Carroll County Obituaries

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CHARLENE C. GABLE - age 63, of Savanna, Illinois, died Friday, March 14, 2008 at the Big Meadows Nursing Home in Savanna, Illinois. A Graveside Funeral service will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, March 20, 2008 at the Jacobstown Cemetery in rural Savanna, with Reverend Robert Schubert officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Genesis Hospice of Clinton in Charlene's name. Charlene was born on November 8, 1944, the daughter of Charles and Marrina (Promenshenkel) Gable.She attended Center Hill School in Mount Carroll and worked for the Rolling Hill Progress Center in Lanark for 15 Years, until retiring in 2006.Charlene enjoyed coloring and working with her hands.Most of all, she loved spending time with her family. Charlene will be dearly missed by her three brothers; Edwin (Nancy) Gable ofMt. Carroll, Melvin (Brenda) Gable of Savanna, and Francis Gable of Savanna; two sisters, Marie (Laverne) Harding of Savanna and Marge (Allen) Fowler of Maquoketa, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews. Charlene was preceded in death by her parents and her Uncle Glen.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

CHARLES H. GABLE - The funeral will be 10:30 AM in Law Jones Funeral Home, Savanna for Charles H. Gable, 93 of rural Savanna, who died Sunday (August 9, 1992) in Veterans Administraton Hospital, Iowa City. The Rev. Robert Schubert will officiate. Burial will be at Savanna Township Cemetery where teh Mt. Carroll American Legion Post 67 will accord full military rites. Pallbearers will be Loren Gable, Teddy Coleman, Jeff Harding, Francis Gable Jr., and Allen and Andy Fowler. Mr. Gable was born Dec. 5, 1898 in Mt. Carroll to William and Irene Smith Gable. He married Marrena Promenschenkel in 1941 in Oregon Il. She died May 7, 1980. He was a veteran of World War I serving in the US Army. He farmed his entire life in the Mt. Carroll and Savanna area and was a member of the Mt. Carroll American Legion. Survivors include three daughters, Mrs. Marie Harding and Charlene Gable, both of Savann, and Mrs. Allen (Marjorie) Fowler of Maquoketa; three sons; Edwin of Mt. Carroll, and Melvin and Francis, both of Savanna; 15 grandchildren; three great grandchildre; and a sister Mrs. Bessie Zink of Mt. Carroll.
Clinton Herald August 11 1992

GLEN GABLE , 83, of rural Savanna, died Tuesday at Samaritan North. The funeral will be at Law Jones Funeral Home, Savanna, with the Rev. Robert Schubert, Mt. carroll officiating. Burial will be in Arnold Cemetery, Jacobstown, rural Mt. Carroll. Pallbearers will be Francis Gable Jr., Edwin and Melvin Gable and Allen Fowler. Mr. Gable was born Nov. 27, 1908 in Mt. Carroll to Wm. and Irene (Smith) Gable. He farmed in the Mt. Carroll area. Survivors include a brother Charles of Savanna; a sister Mrs. Kenneth (Bessie) Zink of Mt. Carroll and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded by two brothers.
Clinton Herald May 22, 1992

JOHN GABLE , 82 , Mt. Carroll, died (22 Sep 1984) Saturday in his home. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at the Frank Funeral Home, Mt. Carroll, with the Rev. George Reser, pastor of the Church of God, Mt. Carroll, officiating. Burail will be in the Good Hope Cemetery, rural Mt. Carroll. Visitation will be from 8 a.m. until the time of services on Wednesday. John Gable was born in 1902, in Carroll County, the son of William and Irene Smith Gable. He uwas united in marriage to Carrie Zink. Surviving are three brothers, Charles and Glen, both of Savanna, and Albert, Davenport, Iowa, and one sister, Bessie Zink, Mt. Carroll. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and one brother.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illiinois September 24, 1984 - Monday, pg A4 The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illiinois September 24, 1984 - Monday, pg A4

ESTHER R. (JACKSON) GABLIN , 91, 1004 Locust Street, Thomson, died Saturday at Samaritan South (8 May 1993). The funeral will be in Thomson United Methodist Church with Rev. Bonnie Davies officiating. Burial will be Lower York Cemetery, Thomson. Mrs. Gablin was born Sept. 8, 1901 in Afton Wis., to Robert and Lizzy Ziechel Jackson. She married Orville "Gabby" Gablin, June 1926. He died March 20, 1975. She was a homemaker. She was involved with the church, serving in the Sunday school, as well as the United Methodist Women and the church's quilting group. Survivors include dtwo sons, Kenneth Gablin of Naperville, Ill., and LeRoy Gablin of Thomson' two grandaughters and two great grandsons.
Clinton Herald May 13, 1993

LOLIEDA (CARR) GALLACHER , 43, of Savanna died Monday Nov. 22, 2004 at Mercy Medical Center, Clinton Iowa. She was employed by Big Meadows Nursing Home, Savanna, in the housekeeping department for 17 years, and was a homemaker. Mrs. Gallacher was born Sept. 5, 1961 in Muchwaller, Germany, the daughter of John and Gertrude (Jagle) Carr. She attended Mt. Carroll High Schoo. She married Dan Gallacher. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Survivors includer her husband, a son, David Carr of Coal Valley; a daughter Alisha Slaymaker of Savanna, her parents; three brothers, John, Steven and Thomas; two sisters, Belinda and Monica; her paternal grandmother Inez Blevins and two granddaughters. Burial was in Hickory Grove Cemetery, Mt. Carroll.

CLIFFORD GALLENTINE , 55 of Mt. Carroll died Monday, September 15, 1997 at his home. Services will be Thursday at Law-Jones Funeral home with Rev. Steve Ohrtman of St. John's Lutheran Church in Sterling officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Mt. Carroll. Mr. Gallentine was born Sunday, december 7, 1941 in Albany to Clifford Elwood and Lorraine Marie (Hurley) Gallentine. He graduated from Mt. Carroll High in 1959. He married Arlene Keller June 14, 1959 in Savanna. He was a truck driver for 31 years. He was the transportation supervisor and bus driver for teh Mt. Carroll Community Unit District #304 for 7 years. Survivors include his wife, Arlene; three sons Jeff (Elaine) Gallentine and Scott (Debora) Gallentine all of Mt. Caroll and David (Tammy) Gallentine of Belle Plaine, MN. 6 Grandchildren, Jennifer Merchant, Jared, Drew, Ryan, Samantha and Kasey Gallentine; two sisters, Dorothy Smith of Galena and Jean (Cecil) Coffey of Albany; and three brothers, Wm. (Lorraine) Gallentine of Seymour IN, Joseph Gallentine of Vancouver, BC and James Gallentine of Sterling.

LAVINA (BUNDY) STRICKER GALLOWAY , 80, residing at 907 Main street, collapsed and died of a heart attack about 5 p.m. Thursday in the National Food Store. She had been resting and sitting on a radiator and when she went to get up fell to the floor. A physician was called and she was pronounced dead on his arrival. She had beens uffering from a heart ailment for some time. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Law Funeral Home, with the Rev. Harold DeVries, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hillcemetery, Mt. Carroll. Friends may call at the funeral home after seven tonight. Lavina Bundy was born April 6, 1875 in Woodland township, carroll County, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Delavan Bundy. She had mader her home in savanna for many years. Mrs. Galloway operated rooming h ouses in Bowen Street and Main Street for many years. She received her education in the Mt. Carroll schools. She was twice married, her first husband, Jasper Stricker, and her second husband, Louis A. Galloway, both preceding in death. Her first marriage was in 1891 and her second in 1929. Surviving are three sons, Joseph and George Stricker both of Savanna and Leo Stricker of Mt. Carroll; several grandchildren; three brothers, Grant Bundy of Savanna, Roy Bundy of Lanark and George Bundy of Davenport Iowa and other relatives. Preceding in death besides her two husbands were her parents, two daughters, who died in infancy, two sisters, Mrs. Elijah Wacker and Mrs. Margaret griswold, and five brothers, Will, Delevan, Frank, Jess and Theodore.
Contributed by Don Stricker

ALICE A. (BUSS) GANTZ , 81, of Haines City, Fla., former Florence Station resident, died Saturday, May 1, 2004, at Haines City Health Care Center. She was born July 24, 1922, in Shannon, the daughter of John G. Buss and Loella Tempel Buss. On Sept. 27, 1941, Alyce and Chester L. Gantz were married in Florence Station. Alyce and Chester farmed in Florence Station until retiring in 1984. They then moved to Florida. Mrs. Gantz was a former member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Freeport and member of Grace Lutheran Church in Winter Haven, Fla. Surviving family members include her husband; one son, Larry (Dixie) Gantz of Haines City; one granddaughter, Lori (Don) Szczepaniak of Sumner, Wash.; two great-grandchildren, Alex and Kevin; and one sister, Dolores Buss of Freeport. Preceding her in death were her parents and one grandson, Jim. Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Chapel of Peace at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport with the Rev. Willis Schwichtenberg and Vicar Brad Klein officiating. Burial will be at the cemetery. Visitation hours are from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home in Freeport. A memorial fund has been established for Immanuel Lutheran Church.
Contributed by Judi Wirtjes

FRANCIS BERNICE (HECK) GANTZ , age 87, of Shannon died Thursday, November 8, 2007 at FHN Memorial Hospital in Freeport. She was born February 26, 1920 in Freeport, the daughter of the late Henry and Mary (Ward) Heck. She married David Gantz on October 17, 1939 in Monroe, WI. She was a member of St. Wendelin's Catholic Church in Shannon, and the Ladies Society, She enjoyed embroidering, birds, taking care of her home, going to church and getting together with her family. She is survived by her husband; three daughters, Nancy (John) Lamagdeliene of South Holland, Doris (Paul) White of Forreston, and Linda (Darold) Schmoll of Pleasant Valley, Mo; one son, Dennis (Kathy) Gantz of Forreston; one brother, Edward (Mary) Heck of Freeport; ten grandchildren; three great-grandchildren. Her parents; son, Richard; four brothers, Joseph, James, Russell and Hubert; two sisters, Edna and Helen; and one granddaughter, Emily, precede Frances in death. Visitation was from 6 AM-8 PM Friday at the Hermann Funeral Home in Shannon where a Rosary was held at 8 PM. Funeral service was held at St. Wendelin's Catholic Church at 10:30 AM Saturday, November 10, 2007 Rev. Michael Bolger officiated. Interment will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport. A memorial fund has been established.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

