JUSTUS REW - In Mt. Pleasant township, Monday, December 27, 1897, Justus Rew, aged 86 years, 7 months and 24 days. Old age has removed one who fifty years ago was a stalwart yeoman of Whiteside, whose sturdy blows and constant efforts did so much to develop one of the finest agricultural regions of the West - the beautiful and productive Rock river valley. Mr. Rew was born in Rutland county, Vermont; when but eight years of age his parents, Henry and Anna (Benson) Rew moved to Tioga Co. Pa. where he spent his boyhood and early youth, coming west in 1833 to Portage Ohio where he remained three years. In 1836 he proceeded thence to Wisconsin, and engaged in farming near the city of Milwaukee. in 1839 he returned to Pennsylvania and was variously employed while there as a carpenter, blacksmith and farmer until 1845, when he came to Whiteside county and purchased 200 acres of land, in Lyndon township, which he converted into a fine and valuable farm having excellent buildings and all necessary equipments for grain and live stock raising. Mr. Rew was a progressive man and took quite an active interest in the building of the Rockford, Rock Island & St.Louis Railroad, in which company he was a director, and also was active in the development of the water power on Rock river at Lyndon. He was married in Pennsylvania, May 23, 1841, to Miss Phebe Reynolds, who died at their home in Lyndon, August 17, 1877. After her death Mr. Rew disposed of his farm and engaged in the real estate, loan and banking business in which he sustained severe financial losses, which caused his last days to be spent at the county farm. He served as supervisor of Lyndon township, seven terms, one year as Chairman of the Board, which body at its lasat meeting, this month, passed a resolution that his remains should upon his decease, be accorded a christian burial in the Lyndon cemetery, at the expense of the county. The funeral was held at 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon, with services at the grave. Mr. Rew was a good citizen whose record for honesty and uprightness was beyond any question and but for his too confiding nature he might have retained the competence he labored so diligently for more than half a century to gain. Two hundred years ago the Rew family, the ancestors of Justus, was large, strong and numerous in New England, but with his passing away the name so far as is here known virtually becomes extinct, as he was the last male representative of the fifth generation.

BERNICE (HOOVER) RHODE , 86, died Thursday March 17, 2005 at MOrrison Community Hsp. She was employed at National Mfg. Co., Sterling until she retired in 1983. Mrs. Rhode ws born July 9, 1918 in Sterling, the daughter of Benjamin & Myrtle (Cramer) Hoover. She married Elwyn "Bud" Rhode August 20, 1945 in Petersburg, VA. She was a member of Coleta United Methodist Church, the Golden Gang and the National Retirement Ladies. She enjoyed being with family and friends, spending winters in Texas and shopping in Mexico. She also enjoyed flower gardening, writing letters, baking cookies and camping. Survivors are her husband, two daughters, Nancy (Paul) Wetzell of Rock Falls and Sally Unterzuber of Coleta; six grandchildren, Jeff (Heater) Unterzuber, Keri (Chris) Unterzuber Tronche, Matt (Karrie) Wetzell, Scott Wetzell and his special friend, Miranda SMith and Sara Wetzell and her special friend Doug Kull; and five great grandchildren, Elizabeth Unterzuber, Tom and Nickolas Tronche and Alec and Aaron Wetzell. She was preceded by two brothers, Donald and Harold Hoover; and a son-in-law, Roger Unterzuber. Services are 10 a.m. Tuesday at Schilling Funeral Home with Rev. Polly Klimson of Coleta United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be at West Genesee Grove Cemetery, Coleta.

MANLEY J. RHODES - The body of Manley J. Rhodes of Spring Valley, who died Monday (October 3, 1949), was brought here today and a graveside service will be held at the Riverside Cemetery this afternoon at 4 o'clock. The widow, Mrs. Rhodes is a cousin of Lewis LaDue of this city and Dr. S. B. LaDue of Chillicothe
Contributed by Melva Taylor from The Prophetstown Echo, Prophetstown, Illinois October 4, 1949 (Tuesday)

WILLIAM E. RICHARDS - At his residence two miles west of Lyons on Friday January 2nd at 4 p.m. Mr. Wm. Richards of cancerous tumor, aged 40 year, 9 mts and 7 days.

William E. Richards was born in Whiteside Co., on March 26, 1850, here he grew to manhood and on the 26th of March 1873 was joined in marriage to Miss Alzina Bond.

In 1882 he removed to Harrison Co., Iowa, where he resided with his family until 1887 when he removed to Lyons, Neb., where he has since lived.

He leaves a wife and four children to mourn his loss. As the end drew near he seemed reconciled to go. The funeral was conducted in the M.E. Church on last Sunday at 11 a.m. by Rev. J.R. Priest, where a large congregation, relations and friends assembled to pay their tribute of respect to the departed.

The Logan Valley Sun, Lyons, Neb.

IDA (MARONDE) RIDDELSBARGER : The body of Mrs. E. B. Ridelsbarger, 79, formerly of Franklin Grove, who passed away early Friday morning at her home in Como, Whiteside county, will be laid to rest at the Franklin Grove cemetery Monday afternoon following private funeral services at the Trouth funeral home in Sterling.

Ida M. Maronde, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Maronde, was born July 13, 1867 in Cook County near Chicago. She moved with her parents when a child to Franklin Grove and was married September 2, 1888 to Elson B. Riddelsbarger. They resided in Franklin Grove after their marriage and 41 years ago moved to Sterling. For the last 20 years the couple resided in Como.

Mrs. Riddelsbarger is survived by her husband and three sisters, Mrs. Jennie Ireland and Mrs. Bertha Ireland, both of Chicago and Mrs. Emma Baker of Franklin Grove. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sons, one sister and one brother.

Dixon Evening Telegraph 4 January 1947

ANNA L. (HADLEY) RIDGE , 402 W. 9th St. died at 3:45 a.m. today in the Linton Nursing Home after an extended illness, just eight days after the death of her husband.

