. in the home and 2 o’clock in First Brethren Church , with the pastor, Rev. Chester F. Zimmerman, officiating. Burial will be in the Milledgeville Bethel Cemetery . Singers will be Harry Tallman and Willard Rahn. Emma Mae Miller, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Milton Miller, was born May 30, 1884 at Emerson. She graduated from the Milledgeville High School and was married to Harry Deets January 19, 1903 in Milledgeville. They have lived in Lanark twenty years. She was an active member of the First Brethren Church . Survivors are her husband, three sons, Rex M. Deets of Chicago and Wayne A. Deets and Mason Deets, both of Lanark; and two daughters, Mrs. Frank Dickinson, Freeport , and Mrs. Howard Cinnamon, of Dixon . A son Marvin preceded her in death.
Contributed by Alice Horner \ November 18, 1940 edition Freeport Journal Standard, Freeport , Illinois

GAIL W. DEETS , 85 of Milledgeville,IL, died Saturday, September 16, 2006 at CGH Medical Center, Sterling. He was born on May 11, 1921 in Carroll County, IL, the son of Russell William and Iva Viola (Maitke) Deets. He married Betty Jane Millhouse on November 11, 1941. She died October 17, 2002. Mr. Deets farmed in the Milledgeville area for many years and was a member of Milledgeville Brethren Church, Milledgeville Grange, Northern Illinois Draft Horse and Mule Association where he was currently serving on the board of directors, was past director of the Carroll County Farm Bureau, and was a 4-H leader for over 40 years. Survivors include three daughters, Nancy Deets of Monroe, WI, Beverly Capp of Rock Falls and Rogene (George) Kepner of Lena; a sister, Wilma (Harlen) Hollewell of Milledgeville; six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, a son, Gerald "Beef" Deets, a son-in-law, Paul Capp, a sister, Lavon and a brother in infancy. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, September 21, 2006 in Milledgeville Brethren Church with Reverend Russell Gordon and Reverend Cal Schaver officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at the church.
Contributed by Joy Crofton-Kruse

GEORGE W. DEETS , son of John Deets and Caroline Plank Deets, was born near Sterling, Il., April 19, 1869. The early part of his life was spent near Coleta, Il. For the past 26 years he has resided in Rock Creek Township, nine years of which he has lived in Lanark. He survived the others of the family, having been preceded in death by four brothers and one sister. In 1888, Mr. Deets was married to Sylvia Cheeseman. To this Union were born three children, Mrs. Otho Greenawalt, Roy Deets and Mrs. Guy Beck, all of Lanark. Besides the widow, Mrs. Sylvia Deets, and the three children, he is survived by three grandchildren, Ruth Deets, Bernice Diehl and Velda Beck. Mr. and Mrs. Deets united with the United Brethren Church at Coleta, IL., of Rev. Grim. In recent years, Mr. Deets has been a member of the Keystone class of the First Brethren Church. Mr. Deets has always been a hard working farmer. He was also known as a kind neighbor, father and husband. His last illness began in June, when he was compelled to quit work. Intense illness came on about six weeks ago and death from heart trouble occurred Sunday morning, Oct 25, about 10 AM, at the age of 56 years, 6 months and 6 days. The funeral was held at the Deets home in Lanark, Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock. The funeral was conducted by Rev. F. A. Lubbs, of the United Brethren Church of Coleta, IL., and assisted by Rev. Chas. W. Mayes of the First Brethren Church of Lanark. Mrs. Anna Kline and Mrs. Elizabeth Vinson sang. Burial took place in the Lanark Cemetery.
Contributed by Craig Deets

HARRY DEETS - Funeral services for Harry Deets, 93, of Lanark who died Thursday, Jan. 9, in Good Samaritan Center at Mt. Carroll were held Sunday, Jan. 12, in the Frank Funeral home. The Rev. Paul Steiner, pastor of the Lanark First Brethren Church, officiated and Mrs. Ruth Sisler was organist. Caring for the floral tributes were Mrs. Robert Aiken and Mrs. Emerson Iske. Pallbearers were Haven Noser, Robert Guenzler, Robert Aiken, Emerson Iske, Paul Diffenderfer and Kenneth Erbsen. Burial was in Bethel Cemetery at Milledgeville.
Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, January 29, 1975, page 6, column

LOIS (CHEESEMAN) DEETS , 70, of Milledgeville died Sunday, March 20, 2005, at her daughter's home in Milledgeville. She operated Lo-dee Barber Shop out of her home for 47 years. Mrs. Deets was born Aug. 15, 1934, in Milledgeville, the daughter of Harry and Frances (Bogott) Cheeseman. Mrs. Deets was born Aug. 15, 1934 in Milledgeville, the daughter of Harry & Frances (Bogott) Cheeseman. SHe married Richard Deets on Aug. 9, 1953 in Milledgeville. He died June 28, 2004. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran CHurch, Milledgeville and Oakville Ladies Golf Association. She enjoyed sewing and gardening. Survivors include two daughter, Lori ( Robert) Oncken and Carmen Luther both of Milledgeville, five grandchildren, Heather Schmidt, AManda Schildgen, Elizabeth Oncken, Michelle Luther and Courtney Luther all of Milledgeville; and two great-granchildren. SHe was preceded in death by a grandson, Justin Oncken and a brother, Lyle Cheeseman. Burial at Bethel Cemetery.

