EARL BUSHMAN , the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Colonel Bushman of one mile east of Coleta was drown in the Elkhorn, two miles south of Milledgeville, while bathing Sunday [06/24/1900] afternoon at 3:30 o’clock. The hole in which the young man met his death is said to be twenty feet deep. It is thought by some that the bather was taken with a cramp while in the water, but the exact cause perhaps will never be determined. He was not a good swimmer, and it is said that he gave an exclamation just as he entered the water. He had had some slight trouble with his heart, and it is thought by many that the shock of getting into the water brought on a severe attack of this, causing his death. The drowning took place almost immediately after he had entered the water. Harry Slick, Homer Bushman, his brother, and James Lee were with the deceased at the time of the accident, but, though Lee made a number of desperate efforts to save the man, he was unable to do so. Assistance was immediately summoned from Milledgeville, and Len Olmstead, after diving three times, finally succeeded in tying a rope about the body of the drowned man, by which his comrades pulled it out. The body was standing in an upright position on the bottom of the hole, and there was no indication that a struggle had taken place. The body was taken to the Bushman home, and the funeral services were held this afternoon at the Coleta Methodist church at 3 o’clock, the Rev. L. D. Hicks officiating. The following were the pall bearers: Messrs Ralph Deets, Ralph Overholser, Martin Hanna, Frank Anthony, Fred Overholser and Charles Hauger. The deceased was a young man beloved by all who know him. He was bright, attractive, steady and reliable. He worked with his father on the farm, having for some time taken charge of the work. He possessed many excellent qualities which made for him scores of warm friends, who are now shocked and grieved over his untimely death. He was a member of the Mystic Workers of the World, in which order he carried an insurance of $2000. He leaves, beside his sorrowing father and mother, three sisters and three brothers to mourn his death. He will be very greatly missed in the community in which he lived. He was twenty-two years, nine months and one day old. (The Sterling Daily Standard, June 25, 1900)

The funeral of Earl Bushman, who was drowned in Elkhorn creek, Sunday [06/24/1900] afternoon, was held at the Methodist church Monday afternoon at 3 o’clock, Rev. L. C. Hicks officiating. He based his sermon from the book of Psalm, thirty-ninth chapter and fourth verse. The floral offerings were numerous and were very beautiful, consisting of wreaths, pillows, anchors, hearts, crescents and bouquets. There was an unusually large attendance of the friends and relatives. The church was filled to its utmost capacity long before the funeral cortege arrived. There were many compelled to stay outside. Interment was at the Baptist cemetery. The deceased was a young man respected and beloved by all who knew him. He always had a kind word for everyone and could count his friends by the score. He will be greatly missed by his parents, as he had full charge of the duties on his father’s farm. The parents have the sympathy of the entire community. The following were the pall bearers: Messrs John Overholser, Ralph Deets, Miles Hannis, Ralph Overholser, Frank Anthony and Charles Hauger. The friends from a distance were: Mr. and Mrs. James Winters of Sterling, Mrs. E. C. Winters, Mrs. Alice McNeal of Rock Falls, Mr. and Mrs. Spalding Calkins and family of Milledgeville. The flowers were neatly placed upon the grave of the deceased in the evening by Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Brown.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Standard, June 29, 1900, page 5, column 2

EVE BUSHMAN - Died, at the residence of her son, David Bushman, on Sunday, August 19, 1888, in her 88th year, Mrs. Eve Bushman. The cause of her death was injuries received by a fall last week. The funeral was held at the house on Monday afternoon and conducted by Rev. Martin Crom of Coleta. There was a large attendance of sympathizing friends, who were present to pay their last tribute of respect to one who had been universally respected and esteemed in life. The remains were buried in the cemetery near where the closing years of the old settler were passed.
Contributed by Karen Fyock - Undated Scrapbook Clipping

FRANK R. BUSHMAN , a lifetime resident of Coleta and retired mail carrier 33 years, passed away at 1:40 p.m. Saturday [7/28/1956] at Community General Hospital after a long illness at the age of 73. He was born Jan. 5, 1883, in Coleta, the son of Joseph and Rebecca [Hurless] Bushman. He is survived by his wife Nancy; two sons, Joseph of Rock Falls and Wilford of Morrison; one daughter, Mrs. Laurence (Lucille) Dauen of Sterling; one sister, Mrs. Rachel Reynolds of aukegan; three granddaughters, Mrs. Alan (Wanda) Engelkens of Milledgeville, Miss Doris Bushman of Rockford and Mrss Ann Bushman of Morrison and two great granddaughters, Leanne Susan and Lynn Marie Engelkens of Milledgeville. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife Hazel [Healey]; one son Horace and one sister Lavina Easterbrooks. The body was taken to the Allen Funeral Home where friends may call. Funeral services will be held at the Allen Funeral Home Tuesday at 2 p.m. with Rev. Albert Cober of the Brethren in Christ Church at Franklin Corners officiating. Burial will be in Bethel Cemetery, Milledgeville.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

HAROLD LEROY BUSHMAN , of 13914 Indiana Ave. , Riverdale , Ill. , died Monday in St Catherine Hospital, East Chicago , Ind. , at the age of 54. Bushman was born Jan. 7, 1912, in Coleta, the son of Harford and Myrtle Bryson Bushman. He was employed for 15 years at Northwestern Steel and Wire Co and then moved to Chicago where was employed the rest of his life at the Republic Steel in Chicago . He was united in marriage to Barbara Younkin who survives along with is mother, Mrs. Myrtle Bushman of Lyndon, father Hanford Bushman, of Lake Bluff, Ill., a step son Patrick Miller of Chicago and one sister, Mrs. Walter (Hazel) Oltman of Lyndon. The body will be brought from the Milton Boss Funeral Home in Chicago Thursday morning and friends may call at the Allen Funeral Home in Sterling after 2 p.m. Thursday where funeral services will be conducted Friday at 1 p.m. at the Allen Funeral Home with the Rev. Charles M. Chakour pastor of the Fourth Street Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery .
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the Oct 11, 1966 Sterling Gazette