Her husband, Noble, died February 8, Private services for Mrs. Ridge have been scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday at the Melvin Funeral Home with the Rev. Harry E. Shiffer, pastor of the Rock Falls Christian Church, officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery.

Mrs. Ridge was born January 24, 1877, in Creston, Iowa, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Hadley.

Surviving are one son, John E.; a grandson, John E. Jr.; both of Sterling; a brother, Harry Hadley; a sister, Mrs. Cora Bond, both of Atlanta, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 7 o'clock Thursday night.

Contributed by Mike Hosler
Daily Gazette February 16, 1955

ANNA BELLE (ROYER) RIDGE , of Rock Falls passed away at her home at 3:55 o'clock this morning, following a prolonged illness. Funeral rites will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Wheelock funeral home, Rev. H. E. Shiffer, pastor of the Rock Falls, Christian church, will officiate and interment will be in Grove Hill cemetery at Morrison.

She was born Feb. 2, 1876, at Coleta, Ill., daughter of John and Catherine Royer. She was wed in December, 1893, to Charles Ridge and resided in Morrison.

Surviving are three sons, Frank, Fred and William Ridge, all of Rock Falls, a sister, Mrs. Carrie Randall of Morrison, three brothers, William, Sam and John Royer of Rock Falls, and a granddaughter, Mary Annabell Ridge. Mr. Ridge preceded her in death Dec. 23, 1934. Two brothers, Frank and Albert Royer, and a sister, Emma Royer, also preceded her in death

Contributed by Mike Hosler
Daily Gazette January 5, 1940

CHARLES BLADEN RIDGE , 69, a resident of the Whiteside county for the past 45 years, passed away Thursday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock, at his home at 602 North Madison street. He had been ill for the past five years, but was only seriously ill and confined to his bed for the past four days.

He was born in Hagerstown, Maryland, Sept. 4, 1865, and came to Whiteside county 45 years ago. He moved to Morrison five years later, and had since resided there. He was widely known as a bricklayer, and laid the brick on Main street of Morrison, and also many bricks in Sterling.

He was married to Miss Annabell Royer in Morrison 42 years ago. Besides his widow, he is survived by three sons, Frank, Fred, and William, all of Morrison, and four brothers, Dan of Hagerstown, Hayes of Iowa, and Luther and Noble, both of Sterling.

No funeral arrangements had been completed early this afternoon.

Contributed by Mike Hosler
Daily Gazette 24 August 1934

FLORENCE ESTER (BURGER) RIDGE ,74, of 702 West Sixth street, passed away shortly before noon Saturday in St. Anthony's hospital, Rockford. She was admitted to the hosppital August 4. The body rests at the Trouth funeral home where funeral rites will be conducted at 2:30 pm Tuesday by the Rev. Harry E. Shiffer of the Rock Falls Christian church. Committal will be in the mausoleum at Riverside cemetery.

Florence E. Burger, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Abraham J. Burger, was born June 13, 1874, in Lee county Illinois. She had lived in this vicinity all her life and was married to Luther Ridge who passed away December 31, 1937.

Surviving Mrs. Ridge are four daughters and two sons, Mrs. Ora Davis of Rock Island, Mrs. Orpha Purkapile of Rockford, Mrs. Esther Thompson of Rock Falls, Miss Lucille Ridge of Chicago, Glenn Ridge of Cincinnati, Ohio and Leo Ridge of Sterling. She also leaves seven grandchildren, 11 great grandchldren, two brothers and five sisters. Mrs. Ridge was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one brother and one grandchild.

Daily Gazette Aug 23, 1948

2nd Obit
Funeral rites for Mrs. Florence E. Ridge were condusted at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Trouth funeral home by the Rev. Harry E. Shiffer of the Rock Falls Christian church. Commital was in the mausoleum at Riverside cemetery. Mrs. Shiffer and Mrs. Austin Corzett sang two hymns with Mrs. Gofzett at the organ. The pall bearers wer Ray Purkapile, Robert Bittner, William King, Clifford Bensinger and Harold Eshleman. Flowers were taken care of by Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Larson and John Doty.

Contributed by Mike Hosler
Daily Gazette August 25, 1948

FRANK RIDGE , of 521 W. 8th St., Rock Falls, died today at his home at the age of 70. Mr. Ridge was born June 2, 1894, in Genese Grove, Illinois, the son of Charles and Annabelle Royer Ridge. He served in the Infantry during World War I. He was united in marriage to Leola Gaulrapp, December 28. 1936, and they lived their entire married life in Rock Falls. He worked several years at Butler Gravel Pit. He is survived by his wife, Leola; one daughter, Mrs. Marvin "Mary" Baker of RFD 1, Rock Falls; three granddaughters, Patsy Sue, Marilee Ann and Sueann Marie Baker, all of Rock Falls, and two grandsons, Marvin Thomas and Franklin Davis Baker, both of Rock Falls. He was preceded by his parents, two brothers and one sister. Funeral services will be Friday at 1:30 p.m. at the Wheelock Allen Funeral Home, with Rev. Harry E. Shiffer, pastor emeritus of the Rock Falls Christian Church, officiating, with burial in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rock Falls Legion Post 902 will conduct military rites at the grave. Friends may call after 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Contributed by Mike Hosler

FRED RIDGE , 56, formerly of 813 6th Ave., Rock Falls, died Friday at an East Moline Hospital. He was born June 12, 1901 in Morrison, the son of Charles and Anna Ridge. He lived his entire life in the Morrison and Rock Falls areas. Surviving are one brother, Frank Ridge, Rock Falls; one aunt, Mrs. Carrie Randall, Morrison; one uncle, Samuel Royer, Rock Falls; and several cousins. The body was removed to the Wheelock-Allen Funeral Home in Rock Falls, where friends may call after 7 p.m. Saturday. Funeral rites will be held at the funeral home at 3 p.m. Monday, with the Rev. Harry E. Shiffer, pastor of the Rock Falls Christian Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Rock Falls Odd Fellows Cemetery.
Contributed by Mike Hosler Daily Gazette December 28, 1957

JOHN E. RIDGE, Sr. , 60, 402 W. 9th st., died at 11:05 p.m. Sunday in Community General Hospital after an illness of several months. Funeral services will be held at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Melvin Funeral Home with the Rev. Harry E. Shiffer, Pastor of the Rock Falls Christian Church, officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. He was born May 22, 1896, in Sterling, son of Anna and Noble B. Ridge, and had lived all his life in the area. Surviving is one son, John E. Jr., of Sterling. He was preceded in death by his father, who died on Feb. 8, 1955, and his mother, who died eight days later. Friends may call at the funeral home after 7 p.m. today.

