Hager Memorial Home, 201 W. Mazon Avenue, Dwight, IL (2025)

09/10/2025

Mr. Steven Fredric Bruner, 76, of Dwight, Illinois passed away peacefully on Monday, September 8, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 100 W. Mazon Ave., Dwight, Il. 60420. Mass will follow at 11:00 A.M. also at the church. Fr. John Bosco Mujuni will be officiating. Burial will be at Broughton Township Cemetery in rural Kempton, Illinois.

Hager Memorial Home of Dwight has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Steven was born on April 11, 1949, in Kankakee, Illinois, the son of Fred J. and Alice M. (Jacobs) Bruner. Steven was first married to Diane Anderson Bruner on November 21,1970, who preceded him in death. He later married Leann M. (Stec) Rub on September 9, 1995, who remained his devoted wife.

Steven is survived by his loving wife, LeAnn Bruner of Dwight, Il.; his three children, Michael (Sarah) Bruner, Julie (Amy Phillips) Bruner, Jennifer (Dennis) Buck, his two step-sons, Howard (Michelle) Rub III and John (Simona) Rub; his eight grandchildren; Kennedy Rub, Zhoe Rub, Grace Bruner, Rocky Rub, Mia Buck, Ava Bruner, Sophia Buck and Olivia Buck; his seven siblings, Barbara (late John) Colson, Sharon (Ralph) Leydens, Kay (James) Murphy, Marge (Jack) Richie, James (Margery) Bruner, Paul (Tony Szczeblewski) Bruner and Michael (Sue) Bruner; and several nieces and nephews.

Born and raised on a farm in rural Cabery, Steve graduated from Kempton High School in 1967.
He then began a 36 year career at R.R. Donnelley and Sons where he held a variety of roles.

As a young man Steve loved boating with his family at South Wilmington Fireman’s Club. He coached youth baseball and softball and he spent many hours grilling in the backyard. He was a proud member of the Dwight Country Club and loved to golf. Steve was a strong supporter of the sports programs and both schools in Dwight.

In retirement, Steve explored his love of travel and delicious food. He drove a school bus for the Dwight Schools and he spent mornings mowing greens for the Dwight Country Club. Steve loved rooting for his beloved White Sox and Chicago Bears teams. He was an avid reader of historical fiction and political thrillers.

Although widely known as ‘Bronco”, his favorite name was Poppy. He never missed an opportunity to cheer his grandchildren on in their sporting events, spend time playing cards or making popcorn on the stove for sleepovers. Steve taught his family about commitment and how to work hard.

He will be truly missed and remembered by all who knew and loved him. A heartfelt thank you to all of the amazing care givers at the Arc in Dwight for their compassion and support during such a difficult time.

Memorial donations in Steven’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

08/22/2025

Kathleen Phyllis Doran, 68, of Dwight passed away on Tuesday, August 20th at St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet. She was born October 19, 1956 in Joliet, the son of John and Phyllis Wenger Doran.

She is survived by her longtime boyfriend, Elton Monson, and a sister Sheila (Jack Gregory, Jr. ) Doran.

She is preceded in death by her parents.

Kathleen attended Dwight schools, and later graduated from Illinois State University and Lewis University. She received her law degree from John Marshall University. She practiced law in Grundy County and was an adjunct professor at Joliet Junior College. She spent time helping veterans through the Veteran’s Assistance Commission of Grundy County. She was a member of the Dwight Methodist Church. She also loved gardening and shopping.

Her funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 26th at Hager Memorial Home in Dwight. Visitation will be Monday, August 25th from 5 to 7 p.m. and an hour before the service Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at St. Paul’s Cemetery in Odell.

Memorial contributions may be made the Veteran’s Assistance Commission of Grundy County or the Grundy County Humane Society.

08/19/2025

Maureen M. Carlson, 84, of Campus, Il., passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. until 11:30 A.M. on Friday, August 22, 2025, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 100 W. Mazon Ave. Dwight, Il. 60420. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 A.M., also at the church. Interment will be at Union Cemetery in Emington, Il. Friends and family are invited to a luncheon back at the church hall following the burial at Union cemetery.

Hager Memorial Home of Dwight has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Maureen was born on July 16, 1941, in Kankakee, Il. The daughter of William and Dorothy (Link) Courtney. She was joined in marriage to Rodney Carlson, in Clarkston, Ga.