HARLEM BUSHMAN , died at 8:30 Sunday [06/12/1938] evening in home of his son, John Bushman, Garden City, at the age of 83 years, nine months and 26 days, following an illness of three weeks from heart trouble. The body was taken to the Melvin funeral home and this afternoon was removed to the John Bushman home where funeral rites are to be held at 2 p. m. Tuesday. Rev. H. E. Shiffer, Rock Falls Christian church pastor, will officiate and interment will be in the Bethel cemetery, south of Milledgeville. The deceased was born near Milledgeville and farmed practically all his life. He retired January, 1915, and for 23 years made his home with his son, John. He leaves two sons and one daughter, Hanford Bushman of near Chadwick, Mrs. J. P. Bryson of Morehead, Minn., and John Bushman, Garden City, and one sister, Mrs. J. C. Crom of Coleta. His wife, Mrs. Lucinda Bushman, preceded him in death August 3, 1936. They were preceded in death by two sons and one daughter. Nine grandchildren survive. Mr. Bushman was a member of the Radical United Brethren church in Coleta for many years.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

HAZEL IRENE (HEALEY) BUSHMAN of Coleta passed away at the family home in that village at 10:45 o’clock this morning as the result of drinking a bottle of medicine which had been left at the house by a physician. Mrs. Bushman had been in ill health for about two years and it is believed that she became despondent as a result of worry over her condition and swallowed the contents of the bottle, a poisonous mixture, with a view of putting an end to her sufferings. The rash act, which resulted in the tragic death of the young mother, was committed early this morning when Mrs. Rebecca [Hurless] Bushman, her mother-in-law, left the bedroom for a few moments. A physician was summoned from Milledgeville immediately, but all efforts to save her life were futile. Besides the husband, Mrs. Bushman is survived by three sons and one daughter. The sons are Joseph, Wilfred and Forrest [Horace]. The daughter is Lucille.

Another Notice - Mrs. Frank Bushman of Coleta passed away at the family home in the village at 10:45 o’clock this morning as the result of drinking a bottle of medicine which had been left at the house by a physician. Mrs. Bushman had been in ill health for abut two years and is believed that she became despondent as a result of worry over her condition and swallowed the contents of the bottle, a poisonous mixture, with a view of putting an end to her sufferings. The rash act, which resulted in the tragic death of the young mother was committed early this morning when Mrs. Rebecca Bushman, her mother-in-law, left the bedroom for a few moments. a physician was summoned from Milledgeville immediately, but all efforts to save her live were futile. Besides the husband, Mrs. Bushman is survived by three sons and one daughter. The sons are Joseph, Wilfred and Forrest. The daughter is Lucille. (From Margaret Mangers - February 3, 1923 Sterling Gazette>

Obituary - Hazel Irene Bushman, was born Aug. 29, 1885 in Carroll county, Illinois and entered into rest February 3 at Coleta, Illinois, age 37 years, 5 months and 4 days. She was the daughter of Horace and Sarah Healey and the youngest of a family of 12 children. She was reared in the community of Milledgeville, Ill., where she attended both the grade and high schools and the M. E. church. She was united in marriage to Frank Bushman of Coleta, May 12, 1904, and to this union were born 4 children, Joseph, Wilford, Lucille, and Horace, who are now bereft of a mother. For the past several years, following an attack of influenza she had been in ill health even to the extent of effecting her mentality. The past three weeks marked a steady decline and the end came as a result of taking an over dose of medicine to gain relief. In 1898 she professed faith in Jesus Christ and with her husband united with the Liberal U. B. Church maintaining her membership until the end of life’s pilgrimage. She leaves to mourn her early demise, besides her husband and children, five brothers, Horace of New York, Frank of Williamsport, Pa., Benton of Milledgeville, James of Polo, and Virgil of Chicago, and one sister, Mrs. Mable Crawford of Azusa, Cal., also a large circle of other relatives and a host of friends, who share with the loved ones heartfelt sorrow and bereavement.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

HENRY S. BUSHMAN , an old and highly respected citizen of Whiteside country living in the vicinity of Coleta for the past sixty years, died Wednesday of last week about noon at the ripe old age of 81 yrs.,2 months, and 3 days. For a number of months Mr. Bushman had suffered from a sore foot resulting from a corn that had previously given him trouble but which later became a very serious and painful affair which finally caused blood poisoning that effected his entire body which led to his death. Mr. Bushman was born in Cayuga county, New York. September 22, 1822 and died at his home near Coleta, November 25,1903,at the age above stated. He became to Illinois with his parents in 1843 and settled in Carroll county. He was married to Miss Lavina Burghduff, March 18, 1846. To this union were born nine children, four of which are dead and five living as follows, Charles Henry, Joseph S. Colonel, Harlem and Mrs. Sarah Nance. Mrs. Bushman died February 3, 1873. Henry Bushman was again married February 9, 1876 to Mrs. Rachel Dull, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Overholser. Mr. Bushman for over forty years has been a member of the Radical U. B. church in Coleta. He was a man respected and honored by all who knew him, and during his life by careful business management had accumulated considerable property. The funeral was held Friday morning at the Radical U. B. church at 10:30 o'clock. Burial in Bethel cemetery,

