James Richard Porter, Sr.

1930-2021

     James Richard Porter, Sr., 91 of Keokuk, IA died Monday, July 26, 2021 at River Hills Village in Keokuk.

     He was born July 21, 1930 in Keokuk, IA the son of Wilbur and Gladys Fox Porter. James graduated from Keokuk High School with the class of 1948.

     He was a veteran of the Iowa Army National Guard.

     On May 5, 1951 he was united in marriage to Doris Scott.  She preceded him in death on January 28, 2017.

     James had been employed at the A&P store in Keokuk for many years.  He later was employed by Keokuk Waterworks for thirty-eight years until his retirement.  After retirement, he worked for several car dealerships in the area picking up and delivering cars.

     He was a member of New Testament Christian Church in Keokuk.

     James was a baseball fanatic.  He tried to visit all the baseball stadiums he could and he attended eleven-hundred major league games through the years.  James once had the opportunity to visit with Harry Carey and talk baseball with him.  James enjoyed a good cup of coffee and visiting with his friends.  He had a passion for streetcars and skylines.  He was very knowledgeable about them both and would draw beautiful pictures of them for others to enjoy.

     He is survived by two sons, Scott Porter (Julie) of Keokuk and James R. Porter, Jr. (Natalie) of Keokuk, two daughters, Jean Brown (Steve) of Nauvoo, IL and Janet Kinman (Dee) of Springville, IN, eight grandchildren, Sally Carter (Brian), Amy Newberry ( T.J.), Tim Porter (Robin), Nolan Porter, Annie Holmes (Tim), Kevin Crabtree, Jessica Fatt (Austin) and Cal Kinman, eleven great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

     Besides his wife, he was also preceded in death by his parents.

     A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Dee Kinman officiating. 

     Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 – 11 a.m., Thursday at the funeral home with the family meeting with friends at that time.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be to Every Step Hospice.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com 

Frank Mueller, Jr.
1941-2021

Frank Mueller, Jr., 79 of Keokuk, IA died Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at River Hills
Village in Keokuk.
Frank was born August 27, 1941 in Hodjez, Hungary the son of Frank and Maria
Mueller. He graduated from Canton High School in Canton, MO with the Class of 1960
and then attended Culver Stockton College.
Frank was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.
He had been employed at Armor Dial in Ft. Madison for thirty-one years before his
retirement in 2004.
He was a member of the Anchor of Hope Fellowship in Keokuk and the Keokuk Odd
Fellows.
Frank enjoyed fishing and had a large collection of lures and jigs. He also enjoyed
hunting, playing pool, and reading Louis L’amour novels. He especially enjoyed going out
to eat at the Cottage Café in Ft. Madison. Frank was a talented musician and will be
remembered for his harmonica playing. He was also a left-handed guitar player.
Survivors include a son, Shawn (Christine) Mueller of Henderson, NV, a daughter,
Melissa (Ira) Law of Keokuk, ten grandchildren, Jarin Mueller, Tyler Olsen, Danielle
Garcia, Hailey Mueller, Parker Mueller, Abigail Mueller, Kendall Woolf, Madison Woolf,
Hana Woolf and Hudson Law, seven great grandchildren, Ada Mueller, Tenzin Miller,
Elias Miller, Ezra Garcia, Elijah Garcia, Zoë Garcia and Aria Garcia, one brother, Larry
Mueller of Canton and a sister Elizabeth McAvenia of Corpus Christi, TX.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Joseph Mueller.
Visitation will be held Thursday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Anchor of Hope
Fellowship in Keokuk with the family meeting with friends at that time.
A private family graveside service with military rites will be held at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Phillip Maurice Tuttle, 83, of Carthage, passed away at his home Friday, July
23, 2021.
Phillip was born September 2, 1937, in Pontiac, Michigan, the son of
Samuel Ezra and Jewell Inez (Bishop) Tuttle. After graduating high school he went
on to receive his Physical Therapy degree from Hannibal Lagrange College and the
University of Missouri. He was a physical therapist for Memorial Hospital in
Carthage for many years. On December 2, 1994, he was united inmarriage to
Glenda Joyce Mitchell at the First Baptist Church in Carthage. Phillip was a
member of the Hancock County Gun Club and the First Presbyterian Church in
Carthage. He had also served on the Carthage Clipper Fire Department for a time.
Phillip was a lifelong learner and enjoyed history, painting, reading, puzzles and
birdwatching. He was also a skilled woodworker. Phil was an avid golfer and
enjoyed being a member of the Carthage Golf Club and his coffee club. He was a
member of the Hole in 1 club at the Carthage Golf Course, a Scout leader, a
volunteer with PALS and he also held many leadership positions within his
church. 
Phillip is survived by his wife, Glenda, of Carthage; children, Michael (Leslie)
Tuttle of Cherry Valley and Sharon (Bill) White of Macomb; step-daughters, Tami
Long of Carthage and Pam (Rod) Campbell of Colchester; grandchildren, John and
Joseph Tuttle, Jamie and Mallory White, Lindsey Long and McKensey (Wyatt)
Green, Brooke (Josh) McKay, Brittany (Tim) Muszynski, Bali (Cody) Carson and
Bradee Campbell; great grandchildren, Avinlee Wade, Liam and Tyson McKay, Coy
Green, Kennedy Muszynski, Dawsyn Green and Campell Muszynski.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty A. Maas; two brothers;
and a sister.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, July 27, 2021, at Printy
Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in Moss Ridge Cemetery in
Carthage. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9:30 AM until time of
services at 11:00. Memorials may be directed to Advance Therapy or the
Carthage Golf Course. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in Charge of
arrangements.

