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

M

CLARICA VIOLA (PITTMAN) MANGERS , 99, 404 Mills St., Emerson, died in her home on Wednesday. Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in the Melvin-Schilling Funeral Home. The Rev. LeRoy J Hershiser, pastor of the First Christian Church of Sterling will officiate. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery in Sterling. Visitation will be held on Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home. A memorial has been established to the First Christian Church in Sterling. Viola Mangers was born on Aug. 17, 1879 in Coleta, the daughter of David and Susannah (Welker) (should be Walker) Pittman. She was united in marriage to Henry Mangers on Sept. 1902 in Emerson. Mr. Mangers preceded her in 1962 (should be 1927). The couple had lived in the Peoria area from 1934 until 1934 when they moved back to this area. Mrs. Mangers was the oldest member of the First Christian Church of Sterling. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Ethel Sauer, Sterling; and Mrs. Geneive Hanson, Emerson; two grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and five great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, one daughter, Laneta Kupel and one brother Oliver Pittman.


Died 18 April 1879 Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

HARRIET (FREEMAN) MANGERS , died this afternoon at 10 minutes past twelve o’clock at the Whiteside Public Hospital. The cause of death was typhoid fever. The funeral services have not been set in detail as yet, but they will be sometime Sunday afternoon, and will be held in the Christian church. Mrs. Harriet Mangers was born in Pennsylvania fifty years ago the tenth of next month. Harriet Freeman came west with her folks to Grand Detour in 1871. In July 1878 she married Henry Mangers at Dixon. They came to Sterling about twenty-five years ago, and have lived in this city ever since. Five children were born to this couple and they are all in Sterling at present. The children she leaves behind to mourn her are Charles; Henry Jr.; William; Annie; and Hilda. Nine days ago, Mrs. Mangers was taken ill with typhoid fever, although she had not been feeling well the two weeks proceeding. Becoming much worse, she was taken to the hospital and a trained nurse was called from Chicago. All that the doctor and nurse could do was done for her, but she showed little sign of improvement from the first. While her death was expected, yet it was not thought that it would come so soon. The death of this woman comes as a great shock to her husband and children. She has been a home loving woman, and her great thought was for her family---her five children and husband. The interment will be in the Riverside Cemetery. Mrs. Mangers was a member of the Christian Church, and she has been an ardent worker and believer to all things religious.

Dated, May 26, 1911 Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

HENRY MANGERS , 80, died at 7:30 Sunday morning from heart failure at the home of his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. John Matuszewich, 703 4th Ave. Sterling. He had not been ill previously, though for several days he had not made the usual trip to his shop, explaining that he did not feel very well. It was realized that his strength was waning and he himself recognized it. Sunday morning he remained in bed and talked to his daughter of his approaching death. He gave messages to his other children and outlined details of his funeral, then passed away, conscious to the time of dissolution and with a smile on his face. The funeral will take place on Wednesday morning from Sacred Heart church, where the funeral mass will be said by his pastor, Rev. Fr. Michael B. Krug. Committal will be in Riverside Cemetery by the grave of his wife. Flowers will be omitted by his request. Henry Mangers was born Dec. 11, 1850 in the grand duchy of Luxembourg, but was partly raised in Paris, France, where as a boy of 14 years, he was apprenticed to a French tailor. In 1869 he came to the United States, arriving at Chicago before the fire. After that conflagration he lived in various places, working at his trade, finally coming to Sterling in 1885. He married Harriet Freeman at Dixon in 1875 (27 July 1879) . Five children were born to this union, Henry j who died in Chicago in 1927. Besides Mrs. Matuszewich, other children surviving are; Mrs. German H Bailey of Washington DC; Charles of Cedar Rapids; and William Mangers of Beeler, Kansas. His wife died in 1911. Mr. Mangers was the last of his family. His father died at age 91. All members of the family were long lived. For 46 years he plied his trade as a tailor in Sterling, maintaining his work room down town up to the time of his death. He was noted for his great care as to his personal appearance, and after the manner of his craft, was wont to set an example, so far as practicable in attire. Neckties were a fad with him and he always kept a large assortment in good shape. Mr. Mangers was of a happy disposition and kept many friends by his kindly ways. He was a lifelong member of the Roman Catholic Church and a parishioner of Sacred Heart in Sterling.
Dated - October 26, 1931 Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

HENRY MANGERS : The funeral of Henry Mangers, who passed away in Chicago, Tuesday, following injuries sustained when caught in machinery at his place of business, will be held Friday afternoon in Chicago with full military honors. The remains will then be brought to this city and Sterling Post American Legion will have charge for services here on Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the B. A. Forster and Sons funeral chapel. Rev. J. Q. Moore will officiate. The South Chicago Post of the American Legion of which he was commander in 1926, will have charge of services in this city. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. Henry Mangers was born Oct. 3, 1879 in Dixon. When but five years of age he came with his parents to Sterling where he resided until five years ago, when he moved to Chicago. Mr. Mangers served in the World War. Mr. Mangers leaves besides his wife, three children; Ethel, Leneta, and Geneva; also his father, Henry Mangers of this city; two sister, Mrs. John Matuszewich of Sterling; Mrs. F. H. Bailey of Washington DC; two brother, Charles J of Cedar Rapids, IA.; and William P. of Kansas City. His mother proceeded him in death. He was a congenial, pleasant, hard working man. He will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. Dated August 3, 1927
Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

ARTHUR MANGES : Funeral arrangements are complete at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home in Rock Falls for Arthur V Manges, 73, of 609 4th Ave., Sterling, who died suddenly early Friday morning in his home after suffering a heart attack. Funeral services will be held Monday at 10:30 at St John’s Lutheran Church, Sterling with the Rev. Donald D Pritz, pastor, officiating. The body will be taken to the church at 8:30 a.m. Monday to lie in state until the time of the funeral. Entombment will be in Oak Knoll Memorial Park Mausoleum. Visitation will Sunday for 3-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home. A memorial has been established in his memory to St. John’s Lutheran Church. Mr. Manges was born April 5, 1907 in Sterling, son of Henry “Ted” and Cora (Deem) Manges. He was united in marriage to Helen Peck on June 26, 1932 in Monticello. The couple lived their entire married life in Sterling. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church. He had worked as a meat cutter for the late Fred Wahl Meat Market and then 10 years for the Fred Boese Sales Store in Sterling prior to his retirement. He is survived by his wife, Helen; four step-sisters, Mrs. Jess Anning, Dixon, Mrs. Ruth Hawk of Milledgeville, Mrs. Ethel Reeser of Sterling, and Mrs. Hattie Maynard of Rock Falls. He was preceded in death by his parents.
The Sterling-Rock Falls Daily Gazette Friday December 9. 1980 Page A 4 Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

HELEN MANGES , 81, of 609 Fourth Ave., Sterling died in her home Wednesday afternoon. Funeral services for Mrs. Manges will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Sterling with Rev. Charles Stemke, pastor, officiating. Entombment will be in the Oak Knoll Memorial Park Mausoleum in Sterling. Visitation is tonight from 6-8 p.m. at the Allen Funeral Home. Mrs. Mangers was born Nov 21, 1908 in Monticello, the daughter of Otto J. and Mary Cornell Peck. She was a graduate of Illinois State University at Normal. She married Arthur b Manges on June 26, 1932, in Monticello. He died Dec. 19, 1980. She was a teacher for many years at Merrill School in Rock Falls prior to her retirement. She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Sterling. She is survived by one sister, Mrs. Sylvia e. Higgins, Champaign; two nephews; and six grand nieces and nephews.
The Sterling Daily Gazette Sept. 13, 1990 page A2 Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

HENRY "TED" MANGES
Final Rites Held for Henry Manges
The late Henry (Ted) Manges was laid at rest Monday afternoon in Riverside cemetery, following funeral rites conducted at 2 o’clock in the Melvin funeral home. Rev. A.H. Keck of St. John’s Lutheran church brought comforting message in his funeral sermon. There was a large attendance of bereaved relatives and friends. During the service Mrs. J. H. Linn was at the organ Employees of the Simpson-Powelson Lumber Co. attended the rites, the offices and yards being closed during the hour of the service in respect to the deceased. Mr. Manges had been foreman of the yards for over 40 years. Three company officials also attended A.J. Powelson, and W.E. Simpson of Galesburg and Sam Patten of Bushnell. The pallbearers were Thomas Buckingham, Laurence LeFevre, George Thurm, Raymond Wolf, Russell Book, and Stanley George, employees of the company yard. There were many beautiful floral tributes and these were in charge of ladies from J.H. Montague Rebekah lodge in Rock Falls, Mrs. Peter f. Dietz, Mrs. Joe Britt, Mrs. Henry Dodd, Mrs. Lloyd Lester, Mrs. Robert Callighan and Mrs. Joe Bradford. The Sterling Daily Gazette Sept. 9, 1941 Reel #MFR 215 bc 64032-5 - Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

WALLACE PORTER MANN :
Mrs. Wallace P. Mann and daughter Grace, accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. E.H. Wooster went to Lyndon on the Denrock passenger this morning where the interment of the remains of Mr. Mann will take place. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bemis accompanied by them and Robert McNeil, F.D. Rosebrook, Joseph Wright, Elmer Crawford, J.R. Johnson and F.H. Geyer were pallbearers. The funeral at the house yesterday at 2:30 p.m. was largely attended by neighbors and friends and was conducted by Rev. Theo Crowl of Sterling. Music was furnished by the ladies quartette of the Sterling Congregational Church Mrs. Ella Richards, and Mae Todd and Mesdames L.D. Osterhoudt and E.M. Ebersole.
Contributed by Paul Bailey
Further details of Mr. Manns tragic death can be found under the "Newspaper Articles"

MARY (KNOX) McINTYRE - Mr. E. B. McIntyre of Yankton, South Dakota, who accompanied the remains of his mother, Mrs. Mary Knox McIntyre, to this city for burial last Saturday morning, after remaining with relatives for a few days left for his home on Tuesday night. During a call upon the Sentinel just previous to his departure he furnished a few additional facts that were not obtainable at the time the obituary notice published in Tuesday's Sentinel was prepared. Mr. McIntyre states that his mother was the third white child born in Whiteside county; that she was married to Byron H. McIntyre Sept. 29, 1861, and left the county in 1862 for Minnesota where they resided until 1876 when they located at Yankton; that she cooked meals for the men who did the grading and laid the ties and rails on the Dakota Southern H. H., the first railroad entering Yankton. Her four children are E B., S. B. and J. J. McIntyre, and Mrs. L. J. Coacher, all of whom reside in Yankton except S. B., who is a citizen of Minneapolis.

