Shirley Jean (Ritz) Watkins, 83, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2016, at Heritage Health of Staunton, IL.

She was born on February 9, 1933, to Bernard Anthony Ritz and Edna Mary (Culp) Ritz, who preceded her in death.

Shirley married Bobby Jean Watkins on July 12, 1952, at St. Mark Church in Venice. He also preceded her in death on May 11, 1994.

She attended St. Mark Grade School and graduated from Venice High School with the Class of 1950. She played clarinet in the high school band and was a soloist in the high school chorus. She later earned a degree from Browns Business College in speed writing.

She was a member of St. John Paul II (previously Church of The Ascension). Shirley was a member of the Church Choir, the Church Quilters and The Altar and Rosary Society.

Shirley was self-employed doing income taxes from 1994 until retiring in 2005 and was previously employed by Gebco Machine Co. in Granite City from 1953 to 1994.

Survivors include one brother, Robert (Patricia) Ritz, Troy, Missouri; two sisters, Jeannette Flannery of Granite City and Evelyn R. Ritz of San Diego, CA; a sister-in-law, Barbara Ritz of Killeen TX.

She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Charles and Bernard Ritz.

Visitation was on Saturday, August 6, 2016 until the time of a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at Saint John Paul II Catholic Church, Mt. Olive. Burial was in Mt. Olive City Cemetery.

Becker & Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive was in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Becker & Son Funeral Home.

Courtesy Heath Funeral Home

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Wanda Mae Renner, 71, of Granite City, Illinois passed away at 7:35 p.m. on Sunday, July 31, 2016 at St. Louis University Hospital.

She was born July 25, 1945 in Venice, Illinois, a daughter of the late Russell and Goldie (Boyle) Allison.

She married Ronald W. Renner on August 14, 1965 in State Park, Illinois and he survives.

Wanda was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and will be remembered for the love and special times shared with her family and friends. She was a dedicated member of Freedom Worship Center in Granite City. She loved her many travels, playing games and her trips to Florida and staying at the farm in Lesterville.

In addition to her beloved husband, she is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Richard and Louise Renner of Maryville and John and Jennifer Renner of Granite City; four grandchildren, Brittany and Frank Holmes, Amanda Renner, Cole Renner and Maddox Renner; a great grandchild, Francesca Holmes; two sisters and a brother-in-law, Mary and Wendell Chester of Granite City and Joyce Cook of Granite City; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Ernie and Pat Allison of Jerseyville and David and Linda Allison of Granite City; a brother-in-law, Don Kurtz of Granite City; many nieces; nephews; other extended family and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by four sisters, Nina Williams, Eva Kurtz, Neva Allison and Anna Ruth Allison and one brother, Glen Allison.

In celebration of her life, visitation was at Freedom Worship Center, 3633 State Route 162 in Granite City on Wednesday, August 3, 2016, where funeral services were held on Thursday, August 4, 2016 with Reverend Gary Cook officiating.

Graveside services followed at Manchester Cemetery in Manchester, Illinois.

Memorials may be made to Freedom Worship Center.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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Johnny McGlone Jr. passed away on Thursday July 28, 2016.

He was the beloved husband for 51 years of the late Mary Lee McGlone (nee Belle)

Johnny is the loving father of Chauncey (Torrian) McGlone and Kevin (Cecilia) McGlone; Cherished grandfather of Kevin McGlone Jr. and Justin McGlone; Dear brother of Verna McGlone, Lena Rush, Christine Saleem, Geraldine (Jimmie) Hollis, Jerome (Nell) McGlone, Sherry (Lavell) Essex, Rodney McGlone, Linda McGlone, Monique McGlone and the late Willie McGlone and Johnny is survived by two sisters-in-law Maizelle Dallis and Eloise Davis, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Johnny was a resident of Rock Hill, Mo. for over 45 years, and longtime faithful member of McKnight Crossings Church of Christ and retired from the St. Louis Post Dispatch as a lithographer working for 30 years from May 1, 1974 to May 1, 2004.

Visitation was Wednesday August 3, 2016, prior to time of service at 11:30am from McKnight Crossings Church of Christ 2515 McKnight Rd.

Burial followed at Oakdale Cemetery in Lemay, Mo.

Arrangements were handled by the JAY B. SMITH Funeral Home in Maplewood, MO.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Jay B. Smith Funeral Home.

Courtesy Jay B. Smith Funeral Home

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Ms. Darlene Baker, 58, passed away on Sunday, July 17, 2016. She was born on January 12, 1958.

She leaves to cherish her loving daughter, Darnee, who was always right by her side, even during her illness. She also leaves her unborn grandchild.

