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Law Jones Cremation and Funeral Care, 309 Chicago Avenue, Savanna, IL (2026)

03/06/2026

Linnea Elizabeth Belt

Linnea Elizabeth Belt, age 90, of Morrison, Illinois, passed away on March 3, 2026, at Allure Nursing Home. She was born on September 9, 1935, in Morrison, Illinois, the daughter of Seth and Florence (Lind) Nelson.

Linnea was a first‑generation American and 100% Swedish, a heritage she carried with deep pride. Her parents were Swedish immigrant farmers who, in 1946, sold everything they owned to travel by boat back to Sweden. A year later, the family returned to Coleta, Illinois, where they continued to farm. Those early experiences shaped Linnea’s lifelong connection to Sweden, and she traveled back many times throughout her childhood and adulthood to visit family and maintain the ties that meant so much to her.

She graduated from Milledgeville High School with the Class of 1955. From 1955 to 1960, Linnea worked for Western Union as a telegrapher.

On October 14, 1956, Linnea married Frank Belt, and together they built a life rooted in family and farming. When her children were young, she devoted herself to being a -homemaker and farm wife. She drove a tractor, ran a baler, and fed the calves. In 1988, Linnea began working at Farm & Fleet in Sterling, Illinois, remaining there until her retirement in 2008.

Linnea was a longtime member of Bethesda Lutheran Church in Morrison, where her Swedish roots found a natural home. She enjoyed reading, keeping up with the world around her, and watching sports on television, always ready to cheer on her favorite teams.

Linnea is survived by her daughter, Lori (Jon) Keppen of Chadwick, IL; her son, Dale (Lori) Belt of Morrison, IL; three grandchildren, Dustin (Cassie) Belt, Brandon Belt, and Matt (Anna) Keppen; and one great-grandchild, Kennedy Belt. Linnea is predeceased by her parents, Seth and Florence, and her husband, Frank.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Law Jones Funeral Home, in Mt. Carroll. Visitation will take place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., prior to the service. Burial will follow at Grove Hill Cemetery, in Morrison.

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03/03/2026

John F Eversoll

John F. Eversoll passed away at home with his family by his side on Monday, March 2, 2026. He is a beloved husband, father, grandfather, community volunteer, and lifelong friend to many.

John was born December 16, 1937 and raised in Elizabeth from early childhood. He enjoyed playing basketball in high school and graduated with the Class of 1955. Soon after high school, John met the love of his life, Susan Lee Schneider. They began dating and were married on March 23, 1957. They raised two sons, Scott and Craig, and celebrated 68 years of marriage.

John delighted in his grandchildren, Jennifer and Jessica, and cherished the special place each held in his life, especially his great grandson, little Theodore John, who carried on the family name. John worked as a Carpenter most of his life, but what he enjoyed building the most were friendships.

John’s passions were many and pursued with wholehearted enthusiasm. An avid angler, he spent decades fishing lakes from northern Wisconsin and Ontario to Florida and all the way to Brazil, making lifelong friends on the water and even catching his last muskie at age 87. His skill and patience were matched by a love for woodworking: he crafted musky lures, wooden crosses —known affectionately as “Johnny crosses”— and displayed his handiwork at local fairs and craft booths. These gifts, small and large, were given freely and often, leaving a quiet legacy in homes and hearts across his community and beyond.

John remained a lifelong supporter of local schools and high school basketball — announcing games with WCCI and working the scoreboard for Elizabeth High School and River Ridge for 30 years.

He also served on the Elizabeth Fair Board and the Apple River Fort Foundation, was active in the Lions Club and Boy Scouts. Whether running the scoreboard, sharing stories on the air with colleagues, or simply stopping to visit with neighbors, John was deeply involved in the life of Elizabeth and River Ridge.

