Joseph “Bob” Dodge, 61

Joseph “Bob” Dodge, 61, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Monday, June 3, 2024 in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family and significant other, Mary Peterson. He was born on February 24, 1963 the son of Joseph and Bernadette “Bernie” Dodge.

Bob was a boilermaker, restorer of all things, tinkerer, a geode and a plant lover. Bob was a brother his sisters could count on (Semper Fi).

Bob will be remembered by his three sisters, Allyson (George) Margelin of Mount Carmel, Beth (Christa Hinton) Dodge of Oak Park, IL, and Ann Dodge of Shell Beach, CA; four nieces and one nephew; significant other, Mary Peterson; along with extended family and friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; and niece, Andrea Marie Heiken.

In keeping with Bob’s wishes, no formal services are planned at this time.

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

Ivan Ray Stewart, 86

Ivan Ray Stewart, 86, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Oakview Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by love. He was born on July 29, 1937, in Lancaster, Illinois, the son of Dewey and Mabel (Miller) Stewart.

Ray worked as a dispatcher at the Mount Carmel Police Department for nineteen years. He enjoyed life and kept a positive attitude. Ray had a good sense of humor, always had a smile and loved to bring joy to others. He loved listening to sports on his radio, especially MCHS Aces Football and WVC Basketball. Ray was a member of the First Baptist Church, and he will by dearly missed by his family and the many friends he had at Oakview Nursing and Rehab.

Ray will be remembered by a brother-in-law, several loved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Merrill “Jake” Stewart; sisters, Lois Easter, Jean Wilkinson, Ruth Cockrill, and Ann Fields.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, June 14, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Brother Steve Williamson officiating. Burial will follow at Harrison Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ray’s memory to Harrison Cemetery or Oakview Nursing and Rehab Activity Department. Envelopes will be 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 Ray’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for his family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

William A. “Bill” Schafer, 83

William A. “Bill” Schafer, 83, of Allendale, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at the Villas of Holly Brook in Mount Carmel. He was born on September 22, 1940 at home in Allendale, Illinois, the son of Christian Harvey and Anna Wave (Sparks) Schafer. He graduated from Allendale High School, went on to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Oakland City University and his Masters from Eastern University. Bill married Crystal Barrett on June 26, 1966 and together they enjoyed fifty-seven years of marriage.

Bill will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather. He devoted his first years teaching in Haubstadt, Indiana, Lawrenceville High School where he taught for many years and also worked at Vincennes University. Bill loved to travel to various glass conventions and always looked forward to making new friends. Having a family chowder in Allendale, was one of Bill’s favorite activities. He had a gift for music and played the dulcimer in the Red Hill Dulcimer Society. Bill loved to hear his wife, Chris, play the piano and was always eager to remind her if she missed a note. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Lawrenceville, IL. Bill will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.

Bill will be remembered by his loving wife, Chris Schafer of Allendale; daughter, Patty Siemon and husband, Jed; two granddaughters, Alayna and Breana.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Jerry Schafer.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m., Friday, June 21, 2024 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00 p.m., Friday, June 21, 2024 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Roger Boyd officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to the First United Methodist Church in Lawrenceville, IL. Envelopes will be 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 Bill’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Schafer family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Margarette June Knight, 92

Margarette June Knight, 92, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at her home surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on February 24, 1932 in Philelphia, Mississippi, the daughter of John and Mary Ann (Tomes) Burkes. She married Robert “Red” Knight on December 22, 1951 and together they enjoyed fifty-eight years of marriage before his passing on April 20, 2010.

June enjoyed the simple things in life and was most proud of her family, especially her granddaughter and great grandchildren. In her free time, she enjoyed working crossword puzzles and listening to music. June had a love for animals especially her three cats. She was a member of Heartland Worship Center and was a lifetime member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. She will be missed by her family and friends.

