Baier Funeral Home & Crematory Obituaries - Eulogy Assistant (2024)

Obituary Preview: Devon A. Slayton, 28, of Hoopeston passed away on Monday, February 5, 2024 at his home in Hoopeston. He was born on January 1, 1996, the son of Angela Raef and Dawayne Slayton.

Surviving are his mother, Angela Raef of Kentucky; his father, Dawayne Slayton of Chicago; maternal grandparents, Ed and Kathy Langellier of Milford; paternal grandmother, Doris Slayton; aunt, Aimie Dines of Danforth; cousins, Aiden Dines of Danforth, Renee Lee of Arkansas, and Sara Wiley of Indiana.

He was preceded in passing by his maternal great grandparents and his Great Aunt, Joni Kleinert.

Devon enjoyed martial arts and loved all things music. He loved to hang out with his "band of brothers". He was a 2014 graduate of Milford High School.

Services will be at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at Milford Christian Church in Milford. Rev. Brent Zastrow will officiate. Burial will follow at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland.

Visitation will be from 10:00-12:00 on Tuesday at church.

The Baier Funeral Home in Watseka is handling arrangements for the family.

Obituary Preview: Michael Thomas McShane, 66, of Watseka passed away on Friday, February 2, 2024 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on September 19, 1957 in Chicago, a son of Thomas Carl and Donna Mae (Williamson) McShane. Michael married Toshie (Takahashi) on December 6, 1994 in Rockford and she survives.

Also surviving are his mother, Donna Mae McShane of Trenary, Michigan; two brothers, Kevin (Annabelle) McShane and David McShane; one sister Carla (Gregory) Orlandi, one niece, Marisa Orlandi; and two nephews, Austin McShane and Matthew Rittorno.

He was preceded in death by his father and his younger brother, Jeremy McShane.

He graduated from Columbia University, Chicago with a degree in Filmmaking. He worked as a teacher, was an artist and loved doing missionary work.

Obituary Preview: Myra N. Garner, 89 of Bartow, FL and formerly of Sheldon passed away on Friday January 26, 2024 in Lakeland, FL. She was born on June 26, 1934 in Watseka a daughter of Glynne and Helen (Hogle) Long. Myra married Thomas Garner in Sheldon on June 18, 1955 and he preceded her in death in November 2017. Survivors include three sons- David Garner of Jacksonville, FL, Robert Garner of Jacksonville, FL, and Michael (Peggy) Garner of Bartow, FL; four grandchildren- Jennifer Cherry, Stephanie Haworth, Jessica Garner, and Ambre Thornton; four great grandchildren- Jadelyn Rose Garner, Rory Haworth, Preston Cherry, and Logan Cherry; and twin sister- Mary Muehling of Champaign. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and one brother- Robert Long.

She was a member of the Florida Auctioneers Association Auxiliary and National Auctioneers Association Auxiliary. Myra was a loyal Jacksonville Jaguars fan who loved family get togethers and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She enjoyed traveling around the world, reading and doing genealogy research.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday February 3, 2024 at 1:00 pm at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Visitation will be from 11:30 am until 1:00 pm at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to the Iroquois County Historical Society. Please share a memory of Myra at www.baierfuneralhome.com Visitation Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 11:30 am - 01:00 pm 102 W Oak St, Watseka IL 60970 Funeral Service Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 01:00 pm 102 W Oak St,

Obituary Preview: Dennis "Cobby" Maubach, 71, of Watseka passed away on Monday, January 22, 2024 at his home. He was born on July 26, 1952 in Pontiac, the son of Joseph and Doris (McCutcheon) Maubach and they preceded him in passing. He married Marla Schuh in Las Vegas, NV on February 8, 2001.

Surviving are his wife, Marla Maubach of Watseka; one son, Craig Maubach of St. Anne; his brother, Mike (Lynn) Maubach of Normal; two sisters, Jo K. Roberts of Pontiac and Jane Dronenberg of Pontiac; and four grandchildren.

Mr. Maubach loved camping at Plato, fishing, and tinkering in the yard. He was a Chicago Bears fan as well as enjoyed NASCAR. Cobby was a member of the Teamsters Union and retired from Iroquois Paving Corporation after more than thirty years there.

A memorial visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 pm on Monday, January 29, 2024 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. A 7:00 pm memorial service will follow. Fr. Michael Powell will officiate.

Burial will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the donors choice.

