MICHAEL GILBERT DUDLEY

The funeral service for Michael Dudley was held Thursday, February 22, 2018, at 12:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home.  Pastor Bill Reed conducted the service.  Music played on CD was “Amazing Grace, My Chains are Gone” by Chris Tomlin, “Mr. Blue Sky” by Electric Light Orchestra and “Lead Me Home” by Jamey Johnson.  Michael’s brother, Daniel Dudley, shared memories.   The burial service was led by Pastor Reed at Highland Memorial Cemetery.  Pallbearers were Richard Dudley, Daniel Dudley, Tyler Kirkman, Robbie Johnson, John Deisher and Joshua Deisher.  Honorary pallbearers included Brayden Dudley, Victor Dudley, Byron Asycue, Jackie Deisher, Mike Deisher, Darrell Deisher and Dereck Cross.  Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Dudley family.

Richard E. “Dick” Bertram, 73

Richard E. “Dick” Bertram, 73, of Mount Carmel, passed away on Tuesday, February 21, 2018 at Wabash General Hospital surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born September 27, 1944 in Princeton, Indiana the son of Deb and Frances (Gray) Bertram.  He was married to Lola Baxley and she survives.

Dick was a member of the Mt. Carmel High School class of 1962.  During his high school years, he was an accomplished pitcher for the Golden Aces and also on the local American Legion baseball team. He was an avid baseball fan following the Cincinnati Reds team.  Before retiring, Dick was employed in factory maintenance, first at Flintkote, and then Pacific Press and Shear.   He became a proud lifetime “Golden Eagle” and greatly enjoyed his time spent with friends at the local Eagles club.  Dick enjoyed hunting and fishing.  He had a love for animals, especially dogs.  He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Dick will be remembered by his loving wife Lola; children; Tim (Angie) Bertram of Hazelton, Indiana, Debbie Bertram of Macon Georgia, Kelly (Greg) Rochleau of Coal Valley, Illinois; five grandchildren, Nicki (Chuck) Epperson, Kaylei Sutton, Caden Rochleau, Cael Rochleau, Levyn (Damon) McEllhiney; one great-grandson, Oakley McEllhiney; sister, Connie (Terry) Peach; brother, Paul Wetter and several nieces and nephews.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Steve Bertram and sister, Frances Bell.

Family and friends may gather for a Celebration of Life from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday, February 26, 2018 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Dick’s memory to the Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies, 11336 N 1550 Blvd, Mount Carmel, IL  62863. Envelopes will be available at the Funeral Home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL  62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Dick’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Bertram family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Funeral Report-Dwight Lester Joseph Donberger

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at Saint Mary Catholic Church in Mount Carmel to honor the life of Dwight Lester Joseph Donberger.  Father Robert Zwilling officiated the Mass assisted by Deacon Steve Lowe and Deacon Charlie Speaks.  Donna Lowe served as keyboardist and Douglas Hawf played the violin.  Saint Mary’s School Choir also sang during the Mass.  “Here I Am Lord”, was the opening hymn followed by the opening prayer. Dwight’s children, Tracy Borth, Travis Donberger and Elizabeth Donberger placed the Pall on the casket.  Josh Evans read the First Reading from the book of Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; Charles Trimble read the Second Reading from the Book of Romans 6:1-14 and Deacon Steve Lowe read the Gospel from the Book of Mathew 5:1-12a.  The Responsorial Psalm, “Shepard Me, O God” was sung by Mary Trimble. The presentation of the gifts along with special items that reflected Dwight’s life was brought forward by his grandchildren, Abigail, Luke and Daniel Borth, Lillian, Olivia and Caroline Donberger.  The presentation song was “Amazing Grace, My Chains are Gone”.  Donna played on keyboard accompanied by Doug on Violin.  “Fly Like A Bird” served as the communion hymn.  Vicky Sarg and Donna Martin served as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.  Travis Donberger shared one of Dwight’s favorite prayers, “Padre Pio Prayer”.  During the final commendation, Mary Trimble sang, “May the Angel’s Gather You to Heaven” and “I Am the Bread of Life” was the closing hymn.  Servers for the Mass were Olivia Trimble, Isaac Kieffer and Andrew Goldman.  Burial took place at Saint Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.  Pallbearers were Josh Evans, Logan Crum, Cory Donberger, Jonas Trimble, Brad Winter and Terry Phegley.  Honorary Pallbearers were Bruce Borth, Fred Smith, Kevin Kieffer, Bob Winter, Randy Donberger, Steve Donberger, Damian Donberger, Patrick Donberger and Justin Spencer.  Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the Donberger family.

