Donald A. Keepes, 93

Donald A. Keepes, 93, of Enfield, Illinois formerly of Mount Carmel, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 at his residence surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on July 14, 1928 in Wabash County, Illinois the son of Joseph B. and Margaret (Wahler) Keepes.

Don worked many years as a truck driver in the oil fields. In his free time, Don loved being outdoors in nature. He always enjoyed when he was able to go mushroom hunting and fishing with family and friends. Don loved his nieces and nephews and was considered grandpa to many. He was of Catholic faith and most recently attended St. Patrick Catholic Church in Enfield, IL and also attended St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Mount Carmel. He always enjoyed attending the Keepes reunion at St. Sebastian Church where he was able to catch up and visit with family. Don will be missed by his family and friends.

Don will be remembered by his niece who he lived with, Karen McKinney, also surviving are thirty-five nieces and nephews; brother, Tom Keepes of Browns, IL; sister, Margaret Burgener of Houston, TX; and many close friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Joseph Keepes II, Harold Keepes and Max Keepes; sisters, Evelyn Oliver, Clara King, and Kathryn Basinger; infant sister, Carolyn Keepes.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 3, 2021 at St. Sebastian Catholic Church with Father Robert Zwilling officiating. A private family burial will take place at St. Sebastian Catholic Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s memory to St. Sebastian Catholic Church or to St. Joseph’s Indian School. Envelopes will be available at the church 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 Don’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Keepes Family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Thomas Gene “Tom” Johnson, 69

Thomas Gene “Tom” Johnson, 69, of Olney, Illinois, passed away Friday, October 22, 2021, at home. He was born on June 12, 1952, in Mount Carmel, the son of Herschel E. and Marjorie (Zimmerman) Johnson.

Tom worked in the oilfields. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a very caring person and enjoyed visiting with friends and family. He loved his family and will be dearly missed.

Tom leaves behind his mother, Marjorie Johnson, two brothers, Herschel Johnson and wife Linda, Bill Johnson, and wife Pat; one sister, Brenda Johnson; and many loved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tom was preceded in death by his father; and one sister, Jane Johnson.

Graveside Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Monday, November 1, 2021, at Bethel Cemetery in Wabash County, Illinois, with Pastor Vaughn Courter officiating.

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

Paul H. Haggard, 60

Paul H. Haggard, 60, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away Sunday, October 24, 2021, at his residence surrounded by family.

Paul was born March 29, 1961, in Mt. Carmel, the son of George Jackson and Goldie Lee (Blair) Haggard. He graduated Mt. Carmel High School.

He loved his job as a Security Guard at Allied Universal. Watching Western movies was a favorite pastime.

Left to cherish his memories are his brothers, Tommy Haggard of Flora IL, Jackie Woods of Washington state; sister, Naomi Cox of Mt. Carmel and several nieces and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Arlene Gillihan, Carolyn Christmas, Nellie Haggard; brother George Haggard and two infant sisters.

Private graveside services will be held at Maumee Cemetery in Johnson, Indiana.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Haggard family

N. Helen Alspach-Raney 99

N. Helen Alspach-Raney passed away at the age of 99 on October 22, 2021, at Oakview Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born March 30, 1922, in Bridgeport, Illinois, the daughter of William “Bill” and Daisy (Helpingstine) Land. She first married Guy Alspach and they had five children, later she married Bill Raney.

Helen enjoyed the outdoors. She loved tending to her beautiful flowers and spending time fishing. She enjoyed getting out to go dancing and being with friends. Helen spent time reading her bible and enjoyed teaching Sunday School. She loved to sing in Church at the Assembly of God Church in Bridgeport, Illinois. Spending time with her family was dear to her. She will be missed by her family and friends.