Maureen is survived by her two grandsons; Adam Gravesen and Kyle Graveson, who Maureen played a major role in raising. Her two great grandchildren, Addison and Benjamin Gravesen.

Preceded in death by her parents, her infant daughter, Kathline Carlson, her daughter, Christine Gravesen, her son-in-law, Terry Gravesen, and her two brothers, Richard Courtney and Robert Courtney.

Maureen worked right alongside her husband in their farming and grain elevator business. She enjoyed gardening, planting flowers all around the house, the annual Easter egg hunt and preparing dinners for all the family and friends.

She loved to travel, visiting many countries with her husband by her side. She loved being outside in the winter months skiing or snowmobiling. Her favorite past time was copiloting on the many adventures she would take with her husband. She was the former team advisor for the Illinois Flying Farmers.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Maureen's name may be made to Boys Town of Nebraska or St. Jude Children's Hospital.

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

08/18/2025

Charles Mark Brady loving husband, dad, papa, grand-papa and friend passed away August 15, 2025 peacefully at home in Dwight, IL at the age of 93.

The visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. on Thursday August 21, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 100 W. Mazon Ave. Dwight, IL 60420. Mass will begin at 11:00 A.M., with internment at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Immediately following, family and friends are invited to a luncheon at the parish Hall.

Chuck was born September 7, 1931 in Morris Illinois to George and Lola (Kindlespire) Brady. Chuck graduated from Dwight Township High School mid semester in 1950. He enlisted in the Navy where he served his country for 4 years. He returned to Dwight where he met the love of his life Rogene Carlson, and they were married on October 27, 1956. In 1957 they welcomed their first child, Brad Brady (Janet) followed by Brenda Shaughnessy (Michael), Brent Brady, Brenene Brady, Bridgett Brady, and Brenitta Brady (Robert Schneider).

From an early age Chuck had a love for art and aviation. In 1965 he completed his ground school and began flying as a hobby. He restored a 1950’s Cessna 170 and joined the Cessna 170 club as well as the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association). The family attended the Oshkosh Airshow every year they could. Most years they would travel to the 170 convention hosted in a different state each year. Always a gentleman with a great sense of humor, he and Rogene would welcome other 170 members into their home on their way to convention and fly together.

Chuck grew with the family operations to include raising cattle, farming and running a grain elevator. In the winters when the machinery was cleaned and repaired for the season he would spend his days in the shop building a World War I replica of a French Neauport 28 (13 years) that in 1993 he flew to Sun ‘n Fun in Florida to receive grand champion. It was subsequently sold to the Rider museum and now resides in the Amsterdam Museum in the Netherlands. Upon retirement he built a World War I replica of a German Fokker DVI and it is now part of the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome museum in New York.

Faith was paramount in Chuck’s life. Rogene embraced the Catholic faith and together they formed the foundation of their children's lives. He was always available to Sacred Heart Catholic church in Campus whether it was helping with construction of a new bell tower or putting on an apron for a St. Patrick’s Day or Thanksgiving dinner being served. When he and Rogene moved to Dwight they attended St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. During Chuck’s decline, praying the rosary became a daily ritual as he prepared to join his Heavenly Father. When he could no longer pray the rosary his family and friends would gather around him to pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy and the Rosary for/with him.

Chuck was always civically minded serving as a Boy Scout leader for his boys and also as the Round Grove township supervisor. For 16 years he served on the Livingston county board, the last 4 years as Chairman of the board. He served as part of the honor guard for the VFW, where he saluted many friends goodbye. Chuck will be missed in the hearts of all those he touched.

Chuck is survived by his wife, 4 children, 10 grandchildren, Benjamin (Brittany) Brady, Ryan (Carissa Main) Shaughnessy, Kendel (Guadalupe Ruiz) Brady, Patrick (Amanda) Brady, Erin (Aaron) Miller, Christopher Brady, Ahnamarie Herbst, Kevin Shaughnessy, Jacob Brady, and Ethan Brady as well as 8 great-grandchildren.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, sister Eloise (Don) Scott, brother Bob (Penny) Brady, daughter Bridgett and son Brad.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Chuck’s name to the Dwight VFW or St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

08/12/2025

Ida Adams, 79, of Pontiac Illinois, passed away on April 8, 2025, due to cancer. She was born August 24, 1945, in Grayson County Kentucky. She enjoyed attending church, spending time with her family, listening to music, doing crafts, shopping, and activities such as being on the Wii bowling team at the Pointe in Pontiac, where she resided.