Funeral services for John E. Ridge Sr., were conducted at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Melvin Funeral Home, with the Rev. Harry E. Shiffer, pastor of the Rock Falls Christian Church, officiating. Mrs. J. H. Linn was organist for the rites, and burial was in Riverside Cemetery. Pallbearers were Thomas McCue, Norman Schuneman, Edward Ohda, Thomas Dunbar, Edward King and Herschel Wheeler. The flowers were cared for by Lundstroms. Contributed by Mike Hosler Daily Gazette October 8 and 11, 1956

JOHN E. RIDGE, Jr. , 47, of 20526 Prophet Road, Prophetstown, died October 12, 1992, in Morris, Illinois. Funeral services will be 10 am. Thursday at the Grennan Funeral Home, Sterling, with the Rev. Don George, Pastor of Rock River Christian Center, officiating. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m., Wednesday at the funeral home. A memorial has been established. Mr. Ridge was born August 17, 1945, in Sterling, the son of John E. and Hellen ( Hess) Ridge, Sr. He married Sharon M. Snyder. He is survived by his wife; one son, John ( Melinda) Ridge of Rock Falls; one daughter, Mrs. Troy ( Brenda) Weidenbach of Marquette, Iowa; two stepchildren, Katherine Davis and Kendall Bragg; six grandchildren; his mother, Hellen McCardle of Dixon; and one half - brother, Dave Reed of Dixon. He was preceded in death by one half- brother, his father, one granddaughter, and his grandparents.
Contributed by Mike Hosler - Daily Gazette October 13, 1992

LEO ALLEN RIDGE The many friends of Leo A. Ridge were shocked to learn of his death on Tuesday afternoon at his home in Malvern, northwest of Morrison. He had suffered from severe heart attacks for the past two years, and his close friends with whom he associated were told by him where he kept heart capsules and to put one under his tongue if he passed out. The thought of an attack had preyed on his mind and made him far from himself. He was at his place of business at Locust and Fifth streets, which he operated for around the past 25 years, during the morning and had gone home during the afternoon. Leo had conversed with his father-in-law, John Appel, who resided just across the road from the Ridge home, and later his wife Julia came home and joined them. His conversation disclosed that he was highly exercised about his condition. Suddenly leaving his wife and father-in-law in the yard he strode toward the house and was heard to remark. "I'll take care of everything." or words to that effest. As his wife and her father walked toward the house they heard the report of a gunshot. Rushing to the enclosed porch they found the screen door had been latched and Leo was lying on the floor with a gunshot wound in his left chest. A .20 gauge shotgun had fallen beside him. Death was instantaneous. The act was committed between 4 and 4:30 p.m. Why did he do it? That's the question his many friends ask, knowing only too well the answer. If you could confront Leo you might ask him that question, then take a step backwards as he would look you squarely in the eye and reply, "That's my own personal business." And after all that's correct. There was no halfway mark with Leo. He either liked or disliked you. He was impulsive, quick tempered and often did and said things he regretted, but if afterwards he discovered he was wrong in his own mind he was man enough to admit it.

Leo A. Ridge was born in Sterling, June 11, 1901. He was educated in the local schools, and was a graduate of Sterling Township high school in 1921. Leo Ridge was a former star athlete of SHS. He played football with the great team coached by Musselman in 1920. It was only natural that he could be a one-man cheering section as his younger brother Glenn came along to earn honors at SHS, and later when his sons Irwin and Stanley shone brightly at his alma mater. He got lots of pleasure out of talking over high school athletics, and naturally a Ridge had to figure in the outstanding plays or games. Leo entered the tire business with Bert Hart on West Third street and a short time after they dissolved their business relations he moved to the present location which is owned by his uncle, N. B. Ridge. He built up a fine business with his gasoline and tire service and later added other items. August 7, 1947, he was united in marriage with Julia Weatherwax, and they had established their home across the road from her parents. Besides his wife, he is survived by two sons, by a former marriage, Irwin of Tuisa, OkIa., and Stanley of Battle Creek, Mich., a brother Glenn of Cincinnati, 0., four sisters, Ora, wife of L. H. Davis of Rock Island; Arpha, wife of Arthur Purkapile of Rockford; Esther, wife of H. L. Thompson of Rock Falls, and Lucille Ridge of Chicago. He was Preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Luther Ridge. He was a member of the Sterling Elks and Sterling Gyro club. The body was removed to the Trouth funeral home where Coroner John T. Meyer will condcted the inquest this afternoon at 4 p.m. Funeral announcements will be published later.

