Shirley Eustice Diveley, known for her creativity, kindness and devotion to her family, died peacefully at her Danville home on September 3, 2014 after suffering a stroke. She was 88 years old. Mrs. Diveley and her husband, L.R. “Jocko” Diveley moved to Danville in 1949 and opened Jocko’s Root Beer on the Georgetown Road. A few years later, the couple built the first Putt Putt Golf Course in the northern US. In the late 1960’s and early 1970’s they opened Famous Recipe Chicken (Lee’s) and Jocko’s Pizza Inn at Gilbert and Williams. Mrs. Diveley played an essential role at Diveley Development Cooperation participating in design, research and development and special projects. Born Shirley Luella Eustice in Wheaton, Illinois on February 22, 1926, she was raised in Galena, Illinois and graduated from Galena High School in 1943. During World War II, she worked at Singer Company in Dubuque, Iowa where she taught classes in custom tailoring. Married in 1945, Shirley and her husband, Jocko, were together for nearly 65 years. Mrs. Diveley was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, brother, and her husband. She is survived by her three children, Sandra Batmangelich (John E. Woods) of Oak Park, IL, Vicki Diveley of McCoy, CO and Steve Diveley (Lee Ann Allen) of Danville; two sisters, Eileen Andrews of Levittown, PA and Karen Powell (Danny) of Danville; and four grandchildren, Ramsey Batmangelich of Chicago, Lauren Diveley of Ft. Collins, CO, and Heather and Natalie Diveley, both of Danville. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and The P.E.O. Sisterhood, Chapter KE and was a past member of the Danville Garden Club (Camilla Circle), Danville Art League, Danville Country Club and the Boat Club. Mrs. Diveley leaves a creative legacy of paintings, water colors, drawings, sculpture, cookbook covers and textiles. In her last decade, dementia dimmed her creative abilities but did not diminish her love of beauty or eye for fashion. Remaining in her home of over 50 years was made possible by a caring and dedicated group of individuals. The Diveley family is grateful for caregivers, both past and present, who have shown their love, care and devotion to Shirley. The family would also like to thank Carle Hospice who comforted her in the final days of her life. Visitation is from 4-7 pm. on Monday, September 8, 2014 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home, 3940 N. Vermilion Street, Danville. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, September 9, 2014 (Short visitation 9:30 am) at Trinity Lutheran Church, 824 E. Main St., Danville, followed by interment in Sunset Memorial Park. The family requests that memorials be given to the Danville Art League (320 N. Franklin St. Danville, IL 61832) or Danville Lutheran School Scholarship Fund (1930 N. Bowman Ave., Danville, IL 61832).
Shirley Diveley
Donald Pearson Sr.
Robert Haines Sr.
Robert Haines Sr., 89, of Danville, IL, passed away on September 4, 2014 at Presence United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville. He was born on July 25, 1925 in Cleveland Ohio, the son of Walter M. and Helen (Cowdrey) Haines. He married Lois Johnson on May 14, 1949 in Crystal Lake, IL. Lois preceded Robert in death on April 16, 2014. He will be deeply missed by his sons, Bob (Rita) Haines of Oakwood, Mark (Dolly) Haines of Twin Falls, Idaho, and Paul (Renee) Haines of Ventura, California; his grandchildren, Cody, Salvador, James, Shawn, Ben, Wendy, Lisa, R. Michael Johnson, Lori (Mark) Stoog, Chad Burton and one sister, Helen (Bill) Groenekamp. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son, Steven Haines and brother, Daniel Haines. Robert was a Army Air Corp World War II Veteran and worked as an engineer for TechKnit in Santa Barbara, CA. He was a member of the “Barbershoppers” in Danville and Ventura, CA, the Danville American Legion, a life member of the NRA and enjoyed playing golf. Per Robert’s wishes cremation rites will be accorded by Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville. Memorials can be made in Robert’s name to the charity of the donor’s choice. Please join Robert’s family in sharing photos, videos and memories of him through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
