O B I T U A R I E S
Whiteside County Illinois

B

EVELYN (JOHNSON) BACKUS - Mrs. Robert Brainerd of Rock Falls has received word of the death of her sister, Mrs. Lester Backus, (Evelyn Johnson not Mangers) 42, of Inglewood, Calif. which occurred Saturday night. She had been in ill health for some time. The funeral and burial will take place in Inglewood. The former Evelyn Mangers (should be Johnson), was born March 3, 1906, in Sterling, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles (Maude Bryson) Mangers (should be Mr. and Mrs. Charles D. Johnson). Besides her husband, she leaves two sons, Lester, Jr., and Richard Backus; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Mangers and one brother Kenneth Mangers, all of Inglewood, Calif., one sister, Mrs. Robert (Vera) Brainerd of Rock Falls and an aunt, Mrs. Anna Janvrin of Sterling.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the April 12, 1948 Sterling Gazette

FLORENCE (HIPPEN) BAILEY , 76, died Tuesday, July 18, 2006 at Coventry Living Center, Sterling. She was employed by Price Motors as a bookkeeper for 25 years. Mrs. Bailey was born March 16, 1930 in Sterling, the daughter of Eilert and Trientje (Oelrichs) Hippen. She married Robert Bailey June 19, 1949 in Sterling. He died October 2, 2002. She was a member of Faith Family Fellowship, Sterling. Survivors are three sisters, Amanda Mitchell of Sterling, Shirley (Dale) Magnuson of Walnut, Doris Steward of Dixon; three brothers, Ailt (Sally) Hippen, David (Wanda) Hippen, both of Sterling, and Jack (Veronica) Hippen of Dixon; and several nieces and nephews. Services will be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, July 21, 2006 at Schilling Funeral Home with Brian T. Jones, Pastor of Faith Family Fellowship officiating and Jack Prowant co-officiating. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery, Sterling. Visitation will be 6-8 PM, Thursday at the Schilling Funeral Home, Sterling.

FRANK W. BAIRD , was born in Rock Falls, Ill., Aug. 20, 1875 and departed this life Christmas day, 1911 at the age of 36 years, 4 months and 5 days after an illness of eleven weeks of typhoid fever and its complications. His early manhood was spent in Emerson, Ill., where his life and its Christian character was so well known. He was a member of the First Congregational church of Sterling and from early manhood actively interested in the church and its work and continued so until his death which took place in Stainsleigh, Alta, Can. at which place the first Sunday school in that district was held in his home and he was made its superintendent. Mr. Baird was married Sept. 25, 1897 to Clara H. Carolus of Emerson who preceded him to the Heavenly home on May 31, 1907. To this union five children were born two of whom also preceded him to the grave. On August 30, 1909 he was again united in marriage to Mrs. Fay Bailey, then of Sterling. They dwelt on a farm in East Jordan until their removal to Canada a year ago. His home at all times was one of pure happiness and true love with Christianity as its guide and with full trust and love for the “Father above, who doeth all things well.” In Him he placed his faith and when He called to him to come he bade his loved ones good bye and with a prayer asking God above to care for and keep them passed away saying “It is God’s Will.” Mr. Baird leaves to survive him his wife and one child, an infant daughter, Frances Fay, aged 2 1/2 months and son William C. aged 11 years, 2 daughters Neva M. aged 9 years and Ethel M. aged 7 years by his first wife. Also 3 stepchildren, Lenord D., age 8, Richard G. age 6 and Mildred E. age 5. An aged mother and three brothers William J. of Galt, Irvin L. of Wisconsin, and Charles of Michigan and many friends among whom he was highly honored and respected. His death brings to all a vacant chair which never can be filled.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Standard, April 25, 1912, page 4, column 4

MARTHA (RUSH) BALK , 92, of Clinton and formerly of Fulton, died Saturday. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Second Reformed Church, Fulton, preceded by a 10:15 a.m. family prayer service at the church. The Rev. Philip Rauwerdink, interim pastor of Second Reformed Church, will be officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Fulton Township Cemetery. She was born Feb. 28, 1911, in Carroll County, Ill., to Frank and Wilma H. Brown Rush. She married George P. Balk on June 23, 1931, in Thomson, Ill. He died in 1989. She was a graduate of York Community High School, Thomson. She owned and operated the Fashion Flair Beauty Salon in Fulton. She was a member of Second Reformed Church and the church's Women's Circle. She was a member of the National Hairdresser's Association. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Gretchen (Gary D.) Bartels of Clinton; three sons, Harlan (Evelyn) Balk of Morriston, Fla., Jim (Anne) Balk of Fulton and Steve (Betty June) Balk of Camp Point, Ill.; 13 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, one granddaughter and two sisters. Memorials may be made to the Second Reformed Church.

Clinton Herald November 17, 2003

MRS. MARTHA BARKER - Funeral Is Wednesday (27 Aug 1962) Mrs. Martha Barker, 77, who had been residing with her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. William Godfrey, of 707 Wilkes Ave., Davenport, died Sunday in St Lukes Hospital. Born in Pumerin, Germany. Mrs. Barker came to Sterling, Ill., with her parents at the age of two. She had resided in Davenport for the last 30 years. In addition to her daughter, she is survived by four other daughter, Mrs. Anna Williams, and Mrs. Elsie Keener, both of Rock Falls, Mrs. Clarence (Alice) Achland, Prophetstown, Mrs. Raymond (Vivian) Neihaus of Davenport; 11 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; two sister, Mrs. Emilie King, Memphis, Tenn. and Mrs. Clara Lostetter, Rock Falls, two brothers, Emil Reglin, of Dixon, Ill., and Carl Reglin, of Rock Falls. Her husband, a grandchild, a brother, and a sister, preceded her in death. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at Zion Lutheran Church. Burial will be in Davenport Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call at the Runge Mortuary form 7 p.m. today until noon Wednesday.

Contributed by Margaret Mangers

ELMER WILLIAM BARTZ , 74, of Sterling died Monday, March 14, 2005, at CGH Medica1 Center. He was a fireman for Sterling Fire. Department for more than 30 years, retiring as a captain in 1983. He was elected 1st Ward alderman of Sterling in 1983, retiring in 2003. Mr. Bartz was born June 25; 1930, in Sterling the son of William and Marie (Heilener) Bartz. He married / Lois Van Gilder on Aug. 24, l950. She died Aug. 9, 1972. He then married Connie S. (Barnes) Finnicum on Nov. 3, 1973, in Sterling. She died Sept. 13, 1999. Survivors include five daughters, Kathy (Gary) Collinson, Sheryl Coy and Tanya (William) Reed, all of Sterling, Connie Lou (Gene) Politsch of Rockford and Debra Edwards of Kentucky; a son, William (Kay) Bartz of Sterling; a stepdaughter, Dawn Zink of Sterling; a stepson,.Matthew (Kim) Finriicum of Sterling; a sister, Bemice(James) Warren of Las Vegas; special friend, Helen Phillips; 10 grandchildren. The funeral is at 11 a.m. Friday at First Lutheran Church of Jordan, Sterling, with the Rev. Kathleen Burkheimer, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Milledgeville, offi­ciating. Burial is at Oak Knoll Memorial Park. Sterling.

ANTHONY WAYNE BASTIAN was born in Geauga County Ohio June 26, 1846 and passed away after a lingering illness at his home in Fulton Dec. 29, 1931. His parents were Van S. & Ann E. Bastian with whom he moved to Rochester NY in 1850. His primary edcuation was acquired in the Rochester schools. In 1861 he became a resident of Prophetstown IL shortly afterward moving to Bureau County where at the age of 19 years he engaged in teaching. Determined to acquire a higher and more thorough education he made definite plans for meeting the necessary expense. By teaching and assisting in farm work he sucured a sufficient sum of money to enable him to matriculate in Dover college. Later he secured a course in Wheaton college. With this broadened knowledge he successfully passed the examination required and secured a teacher's state certificate. For some time he was closely associated with educational interests in this section of the state. He taught in Yorktown and organized and graded the Tampico school and served as its principal for seven years. His interest in the Tampico school never waned and he looked forward eagerly to the annual reunion of teachers and pupils which he attended for many years. Many times he gave his services free of charge to Whiteside County teachers institutes. On March 4, 1872 Mr. Bastian married in Yorktown IL to Eva A. Patterson a daughter of Orin & Lucy Patterson. Had helived until next March they would have celebrated their 60th anniversary. To them were born a daughter Lily who died in Tampico in 1874 at the age of 15 months and a son Sidney A. who passed away in Fulton in 1893 at the age of 18 years. In 1881 Mr. and Mrs. Bastian came to Fulton to make their home. Here Mr. Bastian purchased an interest in the Journal office and for the remaining years of his life was interested in the business, education and political affairs of Fulton. In 1890 he sold his interest in the Journal to his brother Fred and eight years later re-purchased the business. His editorials always presented a clear unbiased view of vital situations and he used the press to help, never to hinder the progress of the home city. In 1923 he sold out to Malcom McKinnon and retired from active business although he never lost interest in the affairs of Fulton. Being one of the best educated men in the community, having a fund of information as a result of a love for reading and possessing a keen, alert mind. Mr. Bastian was frequently consulted by many. He was influential in public life, served two terms as the mayor of Fulton and two terms as city clerk. Politically Mr. Bastian was a democrat. For many years he was a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and served asa member of the board of directors. At the time of his death he was a member of the Fulton City Lodge #189 A.F. & A.M. Surviving are his devoted wife, two sisters Mrs. Marian Cramphin of Lincoln Neb. and Mrs. Zora A. Graves of East Moline; two brothers, Frederick A. and Reuben F. Bastian both of Fulton. Five sisters preceded him in death, Ida, Cecelia, Anna, Eda and Ada.

