Calvert & Martin Funeral Homes, 413 N. Main Street, Pontiac, IL (2025)

09/06/2025

Mrs. Billie Sue Semmens, 43, of Pontiac, passed away at home surrounded by her family at 1:16 P.M. on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at her home in Pontiac, Illinois.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M., on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church, 219 N Chicago St, Pontiac, IL 61764. Funeral services will follow at 6:00 P.M. also at the church. Revs. Gretchen Stinebaugh and Tiffany Black officiating. Interment will be held privately at Southside Cemetery in Pontiac, Il.

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

Billie was born on May 4, 1982, in Naples, Florida, the daughter of Dan Lee and Ellen Kay (Walker) Wickman. She was united in marriage to Jeffrey C. Semmens on August 28, 2004, at the First United Methodist Church in Pontiac, IL.

Billie is survived by her father; Dan Lee Wickman; her loving daughters, Makinzi (Austin ) Semmens-Norman and Payton Semmens both of Pontiac, IL; her two granddaughters, Scarlette Norman and Charlotte Norman, her three brothers, DJ (Kassie) Wickman, David Wickman and Michael Wickman; a sister-in-law, Ruth Schlosser, and her brother-in-law, Donald Semmens; her three nieces, Olyvia, Jasmine and Adesynne. and one nephew, Alex.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Ellen Kay Wickman, her mother-in-law, Carol Herdien and loving husband Jeffrey C. Semmens.

Billie was known for her kindness and helping heart. She was a nurse for 11 years and continued to work until a month before her passing. It was so inspiring to watch her take care of others every single day while she was fighting her own battles behind closed doors. She has been nominated for the daisy award over five times and received the daisy award for her amazing patient care. Billie loved spending time with her granddaughters more than anything. She was the best grandma for those girls; her and Scarlette were best friends and made such great memories together. Billie also had a strong love for the racetrack. For years she was a supportive wife cheering on her husband and then was even happier when she got to cheer on her two daughters. Family was the most important thing to Billie, she was happy to have such a strong bond with her daughters, and she absolutely adored her dog, Bella. She enjoyed nothing more than travelling and spending time with her whole family. Anyone who knew Billie was lucky to have known such an inspiring and encouraging person. She fought her cancer hard until the end and you would never have known she was fighting such a tough battle. Billie was the strongest fighter; she never gave up and never complained about the cards she was dealt with. Billie’s memory will never be forgotten, and it gives us peace knowing she touched the lives of so many people

Memorial donations in Billie’s name may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 219 N Chicago St, Pontiac, IL 61764.
Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

09/04/2025

Carl F. Durham, 95, of Pontiac, IL passed away peacefully on the morning of Sunday, August 31st, 2025.

Carl was born in Pontiac on March 29th, 1930 to James and Virgie Tolbert Durham. He married his love, Rita Mae Durham (States) on September 24th, 1949. She preceded him in death on January 30th, 2014. He was also preceded in death by, one sister Bernice Roof, and three brothers, William, Duane and Raymond “Duke” Durham.

He is survived by his two children, Sandra Durham and Carla (Don) Chandler of Pontiac, three grandchildren, Maggie (Justin) Zimmer, Derek (Christy) Chandler and Carrie Chandler, as well as two great-grandchildren, Logan and Tyler. He is also survived by one sister, Stella Hicks of Pontiac, along with many nieces and nephews.

Carl was a loving and devoted father and grandfather, deeply committed to his family and always present in their lives. His warmth and guidance extended beyond his own family, often serving as a father or grandfather figure to many
others in the community. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, an experience that shaped his lifelong values of discipline, integrity, and service to others.

A proud community member and lifelong tradesman, Carl went on to found Durham Electric Inc. in 1978 to better serve his community. The company remains in operation today as a family-run business — a lasting tribute to his hard work and dedication.,

Carl had a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. He found peace in fishing and took great pride in caring for his horses. Among his most treasured memories were the summers he spent with his daughters and wife, Rita, in Montague, Michigan, where they vacationed for decades with their extended Michigan family. That tradition continues to this day through their
grandchildren.

Carl was an enthusiastic supporter of his grandchildren’s talents and endeavors, always showing up with pride and encouragement. His presence and support were constant reminders of his unwavering love for his family. He will be remembered not only for his dedication and work ethic but also for the kindness, steadiness, and quiet strength he brought into the lives of so many.

Per Carl’s wishes, a private graveside ceremony will be held at Southside Cemetery in Pontiac on September 8th, 2025.

In Lieu of flowers or memorials, the family invites you to share pictures and stories of Carl at https://everloved.com/life-of/carl-durham/.

Donations in Carl’s honor can be made to Marine Corps Toys for Tots at http://secure.toysfortots.org

09/04/2025

Michael W. Dietz, 69, of Pontiac passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at his home. He was born on July 25, 1956 in Pontiac, the son of Wayne and Jean Cole Dietz. He married Tatsumi Kamiya on December 22, 1978. She survives.

In addition to his wife, Michael is survived by two children, Ashley (Wade) Cromer and Lucas Dietz; five grandchildren, Aiden, Christian, Felicia, Destiny, and Taylor; and two great grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Brian (May) Dietz; and two sisters, Jennifer (June) Dietz, and Karen Hallam.

He is preceded in death by a son, Jeremiah Dietz.

Michael served his country in the United States Marine Corps.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 11th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Duffy-Baier-Snedecor Funeral Home in Pontiac.

09/03/2025

Ann Elizabeth Kane, 72, formerly of Maryland, passed away Thursday, August 28, 2025, at her home in Fort Myers, Florida.

A Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on September 8, 2025, at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Chatsworth, Illinois. There will be no visitation.

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

Ann is survived by her three siblings, Gregory (Kathy) Kane of Pocatello, Idaho, Michael (Joan) Kane of Cullom, Illinois, and Jo Ellen Kane of Fort Myers, Florida, nephews Patrick Kane, Sean Kane and Daniel Kane and great-niece Annabelle Kane and great-nephew Elliott Kane.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul James Kane and Thelma Josephine (Bertsche) Kane, and a brother, James Eric Kane.

After graduating from Tri-Point High School, she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Illinois State University. Ann worked as a day care center director in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois until moving to Washington, DC in 1980. In DC, she worked for an education nonprofit, and later as an elementary school teacher for the District of Columbia Public Schools, where she remained until her retirement. Ann was a sports fan and especially loved rooting for the Cubs. She co-founded Capitol City Little League, serving as President of the organization for twenty years.

Memorial donations in Ann’s name may be made to: World Central Kitchen, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Irish American Partnership.

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

09/01/2025

Dolores Ann (Grundler) Locke, age 99, of Pontiac, IL, passed away peacefully at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Accolade Healthcare of Pontiac.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pontiac, Illinois on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Father Robert Rayson presiding. Visitation will be at the church starting at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Pontiac, IL. A luncheon will follow at the church.

Dolores was born on August 4, 1926, in Pontiac, IL, to Charles Grundler and Frances (Alfter) Grundler. She married Meryl E. Locke on May 15, 1946, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pontiac, upon his return from serving in World War II. They were married for 64 wonderful years before he passed away on March 2, 2011. Dolores and Meryl suffered the loss of their only son, Thomas Meryl Locke, in 1989.

She is survived by her daughter-in-law: Rev. Patricia H. Locke of Holland, MI; two grandchildren: Ashley (Peter) Gosselar of Oak Park, IL, and Benjamin (Anna) Locke of Grand Rapids, MI; three adored great-grandchildren: Greta, Thomas, and Henry. She is also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews, and Dr. Rebecca Patterson of Chicago, IL, who was like a granddaughter to her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband and son, and brother, John Grundler.

Dolores lived in Pontiac all her life, and was a source of wisdom about town history. She graduated from Pontiac High School, and worked in several jobs over the years.

Dolores enjoyed her employment at a ladies apparel store in Pontiac, and was the supervisor at Brockton Heel Company in the 1960’s until their closing in the 1980’s.
She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, and a card club for over 60 years.

Dolores enjoyed long drives with her husband, shopping, and watching the Vermillion Players. She had an eye for fashion and enjoyed dressing nicely. Dolores treasured her family and friends. She was known for her kindness, loyal friendship, and her big heart.

Dolores especially enjoyed her grandchildren and great grandchildren and making countless memories together that will stay with them forever. She truly was the best mom, mother-in-law, grandma, and friend.

She will be forever missed by all of those who were lucky enough to have known her.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Vermillion Players, or to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Calvert and Martin Funeral Home is entrusted with her arrangements.

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

08/20/2025

Wanda Rae Piller, 89, resident of Cedarhurst of Yorkville, and formerly of Pontiac, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025 at the home. She was born October 28, 1935 in Graymont, the daughter of John and Rachel Bohm Schaefer. She married Delbert Piller on August 26, 1956 in Graymont. He preceded her in death on April 14, 2020.

Wanda is survived by a son, Todd (Kim) Piller; a daughter, Cheryl (Mike) Watts; a granddaughter, Ashley (Chris) Morecraft; two great grandchildren, Brooklyn and Aubrey Morecraft; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Wanda is preceded in death by a grandson, Christopher Watts; a brother, Jack Schaefer; and two sisters, Mary Huffman and Betty Pratt.

She attended Graymont and Pontiac schools, graduating from Pontiac High School. She was a kindergarten teacher for 27 years at Long Beach Elementary in Montgomery. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Pontiac. She also belonged to the Pontiac Elks Club. Wanda enjoyed birdwatching, doing jigsaw puzzles, and traveling. She and her husband would travel to Arizona every winter.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 6th at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Pontiac. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow the service at Rooks Creek Cemetery in Flanagan.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Pontiac or the Alzheimer’s Association.

08/08/2025

Joan Darlene Blocker, 81, of Pontiac, passed away Thursday, August 7, 2025 at OSF St. James Hospital in Pontiac. She was born September 10, 1943, the daughter of Lynn and Mildred Fortna Sutton. She married Linus "Lenny" Blocker on December 2, 1961 in Pontiac. He preceded her in death on August 16, 2009.

Joan is survived by her two children, Phillip Blocker and Lynette (Robert) Branz. She is also survived by a brother, Warren Sutton, brother-in-law, William (Sue) Blocker; two nieces, Pam (Rick) Immke and Julie Sutton; and two nephews, Randy (Michelle) Sutton and Brent (Amanda) Blocker.

In addition to her parents and husband, Joan is preceded in death by a brother, Allen Sutton; a sister, Mary Whitrock; and a brother in infancy.

Joan attended Saunemin schools, and graduated from Saunemin High School. She was a longtime member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pontiac. Joan worked a variety of jobs over the years including the Bank of Pontiac, Johnson Press, and was a daycare provider. Her greatest joy was being outside, with a knack for gardening and flowers. She also enjoyed doing karaoke with a group of friends She was a member of her breakfast club which met every morning at the Old Log Cabin. Joan loved animals, especially cats. She was also known as a quite the daredevil who loved roller coasters, zip-lining, and would have tried skydiving if the weather hadn't had other plans. She will be remembered as an excellent friend who would lend a hand to help anybody. Joan’s children say she was an excellent mom who will be missed terribly.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, August 13th at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pontiac. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the Mass at the church. Burial will follow the Mass at Patty Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Livingston County Humane Society, the American Heart Association, or the American Cancer Society.

08/06/2025

Mary Ann Hill passed away peacefully at 5:15 pm on 8/5/2025 in her home. Mary Ann Hill was the only child born to Bernice (Gerkin) Hill & Albert Hill on March 31, 1955 at Gibson City Hospital in Gibson City, Illinois. The family moved from Melvin, IL in 1958 to Chatsworth.

Mary Ann graduated from Chatsworth High School in 1973. She attended the 50th Class Reunion in 2023.

She worked at many different jobs over the years. She worked at Costello's Grocery Store from 1976-1980. She also worked at Sears Catalog Store in the 1980's.

In 1987 Bernice & Mary Ann moved to Fairbury, IL where she worked for Zimmerman Hardware until 1989. During this time Bernice & Mary Ann transferred membership from Chatsworth St. Paul Lutheran Church to Fairbury Trinity Lutheran.

In 1989, Mary Ann moved to Pontiac, IL to live alone. When she moved to Pontiac, IL, she started working at Ace Hardware where she met the love of her life Larry Liming. While in Pontiac she also worked at K-Mart, Lynn Chevrolet, and Caterpillar. Her final employer was City of Pontiac Tourism Department. This position lasted for 10 years. She retired June 30, 2025. Mary Ann loved this job. She got to talk to people all over the world, from Iceland, South Africa, Isle of Mann and many other amazing places.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother Albert passed away February 9, 1976. Bernice passed away February 4, 1991.

She is survived by a few cousins. Rose Martin- Hazel Crest, IL. Judy Carlson- Normal, IL Helen (John) Engemann, Frankfort, IL. Edwin (Linda) Gerken- Auburn, IL. Darelynn Merryman- Litchfield, IL. Mary Ann was also survived by the love of her life Larry Liming and children Jeff Liming , Chenoa, IL, Sue (Tony) Larson, Pontiac IL and Chris Liming Pontiac, IL.

Mary Ann received much care and support in her final weeks from Larry & his dear daughter, Sue (Tony) Larson, Pontiac IL. She also had loving care from Larry's granddaughters. Pamela Wonders (Ryan) Pontiac, IL , Stephanie Larson, Tabatha Miller (Joey). Also, she is survived by several great grandchildren of Larrys.

Any donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Mary Ann's funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 9th at noon at Duffy-Baier-Snedecor Funeral Home, 903 W Custer, Pontiac IL 61764. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be private.

08/05/2025

Carolyn Joan Scott, 93, of Kempton, IL, Bettendorf, IA, and Broomfield, CO, passed away on January 31, 2025, in Broomfield, Colorado.

A graveside service will be held on August 18, 2025, at Kempton Hill Cemetery in Kempton, Illinois. Calvert-Martin Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Carolyn was born on July 8, 1931, in Kempton, Illinois, to Clarence K. and Ida (Hunn-Kerr) Dowse. She attended Kempton High School and later attended Illinois Wesleyan College in Bloomington.

Carolyn dedicated her career to education and worked as a middle school teacher at Bettendorf Middle School in Bettendorf, Iowa.

She is survived by her daughter, Sherrill Scott of Eldridge, IA; her son, Kevin D. Scott of Boulder, CO; her granddaughter, Adrianne (Adi) Johnson of Ames, IA; and two great-grandchildren, Samantha and Aubrey Johnson of Ames, IA.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Richard Dowse of Arizona; and her sister, Elaine Dowse Steinke of Leawood, Kansas.

She was Methodist by faith and will be remembered for her kindness, beautiful smile, and caring heart. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

07/28/2025

Mary L. Svoboda, age 75, of Pontiac, IL, passed away at 11:40 p.m. on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Accolade Healthcare in Pontiac.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Per her wishes, there will be no services at this time.

Memorials in her memory may be made to the family.

Calvert and Martin Funeral Home is entrusted with her arrangements.

Mary was born on April 18, 1950, in Berwyn, IL, to Thomas and Doris (Engstrom) Courchene. They preceded her in death.

Survivors include one daughter: Kerin (Dave White) Larson of Odell, IL; one granddaughter: Kinzie (Ryan Schell) Horsley of Dwight, IL; one great-granddaughter: Myla Schell; one brother: Tom Courchene; one sister: Kathy (Gregg) Widaman; and several nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Mary graduated in 1968 from Downs Grove North High School.