June will be remembered by her son, Tim (Jackie) Knight; granddaughter, Crystal Healy; twin grandchildren, William W. “Bubby” Healy, Jr. and Clarissa “Sissy” Healy; several extended family members ranging from Evansville to Mississippi.

June was preceded in death by her parents; husband; siblings, Joyce Burkes, Dorethea Schweitzer, and JW Burkes.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Residential Hospice nurses, J’Na and Teresa, and to long term caregivers, Monica Sloan and Melissa Neely.

A private family burial will take place at Highland Memorial Cemetery where June will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Red Knight.

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

Laura M. Hall, 86

Laura M. Hall, 86, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024, at Wabash General Hospital with her family by her side.

Funeral services will be held Friday, June 7, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m.

Laura was born August 10, 1937, in Decker, Indiana, the daughter of Preston J. and Alma (Lankford) Hall. She attended Community Church of God.

Laura worked as a CNA at many of the nursing homes in Mt. Carmel. She enjoyed playing cards, Bingo, listening to country music and was an avid Cub’s fan. Laura savored drinking INSTANT Folger’s coffee. Most of all, she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Surviving are her children Jerry Pierce of Little Rock, Arkansas, Mark (Sharon) Pierce, David (Becky) Pierce, Roger Pierce, and Loretta Pierce, all of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; daughters-in-law, Vicki Pierce of Casey, Illinois and Juanita Pierce of Browns, Illinois; several grandchildren; several great grandchildren; three great great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents; children, Warren Pierce, Carl Pierce, Ralph Joseph Pierce and a still born child; and siblings, George Hall and Mary Miller.

Memorials may be made to St. Judes’ Children’s Hospital.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Peggy Ann Teague, 77

Peggy Ann Teague, 77, of Jasper, Indiana, formerly of Orio, Illinois, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024, at Memorial Hospital in Jasper, Indiana, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on February 25, 1947, in Allendale, Illinois, the daughter of Jesse and Frances (Tarr) Shepard. She married Alan Teague on September 10, 1987, and they have celebrated thirty-seven years of marriage.

Peggy attended Allendale School and in 1979 she graduated from Wabash Valley College as a Registered Nurse. She worked in nursing for thirty-one years. At times during her career, she held the position of Director of Nurses and also worked in pediatrics and obstetrics. Peggy was an excellent artist who enjoyed painting, gardening, tending to her flowers, listening to Elvis Presley music and loved her cats. In her youth, she attended and was baptized at Wabash Presbyterian Church in Orio. She was the heart and soul of the family, a loving wife, to Alan, the best mother, nana, mimi and friend. Memories of Peggy will be cherished forever by her family and friends.

Peggy leaves behind her beloved husband, Alan; children, Susan (Lloyd) Hughes, Tina Hargan, James (Amy) Teague, Julie Teague; grandchildren, CJ Simpson, Jessica Simpson, Shea (Tristan) Lewis, Lacey (Jonathon) Steinkamp, Alisha (Dakota) White, Justin Teague, Madison Teague, Andy (Liz) Grinstead, Seth (Toni) Grinstead; great grandson and the love of her life, Xane Simpson; nine great-grandchildren with two on the way; sister, Dolores Johnson; and life long best friend, Mary K. Rigg.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents; son, James “Jimmie” Reed; and grandson, Logan Reed.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Friday, June 7, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life will be at 12:00 p.m., Friday, June 7, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery at Orio, where Peggy will be laid to rest beside her parents.

Memorial contributions may be made in Peggy’s memory to Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery, or Brain Aneurysm Foundation. Envelopes will be 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 Peggy’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for her family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Larry Joe Neikirk, 58

Larry Joe Neikirk, 58, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024, at the home of his sister, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 11, 1965, in Mount Carmel, the son of Larry Neikirk and Molly (Couch) Helton.

