Dr. Robert E. Matthes
Dr. Robert E. Matthes, 82, Bonita Springs, Fla., formerly of Woodstock, died Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2003. He practiced chiropractic medicine in Woodstock for more than 30 years. He was a resident of Bonita Springs since 1981. He was a member of St. Leo Catholic Church, a Eucharistic minister and a Third Degree member of Knights of Columbus Council 8877. Survivors include his wife, Irene Matthes, Bonita Springs; four children, Allan (Monica) Matthes, Woodstock, John (Robin) Matthes, Orlando, Fla., Mary K. Hassler, Naperville, and Edie L. Snell, Wonder Lake; four stepsons, Gabor (Nubia) Harris, Alexandria, Va., Steven (Raina) Harris, Burlington, Mass., Sen. Dr. Andrew (Sylvia) Harris, Cockeysville, Md., and Dr. Gregory (Maura) Harris, Winchester, Va.; two sisters, Meredith Trom, Mesa, Ariz., and Kathleen Holt, Harvard; 24 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Visitation was held Jan. 30 at Walter Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home, Bonita Springs. Mass of Christian Burial was held Jan. 31 at St. Leo Catholic Church. Burial followed in Naples Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the St. Leo Education Fund, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34134.

Harry Eugene Thomfohrda
Harry Eugene Thomfohrda, 65, formerly of Woodstock and Gilman, Wis., died Saturday, Jan. 25, 2003, at his home in Las Vegas, Nev. He was born Dec. 6, 1937, in Algonquin, to Harry and Lucille (Macaben) Thomfohrda. He married Jeanne Lockinger Oct. 1, 1960, in Woodstock. He was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose for many years. He was an avid sports fan, enjoyed the company of friends’ and grandchildren’s teams or simply watching a game on television. He took an interest in his community and spent many hours coaching Little League baseball teams in Illinois and Wisconsin. His greatest pleasure was spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was a kind and gentle man who will be greatly missed by those who knew him. Survivors include his wife, Las Vegas; a daughter, Penny Buchholz, Holcombe, Wis.; a son, Carl Thomfohrda, Centuria, Wis.; five grandchildren, Joshua and Amanda Buchholz, and Jacob, Brittany and Sierra Thomfohrda; a brother, Willard Thomfohrda, Woodstock; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sons, Gregory and Kenneth. Visitation was Jan. 31 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral Mass was held Feb. 1 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock, with the Rev. James McLoughlin officiating. Burial was in Calvary Cemetery, Woodstock Memorials may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Edward T. Marsh
Edward T. Marsh, 87, Marengo, died Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2003, at Memorial Medical Center, Woodstock. He was born Feb. 12, 1915, in Rolla, Mo., to John and Margaret Perry Marsh. He married Gertrude Wilson June 17, 1939, in Plano. He was the proprietor of Ed’s Sanitary, Woodstock, for many years. He also was a Greenwood Township road commissioner for 16 years and a member of the Woodstock Moose. Survivors include his wife, Marengo; two daughters, Patricia (Ronald) Church, Marengo, and Peggy (Joe) Estes, Pflugerville, Texas; four grandchildren, Pamela Bentley, Keith (Shelly) Estes, Kathy (Bill) Hooser and Michele (Ray) Slack; seven great-grandchildren, Matthew Bentley, Tanner Estes, McMakenzie Estes, Tara Hooser, Tanya Hooser, William Hooser IV and Michael Slack; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Vernon and John; a sister, Lexie Steurer; and two grandchildren, Ronda and Kimberely Church. Visitation was Jan. 31 at Marengo-Union Funeral Home, Marengo. The funeral was held Feb. 1 at the funeral home with the Rev. John Peterson officiating. Interment was in Marengo Cemetery. Memorials may be made in his name to First Baptist Church of Marengo, 320 E. Washington St., Marengo, IL 60152.

Leslie A. ‘Les’ Martin
Leslie A. “Les” Martin, 73, Hampshire, formerly of Elgin, died Wednesday, April 9, 2003, in his home. He was born June 2, 1929, in Elgin, to Leslie and Nora (Harmening) Martin. He was a 1947 graduate of Elgin High School and was a Navy veteran of the Korean conflict. He was a longtime sales representative for the Nabisco Company. He had been a Hampshire resident for more than 25 years and a member of the American Legion Post 680 and AMVETS Post 91, both of Hampshire. He enjoyed camping, golf and spending winter in Arizona. Survivors include three daughters, Jan (Michael) Schier, East Dundee, Jane (Tony) Ambroso, Crystal Lake, and Jodi (Bruce) Farris, Woodstock; his mother, Delavan, Wis.; six grandchildren, Megan and Scott Schier, Kyle and Becky Ambroso, and Walter and Abigail Farris; two sisters, Marilyn (William) Yurs, Elkhorn, Wis., and Ann Flint, Billings, Mont.; and a brother, Dean (Carol) Martin, Scottsdale, Ariz. He was preceded in death by his father; and a brother, Wesley, in infancy. Visitation was held April 11, and the funeral service was held April 12, both at Fredrick Funeral Home, Hampshire. Burial, with military honors, was in the Hampshire Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion of Hampshire.

