Lauretta J. 'Honey' Romani
Lauretta J. "Honey" Romani, 76, Sun City West, Ariz., and most recently of Wonder Lake, died Saturday, Dec. 11, 2004, at her daughter's home in Wonder Lake. She was born March 11, 1928, in Chicago, to Francesco and Assunta (Antonucci) Piccolo. She married Phillip F. Romani Oct. 11, 1947, in Chicago. Formerly of Sun City West, she moved back to Wonder Lake this past Thanksgiving. From 1956 to 1970, she and her husband were co-owners, along with his parents, of Romani Pancino Lounge in Ingleside. After she and her husband left the family business in 1970, she became a homemaker and raised her family. She was a member of Assembly of God Church in McHenry and Lakeview United Methodist Church, Sun City, Ariz. She had a love for her Lord and His Word. She did volunteer work at Boswell Memorial Hospital, Sun City. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, cooking and jewelry making and was an avid walker. Survivors include three daughters, Monica (Jeff) Wheelock, McHenry, Susan (John) Bixby, St. Charles, and Nanette (Gregg) Kuretski, Wonder Lake; two sons, Frank (Tammy) Romani, Peoria, Ariz., and Mark (Jodi) Romani, El Mirage, Ariz.; 15 grandchildren, Arron, Laura, Amanda, Giovanni and Matthew Romani, Rachel and Rebecca Wheelock, Michael (Anna) Bixby, Angela (Chris) Castaldo, Bethany (Joseph) Szobody, Joanna Bixby, Molly and Susie Kuretski and Samuel and Micah Romani; and four great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Luke, Philip and Josiah. She was preceded in death by her husband, Nov. 17, 2002; a son, Michael, September 1952; and four brothers, Michael, John, Frank and Charles Piccolo. A memorial service was held Dec. 17 at Stoneridge Church, McHenry, with the Rev. Christopher Castaldo officiating. Interment was private in Arizona.

Norbert F. Kloss
Norbert F. Kloss, 67, Woodstock, died Monday, Dec. 13, 2004, at Memorial Medical Center, Woodstock. He was born May 12, 1937, in Chicago, to Adam and Angeline (Ryespo) Kloss. He married Laurie M. Derkowski Dec. 28, 1963, in Chicago. Formerly of Round Lake, he moved to Wonder Lake in 1979 and then to Woodstock in 2001. He was a tool and die maker, a draftsman and then worked as a pressman printer for Envelope Plus in Crystal Lake. He also worked for 12 years at McDonald's in McHenry and Wauconda. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Survivors include his wife; a son, Ken (Dina) Kloss, Wonder Lake; two grandchildren, Kelsey and Erik; and a brother, Martin (Chris) Kloss, Onalaska, Wis. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Christine and Bernadette. The funeral service was held Dec. 18 at Justen's Wonder Lake Funeral Home, Wonder Lake, with the Rev. Roger Olson officiating. Inurnment was private.

Howard Bruce Harrison
Howard Bruce Harrison, 76, Fountain Hills, Ariz., and formerly of Woodstock, died Thursday, Dec. 9, 2004, at the UCLA Medical Center. He was born April 10, 1928, in Ringwood. He grew up and lived most of his life in McHenry County where he farmed as well as worked in construction. He married Joanne Conklin in 1953 and shortly thereafter served in the armed services in El Paso, Texas. Upon discharge, he returned to McHenry County where he continued farming and became active within the community. He became a member of and was very active in the Woodstock Rotary Club in 1973. He was active in 4-H having served as a club leader for 12 years in Illinois and Missouri. Upon moving to West Plains, Mo., in 1978, he continued his profession as a rancher and became active in that community as well. He served Rotary in many capacities as president of the West Plains Rotary Club, as well as a district youth exchange chairperson of District 6090 for nine years. He was recognized with the Governor's Citation Youth Service Award for his involvement with the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. He served as district governor in 1993-94, was a Paul Harris Fellow, as well as a benefactor of the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. He had perfect attendance in Rotary for 31 years. He also served on the Board of the Howell County Rural Fire District 1 and was a board member of the Howell County Extension Office. Survivors include his wife, Fountain Hills, Ariz.; two daughters, Connie Harrison Lagerhausen and Cindy Harrison, both of Mesa, Ariz.; a brother, Neil; a niece, Judy; and several grandchildren, all of Mesa, Ariz. The memorial service was held Dec. 19 at The Fountains, a United Methodist Church in Fountain Hills, Ariz., with the Rev. Mark W. Lansberry officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Arizona Chapter, 4343 E. Camelback Road, Suite 450, Phoenix, AZ 85018; or Rotary Youth Exchange District 5510, in care of Chuck Flint, 6029 N. Kachina Lane, Paradise Valley AZ 85253.

Carl Lyle Lea
Carl Lyle Lea, 57, Woodstock, died Friday, Dec. 17, 2004, at Memorial Medical Center, Woodstock. He was born Feb. 20, 1947, in Chicago, to Francis and Phyllis (Flemming) Lea. He married Doreen L. Foster Aug. 20, 1966, in Wheaton. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran. He worked for Universal Oil Products in Des Plaines for more than 30 years and enjoyed sailing, golf and woodworking. Survivors include his wife, Woodstock; two sons, Trevor (Susan) Lea, McHenry, and Travis (Lori) Lea, Oakwood Hills; two grandchildren, Benjamin and Jennifer; his mother, Phyllis Christianson; five sisters, Sue (Dave), Paulette (Mike), Jackie (Edward), Julie (Stan) and Nancy (Jerry); and a brother, Gene. He was preceded in death by his father and his stepfather, Loyal Christianson. Visitation was Dec. 20 at Querhammer & Flagg Funeral Home, Crystal Lake. The funeral service was held Dec. 21 at the funeral home, with the Rev. Mike Fish officiating. Interment was in Windridge Memorial Park, Cary. The family would appreciate memorial contributions.

