Matthew W. Sprague, 50, of Hamilton, passed away at 9:47 AM, Monday,
December 29, 2025, at his home in Hamilton.
Matthew was born October 27, 1975, the son of Duane “Wayne” Clair and
Kathryn Ann (Witt) Sprague in Keokuk, Iowa. He attended Hamilton High
School graduating in 1993.
Matthew was a loving father, brother, uncle and friend. He was very
creative and loved drawing and being a DJ, sharing his love of music with
others. He also liked professional wrestling, loved all things Halloween and
enjoyed cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs and the Detroit Lions. He was
known for his comical sense of humor and ability to make people laugh.
He will be remembered for his creativity, his love of family and the joy he
brought to those around them.
Matthew is survived by four children, Damian Andrews of Carthage, Carter
Sprague of Hamilton, Sophia Hardy of Alexandria, Missouri and Cali
Sprague of Keokuk, Iowa; partner, Tara Orozco of Galesburg; siblings, Tom
(Jennifer) Barnett of Donnellson, Iowa, Jason A. Sprague of Hamilton and
Nicole Sprague of Macomb.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be held at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton from 9:00 – 11:00
AM Saturday morning, January 3, 2026, with graveside services to follow at
Oakwood Cemetery in Hamilton. Memorials may be directed to the family
of Matthew Sprague. Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of
arrangements.

Christine “Chris” Stewart

 

Christine “Chris” Stewart, 70, of Sutter, Illinois, passed away from a heart attack in her
home yesterday morning, December 28, 2025, at 10:15 am.
Chris was born on December 11, 1955, in Carthage, Illinois, the daughter of Traves and
Cecile (Hardy) Brownlee. She was united in marriage to John Stewart in Keokuk in
2003.
Chris is survived by her husband John; three sons: Christopher, Terry (Ciarra) and
Trevor; two stepsons John and Chad; Grandchildren: Travis, Aaron, TJ (Hunter),
Timothy, Harlon, Jake, Garrick, Bobby, Audrey, Sadie, Sophie, Gretchen, Grace, and
Stormy; three great grandchildren; sister: Janet Walters; brother Mike Brownlee; nieces,
nephews, and many beloved friends. She was preceded in death by her son Tim
(Courtney, Robyn, Christina); granddaughters Mekeda and Caroline; parents Travis and
Cecile; brothers Travis and Steve (Marie); and other beloved friends and family.
Chris was a member of the Evangelical Free Church of Keokuk, Iowa, and was
employed at Henniges for 45 years. Jesus and her family were the center of her life,
and she enjoyed gardening, arts and crafts, and nature. She was comforted at the time
of her passing by her husband John and her son Christopher.
Funeral services will be held at 12 pm (Noon) on Friday, January 2, 2025, at Printy
Funeral Home in Warsaw, with burial to follow at Oakland Cemetery in Warsaw.
Visitation will be held on Friday from 10 am to 12 pm (Noon) at the funeral home directly
before the service.
Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Dalton Levi Sherman

Dalton Levi Sherman, 29, of Peoria, formerly of Carthage, passed way
Wednesday evening, December 24, 2025, in Hamilton, Illinois.
Dalton was born on March 27 th , 1996, in Carthage, Illinois. He attended
Warsaw High School graduating in 2014. He then went on to receive his
electrical training from several colleges and his specialized training in
Peoria. He was a union electrician for Local 34 in Peoria. Dalton enjoyed
fishing, sports cars and weightlifting. He was also an avid gamer and
enjoyed riding his dirt bike. Dalton was an extremely hard and dedicated
worker that loved his family fiercely. He was a loving son, brother and
grandson that will be missed.
Dalton is survived by his parents, Erica and Andy Lafeber of Carthage; his
sister, Haley Horton of Hamilton; brother, Devin Lafeber of Carthage; his
father, Kerry Sherman; grandparents, Walter and Naomi Horton and Jack
and Bonnie Lafeber; a special uncle, Eric Horton; also, uncle Tim and Aunt
Mardi; his dog, Sparky and cat, Boots.
He is preceded in death by grandparents, Dan and Helen Mahair; and an
uncle, Charles “Chuck” Motley.
Private funeral services will be held at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage.