Mary E. O’Leary
Mary E. O’Leary, 89, Woodstock, died Sunday, April 20, 2003, at the Golden Years Nursing Home, Walworth, Wis. She was born March 28, 1914, in Northfield, to William and Katherine (Selzer) Levernier. She married Ronald J. O’Leary Dec. 28, 1938, in Marengo. He died Feb. 28, 1982. She lived in Woodstock with her husband for many years. She was an active member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. She and her husband retired to Arizona in the early 1970s, and she returned to Woodstock in 1983. She devoted her life to being a wife, mother and grandmother to her beloved family. Survivors include her children, Patricia (John) Menge, Marengo, Nancy O’Leary, Lompoc, Calif., Robert (Nancy) O’Leary, Woodstock, and Michael (Rhonda) O’Leary, Marengo; 19 grandchildren, Robert O’Leary, Sean O’Leary, Patrick O’Leary, Kelly O’Leary, Danny O’Leary, Molly Norden, Amy Serafin, Michael O’Leary, Bridgid Ehrke, Conor O’Leary, Hannah O’Leary, Katie O’Leary, Tom O’Leary, Melissa Menge, Brian Menge, Megan McCloud, Heather Sherment, Keith Menge and Samantha Menge; 23 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; a sister, Barbara (William) Schirmang; two brothers, Harold (Barbara) Levernier and Bernard (Falde) Levernier; and a sister-in-law, Clara Levernier. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and nine brothers and sisters. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 22, at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. There will be a liturgical wake service at 7 p.m. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 23, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. Interment will be in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Marengo.

Rose Irlacher
Rose Irlacher, 94, Marengo, died Sunday, April 20, 2003, at Sarinas in Lake Geneva, Wis. She was born Oct. 18, 1908, in New Briton, Conn., to Josef and Rosa (Deutsch) Dax. She married Leonard Irlacher Sept. 27, 1930, in Chicago. She was formerly of Chicago, moving to Marengo in 1997. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Marengo and was active with the Sacred Heart Seniors, as well as the Marengo Seniors Club. Survivors include her son, Leonard (Judith) Irlacher, Marengo; four grandchildren, Lisa Irlacher, Charleston, S.C., Paul (Michele) Irlacher, Cherry Valley, Michael Irlacher, Aruba, and Linda Irlacher, Marengo; and a great-granddaughter, Brooke Irlacher, Cherry Valley. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a brother; and a sister. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, April 23, at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 24, at the Sacred Heart Church in Marengo. Interment will be in St. Mary Cemetery in Evergreen Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Catholic Charities Foundation.

Viola M. Dillon
Viola M. Dillon, 95, Woodstock, died Monday, Aug. 25, 2003, at her home. She was born Oct. 26, 1907, in Fremont Center, to Sylvester and Catherine (Sable) Wagner. She married Arthur J. Kaiser Nov. 26, 1924. He died in 1973. She then married Arthur Dillon. She worked at Abbott Labs in North Chicago for nine years. She then worked at Woodstock Die Cast for 20 years. Survivors include a son, James A. (Judith) Kaiser, Woodstock; five grandchildren, Jeff and Jerald Kaiser, Woodstock, Barry Wagner, McHenry, David Wagner, California, and Kevin Wagner, Woodstock; and her good friend, Hazel Nickels, Woodstock. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband; her second husband in 1986; a son, Robert Kaiser; a sister, Clara; and a brother, Arthur. Visitation was Aug. 28 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral and burial were private.

Harold G. Knutson Sr.
Harold G. Knutson Sr., 88, Woodstock, died Saturday, Aug. 30, 2003, at Memorial Medical Center, Woodstock. He was born June 29, 1915, in Woodstock, to Edward and Bessie (Lee) Knutson. He married Amy D. Hunt June 5, 1948, in St. George’s Episcopal Church, Chicago. He was a veteran, having served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946 stationed in the Pacific Theater. He was part of the force that liberated the Southern Philippines and also had been stationed in New Guinea. He was awarded many decorations including two Overseas Service Bars, an American Campaign Medal and a Bronze Star. He was a lifetime member of St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, Woodstock, and was active with the YES Group at the church. He had worked for Union Special in Huntley for 30 years. Survivors include two sons, David (Gwynne) Knutson, Crystal Lake, and Harold (Christy Ellis) Knutson, Chicago; three grandchildren, Brian Knutson, Amanda Knutson and Brett Knutson; and a nephew, Edward (Jeannie) Vincent Jr., Nebraska. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Bessie, Dec. 29, 2000; and a brother, Edward Vincent Sr. Visitation was Sept. 3 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. A memorial service was held Sept. 6 at St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, Woodstock. Interment followed at the church.

