Hager Memorial Home, 201 W. Mazon Avenue, Dwight, IL (2026)

03/27/2026

Theresa Rose (Dzuryo) McNamara, 98, of Dwight, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. on Wednesday April 1, 2026, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 100 West Mazon Ave., Dwight, Il. 60420. A funeral Mass will follow at 1:00 P.M. also at the church. Services will conclude with burial at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery in Dwight, Il.

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

Theresa was born on October 10, 1927, in Streator, Illinois, the daughter of John and Emma (Lesak) Dzuyro. She was named after both her maternal and paternal grandmothers, Theresa Dzuryo and Rose Lesak. She was united in marriage to Paul McNamara on June 18, 1949, at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Streator, Il.

She is survived by her children, Paula Benjelloun of Dwight, Il., Mary Jayne (Ken) LaBahn of LaGrange, Il., Kevin McNamara of Dwight, Il., Cathy Ferguson of Gardner, Il., five grandchildren, Karim (Lauren)
Benjelloun, Megan LaBahn, Patrick (Sarah) LaBahn, Kelsey Vansandt and Connor (Becca) Ferguson and seven great-grandchildren, Leo and Alex Benjelloun, Lily Rose LaBahn, Kinsley Vansandt, Cash Walker, and Beau and Ailee Ferguson. Also surviving are sister, Mary Anne McNamara, sister-in-law, Jane McNamara, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, Paul McNamara, and sisters, Lucille Churney and Frances Allen.

Theresa was devoted to her faith, her family, and her community. She was a member of Blessed Trinity Parish and its Altar and Rosary Society. She was a former member of the Catholic Daughters of America, as well as St. Patrick’s Parish Council, holding the position of President at one time. She received recognition from the Peoria Diocese Council of Catholic Women for her volunteer work. Theresa also served as a CCD teacher, Mt. Olivet Cemetery Board Member, and was part of the Blessed Trinity Prayer Chain group. She was very proud of her 30+ years of service as St. Patrick’s funeral dinner coordinator.
Theresa was a proud resident of Dwight. She was a member of the Dwight Women’s Club, The Dwight Lioness Club, and was named Lioness of the year, The Dwight Historical Society, and was a volunteer at Rt. 66 Texaco Station. She also served as a Livingston County Election judge.

For years, she was known as the “Toy Lady” in downtown Dwight, working at the hardware store. Theresa was also the District Assistant to Congressman Tim Hall.

Beyond this, her most cherished title was that of Mom, Grandma, and G.G. She lived her life defined by devotion, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to her family. Family was not just important, it was everything. She took pride in every accomplishment, and celebrated each moment with genuine
happiness and love.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Theresa’s name may be made to Mt. Olivet Cemetery or the Dwight Historical Society.

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

03/23/2026

Thomas “Bubbles” Burkhardt, 67, Dwight IL, a husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on March 23rd, 2026, surrounded by his family leaving behind a legacy built on love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. His presence filled every room with warmth, and his spirit touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Born on February 15, 1959, to the late Richard and Fern Burkhardt, Tom grew up with a strong sense of loyalty, humor, and determination—qualities that shaped him throughout his life.

Tom is survived by his wife, Sandy Burkhardt who he married in 2017. He leaves behind his children, who were his greatest pride: Faith (Nick) Lavezzi, Katie (Pete) Stanton, and Justin (Shelly) Burkhardt. Tom’s joy only grew as his family expanded with his grandchildren: Payton (Kellen) Kocher, Sydney Christensen, Lola Lavezzi, Austin (Eloise), Lane and Waylon Burkhardt, Owen and Claire Stanton. Stepchildren, Hope (Jason) Thomas, and Brian (Melony) Burgess. And step grandchildren Dylan Thomas, Jacob, and Emma Burgess. He also leaves behind two nieces, and a life-long friend Brad Kinkade.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, each of whom he held close in his heart.

Tom retired in 2020 from LyondellBasell, where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of colleagues who admired his humor, and easygoing nature.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Tom’s competitive spirit and natural athletic ability were evident from an early age. He was a standout athlete “back in the day,” and he continued to play softball for many years on the Ron-De-Voo team, finally hanging up his cleats at age 40. Whether cheering on the Chicago Cubs, Ohio State, or the Chicago Bears, Tom’s enthusiasm for his teams was unmatched—win or lose, he was loyal to the core.