Lorene Paul

Lorene Paul, 89, of Hamilton, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 12:50 PM
in Hamilton at the home of her loving caregiver, Janet Johnson.
Lorene was born October 14, 1936, at home in Basco, Illinois, the daughter of Clarence
and Myrtle (Trautvetter) Koehler. She attended Warsaw High School graduating in 1954
and then went on to receive her Nursing Degree from Blessing School of Nursing in
1957. On May 5, 1956, she was united in marriage to Ronald Paul at the Bethlehem
United Church of Christ in Sutter. He survives. Lorene had worked as a Registered
Nurse at Blessing Hospital in Quincy for a time before moving to be with her husband
who was in the Airforce. She then worked in a small hospital in Maryland until they
moved back home. Once back in the area she worked at Graham Hospital in Keokuk
which later became Keokuk Area Hospital. She retired from there in 1999. She was an
excellent nurse and a great role model to many in the years that she worked. Lorene
was a genuinely kind and loving wife, mother, and grandmother and saw the best in
everyone. She will be deeply missed by her family.
Lorene was a lifelong member of the Bethlehem United Church of Christ in Sutter and
also attended the Church of Christ in Kahoka when she and Ron lived there. She
enjoyed staying active in Bridge Club, the Young Mother’s Club of Hamilton and
Tuesday Club (which sometimes met on Wednesday as they would say) in Kahoka.
Besides Bridge, she loved traveling, going to Texas, playing the piano, and watching or
listening to the St Louis Cardinals whenever she could. She especially enjoyed and
loved her grandchildren and attended her grandchildren’s events whenever possible.
Lorene is survived by her husband, Ronald, of Hamilton; her daughter, Debbie Donahue
of Hamilton; grandsons, Brandon (Michele) Shoen, Andrew (Stephanie) Shoen and Joe
(Bailey) Donahue; great grandsons, Trent Shoen, Caleb Shoen, Calvin Shoen, Conor
Donahue and Rhys Donahue; great granddaughter, Olive Donahue; her sister Linda
(Steve) Rhoades; nephews, Geoff (Jen) Rhoades, Justin (Lindsay) Rhoades and Ben
Rhoades; great nephews, Cooper and Cade Rhoades; and her devoted care giver for
several years, Janet Johnson.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a great grandson, Reid Pfeiferling; and her
brother, Kenneth Koehler.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, December 27, 2025, at the
Bethlehem United Church of Christ near Sutter with burial to follow in Oakwood
Cemetery in Hamilton. Visitation will be held from noon until time of services at 1:00 PM
at the church. Memorials may be directed to the Bethlehem United Church of Christ or

the Alzheimer’s Association. Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of
arrangements.

Barbara Jean Leeper

Barbara Jean Leeper, 76, of Macomb, formerly of Carthage, passed away
at 8:30 PM, Wednesday evening, December 24, 2025, at her home in
Macomb.
Barbara was born October 26, 1949, the daughter of Rolland and Mary
(Hendricksmeyer) Wear in Carthage. She attended Carthage High School.
Barbara was an avid reader with an impressive collection of books and a
well-worn bible enshrined in her home; she had an incredible thirst for
knowledge. Barbara enjoyed gardening and loved her chickens, doves,
parakeets and watching birds of all shapes and sizes. She was known to
love dogs and tolerate cats. She especially enjoyed geode hunting,
camping and fishing. She loved being outdoors and going for long walks
but could be enticed to come inside for a good game of Scrabble.
Barbara is survived by her children who she loved very much in her own
way, Vernon “Buddy” (Tracy) Hasten of Little Rock, AR, Craig (Nikki)
Hasten of St. Louis, MO, Melanie (Jerry) Allen of Macomb, Sterling
(Brandy) Atterberg of Carthage, IL, and Savannah (Thor) Herron of
Macomb; grandchildren, Nick, Chad, Madeline, Avery, Hayden, Oliver,
Griffin, Ben, Logan, Weston, Jack, and Solomon; great grandchildren,
Logan, Lola, Luna, Owen and Malia; siblings, Dorthy Wear of Evansdale,
IA, Ronald Lee (Janet Sue) Wear of La Harpe, IL, James Wear, and Karen
Joan Caples of Avon, OH; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Monday, December 29 th , 2025, at
Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in Franklin Cemetery
east of Carthage. Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM until time of
services at 2:00 PM at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to the
Blessing Foundation – Caring Club of Quincy, IL. Printy Funeral Home of
Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Rose M. Vradenburg

Rose M. Vradenburg, 75 of Keokuk, IA passed away Sunday, December 21, 2025 at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington, IA.

She was born January 11, 1950 in Keokuk, the daughter of Harry and Thelma Marmion Russell. She graduated from Keokuk High School with the class of 1969.

Rose had been employed by Sheller Globe and later at Head Start as a teacher’s aide. She was a member of the Salvation Army.

Rose enjoyed relaxing with her favorite television shows and loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is survived by one daughter, Maria Burgess of Keokuk, one son, David Vradenburg of Keokuk, three grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. She is also survived by one sister, Grace Russell of Keokuk and a brother, Everett Russell of Keokuk, several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, five brothers, Bud Russell, Harry Russell Jr., Charles Russell, James "Steve" Russell and Bill Russell as well as two sisters, Joyce Jones and Mary Alice Russell Grove.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, December 27, 2025 at New Bethel Church in Keokuk with Pastor Debra Letcher officiating.

Memorials may be made to the family.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Rose M. Vradenburg, please visit our flower store.

