Joanna P. Schafroth, 74, of Nauvoo, Illinois passed away Saturday, March 28, 2020 at her home.

Joanna was born on January 18, 1946 in Iowa City, Iowa the daughter of Roy and Masie (Cox) Showman. On December 8, 1976 she married Russell Schafroth Sr. in Lee County, Iowa. He preceded her in death August 15, 2007.

Joanna enjoyed working at the Nauvoo Public Library and being outdoors.

Survivors include one son, Jerry (Mary) Schafroth of Perryville, Missouri; one daughter, Jacqueline (Chris) Ryan of Wayland, Missouri; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two sisters, Lillian Moyer of Iowa City and Martha Albright of Washington, Iowa and one brother, Wesley Showman of South English, Iowa.

Joanna was preceded in death by her parents; husband; one son, Russell Schafroth Jr. and four sisters, Esther Cavin, Margery Thornquist, Marcella Steven and Nancy Showman.

No services are planned at this time. Cremation has been entrusted to Schmitz-Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Nauvoo. To leave a condolence please visit Joanne’s obituary at sbbfuneralhome.com.

William Lee Bennett

William Lee Bennett, 75, of LaHarpe, Illinois passed away peacefully at 8:05 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2020 at his home.

Bill was born on February 1, 1945 in LaHarpe the son of Carl L. and Lelia Grace (Fuller) Bennett. On May 8, 1966 he married Mary Ruth Lee in LaHarpe.

Bill attended the Fountain Green Grade School and was a 1963 graduate of LaHarpe High School. He then attended the University of Illinois for engineering. Bill served in the U.S. Marine Corp from 1967 - 1971, serving in the Vietnam Conflict and then as an instructor at  Quantico. He was a 50 year member of the LaHarpe American Legion, lifetime member of the VFW. He was also a member of the Terre Haute United Methodist Church, where he taught Sunday School for many years. He served on the LaHarpe School Board from 1985 - 1989. He enjoyed helping with softball, umpiring and helping with maintenance at the ball diamonds.

Bill worked his entire career at NTN Bower in Macomb, while also owning LaHarpe Die & Repair for 10 years.

Survivors include his wife, Mary; two daughters, Lesley (Matt) Flynn of Macomb, Illinois and Stephanie (Darin) Davis of Davis, Illinois; one son, Brett (Jennifer) Bennett of Royse City, Texas; four grandchildren, Emilee, Elizabeth, Stone and Lelia; one brother, Neil (Jeanne) Bennett of Iowa City, Iowa; one sister, Barbara (Bob) Cameron of Burlington, Iowa; eight sisters-in-law; eight brothers-in-law and several nieces, nephews and great-nieces and  nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents; one niece and one nephew.

Cremation has been entrusted to Banks & Beals Funeral Homes. Due to the current CDC guidelines, a private family graveside will be held at LaHarpe Cemetery with Rev. Lee Unger officiating. Memorials may be made to the Terre Haute United Methodist Church Building Fund, LaHarpe Ambulance Service or MDH Hospice. Please mail contributions to Banks & Beals Funeral Home, P.O. Box 503, LaHarpe, IL 61450.

To sign the guest book or leave a condolence, please visit Bill’s obituary at banksandbeals.com.

Ronald G. Harmon ;, age 86, a long-time resident of Hamilton, IL, passed away on Thursday, March
26 at 12:30pm at Blessing Hospital following a brief illness.
He was born February 18, 1934 in Macon, MO to Hortense and Lenius Harmon. Shortly after he was
born his family moved to the St.Louis area where he grew up near Forrest Park. Ron often reminisced
about going to Cardinal games and watching the St. Louis Browns because children got in free. Ron also
often spoke about meeting his future wife, Patty Green in the 2nd grade. He was an only child, but often
surrounded himself with friends and cousins. He graduated in 1952 from Soldan Blewett High School.
After graduating, Ron proudly served his country in the United States Army where he learned to climb
poles. After serving his country, Ron returned to St. Louis where he and Patty were joined in marriage on
July 24, 1958. Ron worked for Boeing following his return from service, but eventually found his way
back to climbing poles for Union Electric. Ron and Patty chose to transfer to Hamilton, IL in 1964 where
they lived out the remainder of their lives.
Ron and Patty raised four children together and played active roles in their lives. He coached little
league, participated in cub scouts, Webelos, and the Jaycee's. Ron retired at age 55 with intentions of
spending the rest of his life with his family. Unfortunately, Ron was preceded in death by his loving wife,
Patty, on January 6, 1990.
Ron, lovingly known as "Papa", spent the past 30 years as the patriarch of his family and modeled values
of wisdom, patience, humility, perseverence, and strength. He encouraged his family in everything they
did and was a staple at every athletic event. He encouraged adventure and curiosity by exploring the
wilderness and creating unique lunches. He encouraged growth through imagination and the arts.
Ron is a self taught carpenter. He particularly enjoyed playing sports in his early years and passing that
knowledge to his children, grandchildren, and their friends. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinal baseball
fan and would record games and watch them all year round.
Ron is most publically known for his iconic hand carved wooden cardinals that can be found throughout
the Hamilton community. He has carved and painted over 5,000 cardinals and has given away over 4,000
refusing to accept any type of payment.
Ron was preceded in death by both parents, his loving wife, Patty (D.1990), his great-granddaughter
Addisyn (D.2002), and his son, Michael (D.2016). He is survived by three children: James Harmon of
Hamilton, Robert "Bob" Harmon (Donna) of Warsaw, and Wendy Skarin of Hamilton. He is survived by
his daughter-in-law Jenny Harmon of Hamilton, and son-in-law Scott Skarin of Hamilton. He is also
survived by his many loving grandchildren and great grandchildren.

There will be a private family viewing and service on Sunday, March 29, 2020. A public memorial service
to honor Ron's life will be held at a later date.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Bernard (Bernie) Wingerter

1953-2020

      Bernard Wingerter, 67, of Keokuk, IA, died Wednesday, March 25, 2020.

     He was born on February 26, 1953 in Muscatine, IA the son of Harold Richard and Vivian Smith Wingerter.   On February 17, 1973 Bernie was united in marriage to Anita Arington in Wilton, IA.

     Bernard Wingerter, B.W., Big B, Dad, Top Pop, Grandpa, Poppa (and other various nicknames that should not be printed) apparently did not have just a headache.

     Throughout his life, Bernie was known as a family-champion baked bean culinary artist and connoisseur.  He also gave family members a run for their money at Uno and thoroughly enjoyed crushing their spirits by being the first to open and get into a fresh jar of peanut butter.  

     Bernie was notorious for his mad guitar skills and will now be able to jam with some of the greats that went before him.  As a long-time furnace installer, one of Bernie’s favorite things to do was to go for drives, point to a house, and say, “Guess who installed the furnace in that house?”

     Bernie is survived by his high school sweetheart, Anita, three daughters, Amy Stano (Roger), Amanda Hayes (Jame), Angela Kinkeade (Jason), his grandchildren, Madison and Emma Stano, Logan, Andrew, and Macy Hayes, and Kaitlyn and Lilah Kinkeade, one brother and four sisters.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Vivian Wingerter and two sisters.

     Due to the current COVID-19 situation there will be a small, private family ceremony.              

     In lieu of flowers, rolls of toilet paper will be accepted.

     The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk is assisting the family with arrangements.

    On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Barbara A. Custer

12020

     Barbara A. Custer, 81, of Hamilton, IL died Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at Montebello Healthcare Center in Hamilton, IL.

     She was born on January 7, 1939 in Keokuk, IA, the daughter of Perry and Bernice Kelly Kunkel.  

     On January 16, 1956, Barbara was united in marriage to Delbert Custer in Quincy, IL.

He survives.

     She is also survived by one son, Danny Custer and his wife Kristi of Hamilton, IL one grandson, Drake Custer and his wife Ashley of Keokuk, two great-grandsons, Drayton and Dominic and one sister, Dixie Washburn of Hamilton.