Joe worked for several years as a carpenter. He loved the outdoors and wildlife. He was an avid deer hunter, bass fisherman, and enjoyed all types of sport shooting. He was a member of the Lancaster Church of Christ and will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Joe leaves behind two sons, Jesse (Brittany) Neikirk, Joezy Neikirk; one daughter, Brittany Swift; five grandsons, Keagan, Jayce and Jett Swift, Dane and Jax Neikirk; his father, Larry (Darlene) Neikirk; mother, Molly Helton; one brother, Mark (Amy) Neikirk; three sisters, Lisa (David) Berry, Sherri (Jeff) Keepes, Amy (Chuck) Kingsbury; Step sister, Crystle Appleton; step children, Clifford Cooper, Chelle Barnhard, and Michael Schoenbaum; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Joe was preceded in death by his grandparents.

A Graveside Service will take place at 5:00 p.m., Saturday, June 8, 2024 at Harrison Cemetery in Lancaster, Illinois, with Pastor Carson Root officiating.

The family would like to thank Wabash General Hospital Oncology Department for their compassion and care shown to Joe and his family during his illness.

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

Rosemary Beth Drone, 67

Rosemary Beth Drone, 67, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on November 24, 1956, in Mount Carmel, the daughter of Malcolm and Mary (Hughes) Dagley. She married Fred Drone on July 12, 1975, and they celebrated forty-eight years of marriage centered around their family.

Beth was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who cherished her role as a homemaker. She enjoyed reading, not only novels but spending much time reading her Bible, increasing her already strong faith. Beth spent time journaling and enjoyed being with her two dogs, Angel and Arabella. She was a member of The Daughters of American Revolution and The First Baptist Church. Beth loved her family dearly and her grandchildren brought her a special kind of joy. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Beth leaves behind her beloved husband, Fred; daughters, Amanda Berberich and husband Chris, Megan Wright and husband Greg, Katie Hutton and husband James, Jessica Reed and husband Heath; grandchildren, Brendon (Jessica) Berberich, Brice Berberich, Emmy Hutton, William Reed, Gavin Wright, Lucas Hutton, Abigail Wright, Ruthie Reed, Henry Reed, Eloise Reed, and Ariah Reed; two sisters, Kathy (Ken) Travous, Karen (David) Rittelmeyer; brother, David (Gayle) Dagley; brother-in-law, Jim Fitch; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Beth was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Jeri Fitch.

Beth’s family will receive visitors from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Saturday June 29, 2024, in the fellowship hall at The First Baptist Church to honor Beth’s life.

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

Richard ‘Dick’ Hugh Kensler, 93

Richard ‘Dick’ Hugh Kensler, age 93, of Lawrenceville, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at Aperion Care in Bridgeport, Illinois. He was born on November 14, 1930 in Lawrence County, Illinois, the son of Fay E. and Ruth Mae (South) Kensler. He married Lorena Stone on January 14, 1956, and she survives.

Dick was a truck driver for Sheehan Pipe Line Construction Company for 20 years and Tussey Trucking for ten plus years. His memberships included the Lawrence Allison Fire Protection District for 30 plus years, Lawrenceville Masonic Lodge, Shriners, National Guard, and Bridgeport Assembly of God Church. He was a Chicago Bears fan; and enjoyed hunting arrowheads and attending family gatherings.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two brothers, J.R. Kensler and Edsel Kensler; and two sisters, Donna Gardner and Dorothy Stone

Survivors include his wife, Lorena; one son, Jim Kensler and wife, Colleen of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; three grandchildren, Beth Kelsey and husband, Willis, Katie Smith and husband, Jared, and Blake Kensler and wife, Amy; and six great-grandchildren, Konner Kelsey, Kollin Kelsey, Carter Smith, Claire Smith, Kason Kensler, and Kyler Kensler.

A memorial service will be conducted on Tuesday, June 04, 2024 at 6:00 PM CDT at the Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois, with Masonic Rites at 5:45 PM CDT. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 4:00 PM until 5:45 PM CDT at the funeral home. A private burial will be conducted in the May Chapel Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital-St. Louis.