Eddie Engel
Eddie “Ed” Engel, 67, of Danville passed away on Wednesday September 3, 2014 at his home. Ed was born to the late Raymond and Ida (Head) Engel on June 6th, 1947 in Danville. Ed married Judy Smith with whom they had two children, Eddie (Tammy) Engel and Carman Foster. He later married Dr. Joan Engel she preceded him in death. Ed is survived by his two children; seven grand children, Nick Parsons, Kirstie Engel, Vincent Engel, Adrien Engel, Kacie Engel, Logan Foster, Jesse Engel; one great-grandson, Hadley Parsons, also a half brother Michael Head and a very special friend Doris Ashby. Ed was preceded in death by his Grandparents Frank and Martha Engel who raised Ed to the man he was today, his granddaughter Kaitlyn Foster. Ed was a diesel mechanic who owned and operated his own tow truck and business. Ed had a love for antique cars and hot rods, he was a newer member of the Illiana Antique Car Club. He was a longtime member of the Historical Society. Ed also loved to work with his hands he would work on old homes restoring Victorian homes was a love of Ed’s also. He had a love for animals as well with a big spot in his heart for his two cats Teardrop and Skinny. Ed was very giving and loving, liked to collect old radios, but most of all he loved his family and will be dearly missed by them. A celebration of Ed’s life will be held at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville, IL at 11:00am on Monday September 8th, 2014. Officiating will be Pastor James Blue. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, burial will take place at Sunset Memorial Park. Please join Ed’s family in sharing video, pictures and memories on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
Robert “Bob” Robinson II
Robert “Bob” Shock Robinson II, 66, of Danville, a longtime public servant for the Department of Veterans Affairs, passed away Wednesday in his home from a sudden illness. Bob was born May 22, 1948 in Sidney, New York to Robert and Dorothy (née Avery) Robinson. He was a graduate of Kansas State University receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in therapeutic recreation. Bob was the Director of Public Affairs, Recreation Therapy, and Voluntary Services with the VA Healthcare System for 37 years and considered it a privilege to serve our country’s veterans. He enjoyed hunting and helped maintain a family farm in upstate New York where he often spent his time. Bob’s love of New York showed in his rabid support for the New York Yankees. But there was also a much softer side to him as exhibited by the love he showed his dogs – Oscar the yellow lab and Bentley and Beanie the Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Always a smile on his face as he took pride in entertaining people, Bob always had a joke ready for any situation and loved to get a laugh out of anyone he met. Above all, Bob devoted his life to his children and family. His wife, Diane Bowers, whom he married on March 30, 1974 in New Castle, Pennsylvania, survives him. Also surviving are his parents; two sons, Robbie Robinson III and his fiancé Ally Bonadies and Tony Robinson and his longtime girlfriend Hannah Oliver; one sister, Cindy French and her husband David; and one brother, Dana Robinson and his wife Pat. Visitation will be Sunday, from 5-8:00 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held Monday at 2:00 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home, 3940 N. Vermillion St. Danville, IL. Matt Filicsky is officiating. Cremation rites will be accorded. The family requests that in lieu of flowers and as Bob would have wanted, memorials be made in his name to Danville Lutheran Schools or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Estella Priest