Stacey Ray Sheffler, 74, of Warsaw, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at
Post Acute Care Center in Macomb, Illinois.
Stacey was born on September 20, 1951, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of Mural and Glenna
(Acker) Sheffler. He graduated from Warsaw High School in 1969, and on October 16,
1971, he was united in marriage to Connie Carlene Nagel at Bethlehem United Church
of Christ in Sutter, Illinois. She survives. He went on to work in auto part sales, retiring
from AutoZone on July 7, 2018. Stacey will always be remembered for his ornery and
spunky personality and the nicknames he gave everyone.
Stacey is survived by his wife Connie Sheffler of Warsaw; his daughter Stephanie
(Farin) Lawson of Basco; his granddaughter Tayha (Jason) Roush of Johnson,
Nebraska; four great-grandchildren: Caleb, Hunter, Leena and Ember; his brother
Monte (Becky) Sheffler of Eloy, Arizona; two brothers-in-law: Don (Judy) Nagel of
Keokuk and Doug (Anne) Nagel of Huntley, Illinois; and several nieces, nephews and
cousins.
Stacey is preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws Milton and Carlene Nagel.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 pm on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Printy Funeral
Home in Warsaw.
Memorials may be directed to the family in care of Stephanie Lawson.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Glenn Van Pelt

Glenn Clifford Van Pelt 81, of Mount Pleasant formerly of Montrose passed away
Thursday, December 18, 2025 at his home.
He was born June 25, 1944 in Fort Madison the son of Glen C. and Elsielee Helmick
Van Pelt.
On June 22, 1963 he was united in marriage to Mary L. Rohdy in Donnellson, Iowa.
She survives.
Glenn was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan as well as the St. Louis Cardinals and Nascar.
He enjoyed trap shooting in his spare time. He was a coach for youth baseball. and was
also a high school umpire for both baseball and softball.
Besides his wife Glenn is also survived by a daughter Glenda Benner of Argyle and
her children Dillon (Cheyenne) Benner and their children Riley, Coy, Rhett and Hunter
and Dalton (Miranda) Benner and their children Sawyer and Stetson Benner and a
daughter, Jodi Van Pelt of Mount Pleasant and her children Wyatt (Cassi) Wilson, Jaycub
and Wren Wilson, Abby (Colton) Kisling and fur baby Gigi, One sister Sandy Gathers of
Ft. Madison, IA and a special friend, Jeff Leonhard.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Debbie Kenel, and a brother in
infancy Ricky Van Pelt.
Services will be held at a later date.
The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Leona Pearl Purtle, 92, of Warsaw, passed away Tuesday, December 16,
2025, at the Golden Good Shepherd Home in Golden, Illinois.
Leona was born February 25, 1933, in Warsaw, Illinois, the daughter of
Frank and Lydia (Schipman) Miller. On June 10, 1950, she was united in
marriage to Lloyd Purtle and he preceded her in death in 2013. Leona had
worked as a nurse’s aide at Memorial Hospital in Carthage in her younger
years. She was a faithful member of the Parkview Bible Church in
Hamilton, Illinois.
Leona is survived by her children, Peggy Purtle of Quincy, Penny (Greg)
Dunker of Quincy, Renee (Jeff) Donley of Sutter, James (Beth) Purtle of
Warsaw and Frank Purtle of Augusta; grandchildren, Eric (Alison) Purtle,
Sandy Koch, Tabatha Taylor, Angie Finley, Tiffany (Ian) Littman, Stephen
(Jessica) Donley, Ricky Purtle and Alaina (James) Sesmas; and eight great
grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Lloyd; a son, Rick
Purtle; a daughter, Polly Taylor; and one brother, Marvin Miller.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at
Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in Harmony Township
Cemetery near Bentley. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until time of
services at 11:00 at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage. Memorials may be
directed to Parkview Bible Church in Hamilton. Printy Funeral Home of
Carthage is in charge of arrangements.

Mary Ann Long

Mary Ann Long, 73, of Quincy, Illinois, formerly of Burnside, Illinois passed away on
Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy.
MaryAnn was born on Christmas Day, 1951, in LaHarpe, Illinois. She was the daughter
of Richard and Helen (Curtis) Jacob. MaryAnn graduated from Carthage High School in
1970 and went on to attend Gem City business College. She was united in marriage to
Roger Long on July 5, 1970, at the Burnside Christian Church, where she remained a
lifelong member.
MaryAnn worked many years as a secretary for the Quincy Police Department, retiring
in 2001. MaryAnn loved to travel with her husband and family and loved to attend her
granddaughters’ ball games. She was the ultimate organizer; she had to get things
done. MaryAnn loved to cook, but what gave her the most pleasure in life was being a
wife, a mother, and grandmother. She just loved being with her family.
MaryAnn is survived by her husband, Roger; a daughter, Jennifer (Phillip) Neally of
Quincy, Illinois; two granddaughters, Abbie (Gavin Bishop) Neally of Quincy and Maggie
Neally of Quincy; two brothers, Don (Linda) Jacob of Carthage, and Daryl Jacob of
Carthage; and one sister, Terry (Andy) Redenius of Carthage; and many nieces,
nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Printy
Funeral Home in Carthage. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 PM Thursday,
December 18, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage. Memorials may be directed to
Burnside Christian Church. Printy Funeral Home in Carthage is in charge of
arrangements.