Edward C. Henry
Edward C. Henry, 82, Woodstock, died Saturday, Aug. 30, 2003, at Northern Illinois Medical Center, McHenry. He was born April 12, 1921, in Walworth, Wis., to Leon A. and Lena L. (Voss) Henry. He married Margaret C. McDonald Sept. 2, 1944. He was a member of the Air Force during World War II. He was a member of the Woodstock American Legion and the Woodstock Moose Lodge. He also was a member of the 40 and 8 Society which helped to raise money for nursing scholarships. He worked at the Woodstock Die Cast for 42 years. He also enjoyed camping and was a member of the Woodchucks Camping Group. Survivors include a daughter, Margo (William S.) Schmidt, Woodstock; two grandchildren, William E. Schmidt and Cyndie Schmidt; a brother and sister, Julian Henry and Ruth (Leland) Fisher, both of Dolan Springs, Ariz.; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sept. 4, 1994; and a sister, Betty Henry. Visitation was Sept. 2 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral service was held Sept. 3 at the funeral home with the Rev. Joy Bauer Bulla presiding. Burial was in McHenry County Memorial Park, Woodstock.

Carmen G. Guaragno
Carmen G. Guaragno, 58, Woodstock, died Friday, Aug. 29, 2003, in his home. He was born June 3, 1945, in Pittsburgh, Pa., to Carmen and Constance (Surdyn) Guaragno. He married Joanie Osborn. Prior to managing IPS Recreation as a Miracle Playsystems sales representative, he was a longtime figure in the apparel industry, working with, among others, Woolrich Company for 14 years. Survivors include his wife, Woodstock; and special friends Mr. and Mrs. John Cederlund, Union. He was preceded in death by his parents. A private gathering of friends and family is being arranged. Arrangements are being made by Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. Donations may be made in his name to the Light Center Foundation at www.thelightcenter.net or 923-2613.

Shirley M. Hensel
Shirley M. Hensel, 81, Woodstock, died Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2003, at Valley Hi Nursing Home, Hartland. She was born Sept. 22, 1921, in Jasper County, to Logan and Elsie (Hays) Pippin. She married Herbert A. Hensel Aug. 21, 1943, in Columbus, Ga. She worked many years on the switchboard at Memorial Hospital in Woodstock and in retirement, enjoyed volunteer work at the McHenry County Historical Society and traveling with her husband in their motor home. Survivors include her husband; three children, Judith Ann (Michael) Roach and Patricia Ann (George) Las, all of Woodstock, and Kendal Lee (Michele) Hensel, Portland; three grandchildren, Heidi Kate (Scott) Shultz, Murray, Ky., Haley Gretchen (Lars Albertson) Schmarje, Woodstock, and Erica Anne (Michael) Harden, Harvard; two great-grandchildren, Michael Harden Jr., Harvard, and Alexander Shultz, Murray, Ky.; and her sister, Ruth Kiefer, Belvidere. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Albert Pippin. Visitation, followed by the funeral, was held Sept. 5 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. Burial was in Oakland Cemetery, Woodstock. Memorials may be made to The Hospice Foundation of Northeastern Illinois, 410 S. Hager Ave., Barrington, IL 60010.

Robert E. Soresi Jr.
Robert E. Soresi Jr., 40, Woodstock, died Friday, Sept. 5, 2003, at Northern Illinois Medical Center, McHenry, following a sudden illness. He was born Feb. 7, 1963, in Elkhorn, Wis., to Robert E. and Ann Louise (Todd) Soresi Sr. He married Bertha Aguilar Aug. 17, 2002, in Woodstock. He graduated from Byron High School in 1981. He worked for the Mathews Company in Crystal Lake for several years. Survivors include his wife of Woodstock; a son, Robert Anthony Soresi, age 3; a twin sister, Roberta (James) Roberts, Oregon; and a special niece, Carrie Groen, El Paso, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 10, at the Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, 136 W. Roosevelt Road, Stillman Valley. Graveside service will be at 3 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 10, at the Ebenezer Cemetery near Oregon, with the Rev. Robert Hoffman of the Ebenezer Reformed Church officiating.