CORA (BURNETT) GARMAN - Funeral services were conducted this afternoon in the Frank Funeral Home for Mrs. Elam Garman, 88, who died Tuesday eveing in a Freeport nursing home. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery in Mt. Carroll. Cora Burnett was born in Virginia on April 8, 1873, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William V. Burnett. She was married in Lanark on Aug. 31, 1913, to Elam Garman. She was a member of the lanark Lutheran Church. Survivors are her husband, a patient in a Mt. Carroll Nursing home; two step sons, Ralph of Loves Park and Wayne, Freeport; two stepdaughters, Miss jessie Garman, Loves Park and mRs. Earl (Grace) Keim, Mt. Carroll; and one sister, Mrs. James Brageal, Springfield MO.
Contributed by Todd Yarbrough

LOVINA ELLEN (SARBER) GARMAN - Died at her home near Brookville, Illinois, Wednesday, August 16, 1906 of Brights disease. Aged 41 years, 8 months and 18 days. Lovina Ellen Sarber was born near Brookville, Ill., November 28, 1864. She was married to Irvin Garman on December 29, 1885. She leaves to mourn the loss, her husband and daughter Iva, father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Emanuel Sarber of Milledgeville, Ill., three brothers William of Thornton, Iowa, Edward and Charles of Milledgeville, Ill., three sisters Rosalia Bradway of Fairgrove, Mo., Luscinda Reubendall of Dows, Iowa and Lola Keckler of near Polo,Ill., also many other relatives and dear friends. Mrs. Garman was born, married and died in the same home. She was a woman of sterling quality, a loving mother a kind and dutiful wife, and thoughtful and loving daughter.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - Undated Scrapbook Clipping
ANOTHER OBIT: Lovina Ellen Sarber was born in Brookville township, November 28, 1864, and was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Emanuel Sarber, now residing in Milledgeville, Illinois. The deceased was married to Irvin Garman December 29, 1885, and to this union was born one daughter, Iva, who with the husband is left to mourn. Mrs. Garman had enjoyed fairly good health until the past few months when she complained of not feeling well. Two days before her death she was taken quite sick and a physician was summoned. He pronounce her case acute Bright's disease. All that was done for her was of no avail as she passed away at one o'clock Thursday afternoon, August 16, on the same farm she was born. Besides her aged parents, husband and daughter she is mourned by a little nephew, LeRoy Sarber, who has been under her care since the death of his mother and the following brothers and sisters: Charles and Edward of Milledgeville, Will of Thornton, Ia., Mrs. Rosalia Bradway of Fairgrove, Mo., Mrs. Lucinda Rubendall of Dows, Iowa, and Mrs. Lola Keckler of near Polo. The deceased was a good woman and her greatest delight was when she was working and doing for others. She will be sadly missed in the home and by her parents of whom she was ever mindful, as to their care and comfort. The funeral services were conducted from her late home on Sunday, Rev. J. W. McKitrick of Milledgeville officiating. The burial was made in the South Elkhorn cemetery.
From Karen Fyock

INGRAM GEORGE GARNER was born in Jackson Co IL, June 8th 1829 and died at Chicago IL Jan. 27, 1900 age 70 years 7 mos and 19 days. He came to this section of Country and settled in Cherry Grove township in 1834, from where 14 ago he moved to Chicago. During his residence in the city he has not been in what could be considered good health, but was able to attend to his business affairs until about two years ago when his health became so seriously impaired that he retired from active business life. He then went to California and remained there for a year where he had previously spent most the winters, since leaving this neighborhood. He was united in marriage to Miss Jennette Brennan, March 26, 1892. In 1896 he in company with his wife took a trip abroad and spent several months in visiting nearly the whole of civilized Europe. This trip was exceedingly helpful and the deceased returned home greatly improved in health. Mr. Garner was an old Mason of high rank and in good standing with the fraternity. HIs membership in the Blue Lodge, Commandery and Consistory was at Freeport, Ill., and in the Chapter at Lanark, but he visited many lodges in the city and on the coast. When abroad he received many attentions from his recognized standing as an American Mason. As a general thing when at home he attended Dr. Thomas' church. But very recently at his request he was baptised by Dr. McMullen of the Methodist Episcopal church and before he died he requested that he be buried by the Masons and that a Methodist minister officiate. His request was carried out to the letter by his wife and brother James. Two brother and a wife mourn the departure of a loving brother and a kind, considerate and indulgent husband. The funeral which was held Sunday afternoon was under the auspices of Lanark Lodge No. 423. A.F. and A.M. Rev. B.A. Dickens of the M.E. church officiating.

LILLIAN (ATHERTON) GARNER , 87, of Lanark, died Thursday afternoon, Aug. 14, at Good Samaritan Nursing Home, Mount Carroll, after a long illness. A 1917 graduate of Lanark High School, she was a member of the White Shrine of Jerusalem in Freeport and headed the organization as a worthy high priestess. She also was a 50 year member of the Ola Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star in Lanark and a past worthy matron of that group. Born on March 6, 1899 in Rock Creek Township, Carroll County, she was the daughter of Daniel and Emma (Jacobs) Atherton. She married James "Matt" Garner in Rockford on Dec. 11, 1920. He died in 1965. Surviving are nieces and nehpews in the area. IN addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers and three sisters. Graveside services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday at Lanark Cemetery. The Rev. Clinton Firstbrook, pastor of Cherry Grove Church of the Brethren will officiate. Russell-Frank Funeral Home, Lanark. Memorial has been established for the Lanark Library.

RALPH W. GARNER , 85, 117 W. Leland St., Lanark, died early Wednesday (July 4, 1984) morning in Freeport Memorial Hospital after a long illness. Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday in the Trinity Lutheran Church, Lanark, with the Rev. Lindsay Hulbert, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in the Lanark Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 and 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday in the Frank Funeral home, Lanark, where Masonic Rites will be conducted at 9 p.m. by the Lanark Masonic Lodge. A memorial has been established. Ralph Garner was born on Jan. 31, 1899, in Lanark, the son of William H. and Bertha Hotchkiss Garner. On May 15, 1922, he married Erna Huebner in Anoka, Minn. He was the proprieter of Garner's Welding Shop, Lanark, for many years, and prior to that was employed as a welding supervisor for the Milwaukee Railroad. He was a member of the Lanark Masonic Lodge 423, and was a 32nd Degree Mason, a member of the Freeport Consistory and the Trinity Lutheran Church, was a former school board member, a city alderman and was an early member of the Carroll County Historical Society. He was instrumental in restoring historical sites in Carroll County with a special project the restoration of neglected cemeteries in the county. Surviving are his wife; two sons, James, Craig, Colo.; and Allan (Skip), Lanark; three daughteers, Mrs. Edward (Doris) Romans, Park Ridge, Mrs. Stanley (Donagene) Nesemeier, Lanark, and Mrs. Lloyd (Gayle) Navakowski, Belleview, Wash.; 11 grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and one sister, Florence Sowles, Greendale, Wis. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, one grandchild and one great grandchild
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois July 5, 1984 - Thursday

CLAIR E. GATRELL , 85, rural Milledgeville, died this morning at Continental Nursing Home, Polo. The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Milledgeville United Methodist Church with the Rev. Clark Moushon officiating. Burial will be in Bethel Cemetery, rural Milledgeville. Visitation is after 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Woodin Funeral Home, Milledgeville. Mr. Gatrell was born July 25, 1888, at Ames to Milton and Agnes Bell Gatrell. He married Myrtle Jones Jan. 1, 1913, at Des Moines. He was a retired farmer and had lived in the Milledgeville area since 1927. He was a member of the Milledgeville United Methodist Church and the Milledgeville Grange and was a former Carroll County Farm Bureau director. Survivors include a daughter Mrs. William (Irene( Keister, Milledgeville, two brothers, Lee, York, Pa., and Valley, Walnut Grove, Minn. And a sister, Mrs. Nina Schuler, Vista, Calif. (Mon. 3 Dec. 1973, Pg 12)

HENRY GAUL , the twenty year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Ira Gaul residing 11 miles southeast of Lanark and 3 1/2 miles northeast of Brookville, was drowned in flooded Elkhorn creek, last Friday afternoon about 5 o'clock, while the fierce rain storm raged the hardest. The young man had been working for Frank Garman, about a mile from his parents home, and had set out to bring up the cows, which were grazing on the opposite side of the stream that runs through the farm. Doubtless he had crossed the small stream many times before in safety, but on this occassion he evidently misjudged the strength of the current, which swollen by the heavy rains was running bank full. That he expected to swim for it seems certain, for he had stripped for the occassion and hung his clothes on a fence post, carefully covered with a waterproof slicker ot keep them dry. Parties on the Garman farm thought they heard him calling, but supposed it was at the cows, and when he failed to return, became alarmed and instituted a search. Suspicion became almost a certainty when his clothes were found. The country was aroused and about fifty willing workers from that vicinity, officered by the Ogle county sheriff and his deputies, dragged the stream almost continuously from Friday night until about 10 o'clock Sunday morning, when the body was recovered in Harry Bolkus' pasture about a mile and a quarter below the place where his clothes were hung. It was found near the creek bank in aobut three feet of water and mud, under a mass of drift wood and the roots of a ttree, to which a team of horses were hitched to remove. Only a small portion of the body, about as large as a mans hand, was visible, the balance buried in the mud. It was taken out, washed and conveyed to the home of the boy's parents, where brief funeral services were held at 10 o'clock Tuesday morning, and at 10:30 at the West Branch near Maryland Station, Rev. Chas. Delp of Lanark conducting the service, assisted by Rev. Willson of Brookville. Interment in the cemetery near by. The attendance at the funeral was very large, and expressive of the deep sympathy of the community for the sorrow-stricken family. An obituary will be published in our next issue.
Sterling Library Obituary Collection - (Death June 1926)