Some of Tom’s happiest memories were made fishing at the South Wilmington Fireman’s Club, where he spent countless hours with his children, teaching them patience, appreciation for nature, and the joy of a quiet morning on the water. He later found a different kind of freedom riding his Harley, embracing the open road with the same passion he brought to every part of his life. Joy rides in his truck with his wife to Frankenmuth, Michigan. His loyal dog, Ally, was never far from his side, offering companionship that brought him comfort and joy.

Tom will be remembered for his deep devotion to his family, his passion for life, his stubborn streak that often made those around him smile, and the simple pleasures that defined who he was. His absence leaves a profound void, but his free spirit and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

The family will honor Tom’s life with a private celebration of life at a later time. Cremation rights have been reserved. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to OSF Hospice, or American Cancer Society.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Hager Memorial Home of Dwight, online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

03/23/2026

Lorene "Reen" (Burton) Adams, 74, of Dwight, Illinois, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, at her home in Dwight, Il.

Memorial visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. until 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at Hager Memorial Home, 201 W. Mazon Ave., Dwight, Il. 60420. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 3:00 P.M., also at Hager Memorial Home. Interment will be held privately.

Born on March 14, 1952, in rural Columbia, Kentucky, the daughter of Oliver and Ruby (Reece) Burton, Lorene lived a life filled with love, creativity, and devotion to her family and friends.

Lorene was the beloved wife of the late Terry L. Adams Sr., with whom she shared 53 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life centered on family and shared passions. Their love for woodworking projects brought them countless hours of joy as they created cherished pieces together. Lorene also found happiness in reading, music, and crafting—pursuits that reflected her vibrant spirit and creative heart.

She was a loving and devoted mother to her two sons: Terry L. Adams Jr. of Dwight, Illinois, and Charlie E. (Tammy) Adams of Forrest, Illinois. Her pride in her family extended to her seven grandchildren and nine-and-a-half great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life. Lorene's warmth and kindness also touched the lives of many nieces and nephews.
Lorene is survived by her siblings: brothers Dale (Sherry) Burton and Rodger (Corolla) Burton; sisters Susan (Burton) Wauford and Cindy (Burton) Haywood; sister-in-law Marianne S. Decker; and her best friend Sharon Farris.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Terry; and her two brothers, Waymon Burton and Eldon Burton.

Those who knew Lorene will remember her as a woman of strength, creativity, and unwavering love for those around her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share in her life.

Memorial contributions in honor of Lorene may be made to the Livingston County Humane Society or the Dwight Public Library—two causes close to her heart.

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

03/23/2026

Joyce E. Patten, 89, of Dwight, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 1:48 P.M. on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at her home in Dwight, Il.

Memorial visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Hager Memorial Home, 201 W. Mazon Ave., Dwight, Il. 60420. A celebration of life service will be at 12:00 P.M. at Hager Memorial Home. Pastor Eric Morgan will be officiating. Interment will be at McDowell Cemetery in Dwight, Il.

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

Joyce was born on April 13, 1936, in Pontiac, Illinois. She was the daughter of I. Milfred and Mae O (Scott) Spangler. Was united in marriage to James Patten on January 31, 1998, in Pontiac, Il.

Joyce is survived by her loving husband, James “Jim” Patten; her four sons, Ernest Jones, Ronald (Patricia) Jones, Jerry (Denise) Jones and Dale (Valerie) Jones; her 7 grandchildren; her 10 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her two brothers, Richard (Teddy) Spangler and Ralph (Vera) Spangler.

Mom was an avid reader when we were growing up. She instilled in all four sons a lifelong love of learning. She was a music lover, there was always a piano in our house, she played well and was always organizing family singalongs. While none of us mastered playing the piano we were all in band and choir throughout school, and to this day all of us are still music aficionados thanks to her. Mom was an excellent cook! Whether it be a side dish like scalloped corn or a fancy dessert we always ate very well as kids.

Memorial donations in Joyce's name may be made to the Dwight Congregational Church or McDowell Cemetery.

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

03/02/2026

Melvin A. Drechsel, 88, of Dwight, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Arc of Dwight Nursing Home.