At her home in Yankton, South Dakota, May 18, 1899, Mrs. B.B. McINTYRE, aged 61 years, 11 months and 15 days. Mary Knox, daughter of James Knox, was born at the Ox Bow, Lyndon township, Whiteside Co., Ill, March 6, l837 and was one of a family of twelve children. She was married to B.R. McIntyre, who with four children survives her. She also leaves three brothers, John I. of Mt. Pleasant township, Lewis of this city and Allen E of Nowata, Indian Territory, and one sister, Mrs. B. F. Lathe, who resides in this city. The deceased had been ill during the past winter with la grippe, and died last Thursday as stated. Her remains were shipped to Morrison, Friday morning, arriving here Saturday, the funeral services being held at the home of her sister, Mrs. B. F. Lathe of this city, at ten o'clock Saturday morning, Rev. W. E. Leavitt officiating. Interment took place in Round Grove cemetery.
Obituary dated 29 July 1931 Contributed by Linda Criswell

WREATHA McKAY - Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. Monday at the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home for Mrs. Wreatha G. McKay of 2206 Rock Falls, who died Friday. Rev. Harry Luis of the Assembly of God Church of Rock Falls officiated at the services with burial in Oak Knoll Memorial Park. Mrs. Wayne E. Larson was at the organ during the services. Pallbearers were Bradley Ferris, Richard Jones, Jack Rippy, Denis Waller, Jerry Waller and John Waller. Flowers were cared for by Swartley’s.
Contributed by Georgi DiBartolo -Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling, Illinois, Tuesday, 4 May 1965

JULIA (WROTEN) McKENZIE , daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Adams) Wroten, was born in Ross county, Ohio, November 30th, 1837. In 1848, when about six years of age, she came west with her parents and settled on the prairie about seven miles south of Tampico. She was married to Robert McKenzie January 1857, and immediately went to housekeeping on the old home place which all know so well just southeast of Yorktown. In this home Aunt Julia, as she was familiarly called, toiled and worked side by side with him she had chosen, for nearly half a century. Never faltering and always with a cheery word and resolute way through all the ups and downs of life. Here she reared her children: Stella M., Ernest R., Clara E., Florence Adella (who died in infancy), Nellie B., and Maude. She was a home woman and thought being for the welfare and pleasure of family and fiends. Never was she too busy to lay all aside and throw open her home for the welfare and pleasure of her children and their young associates. Hardly a one in the vicinity of Yorktown but has enjoyed this privilege. Their twenty-fifth anniversary was spent at the old home in Yorktown January 7, 1882. About eleven years ago they left the farm and moved to Tampico where they have since resided. She celebrated her fiftieth anniversary at her home in Tampico surrounded by family and friends. She united with the Christian church twenty-two years ago and was a member of the Aid of this place. She has been unable to get around much and has rarely left her home for the past eleven years and although she had been poorly for a couple of months was not considered dangerous until taken worse with heart troubles at 2:30 Tuesday evening. She was so troubled for breath that it seemed as if the billows of death covered her and she drifted with the tide, drifted into the sea of eternity at 9 o'clock Wednesday morning. She leaves to mourn their loss, her husband and five children: Mrs. Stella Pieerce, Mrs. Clara Pierce, Mrs. Maude Morrill, of this place, and Mrs. Nellie Foy and Ernest McKenzie, now of Canada; also two brothers, Robert Wroten, of this place and John Wroten, of Iowa, and three sisters, Mrs. Susan Lane and Mrs Carrie Woodard, of Rock Falls, and Mrs. Theresa Russel, of Minnesota, besides eleven grand children, two great grand children and a host of friends. The funeral services were held last Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Christian church, Rev. ZERBY officiating. There were a number of beautiful tributes. Internment was in the Yorktown cemetery, the following being pall bearers: J.W. Hixson, W. Shere, E.F. McCracken, Will Love, A. Wylie and Thos Dillon.
Contributed by Les Neimi - Tampico Tornado 23 September 1911

MARGARET STUART (RITCHIE) McKENZIE - At the home of her son, John McKenzie, in Madrid, Neb., on Thrursday, November 28, 1895, Mrs. Margaret McKenzie , aged 84 years, 10 months and 13 days. Margaret Stuart Ritchie was born near Aberdeen, Scotland, Jan. 15, 1811, and was married to John McKenzie in 1833. She was the mother of twelve children--six sons and six daughters, of whom two sons and five daughters survive her. She came with her family to America in 1838, and located in Virginia, where they remained for a short time and then came to Ustick Township, Whiteside county, Ill., and lived on a farm for forty years. Her husband died firty-one years ago. In 1886 Mrs. McKenzie moved to Nebraska and made her home with her son John. She united with the Presbyterian church in Aberdeen, Scotland, under the ministry of Dr. Kidd. At the time of her death she held membership in the Spring Valley Presbyterian church, Ustick township, this county. Of her children, Mrs. W.J. Savage, Mrs. W.J. Trye and Mrs. Thoas. J. Janvrin, are residence of this city. The character and force of will power of mother McKenzie can be shown by her patriotic devotion to her country during the war of the rebellion. She entered most heartily into the union cause. She watched and read everything from the first and seemed to understand the crises was at hand. In September, 1861, her son George enlisted with her approval and went to the front and in the first part of August 1862 when the second call was made by Lincoln for 300,000 more, she asked her next oldest son, Alexander, what he thought of it. He replied that he would like to enlist but thought she could not get along without him. She told him, if he would send her his money, she could get along. He enlisted at once and went to the front. In November 1862, George returned home, a paroled prisoner. On the same day she received a letter announcing the serious illness of Alexander and in the hospital. The next morning Mrs. McKenzie started for Louisville, KY., to care for son. She nursed him through the winter of 1862-63 until the latter part of February, when he did not need her personal care, but his conditon was such that he was no longer able to do service. She came to Springfield, Ill., to see Gov. Yates for the purpose of securing her son’s discharge. After some delay she had an interview with Dr. Leander Smith and through his influence she succeeded in having an interview with the governor, which resulted in her securing a discharge for her son from the service. She returned home fully persuaded she had done all that was in her power. Her body was brought to this city, arriving here on Sunday; funeral services were held in the Presbyterian church on Monday forenoon, conducted by Rev. J. W. Skinner. Interment took place in the Hollinshead cemetery in Ustick township, where her husband was buried. Mr Alex. McKenzie of Lenox, Iowa, arrived Saturday morning to attend the funeral of his mother which occurred Monday.
Whiteside Sentinel

CLEONE (BURGESON) McMILLAN , 77, of Prophetstown, died Saturday, Jan. 17, 2004, at home. Services are noon Wednesday at St. Catherine's Catholic Church, Prophetstown, where she was a member and served as organist. Burial is in Riverside Cemetery, Prophetstown. Visitation is 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at the church with a 5 p.m. rosary. Gibson and Son Funeral Home, Prophetstown, is handling arrangements. She was born March 17, 1926, in Geneseo, daughter of Chet and Alice Dahlburg Burgeson. She married Wesley McMillan Jan. 19, 1946. Survivors are her husband; daughters, Janet Connor, Taylor Ridge, Jane Nielsen, Dixon, Ill.; sons, John, Hemmet, Calif., Jim, Cordova, Joe, Madera, Calif., Jeff, Groton, Conn.; 16 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
Quad City Times 19 January 2003

PAIGE H McMILLIN , 3 day-old daughter of Tim and Nancy McMillin, 903 E Second St., died Thursday, Sep 29, 1988 in Community General Hospital. She was born Sept. 26, 1988 in Sterling, to Tim and Nancy (Fisher) McMillin. Survivors include her parents of Sterling; sister, Courtney of Dixon, and Abby, at home; maternal grandparents, William and Barbara Fisher of Rock Falls; paternal grandparents, Jack and Ann McMillin of Sterling; maternal great grandmother Helen Fisher of Sterling; paternal Great grandparents, Thomas and Loraine Bingham of Chicago. Funeral will be 10:30 a.m. Monday in the First Christian Church with the Rev. Randolph B. Collinson, officiating. Burial will be in Oak Knoll Memorial Park. Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday in Grennan Funeral Home.
Contributed by Margaret (Wilson) Mangers

ARTHUR MEALOR , 60, 1114 Mary Ave., Rock Falls passed away early Sunday morning after an extended illness. The Body was moved to the Melvin Funeral Home where friends may call from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday with the Rev. David L. Beebe, pastor of the Rock Falls Christian Church officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery.