Darlene leaves to cherish her memories one brother, Robert Edwards Jr. (Lebanon, IL); sisters, Doris Edwards (Lebanon, IL), Janet Brooks (Shiloh, IL), Brenda (Mike) Ladet (New Orleans, LA), and Delorice Edwards (Lebanon, IL); one goddaughter, Danyell Miller; and a special friend Alva Mosby; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, co-workers, friends, and church family.

Serenity Memorial Chapel in Belleville was in charge of the arrangements and services.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Serenity Memorial Chapel.

Courtesy Serenity Memorial Chapel

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James “Jim” Fuller, 74, of Paragould, AR passed away Monday, July 25, 2016 at his residence.

He was retired from CSX Railroad. Jim enjoyed fishing, collecting guns, fixing cars, and helping his neighbors.

He was the son of Muriel Hurst Fuller and the late John Howard Fuller.

Jim graduated from Venice High School with the Class of 1959.

He is survived by his mother; daughters – Lisa (Steve) Griffin, Dunedin, FL; Barbara (Jeff) Carter, Effingham, IL; and Stephanie Satterfield, Paragould, AR; sisters – Jo Ann Brand, Shiloh, IL and Judy (Randy) Lambert, Edwardsville, IL; and brother, Larry Fuller, Bunker Hill, IL. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren – Brandon Albert, Randy Albert, Tim Garren, Devon Davis, and Austin Back.

A funeral is not planned at this time. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Disabled Veterans of America.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Heath Funeral Homel.

Courtesy Heath Funeral Home

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Sandra "Sandy" Lee Brewer, age 75, of Granite City, IL, passed away on Wednesday, July 13, 2016 at her home, with her loving family by her side. Sandy was born on February 18, 1941 in Venice, IL, a daughter of the late Wesley and Marie Zeigler.

On June 11, 1965, Sandy married Roger Brewer, the love of her life, in East St. Louis, IL. She was a faithful and dedicated member of Meadow Heights Baptist Church in Collinsville, IL. Sandy had worked for Sigma Chemical as a chemical weigher in St. Louis, MO for many years. She enjoyed playing poker with family and friends. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family. Sandy loved life, she loved to laugh, but most of all she loved her family. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Roger Brewer of Granite City, IL; loving children, Terre (Ray) Arnold of New Franklin, OH, Roger Brewer of Englewood, FL, William (Brenda) Dollins Jr. of Louisville, KY, Daniel Brewer of Granite City, IL and Thomas Brewer of Granite City, IL; proud grandmother to thirteen grandchildren and many great-grandchildren; extended family and many dear friends.

Memorial visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Monday, July 18, 2016 at Meadow Heights Baptist Church, 1498 Vandalia Street Collinsville, IL.

In celebration of her life, memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 19, 2016 at Meadow Heights Baptist Church, with Pastor Jim Robinson officiating. Private interment will be in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.

Memorial donations may be given to Meadow Heights Baptist Church and donations will be accepted at the church.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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James H. "Jim" Long Jr. 59, of Glen Carbon, Illinois passed away at 5:12 p.m. on Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville.

He was born April 26, 1956 in Granite City, a son of the late James Harold Long Sr.

He married Judi (Reeves) Long on July 21, 1989 in Toledo, Ohio and she survives.

Jim was a member of the 1974 graduating class at Venice High School.

He retired in December 2004 after 40 years of service as a truck driver. He had owned and operated R.S. Hauling in Glen Carbon where he was over the road and contracted with the United Postal Service for bulk delivery. He had also owned and operated Claybrook Construction for many years.

He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the National Rifle Association. He was a gun enthusiast and loved history. Family was most important in his life and he will be remembered for the love and special times shared with them.

In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by a son, Sergeant James H. Long III of San Antonio, Texas; a daughter, Melissa Lawrence of Granite City; three grandchildren, Quinton James Ray Lawrence, Joshua Edward Lawrence and Lexi Grace Lawrence; a brother and sister-in-law, Harry Thomas and June Ann Long of Toledo, Ohio; brother, Raymond Long; sister, Brenda Sue Bryant; other extended family and many friends.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be at Irwin Chapel, 591 Glen Crossing Road in Glen Carbon on Friday, March 4, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. where funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. with Reverend Robert A. Claus officiating.

Burial will be at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.

Memorials may be made to Semper Fi Fund and may be accepted at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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Marguerite E. “Maggie” Ferris, nee Davinroy, age 91, of Fairview Heights, IL, born on August 12, 1924 in Venice, IL, died on Thursday, February 25, 2016 at her residence.

