Mott & Henning Funeral Home

11/05/2025

Helen Bennett, age 92, of Springfield, passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

Mourning her passing are her son, Gene (wife Betty) Bennett; two grandchildren, Cory and Christy; three great-grandchildren, Fiona & Nathan & Owen; and several nieces and nephews.

Helen was born October 26, 1933, in Mason City, Illinois, the daughter of Harvey and Eleanor (Stovall) Mangold.

She married Walter Bennett on September 7, 1951 at the Third Presbyterian Parsonage in Springfield by Rev. Hildebrand.

Helen graduated from Lanphier High School in Springfield. She was a member of the Elm Street Christian Church in Springfield.

Cremation rites will be accorded. Graveside services will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025 at 11:00 AM, at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

10/30/2025

Elmer E. Brannan (Gene) 82, of Greenview, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.

Gene was born on October 24, 1943, in Carrollton, Illinois, the son of Elmer and Hattie (Meeks) Brannan. He married Judy Bonnett on May 7,1978 and she survives.

He enlisted in the Army in 1962. He was part of the original group of 5th Special Forces in the 281st Assault Helicopter Company. He marched at the President Kenndey funeral procession. He served in Vietnam 66-67. He was a proud Vietnam Veteran.

Gene was an avid Johnny Cash fan and often sang his songs at Karaoke and around the house. He loved his family with all his heart. He lived for his kids and grandchildren.
Gene loved summertime going on fishing trips with his brothers on the river.
After his time in the army he worked multiple jobs, Fiat Allis – Arc Construction – Aqualand Pools and his was owner-operator of Winstons Bakery and Ice Cream at White Oak Mall. He worked at US Electric for 20 years before his 21 years of battling cancer! From agent orange exposure.

Survivors include his wife Judy Brannan, his daughters Rena Brannan (wife Sophie Ward) of London, Tricia Brannan (husband Jonathan Miller) of Virgina, Lexy Baird-Brannan of Hannibal, Mo; his sons Dennis Brannan (wife Mary) of Connecticut, David Brannan (wife Joey) of Mason City, Craig Brannan (wife, Harli) of Greenview, grandchildren; Gianni, Nik, Jason Brannan of Connecticut. His granddaughters he raised Samantha and Victoria Brannan of Greenview, Raelyn Schafer, Brecklynn Brannan and Griffin Brannan of San Jose, Abigail Hoefferle and Cassius Ferati of Greenview, Taylor Benson & Chase Benson of Pekin, IL, Charlie Brannan of Mason City; brothers David Brannan of Tennessee, Ron Brannan of Granite City; sisters Carmen Lawson of Hillview and Paula Inman of Roodhouse and lots of nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and a brother Bob Brannan and sister-in-law Dru, two infant sons, Charles and Jason Brannan.

Visitation for Gene will be held on Saturday, November 8th, 2025 from 10 AM – 12 PM with services immediately following at 12 PM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions can be made for the family to help pay for funeral costs.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

10/23/2025

Marlene Propst, age 86, of Greenview, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Springfield Suites in Springfield, IL.

Marlene was born on August 15, 1939 in Huron, SD, the daughter of Byrul and Opal (Gorham) Van Pelt.

She married Keith Propst on September 3, 1959, in Springfield, IL and moved to Chicago. Upon retirement they moved to Greenview. He preceded her in death in 2001.

Mourning her passing are her daughter, Debbie (husband Mark) Aiken; her son, Rick Propst; three grandchildren, Samantha (Jackie) Roberts, Lacie Terrell, and Katelyne Randle; and four great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Addison, Mya, and Jett.

She is also preceded her in death by her parents, sister, Merna Rittenhouse; and brother, Terry Van Pelt.

She was a homemaker. Marlene was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother.

She was famous for her deviled eggs that she brought to family gatherings.

Marlene will be greatly missed.

Cremation rites will be accorded. Graveside services for Marlene will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Elmwood Cemetery in Greenview.