Arthur Mealor was born March 27, 1915 in LaCross, Ind., the son of James and Ann Varner Mealor, and had resided in this area most of his life and was educated in the Rock Falls and Sterling public schools. He was married to Esther M. Harting April 3, 1937 at Morrison, and was a member of the Rock Falls Christian Church. He was a veteran of the World War II and served with the U. S. Air Force. A memorial has been established to the American Cancer Society. Arthur was employed by R. B. and W. Bold and Nut Co. for 19 years. Surviving besides his widow are: a son, Steven L. Mealor, of Rock Falls; a daughter, Debbie Mealor at home and his mother Ann Richardson of Rock Falls.
Website of Marna Hughes - Rootswebs/World Connect

ESTHER (HARTING) MEALOR , 73, of 1114 Mary Ave., Rock Falls, died Friday evening at Community General Hospital following a short illness. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the Melvin Schilling Funeral Home. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. She was born May 2, 1915 in Sterling, daughter of Mr. and Mrs Clarence harting. She married Arthur J. Mealor on April 3, 1936 in Morrison. She was retired. She is survived by one son, Steven L. Mealor of Rock Falls; one daughter, Debbie Cooksey of Sterling; six grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Meba Sanders of Rock Falls. 7/16/88
Website of Marna Hughes - Rootswebs/World Connect

EMELINE (HESS) MELLINGER : In holy scripture we are taught that the last enemy to be destoyed is death. Isaiah saw in the distant future the conquerer enemy and declared, "Death is swallowed up in Victory." Our loved ones are pasing from us in this assurance. But there for a special stillness in the tone of our voice, when we say -Mother is gone-. Mother, that sweetest earthly name, perhaps the first word that we learned to speak, the one to whom we first looked for love, who knew all about our ills and pains, when only a touch from her hand or a word from her lips would help. But time carries us on, and today we lay aside that which is earthly of our earthly treasure hopeing to meet again in that better land in the presence of our Savior and Lord. Emeline (Hess) Mellinger daughter of Michael and Magdalena Hess was born in Conestoga Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, March 3, 1854. She passed away at her country home north of Sterling February 24, 1927, at the age of 73 years, 11 months and twenty-one days. She was of a family of twelve children, nine brothers and two sisters. When she was thirteen years of age her parents came west, locating on a farm in Jordan Township. They were among the pioneer settlers and always resided in this locality. On July 19, 1874, she was married to Henry K. Mellinger, to this union three children were born, Mrs. F. K. Barge, Benjamin Mellinger and Mrs. Anna Bare, all residing in Jordan Township. Her husband preceded her in death December 12, 1919. Three brothers, Michael, Benjamin and Eli have preceded her in death. She leaves to mourn her departure her children before mentioned, nine grandchildren, six brothers and two sisters. They are Ephriam and Emanuel of Dixon, Zachariah of Sterling, Jeremiah of Lyndon, Jacob of Spearville, Kansas, Theodore of Elgin, Mrs. Mary Stauffer of Sterling and Mrs. Jacob Trouth of Dixon. In 1882 she with her husband united with the Mennonite church to which faith she remained true until the time of her death. Mrs. Mellinger was unassuming in her disposition ever ready to lend a helping hand to those that were in need about her. To know her was to regard her as a christian woman in whom the spirit of Christ was very manifest. Very truthfully could she say with Paul, " For to me to live is Christ to die is gain." If we shall know each other in heaven (and I believe we will) she today is in the presence of Christ her Savior and the loved ones gone before. Oh, Thank God for such a faith and such a hope
Contributed by Tom Hess

MILDRED (GIBSON) MERRILL , 101, of Prophetstown, died Thursday, Jan. 27, 2005, at the Prophets Riverview Center. Mrs. Merrill was born Nov. 1, 1903, south of Tampico, the daugh­ter of John and Emma (Olson) Gibson. She graduated from Prophetstown High School in the Class of 1922. On Jan. 17, 1925, she married Burr D. Merrill in Prophetstown. He died on Dec. 13, 1984. Mrs, Merrill was a member of the First Lutheran Church and of WELCA at the church. She worked as a volunteer for many years at Winning Wheels and Prophets Riverview Center. She was also an avid gardener. She is survived by many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by sis­ters Doris Johnson, Gladys Ackerman and June Pearson, and by brothers Ronald Gibson, Lawrence Gibson and Vernon Gibson. Services w.ill be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 29, 2005, at the First Lutheran Church, Prophetstown. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Prophetstown. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. until the time of the services Saturday, Jan. 29, 2005, at the church

JOHN R. MERTZ , 61, of Sterling died Friday, Dec. 24, 2004 at his home. He was a phar­macist in th Sterling area for many years. Mr. Mertz was born July 16, 1943, in Dixon, the son of Vernon and ­Mary L. (Hoover) Mertz. He gradu­ated from the University of Illinois, Chicago. Survivors include a daughter, Christy Johnson of Westmont; a son, Michael Mertz of Clinton, Iowa; his mother, Mary (Doie) Mertz of Polo; a sister, Kay (Bob) McGuire of Robins, Iowa; a brother, Jim Mertz of Melbourne, Fla.; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and a sister. The funeral is at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Benson Funeral Home, Polo, with the Rev. Steve Woita officiating. Burial is at Fairmount Cemetery, Polo.

ETHEL KATHERINE (SHAW) METZGER : In his infinite wisdom God called Mrs. Daniel L. Metzger, Jr. from this life on May 9, 1945. She became seriously ill after the birth of a son on May 1, and did not recover. She was 26 years and 11 months old. Ethel Katherine Shaw was born June 9, 1918 in Morrison, the daughter of Mrs. Mabel Edlin and the late Fred Shaw. She received her education in the Sterling schools and graduated from Central school, Sterling Township high school and Scovill schools. For four years she was employed at the George Stone insurance agency office in Rock Falls. On May 28, 1941, she was united in marriage with Daniel L. Metzger, Jr. who is serving in the U.S. army and is stationed in the Marianas islands. Mrs. Metzger became a member of St. John's Lutheran church by baptism April 12, 1936, and was an active and faithful member. Before she became a member of the church and since that time until shortly after the war began she was an active member of the Luther league and was an officer for serveral years. She was a faithful member of the Sunday school and with her husband, was active i the Lutheran young married peoples group. She was a member and the first president of the Erva Moody circle of the Women's Missionary society. She was a loyal attendant at the servces of the church and was deeply appreciative of the spiritual privileges and responsibilities of a Christian. Ethel had a host of friends in the community. She was possessed of an attractive personality and her genial disposition endeared her to many. She was an example of the finest type of young womanhood. During the few days of her serious illness she was not daunted by her condition but revealed a true grace in the spirit with which she met the untoward circumstances. Mrs. Metzger is survived by her husband, Sgt. Daniel Metzger, Jr., her son, Stephen Leigh, her mother, Mrs. Mabel Edlin, and two sisters, Mrs. Mason Behrens and Mrs. Paul Klocke, all of Sterling. Funeral services were held on May 12, 1945, with Rev. Albert H. Keck, Jr. of St. John's Lutheran Church officiating. At the church Mrs. H.W. Wiles played "Come, Ye Disconsolate" as a part of the service. The flowers were cared for by Mr. adn Mrs. Albert Breiding, Mr and Mrs. William Behrens, Mrs. W.J. McFalls adn Miss Mildred McFalls, Mrs George Behrens and Mrs. Walter Grebner. Pallbearers were George Stone, Marion Meyers, Walter Grebner, Leroy Thummel, Royce Behrens and Kenneth Swartley. Committal was at Riverside Cemetery.
Contributed by Mike Hosler

CHARLES MICKLE 1863-1945, Passes Thursday Morning at the Harry James Home. Charles Mickle, 82, a resident of the Erie vicinity for nearly 73 years passed away Thursday morning at 1 o'clock at the home of his daughter Mrs. Harry James near Erie. He had not been well for over a year and had been ill for about two weeks, but had not been bedfast until Wednesday evening. Funeral services are planned for 1 o'clock Saturday afternoon at the James home and at 2 o'clock at the Fenton United Brethren Church with the Rev. Melvin Fiscus officiating. Internment will be in the Fenton cemetery. Mr. Mickle, whose parents were Lorenzo and Charity St. Ores Mickle, was born Jan. 9, 1863 in Ustick township. At the age of 10 years he came with his parents to a farm in the Erie vicinity and had since resided within a radius of four miles of Erie. He married Ella Showalter of Fenton, Sept. 10, 1885. Her death occured in February 1935. In 1936 he went to make his home with the James family and had since resided there. Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. A.C. Baxter, Mrs. Edwin Dennis and Mrs. James of Erie and vicinity and Mrs. Kenneth Regan of Chicago; two sons Vernon of Fenton and Kenneth of Hanover; a sister, Mrs. Pluma Crocker of Morgan, Minn., 16 grandchildren and one great granddaughter. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Grace, who died in infancy and a sister, Mrs. Anna Hamilton, whose death occured in 1936.

**Note from Cyndie: Lula Belle Regan had been missing since before her mother's death in 1936. The family assumed she was in Chicago and did post notices in newspapers to try and contact her.

GRACE L (HODGE) MICKLE , 73 of Morrison formerly of Erie, died Saturday May 11 2002 at Pleasant View Home, Morrison. She was employed by the former Dixon State School and by Alta's Cafe, Lyndon, as a waitress. Mrs. Mickle was born Nov 11 1928 in Morrison, the daughter of Harold and Irma (Lawrence) Hodge. She married W Keith Mickle on Aug 21 1947 in Covington KY. He died Oct 21 1993. She was a member of UnitedMethodist Church, Prophetstown. Survivors include four Daughters, Cindy (Jerry) Marweg of Galt, Connie (Ron) Tiffany of Erie, Bonnie Mickle of Dixon and Pam (Paul) VanderVinne of Morrison; a son, Richard Mickle; a brother, Herbert Hodge of Madison WI, 12 grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren. Funeral is at 10:30 Am Tuesday at Fenton United Methodist Church. Burial is at Fenton Cemetery. There is no visitation. Arrangements were completed by Gibson Funeral Home, Erie.
Daily Gazette 12 May 2002

MITTIE MILLARD : Mrs. John Bull received a telegram from Sterling Friday, announcing the death of her sister, Mrs. Mittie Millard.
The funeral services were held Sunday in Sterling after which the remains were buried in Bethel cemetary south of town. She lived in Milledgeville formerly but was living with her daughter Mrs. C. C. Calkins of Sterling when she died. Her maiden name was Scoville. Besides her daughter she leaves to mourn the loss a brother Ira Scoville, and five sisters, Mrs. Mamie Bull, Mrs. Amelia Dull, Mrs. Paulina Winters, Mrs. Ella Bushman, and Mrs. Etta Olmsted