KATHERINE (WALKER) BAUER , 79, of Coventry Village, died Wednesday March 16, 2005. Mrs. Bauer was born Feb. 7, 1926 in Lyndon, the daughter of Hugh and Anna (Knowles) Walker. She married Wayne Bauer on May 22, 1948, he died in March 1997. Survivors include a daughter, Kay Snitchler of Dixon; a brother, John (Betty) Walker of Rock Falls; four grandchildren. She was preceded by two brothers and three sisters. Services at McDonald-Allen-Grennan Funeral Home, Sterlign with Rev. Mark Oehlert of St. John's Lutheran Church officiating. Burial in Oak Knoll.

BENJAMIN F. BAYER , long a resident of the Twin Cities and at one time assistant superintendent of streets, during the administration of Mayor A.R. Hendricks of Sterling, passed away Sunday at 12:15 at his home, 204 Wood avenue, Rock Falls, following an illness of six years, due to paralysis. Funeral services will be Tuesday afternoon at the family home, conducted by Rev. J.J. Hitchens of the Rock Falls Methodist church and burial will be in Riverside cemetery, Sterling. Mr. Bayer was born in Ringold, Md. August 21, 1851 and was married to Miss Lucy J. Sigler at Smithburg, MD in 1876. He is survived by his wife and two children, Kaohlin Bayer of San Francisco Calif. and Harold Bayer of Beloit, Wis., A daughter Loraine, died in infancy and a son, Admiral Bayer, died in 1913 at the age of 27 years. Mr. Bayer came to Whiteside county 43 years ago, first living in Mt. Pleasant Township. For several years the family lived in Nebraska and 30 years ago they came to Sterling. For a short time they lived in the home state of Maryland after having lived here and they also lived for a time in Beloit Wis., but in 1916 the family home was established in Rock Falls.

Contributed by Jean Portner

THOMAS SHULER BEACH was born at Battle Creek Mich., May 8, 1847. He was educated in the public schools of that city and graduated from the Eastman Commercial College in 1866. Shortly after his graduation he obtained a position with George McKinney & ?? of Chicago and officiated as clerk and book-keeper about 18 months. He then entered the employ of S.H. McCrea and remained upwards of 5 years. Within a year after the fire of October 1871, Mr. Beach engaged in traffic in grain, in which he operated at first at Onslow, Iowa and then in Tampico, this county, and prosecuted his operations in the same line of business there until he was elected to the office of sheriff in November 1880. His transactions in Tampico were proceeding prosperously until his elevator was destroyed, which inflicted a loss that interfered materially with the profits, though the substantial method in which he conducted his business relations prevented disastrous consequences. While a resident of Tampico he was made town clerk by several succeessive re-elections, and vacated the office on account of his election as sheriff of Whiteside county. He was re-elected in 1882 for the term of 4 years. In the administration of the duties pertaining to his position, the course of Mr. Beach wsa such as to justify the wisdom of his selection for that office and he proved to be one of the ablest and best sheriffs of the county. He was married Dec. 25, 1872 to S. Janie Miller of Chicago. Two children were born tot hem, one of whom, Mary Adnah, and his wife survive him. During his residence here he was for a time Lieutenant of Co I. 6th Regt. When he left this county after his term as sheriff expired he engaged in the grain trade at Osage, Iowa. Last spring he moved with his family to Spokene Falls, WA, where they made their home. Sunday Dec. 3, while at Dayton on a business trip he was stricken with paralysis from which he died the following Tuesday. The remains arrived here yesterday morning accompanied by Mrs Beach and daughter. The funeral was held in the afternoon at the Baptist church, Rev. D. Rogers officiating. The Masonic fraternity of this city then took charge of the body and interment took place in Grove Hill Cemetery.

Odell Library Collection

GLENN CLIFFORD BEALES was born October 3, 1880, in Rock Falls, the only son of Sarah and John Beales. He departed his life August 2, 1935, at the age of 54 years, nine months and 29 days. Mr. Beales received his education in the Rock Falls schools and later learned the barber trade at which he worked for several years. He also learned the moulder trade and core makers trade at the Charter Gas Engine company, where he worked for several years, and also at the Sterling Foundry, going back to the barber business about four years ago. He conducted a shop in Rock Falls until July 21 when he was stricken. Mr. Beales was married to Ada Bogart on May 1, 1905. In passing from this world he leaves besides his ever faithful wife, two half sisters, Mrs. V.A. Burdick of Freeport, and Mrs. Ollie Milan of Monroe, Wis., besides several cousins. Mr. Beales was always of a sunny disposition and ready to help those in need and turn a hand whenever he could to the best of his ability. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the home, 512 East Third street, Rock Falls, conducted by Rev. H.E. Shiffer of the Rock Falls Christian church. Mrs. Earl Longfellow sang the Old Rugged Cross. The pallbearers were friends of the deceased, E.L. Longfellow, Charles Pippert, E.G. Hurdle, Earl Eichelberger, Charles Willett and Gus Hansen. Interment was made in the family lot in the Rock Falls cemetery. Out of town relatives and friends attending the funeral were: Mr. and Mrs. Ed Derwent and son, John, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Derwent, Mr. and Mrs. I.J. Trenary, daughter Vivian and William Beales, Chicago: Mr. and Mrs. V.A. Burdick and Mr. and Mrs. E. Burdick, Freeport; Mrs. Ollie Milan, Mr. and Mrs. Hunt and daughter, Irene, Monroe, Wis; Mr. and Mrs. Albert Hart, Clinton, Ia.; Miss Bess Schmeid, Erie; Mr. and Mrs. W.E. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. Levi Elmendorf and daughter Vera and Mrs. Lee Schipper, Morrison; Miss Ida Bogart and Mrs. Frank Irvine, Prophetstown; Mr. and Mrs. Earl Stitzel, Mrs. E.D. Stizel and Miss Ethel Taylor, Nelson.
Contributed by Georgi DiBartolo

LILLIAN (DOBSON) BECK , 90, died at 9:59 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2006, in Rockford Memorial Hospital. Born Dec. 4, 1915, in Sterling, the daughter of Julian and Lillian (Walker) Dobson. Lillian married Clarence I. Beck in Rock Falls on Oct. 15, 1934; he died in 1989. She worked at Amerock Corp. for several years, retiring in 1979. Survived by her son, Clarence M. (Sandra) Beck, and daughter, Rogene Martini, both of Rockford; nine grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; and son-in-law, Kenneth Olrick of Wis-consin. Also predeceased by her parents; daughter, Joanne; and a brother and sister. Service at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, in the chapel of Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services, 7000 W. State St., with visi- tation from 9 a.m. to service time; Pastor Mark Weber of Central Christian Church will officiate. Burial in Willwood Burial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in care of Rio Bravo Christian Ministries - Pan de Vida program.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the Rockford Register Star

MRS. ALBERT D. BECKER , sister-in-law of Mrs. W. E. Weaver of Morrison, passed away Thursday evening in a Chicago hospital. She had visited in Morrison with Mrs. Weaver for a week recently and then left for Chicago to visit a niece. She was stricken with a severe heart attack two weeks ago and was taken to a hospital in that city. Funeral services were held Saturday in her home town of Columbus, Neb. Mrs. George Thiem of Springfield, formerly of Morrison, daughter of Weaver, attended the rites in Columbus. Mrs. Becker's husband passed away two years ago.

Contributed by Pamela Dollarhide Sterling Gazette" 18 Nov 1959

EVELYN (MORGAN) BECKLEY , 92, of Sterling died Tuesday Nov. 9, 2004 at Sterling Pavilion Nursing Home. Mrs. Beckley was born Jan. 27, 1912 in Woosung, the daughter of Francis and Kathryn E. (Chase) Morgan. She married Virgil Beckley on May 11, 1929, in Dixon. He died Aug. 19, 1971. She was a member of First Christian Church, Sterling and enjoyed sewing and cooking. Survivors include a son Alfred George (Elaine) Beckley of Dixon; eight grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. She was receded by three sisters, Elizabeth Hackbarth, Jeanette Gilbert and Josephine Fisher; and a daughter, Virginia Marie Marks. Graveside service is at 11 a.m. Saturday Odd Fellows Cemeter, the Rev. David J. Yonkers officiating.

FRANCIS ANN (OVERHOLSER) BEERS , one of the oldest residents of Genesee township, passed away at her home in Coleta at 1:45 o’clock Sunday afternoon after an illness of several months. Mrs. Beers, who was 94 years of age, had been a continuous resident of the township since she came there 80 years ago with her parents from Stark county, Ohio. In recent years she had made her home in Coleta. Five children survive. They are: Mrs. G. W. Hanna of Milledgeville, W. M. Beers of Marilla, Mich., Hattie Beers at home, Rev. John Beers of Leaf River, and Lester of St. Louis, Mo. Mrs. Beers was next to the oldest of a family of 13 children, of whom only one survives—Mrs. Sue Howe of Morrison. Twenty one grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild are left to mourn her loss. Many other relatives reside in Sterling, Morrison, Milledgeville and Coleta. Mr. Beers passed away in 1909. Funeral services will be held from the late home in Coleta at 1:30 o’clock Wednesday afternoon, and from the Grove Street United Brethren church, conducted by Rev. George Lutts. Burial will be in the Hazel Green cemetery north of Coleta.

