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Jo Daviess County

Obituaries

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SERRILDA SARAH (TOWNSEND) MANLEY , 86 years old, died this morning just before noon at the home of her granddaughter, Mrs. E.F. Hamlin, 411 East Sixth street. Mrs. Manley ws one of the pioneer residents of Nodaway county. She and Mr. Manley moved to a farm Northwest of Maryville sixty-four years ago where they lived for forty years before moving into Maryville in 1907. Mrs. Manley was born Dec. 10, 1844 in Jo Daviess county, Illinois, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H.S. Townsend. She was married to J. N. Manley on January 11, 1866 and it was in that year that they came to Nodaway county. Mrs. Manley was a member of the Christian church for over sixty years. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star. Mr. Manley died in February 1909. A son, Edwin T. Manley died in August 1912, and another son died in infancy. The late Sam Townsend of Maryville was a brother of Mrs. Manley. She is survived by a son, W.O. Manley who lives in LaBelle, Fla., ten grandchildren of whom two, Mrs Hamlin and Vern Manley, live in Maryville, three sisters, Mrs. Charles Hooker of Maryville, Mrs. Charles Campbell of Kansas City, and Mrs. Bert Osborne of Pueblo, Colo. Seven great grandchildren also survive. Funeral arrangements have not been completed.
Contributed by Tami Baumeister

MAUDE IRENE (BRUNER) MARTIN , was born 20 August 1873, to Matthias and Hannah Marina Elston Bruner. She married Robert Martin, born in England, son of Richard and Elizabeth Martin. They were married 29 May 1892. They moved to Galena in 1925, and lived at 216 Oak Street where they celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary. Mrs. Martin was a member of the ladies Aid Society, and a past Noble Grand of the Galena Rebekah Lodge No. 346; past President of District No. 5 of Rebekah Lodges, a member of Priscilla Mullins Chapter DAR; of E. D. Kittoe Ladies Circle No. 82 G. A. R., and a charter member of the Galena Women's Club. She passed away at 10 o' clock, Sunday night, March 28(?) 1954, having attained the age of 80 years, seven months, and eight days.
Excerpt of Obituary by Mrs. Robert Martin

VIVIENNE REGINA (DENEEN) MARTIN , age 98, of Elizabeth, Illinois passed away on Sunday, July 31, 2005 at home. A Funeral Mass will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, August 4, 2005 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Elizabeth, Illinois. A visitation will be held on Thursday August 4, 2005 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the Funeral Mass at the church. Interment will be in Roselawn Memorial Park in Madison, Wisconsin. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.lawjonesfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be given to St. Mary Catholic Church; Safe Haven Animal Care, Elizabeth, IL; and any hospice care facility in ViVienne’s memory. ViVienne was born August 26, 1906 in Riley, Wisconsin the daughter of John and May (Webber) Deneen. She attended school in Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin, graduating in 1924. She married Ruscal Martin on September 3, 1955 in Mount Carroll, Illinois. Ruscal passed away April 8, 1974. ViVienne was an avid reader and loved animals. But most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her loving family. Prior to her retirement, she worked for St. Francis Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin for 25 years. ViVienne will be dearly missed by her one son, Marc (Helen) Deneen of Riley, Wisconsin; two sisters, Doris Trader of Elizabeth and Eunice Kevern of Dewitt, Iowa; and her nieces and nephews. ViVienne is preceded in death by her husband; nine brothers and sisters; and numerous nieces and nephews.

NORMAN E. McKERNAN , 94, of Galena, died at 2:45 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, at the Galena-Stauss Senior Care Community. Services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at Miller & Steinke Funeral Home, Galena, with the Rev. Jim McCrea officiating. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena. Friends may call from 2 to 6 p.m. today at the funeral home. He was born on Aug. 22, 1913, in Lafayette County, Wis., son of Dan and Elinor McKernan. He was a graduate of the Galena High School, class of 1931. He married Evelyn Kuchemann on Nov. 6, 1971 in Galena. He was supervisor for Trans-World Airlines at their Overhaul base in Kansas City, until his retirement. His main goal in life was to take care of his family. Surviving are his wife, Evelyn (Kuchemann) McKernan; two children, Sandra Douglas, of Tupelo, Miss., and Richard (Pam) McKernan, of Shreveport, La.; six grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Lawrence "Sheek" McKernan; two sisters, Susan and Mary; and his first wife, Pearl VanNatta.