Memorial contributions can be made to American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

10/21/2025

Carolyn Bryant, age 82, of Athens, passed away on October 19, 2025, in Florida.
Carolyn was born on April 21, 1943, in Jefferson County, Illinois, near Darville, the daughter of Melvin and Mildred (Milner) Hamlin.
She married William Bryant on August 20, 1961, at the Athens Christian Church. He preceded her in death on August 2, 2016.
Mourning her passing are her children, William “Bill” Allen (wife Debbie), Marla Sue Lewis (partner Jim), and Cathy Bryant; two grandchildren, Alexander Bryant and Clayton Lewis; and two brothers, Gary Hamlin and Wendell (wife Diana) Hamlin.
She was also preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Kenneth Hamlin.
Carolyn graduated from Athens High School in 1961. She was a lifelong member of Athens Christian Church and an avid bowler for many years. Carolyn dearly loved dogs and was known for her kind and gentle spirit.
She worked at Franklin Life Insurance Company in Springfield and later owned and operated a group daycare. Her love for children led her to become a school bus driver for the Athens School District, a position she held with pride and dedication since 1970.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, October 31, 2025, also at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Joel Hall Cemetery in Athens.
Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

10/15/2025

Merritt Roger Foulk, age 89, of Athens, passed on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

He was born May 17, 1936 in Banner, Illinois, the son of Chester and Rosetta (Hadsell) Foulk.

Merritt married Sandra “Sandy” A. Behnke on July 4, 1959.

Mourning his passing are his wife, Sandy; children, Kenny (wife Marianne) Foulk and Dawn (husband Phil) Eck; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one brother, Allen Foulk; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Bill Foulk and David Foulk; and great-granddaughter, Jade E. Foulk.

Merritt retired from Ameritech (Illinois Bell).

He was a member of the Masonic Lodge #762 and the Ansar Shrine, where he served with the Clown Unit.

Merritt loved fishing, hunting, RVing, and mushroom hunting.

Visitation for Merritt will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025 from 10:00 AM until time of funeral services at 11:00 AM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens. Burial will be held at Joel Hall Cemetery in section XI, in lot 4 in Athens immediately after the services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Shriner’s Children Hospital or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

10/14/2025

Tracey Fawns, age 56, of Williamsville, passed away on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield, IL.

Tracey was born on January 10, 1969 in Springfield, Illinois, the daughter of Wilbur, Jr. and Sharon Fawns.

She married Mark Tisckos on November 7th, 1992 and they became a family on January 30th, 2009.

Mourning her passing are her husband, Mark; daughter, Stephanie Tisckos; mother, Sharon; brother, Brent (Kathleen) Fawns; and beloved dogs, Lilly and Ella.

Tracey is preceded in death by her father, Wilbur, Jr. Fawns; and uncles, George Fawns and Bill Fawns.

She graduated from Williamsville High School in 1987 and later attended Lincoln Land Community College.

Tracey worked as Director of Childcare at Illinois Department of Revenue at Williard Ice Building and later worked as secretary and treasurer for the Williamsville United Methodist Church. She also served as treasurer for Williamsville Music Boosters.

Her and Mark’s love language was arguing.

Tracey was an organ donor and her eyes will help others continue to see the world

Cremation rites will be accorded. Burial will be held at Walnut Hill Cemetery near Williamsville.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Mini O’beirne Crisis Nursery.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at

Mott and Henning Funeral Home provides complete funeral services in Athens, IL. Call us today for pre-planning or custom planning options.

10/01/2025

Shirley E. Black, nee Davidsmeier, age 88, died peacefully in her home in Williamsville, IL, Monday, Sept. 29, 2025.

She was born May 7, 1937 in Mechanicsburg, IL, to William and Alice Fern Davidsmeier.

She moved with her family to Springfield, IL, at a young age and attended Springfield local schools.

On August 25, 1954, Shirley married Harvey Robert "Bob" Black and spent two years in Norfolk, VA, while Bob was in the Navy. The couple then moved back to Williamsville and raised four children - Sherrie, Diane (Carroll) Hays, Rick (Viki), and Jackie (Chuck) Karr.