Funeral services for Leo A. Ridge will be held Friday afternoon at 2 pm at the Trouth funeral home Rev. Harold Olson, pastor of the Morrison Methodist church, will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside cemetery. Coroner John T. Myer conducted the inquest Wednesday afternoon at 4 pm at the funeral home. Averdict of death from a gunshot wound with suicidal intent was returned by the jury. Testimony disclosed that he had been despondent over his health for some time past. His sons, Irwin of Tulsa, Okla., and Stanley of Battle Creek, Mich., and his brother Glenn of Cincinnati, Ohio, arrived Wednesday to attend the services
Contributed by Mike Hosler - Daily Gazette October 12 & 13, 1950

LUCILLE RIDGE , 92, of 4920 N. Kenmore, Chicago , died Wednesday, April 30, 1997, at Weiss Memorial Hospital . Funeral services will be private Saturday at Riverside Mausoleum, Sterling . There will be no visitation. Arrangements were completed by Blair Funeral Home, Sterling . Miss Ridge was born August 19, 1904, in Sterling , the daughter of Luther and Florence ( Burger ) Ridge. She was a graduate of Sterling High School . She was employed in Chicago . Survivors include several nieces and nephews.
Contributed by Debbie Roldan

LUTHER A. RIDGE - Funeral services of Luther A. Ridge of 702 West Sixth street, who passed away at 7:40 p.m. Friday at the Sterling public hospital after an illness extending over a period of about three years, were held from the Trouth chapel at 2:30 p.m. Sunday. The sermon was delivered by Rev. Harry E. Shifler, pastor of the Rock Falls Christian church. Committal rites were conducted at the mausoleum in Riverside Cemetery. Luther Ridge for many years had been recognized as one of the leading cattle buyers of this community until he was forced to retire from active work by illness three years ago. When Mr. Ridge came to this community about 48 years ago he resided on a farm northwest of Sterling, and for about 15 or 20 years followed the vocation of well driller. He moved to Sterling 43 years ago and had made his home hee since that time, except for four years spent on a farm near Milledgeville. Mr. Ridge wsa born Oct. 15, 1869, the son of George and Mary Hankey Ridge. The family moved to the state of Maryland when he was a child. He attended the public schools there. When a young man he came to this community. January 4, 1893, he was united by marriage to Florence E. Burger of Sterling, the ceremony being performed by Rev. E. Brown of the Lutheran church. Besides the widow, four daughter and two sons, survive. They are, Ora, wife of T. Davis of Rock Island; Orpha, wife of L. A. Purkapile of Rockford; Esther, wife of Howard Thompson; Miss Lucille Ridge, Leo Ridge, all of Sterling and Glenn Ridge of Cleveland, Ohio. Two brothers, Noble of Sterling and Dan of Rock Falls, eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren also survive.
Contributed by Mike Hosler - Daily Gazette January 3, 1938

NOBLE B. "Shorty" RIDGE , for many years engaged in the general contracting business here, died at 3 a.m. Tuesday in the Linton Nursing Home, where he had been a patient since September 11, 1953. The body was removed to the Melvin Funeral Home, where friends may call afternoon Wednesday until the time of the funeral services which will be private Rites for the family will be conducted at the funeral home at 2 p.m. Thursday with Rev. Harry E. Shiffer, pastor of the Rock Falls Christian Church officiating Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. He was born January 3, 1867 near Bloomington, Illinois, and for the past 60 years had been a resident of Sterling, residing at 402 W. 9th St. He was the last member of his family. Most of his active life had been spent in the general contracting business although he had been retired in recent years. Surviving him are his wife, Mrs. Anna Ridge, who is also a patient in the Linton Nursing Home, one son, John E. Ridge, Sterling, and one grandson, John E. Ridge Jr. Also of Sterling.
Contributed by Mike Hosler - Daily Gazette February 8, 1955

WILLIAM RIDGE , 42, was found dead by his wife Thursday night at the family residence, 515 West Tenth street, Rock Falls. According to the family physician he had been suffering from diabetes for some time. The Rock Falls ambulance was called to the Ridge home at about 8:30 p.m. when Mrs. Ridge returning home from a visit to neighbors, found her husband in an unconscious state. Firemen called County Coroner John Meyer who reported Mr. Ridge had been dead for some time before his arrival. Services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday at the Wheelock funeral home. Rev. Ham. E. Shiffer, pastor of the Rock Falls Christian church, officiating. Interment will be in IOOF cemetery. Rock Falls. Mr. Ridge was born Aug. 3, 1908, in Morrison, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Ridge. He is survived by his wife; a step-daughter, Joyce Wilson of St. Louis Mo.: two brothers, Frank and Fred of Rock Falls. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Contributed by Mike Hosler - Daily Gazette January 26, 1951

NELLIE (HOLCOMB) RILEY , of 703 Ave D, Rock Falls, died Wednesday evening in Community General Hospital at the age of 77 after a lengthy illness. Mrs. Riley was born January 29, 1889 in Amboy, the daughter of the late Charlie and Julia (Van Buren) Holcomb. She was united in marriage to Walter Wiley in september of 1910. The couple lived in Rock Falls for many years. She was a lifetime member of the Rock Falls Congregational Church; the Friendly Class, the Rebekah Lodge, Royal Neighbors of AMerican and the Woman's Relief Corps.

Mrs. Riley is survived by four daughters; Mrs. Margaret Grimes of Rock Falls, Mrs. Glen (Marie) Zentz of Harman, Mrs. William (Lillie) Kent of Amboy and MRs. Francis (Madalyn) McFadden of Rock Falls; three sons, Fred of Rock Falls; Charlie of Houston Texas and Ray of Morrison, 14 grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

She was preceded by her husband, Walter Riley Oct. 17, 1946; one sister and a brother.

Funeral services Saturday 1:30 p.m. at the Wheelock funeral home with Rev. Donald Proctor, pastor of the Rock Falls Congregational Church officiating, with burial in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rock Falls.

Contributed by Sheila Smith

BETTY LOUISE (POPEJOY) ROBBINS, 70, of Rock Falls died Tuesday, Sept. 14, 1999, at St. Francis Hospital, Peoria. Private family services were held at McDonald Funeral Home, Rock Falls. Burial was at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rock Falls. There was no visitation.

Mrs. Robbins was born Dec. 5, 1928, in Rock Falls, the daughter of Joseph and Florence (Sanders) Popejoy. She owned, operated and worked in the auction business in Rock Falls for 37 years.

Survivors include her children, Bobby (Linda) Robbins of Rock Falls, Johny (Judy) Robbins of Putnam, Alice (John) Helfrich of Rock Falls, Penny (Brian) Long of Henry and Ervin (Dawn) Robbins of Putnam; a brother, Charles (Mary) Popejoy of Sterling; two sisters Evelyn (Leonard) Conley and LaVern Colley, both of Rock Falls; 21 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and three step-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother in infancy and two great-grandchildren.