James R. Schmieding
James R. Schmieding, 41, of Woodstock, died Saturday, Dec. 11, 2004. He was born June 8, 1963, in Woodstock, to James R. and Valeria J. (Ray) Schmieding. He was a 1981 graduate of Woodstock High School. He was a veteran, having served in the U.S. Army from 1984 to 1986. He was an avid outdoorsman, and enjoyed fishing and other sporting activities. He greatly enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle and detailing both cars and cycles. Survivors include a son, Kiel Schmieding, Woodstock; a daughter, Kali Schmieding, Woodstock; his wife, Jamie Schmieding, Woodstock; his father, James R. Schmieding, Woodstock; two brothers, Steven T. (Susan) Schmieding, Woodstock, and Mitchell K. Schmieding, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and good friends. He was preceded in death by his mother in 1982; a sister, Pam Schmieding; and his grandparents, Victor Schmieding and Matt and Alberta Ray. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 15, at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 16, at the funeral home. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Woodstock. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the family to benefit the children's education fund.

Ruby J. Peters
Ruby J. Peters, 70, Harvard and formerly of Woodstock, died Thursday, Dec. 9, 2004. She was born Aug. 9, 1934, in Woodstock, to Harold J. and Gertrude (Reynolds) Barry. She married Robert L. Peters Jan. 17, 1953, in Woodstock. She worked at Woodstock Wire Works for 20 years before retiring. She was a member of both the Woodstock and Harvard Women of the Moose. Survivors include three sons, Jim (Marsha) Peters, Marengo, Dan (Deborah) Peters, Woodstock, and Jefferey (Stacy) Peters, Poplar Grove; a daughter, Susan (Terry) McEnaney, Harvard; a brother, Walter Barry, Woodstock; two sisters, Dorothy Hammer, Amboy, and Judy McCowan, Woodstock; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, July 21, 1988; her parents; two brothers, Claude and Chuck; and a sister, Dora. Visitation was Dec. 12 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral service was held Dec. 13 at the funeral home. Burial was in McHenry County Memorial Park, Woodstock.

Isabel I. Kastning
Isabel I. Kastning, 80, Belvidere and formerly of Genoa, died Friday, Dec. 3, 2004, at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, Rockford. She was born Nov. 16, 1924, in Sycamore, to Edward and Evelyn (Barry) Fry. She married Harvey F. Kastning Oct. 4, 1941, at St. John's Lutheran Church, Elgin. She worked at Arnold Engineering in Marengo for 12 years and Automatic Electric for four years. She was the custodian for Trinity Lutheran Church, Genoa. She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Belvidere, and a former member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Genoa, where she was a member of Ladies Aid and Trinity Society. Survivors include two daughters, Jeanette (Dan) Huff, Belvidere, and Belva (Kurt) Camp, Poplar Grove; four sons, Frederick (Donna) Kastning, Rockford, Raymond (Jane) Kastning, Woodstock, Duane (Susan) Kastning, Rockford, and Boyd (Kathy) Kastning, Woodstock; 21 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; two brothers, Calvin Fry, Belvidere, and Orville Fry, LaMoille; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a daughter, Eileen Kastning; a granddaughter, Michelle Kastning; two brothers, Ishmael Fry and Clarence Fry; and a sister, Daisy Byars. Visitation was Dec. 7 at Cooper-Quiram Funeral Home, Genoa. The funeral was Dec. 8 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Belvidere, with the Rev. Allen Buss officiating. Interment was in Highland Garden of Memories, Belvidere. A memorial fund has been established for Immanuel Lutheran Church in care of Cooper-Quiram Funeral Home, 202 E. Main St., Box 251, Genoa, IL 60135.

Mabel Tebo
Mabel Tebo, 89, died of heart failure Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2004, at Valley Hi Nursing Home, Woodstock. She was born to Lars and Thea Watne Twedt in Chicago. She had a happy childhood and is fondly remembered as a cheerful woman who had a positive attitude toward life. She loved to dance and met her husband-to-be Einar LeRoy Tebo of Chicago at a Norwegian Leikarringen Heimhug dance group event. They performed traditional folk dances at the 1933 and 1934 Chicago World's Fair and at many Norwegian Independence Day celebrations. She was a longtime member of Bethany United Methodist Church, Chicago, and she and her family actively participated in many activities over a 30-year period. She moved to Florida to care for elderly relatives and was involved in the infant care center and nursing home ministry of the West Bradenton Baptist Church for many years before returning to Illinois in 1995. She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Woodstock. She helped to support her family and was exceptionally speedy and accurate on the typewriter keyboard. She was a member of the Sons of Norway, McHenry and Sarasota, Fla., lodges. Survivors include four children: Noel (Ruth) Tebo, San Jose, Calif., Leon (Jeanette) Tebo, Raleigh, N.C., Ardell Tebo, Clinton, Wis., and Audrey Tebo, Australia; nine grandchildren: Scott, Brett, Michelle and Angel Tebo, Edward Vernon Chrapla, Maia Kelley-Lehman, Cheryl Clayville, Brian Woods and Anna Hogan; a sister, Lillian Thorsen, McHenry; a niece, Janice Reidel; and two nephews, Gary and Allan Thorsen. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1974. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 11, at St. John's Lutheran Church, Woodstock. Arrangements were made by the Cremation Society of Illinois.

Victor R. Dehmlow
Victor R. Dehmlow, 55, Woodstock, died Thursday, Dec. 2, 2004, at Northern Illinois Medical Center, McHenry. He was born Oct. 20, 1949, in Elgin, to Ralph E. and Dorothy (Dammyer) Dehmlow. He married Karen Given June 9, 1978, in Algonquin. He worked as a technical engineer on heavy equipment for Meyer Materials. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Woodstock. He served in the Navy from 1969 to 1973. He was also a member of Labor Union Local 681, the Woodstock Jaycees and the Woodstock Moose. Survivors include his parents, Sun City, Ariz.; a son, Daniel (Renee) Tibbitts, Woodstock; a daughter, Sherry (Mark) Devol, San Diego; a sister, Marie (Paul) Ericson, Lake in the Hills; and four grandchildren, Brandie and William Tibbitts and David and Charlie Devol. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jan. 30, 1999. Visitation was Dec. 5 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral service was held Dec. 6 at Grace Lutheran Church, Woodstock, with the Rev. Arthur Bergren officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery, Woodstock. Memorials can be made to either the Fairview Cemetery Fund or Grace Lutheran Church.