Another Obit: Henry S. Bushman, a highly respected resident of Genesee township and a pioneer settler of Whiteside county, died at 11:30 o’clock this morning at his home in Coleta. Mr. Bushman had been ill for three months suffering from a severe attack of gangrene. During his long and painful illness every possible thing was done to relieve him, but he gradually grew weaker until he was called to the great beyond. The funeral services will be held at the house Friday [11/27/1903] morning at 10 o’clock. Henry S. Bushman was born Sept. 22, 1822, in Cayuga county, N. Y. At the age of twenty-one years he came west with his parents and located in Carroll county where he resided for several years. In March, 1846, in Wysox township, he was married to Miss Levinia Burghbum, who passed away Feb. 3, 1873, in Genesee township. To this union nine children were born, four having passed away. Those living are Charles Henry, Joseph S., Colonel, Harlem and Sarah, all residing in Genesee township. The children who are dead are Isaac, Andrew, Nelson and one infant child. Mr. Bushman was married a second time on Feb. 9, 1876, at Coleta to Mrs. Rachel Dull, daughter of the late Martin Overholser. She survives in addition to the children of the first union. Mr. Bushman was a prominent member of the New Brethren church and was a highly respected citizen of Genesee township. He took an active part in local politics and held a number of township offices with honor and integrity and highly esteemed by a large circle of friends. After his first marriage Mr. Bushman purchased a farm of 160 acres in Wysox township, Carroll county, and in 1856 he purchased 182 acres in Genesee township on which he resided for many years. In April, 1872, Mr. Bushman moved to the village of Coleta where he has since resided. His farm in Genesee township is one of the best improved farms in Whiteside county. Mr. Bushman always took great delight in continually improving his farm and in keeping up the fertility of the soil, and in having his buildings all modern. He was energetic and worked about his farm and home up to the time that he was taken ill, three months ago. Being of a sturdy and thrifty nature he accumulated a considerable amount of money so that he could spend the remaining days of his life in ease. Mr. Bushman was of a sympathetic and generous disposition and was always ready and willing to assist others in need. His council on local subjects was often sought by the neighbors. He was a kind husband, a devoted father and was respected and esteemed by all who knew him. His death has cast a gloom over his family and his associates. His bereaved wife and children have the sincere sympathy of the community in their hour of grief. (Sterlikng The Sterling Evening Gazette, November 27, 1903)

The funeral services over the remains of Henry S. Bushman were held this morning at 10:30 o’clock at the United Brethren church in Coleta, conducted by Rev. Mr. Gordon, assisted by the Rev. Mr. Barton. The services were attended by a large number of sorrowing relatives and friends who surrounded the bier to pay their last sad respects to one whom they had loved and respected. The floral tributes from friends and relatives were numerous and beautiful. The remains were laid to their last resting place in the Hazel Green cemetery in Genesee township. Among those present from a distance to attend the funeral were the Rev. and Mrs. Biers of Van Orion, Ill. The pall bearers were Joseph Bushman, Colonel Bushman, Charles Bushman and Henry Bushman, all sons of the deceased, and Stanton Nance, a son-in-law, and David Bushman, a brother.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

HENRY L. BUSHMAN , 33, was electrocuted about 10:15 a.m. Saturday [08/01/1964] when an electric saw he was operating apparently short-circuited, in a new home under construction in the 1000 block of Ave. J in Sterling. An employee of the Paint Spot, Milledgeville painting and dry wall contractor, Bushman was sawing a wallboard with a reciprocal saw while standing on a damp concrete floor, according to reports from fellow workmen. A local physician pronounced him dead at the scene. John Ardapple, Whiteside County Coroner, swore in a coroner’s jury Saturday afternoon and the inquest is scheduled for 5 p.m. Tuesday at the Melvin Funeral Home. Henry Bushman was born Sept. 30, 1930, the son of Nelson and Clara Hubbard Bushman in Milledgeville. On Jan. 18, 1958 he married Janet Hackbarth. He was a member of the Methodist Church and was manager of the Pony League baseball team, which recently won the Carroll County championship. He served four years in the Armed Forces. Surviving are his wife, his mother, two sons, Warren Michael and Craig, at home; five brothers, George, David and Salem, Milledgeville, Lynford, Bellflower, Calif. And Howard, Polo; two sisters, Mrs. Lloyd Baughman, Milledgeville and Mrs. Everett Rick, Sterling. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 2 p.m. in the Methodist Church with the Rev. Paul Millbrandt officiating. Burial will be in the Oak Knoll Memorial Park in Sterling. Friends may call at the Woodin Funeral Home after 7 p.m. this evening. A memorial is being established for the Methodist Church.

Funeral services for Henry W. Bushman, 33, were held Tuesday [08/04/1964] afternoon at the Milledgeville Methodist Church, Rev. Paul Millbrandt officiating. Burial was in Oak Knoll Memorial Park.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

HERSHEL BUSHMAN , was born in Whiteside County, Ill., Dec. 2, 1872, and died in Sioux City, Iowa, April 24, 1914 at the age of forty-one years, four months and twenty-four days. Eighteen years ago he was married to Miss Lydia Spang. Their union was blessed with two children Ralph and Morris. Ten years ago the family moved to Sioux City and Mr. Bushman obtained a position in the S. City Iron Works. He steadily worked his way into the confidence and esteem of his employers, was promoted from one position to another until he became foreman of the plant. His final promotion was to the position of traveling salesman, the duties of which he was to begin the day he was buried. Herschel became a Christian at the age of twenty-two and at once united with the Radical U. B. Church at Coleta. When death called him he said, “I am ready to go.” He had qualified himself well for his life work. Toiling faithfully in the schools until he obtained a first grade certificate and then determinedly applying himself to his chosen work until he had mustered its secrets. It is thus that men learn to live right and to die well. He will be remembered as a man of good habits, an unassuming disposition, a good neighbor, a loving husband, a tender son and kind father. He is survived by the grief stricken mother of his children, father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Bushman and five brothers, Cyrus, Aaron, Nelson, Will and Lloyd.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