MARGARET (MILLER) McKINLEY , age 90, of Hanover, Illinois, died Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at the Elizabeth Nursing Home in Elizabeth, Illinois. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 25, 2006 at the Hanover United Methodist Church, Hanover, with Pastor Lynn Matthews officiating. Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery, Hanover. Friends may call from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 25, 2006 at the church. Memorials to the Hanover United Methodist Church, Hanover. Margaret was born on September 4, 1916 in Hillsdale, North Dakota, the daughter of Parke and Loretta (Ravenscraft) Miller. She graduated from Hanover High School and Married Joseph C. McKinley on September 8, 1934. Joe passed away on June 28, 2000. In 1962 Margaret went to work full time for Dr. Miller at the Dentist Office in Hanover. She was later employed by the Savanna Army Depot for 20 years before retiring. Margaret was a good and faithful servant to her Lord, she was a longtime member of Hanover United Methodist Church and served as the Church Organist for over 50 years, she was also active in several committees, including the United Methodist Women, Choir, Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Margaret enjoyed playing bridge, sewing, knitting, crocheting, needle point and crosswords. She was a wonderful cook who loved to entertain. Margaret will be dearly missed by one son, John (Nancy) McKinley of Hanover; two daughters, Carolyn (Alex) Paisley of Dixon, Illinois and Kathleen (Kenneth) Sommerville of Algonquin, Illinois; seven grandchildren, Randal (Katherine) Paisley of Nashville, Tennessee, Rick (Elizabeth) Paisley of Gurnee, Illinois, Ronald (Julie) Paisley of Oswego, Illinois, Rex (Erin) Paisley of Arlington Heights, Illinois, Tamara (Paul) Fuligni of Bremerton, Washington, Laura Sommerville of Columbus, Ohio, and Mark Sommerville of Rock Island, Illinois; twelve great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter; two sisters, Virginia Stoner of California and Betty Gillaspie of Texas; one brother, Jerry (Beth) Miller of Florida; and many nieces and nephews
Contributed by Juanita Lowrance - Find-A-Grave

NANCY J. (ARMSTRONG) McKINLEY , age 63 of Hanover passed away Friday, February 2, 2007 at the Central Florida Regional Hospital in Sanford, Florida. Funeral Services will be held 12:00 noon Saturday, February 10, 2007 at the Hanover United Methodist Church, Hanover, Illinois, with Reverends Kendrick and Lynne Matthews officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Hanover. Friends may call from 10:00 – 12:00 noon. Saturday, February 10, 2007 at the Hanover United Methodist Church. Memorials may be given to the Hanover United Methodist Church towards a new organ. Nancy was born December 11, 1943 the daughter of Wilfred and Margaret (Virtue) Armstrong, in Savanna, Illinois. She attended Black Country School in rural Hanover and graduated from the Hanover High School, Class of 1961. Nancy went on to attend Bayless Business School in Dubuque, Iowa. On October 27, 1962, Nancy married her high school sweetheart, John McKinley in Hanover. Nancy began working as a Secretary at the Savanna Army Depot, eventually moving up to Quality Control Clerk. She worked ten years as the Secretary to the Superintendent of Schools for the Amboy Illinois School District. Nancy worked since August of 2000 for the Miner Insurance Agency in Hanover, where she was a Secretary and an Insurance Agent. She was a member of the Hanover Methodist Church and the Women's Club of the Church. Nancy enjoyed taking long walks and holding hands with her loving husband, John. Sitting by the fireplace at home while reading a good book. Nancy enjoyed bird watching, she loved having the family over for Sunday dinner, playing cards, and with great joy she handed out "Hershey Kisses" as her way of sharing love and friendship. Nancy loved helping people, always showing compassion and giving of herself. She was a great lady with a great heart. Her faith in Jesus was her true strength. Nancy will be dearly missed by her husband, John of Hanover; one daughter, Tamara (Captain Paul) Fuligni of Bremerton, Washington; her mother, Margaret Armstrong of Hanover one brother, John (Cheri) Armstrong of Saucier, Mississippi; two sisters, Marjorie (Rod) Brand of Cheyenne, Wyoming and Linda (Forrest) Pratt of Hanover. Her father, Wilfred Armstrong, precedes Nancy in death.
Contributed by Juanita Lowrance / Find-A-Grave

BARBARA J. MEYER , age 73, of Elizabeth died Thursday, October 11, 2007, at her home. A Funeral Mass was held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, October 15, 2007 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Hanover, with Father Chris Kuhn of St. Michael Catholic Church, Galena officiating and assisted by Deacon Dave Wilbricht. Burial was in St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Elizabeth. Visitation was from 3-7 p.m. on Sunday, October 14, 2007 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Barbara was born November 10, 1933, the daughter of John and Ruth Ann (Lorenz) Hankes in Aurora. She graduated from Madonna Catholic High School, Aurora. On September 6, 1952 Barbara married Wayne Meyer at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Aurora. Barbara loved raising her family and being a homemaker. She also enjoyed sewing, crocheting, jigsaw puzzles and working with plants. She was known as the only one in the house that could use the computer. Barbara will be dearly missed by her husband, Wayne of Elizabeth; one son, Bill Meyer of Lombard; two daughters, Sue (Jim) Grommes of Hanover and Cindy (Ron) Simik of Bollingbrook; six grandchildren, Brian and Daniel (Blanca) Simik, Margaret, Jonathan and Phillip Grommes and Zachary Meyer; one brother, Jim (Laurel) Hankes of Aurora; three sisters, Mary (Marvin) Hauge of Montgomery, Charlotte (Dave) Britton of Aurora and Janet (Donald) Yehle of Janesville, Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews. Her parents; and one sister, Pat (Edward) Clark precede Barbara in death.
Contributed by Lori Gilbert

