George Harold Fowler, 90, of Grand Rapids, MI, formerly of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 8:32 A.M. on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Faith Hospice-Trillium Woods in Byron Center, MI. He was born on April 5, 1936, in Hoopeston, IL, the son of George W. and Lucille E. (Conner) Fowler. He married Donna Jean McGee on October 1, 1960, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Hoopeston, IL. She preceded him in death on December 10, 2022.

He is survived by his three sons, John Benjamin (Dawn) Fowler of Huntington, IN, Jason Daniel (Denise Valenti) Fowler of South Brunswick, NJ, and Justin George (Ginger) Fowler of Grand Rapids, MI; four grandchildren, Zoey, Logan, Graham, and Georgia Fowler; five nieces and nephews, Chris McGee (Jennie Miskec), Kelly McGee (John Baker), Carol Baldus, Joe (Shirley) Sears, and Tommy Kellam; and one brother-in-law, William “Bill” (Susan) McGee of Hoopeston, IL.

In addition to his wife, Donna Jean, George was preceded in death by his parents, George and Lucille Fowler; and his sister, Mary Anna Kellams.

George retired from American Can in 1998 after 37 years of service. He attended St. Anthony Catholic Church in Hoopeston. He enjoyed classic cars, square dancing with his wife, and working in his yard.

Visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 12:00 P.M. Wednesday, at the funeral home, with Father Ted Pracz officiating. Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of George to Faith Hospice, 8214 Pfeiffer Farms Drive, SW, Byron Center, MI 49315.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view George’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Jordan Crook, 40, of Hoopeston passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at his home. He was born on May 28, 1986 in Watseka, a son of Julie Carter.

He is survived by his mother, Julie (Ralph) Mann of Milford; one sister, Lindsay Bowen of Champaign; one nephew, Carter Keefer of Champaign; his grandmother, Pauline Carter of Watseka; one aunt, Ginger Gonzalez of Hoopeston; one uncle, James Crook of Milford; his grandfather, Richard Crook; and three cousins, Jaycee Rush, Logan Gonzalez and Megan Runyan.

Jordan was preceded in death by his grandfather, Tom Carter; grandmother, Sharon Crook; and uncle, Tim Crook.

Jordan graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a degree in Journalism. He was the editor of the Chronicle in Hoopeston for 14 years, worked at the Times in Watseka for several years, and was a researcher for Allied Capital Title in Paxton. He loved covering news in the area and went to all events in the area. He also loved reading, going to movies with his nephew, Carter, video games, spending time with his family and two rescue cats, Pieter and Little Foot, and hosting and preparing meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jose Luis Torres Jimenez, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, who departed this life on October 15, 2026. Born on December 23, 1953, in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico, Jose was the cherished son of the late Jose Torres and Tomasa Torres Jimenez. He was preceded in death by his parents and three of his brothers: Severo, Juan, and Jorge Torres.

Jose leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication through his surviving family: his devoted wife, Maria Raquel Torres Rangel, with whom he shared a beautiful journey of over five decades since their marriage on December 9, 1972, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Hoopeston. Their union was blessed with five children: Jose L. Torres Jr. (Heather), Veronica Gleckler (Michael), Angela Torres, Gerardo Torres, and Moises Torres. Jose’s life was further enriched by his cherished grandchildren: Cory Torres, Joel Torres, Julian Torres (Katie), Nathan Torres (Emma), Natalya Torres (Corbin), Stephen Gleckler, Joseph Gleckler, Victoria Gleckler, and Mia Amador, as well as his great-grandchildren, Dallas, Raymond, Scarlett, Amellia, Lina, as well as those on the way who brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his siblings Maria, Malena, Concha, Raquel, and Valentin.

Jose was a man of remarkable character, known for his hardworking nature and generous spirit. He dedicated 37 years of his life to Mervis Industries in Danville and retired in 2020, where he was respected by colleagues and friends alike for his steadfast commitment and integrity. He was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and often volunteered in various activities alongside his wife.

Jose found great fulfillment in his personal passions and hobbies. He spent countless hours working on vehicles with his son, Jose Jr., and greatly enjoyed teaching his grandchildren about mechanics, landscaping, and construction. He found immense pleasure in attending his grandchildren’s sports activities, always their biggest supporter and cheerleader. Jose cherished every moment spent with his family and friends, often putting the needs of others before his own. To Jose, family and friendship were life’s greatest treasures, and he poured his heart into the people he loved.