     She was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Darin Custer, one grandson, Dane Custer and one niece Rita Horton.

     Barbara enjoyed being a homemaker and spent her life making a wonderful home for her husband and children.  She was a wonderful cook and her baked goods were always a special treat. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandson and great-grandsons.

          A private family graveside service will be held.  Due to the current COVID-19 situation and the restriction for gatherings there will be no public service or visitation.  

     The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk is assisting the family with arrangements.

     On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Cheryl Lynn Denning

1955 – 2020

     Cheryl Lynn Denning, 64, of Keokuk, IA, died Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at UnityPoint Health in Keokuk.

     She was born on August 10, 1955 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of Bennie Wayne and Mary Jane Gilliland Leffler.  Cheryl graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1973.

     On July 20, 1974, Cheryl was united in marriage to Kelly Denning in Keokuk.  He survives.

     She is also survived by three sons, Mark Denning (Jessica) of Argyle, IA, Jason Denning (Megan) of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Daniel Denning (Trista) of Warsaw, IL, five grandchildren, Samantha Denning, Benjamin Denning, Taylynn Denning, Hayslee Denning and Mayven Denning, three step-grandchildren, Heather Davis, Laura Davis, and Micheal Davis., two step-great-grandchildren, one brother, Robert Leffler (Linda) of Warsaw, IL, one sister-in-law, Lois Leffler of Keokuk and several nieces and nephews.

     She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Danny Wayne Leffler.

     Cheryl had been employed at Methode in Carthage, IL for twenty-two years.

     She was a member of the New Testament Christian Church in Keokuk.

     Cheryl enjoyed watching T.V. and had several favorite shows she watched faithfully, including “The Young and The Restless, and the Wednesday night line-up of   “Chicago Fire, Med and P.D.” She also enjoyed talking to her friends and family on her phone. But most of all she loved spending time with her grandchildren, they were her pride and joy.

     Due to the current COVID-19 situation and the restriction for public gatherings there will be no public services or visitation at this time.  A Celebration of Cheryl’s life for family and friends will be held at a later date.

     The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk is assisting the family with arrangements.

     On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Carmella Lucy Brunnelson

1921-2020

     Carmella Lucy Brunnelson, 98 of Keokuk, IA died Friday, March 20, 2020 at UnityPoint Health in Keokuk, IA.

     She was born December 13, 1921 in Racine, WI the daughter of Natalie and Anna Samarco Minneti.  

     On September 8, 1945, she was united in marriage to James W. Brunnelson in Racine, WI.  He preceded her in death on June 1, 1995.

     Carmella enjoyed bird watching, cooking shows on television and keeping her mind sharp by working crossword puzzles.  Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.

     She is survived by one son, James B. Brunnelson of Hamilton, IL, three grandchildren, Sander Brunnelson of Wichita, KS, Nathan Brunnelson of Elmwood, IL and Susan Brunnelson of Keokuk, six great-grandchildren, Alex, Ryan, Maddie, Cailey, Lily and Alyssa, three sisters, Josephine Yunk, Francis Aiello and Anna Lawler and one brother, Dominic Minneti.

     Besides her husband, she was also preceded in death by her parents and several brothers and sisters.

     According to her wishes, there will be no services.  

     The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA is assisting the family with arrangements.  

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Helen Jacob Mullins, 94, of Carthage, passed away Friday evening, March 20, 2020 at 9:18 P.M. at Hickory Grove Apartments.

Helen was born March 18, 1926, the daughter of Edwin and Pauline (Scott) Curtis in LaHarpe, Illinois.  She graduated from LaHarpe High School in 1944 and went on to attend Gem City Business College in Quincy.  On June 29, 1946 Helen was united in marriage to Richard Jacob at her family home in rural LaHarpe. He preceded her in death in 1972.  On August 24, 1985, she was united in marriage to Leon Mullins at the Burnside Christian Church. He preceded her in death in 1987. After business college, Helen worked as a secretary for an attorney in Burlington Iowa, and later as the secretary for the LaHarpe High School. After staying home and raising her family she began a new career as a medical records transcriptionist for Memorial Hospital in Carthage for thirteen years.  She was a member of the Burnside Christian Church and had been attending the First Christian Church in Carthage for many years. Helen enjoyed reading and just recently completed reading the entire Bible. She enjoyed her coffee group but especially enjoyed watching and caring for her grandchildren over the years.

Helen is survived by four children, Don (Linda) Jacob of Burnside, Mary Ann (Roger) Long of Quincy, Daryl Jacob of Carthage, Terry (Andrew) Redenius of Carthage; a step-daughter, Debra (Alan) Holder of Freeport, Illinois; eight grandchildren, Jennifer (Phil) Neally, Doug (Michelle) Jacob, Kim (Kevin) Deitrich, Brian (Alyssa) Jacob, Mark (Allison) Jacob, Dan (Dea) Jacob, Shea (Samantha) Redenius and Erin (Cody) Holst; step-grandchildren, Kathy (Roger) Brierton, Karen (Greg) Todd, Debra (Harlan) Maynard, and Scott and Larry Marshall; twenty great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Richard Jacob and Leon Mullins; sister, Margaret Glash Kirtley; daughter-in-law, Elaine Jacob; step-son, Larry Mullins; and two step-granddaughters, Deanne Howe and Brenda Balmer.

A private service will be held.  Memorials may be directed to Food for Thoughts of Hancock County or H.U.G.S

  Betty Irene Gordon, 95, of Hamilton, IL passed away Friday, March 20, 2020 at her home.
    She was born February 9, 1925 near LaHarpe, IL, the daughter of Atlee and Irene Morgan Crabill. On January 1, 1944 she married Donald P. Gordon near Des Moines, IA. He preceded her in death on January 5, 1993.
    Betty was a 1942 graduate of LaHarpe High School. She worked at Sheller-Globe in Keokuk, IA, Northrop Aircraft in Los Angeles, CA and Lockheed Martin in Burbank, CA. Her pride and joy were her seven children. She enjoyed watching The Price Is Right, Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune, playing cards, dominoes and visiting with friends and neighbors.  She especially loved traveling to visit her family.
    She is survived by six children, Michael (Cindy) Gordon of Aloha, OR, Gary (Dixie) Gordon of Prairie City, IL, Stephen (Marianna) Gordon of Santa Maria, CA, Gwen Gordon of Hamilton, IL, Gregory Gordon of Industry, IL and Teresa Bouchard of Hamilton, IL, daughter-in-law, Linda Gordon of Hamilton, IL, fourteen grandchildren, twelve step-grandchildren, thirty great-grandchildren and twenty-two great-great-grandchildren.
    She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one son, Donald Terry Gordon, two great-grandchildren, Michael Howe and Raymond Somerville, one sister, Barbara Jean Purdy, two brothers, John F. Crabill and William R. Crabill and her son-in-law, William Bouchard.
    Private family services will be held at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe with burial to be in the LaHarpe Cemetery.  The family plans to have a  celebration of Betty’s life with friends and family at a later date. To sign her guest book and leave a condolence, please visit Betty’s obituary at www.banksandbeals.com

Lewis W. Moore, age 88, of Blandinsville, Illinois, passed away at 2:05 P.M. Friday, March 20, 2020 at his home.  He was born September 10, 1931 in Point Pleasant Township, Warren County, Illinois, the son of Harvey and Bertha Rosen Moore.  On October 11, 1967, he married Karen Hobby in Blandinsville.

Mr. Moore was a 1949 graduate of Media-Wever High School in Media, Illinois.  Following graduation, he served in the United States Army from 1949 to 1952, during the Korean Conflict.  After his military service, he farmed all of his life in the Raritan area.  He also assisted the Raritan Township Road Commissioner for many years.  Lewis, and his brothers, custom baled for many area farmers for several years.  He and his family also provided the locations for the annual Raritan Fireworks displays for over 35 years.  He was named as an Honorary Raritan Fireman by the fire department.  His passions were farming, family and gardening.