Dwight Lester Joseph Donberger, 66

Dwight Lester Joseph Donberger, 66, of Mount Carmel, Illinois went to his eternal resting place on February 18, 2018 at Wabash General Hospital with his loving family by his side.  He was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas, on February 3,1952 to the late Fred and Clarissa (Soller) Donberger.  He married Karen Kieffer on June 21, 1975 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Mount Carmel, Illinois.  They celebrated forty-two years together focused on God, family, gardening and making the community a better place.

Dwight was a loving brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend to those around him.  He Graduated from Unity High School, Tolono, Illinois and went to work for the union.  Dwight worked as a plumber and pipe-fitter for Local # 149.  After fifteen years he moved to Mount Carmel, Illinois to join in his wife’s family oil business.  He became owner/operator of Kieffer Heat Treating which he retired from in 2017.  Dwight enjoyed being outdoors either hunting, fishing, gardening or playing with his grandchildren.  When harvesting his vegetables, he always took pride in sharing what had with others.  Dwight also enjoyed woodworking, making several pieces of furniture and cabinets for his family’s home.  He was also who his children called when they needed help with home repairs.  Anyone who knew Dwight enjoyed his many stories he had to share.  His trust in God spread beyond his own heart and into many years of dedication to the RCIA process and reaching out to others in need.  Throughout his entire illness his positive attitude and strength in God not only carried him through, but also touched the hearts of many of his caregivers and friends he encountered on his journey.

Dwight will be remembered by his loving wife, Karen Donberger; children, Tracy (Ben) Borth, Travis (Julie) Donberger and Elizbeth (fiancée Nathan Hoffman) Donberger; in addition, six wonderful grandchildren, Abigail, Luke and Daniel Borth, Lillian, Olivia and Caroline Donberger;  brothers,  Randy Donberger of Amarillo, Texas, Steve (Debbie) Donberger of Saint Joseph, Illinois, Damian (Linda) Donberger of Tolono, Illinois, Patrick Donberger of Olympia Washington and several nieces and nephews.      .

 Dwight was preceded in death by his parents. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church with Father Robert Zwilling officiating.   Burial will follow at Saint Mary’s Cemetery.

 A Rosary Service will be held at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church with a Visitation for Family and friends immediately following until 8:00p.m.

In leu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to Saint Mary’s School, Mount Carmel Infusion Center or the Illinois Department of Natural Recources.  Envelopes will be available at the church or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, Illinois 62863.

The family of Dwight would like to thank all those who have walked the journey of life with him especially during his battle with cancer.  The phone calls, car rides, prayers, visits to the house and hospital, and many other acts of kindness have each been considered a true blessing.  He treasured and prayed for each person he encountered along the way.  He and his family are eternally grateful for each of you. 

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Dwight’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Donberger family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Michael G. Dudley, 34

Michael G. Dudley, 34, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, February 16, 2018.

He was born July 13, 1983, the son of Richard Lee and Tammy Ann (Deisher) Dudley in Wabash County, Illinois.  Michael was in the Mt. Carmel High School graduating class of 2001.  He worked as an operator for Beard Oil Company and as a boilermaker for Zachary Construction during power plant outages. Michael enjoyed fishing, loved being outside with his children and spending time with family.   He attended Gospel Kingdom Church. 

Left to cherish his memory are his children Taylor Ann Dudley and Tucker Wayne Dudley; dad Richard Lee Dudley; maternal grandmother Joan (Jerry) Shackleford of Owensville IN; and, siblings Daniel Lee Dudley and Leeua Renea Dudley, all of Mt. Carmel.    