James Edward “Buck” Toole

1945-2021

     James Edward “Buck” Toole, 76, of Keokuk, IA died Tuesday, July 20, 2021at the Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center - Ft. Madison, IA.

     He was born on February 5, 1945 in Keokuk, IA the son of Lawrence E. and Mary M. Shea Toole.

    Jim graduated from Keokuk Senior High School with the class of 1964.  He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1965-1968. 

     On June 27, 1970 he was united in marriage to Jean Ann Goetz.  She survives.

     Other survivors include two sisters, Ruth Ann Brown of St. Petersburg, FL and Mary Ellen “Meme” Schrag (Dwight) of Bellevue, WA, brother-in-law, Alan Goetz of Indian Rock, FL sisters-in-law, Mary Jo Smith (Jack), Sarah Kraus both of Keokuk,  Julie Goetz-Ross (Bruce) of Rochester, MN, Peggy Frey (Scott) and Susan Hanan both of Keokuk.  He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews and a cousin, Sis Rockhold.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, Henry and Florence Shea, mother and father-in-law, Jean and Bill Goetz, aunt and uncle, Jim and Dorothy Shea, brothers-in-law, Jack Brown, Bill Goetz, Greg Kraus and Jeff Hanan and sister-in-law, Marilyn Goetz.

     Jim was a member of All Saints Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus.

     He had been employed McKenzie Dredging Co., Midwest Carbide and ADM.

     Jim enjoyed fishing and hunting.  In past years, he enjoyed his cabin on the Mississippi River.  All of his nieces and nephews enjoyed their special times at the cabin, motel swim overnights, stories and bird calls.  Jim also enjoyed yard work, motorized vehicles, gadgets and woodworking.  He was meticulous about his toys and belongings.

     Jim’s final act was to give the gift of life as a donor through the Iowa Donor Network.

     A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, at All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk, IA with Father Walter Helms and Father Joe Roost officiating.  Burial with military rites will be in the Keokuk National Cemetery.  

     Visitation will be held prior to the service on Monday, at the church with family meeting with friends from 9:30-11 a.m.

