Locations
 (815) 879-3641
Fiocchi -Jensen Funeral Home
208 South Euclid Ave. Princeton, IL 61356 Across From Princeton High School. |
 (815) 894-2222
Fiocchi Funeral Home
219 South Main St. Cherry, IL 61317 Across From Holy Trinity Church. |
Recent Services
Tom L. Odell of Wyanet went to be with his Savior Friday, June 2nd, surrounded by his family at Saint Clare Medical Center in Princeton, IL. He was born October 27th, 1951 in Allegan, MI to Richard and Donnetta Odell.
Tom grew up in a farmhouse full of laughter and shenanigans with his five siblings in Gobles, MI: Terry (Janet) Odell of Gobles, MI; Teresa (Gene) Dillenbeck of Gobles, MI; Tracy (Mary) Odell of Greenwood, AR; Tod (Linda) Odell of Bloomingdale, MI; and Tammy (Max) Thompson of Sheffield, IL. He graduated from Gobles High School in 1969 and Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music with a degree in Christian Ministry/Bible where he enjoyed being active in ministry and traveling singing groups.
He met the love of his life of almost 51 years, Beverly (Barker) Odell of Wyanet while at College. They were married June 24th, 1972. He was a devoted and loving father to their two children, Kimberly (Chuck) of Manhattan, KS and Curtis (Jessica) of Princeton. His 8 grandchildren quickly became a source of great joy. He supported every endeavor of Caleb (Danielle), Aly, Jake, Anna and Ethan Lambert and Cade, Joel and Callie Odell. He was their number one fan.
Tom lived his life to serve the Lord, his family, his church and his community. His love for the Lord and His church led him to associate pastor and youth pastor positions at Ross Memorial Bible Church, Port Huron, MI, Spring Valley Chapel in Houston, TX, and Tanglewood Bible Fellowship in Duncan, OK. He was ordained for ministry in 1982 at Tanglewood Bible Fellowship. He most recently served as an elder of Princeton Bible Church and loved his role as teacher and principal of Princeton Christian Academy.
Tom was well known by many community members in each of the locations that they called home. Whether it was selling Christmas trees, helping farmers, or serving and directing organizations in many capacities. He and Beverly moved to Illinois to help with the family business and he spent time working at Barker Milling and Grain, Barker Market Advisory Program and Barker Energy. He also worked for Bureau Valley Schools and US Postal Service. Tom was a huge sports fan. He spent many days on the golf course and he even achieved a hole in one at the Spring Creek golf course. His favorite teams were the ones his grandchildren played for and the Princeton Christian Academy Eagles. He was known for his contagious laugh, his beautiful singing voice and huge bear hugs.
He leaves behind his loving family, including his mother, 5 siblings, his wife, two children and their spouses, 8 grandchildren, sisters-in laws and brother in laws, 14 nieces and nephews and many others who had the privilege of knowing and serving with him. Tom was preceded in death by his father.
Services will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday in the Princeton Bible Church with Rev. Curtis Odell and Rev. Chuck Lambert officiating. His family will receive friends from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday at the Church. Arrangements are through The Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Memorial may be directed to the Princeton Christian Academy or the Princeton Bible Church.
James O. Sissel, 81, of Princeton, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 6, 2023, in OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria.
An open to the public graveside service will be held 11 a.m., Thursday, May 18 in Elm Lawn Memorial Park, Princeton with Pastor Renee Kindle of The Tiskilwa Community Church officiating. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
James was born on December 13, 1941, in Tiskilwa, to Leo and Dorothy (Wright) Sissel. He was a class of 1960 graduate of Tiskilwa High School and a class of 1984 graduate of Illinois Valley Community College, Oglesby. He served in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1982, having attained the rank of Master Sergeant. He married Barbara Ann Wooden on April 6, 1985 in the Methodist Church of Princeton, they were married for 38 years. He retired from Federal Express in Peru in 1996 and drove a semi truck until 2003.
He attended The Tiskilwa Community Church and was a man of faith. He did cowboy action shooting for many years. He liked to tell stories and taking day trips with his wife and several trips with his family. He was a giving person, not expecting anything in return.
He is survived by: his loving wife, Barbara Sissel, of Princeton; his two daughters, Francette (Scott) Curtis of Iowa, and Rachel (James) Kettering of Iowa; 1 grandson, Cameron (Annie) Curtis of Iowa; a step grandson, Aiden, of Iowa; his stepchildren, Daryl (Tammie) Wooden of Princeton, Julie (John) Hassler of Princeton; and Nancy Reiland of Cortland, Illinois; 5 step grandchildren Haley, Mariah, Mitchell (Demetra), Joshua (Abby) and Steven; 1 step great grandson, James; and 4 sisters, Virginia Dorff, Sharon Anderson, Laura (Francis) Lee, and Linda Kling.
He was preceded in death by: his parents.
He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
In leu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Princeton Food Pantry.
Thomas “Tom” Fox, 71, unexpectedly and silently passed away on May 6, 2023 at his home in Princeton,
Illinois. Though he has called many places home, Princeton held a special place in his heart as he moved to be
closer to his daughter and grandchildren.
Tom was born on March 21, 1952 to Charles “Bob” Fox and Shirley (McDowell) Watson. After graduating from
Alexis High School in 1970, he started a family with his first love, Nancy. Tom and Nancy went on to have one
daughter, Robbie, to whom he was the greatest father. She was his world and most important love until the day
he died. This love grew as he watched his daughter raise his grandchildren, Briana, Nicki, and Rebecca. He
was oh so proud of his granddaughters and shared his humor, sarcasm, and love of life with them.
Tom is survived by his favorite, and only child, Robbie, who did her best to raise him to be a responsible adult,
his grandchildren, Briana Butler of Princeton, Nicki Butler of Princeton, and Rebecca Butler of Bloomington, his
mother, Shirley Watson of Galesburg, Illinois; brother, Donnie Fox (Julie) of Galesburg, Illinois; sister, Brenda
Peterson (Dallas) of Alpha, Illinois; sister-in-law, Lou Ann Fox of Haines City, Florida. Tom is preceded in death
by his father, Bob Fox; brother, LP; and little sister, Linda. He is surrounded by loved ones in heaven and living
on through loved ones here on earth.
Tom found the most joy in spending time with his friends and family. To his many nieces and nephews he told
his stories of “what not to do” when growing up, even though he kept his childlike attitude his whole life. Tom
didn’t know a stranger, so constantly surrounded himself with friends from all walks of life. From his colleagues
he met as a gold coat at the local hospital, to being a golf cart driver during the fair ( his favorite week to get
corn dogs and lemonade all week) to his favorite servers and bartenders at Skoonerz, Tom received as much
joy as he gave. His best friends were his ex-wife, Nancy, and her husband, Gary Monier. We are all so
fortunate to have been loved by him.
Tom did not get to do all he wanted in life, but he did live as he wanted. If he loved you, he loved you forever.