Melquiades 'Abuelito' Arellano
Melquiades "Abuelito" Arellano, 89, Hebron, died Friday, Dec. 3, 2004, at his home. He was born Dec. 10, 1914, in Puno, Peru, to Felipe and Feliciana (Aguilar) Arellano. He marred Isela Evangelina Ramirez Feb. 26, 1938, in Puno, Peru. While in Peru, he was a pharmacist for 40 years and belonged to the Catholic church. He came to the United States in 1976 and worked for Gearmaster Company in McHenry for 10 years. He attended the Hebron United Methodist Church, Hebron. Survivors include his wife; four daughters, Luz (William) Schmiegelt, McHenry, Irma (Renzo )Calegari, Reno, Nev., Ana (Pablo) Davila, Lima, Peru, and Graciela "Chela" (Steven) Johnson, Hebron; a son, Rolando (Shopal) Arellano, Las Vegas, Nev.; 14 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; a sister, Rosa Arellano, Lima, Peru; and a brother, Pedro, Arellano, Lima, Peru. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Clara; an infant grandson, Johnny; a sister, Carlota Arellano-deSilva; and a brother, Adrian Arellano. The visitation and funeral service were held Dec. 7 at the Hebron United Methodist Church, Hebron, with the Rev. Steve Moon officiating. Interment was in Linn-Hebron Cemetery, Hebron. Memorials can be made to Hebron United Methodist Church, 9811 Main St., Hebron, IL 60071; or to Hospice of Northeastern Illinois, 410 S. Hager Ave., Barrington, IL 60010.

Linda Leigh Wheeler
Linda Leigh Wheeler, 63, Fallbrook, Calif., formerly of Woodstock, died Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2004, at her home. She was born July 21, 1941, in Buffalo, N.Y., to Arthur Theodore and Loretta (Rothrock) Brown. She married Don E. Wheeler Aug. 15, 1957, in Yorktown, Va. She and her husband lived in Woodstock for 17 years. She received her master's of business administration degree from George Washington University. She opened Park Street Realty in the Lincoln Park area in Chicago. She enjoyed traveling, especially in Europe, and Venice became her favorite city to visit. She was known for the pictures she took on her travels. She enjoyed sailing and photography. She was known to her friends for her upbeat personality. She bought a horse, Sam, in 1981, and he was a great joy to her family and friends, and he is still with them today. Survivors include her husband; two daughters, Emily A. Wheeler, San Francisco, and Laura L. Wheeler, Fallbrook; and a sister, Judith Brown, Ocala, Fla. She was preceded in death by her parents. Visitation was Dec. 6 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral service was Dec. 7 at St. Ann's Episcopal Church, Woodstock, with the Rev. Kenneth Erickson officiating. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery, Woodstock.

Robert W. Hockemeyer Sr.
Robert W. Hockemeyer Sr., 59, Woodstock, died Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2004, at Northern Illinois Medical Center, McHenry. He was born Nov. 15, 1945, in Fort Wayne, Ind., to Melvin and Ruth (Effenberger) Hockemeyer. He married Pamela Nau May 25, 1968, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, LaGrange. He was a member of the Illinois CPA Society, a former Woodstock School District 200 Board of Education member and treasurer of the District 200 Education Foundation. He was an avid horseman and enjoyed photography. He was the best grandfather. Survivors include his wife; a daughter, Andrea Danca, Woodstock; two sons, Robert (Rachel) Hockemeyer Jr., Woodstock, and Michael (Gwen) Hockemeyer, Harvard; two grandchildren, Molly and Grace; and a brother, Donald (Judy) Hockemeyer, Broadview. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Jim; and his mother- and father-in-law, Gloria and Charley Nau. Visitation was Dec. 3 at Colonial Funeral Home, McHenry. Interment was private. Memorials to a fund account at Illinois State Bank, P.O. Box 10, McHenry, IL 60050, in Pam Hockemeyer's name for his grandchildren's education would be appreciated.

John William 'Bill' Gancar
John William "Bill" Gancar, 84, Bellevue, Neb., and formerly a long-time resident of Woodstock, died Monday, Nov. 29, 2004, at Alegent Midlands Community Hospital, Papillion, Neb. He was born Feb. 15, 1920, in Woodstock, to William and Lena (Howell) Gancar. He married Rosemary Stoffel Jan. 21, 1945, in Woodstock. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Woodstock. He graduated from Woodstock High School in 1938. He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps serving from 1940 to 1945 during World War II. He worked as a licensed tool and die maker in the automotive industry for 19 years. He also worked for Joslyn Corporation in Woodstock for 10 years. He retired in 1996 and moved to Bellevue, Neb., to be near his family. He was an active member in the Woodstock City Band and was also involved in the Rockford and Elgin symphonies. He was a member of United Auto Workers Union Local 922 and St. Marks Masonic Lodge 63, Woodstock. He was an associate member of the First United Methodist Church of Plattsmouth, Neb., and American Legion Post 412, Woodstock. Survivors include his wife; a son, William Gancar, Lexington, Ky.; a daughter, Claudia Bauer, Denver; a sister, Gladys Reed, Sedona, Ariz.; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation was Dec. 2 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral service was held Dec. 3 at the First United Methodist Church, Woodstock. Burial was in Oakland Cemetery, Woodstock.