     Memorials may be made to the Keokuk Catholic Schools or to the donor’s choice.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Bobbie Dean Mead
1932 – 2021

Bobbie Dean Mead, 89, of Ft. Madison, IA, died Saturday, July 17, 2021 at The
Madison in Ft. Madison, IA.
Bobbie was born February 8, 1932 in Ethel, MO, the son of Estel “Pete” Everett and
Barbara Estella Mae Speakes Mead.
He had been employed by Abingdon Briggs Manufacturing, Fruehauf in Ft. Madison,
Eagle Summit in Keokuk, and most recently for the City of Montrose until his retirement
in 2011. Bobbie also was skilled in the art of making pottery.
Bobbie loved NASCAR and anything that went fast, however dirt track racing was his
all-time favorite. He followed dirt track races in several different states. One thing Bobbie
will be remembered for is his sense of humor.
He is survived by two sons, Bobbie Mead (Karrie) of Cozad, NE, and Terry Woolsey of
Galesburg, IL, two daughters, Linda Hunt (Alan) of Zephyrhills, FL and Lisa Reed, a
sister, Betty Jones of Montrose, a brother, Gerald “Hot Dog” Mead of Montrose, several
grandchildren, including Shantel Sherman of Ft. Madison, Shawnna Thompson (Jeff) of
Sidney, NE, Bobby Joe Mead (Christine) of Codaz, NE, Matthew Mead of Holdrege, NE
and several great grandchildren, including Brian Sherman, Tristen Lindsey (Shelby) of
Kearney, NE, Makinzie Mead of Kimball, NE and Amanda Mead of Cozad, NE and two
great great grandchildren of Nebraska.
Bobbie was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Darlene Jones and Rosetta
Mead, a brother, Everett Mead, an infant daughter, Rosetta Maxine Mead at birth, a
granddaughter, Ashley Dawn Stone to S.I.D’s, and a grandson in law, Brian Sherman of
Farmington, IL.
There will be no services.

Roberta Lynn Stice

1955 – 2021

     Roberta Lynn Stice, 66, of Keokuk, IA died Monday, July 19, 2021 at the Pearl Valley Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Muscatine, IA. 

     Roberta was born July 9, 1955 in Keokuk, IA to Robert Vernon and Donna Jean Hamrick Wilson. Roberta graduated from the Keokuk High School with the class of 1973.

     She was united in marriage to Richard Stice in Keokuk on October 1, 2005. He survives.

     Other survivors include one son, Brandon Wilson (Shilea) of Hamilton, one daughter, Stacie Stephenson of Kahoka, MO, two brothers, Gary Wilson of Ft. Madison, IA, and Steve Wilson (Tammy) of Indiana, one sister, Patsy Holmes (John) of Omaha, NE, three step-sons, Matthew Stice (Dollie) of Keokuk, Chad Stice (Nicki) of Quincy, IL and Randy Stice of Keokuk, one step-daughter, Carla Waetzig of Keokuk, four grandchildren, Alyssa Armstrong (Ty), Bryce Wilson, Austin Hardy and Trenton Hardy, a great granddaughter, Ember Armstrong, twelve step-grandchildren, eight step great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and cousins.

     Roberta was preceded in death by her parents.

     She had been employed by Eagle Summit in Keokuk for twenty-five years. She later had been employed by Keokuk Area Hospital, where she worked for several years.

     She was a member of the Family Worship Center Freedom of Christ and Calvary Foursquare Church, both in Keokuk. Roberta loved to sing, worship and fellowship at church.

     She enjoyed cleaning her home and kept it immaculate. She had a love for pizza and murder mystery and crime TV shows, but her one true joy in life was taking care of her children and grandchildren.  

     A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Ray Gilbert officiating.  Burial will be in the Keokuk National Cemetery.

     Visitation will be held after 1 p.m., Thursday, 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 sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Nellie “Peach” Louise Tanner, 78, of Warsaw, passed away on Monday, July 19, 2021, in her home surrounded by her loved ones.

Nellie was born on August 22, 1942, in Bloomfield, Illinois, the daughter of Leonard and Leveta (Cox) Stone of Bloomfield, IL. She graduated from Unity High School in 1960. Nellie married Larry Tanner on Feburary 19, 1961 at the Methodist Church in Quincy, IL. They have three children: Debbie, Donna and Chad.