Survivors include his wife, Karen, one son, Lewis Lee (Mindy) Moore of Blandinsville, two daughters, Lynne (Tom) Vegh of Ashburn, VA, Leyona Wiley of Macomb, IL, one daughter in law, Tammy McKee of Bushnell, IL,  eight grandchildren, Dustin and Derek Wiley, Adam McKee, Austin and Jackson Moore, Chris and Nick Schmidt, Victoria Vegh, six great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, James, Robert, John, and Franklin Moore, one son, Layne McKee, one son in law, Kevin Wiley, and one niece, Deborah Moore.

The family of Mr. Moore, wishes to express that their husband, father, and grandfather, Lewis Moore,  deserves a beautiful tribute. However, they understand, in this uncertain time with the COVID-19 pandemic, that attending a visitation and funeral service may not be in your best health interest.  Please be with them in your thoughts and prayers.  At this time, no public visitation is planned.  Private graveside services will be held Monday March 23, 2020 in the Glade City Cemetery in Blandinsville.  The family will plan a celebration of Lewis’ life at a later date.  Memorials for the Raritan Fire Department and the Blandinsville Rescue Squad may be sent to Banks & Beals Funeral Home, P.O. Box 299, Stronghurst, IL 61480.  Please visit Mr. Moore’s obituary at  banksandbeals.com, to sign the guest book and leave a condolence.

Elda Mae Beeler, 94, of Hamilton, Illinois, formerly of Warsaw and Sutter, passed away on Wednesday,
March 18, 2020, at Unity Point Health in Keokuk.
Elda Mae was born on December 23, 1925, in Hancock County, Illinois, the daughter of Homer and Ida
Louise (Koehler) Nagel. She attended Mt. Vernon school. Elda Mae was married to Edwin Beeler on
February 24, 1944, by Reverend F. J. Nesi at the Bethlehem United Church of Christ in Sutter, Illinois.
Edwin preceded her in death on April 10, 2003.
Elda Mae was a homemaker and ran a daycare for years. Many still kept in touch by sending pictures
and news of their children. She enjoyed crocheting, embroidering, and making clothes for her children
when they were young. She was a wonderful cook, baker and candy maker, and enjoyed family dinners.
Elda Mae’s laughter brought joy to all those around her. She was a devoted wife, grandmother, great-
grandmother and sister. She loved her family, friends and neighbors, but God was her best friend. Her
confirmation verse was Psalm 86:11: “Teach me thy way, o Lord, I will walk in thy truth. Unite my heart
to fear thy name.”
Elda Mae is survived by children Gary (Diane) Beeler of Sutter, Linda (Carroll) Leffler of Hamilton, Beverly
Richard of Wildwood, Mo., Randy (Lonnie Neuman) Beeler of Boynton Beach, Fl. 12 grandchildren, 31
great grandchildren, 7 great great grand children and one on the way, She is survived by 1 sister,
Virginia Clark of Quincy, 3 brothers Lyle (Charlot) Nagel of Warsaw, James (Roberta) Nagel of Colorado
Springs, Co., and Donald Nagel of Basco.
Elda Mae is preceded in death by her husband, Edwin Beeler, 4 brothers, Marvin (Betty) Nagel, Walter
(Fern) Nagel, Milton (Carlene) Nagel, John (Luella) Nagel, 3 sisters Gladys (Carroll) Fleck, Selma
(Clarence) Morales, Margaret (Benny) Crowell 1 sister-in-law Karen (Burrows) Nagel, 1 brother-in-law
Robert Clark and 1 son-in-law Bill Richard.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be directed to Trinity United Methodist Church in Warsaw, Hamilton United Methodist
Church, or Lutheran Cemetery in Warsaw, Illinois.
Tributes and condolences may be directed to www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Marcia Diane Duffy, 79, of Ferris, passed away peacefully at 5:15 A.M. Monday, March 16, 2020, at the St. Vincent Home in Quincy after a hard fought battle with cancer.  She spent her final days surrounded by the love and support of her family.  

Marcia was born October 23, 1940, the daughter of Clarence and Eunice (Poland) Dighton in Keokuk, Iowa.  She attended school in Colusa, Illinois.  On October 6, 1963 she welcomed a son, Nicholas. On March 24, 1973, she was united in marriage to Junior Duffy at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa.  Marcia had worked at Nicor Gas in Carthage for many years.  She enjoyed collecting antiques; With one of her favorites being Aladdin Lamps. Her and her husband were active members of the Aladdin Knights. Marcia liked spending her time gardening, traveling, completing puzzles on her iPad, and reading Amish love story novels.  She also enjoyed visits from her great-grandchildren and attending their events.  Marcia was so loving and selfless; her greatest joy was caring for her husband and raising their two granddaughters. Marcia was a member of the Ferris Christian Church and knew the importance of raising her family in the church.

Marcia is survived by her husband, Junior, of Ferris; two granddaughters, Jaclyn (Ryan) Burns of Brookfield, Missouri and Taylor Duffy of Columbia, Missouri; and two great grandchildren, Emmett and Jentry Burns. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Nicholas Jay Duffy; a brother, Roy Dighton; and a sister, Elaine (Dighton) Reidner. 

Marcia’s granddaughters will meet friends from 9:00-11:00 AM- Friday morning, March 20, 2020 at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage.  There will be a private family service with family and close friends by invitation only with burial in Moss Ridge Cemetery. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

Mae Lu Meister

1924 – 2020

     Mae Lu Meister, 95 of Keokuk, IA died Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at UnityPoint
Health in Keokuk. 

     She was born June 10, 1924 in Bowling Green, MO, the daughter of Edwin S. and Lenna G. Basye. Mae Lu was united in marriage to Jack H. Meister on July 13, 1946. He survives. Upon her death they had been married for 73 years.

     Other survivors include two sons; Larry (Nancy) Meister of Evergreen, CO and John (Christie) Meister of Newport, OR; two daughters, Minda (John) VanAusdall and Mary (Rob Seltzer) Thomas, both of Keokuk; six grandchildren, Brian (Jamie) Meister of Melbourne, FL, Josh (Sherry) Meister of Nayarit, Mexico, Lindsey Meister of Taneytown, Maryland, Chase (Brianna) Meister of Lebanon, OR, Daniel (Jeannie) Svejda of Keokuk, Mark (Tracy) Meister of Siletz, OR; step grandson Brandon VanAusdall of O’Fallon, MO and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

     She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Gardner Basye, Edward J. Basye, one sister, Marjorie Hurd, son Jeoffrey and step-grandson, Clayton Daugherty.  She was the last member of her family. 

     Mae Lu was a resident of Keokuk since 1942, at which time she entered the St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1945 as an RN. She attended US Army Cadet School at Camp Atterbury, Indiana in 1944. She practiced nursing at St. Joseph, Graham and Keokuk Area Hospitals, retiring in 1986. She was loved very much by her patients and fellow associates. 

     In her youth she was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Bowling Green, MO. She was also an active member of St. Paul United Church of Christ in Keokuk where she served in many capacities especially enjoying her membership in the Women's Service Circle.

     Mae Lu was an avid enthusiast of outdoor activities including walking, bicycling, and golfing.

     The rite of cremation was accorded. Services will be held at a later date.   

     Memorials may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ or the Salvation Army.

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Marcia Diane Duffy, 79, of Ferris, passed away peacefully at 5:15 A.M. Monday, March 16, 2020, at the St. Vincent Home in Quincy after a hard fought battle with cancer.  She spent her final days surrounded by the love and support of her family.  