Doris Mae Dorethy

Doris Mae Dorethy, 95, of Hamilton, passed away at 3:55 AM, Monday,
December 15, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in Carthage.
Doris was born April 12, 1930, in Fort Madison, Iowa, the daughter of
William John and Clara (Peterschmidt) South. She graduated from
Montrose High School and went on to receive her Bachelor of Education
degree from Iowa Wesleyan University. On May 25, 1954, she was united
in marriage to John Charles Dorethy, Jr. in Keokuk, Iowa. He preceded her
in death in 2016. Doris began her teaching career at a one-room
schoolhouse in Charleston, Iowa, then went to Montrose High School
where she also coached girls’ basketball. After the consolidation, she
taught at Central Lee, Carthage and Hamilton before finishing her teaching
career at Wells-Carey School in Keokuk, from which she retired in 1985.
Doris played basketball for Iowa Wesleyan and enjoyed playing basketball
and softball well into adulthood. She also enjoyed playing bridge and
euchre and the penny slot machines. She especially enjoyed watching her
grandchildren’s sports.
Doris is survived by two sons, Bill (Stephanie) Dorethy of Centralia,
Missouri and Jeff (Michelle) Dorethy of Hamilton; grandchildren, Diana
Savoia, Jessica Williams, Nicholas Dorethy, Lauren (Ethan) Lillard, Logan
Dorethy and Lucas Dorethy; great-grandchildren, Ethan Williams, Evan
Wootton, Olivia Williams, Ella Justice, Enzo Lillard, and Dominik Lillard;
and a great-great-grandchild, Romen Williams; and many nieces and
nephews, including a special niece and nephew, Donna Luttners of
Kewanee, IL and Mike (Pam) South of Rocklin, CA.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John; and one
brother, Jack South.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 PM Thursday evening, December
18, 2025, at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton. Graveside services will be
held at 10:00 AM Friday, December 19 th , 2025, at the Keokuk National
Cemetery in Keokuk, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the Deer Run
Golf Course in Hamilton. Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of
arrangements.

Doris Foley, 99, of Warsaw, Illinois, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2025, at
Memorial Hospital in Carthage, Illinois.
Doris was born on August 26, 1926, the daughter of Henry and Margaret Cole Bruder in
Warsaw, Illinois. She graduated from Warsaw High School in the class of 1944 and
went on to graduate from St. Mary’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1947. She went on to
work at St. Joseph and Keokuk Area Hospitals for thirty years. On November 19, 1947,
she was united in marriage to Elmer E. Foley at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in
Warsaw, of which she was a member. Elmer preceded her in death on September 1,
1982.
Doris spent her life taking care of others and took many people to doctor appointments
throughout her retirement. After her children were grown, she would pick up nursing
shifts on the holidays to ensure young parents were able to spend time with their
families and frequently babysat her grandchildren. She also volunteered at the hospital
gift shop and Birthright, earning the “Friend of Life” award.
Doris is survived by three sons: David (Susan) Foley of Palatine, Illinois, Thomas
(Diane) Foley of Warsaw, and Robert (Kathryn) Foley of Warsaw; her daughter Kathleen
(Joe) Bartholomew of Warsaw; her son-in-law Michael Bliven of Keokuk; twelve
grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren on the
way; three special nieces and nephews: Ron Bruder, Martha Schoen and Rich Bruder;
and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Doris is preceded in death by her husband Elmer; her daughter Beverly Bliven; her
granddaughter Tracy Fowler; two brothers and two sisters-in-law.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the
Sacred Heart Catholic Church parish hall, with burial to follow at Oakland Cemetery in
Warsaw. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 pm on Friday, December 19, at Printy Funeral
Home in Warsaw. A Rosary Prayer Service will be held at 7 pm on Friday at the funeral
home directly following the visitation.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Darrell Gene “Beano” Boyer