HORACE RAYMOND BUSHMAN , of 206 1-2 Third avenue, Rock Falls, passed away at 11:25 o’clock Tuesday [07/30/1935] night at the Sterling public hospital as the result of a fractured neck and back, the injuries having been sustained Sunday afternoon when he struck a rock when he made a dive into Elkhorn creek about nine miles north of this city. The body was removed to the Wheelock funeral parlor in Rock Falls where Coroner C. M. Frye will conduct the inquest this afternoon at 2 o’clock. The funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the late home and at 2:30 o’clock at the Rock Falls Congregational church. Rev. John F. Corpe will officiate, and will be assisted by Rev. C. W. Perkins of the First United Brethren church of this city, and Rev. Wilhelm Streng, pastor of the Rock Falls Lutheran church. Burial will be in the Rock Falls cemetery. Mr. Bushman and family and a party of friends were enjoying a picnic on the banks of the Elkhorn creek Sunday afternoon and some of the group went swimming. In making a dive Mr. Bushman’s head struck a rock or the bottom of the creek in such a manner as to cause fractures of his back and neck. Several physicians attended him but nothing could be done to save his life. He was a very popular young man and has many friends who will be sorry to learn of his death. Besides his wife, he is survived by a year-old daughter, his father Frank Bushman of Coleta, two brothers, Joseph and Wilford Bushman of Coleta, and a sister, Mrs. Lucille Dauen of Sterling.

OBITUARY - Horace Raymond Bushman, son of Frank and Hazel Bushman, was born at Coleta, Ill., Feb. 5, 1911. His boyhood was spent at Coleta where he attended and graduated from the grade school, after which he attended the high school at Milledgeville. He was married to Miss Alice Werland in the Rock Falls Congregational church Dec. 10, 1932, and to this union was born a daughter, August 17, 1934. While seeking recreation and escape from the excessive heat, Mr. Bushman went swimming in the Elkhorn creek Sunday, July 27 [s/b 28], and dove into what proved to be shallow water, sustaining such injuries as to cause his death at the Sterling public hospital on Tuesday, July 30, at 11:25 p.m. Horace was a fine, clean-cut young man with a large circle of friends. He was so proud of his home and baby daughter, and would have loved to have lived, but was ready and willing to pass out of this life, if it be God’s will. There remain to mourn his passing his wife and baby daughter, his father, Frank Bushman, and stepmother, two brothers, Joseph of Morrison and Wilford of Coleta, and one sister, Mrs. Lucille Dauen of Sterling. The young man’s mother preceded him in death Feb. 3, 1923. Also remains his grandmother, who following the mother’s death, came to the home and cared for the motherless family for several years, together with a large number of relatives and a host of friends. The funeral services were held in the home at 206 1-2 Third avenue, Rock Falls, and at the Rock Falls Congregational church. The Rev. C. W. Perkins of the U. B. church of Coleta and Sterling and the Rev. Wilhelm Streng of the Lutheran church of Rock Falls assisted Rev. J. F. Corpe of Rock Falls Congregational church. The pall bearers were John Flynn and Chester Lenhart of Coleta, Charles Bogott of Sterling, Gerald Peterson, Percy Williams and Thorlief Lee of Rock Falls. Flower bearers were Mrs. Belle Callighan and Marie and Mabel Weland of Rock Falls
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

JOHN L. BUSHMAN , 1310 5th Avenue, Rock Falls, passed away Wednesday [09/22/1965] noon in Home Hospital shortly after being admitted. He was born May 24, 1894 in Rockford, the son of Harlem and Lucinda Morden Bushman and was a resident of this area for 50 years and for 32 years was employed by R. B. and W. Bolt and Nut Company, retiring in 1962. He was united in marriage to Ellen M. Welker, Dec. 23, 1914 in Dixon. He was a member of the Rock Falls Congregational church and for 16 years was a member of the Rock Falls Volunteer Fire Department. Surviving besides his wife are, two sons, Donald F. and John G. Bushman, both of Rock Falls; one daughter, Mrs. Lyle (Nellie) Williamson of Rock Falls; one brother, David Hanford Bushman of Lake Bluff; one sister, Mrs. J. Pearle Bryson of Moorehead, [ Clay County] Minn. There are 19 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. One son, Ralph H. Bushman, preceded Mar 16, 1961. The body was moved to the Melvin Funeral Home where friends may call after 7 p.m. Thursday. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in the funeral home, Rev. Dean N. Chasteen, pastor of the Rock Falls Congregational church will officiate. Burial will take place in Odd Fellows Cemetery at Rock Falls. Funeral services for John L. Bushman were held at 2 p.m. Saturday [09/25/1965] in the Melvin Funeral Home, Rev. Dean N. Chasteen, pastor of the Rock Falls Congregational Church, officiating. Burial took place in [the] IOOF Cemetery at Rock Falls. Mrs. J. H. Linn was the organist. The Rock Falls Police and Fire Service attended the funeral in a body and six acted as pallbearers. They were Russell Maynard, Dante L. Masini, William Wike, Orville Thome, Donald Smith and Frank Masini. In charge of flowers were Mrs. Robert J. Oltman, Mrs. Orville Thome, Mrs. Guy Pillars, Swartley’s, Lundstrom’s and David Kilburn.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