CLAIRE V. MEYER , age 85, of Elizabeth, Illinois, died Tuesday, June 13, 2006 at the Lakeland Health Care Center, in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 19 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Elizabeth, Illinois. Cremation will follow and inurnment will be held 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Elizabeth, Illinois. Visitation will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Sunday, June 18, 2006 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Elizabeth, with a Scripture Wake service at 7:30 p.m. Claire was born June 30, 1920 in New Diggins, Wisconsin, she attended country school. She married Raynold Meyer February 18, 1943. He died December 30, 1986 in Elizabeth. Claire was a homemaker and farmed with her husband in Elizabeth for many years. She was a member of St. Marys Catholic Church, and Alter and Rosary Society. Claire enjoyed playing cards and visiting with friends. Claire will be dearly missed by her daughter Lea (Larry) Fowler of Loves Park, Illinios, and her grandchildren Jarred Gallentine and Jasmine Pfeil. Claire was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and brother.

FRANK FOWLER MILLER died at his home in Hanover early Thursday morning, Oct. 26, 1917. For over a year he had been in poor health, but was able to continue at work; and it was not until a few months ago that the serious nature of his illness became apparent. He had been confined to his bed only about three weeks preceding his death. Frank Fowler Miller was the oldest son of Robert and Emily Miller, both deceased, and was born Nov. 19, 1864 on a farm four miles west of Hanover. At the time of his death he was within a few weeks of his 53 birthday. His whole life was lived in this community. When he was six or seven years of age his parents moved to a farm two miles southwest of Hanover which became their home. Here, on the home farm, he grew to manhood, and after the death of his father, which took place when Frank was sixteen years of age, the burden of responsibility to a large extent rested upon him. Mr. Miller was united in marriage to Eleanor Phillips, July 3, 1890. He continued farming for a few years and then moved to Hanover where he resided until the time of his death. Seven years ago he purchased the Hanover Bakery which he operated, in partnership with his son, until the time of his death. Mr. Miller was a quiet, industrious man. He lived an upright life and in all relations of life was kindly considerate of others. In business he was courteous and obliging. Mr. Miller was widely known and well liked. He has left a good name to his posterity and will be held in affectionate remembrance by his many relatives and a wide circle of friends. In early life he became a member of the First Presbyterian church of which his parents were charter members. Besides his wife he leaves to mourn his loss, one son, Robert Leslie who was associated with his father in business and two daughters, Florence La Salle who is teaching school in Fairdale, N. D. and Eleanor White of the Sophomore class of the Hanover High School. Also three sisters: Miss Hattie, Mrs. J. D. Calvert of Hanover, and Mrs. Thos. McGregor of Dubuque, Ia.; and two brothers; George E. of El Dorado, Kan. and Chas. W., of Dillon Mont. The funeral service conducted by Rev. S. M. Host, assisted by Rev. McBride, was held at the First Presbyterian church Sunday afternoon, Oct. 28 at 2 o'clock. The church was filled to overflowing. The music was rendered by a male quartet consisting of H. White, Wesley Eastman, Wallace Calvert, and Lester Duell. The following young men, Austin, Raymond and John Phillips, Wallace Harold Calvert and Park Miller, relatives of the deceased, acted as pall bearers. There were many beautiful floral tributes; interment was made in the Hanover Cemetery. The family have the sympathy of the whole community in their bereavement. The following relatives from out of town attended: George E. Miller, El Dorado, Kan.; Rev. Thos. McGregor, wife and son, Dubuque, Ia; W. A. Phillips and three sons, Savanna; Miss Mary Dawson, Rockford; Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Hammond and Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Parker, Stockton; Harold Calvert, Camp Grant.

MARY DOROTHEA (DASHER) MILLER - Funeral services were held at Derinda this afternoon for Mrs. Mary Dorothea Miller, 88, widow of the late John J. Miller who died at her home in Derinda Township south of this city about 9 o'clock Sunday night (01 May 1938). The services were held from the home to the Derinda Lutheran church at 1:30 o'clock with the pastor, the Rev. Wm. Meinen conducting. Burial was made in the Lutheran cemetery adjoining the church. She was worn July 31, 1849 the daughter of John & Sophia (Nagel) Dasher at Rutenbeck Germany but came to the U.S. when a young woman. She leaves two sons, George and Paul of Derinda Twp. and three daughters, Mrs. Frank (Carrie) Diehl of Hanover township; Mrs. Minnie Fehler at home and Mrs. John W. (Amelia) Plosch also of Derinda Township; one brother, three sisters, 15 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Mrs. Miller was a member of the Derinda Lutheran Church.
Freeport Journal 4 May 1938.