Michael was preceded in death by his mother; infant sibling; maternal grandfather Jack Deisher; paternal grandparents Joyce and Richard Dudley; an uncle Chris Dudley; great grandparents; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

The funeral service for Michael Dudley will be Thursday, February 22, 2018, at 12:00 noon in the chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel.  Friends and family may visit from 11:00 until the time of service on Thursday.  Burial will be in Highland Memorial Cemetery, 1827 College Drive.

Memorials can be made to Short Funeral Home.  Envelopes will be available at Short Funeral Home.      

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com   

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Michael’s family.

Earl R. Wilkinson, 91

Earl R. Wilkinson, 91, of Mount Carmel, IL passed away on Thursday, February 15, 2018 at Wabash General Hospital.  He was born April 18, 1926 in Wabash County, IL the son of Clyde and Almorine (Williams) Wilkinson.  Earl was married to Jean (Stewart) Wilkinson and she preceded him in death in 2008.

Earl was a proud WWII Veteran having served in the United States Army from 1944 to 1946.  Among his awards were European Campaign, Army Occupation, World War II, Combat Infantry Badge and Good Conduct Medal.  He was also awarded two Bronze Stars for exemplary conduct in ground combat against the armed enemy during the Rhineland Campaign, in the European Theater of Operations.  Earl also served in the Army National Guard, Co. C,130th Infantry Regiment from February 15, 1949 to July 1, 1950 as a Corporal.

Earl worked in factory maintenance having been employed at Flintkote and Champion Laboratories.  After his retirement, Earl enjoyed woodworking and spending time in his work shop making gifts for his family and friends.  He crafted many items including clocks and birdhouses as he loved to feed the birds.  Earl’s family was important to him and he loved spending time with them.    He was a member of the Lancaster Church of Christ and the American Legion.  Earl will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Earl will be remembered by his sons; Charles “Bob” (Susie) Wilkinson of Mount Carmel, IL, Larry (Judy) Wilkinson of Lancaster, IL, Tim (Karole) Wilkinson of Allendale, IL; daughters, Carolyn (Gary) Pittsford of Pendleton, IN and Connie (Fred) Rieffel of Newburgh, IN; grandchildren, Gussie Stefanich, Michelle Wilkinson, Rodney Wilkinson, Stephanie Koetter, Broc Pittsford, Matt Pittsford, Jennifer Huggins, Andrew Worthey, Chad Wilkinson, Bree Pflaum;  sixteen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jean Wilkinson; son, Robert Wayne Wilkinson, brothers Johnny, Willard, Donald, Gilbert, Ervin and Albert; sisters, Alberta Wheatley and Emma Hall.

In keeping with Earl’s wishes, he will be cremated and a private family burial will take place at a later date.  Memorial contributions may be made in Earl’s memory to Harrison Cemetery, c/o Larry Wilkinson, 6767 Hwy 11, Mt. Carmel, IL  62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Earls tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Wilkinson  family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Funeral Report-DONALD EDWARD DEAN

The funeral service for Donald Dean was held Saturday, February 3, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home. Pastor Jeremy Henson and Rodney Harris conducted the service. It included Prayer, Scripture Readings, Eulogy and Message. Music included “Amazing Grace” sung by Madisyn Etheridge, Donnie’s great granddaughter, accompanied by Bryan Heinrich on guitar. “Daddy, You Can Let Go Now” and “Thank You for Being My Dad” was played on CD. Marcia Woodcock played keyboard music for the service. The burial service was held at Highland Memorial Cemetery. Pallbearers were Nat and Natalie Stevenson, Madisyn & Drake, Chris and Allison Johnston, Michael and Teresa Dean and Chase, and, Keith Knox. Honorary pallbearers were Jack Fowler, Bill Kieffer, Doug Enloe, Jim Capin, Bryant Jeffers, Don Schular, Jim Painter, Vic Keepes, Leo Lambert, Bob Baumgart, Ron Leighty, Doc Reburn, Jim Litherland, Fred Harris, Jason and Melanie Brashears, Christian Brashears, Chloe Brashears, Aubrey Stevenson, Alayna Johnston and Vincent Dean. Short-Cunningham Funeral Home was honored to serve the Dean family.