MARGARET ELIZABETH (RAFLEY) GAUL , was born June 28th, 1845, at Clear Springs, Md., and died at her home in Lanark, Ill., Feb. 14, 1921, aged 75 years, 7 months and 16 days. She was the eldest daughter of Frederick and Mary Rafley. She came west with her parents when a small girl and settled in Cherry Grove township. On December 22, 1869, she was united in marriage to Henry Gaul to whom she was a faithful and loving companion for over 51 years. In October, 1899, they moved to Lanark where they lived to the time of her death. In the year of 1872 she with her husband united with the Church of the Brethren at Cherry Grove. She remained a faithful member and served her Lord to the end. Four children were born to this union, viz., Lillian, deceased; Charles, of near Lanark; Ira of Polo; and Elmer, of CHerry Grove. On May 7, 1909, the daughter was called home, the first to break the family ties. In April, 1919, Sister Gaul was afflicted and called for the elders of the church and was anointed according to James 5:14. On September 11 of the same year she sumbitted to an operation from which she recovered sufficiently to be up and around her home. On October 23 the same year, she fell and broker her hip. This kept her in bed for eight weeks. On January 20, 1921, she took to her bed again, and for over three weeks she was subject to intense suffering. All that medical aid and kind hands could do was done to relieve her of her suffering, which she bore patiently till the Lord called her home. The last two years of her life had been more or less of suffering. She leaves her sorrowing husband, three sons and fourteen grandchildren to mourn her departure.
Sterling Library Obituary Collection (Burial was in Cherry Grove Cemetery)

FOSTER GAULT - The body of Foster Gault, the sixyear old son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gault, former residents of Lanark, was brought to the home of G.E. Hungerford, the boy's grandfather, at Mt. Carroll, from whence his funeral was held Sunday afternoon at 2:30. The boy was drowned in a lagoon at Maywood, a short distance from his parents' home. He had gone out to play and in a little while mysteriously disappeared. A search that lasted all that day and all night was fruitless, but the next morning a neighbor found his body in the pond. There is no suspicion of foul play, the supposition being that the little fellow accidently fell into the water and was drowned. The sympathy of a large number of friends in this city goes out to the grief-stricken parents.
Sterling Library Obituary Collections (Death occured 22 Nov. 1911)

SAMUEL C. GAULT - an old and respected citizen of Lanark, died on Thursday of last week. Mr. Gault had been in failing health for several years but had so far recovered that on the Monday preceding his death he walked up town and talked in his usual way to those of his friends whom he met. Samuel C. Gault was born in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, December 17, 1839, and died at his home in Lanark, Illinois, May 10, 1906, aged 66 years, 4 months and 24 days. At the age of six years he came with his parents to Jo Daviess county, Illinois, His childhood and early manhood days were spent near Elizabeth, Jo Daviess county, Where he was married to Isabella F. Foster. Later he removed with his family to Carroll county where he had since resided. In August 1862 he enlisted in Company A., 96th regiment Illinois volunteer infantry to fight for his country and was honorably discharged May 16, 1865. For several years the deceased has been in failing health and though much of the time a great sufferer he bore up with remarkable patience, bravely battling against disease, hoping against hope until finally death triumphed over his frail body and on Thursday afternoon he calmly breathed his last in the presence of his wife and such of his children as were able to reach him. The children present were Hugh Gault and wife of Milledgeville, Mrs. Estella Stahlsmith of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, and Mrs. Adda Glotfelty of Lanark, Frank of Morrison and Charles of Chicago were unable to reach home until after he had passed away. Another daughter, Mrs. Mary Isaac resides in Sunnyside, Washington.
COntributed by Karen Fyock - Undated Scrapbook Clipping

MILTON S. GAYMAN , 58, retired farmer and operator of the feed mill at Hazelhurst the past year, died at his home there Thursday (Polo, Ogle Co IL) after an illness of six weeks duration. Funeral services will be held at the home at 1:30 o'clock Saturday afternoon and at the Polo church of the Brethren at 2:00, the Rev. M.E. Clingenpeel, assisting by the the Rev. Wayne Gerses, officiating. Burial will be in Fairmont. Milton Gayman was born on a farm near Chadwick, Carroll county, March 3, 1886, a son of Joseph and Melissa Gayman, and was married Sept 5, 1906 to Miss Elizabeth Martin of Coleta, who survives, together with three children, Harper Gayman of Dixon, Mrs. AUdreyPlum of Polo, and Mrs. Lamoine Drescher of Seattle, Wash.; and two grancchildren, Patricia Gaymand and Carolyn Plum.
Dixon Telegraph 28 July 1944

GEORGE C. GEARY , 90, of Savanna died Monday, Nov. 22, 2004 at Big Meadows Nursing Home, Savanna. Mr. Geary farmed in the Polo area for many years and also was a field technician for the Soil Conservation Office in Oregon and Mt. Carroll. Mr. Geary was born July 5, 1914, in Polo the son of Clinton G. and Emma S. (Roderick) Geary. He married Elizabeth A Jassen on August 12, 1941 in Sterling. She preceded him. Survivors included two daughters, Mary (Nate) Swann of Port Charlotte FL and Elaine Lee of Waterloo Iowa; two sisters, Lillian Forch of Chicago and Sara Boze of Rock Falls, one brother, Roderick Geary of Polo; three grandchildren, Thoams Swann, Ted Martens and Liz Malony.

MRS. DANIEL GEERDS , nee Wilfong, was born in Germany, November 13, 1851, and died, in Shannon, October 14, 1940, aged 88 years, 11 months, and one day. At the age of ten she with her parents came to this country and located in the vicinity of Adeline, near Forreston. In 1870 she was united in marriage to Daniel Geerds. God blessed this union with six children, one son and five daughters. Soon after their marriage they moved to Grundy county, Iowa, living there for six years, when they moved back to Illinois, settling On a farm three miles northeast of Shannon. Here they lived until 1892 when they located in Shannon. After residing in Shannon a few years, her husband was called to his eternal reward, leaving her to meet life's problems alone. Early in life she united with the German Reformed church, and she has lived a Christian life until the end. Her long useful life has made an impression on all who knew her. During her long illness she was very patient, never murmuring. She was tenderly eared for by her dear daughter, in whose home she resided. She was the last member of the family to pass on. Mother Geerds was a kind, faithful wife, mother, Friend, and neighbor. She leaves to mourn their loss: four children, Mrs. Jennie Brown of Freeport, Mrs. John Honken of Bankiuft, Iowa, Mrs. Dick Meyers of Titonka, Iowa, and Mrs. Joe Buss; nineteen grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. Her husband. one son, and one daughter preceded her in death. Funeral services were conducted in the Bethel church by Rev. S. G. Eberly, assisted by Rev. P. H. Buesher. Burial was made in the Prairie Dell cemetery.

2nd Notice Mrs. Daniel Geerds, 88, passed away Monday afternoon at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Joe Buss, in Shannon. She was born Nov. 13. 1851, in Germany, the daughter of Henry and Assel Wiltfong. She accompanied her parents to the United States when she was ten years old and on March 2, 1870, was married to Daniel Geerds at Freeport .Her husband preceded her in death Oct. 12, 1907 Following her marriage Mrs. Geerds lived several years in Iowa later moving to a farm three miles northeast of Shannon. She had resided in Shannon since 1892. Survivors are four daughters, Mrs. Buss, Mrs. Jenny Brown of Freeport, Mrs. John Honken, Vankuist, IA, and Mrs. Dick Meyers, Titonka IA., 19 grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren . Funeral services will be held Thursday at 1:30 p. M. at the Buss home and at 2 p. P.M.. at the Evangelical church. Rev. S. G. Eberly will officiate and burial will be in Prairie Dell cemetery northeast of Shannon.
Contributed by Judi Wirtjes

JANE MARY (CAMPBELL) WOODIN GEISZ , age 50, of Ochelata, Oklahoma and formerly of Milledgeville, died Wednesday, March 12, 2003 at her home. Jane was born November 7, 1952 in North Dakota the daughter of James and Ruth Campbell. Jane is survived by her husband, Richard Geisz of Catoose, Oklahoma; three children, Wesley Woodin of Milledgeville, Cheyenne (Matt) Andrews of Rainstein AFB in Germany, Travis Woodin of Tulsa, Oklahoma; three grandsons, Adam and Richard Andrews and Allen Woodin; two stepchildren, Steve Geisz; one brother, David Campbell of Rockford; an aunt in Canada, and many cousins. Her parents and her first husband Allen Woodin in March of 1982 precede Jane in death. A graveside service was held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 25, 2004 at South Elkhorn Cemetery near Milledgeville, Reverend Thomas Kingery officiated.
Prairie Advocate 23 June 2004

ORLOU G. (KEARNAGHAN) GELWICKS , 86, of Freeport died Tuesday, January 5, 1999 at Freeport Memorial Hospital. The daughter of Charles Henry and Mary Jane (Wright) Kearnaghan, she was born September 30, 1912 at Mount Carroll. On July 31, 1937 she and John R. Gelwicks were married at Mount Carroll. After attending rural grade school and Mount Carroll High School, she graduated from Northern Illinois University. She was a schoolteacher for four years in rural schools and then was a substitute teacher in Freeport grade schools. The Freeport Park District Board and Illinois Association of Parks presented her with the Community Service Award. Her memberships included Embury United Methodist Church, YWCA and Stephenson County Home Extension. Surviving are her husband; one son, Thomas (Carol) Gelwicks of Normal; three grandchildren, Janet (Michael) Nelson of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, Gregory (Laura) Gelwicks of Columbia, Missouri, and Kevin Gelwicks of Laramie, Wyoming; and three great-grandchildren, James and Mark Gelwicks, and William Michael Nelson. Preceding her in death were her parents; one son, William W. Gelwicks in 1970, and one sister, Ruth Worrell. The funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at Burke Tubbs Funeral Home with the Rev. Stephen Aram of Embury United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Mount Carroll. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. A memorial fund has been established for Bill Gelwicks Nature Center at Oakdale Nature Preserve on Baileyville Road, Freeport.