Marcia was born October 23, 1940, the daughter of Clarence and Eunice (Poland) Dighton in Keokuk, Iowa.  She attended school in Colusa, Illinois.  On October 6, 1963 she welcomed a son, Nicholas. On March 24, 1973, she was united in marriage to Junior Duffy at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa.  Marcia had worked at Nicor Gas in Carthage for many years.  She enjoyed collecting antiques; With one of her favorites being Aladdin Lamps. Her and her husband were active members of the Aladdin Knights. Marcia liked spending her time gardening, traveling, completing puzzles on her iPad, and reading Amish love story novels.  She also enjoyed visits from her great-grandchildren and attending their events.  Marcia was so loving and selfless; her greatest joy was caring for her husband and raising their two granddaughters. Marcia was a member of the Ferris Christian Church and knew the importance of raising her family in the church.

Marcia is survived by her husband, Junior, of Ferris; two granddaughters, Jaclyn (Ryan) Burns of Brookfield, Missouri and Taylor Duffy of Columbia, Missouri; and two great grandchildren, Emmett and Jentry Burns. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Nicholas Jay Duffy; a brother, Roy Dighton; and a sister, Elaine (Dighton) Reidner. 

Marcia’s granddaughters will meet friends from 9:00-11:00 AM- Friday morning, March 20, 2020 at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage.  There will be a private family service with family and close friends by invitation only with burial in Moss Ridge Cemetery. A celebration of her life will he held at a later date.

Helen Ann Lowenberg

1927-2020

     Helen Ann Lowenberg, 92 of Ft. Madison, IA formerly of Donnellson, IA died Sunday, March 15, 2020 at the Great River Hospice House in West Burlington, IA.

     She was born November 14, 1927 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of Philip J. and Viola Fischer Weirather.  Helen graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1946.

     On January 8, 1966 she was united in marriage to Gary Lowenberg.  He preceded her on death on July 2, 2018.

     Helen had been employed through the years at Sheaffer Pen and Chevron Chemical, both in Ft. Madison, IA and at Linquist Brothers in Keokuk.

     She attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ft. Madison, IA and St. Boniface Catholic Church in Farmington, IA. 

     Helen is survived by her son, Jeffery Lowenberg, of Ft. Madison, IA, one sister, Mary Ann Weirather of Keokuk and several nieces and nephews.

     Besides her husband, she was also preceded in death by her parents, and two brothers, Harry Weirather and Bill Weirather.

     A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, at the Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk with Reverend David Brownfield, Ph.D. officiating.  As a precautionary measure, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a later date due to the COVID- 19.  A procession line will leave the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk at 10:45 a.m., Friday and go to the cemetery.  

     Memorials may be made to the St. Boniface Catholic Church or the Donnellson Library. 

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Mary L. Amann, 92, of Hamilton, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 15, 2020 at Unity Point Health in Keokuk, Iowa.

Mary was born September 12, 1927, in rural Nauvoo, Illinois, the daughter of Carl and Augusta Wilkens.  Mary was united in marriage with Paul Amann on March 5, 1946, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Nauvoo, Illinois.  He preceded her in death in 1994.

She was a faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was also a day care provider for thirty years touching many lives.  She loved her family and also each of the children she opened her home to. Each of those children held a special place in her heart.

Mary is survived by seven children, M. Jane (Dennis) Wolgemuth of Nauvoo; Phil (Janet) Amann of Hamilton, Jim (Debra) Amann of Hamilton, Susan (Greg) Bolton of Hamilton, Theresa (John) Mason of Hamilton, Mark (Becky) Amann of Pittsfield and Sarah (Jeff) Oberman of Fenton, Missouri; seventeen grandchildren, Anthony (Connie) Wolgemuth, Amy (John) Hellige, Gay (Bryan) Hoffman, Bradley (Julie) Bell, Kimberly (Bill) Sikes, Angela Miller, Tarah Amann, Matt Amann, Josh (Cindy) Heitman, Jessica (Jeff) Dowdall, Danny Bolton, Kendall (Emily) Bush, Isaac Amann, Mackenzie Amann, Ryan (Courtney) Oberman, Paul Oberman and Anne Oberman; twenty-two great grandchildren with one expected late spring and four great great grandchildren with one expected in late spring; one sister-in-law, Ann Wilkens; several cousins; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Paul; brothers, Ambrose and Charles in infancy and Joseph and Carl Junior; sisters, Irene and Jeanie and her beloved nephew, Monsignor Greg Ketcham.

Mary was a wonderful mother, mentor and friend to many.  She will be greatly missed.

Private graveside services will be held for immediate family.  When allowed visitation and a memorial mass will be conducted. Memorials may be directed to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Hamilton, Illinois or the Keokuk Area Hospital Foundation.  Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Barbara Ann Walker, 83, of LaHarpe, Illinois, passed away at 4:05 a.m. Monday, March 16, 2020 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois.

Barbara was born on October 26, 1936 in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Samuel Newton and Marie Pat (Hartnett) Gillett. On August 31, 1973 she married Ronnie L. Walker. He preceded her in death on June 15, 2008.

Barbara was a graduate of LaHarpe High School. She was a member of the LaHarpe American Legion Auxiliary and the J.O. Club. She enjoyed entertaining family and friends and playing cards.

Survivors include one daughter, Dawn (Tom) Todd of LaHarpe; three sons, Chris Carey of LaHarpe, Robbie (Amber) Walker of Dallas City and Ryan Walker of LaHarpe; twelve grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren and two brothers, Sam “Newt” (Jean) Gillett of Carthage, Illinois and Jim (Mary) Gillett of Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; husband; infant daughter, Diane Carey and one son, Kelly Carey.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe with her grandsons’ Tyler and Nate Todd officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date in McConnell Cemetery, near Ft. Green, Illinois. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home. A time of food and fellowship will follow the service at The Annex.

A memorial fund has been established for the LaHarpe American Legion Auxiliary. To leave a condolence please visit Barbara’s obituary at banksandbeals.com.

Tawnya K. Ammer, 62, of Lake of the Oaks, near Canton, Missouri, formerly of Nauvoo passed away at 9:14 a.m. Saturday, March 14, 2020 at her home.

Tawnya was born on May 22, 1957 in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of David and Gee Gee Wood Hamma. On July 26, 1975 she married Doug Ammer at the Christ Lutheran Church in Nauvoo.

Tawnya was a graduate of Nauvoo-Colusa High School. She served her community as a waitress at many local restaurants. She then became an optician and since then excelled in the optical field. She went on to become an Opthalmic Technician with Quincy Medical Group. Tawnya was a member of First Christian Church, Keokuk, before that an active member of Christ Lutheran Church, Nauvoo, Nauvoo Grape Festival Association, Nauvoo Car Show and the Nauvoo Jayceettes.

Tawnya loved her church and time spent with her family at the Lake of the Oaks.

Survivors include her husband, Doug; one son, Kirt (Mindy) Ammer of Smithville, Missouri; one daughter, Tiffany (Chad) Taylor of Stevens Point, Wisconsin; eight grandchildren, Ethan, Evan, Ean, and Easton Ammer, Dominic and Noah Aguilera and Alaina and Jackson Taylor. Also surviving are three brothers, Mike Hamma of Delavan, Illinois, Dennis (Jane) Hamma and Wally (Cindi) Hamma all of Nauvoo.

Tawnya was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents and one brother in infancy, Timothy Hamma.

The Tawnya Ammer family and Schmitz-Banks & Beals Funeral Home has decided to postpone Tawnya's service. A service will be rescheduled at a later date. The family hopes everyone understands that the safety for everyone is their main concern. Please direct any questions to Schmitz-Banks & Beals Funeral Home, 217-453-2420.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for Hospice of Northeast Missouri, First Christian Church, Keokuk or Lake of the Oaks, Canton.

Schmitz-Banks & Beals Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left by visiting Tawnya's obituary at sbbfuneralhome.com.