ANN M. (GARBER) MILLER , Rte 2, Rock Falls, died Saturday morning (27 March 1971) in Dixon Public Hospital. The body was moved to the Melvin Funeral Home where friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday in the Melvin Funeral Home. The Rev. A. Schumacher, pastor of the Polo Baptist Church will officiate and burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. Mrs. Miller was born April 10, 1905 in Tazwell County, Ill., the daughter of Oscar and Florence Parlier Garber. She was united in marriage to Mark Miller December 13, 1941 at Bowling Green, Mo. Surviving besides her husband are five brothers, Clarence Garber of Delavan, Wilson Garber and Raymond Garber of Pekin, Wayne Garber of Memphis, Tenn., and Albert Garber of Springfield; two sisters, Mrs. Harold (Edna) Keopple and Mrs. Frank (Hazel) Ehertt of Pekin. Her parents, two brothers and three sisters preceded.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois March 29, 1971 - Monday pg 2

ANNIE A. MILLER , RR 1, Morrison, died Wednesday morning (18 December 1974) at Morrison Community Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Morrison, with the Rev. Phillip Kennedy officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery in Clinton, Iowa. Friends may call at the Renkes-Reynolds Funeral Home in Morrison from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday. Annie Miller was born in Clinton, Iowa, the daughter of John and Elizabeth Doppel Miller. She was reared and educated in Clinton, Iowa. She resided in Minnesota for 10 years and then returned to the Morrison area. She was a member of the St. Mary's Catholic Church. She is survived by one brother, Ervin Miller of Morrison and one sister, Frances Miller Olson of Morrison. She was preceded by her parents; four brothers, Philip, Andrew, Frank and Bill; and three sisters, Margaret Miller, Louise Slawson and Mae Lyon.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois December 18, 1974 - Wednesday, pg 8

CAROLE (SMITH) MILLER , 66, died Friday at her home. Services were 10:30 a.m. today at the Gibson Funeral Home, Erie. Visitation was Sunday at the funeral home. Burial was in the Kingsbury Cemetery, rural Erie. She was born Dec. 25, 1937, in Clinton to Kamm and Vernetta Eggers Smith. On May 4, 1963, she married James F. Miller at Faith Lutheran Church in Andover. She graduated from Miles High School in 1956 and from the Finley School of Nursing, Dubuque, in 1959. After graduation, she worked as an operating room nurse at Finley Hospital in Dubuque and later with the former Jane Lamb Hospital in Clinton. She was a member of Erie United Methodist Church and was active in several community organizations and events including American Red Cross blood drives, the Morrison (Ill.) Hospital Board, American Cancer Society fund drives and the Christian Women's Club. She served as an election judge, Erie Township clerk and Erie-Portland Multi-Township treasurer. She served as corporate officer and was actively involved in her family business. Survivors include her husband; a daughter, Kimberly Miller of Lawrence, Kan.; a son, Dr. Douglas (Jennifer) Miller of West Lafayette, Ind.; two grandchildren; and two brothers, Dan and Jack Smith, both of rural Clinton. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister.
Clinton Herald 19 July 2004

DORIS V. (BECKER) MILLER , 97, of Prophetstown died Thursday, May 22, 2003, at Prophets Riverview Good Samaritan Center, Prophetstown. She and her husband farmed for many years in the Mineral and Manlius area until 1975. Mrs. Miller was born Jan. 24, 1906, in rural Prophetstown, the daughter of Gustav and Anna Clara (Saupe) Becker, She married Albert Miller on Feb. 4, 1928, at Loraine Methodist Church, rural Prophetstown. He died Jan. 20, 1985. She was a member of Prophetstown United Methodist Church. Survivors include a son, Stanley (Lois) Miller of Prophetstown; a sister, Hazel Eilers of Geneseo; a granddaughter; a great-grand daughter; twin great-great-granddaughters; seven step-great-grandsons; and a number of step-great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a grandson; two brothers; and seven sisters, including her twin, Dorothy Clementz. The funeral is at 2p.m. Saturday at Prophetstown United Methodist Church. Burial is at Riverside Cemetery, Prophetstown. Visitation is from 1-2 p.m. Saturday at the church. Arrangements were completed by Gibson & Son Funeral Home, Prophetstown. A memorial has been established.

ELIZA ANN ( LeFEVRE) MILLER , Sterling’s oldest resident, passed away at her home on East Fourth street Wednesday [12/30/1914] evening at 7:30. Old age and a general complication of diseases caused her demise. She was ninety-five years of age on Decembr 19, 1914, and has been a widow since the civil war. A peculiar feature is the fact that she has occupied the same residence on East Fourth street for sixty-seven years. Mrs. Miller has been in poor health for a great many years, her condition gradually growning worse as the years advanced until for the past three years she has been practically helpless and two nurses have been caring for her. Until a few weeks ago, however, she retained full possession of her faculties. Blindness finally came with helplessness and the aged mind wandered back to the years gone by—back to the days of girlhood and to the golden days when, as a young mother, her husband and children were by her side. One son, Rev. Amos Miller, formerly pastor of the Rock Falls Methodist church, preceded her to the Great Beyond. Her only surviving son, Joseph Miller, resides in Alburquerque, N. M. He and other relatives have been notified by telegraph and as soon as arrangements can be completed, the funeral will be announced. An obituary will be published on Saturday. (Burial Riverside Cemetery) (MEMORIAL) - At last, at last. The aged pilgrim has reached the end of the long journey. Life’s fitful fever o’er, she sleeps well. The little cottage is quiet. No more weary vigils or watchings by day or by night. Could the departimg spirit have spoken, the solemn lines of Sir Edwin Arnold would doubtless have voiced her feelings: Farewell, friends, but not farewell! Where I am, ye too shall dwell. Eliza Ann LeFevre was born in 1819, having passed her 95th year on last Dec. 19. From her old home, Strasburg, Lancaster county, Pa., came several of our pioneer residents, Thomas A. Galt, Alex McCloy, Jacob Echternacht, Werntz, and others, who have figured so largely in the development of our city. She was married in 1839 to Joseph Miller, and in 1847, with her father’s family, they all emigrated to this county. Her father purchased a large tract of land, part of which is now occupied by the city of Sterling. Her father died in 1872, at the age of 76. Somewhat peculiar, very neat, and some of our older citizens may recall him. Her husband, Joseph Miller, died in 1874, and in the familiar frame cottage the resolute widow contined to reside with her little family. Her brothers, known to most of our people have passed away, one by one, Elias and John here, Amos in Iowa. The residence of Christ Burkholder on Third street was the original property of the father, John Le Fevre, afterwards passing into the hands of Barr Witmer. Two sons were the delight of the fond mother, Amos, the older, born in 1840, was a gallant soldier in the Thirteenth Illinois, studied for the Methodist ministry, and while stationed at Arlington Heights was thrown from his wheel, 1902, receiving injuries from which he never recovered. Frequent visits of his widow and daughters have cheered the heart of the lonely grandmother. Joseph, born in 1843, for years a traveling salesman, owning that handsome mansion that stood at the head of First avenue, has now been residing for a long time at Albuquerque, New Mexico. His son, Leonard, is a graduate of our high school. Aunty Miller was a housekeeper of the old school. Her home was her world. She sought no other happiness. What delight in her spacious yard with its vines, trees, fruit, flowers, poultry. Here in pleasant weather she received her friends. When gathering infirmities obliqed her to let others take up the burden, she made the needle her solace. What hundreds of pin cushions, quilts, every device issued from those active hands, early and late, and their distribution among her friends afforded her intense enjoyment. Along her task was wrought. Alone the battle fought. Still it is the sad and sure condition of all who linger long after their generation. The playmates of her childhood, the companions of her youth, the associates of middle life, the members of her own circle, every object of her affection, she had seen pass to that mysterious realm of which we know so little and yet of which we think so much. We have reason to believe that, sleeping or waking, Grandma Miller’s thought dwelt on the heavenly home. But increasing age overcame every ambitious aim, and for over two years she was on the bed of weakness and suffering. A sweet spirit of resignation. The end had come, and that strong will showed an unusual feeling of submission. Time after time at the visits of the writer, she would cheerfully exclaim, “Well, I am still here, the Lord knows best, I must bide his time”. She often repeated “The Lord is my shepherd”, and found much joy in the ministry of Christian friends as they prayed and sung at her bedside. One Sunday morning not long before her departure, a mystic phenomenon startled her watchers. Grandma was dead. The eyes were closed, the features set, the body rigid, the breathing ended. Messages were sent to friends and to the churches. But marvel of marvels, the vital spark had not fled, simply had lingered as if loath to leave the tenament of clay, and in another hour the frail form resumed its feeble functions. In speaking of it afterwards, poor Grandma sadly remarked, I thought I was dead. What her thought were in that solemn suspension between earth and heaven, she never disclosed. Presybterian readers will recall that wonderful experience of William Tennent, a student of theology at New Brunswick, about 1730. He fell into a trance which continued for several days, and for weeks no life was expected. All of the symptoms of dissolution. But he recovered to preach, and was pastor for forty years. In referring to his prostration, he thought he was in heaven, and lost all interest in earlthly things. Paul, we remember, was caught into paradise, and heard unspeakable words not lawful for a man to utter. Remarkable vitality for one so weak and so aged. At intervals by night and day for two weeks after her apparent death, her bodily convulsions and cries of agony were very distressing to her watchers. A virulent cancer on the left side of her head added to the intensity of her sufferings. But these struggles gradually subsided, and the long conflict was at an end. Night dews fall not more gently to the ground, Nor weary, worn out winds expire so soft. Few invalids ever had such bounteous and abiding care. Two sympathetic hearts constantly by her bedside. Not strangers from a hospital but tried friends whom she had long known and cherished. Mrs. Journey, her housekeeper for years, and Mrs. Eyster, called to assist as the increasing demands of a painful sickness required more attention, both anticipated every wish, and at every call for Annie or Mary, no daughter’s hand could have been laid more tenderly on the aching brow. Aunty Miller’s life spanned the richest period of history. Gladstone thought the last fifty years of the nineteenth century thru which he lived were the most eventful, but to the English statesman’s experience she added the era of the completed telephone, the automobile, the airship, the Panama Canal, Africa illuminated. The world war came into her horizon, but her dim vision was not able to recognize its titanic wickedness. While the lines of Mrs. Browning are always beautiful and consoling, they are peculiarly fitting as we think of the aged mother, longing for rest, and wasted with the sorrows of a century; And friends, dear friends, when it shall be,
Contributed by Larry Reynolds - The Sterling Evening Gazette, January 2, 1915