Helen leaves behind her children, Donna Fischer, Guy “Butch” Alspach, Rita (Gary) Koontz, Charles “Chuck” (Teresa) Alspach; grandchildren, Darla Flannery, Joedy Groff, Roger Groff, Monty (Doris) Groff, Rhonda (Dave) Grinols, Nancy (Larry) Olsthoorn, Randy (Pam) Fischer, Reggie (Susan) Fischer, Pamela Kelly, Tammy (JR) Ray, Jennifer (Curt) Jibben, Leah (Jeremy) Mahrenholz, Brad (Teresa) Alspach, Melissa (Keith) Parsons, Gina (Richard) Wells; Thirty-three great-grandchildren and many loved great-great-grandchildren.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents; both of her husbands; daughter, Merlyn Groff and husband Larry; grandson, Rusty Fischer; great grandson, Logan Cunningham; sisters, Dottie Muncie, Thelma Cottrell; brothers, Babe Land, Raymond Land, Russel Land, Coy Land, Bud Land and Purcell Land.

A Graveside Service will be at 10:30 a.m., Monday, November 1, 2021, at Lawrenceville City Cemetery in Lawrenceville, Illinois, with Pastor Dan Webb officiating.

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

Harold A. Schonaman, 80

Harold A. Schonaman, 80, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Monday, October 18, 2021, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 7, 1941, in Wabash County the son of John S. and Vivian M. (Schmittler) Schonaman. He married Maris Deffendall on March 13, 1957, and together they have celebrated sixty-four years of marriage, centered around their family.

Harold was a lifelong farmer in Wabash County. He dearly loved farming and was very particular about his work in which he took great pride. Harold always said if he made it to eighty years old and was still farming, he would be happy. His first priority before farming was his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Harold was a sweet, kind, and generous man. He loved to cook for his family, and greatly enjoyed getting together with a big pot of chowder. He was an outdoorsman and enjoyed camping, boating, and snow mobile trips. In his spare time, he enjoyed bowling and was talented at making various wood crafts. Harold was a member of Keensburg Christian Church. He was a good friend to many and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Harold leaves behind his loving wife, Maris; sons, Don Schonaman and wife, Cindy, Ed Schonaman and wife, Cheryl; daughters, Teresa Schrodt and husband, Phil, Amy Clodfelter and husband, Mark; son-in-law, Greg Buchanan; seventeen grandchildren, Annie Blevins, Sarah Kaufman, Jamie Moyemont, Rebecca Schonaman, Matthew Buchanan, Jennifer Greathouse, Julie Price - Dial, Jerrica Riyazi, Philip Schrodt, Derek Schrodt, Landon Schrodt, Jessica Schonaman, John Schonaman, Seth Schonaman, Scarlett Schonaman, Blake Pearson, Brooke Bosecker; and blessed with several great-grandchildren; two nieces, Vickie Schmitt, and Nancy Rosignol.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Harold Alan Schonaman Jr.; two daughters, Karen Edwards, and Cindy Buchanan; grandson, Jacob Price; brother, John Edward Schonaman; and infant sister, Norma Jean Schonaman.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 23, 2021, at Keensburg Christian Church with Pastor Allan Wright officiating. Burial will follow at Saint John Lutheran Cemetery in Wabash County, Illinois.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00p.m., Friday, October 22, 2021, at Keensburg Christian Church.

Memorial contributions may be made in Harold’s memory to Saint John Lutheran Cemetery or Keensburg Christian Church. Envelopes will be available at the Church or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry St., Mt. Carmel, Illinois, 62863.

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

Joe Holstein, 71

Joe Holstein, 71, longtime resident of northern Wabash County, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, October 15, 2021. 

Joe was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ralph and Joan (Rigg) Holstein, his beloved daughter, Jenny and grandson, Kendall Sturm. 

Joe is survived by his son, Samuel and grandsons, Xander Umfleet and Draedon Holstein, sister, Jan (Rich) Arthur of Asheville, North Carolina, nephew, Drake (Melissa) Levo of West Virginia and niece, Amanda Morris (Isaiah) of Lanesville, Indiana, several cousins, a very special aunt, Janet Mann and certainly his most beloved, Debra Fisher of Washington, Indiana.