Shirley joined the Order of the Eastern Star in 1959 and was recently recognized as a 65 year member. She was a homemaker and an employee at Ford Printing. She enjoyed reading, playing cards, and traveling with Bob and friends. An annual highlight was spending a week taking all of the grandchildren to the Illinois State Fair. She was always willing and available to help with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, making a point to spoil them as much as possible.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Orville, Wilbur, Russell, and Donald, and sister Doris "Midgie" Waters as well as several nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her husband, Bob, sister Barbara (James) Thomas, and brothers Willis (Pat) and Kenneth (Shari) Davidsmeier, her four children, seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM on Saturday, October 4, 2025, followed by a service at 12:00 PM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens, IL. Graveside service and burial will be at Walnut Hill Cemetery in Williamsville, IL.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

09/30/2025

David Tobias, age 66, of Petersburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Sunny Acres Nursing Home.
He was born on December 7, 1958, in Springfield, Illinois, the son of Delmar and Diamonda (Pulizos) Tobias.
David was united in marriage to Melinda “Linda” Vance, who preceded him in death on October 9, 2010.
He is lovingly remembered by his stepdaughters, Kitty Wilson and Katy Wilson; his children, Tara Tobias and David “Davey” Tobias, Jr.; and his grandson, Ryder Betz.
In addition to his wife and parents, David was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Joe Fleischli, as well as several aunts and uncles.
A 1976 graduate of Athens High School, David went on to work for the Menard County Cemetery Maintenance District for several years. He was known for his mechanical abilities and passion for motorcycles, vehicle repair, and trail riding. He also had a deep appreciation for classic rock music and vintage cars.
In accordance with his wishes, David generously donated his body for medical research. A private burial of cremated remains will take place at Indian Point Cemetery near Athens at a later date.
Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

09/28/2025

Don M. Case, age 88, of Greenview, passed away on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Springfield Suites in Springfield, IL.

Don was born on April 18, 1937 in Taylorville, IL, the son of Elmer and Marion (Martin) Case.

Don married Marian Deckard on November 14, 1964 at the First Christian Church in Springfield, IL.

Mourning his passing are his wife, Marian; son, Jeff (Shelly) Case; granddaughter, Hannah Case; grandson, Ryan Case; great-grandson Dean; brother, Jim Case; several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a son, Scott; and a sister, Madelyn Case.

Don was employed for over 30 years at the State Journal Register in Springfield.

He was member Greenview Masonic Lodge, Shriners, AMVETS, and Menard County Singers Don was an active member of the Greenview United Church, including singing in the choir at the church.

Don loved to go to Mark Twain Lake and went on many walks there and many other places.

He served for the US Army.

Don did not know a stranger and loved to start a conversation with anyone.

Visitation for Don will be held on Monday, October 6, 2025 from 11:00 AM until time of funeral services at 1:00 PM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens. Burial will be held immediately after the services at Elmwood Cemetery near Greenview.

Memorial contributions can be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

09/26/2025

Mark A. Kluemke passed away peacefully at home in Sherman on September 25, 2025, at the age of 63.

Mark was born on September 14, 1962 in Breese, Illinois to Charles J. “Chick” Kluemke and Mary Ann Meyer Kluemke. Mark spent most of his childhood years in small towns in southern Illinois including Trenton, Sparta, and New Baden. Mark graduated from Galesburg High School in 1980.

Mark’s next stop was Illinois College where he played baseball and was a proud member of Sigma Pi Literary Society. It was the brotherhood of the Sigs where Mark made some of his best friends.

In 1990, Mark married Amy Lynn Struck in Springfield and they had three children. More than anything, Mark loved being a dad. Whether coaching on the ball field or attending school events or reading Bible stories before bed, Mark was always present for them. A strong core memory is when the family of five were all baptized together at Hope Church, where they have attended since 2001.

Mark’s career started by working for Prudential Insurance Company in 1988. Through that job he made many lifelong friends and clients. After many moves with Prudential, including to Greenville, IL; Saginaw, MI; and Marquette, MI; Mark joined with a friend to become a business owner and start The Pinnacle Insurance Company in Springfield, IL. That eventually led to his own company, M.A.Kluemke and Associates. His office was first located on 9th Street and later on W. Lawrence, both in Springfield. As a business owner, Mark was able to shine with his own way of doing things, namely taking time and learning about his clients and helping them plan and prepare for their financial future. Many of these client relationships turned into friendships. The business continues in the very capable hands of his associates, Nick McGhee and Heidi Angeles.