Tori Jo (Johnson) Sohm, 34, of Troy, Missouri, formerly of Carthage, passed away
Saturday, March 14, 2020.
Tori was born September 24, 1985, the daughter of Jim and Karla (Reed) Johnson
in Carthage. She attended Carthage High School graduating in 2004. She then
received her Bachelor’s Degree from Western Illinois University in Fashion
Merchandising. She owned and operated Tori Jo’s Chic Boutique in Troy and sold
Younique Make-Up products. Tori loved crafting and sold her products at her
boutique.
Tori is survived by her husband, Calvin Sohm, of Troy, Missouri; step-son, Gavin
Sohm of Troy; mother, Karla Johnson of Carthage; her brother, Travis Johnson of
Carthage; her grandmother, Shirley Stephenson of Carthage; a niece, Harper Jo
Johnson of Carthage; and her dogs, Bentlee, Kenzee and Paizlee.
She was preceded in death by a preborn baby Sohm; her father, Jim Johnson; and
her dog, Rylee.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, March 21, 2020, at Trinity
Lutheran Church in Carthage with burial to follow in Moss Ridge Cemetery in
Carthage. Family will meet friends from 4:00 – 8:00 P.M. Friday evening at Printy
Funeral Home in Carthage. A memorial fund has been established. Printy Funeral
Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Marian Elaine Ehmke Short Ancelet was born October 25, 1923, to Edwin Roy and Mona Louise Flesher
Ehmke on a farm near Gilmore City, Iowa. She married James McDonald Short on March 8, 1944, at
Clarion, Iowa. He was killed in an explosion in Keokuk, Iowa, on December 28, 1961. On June 4, 1966,
she married Carroll K. Klingel in Warsaw, Illinois. He passed away on April 4, 1970, after surgery for
brain cancer. She married Leo J. Ancelet on March 30, 1985. He survives.
Other survivors are her children, Steven E. (Jean) Short, Edward C. (Linda) Short, Sally L. (Wayne)
Dowling, Mary E. (Dennis) Hammen, and a daughter-in-law, Loretta Short. She had five step-children:
Bonnie (Dennis) Hemann, Carolyn (Dave) Holloway, Patty (Paul) Phillips, Gloria (Nick) Dadant, and
Ronald (Nancy) Ancelet. She had 18 grandchildren: Angela French, Tim (Nancy) Short, Monica (Steve)
Wright, Erica Short, Nick Short, Zach Short, Andrea Short; Pamela (Jim) Durbin, Carolyn (Dan) White;
Sarah Short, Jim (Shannon) Short; Leigh Ann (Eddy) Dowling, Rebecca (Christapher) See, Jeff (Kelli)
Clampitt, Jennifer (Matt) King; Samantha (Heath) Telleen, Michaela (Shane) Carlson, and Jeremy
(Lauren) Hammen. Also, she had 10 step-grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, 20 step-great-
grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Margaret
Ehmke and Betty Ehmke.
She was preceded in death by her oldest son, James Michael Short, on December 29, 1989, her parents,
a sister, and three brothers.
Marian worked for Sheller-Globe Company for 35 years, retiring in 1985. Marian was a member of
Order of Eastern Star for 72 years. She served as Worthy Matron in 1984, 1988, and 1990. Leo and
Marian received the Rainbow Grand Cross of Color at the Illinois General Assembly in 1989. They also
received the Family of the Year recognition from the Quincy 32-degree Masonic Family Life Program for
2005 for their work for family, church, and community. Leo and Marian operated the Warsaw Food
Pantry for 12 years.
Marian was a member of Warsaw United Methodist church and the Warsaw United Methodist Women
since 1958. She was very active and involved on most committees throughout her years.
Marian’s life will be celebrated with a funeral service at 10:30 am on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, at Printy
Funeral Home in Warsaw, with burial to follow at Oakland Cemetery in Warsaw. Visitation will be held at
the funeral home on Monday from 2 to 7 pm, with family meeting friends from 5 to 7 pm. An Order of
the Eastern Star service will be held on Monday at 7 pm directly following the visitation.
Memorials may be directed to Chaddock Children’s Home in Quincy, or EveryStep Hospice in Mount
Pleasant.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Mary Grace Biondolino, 88, of Carthage, passed away at 9:45 AM Thursday, March 12, 2020, at the McDonough District Hospital in Macomb.

The Peoria Diocese has cancelled all Catholic Masses including funerals.  As a result Mary Biondolino's funeral that was supposed to be held Wednesday has been cancelled.  A graveside service will be held at 12:00 Noon on Wednesday at the Keokuk National Cemetery instead

Barbara Ellen “Barb” Batley, 71, of Carthage, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2020, in Hamilton,
Illinois.
Barb was born on June 4, 1948, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of William and Swanee (Hurt) Mosley. She
loved her family deeply, and especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-
grandchildren. She also loved her cat. Barb was a woman who never wanted to be forgotten, and lived
and enjoyed life to the fullest. She could draw horses incredibly well, and spent much of her free time
crocheting.
Barb is survived by three daughters: Denise (Dennis) Montgomery of Hamilton, Illinois; Deanna (Roy)
Brewer of Des Moines, Iowa; and Rachel (Pete VanBeek) Icenogle of Wayland, Missouri; two sons:
Damon (Shana) Bollin of Kahoka, Missouri; and Derek Bollin of Des Moines, Iowa; her sister Sharon
Smith of Carthage, Illinois; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and
cousins.
Barb is preceded in death by her parents, her brother Gary Mosley, her daughter-in-law Lori Bollin, and
her great-granddaughter Kenzie Montgomery.
Barb’s life will be celebrated on June 6, 2020 at Denise Montgomery’s farm.
Memorials in memory of Barb may be directed to her family.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Donald Gene “Biggie” Bigelow, Jr.

1952-2020

     Donald Gene “Biggie” Bigelow, Jr. 67, of Keokuk, IA died Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at his home.

     He was born June 25, 1952 in Nevada, MO, the son of Donald Gene, Sr. and Sarah Waneta Ewverts Bigelow. 

     Donald graduated from the Keokuk High School with the Class of 1971.

    He had been employed as a drywaller and painter for over forty years.  He had also been employed at BTR/Henniges in Keokuk. 

     Donald enjoyed playing cards at Papa’s twice a week and also liked to try his luck at Terribles Casino.  Donald liked to spend time outdoors, fishing and rock hunting.  He liked to tinker around his house and collected everything from Hot Wheels to marbles.

     He is survived by two children, Jonah Bigelow of Sunnyland, IL and Angela Gonzales and husband Johnny of Carthage, IL, six grandchildren, Ashley, Jader, Coral, Madison, Allie and Maverick, six great-grandchildren, Evie, Alyison, Phoebe, Lana, Lilly and Phoenix, one brother, Billy Dean Bigelow of Keokuk, cousins, Butchy Bigelow, Graylin Bigelow, Susie Bigelow and Liz Bigelow, niece and nephews, Josh and Jamie Mays and Heather and Tiffany Bigelow and his companion, sweet Mary Edmiston. 

     He was preceded in death his parents, one daughter, Tonya Lynn Bigelow and one sister, Sheryl Marie Mays.

     A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Derek Olsen officiating.  Burial will be held in the Hickory Grove Cemetery in rural Keokuk.

     Visitation will be held after 1 p.m., Monday at the funeral home with family meeting with friends from 5-7 p.m.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to help with final expenses.

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenemmemorialhome.com

Jay Booth, 88, of Hamilton, passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2020, at Memorial Hospital in Carthage. 

Jay was born August 11, 1931 in Raceland, Kentucky, the son of Garland and Lillian (Haney) Booth. On July 19, 1956 he was united in marriage to Alice (Leeds) Booth in Macomb, Illinois. Jay served in the United States Army. He was a member of the V.F.W. and Past Commander in Macomb. Jay was an excellent steel guitar player. He started playing guitar when he was 8 years old and has performed with many bands over the years and also the CBS Sunday morning TV Show, “Possum Holler Opry” in the 1960’s.