Joe worked in the energy field for several years.  He was a United States Navy Veteran, a member of the American Legion and a life member of the Disabled American Veterans.  Joe was a member of the EUM Church and a friend of Bill W for seventeen years.

A Memorial Service will be at 1:00 p.m., Friday, October 22, 2021 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Full Military Honors will be conducted at the conclusion of the Memorial Service.  A Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. -1:00 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the service.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Joe’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolencesfor the Holstein family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Donald Reynolds, 70

Donald Reynolds, 70, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, October 17, 2021 at Wabash General Hospital.  He was born on July 5, 1951 in New Haven, Illinois, the son of George and Frankie (Shepard) Reynolds.

Don faithfully served his country in the United States Air Force.  He worked as a mechanic and greatly enjoyed repairing cars.  He also worked for a time as a truck driver which he also enjoyed.  He will be missed by his family and friends.

Don leaves behind his son, Randy Reynolds of Collinsville, Illinois; two grandchildren, R.J. and Tyler; several nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Larry and Lon.

In keeping with Don’s wishes, cremation will take place and no formal services are scheduled at this time.

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

Ida Mae (Nix) VanVleet, 71

Ida Mae (Nix) VanVleet, (affectionately called tater or tater-bug by her family), 71, of Cowling, Illinois, departed this live surrounded by her loving family on October 16, 2021, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.  She was born September 16, 1950, in Crossville, Illinois, the daughter of Lowell Wayne “Andy” Nix and Ethel Mae (Robb) Nix.

She graduated from Crossville High School in 1968, and retired from Wabash Valley Service Company after 32 years of service as secretary.  She later retired from Wal-Mart after 15 years of serving in numerous positions. She attended Keensburg Christian Church in Keensburg, Illinois. She was married to Herbert David VanVleet and he survives.

Ida cherished spending time with her family – especially her grandson, Zane, whom she loved to spoil rotten.  She and Zane worked side-by-side in their fairy garden of flowers. Anyone who knew her, knew she had a passion to dance. She taught line dancing and enjoyed her group of girlfriends who shared with her in many adventures (of which wine tastings were among her favorite activities).  Travelling was another of her favorite things to do.  She enjoyed cruises and trips to England and Ireland.  Her dear brother, Carl Nix, would frequently accompany Ida when eating out and attending movies.

Survivors include her husband of 43 years, Herbert VanVleet of Cowling, Illinois; son Carl “C.W.” (Jennifer) VanVleet of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; grandson Zane VanVleet; brother Carl Nix of Carmi, Illinois; nieces Carla Miller and Connie Madden.

She was also a bonus mother to Pamela (Chuck) Warren, Cathy (Darren) Cole, and Mark VanVleet; bonus grandmother to John, Danny, Brent, Jeremy, Sasha, Mark, and Tori; and 13 great grandchildren.

Preceding her in death are her parents, Lowell and Ethel Nix; brother Paul Wayne Nix; and bonus son Herbert Michael “Skip” VanVleet.

Visitation and funeral are Wednesday, October 20, 2021, at Cook Funeral Chapel in Crossville.  Visitation is 10 am and funeral is at noon. Burial will be in Stokes Chapel Cemetery near Crossville.

Dwight Mobley, age 91

Dwight Mobley, age 91, passed away on October 9, 2021, after a long and fruitful life.