Maggie was a graduate of St. Teresa Academy and a member of St. Stephen Catholic Church in Caseyville, IL. She worked as a secretary for Material Air Command at Scott Air Force Base until her retirement. Maggie was the first secretary for Camp Ondessonk.

Maggie was preceded in death by her husband, Donatus L. “Donnie” Ferris, Sr; her parents, Albert and Beulah Mae (nee Trower) Davinroy; and her six brothers and sisters, Rose Olive, Corwin, Bill, Leo, Alberta and Mary.

Surviving are her children, Don L. (Debra) Ferris, Jr. of Fairview Heights, IL, Peggy (Ed) Zuger of Swansea, IL and Margie Ann (Paul) Havel of Swansea, IL; her grandchildren, Matthew, Christiana, Nickolas, Alisha, Maire, Annie, Elizabeth, Ed III, Sascha, Cassandra, Tony, Valerie, Kevin; and her eight great-grandchildren.

Donations may be made in the form of masses to St. Stephen Catholic Church.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, February 28, 2016 at Kassly Mortuary, Fairview Heights, IL.

A funeral procession will leave at 9:30 a.m. from Kassly Mortuary, Fairview Heights, IL for a Mass of Christian burial at 10:00 a.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church, Caseyville, IL on Monday, February 29, 2016, with Fr. Ray Schultz officiating. Interment will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery, Fairview Heights, IL.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Kassly Mortuary.

Courtesy Kassly Mortuary

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Geraldine L. Burkey, of Granite City, Illinois passed away at 7:40 p.m. on Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at St. Joseph Health Center in St. Charles, Missouri.

She was born October 6, 1925 in Venice, Illinois, the daughter of the late Truman and Dortha (Boushard) Hord.

She married Chester T. Burkey on October 5, 1946 in Granite City and he passed away on January 4, 2012.

She was a beautician with over 60 years of dedicated service to the community. She loved her days of cooking, sewing and crocheting and will be remembered for the love and special times shared with her family and friends.

She is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Keith and Diana Burkey of Granite City and Richard and Vickey Burkey of St. Charles, Missouri; a brother, Truman E. Hord of Granite City; four grandchildren, Aaron Burkey, Eric (Whitney) Burkey, Chris Martinez and Tony Martinez; five great grandchildren, Jessica, Matthew, Landon, Peyton and Madilyn Burkey; one great-great grandchild, Ryleigh; other extended family and friends.

In addition to her beloved husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Anthony Todd Burkey.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City on Sunday, February 28, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. where funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 29, 2016 with Reverend Charles West officiating.

Burial will be at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association and may be accepted at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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William G. Foote, 58 of Glen Carbon passed away on Thursday, February 18, 2016 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville.

William was born on November 15, 1957 in Granite City, Illinois. He was a long time landscape artist who loved nature. William was a huge St. Louis Cardinals fan and enjoyed spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his kind heart and all the special times he shared with his family and friends.

William was a 1975 graduate of Venice High School.

He is survived by and will be missed by his mom, Shirley M. (Cockrill) Foote of Glen Carbon; his son, Christopher (Jenna) Foote of Troy, IL; his daughter, Krista Foote (Chance Thomas) of Greers Ferry, AR; grandchildren, Keegan J. Foote of Troy, IL, Parker Biama of Greers Ferry, AR; and brother, Joseph Foote Jr. of Glen Carbon.

William was preceded in death by his dad, Joseph F. Foote Sr.

In celebration of his life a memorial gathering will be held on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Irwin Chapel, 591 Glen Crossing Road in Glen Carbon.

Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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Jack Tolliver, age 90, of Edwardsville, IL was Fortified by the Holy Sacraments on February 6, 2016. Jack passed away on Wednesday, February 10, 2016 at Cedarhurst in Edwardsville, IL. He was born on June 8, 1925 in East St. Louis, IL, a son of the late Jack B. Tolliver and Mary (Bunetic) Tolliver.

Jack was a World War II veteran who proudly served in the United States Navy as a submariner. On December 28, 1946, Jack married Evelyn Hartman, the love of his life in Venice, IL. He was a faithful and dedicated member of St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Glen Carbon, IL. Jack worked for the US Corps of Engineers and the Department of Housing and Urban Development as a civil engineer prior to retirement. He was also the city engineer for Venice, IL.

After retirement Jack worked as the Director of Public Works for the city of Edwardsville, IL. He was a member of IL-MO Rebel Submarine Veterans Squadron and the Venice-Madison American Legion Post # 307. Jack was a longtime resident of Venice IL. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. Jack will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jack graduated from Venice High School in 1943.