Please share a memory of Dennis at baierfuneralhome.com. Visitation Monday, January 29th, 2024 04:00 pm - 07:00 pm 102 W Oak St, Watseka IL 60970 Memorial Service Monday, January 29th, 2024 07:00 pm - 07:30 pm 102 W Oak St,

Obituary Preview: Joe H. Barrie, 77, of Watseka passed away on Friday, January 19, 2024 at Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka.

Joe was born on August 15, 1946 in Lake Village, IN, the son of Henry and Mary (Dobbie) Barrie and they preceded him in death. He married Roberta Cote on January 9, 1965 in Momence.

He is survived by his wife, Roberta Barrie of Watseka; three daughters, Tammy Nink of Charlotte, NC, Barbara Montoya of Albuquerque, NM, and Mary (Jason) Cahoe of Watseka; nine grandchildren, Nicholas (Melissa) Nink, Samantha Joe Nink (Will Smith), Rocky Nink, Zayne Nink, Jessy Montoya, Clayton Cahoe (Brittany Burton), Tanner Joe Cahoe (Sydni Farris) , Heather Coffey, and Thea (Dan) Campbell; six great-grandchildren, Elloise Nink, Jonah Nink, Braydon DeWitt, Bryton Cahoe, Oakley Cahoe, and Bryson Watts; one brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Reid and Diana Moore of Hickory, NC; and life-long friends, Donnie and Diana Wiley of Bourbonnais.

Joe was a member and Past President of Illiana Mud Runners. Joe enjoyed mechanical work, hunting, fishing, spending time with his family and friends, and riding their trike motorcycle together. He worked at J&R Specialties, Winner's Circle for many years, Supervisor at T&D Metal, and retired from Crown, Cork, & Seal.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until the 6:00 p.m. memorial service on Friday, January 26, 2024 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. James Rattin will officiate. Burial will be held at a later date at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Watseka Gold Star Memorial.

Please share a memory of Joe at www.baierfuneralhome.com. Visitation Friday, January 26th, 2024 04:00 pm - 06:00 pm 102 W Oak St, Watseka IL 60970 Memorial Service Friday, January 26th, 2024 06:00 pm - 07:00 pm 102 W Oak St,

Obituary Preview: Donna K. Webb, 77, of Watseka, and previously a resident at Arcadia Care in Clifton for many years passed away on Friday, January 19, 2024 at Ascension St. Marys Hospital in Kankakee. She was born on April 28, 1946 in Watseka, the daughter of Eldon 'Rusty' and Eunice (Cook) Hall. She married Jerry Webb in Watseka on March 5, 1966 and he preceded her in passing on February 19, 2006. She was also preceded in passing by her parents and one brother, William.

Surviving are one daughter, Tammy (Michael) Glover of Cullman, AL; one step son, Richard Webb of Robinson, IL; one sister, Lory Hall of Milford; five grandchildren, Derek (Ashley) Drinkwine, Brandi Dose, Zachary (Gracie) Drinkwine, Marissa Glover, and Samantha (Bo Miller) Drinkwine; nine great grandchildren; one sister in law, Vanessa Lehnig Hall; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She loved to camp and listen to music, especially Elvis. Mrs. Webb enjoyed cross stitching, needlepoint, laughing, and spending time with her family. She was a long-term resident at Arcadia and developed many friendships with the staff and residents.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. memorial service on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at Centennial Christian Church in Watseka.

Cremation rites are being handled by the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Obituary Preview: Kett R. Rankin, 65, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at his residence. He was born on July 12, 1958 in Gibson City, a son of Dr. Robert and Jacque (Kettering) Rankin. Kett married Dr. JoEllyn Fisher in Rockville, Indiana on October 15, 2008 and she survives.

Also surviving are his daughter, Kati (Darren) Janssen of Foxfield, Colorado; his mother, Jacque Lee of Denver, Colorado; two sisters, Vicki Rankin of Toronto, Canada and Heidi (Cam) Rankin of Boulder, Colorado; and one brother, Curtis (Gigi) Rankin of Charlotte, North Carolina.

Kett was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Robert Rankin.

Kett worked for 15 years for Jeld-Wen Windows in Rantoul. He also worked at Dr. Jo's Pet Clinic in Watseka. Kett was a member of the National Wild Turkey Federation as well as Pheasants Forever. He loved hunting, going on hunting adventures with his friends, spending time with his family, and all animals, especially cats and dogs.

A family memorial service in Colorado will be held at a later date.