Jose’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering support touched the lives of all who knew him. His legacy of love and selflessness will forever remain in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Family and friends are invited to attend services honoring Jose’s life at Anderson Funeral Home, located at 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL, on Monday, October 26, 2026, beginning at 5:00 p.m. A Rosary and vigil service will begin at 6:00 p.m. All are welcome to join the family in prayer and gather in remembrance and celebration of a life well lived.

A funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, October 27, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Floral Hill Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered through floral arrangements or Mass dedications in honor of Jose at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. For those who wish to support Maria as she faces not only the financial burden of funeral expenses but also the challenges of life without Jose’s income, a dedicated transition fund has been established. Because Maria does not use digital applications, her daughter, Veronica Gleckler is coordinating contributions on her behalf. Donations may be made through Zelle at 281-795-0816, and cash gifts may be given directly to Veronica during the services. Those who prefer to send a check may mail it directly to Maria at her home. Veronica can also provide additional options for anyone who wishes to assist.

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory be forever a blessing.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Jose’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Roland Maurice Wilson, Jr., 84, of Williamsport, IN, passed away at 8:25 P.M. Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent in Indianapolis, IN. He was born on June 19, 1942, in Danville, IL, the son of Roland Maurice and Lois (Draper) Wilson Sr. They preceded him in death.

He was also preceded in death by one sister, Sandy Emory, and one brother, Larry Wilson.

He is survived by his daughter, Chris Wilson of Concord, NC; two sons, Randy Wilson and Scott (AnnaLou) Wilson all of Concord, NC; one sister, Cindy (Spencer) Nale; one brother, Carroll Wilson; six grandchildren, Emilee (J.P.) Vega, Zachary Boswell, Morganne (Josh) Phillips, Cody (Kerri) Wilson, Rori Wilson, and Reece Wilson; six great-grandchildren, Roan, Ramsey, and River Phillips and Jay, Max, and Kol Vega; and eight nieces and nephews.

Roland worked as a welder at Kelly Services in Lafayette, IN, until his retirement. He served in the United States Army, serving during Vietnam.

A private burial will be held.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Roland’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Elbert “Wes” Knight III, 66, of Hoopeston passed away on Monday, October 19, 2026 at his residence. He was born on February 10, 1960 in Opelika, AL, a son of Sue McCray and Elbert W. Knight II. Wes married Rhonda Rudin on December 20, 1985 in Plano, Texas.

Surviving are his wife, Rhonda Knight of Hoopeston; three daughters, Ember Knight, Cayla (Travis) Field of Wellington, and Carlie Knight of Hoopeston; four grandchildren, Miles Landowski, T.J. Field, Colton Field, and Opal Thorn; one brother, Randy (Lori) Knight of Rowlett, Texas; father-in-law, Gary Rudin of Hoopeston; several step-brothers and step-sisters; and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Wes was preceded in death by his father and step-mother, Elbert W. Knight II and Monica Knight; his mother and step-father, Sue Harrison and Joe Harrison; and son, Collin Knight.

Wes enjoyed painting, fishing, and bird watching. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs, Illini, and Dallas Cowboys. Most importantly, he loved time spent with the grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be given to the family.

The Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park is handling arrangements.

Please share a memory of Wes at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.

Mercedes May Warner, 31, of Rankin, IL, passed away on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO. She was born on January 4, 1995, in Danville, IL, the daughter of Mike and Penny Hurt. They survive in Rankin, IL.

She is also survived by her infant daughter, Keelie Jo Warner; sister, Rylee Martin; brother, Shawn Hurt; grandmother, Linda Brenner; and aunt, Amy Warner.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Jerry Joe Warner; many great aunts and uncles and other family members; and her best friend, Raiven Vanier.

Mercedes had a contagious smile and laugh that could brighten any room. She had a larger-than-life personality and a special way of making everyone around her smile.

Family meant everything to Mercedes. She cherished family gatherings and spending time with those she loved. She especially enjoyed playing video games with her mom, family, and friends, as well as playing board games. Mercedes also enjoyed being in the garage with her dad helping him work on her vehicles. She shared a special bond with her grandpa and was proudly “Grandpa’s girl” until his passing. Mercedes enjoyed spending time in the kitchen with her grandma, where they would cook new recipes together.  

Mercedes was an incredibly talented artist who loved drawing and coloring with colored pencils, markers, and crayons. She also loved singing, watching scary movies, playing sports, and was a Green Bay Packers fan. She loved being outdoors, especially during the summer months when she could be found fishing, walking through creeks, riding four-wheelers and ATVs, and shooting guns. She always looked forward to spending time with her friends and their kids, creating memories filled with laughter and fun.

Mercedes was previously employed at McDonald’s and later worked at Country Health Care & Rehab in Gifford as an activity and dietary aide. She especially enjoyed visiting and interacting with the residents, taking time to talk with them, and bringing smiles to their faces.

She had a special love for her pets. Her beloved cat, Izzy, often accompanied her in a cat backpack, while her dog, Chewy, enjoyed trips to the creek and cruising when the weather was good. They were more than pets to Mercedes; they were her cherished companions.

Mercedes will be remembered for her beautiful smile, infectious laughter, adventurous spirit, and the unconditional love she had for her family and friends. Although words could never fully capture the person she was, the memories she created and the happiness she brought to others will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Cremation rites will be accorded, and a visitation will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 P.M. Sunday, November 1, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL 60942.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Mercedes eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Melvin L. Wilken, 89, of Armstrong, IL, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.

Born at home in Champaign County on July 23, 1937, Melvin was the son of Lammert and Anna (Blue) Wilken. He married Kathy Severins on July 25, 1964, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gifford. She survives him.

He is also survived by his two sons, Darren (Daile Doman) Wilken of Gifford and David (Amy) Wilken of Armstrong; five grandchildren, Nathan (LeeAnn) Wilken, Tyler (Spencer) Wilken, Trey (Trenaty) Wilken, Justin Wilken and Katelyn Wilken; his brother, Mervin Wilken of Rupert, Idaho; his great-granddaughter, Emma Wilken; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Dale Wilken; his brothers, John and Elmer Wilken; and his sisters, Emma Rademacher, Marilyn Wilken and Mildred “Millie” Sage.

Melvin spent more than 55 years working as a farmer, backhoe operator and gravedigger, bringing a strong work ethic and a love of work to each role. He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and had served as a volunteer firefighter with the Gifford Fire Department and Bluegrass Fire Protection District.  Melvin was also a member of the ORB Club in Gifford. A man of simple tastes, he enjoyed sitting in his garage with a cold beer, watching cars pass by, and driving around the area in his truck or side-by-side to see what was going on. He loved his family deeply and valued their place in his life.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gifford, with funeral services immediately afterward at 11:00 a.m. He will be buried at Partlow Cemetery in Armstrong. Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice. The family has entrusted Blurton Funeral Home with arrangements to honor Melvin’s life.

Share memories or condolences with the family at www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com

Sherry Irene Lesure, 82, of Potomac, passed away at home on Sunday, October 18, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born September 14, 1944, in Danville, Sherry was the daughter of Oscar and Lucille (Franklin) Bray. On February 20, 1993, she married Jesse Lesure in Potomac. He survives.  She was previously married to Marshal Fegett Jr.

Other survivors include three daughters: Julie (Eddie) White of Potomac, Kelly (Lee) Booher of Rossville and Molli (Larry) Herrington of Stearns, KY; step-children- Karen, April, Jesse, Sean, Quintella and Jason; four grandchildren: Jessica (Chris) Billot of Rantoul, Chelsea (Trevor) Jennings of Homer, Elizabeth (Micah) Rotich of Hadley, Massachusetts and Jake (Stacey) White of Potomac; seven great-grandchildren: Roman, Charlotte and Grace Jennings, Leland and Julian Rotich, and Bo and Maverick White; and several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Her parents, her daughter, Ginger Fegett, and her great-grandson-Parker Lee Jennings preceded her in death.

Sherry graduated from DACC as an LPN in 1978 and from Parkland College as an RN in 1980. She began her nursing career at Lakeview Hospital in the operating room and labor and delivery unit. She later worked as an operating room nurse at the VA Medical Center in Danville for 25 years before retiring. She was a member of the Potomac Church of Christ and CNOR (Certified Nurse Operating Room). She loved antiquing, shopping, watching birds from her bay window, tending her yard and spending time with her poodles. She also enjoyed collecting chairs, tables and shoes. Always willing to help, Sherry cared for those in the Potomac community whenever they needed anything.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 12:00 p.m. Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Blurton Funeral Home in Potomac. The funeral service will begin there at 12:00 p.m., followed by burial in Potomac Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Potomac Church of Christ. The family has entrusted Blurton Funeral Home with arrangements to honor Sherry’s life.

Share memories or condolences with the family on Sherry’s memorial page at www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Michael A. “Chief” Gilbert, 74, of Rossville, IL, passed away at 9:43 A.M. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center. He was born on February 7, 1952, in Danville, IL, the son of George and Geraldine (Moehring) Gilbert.

He is survived by his two sisters, Pat (Tom) Beckner of Rossville, IL and Rhonda Gilbert of Rossville, IL; three nieces and nephews, Justin (Dana) Beckner, Paige Cook, and John (Amber) Beckner; and four great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Geraldine Gilbert; grandparents, Dee and Jessie Gilbert and Arthur and Gladys Cartier; and infant twin siblings, Linda Lou and Louis Dee Gilbert.

Mike was the great- great- grandson of Alvan Gilbert who was a pioneer leader of Rossville and for whom the town of Alvin was named.  He attended Rossville-Alvin High School, graduating in the Class of 1971. Over the years, Mike worked for Masengale farms and helped out at Norton Machine. He enjoyed mowing and was always willing to help others whenever they needed a hand.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 12:00 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Rossville Cemetery in Rossville, IL.

Memorial donations to help provide a headstone for Mike may be sent to Norton Machine, P.O. Box 82, Rossville, IL 60963.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Mike’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Mildred Maureen “MoMo” Rhodes Felton, 71, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 1:36 P.M. Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center. She was born on September 5, 1955, in Danville, IL, the daughter of Robert Payton and Alice (Johnson) Wallace. She married Sidney Felton on November 12, 2013, at the First Church of God. He survives in Hoopeston.

She is also survived by one daughter, LaToya (Anthony) Edmunds of Danville, IL; one son, Larry Rhodes of Hoopeston, IL; three sisters, Lillian Burton, Linda Smith, and Sally Birch all of Hoopeston, IL; one brother, Larry “Doc” Wallace of Hoopeston, IL; 10 grandchildren, Jaea Edmunds, Kiera Rhodes, Jnaya Edmunds, JaAnthony Edmunds, Jeslyn Rhodes, Mason Rouse, and Bryson, Kendra, Aiden and Adrian Rhodes; 8 great-grandchildren, Jaeden and Aloni Mason, Mikah and Ivy Reign Anglin, Zaelyn and Zaya Sandlin-Rhodes, Ayson Evans and Misohn Taylor; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Alice Wallace; and four brothers, Bill, Benny, Tommy, and Pokey James.

Maureen spent several years working for Stokely’s. She attended the Church of God in Hoopeston and Abundant Faith in Danville, IL. She enjoyed shopping, baking, traveling, collecting porcelain dolls, and gambling. Her family held a special place in her heart, and she treasured the time she shared with her grandchildren.

Visitation will be held 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Monday, October 19, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at Higher Dimension Faith Center, 1700 Bowman Ave., Danville, IL, with Pastor Kenneth McCray officiating. Burial will follow at Mann’s Chapel Cemetery in rural Rossville, IL.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Maureen to Higher Dimension Faith Center, 1700 Bowman Ave, Danville, IL 61832.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Maureen’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

William “Bill” “Willy” S. Burke II, 73, of Hoopeston, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Accolade Healthcare of Danville.

Bill was born January 21, 1953, in Ft. Meade, Maryland, to William S. and Loretta G. (Davis) Burke. He previously married Christine Smith on July 19, 1976, in Potomac, and they had two children.

He is survived by his daughter, Jessie (Andy) Atchie of Hoopeston; son, Billy (Jess) Burke of Hoopeston; eight grandchildren, Jaren (Megan) West, Jadyn West, Tobi West, Alexa Burke, Noah Burke, Michaela (Tim) Bryant, Mackenzie Atchie, and Jacob Atchie; great-grandson, Hudson Bryant; one uncle, brother in law, several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and with a special shout-out, his longtime friends and bandmates, Jeff Alderson, Billy Ice and Vince Trauth. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Elizabeth Jolley.

Bill graduated from Potomac High School in 1971 and later earned an associate’s degree in applied science from DACC. He worked at FMC in Hoopeston as a machinist and later as a mechanical engineer until they closed. Later, he was a machinist at Troxel Industries in Danville for several years before retiring, with many jobs in between including a hog farm. Bill enjoyed daily walks in the park with his dog, Odie and cruising around town. Hiking the trails at Turkey Run State Park in his younger years, fishing, watching sports especially basketball, sci-fi movies and his favorite, SpongeBob SquarePants. Above all, music was his life. A talented, self-taught guitarist, he played in several bands over the years; Potters Wheel, Stillwater Band, Slic, Tons O Fun Band, Bugz, Blind Pilot, Bone Rollers and Two Man Trio. He recalled playing for the Queens ball for the Jaycees Sweetheart pageant for years. You could also find him sitting on his porch playing guitar for the neighbors and anyone walking by. 

A memorial visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Blurton Funeral Home in Potomac. Graveside services will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Rossville Cemetery. In accordance with his wishes, cremation rites have been arranged. Memorials may be made in his name to his local animal rescue HART https://hartshelter.org/contact-us or 901 W Main St Hoopeston, IL 60942. The family has entrusted Blurton Funeral Home with helping them honor Bill’s life.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com