OBITUARY: — The funeral rites for Mrs. Anna Beers were held Wednesday [05/16/1934] afternoon at 1:30 at her late home and at 2 o’clock at the Grove Street U. B. church with Rev. Geo. Lutts, a former pastor of the church, officiating. He was assisted by Rev. L. C. Harrall, present pastor, and Rev. S. W. Perkins, pastor of the Main Street U. B. church. Rev. Lutts chose for his text the 22d chapter in the book of Revelations, which was a very appropriate text. The church was filled with friends and relatives. The floral tributes were many and beautiful. Mrs. Herb Peugh, Mrs. John Bogott, Mrs. Hugh Brown and Mrs. E. R. Frankfother sang appropriate hymns and were accompanied by Mrs. Harry Brown. The following Sunday school scholars of Aunt Ann Beers of 53 years ago acted as pall bearers: J. M. Winkey, Arthur Deets, Jerry Meakins and S. O. Crom. Burial was in the family plot in the Hazel Green cemetery. There were many relatives here from Sterling, Morrison, Milledgeville and the surrounding community. Lester Beers was here from St. Louis, Mo., Rev. and Mrs. John Beers of Leaf River. Her son, Rev. William Beers of Marilla, Mich., was unable to be here for the funeral on account of illness. Frances Ann, the daughter of Martin and Barbara Overholser, was born in Stark county, Ohio, on Dec. 22, 1839, and died at her home in Coleta, May 13, 1934, aged 94 years, 4 months and 21 days. She was married to Barnette M. Beers, April 3, 1851, who preceded her in death on May 9, 1909. To this union were born six children: Mrs. Rachel A. Hanna, of Milledgeville; Rev. William Beers of Marilla, Mich.; Miss Hattie Beers of Coleta; Mary, a daughter who died in childhood; Rev. John S. Beers of Leaf River, and Lester Beers of St. Louis, Mo. In her passing, but one of her father’s family of 13 children now remains upon the shores of time to mourn her going, Mrs. Susan Howe of Morrison. Aunt Ann, as she was universally known, and affectionately called, was converted to Christ in her early girlhood and united with the United Brethren church, of which she has been a faithful member these many years. She was a consecrated Christian, a devoted wife and mother, and a good friend and neighbor. With the five surviving children, she leaves 21 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She also leaves many nephews and nieces with other relatives and a multitude of friends all of whom join in mourning her passing.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds / The Sterling Daily Gazette, May 14, 1934, page 3, column 2.

HELEN M. (ROBINSON) BENDER , 55 of 1310 23rd Ave., East Moline, died Tuesday evening (24 September 1985) at Franciscan Medical Center in Rock Island. Funeral services will be Thursday at 1 p.m. at the Church of the Cross, Port Bryon. Burial will be Oak Knoll Memorial Park Cemetery, Sterling. Visitation is from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at the Dailey Gibson Funeral Home, Port Byron. Memorials may be made in her memory to the church. Mrs. Bender was born March 13, 1930 in Milledgeville, the daughter of Howard F. and Bertha (VanBuskirk) Robinson. She was united in marriage to Leonard Bender on May 7 , 1949 in Polo. She worked for the Cable News in Mount Morris. Survivors include her husband, her mother, Mrs. Roland Bowers, one son, Randy, Rock Island; one daughter, Mrs. Steve (LeAnn) Earhart, Morrison; one brother, Richard, Rockford; and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois September 25, 1985 - Wednesday, pg A4

JENNIE C. (MORRIS) BENDER , 82 of Sterling died Monday June 26, 2006 at Coventry Living Center, Sterling. She was born on January 11, 1924 in Freeport, IL the daughter of Charles S. and Florence A. (Backus) Morris. She married Calvin L. Bender August 19, 1945 in Sterling. He died May 7, 1988. Surviving are her seven daughters, Nancy (Gary) Matthews of Sterling, Gloria (Pete) Brinkmeier of Rock Falls, Linda (Charles) Sipe of Mount Carroll, Connie (Paul) Cheshire of Sterling, Paulette Quimby of Rock Falls, Sherry (Jim) Smith of Milledgeville, Patty (Wendell) Ebersole of Chadwick; five sons, Gary (Brenda) Bender of Rock Falls, Danny (Dena) Bender and Jack Bender both of Sterling, Randy Bender of Lyndon and Terry Bender of Chadwick; her sister Millie Ross of Sterling; her brothers Sonny Morris of Rock Falls and Lawrence (Harriett) Morris of Amboy; 36 grandchildren and 51 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one daughter Joanne; two great grandchildren; two brothers and five sisters. Funeral services will be Friday June 30, 2006 at 11 AM in the McDonald-Allen-Grennan Funeral Home 505 1st Avenue - Sterling with the Reverend Dalmus Meeks officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Knoll Memorial Park

JUDY (FERGUSON) BENNETT , 58, of Sterling died Saturday March 5, 2005, at Swedish American Rockford. Funeral services at 10:30 Thursday at McDonald Funeral Home with Rev. Dalmus Meeks officiating. Burial will conclude at Oak Knoll. She was born Jan. 1, 1947 in Rock Falls the daughter of Harry and Lois (Pfeffer) Ferguson. She worked at Sinnissippi Centers as a rehab specialist for 20 years, retiring on Jan. 3, 2005. She enjoyed shopping and gardening. Survivors include her father, Harry Ferguson of Rock Falls; two daughters, Darcy Douglas of Rock Falls and Lori Bennett of DeKalb, one son, Cory Bennett of Sterling; one sister, PEggy (Steve) Hadaway of Tampico; two brothers, Robert (Julie) Stees and Perry (Linda) Ferguson both of Tampico; six grandchildren, Kacie Hicks, Chad Hicks, Ryan Hicks, Austin Bennett, Alexander Bennett and Madilyn Bennett and one great grandchild, Mason Alton. She was preceded by her mother.

KATHRYN L. (HANSEN) BENNET , of 808 W. 7th St., Sterling, died Friday morning in (15 July 1966) her home. Mrs. Bennett was born March 6, 1884 in Sterling, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Mathias Hansen. She was united in marriage to Jesse P. Bennett on Sept. 5, 1905 in Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She had lived all her life in Sterling, going to school in the small building in back of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She was a lifetime member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, a member of the Altar and Rosary Society, the Women's Relief Corps, the Royal Neighbors, the Needle Art Cluib and a charter member of the Ladies of the Moose, 1267, being a past senior regent. Mrs. Bennett is survived by her husband; one sister, Mrs. Ada Jacobs of White Cloud, Minn.; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded by two sisters and one brother. Prayer services will be Monday at 9 a.m. at the Allen Funeral Home and requiem mass at 9:30 a.m. in Sacred Heart Catholic Church with burial in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after noon on Sunday where the rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Sunday.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - Sterling Gazette July 15, 1966 - Friday, pg 6

EDITH (EWING) BENOI/BENOY - Mrs. Robert Oliver of Clinton, IA., notified former friends Sunday that her sister, Mrs. Edith Ewing Benoi of Long Beach Calif., had passed away. Her husband, Carey Bonoi and two married daughters survive. The funeral was held Tuesday, Oct 16, at Long Beach. the decedent was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. H Ewing, former Lyndon residents. Mrs. Benoi received her education in the Lyndon schools from which she was graduated. *According to CA Death index Edith was born 29 Nov 1881 and died 15 Oct 1950.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the Oct 17, 1950 Sterling Gazette (Surname is BONOY on death records)

GERTRUDE VIOLA (GARDIN) BENSON , 74, died Monday evening ( 29 May 1972) at Community General Hospital. Funeral services will be at the First Lutheran Church Thursday at 2 p.m., with the Rev. L. S. Anderson officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. Friends may call from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at the Gardner Funeral Chapel. Gertrude Viola Benson was born March 22, 1989 at Minneapolis, Minn., the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Nels Gardin. She married Oscar J. Benson, Wausa, Neb. The couple farmed in the Prophetstown area from 1950 to 1955, when they moved into Prophetstown. She was a member of the First Lutheran Church. Survivors include three sons: John, Morrison; Franklin, Des Plaines, and Bert, Prophetstown; 11 grandchildren; two great grandchildren; one brother, Fritz, Minneapolis, Minn.; three sisters, Mrs. Elllen Ottoson, Wausa, Neb.; Mrs. Lillian Larson and Mrs. Arthur LeVahn, both of Minneapolis, Minn. She was preceded in death by her husband and one grandchild. The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois June 6, 1972 - Tuesday, pg 2
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois May 30, 1972 - Tuesday, pg 2

WILMA A. (BREIDING) BENSON , 90, of Sterling died Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2004 at Coventry Village Nursing Home, Sterling. She was employed in the Sterling Public School system as a secretary for many years. Mrs. Benson was born Feb. 8, 1914 in Sterling, the daughter of Albert and Ida (Strohm) Breiding. She was a graduate of Sterling High School. She married Gunnar A. Benson on April 13, 1933 in DeKalb. She was a lifelong member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Sterling, the church choir, Edith Eykamp Circle and taught Sunday School for many years. She also was a member of Sterling and rock Falls Historical Society. Survivors include her husband; a son, John (Carolyn) Benson of Lincoln Neb; a daughter, Carole (Richard) Haakenson of Evansville WI; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded by two brothers, Albert and Harry, a sister, Bertha Bowers and three nephews. Services at St. John's Lutheran Church Sterling with the Rev. Mark Oehlert officiating. Burial in Oak Knoll.

