Carolyn “Sue” McKay, 75, of Hamilton, passed away at 7:00 AM Friday, December 24, 2021, at
Memorial Hospital in Carthage.
Sue was born April 2, 1946, the daughter of Melvin and Marjorie (Schneider) Bennett in
Muscatine, Iowa. She attended Keokuk High School graduating in 1966. Sue had many hobbies
over the years, including reading books, shopping at every secondhand store, or traveling to
train museums with her grandson, Stephen and boyfriend, Mickey. In later years, she enjoyed
Facebook games, where she had met and kept many friends. Sue had worked at Walmart for
two decades, in the shoe department, in a job she enjoyed. She had previously worked at the
Army Ordnance Plant, Country Kitchen restaurant, Sheller-Globe, and Alibi Inn tavern owned
and run by her sister, Lois. One of her greatest accomplishments had been when Sue had
skated non-stop for several days, raising money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, in
which she had won a trip to Walt Disney World in Florida. She was an avid St. Louis Cardinal fan
and Pittsburgh Steelers fan. In Sue’s special way, she was always ready and willing to help
anyone in need, and was quick with encouraging words to those that wanted to hear it, and
used tough love on those that needed to hear it. Sue had the ability to tell a story of what it was
like growing up in West K, Kahoka, Granger, or Winchester that always told of her simple way of
life. Sue was funny, kind, loving, and full of great qualities that were uniquely hers. Sue’s world
was centered around her children and grandchildren, and she was quick to tell you about them.
Sue is survived by her life-long companion, Mickey Dill, of Hamilton, Il.; two sons, Orris F.
“Buddy” McKay of Carthage, Il. and Brian McKay of Hamilton, Il.; a daughter, Kimberly (Will)
Kirts of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; grandchildren, Stephen Boatman, Madelyn Kirts-Booth, Skyler
Ann McKay and Liam Kirts; siblings, Lois Currant, Sandy Humes and William Brack Collier; and
many nieces, nephews and loved ones.
She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Janet in infancy; one brother, Richard
Bennett, and many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.
Funeral services will be held at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw on Thursday at 10:00 AM with
burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery in Warsaw. Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00
Wednesday evening at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw. In the Lieu of flowers, a memorial fund
has been established. Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Dennis Owen Batley

1950 -2021

     Dennis Owen Batley, 71 of Keokuk, IA died Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at his home.

     He was born January 26, 1950 in Keokuk, IA the son of Gerald Owen and Shirley Katherine Hendricks Batley.  Dennis graduated from Cardinal Stritch High School with the class of 1968.

     He was a veteran of the United States Navy and proudly served his country during the Vietnam Conflict.

     On January 17th, 1981 Dennis was united in marriage to Shirley Bryant.  She preceded him in death on December 22, 2020.

     Dennis had been employed by Midwest Carbide for forty-two years, until his retirement in 2012.

     He was a member of the American Legion Post #41, former member of the Moose Club in Keokuk and was of the Catholic faith. 

     He enjoyed traveling with his wife, Shirley to Branson, Nashville and all over the United States.  Dennis loved drinking coffee with friends while visiting at the Hamilton Family Restaurant. He also enjoyed taking videos of different things, shooting pool and skeet shooting.  Dennis liked feeding the birds and critters that came to visit in his yard.

     Dennis is survived his daughter, Teresa (Roger) Evans of Keokuk, son-in-law, Brad Huston of Keokuk, four grandchildren, Keith Evans of Topeka, KS, James (Tressa) Evans, Shawna (Brendon) Myers and Christopher (Autumn) Huston all of Keokuk, his step- grandchildren, Tim (Deanne) Huston, Steve (Jessica) Huston, Christina Huston and Debbie Huston, nine great- grandchildren, Brandon, Allison, Jared, Emma, and Noah Evans, Jacob Farrell, Kori Myers, Oliver Huston, Aria Mills along with several step- great grandchildren. He is also survived by one sister, Judy Kaylor (Ernie) of Hannibal, MO, two sisters-in-law, Betty McCarl (Richard) of Keokuk and Emma Jean Steffensmeier (Marvin) of Fredericksburg, VA, one nephew, Sean Smeltser (Melissa), three nieces, Lisa Allen (Brian), Leslie Pitchford, (Danial) and Stacy Kaylor, several great-nieces and great-nephews, aunts and uncles and many close friends.

     Besides his wife, he was also preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, Sherry Huston, one grandson, Corey Evans, brother and sister-in-law, Pat and Brad Picton and several aunts and uncles. 

     A graveside service with military rites will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at Sunset Cemetery in Keokuk with Reverend David Brownfield, Ph.D.  

     Memorials may be made to Every Step Hospice or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

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

William “Willy” Eric Pilkington

1952-2021

     William “Willy” Eric Pilkington, 69, of Keokuk, IA died Monday, December 20, 2021 at Great River Hospice House in West Burlington, IA.

     He was born June 30, 1952 in Ft. Madison, IA the son of Eldon and Zona Harsch Pilkington. 

     Willy was a veteran of the United States Army.