Jay is survived by his wife, Alice, of Hamilton; five daughters, Vanessa Countryman of St. Francisville, Missouri, Vivian (Tim) Harris of Carthage, Illinois,  Virginia Henson of Keokuk, Iowa, Valerie (Todd) Keister of St. Francisville, Missouri, and Vanetta Johnson of Alexandria, Missouri; nine grandchildren, Trevor (Skyler) Harris, Brandon Henson, Shannon Henson, Casey Henson, Kelsey Henson, Meranda Geissler, Josh Laffoon, Jess Booth, and Travis Johnson; five great-grandchildren, Trace, Tucker, Gavin, Maverick, and Oakley; a sister, Corrine Gilbert of Buford, Georgia; and two sisters-in-law, Betty Settles  and Evelyn Clark, both of Hamilton, Illinois. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; Father & Mother- in- law, Lloyd & Agnes Leeds; two grandchildren, Tyler Harris and Lori Henson; and two sisters, Helen Porter and Marietha Keyser. 

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M Monday, March 16, 2020, at the Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton with burial to follow in Oakwood Cemetery in Hamilton with military rites. Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 P.M, Sunday evening at the Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton. Memorials may be directed to the family of Jay Booth.  Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Ashley Mae Hoener, 36, of La Grange, Missouri, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2020, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Illinois.

Ashley was born on September 17, 1983, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Illinois, the daughter of Leslie and Kathy (Leeds) Hoener. She graduated from Unity High School in 2002, and went on to receive her cosmetology certificate from Gem City Beauty Academy in 2003. She was employed as a pricing coordinator at County Market in Palmyra and a Hair Stylist at Cloud 9 Salon in Quincy, Illinois. She greatly appreciated the customers she met and the friends she made as a hair stylist. Her daughter Quinn was her sunshine and her top priority, and they loved to go to the park and rock hunt together. In her younger years, Ashley loved to dance and fish and always had a love of painting and drawing. Her big sis Chas was her best friend and partner in crime. They loved pulling pranks on their mom.

Ashley is survived by her daughter Quinn Marie and her son Xander Kyle, both of La Grange, Missouri; her parents Leslie and Kathy Hoener of Mendon, Illinois; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Ashley is preceded in death by her sister Chasity Marie Hoener and five grandparents; Gilbert and Dorothy Hoener, Naomi and Junior Leeds and Rufus Welch.

Funeral services will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, March 14, 2020, at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton, Illinois, with burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Hamilton. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 am to 1 pm directly before the service.

Memorials in memory of Ashley may be directed to her family.

Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.

Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Tony O’Neil Hand

1956 – 2020

     Tony O’Neil Hand, 63, of Alexandria, MO, died Friday, March 6, 2020 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

     He was born on December 23, 1956 in Keokuk, IA, the son of James and Phyllis VanTress Hand.  He graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1976.

     Tony married Dawn Washburn on August 10, 1985 and they later divorced.  To this union was born one daughter, Jennifer.

     He had worked in electrical maintenance at Steel Casting, St. Louis Gear and for the City of Alexandria.  Most recently he had been employed at Lexington Square in Keokuk.

     Tony enjoyed boating on the river, fishing and deer hunting.  He also enjoyed watching westerns, collecting things and going out to eat.  He was very mechanically minded and could fix anything. Tony never knew a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone.  He was a friend to many and generous to all. Above all he loved his family and his grandchildren were his pride and joy as well as his dog, Jersey.   He was the best dad a girl could have and always told his daughter how special she was and to be careful on the road. At the end of every conversation he always said, I love you guys.

     He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer O’Neil Richardson (Brad) of Carthage, IL, two grandchildren, Harper and Brilynn Richardson, his father, James O’Neil Hand (LaDonna) of Keokuk, one sister, Diane Cunningham (Curtis) of Montrose, one brother, James S. Hand (Ashley) of Keokuk, two nephews, Cody Cunningham of Chicago, IL and James Dru Hand (Emily) of Carthage, IL, one niece, Dannieka Joan Hand of Charleston, SC, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.

     He was preceded in death by his mother, his grandmother, Viola Ward and his grandfather, James M. Hand.

     A Gathering of Remembrance will be held on Saturday from 2 – 4 pm at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with family meeting with friends at that time.

     Memorials may be made to his grandchildren.

     On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Richard A. Thompson

        Richard A. Thompson, 83, of Dallas City, IL passed away at 4:30pm, Saturday, March 7, 2020 at the Montebello Health Care Center in Hamilton, IL.
        He was born January 13, 1937 in Durham Township, IL, the son of Allen and Dorothy Severns Thompson. On February 20, 1957, he married Mary Faye Cannell in Dallas City. She preceded him in death on March 17, 2002.
        Richard was a graduate of the Dallas City High School and had worked at the IAAP for over 40 years. He served on the Dallas City Fire Department for more than 40 years and served as Fire Chief from 1992 - 1995. He served on the boards of the Dallas City Rural Fire Protection District and the Dallas City Park Board. He was a former member of Ducks Unlimited, Eagles and Moose Lodge. He enjoyed restoring antique engines and was a member of the Midwest Old Threshers and the Hamilton Old Threshers.
        He is survived by two sons, Mike (Janet) Thompson and Carl (Anne) Thompson, all of Dallas City, five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren and one brother, Larry Thompson of Macomb, IL.
        He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, one brother, Gary Thompson and one sister, Geneva Tutwiler.
        Services will be held at 11:00am Saturday, March 14, 2020 with Pastor Dianne Duncan officiating, at Banks & Beals funeral Home in Dallas City where visitation will be held from 9:00am until time of services. Memorials may be made to the old Threshers Foundation, Dallas City Fire Department of Blessing Hospice. To sign the guest book and leave a condolence, please visit Richard’s obituary at banksandbeals.com

Keith I Neill, 78, of Carthage, passed away at 8:43 AM Saturday, March 7, 2020, near his home in Carthage.

Keith was born April 14, 1941 in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of Cecil and Ida (Trautvetter) Neill. 

He was a 1960 graduate of Carthage High School where he participated in FFA. He was also active in 4H and greatly enjoyed showing cattle and attending livestock shows throughout his entire life. Farming was extremely important to Keith, especially tending to and caring for his cows. He lived his entire life on a farm north of Carthage where he farmed with his father and later with his son David. He passed away doing what he loved, driving the red pickup, and checking on things “down the west road.” That was the same road where he walked to the Young America School seventy years ago.

He met Connie Ufkes at Ferris Grade School and they were married on May 28, 1967, in Carthage, Illinois. Connie preceded him in death in 2015. 

Keith is survived by two sons, Michael (Melissa) of Rio, and David (Shelly) of Carthage; two granddaughters, Sarah (Brian) Nelson, of Altona; and Katherine (James) Sullivan, of Virginia Beach, Virginia; and two step-grandsons, Jeremy and Josh Roberts. He was also preceded in death by his parents and a brother Roger. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Thursday morning, March 12, 2020, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in Moss Ridge Cemetery in Carthage.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. until time of services at the funeral home at 10:30 AM. Memorials may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church in Carthage. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Carol J. McVey


        Carol Jean McVey, 74, of Lomax, IL passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at the Great River Hospice House in West Burlington, IA.               
        She was born June 18, 1945 in LaHarpe, IL, the daughter of Samuel Webster and Grace Eileen Bartlow Willdrick.
        Carol attended Durham, IL grade school and graduated from Dallas City High School. She worked at J. I. Case for 22 years, retiring in 2009. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, embroidering and mushroom hunting.
        She is survived by two sons, Randy Smith of Iowa City, IA and Darren Smith of Dallas City, two daughters, Rochelle Stone of Dallas City and Jessica Sevilla of Indianapolis, IN, nine grandchildren and one brother, Larry Willdrick of Jefferson City, Tennessee,
        She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, LeRoy Willdrick, one sister, Myrna Holstein and her grandson, Noah Stone.
        Graveside services will be held at 10:30am Saturday, March 7, 2020 at the Harris Cemetery near Dallas City with Pastor Maxine Dennison officiating. A memorial fund has been established for her grandchildren’s education. To sign the guest book and leave a condolence, please visit her obituary at www.banksandbeals.com

William Dale “Bill” Clark, 77, of Carthage, passed away at 1:03 P.M. Monday, March 2, 2020, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy.