JOY (McCOMBS) BENTZ , 86, of Kaiser, Mo., died Wednesday, July 23, 2003, in Osage Beach, Mo. Joy was born Nov. 1, 1916, in Tampico, the daughter of David E. and Flora (Lamont) McCombs. She married Lloyd R. Bentz on June 5, 1948, in Rock Falls. He died March 19, 2000. She was a friend of Lake Ozark (Mo.) Christian Church. She co-owned and operated with her husband, Bentz Marine & Supply and was a powder girl at Green River Ordinance Plant during World War II. She also operated with her husband, the Two Thirty Inn Truck Stop, Rock Falls. She moved to Lake Ozark, Mo., in 1954. Survivors include three sons, David Bentz and wife, Betty. of Lake Ozark, Mo., Donald Kohl and wife, Judy, of Rock Falls and Richard Kohl and wife, Jeanette, of Sterling: three grandsons, Matthew Bentz, Clay Kohl and Nicholas Kohl; three granddaughters, Jolene Kohl, Kimberly Brausam and Elizabeth Bentz; two greatgrandsons, Adam Corey laterand Kale Con; one great-grand-daughter, Rachel Brausam; and one sister, Shirley Hauver of Hampton, Iowa. Visitation is from 4-8 p.m. Friday, July 25, 2003, at Phillips Funeral Home, Eldon, Mo. The funeral is at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2003, Phillips Funeral Home, Eldon, Mo.. with the Rev. James Pohl officiating. Burial is at Hawthorn Mausoleum, Jefferson City, Mo. A memorial has been established to Lake Ozark (Mo.) Christian Church

Sterling Daily Gazette July 25, 2003

JAMES ALLEN BERTOLOZZI , 13, was accidentally killed Saturday afternoon while riding a bicycle on Route 78 between Prophestown and Lyndon.Funeral services were held today at 10 a.m. at St. Catherine's Catholic Church, with Rev. C. A. Anger officiating. Burial was at St. Catherine's Riverside Cemetery.James Bertolozzi was born Oct. 26, 1958 in Sterling, and moved to Prophetstown from Rock Falls six years ago. His parents are Mrs. Donald Bertol - parents are Mrs. Donna Bertolozzi, Prophetstown and John an eighth grade student at Lyndon Junior High School and was a member of St. Catherine's Catholic Church. Survivors include his parents; one sister, Linda and two brothers, Anthony and William, all at home; maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Eldon Camper, Rock Falls and paternal grandmother, Mrs. Elnora Bertolozzi.
Cotnributed Melva L. Taylor .. Written as stated .. words are confusing.. The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois May 15, 1972 - Monday, pg 2

MAXINE (MILLER) BERTOLOZZI , of Rock Falls, Ill., died Tuesday (July 12, 2005) at CGH Medical Center, Sterling, Ill. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Andrew Catholic Church, Rock Falls, Ill. Monsignor Thomas Dzielak will be officiating. Burial will follow in the Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the McDonald Funeral Home, Rock Falls. She was born May 21, 1928, in Humbolt, Kan., to Charles W. and Cora E. Mann Miller. She married Robert E. Bertolozzi on Jan. 31, 1948, in Sterling. He died in 2002. She was employed for nine years as a baker with Rock Falls Foodlane and then with Products Unlimited for 61/2 years before retiring in 2000. She was a member of St. Andrew Catholic Church and Rock Falls American Legion Auxiliary Post 902. Survivors include six sons, Tom (Cheryl) Bertolozzi of Milwaukee, Dick (Melinda) Bertolozzi of Taylor, Ill., Joe (Kathy) Bertolozzi of West Frankfort, Ill., Peter Bertolozzi of Rockford, Ill., Mike (Regina) Bertolozzi of West Franfort and Frank Bertolozzi of Rock Falls; four daughters, Mrs. Jane (Gary) Dettman of Sterling, Mrs. Alene (Steve) Ward of Rock Falls, Mrs. Carrie (Charlie) Bush of Morrison, Ill., and Mrs. Ruth (Tim) Kwiatkowski of Belleville, Ill.; 38 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to St. Andrew Catholic Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, two sons, one grandchild, two great-grandchildren, three brothers and two sisters.

CLARENCE W, BESWICK , 80, Rte. four, farmer and cattle feeder, died at 5:30 a.m. today (31 March 1961) in the Morrison Communty Hospital where he had been a patient since Monday following a stroke. The body was taken to the Reynolds Funeral Home where friends may call after 1 .m. Saturday. Funeral services will be conducted in the funeral home Monday at 2 p.m. the Rev. David Fouts, pastor of the Methodist Church. Burial will be in the Grove Hill Cemetery. Mr. Beswick was born June 23, 1880 in Clyde township the son of Thomas L. and Sarah Miller Beswick. He was reared and educated in Clyde township. He was married on Dec. 10, 1902 to Maggie M. Kennedy in the Methodist parsonage in Morrison, the Rev. Enos Holt officiating. They farmed in the Clyde township for a number of years, moving to Mount Pleasant township, 48 years ago, where he continued to farm and feed cattle. He served as a school director for a number of years. Survivors are his widow, three sons, Howard W., Thomas L., and Dewitt K., all of Morrison; two daughters, Mrs. Walter (Adele) Berge, Lanark; Mrs. Leland (Phyllisl) Forth, Chadwick; two grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three sisters, Mrs. Jacob (Carriel) Hensler, Mrs. Ben (Elizabeth) Hammer, Mrs. Anna Wells, all of Morrison; one brother, Ernest R. Beswick,Fulton, S.D., and a number of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, George, two sisters, Florence Beswick and Mrs. Mabel Zook and one grandson, Donald Berg, in infancy.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois March 31, 1961 - Friday, pg 6, col 2

MARIAN (NAFTZGER) BESWICK , 81, of Morrison, died Thursday at her home. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Morrison. The Rev. Leo Bartel, pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church, will be officiating. Visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home with a 4:30 p.m. rosary and vigil service. Interment will be in the Grove Hill Cemetery, Morrison. She was born June 8, 1922, in Newton Township, Ill., to Walter P. and Catherine E. Sullivan Naftzger. She married Thomas L. Beswick on Aug. 15, 1951, in Fulton, Ill. He died in 1988. She graduated from Erie (Ill.) High School in 1940. She received a teacher's certificate from Mount St. Clare College in Clinton in 1942. She was employed as a teacher for many years in various Whiteside County, Ill., schools. She farmed with her husband in rural Morrison. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Morrison and the church's Altar and Rosary. She also was a member of the Whiteside County Retired Teacher's Association. Survivors include three sons, Loren (Ann) Beswick of Sterling, Ill., Dale Beswick of Morrison and Paul (Kaywyn) Beswick of Morrison; six grandchildren; and one sister, Mrs. Helen Harvey of Morrison. She was preceded in death by her husband, one sister and one brother.

Clinton Herald March 19, 2004

THOMAS LEE BESWICK , 40, 17251 Millard Road, Morrision, died Wednesday morning (25 September 1985) near Neon, Kentucky, of injuries sustained from a truck accident. Funeral services will be Saturday at 1 p.m. in the Renkes-Reynolds Funeral home in Morrison. Rev. Mel A. Strain, pastor of the Fulton Presbyterian Church, will officiate. Burial will be in Grove Hill Cemetery, Fulton. Visitation is Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the funeral home. A memorial fund has been established for the Bi-County Union Grove School. Mr. Beswick was born Feb. 23, 1939 in Sterling to Taylor and Mary (Ransom) Beswick. He was raised in Union Grove Township and graduated from Fulton High School in 1956. He was united in marriage to Jane Hatz on Dec. 31, 1966 in Albany. He served in the U.S. Army from 1962-63 and lived in Union Grove all of his life where he had farmed the home place. He had been driving for Elwyn Nice Trucking of Morrison for the past four months. He was a member of the Whiteside County Farm Bureau and a board member of Summit Drainage District. He is survivied by his wife; his parents of Clinton, Iowa; two daughters, Mrs. Joseph (Sally) Veselko, Fulton; and Lori at home; three sons, Rick, Fulton; Terry, Morrison; and Tony at home; three sisters, Mrs. Kenneth (Marjorie) Houzenga, Port Byron; Mrs. James (Virginia) Fay, Clinton, Iowa; and Mrs. Sherman (Sara) Stuart, Fulton; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois September 25, 1985 - Wednesday, pg A4

THOMAS L. BESWICK , 80, of 17892 Yager Rd., Morrison, died today (26 Sep 1988) at Mercy Hospital in Cllinton, Iowa. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Genesee Street Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral home in Morrison. Burial will be in Grove Hill Cemetery, Morrison. Visitation is from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. He was born Sept. 20, 1908 in Clyde Township, the son of Clarence W. and Maggie Kennedy Beswick. He married Marion Naftzger on Aug. 15, 1951 in Fulton. He was reared and educated in Clyde Township and farmed in Mt. Pleasant Township until he retired in 1980. He was a member of the Whiteside County Farm Bureau. He is survived by his wife; three sons, Loren of Sterling, Dale and Paul of Morrison; two sisters, Adele Berge of Lanark, Mrs. Leland (Phylis) Forth of Chadwick; and two brothers, Howard W. and DeWitt K., both of Morrison.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois September 26, 1988 - Monday pg A6

TONY T. BESWICK , died Tuesday, February 5, 2008 at CGH Medical Center in Sterling, IL. Tony was born April 30, 1972 in Morrison, IL, to Thomas L. and Jane (Hetz) Beswick. He was educated in the Bi-County Education System in Morrison and Self-Help Enterprises in Sterling, IL. Tony was a member of Emmanuel Reformed Church in Morrison and an avid sports fan. Survivors include his mother and stepfather, Jane (Mrs. Larry) Darby of Morrison, IL; two sisters, Sally (Dave De Cock) Veselko of Clinton, IA and Lori (Mrs. Peter) Vanderlaan of St. Charles, IL; two brothers, Rick and Terry Beswick both of Fulton, IL; twelve nieces and nephews; six great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas and his grandparents.

LESTER JOSEPH BETSINGER , age 65, of Thomson, Illinois and formerly of Sandwich, Illinois, died Sunday, March 3, 2002 at his home in Thomson. Funeral services will be 11:00a.m. Friday, March 8, 2002 at the Law-Jones Funeral Home, Thomson. Pastor Ron Abbott of the York Community Congregational Church, Thomson will officiate. Burial will be in the R.A. Lusk Memorial Cemetery, Albany, IL. Visitation will be from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. Thursday, March 7, and 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 8, 2002 at Law-Jones Funeral Home, Thomson. Les was born on Sunday, November 8, 1936 in Iowa to Lester C. and Bernice M. (Northness) Betsinger. He graduated from Queen of Angels High School in Austin, Minnesota. He served in the United States Army from January 18, 1955 - January 8, 1958. He married Martha Fern Bales on July 15, 1978 in Sandwich, Illinois. Les worked for Caterpillar in Montgomery, Illinois for thirty years, retiring in 1993. Les was a member of the Moose Lodge in Batavia, Illinois. Les enjoyed country western music, playing guitar, fishing, and especially his grandchildren and his dog Pokey. Survivors include his wife, Fern Betsinger of Thomson; two daughters, Laura (Ken) Lowry of Montgomery, Illinois and Karen (Bradley) Nielsen of Aurora, Illinois; one son, Michael (Chris) Betsinger of Shokopee, Minnesota; eight grandchildren, Nick and Skylar Betsinger, Steven Carlson, Jr., Kristy (Jamie) Ramos, Karrie, Lester and Katie Nielsen, and Jackie Lowry; one great-grandchild, Angel Ramos; three step-children, Jim (Mary) Bales, Pamela (Jermiah) Speer and Tamela (Dave) Gabriel; six step-grandchildren, Deveri Howard, Alonzo and Marari Boardman, Chris, Grace and Leah Keefe; one step-great-grandson, Severin Broyne; one sister, Nancy (Emery) Eckhert of Iowa; five brothers, Virgil (Michelle) Betsinger and Robert Betsinger of Aurora, Illinois, Russell (Joanie) Betsinger, William (Karyl) Betsinger and Richard (Patricia) Betsinger all of Minnesota; many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. Les was preceded in death by his parents, two sons, Leslie Joseph and one in infancy, three brothers, Ted, Jim and Jerry Betsinger, two sisters Mary Ann Greenwood and Betty Lou Finkleson.