Mary enjoyed planning parties and having social gatherings. She enjoyed having the company of everyone and being able to share that fellowship with her loved ones. She also loved to fish. Above all, she loved her family. She was the best Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma, Sister, and Aunt to her beloved family.

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

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

07/23/2025

Daniel “Dan” Otis Erickson, known to many as Rollie, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on July 23, 2025, at Evenglow Lodge in Pontiac.

Dan was born on March 29, 1958, to Art and Rita Erickson in Pontiac, IL. He married the love of his life, Lori Krominga, on August 16, 1980, in Odell, IL. She survives in Pontiac.

He is also survived by his children: Adam (Chelsey) Erickson, Amanda (Randy) Lauth, and Nathan Erickson; his beloved grandchildren, Logan and Levi Lauth; and his honorary daughter, Liz Carlos, who held a special place in his heart.

Dan is remembered by his siblings: Jerry (Rose Mary) Erickson, Michael (Deanna) Erickson, Mary Jo Norgaard, and Linda (Maynard) Erickson; sisters-in-law Sandy Erickson and Leann Erickson; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Rita Erickson; siblings Judy Roberts, Diane Schott, John Erickson, Jim Erickson, and Benny Erickson; sister-in-law Kathy Erickson; and brothers-in-law Jim Schott and Terry Norgaard.

Dan grew up in Odell, IL, and spent over 30 years working at Interlake. He had a deep love for antique steam engines and tractors, which he kept running in honor of his parents. Dan cherished his family and would do anything for them.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 26th 11 a.m. at Duffy-Baier-Snedecor Funeral Home in Pontiac. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorials in Dan’s name may be made to the Central States Threshermen’s Reunion or the Children’s Hospital of Illinois.

07/16/2025

Anna C. “Ann” Legner, 95, of Pontiac, Illinois died July 15, 2025 in her home.

Ann was born October 27, 1929, in Chenoa, Illinois to Albert and Violet Chapman. She married Harold E. “Pink” Legner in St. Louis, Missouri on July 28, 1947.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter in infancy, her husband, a son (Steven), a grandson (Michael Frank), 2 sons-in-law (Billy Frank and James Alexander), a great-great grandson (Bash Urbanksi), a sister (Mary Dodson) and a brother (Francis Chapman).

She is survived by 2 daughters Patricia L. “Pat” Frank and Lee Ann Alexander, 4 grandsons Cory Legner (Jennifer), Brad Legner (Carrie), Matthew Alexander (Sunny), Jason Alexander, and a granddaughter, Kristen E. Frank (Kim Towner). Ann is also survived by numerous great grandsons, great granddaughters, a great-great granddaughter, nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces, and great-great nephews and nieces. She is also survived by very, very special friends—The Joe Moore Family and the Bob Footer Family.

Ann belonged to the Setruicia Class (Church), was a Sunday School teacher, a deacon at the First Presbyterian Church, a lifetime auxiliary member of Post 78 and VIM, a 4-H leader, and a member of the First Presbyterian Church for over 70 years.

She worked at Louis Allis, Motorola and retired from R.R. Donnelly.

Thank you to her 5 am walking friends at the Pontiac Recreation Center. Your dedication to community and exercise brought her so much joy. You made her 95 years of healthy living possible.

The funeral will be held on Friday, July 18th at 10 am at the First Presbyterian Church in Pontiac, Illinois, 209 W. Livingston Street, Pontiac, Illinois 61764. with Pastor JD Buchenau officiating. Her burial will be in Chenoa Cemetery, Route 24.
Friends may call from 5 pm to 7 pm on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Duffy-Baier-Snedecor Funeral Home, 903 West Custer Avenue, Pontiac, Illinois 61764.

The family suggests memorials be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Pontiac, Illinois or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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