     On September 10, 1988 Willy was united in marriage to Stella Kirchner Broadwell.  She survives.

     Other survivors include two sons, Jesse Broadwell (Angie) of Donnellson, IA and Jamey Broadwell of Keokuk, two daughters, Dawn Cowan of Martinez, GA and Jenifer Nieto (Michael) of Albuquerque, NM, fourteen grandchildren, Steven Gooding (Sara) of O’Fallon, MO, Madison Broadwell (Ian Mullens) of Keokuk, Haylee Altgilbers (Devon) Keokuk, Malia Ibarra (Josh) of Evans, GA, Zane Cowan of Augusta, GA, Morgan Broadwell of Donnellson, IA, Jensen Broadwell of Keokuk, Abigail Broadwell of Keokuk, Carly Broadwell of Donnellson, IA, Kamden Broadwell of Donnellson, IA, Everlee Broadwell of Donnellson, IA, Beau Broadwell Donnellson, IA, Jesse Nieto of Albuquerque, NM and Stephen Nieto of Albuquerque, NM and seven great-grandchildren, Jude, Frankie and Eden Ibarra, Owen Gooding and Kaedyn, Kynslee and Paisley Mullens.  He is also survived by two brothers, Ernest Pilkington (Judy) of Gladstone, IL and Raymond Pilkington (Carla) of Ft. Madison, IA, two sisters, Janet Keller (Larry) of Niota, IL and Kathleen Pilkington (Paul) of Ft. Madison, IA, mother-in-law, Janice Kirchner of Keokuk, one sister-in-law, Janet Symmonds (Butch) of Keokuk and several nieces and nephews. 

     He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Gene, his grandmother, India, father-in-law, Junior Kirchner and brother-in-law, Steve Kirchner.

     In his younger years, he had been employed as a milk hauler and delivered milk to the Nauvoo Cheese Factory.  Willy had been employed by the Army Corps of Engineers as a lockman for twenty-two years, until his retirement in 2014.

     He was a member of the Lighthouse Worship Center in Hamilton, IL and was a former volunteer fireman in Nauvoo, IL.

     Willy was an avid NASCAR fan and rooted for Dale Earnhardt, Sr. and Bill Elliott.  He enjoyed bowling and was on a Sunday night mixed bowling league for many years. He never sat still and was always tinkering around the house.  The greatest joy in Willy’s life was his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He was a faithful fan of all their school and sport activities.   

     A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Greg Weigel officiating.  Burial with military rites will be held in the Keokuk National Cemetery.

    Visitation will be held after 1 p.m., Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with the family meeting with Friday from 6 – 8 p.m.

     Memorials may be made to the Lighthouse Worship Center.

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

Mary Ann Goetz

1935-2021

     Mary Ann Goetz, 86 of Keokuk, IA died Sunday, December 19, 2021 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA.

     She was born November 16, 1935 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of Jess and Mary Neal McFadden Savacool.  Mary Ann graduated from St. Peter’s High School with the class of 1954.

     On May 5, 1956 Mary Ann was united in marriage to Jack F. Goetz at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Keokuk.  He preceded her in death on July 21, 2019. 

     Mary Ann had been employed by General Mills and Sullivan’s in her younger years.

     She was a member of All Saints Catholic Church, Ladies of Charity and the Altar and Rosary Society.  

     Mary Ann enjoyed a good game of Bingo and liked to scroll through Facebook regularly.  She was an avid garage sale and thrift store shopper with a good eye for a bargain.  Mary Ann was faithful at sending out cards to her family and friends for all occasions.  She was a dedicated volunteer at St. Vincent’s and Cardinal Stritch for many years. Above all, Mary Ann adored her grandchildren and the time she spent with her family.  She was an enthusiastic fan of all her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s activities.

     She is survived by five children, John Goetz (Kim) of Keokuk, Dan Goetz  (Vicky) of Excelsior Springs, MO, Martha Riney (Randy) of Keokuk, Father Marty Goetz of Burlington, IA and Joseph  Goetz (Amy)  of Keokuk, grandchildren, Jennifer Goetz, Austin Goetz, Matt Goetz (Jan), Sara (Tyler) Owen, Jessica Goetz, Michael Goetz (Ashley), David Riney (Leigh Ann), Daniel Riney (Kelli), Martin “Chuck” Riney, Jessie Clark (Brandon), Nickie Lynn (Jesse), Patrick Goetz and Allie Hayden, twelve great-grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews and great- nieces and great-nephews.

     Besides her husband, she was also preceded in death by her parents and one daughter-in-law, Karen Goetz.

     A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk with Father Marty Goetz officiating.  A private family burial will be held in the Keokuk National Cemetery.

     Visitation will be held after 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with family meeting with friends from 5:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m.  A Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 p.m.

     Memorials may be made to the Keokuk Catholic Schools or the Ladies of Charity.

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

Thomas Warren Shoen, 63, of Geneseo, Illinois, passed away Saturday, December 18, 2021, in Geneseo.