Nellie loved working outside, especially in her garden. She loved cooking big meals for her family and helping her husband farm. She will be greatly missed.

Nellie is survived by her husband Larry; three children: Debbie (Rick) Mortimer of Donnellson, IA, Donna Tobias of West Point, IL and Chad (Andrea) Tanner of McLean, IL; seven grandchildren: Lance Mortimer, Dana (David) Zumdome, Matthew, Ross and Brooke Tobias, Izzy and Isaac Tanner; and four great-grandchildren: Brayden and Annabell Mortimer and Jaxson and Winston Zumdome.

Nellie is preceded in death by her parents, sister Patsy, and granddaughter Abigail Tanner.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Friday, July 23, 2021, at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw with burial to follow at Chili Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 PM Thursday evening at the funeral home.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Trinity United Methodist Church in Warsaw.  

Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.  

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

Donald “Don” E. Jobe, 90, of Warsaw, passed away on Thursday, July 15, 2021, at the VA Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. 

Don was born on March 29, 1931, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of Warry Brent and Daisy Mae (Frakes) Jobe. He was wed to Ivy Mae Stoneking on December 10th, 1948 and during their marriage had four children.  He proudly served his country in the United States Navy before working at St. Louis Die Cast for twenty years, finally retiring from Methode Electronics in 1994. Don was a lifelong resident of the Tri-state area and a member of VFW Post 9802 of Warsaw. 

Don is survived by two sons: Stanley E. Jobe of the Philippine,  Roger L. (Sue) Jobe of Warsaw; and his daughter Donna J. (Dave) Jobe Racheter of Mulberry, Arkansas.  Don also had many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great children along with a special friend Betty Carle. 

Don is preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Karen, four brothers and three sisters. 

A graveside service will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, July 31, 2021, at Oakland Cemetery in Warsaw, Illinois. Military Honors will be rendered by the Hancock County Honor Guard and the United States Navy. 

Memorials may be directed to the VFW Post 9802

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

DeJong-Greaves-Printy Funeral Home of Keokuk is in charge of arrangements.

Karla J. Gilbert

1955-2020

     Karla J. Gilbert, 65, of Marion, IA died Wednesday, August 19, 2020 at UnityPoint Health St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, IA.

     She was born July 16, 1955 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of Kenneth W. and Peggy Colleen Shoemaker Howard. She was united in marriage to Justin Gilbert.  He survives.

     Other survivors include two sons, Ken (Leah) Gilbert and Keith (Amanda) Gilbert of two grandchildren, a sister, Judy Messina of Tucson, AZ, along with many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

     She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Kory James Gilbert, two sisters, Karen Jewel Howard in infancy and Marlene J. Schultz and a brother, Clifford L. Howard.

     She enjoyed horses, painting and making craft projects.

     Graveside services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, at Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk.

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

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Michael Dale “Mike” Peters, 68, of Hamilton, passed away at 3:15 AM Saturday morning, July 10, 2021, at his home.  On May 31, 2021, Mike realized his need to trust in Jesus and ask Him into his heart.

Mike was born November 4, 1952, in Quincy, Illinois, the son of Edwin Peters and Gertrude Morton.  He attended Quincy High School and then went on to serve in the United States Army.  In 1971, he was united in marriage to Kathy Smith in Quincy, Illinois.  Mike worked at the Iowa Penitentiary in Ft. Madison, Iowa over 30 years as a trade teacher, specifically in Upholstering and cabinetry.  He also helped with his wife’s business, Peters Greenhouse.  Mike enjoyed flowers and gardening and raising and selling tomatoes.  He also enjoyed woodworking and was involved in building houses with Habitat for Humanity in the area.  Mike liked golfing and listening to music.