Please visit www.emmonsmaceysteffey.com to view the tribute and to send condolences.

Marilyn C. Schroeder, 89

Marilyn C. Schroeder, 89, of Princeton, Indiana, formerly of Grayville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at The Waters in Princeton, Indiana, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on December 27, 1934, in Wabash County, Illinois, the daughter of William “Chris” and Thelma (Axton) Allen. Marilyn married Max Theron Schroeder on June 5, 1955, at the Keensburg Christian Church, and they enjoyed sixty-five years of marriage until his passing on December 8, 2020.

Marilyn was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother. Some of her fondest memories were spending time with her family, camping, and playing piano in area churches. For many years she accompanied the trio of The Schroeder Brothers. Marilyn’s career started at Deck Hill Battery, which is where she met the love of her life. She worked at Houchins Drilling, Wabash General Hospital, and Ron Couch State Farm Insurance for many years. Her final job before retirement was being a nanny for Dakota and Madison whom she loved like her own grandchildren. After retirement she and Max enjoyed many trips visiting with family and friends. Marilyn was loved by many, and her influence will forever remain in the lives of those that knew her.

Over the past 4 years she has resided at The Waters of Princeton where she has been loved by many of the caregivers, whom she came to love as part of her family. Many of them brought their family members to visit her over the years.

Marilyn will be remembered by her sons Jeff Schroeder and wife Betty of Panama City Beach FL, Greg Schroeder and wife Sonja of Evansville, IN; daughter, Jeanna Hicks and husband Terry of Mount Carmel, IL; grandchildren, Eric Wilkas, Erica Coram, Dustin (Dana) Schroeder, Tabitha (Josh) Hall, Zachary (Amanda) Hicks, Jordan (Jordyn) Hicks, Marissa (Cameron) Kieffer; great-grandchildren, Alec Wilkas, Tristyn Wyatt, Krystyn (Zach Murray) Wyatt, Lillie Wilkas, Andrew Wilkas, Sara Coram, Harley Coram, Alicyn (Caleb) Buckman, Kayne Schroeder, Carter Schroeder, Emma Schroeder, Kadyn Cox, Preslie Hall, Lexi Hall, Lucas Hall, Charles Hicks, Brayden Hicks, Jackson Hicks, Rose Hicks, Reid Hicks, Grayson Kieffer, Sawyer Kieffer, Blakely Kieffer, and another great grandchild on the way; great-great grandchild, Hallie Murray; sister and brother-in law, Louise and Norman Timberlake; sister-in-law, Phyllis Schroeder; many loved nieces and nephews.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Max; sisters, Patsy Allen and Peggy Ray.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.,

Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be at 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Allan Wright officiating. Burial will follow at Antioch Cemetery in Keensburg, IL, where Marilyn will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Max.

Memorial contributions may be made in Marilyn’s memory to Keensburg Christian Church. Envelopes will be 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 Marilyn’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Schroeder family.

Randall Eugene “Randy” Morris Sr., 77

Randall Eugene “Randy” Morris Sr., 77, formerly of Mount Carmel Illinois, passed away Friday May 24, 2024, at Parkview Care Center in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on August 5, 1946, in Mount Carmel, Illinois, the son of Lloyd “Cookie” and Vera (McCrary) Morris. He married Doris Mc Kibben on March 28, 1969, and they celebrated fifty-five years of loving marriage.

Randy faithfully served his country in the United States Army and was a member of the American Legion. He owned and operated a plumbing business for many years. Randy enjoyed hunting, fishing, and cooking. Spending time with his grandchildren was very special to him. Randy will be missed by his family and friends.