JOSEPH S. BUSHMAN , was born Oct. 27th 1849, near Milledgeville, Carroll county, Ill., and died at Coleta, Friday afternoon at 12:15, Feb. 21, 1908, aged fifty-eight years, three months and twenty-four days. Mr. Bushman was a great sufferer all his life with ulcers of the stomach. At times during his life he enjoyed fairly good health, but it was only for very short periods of time that he was entirely free from pain. During the past winter he suffer especially from pain, but was seldom bedfast, and was able to attend to his duties as postmaster most of the time. Two weeks ago, while assisting in distributing the mail, he was taken suddenly very ill, and in a short time suffered tow hemorrhages of the stomach. These made him very weak and when again he was seized with two more hemmorrhages, it became apparent that he could not withstand the loss of so much blood. Everything possible was done for his relief, and the last two or three days, he said he was freer from pain than he had been in forty years. He was ready and anxious to depart, saying all was well with his soul and enjoining friends and relatives to stand firm in the faith of Jesus Christ and one day meet him in glory. Mr. Cushman was a man of exceptional qualities, ever patient, never complaining, always ready to assist others in any way he could, he endeared himself to all those with whom he came in contact. He was a good husband, a loving father, and a fender guardian of his little grandchildren of whom he thought so much. He was appointed postmaster in Coleta three years ago and has served the public in the best possible manner. He was married to Rebecca Jane Hurless May 19, 1875. To this union there were born one son and two daughters, Frank Bushman of Coleta, Mrs. Lovina Eastabrooks of East Dubuque, and Miss Rachel who resides at home. All these, with four grandchildren, Gerald LeRoy Eastabrooks, Harold Joseph Eastabrooks, Joseph Menton and Wilfred Elmo Bushman, survive. His mother died thirty-four years ago. One brother, Nelson, preceded him in death twenty-one years ago. There are living three brothers Charles of Milledgeville, Colonel and Harlem of Coleta and one sister, Mrs. Sarah Nance. He is also survived by his step mother, Mrs. Rachel Bushman, and step sister, Mrs. Anna Kline. The funeral services were held Sunday morning in the Radical U. B. church, and the large concourse of sorrowing friends who attended showed the esteem which was held for the deceased in this community Rev. J. A. F. King, assisted by Rev. A. X. Harrison, conducted the services. The pall bearers, chosen by the deceased, before his death, were his brothers, Charles, Colonel and Harlem Bushman and brothers in law, Stanton Nance Benjamin Kline and David Proctor. There were many beautiful flowers given by friends. One piece given by the M. W. A. was a beautiful anchor of white and pink carnations. Interment was made in Bethel cemetery. We mourn for him, our heats are lonely, but our loss is his gain. If faithful we shall some day meet again.
COntributed by Karen Fyock - Undated scrapbook clipping.

LLOYD BUSHMAN , 76, Milledgeville, died Thursday [11/04/1971] afternoon at Community General Hospital where he had been a patient for several days. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Woodin Funeral Home, Milledgeville, with the Rev. William Welk, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, officiating. Burial will be in Oak Knoll Cemetery. Friends may visit from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home and Masonic rites will be at 8:45 p.m. A memorial has been established. Lloyd Bushman was born April 20, 1895, the son of Charles and Susan Mull Bushman. He lived his entire life in Milledgeville and was a retired service station operator. He married Anne Frank at Milledgeville, Oct. 13, 1915. He was a member of the Milledgeville Masonic Lodge and Bernice Chapter OES. Survivors include two sons, Clarence, Milledgeville and Armon, Dixon; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents and six brothers.

— Funeral services for Lloyd Bushman were held Saturday [11/06/1971] afternoon at the Woodin Funeral Home in Milledgeville. The Rev. William Welk, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, officiated at the service. Mrs. Earl Woodin was organist. Serving as pallbearers were Chester Seng, Raymond Bardell, Sonny Dittmar, George Bushman, Dr. William Specht and Frank Fogel. Mr. and Mrs. William Kraus, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Dingman, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bracken and the Milledgeville Greenhouses cared for the floral tributes. Burial was in Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, November 8, 1971, page 2, column 3

LUCINDA (MORDEN) BUSHMAN , daughter of Lydia and Jacob Morden, was born at Uxbridge, Ontario, Canada on June 24, 1853, and passed away in the home of her brother-in-law and sister, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Crom in Coleta on Aug. 3, 1936 at the age of 83 years, one month and 10 days. She received her education in the schools in Canada. At the age of 16 years she came to the United States and made her home with her sister, Mrs. Mathias Spang, near Coleta. She was married to Harlem Bushman Jan. 31, 1874 in the Spang home. To this union six children were born: George, Sarah and Henry, who preceded her in death, and Hanford, Nellie, and John. Mr. and Mrs. Bushman lived on a farm near Coleta for a few years, then the moved to Davis Junction, where Mr. Bushman engaged in the milling trade. Leaving there they went to Rockford for a time, moving to Sterling in 1915 and about three years later moved to Rock Falls, where they made their home. Mrs. Bushman accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior when she was young. She united with the Grove Street United Brethren church of Coleta more that 50 years ago. She was a faithful Christian, and a true and loving wife and mother. Mrs. Bushman is survived by her husband and companion of more than 62 years, also her three children, Mrs. J. P. (Nellie) Bryson of Moorhead, Minn.; Hanford and John Bushman of Rock Falls, nine grandchildren; three sisters Mesdames Henrietta Hamilton of Harrison Springs, British Columbia, Can.; Bethena Wagg of Prince Albert, Ontario, Canada; and Louise Burton of Fairdale, besides distant relatives. The funeral services were held Aug. 5 from the family residence in Rock Falls, Rev. Harry E. Shiffer of the Christian church, officiating, assisted by Rev. Harold of the Grove Street U. B. church of Coleta. Casket attendants were William Hyer, Owen Harrison, B. H. Cline [sic], Sam Gipe and John Snavely of Coleta, and S. O. Crom of Milledgeville. The four Crom sisters sang “No Night There,” and “Going Down the Valley.” (Burial in Bethel Cemetery Carroll Co IL)
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