PHYLLIS (REIFSTICK) MILLER , age 90, of Hanover, Illinois, died Tuesday, June 27, 2006 at the Ennoble Manor Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa. At Mrs. Miller's request, there will be no visitation; a private family graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery, Hanover, Illinois.Phyllis Miller was born February 25, 1916 to Otto and Ora (Limage) Reifsteck at Hanover, Illinois. A life-long resident, Phyllis attended the Hanover Public Schools. She drove a horse-drawn wagon to school, through all kinds of weather, along with her sister and five brothers.Phyllis married Carl L. Miller on August 17, 1937. They had been married 54 years at the time of his death. Carl died June 4, 1992.Phyllis was a homebody and she enjoyed being a homemaker. Cooking and cleaning gave her a great deal of personal satisfaction. She always enjoyed a good card game, especially "Five Hundred." Phyllis also loved animals, cats being most "purrfect" for her! She relished poetry, and many of her favorites were committed to memory. Many a night she entertained and delighted her children reciting these poems.Phyllis will be dearly missed by two daughters: Kay Bailey, Galena, Illinois and Barbara (Larson) James, Austin, Texas; one brother, Carl (Darlene) Reifsteck, Elizabeth, Illinois; and one sister-in-law, Delores Reifsteck, Hanover, Illinois; four grandchildren: Carlene (Bill) Wickler, Stockton, Illinois; Cheryl (Steve) Sands, Windsor, Colorado; Doug (Amanda Beyer) Bailey, Galena, Illinois; and Georgina (Troy) Lieb, Freeport, Illinois. She also leaves behind eleven great-grandchildren, one great-great grandson, one step-great granddaughter, one step-great-great-granddaughter, and many nieces and nephews.Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Carl; her parents; one grandson, Gregory Bailey, four brothers and two sister-in-laws; Clyde (Dorothy) Reifsteck, David Reifsteck, Donald (Marge) Reifsteck, Edward Reifsteck, and one sister and brother-in-law; Betty (Marvin) Hazer.
Contributed by Juanita Lowrance - Find-A-Grave

PHYLLIS (RANDECKER) MILLER , age 78, of Elizabeth, Illinois, was called home to her Lord and Savior on Friday, June 13, 2008 at Good Samaritan Nursing Home, Mt. Carroll, Illinois, after a brave battle with Muscular Dystrophy. A Funeral Service will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 16, 2008 at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Massbach, Illinois, with Pastor Steve Anderson officiating. Burial will be in St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church Cemetery, Massbach. A visitation will be held from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m., Sunday, June 15, 2008 at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Massbach. A memorial fund has been established in Jean's name. Online condolences and memorial tributes may be sent to the family at www.lawjonesfuneralhome.com. Jean was born on September 6, 1929, the daughter of William and Mildred (Endress) Randecker in Freeport, Illinois. Phyllis graduated from Mt. Carroll High School, Class of 1948. She then attended Shimer College in Mt. Carroll, and received her teaching certificate. Jean taught school at Logan and Barret schools. On September 30 1951, Jean married Harold Miller at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Massbach. Jean enjoyed being a homemaker and helping on the family farm. She was a member of the 4 C's Club, a card club member for over forty-three years, and a 4-H Leader for fifteen years. Jean was a fantastic cook and enjoyed collecting recipes. One of her wine punch recipes was used at a wedding reception in California. She also enjoyed dancing, was an avid gardener, and especially loved her flowers, birds and wildlife that wandered across their property. Jean had a collection of over 800 owls. Most of all Jean enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Jean will be dearly missed by her husband, Harold of Elizabeth; two sons, Larry (special friend Barb) Miller of Elizabeth and Russell H.(Theresa) Miller of Savanna, Illinois; two grandchildren, Kurtis and Michael Miller of Champaign, Illinois; two brothers, Robert (Linda) Randecker of Savanna and Allen (Margaret) Randecker of rural Elizabeth; two sisters, Ione (Fred) Mueller of rural Ridott, Illinois, and baby sister,Norma Randecker of Orangeville, Illinois; and many nieces and nephews. Jean was preceded in death by her parents and one nephew, Randy Gelwicks.

RICHARD D. MILLER , age 55, of Hanover, Illinois, died on Sunday, December 24, 2006, at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa. A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 29, 2006, at 1:00 p.m. at the Law-Jones Funeral Home in Hanover. Friends may call from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to the funeral service at the funeral home. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery in Hanover. A memorial fund has been established in his name. Richard was born on October 4, 1951, the son of Richard and Beverly (Sandlin) Miller in Freeport, Illinois. Richard attended Hanover High School and graduated with the class of 1969 and he later attended Highland Community College. Richard married Nancy Breed on January 1, 1972 at the Methodist Church in Elizabeth, Illinois. He worked for the Eaton Corporation in Hanover for 4 years and later worked for Kelly Springfield Tire Company in Freeport for over 10 years. Richard was a former member of the Hanover Fire Department and was a Bartender at the Mill City Tap and the Viking Inn in Hanover. He was an avid professional sports fan, he enjoyed watching the Green Bay Packers, L.A. Lakers and the L.A. Dodgers. He also enjoyed playing Euchre and board games with friends and family. Richard will be dearly missed by one son, Derek (Samantha) Miller of Knoxville, Tennessee and one daughter, Nicole (Matthew) Swanson of Interlaken, New York; one brother, Michael Miller of Savanna, Illinois; one aunt, Leanne (Roy) Nance of Hanover and four grandchildren; Dylan, Brandon, Corgan and Cydney. Richard was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers.
Contributed by Juanita Lowrance - Find-A-Grave