ELLA SHIERRY MILLER - Funeral services of Mrs. Ella Shierry Miller, who passed away at the Sterling public hospital Wednesday afternoon, will be held at the home of a daughter, Mrs. August Schultz, 601 Eleventh avenue, Rock Falls, at 2 p.m. Friday. Rev. H. E. Shiffer, pastor of the Rock Falls Christian church, will officiate. Interment will be in Riverside cemetery, Prophetstown. Mrs. Miller had been ill for about three years. She was taken to the Sterling public hospital Tuesday, where she passed away. While it was known that her condition was serious her death came unexpectedly. The body was moved to the Wheelock mortuary, from where it was taken to the Schultz home Thursday afternoon. Mrs. Miller was born Aug. 15, 1867, in Prophetstown, where she spent her girlhood days. She was united in marriage in Prophetstown to Ed Shierry, who passed away 14 years ago. Two years later she was married to William Miller. For the past 45 yars she had been a resident of Rock Falls. Besides the husband, she is survived by one daughter, Mrs. August Schultz of Rock Falls, two sons, Dan Shierry of Sterling and Ernest Shierry of Bloomington, and one sister, Louella Crandall of Sterling.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling, Illinois August 26, 1937 - Thursday, pg 5 col 7

IOLA V. (FORTUNE) MILLER - age 85, of 307 Kimball St. Tampico, Illinois died Tuesday, June 10, 2008 at her home. Iola Victoria (Fortune) Miller was born October 23, 1922 in Webster City, Iowa, the daughter of Edward and Edith (Carlson) Fortune. She was united in marriage to Gale Miller on December 7, 1940 in Webster City, Iowa and he preceded her in death on October 13, 2000. They came to Illinois in 1942. She was a member of the First Open Bible Church of Rock Falls, Illinois. Iola was a stay at home mom, giving her love to her eight children. They love her with all their hearts and will miss her deeply. She is survived by her children Gary L. (Bev) Miller of Morrison, IL; Patsy J. (Ron) Sharp of Tampico, IL; Donna K. Johnson of Tampico, IL, (Chuck O;Brien of Rock Falls, IL; Karen A. (Tom) Hall of Tampico, IL; Donald L. Miller of Rock Falls, IL; 25 grandchildren; 48 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; one brother Donald (Joyce) Fortune of Tampico, IL; One sister Margie (John) Hill of Minnesota. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two daughters Linda Gholson, Edith Verdick; one son Billy Gale Miller, three grandchildren Lisa, Tommy and Lori Ann. Funeral services were conducted on Saturday at the First Open Bible Church in Rock Falls, with the Rev. Les Funderberg, pastor officiating
Contributed by Debbie Thormahalen - The Prophetstown Echo June 17, 2008

JOHN MILLER , 85, Erie died in Eveningside Nursing Home, Morrison this morning December 31, 1962. Services will be at 2 Wednesday in the Schilling Funeral Home. The Rev. George Schreiner, pastor of the Erie Methodist Church will officiate. Burial will be in Erie Cemetery. Mr. Miller was born Oct. 17, 1877 in Compton, the son of William and Lydia Miller. He was reared and attended the schools in Compton and had lived here 33 years. He was a retired farmer. He married Nellie Richards Dec. 31 1900 in Aurora SD. She died in ??. Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Ira Scheffer and Mrs. John (Ardith Maxine) Bennett, both of Erie, Mrs. Ralph Wessel fo East Moline and Mrs. (Velma) Clarence Kellogg of Prophetstown; two brothers, Earl of Morrison and Joe of Sterling; four sisters, Mrs. Pearl Fuller of Erie, Mrs. Ida Meyers of Morrison, Mrs. Mabel McWelty of Dixon and Mrs. Zelma Thornton in CA; nine grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
Contributed by Bette Rick
50th Wedding Anniversary John & Nellie (Richards) Miller
August 1984 Miller Family Reunion
William & Lydia (Beemer) Miller Family

JOHN MILLER , 85, 408 E. 7th St., Sterling, died Tuesday, (7 June 1983) in the edge Wild Nursing Home, following an extended illness. Funeral services will be held at the Behrens Blair Funeral home on Friday at 10:30 a.m., with the Rev. Donald Pritz of St John’s Lutheran Church officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home. Odd Fellow services will be held at 7:30 p.m. John Miller was born on Oct 22, 1897 in Tama county, Iowa, the son of august and Katharine Miller. He was reared and educated in Tama, Iowa. On April 8, 1942 he was united in marriage to Dorothy Parker in Sterling. He was employed at Northwestern Steel and Wire for 31 years and was a member of the IOOF Lodge 174, the Rebekah Lodge and St. John’s Lutheran Church. Surviving are his wife Dorothy and one sister, Lisa Smith, Marshalltown, Iowa.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the Jun 8, 1983 Daily Gazette

KATHERINE (SCHUMAKER) MILLER , 1010 4th Ave., Sterling, widow of the late Rev. John W. Miller, passed away suddenly Wednesday morning (08 Jan 1964) in her home. Mrs. Miller was born Sept. 3, 1886 in Sterling, the daughter of Oliver and Phoebe Journey Schumaker. She was a resident of this area her entire life and was a life member of the Church of the Brethren. Katherine Amanda Schumaker was united in marriage to Rev. John W. Miller on Aug. 4, 1915, at Dixon, and Rev. Miller preceded her Dec. 7, 1963. Surviving are one son, Homer J. Miller of Malvern; one daughter, Miss Helen Miller of Sterling. There are four grandchildren. One brother and one sister preceded her. The body was moved to the Melvin Funeral Home where friends may call after 7 p.m. Thursday. At 11 a.m. Saturday the body wil be taken to the Church of the Brethren to lie in state until the time of service at 1:30 p.m. Rev. Emory Smith, pastor of the church, will officiate, assisted by Rev. Rodney Warstler of the Evangelical United Brethren Church of Malvern. Burial will take place in the Rock Creek Cemetery at Malvern. A memorial has been established in her memory to the Church of the Brethren.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois January 9, 1964 - Thrusday, pg 2 col 2

LYDIA (BEEMER) MILLER ,86, former resident of Erie, died at 7 p.m. Monday (22 May 1939) in her home in Round Grove. She had been in ill health for quite some time. Lydia Beemer was born Feb. 14, 1853 in Compton IL. She was the last of 14 children. Following her marriage to William Miller, the couple farmed in this vicinity for several years, moving to Round Grove 14 years ago. Mr. Miller passed away 10 years ago. Mrs. Miller was a member of the Baptist Church. She is survived by five sons, Hollis and John of Erie, Joe and Earl of Sterling and Norman of Omaha Neb.; seven daughters, Mrs. Mable McWethy of Dixon, Mrs. Grace Herlihy of Kalamazoo MI, Mrs. Zelma Thurston of Crystal Lake MN, Mrs. John Dobers and Mrs. Frank Meyer of Erie, Mrs. Clarence Fuller of near Spring Hill and Daisy Miller at home. A son Jesse, died in November 1938. Burial will be in the Morrison cemetery. Funeral services will be Thursday at 1:30 from the home and at 2 o'clock from the Baptist church in Morrison, Rev. W.S. Rawlins of Stutters O., will preach the sermon and Rev. J.S. Chapman of Morrison and Rev. Claud Sailhammer of Erie will assist. Burial will be in Grove Hill Cemetery.
Contributed by Bette Rick Miller Family Photo

MERLE (WALKER) MILLER , 82, formerly of Nelson, died Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2004, at Willow Wood Health Care Center, Rock Falls Mrs. Miller was born July 2, 1922 in Oklahoma, the daughter of Horace and Leva (Boyd) Walker. She married James J. Miller Sr. on Nov. 8, 1945. in Sterling. He died March 6, 2002. She was a member of St. Andrew Catholic Church, Rock Falls, and a past member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion auxiliaries. Survivors include a son. James (Melissa) Miller Jr. of Nelson; two daughters, Margaret Ann Farr of San Diego and Mary Catherine (Keith) Hewitt of Lakewood. Colo.; seven grandchildren; and a great­-grandchild. . She was preceded in death by a brother and seven sisters. Celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial is at 10 a.m. Friday at St. Andrew Catholic Church, Rock Falls, with Monsignor Thomas Dzielak, celebrant, officiating. Burial is at Calvary Cemetery, Sterling. Visitation is from 5-7 p.m. today at McDonald Funeral Home, Rock Falls.