Obituary Preview: Jennifer Leigh Landrey-Curtis, 40, of Watseka passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on July 29, 1983 in Watseka, the daughter of Robert and Gale (Otto) Landrey.

Surviving are her parents, Robert and Gale Landrey of Watseka; her three children, Caden Curtis, Ava Curtis, and Canaan Curtis, all of Watseka; four siblings, Judith (Jim) Smith of Mendota, Dwayne (Kelly) Landrey of Indianapolis; Mark (Vicki) Garfield of Watseka, and Kristen (Peter) Garfield-Gentile of Plainfield; five nieces and nephews, Timmy Schultz, Katelin Clapp, Kyle Schultz, Ashten Jensen, and Breckin Gentile.

She was preceded in passing by her grandmother, Lorraine Otto.

Jennifer was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka. She loved supporting her children at all of their sports and activities.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, January 19, 2024 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Watseka. Pastor Aaron Uphoff will officiate. A memorial visitation will be two hours prior to the service, from 12:00-2:00 pm at church.

Cremation rites are being handled by Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to a custodial account at First Trust and Savings Bank in Watseka for the benefit of her three children.

Please share a memory of Jennifer at baierfuneralhome.com. Visitation Friday, January 19th, 2024 12:00 pm - 02:00 pm 120 E Hickory St, Watseka IL 60970 Funeral Service Friday, January 19th, 2024 02:00 pm 120 E Hickory St,

Obituary Preview: Michael David Keller, 70, of Sheldon passed away at his home in Sheldon on Monday, January 8, 2024. He was born on March 6, 1953 in Oxnard, CA, the son of Paul Edward and Nita Jean (McCloskey) Keller. They preceded him in passing. Michael married Anita Wyatt in Sheldon on August 9, 2014.

Surviving are his wife, Anita Wyatt of Sheldon; his three children, Whitney Keller (Matthew Winkeler) of Highland, IL, Lindsey (Marcus) Dierlam of Watseka, and Ethan Keller (fianc Corinn Posteluk) of Joliet; one granddaughter, Lorelai Dierlam of Watseka; three sisters, Kathy (Don) Lindsey of Sheldon, Kim (Jeff) Mabbitt of Sheldon, and Candace Keller of Sheldon; and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Keller enjoyed his time working with individuals who had developmental and intellectual disabilities. He was proud to serve his country in the United States Army as well as the Reserves. He was an avid gardener and painter. Mr. Keller was known for his superior storytelling and generosity. He was a collector and connoisseur of Native American Artifacts, a topic of which he lectured on and had his private collection on display at the Old Courthouse Museum in Watseka. He loved playing cards and was an election judge for years. His selflessness and hospitality were unmatched. His infectious smile and laughter will be greatly missed.

A Celebration of Life will be from 1:00-3:00 pm on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at the Sheldon Community Center in Sheldon.

Cremation rites are being handled by the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to the Iroquois County Historical Society, Sheldon TIES, Sheldon EMS, or to the donors choice.

Please share a memory of Michael at baierfuneralhome.com. Memorial Service Sunday, January 14th, 2024 01:00 pm - 03:00 pm Sheldon Community Center 140 S. 4th St.,

Obituary Preview: Bill J. Portwood, 88, of Sheldon passed away on Monday, January 1, 2024 at Gilman Nursing Home.

Bill was born on August 21, 1935 in Sheldon, the son of George and Lulabell (Ping) Portwood. He married Cleta J. Johnson on July 24, 1955 in Climax, CO and she preceded him in death on April 17, 2012. He was also preceded in death by his parents and one son, Timothy Portwood.

He is survived by one son, Mark (Amy) Portwood of Sheldon; five grandchildren, Ashlen (Matt) Risley, Alex (Allison) Portwood, Alaina (fianc Konnor Knauth) Portwood, Adin Portwood, and Page Portwood; and two great-grandchildren, Addy Risley and Airabella Davenport.

Bill served in the U.S. Army. He was a member of Watseka American Legion Post 23, Sheldon Masonic Lodge, Danville Consistory, and Shriners. Bill worked at Uarco for 34 years and enjoyed traveling.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the 10:30 a.m. Masonic Service on Saturday, January 6, 2024 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Funeral services will be held after at 11:00 a.m. and burial will follow at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka with graveside military rites by Watseka American Legion Post 23.

Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children.