Ida is survived by her son, Eddie Gibson, and grandsons, Tyler and Travis Gibson. Her sisters, Evangeline Foster and Daisy Embry. Her brother and wife, Charles (Alice) Gibson. And multiple nieces and nephews.

Meeting her in heaven is her husband, David Adams; her parents, Claude and Maggie Gibson; brothers, Otto and William Gibson; sisters Alvena Black, Mary Landis Kerr, Bertha Boston, Margie Kerr, and Doris Gibson; and many nieces and nephews.

Ida was a loving Mother, Grandma, Sister, Aunt, and Friend and will be missed by all those who knew her.

08/11/2025

Bernice Katherine Skinner, 80, of Dwight, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 7, 2025, surrounded by her family at Morris Hospital and Medical Center in Morris, Il.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 325 E. Mazon Ave., Dwight, Il. 60420. Funeral services will begin on Saturday, August 16, 2025, with visitation at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Dwight, Il. from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the service at 11:00 A.M. Rev. John F. Mueller will be officiating. Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Dwight, Il.

Hager Memorial Home of Dwight has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Bernice was born on September 3, 1944, in Poole, Nebraska. The daughter of Erwin and Helen (Heermann) Bock. She was united in marriage to the love of her life Ronald “Ron” Keith Skinner on October 5, 1963, in Sibley, Illinois.

Bernice is survived by her two children; Shelley (Joseph) Izzo from Myrtle Beach, SC. Brian (Gena) Skinner from Oswego, Il., Her six grandchildren; Nick (Catherine) Izzo, Blake Izzo, Sam Izzo, Grace Izzo, Arabella Skinner and Charlie Skinner, her great granddaughter; Isla Izzo, her three sisters; Fauneil (late Alvin) Finke, Lois (late Norman) Cole and Eldine (late Bert) Krichau, her in-laws; Kay (Russ) Russell, Vic (late Bill) Krause, late Gary (Peg) Skinner, and Mark (Jane) Skinner, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband Ron K. Skinner, her great grandson Graham Izzo, and her brother Rupert (Lila) Bock.

Bernice was born on the Bock family farm in Nebraska, the baby of five. She loved growing up with her nieces and nephews. At 18, she moved to Omaha and trained at Western Union in preparation to start a job in Chicago, Illinois. 1963 was a big year, in Chicago she made lifelong friends with her three roommates and met the love of her life, Ron. Bernice and Ron knew immediately that they were meant to be together and were married in less than a year. The couple started their family in Dwight, Illinois with Shelley born in November 1964, and Brian born April 1967. Bernice was always a loving Mother, devoted Grandma to her 6 grandchildren and then became a proud Great Grandma (G.G.) Bernice committed her life to family, faith, and the community around her. Her community included her coffee group that began at the Country Mansion, her support group, yoga, and countless other groups that kept her busy. She was a devoted member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church where she found joy in worship, choir, hand bells, quilting, and endless other contributions. Her ever-growing list of friends could always count on her for a listening ear or a helping hand in “The She Shed”. Bernice was always ready to step in for anyone in need, no matter the situation. Her kindness and selflessness touched countless lives, leaving behind a legacy of love and compassion. All of us who loved her can now smile knowing that she is in paradise with Ron.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Bernice’s name may be made to Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 325 E. Mazon Ave., Dwight, Il. 60420.

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

08/07/2025

Kevin E. Fogarty, 67, of Gardner, Il., passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, at his home in Gardner, following a series of recent medical issues.

A memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M. on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Hager Memorial Home, 201 W. Mazon Ave., Dwight, IL. 60420. Family eulogies and remembrances will be at 5:00 P.M., also at Hager Memorial Home. Immediately following, family and friends are all invited to a Celebration of Kevin’s Life at the Dwight Country Club, 31577 N. 2400 East Road, Dwight, Il. 60420.

Hager Memorial Home of Dwight, Il., has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Kevin was born on November 2, 1957, in Peoria, Il., the son of the late Louis and Anita (Alfter) Fogarty.

Kevin is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Amy (Ryan) Christensen and Dr. Erin (John Paul Landers) Fogarty; his grandsons, Case, Caden and Cal Christensen, his beloved siblings, Pat (Brenda) Fogarty, Colleen (Al) Metzke, Kerry (Lisa) Fogarty, sister-in-law Kathy Fogarty, brother-in-law Barry Marsh, and many loved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death and welcomed home by his parents, a sister, Alta Marsh, a brother, Rod Fogarty and nephew Bailey Beyers. Kevin also cared deeply for the Lyle and Marie Masching family and had so much love in his heart for his extended family.