John was preceded in death by his parents, sister Barbara Beck and two infant sisters. He is survived by his wife Susan of Elizabeth; sons J Scott Eversoll of Rhinelander, WI and Craig (Elizabeth) Eversoll of Verona, WI; two granddaughters, Jennifer (Collin) Ryan and Jessica (Ryan Staege) Eversoll; a great grandson, Theodore John; a niece and two nephews and a wide circle of friends who will miss his stories, his laughter, and his steady friendship.

A funeral service will be held at 11 AM Friday, March 6, 2026 at the Elizabeth Methodist Church, visitation will be held prior to the service from 9 to 11 AM at the church. Burial will be in the Elizabeth Cemetery, and a luncheon will follow at the church.

In Lieu of flowers, the family invites you to give a donation to the Elizabeth United Methodist Church, the Apple River Fort Foundation, or Hospice of Dubuque.

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03/03/2026

Lyle Hartman

Lyle H. Hartman

April 4, 1928 — January 13, 2026

Lyle Herbert Hartman, age 97, of Savanna, Illinois passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at Sunrise Senior Living in Tucson, Arizona. A memorial service will be held Friday, April 10, at First Evangelical Lutheran Church, in Mt. Carroll, at 11 a.m. Visitation will take place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Savanna Township Cemetery.

Lyle was born on April 4, 1928 in Savanna, Illinois, the second son of William Floyd Hartman and Edna Marie (Schuchard) Hartman. He attended Mt. Carroll High School and graduated with the class of 1946.

Lyle married Barbara Bess (Taylor) at the Savanna Community Church on February 23, 1958. They were married 59 years before Barbara passed away on July 8, 2017.

Upon graduation, Lyle worked on the family farm outside of Mt. Carroll before enlisting in the United States Navy, where he served as an aviation machinist’s mate from 1951 to 1955. During his time in the Navy, Lyle was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia and Lakehurst, New Jersey. Upon leaving the Navy, Lyle returned to Mt. Carroll to continue farming, and later worked as a driver’s license examiner for the State of Illinois, then retired as a security guard at the Savanna Army Depot, all while continuing to farm the family farm outside of Mt. Carroll.

He was a lifelong member of First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mt. Carroll. He was also a member of the Mt. Carroll American Legion and NARFE. In his spare time, he enjoyed traveling, playing cribbage, reading, farming, and spending time with family.

Lyle will be dearly missed by his three children, Susan (Mike) Herman of Pflugerville, Texas, Bill Hartman of Waterloo, Iowa, and Sharon (John) Hartmann of Marana, Arizona; three grandchildren, Caitlin (Joshua) Voigt of Arizona City, Arizona, Reese (Gail) Hartmann of Oro Valley, Arizona, and Major Aaron (Tracy) Hartmann, U.S. Air Force, Minot, North Dakota; and six great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Robert, and his wife, Barbara.

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03/03/2026

Dena Rae Miller

Dena Rae Miller, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, peacefully passed away Monday, March 2, 2026 at home in the loving care of her family and MercyOne Hospice. A Funeral Mass will be held 11 AM Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church in Savanna. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the Mass in the church. Inurnment will be in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery. A luncheon will follow.

Dena was born June 8, 1940, in Savanna, the daughter of Harold “Ted” and Blanche (Smith) Douglas. She attended Savanna schools with the Class of 1958.

She began dating the love of her life, Walter “Walt” Miller upon his return from his time in the Airforce. On April 16, 1957 Dena and Walt were married. They raised two children, Leann and Colette, and celebrated 68 years of marriage.

Dena worked for many years in the local drugstore, first at Hogan’s Drugstore and later at Stout’s Pharmacy—where she served for decades as a pharmacy technician. She retired in 2007.

Her greatest loves, beyond Walt, were her family and the simple pleasures that made life bright. She delighted in antiquing and shopping, gardening and flowers, and crafting jewelry. Dena’s creativity and eye for small treasures helped make family outings into lasting memories. She was an enthusiastic aunt, mother and grandmother who passed along a love of finding special things and of spending time together.