He is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn Tolliver of Edwardsville, IL; dear children, Jack (Janice) Tolliver, of Edwardsville, IL, Timothy Tolliver of Collinsville, IL, Richard Tolliver of Edwardsville, IL, Jeffrey Tolliver of Edwardsville, IL, Daniel (Leslie) Tolliver of Glen Carbon, IL and Mary Anne (Sharon Spurlock) Tolliver of St. Louis, MO; proud grandfather to seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild; extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, February 13, 2016 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, Glen Carbon, IL.

In celebration of his life, a funeral mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Father Al Allen officiating. Interment will be in Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Edwardsville, IL.

Memorial donations may be given to New Opportunities or Anna Veterans Home in Anna, IL.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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Charles R. Svoboda Jr. 78, of Granite City, Illinois passed away at 7:35 a.m. on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at Rosewood Care Center in Edwardsville.

He was born February 17, 1939 in Granite City, a son of the late Charles Richard and Rose (Bridick) Svoboda Sr.

He married Jeanette F. (Cicio) Svoboda on October 2, 1965 at St. Mark's Catholic Church in Venice and she passed away on February 24, 2013.

He retired on November 1, 1996 from Boeing after over 28 years of dedicated service with McDonnell Douglas as a purchaser.

The United States Army veteran proudly served his country during the Korean War. He was a dedicated member of the Collinsville American Legion Post #365, Knights of Columbus Tri-Cities Council #1098, Chef de Gare Club and the Venice Social Club. He was also a former member of St. Marks Catholic Church in Venice.

He had a special love of cigars and guns and will be remembered for the love and special times shared with his family and friends.

He is survived by two daughters, Pamela Dean and Greg "Sully" Sullivan, Lisa Davis and John Davis; one son, Richard C. Svoboda; three grandchildren, Brett M. Dean, Anthony C. Dean and Samuel D. Dean, all of Granite City; one great grandchild, Griffin D. Davis of Edwardsville; a sister, Carol and Gene Robertson of Madison; brother-in-law, Gerald D. and Beverly Cicio of Granite City; nieces, Teri Lake and Amy Winn of Granite City; other extended family and friends.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City on Friday, January 5, 2016 from 11:00 a.m. until time of funeral service at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Charles West officiating.

Burial with military honors will be at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Edwardsville.

Memorials may be made to a charity of one's choice and may be accepted at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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David R. Grillion, 66 of Granite City passed away on Sunday, January 24, 2016 at Gateway Regional Medical Center in Granite City.

David was born on November 19, 1949 in St. Louis; a son to the late Ralph and Texanna (Rice) Grillion. He was a machinist for McDonnell Douglas and Boeing from 1968 until his retirement in 2000. He was a United States Army veteran and was an accomplished guitar player. David enjoyed music, computers and playing video games buy most of all he loved to spend time with his wife, Jane.

He is survived by and will be missed by his wife; Jane (Howards) Grillion, whom he married on March 19, 1972; his brothers, Ron and (Suzanne) Grillion of Edwardsville, IL, Bob and (Julie) Grillion of Mountain Home, AR; his sister, MaryEllen and (Marty) Rosso of Arizona; brother-in-law, Joe and (Carol) Howards of Houston, TX.

Both Mr. Grillion and his wife, Jane, are both former Venice residents.

In celebration of David's life friends may call on Friday, January 29, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. until the time of the service at 7:00 p.m. at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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Michael Britt, 68, of Granite City, passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2016 at Gateway Regional Medical Center, Granite City. Mike was born on August 8, 1947 in Granite City, IL, a son of the late Tom and Esther Ilene (Dennis) Britt.

Mike proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was also a Vietnam Veteran who served three tours of duty. He had worked as a conductor for the Illinois Central Railroad for twenty two years. Mike then worked for and retired from General Motors as a lineman after twenty years of service. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. Mike will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mike was a member of the 1965 graduating class at Venice High School.

In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his wife, Deborah (Henry) Britt, who passed away on June 23, 2005; one brother, Dennis Britt and a brother-in-law, Wendell Bravard.

He is survived by his sisters, Mary (Curt) Mase and Patricia Bravard both of Spanish Fort, Al; brother, Tim (Jackie) Britt of Sikeston, MO; sister-in-law, Pam (Jim) Bagi of Granite City, IL; girlfriend, Jean Cain of Granite City, IL; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Friends may call on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road, Granite City.

In celebration of his life, services will be held on Thursday, February 4, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at Irwin Chapel, with Pastor Dan Meyer officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, IL, Edwardsville, IL.