RUTH (HEIDENREICH) MILLER , age 90, of Freeport, Illinois, previously of Woodbine, Illinois, died Monday, January 22, 2007 at FHN Memorial Hospital, Freeport. Funeral Services will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 27, 2007 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Elizabeth, Illinois. Reverend Jeremy Yowell of Woodbine Grace Bible Church will officiate. Burial will be in Woodbine Cemetery, Woodbine, Illinois. Friends may call from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday, January 26, 2007 at Law-Jones Funeral Home, Elizabeth. A Memorial Fund has been established in Ruth's name for the Ministries of New Mom's and The Mailbox Club. Ruth was born on September 8, 1916 in Woodbine, the daughter of Ralph and Emma (Schubert) Heidenreich. Ruth graduated from Stockton High School, Stockton, Illinois. On October 16, 1937, Ruth married William A. Miller in Dixon, Illinois. William passed away in 1993. Ruth and her husband, of fifty-five years, farmed in the Woodbine area. She also worked twenty-two years for the Woodbine Office of National Farm Loan Association. She was a member of Grace Bible Church in Woodbine. Ruth will be dearly missed by her two sons, Joel (Joan) Miller of Orange Park, Florida and Clair (Sharon) Miller of Gurnee, Illinois; one sister, Mila Winter of Woodbine; four grandchildren, Scott (Jennifer) Miller of Brownsburg, Indiana, Brian (Renee) Miller of Port Matilda, Pennsylvania; Annette Miller of Beach Park, Illinois and Andrew (Julianne) Miller of Gurnee, and five great grandchildren, Kaleb, Joshua, Malea Miller of Port Matilda, Pennsylvania and twin girls, Kara and Maria Miller of Gurnee. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, William; two brothers, Wayne Heidenreich and Ray Lee Heidenreich; and two sisters, Dorothy Morris and Berneice Heidenreich.
Source: Paula Koehler

DANIEL S. MITCHELL , 83, Galena, Ill., formerly of Elmhurst, Ill., died at 10:31 a.m., Monday, March 24, 2008 at home. He was born on July 22, 1924 in Chicago, the son of Peter and Pauline (Sedosky) Mitchell. He married Lorelei Wajda on May 25, 1985 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Elmhurst. Chief Mitchell was a member of the DuPage County Sheriff's Department for 27 years, the last 10 years he served as chief deputy, retiring in 1987. He was a veteran of the Army serving during World War II as a member of RCN Co. 607th TD BN. He participated in the battles at Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe receiving the Bronze Star. He was a member and past president of the DuPage Police Association, and a member of the Illinois Sheriffs' Association. Following retirement, he and Lorelei moved to Galena, where he served on the Sheriff's Merit Commission for seven years, Republican Precinct Committeeman for East Galena Township for 10 years, and a member and past president and secretary for the Galena Rotary Club. In 1999, he was named volunteer of the year by The Galena Territory Association. He was a member of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church at Elizabeth, Ill., and B.P.O.E. Lodge 882 of Galena. Survivors include his wife, Lorelei; one stepson, Andrew (Dawn) Wajda, South Elgin, Ill.; a daughter-in-law, Ellen Durante, Elmhurst; two grandchildren, Angela (Jeffery) Williams and Jacob (Missy) Wajda; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; and two sisters. Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m., Saturday, March 29 at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Elizabeth. Services will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 29, 2008 at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, Elizabeth, with the Rev. Harvey E. Nicholson, pastor, officiating. Military honors will be accorded by members of VFW Post 2665 of Galena.

BEULAH R. (BAHR) MONTGOMERY , 81, Galena, Ill., died Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2008 at her home. She was born on Oct. 13, 1926 in Guilford Township, rural Galena, the daughter of Christian and Della (Gugler) Bahr. She married James Montgomery on Aug. 25, 1949 at the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Galena. He preceded her in death on Nov. 1, 1993. She graduated from Galena High School in 1944 and was employed at Burgess Battery Factory, Galena, and the Galena High School as a cook in the cafeteria where she worked for 18 years until her retirement in 1989. She was a die hard Cubs fan, avid euchre player, loved to travel and was always there to lend a helping hand volunteering for numerous organizations. She was a lifetime member of Westminster Presbyterian Church. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and truly cherished her time spent with her children and grandchildren. Survivors include two sons, Jay (Linda) Montgomery, Ft. Myers, Fla., and Kevin (Carol) Montgomery, Newnan, Ga.; one daughter, Wendy Foster, Lakewood, Colo.; six grandchildren, Erin (Jeff) DeBusman, Trevor Montgomery, Max and Molly Montgomery, and Sean and Autumn Foster; two great-grandchildren, Morgan and Jackson DeBusman; one sister, Velda Gerlich, Elizabeth; two sisters-in-law, Ethel Montgomery and Geneva Montgomery, both of Galena; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James; a daughter in infancy, Beth Ann; two sisters, Jean Timpe and Jessie Hartwig; nine brothers-in-law; and seven sisters-in-law. Visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 16 at the Westminster Presbyterian Church, 513 South Bench St., Galena. Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 16, 2008 at the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Galena. Burial of cremains will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