Please share a memory of Bill at www.baierfuneralhome.com. Visitation Saturday, January 6th, 2024 09:00 am - 10:30 am 102 W Oak St, Watseka IL 60970 Burial Saturday, January 6th, 2024 11:00 am , Watseka IL 60970 Funeral Service Saturday, January 6th, 2024 11:00 am 102 W Oak St,

Obituary Preview: Sylvia R. Butler, 90, of Watseka passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka.

Sylvia was born on March 7, 1933 in Watseka, the daughter of Gordon and Edith (Shonkwiler) Childress and they preceded her in death. She married Blanchard Butler in Remington, IN in 1949 and he preceded her in death on February 13, 2011.

Sylvia enjoyed reading, word books, and crocheting.

Cremation rites have been accorded by Baier Funeral Home in Watseka and burial will be held at a later date.

Obituary Preview: Delilah Buethene LeSage, 97, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, December 28, 2023 at Iroquois Resident Home in Watseka.

Buethene was born on June 21, 1926 in Watseka, the daughter of John W. and Pearl (Anderson) Muller and they preceded her in death. She married Leonard "Slick" LeSage on September 1, 1951 in Watseka and he preceded her in death on September 1, 2007. She was also preceded in death by one sister, Inez Edwards, and one infant daughter.

She is survived by two daughters, Gilda (Greg) Maurer of Clinton and Stacia Galloway of Watseka; five grandchildren, Amanda (Drew) Goebel of Clinton, Jennifer Maurer of Bloomington, and Matthew (Katie) Maurer of Jacksonville, FL, Joey and Jonathan LeSage of Watseka; and four great-grandchildren, Kate, Ben, and Luke Goebel, and Shannon LeSage.

Buethene was a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Watseka, Royal Neighbors, and American Legion Auxiliary. She worked as a bus driver and at J.C. Pennys for many years. Buethene enjoyed bingo, shopping, coloring games on the computer, and the Chicago Cubs.

Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until the 2:00 p.m. funeral service on Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Rev. Michael Powell will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Please share a memory of Buethene at www.baierfuneralhome.com. Visitation Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024 12:00 pm - 02:00 pm 102 W Oak St, Watseka IL 60970 Funeral Service Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024 02:00 pm - 03:00 pm 102 W Oak St, Watseka IL 60970 Graveside Service Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024 03:00 pm - 03:15 pm 2280 E 1850 North Rd,

Obituary Preview: DeAnn Michelle Reynolds, 57, of Crescent City and formerly of Iroquois passed away on Saturday, December 16, 2023.

DeAnn was born on April 19, 1966 in Chicago, the daughter of Jerry and Janet (Taylor) McVey. She married Shane Reynolds on May 31, 1992 in Donovan and he preceded her in death on September 27, 2021. She was also preceded in death by one daughter, Arielle Reynolds.

She is survived by one daughter, Justine Reynolds of Crescent City; her parents, Jerry and Janet McVey of Donovan; and two brothers, Tim (Michelle) McVey of Fairbury and Shawn (Deborah) McVey of Suffolk, VA.

DeAnn was active and served on the board for the Iroquois Community Center. She enjoyed cardinals, snowmen, and music, especially Classic Rock. DeAnn was a family-oriented person who was dedicated, compassionate, and giving to others. She was very passionate about being a Nurse, something she worked extremely hard to become later in her life.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. memorial service on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at Donovan United Methodist Church. Rev. Kevin Nourie will officiate. Private burial will be held at Morris Chapel Cemetery near Iroquois.

Memorials may be made to the family's wishes. Visitation Thursday, December 21st, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am Donovan United Methodist Church 208 Lyle Ave, Donovan IL 60931 Memorial Service Thursday, December 21st, 2023 11:00 am - 12:00 pm 208 Lyle Ave,

Obituary Preview: Jerry England, 60, of Milford passed away on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at his residence. He was born on February 27, 1963 in Hayti, MO, a son of Roy and Violet ( Reeves) England. He married Lisa Marie Williams on March 9, 1985 and she preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; Donald, Jimmy, and Paul England

Surviving are two sons, Jerry (Kayc) England Sr. of Milford and Christopher England of Watseka; nine grandchildren, Issac, Judith Ann, Jacob, and Jerry Jr. England and Destiny, Harley, Dalton, Baja, and Bryar Schroeder; five brothers and sisters, Rodger (Becky) England of Woodland, Lenard (Linda) Bailey of Woodland, Jennifer England of Watseka, Peggy Deaton of Rossville, and Helen Godby of Watseka.