He was born Maurice Dwight Mobley on December 20, 1929, to Horace and Carrie (Bosaw) Mobley on the farm settled in 1815 by his great grandfather near New Haven, IL. He graduated Ridgway High School and then proudly served his country in the Korean war from 1951-1954. Upon returning from Korea, Dwight married his high school sweetheart Mary Ann McGuire in 1955. They started their family in Champaign-Urbana as Dwight earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture in 1957 and a Master’s Degree in Education in 1962 from the University of Illinois. Dwight began his teaching career at Illiopolis, Chatsworth, and Newton High Schools, teaching Ag and supervising the Future Farmers of America clubs. The family moved to the Mt. Carmel area in 1966, living on a small farm near Lancaster raising a menagerie of cows, pigs, ponies, ducks, dogs, and cats. Dwight and Mary Ann raised four children, 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren (and counting).

Dwight was a member of the Wabash Valley College faculty for over thirty years, teaching Ag Mechanics and Diesel Hydraulics to hundreds of young farmers and mechanics from Wabash County and the surrounding area, ending his career at WVC as Dean of Instruction. Dwight was a fierce champion of vocational education at the community college level and was proud of the growth and success of WVC during his tenure. He also served multiple terms as a member of the Mt. Carmel District 348 School Board and the St. Mary’s School Board. He was a member of the St. Mary’s Knights of Columbus, the Lancaster Ruritan Club, and the Wabash County 4-H Fair board. Dwight and Mary Ann were devout members of St. Mary’s Catholic church.

Dwight loved St. Louis Cardinals baseball, the Mt. Carmel High School Aces football, and Wabash Valley College Warriors basketball. After retiring, Dwight and MaryAnn enjoyed taking long trips in their motor home, usually accompanied by a pair of age-matched grandchildren. These trips forged lasting, loving relationships and life-long memories. Everyone will miss Dwight’s infectious optimism and mischievous sense of humor. The hummingbirds will mourn his absence when they return to his room at Holly Brook next spring to find their feeders empty.

Left to cherish Dwight’s memory is his children Diana (Barry) Catt, Elaine (Allen) Brown, James (Linda) Mobley, and Jerry (Cynthia) Mobley; twelve grandchildren Mike and Maria Catt, Kristy and Tyler Murphey, Wade Catt, Matt and Anne McClane, Carrie McClane, Zach and Melissa Mobley, Erin and Wryan Webb, Meagan and Jared Steckler, Amber White, Clif Mobley, Kaitlyn and Al Smith, T.J. Mobley; twelve great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and three infant daughters, Agnes Ann, Mary Christina and Theresa Ann; brother, Gale Mobley and sister, Leta Turner.

There will be a visitation Friday, October 15, 2021, from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry St. Mt. Carmel, IL

Funeral Mass be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday October 16, 2021 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 125 W. 5th St. Mt. Carmel, IL; burial will follow immediately after at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Mt. Carmel, IL.

Memorials may be made to the St. Mary’s Catholic School Endowment Fund. Envelopes will be available at the church.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Mobley family.

June A. Hillis, 91

June A. Hillis, 91, of Olney, passed away Friday, October 8, 2021 at her residence.

June was born June 2, 1930 in Noble, Illinois, to Herbert and Bernice (Rexroat) Hamilton. She married Harry Hillis, Jr. on January 20, 1951. He preceded her in death on December 8, 2017.

June was a member of Olney Church of Christ.

June is survived by three children, Roger Hillis (and his wife Lisa) of Louisville, KY; Sharon Harris (and her husband Mike) of Mt. Carmel, IL; and Annette Kramer (and her husband Rick) of Ft. Wayne, IN; seven grandchildren, Laura (her husband, Steven) Thomas, Lindsey (her husband, Brian) Kingery, Ben (his wife, Debbie) Kramer, Lesley Hillis, Kristen (her husband, James) Sullivan, Alex Kramer and Jeremy Hillis. In addition, they have seven great-grandchildren, Braden, Kinley, Beckham, Parker, Camden, Everett, and Auggie; sister, Nancy Allard; bonus son, Mike (his wife, Penny) Runyon; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by parents; husband; brothers, Virgil, Carl, and Herman Hamilton; sisters, Dorothy Boyd and Martha Lincoln.