If you were a friend, you were always a friend. And if you were family, he would move mountains to support
and walk through the hardships of life with you. He loved being able to make and “invent” things to make life
easier and happily shared these tricks with those he knew. To say he will be missed is an understatement.
Not being a fan of funerals, two Celebrations of Life will be held in Tom’s honor. On May 13, 2023 from 2:00-
5:00 PM at the Field House in Alexis, Illinois and for those in the Princeton area, there will be a Celebration of
Life on May 21, 2023 from 2:00-5:00 PM at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. All are invited to attend either, or
both, to laugh and share memories of his life so they can live on with his family left behind. Tom was the most
wonderful son, brother, father, uncle, gramps and friend. Words cannot convey the sadness felt by his passing
just as there are no words that can express how grateful we are to those who showed him love and kindness
throughout his life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given directly to the family.
Virginia Jean McNally, 89, of Arlington, passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2023, in Aperion Care, Princeton.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 25, in Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cherry, with Fr. Thaddeus Tran officiating. Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Mendota. Her family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until the time of services Tuesday at the church. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi Funeral Home, Cherry. Private online condolences may be left for her family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Virginia was born on December 11, 1933, to Glenn and Alvena (Fuchs) Holler. She attended Bradford High School. She married Donald A. McNally on May 2, 1953 in Holy Cross Catholic Church, Mendota.
She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cherry, was a member of the church Altar and Rosary Society, the American Legion Auxiliary, the Troy Grove Garden Club, the Ladd Moose, and the Mendota Elks. She enjoyed winters in Florida and Saturday night dancing with Don.
She is survived by: her children, Debra Gillan of Normal, Carol (Ron) Pinter of Davis, Donald R. (Connie) McNally of Arlington, and Steve (Tina) McNally of Troy Grove; her close companion, Charlie Tompkins of Winter Haven, Florida; 8 grandchildren, Ray and Jim Pinter, Aaron and Brian Gillan, Ashlee McNally, Emilee Hirschman, Tim McNally and Elizabeth Mairs; 9 great grandchildren, Hudson, Lyla, Grace, Lucy, Brett, Dawson, Levi, Lexi, and Theodore.
She was preceded in death by: her parents, her husband, Donald A. McNally in 2013; and a sister.
Ronald "Ronnie" W. Hoscheid, 87, of Cherry, passed away on Monday, April 17, 2023, at Manor Court of Peru.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 22, in Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cherry, with Fr. Scott Potthoff of Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church, Spring Valley, officiating. Interment will follow in Holy Trinity Miners Memorial Cemetery, Cherry, with military honors. His family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until the time of services Saturday at the church. Arrangements are through The Fiocchi Funeral Home, Cherry. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Ronnie was born on April 27, 1935, in Compton to William and Irene (Zimmerman) Hoscheid. He was a graduate of LaMoille High School. He farmed and was a mechanic. He served in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957, having served a year in Germany. He married Joyce Marie Piacenti on November 23, 1957 in Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cherry.
He was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cherry, the Cherry Booster Club, the Mendota Elks and Mendota Knights of Columbus, he served as Church trustee and on the Cherry Village Board for several years.
He is survived by: his children, Lynne Doyle of Peru, and Steve (Ruth) Hoscheid of Cherry; 2 grandchildren, Kristen (Nick) Green, and Tom (Kate) Doyle; and 2 great grandchildren, Aubree Doyle, and Parker Green; and a brother, Wes Hoscheid of Cherry.
He was preceded in death by: his parents; his wife, Joyce on December 6, 2020; and a sister, Collette.
Gary "Bud" Steven Morse, 63, of Malden, passed away on Saturday, April 8, 2023 in his home, following a lengthy illness.
A Memorial Service will be held 11 a.m. Monday in the Malden United Methodist Church with Pastor Gary Brooks officiating. His family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services Monday in the Church. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Gary was born on February 23, 1960, in Princeton to Rex and Nancy (Washer) Morse. He was a class of 1978 graduate of Malden High School.
He was a wood craftsman and furniture maker.
He was a member of the Malden United Methodist Church, an avid Harley Davidson rider and was a loyal friend and dearly loved his family.
He is survived by: his siblings, Richard (Jyl) Morse of Malden, and Susan (Kevin) Hale of Tiskilwa; stepdaughter, Amanda Bickett; nephews, Andy, Brent, Rick, and David (Kim) Morse, Evan (Samantha) Hale, and Steven Rahn; and nieces, Mandi Gross, and Stephanie Hale.
He was preceded in death by: his partner, Mariann Bickett; brothers, Randal and Michael Morse; nephew Justin Morse; and parents Rex and Nancy Morse of Malden.
Memorials may be directed to Friends of Strays.
Sachiko Warfield, a resident of Henry, IL passed away peacefully on 3/28/2023 at her home. She was born on July 15th 1940 on the Pacific island of Saipan, and was raised in Okinawa, Japan. In 1973, she immigrated to the United States, and made Henry her home for nearly 45 years. She was fondly known as Kim to her friends in the area.
Sachiko is survived by seven children: Tomoko Hatakeyama, Kesako Toukaichi, Osamu Itokazu and Masami Nakamura all of Japan. Autumn (Jesse) Meier of Kernersville, NC; Shawn Warfield of Magnolia, IL, and Willard (Dannielle) Warfield of Wheeler, MS. She also is survived by seven grandchildren, including Dustin Warfield of Grand Haven, MS; Lorin Warfield and Julie Warfield of Wheeler, MS as well as two great-grand daughters.
Sachiko was known for her love of cooking and feeding her friends and family. Her tempura, Japanese donuts, and egg rolls were legendary. She also was a fan of quilting and crochet, and loved to give her creations to her family, friends and members of the community. She was extremely proud of her children and grandchildren and her caring and gracious nature will be missed by all. A celebration of life will be held later this year for her family and friends.
Kho Saepharn It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kho Saepharn who passed away on April 4, 2023. He was 56 years old.
Kho was a beloved son, brother, and uncle and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was born in Laos to FouChing and Nailiam (Saechao) Saepharn and grew up in DePue, IL. Throughout his life h made a positive impact on countless people through his kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends.
Kho was an avid guitar player, a rockstar to many, lead guitarist in the rock band "Meinh Express". He had a contagious smile and a warm heart.
Kho is survived by his mother, Nailiam Saepharn; a sister Fahm Saepharn; 2 brothers, Chai Saepharn and Seng (Sarah) Saepharn; a niece, Averie; and a nephew, Leo.
He is preceded in death by: his father and three sisters.
Services will be held 3 p.m. Monday in the Chapel of The Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. His family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until the time of services Monday in the funeral home. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Lucille I. Smith, 94, of Ohio, Illinois, passed away on Monday, April 3, 2023, in OSF St. Anthony Hospital, Rockford.