Kevin graduated from Dwight Township High School in the Class of 1976. He spent most of his career working for R. R. Donnelley and Sons Company. He later worked for American Pest Control before retiring in 2017. Recently, during retirement, he enjoyed being part of the mowing crew at Dwight Country Club.

Family was most important to Kevin, and he loved nothing more than time with those he loved. He married Madelyn (Masching) Fogarty in 1979, and although the marriage wasn't permanent, their relationship was and the two remained close, making their family a priority. Together they had two beautiful daughters who, along with their grandsons, were his world. He was found most often cheering on his grandsons at sporting events. Time spent on the golf course with family or friends was his perfect way to spend an afternoon no matter how frustrating the game. He loved Zoom calls with family and Sunday morning crosswords. Kevin had a talent for wood carving and created many pieces that will be treasured heirlooms by his family. He never knew a stranger and would strike up a conversation with everyone he met. If story telling were an art form, Kevin would be considered an artist and always loved to keep his audience entertained whether in everyday conversation or through his time performing with the Morris Theater Guild.

Kevin was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Kevin’s name may be made to; Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House at Johns Hopkins, https://www.believeintomorrow.org/our-programs/childrens-house/, the Livingston County Humane Society, https://lchumanesociety.dog or to the family.

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

07/29/2025

Mr. James L. Anderson, of Dwight, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, July 27, 2025, surrounded by his family at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, Il.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Hager Memorial Home, 201 West Mazon Ave. Dwight, Il. 60420. Funeral services will be at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, August 2, 2025, also at the funeral home. Interment will follow at McDowell Cemetery in Dwight, Il.

Hager Memorial Home of Dwight has been entrusted with the arrangements.

James was born on September 14, 1947, in Streator, Illinois. The son of LeRoy and Jane (Lewis) Anderson, He was united in marriage to Donna Lyn Quayle on August 22, 1970, in Streator, Il.

James is survived by his loving wife, Donna Lyn Anderson, His two children: Tina (Chuck) Butterbrodt of Dwight, IL. and Mike (Sue) Anderson, of Grand Rapids, MI., His four grandchildren; Chloe Butterbrodt, Carter (Maya Harwood) Butterbrodt, Carley Anderson and Trevor Anderson, and one great grandson; Sawyer Yegge, His siblings; Lee (Mary) Anderson, Connie Kinkade, Janice Murphy and Tom (Molly) Anderson, sister-in-law, Sandey Anderson, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Mary Sue Ely and Martha Ho**er, a brother, Kenny Anderson and brothers-in-law; Jim Ho**er, John Ely, Dave Murphy and Brad Kinkade.

Jim was a proud Army Veteran. Jim worked at Riber Construction and farmed in the Dwight area. After retirement he worked at the Dwight Country Club.

Jim was active in the Dwight Community; he was a member of the Lions Club and the Dwight Harvest Days Committee. He coached youth baseball. He was a strong supporter of the sports programs and both schools in Dwight. He was involved with the Dwight Sports Boosters and enjoyed taking tickets at the High School Basketball games.

Memorial donations in James’ name may be made to the Dwight Sports Boosters.

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

07/08/2025

Richard Kilmer, 90, of Dwight, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 1:40 A.M. on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at The Arc of Dwight in Dwight, Il. .

Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Hager Memorial Home, 201 W. Mazon Ave., Dwight, Il. 60420. Funeral Services will follow at 12:00 P.M. also at the funeral home. Interment will be at Ward Cemetery.

Hager Memorial Home of Dwight has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Richard was born on May 9, 1935, in Streator, Illinois. The son of Verl Arthur and Mildred L (Pool) Kilmer. He was united in marriage to the love of his life Mary Ellen Briner on November 8, 1951, in Florissant, MO.