Mae E. Gaddis
Mae E. Gaddis, 69, Wonder Lake, died Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2003, at Memorial Medical Center, Woodstock. She was born Dec. 22, 1933, in Chicago, to Milton R. and Grace (Rosenberg) Smith. She married Leslie Gaddis Jr. April 14, 1953, in Chicago. She was a member of the Wonder Lake Lions Club, the Wonder Lake Water Ski Team and the Wonder Lake TOPS Club, and she was a real estate agent for 20 years, most recently with Advantage Realty, Wonder Lake. She was a member of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, McHenry. Survivors include three children, Robert Gaddis, Crystal Lake, Linda (Steve) Clark, Wonder Lake, and Rick (Deb) Gaddis, Troy; a son-in-law, Clifford (Kristen) Wilewski, Rockford; four grandchildren, Maelyn, Jacob, Krystal and Shannon; a sister, Grace (Jim) Viner; and two brothers, Mike Smith and Pat McIntyre. She was preceded in death by her husband; a daughter, Sharon; her parents; and a sister, Dorothy Conway. Visitation was Sept. 7 at Colonial Funeral Home, McHenry. The funeral service was Sept. 8 at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, McHenry, with the Rev. Roger Schneider officiating. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Children’s Memorial Hospital, 2300 Children’s Plaza, Chicago, IL 60614, or to the Wonder Lake Lions Club.

Amanda Hope Skolnick
Amanda Hope Skolnick, 20, Woodstock, died Friday, Sept. 5, 2003, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa, after being struck by a vehicle. She was born March 30, 1983, in Woodstock, to Robert F. and Janet L. (Arl) Skolnick. She was a 2001 graduate of Woodstock High School and attended the University of Iowa. She was beginning her junior year, pursuing a career in the medical field. While in high school, she helped the basketball and wrestling teams. Very active in her church, she participated in the Grace Lutheran youth and activity groups. She enjoyed working for Starbucks Coffee and was employed at the Woodstock, Crystal Lake and Lake Geneva, Wis., locations. Survivors include her parents of Woodstock; a brother, Justin Skolnick, Cary; her maternal grandmother, Marilyn Arl, Woodstock; two aunts, Dorothy (Steve) Long, Delaware, and Margaret (Robert) Bernath, Arlington Heights; an uncle, Theodore Arl Jr., Carol Stream; eight cousins, Jeffery, Nicole, Tiffany, John, Amy, Zachary, Tyler and Jessica; as well as many other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Theodore Arl; her paternal grandparents, Morris H. and Evelyn M. Skolnick; and an uncle, William Skolnick. Visitation will be from 7 to 10 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 10, at Grace Lutheran Church, 1300 Kishwaukee Valley Road, Woodstock. Visitation will continue at 9 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 11, at Grace Lutheran Church, with the Revs. Arthur Bergren and Randy Willers of Grace Lutheran and Phillip Tobin of Immanuel Lutheran, Golden, officiating. Interment will follow. Memorials may be given to Grace Lutheran Church, Woodstock, or to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements were made by Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock.

Dwayne R. Jensen
Dwayne R. Jensen, 79, Ellicott City, Md., and formerly of Orlando, died Saturday, Aug. 23, 2003. He was born Dec. 20, 1923, in Woodstock, to Martin and Lilly (Nelson) Jensen. He married Shirley Nichol in March of 1945 in Woodstock. Survivors include a daughter, Marcia (Terry) Atkins, Ellicott City; two sons, David and Dennis, Orlando; four granddaughters; a brother, Donald (Erika) Jensen, Belleair Beach, Fla.; a sister, Dorothy (Wally) Thomas, Woodstock; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife in 1988; and a sister, Elaine (Ed) Krause in 1999. Burial was in Orlando Aug. 30.

Donna Dittberner
Donna Dittberner, 58, Woodstock, died Sunday, Sept. 7, 2003, at her home. She was born Aug. 31, 1945, in Crisfield, Md., to Francis J. and Mazie B. (Sterling) Dittberner. She has been director of mental health for Centegra for many years. She was a member of the alumni association of John Hopkins and a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. Survivors include her father, Woodstock; a brother, Jeffrey (Katie) Dittberner, Woodstock; a niece, Jennifer Dittberner, Woodstock; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her mother, July 1, 1998. Visitation, followed by the funeral, was held Sept. 11 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. Memorials may be made to Pioneer Center of McHenry County Birth to Three Program, 677 Silver Creek Road, Woodstock, IL 60098. Arrangements were made by Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock.