Thomas was born April 19, 1958, in Carson City, Michigan, the son of Gordon William and Wilma Irene (Gavitt) Shoen.  After high school Thomas went on to attain his master’s degree in Engineering at Western Illinois University and was a tool designer for the Rock Island Armory.

Thomas is survived by two sons, Brandon (Michele) Shoen of Hamilton, Illinois and Andrew (Stephanie) Shoen of Carthage, Illinois; four grandchildren, Reid, Trent, Caleb and Calvin Shoen; a brother, Jeff (Diane) Shoen of Moweaqua, Illinois; and a sister, Nancy West of Dublin, Ohio.

Family will meet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. Thursday evening, December 30, 2021, at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton.  Memorials may be directed to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.  Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Barbara Grimpe

1954 – 2021

     Barbara Lynn Grimpe, 67, passed away Saturday, December 11. 2021 at the Montrose Health Center in Montrose, IA.

     She was born on May 15, 1954 in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Harry E. and Dorothy J. Wustrow Grimpe.

     Barb, or Grimpe, as she was known by family and friends, was an accomplished athlete, elementary physical education teacher, certified occupational therapist assistant for children and adults and occasional sub for the pastor at Trinity United Methodist Church.  A perennial planner, optimist and jokester, she devoted her life to caring for others (animals and people).  She will be so greatly missed.

     She is survived by her brother, Rusty Grimpe of Skiatook, OK, her uncle, Bob Wustrow of Keokuk and six infamous cousins.

     She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Ronald and Robert.

     A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with Pastor Dave Barrett officiating.  Burial will be in the Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk.

     Visitation will be held prior to the service on Tuesday from 12 noon – 1 p.m. at the funeral home with the family meeting with friends at that time.

     Memorials may be made to the Trinity United Methodist Church in Keokuk.

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

Tommi Marie Washburn

1976 – 2021

     Tommi Marie Washburn, 45, of Keokuk, IA, died Thursday, December 16, 2021 at Blessing Health Keokuk.

     She was born on May 14, 1976 in Atlanta, GA, the daughter of Andy and Kathy Dunne.

On April 27, 1996, Tommi was united in marriage to Thomas Washburn in Keokuk.  He survives.

     She is also survived by one daughter, Stormi Washburn of Keokuk, one son, Tyler Washburn (Hope) of Ft. Madison, three grandchildren, Aurora, Bless and Scarlet Washburn, her parents, Andy and Kathy Dunne of Keokuk.  Other survivors include two brothers, Joseph Dunne of Keokuk and Matthew Whited of Chattanooga, TN, two sisters, Angela Fielding (Brian) of Thomasville, GA and Heather Baker of Chattanooga, one nephew, Damien Dunne, and three uncles, Rick Marlin (Susie) of Warsaw, Dan Marlin of Keokuk and Tim Marlin (Renee) of Warsaw and several other nieces, nephews and cousins.

     She was preceded in death by her grandparents and two uncles, Nick Marlin and Pat Marlin.

     Tommi had been employed at the Cigarette Depot in Alexandria and tended bar at the VFW in Keokuk.  Most recently she had worked at Murphy’s Oil in Keokuk. 

     She was a member of All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk.

     Tommi enjoyed swimming, cooking and reading, especially the Eve Duncan mystery series.  She was a talented crafter and made beautiful wreaths for all occasions.  Family was the most important part of Tommi’s life.    She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and cherished the times spent with her family.

     Graveside services will be held at 11 am Wednesday at the Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk.

    Visitation will be held after 3 p.m., Tuesday at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with the family meeting with friends from 6 – 8 p.m.

     Memorials may be made to the Diabetes Association.

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

Deborah “Debbie” Gail Breakbill

1962-2021

     Deborah “Debbie” Gail Breakbill, 59, of Keokuk, IA passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones after battling many years of cancer.  

     She was born August 16, 1962 in Chicago, IL the daughter of Robert and Janice Stidham Richardson.   In January 2000, Debbie was united in marriage to Kirk Breakbill in Carthage, IL.  He survives.

     Other survivors include one son, Blake Breakbill (Samantha Quelland) of Des Moines, IA, one daughter, Savanah Breakbill (Emily Carlisle) of Des Moines, IA and two grandchildren, Bradley Schaff and Brayden Breakbill.  She is also survived by one brother, Darrell Creque, two nephews, Brandon Adams and Danny Creque (Telia), one niece, Megan Adams, one great-nephew, Brooks Creque, two brothers-in-law, Mark Breakbill (Shelly) of  Rome, GA and Tim Breakbill (Julie) of Keokuk and her mother-in-law, JoAnna Breakbill of Keokuk.

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

     Debbie had been employed by several local businesses through the years, including Dairy Queen, Peters Dairy, CHMI, St. Louis Gear and Keokuk Steel Castings.

     After leaving her hometown, the wanderlust in her took her on many other adventures, residing in Alabama, Texas and Las Vegas. Debbie had a passion for sunshine, the ocean and palm trees.  She loved spending time in the swimming pool and going for Jeep rides.   Debbie enjoyed life to the fullest and was one of a kind.  Her beautiful heart and soul touched the lives of everyone she encountered.  