Visitation will be held Friday, March 6 at Hager Memorial Home, Dwight at 10a - 11a. With grave side services to follow at Round Grove Cemetery, Dwight at 11:30a. Pastor John F. Mueller, Emmanuel Lutheran Church, will officiate. Military honors will be provided by the Dwight VFW Post #2608.

Melvin was born on March 12, 1937, in Dwight, the son of Andrew A. C. Drechsel and Gertrude B. C. (Kepplinger) Drechsel. He is survived by his brother, Milton (Eleanor Langone) Drechsel of Florida; niece and caregiver, Linda (Zullo) (Robert) Bohlmann of Illinois; nephews, Steve (Carver McCown) Zullo of Virginia; Alan Zullo of Maine; Joshua Drechsel of Florida; niece Lea-Marise (Drechsel) (Keith) Devine; 17 great nieces and nephews; 7 great-great nieces and nephews; 3 great-great-great niece and nephews. Special friends that became family, Brenda, Scott, Loren, Melanie, and Keegan Bedeker. Grateful to those who cared for Melvin for the past 3 years, the staff at Heritage Health and Arc of Dwight and the Uplift Care Team of Bourbonnais.

Melvin was baptized, confirmed and a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Dwight. Graduate of Dwight HS - 1955 and Mid State Business College, Peoria, IL - 1956 - 1957. He served in the U.S. Army, Sargent - honorable discharge 1960 - 1962 receiving sharpshooter badge with rifle bar. Melvin worked at the Roper Corporation, Appliance Group, Kankakee, IL as Senior Cost Analyst and Assistant Cost Supervisor - 1957 - 1989.

Melvin made you feel like you mattered. He was a good listener, great friend to many and passionate caregiver to his mother until her passing at age 94. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, painting by number, and making model cars to scale.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, sister and brother-in-law, Louise (Drechsel) (Rudolph) Zullo.

Memorials may be made to: Uplift Care, Bourbonnais, IL; Make-A-Wish Foundation, Chicago, IL; Pheasants Forever - Quail Forever, Morton, IL.

02/27/2026

Edwin L. Boudreau, 65, of Dwight, Il., formally of Gardner, IL., passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Morris Hospital in Morris, Il.

A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, July 12, 2026, time and place are pending at this time. Hager Memorial Home of Dwight has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Edwin was born on November 6, 1960, in Bayreuth, Germany. The son of Edwin W. and Annelore M. (Steinkohl) Boudreau. He was united in marriage to Kaylee Feller on July 12, 2014, in Lead Hill, Arkansas.

He is survived by his mother, Annelore M. Boudreau, his loving wife Kaylee Boudreau; his six children, Angela (John) Lardi, Jeff (Jennifer) Boudreau, Heather (Brandon Cox) Boudreau, Eric (Ashley) Boudreau, Parker Feller and Noah Boudreau; his eight grandchildren; a brother, Michael (Stacey) Boudreau; a special niece, Loren Martin; and his best friend, Rick Thomas.

He was preceded in death by his father, Edwin W. Boudreau; and his sister Susan Collier-Kiser.

Eddie loved being at the racetrack or working on race cars. He absolutely loved being around his loving family and friends. He had a shop where he loved building hot rods with meticulous attention to details, he was a miniature railroad enthusiast, and a great father to many kids.

Memorial donations in Edwin’s name may be made to Tunnels to Towers Foundation, www.t2t.org.

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

02/02/2026

Ruby Alice (Crone) Thomas, 99, of Dwight, Il., passed away at 5:14 P.M. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at OSF Saint James John W, Albrecht, Pontiac, IL.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Dwight United Methodist Church, 701 Columbia Ave, Dwight, IL A funeral service will follow at 11:00 A.M. also at the church. A meal will be provided by the United Women of Faith following the service. Interment will take place at the Riverview Cemetery in Streator, IL immediately following the meal at 2:00 P.M.

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

Ruby was born on December 22, 1926, on a farm near Varna, IL. She was the daughter of Grant and Alice (Olson) Crone. She was united in marriage to James Wesley Thomas on November 18, 1951, in Wenona, IL.