JAMES LOYD "JAY" ROBBINS , 76 of Rock Falls, surrounded by his loved ones passed away Tuesday, March 19, 2002, following a short illness.

James was born Nov. 7, 1925, in Paragould, (Greene County) AR., to John and Alice (Atchison) Robbins. On Feb. 1 2, 1948, he married his loving wife and soulmate, Beverly Jones. He served in World War II and retired from Local 727 after 25 years of service. He enjoyed spending time with his soulmate, family and playing with his horses.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly; four children and their families. Jim (Lois) Robbins of Colorado Springs, Colo., and their children, Josh and Joe of Morrison, Joslyn of Colorado Springs, Colo., Nakiea (Mike) Strecker of Oklahoma and great-grandson, Grant Strecker; Carolyn Crow and family. Jeannie (Lance) King, great-grandchildren, Tyler Doane and Kyley Robbins, all of Rock Falls; Linda Underwood and family, Kengela Robbins, Jakie Underwood and Jonas Robbins, all of Rock Falls; Doug (Debbie) Robbins of Morrison and family. Brandon (Regina) of New York, Teddy, Jim Bob and Adam, all of Rock Falls, and Tabatha of Morrison, and great-grandsons, Tyler and Teddy; his sister, Mage Keen of Paragould, Ark., and three brothers, Bob (Virginia) of Wayneville, Mo., John (Peggy) of Henry and Jimmy (Chris) of Dixon, (Pulaski County) MO; in-laws, Francis (Bill) Jomant, Bob (Maggie) Jones of Rock Falls and George (Sharon) Jones of Aurora, (Adams County) Colo.; and several nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Delbert, Freddy and Hershal; one brother-in-law, Harold Keen, and his loving mother-in-law, Ruby Jones. The funeral is a 1 P.M. Saturday, March 23, 2002, at McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory, Rock Falls, with the Rev. Dalmus Meeks, pastor of Harvest Time Bible Church, officiating. Military rites will follow. Visitation is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established. We would like to express our heartfelt thank you to nephew, Bobby Joe Robbins. James will be missed by all.

Daily Gazette 21 March 2002

LU B. (FINCH) ROBBINS , 68, of rural Rock Falls, died Saturday at CGH Medical Center, Sterling, Ill. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at the McDonald Funeral Home, Rock Falls, with the Rev. Mark Bohman officiating. Burial will follow in the Riverside Cemetery, Prophetstown, Ill. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home.

She was born May 17, 1936, in Clinton to Ernest and Dorothy Dean Finch. She married Eugene Robbins on Aug. 5, 1961, in Sterling. She was employed as a secretary with Northwestern National Life Insurance in Sterling for several years. She served as a court reporter for Judge Winn. She also sold knitting machines and yarn from her home. She served as past president of the Insurance Women in Sterling and Rock Falls and was a member of the Rock Falls American Legion Auxiliary.

Survivors include her husband; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers. A memorial has been established in her memory with the CGH Health Foundation.

Clinton Herald July 5, 2004

AGNES (LOVE) ROBERTSON - At her residence in Mt. Pleasant township, on sunday, July 27, 1890, Mrs. Agnes Robertson, aged 69 years, 4 months and 12 days.

Agnes Love was born in Stevenston, Ayrshire, Scotland, March 15, 1821. She was mrried ot James Robertson in 1856 and came with her husband to Morrison. Her home has been for 34 years on the farm from which she was buried. Here her four children were born and here one of them died in early days.

Four years ago last April she endured the great bereavement of her life and entered into widowhood. Defective hearing drove her much to companionship with herself and to close communion with her God. She was a true Christian of lovely character and exalted worth, whose aim ever was to make home happy and to promote the welfare of her children. She lives in their affectionate embrace.

A large concourse of friends attended the funeral services at the Presbyterian church on Tuesday afternoon, Rev. James Frothingham of Chicago, who attended the funeral of Mr. Robertson four years ago, was, by request of the family, associated with Rev. J.W. Skinner in conducting the services and made appropriate remarks. The remains were interred in Grove Hill cemetery beside those of her husband.

CATHERINE (DONIGAN) ROBERSON 80, of 108 Ridge Drive, Sterling, died early Wednesday morning in Community General Hospital. Funeral services will be held Saturday morning at the Kenny Brothers Funeral Home, 3600 W. 95th St., Evergreen Park, Ill. Burial will be in the Holy Sepulchure Cemetery, Worth, Ill. Local arrangements were completed by the Allen Funeral Home. She was born Nov. 20, 1895 in Chicago, the daughter of John and Rose Donigan. She married Fred Robertson who preceded her in death. She is survived by two sons, William David of Hinsdale, Ill., and Frederick J. of Chicago Heights, 17 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, one sister, and one brother.
Contributed by Melva L. Taylor - The Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois - October 19, 1976, Tuesday, pg 4

ROBERT ROBERTSON - A few weeks ago the Sentinel gave an account of the gathering at the home of Mr. John Watt, who lives a short distance southwest from this city in Union Grove township, to celebrate the ninetieth anniversary of his birth. Surrounded by his family and friends the occasion was one of great pleasure, and this esteemed citizen who so honorably has walked the paths of life for nearly a century received the congratulations of all that his advanced years were so full of vigor, and that he and his aged wife were so happily surrounded and were passing their declining years in such content. The household comprised the parents and a son and daughter, who, with a loyalty pleasing to contemplate in this age when children seem to sunder home ties so easily, remained to cae for their parents and conducted the farm and household duties. Far was it from the thought at the time of this anniversary that within so short a period a terrible tragedy would be enacted in this peaceful abode, which would take its fairest inmate from life and cause the greatest anguish in many hearts. Yest such is the sad fact.