Estella Priest, 90, of Danville, passed away on September 5, 2014 at Gardenview Manor Nursing Home in Danville. She was born on November 10, 1923 in Collison, IL, the daughter of William and Bessie (Stump) Divan. She married Walter E. Priest, Paul Wilson and later James E. Housel, all preceding her in death. She will be deeply missed by two sons, William (Patricia) Priest of Tilton, IL, Jeff (Diane) Priest of Green Castle, IN, one sister, Alice Stewart of Crawfordsville, IN, four grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren. Estella was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, brothers; Clarence, Jim, Abe Divan and one sister, Inez Mills. Estella worked at Ridbo Manufacturing in Danville as a line inspector for many years. She was the president of the Local URW. She loved flower gardening, bird watching and doing search word puzzles. A celebration of life graveside service for Estella will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2014 at 1:00 PM at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Catlin, IL. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville is in charge of arrangements. Please join Estella’s family in sharing photos, videos and memories of her through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
Linda Rollins
Linda Lou (Farley) Rollins, 74, of Georgetown passed away peacefully with family by her side on Friday September 5th, 2014. Linda was born the daughter of Frederick and Miraim (Cook) Farley on December 14th, 1939 in Cayuga, IN. She married Harold S. Nolen December 14th, 1957 whom she had four children with, Jeffery (Christy) Nolen, Susan (Russ) Wilson, Curtis Nolen, and Donna (Brad) Truax. Linda latter married Larry B. Rollins Sr. and added five step children, Edna, Rosella, Larry, Joann, and Tim. Also surviving Linda are 11 grand children, 14 great grand children and many step grand children and step great grand children. Linda also leaves behind two sisters, Janice (Dave) Yockey and Connie (Roger) Lamb, and her many nieces and nephews who she so loved, also one very special friend Sharon Nibbe. Linda was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Larry. Linda was a member of Westville’s American Legion Post 51 Auxiliary; she also was a member of The Red Hat Society. Linda retired at Vermilion Manor Nursing Home and continued to volunteer there as much as she could. She loved spending time with her friends and family. Even at 74 years young she would be out on the dance floor “cutting a rug” with her grand children. Linda was always “fun and festive” and always did it her way. Her family was her greatest pride and joy, she will be dearly missed. A celebration of Linda’s life will be held at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home in Georgetown, IL. on Wednesday September 10th, 2014 at 12:00pm. Officiating will be Pastor James Blue. Visitation will be at 3:00pm until 7:00pm on Tuesday September 9th, 2014. Burial will be at Forest Park Cemetery at a later date. Please join Linda’s family in sharing video, pictures, and memories on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
Jerry Cleveland
Dorotha Della Reese
Dorotha Della Reese, 103, of Danville passed away Saturday, September 6, 2014 at 4:38 PM at Colonial manor Nursing Home in Danville. Funeral service will be Wednesday, September 10, 2014 at 1:00 PM CST at the First Church of the Nazarene in Danville. Pastor David Anderson will be officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, September 9, 2014 from 4:00 – 7:00 PM CST at the First Church of the Nazarene. Burial will be at Sunset memorial Park. Memorials in Dorotha’s name can be made to Gideon International PO Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214-0800. Dorotha was born August 15, 1911 in rural Vermilion County, IL, now Bismarck Area, to Isaac and Abigail (Deck) Smith. She was the last remaining sibling of her family of thirteen. Dorotha attended Vermilion County and Bismarck area schools. Dorotha was a charter member of Stateline, IN Church of the Nazarene where she loved to play the organ and piano. She was a current member of the Danville First Church of the Nazarene. Dorotha was also a member of the Women’s Auxiliary of Gideon International. Dorotha married the