Funeral Report-Shirley Bernice Lynch

The memorial service for Shirley Bernice Lynch was held Saturday, February 10, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Short Funeral Home. Pastor Brad Garner conducted the service. Music included “Bridge Over Troubled Water” on CD and “Amazing Grace” played on keyboard by Marcia Woodcock. Marcia also played prelude and postlude music. Short-Cunningham Funeral Home was honored to serve Shirley’s family.

Richard L. Kinney, 59

Richard L. Kinney, 59, of Mount Carmel, Illinois passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at Oakview Heights Continuous Care and Rehab.  He was born on May 10, 1958 in Wabash County the son of Leroy and Barbara (Mcmahel) Kinney. Richard was a graduate of Mount Carmel High School Class of 1976. 

Richard began working straight out of high school at Snap on Tools in Mount Carmel.  He also worked at Champion Laboratories until his retirement.  Richard loved his family especially his grandson who held a special place in his heart.  He loved being outdoors with his dogs at the lake and also fishing in his free time.   Richard enjoyed his time that he was able to spend time with family and friends.  He will be missed by all who knew him. 

Richard will be remembered by his daughter, Cora (David) Brown of West Salem; one grandson, Xander Brown; brother, Mike (Robin) Kinney of Mount Carmel; sister, Trina (Jerry) Hedrick of Mount Carmel; several nieces and nephews.  Richard was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, February 18, 2018 at the Mesa Lake Community Building, 7325 North Mesa Lake Drive. Refreshments will be served.  The family has requested casual dress. Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Richard’s tribute wall and leave condolences Kinney family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Albert D. “Dale” Price, 65

Albert D. “Dale” Price, 65, of Mount Carmel, Illinois passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, Indiana.  He was born on May 10, 1952 in Gideon, Missouri the son of Albert and Vernice (Norton) Price.  Dale married Rose Ann Richmond on June 30, 1973 in Indianapolis, Indiana.  Together Dale and Rose Ann enjoyed forty four years of marriage centered on their family.

Dale was a loving husband, father and grandfather.  His grandchildren were his pride and joy.  Dale was an Ordained General Baptist Minister. One of Dale’s hobbies was a DJ at KOKS 89.5 in Popular Bluff, Missouri during the 90’s. His show was called Strictly Southern Style and featured his favorite music Southern Gospel.  Among Dale’s hobbies he enjoyed watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball and also liked following basketball teams at Wabash Valley College, Oakland City, and Three Rivers Community College.  Dale had a passion for cars especially Mopars.  He was a member of the First General Baptist Church in Mount Carmel.  Dale will be missed by all who knew him.

He will be remembered by his loving wife, Rose Ann Price of Mount Carmel; two sons, Jared Price and wife Jodi of Mount Carmel and Vincent Price and wife  Ashley of Owensville, IN; three granddaughters, Alexa, Reese and Wylie Price and two grandsons, Wyatt and Will Price; several nieces and nephews.  Dale was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 7, 2018 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Underwood and Pastor Phil Warren officiating.   Burial will follow at Adams Corner Cemetery in Wabash County, Illinois.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at the Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Dale’s memory to the First General Baptist Church, 120 West 12th Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Dale’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Price family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Shirley Bernice Lynch, 82

Shirley Bernice Lynch, 82, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, January 26, 2018, at Oakview Heights.

She was born August 6, 1935, in National City, Illinois, the daughter of William Jesse and Lavada Alice (Dossett) Green.  Shirley was a graduate of Mt. Carmel High School.  On April 21, 1957, she married Bobbie Joe Lynch in Mt. Carmel.  Shirley worked for Hurst Manufacturing Company in Princeton, Indiana.  She enjoyed working puzzles and watching game shows on TV.

Left to cherish Shirley’s memory is her siblings Jean Price and Jack Green; eleven nieces and nephews; great nieces and nephews; and brothers-in-law Paul, Morris, and Larry Lynch.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; siblings Charles, Bob, Bill and Annabelle Green; nephew Kenny Allen; niece Karen Johnson; and and sister-in-law Carolyn Hoke.

There will be a memorial service Saturday, February 10, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.       