RUTH AMELIA (CARROLL) GELWICKS , 91, of Mount Carroll, died Saturday at Freeport (Ill.) Health Network Memorial Hospital. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home in Mount Carroll. Interment will be in the Oak Hill Cemetery, Mount Carroll. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. She was born Dec. 25 1912, to Rush W. and Anna Smith Carroll in York Township. She married Robert L. Gelwicks on Oct. 28, 1933, at the First Baptist Church parsonage in Mount Carroll. He died in 1990. She graduated from Thomson (Ill.) High School in 1931. She was a member of the First Baptist Church and Freedom Homemakers Club. She also taught Sunday school for many years. Survivors include a son, Leo (Lois) Gelwicks of Mount Carroll; one daughter, Mrs. Doris (Duane) Kruse of Lanark, Ill.; five grandchildren; four stepgrandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; seven stepgreat-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Elizabeth Carroll of Galena, Ill., and Dorothy Carroll of Savanna, Ill.; and many nieces and nephews.
Clinton Herald September 13, 2004

EVA MAE (FICKES) GIBBS , age 85, of Savanna formerly of Mt. Carroll, Illinois, passed away Friday, January 13, 2006 in Mercy Medical Center, Clinton, Iowa. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 17, 2006 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Savanna with Father Moises Apostol as Celebrant. Burial will take place in Oak Hill Cemetery, Mt. Carroll, Illinois. Visitation will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Monday, January 16, 2006 at the Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home, Mt. Carroll with a Scripture Wake Service held at 5:30 p.m.. There will also be a one-hour visitation held at Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna prior to the Funeral Mass on Tuesday. Memorials may be given in Eva Mae’s name for St. John the Baptist Catholic Church of Savanna; SS John & Catherine Church of Mt. Carroll or the First Evangelical Lutheran Church of Mt. Carroll. Eva Mae was born December 14, 1920 in Mt. Carroll the daughter of Oliver and Lillian (Eisenhower) Fickes. She graduated from Mt. Carroll High School, Class of 1938. Eva Mae married Melvin Finer on November 30, 1942, he died in 1981; she married Ray Fleckenstein in 1990, he passed away in 1992; she married George Gibbs in 1997, he died in 2000. Eva Mae worked in retail for several years at the Adam’s & Dabron Department Store in Mt. Carroll and then Dickinson’s in Mt. Carroll. She was the Mt. Carroll City Treasurer for sixteen years retiring in 1997. Eva Mae was the Secretary Treasurer for the Oak Hill Cemetery, Mt. Carroll. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church of Savanna. Eva Mae was very active in her churches, for eighteen years she was the Financial Secretary for the First Lutheran Church of Mt. Carroll and for five years she was the Financial Secretary for SS. John & Catherine Catholic Church of Mt. Carroll. Eva Mae will be deeply missed by her daughter, Reverend Suellen (Jeffrey) Myers of Williams Bay, Wisconsin; her son, Robert (Dena) Finer of Star, Idaho; and four grandsons, Robert Myers, Thomas Myers, Daniel Finer and Jonathan Finer; two step granddaughters, Chasity Tapp and Shawna Potter.

GEORGE STEPHEN GIBBS , 79, of Lake Carroll died Thursday February 17, 2000 at home. He was born April 5, 1920 in Clinton , Iowa to George S. and Lorraine (McNichol) Gibbs. In 1938 he graduated from Mount Carroll High School . He and Velma Cottral were married in 1944. She died in 1995. On July 20, 1996 he and Eva Mae Fickes were married. He entered the Navy in 1939 and fought in World War II, attaining the rank of chief petty officer, and retired in 1959. For 15 years he worked as a special weapons technician at Savanna Army Depot and in California . His memberships included Saints John and Catherine Catholic Church in Mount Carroll , Savanna, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and National Association of Retired Federal Employees. Surviving are his wife; one son, George S. (Judy) Gibbs III of Ventura , California ; one stepdaughter, the Rev. Suellen (Jeff) Myers of Williams Bay, Wisconsin; one stepson, Robert (Millison) Finer of Tumbling Shoals, Arkansas ; two granddaughters, Melissa and Jessica Gibbs; and four step-grandsons, Robert and Thomas Myers and Danny and Jon Finer. Preceding him in death were his parents and one daughter. Cremation rites will be accorded. The funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Saints John and Catherine Catholic Church with the Rev. Tim Seigel officiating.
Contributed by Alice Horner

ELLA (MILLER) PETERS GIDDINGS , of Lanark died Friday (Etta Horner Bowers notes January 27 but not a year; it would have been before 1974) in Freeport Memorial Hospital where she had been a patient three weeks. She was born Sept. 16, 1867 in rural Lanark, daughter of John E. and Elizabeth (Fox) Miller. She married Frank Peters in 1901 in Lanark. He died in 1934. She married Smith Giddings in 1946 and he died in 1947. Mrs. Giddings owned and operated a woman’s apparel shop for about 22 years in lanark, retiring about 10 years ago. She then did clothes alerations. Surviving are a son, Bertram Peters, Anaheim, Calif.; two grandchildren; two sisters, Clara Miller and Mrs. Emma Carter, both of Lanark. She was preceded in death by three brothers and seven sisters. Service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday in First Brethren Church with Rev. Paul Steiner, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Lanark Cemetery. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Today in Frank Funeral Home. A memorial is being established at First Brethren Church.
Contributed by Alice Horner

FRANCES GILLESPIE - A life-long local farmer, Francis Gillespie, died at 11:30 p.m. Sunday in a Freeport hospital where he had been a patient one week. (Note: The Social Security Death Index gives the date as August 1964.) He was born April 19, 1894 in Savanna, son of Charles and Carrie (Haven) Gillespie. He married Helen Fulrath Sept. 22, 1915 in Mount Carroll. Surviving are his widow; two sons, Lyle of Freeport and Richard of Dubuque, Iowa; and one daughter, Mrs. Ruth Robertson, Freeport. Service will be Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in Frank Funeral Home, where visitation may be made from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday. Burial will be in Chapel Hill Cemetery, Freeport. Rev. Darrold Coppernoll, pastor of Center Hill and Woodland United Brethren Churches, will officiate.
Contributed by Alice Horner

HELEN (ROSS) GILLOGLY , age 91, of Savanna, Illinois, died after a brief illness Saturday, November 27, 2004 at Mercy Hospital North, Clinton, Iowa. Cremation will take place. A private family graveside service will be held at the Savanna Township Cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 30 at the First Presbyterian Church of Savanna. Memorials may be given in Helen's name for the Church. Helen was born August 26, 1913 in Savanna, the daughter of Charles and Anna (Lauenburg) Ross. She married Omar Edward Gillogly June 18, 1933 in Galena, Illinois. Helen was a lifelong resident of Savanna. She worked many years as a secretary at the Savanna Ordinance Depot and Interstate Power Company. She was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church and the Savanna community. She was an avid Bridge player, loved to travel, and went with her sons to Europe. Helen lived for her family She will be deeply missed by her two sons, Robert Ross (Barbara) Gillogly of Louisville, Kentucky and Richard Lee (Carol) of Brownsville, Vermont; four grandchildren, Karen (Steven) Blaiklock, Kristen (Thomas) Grayson, Ryan (Stephanie) Gillogly and Megan (Tony) Gonzalez; and six great grandchildren, Ian, Alison, Benjamin, Michael, Trey and Tyler. Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Omar; a sister, Ruth Ross Zigler; and two brothers, Webster and John Ross.

MILDRED B. GILLETTE , age 97, of Rockford, Illinois, died at 3:05 p.m. on Monday, May 26, 2003 at Provenna St. Anne's Center, Rockford. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 30, 2003 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Savanna, Illinois with Reverend Dr. Douglas Hall of the First Presbyterian Church of Savanna officiating. Cremation will take place and inurnment will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 3 at the Savanna Township Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 10 - 11:00 a.m. at the Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to the Rockford Rescue Mission, 715 W. State St., Rockford, IL 61102. Mildred was born November 14, 1905 in Savanna, Illinois, the daughter of Charles E. and Pearl (Pulford) Gillette. She was a 1923 graduate of the Savanna High School and a 1927 graduate of the University of Washington School of Pharmacy. Mildred worked as a Pharmacist in several hospitals retiring from Rockford Memorial Hospital after 30 years of service. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Rockford. Survivors include two nephews, Dennis B. (Jean) O'Leary of Rockford and Timothy (Patricia) O'Leary of Hawthorne Woods, Illinois; three nieces, Mary Ann (James) Falancer and Kathleen (Michael) Seiple of Savanna, Illinois and Carol O'Leary of Medford, Wisconsin; 15 grand nieces and grand nephews, including Dennis P. O'Leary of Rockford; and 9 great-grand nieces and grand nephews. A special thanks to her caregivers and dear friends, Alice, Amanda, Bev, Fran, Ruth and Helen.
Prairie Advocate June 4, 2003

JAMES GLENN was born in Fulton county, Pennsylvania, March 24, 1870 and died Monday September 18, 1905 at the age of 35 years, 5 months and 24 days. He moved to Coleta in 1894. On November 21, 1900 be was united in marriage to Miss Amelia Behrens. The funeral was held Wednesday afternoon at two o'c1ock at the Coleta Liberal U. B. church. There was a large number of relatives and friends present to pay their fast tributes of respect to the remains of him who had been so highly respected and so well loved by all. Rev. E. Plumley of Van Orin was the officiating pastor and he was assisted in the service by Rev. C. W. Marlow, pastor of the Coleta Christian church. Appropriate songs were sung by members of the church choir. A great many beautiful floral tributes were given, among them being a piece with the initials, given by the M.W. A. Camp to which the deceased belonged. He was also a mbmer of the United Brethren church of Coleta.
Besides bis wife and three children he leaves to mourn his death; three brothers and three sister; George and Harvey Glenn of Lanark, David Glenn of Coleta, Miss Jennie Furry of Chadwick, Mrs. Anna Hart of near MilledgeviIle and Mrs. Florence Isenhart of Ooleta and his parents Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Glenn of Milledgeville. After the church services tbe funeral cortege moved to the Bethel cemetery near Milledge­ville where the burial took place. The pall bearers were: J. L. Deets, D W. Deets, C.H. Deets, Colonel Bushman, Miles Wallace and John Snavely;