Our citizens were startled last Monday afternoon ( Dec. 15, 1890) by the announcement of a murder and suicide which occurred at the home of Mr. Watt. At first there were many rumors but no definite facts could be learned until the representative of the Sentinel repaired to the place where the tragedy occurred. Robert Robertson, a widower of this city, had been a frequent visitor to the home of Mr. Watt during the past two years, and had been paying attention to Miss Mary Watt. His proposals for the hand of Miss Watt were refused and his attentions to her were discouraged by the lady, but he was very persistent and his calls were more frequent, and often times he offered her gifts. On Monday afternoon he again drove out to Mr. Watt's and found no on in the house but Miss Watt and her aged mother.

Mr. Robertson and Miss Watt went into the bedroom off the parlor where they conversed for some time, the mother remaining in the dining room. Miss Watt was seated on a lounge, and while no one was present or heard the conversation, it is supposed that Mr. Robertson again proposed marriage and again being refused, he drew a revolver and fired, the ball penetrating her head on the left temple. She fell to the floor face downward, where she was found by her brother a few minutes afterward. Mr. Robertson seeing that his work was complete in its effect, turned the weapon upon himself, sending a bullet crashing through his brain, killing himself instantly, and falling in a sitting posture wthin a foot of his victim. Mrs. Watt hearing the reports of the revolver, went out and asked her son Robert, who was engaged in sawing wood, if he had heard any shots. He replied that he heard a noise and did not think any shooting had been done, but if so it was away from the house. Mrs. Watt returned to the house, rapped upon the door of the bedroom and called to her daughter, but receiving no reply, she again went and called her son and asked him to come in, informaing him that she had called to her daughter, but received no response. Robert then entered the house and opened the door of the bedroom, when a terrible spectacle met his gaze. There lay his sister upon her face, the blood oozing from her temple, while Robertson was near her with his head against the bed. He picked up his sister and gently laid her upon the lounge, where she breathed a few times and her spirit fled.

He then mounted a horse and quickly came to this city for the physicians. Drs. Seger and Gray drove rapidly to Mr. Watt's, but seeing that both were dead, returned to town at once. Coroner Donaldson with the following jury repaired to the place and held and inquest; Dr. A.E. Kennedy, Miles Shirk, Ed.J. Conger, R.K. Tucker, W.P. McAllister and Wm. Duffin. The virdict was in accordance with the above facts. Miss Watt was born in Scotland, July 28, 1853 and was therefore aged 37 years 4 mts and 17 days. She came to this country with her parents about 20 years ago. She was of a prepossessing appearance, modest and retiring in her manner, of kind disposition and was nobly devoting her life to the care of her aged father and mother and in the household duties of the home. Her death will leave a vacancy that cannot be filled. The premeditated deed of the muderer has ended a life that was ... she lived and will rendere desolate the hearts that now mourn her loss. It is sad to realize that a life so nobly performing its duties should be so suddenly terminated.

Robert Robertson was born in Ayrshire, Scotland, and was between 65 and 70 years old. In 1842 came with his father, mother and brother James direct to Whiteside county and since that time resided in Mt. Pleasant Twp, and lived upon his farm about one mile east of this city, until shortly before the death of his wife which occurred Dec. 4, 1887, when he removed to Morrison where he has since resided. He was in possession of a fine competency. In his business relations he was considered honorable and upright, although it is said he was of an exceedingly jealous disposition and was very arbitrary in his opinions. He was the father of 11 children, 7 of whom died about 20 years ago with scalet fever in the short duration of two months. Two sons and two daughters survive him. He had been for many years a member of the Presbyterian church of this city, was sedate and quiet in his manner, and no one could ever have suspected that he would commit such a terrible crime. It is but charitable to presume that he wsa not in his right mind when he committed the infamour deed.

Those who are so sadly bowed down with grief by reason of this great calamity have the sincere sympathy of the entire community. Funeral services of Robert Robertson were held yesterday morning at his late residence in this city, Rev. J. W. Skinner officiating, after which the remains were interred in Grove Hill Cemetery. Funeral services for Mary Watt occurred yesterday afternoon at two p.m. in the Presbyterian church of this city. Rev. J.W. Skinner, officiating. The remains were interred in Grove Hill Cemetery.

IDA (BROWN) ROGERS , formerly of Sterling, died early Sunday morning in the home of her son, Merle Rogers, 10024 S., Lafayette, Chicago. Funeral rites will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday in the Melvin Funeral home with the Rev. C. A. Chamberlin of First Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in Tampico Memorial Cemetery.

Mrs. Rogers was born June 27, 1869, in Tampico, daughter of Ellery and Katherine Brown. She was united in marriage with Galen W. Rogers at Tampico in 1891. He preceded her in death in 1910.

Surviving with the son are several nieces and nephews. Mrs. Rogers was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two brothers and one daughter.

Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling, Illinois, Monday, 5 March 1956

Mrs. Ida M. Rogers Funeral Conducted

Services for Mrs. M. Rogers, former Sterling resident who died Sunday in Chicago, were held today in the Melvin Funeral Home The Rev. C. A Chamberlin, pastor of the First Methodist Church, officiated and burial was in Tampico Memorial Cemetery. Pallbearers were William King, Edgar Breed, Louis Geiger, Jack Rinehart and James and Richard Seeley. Mrs. J. H. Linn played several organ selections and Mrs. Charles Gasso was in charge of the flowers.

Contributed by Georgi DiBartelo - Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling, Illinois, Tuesday, 6 March 1956

VIOLA (ROESLER) ROOK , 98, of Sterling died Monday. July 7, 2003, at Sterling Pavilion Nursing Home.

Mrs. Rook was born Nov. 20, 1904, in Ashton, the daughter of Joseph and Martha (Muschner) Roesler. She was a graduate of Ashton High School and attended Mount St. Clare College, Clinton, Iowa. She was a member of St. Mary Church, Sterling.