love of her life, Edward E. Reese on August 2, 1933. They enjoyed 57 years of marriage before his passing in 1990. They raised their family in Johnsonville, IN and Stateline, Illiana. She was a homemaker and loving mother to her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She loved taking care of her family. Dorotha is survived by her four sons, Melvin LeRoy (the late Vonda) of Muncie, IN, Cletas Dale (Judy) Reese, of Danville, Edward Jr. (Karen) Reese of Danville, and Eldon Wayne (Sue Anne) Reese of Mt. Zion, IL; four daughters, Donnabelle (Gerald) Hutchison of Danville, Lavonne (Carl) Neef of Veedersburg, IN, Ireta (Robert) White of Covington, IN and Palm Bay, FL, and Anita Cunningham of Westville; two daughter-in-laws, Kay Reese and Pat Edwards ; thirty- one grandchildren; seventy-four great-grandchildren; and thirty-five great-great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, seven brothers; five sisters; two sons, Vernon Lee Reese and Allen Morris Reese; three son-in-laws, Jack Woodard, Barry Switzer, Dale Juvinall; one daughter-in-law, Vonda; one granddaughter, Christy Woodard Hari; and two great granddaughters, Isabella Rose Gresser and Andrea Michelle Cope. Dorotha leaves a legacy of family behind her that will miss her dearly. Arrangements were entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A life Celebration Home, Danville, Illinois. Guests may sign the tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Beverly Ann Rouse
Danville – Beverly Ann Rouse, 80, of Danville passed away at 12:23 PM on Sunday, September 7, 2014 at her home. She was born on July 9, 1934 in Danville to Tony Swider and Helen Cooper Griffin. She married Gerald “Jerry” Lee Rouse on July 5, 1952 in Westville. He survives. She is survived by six children, Victoria DeFries of Georgetown, Gerald D. “Skip” (Alecia) Rouse of Covington, Tracey (Mark) Musselman of Bainbridge, IN, Christopher Rouse of Danville, Shawn Rouse of Ridge Farm, and Jason “Paul” (Toni) Rouse of Danville; three siblings, Betty (George) White, Robert Swider, and Jim (Pat) Swider; and 14 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, and one grandson. Beverly enjoyed cooking and sewing, but especially loved spending time with her grandchildren. A service to celebrate the life of Beverly Rouse will be held at 2 PM on Thursday, September 11, 2014 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville. Pastor Gloria Edwards and Pastor Janet Nicol will officiate. Burial will take place at a later date following cremation rites. Visitation will be held from 4-8 PM on Wednesday, September 10, also at Sunset in Danville. Please join Beverly’s family in sharing memories, photos, and video of her life through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Alan Thomen
Alan C. Thomen, 65, of Georgetown passed away on Saturday September 6th, 2014 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. He was born July 4th, 1949 to Austin and Blanche (Vasser) Thomen. He married Judy Taylor-Thomen on August 4th, 1984 in Georgetown. She survives. Also surviving are: one step son, James Taylor of Nashville, TN; two daughters Kerra Thomen of Lawrenceville, GA and Karlee Thomen of Ridge Farm; one brother, Dan (Jan) Thomen; two grandchildren, Jaide and Kaden. He was preceded in death by his parents and one step son, Chris Taylor. Alan was a member of the Georgetown Fire Protection District for 30 years, during that time he served as President on the Board of Trustees; he also was on the Hazmat team. He served on the Georgetown Jaycee’s. Alan enjoyed fishing, camping, working on cars and was known to make a custom fishing rod in the day. Alan was a GM Certified Master Tech, he worked at Win C. Smith and later at American Chevrolet then Vermilion Chevrolet. A celebration of Alan’s life will be at 2:00pm, Saturday, September 13, 2014, at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home with Nick Dilbeck. Visitation will be 11:00am -2:00pm Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Georgetown Fire Department or American Cancer Society in Alan’s name.