MATHEW MILLER , The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Miller, 1507 Park Ave., Canyon City, Colo., drowned this morning in a drainage ditch located back of the homestead. Mrs. Curtis Miller, the mother, is the former Miss Shirley Ping, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Ping of Prophetstown. The tragedy occurred this morning while the child was at play in the back yard of his home. It was reported the yard was completely fenced in, however, it is believed the gate was unlocked and the mother had left him for just a moment. Mathew would have been two years old Sept. 27 of this year. He was born in Canyon City, Colo., and survivors include his parents, two brothers, Jason age nine, and Jesse age 6; his maternal and paternal grandparents, also aunts and uncles in Prophetstown and other cities. He was preceded in death by an infant sister, Hope, age eight months. Funeral services will be held Friday morning at Canyon City.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois July 11, 1967 - Tuesday, pg 2

NELLE (RICHARDS) MILLER - Funeral services for Mrs. John D. (Nellie) Miller 75, who died at 2:15 Sunday Morning (11 January 1959) in the Moline Public Hospital where she had been a patient for about a week, were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Schilling Funeral Home. Rev. D. Cobb, pastor of the Erie Methodist Church officiated and Mrs. R.M. Schilling was organist. Burial was in the Erie Cemetery. Pallbearers were Glenn Miller, Everett Joslin, Gordon Bleitz, Bill Steinert, Arden Reisenbigler and Morris James. Those in charge of flowers were Mrs. Glenn Miller, Mrs. Bill Steinert and Mrs. Arden Reisenbigler. Mrs. Nellie Mae Miller daughter of John and Maria Thurston Richards was born Aug. 28, 1883 in Royal IA. She ws raised and educated in Iowa and moved to SD at the age of 12. She was married to John D. Miller Dec. 21, 1903 at Aurora SD and had resided in Erie since 1929. Mr. and Mrs. Miller celebrated their 50th anniversary in 1953. She was a member of the Friendly Circle Class and WSCS of the Methodist Church and also a member of the church. She is survived by the husband, four daughters, Mrs. Clarence (Velma) Kellogg of Prophetstown, Mrs. Ralph (Ethelyn) Wessel of East Moline, Mrs. Ira (Marian) Schaeffer and Mrs. John (Ardith Maxine) Bennett of Erie, two brothers, Frank Richards of Sibley Ia and Vern of Goldfield IA; nine grandchildren and eight grandchildren. She was preceded by one son, two brothers and a sister.
Contributed by Bette Rick
50th Wedding Anniversary John & Nellie (Richards) Miller
August 1984 Miller Family Reunion

RICHARD L. MILLER , 68, of 824 16th Ave., Fulton, formerly of Morrison. died Saturday. June 21. 2003. at Mercy Medical Center North, Clinton, Iowa. He was employed by the Illinois Department of Transportation -Highway Maintenance and then by White Pines State park. Mount Morris for four years, and Morrison Rockwood State Park for 29 years. as a park ranger, retiring in i999. Mr Miller was born June 18, 1935, in Freeport, the son of 0. Kenneth and M. June (Folk) Miller. He attended Mount Morris High School He served in the Marine Corps He was a member of Ducks Unlimited Inc.. Illinois Harness Racing Association and served as president of Young Democrats Ogle County Chapter. He was an avid outdoorsman and trainer/ owned harness race horses. Survivors include three sons, Richard L. (Maria) Miller, Kenneth (Patricia) Miller and Daniel A. (Alysha) Miller. all of San Diego, two sisters. Mary Ann (Keith) Glazier of Tucson. Ariz., and Kay (Kenneth) Sorn of Freeport,two brothers. Marvin (Juanita) Miller of Mount Morris and Gary (Sharon) Miller of Oregon, eight grandchildren: and five great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter. Deborah Meier.
Daily Gazette 23 June 2003

ROBERT GLENN MILLER , 65, of Erie, died Tuesday, December 25, 2007, at University Hospital, Iowa City, Iowa, as a result of injuries suffered in fall at home on Monday. Services were held Friday afternoon, December 28, at the Erie United Methodist Church. Burial was in Erie Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the church. Gibson Funeral Home, Erie, was in charge of the arrangements. Dr. Robert Glenn Miller was born March 28, 1942, in Morrison, the son of R. Glenn Miller and Mary Beemer Miller. He married Nichele Schultz on Jun 19, 1965, in Erie. He had his own dental practice in Erie from 1969 to 1984. He then was employed as a dentist by the state of Illinois. He Served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Dr. Miller was a member of the Erie United Methodist Church, and the Erie Masonic Lodge. He enjoyed playing golf. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeye, and Chicago White Sox fan, enjoying sports of all kinds. Survivors include his wife, a daughter, Shellayne Hedley of Chicago; sons and daughters-in-law, Christopher Glenn and Lisa Miller of Sycamore, Curtis David and Sarah Miller of Arlington Heights, and Cary Robert Miller of Chicago; Grandchildren, Rachael, Taylor, John, Fletchey and Romy; a sister, Marcia Smith of Erie; and brothers, Kenneth Miller of Naperville, Illinois, and Douglas Miller of St. Charles, Missouri.
Contributed by Leroy Sundin - Prophetstown Echo, Tuesday January 1, 2008

RUTH (HOPKINS) MILLER , 73, of Carthage, died on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2008, at Memorial Hospital in Carthage. She was born on May 3, 1935, in Sterling, the daughter of Vern and Erma (Hoak) Hopkins. On Sept. 1, 1979, she married Charles Miller at the Smyrna Primitive Baptist Church in Bentley. Ruth is survived by her husband, Charles of Carthage; one sister, Helen Curtis of Bentley; one brother, Donald Hopkins of Wichita, Kan.; and several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Vernon Hopkins. Ruth attended school in Carthage, graduating in 1952. She then attended Gem City Business College in Quincy for two years. She had worked as a bookkeeper and secretary at Gardner-Denver in Keokuk, Iowa, and Quincy. She had been the bookkeeper at Gem City Transfer Company in Quincy. Ruth later spent 14 years in the Hancock County Treasurer's office serving as the Deputy Clerk. She was a member of the Smyrna Primitive Baptist Church in Bentley. Funeral services were held at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage. Burial followed in Moss Ridge Cemetery in Carthage. Memorials may be made to the Smyrna Primitive Baptist Church of Bentley. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage was in charge of arrangements.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - Hancock County Journal

SADIE MILLER , 72, a former resident of Erie, died at 8 p.m. Friday in Phoenix, Ariz., where she had been residing, according to messages received here. The body is to arrive here today and will be taken to the Schilling funeral home, where funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday. Rev. L. W. Ellis will be in charge of the rites and burial will be in the local cemetery. A son, Gail Miller and wife are expected to arrive here today from Philadelphia, Pa., to attend the services. Mrs. Miller was born and educated here and resided here for many years before moving to Arizona.
Contributed by Melva Taylor from The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois August 4, 1952 - Monday, pg 2 col 2

WILLIAM NELLIS MILLER passed away at his home in Round Grove Sunday evening (25 November 1928) at the age of 81 years 5 months and 28 days. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon from the Baptist church in Morrison with Rev. A.B. Whitmer officiating. Burial was in Grove Hill Cemetery. Wm. N. Miller was born M ay 28, 1847 in Lee County IL. He was the son of John and Catherine Miller. He lived in Illinois all his life with the exception of about four years during which time he lived in Kansas. On July 4, 1868 he was united in marriage to Lydia Beemer. Mr. Miller is survived by his wife, and 13 children, Hollis and R.E. of Morrison, Jesse of Erie, Joseph of Sterling, John of Hoyt, SD, Herm of Omaha Nebr., Mrs. Zelma Thurston, Crystal Lake, Mrs. Grace Herlihjy, Chicago, Mrs. Ida Meyer, Mrs. Pearl Fuller and Mrs. Catherine Dubers of Erie, Mrs. Mabel McWethy of Dixon and Daisy of the home address. He also leaves 37 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends. Mr. Miller was an early resident of this county and lived in the vicinity of Erie for nearly 50 years, moving to Round Grove about five years ago. He was a veteran of the Civil war, having fought with the Union forces. He united with the Erie Baptist church when Rev. Parker was pastor.
Contributed by Bette Rick
William Miller Family Photo


HAROLD E. MITCHELL , 72 OF 1310 13th Avenue, Sterling, died Friday afternoon at CGH Medical Center. Funeral serices will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at the First Christian Church, Rev. Randoloph Collinson officiating. Burial will be at Oak Knoll Memorial Park. Visitation will be Sunday from 5-8 p.m. A memorial fund has been established to the First Christian Church Men's Fellowship. Mr. Mitchell was born Feb. 24, 1917 in Sterling, the son of Charles and Pearl Corzett Mitchell. He married Bertha Ganther on Sept 21, 1958 in Sterling. He was employed as a radio dispatcher for the Sterling Police Department for 25 years before his retirement in 1975. He served in the United States Army in WW II. He is survived by his wife; two brothers, Bernard, Sterling, and Hollis, Tucson, Ariz. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois September 23, 1989 - Saturday, pg A2
HARVEY MITCHELL , a former Fulton resident, passed away in Chicago Friday, July 4, at the age of one hundred one years, five months and six days. Mr. Mitchell is well known in this city, having conducted a barber shop in the building now occupied by J.C. Ernest, for many years. Mr. Mitchell came to Fulton in 1855. He is survived by several sons and daughters. The body was brought to Fulton Monday morning and burial was made in the Fulton cemetery beside his wife and several children. His sons, Harvey, Jr. of Sioux Falls, S. Dakota, and Albert, of Chicago accompanied the body of their father to Fulton.
Contributed by Nancy Kolk Fulton Journal: July 8, 1924
JANE (STRATHER) MITCHELL - who had been a resident of Fulton for over fifty years, died Friday evening, March 18, at her home in the north part of town, death having resulted from stomach troubles coupled with the infirmities of age. Mrs. Mitchell was born in Kentucky, August, 1833, where she was bound in servitude until she was twenty-one years old. When she completed her term in servitude she left her southern home and came to Clinton, Iowa, where soon afterwards she was married to Harvey Mitchell. Since their marriage, they have made their home in Fulton. Those who survive her are her aged husband, two daughters, Mrs. Tena Young of Fayette, Iowa; and Mrs. Nettie Epps of Los Angeles, California, and three sons, Jesse of Fulton, Harvey of Sioux Falls, S.Dak., and Albert of Peoria, all of whom were present at the funeral with the exception of Mrs. Epps. The funeral services were held at the house Monday afternoon at two o’clock, conducted by Rev. Taylor of the African Methodist church, Clinton, with interment in the Fulton cemetery.
Contributed by Nancy Kolk - Fulton Journal 22 March 1910
JESSE M. MITCHELL - Well-Known Fulton Barber Died Saturday Evening in Clinton Jesse M. Mitchell, a life-long resident of Fulton, died Saturday, January 16, at the home of his wife’s parents in Clinton. He had been in failing health for several months, death resulting from Bright’s disease. About ten weeks ago, on the advice of his physician, he went to Agatha hospital in Clinton for treatment. He remained there about five weeks and then was taken to the home of Mr. and Mrs. William Henderson. The treatment did not benefit him, and after leaving the hospital he failed rapidly until the end. Mr. Mitchell was born in Fulton about fifty years ago. Early in life he learned the barber’s trade with his father, Harvey Mitchell, one of the oldest residents of the city. When, several years ago, his father retired, Jesse purchased the shop and had since conducted it. He leaves his wife, four sons, his aged father and two brothers. The funeral will be held Wednesday afternoon at two o’clock with services conducted by Rev. Slater of the A.M.E. church, Clinton, and the burial will be in the Springdale cemetery.
Contributed by Nancy Kolk 19 Janaury 1915 Fulton Journal