Mike is survived by his wife, Kathy, of Hamilton; three children, Michael (Kimberly) Peters of Lomax, Kelly (Tim) Sanderson of Hamilton, and Shawn (Katy) Peters of Ft. Madison; eight grandchildren, Lucas Todd, Brenton Sanderson and Bryson Sanderson, and Shawn Timothy, Victoria, Matthew and Nathan Peters; one brother, Terry (Tina) Peters of Quincy; and a sister, Susan (John) O’Connor of Gulf Breeze, Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Zachary Todd; a brother, Jerry Peters; a niece, Kimberly Smith; and two nephews, Peter Clyde and J.J. O’ Connor.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, July 15, 2021, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in Oakwood Cemetery in Hamilton.  Visitation will be held from 3:00 – 7:00 P.M. Wednesday evening at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with family meeting friends from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M.  Memorials may be directed to St. Jude’s Hospital.   Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Everett Eugene “Archie” Stepp, 68, of Hamilton, passed away at 4:38 PM Tuesday, July 6, 2021, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy.

Archie was born January 3, 1953, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of William Edward and Melicent Irene (Inman) Stepp.  He served in the United States Navy receiving his Honorable Discharge after four years of service.  On August 29, 1992, he was united in marriage to Caroline Elaine Reidner in Warsaw.  After military service he went to work for Henniges Automotive in Keokuk.  He worked there forty-three years retiring in 2018.  Archie enjoyed fishing, hunting and riding his four wheeler.  He later enjoyed sprint cars and spending time on his computer.  He loved Dr. Pepper and spending time with his grandchildren.

Archie is survived by his wife, Caroline Stepp, of Hamilton; children, Nancy (John) Martin of Carthage, Jerry (Theresa) Smith of West Point, Illinois, Jay (Bobbie) Jones of Fountain Green, David Jones and Brandie Martin of Hamilton; sixteen grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren; and three sisters, Irene Contrell of Belt Buckle, Tennessee, Diane (Steve) Reed of Wayland, Missouri and Darlene (John) Search of Macomb.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Eldon, Chuck and Donald; one sister, Shirley Tripp; and a son-in-law, Roger Martin.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, July 12, 2021, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in Moss Ridge Cemetery in Carthage.  Visitation will be held Sunday evening at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage from 5:00 – 8:00 PM.  Memorials may be directed to the family of Everett Stepp.  Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements

Virginia Fern Huls, 92, formerly of Hamilton, passed away Tuesday, July 6, 2021, at 2:55 PM at River Hills Assisted Living in Keokuk.

Virginia was born August 4, 1928, in Keokuk, Iowa the daughter of Samuel and Genevieve (Dighton) Bolton.  She grew up in Sonora Township attending Golden’s Point one room school and graduated from Hamilton High School in 1946. She completed two years at Carthage College and taught five years in one room schools in Hancock County.

On June 4, 1950, she was united in marriage to Myron “Bud” Huls at the Golden’s Point Church by Pastor H.C. Reichel.  She then was a full-time housewife and enjoyed her large gardens and taking care of its results.  She also helped with the farm chores and was a dairy maid for several years.  After discontinuing the dairy, she went to work as a CNA at the Hancock County Nursing Home for twenty-two years.  She was an active member of Golden’s Point Church joining at the age of fourteen.  She was a member of the Oak Grove Cemetery Auxiliary serving as secretary for ten years.

The last seven years were spent at River Hills Assisted Living in Keokuk where she made many friends.  There she attended the regular Saturday night church services and the Wednesday morning Bible studies.  She enjoyed reading, her flowers, walking and her jig-saw puzzles.  She enjoyed writing letters and sending cards to the ill and shut ins.

After 67 years of life together Myron passed away December 16, 2021.  She is survived by her children, Sharon (Chuck) Anderson of Hamilton, Diane Huls of Jacksonville, Sandra (Adrain) Van Os of Quincy, Craig (Genny) Huls of Hamilton, Sheila (Dan) Williamson of Quincy, Rodney (Becky) Huls of Hamilton and Eric (Kathy) Huls of Hamilton; twelve grandchildren; twenty-two great grandchildren; two sisters, Lois Scheuermann of Quincy and Marilyn (Richard) Loos of Mendon; a sister-in-law, Marjorie McDaniel of Ft. Madison; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Myron; her parents; and a great grandson, Isaac Paul- Van Os.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, July 13, 2021, at the Golden’s Point Christian Church north of Hamilton with burial to follow in Oak Grove Cemetery north of Hamilton.  Visitation will be held from 3:00 – 8:00 P.M. Monday evening at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton with family meeting friends from 5:00 – 8:00 P.M.  Memorials may be directed to Golden’s Point Christian Church of the Oak Grove Cemetery.  Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Helen Marie Corley Dettmer

1928-2021

     Helen Marie Corley Dettmer, 93, of Argyle, IA died Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at her home.