Pearl Herrera
SAVOY- Pearl Herrera of Savoy, better known as Penny, peacefully passed away on Saturday, September 6, 2014, at Carle Hospital in Urbana, IL with her loving husband at her side. From her early days as a farmer’s daughter on a small Southern Illinois farm, to adventures with her beloved husband in Spain, Acapulco, and Puerto Rico, Penny had a life well-lived. She was born on June 12, 1939 in Eldorado, IL, the daughter of Lawrence and Mary (Reeder) Ellison. On May 4, 1974 she married her love of more than 40 years, Francisco “Paco” Herrera. He survives. Also surviving to carry on Penny’s legacy are her children, Jeff Storey of Overland Park, KS, Lisa (Dan) McGrath of Monticello, Holly (Scott Gass) Herrera of Champaign, and Francisco “Paco” Herrera of New Port Richey, FL; four siblings, Joan (Glen) Robinson of Memphis, TN, Steve (Patsy) Ellison of Tamaroa, IL, Nancy (Ron) Keller of Du Quoin, IL, and Tom (Gwen) Ellison of Herrin, IL; six grandchildren, Alex, Clayton, Andrew, Nicholas, Katelyn, and Hunter; and her very loving dog, Daisy. Penny was a devoted wife and loving mother who enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She loved to cook, with lasagna and chili being two of her specialties, as well as travel. She was a great fan of Chief Illiniwek and a long-time supporter of the Fighting Illini. She will be most remembered for her quick wit, love of laughter, and her lively personality. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on September 27, 2014 from 1pm – 5pm at 211 Arbours Drive, Savoy, IL. Cremation rights have been accorded by Sunset Funeral Home, 710 N. Neil St., Champaign, ILLINOIS. Please join Penny’s family in sharing videos, photos, and memories of her at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Stanley Urbanski
Rossville – Stanley Edward Urbanski, 73, of Rossville passed away in his home at 11:05 AM on September 9, 2014. He was born August 9, 1941 to Leo and Julia Urbanski Vanderpoorten. He married Sharon Gray with whom he had three children. She preceded him in death. He later married Connie Lathrop, who also preceded him in death. Surviving Stanley are three children, Shannin Sloan of Rossville, Richell (Jerry) Vaughn of Noblesville, IN and Shane (Heather) Urbanski of Rossville; one brother, Robert Urbanski of Huntsville, AL; two sisters, Marie Lazzell of Danville, IL and Norma Rich of Chrisman, IL; 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; In addition to his wives, Stanley was preceded in death by one brother; one sister; parents and a grandchild. Stanley had worked at Combustion Engineering, later retiring from ABB as a welder. He enjoyed bowling and fishing. A celebration of Stanley’s life will begin Saturday, September 13, 2014 at 2 PM at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, IL. Pastor Jack Lazzell will officiate. A visitation will be held prior from 12:30 to 2 PM Saturday. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Please join Stanley’s family in sharing photos, video and memories of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com
Loretta M. Miller
DANVILLE – Loretta M. (Dyszkiewicz) Miller, 90, of Danville passed away Tuesday, September 9, 2014 at North Logan Healthcare Center in Danville. Born April 26, 1924 in Danville, she was the last of nine children born to Wladislav (Lody) and Alexandria (Djiesuta) Dyskiewicz. She married Gordon E. (Pete) Miller on October 27, 1951 in Danville. Loretta attended McMillan Grade School and graduated from Westville High School in 1943. Loretta lived in Hegeler all of her life. Before her marriage she worked at Floresheim Shoe Factory in Danville. She then became a stay at home wife and mother. Loretta was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Westville and the Westville American Legion Post 51 Women’s Auxiliary. Her family can remember the Polish Babiushi and Pierogi she would make, always enough to share with the family. She is survived by a daughter, Dana (James) Ray; a son, Danny (Toni) Miller; four grandchildren, Erica (Rob) Johnson, Kristin (Adam) Schrenconghost, Fritz (Sarah) Miller and Zachary (Becky) Miller; three great granddaughters; 2 great grandsons; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Pete; grandson, Andy; three brothers, Steve, Lody and John Dyszkiewicz; five sisters, Angeline Kluskoski, Della Betkis, Bernice Pollack, Francis Gallion and Esther Tatar. Loretta’s family would like to thank the very special staff of North Logan Health Care – 2nd Floor, Passages Hospice and Harbor Light Hospice. A memorial service to celebrate Loretta’s life will be 5:00 p.m. Monday, September 15, 2014 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville. The family will receive friends from 3:00 until 5:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Entombment will be in Resurrection Mausoleum at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Holy Family Church and Resurrection Cemetery. Please join Loretta’s family in sharing memories, photos and video of her life through her Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Violet Louise Ramsey
