Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home

02/02/2026

Our father, Don Eugene Smith, of Minonk, IL passed away peacefully at 9:57 PM on Sunday, February 1st, 2026, at the age of 92 at the Illinois Veterans’ Home in LaSalle, IL.

He was born on December 8, 1933, in Minonk, IL to Clarence and Lena (Rupert) Smith. Surviving are his children and gran...

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01/27/2026

Have we had the opportunity to serve your family? If so, we would truly appreciate you sharing your experience with us in a Google review. Thank you for your trust. 🔗 Leave a review here: https://tinyurl.com/RuestmanHarris

01/25/2026

Joyce Ann Sutherland, 84, of El Paso passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at the El Paso Health Care Center.
She was born on July 28, 1941 in Peoria to John and Dorothy Bouton Hohenbery. She married Clarence “Terry” Sutherland on September 9, 1961 in Peoria. He passed away on January 1, 2022....

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01/19/2026

Hope Elizabeth Faith Yunker, 20 of Wenona passed away at 1:53 p.m. on January 15, 2026 at Ann and Robert Lurie Childrens Hospital, Chicago with her family at her side.
Hope was born August 12, 2005 in Peoria a daughter of Jeffrey N and Laurie A. Anderson Yunker.
She graduated from Fieldcrest Hig...

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01/19/2026

Today we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Dr. King reminded us that compassion, service, and love for one another are powerful forces for change. His message continues to inspire us to lead with kindness, stand for dignity, and care for our communities—especially during life’s most difficult moments.

On this day of remembrance, may we reflect on how we can serve others with empathy, understanding, and respect.

01/15/2026

If you're looking for a meaningful way to offer comfort to a grieving family, certain sympathy flowers carry messages of love, peace, and support:

🌸 Lilies – Symbolize the restored innocence of the soul.
🌹 Roses – A classic expression of love, respect, and remembrance.
🌼 Chrysanthemums – A traditional tribute of honor and sympathy.
🌷 Tulips – Represent hope and encouragement during difficult times.
🌿 Peace Lilies – A lasting symbol of peace, rebirth, and comfort.

Whether you choose a simple bouquet or a thoughtful arrangement, sending flowers is a beautiful way to let a family know you're thinking of them and standing with them during their time of loss.

If you ever need help selecting the right arrangement, we’re here to guide you. 💛

01/08/2026

Grief is a deeply personal journey, and while everyone experiences it differently, the five stages of grief—Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance—offer a helpful framework for understanding the emotions that follow loss.

According to Harvard Health Publishing, these stages can help individuals recognize and process their feelings:

-Denial: A natural defense mechanism that helps cushion the immediate shock.
-Anger: A response to the pain, often directed at circumstances, others, or even ourselves.
-Bargaining: The mind's way of trying to regain control—often filled with "what if" thoughts.
-Depression: A deep sadness as the reality of the loss sets in.
-Acceptance: Not about “getting over it,” but learning to live with the loss and move forward.

It’s important to note that these stages are not linear—everyone grieves differently, and that’s okay.

If you or someone you know is experiencing grief, know that support is available. You're not alone.

Read more from Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/5-stages-of-grief-coping-with-the-loss-of-a-loved-one?fbclid=IwY2xjawPKm5pleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFKMFRScjJLWm5TZ05GMWQyc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHrH4AoPBzZonRNsrf0Z9TygClxiWFrvAZo_AknmFtF6NFiJHu7FeHrcxuWv1_aem_dpyArgKutalxnbb2rViQAA

01/02/2026

Randy D. Griffin, 69, of Minonk IL passed away on December 29, 2025 in Minonk IL.
Randy was born on August 01, 1956 in Streator IL to Dean and Alice Griffin.
Private services have been rendered per Randy's wishes.

Arrangements were trusted to Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home - Minonk.
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01/01/2026

Elaine Margaret Olson, age 87 of Gridley IL died December 26, 2025, the day after Christmas to enjoy her Lord’s birthday celebrations. She was surrounded by her family and caregivers.

Elaine was born in Chicago IL on August 28, 1938 to Joseph and Alice (Kripner) Ambrose. Elaine like so many,...

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01/01/2026

As we welcome the new year, we reflect with gratitude on the families we’ve had the honor of serving and the trust our community places in us.

From all of us, we wish you a Happy New Year filled with warmth, remembrance, and hope. ✨

12/31/2025

Thomas R. “Bompo” McKay, 62 of Minonk passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025 at University of Chicago Medical Center surrounded by family.

Tom was born December 5, 1963 in Streator, a son of John R. and Kay Zenzen McKay. He married Tami M. Wiechman on December 28, 1991 in Minonk. She s...

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12/29/2025

Edward L. Kaufman, 72 of Lake Bloomington, Cape Coral, FL and El Paso passed away at 7:20 a.m. on December 24, 2025 at his residence.

Ed was born July 2, 1953 at Bloomington a son of Daniel and Ernestine Duke Kaufman. He married Jennifer Mullvain on October 8, 1983 at El Paso. He later marr...

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