     She was born February 8, 1928 in Aledo, IL the daughter of Halyard and Bradie Alcock Corley.  She graduated from Argyle High School and later attended Iowa Wesleyan College and received her teaching degree.   On August 28, 1948 she was united in marriage to Edward M. Dettmer in Argyle, IA.  He survives.

     Other survivors include two daughters, Janice (Spencer) Brammer of Camdenton, MO and Lori (Richard) Boyer of Argyle, IA, one son, Ray (Peggy) Dettmer of Redding, CA, ten grandchildren, Nate (Stephanie) Dettmer of Forney, TX, Janelle (Marc) Girod Albuquerque, NM, Jared (Christina) Dettmer of Keller, TX, Micah (Stephanie) Dettmer of Denver, CO, Seth (Kate) Brammer of Quincy, IL, Justin (Shelbi) Brammer of Camdenton, MO, Miles Boyer of Washington, IA,  Brandon Boyer of Hills, IA, Zachary Boyer of Washington, IA and Alisha Boyer Gunsauls of Argyle, IA and thirteen great-grandchildren, Annalyn Dettmer, Andrea, Beckett and Everett Girod, Adilai and Jace Brammer, Violet Boyer, Greg and Bonnie Dettmer, Kristianna, Kadence and Kegan Boyer and Kody Gunsauls. 

      She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Bob and Billy Corley, two sisters, Opal Lee and Adeline Kennedy, daughter-in-law, Bonnie Dettmer and one granddaughter, Heather Dettmer.

      Helen taught grades 1-8 at the Jackson Township Eagle School for many years.  She later was employed by the United States Post Office until her retirement in 1978.

     Helen was a member of the Argyle Presbyterian Church and the United Presbyterian Women’s Circle.

     Helen was gifted in arts and crafts made beautiful stained glass pieces.  She was a skilled seamstress and created many beautiful handmade quilts for her family and friends to enjoy.  Helen loved to travel with Edward.  They spent many summers at their cabin in Minnesota and were snowbirds in Florida and Arizona.  Helen was devoted to her family and loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

     A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m., Sunday, at the Argyle Presbyterian Church in Argyle, IA with Pastor Alice Hawes officiating.  Burial will be in Argyle Memorial Park.

     Visitation will be held after 2 p.m., Saturday,  at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with family meeting with friends from 4- 6 p.m.

     Memorials may be made to the Argyle Presbyterian Church.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Ralph Marshall Taylor, 79, of Nauvoo, passed away Monday, July 5, 2021 at his home surrounded by his loving family after a heroic battle with cancer.

Ralph was born in a log cabin near Hesperia, Michigan, May 31, 1942, the son of Louis M. and Norma Jean (Wambaugh) Taylor.  After high school in Whitehall, Michigan, he went on to graduate from Grand Valley State College.  He was a chemist for Hubinger/Roquette for many years retiring in 1997.    On January 28, 1961, he was united in marriage to Rita Schaub in Muskegon, Michigan.  