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Olney is in charge of arrangements. A funeral will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Olney. A visitation will be held two hours before service time at the funeral home.

Interment will take place on Thursday, October 13, 2021 at Haven Hill Memorial Gardens.

Memorials can be made to Honor Flight of Southern Indiana.

Norman Fredrick Johnson, 76

Norman Fredrick Johnson, 76, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, went to be with the Lord and his family and friends who preceded him in death on Thursday, October 7, 2021 at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana due to complications of COVID 19.  Norman was born to the late Bill and Ann Johnson in Keensburg, IL on February 25, 1945.  Norman married Anita Jane Clem on December 30, 1975 and together they enjoyed forty-six years of marriage centered on their family.

 After graduating from MCHS Class of 1964, Norman proudly served in the United States Navy from 1964 until 1970.  He then went to work for Miller Testing Service, Harrison Well Service for thirteen years and then retired from the City of Mount Carmel Waste Water Treatment Plant in November 2013 after twenty-five years of service.

 Norman never met a stranger and was always willing to help anyone in need.  He enjoyed reading, especially westerns and he also loved feeding the birds with hummingbirds being his favorite.  Norman’s favorite holiday was Christmas when all the kids and grandkids were all together to eat and open presents.  He loved playing gator ball with one of his grandsons.  Norman loved and was so proud of all his kids and grandkids.  He also enjoyed camping and at one time he served on the board of directors at Conservation Lake in Mount Carmel.  Norman will be missed by his family and all who knew him.

 Norman will be remembered by his loving wife, Anita Johnson; three sons, Jimmy Johnson and wife, Shawna, Kevin Johnson and wife, Mandi, and Scottie Moler; one daughter, Kathie Lathrop and husband, Doug; eleven grandchildren, Addison Moler, Courtlyn (Johnson) Fleetwood and her husband Kyle, Shelby Moler, Kaleb Johnson, Brennan Lathrop, Gracie Johnson, Keagan Lathrop, Rylee Johnson, Maysen Johnson, Myra Lathrop and Maverick Johnson; his first great granddaughter due in March; one brother, Don Johnson; one sister, Debbie (Johnson) Short; two very special girls whom Anita and Norman babysat for many years, Amy Abigood (Wood) Kieffer and Paula Jolee (Leach) Molstad; many loved nieces, nephews and cousins, along with many dear friends.

 Funeral Services will be at 10:00 a.m. central time, Tuesday, October 12, 2021 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Bill Reed officiating.   Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Full Military Honors.

 Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. central time, Monday, October 11, 2021 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

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

Marcia Ann Carroll, 79

Marcia Ann Carroll, 79, of Bridgeport, Illinois, formerly of Mt. Carmel, passed away Wednesday, October 6, 2021, at Aperion Care, in Bridgeport, Illinois, surrounded by her family.

Marcia was born January 10, 1942, in Rochester, IL the daughter of Theodore and Grace (Payne) McDonald. She married Tilghman Carroll on November 3, 1957, in Fort Branch, Indiana. He preceded her in death.

Left to cherish Marica’s memory include her daughter Carla Jacot and husband Leonard of Mt Carmel, Il grandson Michael Joseph Goodman and two step grandchildren, Season (Mike) Miller of Mt. Carmel and Vernon (Shannon) Jacot of Mt. Carmel; three step great grandchildren Jamye, Emily and Joseph Jacot and very special nephew and his wife, Larry and Kathy Sutton of Merkel, Texas. 

Marcia was a member of Seventh Day Adventist Church. She worked on the filter line at Champion Laboratories. She loved spending time with family, watching TV, especially westerns and soap operas, and riding motorcycles with her husband. They also belonged to a CB Radio Club; her handle was “Sweet M” and his was “Top Cat”

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son Eddie Ray Carroll; two sisters, Vera Conover and Donnas Like; two brothers Harold and Gerald Mc Donald.

Per her wish, she will be cremated. There will be no formal service.