MARY DEETS - Died - At her home in Coleta, Whiteside county, Illinois, Monday, at 6:30 p.m. , January 18, 1904, Mrs. Mary Deets, aged 46 years. Mary Wallace was a daughter of Joel and Rebecca Wallace and spent all of her life in Coleta and vicinity. She was married to Joseph Deets, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Deets of Milledgeville and to this union were born three children, two sons and one daughter. Ralph is principal of the Coleta school, Miss Ruth is an instructor of music in the Academy at Mt. Carroll and Charles is attending school at Milledgeville. Mrs. Deets lost her husband by death about sixteen years ago. The deceased had not been in the best of health for a year or more but her condition was not considered serious until about a week before her death when her daughter, Ruth, was called from her duties at Mt. Carroll to be at her mother's bedside. She suffered greatly during her last illness. Mrs. Deets was a member and an earnest worker of the Methodist church in Coleta and a lady who was well thought of by her neighbors and friends. She took great pride in her home and children and everything that would be for their best interests was her first thought. Besides her immediate family she leaves an aged mother, who makes her home with her son, Miles Wallace and four brothers, Charles, William, Lewis and MIles Wallace and two sisters, Mrs. Jefferson Hannis of near Coleta and Mrs. Harriet Smith of Iowa. The latter was sent for and arrived shortly after her sister's death. The funeral services were held Wednesday morning at 10:30 from the Methodist church and were attended by a large concourse of relatives and friends.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - Undated Scrapbook Clipping

NAOMI (LOWER) DEETS , 56, of Lanark, passed away Friday morning in St. Clare Hospital, Monroe, Wisconsin. The former Naomi Lower was born November 21, 1909 in rural Lanark, the daughter of Clyde and Elizabeth (Stoner) Lower. Her marriage to Wayne Deets took place March 12, 1932. She was a graduate nurse of St. Luke’s Hospital, Chicago.She was a member of the First Brethren Church at Lanark and belonged to the Evening Woman’s Missionary Society (WMS) of the Church. Survivors include her husband; one daughter, Mrs. Paul (Mary Ann) Johnson of Kansas City, Kansas; two sons, Richard, Milledgeville, and Darrell, at home; six grandchildren; a sister, Mrs. Myron (Bernice) Kem, Dayton, Ohio; and one brother, Gerald Lower, Lanark. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother. Funeral services were held Sunday, September 11, at 2:30 p.m. in the Lanark First Brethren Church with Rev. Paul Steiner, pastor of the church, officiating. Organist was Mrs. Max Sisler. Flower attendants were Mmes. Paul Diffenderfer, Emerson Iske, George Bergdall, and Sanford Sarff. Pallbearers were Paul Diffenderfer, Emerson Iske, George Bergdall, Sanford Sarff, Haven Noser, and LaVerne Edwards. Burial was in Lanark Cemetery.
Contributed by Alice Horner

WILLIAM DEETS , was born in Bayern Germany March 8, 1833 and died at his home in Milledgeville IL, June 13, 1911, at the age of 78y 3m and 5 days. At the age of 14 years he came to America and first settled in Stark County Ohio. He was united in marriage to Catherine Overholser August 23, 1855 in Ohio Three years after their marriage they came to Illinois where they located on a farm east of Coleta. In 1893 the family moved to Sterling IL where they resided until the year 1899 when they moved to Milledgeville IL. Into the home of brother and sister Deets were born eleven children; Josiah and Charles having preceded their father to the better world. The surviving children are: John L. of Coleta, William, Frank and Harry of Milledgeville, Arthur of Los Angeles CA, Mrs. J.B. Fenton of Freeport IL, Mrs. R. K. Tucker of Morrison, Mrs. Lizzie Harrison and Miss Nelle of Milledgeville. He also has two sisters, Rachel Crossgrove of Brashear MO and Louisa Winhold of Massillon Ohio and two half brothers Josiah and Levi of Ohio. The deceased was a man of industrious habits, coupled with good business judgement, integrity and uprightness. Through frugality, economy and the companionship of a most excellent wife and helpmeet, he gathered about him in property enough to support himself in comfort and ease, and have left an abundance for the support of a deserving wife. As a citizen, he was of the type that would be a valuable addition to any community. His sickness has been of quite a long duration. It seemed to be just a gradual wearing out of the life forces. The end came quietly and very peacefully and he fell asleep on the mornin gof the 13th at about 6 o'clock. The funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at 2:30 on the residence lawn of the deceased and was attended by a number of relatives and friends who gathered to pay their last respects to the departed. Services were in charge of Rev. H.C. Kleckner, pastor of the Lutheran church, assisted by Revs. Livengood, Hewitt and Kosh. The pall bearers were six grandson, Messrs Ward, Perry, Ralph, Glenn and Clare Deets andMr.s Charles Fenton. The Lutheran choir furnished the music. There were many beautiful floral offerings as a token of esteem for the departed. Burial in Bethel Cemetery.
Contributed by M. King Deets

ELIZA (VANPATTEN) DEMMON - Two homes in our city were grief stricken this morning by the death of two prominent ladies, Mrs. Eliza Demmon and Mrs. D. R. Keeffer, the time of their taking away being almost coincident -- at about 6:30 a.m.