MARY (CRAMER) BETTS , 91, of German Valley, formerly of Sterling and Cottonwood Ariz. died Tuesday Jan 4, 2005 at her home after an extended illness. Mrs. Betts was born June 19, 1913 in Sterling, the daughter of George Whalen and Clifford and Mary (Janssen) Cramer. ?? (Two fathers? ) She married Fred R. Betts on Nov. 28, 1934 in Rock Island, he died July 30, 1994. She was a member of Wesley United Meth. Church Sterling,a ctive in its women's society and attended Park Hills Evangelical Free Church, Freeport. Survivors include a daughter, Marcia (John) Huenger of Ridott; a grandaughter and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded by a son Rahn Betts. Memorial service at 11 AM Saturday at Genandt Funeral Home, German Valley. Burial in Oak Knoll Sterling.

MILDRED M. (SNONTZ) BETTS , 82, 601 West 13th St., Rock Falls was pronounced dead (28 Oct 1984) on arrival at Community General hospital Sunday morning. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday morning at 10:30 a.m. at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral home in Rock Falls with Rev. Charles E. Steinke, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church, Sterling, officiating. Burial will be in Oak Knoll Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Monday at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home. A memorial has been established to the Whiteside County Heart Fund in her memory. Mrs. Betts was born on June 28, 1902 in Sterling, the daughter of Melvin and Bernice Patridge Shontz. On July 16, 1921 she was united in marriage to Edwin T. Betts in the brides home in Sterling. He preceded her on July 18 1966. She was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church and very active in the Ladies Circle of the Church and King's Daughters for many years. She was employed as a Saleslady for Sowles Ready to Wear Store for 20 years. Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Orla Jean Rowland, Sterling, Mrs. Lyle (Arlene) Book, Rock Falls, with whom she had made her home the past few months, and Mrs. Richard (Janet) Shuman, San Antonio, Texas; three sisters, Mrs. Frank (Eleanor) Elmendorf, Sterling, Mrs. Elmer (Fern) Jellrichs, Rock Falls, and Mrs. Hazel Henderson, Rock Falls; 12 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Preceding her in death were her parents, husband, two sisters, one son and one grandson.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois October 29, 1984 - Monday, pg A4

EGBERT BILLS , died in Sterling Thursday morning at 6:45 o'clock at the home of his son-in-law, Charles H. Anment. Old age and other dieseases was the cause of his death. The funeral was held Friday afternoon at two o'clock at the home of C. H. Aument, 711 Fourth Ave. , the Rev. W. W. Diehl pastor of the Fourth st. Methodist church, officiating. Interment was at Riverside. Mr. Bills was born Feb. 28, 1823 in Berkshire county, Massachusetts. He later move to Connecticut, where he was married. Mrs. Bills died May 16 of last years. He leaves to mourn his death three children, K. E. Bills, Mrs. D. H. Aument and Mrs. C. H. Tuttle, allf Sterling. Mr. Bills came to Illinois in the fall of 1867 and settled in Genesee. In 1875 he retired and moved to Sterling where he has since resided. Mr. Bills was for many years a member of the Fourth St. Methodist church, although for the past few years unable to attend services. He was a man greatly respected by all who knew him, honest, sincere and earnest, hardworking and a friend of all. His death will be sincerely mourned by all.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - Dated April 1904 (Anment/Aument spelled both ways in obit.) Scrapbook Clipping

FRANCIS (PARRISH) BILLS , passed away at her home Sunday morning at 1:30 o'clock after a long illness with consumption of the bowels. Her death, though not a surprise, has cast a glom over many Milledgeville homes. She had been in delicate health for some time, but was taken seriously ill the day before Decoration Day and has since grown gradually weaker until the end. Miss Francis M. Parrish was born in Genesee, Whiteside county, April 9th, 1854, therefore was 46 years, 2 months and 29 days old at the time of her death. She was the daughter of Watson and Nancy Broadwell Parrish. She attended the Liberty school when a girl. September 2, 1874, she was united in marriage to Kendrick E. Bills, and they had lived together for twenty-six years. Their union was blessed with one son, Henry, who is engaged in the hardware business in this place with his father. Shortly after her marriage she was converted at a revival at the Hickory Grove M. E. church. For years she lived at Hickory Grove, and in 1888 the family moved to Coleta, where they resided until 1895 when they became residents of Milledgeville, where they have since resided. After moving to Coleta Mrs. BIlls united with the United Brethren church and has remained so, being an earnest, conscientious christian woman. In the Parrish family there were fifteen children four having preceded her in death. They were Mary and Clara, who died in infancy; WIlliam who died in the army, and MRs. Hattie JOhnston, who died at Rippey, Iowa. The brothers and sisters living are as follows: Mrs. Sarah Cummings, Mrs. B. T. St. John and L. S. Parrish, of Sterling,; Mrs. Emma Stanley, of Coleta; Elias Parrish of Vesta, Nebraska; Augustin, of Chico, California; Sampson, of Milford, Iowa; Watson, of San Diego, California; H. Harrison, of Archer Grove, Iowa, and John B., of Luverne, Minn. The funeral was held from the residence at eleven o'clock Tuesday morning, Rev. F. L. Baldwin, of Lockport officiating. The remains were taken to Sterling and were buried at Riverside cemetery, the cortege arriving there at about three o'clock. Mrs. Bills was a member of the Mystic Workers of the World and the W. R. C. She was possessed of that disposition which made friends of all who knew her. She had a smile and a pleasant word for every one and was generally beloved. During her last long illness her husband and son remained by her side almost constantly. The floral tributes from friends were most beautiful. During her illness, Mrs. Bills was patient, never complaining. A lovely woman has been taken from our midst.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - July 8, (?) 1900

HENRY D. BILLS , 74, a former Dixon businessman died at 10:30 P.M. Monday (July 7, 1952) in Sherman hospital in Elgin. Mr. Bills had lived at Elgin since leaving Dixon in 1950. Mr. Bills and his family moved to Dixon in 1925, where he became a partner in the Keyes-Bills Realty Co. A few years later he bought the interest of Charles E. Keyes and the business became the Bills Realty Co. Before moving to Dixon, Mr. Bills was in the hardware implement business in Milledgeville for 25 years. He was a life member of the Masonic lodge in Milledgeville and received a 50 year pin from the lodge. He joined the Methodist Church at Milledgeville and upon moving he transferred his membership to the Dixon Methodist Church. Mr. Bills was always active in the church and had held many official positions. Born October 16, 1877 on a farm north of Round Grove, Whiteside County, he was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Kendrich E. Bills. He married Clara E. Barthel on December 26, 1900. Surviving are his widow; a daughter Mrs. E. Arthur Hill, Elgin; a half sister, Mrs. Lucille Baker, Sterling and twin grandaughters. Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday in the Buckley-Staples funeral here with the Ref. Floyd E. Blewfield , former pastor of the Dixon Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in Bethel Cemetery in Milledgeville.

Dixon Evening Telegraph 08 July 1952 Henry Bills, 75, passed away at his home in Elgin on Monday (7 Jul 1952) evening. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 1:30 p.m. (DST) at the Buckley funeral home in Dixon . Burial will be in the Milledgeville cemetery. Mr. Bills was in partnership with Rollo ewers in the operation of a hardware store in Milledgeville for a number of years. The family moved from Milledgeville to Dixon and for the past several years have resided in Elgin . Last winter Mr. Bills was presented with a 50 year Masonic lodge pin by the Milledgeville lodge AF&AM of which he was a member. He is survived by his wife, the former Clara Barthel of Milledgeville, one daughter, Mrs. Frances Hill of Elgin and two grandchildren and a sister, Mrs. Sam E. Baker of Sterling .
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - 8 Jul 1952 Sterling Daily Gazette

FLORENCE ANNA (DICKEY) BINZ - Funeral arrangements are complete at the Grennan Funeral home for Mrs. Florence Binz, 70, of 422 Sperry Court, Aurora, formerly of Sterling, who died Tuesday morning at the Copley Hospital in Aurora. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Grennan Funeral Home with the Rev. Geoffrey Wirth, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation is before the funeral on Wednesday. Mrs. Binz was born June 15, 1910 to Mr. and Mrs. Charles (Georganna Bryson) Dickey. Her only survivor is one sister, Effie Regan of Sterling.

* Florence died 1 Dec 1980
Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

EARL R. BISHOP passed away Sunday morning (August 25, 1935) at 4:45 o'clock at the Sterling public hospital, as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident about 5 o'clock Saturday night just west of the home of Lester Ebersole, on the gravel road leading west from the Twin City country club. The death of Mr. Bishop, one of Sterlings popular young businessmen, comes as a great shock to his many friends and acquaintances and the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community goes to the bereaved wife and mother. Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock from the home of his mother, Mrs. G.E. Bishop 806 locust street, and at 3:30 o 'clock at St. John's Lutheran church, Rev. A.H. Keck will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside cemetery. Acting Cornoner R.W.E. Mitchell conducted the inquet this morning at 11 o'clock at the Trouth funeral home. The jury returned a verdict of death as the result of injuries to the brain caused by an automobile accident.