Henry Kirk Edgerton III
Henry Kirk Edgerton III, 84, of Lake Barrington, formerly of Woodstock, died Saturday, Nov. 27, 2004. He was born Sept. 13, 1920, in Prairie du Chien, Wis., to Henry Kirk Edgerton and Hazel Savage Edgerton. He married Marjorie Elizabeth Reeder, in 1943 in Mt. Vernon, Ohio. He spent the first seven years of his life in Springbrook, Wis., then moved to Shullsburg, Wis. After graduating from Shullsburg High School in 1938, he attended Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio, where he was a member of the Sigma Pi fraternity. At Kenyon he majored in speech and dramatics, performing in many theatrical productions. He left Kenyon to join the Army Air Corps serving in the China/India/Burma theater. After marrying, he returned to Kenyon to finish his education, graduating in 1948. After spending a number a years involved in his family farming business in northern and southern Wisconsin, he spent 16 years as the executive secretary of the McHenry County Farm Bureau. During his years at the Farm Bureau, membership increased, and he was involved in promoting farmers and farming in the area and statewide. The McHenry County Fair and numerous farming organizations were important to him. After nearly 25 years as an elections specialist with the Illinois State Board of Elections, he retired. During his 43 years in Woodstock, he was a very involved member of St. Ann's Episcopal Church, serving on the bishop's committee and numerous other committees. He was a member of the Elks and the Rotary and volunteered at his children's schools serving on the district school board when Woodstock's two districts became one. He was also active in many tree farming organizations in Wisconsin where he actively managed his family tree farm. Survivors include his wife, Marjorie "Betty"; a daughter, Constance; a son, John; and two grandsons, Ian and Chase. He was preceded in death by his parents. A service was held Dec. 11 at St. Ann's Episcopal Church, Woodstock. Donations can be made to St. Ann's Episcopal Church. Arrangements were made by Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock.

Raymond E. Gildemeister Jr.
Raymond E. Gildemeister Jr., 74, Wonder Lake, died Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2004, at his home. He was born June 11, 1930, in Chicago, to Raymond E. and Lucille (Francisco) Gildemeister Sr. He married Arlene C. Hoffman June 26, 1954. Formerly of Chicago, he moved to Wonder Lake in 1954. He served in the U.S. Navy as a Sea Bea. He started his working career as a yard clerk for the Chicago/Milwaukee Railroad. He then worked with his father at the Sinclair Gas Station on the corner of Hancock Drive and Wonder Lake Road, Wonder Lake, until 1970. He worked for Botts Welding in Woodstock as a truck driver and then as manager for Kelsey Welding, Woodstock, which later became AGA, a bottle gas supplier. He was a member of Nativity Lutheran Church, Wonder Lake; the Mid Continent Railroad Museum, North Freedom, Wis.; the Milwaukee Road Historic Association, Antioch; and the National Rifle Association. He enjoyed building model railroads as a hobby. Survivors include his wife; three daughters, Victoria (Kim) Millhouse, Milledge, Wendy (Michael) Grimmer, Silver Spring, Md., and Julie Gildemeister, Wonder Lake; a son, William Gildemeister, Minneapolis; four grandchildren, Joshua and Andrew Millhouse and Sara and Michael Grimmer; and a sister, Barbara (the late Roy) Kaptain, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Robert Gildemeister. Visitation was Nov. 29 at Justen's Wonder Lake Funeral Home. The funeral was held Nov. 30 at the funeral home with the Rev. Rebecca Gordon officiating. Interment was in McHenry County Memorial Park Cemetery, Woodstock.

Ronald Vaino Paar
Ronald Vaino Paar, 63, Crystal Lake, died Friday, Nov. 26, 2004, at his home. He was born Sept. 25, 1941, in Estonia, to August and Linda (Pelju) Paar. He was a general contractor by trade and worked as a commercial building consultant. Survivors include a daughter, Lisa Paar, Tinley Park; a son, Keith Paar, Bahamas; his mother, Linda (Voldemor) Solomon, Crystal Lake; and a brother, Kalju (Carmen) Paar, Peoria. He was preceded in death by his father. There will be a gathering of friends and relatives Tuesday, Nov. 30, from 4 p.m. until the 6 p.m. blessing presided by the Rev. Tom Tews at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. Interment will be private in Estonia.

Beulah L. Maynard
Beulah L. Maynard, 91, Belvidere, died Friday, Nov. 26, 2004, at Maple Crest Nursing Home, Belvidere. She was born July 26, 1913, in McHenry, to Mark and LuLa (Francisco) Hutson. She worked for Woolworths for many years. Survivors include a daughter, Marie (Merlin) Danielson, Belvidere; two grandchildren, Danette (Larry) Duffy, Sharon, Wis., and David (Karen) Danielson, Garden Prairie; six great-grandchildren, Kris Barnes, Beth Ideler, Amanda Ideler, Dalton Danielson, Wyatt Danielson and Luke Danielson; three great-great-grandchildren, Tony, Allesha and Danielle Barnes; a brother, William (Arleen) Hutson, Pennsylvania; and three sisters, Hazel Harvey, Greta (James) Carlisle and Marjorie Hansen, all of Woodstock. Services and interment in Oakland Cemetery were private. Arrangements were made by Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock.

Betty J. Bohn
Betty J. Bohn, 96, Woodstock, died Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2004, at Memorial Medical Center, Woodstock. She was born Feb. 8, 1908, in Hebron, to Henry and Lettie (Delp) Grobe. She married Ernest A. Bohn July 12, 1930, in Waukegan. She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Woodstock, where she helped form and was president of the church altar guild, and she served on that committee for many years. She also called on church shut-ins and delivered church sermons to them for many years. In addition to her dedication to church, she served in the Woodstock community in many ways, including serving on jury duty and as an election judge for many years. She was a Cub Scout Den mother for seven years. She was a member of the Woodstock Elks Doe Club and the Woodstock Women's Club, and she was chairperson for Meals on Wheels through Memorial Hospital where she also volunteered in the gift shop for many years. She also worked with her husband in the family business as a gift buyer and merchandiser for Bohn's Hardware in Woodstock. Survivors include three sons, Harold (Jill) Bohn, Cool, Calif., Kenneth (Maggie) Bohn, Grand Rapids, Mich., and Larry (Deanne) Bohn, Woodstock; 10 grandchildren, Mathew (Beth) Bohn, Rachael (Mark) Yanez, Sybil (Byron) Felts, James Bohn, Beth (Terry) Lewis, Becca (Thommie) Retter, Leon (Jennifer) Bohn, Seth Bohn, David Bohn, Roger (Lynda) Bohn and Phil (Cindy) Bohn; 16 great-grandchildren; a daughter-in-law, Ruth (Jim) Hodges, Woodstock; and two sisters, Dorothy Bossart, Dixon, and Lorraine Elsasser, Mt. Morris. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Sept. 29, 2000; a son, Ernest E. Bohn, May 27, 1989; an infant grandson; five brothers; and two sisters. Visitation was Nov. 28 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral service was held Nov. 29 at Grace Lutheran Church, Woodstock, with the Rev. Arthur Bergren officiating. Interment was in Oakland Cemetery, Woodstock. Memorials can be made to either Grace Lutheran Church or Hospice of Northeastern Illinois.