BERNETA (ADAMS) GOLDTHORPE , 94, of Mount Carroll, formerly of Milledgeville, died Wednesday. April 9, 2003, at Good Samaritan Nursing Home, Mount Carroll. She taught junior high school in Savanna, Mount Carroll and Milledgeville for 23 years. She and her husband owned and operated Goldthorpe's Store, Milledgeville, for many years. Mrs. Goldthorpe was born June 6, 1908, in Carroll County, the daughter of Charles and Lottie (James) Adams. She was a 1926 graduate of Mount Carroll High School and a 1928 graduate of Francis Shimer College. Mount Carroll. She married Ralph Koper Goldthorpe on June 15, 1933, in Mount Carroll. He died Nov. 9, 1973. She was a member of Milledgeville United Methodist Church, Illinois Retired Teachers Association, Carroll County Retired Teachers Association, Milledgeville Women's Club and Order of the Eastern Star. She enjoyed camping and traveling Survivors include two daughters, Judith (Daniel) Oberholtzer of Chestertown Md., and Jane (Leonard) Dixon of Mount Carroll; a son, James (Patricia) Goldthorpe of Galena; five grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; a sister-in law, Martha Adams of Dubuque, Iowa; an aunt; 11 great-grandchildren; four step-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a sister, Charlotte Mullen; and three brothers, Forrest, Harold and Samuel Adams. Memorial service is at 9:30 a.m. Friday at Milledgeville United Methodist Church. Burial is at Bethel Cemetery, Milledgeville. Arrangements were completed by Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home, Mount Carroll.
Daily Gazette 16 Jun 2003

JUDY (LICHTY) GOODIN , age 64, of Anderson Island, WA, lost her battle with cancer on October 17, 2004. Judy was born on May 10, 1940, daughter of the late Robert and Luella Lichty of Lanark. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Bill Goodin; sons, Dale (Pam) Goodin of Anderson Island, WA, David (Denise) Goodin of Enumclaw, WA; daughter Dyann (Kelly) Klaus of Cushing, OK; brothers, Karl (Laurens) Lichty of Arroyo Grande, CA, John (Mary) Lichty of Visalia, CA; ten grandchildren, Sarah, Samuel, Jennifer and Jessica Goodin, Tara, Molly and Levi Goodin, Kyle, Kayla and Kacy Klaus; and several friends and relatives. Services were held at 1 p.m., Sunday, October 24, at the Anderson Island Community Church, Anderson Island, WA. Judy was a devoted and caring mother and grandmother. She and her husband, Bill traveled and enjoyed life to the fullest as best friends. Her memories will be in our hearts forever and she will be truly missed

MARGARET AUSTA (DEETS) GRAEHLING , 84, of Milledgeville, died Sunday, November 29, 1998 at CHG Medical Center in sterling following a brief illness. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 1, 1998 at the Milledgeville Brethren Church with the Reverend Eric Bargerhuff officiating. Visitation was from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, November 30 at the church and on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the hour of service. Burial was at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling. Arrangements were corupleted by the McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls. Mrs. Graehling was born on January 9, 1914 in Milledgeville to Ward and LaRue (Donnelly) Deets. She graduated from Milledgeville High School and attended Cornell College. She married Richard Graehling on June 18, 1939 and they farmed together for 40 years. He died on November 15, 1994. She was a school teacher for 30 years, first in rural one-room school houses and later as a first grade teacher in the Milledgeville school system. She was an active member of the Milledgeville Brethreii Church and led and served or many other community organizations. She was an inspiration to her family, friends and acquaintances. She was full of life and energy to the end.
Survivors include a son, Jim (Sherry) Graehling and two granddaughters, Elizabeth and Katherine, all of Bloomington. Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband and ar infant brother.

CHARLES THOMAS GRAHAM , 60, of Savanna, died Saturday, Aug. 28, from injuries received in a two-vehicle accident. A graduate of Pekin High School, he served in the U.S. Air Force in Germany in the 1960s and later served in the Army Reserves at the Army Reserve Center in Freeport in the 1980s. He worked at the Savanna Army Depot for a few years and was currently a truck driver for Neumiller Farms near Savanna where he had been for more than 10 years. He was a member of the Mississippi Masonic Lodge #385 in Savanna and Scottish Kite in Freeport. He enjoyed traveling throughout the U.S. He was born May 27. 1939, in Pekin to Charles and Dorothy (Irby) Graham. Survivors include his mother, of Savanna; two aunts and three uncles He was preceded in death by his father and one brother. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday. Sept. 2. at the Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. Visitation will be at the funeral home. Burial will be in Savanna Township Cemetery with military rites accorded by the Savanna VFW

DOROTHY M. (IRBY) GRAHAM , 88, of Savanna, died Wednesday, June 7, in her home She was born Feb. 5, 1912, Huntington W.Va., a daughter Charles and Virgie Lee (Pickett Irby. She married Charles Graham, Dec. 5, 1936, in Eureka. He died ir. 1978. She and her husband worked as commercial fishermen in the Savanna area for many years. Survivors include two brothers. Oscar (Wilma) Irby of Pekin and Roscoe (Martha) Irby of Decatur two sisters, CharlOtt~ (Clarence Morse of Yucaipa, Calif., and Ruth Morris of Fullerton, Calif. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two sons, Tad and Charles; a brother, Leo; and three sisters, Mabel Schnitzle Geneva Hayward and Delorr Clayton A graveside funeral service will be held Saturday June 10 at the Savanna Township Cemetery with the Rev. Bill Landis of the First United Methodist Church officiating.

FLORENCE A. (MANNING) GRAHAM , 94, of Savanna, died Sunday, Feb. 27 at Big Meadows Nursing Home in Savanna. She graduated from Savanna High School with the Class of 1925. She owned and operated Graham's Cafe in Savanna for 25 years, retiring in 1971. She previously worked as a cashier at the E.G. Shinner Meat Market in Savanna. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and a former member of the Savanna Police Pension Board. She enjoyed cooking and especially enjoyed caring for people. She was born Jan. 21, 1906 in York Township to John and Mary (Cunningham) Manning. She married Elden "Shorty" Graham Sept. 7, 1941, in Savanna. He died March 12, 1976. Survivors include a sister-in-law, Mary Manning of Maquoketa, Iowa; two nephews, Ron (JoAnn) Robertson of Honolulu, Hawaii, and Jon Manning of Dubuque Iowa; two nieces, Mary Jo (Robert) Reade of Geneseo and Nancy (Randy) Bakker of Ottumwa, Iowa; 15 grandnieces and grandnephews. A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday Marcy 1 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Savanna with Father Tim Seigel as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. John's Catholic Cemetery in Savanna.

MINNIE GRAYLESS - Funeral services for Mrs. Minnie Grayless, 57, Savanna native, who died in Elgin in Tuesday, were conducted at 11 o’clock Thursday morning in the Latter Day Saints church in Chestnut Park, with the Rev. Howard Grayless officiating. Casket attendants included Harold Stakemiller and Howard Grayless of Savanna and A. W. Purvis of Milwaukee, Wis. Burial was in the Savanna cemetery. Among those from out-of-town at the last rites were W. A. McWilliams, Mrs. G. S. Purvis, Paul Grayless, and Mrs. Jenny Kartheiser, all of Chicago, and Herman Lartz and A. W. Purvis of Milwaukee, Wis. Mrs. Grayless was born in Savanna on Nov. 18, 1879 and died in Elgin on Sept. 7, 1937, at the age of 57 years, nine months,, and 19 days. She was married to Norton Grayless of Savanna in 1899. He preceded her in death. Mrs. Grayless had resided in Elgin for the past 15 years. She leaves one son, Paul Grayless of Chicago, three brothers, and two sisters. One son, James, died in 1926.
Contributed by Jim Klingler

DEBRA ANN (KANE) GREEN , age 48, of rural Elizabeth, died Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at Galena Stauss Memorial Hospital, Galena. Funeral Services were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 21, at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Derinda Center rural Elizabeth, Reverend Kurt Hansen officiated. Burial was in the Trinity Lutheran Church Cemetery, Derinda Center rural Elizabeth. Visitations were from 5 to 9 p.m. Sunday, June 20, at the Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. A memorial fund has been established in Debra's name. Debra was born May 18, 1956 to LeVere "Bud" and Lois (Kosier) Kane in Savanna. She was a graduate of the Elizabeth High School, class of 1974. Debra married Lyle Green, Jr. on May 23, 1975 in Trinity Lutheran Church, Derinda, where she was baptized and confirmed as a child. Debra worked at Invensys/Eaton Corporation in Hanover, for twenty-nine years. She had also worked with her parents years ago at the Handel's Steak House, rural Savanna. Debra enjoyed gardening, decorating, shopping, and traveling with family. She cherished her dog Shiloh, and always loved celebrating the holidays with family and friends. Debra is survived by her husband Lyle of rural Elizabeth; her daughter, Heather (Duane) Brotherton of Hanover and a grandchild to be born in January 2005 of Hanover; two brothers, Marlo Glen (Mary Lou) Kane of rural Elizabeth and Terry LeVere Kane of Savanna; a step-mother Geraldine Holcomb of rural Elizabeth; two step-brothers, Dan (Carmen) Holcomb of Oklahoma and Jeff Holcomb of Elizabeth; one step-sister Roxanne Holcomb of Colorado; and several Aunts and Uncles. Debra is preceded in death by a Her son, Brian; a sister, Sheryl; a nephew, Mark; both parents and all of her grandparents precede Debra in death.
Prairie Advocate 23 June 2004

MAHALA GREEN died in Mt. Carroll last Friday after a long and painful illness. She lived in Pleasant Valley, Jo Daviess county, 53 years. Funeral was held (missing end of obit)
Contributed by Karen Fyock - Undated Scrapbook Clipping

PAUL J. (Jim) GREEN , 73, of Thomson, died Wednesday at Mercy North Hospital, Clinton. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Morrison, Ill., preceded by a 10:15 a.m. family prayer service at the church. The Rev. Mike Winkelman, pastor of St. Peter's Lutheran Church, will be officiating. Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Lower York Cemetery, Thomson. He was born Aug. 3, 1930, in Ustick Township, Ill., to Freeman J.L. and Anna Irene Tucker Green. He married Doris J. Cordes on Feb. 7, 1953, in Morrison. He was educated in Carroll and Whiteside County grade schools. He was a 1948 graduate of Morrison High School. Following high school, he was employed with Workman's Trucking and the Farmer's Elevator, both in Morrison. He also was engaged in farming near Thomson since 1953. He served on the Thomson School Board and as a trustee on the York Township Board. He was a member of the Thursday Night Bowling League at Hilltop Lanes in Morrison. He was a member of the National and Carroll County Livestock Feeders Association and was named "Conservation Farmer of the Year" in 1975. He was a member of the Illinois Corn Grower's Association, the Illinois Soybean Association and Illinois Farm Bureau Association. Survivors include his wife; one daughter, Paula Green of Freeport, Ill.; two sons, Kevin (Karla) Green of Thomson and Marvin (Cathy) Green of Mount Carroll, Ill.; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and one brother, William (Grace) Green of Morrison. He was preceded in death by one grandson.
Clinton Herald 02 January 2004