Darrell Gene “Beano” Boyer, 87, of Carthage, IL, passed away on Thursday, December
11, 2025, surrounded by his family at Blessing Hospital in Quincy.
Beano was born on February 14, 1938, at home in Ferris, IL. He was the son of Vernon
and Luella (Metternich) Boyer. Beano graduated from Carthage High School in 1956.
He was a good athlete and excelled in basketball, baseball, and football. On November
27, 1958, he was united in marriage to Judith Dickinson at the United Methodist Church
in Carthage. Beano spent all his career working for Sheller Globe and subsequent
companies, starting in September of 1956 until he retired in May of 2000.
Beano’s favorite thing to do in life was play golf. He enjoyed being outdoors and
spending time with friends on the golf course. Beano loved sports. He was a die-hard
St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Bears, and University of Illinois fan. He would tune in to
any games he could. He liked to go bowling and was an avid gardener. Beano took a lot
of pride in his Christmas village that he would put together every year around the
Christmas season. He loved spending time with his grandchildren.
Beano is survived by his wife, Judy Boyer of Ferris, IL; his two daughters, Sydney Todd
of Monmouth, IL, and Teri (David) Boyer-Goldstein of Vernon Hills, IL; his grandchildren,
Dustin Todd, Brandon (Allison) Goldstein, and Alexandra (Quentin) Givens; his great
grandchildren, Chelsey Todd, Amelia Todd, Alaina Spence, Lillian Goldstein, Raylan
Givens, and Kolby Givens; his brothers, Earl (Dena) Boyer of Rock Island, IL, and Alfred
(Andrea) Boyer of California.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Richard and Kenneth Boyer; his
sisters-in-law, Wanda and Betty Boyer; and his grandsons, Casey and Ryan Todd.
A celebration of life will be held from 4 – 7pm on December 23, 2025, at The Eagles
Club in Carthage, IL. Memorials may be made out to the American Macular
Degeneration Foundation (AMDF) or The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. Printy
Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Elanor R Junk

Eleanor R. Junk, 107, of Carthage, IL, passed away in the early morning on Thursday,
December 11, 2025, at Hickory Grove in Carthage.
Eleanor was born on September 12, 1918, in St. Albans township. She was the
daughter of John and Alice Mae (Hudleson) Hull. Eleanor was the youngest of 8
children. On August 21, 1937, she was united in marriage to Earl Junk.
Eleanor is survived by her two daughters, Dora Mae Berres of MN and Karen Zujko of
KS; her grandchildren, David Fredrickson, Andrea Zujko, Ariana (Craig) King, and Adam
Junk; her step-grandchildren, Heather Bangert, and Steve Berres; as well as many
great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Earl Junk, a son, Richard
Junk, three brothers, four sisters, and two grandsons.
Eleanor spent most of her life in and around West Point. She enjoyed trail riding with
her husband, Earl, for many years. She moved to Carthage in 2006. Eleanor graduated
from Quincy High School and attended Western Illinois University where she received
her degree in education. She was a teacher in Hancock County for 35 years. Eleanor
kept busy with a lot of volunteer work for the Home Bureau, Memorial Hospital, auxiliary,
twig, gift shop, 4H, RSVP, Senior Center, and retired teachers. She enjoyed playing
cards, jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, and crocheting. At the top of her priorities
was the Church. Eleanor was a faithful and active member of the United Methodist
Church where she would volunteer anywhere, she could help. She belonged to the
United Methodist Woman organization. She spent time teaching Sunday school, a
church greeter, and would always ring the bell for the Salvation Army at County Market.
A funeral service will be held at 11am on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the United
Methodist Church in Carthage with burial to follow at the West Point Cemetery in West
Point, IL. A visitation will be held prior to the service starting at 10am at the church.
Memorials may be made out to the United Methodist Church in Carthage. Printy Funeral
Home is handling arrangements.

Connie Jean Sutton 

Connie Jean Sutton, 79, of Myrtle Beach, SC, formerly of Lexington, IL, passed away
early on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at the Grand Strand Medical Center in Myrtle
Beach.
Connie was born on October 2, 1946, in Keokuk, IA. She was the daughter of Irvin and
Gertrude (Wachtendorf) Huls. Connie graduated from Carthage Community High School
in 1964. After high school, Connie spent time working as a bookkeeper and accountant
for several area banks and other companies. She worked for State Farm as an
investment accountant until she retired in 2020. On November 4, 1989, Connie was
united in marriage to William (Bill) Sutton. She grew up attending the Lutheran Church
and later became a member of the Bloomington Church of Christ.
Connie is survived by her husband, Bill Sutton of Myrtle Beach, SC; her son, Scott
(Beth) Woodrum of Myrtle Beach, SC, her stepson, Joshua Sutton of Danvers, IL; her
grandchildren, Kyle (Jen) Woodrum of Bloomington, IL, Philip Woodrum of Bloomington,
IL, and Noah (Morgan) Woodrum of Myrtle Beach, SC; her sisters, Shirley Payne of
Washington, IL, Brenda Huls of Keokuk, IA; her brothers, Dale Huls of Decatur, TN, and
Kevin Huls of Carthage, IL.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brothers, LaVerne Huls, Jerry Huls
and her first husband, Phil Woodrum.
Connie was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Her greatest joy in life was being
with her family.
A funeral service will be held at 11am on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the
Immanuel Lutheran Church near Basco, IL, with burial to follow at the Immanuel
Lutheran Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made out to the American Cancer
Society or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Printy Funeral Home is handling
arrangements.