Mary Scharko
Mary Scharko, 81, Woodstock, died Thursday, Nov. 18, 2004, at Valley Hi Nursing Home, Woodstock. She was born Nov. 21, 1922, in Austria, to John and Gertrude Tatzer. She married Anton Scharko in February 1947 in Leutschach, Austria. She and her husband moved to Woodstock in 1953. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. She worked as an inspector at the Woodstock Auto-Lite for 30 years. She loved to garden and collect antiques. She was a great cook and baker, and she loved to entertain all visitors who came to her home. Survivors include her husband, Woodstock; two daughters, Maria (Art) Santos, Lake Forest, and Jane Mathews, Fox Lake; and four grandchildren, Thomas, Anthony, Katie and Kelly Mathews. She was preceded in death by her parents. Visitation was Nov. 22 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home. The Mass of the Resurrection was Nov. 23 at St. Mary Catholic Church with the Rev. Sylvester Nnaso officiating. Burial was in McHenry County Memorial Park, Woodstock. The family would appreciate masses for the repose of her soul said in her name.

Theodore L. 'Ted' Pierce
Theodore L. "Ted" Pierce, 86, Alden, died Thursday, Nov. 18, 2004, at Memorial Medical Center, Woodstock. He was born June 5, 1918, in Woodstock, to Lyle and Minnie (Lorenz) Pierce. He married Ethel Burow June 27, 1981. He worked at the water treatment plant for the city of Woodstock. He had previously worked in the plating department at Oak Industries, Crystal Lake, and for RC Allen Typewriter, Woodstock. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II in the European theater in the 3rd Army, 11th Armored Division. He was a member of Alden United Methodist Church, Hebron American Legion and a life member of Woodstock VFW Post 5040. He enjoyed woodworking and raising pigeons. Survivors include his wife, Alden; two sons, Craig (Diane) Pierce and Theodore "Ted" (Joan) Pierce, both of Woodstock; nine grandchildren, Jodi (Dan) Roach, Woodstock, Jon (Diane Beierle) Pierce, Chicago, Jamie Pierce, Woodstock, Laura Pierce, Harvard, Burliss Pierce, Palatine, Shelly (Michael) Hernandez, Ontario, Calif., Amanda Pierce, Peoria, and Jeremy and Justin Pierce, both of Woodstock; eight great-grandchildren, Danny, Eddie, Autumn, David, Tony, Andrew, Michael and Lori; a sister, Lucille Stanger, Florida; several nieces and nephews including Bonnie (Bob) Ewert and Sandra Turner; a great-nephew, Kurt Ewert; a great-niece, Nancy Sheeks; and a great-great-nephew, Tyler Sheeks. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Emma (Korslin) Pierce, 1980; his parents; and seven brothers and sisters. Visitation was Nov. 21 at Saunders & McFarlin Funeral Home, Harvard. The funeral was held Nov. 22 at Alden United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Diane Otterbacher officiating. Memorials can be made to Alden United Methodist Church.

Edward Burger
Edward Burger, 76, Sharon, Wis., died Saturday, Nov. 20, 2004, at his home. He was born Oct. 18, 1928, in Roanoke, W.Va., to Walter and Florence (Helsing) Burger. He married Joanne Ginser. Survivors include his wife of Sharon, Wis.; seven children, Dennis Burger, Harvard, Linda (Ray) Glasser, Woodstock, Debra Friend, Woodstock; Ken (Raelynn) Burger, Wonder Lake, Daniel Burger, Big Foot, Wis., William (Barb) Burger, Big Foot, and Thelma (Mike) Gavin, Wonder Lake; 14 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a brother, Bob Burger, Pennsylvania. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Carl Burger. Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 23, at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 24, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Mark Bressel officiating. Interment will be in McHenry County Memorial Park Cemetery, Woodstock.

Dorothie J. Corcoran
Dorothie J. Corcoran, 84, Woodstock, died Thursday, Nov. 18, 2004, at her home. She was born March 22, 1920, in Galesburg, to Oscar B. and Nellie (Freeburg) Lundeen Sr. She married Francis X. Corcoran in Woodstock. She graduated from the Swedish American Hospital of Nursing in 1944. During her career, she worked in various hospitals and private practices. She also worked at the Zenith Television Tube factory. She had been a member of St. Mary Church, Woodstock, where she was active in the Mariola Club. She was also active in the Ladies of the Knights. Survivors include three daughters, Judith Ann (Richard) Benzinger, Donna Marie (Michael) Gazdziak Jr. and Janice (Nicholas) DiMasi; six grandchildren, Pamela (Keith) Black, Christine Benzinger, Michael Nicholas Gazdziak III, Katherine Elizabeth Gazdziak, Carolyn Marie Gazdziak and Elizabeth Ann Gazdziak; a great-granddaughter, Suzanne Black; a sister, Norma "Sally" Swanson; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Sept. 17, 2000; two brothers, Oscar B. (Delpha) Lundeen Jr. and Robert Lundeen; and her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Mary (Ben) Netzel, Margaret (Sam) Lazzarra, Tom (Ruth) Corcoran, John Corcoran, Joseph (Mariam) Corcoran and Harold Swanson. Visitation was Nov. 21 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral service was held Nov. 22 at the funeral home with Hospice Chaplain Judy Rooney officiating. Interment was private. Memorials can be made to the Hospice of Northeastern Illinois or to the Woodstock Public Library.