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Shirley’s family.

Donald Edward Dean, 83

Donald Edward Dean, 83, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away Wednesday, January 31, 2018, at Oakview Heights surrounded by his loving family.

He was born June 12, 1934, in Lick Prairie, Illinois, the son of Granville and Dale (Voigt) Dean. Donnie was in the Mt. Carmel High School graduating class of 1952. On August 14, 1954, Donnie married Patsy Lathrop in Mt. Carmel. They had a wonderful 63 years!

Donnie was a member of Evangelical United Methodist Church. He was the owner of Dean’s Office Supply for 48 years (1956-2004). Donnie was a past member of Lion’s Club, a lifetime member of Mt. Carmel Elks #715, coached Little League baseball, was a director of American Savings and Loan, an avid Mt. Carmel High School and Wabash Valley College Booster, loved horse racing and was truly an IU fan. One of his greatest passions was mowing. Above all Donnie loved spending time with all of his family at Mesa Lake boating and water skiing.

Left to cherish Donnie’s memory is Patsy, his loving wife of 63 years; children Teresa Jane Harris and husband Rodney and Robert G. Dean and his wife Robin, both of Mt. Carmel; grandchildren Melanie Brashears and husband Jason, Natalie Stevenson and husband Nathan, Michael Dean and wife Theresa and Allison Johnston and husband Chris; great grandchildren Christian, Chloe, Sophia, Madisyn, Drake, Aubrey, Chase, Vincent, Khade and Alayna; siblings Louise Spencer and husband Bob and Kenneth Dean.

Preceding Donnie in death were his parents, father and mother-in-law Robert and Thelma Lathrop, sister-in-law Nell Dean and brother-in-law Gerald Lathrop.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 3, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, with burial following in Highland Memorial Cemetery, 1827 College Drive, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Family and friends may gather for a visitation Friday, February 2, 2018, from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Short Funeral Home.

Memorials may be given to the Wabash Valley College Foundation. Envelopes will be available at Short Funeral Home.

The family would like to thank Sheila Randall and the wonderful caregivers at Oakview Height’s Alzheimer’s unit.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Donnie’s family.

Glen C. Markle, Sr., 90

Glen C. Markle, Sr., 90, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, January 30, 2018, at Oakview Heights.

He was born January 3, 1928, in Danville, Illinois, the son of Glen Cash and Eilene (Kelly) Markle. On December 21, 1948, Glen married Iris Bolton in Robinson, Illinois. She preceded him in death December 21, 2002.

Glen was a member of the Lighthouse church. He worked for Pacific Press & Shear as a service and maintenance man until 1993. Glen was a diehard St. Louis Cardinals fan.

Left to honor Glen’s memory is his son Glen C. Markle, Jr. and his wife Kris of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; two grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; nine greatgrandchildren; five step-greatgrandchildren; one great greatgrandchild due early February.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents; wife; two greatgrandchildren, Monica and Gabrielle; and, siblings Gene Carl Markle and Lois McCalley.

The funeral service for Glen will be held Friday, February 2, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery, 1827 College Drive.

Friends and family may gather for visitation Friday, February 2, 2018, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., prior to the service.

Memorials may be made to the Wabash County Senior Citizens, 115 East Third Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Envelopes will be available at Short’s.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Glen’s family.

FUNERAL REPORT-Herschel E. Johnson

Funeral Services were held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 29, 2018 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home to honor the life of Herschel E. Johnson. Pastor Vaughn Courter conducted the service which included opening and closing prayers, scripture, reading of the obituary, eulogy and song. Herschel’s grandchildren, Margaret Campbell, Daniel Johnson, Elizabeth Blair and Luke Johnson sang “Higher Ground”, accompanied by Denise Rogers who served as keyboardist throughout the service. The congregation joined in singing “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”, “Surely Goodness and Mercy” and “Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus”. Burial took place in Bethel Cemetery. Pallbearers were Daniel Johnson, Luke Johnson, Tyler Campbell, Anthony Blair, Bill Johnson, Herschel Johnson, Jerry Rigg and Matthew Marriott. Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the Johnson family.