Survivors include a daughter. Donna (Norman) Lubbs of Sterling; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by two sisters and three brothers. Memorial Mass is at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Mary's Parish Center, Sterling, with the Rev. Ricardo Hernandez officiating. Burial is at 1:15 p.m. Saturday at St. Patrick Cemetery. Rochelle. In lieu of flowers. a memorial has been established.

Sterling Gazette July 9, 2003

DARLENE ELIZABETH ROSENOW , infant daughter of Ernest W. and vada E. Detra Rosenow, passed away at 9 o'clock this morning at the home of her parents, six miles northeast of Morrison. Death was due to thymus disease which developed into central paralysis. She was born Jan. 14, 1933. Besides her parents she is survived by a sister, Mildred, aged three years, and Ellen, aged two years; also her paternal grandmother, Mrs. Mary Detra, of Morrison.

The funeral will be Saturday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock from the Reynolds funeral home, Rev. H.T. Chenoweth of the Methodist church, officiating. Committal will be in Grove Hill Cemetery.

Contributed by Jean Portner

LOREN C. ROSENOW , 82, of Beloit died Monday, May 31, 2004, in his home. He was born May 2, 1922, in Whiteside County, Ill., the son of Frank Carl and Georgia Lee Carroll Rosenow. Loren was a 1941 graduate of Beloit High School. He was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving on the USS Saidor aircraft carrier. Loren married Alice Jo Dody Goldsworthy April 7, 1945, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; she predeceased him Sept. 4, 1987.

Loren was formerly employed by Fairbanks Morse & Co., and retired in 1982 from Beloit Corp. after 31 years. He was a member of the Paperchine Club, and a lifetime member of First Baptist Church. Loren was a volunteer at Beloit Memorial Hospital, and was secretary for the city of Beloit bowling leagues. Survivors include his children: Evan Carroll and V. Lee Rosenow, both of Beloit, and Beth Ann (Larry) Weeden of Colorado Springs, Colo.; grandchildren, Penny (Sam) Thiering of Beloit and Matthew K. Weeden of Colorado Springs; great-grandchildren, Samantha Thiering and Sierra Thiering; sister, Lois (Robert) Podewils of Necedah; and several nieces and nephews. Also predeceased by parents; son, Richard Thomas Rosenow; twin sister, Lorraine Looker; and brothers, Howard, Donald, Robert and Kenneth. Service will be 2 p.m. Friday, June 4, in First Baptist Church, with the Rev. Gene Van Galder officiating. Burial will be in East Lawn Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. to service time Friday in the church. Daley-Murphy-Wisch & Associates Funeral Home, 2355 Cranston Road, Beloit, assisted the family with arrangements. Memorials may be given in his name to Meals on Wheels.

Rockford Register Star

MARGARET ROSENOW , 91, of the Pleasant View Nursing Home, Morrison, died Friday at the nursing home. Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home with the Rev. Mike Winkelman of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Morrison officiating. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Lyndon (Ill.) Cemetery.

She was born Oct. 4, 1912, in Morrison to Louis and Rebecca M. Jacobs Rosenow. She was educated in Whiteside County, Ill., schools. She was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church. Survivors include nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by four sisters and seven brothers. Memorials may be made to St. Peter's Lutheran Church and the Lyndon United Methodist Church

Clinton Herald 23 February 2004

VADA (DETRA) ROSENOW , 75, of 506 Elm St. Morrison, died Tuesday evening at Mercy Hospital in Clinton, Ia. Funeral services will be Friday at 1:30 p.m. in the Morrison United Meth. Church. Burial will follow in Grove Hill Cemetery with Rev. Lynn Longenbaugh officiating. Vada Elizabeth Detra was born on July 7, 1910 in Malver, the daughter of Charles and mary Taylor Detra. On Dec. 24, 1928 she was united in marriage to Ernest W. Rosenow in Ashton. Following their marriage they farmed in Malvern and Union Grove areas until retiring to Morrison eight years ago. The deceased was educated in rural Morrison schools and was a member of the morrison United Methodist Church. Survivors include her husband, Ernest; three daughters, Mrs. Robert (Mildred) Blumhoff of Erie, Mrs. James (Ellen) Gridley of Dixon and Mrs. William (Velma) Riggen of Morrison; 10 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren; and four brothers, Ralph detra of Rockford, Russell Detra and paul Detra both of Prophetstown and warren Detra of Clinton Ia. She was preceded by one daughter in infancy, on grandson and one sister.

Contributed by Jean Portner

WILLIAM LOUIS ROSENOW , Funeral services for Pvt. William Louis Rosenow of Lyndon will be held at the Reynolds funeral home Tuesday at 1:30 p.m., and at 2 p.m. at St. Peter's church in Morrison. Rev. Theo Dirk will officiate. Burial will be in the Lyndon cemetery with the Lypndon American Legion in charge of the military service. Lyndon American Legion auxiliary No. 1081 will meet at the Lyndon town hall and attend the funeral in a body. The body of the war hero who was killed in action in Italy on Oct. 21 1943, will arrive Monday morning at Morrison and will be taken to the Reynolds funeral home. A memorial service was held Dec. 12, 1943, at St. Peter's. William Louis Rosenow was born June 27, 1923 at Clinton, Iowa, the son of Louis Rosenow and the late Margaret Jacobs Rosenow of Lyndon. He was reared and educated at Lyndon and entered the service March 1, 1943. He trained at Fort McClellan, Ala., from where he went to North Africa, serving during the Italian invasion. He was confirmed at St. Peter's Lutheran church in 1938.
Contributed by Melva Taylor - The Sterling Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois October 2, 1948 - Saturday, pg 2, col. 3

GARY LEE RUDE , 96, of Prophetstown, formerly of erie, died Wednesday Oct. 27, 2004 at Coventry Village, Sterling. He was a retired area farmer. Mr. Ringenberg was born Nov. 4, 1907 in Springfield MO, the son of Roy and mary (Phillips) Ringenberg. He married Elizabeth Oster.
Survivors include his wife; a daughter, Jane (Mike) Hovey of Prophetstown; four sons, Bob of Plymouth; Don, Ronald and Carl, all of Peoria, and Alan of Prophetstown; 14 grandchildren. Private family services were held at Brooklyn Cemetery, arrangement complete by Gibson & Son Funeral Home, Prophetstown.