Jerry worked at T & D Metal. He was a loving father, grandpa, and brother who enjoyed always making people laugh. He always brought life into any room he entered.

A memorial service will be held at at 3:00 p.m. on January 13, 2024 at Jerry & Kayc's residence, 1420 E. 1000 N. Rd, Milford, IL. Memorial Service Saturday, January 13th, 2024 03:00 pm 1420 County Rd 1000 N 1420 County Rd 1000 N,

Obituary Preview: Norma J. Lawson, 94 of Titusville, FL and formerly of IL and TN passed away on Saturday November 25, 2023 at St. Francis Reflections in Titusville. She was born on January 21, 1929 in Stockland, IL a daughter of Earl and Maxine (Swope) Galloway. Norma married Daniel Lawson in Sheldon, IL on July 7, 1967 and he survives. Also surviving are one son, Mark Lawson of Radford, VA; five daughters- Cheryl (Mark) Anderson of Titusville, Karla (Randy) Schuh of Englewood, TN, Janet Martin of DeBary, FL, Jill (John Morrelle) Calvert of Titusville, and Danna (John) Eshleman of Knoxville, TN; 11 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Charles Galloway.

Norma worked as a hairstylist for many years and later as a pharmacy technician. She enjoyed going out for dinner with family and friends. Her hobbies included cooking, reading, music and playing her organ. She loved her flowers. Norma always enjoyed a good joke and was quick to laugh and show her beautiful smile.

Norma was a member of First Church of God in Englewood, TN and will be greatly missed by her church family.

A special thank you to St. Francis Reflections in Titusville for their loving and comforting care.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday December 12, 2023 at 1:00 pm at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka with Pastor Darla Holden officiating. Visitation will be from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Sheldon Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to First Church of God, 1340 TN-39 in Englewood, TN 37329. Please share a memory of Norma at www.baierfuneralhome.com Burial Tuesday, December 12th, 2023 12:00 am , Sheldon IL 60966 Visitation Tuesday, December 12th, 2023 11:00 am - 01:00 pm 102 W Oak St, Watseka IL 60970 Funeral Service Tuesday, December 12th, 2023 01:00 pm 102 W Oak St,

Obituary Preview: Jon L. Gerber, 67 of Woodland passed away on Wednesday November 22, 2023 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born on May 9, 1956 in Watseka a son of Marvin and Doris (Seivert) Gerber. Jon married Julie Sullivan in Sheldon on October 19, 1985 and she survives. Also surviving are one daughter- Michelle (Ireland) Hawkins of Sierra Vista, AZ; one son- Jonathan (Jessica) Gerber of San Diego, CA; three grandchildren- Logan Harris, Zachary Prokopius, and Jackson Prokopius; one brother- Gary (Helen) Gerber of Watseka; one brother in law- Dale Crawford of Milford; and four nieces and one nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister- Marla Crawford.

Jon was a maintenance and tool room supervisor at Chicago Steel Tape in Watseka. He enjoyed motorcycles, firearms, shooting, and gardening.

Private services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are by the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Childrens Hospital.

Obituary Preview: Sharyne F. Townsend, 66, of Watseka passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. She was born on October 20, 1957 in Watseka, the daughter of Gordon and Dorothy Marie (Schriefer) Crawford.

Surviving are one daughter, Amber Daily of Martinton; one son, Travis Crawford of Watseka; her brother, Dale Crawford of Milford; two grandchildren, Paige (Joe) Hageman of Brookston, IN and John Daily Jr (Casey Gouwens) of Sheldon; five great grandchildren, Wyatt, Rhett, Isla, Caleb, and Beau; one nephew, Ben Crawford of Woodland; and one niece, Amanda Crawford of Watseka and her son, Landon Cotter.

She was preceded in passing by her parents; one brother; one sister; and her sister in law, Marla Crawford.

Sharyne enjoyed crossword puzzles, reading, watching tv, and playing games on her phone.

Cremation rites are being handled by Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

A Celebration of Life service will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Shriners Childrens Hospital.

Obituary Preview: Brenda Lane, 65, of Beaverville, passed away peacefully Friday, November 17th, at Citadel Care Center of Kankakee after battling pancreatic cancer for nearly two years.

Brenda invested her time being a caretaker to many over the years serving the most fragile and vulnerable of our population, including serving at Harbor House, Bradley House and later for volunteer services of Watseka. Brenda was also known for hosting several benefits to raise money for friends in need. She loved to cook, spend time with her dogs, especially "Baby", and visit with her grandchildren.