Dr. Bernard B. Neuchiller
Dr. Bernard B. Neuchiller, 91, Woodstock, died Saturday, Nov. 13, 2004, at Memorial Medical Center, Woodstock. He was born Dec. 13, 1912, in Chicago, to Abraham and Mollie Neuchiller. He knew from an early age that he wanted to become a doctor. He attended the University of Illinois School of Medicine in Chicago and put himself through medical school by working at a shoe store in the Loop. He received his doctor of medicine degree in 1937. During his residency at Dixon State Hospital, he met and fell in love with Doris Elizabeth Purcell. They were married in 1939. He came to Woodstock in 1939 to establish his medical practice, liking the character of the small town. The fledgling practice was interrupted in World War II when, as a reservist, he was called up to active duty as a physician. He was based in Australia from 1943 to 1945 where he ran a medical clinic for Chinese detainees. He resumed his medical practice upon his return in 1945, opening a permanent office at 454 W. Jackson St. in 1950. It was there he developed a reputation as a trusted, old-fashioned family physician who delivered babies, performed surgery, treated illnesses and counseled patients going through difficult times. In the early 1950s, he noted the need in the community for physical therapy and rehabilitation services for children and others and was instrumental in founding the McHenry County Easter Seal Society Center, which later became the Adult & Child Rehab Center. He remained on the board of the center through the years in various roles, including, at times, medical director. He was also active in the Woodstock Kiwanis Club and, up until a few years ago, had a record for perfect attendance at meetings and received the Kiwanis International George Hixon Award in 2000. He had staff privileges at Woodstock Memorial Hospital and Harvard Hospital. Many of the nursing staff remember him fondly as the doctor "who always had a smile for everyone." He practiced medicine actively until 1994, when, at the age of 80, he underwent bypass surgery. He came to enjoy retirement and particularly enjoyed spending winters in Cape Coral, Fla. His wife passed away in January 2000. Fortunately, they had been able to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary several months earlier. Survivors include three children, Leah (aka Bonnie) Neuchiller, Woodstock, Rhonda (Peter) Neuchiller, Sacramento, Calif., and Lori (Richard) Harms, McHenry; two granddaughters, Sasha Rose, Portland, and Emily Grant, Sacramento; a nephew, David (Esta) Berger, Sanibel; a cousin, Dorothy Prager, Chicago; an "honorary" nephew, Frank (Jeanne) Lazovick, Cape Coral, Fla.; and many friends and former colleagues and patients. Burial was private. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 18, at the Woodstock Opera House, with Rabbi Maralee Gordon officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Adult & Child Rehab Center, 708 Washington St., Woodstock, IL 60098.

Verna A. (Isaacson) Corey
Verna A. (Isaacson) Corey, 91, Woodstock and formerly of Chicago, died Saturday, Nov. 13, 2004, at the Fountains at Crystal Lake Nursing Home. She was born Jan. 18, 1913, in Seattle. Survivors include three daughters, Susan Newell, Judy (Luke) Johnsos and Marcia (John) Hategan; and eight grandchildren, Luke Andrew, Peter (Charli), Anne Johnsos, Katie (James) Sanderson and Tracey, Allen, John and Ben Porter. The visitation will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 17, at Edgebrook Community Church, 6736 N. Loleta, Chicago. The funeral service will follow at noon. Interment will be in Fort Sheridan Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Arthritis Foundation, Greater Chicago Chapter, 29 E. Madison St., Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60602-3205. Arrangements were made by Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home.

Candice V. Cole
Candice V. Cole, 22, Woodstock, died Friday, Dec. 23, 2005, at her home. She was born March 28, 1983, in Barrington, to John and Kathy (Strain) Cole. She was a member of St. Mary Church in Woodstock, graduating from St. Mary School in 1997 and Marian Central High School in 2001, and she was currently a senior at Columbia College, Chicago. While attending school in Woodstock, she was active in many programs including basketball, volleyball, pom pons and drama. Family and friends described her as a fun-loving, gregarious person who helped others whenever she could. She particularly enjoyed working on the Christmas Clearing House project. She was a world traveler, visiting several countries in Europe, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. While on spring break, she drove cross-country from Chicago to California. Survivors include her parents, Woodstock; her grandmothers, Donna Strain, Woodstock, and Marie Cole, England; her aunts and uncles, Chuck (Carol) Strain, Las Vegas, Doug Strain, McHenry, Gary Cole, London, Marsha Giles, Woodstock, and Rose (Dave) McKay, Woodstock; six cousins, Elizabeth (Dave) Zeh, Erin (Brian) Benak, Howie Giles, Sarah Cole, Lawrence Cole, Howie Giles and Chris McKay; a great-uncle, Chris Burden of Woodstock; and many, many loving friends. She was preceded in death by her grandfathers James Strain and Eddie Cole. Visitation was Dec. 26 at St. Mary Church. Mass of the Resurrection was held Dec. 26, with the Rev. Nicholas Federspiel officiating. Interment was in Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Woodstock. Memorials can be made to St. Mary School, Marian Central High School, St. Mary Church or the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District.