LULA B. (SHOOK) BUSHMAN , 84, formerly of Civic Plaza, Rock Falls, died Wednesday morning (27 Septenber 1873) in Pleasant View Nursing Home, Morrison. Private memorial services will be held on Friday afternoon at 2 p.m. at the Grace Episcopal Church, Sterling, with Rev. Stanley E. Corklin, pastor, officiating. Interment of ashes will be follow in Riverside Cemetery, Sterling. There will be no visitation. Arrangements were completed by the Allen Funeral Home, Sterling. A memorial has been established in her memory to Grace Episcopal Church. Lula Bushman was born on Dec. 5, 1898 in rural Polo, the daughter of Samuel and Katherine Winebrenner Shook. She was a member of the Grace Episcopal Church of Sterling. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Beatrice Oakley and Mrs. William (Irene Ida) Woodring, both of Sterling; one son, Gordon Rogers, Belvidere; 12 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; and one sister, Mrs. Don (Alva) McFadden, Rock Falls. She was preceded by her parents, one daughter, one grandson, two brothers and two sisters.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - Sterling Gazette September 28, 1983 - Wednesday, pg A4

MYRTLE (JACOBSON) BUSHMAN , 74, of 1210 E. 15th St., Sterling died Tuesday [05/31/1977] morning at Sterling Care Center. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 1:30 p.m. in the Melvin-Schulling Funeral Home with the Rev. Ben White, pastor of the United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Riverside. Visitation is Thursday from 7-9 p.m. at the funeral home. She was born Sept. 18, 1902 in Racine County, Wisc., the daughter of Nels and Anna Jensen Jacobson. She movedto this area in 1922 and married Rothmer Bushman on Aug. 5, 1925 in Coleta. He preceded her in death in 1951. She taught at the Coleta Grade School a number of years and later at Washington School in Sterling. She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Coleta, Delta Kappa Gamma and the Business Profession Women of Sterling. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Merle (Carol) Linton of Coleta, three grandsons and one great grandson; two sisters, Mrs. Kate Shumann of Racine, Wisc. and Mrs. Florence Nelson of Muskego, Wisc.; one brother, Victor Jacobson of Madison, Wisc. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, five brothers and one sister.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Daily Gazette, May 31, 1977, page 4, column 2

ORA MYRTLE (BRYSON) BUSHMAN , 85, Lyndon, passed away Wednesday at Prophets Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Prophetstown. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at the Allen Funeral Home with the rev. LeRoy Hershiser, pastor of the 1st Christian Church, officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery . Friends may call at the Allen Funeral Home on Friday for 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Mrs. Bushman was born Sept. 10, 1889, in Clyde Township , the daughter of Jesse and Anna Kimbley Bryson. She was a member of the 1st Christian Church of Coleta and was united in marriage to Hanford Bushman. Mrs. Bushman is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Walter (hazel) Oltman, Lyndon, with whom she had made her home; Two sisters, Mrs. Hazel Manning and Mrs. Fay (Floxie) Mott, both of Sterling; one brother, Pearle Bryson of Morehead, Minn.; and three granddaughters. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one son, and one granddaughter. (Dec 26, 1974 Sterling Gazette)

Funeral services were conducted at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at the Allen-Funeral Home for Mr.s Ora Myrtle Bushman, 85, of Lyndon who died Wednesday evening at Prophets good Samaritan Nursing Home. The Rev. LeRoy Hershiser, pastor of the First Christian Church of Sterling , officiated with burial in Riverside Cemetery . Mrs. Roscoe Eades was at the organ during the services with Lyle Dirks singing. Pallbearers were; Douglas Petersen, Roger Huizenga, Lawrence Myers, Arlyn Bryson, Oscar Barthel and Al Panazzo.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers Sterling Gazette 30 Dec 1974

RACHEL (OVERHOLSER) BUSHMAN , who has been ill since Tuesday [12/23/1913] evening, past away at her daughter’s, Mrs. Anna Kine’s home here Christmas day at twelve o’clock of pneumonia. She has been in poor health for very near a year. Altho suffering at times terribly, she never complained and always had a cheery word and smile for all. To know Aunt Rachel, as she was called, was to love her. The funeral services were held at the house at ten o’clock and at 10:30 at the Radical church Sunday, Dec. 28, 1913. Rev. Lutts officiating, assisted by Rev. Barton and Rev. Evans. the text was “Blessed Are Ye That Die In The Lord.” Mrs. Lena Overholser, Mrs. Ora Frankfather and John Snavely and Owen Harrison sang “Face to Face,” “Farewell! Mother,” “Jesus, Lover of My Soul” and “Going Down the Valley One by One.” The floral offerings were beautiful. Interment in Hazelgreen cemetery. The pall bearers were: J. C. Crom, Lester Beers, James Overholser, John Bushman, Frank Bushman and Homer Bushman. Rachel Overholser, daughter of Martin and Barbara Overholser was born in Tuscara [sic] County, Ohio, March 14, 1838, and died at Coleta, Whiteside County, Illinois, Dec. 25, 1913, aged 75 years, 9 months, and 11 days. She came to Whiteside County, Ill., with her parents when 16 years of age and has spent the greater part of her life in the immediate vicinity. When but 14 she gave her heart to God and through all the many changing scenes of life, as well as great joy when loneliness surmounted her as if dark cloud, in the family circle, in the church, in social circles, everywhere, always she proved the promises were true and the “I will never leave nor forsake thee” was for her. On Nov. 12, 1856, she was united in marriage to Peter Dull and to this union five children were born, two boys and three girls, four children preceded her to the better world, one daughter, Mrs. Anna Kline , remains to mourn her loss. Mr. Dull died some years ago [4/4/1900]Feb. 9, 1876. She was married to Henry Bushman and became a mother indeed to his motherless children. Mr. Bushman departed this life ten years ago. Just after coming to this county she united with the United Brethren church, when they worshipped in the old Hazelgreen school house, and she has been as faithful a member as the church has ever had. She was a charter member of the Women’s Missionary Association at this place and a life member of the general society, took an active interest in every department of the church work, the Sunday school, the preaching services, the young people’s meetings , was never absent from mid-week prayer meetings if she had strength to get there, was deeply interested in the Missionary work, the Aid Society, and if ever a pastor had a faithful and loyal supporter it was in Aunt Rachel. Then she gave liberally of her means and for years has been one of the heaviest payers to all the finances of the church. When the news spread over our little village that Aunt Rachel was gone, one expression seemed to be general coming from all classes, “If ever there was a good woman, Aunt Rachel was.” She leaves to mourn her loss, one daughter, Mrs. Anna Cline, four step children, Colonel Bushman, Charles Bushman, Harlem Bushman and Mrs. Sarah Naunce, two brothers, James Overholser of Sterling and John Overholser of Coleta, five sisters, Mrs. Rebecca Crom and Mrs. Anna Beers of Coleta, Mrs. Catherine Wetzel of Rock Falls, and Mrs. Susannah Howe and Mrs. Sarah Howe of Morrison, besides many other relatives and a host of friends. (The Sterling Daily Standard, December 30, 1913)