Kenneth J. Gibbs
Kenneth J. Gibbs, 48, a 24-year resident of Spring Grove and formerly of Woodstock, died Sunday, Sept. 7, 2003, at Northern Illinois Medical Center, McHenry. He was born Aug. 21, 1955, in Woodstock, to Richard and Eileen (Kemberling) Gibbs. He married Nora Selof Sept. 23, 1978, in McHenry. He was a carpenter, having worked for Corporate Carpentry in Cary for the last two years. He was formerly employed by Lenny Szarek and had been an assistant manager with A&P Food Store in Fox Lake and an employee with Pikwik Foods in Fox Lake. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Johnsburg. He was an avid Cubs fan. He coached Little League baseball and was a Cub Scout leader. He enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren. Survivors include his wife; four children, Kristy (fiancé Todd Hardt) Gibbs, Poplar Grove, James “Jimmy” (Christyn) Gibbs, Fox Lake, and Rebecca “Becky” and Jennifer Gibbs, both at home; two grandchildren, Emilie and Morgan Gibbs, Fox Lake; his mother, Eileen (Kenneth) Anderson, Woodstock; his father, Richard (Claudine) Gibbs, Streetman, Texas; a brother, Scott (Robin) Gibbs, Woodstock; two sisters, Pam (Mike) Wilson, Woodstock, and Ginger (Bruce) Helmeid, Monroe, Wis.; his father- and mother-in-law, William “Bill” and Ann Selof, Johnsburg; four brothers- and sisters-in-law, Dennis (Christine) Selof, Wonder Lake, Scott (Lori) Selof, Johnsburg, the Rev. Gary (Tracy) Selof, Gilbert, Iowa, and Tom (Julie) Selof, Cary; six nephews; 12 nieces; and many friends. He was preceded in death by a brother, James Gibbs. Visitation was Sept. 10 at K.K. Hamsher Funeral Home, Fox Lake. The funeral Mass was celebrated Sept. 11 at St. John the Baptist Church, Johnsburg. Burial was in the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to the family.

Howard H. Lickman
Howard H. Lickman, 76, Woodstock, died Monday, Sept. 8, 2003, at his home. He was born May 18, 1927, in Iron Mountain, Mich., to Henry and Alice (Pavlat) Lickman. He married Joyce Marie LaBelle Aug. 21, 1948, in Carney, Mich. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Navy. He was a mason for 20 years, working on many buildings in the area. After retiring from his mason job, he worked for Woodstock Heating and also as a custodian for Woodstock School District 200. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. He was active in the Woodstock American Legion and he was a member of the Woodstock Moose Lodge. While growing up in Carney, he was known as a good baseball player and continued his love for baseball in Woodstock by being an umpire for many years in the Woodstock Teener League division. He enjoyed woodworking and enjoyed fishing. He was a loyal Cubs fan. Mostly he was a loving and proud husband, father and grandfather, and he will be missed by all who knew him. Survivors include his wife, Woodstock; a daughter, Cynthia (Charles) Todd, Woodstock; two grandchildren, Christopher (Cindi) Todd, Fox River Grove, and Joel (Jenny) Todd, Garden Prairie; a great-granddaughter, Kaylee Todd; two brothers, Robert (Joan) Lickman and Hank Lickman, both of Fountain Hills, Ariz.; a sister, Adeline McNally, Manistique, Mich.; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. The funeral Mass was Sept. 12 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock, with Monsignor James McLoughlin officiating. Burial was in McHenry County Memorial Park, Woodstock. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Northeastern Illinois, 610 S. Hager Ave., Barrington, IL 60010. Arrangements were made by Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock.

Ruth Isabelle Wilson
Ruth Isabelle Wilson, 95, of Woodstock, died Saturday, Sept. 13, 2003, at Hearthstone Manor, Woodstock. She was born July 7, 1907, in Harvard, to Harry and Laura R. (Fry) Wilson. She received her teaching degree from the University of Colorado. She taught for two years at the rural school on Perkins Road and Sunnyside, for 19 years at Belvidere Junior High School and 24 years at Olson Middle School. After retiring in 1972, she continued to live on the family farm until 1981 when she moved into Sunset Apartments. In 1993, she moved to Hearthstone Manor. She was a member of the National Teachers Association, Delta Kappa Gamma and the Retired Teachers of McHenry County. Survivors include a niece, Hilda (Michael) Wilson Daly, and several cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Thomas Edward and Dwight; and a sister, Edna. There will be no visitation. Graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 17, at McHenry County Memorial Park, Woodstock. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hearthstone Manor or the Adult & Child Rehab Center, Woodstock.

Celeste ‘Sally’ Sullivan
Celeste “Sally” Sullivan, 79, of Woodstock, died Sunday, Sept. 28, 2003, at Memorial Medical Center, Woodstock. She was born Oct. 8, 1923, in Rock Falls, to Patrick and Irene (Shurly) Regan. She married Richard M. Sullivan March 18, 1944, in Milwaukee. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. She was a former member of the Doe Club at the Woodstock Elks Club. She loved to knit and was an avid reader. She also loved to bake and was known for her delicious Christmas cookies. She was proud of her Irish heritage and was loved by all who knew her. She will be dearly missed. Survivors include a son, Michael (Lori) Sullivan; six daughters, Pat Smith, Chicago, Peggy (Vic) Robelet, Champlain, Minn., Kitty McAndrews, Chicago, Mary (Don) Duvall, Woodstock, Tara (Pat) Daniher, Mokena, and Maureen Sullivan, Woodstock; 11 grandchildren, Megan (Justin) Davis, Bridget McAndrews, Patrick (fiancée Emily Salamone) Robelet, Nicholas Robelet, Stephen and Sara Smith, Jonathan and Mary Sullivan, Sean Duvall, and Mary Kate and Brian Daniher; a brother, Neil (Eleanor) Regan; and two sisters, Mary (Robert) Schmelzle and Leona Jurkens; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband July 18, 1995; four sisters, Lorene Bingham, Margaret McCormick, Sister Maura Regan and Bernice Regan; and three brothers, Donald Regan, Elbert Regan and Monsignor John Regan. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 1, with a prayer vigil service at 7 p.m., at Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 2, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. Burial will be at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Woodstock.