Services will be held 11 a.m. Friday in the Kasbeer Community Church with Rev. Eric Seibert officiating, interment will follow at Elm Lawn Memorial Park, Princeton. Her family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until the time of services Friday at the Church. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for her family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Lucille was born on January 20, 1929 in Ohio Township to Arthur and Loretta (Miller) Enbom. She was a graduate of Ohio High School. She worked at Westclox and later retired from Harper Wyman with over 30 years of service. She married Harry L. “Sonny” Smith.
She was a member of the Kasbeer Community Church, having taught Sunday School for many years. She enjoyed camping, gardening, mowing the lawn, bird watching and her grandchildren.
She is survived by: her children, Daniel (Danette) Smith of Princeton, and Sheryl (Rich Borys) Woodbury of Ohio; 3 grandchildren, Randy (Dorian) Woodbury, Samuel (Jill) Smith, and Reid Smith; 3 great grandchildren, Hudson Woodbury, Cody Smith, and Violet Woodbury; and 2 sisters, Evelyn Olin of Princeton, and Shirley (Clifford) Smith of Princeton.
She was preceeded in death by: her parents, her husband, Harry in 1993; 2 sisters, Jeanette, and Darlene; her brothers, Orville and Everett; and her twin brother, Cecil.
Memorials may be directed to her family.
Tipton A. Gilbert, 89, of Princeton, passed away on Monday, March 27, 2023, in Aperion Care Center, Princeton.
Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, March 30, at Oakland Cemetery, with Pastor Ryan Sutton of the First United Methodist Church, Princeton, officiating, with military honors. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Tipton was born on February 13, 1934, in Princeton to Glen and Edna (Kampf) Gilbert. He was a graduate of Princeton High School and attended mechanical engineering college. He served in the United States Airforce.
He is survived by: his nieces, Sharon Borg of Princeton, Irene Dammann of Tiskilwa, Meri (Gary) Giese of Princeton, and Ann Crofton of Neponset.
He was preceded in death by: his parents; his sisters, Lucille Wathen, Ellen Gower, Mona Gustafson, and Dona Pace; and a nephew, Tom Gustafson.
Memorials may be directed to Friends of Strays.
John K. Thomson of Ohio, Illinois passed away at OSF St. Anthony’s Hospital on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 after a long illness that he faced with great dignity, strength, and grace. To the delight and amazement of his family, John managed a wry sense of humor and quick wit until his final day.
Born in Princeton, Illinois, on June 30, 1944, to John Howard and Lucille Ethel Thomson, John was the brother of Shirley Anne Olin, all of whom preceded him in death. John attended Princeton High School and enlisted in the United States Navy on July 28, 1962 and served his country bravely aboard the USS Independence aircraft carrier. In the fall of 1962, the Independence and her sailors participated in the United States naval blockade of Cuba in what is known as the "Cuban Missile Crisis," a major confrontation between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) over Soviet-supplied missile installations in Cuba, regarded by many as the world's closest approach to total
nuclear war. He later served with the Independence in the South China Sea during the Vietnam War. The Independence and her
embarked Air Wing 7 received the award of the Navy Unit Commendation for exceptionally meritorious service from June 5 to November 21, 1965. They participated in the first major series of coordinated strikes against vital enemy supply lines north of the Hanoi-Haiphong complex, their aircraft successfully evading the first massive surface-to-air missile barrage in aviation history while hitting assigned targets, and executing,
with daring and precision, the first successful attack on an enemy surface-to-air missile installation. The carrier launched more than 7,000 sorties in sustaining an exceptional pace of day and night strike operations against military and logistic supply
facilities in North Vietnam. John took great pride in being a Navy sailor and in his wartime service to our country. After his honorable discharge from the Navy in August 1966 John returned to Princeton and, using the skills he gained aboard the Independence, began his career as a boiler house operator for the Specialty Resins Group division of the PolyOne Corporation, for which he was until his retirement a valuable and dedicated employee of nearly 40 years.
John married Carol Ann Walsh on May 7, 1966; together they had three children: Paula Lough (Ken), Michael Thomson (Rachael), and James Thomson who preceded him in death. John was the proud grandfather of Trevor Thomson (Savannah), Lauren Thomson, Ellie Thomson, Nicholas Lough, Matthew Thomson, Nathan Lough, and William Thomson. John was also the father-in-law to Anne Thomson and uncle to Linda Pierce (Fred Hoffman) and Vickie Townsend (Richard).
John married Sandra Hoover on September 11, 1987. Sandy preceded him in death on April 4, 2021. Together they enjoyed traveling, home improvement projects, their home in Fort Myers, Florida, spending time with their many children and grandchildren, and the company of their pets. John and Sandy loved and especially enjoyed their time in Fort Myers with Sandy’s sister and brother-in-law Marie and Ray Brausam.
Through his marriage to Sandy, John was fortunate to have three stepchildren, Dawn Hoban (Chris), Keith Hannich (Luann), and Michelle Schwindlein; and three step grandchildren, Mitchell Mares, Matthew Schwindlein, and Eric Mares who preceded him in death.
John was a railroad enthusiast. His father worked for many years for the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad as a telegraph operator, and his grandfather, Abraham Lincoln Thomson, also worked as a railroad telegraph operator and was awarded a Tiffany & Company gold watch from the St. Paul and Duluth Railroad for heroic action taken to save hundreds of lives during a tragic brush fire south of Hinckley, Minnesota, on September 1, 1894.
John was an avid reader, student of politics and current affairs, and a man of many hobbies, including chemistry and the hard sciences, beer and wine making, ham radio, biking, and gardening. He was a quiet soul and, in the truest sense, a man of his word who was blessed with a gentle touch. His children and grandchildren loved and respected him very much and will miss his presence in their lives. The honorable
life he led will serve as a beacon for his family and for the generations that follow him.
A visitation will be held Friday, March 31 at 4:00 p.m., Fiocchi- Jensen Funeral Home in Princeton, Illinois. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Saturday April 1, 1:00 p.m. at St Louis Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions to the American Parkinson Disease Association.
Shirley Mae Peterson,89, of Princeton, passed away on Sunday, March 19, 2023, OSF St. Clare Hospital, Princeton.
A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, April 1, in the Evangelical Covenant Church, Princeton, with Pastor Derek Boggs officiating. Private burial will be held in Oakland Cemetery Princeton. Her family will receive friends from 4 until 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 28 in the Chapel of The Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for her family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com.
Shirley was born on May 19, 1933 in Chicago to Robert and Florence (Sundelius) Nelson. She married Glenn Peterson on October 5, 1957 in Crete, Illinois. She attended Moody Bible Institute, from which she graduated as a social worker. She had worked at the Covenant Children's Home. She was a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church, Princeton.
She is survived by: Her husband, Glenn Peterson of Princeton; her son, Richard (Marilyn) Peterson of Appleton, Wisconsin; her daughter, Judith (Phil) Bartlett of Cornwall, England; and 4 grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by: her parents; and her sisters, Lenore Ruppel and Caroline Poyer.