Mary P. Endres Fyfe
Mary P. Endres Fyfe, 91, Woodstock, died Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2005, in her home, finally succumbing to Alzheimer's disease. She was born Feb. 16, 1914, in Macomb, to George and Cora (Spear) Pollock. When she was 18, she began teaching in a one-room school in McDonough County. She loved teaching and was a very good teacher. She retired from Governors State University. She served as superintendent of McHenry County schools and later as superintendent of Rural Consolidated District 10, a consolidation of 25 one-room schools surrounding Woodstock which she helped create. Her own education began in a one-room school. She earned a bachelor's degree from Western Illinois University and a master's degree from the University of Chicago. She was awarded a doctor of education by the University of Chicago. She created and developed an elementary program at Purdue University in Indiana, where she worked for 17 years. Other employment included two years at the Urban Education Laboratory in Atlanta; one year at the University of Punjab, Pakistan, developing teacher training programs; and two years in Nigeria developing in-service teacher training. During her years at Purdue, she was also a consultant to Head Start in Bolivar County, Miss.; a project adviser to the Hough Parent and Child Center in Cleveland; a consultant to Tippecanoe County Child Care in Lafayette, Ind., and at the bequest of the governor of Indiana, a member of the Advisory Committee on Day Care Services. When the Illinois State Legislature created Governors State University, she applied for the position of vice president for academic affairs. She served on three governance committees — Fellowship of Reconciliation in Nyack, N.Y.; Friends World Council for Consultation in Philadelphia; and New Call for Peacemaking. Upon retiring from Governors State, she became a successful business person with her Stitchery Plus Shop. She was married to Bill Fyfe in 1984 under the care of the Thorn Creek (Quaker) Meeting and then returned to McHenry County to live. She then founded the Fine Line Creative Arts Center in St. Charles. She was very pleased when Woodstock School District 200 named its new school after her, Mary Endres Elementary School. Survivors include a brother, Alvin Pollock; nieces and nephews, Lois Arlene Moon, George Pollock, Doris Ann Blakeman, William J. Pollock, Richard Lee Pollock, Patricia Joan Coker, Linda Lou Carter, Rebecca Ann Gardner, Janice Wetzel Leonard, Geraldine Wetzel Zerse, Alan Pollock Wetzel and Annette Wetzel Reed; three stepsons, Beye Fyfe, Allen (Jane) Fyfe and John (Linda Mansfield) Fyfe; a stepniece, Mary Fyfe Engelbrecht; two stepnephews, James Fyfe and Robert Fyfe; and three very special friends, Alex, Evelyn and Ellen. She was preceded in death by her husband, May 7, 2001; her parents; a sister, Genevieve Pollock Wetzel; a brother, Ralph Pollock; a nephew, Lawrence Pollock; two brothers-in-law, Gerald Wetzel and James Fyfe; and a stepniece, Ellen Fyfe Thompson. A Quaker-style memorial service will be held in the Woodstock area in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the P.T.O. of Mary Endres Elementary School, 2181 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, IL 60098. Arrangements were made by George R. Justen & Son Funeral Home, McHenry.

Ronald L. Farris
Ronald L. Farris, 60, Woodstock, died Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2005, at his home. He was born May 29, 1945, in DeKalb, to Walter and Kathryn (Zeien) Farris. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Woodstock and a member of the Woodstock Moose. He was an original member of the Woodstock Rescue Squad and served for more than 30 years. He was a computer programmer. An avid NASCAR fan, he served as an official at the Rockford Speedway for more than 30 years. Survivors include a daughter, Adrienne (Floyd) Gardner, Caledonia; a brother, Dr. Bruce (Jodi) Farris, Woodstock; a sister, Bonnie (Robert) Giles, Woodstock; a sister-in-law, Bridget Farris, Woodstock; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, in 1984; his mother, in 2002; a brother, Bryce, in 1996; a daughter, Tracy Farris; and a nephew, William Giles. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 28, at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. A wake service is scheduled for 7 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9 a.m. until the 10 a.m. Mass of the Resurrection Thursday, Dec. 29, at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Monsignor James W. McLoughlin officiating. Interment will follow in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Woodstock. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District.

Harold Irwin Shotliff
Harold Irwin Shotliff, 83, Oregon, Ill., died Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2005, at Skaalen Sunset Home in Stoughton, Wis. He was born April 22, 1922, in Powers Lake, Wis., to Fred and Grace (Kimball) Shotliff. He married Marion L. Brandt July 27, 1957, in Union. The couple farmed and raised their children in Alden, Richmond and Oregon. He was a member and officer of the Alden-Hebron Grange for more than 50 years. He was a member and officer of the Oregon FFA Alumni. He delivered meals and volunteered as a driver escort for the Retired Senior Volunteer Program with his wife for many years. He enjoyed taking care of his dog, Rusty, and planting flower and vegetable gardens. He also enjoyed listening to his grandchildren and hearing about all of their adventures. Survivors include his wife; four children, Keith (Sandy), Oregon, Craig (Pam), Belmont, Marian Kay (Doug) Viney, Belleville, and Laura (Perry) Jorgensen, Brooklyn; 10 grandchildren, Aaron, Brian and Brad Shotliff, Samantha (Rob) Spangler and Sean Shotliff, Matthew, Michael and Benjamin Viney, and Emma and Lee Jorgenson; a brother, Wayne (Clara), Harvard; other relatives; and a host of friends and acquaintances. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Glen, Bill and Melvin; and a sister, Dorothy. Visitation was Dec. 18 at Gunderson Oregon Funeral Home, Oregon. The funeral service was held Dec. 19 at St. John's Lutheran Church, Oregon, with the Rev. Steven Ristau Hanson presiding. Internment was at Storytown Cemetery, Oregon. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Skaalen Sunset Home or HospiceCare. The family would like to thank the staff at Skaalen Sunset Home and the staff at the Dean Medical Clinics.

Gregory M. Dechambre
Gregory M. Dechambre, 54, Woodstock, died Thursday, Dec. 15, 2005, at his home. He was born in Highland Park to Gerald and Eleanor (Nevins) Dechambre. He served in the U.S. Army as a sergeant in the Green Berets for the 82nd Airborne Division. He worked for True Value Hardware Company for 30 years. He enjoyed playing golf. Survivors include his parents, Woodstock; three daughters, Jordan (Garrett) Childers, Wauwatosa, Wis., Katie Dechambre, Milwaukee, and Sara Dechambre, Milwaukee; a brother, David (Cecile) Dechambre, Flagstaff, Ariz.; a sister, Annette (Kevin) Butler, Woodstock; two nieces, Brett and Claire Dechambre; and two nephews, Michael (Jennifer) Butler and Jonathan Butler. A memorial Mass was held Dec. 20 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. Burial was private. Memorials can be made to the James Green Memorial Fund, which is used for tuition assistance at St. Mary Catholic School, Woodstock. Arrangements were made by Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock.