Lloyd R. Carlson
Lloyd R. Carlson, 71, Noblesville, Ind., died Friday, Sept. 5, 2003, at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis. He was born Nov. 5, 1931, in Ringwood, to Leonard and Juanita (Russell) Carlson. He graduated from Woodstock High School in 1949. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He was a machinist for Jewel Company in Melrose Park for 25 years, retiring in 1977. He also worked for the Hamilton County Parks Department for 10 years and in the maintenance department for Noblesville High School for four years. Survivors include his wife, Eileen; a son, Larry (Laura) Carlson; a daughter, Marie (Rick) Stover; two brothers, Leonard Carlson, of Beaufort, S.C., and Norman Carlson, Champaign; a sister, Marlene Fielen, Phoenix; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents. A private graveside service was held Sept. 7, with burial at Crownland Cemetery. A memorial service was held Sept. 14, at Bethel Lutheran Church, Noblesville, with the Rev. Doug Gast officiating. Arrangements were made by Randall and Roberts Funeral Home in Noblesville. Memorial contributions may be made to the Bethel Lutheran Church Land Fund, 20650 Cumberland Road, Noblesville, IN 46060.

Vincent Francis Purvey
Vincent Francis Purvey, 80, of Culver City, Calif., formerly of Woodstock, died Friday, Sept. 26, 2003, at Kaiser Permanente Hospital in West Los Angeles. He was born Sept. 2, 1923, in Woodstock and moved to California in 1955. He was a veteran of World War II and was honorably discharged from the Army Corps of Engineers. He graduated from De Paul University and obtained a master’s degree in education from the University of Southern California. He taught English at Culver City Junior High School and Culver City High School from 1957 to 1988. After retiring from the high school, he taught English at West Los Angeles College for another 10 years. He positively touched the lives of many students during his teaching career. Survivors include a son, Nick; a daughter-in-law, Wendy; and two grandchildren, Alexandra, 9, and Madison, 5, of Sarasota, Fla., formerly of Culver City. He will be missed very much by his family. A memorial will be held from noon to 3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 4, at 15000 Summertime Lane, Culver City, at Lakeside Villas in the clubhouse. No donations or flowers are necessary.

Greta Ann Quick
Greta Ann Quick, 70, Woodstock, died Saturday, Nov. 15, 2003, as a result of an automobile accident. She was born May 28, 1933, in Joliet, to Emil H. and Alice E. (Kachel) Stassen. She married Ellsworth A. Fersch June 23, 1984, in Hebron. After he died in 1993, she married Theodore J. Quick Sept. 20, 1997, in Woodstock. She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Woodstock, where she had been a Sunday school teacher. She also sang in the choir in her youth. While raising her children, she was a Brownie co-leader and a scorekeeper for the Woodstock Little League. She had worked for many years as a secretary for the Schulhof Company. She then had her own housekeeping business for 10 years, and, most recently, she worked as a hostess for the Woodstock Burger King where she met her husband. Lovingly known as "Nana," she was loved by all who knew her, and she loved spending time with her family and especially enjoyed babysitting her grandchildren. Survivors include her husband, Woodstock; her children, Frederick W. (Debbie) Kiel, Harvard, Susan A. (Mark) Dice, Woodstock, and Julia A. (David) LaGue, Marengo; eight grandchildren, Natalie Kiel, Australia, Rachel and Michelle Kiel, Harvard, Samantha and Mckenzie Dice, Woodstock, and Lydia and Lowell LaGue, Marengo; a stepdaughter, Regina (David) Gianoni, Las Vegas, Nev.; two stepgrandchildren, Vincent and Anthony Gianoni; a sister-in-law, Carol Stassen; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband; and her brother, Henry Stassen. Visitation was Nov. 19 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral service was held Nov. 20 at the funeral home with the Rev. David Cooper officiating. Interment was in McHenry County Memorial Park Cemetery, Woodstock. Memorials may be made to the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District.