Survivors include her son, Randy (Vicki) Thomas; her grandchildren, Hope Thomas of Texas, Cathy (Cruz) Rubio of Texas, Jill (Matt) McGlocklin of Carmel, IN and Jake Thomas of Chicago; her great grandchildren Brittney Morgan, Davon Booth, Coltyn Taylor, Leiah Morales, Jaimey Morales all of Texas and James and Lainey McGlocklin of Carmel, IN.; her great great grandchildren, Lucas Booth, Anakin Taylor, Liam Morales, Greysen Morales, Walker Flores, Fallyn Flores all of Texas. Sisters, Ilene Goben of Grove OK, Gene (Joann) Crone of Haughton LA, Shirley (Steve) Gay of Cornelius N.C.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was proceeded in death by her husband, Jim Thomas; her daughters, Deborah and Janet Thomas; a son, David Thomas; her sisters, Florence Schlosser, Dorothy Matter, and Lousie Vandevender; and her brothers, Mervin Crone and Raymond Crone.

Ruby was a member of the Dwight United Methodist Church.

Ruby attended school at the Minonk, Dana, Rutland High School. After High School she worked at State Farm in Bloomington and a Doctors office in Streator. After moving to Dwight, she worked for Ralph Burger and retired from the 76 Truck stop in Bloomington. Ruby enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She also enjoyed putting together puzzles and doing wonderword word search puzzles. Ruby was an avid Chicago White Sox fan, U of I fan and ISU fan. She also enjoyed watching golf.

Memorial donations in Ruby’s name may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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

01/29/2026

Faye Taral, 74, of Streator, Il., formerly of Dwight, Il., passed away at her home at 12:20 p.m. on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in Streator, IL.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Hager Memorial Home, 201 West Mazon Ave., Dwight, Il. 60420. Graveside service will follow at 12:30 P.M. at Round Grove Cemetery in rural Livingston County.

Faye was born on June 20, 1951, in Dwight, Illinois, the daughter of James B. and Genevieve (Nicholson) Perry.

Faye is survived by her husband, Jack Taral; her four children, Thelma (Allen) Meyers, Charles Upton, Jennifer Nash and Jackie (William) Applebee; her thirteen grandchildren; her four great grandchildren; one nephew; her special friend, Regina Javier Gonzalez; and her four-legged companion Gody.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Charles Upton; her two grandsons, Charles Upton and James Upton; her brother, James Perry; and her sister, Betty Hayes.

Faye was a good-hearted woman that did not know a stranger. She had an amazing personality and people instantly fell in love with her. Faye always looked at the best and positive sides of life and wished nothing but the best for everyone she encountered. She loved volunteering in her community and was honored by the governor of Illinois for her efforts. She was an outstanding cook and loved it when the family could come together and enjoy the meals she prepared. Faye was an amazingly talented crocheter and enjoyed sharing her creations with family and friends. On a warm summer day, you could find Faye enjoying her favorite past time fishing. Faye was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many, she will be missed by all that knew and loved her.

Memorial donations in Faye's name may be made to her family.

01/23/2026

Henry T. Lund passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on January 22, 2026. Henry was born in 1930 to Theodore H. and Maren Lund. Henry was one of four sons, raised on a farm in rural Gardner/Dwight. Henry met his wife to be, Edith, through St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Youth Group in Dwight, IL. Through that connection they became friends and later, on May 6, 1951 they married. Henry and Edie lived and raised their family in Dwight.

Henry was a farmer, a milkman for Borden’s, a carpenter for P&C Inc., a part-time maintenance man for Illinois Bell then finished out his working years at Dupont. Henry was a Dwight Volunteer Firefighter for 17 years, #12. He served as Assistant Fire Chief for several years. Henry was a lifetime member of St Peter’s Church and supported and assisted all the organizations within the church. Henry was the Dartball master for the St. Peter’s Team. Henry was constantly involved with community sports. He coached Little League, Pony League, Legion League, and Girls’ softball. Henry was a member of the Dwight Township High School Football Chain Gang for over 40 years and spent a multitude of years collecting admissions at the DTHS basketball games. He was inducted into the Illinois Athletic Directors Association as a Friend of Athletics and then into the Dwight Athletic Program Hall of Fame.