Danville- Violet Louise Ramsey 90, of Danville passed away at 9:23 p.m. Tues. (Sept. 9, 2014) at Hawthorne Inn of Danville. Violet was born Dec. 20, 1923, in Danville, IL the daughter of Robert and Ella Swaney Ellis. She married Kenneth Ramsey on July 19, 1942, at Ft. Leonardwood, MO. He preceded her in death on Oct. 24, 2000. Survivors include: a son, Dr. Kenneth Joe (Katy) Ramsey of Frankfort, IL; two daughters, Cindy (Jerry) Russell of Savannah, GA., and Tammie (Frank) Casey of Bismarck; six grandchildren, Jamie (Chip) Barbour, Darin (Trini) Russell, Christopher and Kara Ramsey, Molly and John Casey; and two great granddaughters, Marcy and Kenna Barbour. She was also preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, and a brother. Violet owned and operated Ramsey Trucking along with her husband for 58 years. She was a member of the Southside Church of Christ. She enjoyed cooking and gardening, but most of all her joy in life was spending time with her grandchildren. A Celebration of Violet’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday Sept. 15, 2014 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 3940 N. Vermilion St. in Danville. Officiating: Kevin Ziegler. Private entombment will take place at Sunset Memorial Park’s Swan Court Chapel Mausoleum. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sunday Sept. 14, 2014 at the funeral home. Memorials in her name may be made to the Southside Church of Christ and the Alzheimer’s Association. Please join Violet’s family in sharing photos, video and memories of her life her life through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Greta R. Branham
Greta Rose Branham, 89, of Simpsonville, widow of Harry Robert Branham, went to be with the Lord on Monday, September 8, 2014. Born in Sidell, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late John Leo Berlin and the late Bessie Berlin Hicks. Mrs. Branham was a long time member of Calvary Baptist Church, worked for many years for General Electric in manufacturing and assembly, and she dearly loved and cherished the time with her family. She is survived by two daughters, Karen Miller, of Simpsonville, and Judi McNeese, of Simpsonville; two grandchildren, Paul Michael Miller and Shaun McNeese, both of Simpsonville; four great grandchildren, Cody McNeese, Brandon McNeese, Brittany McNeese and Michael McNeese; and one sister, Mary Edwards of California. In addition to her husband, Mrs. Branham was preceded in death by one grandson, Robert McNeese, and one brother, John Leo Berlin, Jr. The Funeral Service will be on Thursday, September 11, 2014 at 6:00 PM in Altizer Hall at Calvary Baptist Church, Simpsonville, with Rev. Guy Altizer and Rev. Robert Graziano officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service in Altizer Hall from 4:00 until 5:45 PM at Calvary Baptist, Simpsonville. Graveside services for Greta will be 1:00 p.m. Monday, September 15th in Sunset Memorial Park, Danville. The family requests that memorials be made in lieu of flowers to Calvary Baptist Church, Simpsonville, S.C.
Glenn Wade Jr.
Glenn ‘Butch’ R. Wade, 54, of Georgetown, passed away at 3:25am, Monday, September 8, 2014, at his home. He was born on August 14, 1960, in Danville, IL, the son of Glenn R. and Carol {Galyen} Wade. He was previously married to Blanche ‘Elaine’ Moody in 1978. He is survived by: his Mother, Carol Wade of Georgetown; his son, Uriah Wade of Georgetown; his daughters, Terra Reed of Danville, Trisha Brown of Danville, & Danielle Wade of Westville; his 16 grandchildren, Shawn, Shelby, & Skylar Reed, Kaiden, Savanna & Aniya Tyler, Desiree & Zianna Brown, Michael, Elijah & Jase Williams, Uriah, Alexander, Aliza, & Russell Wade, & John Marrs; his sisters, Melody (Wayne) Douglas of Danville & E. Jane (Roger) Gilkison of Georgetown: and his nieces, Grace Gustafson & Brandi Douglas . He was preceded in death by his father, Glenn. Glenn worked as a Warehouse Associate at Northern American Lighting Co. in Paris, IL. He was a Veteran of the US Army. He enjoyed fishing, deer hunting, mushroom hunting & going camping. He simply loved being in the outdoors. Glenn also enjoyed watching movies, listening to music and loved dogs. Above all, Glenn cherished his family and loved being with them, especially his grandkids. A celebration of Glenn’s life will be held at 2:00pm, Sunday, September 14, 2014, at Sunset’s Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home, Georgetown. Visitation will be held 12pm – 2pm, Sunday prior to his service at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest in Forest Park Cemetery. Donations may be given to his family to help with expenses.