The family requests that donations in Marcia’s memory be made to Short-Cunningham Funeral Home to help the family with funeral expenses.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Carroll family.

Lisa Ann Wagner, 60

Lisa Ann Wagner, 60, of Francisco, IN passed away Sunday October 3, 2021, at Linda E. White Hospice House in Evansville, IN.

She was born on January 7, 1961, in Washington DC, the daughter of Hubert and Barbara (Carter) Thomas. She married Omer “Sonny” Wagner in Mt. Carmel, IL and he survives.

Lisa enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. She loved working in her vegetable garden and going fishing with Sonny.

Left to cherish Lisa’s memory is her husband, Sonny; daughters, Mia Wagner of Princeton, IN and Brandy Garrett of Oakland City, IN; one son, Gilbert Davis of Johnson, IN; two grandchildren, Devyn Wagner and Maisie Wagner; two sisters, Debbie (Dennis) Junker of Mt. Vernon, IN and Patty Troxler of Princeton, IN; one brother, Eric Thomas of Princeton, IN; Uncle Rick Thomas; several nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation for friends and family is Wednesday, October 6, 2021, from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home (527 North Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863) with funeral service at 4:00 p.m. and burial immediately following at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

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

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

Frances Barnett, 89

Frances Barnett, 89, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, October 3, 2021, at home, surrounded by the love of her family.  She was born on September 11, 1932, in Phoenix, Arizona, the daughter of Vern and Muriel (Owens) Strain.

Frances worked as an assistant teacher in special education.  She loved her job and dearly loved the children she mentored.  She always enjoyed learning something new and was ready to explore new ideas, which lead her to attend college when she was in her fifties.  In her spare time, Frances enjoyed crocheting and reading a variety of books.  Murder mystery and nature were among her favorites.  She enjoyed traveling, especially to the west coast which, felt like home to her.  Most of all, Frances loved her family, and they meant the world to her.  She will be missed by her family and friends.

Frances leaves behind two sons, Timothy Barnett and Homer Barnett, Jr.; one daughter, Theresa Thompson; four grandchildren, Erica Panozzo, Eunice Carwile, Samantha Witcher, Robert Cole; ten great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; one brother, Vern Strain, Jr.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; three daughters, Muriel Barnett, Carolyn Cole, Shellie Pixley; one grandson, Jeremy Redd; one granddaughter, Frances Sheets; and one sister, Linda Strain.

In keeping with Frances wishes, cremation will take place and no formal services will be held.

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

Gary Estol Perry, Sr., 79

Gary Estol Perry, Sr., 79, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away Thursday, September 30, 2021, surrounded by the love of his family.

Gary was born March 12, 1942, in Mt. Carmel, the son of Estol Almond Perry and Sylvia Marie (Chanley) Harms. He married Janet Lee Wood. She preceded him in death.

He was a truck driver for the oil field industry. He loved spending time with his family, especially at family reunions; enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He enjoyed the outdoors; fishing was a favorite pastime. Gary loved watching the Chicago Bears.

Left to cherish Gary’s memory include his children, Gary Estol Perry, Jr. of Lancaster, IL, Michael Perry and wife Stephanie of Mt. Carmel, Bradley Perry and Brian Perry of Mt. Carmel; seven grandchildren, Gary Lee Perry (Michael), Bethany Pack (Robert), Nick Perry (Rebecca), Michaela Perry (Trystan), Ashley Krug, Blain Perry (Mahaley), Jacob Perry (Alyssa); twelve great grandchildren, Kelsey Perry, Aleeah Perry, Ryan Perry, Ava Jones, Emma Thode, Atlas Termini, Kalin Perry, Laikley Perry, Brylie Hensley, Brailyn Pierce, Benn Rooney, Tate Perry; and siblings Donald Perry (Joanne) of Mt. Carmel, Phyllis Green of Mt. Carmel, Rator E. Perry of Mt. Carmel, Randy Perry of Indianapolis IN, and Theren Perry (Nancy) of Ellery, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Janet, and brother William Perry.