After retirement Henry maintained his commitment helping at St. Peter’s, committed to weekly coffee with his friends, and his daily breakfast from Route 66 Family Restaurant or Pfaff’s bakery. He enjoyed feeding and watching his critters and the birds, reading, doing crossword puzzles, watching Wheel of Fortune and the CUBBIES. Henry got to experience and enjoy annual fishing trips in Canada with his sons Todd, Bill and friend Tom.

Throughout Henry’s life he maintained a constant support to his family. There were very few, if ANY school, sports, or life events for his kids and grandkids that he was not present at. He was always his grandkid’s 2nd biggest fan; grandma had him beat.

Henry is preceded in death by his parents, wife Edie of 63 years, son Theodore (Ted), son Thomas (Tom), daughter-in-law Kim, brother Fritz, brother Paul, grandson Ryan Dockstader and dog Bert whom he wished to be buried with.

Henry is survived by his children, Beverly Esposito, Bill (Debbie) Lund, Todd (Amy) Lund, Kathi (Dave) Dockstader, Chris Andersen and John Lund; grandchildren, Dan Lund, Maggie (Dean) Christensen, Kyle (Mandy) Lund, Michah Taylor, Kelli (Trevor) Wielgus, Charlie (Laura) Andersen, Kelsey Lund, Mandy Deese, Alyssa (Chase) Caskey, Heidi Dockstader, Colin Lund, Brandon Pettit, Hollis Esposito, Aaron Lund and Anneke Esposito; great-grandchildren Clay, Cayson and Cali Lund, Lennon and Saylor Deese, Ava and Oakley Andersen, Kennedi Ryan Wielgus; brother Harold (Bev) Lund, and many nieces and nephews.

Not too long ago you asked, ‘what do I think about the world today?’ I now know the answer, today it is a tad sadder because you are not here, but it is a better place because you were. You will be greatly missed!

A special thank you to Marina Gill, Kelsey Christensen, Aimee DeCoste and Robyn Allen for always taking good care of grandpa over the last couple years.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 1 p.m. at St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Dwight. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Oaklawn Cemetery in Dwight.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Dwight Sports Boosters in Henry’s memory.

01/22/2026

Harry Lynn Johnson, 77, of Dwight, Il., passed away surrounded by his family at 11:30 P.M. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at OSF Saint James Hospital in Pontiac, Il.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Hager Memorial Home, 201 West Mazon Ave., Dwight, Il. 60420. Funeral services will begin at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, also at Hager Memorial Home. Interment will take place privately at Union Cemetery in Emington, Il.

Harry was born on December 3, 1948, in Streator, Il., the son of John Leslie and Loraine (Gray) Johnson. He was united in marriage to Mary F. Tewell on September 23, 1972, at Dwight Congregational Church in Dwight, Il.

Harry is survived by his loving wife, Mary L. Johnson of Dwight, Il.; his children, Kristina (Brian) Felker of Heyworth, Il and BJ Johnson of Dwight, Il. Ann Marie (Bill) Scholtes of Essex, Illinois; his grandchildren, Brooke and Blake Johnson of Dwight, Il. and Kaylee Scholtes; his siter-in-law, Jean Johnson; his niece, Amy (John) Starr of Seneca, Il.; and his great nephew, Cody Bratcher.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his twin brother Larry Johnson and his brother Charles E. Johnson; and his niece Kim Smith.

To know him was to love him. He was the kind of man who loved big—especially when it came to his family. A devoted husband of 53 years, he adored his wife and built a life with her rooted in commitment, laughter, and unwavering love. He was a proud dad and a treasured papa. In true “Papa” fashion, he even had a soft spot for his favorite grand-dog, Hank.

He could always find the best fishing spots, and if he wasn’t casting a line, you could probably find him tooling around on his golf cart or visiting friends at the VFW. He was a diehard Chicago Cubs fan; he loved watching games and tried to never miss one. But his greatest joy—his absolute pride—was his grandchildren. He showed up, he paid attention, he made them feel loved, and he made memories that will live in their hearts forever.

Once he met you, you were never a stranger again. He had a gift for conversation, for making people feel comfortable, and for turning everyday moments into something meaningful. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Memorial donations in Harry’s name may be made to Dwight VFW Post 2608, 506 S Old Rte 66, Dwight, IL 60420.