Dena is survived by her husband, Walter “Walt” Miller of Savanna; her daughters, Leann (Danny Joe) Themas of Bettendorf, Iowa, and Colette Miller of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; her grandsons Eric (Katelyn) Themas and David Cox; and six great-grandchildren, Leonardo, Jack, Leeland and Tucker Themas, Jagger and Jensen Cox. She was also devoted to her beloved dog, Chloe, a constant companion. She was preceded in death by her brother, John “Jack” Douglas, and two sisters, Renee Bogue and Sally Salazar.

The family offers heartfelt thanks to the staff of MercyOne Hospice, especially Brittany and Carrie, whose compassion and care made Dena’s final months gentler for her and for her family.

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03/02/2026

Lois Carol Nycum

Lois Carol Nycum Brubaker, age 106, of Lanark, Illinois, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, at Parkview Nursing Home in Freeport, Illinois. A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 6, at 12:00 noon at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mt. Carroll, Illinois. Visitation will take place at the church from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Lanark Cemetery.

Lois Carol was born on August 19, 1919, on a farm near Lanark to Floyd D. and Evelyn (Stitzel) Zuck. Her early childhood was spent on the family farm until age 13, when the family moved into town. She attended Lanark Public Schools, graduating in 1937 as valedictorian of her class, an early reflection of the diligence and determination that would guide her throughout her life.

After high school, Lois began her career as a school secretary, serving faithfully until 1940, when she enrolled at Brown’s College of Commerce in Freeport. Upon completing the Secretarial Course, she became the Executive Secretary–Treasurer of the Agricultural Service Co-op in Carroll County, Mt. Carroll. It was there that she met Frederick F. Nycum, the man who would become her husband. They were married on May 21, 1950, and shared 61 years of devoted marriage until Frederick’s passing on May 24, 2011.

In 1951, Lois began working for Blackhawk Production Credit in Carroll County, where she often remarked that she enjoyed working closely with the farmers of the region. She remained in that role until stepping away to care for her parents during their time of declining health, an act of love and loyalty that defined her character.

Following Frederick’s death, Lois renewed a friendship from her business school days, and on December 16, 2012, she married Donald Brubaker. The couple made their home at Parkview Home in Freeport. Lois continued to reside there after Donald’s passing on January 10, 2016.

Faith was a constant thread throughout Lois’s life. Baptized at age ten in the Church of the Brethren, she later became a member of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mt. Carroll. After moving to Freeport, she attended Park Hills Evangelical Free Church. Wherever she worshipped, she was a dedicated and supportive member, always interested in the mission and ministry of the church.

Lois was also deeply engaged in her community. She served in numerous capacities within the Carroll County H.C.E. for more than 60 years and was an active member and officer of the Mt. Carroll Community Club. Her commitment to service, fellowship, and civic life enriched the communities she loved.

She and Frederick shared a love of travel, taking many motor trips across the United States and Canada and exploring numerous national parks. Lois also enjoyed music, reading, composing poetry, and spending time with friends. Her life was filled with curiosity, creativity, and a genuine appreciation for the world around her.

Survivors include many nieces, nephews, and cousins from the second and third generations, all of whom cherished her presence and her stories. One of Lois Carol’s fondest memories was greeting a large gathering of relatives and friends at the open house held in her honor for her 100th birthday, a celebration of a life well lived and a testament to the many lives she touched. She continued making friends throughout her long life, always welcoming new connections with warmth and grace.

She was preceded in death by her parents, both husbands, and many cousins and friends.

Memorials may be given to a church of your choice or to Parkview Home of Freeport, Illinois.

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03/02/2026

Jesse D. Fosdick Sr.

Jesse Duane Fosdick Sr., age 83, a lifelong resident of Savanna, passed away Saturday, February 28, 2026.

Born on January 29, 1943, in Savanna, Illinois, Jesse was the son of Charles and Pearl (Sopko) Fosdick. Growing up he developed a deep and enduring love for his hometown and the surrounding nature. He attended Savanna schools and later met the love of his life, Sue Snow, at his sister Martha’s restaurant in Savanna. Jesse and Sue were married on June 4th, and recently celebrated an incredible 60 years together.