Coleta, Dec. 30—The funeral of Rachel Bushman was held at the Radical U. B. Church Sunday morning at 10 o’clock, conducted by Rev. George Lutts, pastor of the church, assisted by Rev. Barton of the M. E. church. The church choir sang several very appropriate songs. The floral offerings were many and beautiful. Frank Bushman, Homer Bushman, J. C. Crom, Hanford Bushman, James Overholser and Lester Beese [sic], nephews of the deceased acted as pallbearers. A very large crowd was present to show the last tribute of respect to one whom we respected and loved as a friend and neighbor. Interment was made in the Hazel Green cemetery. Rachel Overholser, daughter of Martin and Barbara Overholser was born in Cuscarawas [sic] county, Ohio, March 14, 1838, and died at Coleta Ill., Dec. 1913, aged 75 years, 9 mo. and 11 days. She came to this county with her parents when 16 years of age and spent the greater part of her life in the immediate vicinity. When 14 years of age she gave her heart to God, and through all the many changing scenes of life, through deep sorrow as well as great joy when loneliness surrounded her as a dark cloud in the family circle, in the church, in social circles everywhere, always, she proved the promises were true and the “I will never leave thee nor forsake thee” was for her. On Nov. 12, 1856, she was united in marriage to Peter Dull and to this union five children were born, 2 boys and 3 girls, 4 children preceded her to the better world, one daughter, Mrs. Anna Kline remains to mourn her loss. Mr. Dull died some years ago [4/4/1900]. Feb. 9, 1876 she was married to Henry Bushman and became a mother indeed to his motherless children. Mr. Bushman departed this life 10 years ago. Just after coming to this county she united with the United Brethren church when they worshipped in the old Hazel Green school house, and she has been as faithful a member as the church ever had. She was a charter member of the Woman’s Missionary Association at this place and life member of the general society. She took an active interest in every department of the church work, the Sunday school, the preaching services, the young people’s meeting, was never absent from the mid-week prayer meeting if she had strength to get there, was deeply interested in the missionary work, the aid society and if ever a pastor had a faithful and local supporter it was in Aunt Rachel. Then she gave liberally of her means, has been one of the heaviest payers to all the finances of the church. When the news spread over our village on Christmas day that Aunt Rachel was gone, one expression seemed to be general, coming from all classes, “if ever there was a good woman, aunt Rachel was.” She leaves to mourn her loss one daughter, four step children, two brothers, five sisters, many other relatives and a host of friends. (The Sterling Evening Gazette, January 10, 1914)