Randy leaves behind his beloved wife, Doris; sons, Randy Morris Jr. and wife, Leanna, Joe Morris and wife Natalie; four grandchildren, Chandler (Jada) Morris, Carli (Connor Lane) Morris, Breeana Morris, Mason Morris; siblings, Mike (Pat) Morris, Vicki (Rudy) Witsman, Jeff Waddle, Bobbie Buskirk, P.J. Waddle; Gilbert Waddle, several loved nieces, nephews and cousins, special relative who Randy called Grandma Dorothy Fowler.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents; biological father, Paul Waddle and stepmother, Harriet Waddle.

In keeping with Randy’s wishes, the family will gather privately for a Celebration of Life at a later date.

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

Ruth E. McFarland, 96

Ruth E. McFarland, 96, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Wabash General Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on December 4, 1927, in Albion, Illinois, the daughter of Charles and Emily Madge (Kincheloe) Schofield. She married Charles McFarland on November 1, 1947 and together they enjoyed forty-six years of marriage until his passing on January 20, 1994.

Ruth was a homemaker in the truest sense of the word; she spent her entire life making a home that was warm, welcoming, and filled with unconditional love. She was an excellent cook whose love language was family recipes, and her chicken soup and penchant for adding her secret ingredient to her grandchildren’s favorite dishes became cherished family traditions. Ruth was smart, and anyone who had the privilege of truly getting to know her quickly discovered she was hilarious. No one on earth could make her grandkids laugh like she could. From messy card tricks to basement dance parties to home runs in the city park to Thursday night hair appointments to making the dining room table “talk” with her sisters, Ruth’s goal in life was to bring joy and laughter to the people she loved. She will be missed beyond measure. But her family is comforted by her insistence in her later years that when she was tired and missed her Charles enough, she would go to sleep and join him, which is exactly what she did.

Ruth was a devoted member of the Mount Carmel Church of Christ and loved her church family dearly. Her Christian faith was not just a religion for her; it was the guiding light for the way she lived her life.

Ruth leaves behind her son, Doug McFarland and his wife, Amy, of Brownsburg, IN; five granddaughters, Meghan (Jamin) Quinn of Indianapolis, IN, Emily (Jordan) LeGout of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, Cameron McFarland (Zachary Tolle) of Louisville, KY, Isabel McFarland of Indianapolis, IN, Paige McFarland of Brownsburg, IN; three grandsons, Matthew Domizio (Jamie Wilson), Jeremy Domizio, Anthony Domizio, all of Evansville, IN; sister, Wilma Jean Julian of Indianapolis, IN; and eight great-grandchildren. Ruth also leaves behind her devoted and loving caregiver, constant companion, and wonderful neighbor Kim Fine and her husband Richard. Thank you to both of you on behalf of Ruth and her family.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter, Patricia S. Domizio; siblings, Naomi Shaw, Carl “Buster” Schofield, and Elwood Cox.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., Sunday, May 26, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, May 26, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Bobby Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery, where Ruth will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Charles.

The McFarland family would like to extend a special note of heartfelt thanks to the staff at Wabash General Hospital who gave Ruth and her family the best and most compassionate care in their time of need and allowed Ruth to pass comfortably and peacefully.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ruth’s memory to Wabash General Hospital Foundation or Mount Carmel Church of Christ. Envelopes will be 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 Ruth’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the McFarland family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Donald Wayne Kennard, 88

Donald Wayne Kennard, 88, of Keensburg, Illinois, peacefully passed away Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Oakview Heights surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, with burial immediately following at Antioch Cemetery, rural Wabash County, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

A visitation will be prior to the funeral service from 10:00 a.m. until service time at 1:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to the 4-H Wabash County Youth Exhibition.

Don was born November 27, 1935, the son of Marjorie Grace (Mayne) and Max Edward Kennard, at his grandparents’ home in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in the class of 1953.

On November 21, 1956, Don married Mary Ellen Doty. Together they had seven children: Wayne V. (Jeanie) Kennard, Colleen R. (James) Kensler, Cindy J. (Ernest) Griess, Sherry (Pete) Johnson, Sheila (Rick) Anderson, Robert D. (Traci) Kennard and Tara E. (Matthew) Horrall; sixteen grandchildren; sixteen great grandchildren; and a sister, Carmen Smith.