Contributed by Mike Hosler

ELLEN (WELLS) BLASDELL , The community was greatly shocked to hear of the death of Mrs. M. C. Blasdell. Miss Ellen Wells was born in Perrysburg, New York, on January 29th, 1837, and departed this life February 5, 1915, [text unreadable] age of 78 years and 7 days. She was united in marriage to Maurice C. Blasdell December 28, 1858, in New York, her childhood home. Mrs. Blasdell having spent four years in Illinois before their marriage. They came at once to this state in which they have since resided. Into this home were born three sons, George, Charles and John and one daughter Edith who died as the wife of Henry Miller about 21 years ago. Those left to mourn her loss are a aged husband, three sons, Goerge of Fenton, Charles of Perry, Iowa, and John of Fenton. Four grandsons, Willie Miller of Ustick, and Roy, Charles and Erwin Blasdell of Fenton. She also leaves to mourn her loss two brotheres and one half sister in New York, and a half sister in Michigan. Mrs. Blasdell was one of Fenton’s pioneer settlers, having lived here about 56 years and was well known around the surrounding country. She leaves a host of friends to mourn her loss. She was a faithful wife and mother, a good neighbor and friend. The funeral services were held at the United Brethren church Sunday, February 7 at 2 p. m. Rev. T. A. Barton, pastor of the U. B. church, officiating. Text 2 Cor. 5:1-2 Tim. 1:2. The choir sang sweetly the follwoing selections to Mrs. T. A. Barton, accompainent of the piano: “Peace, Sweet Peace at Jesus Feet”, “Lead Me Gently Home Father”, “I Kinow Whom I Have Believed”, “Jesus, Lover of My Soul”. The pall bearers were Fred Preatley, Bert Thompson, Philip Bealer, Edwin Florence, J. S. Burns and Ben Montague. The remains were laid to rest in Fenton cemetry. The friends extend their sympathy to the grief sticken family in their loss of a loving wife and mother. Charles Blasdell of Perry, Ia., arrived here Saturday afternoon, called here by the death of his mother.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Evening Gazette, February 11, 1915, page 3, column 2

OLA (THOMAS) BLEITZ , 88 of Palm Harbor FL, formerly of Erie, died Saturday Jan. 29, 2005 at Stratford Court. She owned and operated a beauty salon in her home. Mrs. Bleitz was born Feb. 12, 1916 in Springhill, the daughter of Edward Wayne & Ella Mae (Sohrbeck) Thomas. She married L. Kenneth Finnicum on Feb. 12, 1939 in Newton Township, he died in May 1946. She then married F. Gordon Bleitz on Jan. 16, 1951 in Erie, he died Aug. 27, 1997. She was a member of Erie United Meth. Church, the church's choir, served as the Sunday School pianist and past president of the Women's Society; Evangeline Chapter, Order of Easter Star, Erie, where she served as pianist; Whiteside COunty Republican COmmittee; adn Whiteside County Farm Bureau. Survivors include a daughter Mary (Albert) Pierce of Tampa FL, a son Loren (Diane) Finnicum of Prophetstown; four sisters, Dorthea Daw of Milledgeville, Ruth Abshire of Phoenix and Beverly Frohling and Eula Seger both of Erie; four brothers, William Thomas of Fenton, Robert THomas of Vancouver WA, James Thomas of Moline and Paul Thomas of Erie; five grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren. The funeral is at 11 am Friday at Erie United Meth. Church, burial in Erie Cemetery.

LEOLA BOEHM , 97, of 305 E. 10th St., Rock Falls, died Monday, Nov. 6, 1995, at CGH Medical Center. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Blair Funeral Home, Sterling, with the Rev. Ronald Seidere of the First Christian Church, officiating. Burial will be at I.O.O.F. Cemetery, Rock Falls. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Mrs. Boehm was born Dec. 20, 1897, in Sterling, the daughter of Alvin and Martha (Cohenour) Hunsberger. She married Carl O. Boehm on Nov. 24, 1921, in the Mendota area. She was educated in the Sterling area. She was a school teacher and factory worker at R.B.&W. She was a member of First Christian Church of Rock Falls. She loved flowers. Survivors include two sons, Ellis (Dona) Boehm and Terry Boehm both of Rock Falls; one daughter, Jeannine (Ronald) Nolte of Monticello; 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; one brother, Robert (June) Hunsberger of Rock Falls; and three sisters, Grace Marshall of Davenport, Iowa, Doris Grimm of Louisville, Ky., and June Preis of Rock Falls. She was preceded in death by her husband; two sons, Carl and Lyle and eight brothers.
Contributed by Pamela Dollarhide

ROSCOE L. BONNINGTON , 38, Galt, died at 10:15 p.m. Saturday at the Community General hospital, the second to die as the result of a two-car crash on Route 2 at the Galt Grange friday night. His wife was the first fatality in the highway accident. Double funeral services were conducted Monday at 2 p.m. at the First Methodist Church, Sterling, Rv. James McKelvey officiated. Burial was in the Mennonite cemetery at Riverside. Mr. Bonnington wsa born Nov. 15, 1911, at Barnett, Ill., the son of Ethel and John W. Bonnington. He was recently employed by the Clean Towel service, Rockford. He leaves a son Benny Bonnington of Canyon Texas; mother and step father, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Mahnks of litchfield Ill., a brother Paul Bonnington of Edwardsville and two sisters Mrs. Helen Jones of Litchfield and mrs. Hazel Calkins of South Center Kan. An inquest is to be conducted at the Melvin Funeral home at 5 p.m. Monday. Drive of the second car involved in the accident was Ronald d. Myers, Route 4 Sterling.His condition was described as good at the hospital Monday.

Details of the Accident: A Galt couple met death from injuries sustained in a two car crash Friday night on Route 2 at the galt grange according to the findings of a coroner's jury Monday evening. The jury ruled that Mrs. Roscoe L. Bonnington died of a skull fracture and multiple injuries suffered in the accident while her husband died as the result of a skil fracture, multiple fractures of both legs and an arm and shock. Officers Robert Nichols and john Woods both of Sterling, of the state police, who investigated the accident, were unable to explain to the coroners jury how the crash occurred. The officers testified there were no skid marks on the pavement at the crash scene and there had been no witnesses. They said they found the Bonnington car facing northwest on the east side of the highway and the second car facing southeast on the opposite side of the pavement. The second auto was driven by Donald D. Myers, 20, Route 4, Sterling. He is a patient at CGH suffering from compound fractures of the left leg and other injuries. He could not testify Monday.

Contributed by Jean Portner

GEGORY ALAN BOUCHER , 39, of Sterling died after a long illness Friday, Dec. 24, 2004 at CGH Medical Ctr. Mr. Boucher was born May 10, 1965 in Sterling, the son of Charles F. & Dorothy E. (Warkins) Boucher. Survivors include his parents, three brothers, Larry (Lori) of Sterling, Michael (Tya) of ROck Falls and Terry (Stephanie) of Prophetstown. He was preceded by a sister, Linda Sue Boucher, in infancy and his grandparents. There is no service.

FRANK J. BOWMAN - The funeral of Frank J. Bowman, 86, of Sterling, olest active member of the Whiteside County Bar who was found dead in bed at his home Thursday morning will be held at the Woods funeral home at 2:30 Saturday, the Rev. Wm. Weatherell, rector of Grace Episcopal Church officiating. Mr. Bowman who had been in poor health for several years suffered a heart attack of indegestion Wednesday evening and when he failed to appear for breakfast at his usual hour Thursday morning his housekeeper went to call him and found him dead. He was born July 10, 1859 in Sterling and was married Anna May Trow who died in 1937. Surviving are a son Frank E. Bowman, Rock Falls; a sister Mrs. Harry E. Burkholder, Sterling and a brother E.J. Bowman, Anaconda MT.

Dixon Evening Telegraph 29 March 1946

JOHN W. BOWMAN - aged 55 of Rural Route 1, Morrison, employee of the General Electric plant at Morrison, died unexpectedly at his home about 3:30 a.m. Sunday morning (10 Sep 1961) following a heart attack. Bowman had had a heart condition for the past five years. The body was removed to the Tomlinson funeral home where friends may call after 10 a.m. Monday. Funeral servicses will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. in the Tomlinson funeral home. Burial will be in Grove Hill Cemetery, Morrison. He was born Oct. 29, 1905, in Brownsville, Pa., the son of John and Marjorie Bowman. He attended grade and high school at Brownsville. He was married, May 1, 1932 to Florence Whitemore of Morrison. He had resided in the Morrison area for the past 30 years. He was a member of the General Electric Association and was a past president of the Cottonwood Community Association. He is survived by his wife, one son, John, in the U.S. Navy, Oak Harbor, Wash., and one daughter., Mrs. J Donald (Marjorie) Rogiers of East Moline, also three grandchildren and one brother and one sister. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois Septemeber 11, 1961 - Monday, pg 2

JAMES BLUMHOFF , 77, of Lyndon died Saturday, July 26, 2003, following an extended illness, He was a lifetime farmer in the Lyndon area and also was employed by Chicago Northwestern Railroad as a conductor for 22 years, retiring in 1992. Mr. Blumhoff was born Aug. 29, 1925, in Erie, the son of Henry and Ruth (Reisenbigler) Blumhoff. He married Shirley Fisk on Jan. 21, 1948, in Morrison. He served in the Navy with the SeaBees during World War II. He was a member of Lyndon United Methodist Church. Survivors include his wife; four sons, Larey (Linda) Blumhoff of Morrison, Jim (Jan) Blumhoff of Bridegport, Ohio, Rick Blumhoff of Lyndon and Randy (Socorro) Blumhoff of San Antonio; three sisters, Jean Kellett of Deltona, Fla., Lila Blumhoff of Springfield, Mo., and Mary Lou (John) Melton of Prophetstown; a brother, Robert (Mildred) Blumhoff of Erie; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and two stepgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son,Marty Blumhoff; and a brother, JohnBlumhoff. Memorial service is at 11 am. Saturday at McDonald Funeral Home, Prophetstown, with the Rev. Weslie Dickson, pastor of Lyndon United Methodist Church. officiating, followed by military honors. Private family burial is at a later date. Visitation is from 10-l1 am. Saturday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established to Lyndon United Methodist Church.