James E. Miller Jr.
DANVILLE – James Edward Miller Jr., 22, of Danville passed away Monday September 8, 2014 at Presence United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville. Born May 15, 1992 in Danville, he was the son of James Edward Sr. and Kelly Jean Miller. James worked in the construction business with his father. He loved to skateboard and long board, singing, playing his guitar and jamming out with his friends and family. He was great at writing music and poetry, and he loved his mom’s cooking. James enjoyed bonfires, and camping with his friends and family. He never met a stranger, and he was a lovable guy who was humorous, charismatic and genuine. He is survived by his parents; two sisters, Jennifer Miller and Jessica (Chris) Swearingen; nieces and nephews, Kylie and Lucas Swearingen, and Jack and Quinn Miller; 6 cousins, Travis, Whitney and Christopher Killion and Mindy, Joseph and Christina Miller; maternal grandmother, Susan Killion; paternal grandmother, Anna Miller; four uncles, Marc (Janice) Killion, Kris (Clara) Killion, John C. Miller Jr., Joseph Raymond (Barb) Miller; and his love, Ashley Budnovich. He was preceded in death by his brother, Timothy Miller; nephew, Nicholas Swearingen; maternal grandfather, Norman Killion; paternal grandfather, John C. Miller; and great grandmother Margaret Martin. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. Sunday, September 14th at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville. A service to celebrate James’ life will be 3:00 p.m. Sunday following visitation at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Gordon Cemetery, Danville. Please join James’ family in sharing memories, photos and video of his life through his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Katie Buchanan
Dorothy K. Divan
OAKWOOD – Dorothy K. Divan, 82, of Oakwood passed away Thursday, September 11, 2014 at Heritage Health in Hoopeston. Born February 21, 1932 in Danville, Dorothy was the daughter of Orville W. and Gretchen (Wildman) Hamilton. She married Kenneth Divan on November 12, 1949 in Danville. After over 51 years together, he preceded her in death on April 13, 2001. Dorothy attended Hebron United Methodist Church in Newtown. She loved flying her Piper Cherokee airplane and was a talented cook and baker. She enjoyed traveling and playing cards with her family and friends, she loved to hunt for morel mushrooms, and listening to country music. Dorothy could be found out in the yard mowing her grass multiple times a week, whether it needed it or not. She was a longtime sufferer of the Chicago Cubs, and a diehard fan of the Fighting Illini. Dorothy is survived by: two sons, Kenneth (Kathy) Divan of Oakwood and Jeff Divan of Sarasota, FL; two daughters, Teresa (Jim) Traylor and Brenda (Ken) Pelman, both of Danville; twelve grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; several nieces and nephews; and a very special lifelong friend, Peggy Graves. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Kenneth; three brothers; three sisters; and a granddaughter, Kimberly Divan. A service to celebrate Dorothy’s life will be 11 a.m. Monday, September 15, 2014 at Sunset’s Oakwood Chapel, a Life Celebration Home in Oakwood. Pastor Patti Wise will officiate. The family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until the time of services Monday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Newtown Cemetery. A memorial has been established in Dorothy’s name for the ALS Association, in memory of her late husband, Kenneth, who suffered from ALS. Please join Dorothy’s family in sharing memories, photos and video of her life through her Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.