Preceding Don in death were his parents and siblings Max Edward Kennard II and Patricia Kennard.

Don was a member of Keensburg Christian Church. He was a farmer, business owner, ran a heavy equipment and trucking company and a restaurant. Don served as county commissioner, school board member, 4-H leader and was a fair board member. He enjoyed country music, clogging and blue grass get togethers. Don loved horses and trail riding. He received the award for outstanding young farmer of the year at the annual Farm Bureau meeting in 1967. Don adored spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Thomas Allen Hart, 82

Thomas Allen Hart, 82, of St. Francisville, Illinois, finished his journey on Earth on Friday, May 17, 2024 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, Indiana. He was born on April 23, 1942 in Manteno, Illinois, the son of George W. and Inez (Bell) Hart. Tom married Carolyn Patterson on June 12, 1966 in Mt. Vernon, IL and together they enjoyed fifty-seven years of marriage centered around their family.

Tom attended St. Francisville grade school and high school before he went to Mount Carmel High School where he graduated in 1960. He went to Oakland City University and Southern Illinois University where he graduated in 1965 with his Bachelors in Zoology. Tom enjoyed teaching science at St. Anne IL High School, Cathlamet WA Junior High and Mount Carmel High School until his retirement in 2000. In his free time, he spent many years coaching basketball, softball and little league.

Tom loved attending Church at First General Baptist Church in Mount Carmel where he taught Sunday School. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, woodworking and traveling to visit friends and family. He also looked forward to having breakfast with other retired colleagues and seeing former students while eating at Taco Tierra. Tom was loved by many and will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Tom will be remembered by his loving wife, Carolyn; children, Abigail Hart of St. Francisville, IL, George P. (Hanna) Hart of Elizabeth, IN, and Kenneth P. (Antonette) Hart of IL; grandchildren, Avery Stone, Liam Hart, Elijah Hart, and Kendall Hart; great granddaughter, Marley Mattingley; sister Janet (JD) Miller of Clermont, FL; nieces and nephews, Scott Franks, Elizabeth (Michah) Nordquist, Thomas (Tiffany) Franks, Adam (Yorlene) Hart, and Ryan (Liz) Hart. He will also be remembered by Edward (Aubrey) Leung who Tom was like a father figure to and Riley and Brady Hershey who lovingly referred to Tom as Popa.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Phillip (Myrna) Hart.

A Memorial Service will be at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, May 30, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Underwood officiating. A Private Family Burial will follow at Oak Lawn Cemetery in St. Francisville, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to First General Baptist Church, Lawrence County Humane Society or to the Palestine Masonic Lodge Blue Bear Program. Envelopes will be 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 Tom’s tribute wall and leave condolences for the Hart family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Jacob Hayes Armstrong, 40

Jacob Hayes Armstrong, 40, of Big Pine Key, Florida, passed away on Sunday, May 12, 2024. He was born on February 9, 1984 in Mount Carmel, Illinois, the son of Gabe and Mary (White) Armstrong.

Jake was a bodybuilder & four-time national qualifier of Indiana Muscle & Midwest Champion. He was a certified trainer and took pride in helping others along their fitness journey. Jake was an avid boater and loved being on or near the water as much as he could during his free time. He was also an animal lover. Jake adopted many cats & dogs through the years, leaving behind his most loyal companion, Joseph. To know Jake, was to love Jake. He had a free spirit & was always up for an adventure. He loved to laugh, crack jokes and never met a stranger.

Jake leaves behind his father, Gabe (Denise) Armstrong of Mt. Carmel; brother, Gerrit (Jamie) Armstrong of Mt. Carmel; his sister and biggest supporter, Marci Armstrong of Evansville, IN; two nieces, Allyson and Maleah Armstrong; grandmother, Juanita White of Florida; aunts, uncles, cousins, and very special friends that became his family in the Keys of Florida.