Gary Allen Freeman, 81, of Carthage

Gary Allen Freeman, 81, of Carthage, Illinois, died at 12:55 p.m. Wednesday, December
10, 2025, with his family by his side at Wesley Village, Macomb, Illinois.
Gary was born on June 23, 1944, in Burnside, Illinois, the son of Charles Ralph and
Thelma Lake (Vass) Freeman. Gary married Sherlie Jean Lowe on December 27,
1964, in Carthage. Gary is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jean of Carthage; two
daughters, Stephanie (Rusty) Willey of Carthage and Tricia (Mark) Thomas of
Galesburg, Illinois; four grandchildren, Bethany (Dan) Scheetz, Alyssa (Ethan)
Summers, Andrew Thomas, and Luke Thomas; and four great grandsons, Asher, Hollis,
Kampbell, and Henry; three brothers, Donald Freeman of Wesley Village, Macomb,
Illinois, Mikel (Dianne) Freeman of Chillicothe, Illinois, and Dennis (Cindy) Freeman of
Keokuk, Iowa; and one sister, Diane (Ed) O’Neil of Clinton, Iowa. Along with his
parents, Gary was preceded in death by one son, Gregory Allen on November 2, 1968;
three brothers, James, Ronnie, Charles Ralph, Jr.; and five sisters, Delores Phillips,
Katherine Martens, Janet Campbell, Carol Freeman, and Crystal Withers.
Gary worked at Cargill in Carthage for 21 years, prior to setting out on a 20-year
trucking career. He drove OTR for several years with Sharkey Transportation before
starting his own company G&J Trucking, retiring in 2006. Gary was a longtime
volunteer and former treasurer and secretary at the Carthage Clipper Fire Department.
He enjoyed many family trips camping to Alley Springs, Missouri along the Jacks Fork
River and to Seven Ponds Campground in Burlington, Iowa. After retirement, Gary and
Jean began travelling including many trips to Branson, Missouri and two family trips to
Orange Beach, Alabama. Their travels took them on a special trip to Washington, DC
with Jean’s brother, Sam (Nina) Lowe. Throughout his life, family always came first.
Gary always enjoyed his Saturday mornings drinking coffee and telling stories with
special friends around his kitchen table. He spent many hours volunteering at the fire
department for their pancake fundraisers, mountain oyster feeds and playing cribbage.
Visitation will be 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday, December 15, 2025, at Printy
Funeral Home, Carthage, Illinois. Funeral services will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the
funeral home. Burial will be at Moss Ridge Cemetery, Carthage. Arrangements have
been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home, Galesburg and Printy Funeral Home,
Carthage. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Carthage Clipper Volunteer
Fire Department or Hancock County Volunteers for Diabetes. Online expressions of
sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

Karen L. Hardy

Karen Louise Hardy (Weyand), 83, of Keokuk, Iowa, passed peacefully on December 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 17, 1942, to Margaret and Joseph Weyand.

 

Following high school, Karen taught in Missouri before returning to Keokuk, where she worked in several local businesses over the years including Woolworth’s, Bauer-Malarky Shoe Store, Rexall Drug, and later The Daily Gate City. In 1973, she was united in marriage to Jerry Hardy. They later divorced, yet Karen remained deeply devoted to her family and community throughout her life.

 

Karen was a faithful and active member of All Saints Catholic Church, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister and formed a close friendship with Father Hai Dinh. Along with her special friend, Jim Cameron, she ministered to local nursing home residents, sharing prayer and delivering the Eucharist to those unable to attend Mass. Her kindness, compassion, and devotion to her faith were evident to everyone who knew her.

 

An avid reader, Karen especially enjoyed mystery and historical novels. She loved watching Fox News, taking walks, listening to 1960s music, and drawing pictures for her friends and family. Creative, thoughtful, and bright, she found beauty in simple moments and joy in the people around her.

 

Karen is survived by two sisters, Margaret Cook of Keokuk, Iowa, and Rita (Kris) Peterson of Huxley, Iowa; two daughters, Wendy Harshbarger and Gary Riddle of Keokuk, Iowa, and Sarah (Brodie) Hayward of Morrison, Illinois; six grandchildren, Lydia Harshbarger, Christian Harshbarger, Avery Keller, Morgan (Rowdy) Lathrop, Payton (Isaac) Armstrong-Stuart, and Logan Henke; and three great-grandchildren, Christian Robert Edward Harshbarger, Iyla, and Ansen Lathrop. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends who were blessed by her friendship and generous spirit.

 

She is preceded in death by her parents; her Aunt Ruth Weier; her sister, Mary Ellen (Stan) Kutcher; brother-in-law, Harvey Cook; great-nephew, Nathan Cook; and her son-in-law, Robert Warren Harshbarger; lifelong friend Mary Ceil Lobberecht-Scheers. Memorials may be made to All Saints Catholic Church, EveryStep Hospice, or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Karen’s faith, warmth, and love enriched the lives of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. May she rest in God’s eternal peace.