Alice Mae Clark
Alice Mae Clark, 92, Woodstock, died Saturday, Nov. 15, 2003. She was born Feb. 15, 1911, in Greenwood Township, to Clyde C. Clark and Maude (Abbott) Clark. After graduating from DeKalb Normal University in 1938, she taught in one-room country schools, including Ostend, Charles and Fosdick, until consolidation brought an end to that era around 1950. She taught at Richmond and Harrison schools in Wonder Lake, and then she joined the faculty at McHenry and taught for 18 years. She earned a bachelor of science degree in education from Northern Illinois State Teacher's College in 1955 and, in 1967, went back and earned her master's degree in library science, after which she was in charge of the learning center at Valley View School. She retired in June 1975. She and her sister Leta traveled to Europe and Hawaii. She spent much time at the McHenry County Historical Museum, Union, where she did accessioning of the artifacts as they came in and was chairman of the docents for several years. She was an active member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Kishwaukee Trail Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, McHenry County Chapter of the Illinois Audubon Society and Retired Teachers Association, a volunteer for the McHenry County Conservation District and McHenry County Defenders and a member of the Greenwood United Methodist Church. Survivors include a brother, Gordon (Edna) Clark, Woodstock; three nephews, Gary Nickels, David (Lori) Nickels (and family, Jennifer, Christopher and Kelly) and Steven (Nancy) Nickels (and family Tim and Dan Clark); and three nieces, Cindy Clark, Cheryl Nickels and Debra (Don) Chapman. She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Leta Clark in 1989 and Eleanor (Clark) Nickels in 2001. Visitation, followed by a service, was held Nov. 19 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock, with the Rev. Bill Muilkens of the Greenwood United Methodist Church officiating. Interment was in Ringwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the McHenry County Historical Society.

Dr. John William Hoban
Dr. John William Hoban, 83, Aurora, died Saturday, Nov. 15, 2003, at his home. He was born March 13, 1920, in Detroit, to John William Hoban Sr. and Stella (Watson) Hoban. Throughout his career that included being a Navy pilot and working as a college administrator, he was first and foremost a teacher. He graduated from Detroit Catholic Central High School in 1937 and helped support his family while attending night school at the University of Detroit. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1942 and flew 20 missions in the central Pacific during World War II. His wartime honors include the Distinguished Flying Cross. When the war ended, he returned to Detroit to work and continue his education. He also remained on active duty in the Navy until 1955, after which he spent another 13 years in the Navy reserves, retiring in 1968 at the rank of lieutenant commander. He married Arlene Dorr in 1948, and as the couple's family grew, they lived in Gross Ile, Mich., Reynoldsburg, Ohio, and Detroit, where he worked as an administrator for the University of Detroit and Lawrence Institute of Technology. He joined the staff of Waubonsee Community College in Aurora in 1968 as assistant dean of adult education. He received his doctorate in education in 1972 and liked to point out that he'd spent 31 years in night school to get it - 12 years for his bachelor's degree, 12 years for his master's in business administration and seven for his doctorate. He continued to share his teaching gifts as well. He taught adult education classes in philosophy, great decisions and economics for Holy Angels parish and was a member of the board of the Aurora Catholic Education Foundation. Despite the fact that he already had a doctorate degree, he spent a summer student teaching at the high school level in order to earn his teachering certificate. In 1978, he left the administrative offices at Waubonsee and switched to teaching economics and business, which he enjoyed immensely until his retirement in 1989. In retirement, he remained active in community service volunteering for the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), Aurora's PADS program and the Holy Angels Food Pantry. He and his wife traveled extensively, and he enjoyed the company and accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. He was also an enthusiastic golfer, card player and fisherman. He was a member of Holy Angels Church. Survivors include his wife; his children, John William III (Tina Luster) Sonoma, Calif.; Michael (Nancy), Munster, Ind., Christopher (Jane), Aurora, David (Laura), San Diego, Sarah (Mitch Walker), Barrington, and Suzanne (John Sullivan), Woodstock; 11 grandchildren; four sisters, Sr. Rita Hoban IHM, Rose Dykas, Rita Hoban and Josephine Hoban; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation was Nov. 18 at The Healy Chapel, Aurora, with a liturgical wake. A funeral Mass was celebrated Nov. 19 at Holy Angels Church, with the Rev. Victor Alcazar officiating. Interment was in Lincoln Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to V.N.A. of Fox Valley Hospice or the Holy Angels Food Pantry.