Visitation for Gary is planned for Tuesday, October 5, 2021, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, P.O. 397, 527 N Mulberry St., Mt. Carmel, IL 62863. The funeral service will be Wednesday, October 6, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Friendsville Cemetery.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Perry family.

Joseph Allan Tennis, 45

Joseph Allan Tennis, 45, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, September 28, 2021, at Wabash General Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on April 9, 1976, in Mount Carmel, the son of Louis and Virginia (Cady) Tennis. 

 Joseph graduated from Mount Carmel High School in 1994.  He was a member of St. Sebastian Catholic Church.  Joseph was a hard worker in everything he did.  He enjoyed the outdoors, loved his work in landscaping, and was very talented at it.  Building retaining walls was his specialty.  Joseph was an active member of Tennis Dairy Farm until his health no longer allowed.  He was a very kind man and was always willing to help his many friends and family.  He adored his nieces and nephews.  He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

 Joseph leaves behind his parents, Louis Tennis and Virginia Rodgers; three brothers, Jason Tennis and wife Carrie, Louis Tennis Jr. and wife Kierra, Gabriel Tennis and wife Stacy; two sisters, Katherine Goetz and husband Jason, Lucero Kieffer and husband Alex; nieces and nephews, Andrew and Addison Tennis, Thomas and Aya Tennis, Mavis Goetz, Adelaide Tennis; many loved aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends.

 Joseph was preceded in death by his grandparents. 

 In keeping with the Joseph’s wishes, cremation will take place with burial in St. Sebastian Cemetery at a later date. 

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

Everett Noble Bump, Sr., 73

Everett Noble Bump, Sr., 73, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, September 26, 2021, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born November 16, 1947, in Mt. Carmel, Illinois, the son of James and Martha (Fisher) Bump. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School and went directly into the military.

Truck driving was Everett’s lifetime career. He enjoyed playing guitar, singing and spending time on his computer.

Left to cherish Everett’s memory are his children Brian (Jenny) Bump of Mt. Carmel, Candi (Dustin) Vaupel of Allendale, Illinois, David (Susan) Bump, Everett Bump, Jr., and Chevy (Kali) Bump all of Mt. Carmel; sister, Linda (Ralph) Lambert of Mt. Carmel; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Everett was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Davin Wayne Dale Bump; and siblings, Mary Lou Bump, Vern Bump and James Bump.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday, October 1, 2021, from 12:00 until 1:00 p.m. at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Rosehill Cemetery at 11th and Plum Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

COVID-19 precautions are recommended.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bump family.

Roger D. Dardeen, 59

Roger D. Dardeen, 59, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, September 26, 2021, at Wabash General Hospital with his family by his side.

He was born August 24, 1962, in Mt. Carmel, Illinois, the son of Harold Ray and Barbara (Garrett) Dardeen, Sr.  Roger graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in 1981 and then attended college.  He married Deborah D. Hawkin December 3, 2015, in Mt. Carmel.  Roger worked for Champion Laboratories.

Roger collected baseball and football cards.  His favorite teams were the Pittsburgh Steelers and the North Carolina Tar Heels.  Roger was a family man and loved spending time with his grandkids.  He enjoyed life and was well liked.

Left to cherish Roger’s memory is his wife, Deborah; son, Jensen Dardeen of Mt. Carmel; stepchildren, Rob Lowe of Evansville, Indiana, Vanessa Lowe of Mt. Carmel, John Hughes of Mt. Carmel and Shannon Hughes of Allendale, Illinois; step-children, Zachary Thompson and Justin Mercer; father, Harold Ray (Wanda) Dardeen of Mt. Carmel; brother, Hot Dog (Karen) Dardeen of Mt. Carmel; three grandchildren, Maximus, Summer and Jeter; and fifteen step-grandchildren.