     A Gathering of Remembrance will be held from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA followed by a service at 7:30 p.m. with Rick Crabtree officiating.     

     Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

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

Carolyn Kay (Huls) Icenogle, 70 of Carthage, passed away peacefully at 1:06 AM on Friday, December 17, 2021, at her home surrounded by the love of her family. 

Carolyn was born on February 1, 1951, at the Carthage Memorial Hospital, a twin daughter of Virgil James and Minnie Johanna (Janssen) Huls. She was Baptized on February 18, 1951, and Confirmed in her Baptism on May 8, 1966, at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Carolyn met the love of her life, Gary Lynn Icenogle, while they were both working at Western Illinois Electric Co-op (WIEC). They were united in marriage on May 12, 1973, at Immanuel Lutheran Church. In her childhood, she attended Union Douglas School and graduated from Carthage High School in 1969, then went on to obtain a Certificate of Accounting from Carl Sandburg College. Carolyn loved God and her family above all else and spent every moment possible with her loved ones. She provided unwavering support to her children and grandchildren and attended every one of their events and activities. Carolyn was devoted to her career at Robert Morris University as an Institutional Payroll Accountant for over 32 years, from which she retired in 2020. 

Carolyn loved to cross-stitch and crochet, leaving behind many keepsakes. She was a faithful member of Immanuel Lutheran Church of rural Carthage, where she served in many roles such as a secretary and an altar guild. She also cherished singing in the church choir. She was a teacher of Sunday School, Vacation Bible School (VBS), and Confirmation. Carolyn was a Cub Scout Den Leader and a Camp Fire Girls Leader, and she enjoyed many years of bowling in a league for Bilderback’s. 

Carolyn is survived by her husband, Gary of Carthage; her son, Steven (Megan) Icenogle of Aledo, Illinois; her daughter, Jennifer (Christopher) Meeks of Carthage; five grandchildren, Jessie, Dalton, and Zachary Icenogle, and Samuel and Benjamin Meeks; two sisters, Carla (Kenneth) Crossland and Nancy Huls; a brother, Lester (Yvonne) Huls; as well as many beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents and a twin sister, Carleen Rae Huls. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM, Thursday, December 23, 2021, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in rural Carthage with burial to follow at Immanuel Lutheran Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at the Printy Funeral Home in Carthage from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with family meeting friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Memorials may be directed to the Immanuel Lutheran Church or the Hancock County Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Printy Funeral Home in Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

James Richard “Jim” Schaller, 81, of Ferris, passed away Saturday, December 18, 2021, at Memorial Hospital in Carthage at 5:27 AM.

Jim was born May 12, 1940, the son of Raymond and Marjorie (Porter) Schaller in Colusa, Illinois.  He graduated from Colusa High School in 1958.  On March 12, 1966, he was united in marriage to Wanda Smiddy at the Ferris Christian Church.  She preceded him in death earlier this year.  Jim had served as a banker for Farmer’s State Bank of Ferris and Carthage for many years, retiring in 2009.   He was a member of the Burnside Masonic Lodge and was also a Shriner.  He was also an avid trap and skeet shooter and life-long hunter.  Jim was a proud FFA member in high school and a longtime member of the Ferris Christian Church. 

Jim is survived by two sons, Shad (Pamela) Schaller of Ferris and Seth (Dina) Schaller of Ferris; grandchildren, Joshua, Kristine, Megan, Elizabeth (Carson McKee), Isabel and Olivia Schaller; great granddaughters, Rylie Baucom and Ellison McKee; two sisters, Mary Moyes of Elvaston and Mavis Meadows of Abingdon; and a niece, Lisa Milby of Chillicothe, Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Wanda; and a nephew, Andy Matthews.

Family will meet friends from 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage to celebrate the lives of Jim and Wanda.  A Masonic service will be held at 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.  Memorials may be directed to Shriner’s Hospital or Illini West FFA.  Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Shay Lynn Darnell, 46, of Quincy, passed away at 10:17 AM Saturday, December 11, 2021, at her home in Quincy.

Shay was born June 17, 1975, the daughter of Larry Ray and Susan Diane (Reneau) Sewell in Carroll, Iowa.  She was a stand-out volleyball player at Hamilton High School, where she graduated in 1993. She later went on to attain her associate degree from Southeastern College.  She had also received her C.N.A. and E.M.T. certifications. On June 26, 2004, she was united in marriage to husband, Sam Darnell. Shay had been very active in 4-H and the Rainbow Girls as a child.  She loved to cook, bake, and spend her time at her son’s sporting events rooting him on, as she was a proud self-proclaimed “sports mama.” Shay was also often known for her contagious laugh and love of conversation, which she passed onto her daughter.

Shay is survived by her husband, Sam, of Quincy; her daughter, Morgan Lewis of Quincy; her son, Ryan Darnell of Quincy; her father, Larry Sewell of Hamilton; a brother, Justin Sewell of Hamilton; a sister, Tara Baker of Hamilton; and many in-laws, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Susan Sewell in April of this year; and her maternal and paternal grandparents.