Shirley Mae Beers
Shirley Mae Beers, 71, Crystal Lake, died Monday, Nov. 17, 2003, at Sherman Hospital, Elgin. She was born July 2, 1932, in Chicago, to Edward and Martha (Scheidat) Schirmer. She married Ralph Beers Oct. 13, 1951, in Crystal Lake. She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake, where she was baptized, confirmed and married. She shared her love for music by teaching piano for more than 40 years. She was a member of the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce, Crystal Lake Bridge Club and Green Twig Garden Club She was a Ravinia representative, a Woodstock Opera House representative and a member of the Illinois Piano Teachers Association. Survivors include a son, Robert (Kathy) Beers; a daughter, Linda (Vic) Gagnon; four grandchildren, Gretchen (Mickey) Tennant, David and Matthew Gagnon and Christina Beers; and a great-grandson, Milton Howell Tennant IV. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and an infant daughter, Laurie Ellen. Visitation was Nov. 20 at Querhammer & Flagg Funeral Home, Crystal Lake. The funeral was held Nov. 21 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake, with the Rev. Ed Bergen officiating. Interment was in Union Cemetery, Crystal Lake. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 2323 N. Mayfield Road, Suite 502, Wauwatosa, WI 53226.

Robert 'Dutch' Kramer
Robert "Dutch" Kramer, 82, Seminole, Fla., died Monday, Nov. 17, 2003. He moved to Seminole in 1972 from his native Woodstock where he was a bank officer at the First National Bank of Woodstock. He retired, having worked many years as a bartender at the Belleview Biltmore (Pelican) Country Club. He was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, Seminole. He was an Air Force veteran of World War II. He was a life member of VFW Post 5040, Woodstock, and a member of Army Navy Union 3697 of Largo and American Legion Post 252, Seminole. Survivors include a daughter, Candace Tremmel, Seminole; a brother, Jack Kramer, San Antonio; a sister, Rosemary Myer, Marengo; and seven grandchildren, triplets Kristin, Kayla and Amanda Tremmel, Adam, Alex and Lamont Tremmel and Abby Tremmel. He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Marlene. Visitation was held Nov. 21 at Hubbell Funeral Home, Bellair, Fla. the funeral Mass was held Nov. 22 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Donations in his name may be made to All Children's Hospital Foundation, 500 7th Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.

Joseph Zymonas Joseph Zymonas, 61, Woodstock, died Thursday, Nov. 20, 2003, at his home in Woodstock, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born in Lithuania Jan. 2, 1942, to Pranas and Vanda (Brokas) Zymonas. He married Virginia Eimutis Aug. 26, 1967, in Cleveland, Ohio. He was a chemist for the Quaker Oats Company for 31 years. He received a bachelor's degree from Loyola University, Chicago. He earned a master's degree from St. Joseph University, Philadelphia. He later received a doctorate in polymer science from Akron University, Ohio. He loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed tennis and golf. He also loved photography. He would take wonderful nature pictures as well as photographs of his wife's theater productions. He loved to listen to a wide variety of music. He also looked forward to participating on the Quaker Oats bowling team. Mostly, he loved being around his family and many friends. Survivors include his wife, Virginia, Woodstock; two sons, Joey Zymonas, Woodstock, and Nikolas (Jillian) Zymonas, Bozeman, Mont.; a sister, Mary (John) Tamosiunas; one grandchild, Adrian Joseph Zymonas; a nephew, Mark Tamosiunas; and a niece, Kristina Snelling. He was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 25, at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock, followed by a celebration of his life in words and music at 7 p.m., with the Rev. Gary Blobaum, chaplain from Hospice of Northeastern Illinois, presiding. Memorial contributions can be made to A.L.C.A.S.E., Unit 78, P.O. Box 4800, Portland, OR 97208-4800, or to the McHenry County Defenders, 124 Cass St., Suite 3, Woodstock IL 60098.

Robert J. Johnson
Robert J. Johnson, 60, Woodstock, died Nov. 22, 2003, in Harvard. He was born May 29, 1943, in Oak Park, to Luther and Amelda (Crooker) Johnson. He married Kathy Kirkpatrick Aug. 5, 1989, in Woodstock. He received a bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University and a master of science degree in education from Northern Illinois University. He was a teacher and coach at Woodstock High School for more than 25 years. For the last three years, he was a coach for Harvard High School. He was inducted into the Woodstock High School Hall of Fame in 1996 for coaching the 1983 state high school championship football team. He was the treasurer of the McHenry County Retired Teachers Association, vice president of the Illinois Federation of Teachers and treasurer of Local 1642 Federation of Teachers. He was a member of the Masons and an avid fisherman and bowler. Survivors include his wife, Woodstock; four daughters, Dawn (Don) Ritter, Tammy (Mike) Zitzka, Tracy (Mike) Dubina and Tiffany Johnson; seven grandchildren, Chase and Jaid Ritter, Patrick, Michael and Daniel Zitzka and Ashley and Oakley Gervais; a brother, William (Judy) Johnson; an aunt, Mabel Crooker; and two nephews, Scott (Janine) Johnson and Todd Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents; and an uncle, Bud Crooker. Visitation will be from 4 to 9 p.m., Friday, Nov. 28, at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 29, at the funeral home, with the Rev. David Cooper officiating. Interment will be private. Memorials can be made to either the American Heart Association, the Woodstock High School Backers Club or the Harvard High School Backers Club.