 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 3 to 7 pm, with family meeting friends from 5 to 7 pm at DeJong-Printy Funeral Home in Keokuk. A rosary service will be held at 7 PM directly following visitation. A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk, Iowa. A celebration of her life will be held following the mass.

 

Nancy Darlene Biddenstadt

Nancy Darlene Biddenstadt, 86, of Hamilton, passed away at 7:24 PM, Tuesday,
December 2, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in Carthage.
Nancy was born November 17, 1939, the daughter of Henry Andrew and Agnes “Aggie”
Waneta (Cooper) Smith in Keokuk, Iowa. She graduated from Hamilton High School.
On February 19, 1959, she was united in marriage to Vernon Lee “Poody” Biddenstadt
at the First Christian Church parsonage in Hamilton. He preceded her in death in 2000.
Nancy had worked at the laundromats in Keokuk and Hamilton and SuperValu in
Hamilton and County Market in Keokuk. She retired from the Carthage Caseys store in
Carthage where she prepared the donuts each morning. She loved visiting the casinos
and playing the slot machines. She was also an avid fisherman and Kansas City
Chiefs fan.
Nancy is survived by three children, Randy (Ann) Biddenstadt of Carthage, Charles
(Brittany Loring) Biddenstadt of Keokuk and Teresa Biddenstadt of Hamilton;
grandchildren, Ryan (Jessica) Biddenstadt, Megan (Jason) Lamporte, Laura (Tyler)
Weber, C.J. (Stephanie) Gould, Ashley (Will) Washburn, Tabatha (Charles) Russell,
Charles Biddenstadt, Jr., Dustin Biddenstadt, Sammy Biddenstadt, Clayton Biddenstadt,
Harley Biddenstadt and Kenny Biddenstadt; great grandchildren, Kaylynn, Dallas,
Weston, Syrai, Garryt, Korbyn, Gracie, Sebastian, Teegan, Liam, Danica, Kaden,
Sophia, Alivia, Keira, Taryn, Zoey, Drayton, Brelynn and Dawson; one brother, Dick
(Jean) Smith; a sister, Freda (Bill) Johnson; several nieces and nephews; and her
beloved pets, Shiba and Houdini.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents;grandparents; and one nephew,
Stuart Johnson.

Funeral services will be held at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton at 2:00 PM, Monday,
December 8, 2025, with burial to follow in Oakwood Cemetery in Hamilton. Visitation
will be held from 2:00 – 7:00 PM Sunday evening at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton
with family meeting friends from 4:00 – 7:00 PM. Memorials may be directed to the
family of Nancy Biddenstadt. Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of
arrangements.

Richard Lee Gustin

Richard Lee Gustin, 58, passed away peacefully in his home in the early morning hours
of Saturday, November 29th, 2025, surrounded by his family. 
Born on December 5th, 1966 in Fort Madison, Iowa to parents Larry and Mary Gustin,
Richard grew up in Nauvoo, Illinois with his older brother Robert. He graduated from
Nauvoo-Colusa High School in 1985. 
Throughout his life, Richard was an avid hunter, fisherman, WWII documentary-watcher,
and Miller High Life-enjoyer. His favorite activity was spending time with his family. He
spent his early career years as a commercial painter and later as a BNSF railroad
engineer. Richard married his beloved wife Angel in 1989. They spent 36 wonderful
years together and had two children, Kaitlin and Chance.
Richard was preceded in death by his father Larry and his grandparents Ena Mae and
Harry “Gus” Gustin. He is survived by his wife Angel, children Katie (Kwade Bawden)
and Chance Gustin, his brother Robert (Stephanie) Gustin, brother-in-law Joe Terrill,
nieces Jennifer See, Amanda Fie, Paige Ross and Lauren Heaps, nephews Alex Gustin
and Blake Terrill, as well as many great nieces and nephews. 
Memorial services will be made at a later date.