MARIE (CALKINS) GREENAWALT , 2572 Stephenson Circle, Freeport, died Tuesday morning at Freeport Manor Nursing Home. (Note: The Social Security Death Index gives the date as July 1982.) She was a member of the Lanark chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. She was born Feb. 1, 1904 in Minneapolis, Minn., daughter of Dr. A. A. and Mrs. Clara (Smith) Calkins. She married Ward L. Greenawalt of Lanark. He died in 1978. Surviving are one sister, Mrs. Lucille (Harold) Holmes of Chadwick. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and one daughter. Graveside service will be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at Lanark Cemetery. The Rev. David Cooksey, pastor of Lanark First Brethren Church, will officiate. There will be no visitation. Frank Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Contributed by Alice Horner

HOWARD F. GRIFFITH , age 90, of Shannon died Saturday, June 21, 2003 at Provena St. Joseph's Center in Freeport, IL. He was born February 18, 1913 in Shannon, son of Horace and Mary (Merboth) Griffith. He married Berniece Spengler on February 3, 1940 in Shannon. He was a 1930 Graduate of Shannon High School, a Veteran who served in the US Army during WWII and served in the Battle of the Bulge as a radio operator as a tank destroyer in the 30th infantry Division. He did Plumbing & Heating in Shannon for many years, served his apprenticeship and worked at Shore Hardware Store in Shannon almost 60 years before he became self-employed. His memberships include St. Wendelin's Catholic Church & men's club, Volunteer Fireman and served as Fire Chief for several years. He was a charter member of the American Legion Boyle & Hoy post #379, Charter member of the Shannon Lions Club, He served on the Shannon School Board for 24, yrs, and he was on the original member of the Lake Carroll Golf Club. He was an avid sports fan, and enjoyed watching sports on T.V. He is survived by his wife Berniece; two daughters, Mary Kay (Walter) Dashkewich of East Strausburg, and Terri (Paul) Lindstrom of Leaf River, IL; five grandchildren, Mary Clark, Patty Lindstrom, Paul D. Lindstrom, Darin Dashkewich, and Ryan Dashkewich; six great -grandchildren, Chelsea Clark, Paul Garrit Lindstrom, Jermey Lindstrom, Brent Lindstrom, Dominick Gravestein, and Marrissa Gravestein. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Louise Fox, and Helen Groen, five brothers, Hugh, Henry Homer, Lloyd, and Larry Griffith, and one great granddaughter, Brianna Kelsey Lindstrom. Services are to be held Wednesday, June 25, 2003 at St. Wendelin's Catholic Church at 10:30 a.m. visitation will be held Tuesday, June 24, 2003 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Hermann Funeral Home in Shannon with a 7:00 p.m. Scripture Service. Burial will be at St. Wendelin's Cemetery in Shannon, with Military Honors. A memorial has been established.
Prairie Advocate 25 Jun 2003

T. BERNIECE GRIFFITH , 93, of Shannon died Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008, at FHN Memorial Hospital in Freeport. She was born March 16, 1914, in Shannon, the daughter of Frank and Kathryn (Thometz) Spengler. Berniece married Howard Griffith on Feb. 3, 1940, in Shannon. He died June 21, 2004. She was a 1932 graduate of Shannon High School and 1935 graduate of St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing. A registered surgical nurse, she worked in surgery for many years. Berniece co-chaired the Red Cross Blood Mobile for 30 years, was a charter member of Carroll County Health Center Council of Aging, helped establish Shannon/ Lanark Food Pantry, was a hospice volunteer, and taught Red Cross Home Nursing Classes. She also was a board member for Carroll County Thrift Shop (Help Center), was an election judge for 41 years, and was the oldest member of the St. Wendelin Ladies Society. She and her husband were Grand Marshalls of Shannon Labor Day parade in 1994. In addition, she was a member of American Legion Auxiliary, and was past secretary for St. Wendelin Catholic Church for 20 years. She also enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid quilter. Berniece is survived by her two daughters, Teresa "Terri" (Paul) Lindstrom of Leaf River and Mary Kay (Walter) Dashkewich of Marshalls Creek, Pa.; five grandchildren, Mary Lynn Clark, Patricia Ann Lindstrom, Paul Douglas Lindstrom, Darin (Stella) Griffith-Dashkewich and Ryan Andrew Dashkewich; seven great-grandchildren, Chelsea Clark, Garrit Lindstrom, Jeremey Lindstrom, Brent Lindstrom, Dominique Dashkewich, Marrissa Knockel and Dominick Knockel; and her special family, Karen and Keith Knockel. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brothers, Stephen and Frank Spangler; and granddaughter, Brianna Kelsey Lindstrom. Arrangements are being handled by Hermann Funeral Home, 37 E. Market, Shannon, where the family will receive friends from 4 to 8 p.m. today. A Scripture service will be conducted at 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Wendelin Catholic Church with the Rev. Michael Bolger officiating. Interment will be at St. Wendelin Catholic Cemetery in Shannon.

WAYNE H. GRIFFITH , the venerable father of former Mayor W. H. Griffith, passed away suddenly at the home of the latter on Fourth Street. In the passing from early scenes of Mr. Griffith one of the oldest residents of the city goes from among us. had he lived until March he would have been ninety-six years of age. In spite of this fact he was remarkably active and keen and showed that he ame to that rugged stock which characterized the men of the past. Only within the past few weeks had he shown any signs of feebleness and had occasional sinking spells, but nevertheless he was up and about the house and performed sundry little tasks about the house which was his want to do and in which he took keen pleasure. The evening preceding his death he conversed with his son and smoked his pipe before retiring and apparently was feeling well. Sunday mroning when Mr. Griffith went to his room to awaken him he found him peacefully sleeping - the sleep that knows no awakening. Life had gone out like the fluttering flame of a candle - there being no sign of a struggle - his appearance being that of a peaceful repose. W. H. Griffith son of Mr. and Mrs. David Griffith was born in Wales, March 7, 1819, and in his native land was a hardware merchant. He was married to Caroline Harper in 1844. To this union four sons and a daughter were born as follows: William H; of this city, George A. Chicago; David A (Deceased), ALice, wife of Henry Griffith of Vancouver and Henry H. of Chicago. In 1855 the family came to America and landed in New York and then went to Theabold, Ont., where the wife and mother passed away a year later. Mr. Griffith then resided with his brother on a farm and sixteen years ago came to Savanna where he has since resided with his son and where he was well cared for. During his residence here Mr. Griffith became quite well known. Kindness was one of the traits of his life and no more so was this apparent than when he was among children. It was no infrequent sight to see "Grandpa" sitting with the children of the neighborhood, singing to them the quaint songs of his native land. His life covered a long span and he enjoyed the blessing which came to him and at the end he peacefully laid all aside and entered into the eternal life. Besides his sons and daughter he is survived by a brother and sister. The funeral will be held tomorrow (Tuesday) morning at ten o'clock at St. Paul's Chuch, he being a member of the Episcopal denomination. Interment will be made in the family lot in the city cemetery. Rev. J. T. Bovill will conduct the service.
Savanna Daily Journal January 15, 1915

GRANT GRIMM 72, of Mount Carroll, died Tuesday at Sterling Community General Hospital of an apparent heart attack. (The Social Security Death Index gives the date of death as November 1983.) For many years he was a partner in a dairy operation in Mount Carroll. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Mount Carroll. Born Jan. 8, 1911 in Wacker, he was the son of Ferdinand and Alma (Moak) Grimm. Surviving are one daughter; Mrs. June (John) Bimm of Savanna; one brother, Edward of Mount Carroll; two sisters, Mrs. Evelyn (Richard) Schaut of Mount Carroll and Lillian Mace of Savanna; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Service will be 1 p.m. Friday at Frank Funeral Home, Mount Carroll, with the Rev. Randy Brown officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Mount Carroll. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Contributed by Alice Horner

JOHN H. GRIMM , formerly of Coleta and well known to many in this section died very unexpectedly in Los Angeles, Cal., last Friday. He was in good health but a few days prior and intended starting about April 6th, to his old Mt. Carroll home. He was 70 years old and had been a minister of the gospel for nearly 50 years.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - dated April 1, 1904

CHARLES W. GROHARING , 63, life-long resident of this vicinity, died suddenly in his home at 5:30 p. m. Friday, following a short illness. Mr. Groharing had suffered a heart attack last Saturday, but seemed to be improving until Monday, when he was confined to his bed. Charles W. Groharing was the eldest son of William and Lucinda Welch Groharing and was born Nov. 28, 1878. He grew to manhood on his father’s farm and received his education in the country schools. Jan. 18, 1900, he married Miss Myrta Cobb, daughter of Mr. And Mrs. Samuel Cobb of Ustick, Whiteside county, and 14 children were born to the couple, all of whom, with the mother, survive. After their marriage they engaged in farming until about 1917, when they moved to Thomson and Groharing became an employee of the Northwestern Illinois Utilities Co. of Savanna. For several years he has been manager of their office in Thomson and lineman for the company through its territory. The sruviving children are Mrs. Vernice Scudders of Dixon; Mrs. Arthur Hoffman of Chadwick; Mrs. Elmer Mosher, Clyde and Glenn Groharing of Morrison; Mrs. Leroy Foltz of Argo Fa; Paul of Chestnut Park; Fay of Camp Forrest, Tenn.; and Mrs. Floyd Tobey, Mrs. Virgil Wilt, Bessie, Lois, Fred and June of Thomson. Also surviving are a sister, Mrs. A. W. Pape of Thomson and a brother, Louis Groharing of Prophetstown and 25 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Earl, Howard and Fred Groharing.