NELLIE (SHELKEY) MITCHELL , 900 5th Ave., Rock Falls, passed away at 8 p.m. Friday (May 16, 1958) in Community General Hospital where she was taken Friday afternoon following a heart attack. The body rests at the Woods Funeral Home where the funeral services will be conducted at 3:30 p.m. Monday by the Rev. Harry E. Shiffer of the Rock Falls Christian Church. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. Friends may call at the Woods Funeral Home after 10 a.m. Sunday and until the hour of the funeral. Mrs. Mitchell was born March 11, 1903, in Sterling, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Shelkey. She was united in marriage with Walter Mitchell June 28, 1926 and they resided in Rushville until his death July 7, 1951. Mrs. Mitchell moved to Rock Falls from Lisle, Ill, nine months ago. Surviving is one daughter, Mrs. Charles (Pauline) Shoemaker of North Lake, Ill.; five grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Viola Meyers of Rock Falls, two nieces and two nephews.
Contributed by Sandi Smith

WALTER ANTHONY MITCHELL , 59, Browning township farmer, was fatally injured at 3 p.m. Saturday in a tractor accident. H died at the Culbertson hospital at 7 p.m. Saturday. The accident happened when he was going downhill and lost control of the tractor and it overturned on him. The body was taken to the Hardy funeral home, where an inquest was held at 11 a.m. Sunday. A verdict of accidental death was returned. Funeral services will be held at 3 p..m. Monday at the Hardy funeral home. The Rev. Stephen Rining will officiate. Tuesday morning the body will be taken to Sterling where funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday at the Wood funeral home. Burial will be in Riverside cemetery at Sterling. Mr. Mitchell, a native of Poland had been superintendent of a manufacturing company at Elmhurst until he purchased his farm near Rushville three months ago. Surviving are his wife, Nelli; an adopted daughter Mrs. Pauline Schumacker and two brothers in Canada.
Contributed by Sandi Smith

WILLIAM A. MITCHELL , 53, of Fulton, died Tuesday at his home. Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Fulton Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home with the Rev. Brian Pope officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Lower York Cemetery, Thomson, Ill. He was born Oct. 22, 1950, in Clinton to Lyle R. and Anna M. Wiebenga Mitchell. He married Bonnie M. Van Kampen on Dec. 15, 1973, in Fulton. He was educated at the Illinois Braille and Sight Saving School in Jacksonville, Ill. He graduated from Fulton High School in 1970. He was associated with B-M Auto Sales, Fulton. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Jenni (Tim) Phillips of Fulton; one son, Aaron (Billi) Mitchell of Fulton; two grandchildren; his mother, Anna Mitchell of Fulton; four sisters, Mrs. Donna (LaVerne) Schroeder of Morrison, Ill., Mrs. Roberta (Lawrence) Vanderploeg of Fulton, Mrs. Linda (Richard) Van Kampen of Fulton and Mrs. Leah Ann (Greg) Duncan of Camanche; and four brothers, Raymond (Judy) Mitchell of Clinton, Warren (Robin) Mitchell of Clinton, Leonard (Loretta) Mitchell of Fulton and Daniel (Roni) Mitchell of Fulton.
Clinton Herald 03 March 2004

HENRY W. MOATS : Funeral rites for the late Harry W. Moats of Rock Falls were conducted by the Rock Falls Odd fellows at 2:30 Wednesday afternoon in the Wheelock funeral home. Rev. Harry E. Shiffer of the Christian church delivered the funeral sermon. The singers were Mrs. H.E. Shiffer and Mrs. Leonard Skaggs with Mrs. Austin Corzett at the piano. The pall bearers were C.O. Hanks, Harry Bassett, Lloyd Lester, Sam Cobb, E.H. Corzett and J.B. Thompson
Daily Gazette Sterling January 27, 1938

JOHN MORENO , 87, of Sterling died Saturday Nov. 20, 2004 at CGH Medical Center. He was employed by N orthwestern Steel and Wire as a crane operator for 21 years, retiring in 1982. Mr. Moreno was born Jan. 4, 1917 in Colorado Springs, Colo., the son of the Rev. Cecilio and Beneta (Magana) Moreno. He served in the Army Signal Corp during WW II in Europe. He married Carmen Smith on Sept. 6, 1946, in Sterling. He was a mlife member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 326 Sterling and American Legion Post 902 Rock Falls. He played the Saxophone in several area bands for many years. Survivors include his wife; a daughter, Renee (Mike) Kampy of Wellington, Fla.; a son, John Moreno of sterling; a stepson, Norman Figeley of Phoenix, Ariz.; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Joe, Paul and Ciserio Moreno; three sisters, Isabel Ruiz, Mary Soliz and Sarah Moreno. The funeral is a 1 p.m. Tuesday at Schilling Funeral Home Sterling with the Rev. Chirstine Gilbert, pastor of First United Methodist Church, Sterling, officiating. Burial in Riverside Cemetery with military honors.

ALLEN LEROY MORROW , 74, of 1304 8th Ave., died Monday in his home. The funeral will be 2:30 p.m. Thursday in Hrabak's Funeral Home. Visitation will be after 3 p.m. Wednesday. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery. Mr. Morrow was born Dec. 26, 1912, in Fulton, Whiteside Co. Illinois. He was a sheet metal worker for the Chicago and North Western Railroad and a member of the American Legion. Survivors include his wife, Georgia; two daughters, Dorothy Anders of Taylors, S.C., and Janet Johnson of Platteville, Wis.; four sons, James of Alden Iowa, Donald of Belle Plaine, William of Cedar Rapids, and Micheal of Stoughton, Wis.; 25 grandchildren; and 32 great-grandchildren.
Contributed by Bonnie Pillers

CURTIS MORROW , 70, of 2604 N. 4th St., died Saturday in Jane Lamb Health Center. The funeral will be 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in Fulton Chapel of Bosma Funeral Home with Rev. Robert Hughes, Garden Plain Presbyterian Church officiating. Burial will be in the Garden Plain Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. today. Pallbearers will be Donald and Melvin Morrow, Larry Letcher, Marion (Bud) Vogel, Richard Mayer and Daniel Esterlein. Mr. Morrow was born June 9, 1915, in Fulton, to Marion M. and Jennie Griede Morrow. He married Mildred Heacock, May 31, 1942, in Kahoka, Mo.. She died Sept. 8, 1983. He attended Fulton schools and was employed by the Dohrn Transfer Trucking Company, Clinton, for 25 years until his retirement in 1972. He was a former member of the teamsters union and the Garden Plain Presbyterian Church. Mr. Morrow moved to Clinton in 1983. His previous homes have been in Bagley, Wis., and the Albany and Garden Plains area. Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Bill (Carolyn) Myler of Cicero, Ind.; two sons, Paul W. of Fulton and Raymond E. of Clinton; nine grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and two brothers, Omer of Fulton and Allen of Belle Plaine, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his wife, a grandson, a great-grandson, two sisters and a brother.
Contributed by Bonnie Pillers Obituary dated 16 December 1985

MARION MORROW :The funeral of Marion Morrow was held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Methodist church. Rev. G. E. Scheerer conducting the service. Burial was in the Fulton cemetery. Mr. Morrow was born at Viola, Wis., in 1879 and came to Fulton when a young man. In 1902 he was married to Miss Jennie Greide, who with six children, Pearl, Helen, Omar, Lawrence, Allen and Curtis are left to mourn the loss of a kind husband and father. He was a mason by trade and with his brothers, Joseph and Omar formed a partnership as contractors. His back was injured by a fall about three years ago and tuberculosis of the bone developed resulting in his untimely death. The sympathy of this community is extended to the bereaved mother and children.
Contributed by Bonnie Pillers

MILDRED (HEACOCK) MORROW ,71, of 2604 N. 4th St., formerly of Garden Plain. ILL., died today in Mercy Hospital. The funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday in Bosma Funeral Home, Fulton Chapel, with the Rev. Robert Hughes of Garden Plain Presbyterian Church officiating. Burial will be in Garden Plain Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday. Mrs. Morrow was born Feb. 6, 1912, in Iowa City, to Frank and Carrye Moore Heacock. She married Curtis Morrow May 31, 1942, in Kohoka, Mo.. She was a member of Garden Plain Presbyterian Church. Survivors include her husband; a daughter, Mrs. William (Carolyn) Myler of Cicero, Ind.; two sons, Paul W. of Fulton and Raymond E. of Clinton; nine grandchildren; a great-grandchild; and two brothers, Donald F. Heacock of Conover, Wis., and Porter H. Heacock of Bagley, Wis.. She was preceded in death by a grandson and a great-grandson.
Contributed by Bonnie Pillers Obituary Dated 9 September 1983

OMER MORROW , 78, formerly of 1003 13th Ave., died Thursday in Harbor Crest Nursing Home. The funeral will be 2 p.m. Monday in Fulton Chapel, Bosma - Renkes Funeral Home with the Rev. Mel Strain, Fulton Presbyterian Church, officiating. Visitation will be from 3 - 5 and 7 - 9 p.m. Sunday. Burial will be in Fulton Cemetery. Mr. Morrow was born June 4, 1909, in Fulton, to Marion and Jenney Griede Morrow. He was a life - long resident of Fulton and worked for the City of Fulton until his retirement in 1967. Survivors include a brother, Allen, of Belle Plaine, Iowa. He was preceded in death by two sisters and two brothers.
Contributed by Bonnie Pillers