Family will meet friends from 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Monday evening, December 27, 2021, at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton. Memorials may be directed to the family Shay Darnell for her children.  Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

James Francis Murphy

1932 – 2021

     James Francis Murphy, 89, of Keokuk, IA died Monday, December 13, 2021 at the Memorial Hospital in Carthage, IL.  He was born on February 8, 1932 in St. Patrick, MO, the son of James Roy and Irene Uhlmeyer Murphy.  

     He was a veteran of the United States Navy.

     James was united in marriage to Norma Lambert in June of 1958 at St. Patrick, MO.

She survives.

    He is also survived by one daughter, Cynthia Runge of Keokuk, two sons, James Murphy, Jr and Ron Murphy (Irene) all of Keokuk, six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one brother, John Murphy of St. Louis, MO..

     He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Ann Marie and Eleanor and one great-grandson, Teddy Murphy.  

     James was a member of All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk.  He was also a member of the Southside Boat Club.

   He had been employed at Hubinger in Keokuk for twenty-three years and retired in 1991.

     He enjoyed going fishing and hunting for rabbit and pheasant.  He was an avid St. Louis Cardinal Baseball fan and never missed a game.   His family was the most important part of his life.  James was a devoted husband, dad and grandpa who leaves for his family a lifetime of wonderful memories.

    A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk with Reverend David Brownfield Ph.D. Burial with Military Rites will be held at the Keokuk National Cemetery.

     There will be no visitation.

     Memorials may be made to All Saints Catholic Church.

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

George L. Vermillion, Jr.

1926 – 2021

     George L. Vermillion, Jr. 95, of Keokuk, IA, died Thursday, December 9, 2021 at the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, IA.

     He was born on February 26, 1926 in Keokuk, the son of George L. Sr., and Gertrude E. Off Vermillion.  

     George left high school before his graduation to join the United States Army and proudly served his country during WW II.  His battalion was part of the battle and capture of the Ludendorff railroad bridge at Remagen which allowed the Allies to cross over to Germany.  He received several medals for his service, the WW II Victory Medal, European Theater Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army Occupation Medal with Germany Bar and the Combat Infantry Badge.  George was awaiting the Purple Heart medal for injuries he received in battle.

     On June 8, 1954, George was united in marriage to Lil Buerklin in Quincy, IL.  She preceded him in death on August 12, 2021.

     George was a member of the St. Paul United Church of Christ in Keokuk.  He was a very active member of the Masonic Lodge #29, the Kaaba Shrine and the York Rite.  He was also a member of the American Legion Post #41 in Keokuk and a former member of the Iowa Motor Truck Association.

     He was a co-owner with his brother Sam of Vermillion Brother’s Inc. trucking company in Keokuk.

     George was a very kind man and never knew a stranger.  He looked forward to gathering with his friends and having daily coffee at various restaurants in town. George enjoyed driving and never needed a map on any of his travels.  Many memories were made on vacations that the family took together.

     He is survived by his daughter, Peggy Vermillion of Keokuk, his son George L. Vermillion III and his wife Kancy of Nicolett. MN, four grandchildren, Adam Vermillion and his wife Sarah of Eldridge, IA, Christopher Vermillion and his wife Leslie of North Mankato, MN, Dan Workman and his wife Lacey of Donnellson, IA and Hailey Workman of Des Moines, seven great-grandchildren, Quinn Vermillion and Zach Vermillion both of North Mankato, Gracie Vermillion of Eldridge, Scarlett Young, Elora Young and Ender Young all of Eldridge and Wyatt Workman of Donnellson.  He is also survived by three sisters, Carol Laffey and her husband Paul “Bud” of West Point, IL, Gertie DeRosa and Dorothy Judd both of Hayden, Idaho, one brother, Clayton “Bucky” Vermillion and his wife Kathy of Keokuk and several nieces and nephews.

     Besides his wife, he was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Sam, Sr. & Amy Vermillion and Wilimene and Charles Off who migrated to the U.S. from Germany, his parents, a daughter at birth, Elizabeth,  four brothers, Herby Vermillion in infancy, Jack Vermillion, who died in a tragic accident at age 9, Sam Vermillion and Gloyd “Sleepy” Vermillion and one sister in infancy, Mary Helen Vermillion and many brothers and sisters-in-law.

    A Memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with Reverend Milo Van Veldhuizen officiating.  Burial with Military Rites will be in the Keokuk National Cemetery.

     Visitation will be held Thursday after 1 p.m. at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with the family meeting with friends from 5 – 8 p.m.

      A public Masonic Service will be held at 7:30 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home.

     Memorials may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital.

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

Kathleen “Kate” Diana Boltz

1940 – 2021

     Kathleen “Kate” Diana Boltz, 81, of Keokuk, IA passed away peacefully surrounded by family at the Southeast Iowa Regional Home Health and Hospice on December 10, 2021,    

     She was born February 22, 1940 in Keokuk, the daughter of Martin and Irene Lambert Washburn. 

     On February 16, 1958 She was united in marriage to Robert “Bob” Keith Boltz at St. Peters Catholic Church in Keokuk. 