Jake was preceded in death by his mother, Mary; grandparents, LaMoine and Georgetta Armstrong; grandfather, George White; along with great aunts and uncles.

A Memorial Gathering to Celebrate the Life of Jake Armstrong will be held at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, May 18, 2024 at the Mount Carmel Boat Ramp.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jake’s memory to Wabash County Animal Shelter. Envelopes will be 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 Jake’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Armstrong family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Paul Lewis Wirth, 82

Paul Lewis Wirth, 82, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, May 10, 2024, at home. He was born on October 18, 1941, in Patoka, Indiana, the son of Jacob Wirth. He married Linda Tatro in 1964 and they celebrated fifty-six years of marriage until her passing on January 21, 2021.

Paul faithfully served his country in the United States Army. He was employed for twenty-nine years at Amax Coal Company from which he retired in 2003, however, he has worked every day of his life since then. Paul kept busy working for Kennard Farms for several years, and Paul’s family is grateful to the Kennard family for loving him as their own. He loved to farm and talk about the crops and all the activities that go along with farming. Paul enjoyed having lunch with guys on a daily basis. He also kept busy as a handy man and was meticulous at welding, woodworking, installing flooring and any kind of job he wanted to tackle. Paul was always willing to help his friends and family with any project they had going. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing and spending time at his river camp. He loved his grandchildren and attending their sporting events. Paul was a kind and considerate man who loved his family dearly and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Paul leaves behind his son, Fred Pearson; granddaughters, Rachel (Justin Younker) Pearson, Dawnella Byerly, Amber Green; grandson, Jacob Wirth; great-granddaughter, Brooklyn Wirth; brother, Lester “Les” Wirth and wife Donna; special nieces, Brenda (Fred) Smith, Sandra (Gary) McIntire, Julie Wirth.

.Paul was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Linda; son, Paul “Worm” Wirth Jr.; siblings, Raymond Wirth, Ben Wirth, Evelyn (Ralph) York, Aileen Doty; niece, Jodi Wirth.

Graveside Services will be 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Pastor Mark Richison officiating. Paul will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Linda.

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

Kenny Calvin Gerrish, 72

Kenny Calvin Gerrish, 72, of Ellijay, Georgia, formerly of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away Sunday, May 5, 2024, at his residence with his family by his side.

A graveside service will be held Friday, May 10, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in Highland Memorial Cemetery, 1827 College Drive, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Kenny was born August 27, 1951, the son of Loren Calvin and Wilma Jean (Hussey) Gerrish, in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. He was a graduate of the Mt. Carmel High School class of 1969. Kenny obtained his associate degree at Wabash Valley College.

On January 26, 1974, Kenny married Sally Schucker in Mt. Carmel. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary earlier this year. To this union three children were born: Shannon Gerrish (Dell) Claborn, Alissa Gerrish (Gautam) Kharkar and Katie Gerrish. They were blessed with two grandchildren, Leela Jean and River Olivia Faye. Other surviving family members are his mother, Wilma, and siblings Sandy Gerrish (William) Yochum, Jackie Gerrish and Trudy Trusty.

Preceding Kenny in death was his father.

Kenny was a grocery buyer/manager. He always had a project going on be it gardening, remodeling or various other interests. Kenny was especially fond of building things for his daughters and granddaughters. He enjoyed reading biographies and history, listening to music and being outdoors. In his downtime, he liked swinging on the porch with a good cup of coffee, a nice tune on the radio and his wife by his side. But above all, he loved spending time with his family.

Memorial contributions may be made to CurePSP https://www.psp.org/

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Daniel S. Epler, 71

Daniel S. Epler, 71, beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 26, 2024 at Linda White Hospice House in Evansville, Indiana with his family close by.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Dan’s life will be held Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Keensburg Christian Church, Keensburg, Illinois.