He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Mary Kilmer, and four children, Sharon (Kent) Danielson of Marseilles, IL, DeAnn (Rev. Stephen) Walsh of Springfield, MO, Darryl (Kaye) Kilmer of
Verona, IL and Kathy (Walter) Sancken of Saunemin, IL; eleven grandchildren, Jeanette McCloskey, Brian McCloskey, Barbara (Jonathan) Schlueter, Stephanie (Matthew) Polites, Kelly
(Jess) Heugel, Daniel (Erin) Kilmer, Thomas (Emily) Kilmer, Timothy (Melissa) Kilmer, Laura (Ben Spalter) Sancken, Alison Sancken, Bradley Sancken and twenty-two great-grandchildren.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, younger sister Joyce Oberholtzer, nephew Kenneth Oberholtzer, and daughter-in-law Jane Kilmer.

Richard was a well-known farmer in the area with a great passion for the farm. When he was four years old, an article in the newspaper said “He is particularly interested in modern farm
machinery.” That interest never waned. Through the years, his wife, son, and two grandsons joined him in the farming operation that he started with just one old crank tractor. In the early
years, he worked as a welder at Caterpillar to earn money to buy necessary farm equipment and launch his farm career. He continued to farm until he could no longer climb the ladders into
the equipment and then he could frequently be seen being productive on the lawn mower.

He earned his private pilot license and, along with his wife, flew their Cessna airplane to many International Flying Farmer events. Over the years they flew coast to coast and from Canada to
Costa Rica in their single engine airplane. Richard served as the Illinois Flying Farmer President and helped host fly-ins at the Dwight airport. He and Mary made many lifelong friends through
Flying Farmers and enjoyed many great adventures together.

Richard also served for many years on the Ward Cemetery board.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Richard’s name may be made to Ward Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

06/30/2025

Eric “Rick” James Salzburg, 66, of Dwight, Illinois, passed away on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, Illinois.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 100 West Mazon Ave. Dwight, IL. 60420. Funeral Services will follow at 11:00 A.M. also at the church. Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery in Dwight, Illinois. Hager Memorial Home, of Dwight has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Rick was born on April 21, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois. The son of Donald A. and Geraldine “Gerry” H. (Broza) Salzburg.

Rick is survived by his loving mother, Gerry Salzburg of Dwight, IL.; three siblings, Steven “Steve” J. (Lisa) Salzburg of Dwight, IL., Donald "Don" F. Salzburg of Saunemin, IL., and Suzanne “Suzi” G. Stadel of Tolono, IL.; his four nieces, Hannah (Jordan) Wind of Arnold, MO., Stephanie Salzburg of Battle Creek, MI., Katie (Trent) Balazi of Champaign, IL., Jillian Stadel of Tolono, IL.

He was preceded in death by his father Donald A. Salzburg, his brother Larry D. Salzburg.

Rick loved his family and would help them in any way that he knew. Everyone went to him with problems that needed solving because they knew that he would make sure they were done right. He loved learning, had many hobbies, and always strived for the best way to do things. Good enough wouldn’t do. He will be tremendously missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him.

Memorial donations in Eric’s name may be made to the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

06/21/2025

Diane Lynn Seabert, age 78, of Dwight, IL, passed away peacefully on the morning of Friday, June 20, 2025, with her loving family by her side.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service to celebrate Diane’s life will be held at 11:00a.m. on Monday, June 23, 2025, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Dwight, IL, with Pastor John F. Mueller officiating. Visitation will take place prior to the service from 9:30-11:00a.m. A private graveside ceremony for immediate family will be held at a later date at Round Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Livingston County Humane Society, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, or a charity close to your heart.

Hager Memorial Home in Dwight is entrusted with the arrangements.

Diane was born on December 20, 1946, in Streator, IL, to Dale and Inez (Cook) Andersen. She married the love of her life, Dale L. Seabert, on April 12, 1969, at Zoar Community Church in Reddick, IL. Dale survives her in Dwight.

She is also survived by her beloved children: Kristine (Greg) Muir of Odell, IL, Robin (Art) Hamilton of Mahomet, IL, Rebecca (John) Pobloske of Itasca, IL, Justin (Anya) Seabert of Dwight, IL, and Adam (Liesl) Seabert of Ankeny, IA.

Her pride and joy were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Grandchildren: Connor (Cacee) Burke, Drew (Brandy Whitehead) Muir, Emily (Travis) Manley, Bryce (Carlye) Muir, Bradley Hamilton, Carter Pobloske, Caleb Muir, Rachel Burke, Logan Pobloske, Gabe Seabert, Ryker Pobloske, Liam Seabert, Walker Seabert, Emlyn Seabert, and Eleanor Seabert.

Great-Grandchildren: Jameson Muir, DJ Muir, Cooper Muir, Ellie Manley, and Talulla Burke.