Memorials may be directed to the building expansion fund of the Evangelical Covenant Church of Princeton, IL.
Allen Nathaniel Louis, 50, of Princeton, passed away on March 11, 2023 in OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton.
Sandra Kay Sissel, 78, of Tiskilwa, passed away on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 in OSF St. Clare Hospital, Princeton, surrounded by her family.
Services will be held Noon Wednesday in The Chapel of The Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Interment will follow in the Mt. Bloom Cemetery, Tiskilwa. Her family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of services Wednesday in the funeral home. Private online condolences may be left for her family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Sandra was born on September 3, 1944, in Walnut to Elmer "Andy" and Geraldine "Toots" (Larson) Andersen. She attended Tiskilwa High School. She married Gerald Sissel on October 27, 1961. She worked at Harper-Wyman, Lundeen's Tavern, the Tiskilwa State Bank and Guys and Gals Salon. She was a member of the Tiskilwa Community Church.
She is survived by: Her daughters, Pam (Tim) Armstrong of Utica and Paula Zumpano of Colchester, Connecticut; 5 grandchildren, Hailey, Nicole, Kristina, Gabriella and Olivia; her sister, Betty Jo Gustafson of Tiskilwa; and her beloved dog Wrigley.
She was preceded in death by: her parents; her husband, Gerald, on October 12, 2001; her brothers, Ivan, Larry, and Robert; and a sister, Bonnie.
Memorials may be directed to the Tiskilwa Community Church.
Joseph Peter Bernardi, 92, of Ladd, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family in the Hines VA Hospital on March 7, 2023.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. Monday in the Nativity of Our Lord Church, Spring Valley with Fr. Scott Potthoff officiating. Interment will follow in the Ladd Cemetery with Military Honors. His family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services Monday in the church. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi Funeral Home, Cherry. Private online condolences may be left for Joe's family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Joe was born on November 22, 1930 in Spring Valley to Donald J. and Mary L. (Ferrero) Bernardi. He was a graduate of St. Bede Academy. He served in the United States Army from 1951-1953 having attained the rank of Corporal. He married the love of his life, Mary Barbara Kasza, on December 29, 1951 in St. Joseph Catholic Church, LaSalle. They raised a large loving family and were blessed to celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary together. Joe retired from the LaSalle NewsTribune after working more than 30 years. He was a member of the former St. Benedict Church, Ladd, a member of the Nativity of Our Lord Church, Spring Valley, the Ladd American Legion, and the Ladd Moose. He was instrumental in establishing the Illinois Valley Regional Airport, served as the first president of the Illinois Valley Flying Club, served as Trustee for the Village of Ladd, the Hall Township Board, and was on the Ladd North Central Bank Citizens Advisory Board. He also served on the Ladd Grade School Board for many years.
Joe enjoyed spending time at the Bernardi family cabin at Devil's Lake, Wisconsin, traveling, especially enjoying the winter months in Florida, flying, cooking, and playing cards, but most importantly, he adored his family and loved spending time with them.
He will be missed by: his children, Kathy (Steve) Kaufmann of Peru, James (Margaret) Bernardi of Ladd, John (Paige) Bernardi of Chillicothe, Lisa (Brad) Cooper of Dunlap, and Susan (Bob) Lucas of Spring Valley; 17 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; and his sister Marie (Tom) Giordano of Ladd.
He is preceded in death by: his parents; his wife, Barbara on September 26, 2022; 2 brothers, Donald and Bernard Bernardi; a sister, Frances Victor; and one grandson, Brian Bernardi.
Tanner M. Galetti of Lansdowne PA, formally from Malden Il, passed away unexpectedly in his home in pennsylvania. Although he lived a short life he lived a full one. He was always smiling and goofing around. He was always ready for an adventure whether it was fishing and cooking on the fire pit, hiking through the woods or hopping off bridges with his friends. He cared tremendously for his family and his friends he considered "Family". He wore his heart on his sleeve and would offer the shirt off his back to someone in need. Although he traveled a dark path at times he never let it dull his shine, he was a bright soul. He was best known for sending people songs that he really liked, his love for sports and being a devoted Packers fan. He was a proud uncle and took his role as a big brother seriously. He never knew a stranger and befriended anyone in a heartbeat. He was that one person you could always count on.
His family will receive friends from 5 to 7 friday march 24th in the chapel of the fiocchi - Jensen Funeral home, Princeton IL. Video by zoom will be available for service. Burial will be done privately at a later date.
Tanner is survived by his best friend and sister , Kendrick Galetti (Edgar Mendez) , Niece Lyrix Mendez of Spring Valley IL , His Nana Mary Galetti of Virginia Beach, Va. Godmother Michelle Prim of Pekin IL .Also survived by Aunt and Uncle Kari (Glenn) Williams and family, Troy (Jeanine) Galetti and family and many other friends he considered family.
He was preceded in death by his mother Amanda Galetti, his Papa David Galetti, his beloved chuckie, childhood dog Pugsley and many friends he also considered family as well.
Charles Lewis Bruder (81), Normal, IL passed away February 7, 2023 at OSF Hospital in Peoria, IL due to complications from chronic pneumonia.
Chuck was born September 24, 1941 to George and Dorothy (Lingen) Bruder. They preceded him in death. Chuck married Joan Morris in Tiskilwa, IL October 6, 1962. Surviving are his wife, Joan; two sons, Timothy and Joseph (Heather) and one grandson, Jordan Bruder, all in Normal, IL. He is also survived by three brothers: Jim (Barb), Woodstock, GA; Mike (Nancy), Mesa, AZ; Tom (Pat), Cumberland, WI; and three sisters: Judy (Dale) Christensen, Alden, MN; Mary (Steven) Matthies, Tucson, AZ; and Barbara (Chuck) Hughes, Chanhassen, MN, and many nieces and nephews. Chuck and Joan celebrated their 60th anniversary in October and resided in the McLean County area all of those years.
Chuck was a devoted Catholic. He grew up on a farm near Wells, Minnesota, first attended a one-room country school, and later attended both Catholic and public schools. Following high school he entered the US Air Force, was stationed at Rantoul AFB, and believed these were some of the best four years of his life. He had a great love of his country and our veterans.
Chuck worked in the maintenance department of the Bloomington General Electric plant for over 30 years. He shared his mechanical abilities with all the kids and neighbors by repairing their Big Wheels, bikes, cars, mowers, snow blowers and making all necessary repairs around the home. He enjoyed his sons’ Boy Scout adventures, coached baseball, and kept lawn mowers going for their part-time jobs. He and Joan enjoyed traveling to Alaska and Arizona in retirement. Fishing trips to Minnesota and Canada with his father-in-law were special. He was very close to his siblings, and his greatest joy was spending time with his grandson. In recent years he enjoyed watching old westerns and war movies and playing computer games.