(Transcriber’s Note: Eliza Demmon was born Eliza A. Van Patten on October 6, 1838 in Pompey, New York; her parents were Aaron Van Patten and Maria [Van Etten] Van Patten. This date came from Munsell’s History of Carroll County, Illinois, but doesn’t match the text, which states that she wasn’t yet 79. I don’t know which document is correct. She married John Farnsworth Demmon on December 26, 1865 in Chicago, Illinois. He died May 5, 1892 in Carroll County, Illinois.) Mrs. Demmon was among the oldest of our citizens in point of residence of this city and a lady of most amiable attributes of character. In a short time she would have reached to her 79th milestone in life and for several weeks had been in feeble health and gradually failed, her death being due principally to the infirmities incident to old age. She is survived by four children, they being Charles, residing in Chicago, John and Miss Rose of this city and S. Douglas Demmon of New York. We were unable to give the time of the funeral at this writing, as the fixing of the date awaits the coming of the son Charles who was expected to arrive this afternoon from Chicago.
Contributed by Alice Horner from the Friday, October 12, 1917 edition of the Carroll County Mirror

JOHN F. DEMMON - was born in Harford, Vermont, April 15, 1828 and died at his home in this city on Thursday, May 5, 1892, aged 64 years and 20 days. He came to Illinois in 1850 and for eleven years, or until 1861 was connected with Fink & Walker's stage coach line through the northwest, traveling through Illinois and Wisconsin. Mr. Demmon rode into Freeport on the first railroad train that ever ran into that city. In 1865 he was married to Miss Lizzie VanPatten. The result of the marriage was five children, four of whom survive their father, they being Charles R., John B., Rose M., and Stephen B., all of who were at their father's bedside when he died, the latter having come from his studies at Ann Arbor college, Mich., upon a telegraph dispatch.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - Undated Scrapbook Clipping

BERNARD L. DIEHL , 81, of Lanark died Sunday Dec. 19, 2004, at Freeport Health Network Hospital. Mr. Diehl was born Dec. 31, 1922. in Lanark, the son of Louis and Belva (Heimbaugh) Diehl. He was 1940 graduate of Lanark High School. After serving as a corporal in the U.S. Army during World War II he farmed near Lanark until retir­ing. He married Mildred Traum on Oct. 5, 1946. in Lanark. He was a member of First Brethren Church Lanark, Lanark Lions Club, American Legion and the Masonic Lodge. He was an avid sports fan, enjoyed golf, and attending his grandchildren's sports and school functions. Survivors include his wife. : Mildred; two sons, Ronald (JoBeth) of Effingham and Duane (Kathy) ofLanark; one brother, John Diehl of Elgin; five grandchildren. Matthew (Nicole) Diehl, Heidi Diehl, Andrea Diehl, Tally (Nathan) Hollin and Trenton Diehl; one great grandson, Lucas Diehl; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Howard and Glenn. The funeral is at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2004, at First Brethren Church Lanark, with Arnie Owens, pastor, and the Rev. Robert Schubert officiating. Burial is at Lanark Cemetery. Visitation is from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday. Dee. 21. 2004, at Russell-Frank Funeral Horne, Lanark.
Sterling Gazette December 21, 2004 contributed by Jan Roggy

FREDERICK DIEHL - On March 21st, 1905, Fred Diehl of Rock Creek, Carroll County, was somewhat suddenly called away to his eternal rest at the age of 64 years. He was born June 6th, 1841 in Germany. As many others, he left his country, seeking a better one and thus came to America in 1865, settling in Rock Creek Township, Carroll County where he lived till his death. Here by hard work and economy he built up a fine home. In 1875 he married mIss Mary Graehling of Hazelhurst, who with five children, two brothers and a large host of friends mourn his departure. As a man Mr. Diehl was honorable, just and upright, pure in thought, careful in his action, prudent and wise in his judgment. As a christian he was reverently devout and loyal to the word of God, and faithful to the Evangelical Lutheran church, which he had joined in his early youth in Germany. His funeral service was held in the Lutheran church of Brookville, Rev. J. W. Paetznick of Chadwick preached in German and Rev. Paul Holtgreve of Polo in the ENglish. The remains were laid to rest in the Brookville cemetery.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - Undated Scrapbook Clipping