Funeral services were heald at 2 p.m. at the home and at 2:30 p.m. Sunday in the Methodist church. The Rev. Clarence Plock of Warren, Ill., officiated. Mrs. Garrett Sterenberg and Mrs. N. D. French sang, “Jesus Ever Nigh” and “Going Down the Valley One by One”, accompanied by Mrs. Emil Brach, pianist. Pallbearers were employees of the Utilities Company, of which Mr. Groharing had been local manager for over 20 years. They were Ivan Shaver, John Hinrichsen, Geo. Hansen, Savanna, Owen Miles of Mt. Carroll and Joe Shutters and Wayne….of Thomson. Mrs. J. J. Carroll was in charge of flowers and was assisted by Mrs. Pearl Gilson, Mrs. Iva Orcutt, Miss Hazel Sack, Mrs. Paul Heusinkveld and Miss Arlene St. Ores. Burial was in the Lower York cemetery. Among out-of-town relatives and friends who attended were Mr. and Mrs. Vernice Scudder and family of Dixon; Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Groharing, and son, Richard, Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Groharing, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Cobb, Mr. and Mrs. Dana Cobb, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Nice, Mr. and Mrs. Warren Nice, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Green, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Green, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Green, Mr. and Mrs. Ray James and Mrs. And Mrs. Jacob Workman of Morrison; Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Cobb and children, Clayton and Corliss and Mr. and Mrs. Alex McCullagh of Ustick, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Allen, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Longnecker, Mr. and Mrs. R. G. McCulloh and daughters, Barbara and Charlotte, Mr. and Mrs. Leo Snavely and children, Mary and Donald of Sterling, Mr. and Mrs. Grant Pollard of Davenport; Mrs. Jessie Groharing, Mrs. Abe Smith, Mr. and Mrs. John Cross and daughter, Darlene, Mr. and Mrs. John Hinrichsen, Adam Heinze, Claude Murphy, Waldo Frasure, and Mr. and Mrs. Michael Wiseman of Savanna; Mrs. Hubert Williams and son, Burton, of Stockton; Mr. and Mrs. Louis Groharing, Lois and Louis Groharing and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Blair of Phophetstown; Charles Welch, Mrs. Bess Johnson, Glen Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Seidenburg and son, Harold, and Mr. and Mrs. William Freeman of Mt. Carroll; Mr. and Mrs. Don Pilgrim of Lyndon; Mr. and Mrs. William Strauch and son, Gene, of Lanark; Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Cobb and Eleanor and Raymond Cobb of Rock Falls, Mr. and Mrs. Guy Turney of Wacker; Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Tucker of Clinton; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Adolph and family, Kenneth C. Whitney and Mr. and Mrs. Neal Maring of Chadwick and Franklin J. Stransky of Chicago. Mr. Groharing’s death is a sore blow to his wide circle of friends throughout Carroll county, for he could ever be counted upon to lend a strong and friendly hand to any community task or to anyone in need of assistance. No night was too dark or day too stormy for Charlie to go out “troubleshooting” on the line---or wherever else he might be asked to aid. Ever since Thomson’s Melon Day program was started, Charlie had taken an active part in making the celebration a success, and there were few other community events of any kind in this vicinity in which he was not called upon-and cheerfully responded-for assistance in putting over. Not in dollars and cents can his position in the community be appraised-rather we must weight in the balance his success in winning the sincere friendship of everyone with whom he came in contact, his fine work in rearing and educating a large family of children who all are industrious and respected members of the communities in which they reside, and his unfailing response to the call of duty---and to many tasks far beyond the bounds of duty.
Contributed by Bob Mosher

ED GROHARING , 83, resident of Thomson for nearly all his lifetime, passed away Wednesday evening at 9 o'clock at Jane Lamb Memorial hospital in Clinton, Ia., where he had been a patient for the past two weeks following a fall in which he received a broken hip. The immediate cause of his death was cerebral hemorrhage a few hours before he passed away. Funeral services will be held Saturday with a prayer service at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Frank Potter, at 1:30 o'clock followed by a service at the Community church at 2:00 o'clock. The Rev. Walter E. Schiel will officiate at both services. J. M. Fay & Sons of Fulton will be in charge of the burial rites.

Obituary - Ed Groharing was born in 1856 in New York and came to Illinois when a boy of six years old, coming with a group of children from an orphanage in New York City. He lived for a time in Amboy and also in Iowa but came to Thomson when he was about 15 years old as his brothers, Richard and Will, were here. He also had two sisters who came to Illinois as children, Amy who married Louis Hollinger and Mary, who married Henry Schildmiller. Mr. Groharing was the last survivor of this group of five. In 1878 he married Cora Miner of Thomson,. They were the parents of five children, four of whom survive: Arthur of Los Arthur, Calif.; Mrs. John Miller (Lillian) of Clinton, Mrs. Frank Potter (Lizzie) of Thomson, and Mrs. Ray Machael (Inez) of Clinton. A son, Will, was drowned about 30 years ago. Also surviving are 13 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. On March 13, 1903 he married Mrs. Ellen Rice Allen and they made their home in Thomson until her death several years ago. For the past 11 years he made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Frank Potter and her husband, who cared for him lovingly and faithfully during his declining years.
Contributed by Bob Mosher

PHOEBIA ELLEN (RICE) GROHARING : Relief came to the pain wrecked body of Mrs. Ed Groharing on Tuesday morning, when the "silent messenger" called her hence, ending a long and useful career, the last few weeks which were spent in torture, as death was known to be approaching, but there was nothing that could be done to stay the same, except to administer to her in such a way as to ease the pain. Mrs. Groharing was well liked in our community. Her's was a home life. She took part in some social and church affairs, but, preferred to live more within home and the family circle. During her illness, her daughters have been in constant attendance at her bedside, doing all that loving hands possibly could, to ease her pain and assist her on life's last journey.

Obituary -- Phoebia Ellen Rice, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alonzo Rice, was born Sept. 16, 1854, at St. Denise, Canada, and came with her parents to this vicinity the following year. Settling at first near the bluffs southeast of Thomson, they later moved to the village, where, with the exception of a few years, she spent here life, and where she passed away, on February 26, 1929, aged 74 years, 5 months, and 10 days. On July 4, 1871, she was married to William Silas Allen, who with two children, a son, and a daughter, preceded her in death. Left with a family of little ones, she bravely assumed the burden of their support, and how well she succeeded is attested by the loving care they gave here during her months of suffering. On March 13, 1903, she was united in marriage to Edward Groharing who survives her. Left to mourn her departure are five daughters, Carrie (Mrs. F. M. Cleghorn) of Spokane, Wash.; Mrs. Myrtle Roggendorf, Clinton, Iowa; Mrs. Meda Wicks, East Clinton, Illinois; Edith (Mrs. A. E. Mitchell), Morrison, Illinois; and Jessie (Mrs. John Lambert) of Sabula, Iowa. There are also two sisters, Mrs. Delia Goddard of Thomson and Mrs. Amelia Bouvia, Maywood, Illinois; one brother, Abel Rice, of Clinton; twenty-one grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, besides a large number of other relatives and many friends. She was a member of the Christian Church of Thomson and found consolation and hope in its teachings. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the Christian Church, conducted by here pastor, the Rev. E. P. Schaich. Miss Sylvalena Holhous played "In the Garden," and "Sometime We'll Understand" which were nicely rendered by Mrs. Besa French and Louise St. Ores. The pall bearers were: Hiram Green, Henry Lohmier, Allen Wilmer, James St. Ores, Harry Gaar and Lawrence Gaar. Interment was made in the Dunshee cemetery.
Contributed by Bob Mosher

RUTH (SMITH) GROHARING , 86, of Davenport, formerly of Thomson, died Wednesday (June 2, 1993), in Mercy Hospital, Davenport. The funeral will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Law-Jones Funeral Home with the Rev. Boyd Ellefon of York Community Church officiating. Burial will be in Lower York Cemetery. Mrs. Groharing was born April 14, 1907 in Mt. Carroll to Oscar and Adelia Roberts Smith. She married Vernon Groharing, Jan. 22, 1927. He died Jan. 7, 1987. She was a homemaker and enjoyed crafts, crocheting and rug braiding. Survivors include a son, Herbert of Davenport; five grandchildren and 6 great grandchildre; a sister, Mrs. Suella Ehredt of Thomson. She was preceded by two sister.
Source: Sterling Library Obituary Collection

RACHEL BELINDA (CHEESEMAN) GROSS passed away at the Clara Miller home Saturday night. Her death was caused by the infirmities of old age, having passed the 92 year mark. The funeral services wereheld from the Speers funeral parlors Tuesday afternoon at 1:00 o'clock and were conducted by Rev. Theodore Potter, pastor of the Methodist church. Mrs. E.Y. Knapp sang several selections. Interment was made in the family lot in White Oak cemetery west of Forreston. Rachael Belinda Cheeseman was born at Chambers Grove, Lima township, Carroll county, February 14, 1845, the daughter of Alfred and Susan Cheeseman. She was united in marriage to Charles E. Gross, April 17, 1866, at Forreston and was the mother of six children. Her husband and four children preceded heer in death. They were, Joshua and Alfred, Mrs. Elsie Damman and Delia Mae Gross. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Ida Nelson of Lanark and Mrs. Minnie Cook of Denver, Colorado. There is also one brother, Samuel Cheesman residing in Canada. 10 Grandchildren and 21 great granchildren also survive. Mrs. Gross was a faithful member of the Methodist church and was an active member of the Sunday school and the Ladies Aid and was a faithful attendant as long asher health permitted.
Sterling Library Obituary Collection. Date on the copy was 11-24-37 but the 24th was on a Wednesday so not sure when the actual date of death was.