Visitation for family and friends will be held at the Keensburg Christian Church prior to the service from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Dan was born in Mt. Carmel, Illinois on March 2, 1953 to Daniel Edwin and Lois Ellen Storckman Epler. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School Class of 1971, attended the University of Evansville and received a Bachelor’s degree in Ag Business from University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. He was a lifelong farmer in Illinois and Indiana.

He is survived by his loving son, Yale Epler and daughter-in-law Megan along with their son James; also survived by his cherished daughter, Mackenzie Epler, her partner, Ethan Fernandes and their sons, Ryden and Vallen Fernandes.

Dan was a devoted family man and a pillar of his community. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith. He was a member of Keensburg Christian Church, Elks Lodge #715 and West Berwick Golf Club. He enjoyed many outdoor activities including scuba diving, boating on the river and Kentucky Lake and riding motorcycles with his friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Dan’s memory will forever be treasured by his family, friends, and all who knew him. He was known for his vibrant spirit, his generosity, and his dedication to his faith.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Keensburg Christian Church in honor of Dan’s memory.

Dan will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Merla Woods Ramsey, 72

Merla Woods Ramsey, 72, of Yukon, Oklahoma, formerly of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, March 22, 2024.

She was born September 1, 1951, the daughter of Merle and Doris Woods. Merla and her brother, Mike, were raised in Mt. Carmel.

Merla graduated from Mt. Carmel High School. She received an associate degree at Wabash Valley College and an accounting degree at Eastern Illinois University. Merla moved to Oklahoma and worked for Marathon Oil Company in the accounting department, and later for JMA Company.

She always gave light to a room. Merla loved to travel, to play Beach Boys on loop and dancing.

Merla is survived by her brother Mike (Jo) Woods; nephew, Dennis (Erin); her two daughters, Dawn (Tim) and Shannon (CJ); grandchildren, Tiffanie, Kelby, Bailey, Garrett, Destiny, Jadin, Landon, and Bentlee; and eight great grandchildren and counting.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

William Allie Sloan, III, 73

William Allie Sloan, III of Newburgh, Indiana passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital with his family by his side.

 Funeral Services for Mr. Sloan will be Monday, April 29, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Short Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Cemetery.

 Visitation for family and friends will be Sunday, April 28, 2024 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Short Cunningham Funeral Home.

 William was born August 7, 1950, in Princeton, Indiana to William Allie Sloan, Jr. and Margie Thacker Wheeler. William was a member of First Southern Baptist Church in Evansville, Indiana.

 He was a graduate of Mt. Carmel High School Class of 1968. He graduated from the University of Southern Indiana with a Batchelor degree in accounting. He was a CPA and worked as an agent for the IRS for thirty-five years. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force where he was a mechanic and worked on P31 and B52 aircraft.

 Those left to share his memory include his children, Jeff (Susan) Sloan of Huntingburg, Indiana, Tara (Michael Shade) Burris of Henderson, Kentucky, Heather (Bryan) Kirkman of Evansville, Indiana, Alisha (John Beasley) Albin of Newburgh, Indiana; wife, Gloria Sloan of Evansville, Indiana, grandchildren, Aaron Sloan, Kayla Kirchner, Brent Sloan, Atlanta Burris, Kasidie Burris, William Burris, Zachary Kirkman; great grandchildren Jayden Kirchner, Spencer Kirchner, Merida Sloan, Lorah Sloan, Elijah Sloan, Ava Burris, Karter Burris; and siblings, Robert (Faye) Sloan of Francisco, Indiana, and Judy Robb of Princeton, Indiana.

 William was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Bears fan.  He enjoyed old cars and music.

 In his memory contributions can be made to American Heart Association, 8120 Castle Creek Parkway East Drive # 100, Indianapolis, Indiana 46250.

 Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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