As Chuck requested, there will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation rites will be accorded with private burial at a later date near his in-laws at Mt. Bloom Cemetery in Tiskilwa, IL. Memorials honoring his name may be directed to Wounded Warrior Project, the USO, Epiphany Catholic Church, Normal, or the American Lung Association.
Tom grew up in a farmhouse full of laughter and shenanigans with his five siblings in Gobles, MI: Terry (Janet) Odell of Gobles, MI; Teresa (Gene) Dillenbeck of Gobles, MI; Tracy (Mary) Odell of Greenwood, AR; Tod (Linda) Odell of Bloomingdale, MI; and Tammy (Max) Thompson of Sheffield, IL. He graduated from Gobles High School in 1969 and Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music with a degree in Christian Ministry/Bible where he enjoyed being active in ministry and traveling singing groups.
He met the love of his life of almost 51 years, Beverly (Barker) Odell of Wyanet while at College. They were married June 24th, 1972. He was a devoted and loving father to their two children, Kimberly (Chuck) of Manhattan, KS and Curtis (Jessica) of Princeton. His 8 grandchildren quickly became a source of great joy. He supported every endeavor of Caleb (Danielle), Aly, Jake, Anna and Ethan Lambert and Cade, Joel and Callie Odell. He was their number one fan.
Tom lived his life to serve the Lord, his family, his church and his community. His love for the Lord and His church led him to associate pastor and youth pastor positions at Ross Memorial Bible Church, Port Huron, MI, Spring Valley Chapel in Houston, TX, and Tanglewood Bible Fellowship in Duncan, OK. He was ordained for ministry in 1982 at Tanglewood Bible Fellowship. He most recently served as an elder of Princeton Bible Church and loved his role as teacher and principal of Princeton Christian Academy.
Tom was well known by many community members in each of the locations that they called home. Whether it was selling Christmas trees, helping farmers, or serving and directing organizations in many capacities. He and Beverly moved to Illinois to help with the family business and he spent time working at Barker Milling and Grain, Barker Market Advisory Program and Barker Energy. He also worked for Bureau Valley Schools and US Postal Service. Tom was a huge sports fan. He spent many days on the golf course and he even achieved a hole in one at the Spring Creek golf course. His favorite teams were the ones his grandchildren played for and the Princeton Christian Academy Eagles. He was known for his contagious laugh, his beautiful singing voice and huge bear hugs.
He leaves behind his loving family, including his mother, 5 siblings, his wife, two children and their spouses, 8 grandchildren, sisters-in laws and brother in laws, 14 nieces and nephews and many others who had the privilege of knowing and serving with him. Tom was preceded in death by his father.
Services will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday in the Princeton Bible Church with Rev. Curtis Odell and Rev. Chuck Lambert officiating. His family will receive friends from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday at the Church. Arrangements are through The Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Memorial may be directed to the Princeton Christian Academy or the Princeton Bible Church.
James O. Sissel, 81, of Princeton, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 6, 2023, in OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria.
An open to the public graveside service will be held 11 a.m., Thursday, May 18 in Elm Lawn Memorial Park, Princeton with Pastor Renee Kindle of The Tiskilwa Community Church officiating. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
James was born on December 13, 1941, in Tiskilwa, to Leo and Dorothy (Wright) Sissel. He was a class of 1960 graduate of Tiskilwa High School and a class of 1984 graduate of Illinois Valley Community College, Oglesby. He served in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1982, having attained the rank of Master Sergeant. He married Barbara Ann Wooden on April 6, 1985 in the Methodist Church of Princeton, they were married for 38 years. He retired from Federal Express in Peru in 1996 and drove a semi truck until 2003.
He attended The Tiskilwa Community Church and was a man of faith. He did cowboy action shooting for many years. He liked to tell stories and taking day trips with his wife and several trips with his family. He was a giving person, not expecting anything in return.
He is survived by: his loving wife, Barbara Sissel, of Princeton; his two daughters, Francette (Scott) Curtis of Iowa, and Rachel (James) Kettering of Iowa; 1 grandson, Cameron (Annie) Curtis of Iowa; a step grandson, Aiden, of Iowa; his stepchildren, Daryl (Tammie) Wooden of Princeton, Julie (John) Hassler of Princeton; and Nancy Reiland of Cortland, Illinois; 5 step grandchildren Haley, Mariah, Mitchell (Demetra), Joshua (Abby) and Steven; 1 step great grandson, James; and 4 sisters, Virginia Dorff, Sharon Anderson, Laura (Francis) Lee, and Linda Kling.
He was preceded in death by: his parents.
He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
In leu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Princeton Food Pantry.
Thomas “Tom” Fox, 71, unexpectedly and silently passed away on May 6, 2023 at his home in Princeton,
Illinois. Though he has called many places home, Princeton held a special place in his heart as he moved to be
closer to his daughter and grandchildren.
Tom was born on March 21, 1952 to Charles “Bob” Fox and Shirley (McDowell) Watson. After graduating from
Alexis High School in 1970, he started a family with his first love, Nancy. Tom and Nancy went on to have one
daughter, Robbie, to whom he was the greatest father. She was his world and most important love until the day
he died. This love grew as he watched his daughter raise his grandchildren, Briana, Nicki, and Rebecca. He
was oh so proud of his granddaughters and shared his humor, sarcasm, and love of life with them.
Tom is survived by his favorite, and only child, Robbie, who did her best to raise him to be a responsible adult,
his grandchildren, Briana Butler of Princeton, Nicki Butler of Princeton, and Rebecca Butler of Bloomington, his
mother, Shirley Watson of Galesburg, Illinois; brother, Donnie Fox (Julie) of Galesburg, Illinois; sister, Brenda
Peterson (Dallas) of Alpha, Illinois; sister-in-law, Lou Ann Fox of Haines City, Florida. Tom is preceded in death
by his father, Bob Fox; brother, LP; and little sister, Linda. He is surrounded by loved ones in heaven and living
on through loved ones here on earth.
Tom found the most joy in spending time with his friends and family. To his many nieces and nephews he told
his stories of “what not to do” when growing up, even though he kept his childlike attitude his whole life. Tom
didn’t know a stranger, so constantly surrounded himself with friends from all walks of life. From his colleagues
he met as a gold coat at the local hospital, to being a golf cart driver during the fair ( his favorite week to get
corn dogs and lemonade all week) to his favorite servers and bartenders at Skoonerz, Tom received as much
joy as he gave. His best friends were his ex-wife, Nancy, and her husband, Gary Monier. We are all so
fortunate to have been loved by him.
Tom did not get to do all he wanted in life, but he did live as he wanted. If he loved you, he loved you forever.
If you were a friend, you were always a friend. And if you were family, he would move mountains to support
and walk through the hardships of life with you. He loved being able to make and “invent” things to make life
easier and happily shared these tricks with those he knew. To say he will be missed is an understatement.