Brenda was blessed to have many friends and neighbors who supported her and became her extended family. She now joins in heaven her late husband, Bruce Lane Sr., two sons lost in childhood Bryan and Bobby Lane, Mother and Father Jacqueline and Glen Green, and many beloved family of Mount Moriah, MO.

She is survived by Son and daughter in law Bruce (Elda) Lane, grandchildren Bruce (Andrea) Lane III, Rebecca (George) Luhman, Jackie (Eric) Panos, Manny Ceballos and Ashley Lane in addition to four great grandchildren Olivia and Natalie Lane, Penelope Panos, and Bruce Lane IV.

Private gravesite service will be held at the Mound Grove cemetery on Monday, November 20th, 2023.

Obituary Preview: Mary T. Fox, 79, of Watseka passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023 at Watseka Rehab & Health Care Center. She was born on January 21, 1944 in Ferryland, NL, Canada, a daughter of Arthur and Emma (Williams) Jordan and they preceded her in death.

She is survived by three daughters, Judy M. Alvarez of Watseka, Sandra D. Guzman of Momence and Deborah (Oliverio) Gamez of Kankakee; two sons, Billy (Rhonda) Jordan of Canada and Ricky (Amy) Fox of Virginia; 14 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; siblings, Bernice Jordan, Doris Jordan, Toni (Blair) Hynes, Maureen Sampson, Cathy (Phil) Russell, Elizabeth (Andy) Buckley, Wanda Jordan and Colleen (Perry) Hodder, Regina Grace of Canada.

She was also preceded in death by siblings, Ambrose Jordan, Frank Jordan, Arthur Jordan and Francis Jordan.

Private services will be held at a later date.

Obituary Preview: John Frigo, 70, of Goodwine passed away on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at Rush Hospital in Chicago. He was born on September 24, 1953 in Chicago, the son of Peter and Virginia (Church) Frigo. He married Virginia Vires in Markham, IL on December 31, 1997.

Surviving are his wife, Virginia Frigo of Goodwine; one son, Grady (April) Bell of Woodworth; one daughter Shauntel Bell of Watseka; seven grandchildren, Ashley Hatcher, Angelique Hatcher, Linda Bell, Gabrielle Cameron, Alex Bell, Emily Bell, and Natalie Bell; seven great grandchildren and one on the way, Hailee Gilmer, Lauren Brewer, Christine Brewer, Preston Johnson, Aysia Johnson, Lyndon Nielson, and Scarlett Cameron; two brothers, Tony Frigo and Tommy Frigo; and three sisters, Maria Frigo, Maryann Frigo, and Doreen Frigo.

Mr. Frigo was preceded in passing by his parents; one daughter, Mary Beth Frigo; and a great granddaughter, Elaina Johnson.

He loved shooting pool, fishing, camping, four wheeling, and snowmobiling. John was an avid outdoorsman. He worked for many years at Modern Drop Forge in Blue Island.

Visitation will be from 1:00-4:00 pm on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to the Familys Wishes.

Please share a memory of John at baierfuneralhome.com. Visitation Tuesday, November 21st, 2023 01:00 pm - 04:00 pm 102 W Oak St,

Obituary Preview: John Grabow, 67 of St. Anne passed away on Sunday November 12, 2023 in Petersburg, WV. He was born on September 6, 1956 in Kankakee a son of Leo and Alice (Wieringa) Grabow. John married Pamela Martell in Watseka on February 14, 2003 and she preceded him in death on October 11, 2022.

Survivors include one daughter- Jamie (Derek) Goad of Crescent City; three sons- Dan (Kelly) Grabow of Crescent City, Justin (Jessica) Grabow of Clarence, IL, and Jeff (Jayme) Grabow of Crescent City; three sisters- Diane Swanson of Donovan, Linda Floriant of Watseka, and Cathy (Mike) Molck of Crescent City; seven grandchildren; three step grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers in laws- Tony Swanson and Leroy Floriant; and one step daughter- Ginny Foster.

John enjoyed spending time at his cabin in West Virginia and loved his dogs- Woodstock and Sadie.

Visitation will be on Saturday November 18, 2023 at the Baier Funeral Home in Watseka 2 hours prior to the 1:00 pm funeral service at the funeral home with Pastor Aaron Uphoff officiating. Burial will be in Lyman Cemetery in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to his grandchildrens education.