Bill was born February 6, 1943, the son of Dorothy Bloyd Clark in San Francisco, California. Dorothy married Robert Markey in 1948. At that time Bob became Bill's father. He attended LaHarpe High School with the class of 1961 and received his diploma while serving in the U.S. Army from November 1960 until his Honorable Discharge in November of 1963.  Bill was a man of many talents and interests. He worked as a bookkeeper at the Carthage Elevator and Carthage Livestock. He was also a self-employed carpenter and livestock farmer. He enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing, storytelling, farming and spending time with his family.

Bill is survived by eight children, Barbara (Ed) McEwen of California, Linda Lairson of Missouri, Carol Smith of Colchester, Illinois, Dorothy Kimbrell of California, Dustin Clark of Mt. Sterling, Illinois, Lance, Nicole and Danielle Clark, all of Carthage; thirteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren; three brothers, Rick (Bev) Markey of Carthage, Bobby (Angela) Markey of LaHarpe, Richard (Judy) Markey of Burnside, Illinois; three sisters, Cathy (Rick) Johnson of Dallas City, Patty (Mark Guzman) Finch of LaHarpe and Brenda (Robin) Kern of Mt. Airy, NC.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Lee Clark and Danny Markey; and two grandchildren, James and Kayla Smith.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Monday, March 9, 2020, at Calvary Cemetery in Carthage with military rites.  Visitation will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Sunday evening at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Lois “Reta” Steele

1941-2020

     Lois “Reta” Steele, 78, of Keokuk, IA died Tuesday, March 3, 2020 at River Hills Village in Keokuk.

     Reta was born on October 12, 1941 in rural Clark County MO, the daughter of James E. and Lois Pauline Long Egley.  She was united in marriage to Charles S. Steele on January 18, 1964 in Reno, NV.  He preceded her in death on July 1, 2000.

     In August 1959 she entered St. Mary’s Hospital School of Nursing in Quincy, IL.  During her senior year of training she joined the Army Nurses Corps. In March of 1963 she was commissioned as a 2^nd Lieutenant and stationed at Letterman General Hospital in San Francisco, CA for a total of three years of service. 

     She had been employed at Keokuk Area Hospital for thirty-five years until her retirement in 2001.

     Reta attended the Carlson College of Massage Therapy in Anamosa, IA and became a licensed massage therapist. 

     She loved to square dance and was a member of a square dance club in each of the tri state areas.  Reta was a skilled seamstress and made her square dance costumes and also made lap robes for disabled veterans. 

     She is survived by two sons, James Steele (Denise) of Alexandria, MO and Joseph Steele of Boone, IA  two daughters, Bertha Yarbrough (Eric) of LaGrange, MO and Leona Kepler of Bradenton, FL, one step-son, Leland Steele of Keokuk, six grandchildren, Levi Mason, Michael Mason, Mary Beth Kepler, Jamie Lee Steele  C.J. Steele and Noah Yarbrough, six step-grandchildren, Tim Yarbrough, Chris Steele, Valerie Steele, Sierra Cockrell, Kourtni Cockrell, Kenadi Cockrell, two step-great-grandchildren, Chase and Alyssa Steele, two sisters-in-law,  Sandra Briggs (Robert) and Mildred Wagner all of Keokuk and family friend, Linda Clarke of St. Peters, MO and several nieces, nephews and other extended family. 

     Besides her husband she was also preceded in death by her parents, one granddaughter, Alexandria Powell, step-granddaughter, Tish Yarbrough, two sisters, Dorothy Roberts and Linda Roberts and sisters-in-law, Esther Thorn, Elizabeth Stedman, Lois Taylor, brothers-in-law, Richard Steele and Russell Steele, Jr.

     A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Reverend David Brownfield, Ph.D. officiating.  Burial with military rites will be in the Oakhill Cemetery in St. Francisville, MO.  

     Visitation will be held after 1 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home with family meeting with friends from 6-8 p.m.  A prayer service will be held at 5:30 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home.

     Memorials may be made to the English River Outfitters in Washington, IA, 2564 305^th Street,

Washington, IA, 52353.

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Dixie L. Shipman, 73, of Webster, Illinois, passed away surrounded by her loving family at 4:31 P.M. Sunday, March 1, 2020, at St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria following a sudden illness.

Dixie was born December 22, 1946, in Keokuk, Iowa the daughter of Floy and Anna (Fogle) Huddleston.  She attended Plymouth High School graduating in 1964. On October 31, 1964, she was united in marriage to Bill Shipman.  Dixie had worked at Kankakee Federal/Centrue Bank in Manteno and Kankakee, Illinois for 23 years retiring in 2006. She and Bill were members of the Christian Church of Manteno for 25 years.  Dixie enjoyed crafts, traveling, taking pictures and Southern Gospel music. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren, family and friends. She and Bill are members of the Webster Community Church.

Dixie is survived by her husband, Bill, of Webster, Illinois; three daughters, Julie (Don) Wulff of Manteno, Illinois, Melissa (Josh) Cushman of Gibson City, Illinois and Gayle Knauth of Bourbonnais, Illinois; nine grandchildren, Morgan (Jake) Nelson, Karrigan and Madigan Wulff, Kaley, Shelby, Riley and Maggie Cushman and Kaden and Kyzer Knauth; a great grandchild, Paisley Jo Roesch; a brother, Billy (Sherrie) Huddleston of West Chester, Ohio; sister-in-law, Marilyn Huddleston of Elvaston, IL; and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Jerry Huddleston; and nephews, David Huddleston and Kenny Chase.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday morning, March 7, 2020 at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in Irwin Cemetery near Plymouth.  Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 8:00 P.M. Friday evening at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage.

The family will also meet with family and friends unable to travel for other services on Thursday evening, March 12, 2020, at the Christian Church of Manteno, 401 E 3rd Street from 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. to celebrate Dixie’s life.

Memorials may be directed to OSF Foundation (the Oncology and Intensive Care Units of St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria) or Ride4Life (a benefit for cancer research through the American Cancer Society).  Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

James M. “Jim” Fish, 58, of Dallas City, Illinois, passed away Friday, February 28, 2020 at his home.
Jim was born on July 30, 1961 in Fort Madison, Iowa, the son of George and Sue Chewning Fish.
Jim was a 1979 graduate of Dallas City High School. After high school Jim worked at Shaeffer Pen Company in Fort Madison before enlisting in the U.S. Navy. Jim proudly worked as a Machinist all his life. He was a member of the Dallas City First Christian Church, LaMoine Valley ABATE and Harley Owners Group (HOG). He enjoyed fishing, hunting and riding his Harley-Davidson Motorcycle.
Survivors include his parents, George and Sue Fish of Dallas City; one brother, John (Renee) Fish of Dallas City; one sister, Polly (Jim) Ballinger of Black Canyon City, Arizona and one nephew, Sean Ballinger.
Jim was preceded in death by his grandparents.
Friends may call after 3:00 p.m. Friday, March 6, 2020 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City where the family will receive friends from 5:00 until 6:00 p.m. A flag presentation and family reading will be held at 6:00 p.m.
A memorial fund has been established for the Wounded Warrior Project. To leave a condolence please visit Jim’s obituary at banksandbeals.com

Lois Little, 95, of Carthage, passed away Sunday evening, March 1, 2020 at 11:59 P.M. at the Golden Good Shepherd Home in Golden, Illinois.