Roger was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Dardeen and brother, Bob Dardeen.

There will be a drive through visitation Wednesday, September 29, 2021, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street.  Please enter on the Sixth Street side of the building. 

A graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery, 11th and Plum Streets, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. 

 COVID-19 precautions are recommended.

 Memorial donations may be given to assist the family in offsetting expenses.  Please make check out to the funeral home and mail to Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863 or go to the funeral home website with your donation.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Dardeen family.

Ronald Keith Meyer, 77

Ronald Keith Meyer, 77, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, September 24, 2021, at Oakview Nursing and Rehab. He was born on November 3, 1943, in Wabash County Illinois, the son of Lloyd and Emiline (Massey) Meyer.

Ronald was raised in California where his father had relocated the family due to health problems. He had worked in the forest service industry, however, his love of music led him to pursue a career as a singer-song writer in California, Illinois and Nashville, Tennessee. He eventually returned to his hometown to be near family and spend the rest of his life.

Ronald is survived by his children, Ron Meyer, Ronson Meyer and Ronette Meyer; sisters, Della Majors and husband Homer, Linda Brooks; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Larry Meyer.

In keeping with Ronald’s wishes, cremation will take place and he will be laid to rest in Hallock Cemetery.

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

Teddy Ervin Bosecker, 80

Teddy Ervin Bosecker, 80, passed peacefully on the farm on September 24, 2021. He was born on the family farm near Bellmont, Illinois, on September 15, 1941, the only child of Ervin Thomas and Edna Johanna (Lipper) Bosecker. He was raised on the family farm south of Bellmont and attended grade school in Keensburg and Mt. Carmel High School. He married Nola Nadine Fewkes on August 19, 1962, and they made their home on the south edge of Bellmont. They were married nearly 50 years when Nola passed on July 11, 2012.

Teddy was a life-long grain and livestock farmer, beginning in the late 50s. He was active in 4-H and FFA, earning his State Farmer Degree and American Farmer Degree. He raised swine until 1976.

Ted was active in the agriculture community, serving on the Wabash County Young Farmers and Wabash County Farm Bureau boards, helping start the Ag Days celebration in Mt. Carmel. He was also on the Wabash Valley Service Company Board, and the Southeastern Grain Board. He served ­as a volunteer fireman with the Bellmont Fire Department, on the Bellmont Town Board, and on the Unit 348 School Board.

He served as an alderman at Friedens United Church of Christ near Browns and later at the First Presbyterian Church in Albion.

He supported his children’s 4-H and FFA activities, especially those with livestock including feeder pigs and Corriedale and Suffolk sheep.

Ted and Nola owned and operated the Bellmont Food Mart in the nineties. He also sold Ring Around Seeds and mini farm toys.

In addition to his passion for farming, he enjoyed watching his grandson’s farming activities, including showing sheep and cattle at local fairs.

Ted is survived by two sons, Tony of Bellmont and Tracey (Stephanie) of Mt. Carmel; one daughter, Natalie Beth of Champaign; two grandsons Brandon (fiancé Karisa) and Brady of Mt. Carmel and one granddaughter Dakota of Champaign; a brother-in-law, David (Lois) Fewkes of Albion; a sister-in-law, Ruth (Ray) Fewkes Root of Albion, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ted was preceded in death by his wife, Nola; his parents, Ervin and Edna Bosecker; in-laws, Harvey and Ethel Fewkes; a brother-in-law, Harold Fewkes; three sisters-in-law, Lona Smith, Nina Mann, and Ada Ruth Cowling.

Memorials may be made to the Wabash County FFA Alumni for a scholarship for American FFA degree recipients. 

Visitation will be Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2021, from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm, at the First Presbyterian Church, Albion, IL. The funeral will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Clergy: Rev. David Shain.

Interment: Graceland Cemetery, Albion, IL.

Ingram Meridith Funeral Home, Albion, IL.