Mark will be loved and remembered by his wife, Amy of Sherman, IL; son Drew (wife, Molly) Kluemke of Edwardsville, IL and daughters Anna Kluemke and Leah Kluemke of Sherman. He has one grandson that made Mark so joyous and proud, Henry Earl Kluemke. He is also survived by his parents, Chick and Mary Kluemke of Ottawa, IL; and sister Marcia Borowiak (husband, Scott) of Kentwood, MI. He is blessed with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Also remembering Mark are his mother-in-law Sherry Struck of Springfield, IL, brothers-in-law Bill Struck of Myrtle Beach, SC, and Brad Winn (wife, Amy) of Wood River, IL. His beloved nephews and niece are Colin and Connor Borowiak and Peyton and Allison Struck, as well as great-niece Asteria Struck.

Thank you to our church friends, college friends, and community friends for rallying around us and showing so much support and love during his short but brutal illness. You filled our hearts, filled our bellies, and held us close to your hearts as we made our way forward despite this cruel disease.

Memorials may be made to Hope Church, 3000 Lenhart Road, Springfield, IL; Illinois College, Jacksonville, IL or the American Brain Tumor Association.

Cremation rites will be accorded.

Visitation for Mark will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at Hope Church in Springfield, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. The funeral service will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025 also at Hope Church with a visitation starting at 9:30 AM until time of service at 10:30 AM.

Mark’s resting place will be at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

09/19/2025

Dale Abeln, Sr., age 65, of Athens, Illinois, passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois.
He was born on November 14, 1959, in Springfield, the son of Lewis “Peck” and Mary JoAnn (Beard) Abeln.
Dale married Linda Turner on March 17, 1980.
He is survived by his loving wife, Linda; his children, Shawn (Angie) Primm, Keri (Trevor) Orme, Dale Abeln, Jr., and Clint (Michelle) Abeln; his mother, JoAnn Abeln; grandchildren, Haley, Caleb, Connor, Gracie, Hannah, and Walker; siblings, Brenda (Ed) Connelly, Sheree Abeln Meyer, Diane (Tom) Hester, and Dean Abeln; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Lewis “Peck” Abeln.
Dale graduated from Athens High School in 1978. He began working at the University of Illinois Springfield at the age of 18, where he advanced into custodial management in industrial supply. He retired at 55 after a long and dedicated career.
A true entrepreneur at heart, Dale was known for his willingness to lend a hand with just about anything. Whether it was car repairs, tree trimming, yard work, or odd jobs, he was always there for friends and family. He also worked for the Village of Cantrall for several years, continuing his commitment to service and community.
Dale was a proud member of the Sons of the American Legion, the Lake Press Club in Springfield, and the Eagles Club in Riverton.
He loved the outdoors—fishing, hunting, camping—and was always up for a game of darts or time spent with loved ones. Dale had a generous spirit and a heart for helping others. He consistently put others before himself and never hesitated to offer support where it was needed.
Dale will be remembered for his kindness, work ethic, and sense of humor. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation for Dale will be held from 5:00 until time of funeral services 7:00 PM on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens. Cremation rites will be accorded after the services. A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made to the “Dale Abeln, Sr. Memorial Fund” c/o of Alliance Community Bank.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

09/18/2025

Lawrence York, age 57, passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025 at St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, Illinois.

Lawrence was born in Springfield, Illinois, on January 31, 1968 the son of Tommy and Gloria (Hoffert) York.

Mourning his passing are his father, Tom; sister, Joann York; brother, George (Liz) York; and nieces and nephews, Charlotte, Jocelyn, Elise, Matthias, Asa, and Kimball.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Gloria.

Lawrence graduated from Athens High School in 1987.

He served for US Marine Corps.

Cremation rites will be accorded. Private burial will be held at a later date.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.