Mabel W. Merwin
Mabel W. Merwin, 88, Woodstock, died Thursday, Dec. 15, 2005, at her home. She was born Aug. 16, 1917, in Woodstock, to George and Elizabeth (Norton) Meyer. She married Donald Merwin Sept. 12, 1936. She was a homemaker and a member of the Woodstock Elks Doe Club. Survivors include two daughters, Donna (Donald) Stephens, Woodstock, and Diane (Joseph) Kersten, Woodstock; a daughter-in-law, Helen Merwin, Mendota; a sister, Betty Anderson; a brother-in-law, Alvin Christopherson; a sister-in-law, Audrey Meyer; nine grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Oct. 5, 1994; a son, Thomas Merwin; a grandson, Brett Stephens; two brothers; and three sisters. A memorial service was held Dec. 19 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock, with the Rev. Roger Olson officiating. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery, Greenwood. Memorials can be made to Angels By Your Side or Hospice of Northeastern Illinois.

Herbert W. Kreft
Herbert W. Kreft, 88, Woodstock, died Thursday, Dec. 15, 2005, at Woodstock Residence Nursing Home. He was born Oct. 17, 1917, in Northfield, to William and Lillie (Kaup) Kreft. He married Lillian Grandt Oct. 25, 1941, in Northfield. He was a member of Lord & Savior Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during World War II. He was a member of the American Legion. He was a farmer all his life and mostly farmed in McHenry County. Survivors include his wife, Woodstock; a daughter, Barbara (Bernard) Dowey, Woodstock; two grandchildren, Brian Dowey and Bruce (Erin) Dowey; and a sister-in-law, Elsie Kreft. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Irvin Kreft; and two sisters, Melinda Fick and Clara Henke. Visitation was Dec. 19 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. The funeral service was held Dec. 20 at Lord & Savior Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake. Burial was in Ridgewood Cemetery, Des Plaines. Memorials can be made to Lord & Savior Lutheran Church, 9300 Ridgefield Road, Crystal Lake, IL 60014.

Anthony 'Popcorn' Alessi
Anthony "Popcorn" Alessi, 55, Woodstock, died Monday, Dec. 12, 2005, at Centegra Memorial Medical Center, Woodstock. He was born June 20, 1950, in Chicago, to Tony and Rose (Luna) Alessi. He married Mona Greenwald June 3, 1972, in Chicago. He was a veteran, serving in the U.S. Army with the 101st Airborne Division as a tank commander from 1970 to 1971. He was an avid sports fan, with particular interest in the Chicago Cubs, the Chicago Bears and all the other Chicago area teams. He was a past member of VietNow and AMVETS. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. Survivors include his wife, Woodstock; two sons, Anthony (Amy Ray) Alessi, Woodstock, and Mike Alessi, Woodstock; three daughters, Vicki (Ty) Thompson, Texas, Debbie Alessi, Woodstock, and Gina Alessi, Woodstock; six grandchildren, Alexis Hermanson, Austin Alessi, Joey Alessi, Ty Thompson II, Tatum Thompson and Aidan Alessi; two brothers, Albert (Kathy) Alessi, Joliet, and Sam (Anna) Alessi, San Diego; and three sisters, Carmen Alessi, Arizona, Theresa (Jeff) Lichte, McHenry, and Mary (Ken) Lynn, Paducah, Ky. He was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation was Dec. 16 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock. Mass of the Resurrection was held Dec. 17 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock, with Monsignor James McLoughlin officiating. Interment was in Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Woodstock. Memorials can be made to Cure Autism Now, 5455 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2250, Los Angeles, CA 90036.

Esther S. Dougan
Esther S. Dougan, 97, Woodstock, died Thursday, Dec. 8, 2005, at her daughter's home in Cary. She was born Aug. 7, 1908, in Goodhue, Minn., to Ferdinand and Augusta (Degner) Schulz. She married Kenneth E. Dougan Dec. 20, 1940, in Cincinnati. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Woodstock, since 1980. She was a volunteer for Centegra Hospital Ladies Auxiliary. She was involved with the Woodstock Public Library and the Woodstock Fine Arts Association. She was a graduate of the University of Minnesota, class of 1928. She was a designer for the Gibson Greeting Card Company in Cincinnati when she met and married her husband. She loved gardening and bird watching, and she was an avid traveler. Survivors include two sons, Kenneth (Diana) Dougan, DVM, Ft. Thomas, Ariz., and Peter Dougan, Dixon, N.M.; a daughter, Ruth (Reynolds) Tague, Cary; five grandchildren, Kerry Waters, Kelly Schaeffer, Kate Dougan, Chris Tague and Lindsay Tague; and a great-grandchild, Jenna Waters. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Oct. 25, 1991; a grandson, Brahm; two sisters; and seven brothers. A memorial service is being planned for a later date. Memorials can be made to First Presbyterian Church, 225 W. Calhoun St., Woodstock, IL 60098, or to a charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements were made by Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock.

Robert L. Whiting
Robert L. Whiting, 67, a lifelong resident of Woodstock, died Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2005, at Centegra Northern Illinois Medical Center, McHenry. He was born Feb. 21, 1938, in Woodstock, to Lee and Nellie (Staines) Whiting. He married Paula Hyatt Nov. 26, 1960, in Woodstock. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock. He served in the Navy from 1956 to 1960, spending most of his time in Guantanimo Bay. He worked for most of his life in sales for Gulgren's Appliances, Crystal Lake. He also worked for Woodstock School District 200 as a custodian. He enjoyed old cars and spending time outdoors fishing and hunting. Survivors include a son, Jeff Whiting, Rockford; two daughters, Julie (Aaron) Smith, Woodstock, and Jill (Gary) Mungle, Woodstock; a brother, James (Juanita) Whiting, Woodstock; a sister, Sharon (Lynn) Kuhn, Pellham, Ala.; and two grandchildren, Kayla Mungle and Rebecca Mungle. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife. Mass of the Resurrection was Dec. 10 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock, with the Rev. Nicholas Federspiel presiding. Burial was in Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Woodstock. Arrangements were made by Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock.