Calvert & Martin Funeral Homes, 413 N. Main Street, Pontiac, IL (2026)

03/27/2026

Norman Schultz, 100, of Pontiac, died on March 27, 2026, at Goldwater Care in Pontiac.

As per his wishes, cremations rites will be accorded with no visitation or funeral service held. Burial will be at South Side Cemetery with a private family service at a later date.

Calvert and Martin Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Norman was born on February 27, 1926, in Pontiac, to Elmer and Myrtle (Ehrhardt) Schultz. He graduated from Pontiac High School in 1943. He joined the Navy in 1944 and served during WWII as an electrician on the U.S.S. Haynsworth, a destroyer, on duty in the South Pacific and Sea of Japan. Upon his return home in 1946, he married Jean (Powell) Schultz in Pontiac.

He farmed all his life.

He is survived by his daughter: Janet (Robert) Cermak, and one son: William (Mary Laura) Schultz. He is also survived by one sister: Donna Smith; six grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife, and two brothers: Raymond and Ronald Schultz.

He was a member of McDowell Methodist Church, American Legion Post 78, lifetime member of Pontiac VFW #866, and the Masonic Lodge #294.

Norman loved fishing, watching sports on TV, Sudoko puzzles, and especially reading. He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Memorials may be made to the Livingston County Humane Society, Pontiac Public Library, or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.

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

03/20/2026

Janeen Myrtle (Saathoff) Baumgardner, 85, of Cullom passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on March 19, 2026, at her home. She was born August 29, 1940, in Pontiac, the daughter of John and Myrtle Stahl Saathoff. She married Gabriel Baumgardner on September 29, 1962, at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Cullom. He survives.

She is also survived by a daughter, Laura (Paul Todino) Baumgardner; a son, Thomas (Joni) Baumgardner; and four grandchildren, Kirsten (Aaron) Schulz, Addison Humburg, Emma Humburg, and Fletcher Baumgardner. She is survived by a sister, Sharon (Robert) Pratt; a sister-in-law, Marsha (Richard) Kutter; two brothers-in-law, Thomas and Roger (Christine) Baumgardner; many nieces and nephews, and her beloved cat, Ralph.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Joan Baumgardner.

Janeen was educated in Cullom. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University in elementary education and later earned her master’s degree in elementary education with a specialty in reading. She began her teaching career in Bloomington, where she taught 2nd grade. She was the founder and director of three preschools: Kiddie Korner, Noah’s Ark, and Little Lambs. She later taught kindergarten and first grade at Washington Catholic in Washington, Indiana, before her retirement in 2005. She was a longtime member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Cullom.

Faith, family, and the farm were the most important aspects of Janeen’s life. In retirement, she began painting beautiful pictures of memories she had of her family and farm. She authored a series of children’s books called Kinderkitty. She was her family’s prayer warrior.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 24 at 11 a.m. at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Cullom. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at West Lawn Cemetery in Cullom.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Cullom.

03/18/2026

Patricia “Ann” Naretto, 73, of Odell, Illinois, passed away at 8:14 P.M. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, IL.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 313 W. Hamilton St., Odell, IL. 60460. A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, March 20, 2026 @ St. Paul Catholic Church in Odell, Il. Interment will follow at St. Paul Catholic Cemetery in Odell, Il.

Calvert & Martin Funeral Homes of Pontiac has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Ann was born on August 20, 1952, in Charleston, South Carolina. The daughter of John Russell and Theresa Frances (Craddock) Dunham. She was united in marriage to Alan Joseph Naretto on April 27, 1974, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pontiac, IL.

Ann is survived by her loving husband Alan J. Naretto; her two sons, David (Kristi) Naretto, Eric (Amanda) Naretto, her ten grandchildren; her one sister, Becky (Travis) Simmons; her four brothers, Tom (Laurie) Dunham, Bill (Julie) Dunham, Tim (Kathy) Dunham and Joe (Mary) Dunham; her brother-in-law, Pat Bennington; her sisters-in-law, Shari Dunham and Beth Dunham and Paula (Chuck) Roper and Laurie Naretto; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Sue Bennington; her three brothers, Mike Dunham, Bob Dunham and Rick Dunham; and her brother-in-law, Brian Naretto.

Ann attended St. Mary’s Grade School and Pontiac Township High School. She graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in elementary education. Her career began at South Wilmington Grade School and continued at St. Paul Catholic School, where she spent 20 years dedicated to her students and church community.

Family and friends were very important to Ann. She cherished the titles of “Mom” and “Mimi”. She was so very proud of her children and grandchildren. She loved attending their sporting events, dance recitals, plays, and school programs. She loved to share stories about them with her former classmates and Book Club friends. Ann enjoyed gathering with her friends because she knew no matter how sick or tired she felt, laughter really was the best medicine!

Ann was an avid college basketball fan and looked forward to watching DePaul and Gonzaga play during March Madness. She also was a die-hard Cubs fan. She supported them through the ups and downs and was so happy to see them win the World Series in 2016. As for football, Ann was enamored with Cincinnati Bengals QB Joe Burrow but declared herself a Bears fan. Ann also spent a great deal of time watching the news and discussing current events with anyone willing to talk. Her opinions were strong and she would not compromise her beliefs to appease anyone. She believed in the Golden Rule, “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Matthew 7:12). Ann found McDonald’s UNSWEET tea the ultimate refreshment. Not a day went by that she didn’t have at least one glass of their tea. And finally…books. Ann loved books. She had a relationship with them. They transported her into the past, introduced her to new friends and places, and allowed her to live many, many lives that only exist between the covers of a book. Her only regret was “there will never be enough time to read all the books I have collected”. So, we ask, to honor Ann, pick up a book and lose yourself in the wonder of the story.

Memorial donations in Ann’s name may be made to Odell Public Library, St. Paul’s Catholic Church or St. Paul’s Catholic School.

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

03/11/2026

Lester Harvey Nelson, Jr., age 88, of Pontiac, IL, passed away peacefully with members of his loving family by his side on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 11:40 p.m. at Goldwater care of Pontiac, IL.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Calvert and Martin Funeral Home, located at 413 N. Main Street, Pontiac, IL, 61764. A public visitation will be held the same day, starting at 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Camp Cemetery in Esmen Township. Pastor Kurt Mews will be leading his services. A fellowship gathering will take place at the Elk’s Club in Pontiac following the services.

Calvert and Martin Funeral Home, Pontiac, is entrusted with the arrangements.

Lester was born on April 7, 1937, in Pekin, IL, to Lester H. Nelson, Sr. and Mary (Mace) Nelson. He married the love of his life, Helen Marie (Dickens) Nelson on November 7, 1958, in Las Cruces, NM. They were married for 67 years. She survives in Pontiac.

Other survivors include their children: Lester (Pamela) Nelson, III of Morton, IL; Bryan Nelson of Pontiac, IL, Aaron (Tami) Nelson of Scottsdale, AZ; grandchildren: Matthew (Krystle) Nelson, Rachel (Taylor) Huette, Corrinne (Brad) Wilson, Dr. Clinton Nelson, Carrie (JR) Kester, Laura (Billy) Sweet, Seth (Chelsea) Connor, Megan (Derek) Jones, Katie Nulliner, Hayden Nulliner; as well as 19 great grandchildren and his beloved dog Tarya.

He is also survived by three nephews: Michael Dickens, Louie Nelson, and Joe Nelson; and two nieces: Robin Primm and Jennifer Heflin and a special family member Stephanie Arnold.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother: Roland L. Nelson, and one daughter: Viki Marie Nelson.

Lester was of the Christian faith.

He graduated from Joliet Township High School. Lester retired from Caterpillar at the age of 50. After retirement from Caterpillar, he kept busy as the Pontiac Township Tax Assessor for many years, drove a school bus for the Graymont Grade School, and was an Auxiliary Deputy with the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department.

Lester was a proud and active member of the Shriners, Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, Pontiac Elk’s Lodge, Moose Lodge, and was a past member of the Pontiac Sportsman’s Club. He was also a founding member of the Red Fez Shrine Club in Pontiac.

Lester enjoyed his family, camping, and spending winters in Arizona. He loved to tell stories to everyone that would listen. He was the Drum Major with the Medinah Highlanders Bagpipe Band for many years. He was also a member of the Mohammed Shrine Bagpipe Band. During the early years of his life, he was involved in Drum Corp, and was a nationally recognized fire baton twirler winning many trophies.

He was loved as a husband, dad, grandpa, and uncle. He will truly be missed by all of those who knew and loved him.

Memorials in Lester’s memory may be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Crippled Children, Elk’s Children’s Care, or to the Pontiac Fire Department. The family would like to thank the Pontiac Fire Department and the staff at Goldwater Care in Pontiac for the loving care they provided him.

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

02/25/2026

Melissa M. Hoerner, age 50, passed away peacefully at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington.
She is survived by her parents, David and Paula (nee Eckstein) Hoerner; her siblings Dan Hoerner and Rebecca Hoerner; her niece Brittany Vargas; great nieces and nephews Warren, Jayden, Rozlynn.
She is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Harley and Dorothy Hoerner; her maternal grandparents, Charles and Louise Eckstein; and her step grandmothers, Ethel Hoerner and Audrey Eckstein.
Melissa was in special needs all her life, and in early childhood attended Lincoln School. She then attended school in Creve Coeur and graduated from Pontiac High School. She worked for Futures Unlimited for around 15 years. Melissa loved country music and attended Nashville’s Country Music Festival for many years, where she had many friends. She loved garage sales, and she collected Guiness Books of World Records, at least fifteen editions. She loved coloring and being on Facebook with her friends. Melissa was also a proud member of Chenoa Baptist Church. She will be missed by all that loved and knew her.
Services for Melissa will begin on Wednesday, February 25th with a visitation at Calvert- Martin Funeral Home in Pontiac from 4pm-7pm. Services will continue the following day, February 26th, with the funeral service being held at Chenoa Baptist Church at 10am. She will be laid to rest at Rooks Creek Cemetery in Pontiac.
In lieu of flowers donations to Futures Unlimited or Chenoa Baptist Church in Melissa’s name would be appreciated.

02/10/2026

Larry Allen Fellers, 86, of Chatsworth, Il., passed away suddenly at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, in Fairbury, Illinois.

A private burial of his cremains will be held at Chatsworth -Charlotte Cemetery in Chatsworth, IL., at a future date.

Calvert and Martin Funeral Home of Pontiac have been entrusted with the arrangements.

Larry was born on August 8, 1939, in Rural Wing Township, Illinois. He was the son of Edward and Verna (Rodgers) Fellers. He was united in marriage to Carol Anne (Brock) Fellers until her passing in 2013.

Larry is survived by his three children; Kevin L. (Susan Renee) Fellers of Chatsworth, Il., Donna (Randy) Butcher, of Farmersville, TX, and Trudy (Curt) Byrne of Pontiac, Il., his six grandchildren; Alexandra (Haley Talbot-Wendlandt) Butcher, Rebecca (Regan) Bartha, Angela Butcher, Karl Fellers, Chris (Brittany Winkler) Fellers and Eric Fellers, his five great grandchildren; Cristine Fellers, Samantha Fellers, Desmond Fellers, Jericho Fellers and Roman Bartha; his five siblings, Harriet (late, Bill) Goskie, Mary Jane (Butch) Thresher , Dean Fellers, Clarance (late, Judy) Fellers and Rodger Fellers; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife; Carol Anne Fellers, and his two sisters; Diana Costello and Marjorie Hopson.

Larry liked working on old cars and trucks. He spent a lot of time hanging out with his friends up at Daves tire in Chatsworth. He loved playing cards with friends and family as often as possible. He was always on the go doing something and loved to laugh and cut up with those he loved.
He will be missed by many and remembered by just as many.

Memorial donations in Larry’s name may be made to the American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org/donate.

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

02/04/2026

Ronald G. Shelby, 64, of Kempton passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at his home. He was born October 12, 1961 in Pontiac, the son of Irvin and Birdell Larson Shelby. He married Rachel Koch on January 19, 1991 in Cullom. She survives.

He is also survived by three daughters, Lindsey (Casey) Moore, Brooke (James Hall) Shelby, and Danielle (Jeff) Klaman; and eight grandchildren, Blayke, Bennett, Carson, Grayson, Iverson, Stetson, Axell, and Remi. He is also survived by two brothers, Richard (Lois) Shelby and Gary (Joann) Shelby; four sisters, Betty (Chuck) Splear, Pauline Turner, Kay Groskreutz, and Connie Shelby; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ron is preceded in death by a daughter, Jessica Shelby; a son, Cody Shelby; and six brothers, Howard, Charles, Paul, Roger, Larry and Dale Shelby.

Ron was a graduate of Cullom schools. He was a longtime factory employee at the former Nichols Homeshield. He loved fishing and being busy outdoors, including yardwork and mowing. He loved to “tinker around” and watch his favorite westerns on TV. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears. But none of that compared to the time he spent with his beloved kids and grandkids.

A visitation will be held Monday, February 9th from 4 to 7 p.m. at Calvert and Martin Funeral Home in Cullom. Burial will be private.

Memorial contributions may be made to OSF Hospice.

02/03/2026

Mary Clauden Hancock, 82, of Pontiac, IL., passed away peacefully at her home at 1:14 P.M. on Thursday, January 29, 2026, with her beloved son and friends by her side.

A memorial visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Duffy, Baier, Snedecor Funeral Home, 903 W. Custer Ave., Pontiac, Il. 61764. A memorial service will follow at 5:00 P.M. also at the funeral home. Pastor Gretchen Stinebaugh will be officiating. Interment will be held privately at Webb Cemetery in Ozark, Il.

Mary was born on October 24, 1943, in Cypress, Il., the daughter of Stanley Hale and Genieve (Cavitt) Beggs, and spent her early years on the family farm.

Mary is survived by her most dear son, Donald Hancock of Cicero, IL; her sister-in-law, Cassandra Beggs of Marion, IL.; her nephew, Lenny Jo Gunther of Stanley, IL.; her niece, Randi Kay Gunther of Stanley, Il.; and special friend, Kathy Sturm who always went above and beyond.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her stepmother, Doris Beggs; her sister, Linda Lou Gunther; her brothers, Earl Beggs and Stanley Ray Beggs; her niece, Wendy Gunther; her very special friend, John Zogg, who she spent many hours dining and dancing with.

Mary lived at Martin Luther Homes before moving to Mosaic in Pontiac in 1992. She had an amazing work ethic. She held multiple service jobs over the years. She participated in AIR Special Olympics for bowling. During last season in SO Bowling, Mary achieved 1st in districts and 3rd in sectionals. She enjoyed attending camp CILCA and Ability Camp yearly. She volunteered with the Salvation Army as a bell ringer for many years. She loved attending Futures Unlimited, Inc. in Pontiac.

She was a long-time member of First Lutheran Church of Pontiac. She loved attending Ability Project services sponsored through local churches. She was a strong woman of faith.

Mary was a force of nature, anything she did was with all her heart. She was renowned for her baking ability and entertaining friends in her home. She was a true care giver; she loved visiting with her friends and traveling. She loved visiting Tennessee and the Grand Ole Opry was her favorite destination. She was a true country girl at heart, and loved listening to country music. Mary recently purchased her first pair of cowboy boots and was taking line dancing classes. She will be missed by all who knew her, she left an indelible impression on anyone she encountered. Rest in peace Mary, we love you, enjoy dinner and dancing with John again.

Memorial donations in Mary’s name may be made to Mosaic of Pontiac.

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

02/02/2026

Patti Diane (Wilson) Krause was welcomed into heaven on Friday, January 30, 2026. The oldest child of William Lester I and Opal June (Faucett) Wilson, Patti was born in Chicago, IL, on July 21, 1941. Her father, William, achieved the rank of Captain and served as a flight engineer in the Army Air Corps, flying B-25s from the US to the Pacific theater during World War II.

Patti was the sister of three siblings, two of whom survive: Jane Ann Fuchs of Fair Oaks, Indiana, and Nancy Adler of Rockford, Illinois.

She is preceded in death by her brother, William Lester Wilson II, a US Air Force veteran who served during the Vietnam era. When Patti was a teenager growing up in Dolton, Illinois, she and her sister, Nancy, babysat a neighbor named Robert Francis Prevost, who later became better known as Pope Leo XIV.

Patti met her future husband, Carl John Krause Jr. (1937), son of Carl John I and Minnie Krause, in Dolton, IL. Carl is a US Army veteran, having served in Korea from 1957 to 1959. Carl and Patti famously met at Dolton Methodist Church in Dolton, Illinois. Patti was participating in one of her life’s passions, singing in the choir one Sunday, when she spied a handsome recently discharged soldier in the congregation. They nervously met after church that day, fell in love, and got married on April 9th, 1960. Patti is survived by her husband Carl.

Carl and Patti began raising their family in Dolton, Illinois, in 1960, and later moved to Cullom, Illinois, in 1976. Most recently, Patti resided in Pontiac, Illinois, with her husband Carl. Patti was the mother of eight children: Carl John III (1960) and his wife Patricia Ann (Kane) of Cullom, Illinois; Brett Robert (1963) (deceased) and his wife Shelly (Blessing) of Panama City, Florida; daughter in law Gayle Ann (Burdick) McDonnell (1965) of Beecher, Illinois; Aric William (1965) of Delmar, New York; Jacob Michael (1971) and his wife Amy Lynn (Johns) of Pontiac, Illinois; Rachel Anne (1973) and her husband Kevin Dyck of Pontiac, Illinois; Sarah Elizabeth (1975) and her husband James Webster of El Paso, Illinois; Dr. Abigail Ruth (1977) and her husband Dr. Jonathan Litwiller of San Jose, California; and Stephen Nathaniel (1979) and his wife Ida Grace (Draviam) of Wimberley, Texas.

Patti is the grandmother of 18 beautiful grandchildren and 13 amazing great-grandchildren. She was a source of joy, prayers, and inspiration to each, committed to following and encouraging each grandchild through their academic, artistic, and athletic endeavors.

She was known to sit in the auditorium or stands, in sunshine or rain, in cold or warm, morning or night, for hours at various concerts and sporting events, tirelessly supporting and encouraging. It was her special joy to bless her grandchildren with her generosity and undying loyalty. Patti’s kids and grandkids enjoyed her absolute loyalty – they could never do wrong in her eyes. If the kids failed to score or had an off performance, it was the terrible umpire or referee, or the stage lighting, or the director’s fault in Patti’s eyes.

Patti could be described as having the soul of an artist – she loved to create. Over the years, she crocheted, knitted, painted, drew, and designed, and continued her love of music by singing and playing the bass, acoustic guitar, bongos, and didgeridoo. She was famous for creating unique and thoughtful gifts for holidays and special events. For weddings, births, or any other occasion, she’d be up for days designing and preparing invitations, table decorations, centerpieces, gift bags, birth announcements, or anything else needed.

Besides her full-time job raising 8 unruly children for 37 years, Patti found time to get involved in the community whenever and however she could. She was active in community theater, emergency services as an EMT-I, church choirs, church functions such as Vacation Bible School, and providing advice or encouragement to friends and family, or taking someone to lunch when they really needed it. Patti worked for years at First Financial Bank in Pontiac, when it was still Bank of Pontiac.

Trying to sum up Patti’s life is near impossible – she was a 4-D person in a 3-D world. Her husband, children, and grandchildren will miss her forever, but will celebrate her legacy. Everything about Patti survives through the beautiful family she nurtured and raised. Each is a unique and beautiful reflection and testament of Patti’s commitment to selfless giving, grace, and love.

The family will hold a visitation for Patti on Tuesday, February 10th, from 5-8 pm at Grace Christian School, 1314 Indiana Avenue, Pontiac, Illinois. A celebration service will be held on Wednesday, February 11th, at 10 am, also at Grace Christian School. Following the service, a procession to the West Lawn Cemetery in Cullom, Illinois, will take place, followed by a short graveside service. Those joining the grave-side service should anticipate cold weather.

Patti believed in making an impact locally. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to one of Patti’s favorite organizations, Grace Christian School in Pontiac, Illinois, where a scholarship fund has been created in Patti's name (www.gcsgators.org). You can make a lasting local impact to celebrate Patti’s legacy by supporting a young person's education and future

01/19/2026

Mildred “Mickey” M. Harms, 100, of Pontiac, Illinois, passed away at 4:15 pm, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Tjardes Healthcare Center at Evenglow Lodge in Pontiac, Il.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the First Lutheran Church, 311 W. Grove St., Pontiac, Il. 61764. Funeral service will follow at 11:00 A.M. also at the church. Interment will be at Southside Cemetery in Pontiac, Il.

Calvert & Martin Funeral Home of Pontiac has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Mildred was born on January 16, 1926, in McDowell, Illinois, the daughter of Roy E. and Mabel M (Morrison) Black. She was united in marriage to Willis R. Harms on July 20, 1947, in McDowell, Il.

Mildred is survived by her three daughters, Susan Cashmer, Kathy (William) Ellis, and Ann (Kevin) Keller; daughter-in-law, Roberta Harms; her ten grandchildren, Sara Harms, Christopher Harms, Aaron Cashmer, Kyle Cashmer, Jessica Farris, Katie Borders, Cassie Ferrara, Nina Meconis, Amanda Hickman and Amy Ward; her twenty-five great grandchildren; and nine great great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Beverly Harms; two brothers-in-law, Edward (Thelma) Harms and Donald Harms; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Willis R. Harms; her son, Gregory A. Harms; her brother, Robert Black; and infant brother, Richard Black.

Mickey was gracious, joyful, and full of unconditional love. She lived her life rooted in God and family, leading with quiet strength and kindness. She had a rare gift for seeing the good in everyone she met and an even rarer ability to make each person feel like her favorite. For many years, we joked that we needed to channel our “inner Mickey”—a gentle reminder to live with more grace, laughter, generosity, and love. Her life was a blessing, and her love will remain with us for generations to come.

Memorial donations in Mildred’s name may be made to the First Lutheran Church of Pontiac or Tjardes Healthcare Center at Everglow Lodge.

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

01/15/2026

Sandra "Sandy" Joan (Neitz) Harlan, 76, of Flanagan, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Sandy was born December 21, 1949, in Pontiac, Illinois, to John and Irene (Hogan) Neitz.

She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated from Pontiac High School in 1968. On August 2, 1969, Sandy married the love of her life, Richard “Rich” Harlan. Together they built a beautiful life and family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Irene Neitz, and her mother-in-law and father in-law, Glen and Elsie Harlan.
Sandy is survived by her two children: Amy (Matt) Baker and Joe (Audrey) Harlan. She was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren: Ryan (Alina) Baker, Emma (Nate) Lavender, Sami (Carson) Bowman, Belle (Jake) Bachtold, Hank Harlan, and Jack Harlan. She was also blessed with two great-granddaughters, Saige and Brighton, who brought her endless joy. Sandy’s siblings, Carol (Jim) Miller, Kay Morgan, and Joe (Kathy) Neitz also survive.

Sandy worked for many years at Flanagan Implement, where she enjoyed helping area farmers and being part of the agricultural community. Known for her generosity and warm heart, Sandy loved feeding her family and her son’s racing pit crew whenever they gathered at her home. During the summer, she was a familiar face at Farmer City and Fairbury racetracks, cheering on her favorite drivers. Affectionately known as “Candy Sandy,” she delighted in sharing treats from her candy sack with kids and adults alike, making everyone feel welcome.

Sandy’s legacy of love, kindness, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a place of donor’s choice. Cremation rites have been accorded.

There will be a Celebration of Life Saturday, February 7th from 1:00-4:00 at the Flanagan American Legion in Flanagan, Illinois.

01/13/2026

Donna J. (Crouse) Schopp, age 86, of Pontiac, IL, passed away at 6:34 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at OSF St. James-John W. Albrecht Medical Center in Pontiac, IL.

Per her wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. A private family graveside service will be held later this month at South Side Cemetery in Pontiac, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Donna’s memory may be made to St. Mary’s Food Pantry, Pontiac IL or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Calvert and Martin Funeral Home, Pontiac, is entrusted with her arrangements.

Donna was born on December 17, 1939, in Pontiac, IL, to Lewis D. and Evelyn M. (Potter) Crouse. She married Joseph Schopp on November 22, 1958, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pontiac, IL. He survives in Pontiac.

Other survivors include their children: Jolene (Steve) Gray of Pontiac, IL; David (Sandi) Schopp of Florida, Juliana Schopp-Nelson of Bloomington, IL; Jeff Schopp of Florida, Jean Smetzer of Pontiac, IL; grandchildren: Jillian (Toby) Oakes, Sabrina (Matt) Stotler, Alex (Kate) Schopp, Andy Schopp, Bailey Gray, Colton (Megan) Schopp, Allyson (Dustin) Uphoff, Audriana (Graham) Nechkash, Adrienne (Steven) Overmyer, Austin (Kaitlyn) Duncan, Joey (Rebecca English) Schopp, Zach Smetzer, Justine Smetzer, Carli Smetzer, Joshua Rowe, and 23 great grandchildren; and one sister: Joan (Jerry) Durham of Pontiac, IL. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, and one great-grandson: Larry Joseph Gray.

Donna graduated from Pontiac Township High School in 1957. She devoted her early years to being a loving homemaker while raising her children. Once her children were in school, she began her career at St. James Hospital, where she worked for more than 20 years prior to retiring.

She was a proud and faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the Town & Country/Fiesta Women's Bowling League, both in Pontiac.

Donna was a talented seamstress who created exquisite wedding and baptismal gowns, bridesmaid, prom, and first communion dresses and clothing for her family and friends. She also found joy in painting pottery, macramé, crocheting, and reading. Over the years, she built an extravagant collection of dolls, Barbies, and lawn ornaments.

Above all else, Donna cherished her family. She was happiest when her grandchildren and great-grandchildren came to visit—especially on Halloween, when she delighted in seeing them dressed up in their costumes.

Donna’s pride and joy was her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, and making as many loving memories with them as possible. Those memories will forever be remembered and cherished by those who loved her most.

She will truly be missed by all of those who knew her and loved her.

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

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