JOHN H. GRUHN , age 90, of Lanark, IL died Monday, June 16, 2003 at Freeport Memorial Hospital. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 19, 2003 at the Russell-Frank Funeral Home in Lanark, Rev. Arnold Owens of the First Brethren Church in Lanark officiated. Burial was in the Lanark Cemetery. Visitations were held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established in his memory. John was born June 6, 1913 in Sterling, Iowa son of August and Emma (Bruhn) Gruhn. John married Helen Lindstrom December 31, 1936 in Sterling, IL. She preceded him in death on September 17, 1991. During War II, he was employed in the shipyards in Vancouver, WA. He then farmed in the Lanark and Chadwick area until retiring. He was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Chadwick. He was a former member of the Pomona Grange. He was a member of the Carroll County Farm Bureau and the Savanna Moose Lodge. John's family includes three sons, Duane (Myrna) Gruhn of Lanark, Dick (Janet) Gruhn of Lanark, and Marvin (Dolores) Gruhn of Mesa, AZ; one daughter, Janice (Robert) Noble of Rockford; twelve grandchildren; thirty great grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Hazel Gruhn of Clinton, Iowa. John's wife, parents, two grandsons, two great granddaughters, four brothers and six sisters preceded him in death.
Prairie Advocate 17 Jun 2003

GRACE (BOYD) GSELL , of Pearl City, formerly of Mount Carroll, died Saturday afternoon (18 Apr 1970) in Freeport Memorial Hospital following a brief illness. She was a member of Pearl City United Methodist Church and the Royal Neighbors. Born in Cherry Grove Township, Carroll County, June 1, 1882, she was the daughter of David and Mary (Sword) Boyd. In March 1906 she was married to Nelson Gsell in Shannon. He died in 1959. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Roy (Virginia) Croffoot of Pearl City; a son, Ronald of Dallas, Tex.; six grandchildren; and a great grandchild. Funeral service will be at 3 p.m. Tuesday in Offenheiser Funeral Home. (Note: "Burial in Shannon Brethren Cemetery" was handwritten on this obituary.)
Contributed by Alice Horner

DOROTHY ARLENE (METZ) GUENTNER , 96, of Mount Carroll died Friday, January 4, 2002 at Big Meadows Nursing Home in Savanna. She was born March 5, 1905 in Freedom Township in Carroll County to Harvey and Della (Myers) Metz . On May 19, 1942 she and Floyd E. Guentner were married in McAlester , Oklahoma . After graduating from Shimer College in Mount Carroll , she attended Northern Illinois University and A&M College in Fort Collins , Colorado . Dorothy was a teacher in rural schools in Carroll and Stephenson Counties, was an antique dealer, and in her later years, was a real estate and insurance broker. Her memberships included Mount Carroll Methodist Church, Orphah Chapter 304 of the Order of the Eastern Star in Pearl City, Scottish Rite, Woman’s Club in Freeport, Carroll Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Mount Carroll, Carroll County Genealogical Society in Savanna, Fellowship of Brethren Genealogists in Elgin, Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Maryland Genealogical Society in Baltimore, Maryland, and the Horseless Carriage Club of America in Downey, California. Dorothy’s cousins survive her. Preceding her in death were her parents, and on April 7, 1973 her husband. (Transcriber’s Note: My auntVivian Luettig, who had saved this obituary, wrote in that Dorothy’s brother Kenneth Metz also preceded her in death.) The funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Offenheiser-Schwarz Funeral Home in Pearl City with the Rev. Rod Dye of Lanark United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens . Visitation hours are from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. A memorial fund has been established in her memory.
Contributed by Alice Horner

RUTH N. (SWITZER) GUENTNER , 76, of Lanark, died Thursday at Good Samaritan Home in Mount Carroll. She was a member of Church of the Brethren in Lanark. Born May 2, 1901 in Lanark, she was the daughter of Joel K. And Carrie (Boyd) Switzer. She married Arthur G. Guentner Feb. 24, 1921 in Lanark. Surviving are her husband; one daughter, Mrs. Charles (Jeannine) Carroll of Lanark; two grandchildren.
Contributed by Alice Horner

CLARABELL (ADAMS) GUENZLER , age 90, formerly of Mt. Carroll, died Thursday, June 2, 2005, at home in McAlester, Oklahoma. A Graveside Service was held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 6, 2005 at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Mt. Carroll. Pastor Robert Schubert of Center Hill Brethren Church, Mt. Carroll officiated. Clarabell was born November 30, 1914 in Clark County, South Dakota, the daughter of Elver and Anna (Allen) Adams. On August 12, 1935, Clarabell married Glen Guenzler in Rock Island. Glen passed away April 16, 2004 in Mt. Carroll. Clarabell worked in retail as a store clerk, Glen and Clara were partners in G&E Dry Cleaners in Mt. Carroll for twenty years, retiring in 1976. She also worked at J.C. Penney store in Freeport, Illinois for thirteen years as a Sales Clerk. Clarabell was a Past President of the Community Club in Mt. Carroll. She enjoyed crocheting and sewing. Clarabell will be deeply missed by her son, Richard (Cheryl) Guenzler of McAlester, Oklahoma; six grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and two sisters in-law, Delilah Adams and Myra Guenzler. Her husband; parents; two brothers; and one sister, precede Clarabell in death.

ERVIE L. GUENZLER , 81, of Mount Carroll died Wednesday, February 9, 2000 at Freeport Memorial Hospital . A 1937 graduate of Mount Carroll High School , he served in the U. S. Army during World War II as a tech sergeant. He worked at the Savanna Army Depot from 1937 to 1942. He and his wife, Almira, owned and operated G&E Cleaners in Mount Carroll from 1948 to 1992. He was a member of the Mount Carroll United Methodist Church , Ducks Unlimited and the Mount Carroll American Legion. He was a past member of the Mount Carroll Lions Club and had been a Republican precinct committeeman. An avid golfer, fisherman, and hunter, most important to him was his family. Born December 26, 1918 in Mount Carroll , he was the son of Edward and Ella (Saltow) Guenzler. He and Almira Reineck were married May 7, 1950 in Kiel , Wisconsin . Surviving are his wife; three daughters, Cheryl (James) Broderick of Gilman, Renae (Thomas) Brown of Dixon, and Connie (Robert) Sigrist of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin; three grandchildren; and one brother, Glen (Clarabell) Guenzler of Mount Carroll. Preceding him in death were his parents; one sister, Ada Merboth; and three brothers, George, Howard, and Harry. A memorial service was held Saturday, February 12, at Mount Carroll United Methodist Church with the Rev. Nancy Rethford officiating. A memorial fund has been established.
Contributed by Alice Horner

GLEN W. GUENZLER , 89, of Mount Carroll died Friday at his home. Graveside services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Mount Carroll. There will be no visitation. The Rev. David Vidler of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mount Carroll will officiate. Frank-Law-Jones Funeral Home in Mount Carroll is in charge of arrangements. He was born March 29, 1915, to Edward and Ella Soltow Guenzler in Woodland Township, Carroll County, Illinois. He married Clarabell Adams on Aug. 12, 1935, in Rock Island, Ill. He had worked in construction at the Palisades State Park and the Illinois Department of Transportation. He was a member and past president of the Mount Carroll Gun Club and a member of Ducks Unlimited. Survivors include his wife; one son. Richard (Cheryl) Guenzler of McAlester, Okla.; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two cousins; Charles Guenzler and Margie Mummert; and several nieces and nephews. Glen is preceded in death by his parents four brothers, and one sister.
Clinton Herald 17 April 2004

EARNEST HENRY GUMP , 85, of Lanark, a former insurance and real estate broker, died Sunday, March 24, 1991 at Good Samaritan Nursing Center, Mount Carroll. He attended Dyslin Valley School and Brown’s Business College at Freeport. He farmed for several years, then was an insurance and real estate broker for many years. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Lanark. Born May 23, 1905 near Lanark, he was the son of Henry and Marie (Beck) Gump. He married Pearl Krug on Dec. 25, 1936 at Massbach. Surviving are his wife of Lanark; one sister, Lula Ross of Mount Carroll; and nieces and nephews. One son, Jerry, died in infancy. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a. M. Tuesday at Russell-Frank Funeral Home, Lanark. The Rev. Clifford Baumann, interim pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, will officiate. Burial will be in Lanark Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Today at the funeral home. A memorial has been established for the church.
Contributed by Alice Horner

JAMES FRANKLIN GUNDER , was born in Lancaster Co. Penn. Apr. 30th , 1837 and died at his home in Milledgeville May 7, 1909 age 72 years and 7 days. At the age of nine he came to IL where he resided until his death. In 1858 (August 8 Whiteside Co) he was united in marriage to Miss Mercy Ann Lee. To this union were born eight sons, Marshall, Andrew, James, Birdie, Samuel, Harry, Frank, and Charles and six daughters, Pauline, Emma, Chloie, May, Nettie, and Mary. The mother died when the youngest child was thirteen, on Nov. 24, 1895. Mr. Gunder leaves to mourn his departure, Mrs. Emma (Daniel) Coy, and Mrs. Nettie Baker of Oregon, Ill., Mrs. C. W. Hurt, of Walworth, Wis. Mrs. May Finkle of Forreston, Ill. James F. of Green Island, Iowa., and Harry, Frank and Charles of Polo, Ill. Mr. Gunder has lived in Milledgeville for many years. He has been a hard working man all of his life, and although the doctor had forbidden his working, yet the day before he died, he worked nearly all day in his garden which he prized so highly. In fact he took as much interest and pains to make his little garden patch yield not only the most but the of increase as many other man would his work well. He held the office of street commissioner for a number of years and did a great deal of work for the village. He has been ailing for a number of years with a complication of diseases, dropsy, heart trouble, and consumption. During the last few months he has been very feeble and the end came without a struggle. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. L. P. Warrington in the Methodist church on Sunday afternoon. He was buried in the Bethel cemetery of which for a number of years he was sexton and when he dug many graves for others. The pall bearers were: James Olin, Chas. Miller, John Hawes, L. V. Tracey, C. H. Bushman and L. T. Olmsted.

MERCY ANN (LEE) GUNDER - At her home in this place, Sunday, Nov. 24 of paralysis, Mrs. James Gunder, age 56 years, 2 mos. and 8 days. Mercy Ann Lee was born in Cranesville, Erie Co., PA, Sept. 16, 1839 and wa smarried to James Gunder of Milledgeville, August 1, 1858. She was the mother of fourteen children, ten of whom are still living, five sons and five daughters. Besides the children she leaves two sisters, a brother and a husband to mourn her departure. The funeral service was held Tuesday in the M.E. church, Rev. F.L. Baldwin officiating. interment took place in the Bethel cemetery.