CHARLES H. MORSE , 53, passed away suddenly, Sunday afternoon at his home in Yorktown. He was born February 10, 1909 in Morrison the son of Frank and Harriet Schechter Morse of Morrison. He was educated in Michigan schools. He had resided in Como and Lyndon before moving to Yorktown, five years ago. He married Dorothy Bryson in Chicago April 21, 1933. He was a retired punch press operator at the Charles O Larson Company in Rock Falls and a member of the First Methodist Church. Surviving are his wife, mother Mrs. Harriet Morse, Rock Falls, four sons, Charles, Ronnie and Robert at home and Larry Alexander, Va., two daughters, Mrs. William (Joan) Pottenger, Creston, Ill., and Mrs. Jack (Judith) Kulper, Tampico; two brothers, Roy of Delavan, Wis., and Howard, rock Falls; three sisters, Mrs. Floyd Sweitzer, and Mrs. Charles Woods, Rock Falls; Mrs. Arthur Scott of Lyndon and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and one sister Arab ell Morse. Funeral services will be held at the Gardner Funeral Chapel on Wednesday at 2 p.m. with the Rev. William Nicoll of the First Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Lyndon Cemetery.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the June 4, 1962 Sterling Daily Gazette

CHARLES H. MORSE - 60, of DeKalb, died Thursday, Jan 29, 1998, at Vancor Hospital , Sycamore. Mr. Morse was born April 28, 1937, in Morrison, the son of Charles and Dorothy (Bryson) Morse. He married Linda V. Thomas on July 21, 1989, in Sycamore. He was employed as a night receptionist at Barb City Manor for 12 years and at Nehring Electrical Works, DeKalb. He was a member of Sycamore Moose Club. Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Anderson Funeral Home, DeKalb, with the Rev. Bob Waddell officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Park Cemetery , DeKalb. Visitation will be from noon to 1:30 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Survivors include his wife, Linda; two sons, Charles H. Morse III of Rochelle, and Robert Morse of Greeneville , Tenn. ; three step-sons, Dan Morse of Rochelle, and William Woolever and Charles Eugene Morse both of Greeneville, Tenn.; one step-daughter, dawn (Todd) Wathal of Seaton; five grandchildren; two sisters, Joanne (Dale) Richardson of Rochelle, and Judy (Jack) Kuelper of Tampico; three brothers, Larry (Eunice) Morse of Rochelle, Ronald (Carolyn) Morse of Polo, and Robert (Brenda) Morse of Prophetstown; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Contributed by Margaret Mangers from the Jan 30, 1998 Daily Gazette

MINNIE NELLIE (HOWLETT) MORSE - The funeral of Mrs. Minnie Morse, 53, who passed away at 6am Friday in the Round Grove convalescent home, will be held at 2pm Sunday in the Tampico Methodist church, the Rev. Hollis Wharton officiating. Interment will be in the Greenville-fairfield cemetery. Mrs. Morse had been a patient in the home since February. Death followed a lingering illness. The former Minnie Howlett, daughter of Oliver and Phoebe Howlett, was born July 2, 1893, in Fairfield township, Bureau county. She received her education in the Thomas schools and had spent her entire lifetime in Bureau and Whiteside county with the exception of a few years she resided in Canada. She was married to Clyde Morse and to this union was born one daughter, Lavonna Mae, who died at the age of four years. Mrs. Morse had for a number of years been a practical nurse. Surviving Mrs. Morse are her mother, seven brothers and three sisters, all residing in Canada. She was preceded in death by her father and one sister.
Contributed by Stormy Reiley

Tamra (Frohling) MOSE , 45, of Erie, died Wednesday at Illini Hospital, Silvis, Ill. Services are 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Erie Christian Church. Burial will be in the Erie Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 and from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the Gibson Funeral Home, Erie. She was born July 6, 1958, in Clinton to Roland and Beverly Thomas Frohling. She married Kirk Mose on Oct. 20 1979, in Erie. She was a member of Erie Christian Church. Survivors include her husband; a daughter, Taylor Mose, at home; a son, Ryan, a student at Illinois State University, Normal, Ill.; her parents, Roland and Beverly Frohling of Erie; a sister, Kayla Frohling of Erie; a brother, Gregg (Mary) Frohling of Erie; and her mother- and father-in-law, JoAnn and Roland Mose of Erie. She was preceded in death by a brother.
Clinton Herald 17 April 2004

DORIS (CHESTER) MOSER , 88, passed away in her sleep the morning of Tuesday Aug. 21, 2002, at her home in Sterling following an extended illness. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday Aug. 26, 2002, at the McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls, with the Rev. Peter Wilkinson of the First Presbyterian Church in Sterling officiating. Burial will be at Oak Knoll Memorial Park in Sterling. Visitation is from 1-3 p.m. Sunday Aug. 25, 2002 at the funeral home. A memorial has been established. Born Doris Hornedy Chester, she was the firstborn from the marriage in Raleigh, NC of James Brownlow Chester and Minnie Minerva Jordan, which was the second marriage for both. Doris was born March 27, 1914 in Goldsboro NC. Doris' father was a bridge construction supervisor, and Doris lived in 25 states before she graduated from 8th Grade. She graduated from high school in Beloit WI in 1932. Her family was living in Beloit in the late 30's when she met and married Theodore Orville Moore of Oneco IL. They married in Beloit WI on April 3, 1937. Their first son, Jerry Donald, was born in 1938 in Rock Island IL, where Theodore was working at John Deere Tractor Co., and Doris was working at Strombeck-Becker Toy Co. in Moline. Their second son, Roger Norman, was born in 1941 in Beloit WI, where Theodore was working as a tool-and-die maker for Fairbanks Morse Co. He was one of the small crew that assembled the first FM "Trainmaster" diesel locomotive. The family moved from Beloit WI to Dixon IL in late 1945, and Theodore became manager of an appliance store branch owned by his brother, Harold. Their third son, Philip Brian, was born in 1947 in Dixon. Doris worked at the Sterling Public Library for a number of years. She also worked at Sears in Sterling, until she was laid off only couple of months before her scheduled retirement. Doris had older half-siblings, Mary and John Womble, who died 1923 and 1984. She also had older half-siblings James, William and Hannah Chester, who died 1922, 1945 and 1956 in Indiana. Her younger brother, Charles Gaines Chester, died April 29, 1988 in Lake Forest IL, and her youngest brother, Warren Grant Chester, lives in Arvada CO. Her first husband, Theodore, father of her three children, passed away in Sterling on June 23, 1971 at the age of 61. Doris' second marriage was to Paul Moser, who died in 1990 in Sterling. Doris is survived by her three sons, Jerry (and wife, Birgitta), of San Rafael CA, Roger of Sterling IL and Philip of Dixon, and also by her granddaughter, Jennifer Moore of Ladd IL and grandson, Niles Moore, of San Rafael CA and a student at Arizona State University in Tempe AZ, and many nieces and nephews. Her stepson, John Moser, lives in Sterling with his son, John Jr. Doris enjoyed artistic pursuits and made many crafts projects over the years. She was particularly fond of the oil-tinting she did for friends on their black and white photographs, and she loved playing the organ. She was famous for her coffee cakes, had absolutely beautiful handwriting, was an avid reader, loved crossword puzzles and enjoyed traveling. She was proud that, two weeks before she gave birth to her first son, she was able to stand on a 6" high step and touch her hands flat to the floor without bending her knees. She also could touch her thumbs to her wrists, and each of her hands could span 13 keys on a piano. Her home and her family were her first priority. She gardened, canned, sewed, embroidered and crocheted. She found time to be a supporter and caregiver to many friends. She was honest and she was loyal. She was a member of the first Presbyterian Church in Sterling, and the Moose Lodge in Sterling, where she loved to dance; and she is on record as being the president of Happy Motors in Dixon. She was loved, treasured and respected, and she will be sorely missed by her family and her many friends. She had a lovely singing voice and it is certain she will soon be joining the angels' choir. Doris died of complications brought on by age, Alzheimer's Disease and a recently broken hip.
Daily Gazette August 23, 2002 - Posted by Cathy Gowdy

ELIZABETH MUELLER , 85, of Sterling died Sunday May 12 2002 at CGH Medical Center. Mrs. Mueller was born Aug 14 1913 in Sterling the daughter of Charles and Julia (Galt) Beard. She married Dr. Clarence J Mueller on Jun 19 1937. He died in 1982. She was a member of CGH Woman's Auxiliary for many years and was active with the American Cancer Society. Survivors include two daughters, Elizabeth Holmes of Washington Island WI, and Margaret (Charles) Ulrich of Tacoma WA, two sons John (Jan) Mueller of Tucson AZ and Michael (Jill) Mueller of West Chicago, 7 grandchildren and a great grandson. Memorial service is at 11 am Saturday at Schilling Funeral Home.
Daily Gazette 16 May 2002

WILLIAM MUNZ , 80, of 1807 N. Locust St., Sterling, passed away Tuesday, June 10, 2003, after a long battle with cancer. He was born March 11, 1923, in Milledgeville. the son of William A. and Lucy (Manning) Munz Jr. He owned his own milk truck and picked up milk from farmers and delivered it to Borden Milk Factory on West Lincolnway in Sterling. He also drove a stock truck for Edward `Zeke" Weidel. Bill worked for Eberhardt's Body Shop in Rock Falls as a reuphoisterer before starting in the car business. He worked as a gas station attendant for Norval Zigler and fixed up and painted old cars and sold them. He went full time into the automobile business in 1949 with Robert Feldthouse as his partner. After a few years, he sold the business to Feldthouse and went to work at Price Motors in Sterling as a salesman. Bill then started his own business at North Locust in Sterling. Bill was a member of the Moose Club, Elks Club, Rock Falls Optimist Club, The North End Business Association and Rock Falls American Legion Post 902. On March 14, 1998, he received his 50-year membership certificate from the Rock Falls chapter. He loved playing cards with his friends. He is survived by three sons, Robert (Gloria) Munz of Sabula, Iowa, Charles (Jesse) Munz of DeKalb and Dennis Milby of Sterling; two daughters, Janet (Frank) Gabbard of Rochelle and Cathy Riggins of Tampico; one sister, Evelyn (Randall) LaRette of Rock Falls; his special friend, Nettie Devers; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Rex and Donald Munz; and one son, Richard Munz who died in an auto crash in 1975. Burial will be in Oak Knoll Memorial Park Sterling.
Daily Gazette June 12, 2003

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