AMANDA (BEDFORD) MONTGOMERY , died at the home of her son Wm. Montgomery in this city Sept. 21, 1908, her health having been frail for a long time. Deceased whose maiden name was Amanda Bedford was born in St. Louis, Mo., April 11, 1849. Her family moved to Chicago and from there to places in Indiana, Illinois and the south. She was married to George Montgomery at Galena, Ill., April 23, 1868. To them were born four children, three daughters and one son, the son alone surviving. She leaves also two half sisters in St. Louis. Mr. Montgomery died Aug. 31, 1887. In 1892 she came here to make her home with her son William and has resided here since. Mrs. Montgomery was an active member of the W.R.C. She was a lady who won the respect and esteem of all who met here and especially those who were closely associated with her. The funeral was held under the direction of the ladies of the W. R. C. on Wednesday, Rev. W. P. Burrows officialing. [W.R.C. = Women's Relief Corps]
Contributed by Pat Phillips - Republican and Press, Sept. 24, 1908, page 1 Neillsville, WI
Amanda Bedford married George Montgomery, son of Edward S. Montgomery and Mary Shelly(sp?). They arrived in the area sometime in the mid-1840's and had 5 children: William, Isaac S., George, Sarah A., and Maria E., before the death of Mary Montgomery in 1849. Edward then remarried Anne Bostock the widow of Richard Bostock(Bostwick) in 1850 with whom another child was born, Mary H. Montgomery. Sometime in the 1870's, Edward and the older sons went out to California to Grass Valley for work and later returned to Galena and JoDaviess where Ed passed away in 1886. George and Amanda and children went to Kentucky where George passed away in 1887. From there Amanda and the children moved to Wisconsin, eventually residing in Neillsville and her daughter Mary Maude married Frank Glass.

John S. MORRILL was born Dec.6, 1816,at Monmouth, Kennebec county, Maine, and died at his home in Warren, Tuesday morning, April 9, 1901, after 6 years illness, aged 84 years, 4 months and 3 days. The funeral occurs at the house at 10 o' clock Thursday, Rev. G. H. Putnam of Nora officiating. Burial will be in Elmwood. Mr. Morrill spent his early days as a school teacher in Maine, was a member of the state militia and spent the winter of 1836-37 as a member of the U.S. Army  in New Brunswick, where there were repeated disturbances over the United States timber claims. Later he was a resident of Buffalo and in 1841 came west to Galena via the great lakes and Chicago. For over 20 years Mr. Morrill took an active in the development of the Southern Wisconsin lead and zink mines living at Jefferson-near Hazel Green, and later three miles west of Shullsburg. September 16, 1852, he married Miss Mary Wilcox of Hazel Green. Two children were born: Mattie Abby, who died at the age of 11 years on March 1873 and Albert who is unmarried and has always lived at home, tenderly caring for every want of his aged parents. In 1864 the family moved to Warren and have been highly respected residents in the community. Mrs. Morrill died April 2, 1892. Save Albert, no relatives remain excepting on Mrs. Morrill's side. Mr. Morrill belonged to no secret order except the Odd Fellows, his membership in which he prized highly. During his years of suffering membership of the lodge have ever been ready to assist, cheer, and console him. The funeral I.O.O.F., Rev. Putnam delivering the address. In addition to his sons attentive care, Mr. Morrills last years were rendered happier by the presence of a niece, Miss Minnie Wilcox, who excerted every possible effort toward making the evening of his life comfortable. Mr. Morrill passed away in peace, having lived a honorable and upright life. He leaves a large fortune for his only child.
Transcribed and submitted to Genealogy Trails by Charles Hammer - Sentinel Leader 10 April 1901

MARY E. (WILCOX) MORRILL was born at Fredonia, N.Y. May 30, 183, and died at her home in Warren, Ill Saturday afternoon April 7, 1892, age 61 years. Mary Wilcox came to this country with her father . s family in 1844, locating at Hazel Green, Wis, where, in 1852, she was married to Mr.J.S. Morrill who survives her. In 1856 Mr.  & Mrs. Morrill moved to Shullsburg, Wis., and in July, 1864 they moved to this place, where they have since resided. Two children were born to them, a son, Henry Albert, who resides at the parental home, and a daughter, Mattie Abbie, who died twenty years ago. Mrs Morrill was taken sick last fall & during the winter suffered from an attack of gripp from which she did not recover. She anticipated her death and frequently talked to her husband about it, and left directions as to her funeral obsequies. Mrs Morrill was a woman of sterling christian character and was beloved by all who knew her. She was a fond mother and devoted wife, and to her the society of her home was precious beyond measure. She was a warm true friend and very loving in her disposition. She was particularly fond of children and never could do too much to please and entertain them. The funeral took place from the family residence Tuesday forenoon, April 5, at half past then, Rev. Wilkinson officiating, and was largely attended. Beautiful flowers were brought in by neighbors and friends to testify to their love for the friend to testify to their love for the friend who had passed away.
Transcribed and submitted to Genealogy Trails by Charles Hammer -Warren Sentinel Wed. April 6, 1892