Daily Gazette 28 July 2003

EDITH ELLA (SCHICK) BLOOMQUIST , 62, or 1709 14th Ave, Rock Falls, died Tuesday evening in Community General Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home with the Rev. Jon Dalton, pastor of the Fairview Evangelical church of Rock Falls, officiating. Burial will be in the Chapel Hill Cemetery in Dixon. Friends may call from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Mrs. Bloomquist was born on Oct. 29, 1919 in Morris, the daughter of Percy and Hazel (Miner) Schick. She was united in marriage to Stanley Bloomquist on Dec. 5, 1938 in Clinton, Iowa. She was employed at Lawrence Brothers in Sterling for 24 years prior to her retirement in 1976. She is survived by her husband, Stanley; her mother, Mrs. Hazel Schick of Rock Falls; two daughters, Mrs. Clarence (Christine) Franks and Mrs. James (Carolyn) Hicks, both of Rock Falls; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Viola Howard of Lake Delton, Wisconsin and one brother Harold Schick of Rock Falls. She was preceded in death by her father, one daughter in infancy, one brother and one grandson in infancy.

Contributed by Charlotte Schick - [Source: The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois, Wednesday, May 5, 1982 - Page A4].

DIXIE DARLENE (HENSON) BONNER , 75, of 113 5th, Rock Falls died Fri. Nov. 6, 1998 at CGH Medical Ctr. Sterling, following a long illness. Services at the World Wide Christian Center Monday at 1 PM, burial in Oak Knoll Cemetery. Mrs. Bonner was born 10 Dec. 1922 in Orchardville, daughter of Wm. & Alice (Stonecipher) Henson. She was employed at Sauk Valley Community College prior to her retirement.

MARIAN (MARTIN) BONNETTE , 65, died Tuesday January 3, 2006 at CGH Medical Center in Sterling following an extended illness. Mrs. Bonnette was born on June 23, 1940 in Rock Falls the daughter of Ward and Esma (Masini) Martin. She married Dennis Bonnette on February 17, 1979 in Sterling. Surviving is her husband Dennis; seven sons, Butch (Melody) Duchay of Warroad, MN, Mark Duchay of Rock Falls, John (Chris) Bonnette of Syracuse, KS, Matt (Tracy) Bonnette of Dixon, IL, Justin Bonnette of Rock Falls, Jay Bonnette and Brett Bonnette both of Rock Falls; two daughters, Diana (Andy) DeGross of Subiaco,AR and Amy Williams of Rock Falls; one sister, Carol (Sherman) Hadaway of Prophetstown; two brothers, Melvin (Betty) Martin of Warroad, MN and Richard (Georgia) Martin of Beech Grove, IN; sixteen grandchildren; five great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents. Funeral services will be 2:30PM Monday January 9, 2006 at the McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory in Rock Falls with Reverend Nancy Dvorachek of the Wesley United Church officiating. Visitation is Monday from 1:30 - 2:30 PM at the funeral home.

GLEN BRAID , Relatives here have been summoned to Rockford by the death of Glen Braid, 21, formerly of this city, which occurred in an automobile accident in that city at 7:15 o’clock Thursday night when the automobile which he was driving and oil truck sideswiped each other and then mowed down a gasoline pump. His mother, Mrs. Bertha Braid, 43 and brother Leslie, 17, suffered severe injuries. Glen lived but a few minutes after he was carried into a Rockford hospital by policemen. He suffered a broken back, crushed lift side and a broken left leg. He never regained consciousness. Mrs. Braid suffered a sprained back, torn ligaments in her right shoulder and arm and severe lacerations about the head and face. She is near collapse at her home. Leslie Braid was cut about the head and face and severely bruised about the body, but physicians were unable to find any broken bones and he was able to be taken to his home from the hospital after treatment. Mrs. Braid is the daughter of Mrs. Anna L Bryson of 604 First avenue and resided in Sterling for a number of years. Both of the sons in the accident were born in Sterling.

The fatality turned what was to have been a family reunion Christmas day into a tragic mourning assembly, as funeral services for Glen Braid probably will be held at 1:30 o’clock Saturday afternoon at the home and 2 o’clock at the Christian church in Rockford. Mrs. Braid had planned a Christmas dinner for 35 relatives, including her eight children. The two Braid boys and their mother had just taken a woman to her home and were on their return trip when the accident happened. Glen Braid was driving at a moderate rate of speed, and according to his brother, Leslie, the oil truck turned directly in front of their car. Leslie declares his brother swung to the west side of the street in and attempt to miss the heavy truck, but he was unsuccessful. There was a terrific crash as the two machines sideswiped each other. Braid’s car shot toward the west curbing and mowed down a gasoline pump.

Glen Braid and his mother were hurled out of the wrecked machine while Leslie was pinned in the debris. Workman of a nearby plant heard the crash and rushed to the aid of the injured occupants of the automobile. Fred braid, father of the two boys was at home when the crash occurred, but was unaware of the identity of the occupants of the car until his wife was carried into her home. He ran out into the street just as the ambulance was going to the hospital. The driver stopped and he jumped into the machine to be near his son. Persons who viewed the wrecked sedan marveled that any of the occupants escaped alive. Glen Braid was born in Sterling, Ill., July 29, 1907. Some years later the family moved to Clinton, Iowa, and from there moved to Rockford about 10 years ago. He is a graduate of Rockford high school and recently had been employed by the Ingersoll Milling Machine company. He completed his apprenticeship as a pattern maker several months ago. Besides his parents he is survived by seven brothers and sisters. They are Ralph Braid, Chicago, Mary, Leslie, Wayne, Esther, Elma and Grace.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the December 21, 1928 Sterling Daily Gazette

MRS. ?? (CARLSON) BRANDAU , 86, of 354 Backbone Road, Tampico, died Tuesday, July 1, 2003, at Hammond-Henry Hospital, Geneseo. Mrs. Brandau was born May 13, 1917, in Thomas, the daughter of Julian and Viola (Jacobson) Carlson. She was united in marriage to Clarence F. Brandau on Dec. 15, 1943, in Yorktown. He preceded her in death on March 25, 1997. She was a teacher for 32 years at area country schools and the Prophetstown School District. She was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Yorktown, 500 Card Club, Bunco Club, Women's Club, Royal Neighbors of America and Retired Teachers. She is survived by one daughter, Kathryn (Ronald) Kelly of Tampico; three grandchildren, Steve (Nora) Kelly of Tampico, Karla (Brad) Smith of LeRoy and Mark (Joan) Kelly of San Pedro, Calif.; six great-grandchildren, Patrick, Emily, Margaret, Kelly, Katelyn and Ronald John "RJ;" and several special friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and one brother, Keith Carlsen. Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 am. Saturday, July 5, 2003, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Yorktown, with the Rev. Jeffrey Clements, assistant to the bishop of Northern Illinois Synod, officiating, and lay pastor Ken Ray co-officiating. Burial will be at Yorktown Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:30-10:30 Saturday at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Yorktown. A memorial has been established in her memory to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Yorktown, and Tampico Ambulance Service. Arrangements were completed by Garland Funeral Home in Tampico.

Sterling Daily Gazette July 3, 2003

MARGARET (CONROY) BRANDAU , 61, Tampico, passed away Friday evening (7 Apr 1972) at Kokomo, Ind., where she had been visiting her son. She was born in Tampico July 24, 1910, daughter of John M. and Mabel Gifford Conroy, received her education in Tampico schools and was married to August Brandau, June 3, 1928 in Rockford. She lived in Tampico all of her life, and was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Yorktown. Survivors include her husband, in Tampico; two sons, Jack, Salina, Kan., and Jerry, of Kokomo, Ind.; two grandchildren, Jeffrey and Julie; two sisters, Geraldine Diner, Indio, Calif., and Mrs. Austin (Helen) Ulrich, Peoria; a brother, Robert Corbin, Maritosa, Calif., along with several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. Funeral arrangements are pending at Schmitt Funeral Chapel and will be announced later.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois April 8, 1972 - Saturday, pg 2

VERDA (JOHNSON) BRANDT , 89, of Sterling, died Wednesday Nov. 24, 2004 at CGH Medical Ctr. Mrs. Brandt was born May 1, 1915 in New Bedford, the daughter of James franklin & Alminnie (Erickson) Johnson. She married Erwin Brandt on Nov. 25, 1944 in New Bedford. She was an active member of Women of the Sterling Family Moose and a member of Royal Neighbors of America. Survivors include her husband; a daughter, Janice Disch, a sister, Evelyn Hudson of Geneseo. She was preceded by two sisters, two brothers and a great nephew. The funeral is a Mc Donald Fuenral Home, Rock Falls, Saturday, burial in Oak Knoll Memorial Park.