Ralph was an avid hunter and fisherman, especially bow hunting for deer and elk.  He loved to garden and be outside. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Hamilton and the Knights of Columbus. He loved wintering in Florida, where he enjoyed bow fishing and playing euchre. He was always determined and believed you could do anything you put your mind to.  His priorities were his family, his faith, and serving his church.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Rita, of Nauvoo; children, Gene (Lora) Taylor of Nauvoo, Gwen (Alan) Guedesse of Peoria, Greg Taylor of Fremont, Michigan and Ralph (Aimee’) Taylor of Rock City, Illinois; twelve grandchildren (Kaitlyn, Zach and Tori Taylor; Joshua and Natasha Guedesse; Gregory, Shannon, Jeremy and Jordan Taylor; Nathaniel, Luke and Jacob Taylor); three great grandchildren (Bella Taylor, Clark Taylor, and Isla Nienow), four siblings, Ernie (Marsha) Taylor of Muskegon, Michigan, Leona (Chuck) Carr of Hesperia, Michigan, Nora (Dennis) Danicek of Muskegon and Charlene (Jack) Freeman of Texas; and his beloved cat, Princess.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Rosemary Monroe; two brothers, Louis and Sidney Taylor, granddaughter (Kristen), and a daughter-in-law, Debbie Taylor.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM Friday, July 9, 2021 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Hamilton with burial to follow in the Nauvoo Catholic Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 3:00 – 7:30 P.M. Thursday evening at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton with family meeting friends from 5:00 – 7:30. A Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet, and a time for eulogies will follow visitation at 7:30 at the funeral Home.  A memorial fund has been established.  Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Eldon L. Launer, 77, of Springfield, passed away Thursday, July 1, 2021, at Memorial Hospital in Springfield.

Eldon was born March 15, 1944, in Santa Monica, California, the son of Truman F. and Mabel C. (Hufendick) Launer and in 1948, the family moved back to the Basco area to help with the family farm.  He graduated from Warsaw High School in 1962 and from  Valparaiso Technical Institute in 1964.  In 1966 he joined the U.S. Army Reserves receiving his Honorable Discharge in 1973.  On August 12, 1967, he was united in marriage to Doris Jean Phipps at the Elvaston Presbyterian Church.  She survives.  Eldon had worked as a communications technician for the Illinois State Police Radio Lab from 1965 – 1970.  From 1970 to 1994 he worked for the Panhandle Eastern Pipeline as a microwave engineer.  He then returned to the Illinois State Police Radio Lab as a communications technician in 1994 until his retirement in 2005.

Eldon received his amateur radio license (HAM) while a sophomore in high school, WA9ACW, and was an active HAM radio operator his entire life and a member of the Sangamon Valley Radio Club.  He had a passion for American Indian history and was active in the Illinois State Museum Society and the Central States Archeological Society.  He maintained his family’s farm for many years after his parents’ deaths.  He was a collector of many things.

Eldon is survived by his wife, Doris, of Springfield; a son, Jon Frederick Launer of Ewa Beach, Hawaii; two grandsons, Jared Michael Ebel and Brayden Kai Launer; and several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; aunt; uncles; and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, July 8, 2021, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in the Elvaston Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until time of services at 11:00 at the funeral home.  Memorials may be directed to the Sangamon County Radio Club in care of Roger Whitaker, 2994 S. Douglas St., Springfield, IL  62704 or the Animal Protection League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL  62702.  Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Samuel Newton Gillett, 80, of Carthage, passed away at 11:15 PM, Tuesday, June 29, 2021, at Memorial Hospital in Carthage. 

Sam was born April 5, 1941, the son of Sam and Pat (Hartnett) Gillett in Chicago, Illinois. At the age of 12, Sam’s family moved to LaHarpe, Illinois. On November 18th, 1967, Sam married Jean Wagoner at the                   Immaculate Conception Church in Carthage, Illinois. Sam graduated from LaHarpe High School in 1959. Then went on to attend Western Illinois University but was called to serve his country before he could finish. Sam was drafted into the US Army, C Battery 5/27th Artillery where he served in Vietnam. Upon returning home Sam started his career at NICOR gas in 1966 retiring in 2001. After retiring, Sam became a rural mail carrier in Carthage for several years. Sam was a member of the Eagles Club, the American Legion and the VFW in Carthage. Sam served on the hospital board from 1991-2000 and was president from 1994-1997. He also served as Chair of the Private Industry Council. For several years Sam volunteered at the Kibbe Museum. Sam loved to attend Blueboy/Bluegirl/Illini West sporting events and seldom missed a basketball, football, baseball, softball or track meet his kids or grandkids participated in. Sam was also an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan and loved Harley Davidson motorcycles.