MATTIE ABBIE MORRILL - On Wednesday evening last, after a severe and painful period of fifteen days suffering our dear young friend Mattie Abbie, daughter of J.S. & M.E. Morrill, was released from the pains and suffering of the body and called to the heavenly home, at the age of 11 years and 7 months. In this, to us so sad event fond parents are called to part with a child of unusual loveliness and fidelity of character. No one could meet her on the streets or in company without being particularly attracted to the beauty and sweetness of this dear child, and when sever sickness threatened her, many hearts were moved in sympathy with fond parents to desire her recovery. But our hopes were blighted; and our dear young friend, not withstanding all affection and care could do for her recovery, passed away to the home of the angels and glorified spirits, peacefully and calmly as when the beautiful evening flowers closes its petals at the dew fall. Her funeral was attended at the residence of her parents on Tisdel Avenue on Saturday last, where a large concourse of Friends met to sympathize with the affiliated relatives, and show their high regard for the dear on suddenly taken from us.
Contributed by Charles Hammer - Sentinel Leader Monday March 6, 1873

NATHANIEL MORRIS - He was a farmer; born in Logan Co., Ky., Oct. 1, 1806; came to Jo Daviess Co. May 10, 1827; the familylanded at what at that time was called "The Point", it was an Indian trading place of two or three cabins, and afterward became the City of Galena; he married Elizabeth Johnson July 4, 1829; she was born in Tenn., but raised in Randolph and Jackson Co., Ill.; she came to Jo Daviess Co. with her parents in 1828; they were married in a cabin on the farm where they now reside; the dismal howl of the wild wolf in her lair, the screeching of panthers and the echoing whoop of the native savages, was the only music with which they were surrounded; they have seen the wigwams and huts give way to the palatial residences of advanced civilization; they survived the dangers of the Black Hawk War and beheld the curling smoke of peace after the tiger strife was over; Mr. Morris now owns 200 acres of land; they have had eleven children: Mrs. Morris is now a lady of 65 years but is as active as a bright-eyed girl of 20, and during the past year has woven 550 yards of carpet upon her foot and hand loom, an article of furniture which she prizes higher than any other about her house.
Contributed by Linda Harms

MARY C. MOSER - 64, of Stephenson Manor Nursing Center, Freeport, formerly of Galena, died Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2008, at the nursing center. Services will be at 11 a.m. today at Miller & Steinke Funeral Home, Galena, with the Rev. Stacy Cavanaugh officiating. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena. Friends may call after 9 a.m. today at the funeral home. She was born on Sept. 25, 1943, in Galena, daughter of Fred and Helen (Maxwell) Moser. Mary loved music, especially Elvis Presley. Surviving are a sister, Phyllis Kiefer, of Boise, Idaho; three brothers, Fred (Phyllis) Moser, of Dubuque, Ron (friend, Marilyn Holland) Moser, of Galena, and Dan (Helen) Moser, of Powell, Wyo.; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Louise Davis and Helen Herrick; and two brothers, Harvey and David Moser.

ELIZABETH (PITCHER) MURPHY - wife of Melburn S. Murphy, died in Warren, Oct. 6, 1904, after a very brief illness, though her general health has been poor for several months. Her maiden name was Pitcher, she was born in Martinsburg, Lewis county, New York, June 22, 1834 and she was aged 70 years, three months and 14 days. Miss Pitcher was married to Melburn S. Murphy in her native town Nov. 16, 1852; to this union was born two children, one of whom died in infancy. The following year after their marriage they came west, and settled on a farm in Rush township, Jo Daviess county, Ill; after some 14 years on the farm they moved to Warren in 1867 and have continued their residence here ever since. Mrs. Murphy was a lady highly respected and loved, she had many excellent traits of mind and heart that endeared her to all who knew her; she was a model wife and mother, nothing was lacking on her part to make her home a place of happiness and comfort for all the family; she also found time to think of and care for others, and seemed to always know when and where t lend a hand; and speak kind words to help. She was one of God's noble women, her splendid character was based on the Christ principle; in early life she and her companion were converted, and when they moved to Warren they united with the Baptist church, where she was an earnest faithful Christian worker as long as her strength would permit her to attend the services; she never wandered in her trust in her savior, and at the last, she spoke of her desire to go home and be at rest; she said "her hope was bright"; she called her friends to her bedside and bade each one good bye, and with a smile she passed to her heavenly rest. She leaves to mourn her demise her loved companion with whom she had journeyed over 51 years, one daughter Mrs. Caroline M. Eby of Warren: one sister and three brothers, viz: Mrs. Emeline Doer, Dexter, Maine; Francis W. Pitcher, Rochester, Minn; Durvane Pitcher, Boonville, New York and L. D. Pitcher, Dixon, Ill.; besides numerous other relatives and friends. The funeral services were held from the home of Mrs. Farnham on Sunday at two pm, conducted by the pastor of the Baptist church, Rev. J. W. Rendel, attended by a large number of sympathizing friends. The muscial selections were rendered by James W. Rowe, L. A. Baldwin, Mrs. W. F. Conyne, and Mrs. Norman. Burial was in beautiful Elmwood cemetery.
Contributed by Wendy Fjelstad - Sentinel-Leader October 10, 1904