Please share a memory of John at www.baierfuneralhome.com. Burial Saturday, November 18th, 2023 12:00 am Lyman Cemetery , Watseka IL 60970 Visitation Saturday, November 18th, 2023 11:00 am - 01:00 pm 102 W Oak St, Watseka IL 60970 Funeral Service Saturday, November 18th, 2023 01:00 pm 102 W Oak St,

Obituary Preview: Evelyn M. Johnson, 97, of Watseka passed away at Prairieview Lutheran Home on November 4, 2023. She devoted her 97 years of her life on this earth to her family, her friends, her community, and her church.

Evelyn was born in Ash Grove Township, IL on October 27, 1926 to George and Frieda Hulse. She married Karl E. Johnson on August 17, 1947 and they spent 63 years together until his passing in 2010.

Evelyn was a loving mother to her three children Michael (Debi) Johnson of Broken Arrow, OK, Vicki Longfellow of Oswego, IL, and Pamela Guenette of Watseka, IL. She was a proud and caring grandmother to her five grandchildren George (Dawn) Longfellow Jr, Sara Carson, Eric (Michelle) Johnson, Tyler Guenette, and Zachary Guenette, as well as her five great-grandkids (Sydney, Cam, Carter, Laura, and Cooper).

Evelyn was a member of Faith Lutheran Church since 1964, after moving from Milford to Watseka. She spent many hours serving her church family through various committees. Evelyn worked at Roberts Clinic for many years. She was also the Welcome Wagon lady in the Watseka area for over 20 years and was instrumental in organizing the Newcomers Club for new residents of her community. More recently, she volunteered at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in various capacities.

She enjoyed gardening, cooking and baking, keeping an immaculate home, traveling with her husband, volunteering, and caring for her family.

Evelyn is survived by her three children, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Karl, her parents, her sister (Loretta Crabtree), her brother (Virgil Hulse), and a son-in-law (George Longfellow Sr.).

Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth has been Evelyns home for the past 6+ years where she was cared for and loved well. She will be missed by her family and friends.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the 1:00 p.m. memorial service on Friday, November 10, 2023 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Pastor Alex McNally will officiate. Burial will be at a later date at St John Lutheran Cemetery at Schwer.

Memorials may be made to Faith Lutheran Church in Watseka or Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth.

Please share a memory of Evelyn at www.baierfuneralhome.com. Visitation Friday, November 10th, 2023 11:00 am - 01:00 pm 102 W Oak St, Watseka IL 60970 Memorial Service Friday, November 10th, 2023 01:00 pm 102 W Oak St,

Obituary Preview: Ruth A. Salm entered into eternal rest on her birthday October 16, 2023, at Miller Health Care Center in Kankakee. Ruth was born October 16, 1943, in Chebanse, Illinois, the daughter of Rudolph and Anna Marie (Rabideau) Ahrens. They preceded her in death. Her husband, Harold "Buck" Salm preceded her in 2011. They were married June 24th, 1961, and were married almost 50 years. Also, among many not listed that preceded Ruth in death were granddaughter, Zoey DeLahr; two brothers, Harold Ahrens and Francis Ahrens, four sisters, Geraldine Hinrichs, Doris Taber, Lois Kennedy and infant sister Joanna Ahrens.

Ruth is survived by her four children, eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Son, Pastor Scott (Connie) Salm of Bedford, Ind. Their Children: Katie (Phillip) Collier, Kristen (Pastor Brady) New, and Karissa Salm; Daughter: Glenda Salm of Watseka. Son: Pastor Gary (Lori) Salm of Metamora. Their Children: Audrey (Justin) Sprinkel, Caleb, and Abigaile; Daughter: Kandi (Phil) DeLahr of Watseka. Their Children: Peyton and Faith; Great grandchildren, Ellie Collier, Eli New, Lilly Collier, Evangeline New, and Camden Collier. Four sisters, Betty Ahrens, Rita Meyers, Kay (Jim) Green, and Anita (Darrell) Speers and one brother Rudolph "Rudi" (Patricia) Ahrens. Unlisted are countless in-laws with nieces and nephews who were all dear to her heart.

The love of her life was our dad, Harold "Buck" Salm. They met at the roller rink and the rest was history. They settled in Martinton, and both worked most of their lives in Watseka. Theres was a small-town love story with family, extended family and friends at the center of most of their activities. Her faith was very important to her and was reflected in many kindnesses shared in the form of meals and serving. Ruth was an encourager of hearts, she was always sending cards for birthdays, anniversaries with sympathy cards as well. She loved cooking meals and baking cookies for family and friends.