GLENN A. DIEHL : Service for Glenn A. Diehl, 56, of Carrollton, a former resident who died Tuesday morning at his home following a lengthy illness will be at 3:30 p.m. Thursday at Lanark United Methodist Church. The Rev. Orville E. Cole, pastor of Lanark United Methodist, and the Rev. Paul R. Buettner, pastor of Lanark Trinity Lutheran Church, will officiate. Burial will be in Lanark Cemtery. (Note: The Social Security Death Index gives the date of death as May 1981.) Friends may call at Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Carrollton from 4 to 9 p.m. today and at the church in Lanark Thursday from 1 p.m. until time of service. A memorial fund has been established for the American Cancer Society. A 1943 graduate of Lanark High School, he was employed as agency manager of the Country Companies Insurance for the past 27 years. He was a member of the Carrollton United Methodist Church and the Lions Club, Lanark Masonic Lodge AF&AM, Ansar temple Shrine and Consistory of Springfield. Born Jan. 9, 1925 in Freeport, he was the son of Louis and Belva (Heimbaugh) Diehl. He married Wilma Manning of Lanark. Surviving are his widow; three daughters, Karen Klein of Los Angeles, Calif, Kahla Wiggins of Rochester, Ill., and Kathy Diehl of Carrollton; one son, Melvin Diehl of Freehold, N. J.; two brothers, Bernard Diehl of Lanark and John Diehl of Elgin; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. Arrangements were completed by Frank Funeral Home in Lanark
Contributed by Alice Horner

LOREN E. DIEHL , 85, of Freeport died on Saturday, March 27, 2004, at home, following an extended illness. He was born on Sept. 7, 1918 in Lanark, the son of Cloyd and Eva (Salier) Diehl. Loren married Mildred S. Clayton on Sept. 23, 1942, in Belmont, Wis. Loren worked for Messing and Becker Sporting Goods, then Freeport Sporting Goods Store. Starting in 1950, Loren owned and managed the Coast to Coast store in Freeport. He continued at the store for 30 years. He was a member of First Lutheran Church, where he served as church usher and as a member of Caregivers. Loren was a co-founder of the Pretzel Fan Club, Golden K, Kiwanis, and Saturday Morning Breakfast Club. He enjoyed following the Green Bay Packers, and the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals. Loren was well known for his woodworking and was considered a master craftsman and artist. He served as a 4-H Judge. Family was the center of his life and Loren was known for his kindness and generous personality toward family and friends. In addition to his wife, survivors include two sons, Terry (Stephanie) Diehl of Freeport, and Randy (Mary Wiley) Diehl of Austin, Texas; four grandchildren, Jeffrey (Tracie) Diehl, Jessica (Michael) Bates, Matthew Diehl and Sarah Diehl; and three great-grandchildren, Jack Bates, Ella Bates and Alexandra Diehl. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Lavonne Fraley and Shirley Bestes. Services will be held at1 p.m. Tuesday at Burke-Tubbs funeral home, with the Rev. Neville Kretzmann officiating. Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Burial will be in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Memorials have been established for FHN Hospice and First Lutheran Church.
Contributed by Judi Wirtjes - The Journal Standard

NELLIE (BRINKMEIER) DIEHL , 61, Lanark, died Wednesdayi morning in Freeport Memorial Hospital following an extended illness. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday in the Frank Funeral Home, Lanark. Cemetery, Pearl City. Visitation will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established. Nellie Brinkmeier was born Nov. 18, 1909, the daughter of Frederick and Emma Meyer Brinkmeier. She was a member of the Women of the Moose, in Freeport. She married Harold Diehl Dec. 14, 1925. Survivors include the husband, two sons, Alan E., Rockford, Gerald L., Freeport; nine grandchildren. She was preceded by two children; her parents, two brothers and one sister.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois January 28, 1971 - Thursday, pg 2

NETTIE CLIOLA (MASSEY) DIEHL , 64 of Freeport died Thursday March 10, 2005 at her home. She was employed in Pediatrics by Dr. Philip Wachtel for 12 years, by Dr. Norris Glick for 10 years and by Dr. Prasad Thoams for 17 years. Mrs. Diehl was born Jan. 21, 1941, in Cauffman AR, the daughter of Duane and Hazel (Guntharp) Massey. She was a graduate of Milledgeville High School and in 1962 graduated from Freeport Memorial Hospital as a nurse. She married William Ernest Diehl on June 29, 1963 in Milledgeville. He died June 25, 1987. She was an active member of Freeport Memorial Hospital ALumni, serving as an officer for many years; a member of Highland Area Bicycle Club; and also served on the board of directors for Freeport Aquatic Swim team for seven years. Survivors include a son, Eric Wm. (Stephanie Ann) Diehl of Freeport; her mother of Milledgeville; two sisters, Brenda (Churck) Anglese of Erie and Malia (J.L.) Cleyhorn of Cleveland TN, a brother Rick Massey of Freeport; and a grandaughter Jeanna Nichole. She was preceded by her fahter. Burial at Chapel Memorial Gardens Freeport.

MATTHIAS DIETERLE - Thus passed away Matthias Dieterle at his home in Milledgeville Ill., Sunday morning Dec. 3, 1911, at 1:45 a the ae of 74 years 5 m and 28d. Mr. Dieterle was born in Rotenberg, Germany June 5, 1837. He came to American at the age of 21 and made his home near Sterling and vicinity. On the 8th of February 1866 he was united in marriage ... the rest is lost.
Contributed by M. King Deets