MELBOURNE S. MURPHY was born at E. Nassau, Rensselaer county, New York, November 10, 1831, and died at the home of his daughter Mrs. George R. Eby, in Warren, March 29, 1916, age 84 years, 4 months and 19 days. Mr. Murphy was married to Elizabeth Pitcher, November 16, 1852. Mrs. Murphy died October 6, 1904. To this union one child was born, Mrs. George R. Eby, at whose home Mr. Murphy died. He is survived by one daughter, three grand children and one great grandchild; also one brother, John Murphy of Warren and a half brother, Smith Murphy of Port Leyden, N.Y. After a long and useful life in Warren, our friend and fellow citizen, Melbourne S. Murphy, has passed to the other side. He was a long and patient sufferer and resigned that all would be for the best. Moving from a farm in Rush township to Warren shortly after the close of the Civil war. "Mell" Murphy, as he was familiarly called, was always among our leading citizens. For many years he followed the occupation of a detective. At the same time he served the people as a constable. Later he was elected justice of the peace, holding that office at the time of his death. His life was largely given to the people. He did not court litigation but sought rather to smooth out difficulties among neighbors by good advice and compromise. In his active days he was interested in the young people and did many a good turn to parents and children in a quiet way that suppressed public gossip. He was a good and true friend as those can testify who were closest to him. He could always be trusted for when he gave his word he kept it. Since the death of his beloved wife he lived largely in his office. When asked why he did not live with relatives he said to the writer as tears came to his eye "This is home to me. It was here my wife died." And as he lived somewhat lonely perhaps, but with the feeling that his wife was always near. More to his exertions than to any one else is the public indebted for the Pitcher telephone system. While Mr. Pitcher furnished the capital for the building of the lines Mr. Murphy was tireless in his efforts to make the Pitcher telephone a success. He was superintendent of the lines until a stock company was formed and the system purchased. It is hard to say good-bye to an old friend, and especially so in this case. For nearly fifty years we were warm personal friends. He did not know what it was to deny a friend a favor if within his power to grant it. Nor did he turn a deaf ear to charity. While not endowed with wealth he gave freely of his time and money when convinced that the charity was deserving. As a detective, in his earlier days, he met with considerable success. It was his boast that he had captured and convicted more horse thieves than any other officer in Jo Daviess county. It was largely owing to his efforts that horse stealing in this section came practically to an end. In religious matters Squire Murphy was a Baptist and a member of the Baptist church. In politics he was a Republican and took an active part in party affairs. At one time he sought the Republican nomination for sheriff and came within one vote of getting it. He would have made a good sheriff and richly deserved the nomination and election, but other interests conflicted, and after trying twice, he gave up the ambition. Last Sunday he was laid by the side of the wife whose death he mourned so sincerely. The little office he called home is vacant. He has solved the problem and we shall meet him here no more. True old friend, hail and farewell!
Contributed by Wendy Fjelstad - Sentinel-Leader

MICHAEL MUSSELMAN - The Clay Center, Kan. Dispatch of July 31 consisted of the following notice of the death of a former well known resident of Jo Daviess County.
Michael Musselman, brief mention of whose death was made in these columns last week, was born in Bavaria, July 25, 1829. At the age of seventeen, with his father, a native of Saxoney, and his mother, he emigrated to the United States. For one year the sojourned in Lancaster county, Penn. The parents moved from there to Jo Daviess county, Illinois, Michael followed a year later, and followed the business of farming until 1870. That year Mr. Musselman came to Kansas and bought the farm adjacent to Clay Center on the west. Later he engaged in real estate and loan business in this city, leaving the farm for a time in the hands of his sons. He returned to the country again, however, determined to spend the remainder of his days on the home place; but fate decreed otherwise, and after two years he moved to Denver, where he resided until his death. Mr. Musselman was married Oct. 16, 1852, to Miss Elizabeth Durstein, and of this union there were born eleven children, ten sons and one daughter-of six are living. They are John, Louis, Christian, Gustave, Ernest, and William. John married Miss Jennie Goodin, who died February 23,1898 leaving three children-Samuel, Lizzie, and Francis. He later married Miss Charlotte Schnitker of Washington county, Illinois. Louisa is the wife of Rudolph Hammer of Jo Daviess county, Illinois, and the mother of seven children. Christian married Miss Katie Keiner and they have three children-Sallie, Bertie, and Rennie. Gustave married Miss Lucy Dookids. Their children are-Charles, Carl Clarence, Goldie, Lester and Raymond. Ernest married Miss Minnie Adamson of Rogers, Ark. They have two children-Ralph and Ernestine. Mrs. Elizabeth Musselman died at the home in Jo Daviess county June 9, 1875 and in March 1878, Mr. Musselman married Mrs. Ida (Fuss) Baier, and of this union there were born two children-Emma and Clara. Mr. Musselman was something of a politician, with leanings towards the Democracy, and had been honored by several positions of public trust.
Submitted by Alayne Hammer Galena Gazete April 19, 1927

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