Keith D. Miller, 62

Keith D. Miller, 62, of Warsaw, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at his
home in Warsaw.
Keith was born on June 29, 1963, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of Paul Wayne and
Katherine “Joyce” (Conover) Miller. He graduated from Warsaw High School in 1981.
Keith went on to work at Hy-Vee for several years, before his employment at Roquette
for thirty-seven years until his passing. On May 28, 1994, he was united in marriage to
Sally Kathleen (Handyside) Wildrick at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Keokuk. She
survives.
Keith was a hard worker and owned a machine shop for small engines and mowers,
which he worked alongside his other jobs. He enjoyed gardening and the great
outdoors, but his love was smoking meats and cooking food, especially pork chops for
his parents. He even created and distributed his own “Chum’s Rub” seasoning. Keith
loved his community and acquired a massive collection of Warsaw and Burgemeister
collectables. Most of all, Keith loved his family and attended as many of his
grandchildren’s events as he could.
Keith is survived by his wife Sally Miller of Warsaw; his parents Paul and Katherine
“Joyce” Miller of Warsaw; three daughters: Amanda Wildrick of Warsaw, Michelle (Miller)
Cottrell of La Grange, Missouri, and Kylie Miller of Warsaw; four grandchildren: Gabe
Miller, Adalyn “Ady” Stevenson, Lakin Cottrell and Gage Cottrell; his brother Kurtis
(Terri) Miller of Keokuk; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Keith is preceded in death by his brothers-in-law Dan Handyside and Kurt Hester; his
sister-in-law Ann Hester; and his dogs Luna and Nova, who saved Sally’s life and
stayed with Keith through his passing.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Printy
Funeral Home in Warsaw. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 pm on Thursday, December
4, at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Dorothy Keller, 87

Dorothey H. Keller, 87, of Hamilton, passed away Monday, December 1,
2025, at her home in Hamilton.
Dorothey was born February 4, 1938, the daughter of Tom and Gladys V.
(Bufford) Childers in Mountain View, Arkansas. She graduated from High
School in Hamilton, and in 1958 she entered the United States Navy and
received her Honorable Discharge in 1963 as a Hospital Corpsman 2 nd
Class. She went on to work as a bookkeeper, then finished her working
career at Sheller-Globe in Keokuk. She was a devoted Christian, attending
First Christian Church of Hamilton, hosting a Bible Study in her home and
volunteering wherever needed. She was also a member of the American
Legion. She was an avid reader and had a green thumb, with some plants
older than her children. Dorothey was also a fantastic cook and collected
milk glass. Above all, she loved her family dearly, especially her
grandchildren.
She is survived by three sons, Tom (Annie) Keller of Reynoldsburg, OH,
Brian (Roberta) Keller of Papillion, NE, and Keith Keller of Hamilton;
grandchildren: Anthony Keller, Jonathan Keller, Avery Keller, Erina
(Jessica) Garcia, Morgan (Rowdy) Lathrop, Creston (Beverly) Decker-
Keller, Brittney Decker-Keller, Kanton Keller, Archie Doctor; four great
grandchildren; and cousins.
Preceded in death by her parents and her brother Lee Roy Childers.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10 am to 12 pm
at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton, with military honors to follow at the
funeral home directly following the visitation. A gathering for the extended
family will be held at her home following military honors.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

 

Dale Schamberger, 83

Dale Schamberger, 83, passed away at 11:45 AM on Wednesday, November 26, 2025,
at his home in Carthage, IL.
Dale was born February 21, 1942, in Stockton, IL, to J. Delmar and Berneice (Jordan)
Schamberger. He graduated from Stockton High School in 1960. Dale was united in
marriage to Linda Lou (Allen) Duffy on December 30, 1989.
Dale worked his career and retired from Nicor Gas. In retirement, he drove for Crop
Production Services and drove a school bus for Illini West, where he was known as “Mr.
Dale.”
Dale was widely known for his welding skills and his love for fishing. He was a
renowned welder, teaching welding at the Carl Sandburg College Fountain Green
campus and traveling to numerous fairs and shows. Tom Menn often announced, “Dale
can weld anything except wooden chairs and a broken heart.”
Dale loved bass fishing. He fished in pro-am tournaments and even in front of the White
House on the Potomac River. He was proud of his involvement with the Illini West Bass
Fishing Team, which won the state title in 2010. He was a member of the Carthage
JC’s, Monroe City Bass Anglers, and a lifetime member of B.A.S.S. He also served on
the Prairie Township Board from 1989–2023 and the Dallas Rural Water District Board
of Directors from 2003–2023.
He enjoyed playing the lottery and reading the newspaper, but above all, his greatest
love was spending time with his family.
Dale is survived by his wife, Linda; “the kids” Edwin (Kimberly) McQuigg, Angelia
(Randy) Ihnen, and Floyd (Shellie) Duffy; his grandchildren, Cassie (Jeremy) Climer,
Andrea (Corey) Wiley, Calean (Chris) Kokjohn, Lindsey (Devon) Bell, Kayla (Patrick)
Haigh, Kortnee (Michael) Kline, William (Victoria) McQuigg, Nevada (Shane Tucker)
McQuigg, Hannah, Aden, and Jack Duffy; nineteen great-grandchildren; and one great-
great grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Allen and Dennis; a daughter,
Avery David; a son, William McQuigg; a son-in-law, Gary David; and his two best
friends, his Saint Bernard, Heidi, and his Collie, Dexie.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage, with burial to follow at Moss Ridge Cemetery in Carthage. Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 PM Wednesday evening at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage. Memorials may be directed to Tunnels to Towers Foundation or MDH Hospice. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.