CHARLES FLOYD RUMLEY - Funeral Services for Charles F. Rumley, 77, who passed away at his home in Princeton Tuesday morning were held Thursday at 1 p.m. in the Norberg Memorial Funeral Home. Burial was in the family lot in Riverside Cemetery, with committal services here. The Rev. Leslie Matson, former pastor of the First Christian Church of Princeton, officiated. The floral tokens were exceptionally beautiful and many. A number of friends and relatives formed the procession here, where they were met at the local cemetery by several local relatives and friends. Born Oct 24, 1877, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, son of Thomas Jefferson and Elizabeth Jones Rumley, he spent much of his early life in Sterling. He trained and raced horses at the old Mineral Springs track which was recently graded for building lots. For the past several years he had operated out of Princeton. He was well known on most Illinois fair tracks, and had hit the big show at Aurora Downs, Sportsmen's Park, Maywood, Springfield and other places. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Charlotte Anna, Aug 14, 1940, two sisters and two brothers. Survivors include his second wife, the former Sadie Yepson, two daughters, Mrs. Roger Pierson, Princeton, and Mrs. Kenneth Compton of Eureka; two sons, Charles J. of Princeton, and Donald Rumley of Columbus, O, who were in attendance at the services here; also 10 grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Contributed by Charlotte Schick - [Source: Sterling, Illinois, Daily Gazette, Friday, 1 July 1955, 2; 2]

CHARLOTTE ANNA (SCHICK) RUMLEY 59, passed away at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the Princeton hospital. She had been ill for several years from diabetes and last Sunday suffered a heart attack. On Tuesday Mrs. Rumley was removed to the Princeton hospital for treatment. Funeral rites will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday in the Norberg funeral home, Princeton. Interment will take place in Riverside cemetery, Sterling. The funeral cortege will arrive at 2:45 o'clock.

Mrs. Rumley was born August 19, 1880. Besides her husband she leaves four children, Charles, Jr. of Morrison, Mrs. Glenn Palmer (Edna) of Princeton, Donald of Columbus, O, and Mrs. K.L. Compton (Elizabeth) of Champaign. She also leaves three brothers and two sisters. Carl Schick of Rock Falls, Theodore Schick of Sterling, Dewey Schick and Miss Mary Schick of Chicago and Mrs. Elizabeth Smith of Princeton. The Rumley family lived in Rock Falls for a number of years, later moving to Morrison, Amboy and then Princeton. Mr. Rumley is the owner of a number of fine race horses.

Mrs. Rumley was a former member of the Rock Falls Methodist church and well known in the community. She had retained her membership in the Loyal Circle of King's Daughters since moving away.

Contributed by Charlotte Schick - [Source: From and unknown issue of the Sterling, Illinois, Daily Gazette kindly provided by William G. Schick].

GENE L. RUTLEDGE , 72, of Prophetstown, died Thursday at Rockford Memorial Hospital, Rockford, Ill. Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday at the Erie Christian Church. Burial will be in IOOF Cemetery, Rock Falls. Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the Gibson Funeral Home, Erie, Ill.

He was was born Oct. 20, 1931, in Sterling, Ill., the son of Glenn and Dorothy Traister Rutledge. He married Nola J. Quantock on Aug. 12, 1951, in Aurora, Ill. He retired from General Electric, Morrison, Ill., after 38 years of service. He was a member of the Erie Christian Church, Ducks Unlimited, the Broken Arrow Bow Hunters Club and was a 48-year member of the Rock Falls Masonic Lodge.

Survivors include his wife; daughters and son-in-law, Julie Curtis, Windsor, Ill., and Laurie and Tony Good, St. Joseph, Ill.; sons and daughters-in-law, Kenneth and Jan Rutledge, Clinton, Ill., and Douglas and Marta Rutledge, Erie, Ill.; and eight grandchildren.

Clinton Herald 3 January 2004

MINNIE RYDER , 79, life resident of Fulton, Ill. community died at 2.20 am Thursday in Jane Lamb Hospital. Services will be at the Snell funeral home at 2 pn Saturday. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. A daughter, two sisters, a brother, three grandchildren and three great grandchildren survive.

Contributed by Gloria Williams from the Davenport Democrat, June 28, 1951 (Date of Death?)

HOMER J. RYERSON , son of Martin J. and Anna Ryerson, was born, Nov. 17. 1901 in Mt. Pleasant township, Whiteside county, and died in the hospital at Sterling, Aug. 24. His death was caused by accidently falling from a load of gravel and the rear wheel of the wagon passing over his body on Saturday afternoon at 6 p. m. while only a short distance from his home. A physician was immediately summoned and soon after his arrival he was taken to the hospital at Sterling. He, however. remained conscious until he was placed on the operating table at 10 pm after which he never fully gained consciousness again, and at 3 o’clock in the morning his spirit went home to God who gave it.

Little Homer was a fine, bright intelligent child, always cheerful and happy, and had a forgiving spirit. He was loved by all who knew him, especially by the family. He was the pet and the flower of the home.

His death has cast a great shadow over the home and was a severe shock to the relatives, friends and neighbors. Now we look through a glass darkly; but then we shall see face to face: now we know in part, but then we shall know even as we are known. He was conscerated to God early in life; and at the age of seven he publically conferred Christ as his Saviour, and united in Christian fellowship with the English Lutheran church at Emerson, and sought to be faithful to God and the church to the time of his death. We believe he died in the triumph of a Christian faith, and we hope to meet him again in the sweet bye and bye.

He leaves to mourn his early departure his sorrowing parents and two brothers, Frank and Paul, also a large number of relatives and frlends. May the Lord comfort all sorrowing and grant a happy reunion in the land of eternal bliss.

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