BETTY J. (MORGAN) DIVELBISS , age 81, of Mt. Carroll, Illinois, died Thursday, July 16, 2009 at the FHN Memorial Hospital, Freeport, Illinois. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home, Mount Carroll with Reverend Robert Ziebarth of the 1st Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Mt. Carroll. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society in Betty’s memory. Betty was born on March 4, 1928 in Polo, Illinois to Clyde and Myrtle (Parker) Morgan, Sr.. She attended the Mount Carroll Schools. Betty married Lee Divelbiss on May 6, 1946 in Mt. Carroll. She was employed by the Savanna Army Depot for several years. Betty was also the Court Bailiff for five years at the Carroll County Courthouse and a Deputy for 10 years. She was the Facilities Director at the Campbell Center in Mt. Carroll for ten years. Betty was a member of the 1st Baptist Church of Mt. Carroll. She loved playing Bingo and most importantly, spending time with her grandchildren. Betty will be dearly missed by her daughter, Diana Preston of Mt. Carroll; two grandsons, Randy (Monica) Preston of Corinth, Texas and Russell (Brenda) Preston of Savanna, Illinois; two great grandchildren, Jarek and Brianna Preston; a brother, Douglas (Lillian) Morgan of Camanche, Iowa; and a sister, Margaret (Marvin) Bausman of Riverview, Illinois. Betty is preceded in death by her husband, Lee; both parents, a brother, Clyde Morgan, Jr.; and two great grandsons, Kyle and Zachary Preston.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

HILDA (SCHINDLER) DIVELBISS of Mt. Carroll died this morning in a Freeport hospital. The body was taken back to Mt. Carroll for services and burial.
Contributed by Mike Sweeney from the Freeport Journal Standard, Freeport, IL, 30 Apr 1938, page 10, col. 6.

LEE ARTHUR DIVELBISS , age 83, of Mt. Carroll, died Saturday, April 16, 2005 at the Veteran's Hospital, Iowa City, Iowa. Cremation will take place. A Memorial Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 20 at the Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home, Mt. Carroll, with Reverend Bob Ziebarth of the Mt. Carroll First Baptist Church officiating. Inurnment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Mt. Carroll, with Full Military Rites given by the Mt. Carroll American Legion. Memorials may be given to the family in Lee's name. Lee was born March 17, 1922 in Wacker, the son of Wilbur and Hilda (Schindler) Divelbiss. He married Betty Morgan May 6, 1946 in Mt. Carroll. Lee served in the United States Army during WWII, taking part in the Normandy, European and Rhineland Campaigns. He is a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal of Honor. Lee worked as an Independent Truck Driver. He liked fishing, mushroom hunting and having coffee with his buddies. He especially enjoyed playing with his great grandchildren. Lee will be dearly missed by his wife, Betty of Mt. Carroll; his daughter, Diana Preston of Mt. Carroll; two grandsons, Randy (Monica) Preston and Russell (Brenda) Preston; two great grandchildren, Jarek and Brianna Preston; and his brother, Grant (Betty) Divelbiss of Buchanan, Tennessee. His parents, a brother, Wilbur, and two great grandchildren, Kyle and Zachary Preston, precede Lee in death.

WILBUR R. DIVELBISS of West Allis, Wis., formerly of Freeport, passed away Sataurday from injuries received in a truck accident near Macomb. He was employed as a truck driver, was a member of the Milwaukee Campers Associaton and West Dallas McKinney Campers. Wilbur Divelbiss was born Sept. 18, 1919 in Mt. Carroll, the son the the late Wilbur R. and Hilda Schindler Divelbiss. He is survived by his widow, the former Verona Stratmann; two daughters, Mrs. Ernest (Paula) Berg and Mrs. Richard (Rita) Felski, both of West Allis; two brothers, Lee of Mt. Carroll and Grant of Waukegan. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in the Borgwardt Funeral Home, West Allis, the Rev. Lawrence Rasmussen officiating, with burial in Highland Memorial Park, West Allis.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois August 27, 1968 - Tuesday, pg. 6, col. 2

WILLIAM DOMDEY of Milledgeville, 79, died about 1 o’clock Friday afternoon at his home on a farm east of Milledgeville. (Note: The date was April 22, 1938.) He was born December 23, 1858 in Germany and came to Illinois when he was fourteen years of age. He spent most of his lifetime farming. He was united in marriage to Miss Anna Hodge on February 18, 1886. She passed away December 28, 1920. He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Bernard Maloney, and one son, Ray Domdey, and three grandchildren of Milledgeville; three sisters, Mrs. Amelia Buhrow, with whom he resided, Mrs. Emma McCaskey of Toluca, Ill., and Mrs. Lewis Bentlein of Magnolia, Ill. Funeral services will be held at 2 o’clock Sunday afternoon at the home and at 2:30 at South Elkhorn church. Rev. M. D. Kilver will officiate and burial will be made in South Elkhorn Cemetery.
Contributed by Alice Horner

CHARLES M. DORAN was born Nov. 25, 1916, in Savanna, the son of Charles James and Lila (Bush) Doran. On Feb. 3, 1945, he married Frances Welch who died in 1994. He is survived by his wife, Edna; two sons, Jeffrey Doran of Thomson, Ill. and James Doran of Geneseo, Ill.; a daughter-in-law, Sally Doran of Moline, Ill.; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, a sister, Lauretta Peterson.