She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters: Sharon (Don Wallen) Halpin, Janell (Bill) Satler, and Tammi Stone.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, one brother: Dennis Andersen, and her grandson: Jacob Hamilton.

Diane graduated from Reddick High School in 1965. She met Dale at a local dance after high school and didn't believe that he lived only a few miles from her. They married a few years later and recently celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary together.

Her life on the farm fostered an immense love for animals of all kinds. Her menagerie over the years included dogs (Peppy, Buttons, Bocephus, Heidi, and more), cats, chickens, cows, horses, a mouse, a white rat, and even a pet skunk. She passed this deep compassion for animals on to her children, instilling in them the same gentle spirit.

Diane was also a gifted and passionate artist. Whether through oil or watercolor painting, ceramics, pottery, quilting, embroidery, or sewing, her creativity knew no bounds. She shared her talent generously—teaching and judging youth art projects in 4-H. In 2024, her work was honored with a feature in the “Echoes of Experience” art exhibit by the Livingston County Arts Council along with Chief Pontiac Chapter NSDAR—an achievement that brought her great pride.

A long-standing member of the Livingston County Home Extension and a faithful member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Diane found joy in community, fellowship, and giving back.

She also had a special love for the ocean. She and Dale cherished their annual winter escapes to Clearwater, Florida, where the call of seagulls, the crash of waves, the search for seashells, and sunsets over the pier filled her soul with peace and joy.

Above all, Diane loved her family. Being a full-time stay-at-home farmer’s wife and mother was Diane’s most treasured role. Her warmth, wisdom, and love will be deeply missed but never forgotten. The memories she created will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

This obituary may be viewed, and a guestbook signed at www.hagermemorial.com or visit us on Facebook.

06/19/2025

Bill Roper Reece, age 84, of Warsaw, Missouri, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2025, with his family by his side. He was born on September 7, 1940, to William Alvis Reece and Florence Sue Roper Reece in Vansant, Missouri.

Funeral services will be held at Reser Funeral Home in Warsaw, Missouri, on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 1:00 PM. A second visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Hager Memorial Home, 201 W. Mazon Ave., Dwight, Il. 60420, Funeral services will follow at 2:00 P.M. also at the funeral home. Interment will be at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Dwight, IL.

Bill was a beloved brother to the late John Reece and is survived by his sister, Anne Reynolds. He was a devoted husband to Nell (Connolly) Reece for 34 years, until her passing in 1995. In 1996, he married Kathleen (Utterback) Reece, and they shared 29 cherished years together.

He was a loving father to Jill (Mark) Kollmann, Steve (Julie Beth) Reece, and Jan (Mark) Baker, and a proud stepfather to Marguerite (Bill) Bayles and the late Michael Adams. Known as “Papa Bill,” he was adored by his grandchildren: Evan (Jessica) Kollmann, Emily (Nick) Zabel, Elyssa Kollmann, Brittney (Ben) Lemons, Lauren (Alex) Holt, Hannah (Nate) Bauser, Bo (Jamie) McDonald, Kayla Beth (Trent) Hunter, Billy (Lauren) Bayles, Jake Bayles, Tiffany (Aaron) Taylor, Mariah (Nick) Adams, Matthew Adams, and Madysen (Mason) Adams. He was also blessed with 22 great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly.

Bill began his married life with Nell on September 25, 1960. The couple moved to central Illinois, where he spent 35 years working at Caterpillar. Despite his demanding job, Bill always made time for his family—especially during vacations to Missouri and memorable holidays spent outdoors, camping, and fishing.

After retiring, he returned to Missouri and found joy with Kathleen in trail riding, fishing, deer hunting, traveling, and raising draft mules. Kathleen and Bill were married on April 20, 1996. He remained active well into his later years and still cared for two mules on his farm. An avid animal lover, Bill enjoyed c**n and bird hunting, cared deeply for dogs and horses, and was active in showing quarter horses and racing ponies and standardbreds.
Bill’s love for music was lifelong. He played the sousaphone in high school and was a member of the University of Missouri Marching Tigers, performing in the Orange Bowl Parade two years in a row. A man of deep faith, he served many years as a song leader and choir director in the churches he attended.

Bill will be remembered for his faith in Jesus, his devotion to family, and the legacy of love, strength, and kindness he leaves behind. His family takes comfort knowing they will one day be reunited with him in heaven.

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