A stay-at-home mom for several years, Ruth did everything from babysitting to assembling cereal box "toys" in our home. Every summer she canned 100s of quarts of green beans, tomatoes and froze corn to provide awesome meals for her family. After the kids went to school, she worked at the Watseka Manor many years, making friends of all the people she served. Subsequently she worked at Iroquois Memorial Hospital, where once again she was friends with seemingly everyone. In her later years she cleaned homes and loved her clients.

Ruth was an avid White Sox fan and a closet Cub fan. We have forgiven her for the rooting for the Cubs during 2016. Most days she enjoyed watching Family Feud and Hallmark movies, and she could watch them over and over, knowing the ending of course to all of them. (So did we.) But most of all, she loved hosting her grandchildren and great grandchildren. They brought her the most joy. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, October 20, 2023 at Cornerstone Church in Woodland. Pastor Scott Salm and Pastor Gary Salm will officiate the service. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

Visitation will be from 4:00 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 19, 2023 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka as well as 30 minutes prior to the funeral service on Friday at church.

Memorials may be made to SIDS of Illinois. Visitation Thursday, October 19th, 2023 04:00 pm - 07:00 pm 102 W Oak St, Watseka IL 60970 Visitation Friday, October 20th, 2023 12:30 pm - 01:00 pm Cornerstone Ministers 200 Half St, Woodland IL 60974 Funeral Service Friday, October 20th, 2023 01:00 pm - 02:00 pm 200 Half St, Woodland IL 60974 Burial Friday, October 20th, 2023 02:00 pm - 02:15 pm 2280 E 1850 North Rd,

Obituary Preview: Gordon Stuart Link, 77, of Watseka passed away on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at his home. He was born on July 27, 1946 in Evanston, IL, the son of Oren R. and Beatrice F. (Fee) Link. Gordon married Linda Ann Zaino in Joliet on January 28, 1984.

Surviving are his wife, Linda Ann Link of Watseka; one son, James S. (Elizabeth) Link of Littleton, CO; one daughter, Melissa Winters (special friend-Peter Tolen) of Chicago Heights; three grandchildren, L.J. Winters, Josephine Link, and Beatrice Link; one brother in law and three sister in laws, Peggy Vaughn, Edward J. Zaino, Mary Ellen Zaino, and Jo Ann (Jim) Zaino-Garard; his "favorite" nieces and nephews, Derek, Dakota, Corbin, and Dalton; and one great niece, Jocelynn.

Gordon was preceded in passing by his parents, Oren and Trixie and one brother, Scott O. Link.

Mr. Link was a jack of all trades and a master of them all. He enjoyed cutting wood, gardening, woodworking, and riding motorcycles. He loved spending time with his friends and family. Gordon was a traveling gypsy by heart who loved to have a good cold one.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 from 9:00am until 7:00pm at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Cremation rites will be accorded after the visitation.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date, next year on July 27, 2024 at Legion Park in Watseka at 11:00am.

Memorials may be made to the Familys Wishes.

Please share a memory of Gordon at baierfuneralhome.com. Visitation Wednesday, October 18th, 2023 09:00 am - 07:00 pm 102 W Oak St,

Obituary Preview: Travis Monroe Wood, 36, of Stockland passed away on September 10, 2023.

Travis was born on January 14, 1987 in Watseka, the son of Robert Wood and Maria Williams and they preceded him in death.

He is survived by four children, Cory Wood, Autumn Wood, Brooklynn Wood, and Emersyn Wood all of Stockland; two sisters, Tasha (Louie) Arellano of Watseka and Amber (Kenton) Kunsch of Stockland; four brothers, Brandon Wood of Watseka, James Wood of Danville, Jacob Wood of Medaryville, IN, and Keenan Wood of Milford; and step-father, Dan Smith. He also leaves behind Miranda Williams and her three children, Aryonna and Avery Hardwick and Brantley Williams as well as several nieces and nephews.

Travis enjoyed fishing, boating, and spending time with his children.

A memorial visitation will be from 4:00 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

Memorials may be made to the family to help pay for current and future expenses and needs for his family.

Please share a memory of Travis at www.baierfuneralhome.com. Visitation Thursday, September 21st, 2023 04:00 pm - 07:00 pm 102 W Oak St,