     Kate was a member of the all Saints Catholic Church and attended mass faithfully. 

     She had been employed at Dryden’s/Sheller Globe/BTR in Keokuk and retired after 39 years of service. 

     She loved spending time with her family and always said her family were the only friends she needed. She would light up whenever her grandchildren would come around. She was always there when you needed her and welcomed you with open arms offering food to whomever came over. Her house was always filled with love and laughter.  Kate loved to dance around the house and played the piano.  She enjoyed traveling and camping, she took many camping trips around the United States. In her free time she would go with her daughters and sisters to the casino and shopping. In her younger years she enjoyed bowling with her friends. 

     She is survived by her husband Bob of Keokuk, five children, Robert “Bob” Boltz of Quincy, Roy (Janet) Boltz of Revere, Theresia (James) Harmon of Keokuk, Tammy (Keith) High of Keokuk, and John Boltz of Des Moines, seventeen grandchildren, thirty-four great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.   She is also survived by two sisters Shirley (Sunny) Dodge of Hamilton and Sheila Kay of Keokuk and many nieces and nephews.  

     She was preceded in death by her parents, one son Randy Keith Boltz, and thirteen brothers and sisters.  

   Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday (Dec.14) at the All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk with Reverend David Brownfield, Ph.D. officiating.  Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk.

     Visitation will be held after 1 p.m., Monday (Dec. 13) at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with the family meeting with friends from 6 – 7:30.  A Vigil Service and Rosary will begin at 7:30 p.m. 

     Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

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

Charles “Chuck” Edward Hummel, 71, of Nauvoo, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, December 7, 2021, at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington, Iowa.

Chuck was born on October 14, 1950, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of Lewis E. and Lois Marie (Saunders) Hummel. He graduated from Nauvoo High School in 1968, and graduated from Western Illinois University in 1972 with a Bachelors of Science in Agriculture and a minor in Military Science. On August 11, 1972, he was united in marriage to Gwen Goodwin at the Baptist Church in Fort Madison. She survives.

Chuck held several jobs throughout the years, working for the DNR in forestry, the Illinois EPA, farming and driving a semi-truck. Chuck also served his country in the United States Army Reserves, retiring with an honorable discharge. Chuck was active in his community, and was a member of Living Hope Church in Nauvoo, the Jaycees, The American Legion, and the Standing Bear Council. He was also a life-long member of the NRA. Chuck was always a dreamer and a visionary, and enjoyed taking his restored International Harvester tractor to Old Threshers. 

Chuck is survived by his wife Gwen Hummel of Nauvoo; two daughters: Heather (Brian) Dickey of Fort Madison, Iowa, and Hollie (Shawn Graham) Couch of Donnellson, Iowa; four grandchildren: Danielle (Dylan) Blint and Mekenna Claman, both of Fort Madison, Shawn Graham, II of Donnellson, Iowa, and AnnaBelle Graham of Denver, Colorado; and two great-grandchildren: Cora Blint and Skylar Claman. 

Chuck is preceded in death by his parents and his sister Janis Meier.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, December 18, 2021, at Living Hope Church in Nauvoo, Illinois, with burial to follow at Thornber Cemetery in Powellton, Illinois. Military Honors will be rendered by the Hancock County Honor Guard and the United States Army. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 to 11 am on Saturday directly before the service.

Memorials may be directed to Printy Funeral Home for expenses.

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

Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Judith R. Boyer, 77, of Carthage, Illinois, passed away on Monday, December 6, 2021, at the University of Iowa hospital, with her family at her side.

Judy was born October 13, 1944, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of William JB and Catherine (Hartweg) McCarty. She graduated from Nauvoo High School in 1962 then went on to obtain an Associate’s Degree in Business from Southeastern Community College. On June 10, 1967, she was united in marriage to Jerry (Bud) Boyer at the Christ Lutheran Church in Nauvoo, Illinois. He preceded her in death in 1987. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Carthage where she sang in the choir, was a lay reader and served on the altar guild. Judy worked 13 years as an office assistant for Dr. Moore (Optometrist) in Carthage, then she worked 25 years as a billing clerk for Keokuk Area Medical Equipment, retiring in 2017. She was also a member of Business and Professional Women (BPW).  Judy had a love for antiques, was an avid reader, and loved to cook and bake. One of her favorite pastimes was having the “girls” over for coffee. Judy loved dogs, particularly Labrador retrievers, especially her own, Buddy.  She took pride in how things looked, always maintaining a well-manicured lawn & keeping a spotless house.  Above all, Judy loved her two grandchildren the most.  She was always active in their lives & was their biggest fan, rarely missing any of their events.