CATHERINE (ROBINSON) BRIGL , 65, of Tavares, Fla., and formerly of Prophetstown, Ill., died Tuesday (July 12, 2005) at her sister's home in Fulton, Ill. Graveside memorial services will be at 4 p.m. Saturday in the Riverside Cemetery, Prophetstown, Ill. There will be no visitation. Her body was donated to the Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois. The Gibson and Son Funeral Home, Prophetstown, is in charge of the arrangements. She was born March 14, 1940, in Prophetstown to Dr. Stanley and Elizabeth Gurel Robinson. She married Roger Schaeffer in 1959. She later married Clem Brigl in 1977 in Oregon, Ill. Survivors include her husband; three children, Mrs. Mary (Rod) Harris of Eustis, Fla., Jeff (Chris) Schaeffer of Montrose, Colo., and Joe (Lana) Schaeffer of Charleston, Ind.; six stepchildren, Jackie Steakley of Carmel, Calif., Angie Miguet of France, Terry Brigl of Austin, Texas, David Brigl of Dixon, Ill., Bob Brigl of Bowling Green, Ky., and Dan Brigl of Cedar Rapids; 19 grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Beth (Dennis) Countryman of Fulton; one brother, David (Judy) Robinson of Boulder, Colo.; and two sisters-in-law, Jerri Robinson and Jody Robinson, both of Prophetstown

DOROTHY (WILKENS) BRONDYKE , 62, passed away Monday evening (20 December 1965) in her home in Fulton. Death came following a lingering illness. The body was moved to the Bosma Funeral Home, where the family will receive friends from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday. Services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday in the First Christian Reformed Church of Fulton, with the Rev. Thomas Van Eeredn officiating. Burial will be in the Fulton Cemetery. A memorial has been established for the Fulton Community Christian School. Dorothy Wilkens was born Jan. 12, 1903 in Fulton, the daughter of John and Johanna Alsema Wilkens. She was educated in Fulton and was married to Edward Brondyke in Fulton, March 12, 1925. He preceded her on April 12, 1961. She was a member of the First Christian Reformed Church, of the Rebekahs, and the Forget-Me-Not Circle of the Fulton Community Christian School. For many years they resided in Albany, until they retired and moved to Fulton. She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Kenneth (Jacqueline) Bielema, Lyndon; five grandsons; three sisters, Mrs. Kate Bolhous, Mrs. Martin F (Marie) Bielema, and Mrs. Joe J. (GertrudeI) Sikkema, Thomson; two brothers, Jake, Davenport, Iowa, and Ben, Fulton; a foster daughter, Miss Johann Oostenryke, Rockford; and a number of nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband, two infant daughters and six brothers.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois December 21, 1965 - Tuesday, pg 6 col 6

MAXINE (TICHLER) BRONDYKE , 72, of Morrison, died Jan.15, 2005 at Morrison Community Hsp. SHe was employed by H.B. Wilkinson Tile Co, Morrison as a legal secretary for several Morrison attorneys; and by Whiteside COunty Public Defender's office, retiring in 1997. Mrs. Brondyke was born March 13, 1932 in Morrison the daughter of Ralph and Mary (Vos) Tichler. She graduated from Morrison High School. She married Paul M. Brondyke on July 25, 1951 in Morrison. She was a member of Ebenezer Reformed Church, the church's Philathea Society, Morrison Lioness Club and was active as a volunteer in securing petition signatures to help form the Sauk Valey Community College District. She enjoyed flower gardeing and bird watching. Survivors include her husband; two sons, John (Sheri) of Rockford and Edward (Melinda) of Indianapolis; and four grandchildren. She was preceded by a sister, Marjorie Zuidema; and a brother in infancy. Prayer service is at 10:15 Wednesday at Ebenezer Church followed by the funeral at 10:30 with Rev. John W. Nienhuis officiating. Burial at Grove Hill.

MRS. E.A. BRONSON , mother of William Bronson of Rock Falls, passed away at 8:30 o’clock Monday morning at the home of her son, 515 East Seventh street, at the age of 80 years, 4 months, and 12 days. She had been in poor health for several years, and for the past few weeks had been seriously ill with a complication of diseases caused fro the infirmities of old age. Mrs. Bronson had been a resident of Sterling and Rock Falls for the past 30 years. A year ago, when her health became worse, she moved to her son’s home, where she has been tenderly cared for. Her husband, Willis Bronson, preceded her in death ten years ago. She is survived by four children, Mrs. Nellie Stein of Perry, IA, Mrs. Harvey Brown of Corland, Ill., William Bronson of Rock Falls and Chester Bronson of Amboy; also by one brother, Gus Bailey of Sterling. The funeral will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the William Bronson home. Interment will be in the Binghampton cemetery, one mile east of Amboy.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers - May 17, 1926 Sterling Gazette

LEWIS EDWIN BROOKFIELD the president of the Rock Falls Mfg. company and the Sterling Hearse and Carriage company of this city, died at his winter home in Pasadena CA, Monday Jan. 1, 1900 at 4:10 o'clock from the effects of overwork. A telegram was received announcing the sad news late monday evening by Thomas A. Galt. The death ofMr. Brookfield is not a surprise to themembers of his family, for it has been known by them for some time that he was gradually growing worse. But to those outside of the family the sad news comes like a thunderbolt out of a clear sky. It had been understood that he was getting better, and great hopes were entertained for his recovery. Mr. Galt wired the sender of the sad news of the message, Theodore Lukins, to render all possible assistance to Mrs. Brookfield and up to this time no further particulars have been received. It is supposed that the remains have been started for Sterling and they accompanied by Mrs. Brookfield and galt and Fannie and Mrs. Green, the mother of the deceased, will reach here Friday or Saturday.

It was not until last summer that Mr. Brookfield realized the he was failing in health. It will be remembered that he suffered a stroke of partial paralysis. At that time a specialist from Chicago, Dr. DBrown was called to see him. He advised a complete rest and change of climate for six months. In accordance, Mr. adn Mrs. Brookfield, accompanied by their two youngest children, Fannie adn Galt, left for the west. Mr. Brookfield felt no change in his condition until after he had left Vancouver, B.C. Then the spells of numbness left him and he was afflicted with frequent pains in the head. He gradually grew weaker and his relatives became fearful that would not get well.

Lewis Edwin Brookfield was born in Coleta, in the year 1860. His father kept a country store at that place, and when a mere boy he became a valuable assistant in a business way. In 1874, the Brookfields moved to Sterling and Mr. Brookfield Sr. opened a bank. He died when Lewis was aout 17 years of age. Before his death he loaned sums of money to the Keystone Burial Case Company, and this company being insolvent, it became necessary for the son to take the business in order ot save the amount of the loan. This he did, and soon united the concern with the Sterling Burial Case Company also an insolvent concern. For a number of years the shops were in Rock Falls under the name of the Rock Falls Mfg. Co. The concern was in 1883 moved to Sterling but has always retained the original name given it by Mr. Brookfield.

The history of this monstrous manufacturing plant and the story of the wonderful manner in which MR. Brookfield brought it up to its present prominent position in the manufacturing world are most interesting. Soon after the removal to Sterling the plant was added to, and a little while later another large addition was built. The Sterling Hearse and Carriage company, which was incorporated by Mr. Brookfield in 1890, has also grown to immense proportions. The two plants are among the largest in the US of their kind. This work was started by a mere boy When only 17 years old Mr. Brookfield assumed the entire management and almost the entire ownership of the concern, and from the moment he placed his hands upon the helm, it has prospered. His edeas of business were broad and comprehensive. He was never conent with a small busienss and looked forward to leadership in anything he undertook.

Mr. Brookfield was united in marriage to Helen Jane Galt, daughter of Thomas A. Galt, Sep.14, 1882. His wife and three children, Emily Katherine, Fannie Harriet and Edwin Galt, survive him. Emily has since last fall been astudent at Lake Forest seminary and Fannie and Galt have been in California with their parents He also leaves to mourn his death his mother, Mrs. Harriet Green of this city and his sisters, Mrs. Helen Crawford and MRs. Dorothy Hopkins. His mother left sometime ago for California, expecting to spend the winter with Mr. and Mrs. Brookfield.

Mr. Brookfield was a man whom everybody loved. His death has cast a deep gloom over the entire city and there is genuine regret in the hearts of everybody that he is no more. He was a man of lovable disposition.

MARY (WETZEL) BUNTLEY died Monday evening and was buried Thursday in the Hazel Green cemetery. Mary Wetzel was born in Tuscarawas County, O., Aug. 20, 1849, and came with her parents to Whiteside county, Ill., in the fall of 1855. She was united in marriage to B. Frank Buntley, Feb. 26, 1902. She was a member of the Radical United Brethren church and always lived a good christian life. Died May 1st, 1911, leaving to mourn her loss, besides her husband, the following brothers and sisters; Henry of Hume, Sarah Buntley of Milledgeville, Mrs. Lizzie Overholser and Sam Wetzel of Sterling, Mrs. William Peugh and Jacob Wetzel of Coleta.

WARREN TIMOTHY BURDICK , was born May 1, 1871 and passed away last January 8, 1939, at 9a.m. at his home at 815 West Second street, Rock Falls. The deceased was the son of Hattie and Timothy Burdick. His entire life was spent in Rock Falls, where he was a contractor and mason by trade, having built many of the factories in the Twin Cities and also many homes in this community. On September 3, 1896, he was united in matrimony with Maude Elizabeth Mumma at Oak Ridge, Ill. His wife preceded him in death on April 7, 1937. To this union two daughter were born, Mrs. Rita Atkins, wife of Myron Atkins of Dixon, and Mrs. Mabel Buchwald, in whose home the deceased, received excellent care during his declining years. Besides his daughters he leaves to mourn three grandsons Winston Lours and Warren Wesley Atkins and Palmer Dean Buchwald, and many friends. The deceased had been bedfast 11 months and four days from several strokes, during which illness he was a patient sufferer. Before that he had always enjoyed excellent health. He had reached the age of 67 years 8 months and seven days. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday afternoon at 1 o’clock form the Wheelock funeral parlors by Rev. William Steng. Two appropriate anthems were sung by Herman Oltman, who was accompanied by Mrs. Herman Oltman. Flower ladies were Mrs. Arthur Franks and Mrs. Clarence Scott and pallbearers, Earl Longfellow, Roy Howe, Robert Howe, Gus Hanson, Will Kelsey and A. Schrader. Interment was in the Odd Fellows cemetery, Rock Falls.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers

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