Eugene “Jeep” Willis, 94

Eugene “Jeep” Willis, 94, of Owensville, Indiana passed away on Friday, January 26, 2018 at Deaconess Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.  He was born on August 24, 1923 in Gibson County, IN the son of Edward and Ocha (Hendrix) Willis.  Jeep married Bonnie Mae Phillis on November 15, 1963 and they enjoyed fifty three years of marriage until her passing on February 4, 2017.

Jeep loved being outdoors, fishing and hunting.  He enjoyed riding around and was very fond of the river bottoms.  Jeep also was a skilled gardener and was very proud of his tomato plants.  Among his hobbies he also loved watching St. Louis Cardinals Baseball. Jeep was a very hard and dedicated worker where during his working career he worked as a drilling superintendent for Lohman & Johnson.  He also was an avid harness horse racer.  Jeep will be missed by his family and all who knew him.

Jeep will be remembered by his daughters, Risha (Frank) Seals of Mount Carmel and Carol (Gary) Bledsoe of St. Cloud of FL; grandchildren, Ryan (Jennifer) James, Risha Kay Seals, Jackie (David) Seaton, Tracey Bearden, Chad (Hanna) Smith, Kathy (Chris) Presley; great grandchildren, Chaney, Eastyn, Adler and Alliana James, Danny Krause, Courtney Burton, Lance (Amber) Seaton, Logan (Emily) Seaton, Lauren, Laney, Nicholas, Alma and Lawrence Smith, Kody Johnston and Brook Presley; great great grandchildren, Allyson, Kelsey, Clayton, Lydia, Lyla and Jacob.

Jeep was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Theron and Kimber Willis; sister’s, Bertha Harmon and Rada Koil.

In keeping with Jeeps wishes he will be cremated and no formal services will be held at this time. 

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Jeep’s tribute wall and leave condolences for the Willis family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Funeral Report-STUART W. “STU” HIPSHER

The funeral service for Stuart W. “Stu” Hipsher was held Friday, January 26, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. in the Wabash Presbyterian Church at Orio.  Pastor Kevin McGinnis conducted the service.  It included Welcome, Prayer, Scripture Readings from Psalms, John, Revelation and Philippians, Songs of Worship and Praise, Remembrances and Closing Prayer.  Songs sung and played by Doug and Christy McPherson included “Praise You In The Storm”, “There Will Be A Day”, “Forever” and “Your Great Name”. Janet Oliver played various selections before and after the service. Larry Caddell and Barb Allender played and sang “If Only For a Little While” in remembrance of Stu. Various friends and family shared stories and memories.  After the service the pallbearers carried the casket to the Orio Cemetery for the burial service conducted by Pastor McGinnis. The pallbearers were Jay Thompson, Carl Stevens, Ryan Hipsher, Curt Hipsher, Ian Hipsher, Mark Crummley, Larry Caddell and Mike Beesley.

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home was honored to assist Stu’s family with the service arrangements.

Herschel E. Johnson, 89

Herschel E. Johnson, 89, of Bellmont, Illinois passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 25, 2018 at Oakview Heights Continuous Care and Rehab.  He was born on May 4, 1928 in Gibson County, Indiana the son of William and Effie (Rodgers) Johnson.  Herschel married Marjorie Zimmerman on April 1, 1948 and together they enjoyed sixty nine years of marriage centered on their family. Herschel was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.  He was a very hard worker and truly knew the meaning of a day’s work.  He retired at the age of eighty one where he spent a lot of his working career as a hog farmer.  Herschel also worked at PSI as a security guard.  Among his hobbies, Herschel loved being outdoors, tending to his garden and tinkering around the farm.  He was a member of the Bellmont United Methodist Church in Bellmont, Illinois.     Herschel will be remembered by his loving wife, Marjorie Johnson of Bellmont, IL; four children, Bill Johnson and wife, Pat of Mount Carmel, Tom Johnson of Olney, IL; Brenda Johnson of Bellmont, IL, Herschel Johnson and wife, Linda of Bellmont, IL; six grandchildren, Billy Joe Johnson, Sabrina Johnson, Margaret (Tyler) Campbell, Daniel (Natalie) Johnson, Elizabeth (Anthony) Blair and Luke Johnson; four great grandchildren, Matalei Greer, Gerald Greer, Xavier Blair and Gideon Campbell; many loved nieces, nephews and cousins. Herschel was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Jane Johnson; brothers, Horace Johnson, Robert Johnson and Clarence Johnson. Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 29, 2018 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Vaughn Courter officiating.   Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery in Bellmont, Illinois. Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 29, 2018 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made in Herschel’s memory to the Bellmont United Methodist Church.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 N. Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863. Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Herschel’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Johnson family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com