A true "simple man" and a rugged outdoorsman, Jesse made his living as a commercial fisherman on the river for his entire life. Jesse was most at home in nature. If there was a season for it, he was hunting or fishing it, and he proudly passed this passion down to his boys. He loved taking long drives to simply look at the river, hanging out with his buddies, and playing cards, especially Texas Hold 'em and euker.

Jesse lived life exactly the way he wanted to. While he could admittedly be a little stubborn at times, he had a remarkably kind heart and was always the first to help anyone in need. Above all else, Jesse loved his family. He was a proud husband, father, and "Poppa," cherishing every moment spent with his grandchildren. He also had a soft spot for animals, leaving behind his beloved little dog Tigger.

Jesse will be dearly missed by his wife Susan Fosdick; his sons, Chuck (Tina) Fosdick, Jesse (Amy) Fosdick Jr., and Timothy (Renee) Fosdick Sr.; his grandchildren, Jesse Fosdick III, Tyler Fosdick, Austin (Lexi) Fosdick, Paige (Mitch Johnson) Miller, and Timothy (Maya) Fosdick Jr.; his great-grandchildren, Kimberly, Delilah, Eloise, Lexi, Wyatt, and Clementine; his brother, Stanley (Carolyn) Fosdick, and his sisters, Martha Gilmore and Daisy Reynolds. Jesse is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Pearl; his grandson, Timothy Dylan Fosdick; and his siblings Frank and Betty.

A celebration of Jesse’s life will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Law Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. Per the family’s request and in true Jesse fashion, attendees are encouraged to dress casually.

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02/26/2026

Glenn Norman Anderson

Glenn Norman Anderson, age 81, of South Beloit, IL, passed away on February 23, 2026 at Beloit Memorial Hospital. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Glenn was born in Lowry, MN, on September 19, 1944, the son of Norman and Ada (Paulson) Anderson. He grew up in Minnesota, before moving to the Rockford area to work with Ingersol Milling Machine Company, ultimately retiring from the company.

Glenn is survived by his daughter, Cindy Moll; grandchildren, Travis Anderson and Ashley Strehlow; great grandchildren, Hayden, Lucas, and Jackson; sister, Cheryl Chan; significant other, Marion Gallister; and nephews, Joey Zwieg, Kyle Chan, and Kent Chan. Glenn is preceded in death by his parents and his son, Jerry Anderson.

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02/25/2026

Linda Louise Pratt

Linda Louise Pratt, 80, of Hanover, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on February 24, 2026. A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 7, at Law Jones Funeral Home, in Hanover, at 11 a.m. Visitation will take place from 9 a.m. to 11a.m., prior to the service. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery, in Hanover. Memorials may be made to the Hanover Presbyterian Church.

Born October 5, 1945, to Wilfred and Margaret (Virtue) Armstrong, Linda grew up in Hanover and graduated from Hanover High School with the Class of 1963. Determined and ambitious, she went on to earn a diploma in communications and personnel from the Personnel Training Institute in Omaha, Nebraska. Soon after, she accepted a position with Western Union in New York City; a decision that would change the course of her life.

One day, Linda was asked to pick up her close friend’s brother at Grand Central Station. She agreed without hesitation, unaware that this simple favor would lead her to the love of her life. That young man was Forrest E. “Butch” Pratt, Jr. The two were married on June 27, 1964, in Hanover, beginning a devoted marriage that would last until Butch’s passing in 2012.

For the first two decades of their marriage, Butch served in the U.S. Navy, and together they moved more than twenty times. Their three children were each born in different states, and through every transition Linda created a warm, steady home. She embraced the challenges of military life with grace, raising children, managing households, and taking on various jobs whenever opportunities arose.

When Butch retired from the Navy, the couple faced the question of where to plant their roots. Linda suggested they choose between her hometown of Hanover or Butch’s hometown of Neponset, leaving the final decision to him. Butch chose Hanover, drawn to the natural beauty of the area, and together they returned to the community that had shaped Linda’s early years.

Back home, Linda worked as a cook at The Distillery Restaurant and Bar in Hanover, then at JR’s in Elizabeth, before finishing her career at Eaton Corporation. She later retired to care for her aging mother, a commitment she honored with daily sacrifice, patience, and love.

Linda had a deep appreciation for family history and spent countless hours researching genealogy. She was a longtime member of the Hanover Presbyterian Church, where she faithfully served as treasurer for many years. Her service extended beyond the church; Linda dedicated 19 years as an EMT in both Hanover and Elizabeth.

She adored her grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them. Some of her happiest days were spent riding in the car with Butch, exploring the countryside, visiting the river to watch the eagles, and revisiting places from her childhood. She loved sharing stories about how things used to be, sharing in the nostalgia with family and friends.

Linda will be dearly missed by her son, Jerry Pratt, of Savanna, IL; daughter, Karen (Matt) Nelson, of Walford, IA; ten grandchildren, Jason (Justine) Kloss, Jennifer (Adam) Krahmer, Janessa (Troy) Pafford, Nicholas Richmond, Nathan (Madison Stulc) Pratt, Sarah Pratt, Andrew Pratt, Rachel Nelson, Elliott Nelson, and Daniel Nelson; 11 great-grandchildren; sister, Marjorie (Rod) Brand; brother, John (Cheri) Armstrong; and son-in-law, Dick Richmond. Linda is preceded in death by her parents, Wilfred and Margaret; husband, Butch; daughter, Peggy Richmond; grandson, Austin Nelson; and sister, Nancy McKinley.

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02/25/2026

Marie Elenore Lartz

Marie Elenore Lartz, age 67, of Mt. Carroll, Illinois, passed away at home on February 23, 2026. A celebration of Marie’s life will be held Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Law Jones Funeral Home, in Mt. Carroll, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Marie was born on September 17, 1958, in Blue Island, Illinois, the daughter of Peter and Helen (Wagner) Druett. Marie spent her early childhood in Blue Island, a suburb of Chicago, before her family moved to Savanna.

Marie graduated from Savanna High School and went on to earn her Associate Degree in Engineering from Morrison Institute of Technology. She began her career working for Jo Carroll Vocational Center, where she taught drafting, then later at the Savanna Army Depot, where she worked for many years. After the depot’s closing, she continued her working career at Rubbermaid in Freeport, Illinois. On June 13, 1986, Marie married the love of her life, Michael Lartz.

Creativity was woven into every part of Marie’s life. She loved sewing and could often be found at Keep You Sewing in Clinton, Iowa, where she regularly attended sewing and quilting classes. She had a gift for crafting, sewing blankets for family, making Barbie clothes and tiny tents for the kids, and entering her paintings and handmade items in local county fairs. Over the years, she earned numerous ribbons, each one a small testament to her talent and joy in creating.

Marie also loved tending to her flowers and caring for her dogs, both of which brought her comfort and companionship. In her younger years, she enjoyed bowling and even coached youth bowling.

Above all, Marie’s heart belonged to her family. She loved being a mother and grandmother, and she welcomed her daughters‑in‑law as if they were her own children. She was always ready to tag along with any member of her family, whether for an errand, an outing, or simply to spend time together.

Marie’s legacy is one of creativity, kindness, and unwavering devotion to the people she loved. She will be dearly missed by her children, Chris (Beth) Goss, of West Bend, WI, Chris (Sandi) Lartz, of Normal, IL, Lillian Lartz, of Mt. Carroll, IL, and Thad (Nicole) Lartz, of Tampico, IL; grandchildren, David (Amy), Kassidy (Jadyn), Reid, Megan, Justin, Makenzie (Dakota), and Alexandra; and three great-grandchildren. Marie is preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Helen; husband Mike; son, Billy (infant); and grandson, Gavin Lartz.

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02/25/2026

Arlene Ann Kaatz

Not long after the sun set on February 23rd, 2026, Arlene Ann (Bonk) Kaatz peacefully joined the angels she was so wanting to see. Known for her perfect white smile and boundless kindness, empathy, and compassion, Arlene touched everyone with her gentle, welcoming spirit. She was a devoted Christian her entire life.

Arlene was born September 5th, 1952. She was raised on the south side of Chicago by her parents Jim and Mary (Bucz) Bonk in a hard working, loving family with older sister Kathy and younger brother Jim. After high school she worked as a lab tech and traveled around the country. She became friends with a coworker, Kim. At a house party Arlene met Kim's brother Kraig. Arlene married the love of her life Kraig on August 13th, 1977. They moved to Oak Forest, IL where they built a loving, joyous home.

Throughout life Arlene was a caregiver. As she battled through her own health journey, she cared for her husband Kraig until he passed last May. Visiting nursing homes or assisted living communities gave her great joy. She found great fulfillment helping the elderly and volunteering. No one was a stranger. The lady at the post office, the boy collecting carts in the parking lot, and anyone in a line with her were considered friends.

She found relaxation in being busy! Mowing the yard, planting flowers, vacuuming, and washing the floor were not chores, but a sense of satisfaction. Her bird feeder was always full. She loved being outside her entire life, sunbathing in the backyard, hunting pheasants with her dad, sitting in the goose blind with her husband, and she always had time to drive her boys to a local fishing hole. She cherished spending hours on trails picking wildflowers while they fished. Arlene walked countless miles through the neighborhood over the years. A steadfast champion of her boys' adventures, travels, and passions growing up, she encouraged their independence and curiosity, trusting fully in the personal growth that comes from pursuing their dreams—and her unwavering support and approval helped nurture those interests into a thriving full-time business.

Perhaps her greatest joy was becoming Gram Kaatz to her granddaughters Ellarose and Emmarie; being a grandma was a dream come true. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, sister, and friend. She was known as Auntie R to many nieces and nephews. She loved her neighbors in Oak Forest and at Addington Place of Clinton and made a lasting impact on all.

Arlene is survived by her sons Kyle (Lorie) Kaatz and Kellen Kaatz, granddaughters Ellarose and Emmarie, her brother Jim (Cheryl) Bonk, brother-in-law Robert Chamberlain, brother-in-law Raymond Kaatz, sister-in-law Kim (Mark) Solone, many nieces, nephews, and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband Kraig Kaatz, her infant twins son Aaron and daughter Jamie, her parents Jim and Mary, her sister Kathy, her in-laws Beverly and Otto "Poley" Kaatz, and her sister-in-law Kathie.

A Celebration of Life will be held March 6th, 3pm-6pm at Law Jones Funeral Home, 309 Chicago Ave, Savanna, IL 61074. Instead of flowers/gifts, please fill your bird feeder and plant some flowers for the butterflies; Arlene's spirit will join you in enjoying them!

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02/24/2026

Larry "Bim" McGinnis

Larry "Bim" McGinnis, 75, of Thomson, Illinois, died Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, after a brief battle with cancer. As he wanted, his family was by his side.

Bim was born on February 16, 1951, to Paul “P.K.” and Corabelle (Hamm) McGinnis. He grew up learning good business practice and strong values at the McGinnis Melon Market and in their watermelon fields. From an early age, he understood the importance of hard work, keeping your word, and doing things the right way. He prided himself in “his word as his bond.” He attended Thomson schools and graduated with the Class of 1970.

On April 18, 1970, he married his high school sweetheart, Deborah Kay (Bush). Following their marriage, he worked for his father from 1970 to 1980 at the McGinnis Melon Market and farms. In the spring of 1980, he broke away and started his own wholesale business at 3681 Stagg Road, Thomson, IL, where he and Debbie worked side by side to build the life and legacy known today as Bim McGinnis Melons. He raised his two sons, Joe and Mark, alongside him in the fields, where they obtained his discipline, hard work, and dedication.

Bim was known for raising outstanding watermelon and pumpkin crops that will continue to be cherished by the Thomson community and business partners nationwide. On yearly trips to purchase produce, he developed deep and lasting relationships with the Amish communities of Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. He will be remembered for his honesty, grit, and quiet generosity. Most memorable, perhaps, to those who knew him best and to our friends at Neumiller Farms, was his creative vocabulary and strong wit.

Bim built friendships and earned deep respect through a lifetime of showing up, pitching in, and standing by his word. Many will miss the sight of his truck as he checked the irrigation and crops, always and forever dedicated to the quality, as well as the quantity, of his produce. The legacy of Bim McGinnis Melons will continue on through his wife, Debbie; his son, Mark; and his grandson, Matthew. Even more enduring will be the reputation he earned and the memories he made.

Bim will be dearly missed by his wife, Debbie McGinnis; his sons, Joseph McGinnis and Mark (Jennifer) McGinnis; his four grandchildren, Matthew (Alyssa) McGinnis, Katie McGinnis, Haylee McGinnis, and Tyler McGinnis; his siblings, Jane Ann (Don) Groharing and Randy McGinnis; his brother-in-laws, Richard Bush, Doug (Nancy) Bush, Drew (Karmin) Bush; his sister-in-law, Diane (Wes) Temple; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; his right hand man, Donald (Blenda) Gallup; longtime employee and friend, Cathy (Marv) Green; friends; and business associates.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Corabelle McGinnis; his siblings, Paul McGinnis Jr., Donna French, and Cindy Schleuning; his mother-and father-in-law, Roland and Norma Bush; his brother-in-law, David L. Bush; his sister-in-law, Pamela Bush; and his nephew, Michael Bush.

Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society.

A celebration of life service will be held at 1 p.m., Sunday, March 1, 2026 at the Majestic Pines Thomson Illinois, with a luncheon and celebration of life gathering from 2 - 6 p.m.

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02/23/2026

Joan Marie Bielema

Joan Marie Bielema, of Thomson, Illinois, passed away Thursday, February 19, 2026 at home.

Joan was born March 1, 1955, in Savanna, Illinois, the daughter of Ronald and Mona (Shumaker) McColley. She graduated from Savanna High School with the Class of 1974. Those who knew Joan best would tell you she had a gift for making life feel lighter—she was warm, social, and the kind of person who genuinely enjoyed people.

On October 28, 1995, Joan married Larry Bielema, and together they built a life that was full of purpose and partnership. Joan often said she was happiest after meeting Larry. The two were industrious by nature—Larry loved building and creating, and Joan had a knack for selling, organizing, and helping the business succeed. Over the years, they also bought, improved, and sold several homes, enjoying the work and pride that came with doing it together. For nearly 30 years, they shared their home and life in Thomson. Larry passed away February 15, 2024.

Joan’s greatest joy was her family—especially her son, Jason, who was truly her pride and joy. Family wasn’t just important to Joan; it was the center of her everyday life. She made it a point to stay close with her siblings, and it was part of her routine to share lunch with one of them each day—a simple tradition that says everything about how connected they were.

Joan loved the things that brought people together: playing cards (especially pinochle), board games, family gatherings, and good conversation. She enjoyed reading, collecting things, and taking trips to the casino now and then—always with a sense of fun. She also loved nature, being outdoors, and gardening, finding peace in the simple beauty of life. Joan was, in every way, beautiful inside and out, and she had a caring heart that made others feel welcome and valued.

Joan will be dearly missed by her son, Jason Reese, of Cordova, Illinois; and her siblings: Richard McColley of Thomson; Patsy (Robert) Bennell of Lanark; Angeline (Charles) Williams of Savanna; Jane Rasmussen of Thomson; and Peggy (Keith) Chapman of Savanna.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry Bielema; both parents, Ronald and Mona McColley; and her siblings Jim McColley, Bev Tack, John McColley, Robert McColley, and William McColley.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 28, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Thomson United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

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