Judy is survived by her two children, Eric (Tonya) Boyer of Carthage, and Jamie Boyer of Carthage; her grandchildren, Braxton Boyer of Carthage and Bailey Boyer of Appleton, Wisconsin; a brother Jim (Anabelle) McCarty of Nauvoo, Illinois; a sister-in-law Janice McCarty of Nauvoo, Illinois; a brother-in-law Arnold (Nina) Boyer of Carthage; five nephews, Jeff (Cheryl) McCarty, John (Connie) McCarty, Bryan (Jani) McCarty, Jim McCarty, Steve Boyer; and four nieces, Cathy (Jeff) Lang, Sandra (Robert) Tuftee, Nancy (James Harris) Dietrick, Suzi (Tom)Weiss; and many cousins, great nieces and nephews.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband “Bud”, and a son Shane (1991); a brother, John “Jack” McCarty; sister, Sally Dietrick; and a brother-in-law, Frank William Dietrick.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, December 13, 2021, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Carthage with burial to follow in Moss Ridge Cemetery in Carthage. Visitation will be held at the Church beginning at 9:30 AM to the time of service. Memorials may be directed to Ada’s Army or the Carthage Humane Society. Printy Funeral Home in Carthage is in charge of arrangements

Raymond “Ray” Peel

1937-2021

     Raymond “Ray” Samuel Peel, 84, of Keokuk, IA, formerly of Argyle, IA died Monday, December 6, 2021 at Blessing Health Keokuk.

     He was born on the family farm in Wever, IA on July 3, 1937, the son of Samuel Iver and Pearl Hanson Peel.  Raymond graduated from Argyle High School with the Class of 1955.  He furthered his education at Keokuk Community College. 

     Raymond was in the Army Reserve for eight years and was called to active duty.  He loved his country.

     On July 2, 1961 he was united in marriage to Ann Decker at the First Christian Church in Fort Madison, IA.  She survives.

     Other survivors include two daughters, Donna Howard (James) of St. Francisville, MO, Linda Richardson (Mike) of LaCrosse, WI, three grandchildren, Vincent, T.J. (Brittany), and Brice Vaughn, four great-grandchildren, Carson, Josiah “JJ”, Jacob and Jenelle Vaughn and several nieces and nephews.

    He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Virginia Riddle and Evelyn Bogert Smith.

    He was a founding member of the Bethel Bible Church and was active in his early years as a Sunday School Teacher, Elder and Church Historian.  Church was a significant part of his life.

     Raymond had been employed at General Mills/Purity Oats in Keokuk and Ortho in Fort Madison.  He began employment in April of 1974 for Lee County on the secondary roads as a truck driver and heavy equipment operator.  He also worked in the maintenance shed repairing equipment.  He retired in 2000.  Raymond was a hard worker.  He was a lifelong farmer who loved his land.

     He was an ambitious man who liked to chop wood for heating his home.  Raymond was mechanically inclined and liked to work on cars.  Tinkering and fixing things was his favorite hobby.  He spent time finding and documenting family cemetery plots.   Raymond lived an accomplished life and will be missed.

     A Memorial Service will be held on Friday at 11:00 a.m. at the Bethel Bible Church rural Argyle, IA with Pastor Aaron Hand officiating. Burial with military rites will be in the Keokuk National Cemetery.

    Visitation will be held on Thursday after 1:00 p.m. at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with the family meeting with friends from 6-8 p.m.

     Memorials may be made to Bethel Bible Church.

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

Lynn Murrell Purdy, 78, of rural Macomb, Illinois, passed away at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, December 5, 2021 at Wesley Village Healthcare in Macomb.

He was born August 13, 1943, in LaHarpe, the son of Lewis Murell and Vernus Darlene (Harding) Purdy. He married Donna Barry and together had four children, Timothy (Theresa) Purdy of LaHarpe, Denise Chase of rural Stronghurst, Debbie (Sean) Blue of rural Spartanburg, SC, and Angela Purdy of Burlington, Iowa. They later divorced. On July 4, 1998 he married Connie Newman in an outdoor wedding in Carthage. He added two step-daughters to that union, Amy (Bob) Gound of rural Warsaw and Abby (Karl) Ruebush of rural Macomb. Together they have six grandchildren, Riley Blue of Spartanburg, SC, Jackson Chase of rural Stronghurst, Carson Purdy of rural LaHarpe, Jenna and Jordan Gound of rural Warsaw, and Kade Ruebush of rural Macomb. He is survived by one sister, Aldena (Rod) Everhart of Keller, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

He farmed 50 years in McDonough and Hancock Counties. Beside his love of farming, he enjoyed driving a school bus for 13 years for the LaHarpe School District, writing and recording poems for students as they boarded the bus. He served four years on the LaHarpe School Board with part of his term as president. He was a previous member of the Prairieland Barbershop. He served six years in the Army Reserves. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Carthage where he sang in the choir, served on various committees, and started the sweet corn project for missions, utilizing proceeds for needed community projects. The project continues today. He worked at McDonough Power Cooperative for 10 years where he participated in the “Coats for Kids” project.

The funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, December 9, 2021 at the First United Methodist Church in Carthage, Illinois. Burial will follow in the LaHarpe Cemetery. 

Friends may call after 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 8th at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe, where the family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. 