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

01/05/2026

Donald Dean Hunter, 87, formerly of Emington, passed away at Wellington Manor in Newport, TN on December 31, 2025. He was born March 11, 1938, the son of Raymond and Mildred Hunter. He married Marjorie Young, who preceded him in death on July 14, 1993.

He is survived by two daughters, Jody (Ron) K***z of Hoopeston and Jacqueline (Alan) Harms of Del Rio, TN; three grandchildren, Matthew (Alicia) and Kerrie K***z, and Greggory Harms; and four great grandchildren, Graysha and Azalea K***z; and Landon and Walker Harms. He is also survived by three brothers, Kenneth Hunter, Frank (Nola) Hunter, and James (Sharon) Hunter; three sisters Wanda Plotner, Juanita (Ronald) Philpot, and Irene Baker; a brother-in-law, Terry Willis, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, Donald is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Walter Hunter; a sister, Wilma Willis; and a sister-in-law, Caroline Hunter.

Donald attended school in Deland. He worked as a supervisor at Caterpillar in Pontiac for more than 20 years until his retirement in 1999. Previously, he had worked at Trainer Grain in Saunemin and at LP Gas for Standard Oil in Saunemin. He served his country in the U.S. Army serving stateside for the military police. He was a member of the Emington United Church of Christ, the Pontiac Moose Club, and the Saunemin American Legion. He also enjoyed gardening and playing cards.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 9th at 11 a.m. at Hager Memorial Home in Dwight. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be at Union Cemetery in Emington.

Memorial contributions may be made to VFW in Dwight or Folds of Honor.

12/30/2025

After a prolonged illness, Jeffrey Paul Drach, age 48, of Lombard, Illinois died peacefully surrounded by his immediate family and dear friends on December 26, 2025.

Although his life ended far too soon, Jeff’s accomplishments and interests were many and multifaceted. Jeff graduated as the Salutatorian of his Dwight High School class in 1995, graduated from The University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana in 1999 with a pre-med undergraduate degree, and completed his Master of Arts degree in Education and Administration from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California. Jeff loved learning, thrived in academic environments, and soon began teaching at Pasadena High School in 1999.

Jeff flourished during his years in California—hiking, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, camping, skydiving, and spending weekends on the beach in Santa Monica—these were among his many adventures. He made the decision to move back to Illinois, which allowed him to be closer to his family. Upon returning to his home state of Illinois, Jeff began teaching Science at York High School Elmhurst in 2007 where he taught until his untimely death.

Throughout his 25-year teaching career, Jeff enjoyed coaching high school football at Pasadena High School, teaching many Advanced Placement college preparatory courses, and chaired the Science Olympiad extracurricular program at York High School for many years. Jeff took great pride in being a part of a community of devoted teachers who steadfastly prepared students for their college careers and beyond.

Jeff also enjoyed traveling with his family and friends both locally and globally, was a voracious reader, and those who knew him well will remember his intelligence and his witty sense of humor. A lifelong learner himself, Jeff loved trivia, word games, and constantly sought knowledge both inside and outside the classroom.

Jeffrey Paul Drach was born on May 15, 1977, the son of Patricia Ann (Whiteman) Drach and James Allen Drach and was raised on the family farm in Emington, Illinois. In 1985, Jeff was 8 years old when his mother passed away in a tragic car accident. His dad passed away in 2020 from Covid 19. Jeff was the second of three children, his older sister is Jennifer Lynn Drach, (married to Jason Kamler) and his younger brother is Matthew Vincent Drach. Jeff gained two additional siblings when his father married Marcia Ann (Beiswanger) Drach in 1996. His younger stepsiblings are Devon Marie (Trainor) Crouch (married to Jeremy Crouch) and Brian Jeffery Trainor (married to Carly Ercolini). Jeff is survived by his beloved stepmother, Marcia Drach, his four siblings and their families, nine nieces and nephews, and many caring uncles, aunts, cousins, and especially dear friends, Jen and Tommy Weidner.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at The Country Mansion Garden Room, 101 W. South St., Dwight, with burial to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery Loretto (near Emington).

Jeff generously elected to save and enhance the lives of others through Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network.

In lieu of flowers, kindly make any charitable donations to The Sierra Club (https://giving.sierraclub.org).

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