Sam is survived by his wife, Jean, two children, Lori (Andy) Gronewold of Carthage, and Mike (Emily) Gillett of Carthage; five grandchildren, Brody and Brandon Gronewold, Sam, Ellie and Claire Gillett all of Carthage; a brother Jim (Mary) Gillett, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents, sister Barbara (Ronnie) Walker and nephews Chris and Kelly Carey.

Funeral Mass will be held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, July 6, 2021, at the Catholic church in Carthage, Illinois, with burial to follow at Moss Ridge Cemetery in Carthage. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Tuesday July 6, 2021, at the Printy Funeral Home in Carthage. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Marilyn A. Walker

1938-2021

     Marilyn A. Walker, 83, of Ft. Madison, IA died Thursday, July 1, 2021 at the Montrose Health Center in Montrose, IA.

     She was born March 11, 1938 in Keokuk the daughter of Roy and Lulu Goodrich Inman.  

     On April 15, 1962 she was united in marriage to Stanley Eugene Walker.  He preceded her in death on November 28, 2020.

     Marilyn had been employed by Southeastern Community College as the secretary to the dean for forty-two years. 

     She was a member of Calvary Community Church in Keokuk.

     Marilyn had a lifelong love of music.  She was a talented organist and enjoyed traveling to gospel music concerts.  She kept her mind sharp by working crossword puzzles.  Marilyn loved to travel, especially to Hawaii where she had visited fifteen times.  She was an avid NASCAR fan and liked watching races on Sunday.

     She is survived by her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Robert Walker, Rovene (Ronald) Cochran, Melba (Jim) Crago, Harold (Florence) Walker, Patricia (Wayne) Marshall and many nieces and nephews.

     She was preceded in death by her parents and sister-in-law, Wanda Walker.

     A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 3 in the Sandusky Cemetery. 

    Memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children.

    Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Sherilee “Sherry” Huston

1958-2021

     Sherilee “Sherry” Huston, 63, of Keokuk, IA died Tuesday, June 29, 2021 at her home.

     She was born May 7, 1958 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of Jimmie Evans and Shirley Bryant Batley.   Sherry graduated from Keokuk High School with the class of 1976.

     On February 21, 1981 Sheri was united in marriage to Brad Huston at the New Testament Christian Church in Keokuk.  He survives.

     Other survivors include her children, Shawna Myers (Brendon), Christopher Huston (Autumn), Tim Huston (Deanne) all of Keokuk, Stephen Huston (Jessica), Christine Huston and Deborah Smith all of Cedar Rapids, IA, twelve grandchildren, Jacob, Kori, Oliver, Aria, Andrew, Zach, Ashley, Jenna, Xander, Ethan, Danielle and Colin.  She is also survived by one sister, Teresa Evans (Roger) of Keokuk, step-father, Dennis Batley of Keokuk, two nephews, Keith Evans and Jimmie Evans (Tressa) and several great-nieces and great nephews.

     She was preceded in death by her parents, Jimmie Evans and Shirley Evans Bryant Batley, nephew, Corey Evans, mother-in-law, Ida Stamper, sister-in-law, Sandra O’Shea and several aunts and uncles.

     Sherry had been employed by several businesses around the area in her younger years.  She later was employed by Methode Electronics in Carthage, IL for twenty years.  Most recently, she had been employed at Walmart in Keokuk.

     Sherry was a member of New Testament Christian Church in Keokuk.

     Sherry spent hours tending to her flower gardens. She had a green thumb and grew beautiful flowers.  She took pride in her yard and enjoyed weed eating it just the way she liked to have it done.  Sherry kept her home immaculate and was known to go on cleaning frenzies that would drive Brad out of the house.  Sherry was the happiest when she was surround by her family.  She adored her children and grandchildren and treasured the time she spent with them.

     A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, in the Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk, IA with Sim Tolbert officiating.   

     Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 1-2 p.m., Friday, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA.

     Memorials may be made to Lee County Hospice.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com