Not being a fan of funerals, two Celebrations of Life will be held in Tom’s honor. On May 13, 2023 from 2:00-
5:00 PM at the Field House in Alexis, Illinois and for those in the Princeton area, there will be a Celebration of
Life on May 21, 2023 from 2:00-5:00 PM at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. All are invited to attend either, or
both, to laugh and share memories of his life so they can live on with his family left behind. Tom was the most
wonderful son, brother, father, uncle, gramps and friend. Words cannot convey the sadness felt by his passing
just as there are no words that can express how grateful we are to those who showed him love and kindness
throughout his life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given directly to the family.
Virginia Jean McNally, 89, of Arlington, passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2023, in Aperion Care, Princeton.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 25, in Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cherry, with Fr. Thaddeus Tran officiating. Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Mendota. Her family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until the time of services Tuesday at the church. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi Funeral Home, Cherry. Private online condolences may be left for her family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Virginia was born on December 11, 1933, to Glenn and Alvena (Fuchs) Holler. She attended Bradford High School. She married Donald A. McNally on May 2, 1953 in Holy Cross Catholic Church, Mendota.
She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cherry, was a member of the church Altar and Rosary Society, the American Legion Auxiliary, the Troy Grove Garden Club, the Ladd Moose, and the Mendota Elks. She enjoyed winters in Florida and Saturday night dancing with Don.
She is survived by: her children, Debra Gillan of Normal, Carol (Ron) Pinter of Davis, Donald R. (Connie) McNally of Arlington, and Steve (Tina) McNally of Troy Grove; her close companion, Charlie Tompkins of Winter Haven, Florida; 8 grandchildren, Ray and Jim Pinter, Aaron and Brian Gillan, Ashlee McNally, Emilee Hirschman, Tim McNally and Elizabeth Mairs; 9 great grandchildren, Hudson, Lyla, Grace, Lucy, Brett, Dawson, Levi, Lexi, and Theodore.
She was preceded in death by: her parents, her husband, Donald A. McNally in 2013; and a sister.
Ronald "Ronnie" W. Hoscheid, 87, of Cherry, passed away on Monday, April 17, 2023, at Manor Court of Peru.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 22, in Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cherry, with Fr. Scott Potthoff of Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church, Spring Valley, officiating. Interment will follow in Holy Trinity Miners Memorial Cemetery, Cherry, with military honors. His family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until the time of services Saturday at the church. Arrangements are through The Fiocchi Funeral Home, Cherry. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Ronnie was born on April 27, 1935, in Compton to William and Irene (Zimmerman) Hoscheid. He was a graduate of LaMoille High School. He farmed and was a mechanic. He served in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957, having served a year in Germany. He married Joyce Marie Piacenti on November 23, 1957 in Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cherry.
He was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cherry, the Cherry Booster Club, the Mendota Elks and Mendota Knights of Columbus, he served as Church trustee and on the Cherry Village Board for several years.
He is survived by: his children, Lynne Doyle of Peru, and Steve (Ruth) Hoscheid of Cherry; 2 grandchildren, Kristen (Nick) Green, and Tom (Kate) Doyle; and 2 great grandchildren, Aubree Doyle, and Parker Green; and a brother, Wes Hoscheid of Cherry.
He was preceded in death by: his parents; his wife, Joyce on December 6, 2020; and a sister, Collette.
Gary "Bud" Steven Morse, 63, of Malden, passed away on Saturday, April 8, 2023 in his home, following a lengthy illness.
A Memorial Service will be held 11 a.m. Monday in the Malden United Methodist Church with Pastor Gary Brooks officiating. His family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services Monday in the Church. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Gary was born on February 23, 1960, in Princeton to Rex and Nancy (Washer) Morse. He was a class of 1978 graduate of Malden High School.
He was a wood craftsman and furniture maker.
He was a member of the Malden United Methodist Church, an avid Harley Davidson rider and was a loyal friend and dearly loved his family.
He is survived by: his siblings, Richard (Jyl) Morse of Malden, and Susan (Kevin) Hale of Tiskilwa; stepdaughter, Amanda Bickett; nephews, Andy, Brent, Rick, and David (Kim) Morse, Evan (Samantha) Hale, and Steven Rahn; and nieces, Mandi Gross, and Stephanie Hale.
He was preceded in death by: his partner, Mariann Bickett; brothers, Randal and Michael Morse; nephew Justin Morse; and parents Rex and Nancy Morse of Malden.
Memorials may be directed to Friends of Strays.
Sachiko Warfield, a resident of Henry, IL passed away peacefully on 3/28/2023 at her home. She was born on July 15th 1940 on the Pacific island of Saipan, and was raised in Okinawa, Japan. In 1973, she immigrated to the United States, and made Henry her home for nearly 45 years. She was fondly known as Kim to her friends in the area.
Sachiko is survived by seven children: Tomoko Hatakeyama, Kesako Toukaichi, Osamu Itokazu and Masami Nakamura all of Japan. Autumn (Jesse) Meier of Kernersville, NC; Shawn Warfield of Magnolia, IL, and Willard (Dannielle) Warfield of Wheeler, MS. She also is survived by seven grandchildren, including Dustin Warfield of Grand Haven, MS; Lorin Warfield and Julie Warfield of Wheeler, MS as well as two great-grand daughters.
Sachiko was known for her love of cooking and feeding her friends and family. Her tempura, Japanese donuts, and egg rolls were legendary. She also was a fan of quilting and crochet, and loved to give her creations to her family, friends and members of the community. She was extremely proud of her children and grandchildren and her caring and gracious nature will be missed by all. A celebration of life will be held later this year for her family and friends.
Kho Saepharn It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kho Saepharn who passed away on April 4, 2023. He was 56 years old.
Kho was a beloved son, brother, and uncle and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was born in Laos to FouChing and Nailiam (Saechao) Saepharn and grew up in DePue, IL. Throughout his life h made a positive impact on countless people through his kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends.
Kho was an avid guitar player, a rockstar to many, lead guitarist in the rock band "Meinh Express". He had a contagious smile and a warm heart.
Kho is survived by his mother, Nailiam Saepharn; a sister Fahm Saepharn; 2 brothers, Chai Saepharn and Seng (Sarah) Saepharn; a niece, Averie; and a nephew, Leo.
He is preceded in death by: his father and three sisters.
Services will be held 3 p.m. Monday in the Chapel of The Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. His family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until the time of services Monday in the funeral home. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Lucille I. Smith, 94, of Ohio, Illinois, passed away on Monday, April 3, 2023, in OSF St. Anthony Hospital, Rockford.
Services will be held 11 a.m. Friday in the Kasbeer Community Church with Rev. Eric Seibert officiating, interment will follow at Elm Lawn Memorial Park, Princeton. Her family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until the time of services Friday at the Church. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for her family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Lucille was born on January 20, 1929 in Ohio Township to Arthur and Loretta (Miller) Enbom. She was a graduate of Ohio High School. She worked at Westclox and later retired from Harper Wyman with over 30 years of service. She married Harry L. “Sonny” Smith.
She was a member of the Kasbeer Community Church, having taught Sunday School for many years. She enjoyed camping, gardening, mowing the lawn, bird watching and her grandchildren.
She is survived by: her children, Daniel (Danette) Smith of Princeton, and Sheryl (Rich Borys) Woodbury of Ohio; 3 grandchildren, Randy (Dorian) Woodbury, Samuel (Jill) Smith, and Reid Smith; 3 great grandchildren, Hudson Woodbury, Cody Smith, and Violet Woodbury; and 2 sisters, Evelyn Olin of Princeton, and Shirley (Clifford) Smith of Princeton.
She was preceeded in death by: her parents, her husband, Harry in 1993; 2 sisters, Jeanette, and Darlene; her brothers, Orville and Everett; and her twin brother, Cecil.
Memorials may be directed to her family.
Tipton A. Gilbert, 89, of Princeton, passed away on Monday, March 27, 2023, in Aperion Care Center, Princeton.
Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, March 30, at Oakland Cemetery, with Pastor Ryan Sutton of the First United Methodist Church, Princeton, officiating, with military honors. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for his family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Tipton was born on February 13, 1934, in Princeton to Glen and Edna (Kampf) Gilbert. He was a graduate of Princeton High School and attended mechanical engineering college. He served in the United States Airforce.
He is survived by: his nieces, Sharon Borg of Princeton, Irene Dammann of Tiskilwa, Meri (Gary) Giese of Princeton, and Ann Crofton of Neponset.
He was preceded in death by: his parents; his sisters, Lucille Wathen, Ellen Gower, Mona Gustafson, and Dona Pace; and a nephew, Tom Gustafson.
Memorials may be directed to Friends of Strays.
John K. Thomson of Ohio, Illinois passed away at OSF St. Anthony’s Hospital on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 after a long illness that he faced with great dignity, strength, and grace. To the delight and amazement of his family, John managed a wry sense of humor and quick wit until his final day.
Born in Princeton, Illinois, on June 30, 1944, to John Howard and Lucille Ethel Thomson, John was the brother of Shirley Anne Olin, all of whom preceded him in death. John attended Princeton High School and enlisted in the United States Navy on July 28, 1962 and served his country bravely aboard the USS Independence aircraft carrier. In the fall of 1962, the Independence and her sailors participated in the United States naval blockade of Cuba in what is known as the "Cuban Missile Crisis," a major confrontation between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) over Soviet-supplied missile installations in Cuba, regarded by many as the world's closest approach to total
nuclear war. He later served with the Independence in the South China Sea during the Vietnam War. The Independence and her
embarked Air Wing 7 received the award of the Navy Unit Commendation for exceptionally meritorious service from June 5 to November 21, 1965. They participated in the first major series of coordinated strikes against vital enemy supply lines north of the Hanoi-Haiphong complex, their aircraft successfully evading the first massive surface-to-air missile barrage in aviation history while hitting assigned targets, and executing,
with daring and precision, the first successful attack on an enemy surface-to-air missile installation. The carrier launched more than 7,000 sorties in sustaining an exceptional pace of day and night strike operations against military and logistic supply
facilities in North Vietnam. John took great pride in being a Navy sailor and in his wartime service to our country. After his honorable discharge from the Navy in August 1966 John returned to Princeton and, using the skills he gained aboard the Independence, began his career as a boiler house operator for the Specialty Resins Group division of the PolyOne Corporation, for which he was until his retirement a valuable and dedicated employee of nearly 40 years.
John married Carol Ann Walsh on May 7, 1966; together they had three children: Paula Lough (Ken), Michael Thomson (Rachael), and James Thomson who preceded him in death. John was the proud grandfather of Trevor Thomson (Savannah), Lauren Thomson, Ellie Thomson, Nicholas Lough, Matthew Thomson, Nathan Lough, and William Thomson. John was also the father-in-law to Anne Thomson and uncle to Linda Pierce (Fred Hoffman) and Vickie Townsend (Richard).
John married Sandra Hoover on September 11, 1987. Sandy preceded him in death on April 4, 2021. Together they enjoyed traveling, home improvement projects, their home in Fort Myers, Florida, spending time with their many children and grandchildren, and the company of their pets. John and Sandy loved and especially enjoyed their time in Fort Myers with Sandy’s sister and brother-in-law Marie and Ray Brausam.
Through his marriage to Sandy, John was fortunate to have three stepchildren, Dawn Hoban (Chris), Keith Hannich (Luann), and Michelle Schwindlein; and three step grandchildren, Mitchell Mares, Matthew Schwindlein, and Eric Mares who preceded him in death.
John was a railroad enthusiast. His father worked for many years for the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad as a telegraph operator, and his grandfather, Abraham Lincoln Thomson, also worked as a railroad telegraph operator and was awarded a Tiffany & Company gold watch from the St. Paul and Duluth Railroad for heroic action taken to save hundreds of lives during a tragic brush fire south of Hinckley, Minnesota, on September 1, 1894.
John was an avid reader, student of politics and current affairs, and a man of many hobbies, including chemistry and the hard sciences, beer and wine making, ham radio, biking, and gardening. He was a quiet soul and, in the truest sense, a man of his word who was blessed with a gentle touch. His children and grandchildren loved and respected him very much and will miss his presence in their lives. The honorable
life he led will serve as a beacon for his family and for the generations that follow him.
A visitation will be held Friday, March 31 at 4:00 p.m., Fiocchi- Jensen Funeral Home in Princeton, Illinois. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Saturday April 1, 1:00 p.m. at St Louis Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions to the American Parkinson Disease Association.
Shirley Mae Peterson,89, of Princeton, passed away on Sunday, March 19, 2023, OSF St. Clare Hospital, Princeton.
A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, April 1, in the Evangelical Covenant Church, Princeton, with Pastor Derek Boggs officiating. Private burial will be held in Oakland Cemetery Princeton. Her family will receive friends from 4 until 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 28 in the Chapel of The Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Private online condolences may be left for her family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com.
Shirley was born on May 19, 1933 in Chicago to Robert and Florence (Sundelius) Nelson. She married Glenn Peterson on October 5, 1957 in Crete, Illinois. She attended Moody Bible Institute, from which she graduated as a social worker. She had worked at the Covenant Children's Home. She was a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church, Princeton.
She is survived by: Her husband, Glenn Peterson of Princeton; her son, Richard (Marilyn) Peterson of Appleton, Wisconsin; her daughter, Judith (Phil) Bartlett of Cornwall, England; and 4 grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by: her parents; and her sisters, Lenore Ruppel and Caroline Poyer.
Memorials may be directed to the building expansion fund of the Evangelical Covenant Church of Princeton, IL.
Allen Nathaniel Louis, 50, of Princeton, passed away on March 11, 2023 in OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton.
Sandra Kay Sissel, 78, of Tiskilwa, passed away on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 in OSF St. Clare Hospital, Princeton, surrounded by her family.
Services will be held Noon Wednesday in The Chapel of The Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home, Princeton. Interment will follow in the Mt. Bloom Cemetery, Tiskilwa. Her family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of services Wednesday in the funeral home. Private online condolences may be left for her family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Sandra was born on September 3, 1944, in Walnut to Elmer "Andy" and Geraldine "Toots" (Larson) Andersen. She attended Tiskilwa High School. She married Gerald Sissel on October 27, 1961. She worked at Harper-Wyman, Lundeen's Tavern, the Tiskilwa State Bank and Guys and Gals Salon. She was a member of the Tiskilwa Community Church.
She is survived by: Her daughters, Pam (Tim) Armstrong of Utica and Paula Zumpano of Colchester, Connecticut; 5 grandchildren, Hailey, Nicole, Kristina, Gabriella and Olivia; her sister, Betty Jo Gustafson of Tiskilwa; and her beloved dog Wrigley.
She was preceded in death by: her parents; her husband, Gerald, on October 12, 2001; her brothers, Ivan, Larry, and Robert; and a sister, Bonnie.
Memorials may be directed to the Tiskilwa Community Church.
Joseph Peter Bernardi, 92, of Ladd, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family in the Hines VA Hospital on March 7, 2023.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. Monday in the Nativity of Our Lord Church, Spring Valley with Fr. Scott Potthoff officiating. Interment will follow in the Ladd Cemetery with Military Honors. His family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services Monday in the church. Arrangements are through the Fiocchi Funeral Home, Cherry. Private online condolences may be left for Joe's family at www.FiocchiFuneralHomes.com
Joe was born on November 22, 1930 in Spring Valley to Donald J. and Mary L. (Ferrero) Bernardi. He was a graduate of St. Bede Academy. He served in the United States Army from 1951-1953 having attained the rank of Corporal. He married the love of his life, Mary Barbara Kasza, on December 29, 1951 in St. Joseph Catholic Church, LaSalle. They raised a large loving family and were blessed to celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary together. Joe retired from the LaSalle NewsTribune after working more than 30 years. He was a member of the former St. Benedict Church, Ladd, a member of the Nativity of Our Lord Church, Spring Valley, the Ladd American Legion, and the Ladd Moose. He was instrumental in establishing the Illinois Valley Regional Airport, served as the first president of the Illinois Valley Flying Club, served as Trustee for the Village of Ladd, the Hall Township Board, and was on the Ladd North Central Bank Citizens Advisory Board. He also served on the Ladd Grade School Board for many years.
Joe enjoyed spending time at the Bernardi family cabin at Devil's Lake, Wisconsin, traveling, especially enjoying the winter months in Florida, flying, cooking, and playing cards, but most importantly, he adored his family and loved spending time with them.
He will be missed by: his children, Kathy (Steve) Kaufmann of Peru, James (Margaret) Bernardi of Ladd, John (Paige) Bernardi of Chillicothe, Lisa (Brad) Cooper of Dunlap, and Susan (Bob) Lucas of Spring Valley; 17 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; and his sister Marie (Tom) Giordano of Ladd.
He is preceded in death by: his parents; his wife, Barbara on September 26, 2022; 2 brothers, Donald and Bernard Bernardi; a sister, Frances Victor; and one grandson, Brian Bernardi.
Tanner M. Galetti of Lansdowne PA, formally from Malden Il, passed away unexpectedly in his home in pennsylvania. Although he lived a short life he lived a full one. He was always smiling and goofing around. He was always ready for an adventure whether it was fishing and cooking on the fire pit, hiking through the woods or hopping off bridges with his friends. He cared tremendously for his family and his friends he considered "Family". He wore his heart on his sleeve and would offer the shirt off his back to someone in need. Although he traveled a dark path at times he never let it dull his shine, he was a bright soul. He was best known for sending people songs that he really liked, his love for sports and being a devoted Packers fan. He was a proud uncle and took his role as a big brother seriously. He never knew a stranger and befriended anyone in a heartbeat. He was that one person you could always count on.
His family will receive friends from 5 to 7 friday march 24th in the chapel of the fiocchi - Jensen Funeral home, Princeton IL. Video by zoom will be available for service. Burial will be done privately at a later date.
Tanner is survived by his best friend and sister , Kendrick Galetti (Edgar Mendez) , Niece Lyrix Mendez of Spring Valley IL , His Nana Mary Galetti of Virginia Beach, Va. Godmother Michelle Prim of Pekin IL .Also survived by Aunt and Uncle Kari (Glenn) Williams and family, Troy (Jeanine) Galetti and family and many other friends he considered family.
He was preceded in death by his mother Amanda Galetti, his Papa David Galetti, his beloved chuckie, childhood dog Pugsley and many friends he also considered family as well.
Charles Lewis Bruder (81), Normal, IL passed away February 7, 2023 at OSF Hospital in Peoria, IL due to complications from chronic pneumonia.
Chuck was born September 24, 1941 to George and Dorothy (Lingen) Bruder. They preceded him in death. Chuck married Joan Morris in Tiskilwa, IL October 6, 1962. Surviving are his wife, Joan; two sons, Timothy and Joseph (Heather) and one grandson, Jordan Bruder, all in Normal, IL. He is also survived by three brothers: Jim (Barb), Woodstock, GA; Mike (Nancy), Mesa, AZ; Tom (Pat), Cumberland, WI; and three sisters: Judy (Dale) Christensen, Alden, MN; Mary (Steven) Matthies, Tucson, AZ; and Barbara (Chuck) Hughes, Chanhassen, MN, and many nieces and nephews. Chuck and Joan celebrated their 60th anniversary in October and resided in the McLean County area all of those years.
Chuck was a devoted Catholic. He grew up on a farm near Wells, Minnesota, first attended a one-room country school, and later attended both Catholic and public schools. Following high school he entered the US Air Force, was stationed at Rantoul AFB, and believed these were some of the best four years of his life. He had a great love of his country and our veterans.
Chuck worked in the maintenance department of the Bloomington General Electric plant for over 30 years. He shared his mechanical abilities with all the kids and neighbors by repairing their Big Wheels, bikes, cars, mowers, snow blowers and making all necessary repairs around the home. He enjoyed his sons’ Boy Scout adventures, coached baseball, and kept lawn mowers going for their part-time jobs. He and Joan enjoyed traveling to Alaska and Arizona in retirement. Fishing trips to Minnesota and Canada with his father-in-law were special. He was very close to his siblings, and his greatest joy was spending time with his grandson. In recent years he enjoyed watching old westerns and war movies and playing computer games.
As Chuck requested, there will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation rites will be accorded with private burial at a later date near his in-laws at Mt. Bloom Cemetery in Tiskilwa, IL. Memorials honoring his name may be directed to Wounded Warrior Project, the USO, Epiphany Catholic Church, Normal, or the American Lung Association.
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