IN MEMORIAM; RACHAEL BUSHMAN - Beneath a flower bedecked and sacred mound in the silent city of the dead, in the Hazel Green cemetery two miles northwest of Coleta, peacefully and until the final trumpets call, reposed the earthly tabernacle of a beloved and devoted wife and mother, benefactress and friend, Rachael Bushman. Rachael Bushman was born in Tuscara [sic] county, Ohio, March 14, 1838 and died at her home in Coleta on Christmas day, Dec. 25, 1913, aged 75 years, 9 months and 11 days. Aunt Rachael as she was familiarly known to every man, woman and child in this community, had been in poor health for some time, but had recovered sufficiently to attend church the Sabbath previous to her demise. She suffered a relapse the following Tuesday, when pneumonia set in and all that medical skill could do and tender hearts conceive, and willing hands administer, was of no avail. At the age of 16 she moved from Ohio with her parents Martin and Barbara Overholser, to Genesee where she spent the remainder of her long and useful life. She was united in Marriage to peter Dull, Nov. 12, 1856, and to them were born five children, four of whom passed away in their youth. One daughter Mrs. Anna Kline of Coleta, with whom Aunt Rachael made her home is left to mourn the loss of a beloved Christian mother. Peter Dull passed away about 12 years ago. The deceased was again married Feb. 9, 1876 to Henry Bushman who died about ten years ago. The funeral services of Rachael Bushman were held Sunday, Dec. 28, 1913, at the home at 10 o’clock and the Radical U. B. church in Coleta at 10:30. Rev. George Luttz, pastor of the church assisted by Rev. Barton of the Liberal U. B. church and Rev. Evans of the M. E. church officiated. Rev. Luttz chose for the basis of his sermon scripture found in Rev. 14 chapter and 13 verse. “Blessed are the dead, which die in the Lord from henceforth; yea, saith the spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.” From this appropriate text Rev. Luttz delivered a very touching and impressive discourse and produced many deep and interesting points which on account of time and space the writer is very reluctantly compelled to omit. His eulogies of the character of this noble woman were accurate and fitting. One of the main and fundamental characteristics of his sermon was his unreserved recommendation of Jesus Christ the meek and lowly Nazerene, born in a manger with not place to lay his head, betrayed by his friends and ultimately suffers an agonizing death upon the cross, arises from the valley of the shadow of death and declares his triumphant victory over hell death and the grave, and by his appearing made it manifest that he had abolished death and brought life and immortality to light, through the gospel to the sorrowing family and friends of the deceased and to all the children of men. His discourse teemed with divine assurnces for those who “die in the Lord.” Not dead but sleeping. Asleep in Jesus, blessed sleep from which none ever wake to weep,” and was prolific with admonition and exhortations to all the “children of men,” to “not delay,” but be ready for the hour or the day we know not when the “Son of Man cometh,” and we will one by one be called to eternity. The services were interspersed with several choice selections of vocal music by Mrs. Lena Overholser, Mrs. Ora Frankfather, John Snavely and Owen Harrison, accompanied by Dorothy Gipe on the organ. The flower tributes from relatives and friends were beautiful. Her remains were borne to their last portal of rest in the Hazel Green cemetery by six of her nephews, Lester Beers, J. C. Crom, John Bushman, James Overholser, Frank Bushman and Homer Bushman. The relatives who are left to mourn her demise besides her daughter Mrs. Annie Kline are four step children, Colonel Bushman, Harlem Bushman, Mrs. Sarah Nance of Genesee and Charles H. Bushman of Milledgeville. Two brothers, James Overholser of Sterling and John M. Overholser of Coleta. Five sisters Mrs. Anna Beers and Mrs. Rebecca Crom of Coleta, Mrs. Catherine Wetzell of Rock Falls, Mrs. Susanna Howe and Mrs. Sarah Howe of Morrison and a legion of friends. The attendance at the funeral services was one of the largest that was ever in Coleta, the church being filled to its utmost capacity. Aunt Rachael Bushman was an admirable, consistent and edifying Christian woman in every relation and place she was called to fill. No one loved the habitation of God’s house more than she and although of late she was prevented through affliction from attending church yet her home was an altar of prayer and continual praise to him in whom her life was hid. At the age of 14 she consecrated herself to God and united with the United Brethren church where she has been an active and faithful member for over 69 years and which faith she retained until her death. Her religion was not occasioned. It did not depend on particular seasons of exercises. It was not a thing sometimes assumed and sometimes laid aside, but was a principal wrought by the love of God into all her feelings, habits and actions. Her life wrote its whole history in the features of her face, in it you could see purity, peace and love. Her face was always radiant with a smile of contentment, love and joy even in the most trying hours and when the angels called her home she smiled farewell to earth and has gone home to reap the reward of the faithful bearing the ensign of victory. Her eye is now dim in death, yet it glows in our memory with a soft radiance of holy love that can never fade. Henceforth when we visit her home we will miss her smile and greeting, but when we think of the reward of the faithful, the crown that is won, the unions that are to be [remainder missing].
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

RAYMOND WARD BUSHMAN , 17 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Colonel Bushman, died at the home of his parents, one mile east of Coleta, Monday [04/01/1912] evening at 8:15 o’clock. While working in the cornfields last fall the young man received what was supposed to have been a minor injury by bumping against the scoop board on the wagon which he was hauling corn in. A short time after this he suffered pains which at first were supposed to be caused by rheumatism but later it developed that an abscess had formed and acute inflammation set in this causing his death. During the last four weeks the young man suffered great pain but he bore it with Christian fortitude to the end. Raymond Bushman was born in Coleta, June 16, 1894 and is survived by his parents, two brothers Homer and Charles and three sisters, Bessie, Beulah and Mrs. Grace Jones. Funeral services will be held from the home Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock and will be conducted by Rev. George Welch of the Coleta M. E. church. The choir of the church will sing and members of the young man’s Sunday school class will act as pall bearers. Interment will be made in Bethel cemetery near Milledgeville. Mr. Bushman lead a very exemplary life for a young man and joined the Methodist church this winter. The funeral of Raymond Bushman was held this afternoon at 1 o’clock at the home of his parents. Rev. George Welch, assisted by Rev. George Lutts officiated. Emma Brown and Lottie Warwick sang several appropriate selections, assisted by Anna Deets at the piano. The pall bearers were members of Mr. Bushman’s Sunday school class, Forest Pittman, Walter Patch, Floyd Shultz, Leslie Wetzel, Walter Milroy and Fred Schlich.
Contributed by Larry Reynolds

STANLEY R. BUSHMAN , 58 of Rock Falls and formerly of Sycamore died Saturday March 25, 2006 at CGH Medical Center, Sterling. He was born on August 16, 1947 in Sterling, IL the son of Donald F. and Kathryn (Bohms) Bushman and served in the US Army during the Viet Nam War. He married Vicki Brown August 23, 1996 in Sycamore. Stan was employed as a machinist at Greenlee Textron in Genoa, IL for 15 years. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, working on his computer and remodeling. He was a member of the Sycamore American Legion and the Rock Falls VFW. Surviving is his wife, Vicki; their children: Jenni Bushman of Sycamore, IL, Jim (Cindy) Strehlow of Orlando, FL, Brad (Renee) Strehlow of Washington, IL, Chris (Sheila) Strehlow of Metamora, IL, Christopher (Elysse) Bushman of Genoa, IL and Nicole "Agnes" (Jason) Hiatt of DeKalb; his mother Doris Bushman of Rock Falls; his five brothers Ralph Bushman of Three Rivers, MI, his twin brother Steve Bushman of Sterling, Ronnie Bushman of Rock Falls, Bill Bushman of Prophetstown, IL and Bob Bushman of Sterling; 11 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and mother; and two brothers Donald and Danny Bushman. Funeral services will be Wednesday March 29, 2006 at 3 PM in the McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory in Rock Falls. Military honors will conclude the services.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers

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