Memorials may be made to Wesley Village for a bench in the Wesley garden as Lynn and Connie spent many hours there enjoying the garden and walking trails. A memorial has also been established for the McDonough County Cooperative “Coats for Kids” Program. To leave a condolence for the family, please visit Lynn’s obituary at banksandbeals.com

In Loving Memory of our Mom, Sharron Lee (McKeel) Buckert, of Mattawan, Michigan, formerly from Warsaw, Illinois. Mom was 87 years old and passed away on November 28, 2021. She was born in Warsaw, Illinois on August 17, 1934, the daughter of William M. and Evalee Olive (Tripp) McKeel.

July 16, 1950, Mom married our Dad, James Earl Buckert, at the Trinity Methodist Church, Kahoka, Missouri. Together, Mom and Dad had the six of us children: James W. (Pat) Buckert of The Villages, Florida, Linda K. (Dale) Hazelhoff of Mattawan, Michigan, Brenda J. Brown of Collinsville, Illinois, Jeffrey A. (Jan) Buckert of Ozark, Missouri, John F. (Anne) Buckert of Rochester, Michigan and Lark A. (Alan) Nieboer of Otsego, Illinois.

Mom’s wonderful gift was her love for each one of us. Her hugs were amazing,

Our greatest gifts to Dad and Mom were blessing them with 11 grandchildren: Johnathan (Amy) and Jeremy (Emma) Hazelhoff, Jason (Melinda) and Justin Buckert, Nathan (Heather) Brown and Jonah Buckert, Samatha and Jacquelyn Buckert, Jarrett and Lauren Nieboer, and Scott Goff. The grandchildren then blessed Grandpa and Grandma with 11 great-grandchildren: Thomas and Grace Hazelhoff, Evelyn Hazelhoff, MacKenzie and Aubrie Buckert, Alexus Buckert, Sadie and Avery Buckert, and Cody, Kia and Cameron Goff. Judith K. Johnson of Carthage, Illinois and Colleen Hamon of Joshua, Texas are her surviving sisters.

Mom enjoyed cooking. Every day she would bake bread, rolls, fruit pies or cakes. There was always a place at our table for anyone who stopped by. Mom taught us at an early age to cook, garden and share the fruits and vegetables with our family, friends, church and community.

The Trinity United Methodist Church, Warsaw, Illinois was where she taught Sunday School for many years, served when she was asked, and gave her homemade sweet breads, noodles, cookies, candies and pastries for the Fall Harvest dinner and sale.

Besides her love for her family and cooking, Mom was a prolific reader and read thousands of books over her lifetime. She holds a record at the library for the most read books.

Mom is now reunited with Dad, James E. Buckert, who passed away in September of 1992. She had lost four siblings: Patricia A. Hammel, William (Sonny), Jimmy and Michael McKeel.

Visitation for family and friends is at Trinity Lutheran Church, Carthage Illinois, on Saturday, December 11th at 11:00 am followed by the funeral service at 12:00 pm. Mom will be laid to rest next to Dad in the Oakland Cemetery in Warsaw, Illinois immediately following her service. Family and friends are invited back to the church to join together for dinner.

Memorials may be directed to Rose Arbor Hospice, Kalamazoo, Michigan.

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

Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Elizabeth Doyle, 95, of Ferris, Illinois, passed away at 9:55 a.m. Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at the Timber Point Healthcare Center, Camp Point, Illinois.

Elizabeth was born November 21, 1926 near Bentley, Illinois, the daughter of Enoch and Fern (Wristen) Lyon. Elizabeth married Leroy Ellefritz. He preceded her in death May 3, 1970. She later married James Doyle. He preceded her in death December 24, 1983.

Elizabeth worked for a time at the Carthage Hospital. She also worked as a waitress at the former Smith’s Café in Carthage. She and her husband, James, managed motels in Colorado and California.

Mrs. Doyle was a member of Carthage Christian Church and the Carthage VFW Auxiliary. She enjoyed doing yard work, gardening and hosting family dinners.

Survivors include four children: Donna (Robert) Reed of Tiffin, Iowa, Wayne (Elizabeth) Ellefritz of Quincy, Illinois, Keith (Terri) Ellefritz of Carthage, Illinois and Barbara (Bill) Sloop of Ferris; nine grandchildren: Roger (Angie) Reed of Florida, Shawn Reed of Coralville, Iowa, Tara Ellefritz of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Lacy (Albert) Robinson of Quincy, Chad Ellefritz of Quincy, Ben (Jessica) Ellefritz of Macomb, Illinois, Bart (Ashley) Ellefritz of Chicago, Amy (Chance) Nye of Keokuk, Iowa and Rachel (CJ) McHugh of Milan, Illinois. Also surviving are 22 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great-grandchildren and her twin sister: R. Kathleen Jackson of Grand Terrace, California.

Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husbands; two grandchildren: William “Billy” Sloop and Lonna Sloop and two brothers: Junior and Leonard Lyon.

A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, December 4, 2021 at the Harmony Cemetery, near Bentley, Illinois. Her grandson, Pastor Ben Ellefritz, will officiate. No visitation is planned. Banks & Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe is assisting the family.

A memorial fund has been established for the Carthage Christian Church or The Crossing in Macomb. To leave a condolence for the family, please visit Elizabeth’s obituary at banksandbeals.com.