Lois was born August 31, 1924, in Adrian, Illinois the daughter of Ernest Roy and Mary Esther (Lyon) Harris.  She graduated from Carthage High School. On December 7, 1945, she was united in marriage to Ralph N. Little. He preceded her in death in 1995.  Lois was an active member of the Carthage Primitive Baptist Church and the Providence Primitive Baptist Church. She was also a member of the Thrifty Fingers Club.

Lois is survived by two daughters, Ruth (Ernest) Slottag of Springfield, Illinois and Jane Little of Richmond, Virginia; a son, James (Sandra) Little of Carthage, Illinois; grandchildren, Joseph (Krista) Little, Thomas (Dolly) Little, Richard (Julie) Little, Sheri (James) Doyle and Kathryn (Philip) Purgason; great grandchildren, Kaitlyn Little, Jared Little, Joshua Little, Kourtney Little, Vince Little, Beau Little, Bradyn Little, Brooklyn Little, Bryson Little, Peliah Purgason, Heis Purgason and Quill Purgason.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and husband, Ralph in 1995.

Funeral services will be held at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage on Thursday morning, March 5, 2020, at 11:00 A.M. with burial to follow in Harmony Township Cemetery near Bentley.  Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 7:00 P.M. Wednesday with family meeting friends from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Frank Anthony Jackson, 55, of West Point, Illinois, passed away at 3:00 A.M. Saturday morning, February 29, 2020 at his home in West Point.

Frank was born October 19, 1964, the son of Stephen J. and George Ann (Dunn) Jackson.  

Frank is survived by a brother, Mark (Rhonda) Jackson of Astoria, Illinois; and two sisters, Tammy (Tim) Lindsey of Armington, Illinois and Kellie Jo Jackson of Layton, Utah.

A private family service will be held.  Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Nellie Mae Ruth Lamma

1932-2020

     Nellie Mae Ruth Lamma, 87 of St. Francisville, MO, formerly Keokuk, IA, Mt. Sterling, IL and Basco, IL died Sunday, March 1, 2020 at her home surrounded by her loved ones.

     She was born December 16, 1932 in Versailles, IL, the daughter of Albert and Margaret Winzelman Wheeler.  On October 3, 1950, she was united in marriage to Grant Lamma, Jr. in Mt. Sterling, IL.  He preceded her in death on November 26, 2008.

     Nellie had been a member of the Church of Nazarene in both Mt. Sterling, IL and Versailles, IL. 

     Nellie was a devoted mother and homemaker.  She helped her husband in the woods cutting firewood until she was fifty-nine years old.  Nellie enjoyed watching gameshows on television, knitting, crocheting and cross stitching and keeping her mind sharp by working crossword and word search puzzles.  Above all, she adored her grandchildren and cherished the time she spent with them. 

     Nellie is survived by ten children, Carolyn Hendrickson of Keokuk, William Lamma of Warsaw, IL, Edna Bailey (Aubrey) of Lucas, IA, Clarence Lamma (Ann) of Centerville, TN, Sandra Hobb of Keokuk, David Lamma (Betty) of Salt Lake, UT, Jimmy Lamma of Keokuk, Helen Lamma of St. Francisville, MO, Janet Lamma (Joey Haislip) of Hamilton, IL and Charles Lamma (Heather) of St. Francisville, MO, numerous grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, eight great-great-grandchildren  and several nieces and nephews.  

     Besides her husband, she was also preceded in death by one son, Orville Lamma, one daughter, Rita Lamma, three grandchildren, one great-grandchild and three brothers, Raymond, Buster and Sherman Wheeler and two daughters-in-law, Cheryl Lamma and Linda Lamma.

     A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Shawn McAfee officiating.  Burial will be in the Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk.

     Visitation will be held after 1 p.m., Friday, at the funeral home with family meeting with friends from 6-8 p.m.

     Memorials may be made to the family.

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Geneva M. Tutwiler, 85 of Dallas City, Illinois, passed away Sunday, March 1, 2020 at the Maple Grove at Hancock Village, Carthage, Illinois.

Geneva was born on July 23, 1934 in Durham Township the daughter of Allen and Dorothy Severns Thompson. On June 26, 1954 she married Lawrence E. “Tut” Tutwiler in Durham. He preceded her in death on January 5, 1999.

Geneva was a 1952 graduate of Dallas City High School. Following high school she attended Bill Hill’s School of Cosmetology. Geneva owned and operated her own beauty shop for more than 40 years. She was member of the Dallas City United Methodist Church and later the Durham United Methodist Church. She was active in the community, helping with the blood mobile and many civic activities.

Survivors include one son, Ron (Connie) Tutwiler of Dallas City; two brothers, Rich Thompson of Hamilton, Illinois and Larry Thompson of Macomb, Illinois. Also surviving is one niece and three nephews.

Mrs. Tutwiler was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one daughter, Sandra Bustamate; one granddaughter, Jessamee Bustamate and one brother, Gary Thompson.

The funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 5, 2020 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City, with Rev. Diane Duncan officiating. Burial will be in the Durham Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

A memorial fund has been established for the Durham United Methodist Church. To  leave a condolence, please visit Geneva’s obituary at banksandbeals.com

Carolyn Jean (LeMaster)Potts

1942-2020

     Carolyn Jean (LeMaster) Potts, 77 of Keokuk, died Saturday, February 15, 2020 at Baptist Health in Lexington, KY.

     She was born December 4, 1942 in Alexandria, MO to Alfred and Hazel (Dochterman) LeMaster. Carolyn graduated from Kahoka High School in 1960, and from the Air Age Institute Airline Training School in Kansas City, MO.

     Carolyn was united in marriage with John Potts in September of 1961 and together they were blessed with two sons; Michael and Andrew.

     Carolyn lead a life devoted to family and faith, and was cherished by many.

     She is survived by her two sons Michael (Julie) Potts of Versailles, KY, Andrew (Larisa) Potts of Amherst, WI; five grandchildren Amanda (Joe) Hahn, Ashley Davenport, Abby Potts, Alexis Potts, Adam Potts; three great grandchildren; Hayden Hahn, Remington Davenport, and Beau Davenport; her sister Sharon (John) Haisch; nieces and nephews Kala Haisch, April Wilkens, Tina (Randy) Stott, Dennis LeMaster, Holly (Kevin) Bailey; and several beloved great nieces and nephews.

     She is preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, William, Stanley, and Jack; and two sister-in-laws, Colleen LeMaster and Norma LeMaster.

     A Gathering of Remembrance will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, March 8, 2020 at the Cornerstone Church in Keokuk with Pastor Jed Linebaugh officiating. 

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence or to the donor’s choice.

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Billy “Rene” Whalen
1956 – 2020

Billy “Rene” Whalen, 63, of Keokuk, IA, died Thursday, February 27, 2020 at
UnityPoint Health in Keokuk.
He was born on June 12, 1956 in Keokuk, IA, the son of Billy and Wanna Spurgeon
Whalen. Rene graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1974 and received
his Associates Degree from Southeastern Community College.
He was a veteran of the United States Air Force.
On November 24, 1990, Rene was united in marriage to Carole Murray in Quincy, IL.
She survives.
He is also survived three sisters-in-law, Kathy (Lars) Hermanson of Bartlesville, OK,
Terri Macormic of Salina, KS and Janet (Dan) Burrus of Fowler, IL, several cousins
including Jackie Scott of Williamstown, MO, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother at birth, Charles, one uncle, Bob
Whalen and his in-laws, Alvin and Emma Murray.
Rene had been employed as a custodian with the Keokuk Community School District.
He was a member of the American Legion Post #41 and the N.R.A.
Rene loved the water and did a lot of boating on the Mississippi. He was also a
certified scuba diver. He enjoyed any kind of car racing from NASCAR to the Lee County
Stock Car races. He also enjoyed working on his cars and striving for the best gas
mileage. He loved taking care of his beloved cats.
Services will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the family.
On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com