Velma M. Hord, 95

Velma M. Hord, 95, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 25, 2018 at Oakview Heights Continuous Care and Rehab Center.

          She was born on December 29, 1922 in Oblong, Illinois; the daughter of Vernon and Goldie (Ikemire) Whitmer. Velma was a member of the Lancaster Church of Christ.  She married James “Hank” Hord on August 20, 1942 in Salem, Illinois; together they had two daughters, Anita and Linda. Velma loved animals; especially her dog Shorty. Later in life she loved talking with friends and family over the internet.  Velma enjoyed watching Jeopardy and Ninja Warrior.

          Left to cherish her memories is her two daughters, Anita Bobbitt of Mt. Carmel and Linda Adams of Inglewood, California; grandson, James Thomas Bobbitt; one great-grandson, Dalton Wade Bobbitt.

          She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Hank Hord; granddaughter, Lori Bobbitt; sister, Nadine Groves.

          Visitation for friends and family will be Monday, January 29, 2018 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home.

          Funeral service will be Tuesday, January 30, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home with burial following at Highland Memorial Cemetery. She will be laid to rest next to her husband.        

Memorials may be made in her name to the Wabash County Shelter Buddies.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com 

          Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Velma’s family.

FUNERAL REPORT-Leland G. Stoltz

Graveside Services were held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 25, 2018 at Lick Prairie Cemetery to honor the life of Leland G. Stoltz.  Pastor Larry Stivers conducted the service which included music, scripture readings and prayer.  A recording of “In the Garden” by Joey and Rory was played and Pastor Stivers sang “Amazing Grace”.  Pallbearers were Steven Wagner, Matthew Wagner, Troy Stoltz, Eric Scherer, Adam Stoltz and Shawn Summers.  Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the Stoltz family.  

Cheryl Ann (Wilkerson) Unfried, 62

Cheryl Ann (Wilkerson) Unfried, 62, of Allendale, Illinois passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at Deaconess Hospital with her family by her side. She was born on June 26, 1955 in Gibson County, IN the daughter of Jim and Nora (Reed) Wilkerson. She grew up in a large family having six brothers, Cheryl was a tomboy even in her pretty dresses. She married Raphael “Ray” Unfried on July 3, 1984 and together they enjoyed thirty three years of marriage.

Cheryl loved her family and friends. She also loved her animals and her pride is her painted horse “Cherokee”. She enjoyed decorating for the holidays with Halloween and Christmas being her favorite. She also loved listening to music, dancing and practicing her skills at sketched art. She also loved her Mopar’s and attending car shows. Cheryl treasured her time on the truck with Ray and visiting different places.

Cheryl will be remembered by her husband, Ray Unfried of Allendale; two daughters, Tracy (Jay Hillyard) Moler and Tammy (Tony) Nold both of Mount Carmel; one son, Michael Morrow of Princeton, IN; grandchildren, Zachary Clayton, Addison Moler, Shelly Moler, Emma Barrett, Jaxin, Ravin and Kaen Nold; six brothers, Tom (Pat) Wilkerson of Bruceville, IN, Richard (Barb) Wilkerson of Dale, IN, Leslie (Rosie) Wilkerson of North Carolina, Gerald Wilkerson, Ivan Wilkerson and Bruce (Sandy) Wilkerson all of Princeton, IN; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and sisters in law.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Nora (Reed) Wilkerson; and her grandparents, Reverend Frank J. and Grace Reed.

In keeping with Cheryl’s wishes she will be cremated and a memorial service will take place at a later date.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Cheryl’s tribute wall and leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.