Second Notice: Charles Doran age 90, of Savanna, Illinois, died Tuesday, February 6, 2007, at the Genesis Medical Center-West Campus in Davenport, Iowa. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2007 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna, Illinois. Reverend Thomas Moe of the First United Methodist Church, Savanna, Illinois, will officiate. A Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2007, at the Law Jones Funeral Home, Savanna, Illinois. Burial will be in Savanna Township Cemetery, Savanna, Illinois. Full Military Rites will be accorded by the Savanna V.F.W. Post #2223. Charles was born on November 25, 1916, in Savanna, Illinois, the son of Charles James and Lila (Bush) Doran. He attended Savanna schools. After school he began his railroad career on the Bridge and Building Gang for the CB&Q Railroad. He then enlisted in the United States Army and obtained the rank of Master Sergeant. Charles was a member of the 101st Airborne, 503 Parachute Regiment. He had parachute training in Fort Benning, Georgia, and was a member of the Static Line, Veteran's Airborne Unit. On February 3, 1945 Charles married Frances Welch who passed away in 1994. After being Honorable Discharged from the Army on December 12, 1945, Charles returned to Savanna and was again employed by the CB&Q Railroad which later became the Burlington Northern Railroad. Charles retired as a Yard Master with forty three years of service. He was a member of the American Legion, Savanna, Illinois and a past member of Savanna Moose Lodge, Savanna. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being on the Mississippi River with his family. Charles is survived by his wife, Edna; two sons, Jeffrey Doran of Thomson, Illinois and James Doran of Geneseo, Illinois; daughter-in-law Sally Doran of Moline, Illinois; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Frances; one sister Lauretta Peterson; and a special friend Betty Kennedy.

MARGARET R. (BEALER) DRAKE , age 84, of Argo Fay, Illinois, died Monday, April 9, 2007 at Harbor Crest Nursing Home, Fulton, Illinois. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 13, 2007 at the Argo Fay Methodist Church in Argo Fay, Illinois. Reverend Michael Jones of the York Baptist Church in Thomson, Illinois will officiate. Burial will be in Lower York Cemetery, Thomson. Visitation will be held from 5:00-8:00 pm on Thursday, April 12, 2007 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Thomson, Illinois. Memorials may be made in Margaret's name to Argo Fay Methodist Church or American Legion Auxiliary Unit 1025. Margaret was born on June 5, 1922 in Fenton, Illinois, the daughter of David J. and Rose M. (Hillyer) Bealer. She married Wayne Drake on February 26, 1949 in Fenton, Illinois. Wayne died on January 9, 1980 in Phoenix, Arizona. Margaret attended Fenton grade school and graduated from Erie High School with the class of 1941. She retired in 1982 from General Electric in Morrison, Illinois where she had worked for seventeen years. Margaret was a member of Argo Fay Methodist Church, Methodist Ladies Aid Association, the American Legion Auxiliary, National Association of Retired Federal Employees and GEM Club at General Electric, Morrison. She also served on Carroll County Help Center Board. Margaret enjoyed assisting the community with various projects. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family. Margaret will be dearly missed by her two sons Dale Evan (Terri) Drake of Beaufort, South Carolina and Jon Wayne (LuAnn) Drake of Glendale, Arizona; and one daughter Ruth Ann Stirewalt of Elizabeth, Colorado; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; one sister Beverly Bruce of Charleston, South Carolina and one sister-in-law Gerry Bealer of Thomson, Illinois. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Wayne; one grandson Mike Stirewalt and one brother David Bealer
Obituary submitted by Paul Koehler (Find-A-Grave)

MARJORIA (DARROW) DRAKE , age 89, formerly of Savanna, Illinois, died Sunday, October 23, 2005, at Eagle Point Rehabilitation Center in Clinton, Iowa. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 28 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Savanna with Associate Pastor Lisa Mapes of the First United Methodist Church, Savanna, officiating. Burial will be in Savanna Township Cemetery. Friends may call from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday, October 27 at the Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.lawjonesfuneralhome.com. Marjorie was born on September 30, 1916, the daughter of C. Summner and Muzetta (Sheets) Darrow in Columbus Junction, Iowa. She attended Arlington High School in Arlington, Iowa, graduating Class of 1934. On June 8, 1939, Marjorie married Ray W. Drake in Clinton, Iowa. Ray passed away in 1978. Marjorie worked for Eaton Corporation in Savanna and Hanover as an assembler and inspector. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Savanna; St. Paul Methodist Church of Bryant, Texas, the Savanna Women of the Moose, the Civil Air Patrol and a Board Member of the Brazose, Texas Church Pantry. Marjorie will be deeply missed by her four sons, David (Karen) Drake of Iowa City, Iowa, Richard (Hildie) Drake of Radcliffe, Kentucky, Roy W. (Janet) Drake of Pine Bluff, North Carolina, and Robert (Sue) Drake of Derby, Kansas; three daughters, Mary (Leon) Watkins-Lehmkuhl of Clinton, Iowa; Dorthea (Ira) Asbury of Zion, Illinois and Patricia (James) Hall of Liberty, Missouri; twenty seven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren; one brother, Gaylord Darrow of Savanna, Illinois. Marjorie was preceded in death by her husband, Ray; two daughters, Kathleen Marie and Patricia Elizabeth; one son, Steven James; one brother, Ralph and one sister, Mary Gruver.

CHARLES KENNETH DUNCAN 88, formerly of Mount Carroll, died Sunday, May 28, 1995 at the Illinois Masonic Home in Sullivan where he was a resident. He completed Prairie Dist. No. 64 Elementary School and Mount Carroll Community High School. He also attended the University of Illinois. From 1928 - 1947 he was employed by the Chicago Surface Lines in Chicago and from 1947 - 1960 he farmed in Mount Carroll. Mr. Duncan was born Dec. 9, 1906 on the family farm southwest of Mount Carroll, the son of Joseph Warren and Myra (O’Neal) Duncan. He married Lucille Rubeck in Chicago. She died in 1966. Survivors include one brother, Don (Cleo) Duncan of DeKalb; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by one brother. Funeral services were held Tuesday at the Illinois Masonic Home in Sullivan. Graveside services were held Wednesday at Oak Hill Cemetery in Mount Carroll. Local arrangements provided by Law-Jones Funeral Home in Mount Carroll.
Contributed by Alice Horner

JOSEPH DUNCAN - Funeral services for Joseph Warren Duncan, 75, farmer of this community who died at 1 p.m. Thursday in Savanna Hospital were held Sunday afternoon in the Methodist Church. The Rev. Frank Countryman officiated and interment was in Oak Hill Cemetery. (Note: The date of death was July 3, 1947.) Mr. Duncan had been ill since Sunday and was admitted to the hospital Thursday morning. Death was attributed to a cerebral hemorrhage. Mr. Duncan was born Oct. 24, 1871 near White Mills, Ky., the son of Charles L. and Elizabeth Vinson Duncan of Hardin County, Ky. Mr. Duncan was married three times, to Myra O’Neal in 1899, Mrs. Jessie Lee Witter in 1921 and to Mrs. Cora Pinkstaff Rogers in 1941. He received his education in the common schools of Kentucky and in a higher school in Litchfield, Ky. He taught school several terms in Gravel Switch and Allison, Ky., and then entered the railway mail service for a period of 15 years, living at Gravel Switch, Knoxville, Tenn., Streator and Mount Carroll, Illinois. In 1905 he purchased the Dudley O’Neal farm on Preston Prairie where he farmed until his death. He served several times as a director of his school district and also as a member of the board of education of the Mount Carroll High School District. For several years he was superintendent of the Sunday School in the Wacker Methodist Church of which he was a member. He is survived by his widow; three sons, Neal of La Grange, Donald of Champaign, and Kenneth of Chicago; five grandchildren, Neal, Jr. and Elizabeth Ann of La Grange, John, Barbara, and Bonnie of Champaign; and two brothers, Edgar T. Duncan of Louisville, Ky., and Housan H. Duncan of Eads, Tenn.
Contributed by Alice Horner

CELIA E. (LATHROP) DUNSHEE - an aged resident of Thomson, passed away about nine o'clock Thursday night at the home of Mrs. Sarah Millard, where she had gone only a week previous to spend the winter. (Note: Sarah Millard appears to also have been living in Thomson.) Celia E. Lathrop was born December 25, 1841 in Brimfield, and died November 2, 1922 at Thomson, aged 80 years, 10 months and eight days. When a girl she came with her parents to York township, where on April 25, 1865 she was united in marriage to Timothy Dunshee, who was one of the pioneer settlers here. (Note: The Illinois Statewide Marriage Index gives the date as 25 Mar 1866 in Whiteside County.) To them was born one son, Byron, who died while young. For many years she gave a mother’s love and care to her husband’s son by a previous marriage, Charles J. Dunshee, who survives her. Mr. Dunshee departed this life in November 1901, and soon after this Mrs. Dunshee moved from the farm to Thomson where she has since resided. The surviving relatives besides her step-son are two sisters, Mrs. Sarah Snyder of Thomson and Mrs. A. L. Williamson of Mt. Carroll , a niece Mrs. Nena Laughran of Kings, and three nephews, Clare and Hoyt Williamson, and Dwight Barrett. For many years she was a faithful member of the York Baptist church and until the feebleness of advancing years prevented , she took part in all its activities. In her quiet unassuming way she did much for her Master’s cause. Her home was always open for the use of her church and its services, and her aid was freely given to the orphaned and the destitute, To her friends and neighbors she was ever an angel of mercy, in the dark hours of sickness, sorry. Only those who have known her nearest can tell how deep was her love and how freely she gave to those she deemed less fortunate than herself. May her heavenly reward be great. Funeral services for the late Mrs. Celia Dunshee were held at her residence in Thomson at 1:30 Sunday afternoon, and were conducted by the Rev. F. Z. Winebrenner of the M. E. Church. Hymns were sung by Mr. and Mrs. James Frost. The pall bearers were Joseph Wilt, Edwin Porter, Richard Groharing, Frank Rush, Kyle Melendy, and Bayard Cole. Burial was made in the Dunshee Cemetery . ( Dunshee Cemetery was later renamed Lower York Cemetery .) Mrs. Celia Dunshee was the first of the 17 ladies to pass from this life who attended a party given by Mrs. O’Neil at her home early in the summer months for all ladies over Seventy years of age.
Contributed by Alice Horner Thomson Review November 8, 1922

JEANETTE (SHIPMAN) DYKEMA-KOENES , 86, of Harbor Crest Nursing Home, Fulton, IL, died Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at Mercy Medical Center North, Clinton, IA. Jeanette was born September 29, 1920 in Garden Plain, IL, to Henry and Annie (Bush) Shipma. She was educated in the Garden Plain and Morrison, IL grade schools. She married James J. Dykema on September 17, 1942 in Morrison. He died May 15, 1977. She later married Theodore Koenes on September 1, 1983 in Fulton. She farmed with her first husband in the rural Thomson, IL area. Jeanette was also employed as a nurse's aid at Harbor Crest Nursing Home. She was a member of the Spring Valley Reformed Church in rural Fulton, IL and the church's Ladies Aid Society. She was a member of T.O.P.S. Jeanette enjoyed needlepoint, crocheting, reading, and baking. Survivors include her husband, Theodore "Ted" Koenes of Fulton, IL; three sons, Roger (Cheryl) Dykema of Morrison; Arlyn (Terry) Dykema of Chadwick, IL; and Gary Dykema of Savanna, IL; one stepdaughter, Judy (Mrs. Richard) Smith of Fulton, IL; one stepson, Gary (Priscilla) Koenes of Clinton, IA; seven grandchildren, Jason, Wesley, Jessie, Ryan, Caitlin, Matthew (Evie), and Chad Dykema; nine step grandchildren and fifteen step great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, James; one grandson, Joshua Dykema; one stepson, Timothy Koenes; one sister, Anna Meinema; and two brothers, Peter and Louis H. Shipma.
Submitted by Paula Koehler at Find-A-Grave

MILDRED (WILLIAMS) DYKEMA , 82, of Thomson, died Thursday (November 4, 2004) at the Rosewood Care Center in Moline, Ill. Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Sunday at the Frank-Law Jones Funeral Home in Mount Carroll, Ill. The Rev. Mark Harkness of the Mount Carroll United Methodist Church will be officiating. Interment will be in the Grove Hill Cemetery in Morrison Ill. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday at the Frank-Law Jones Funeral Home in Mount Carroll. She was born March 29, 1922, to George and Mary Thomas Williams in Macon, Mo. She married Edward Dykema on March 8, 1941, in Clinton. She attended school in Fulton, Ill. She was a homemaker and helped on the family farm. She also worked with the Atwood Manufacturing Co. in Mount Carroll for several years and the Adams and Martin Clothing Store in Mount Carroll. Survivors include her husband; four sons; Richard (Barb) Dykema of Geneseo, Ill., Ken (Carol) Dykema of Balsom Lake, Wis., Larry (Corky) Dykema of Viola, Ill., and Lonny (Linda) Dykema of Snellville, Ga.; two sisters, Thelma Long and Hazel Weber both of Rockford, Ill.; 20 grandchildren; and seven grandchildren. A memorial fund has been established in her name. She was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter and 10 siblings.
Clinton Herald November 5, 2004

IRENE (PANTLAS) DYSON , 53, of Savanna died Monday at Jane Lamb Hospital in Clinton, Iowa. Born October 29, 1926, she was the daughter of Virgil and Dorothy (Smith) Pantlas. She married Albert Dyson August 20, 1960. Surviving are one stepbrother, John Foley; and one stepsister, Mrs. Nellie (Charles) Brown, both of Tomah, Wis.Funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Thursday at Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. Burial will be in Lower York Cemetery in Thomson. Friends may call Wednesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home.
Contributed by Alice Horner

LILA (GISZ) DYSON , 75, 617 N. 5th St., Savanna, died at her home Sunday. Funeral services will be Thursday at 1 p.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church at rural Mt. Carroll. The Rev. Wayne Schneider will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may visit from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at the Frank Funeral Home at Mt. Carroll. Memorials may be directed to the Trinity Lutheran Church Schololarship Fund. Mrs. Dyson was born May 24, 1903, at Fair Haven Township, the daughter of Charles and Clara Daggert Gisz. She married Clifford (Ben) Dyson on June 16, 1923, at Dubuque, Iowa. She was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church and of its Ladies Aid. Survivors include three sons, Burdette, Ritchie, Md.; Charles, Rock Island; David, Savanna; two daughters, Mrs. Ralph (Catherine) Lee, San Diego, Calif.; Mrs. Larry (Martha) Biase, Savanna; 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; one brothr, Charles and one sister, Mrs. Mildred Gengenbach, both of Mt. Carroll. She was preceded in death by her husband, one sister, one brother and two grandchildren.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois December 26, 1978 - Tuesday

MARY (GRIM) DYSON , 77, died last night (14 October 1947) about 10:15 at her home here, after suffering a paralyzing stroke on Sunday. Mary E. Grim was born May 27, 1870, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Grim. She was married Feb. 22, 1888 to George W. Dyson, who preceded her in death six years ago. Four children survive, Lee Dyson and Mrs. Frank Kimmel of Lanark, Thelma of Springfield, Ill., and Glen of Des Moines, Ia. She was an active member of the Christian church and for several years served as a deaconess. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, W. R. C. and the Royal Neighbors. Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon, with Rev. E. Y. Knapp officiating and burial will be in Lanark Cemetery.
Contributed by Alice Horner