Memorials are suggested to Madison County Veterans Association.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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Larry G. Allen, 73, of Troy, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016 at St. Joseph Hospital West in Lake Saint Louis.

He was born on Dec. 3, 1942 in Pollard, Ark., a son of the late Denver R. and Leoma Allen. He was united in marriage to Karen Dunlap in June of 1963 in Pollard, Ark. and she preceded him in death.

Larry graduated high school and entered the U.S. Army on Dec. 28, 1959, in St. Louis. While serving his country he earned a sharpshooter badge, expert rifleman badge and was honorably discharged on Dec. 18, 1962. He retired after over 30 years of dedication to McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Company in the Gemini Program and was an all-around machinist. Larry was a car enthusiast and loved tinkering on them.

He is survived by his daughter, Chris Rogers and husband Marlin of Troy; one sister, Ramona Magee of Piggott, Ark.; cousins but share a special bond, Bill Crum and Garcelin Morrow of Warrenton, Arvella Gordon of Piggott, Ark. and Diana Miller of Paragould, Ark.; two grandsons: Blake Rogers and Jake Rogers of Troy; nieces, nephews and numerous relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, one son, Damon Allen in October 6, 2002 and one brother, Fred Allen.

Friends were received on Thursday, January 7, 2016 at the Kemper-Millard-Keim Family Funeral Home/Troy Chapel located at 351 Monroe Street Troy. A funeral service was held at 7 p.m. at the Chapel.

An additional visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016 at the Hoggard & Sons Funeral Home located at 142 N. 3rd Ave Piggott, Ark. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the New Hope Cemetery in Pollard, Ark. Officiating the service will be Jerry Morgan.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the New Hope Baptist Church Building Fund or The Gideon's International, in care of Kemper-Millard-Keim Family Funeral Chapels, P.O. Box 222 Troy, MO 63379.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at the Chapel website.

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Mary L Ohlendorf, 88 of Granite City passed away on Saturday, December 19, 2015 at Gateway Regional Medical Center in Granite City.

Mary was born on October 25, 1927 in Venice, IL; a daughter of the late Jacob and Dorothy (Olein) Frey.

Mary was a long time realtor with Remax and was faithful member at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, participating in many various church activities. In her free time Mary enjoyed gardening, crafts and reading but most of all she loved to spend time with her family and friends.

She is survived by and will be missed by her husband; David E. Ohlendorf, whom she married on August 5, 1947; her son, David J. and (Linda) Ohlendorf of Maryville, IL; grandchildren, Matt Ohlendorf of Edwardsville, IL, Amy Ohlendorf of O'Fallon, MO.

In addition to her parents Mary was preceded in death by her brother; Jim Frey; her sisters, Audrey Bostwick, Dorothy Homola, Thelma Simmons, Norma Darling.

In celebration of Mary's life a private family visitation was held on Tuesday, December 22, 2015 at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City. Burial followed at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Edwardsville. In lieu of flowers memorial donations are suggested to St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, 2300 Pontoon Road, Granite City, IL 62040.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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Lynn Rene`e Rapp, 51, of Troy and formerly of Granite City, Illinois passed away at 2:15 p.m. on Tuesday, December 22, 2015 at her home.

She was born April 13, 1964 in East St. Louis, Illinois, a daughter of James J. and Kathryn L. (Hall) Jeffries of Edwardsville.

She married Ronald Lee Rapp on June 10, 1989 at Niedringhaus United Methodist Church in Granite City and he survives.

She was a supervisor at Wells Fargo (formerly A.G. Edwards) with 32 years of dedicated service. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Troy.

Her children were the center of her life and she enjoyed her many family vacations and loved going to the beach. She always enjoyed life and lived it to its fullest. She will be remembered for the love and special times shared with her entire family and many friends.

In addition to her beloved husband and parents, she is survived by two sons, Ryan Rapp of Troy and Adam Rapp of Troy; a daughter, Rene`e Rapp of Troy; a sister and brother-in-law, Cindy and Steve Akeman of Edwardsville; three nephews, James and Jonas Akeman and Corey Dyson; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Lee and Norma Rapp of Troy; great grandmother-in-law, Dorothy "G.G." Johnson of Troy; other extended family and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Cheryl Dyson.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be at Irwin Chapel, 591 Glen Crossing Road in Glen Carbon on Monday, December 28, 2015 from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. where funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. with Reverend Tim Lewis officiating.

Burial will be at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.

Memorials may be made to Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis and may be accepted at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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Marlene Catherine Miller (nee Blumenstock), 84, of Granite City, IL, formerly of Venice, IL, died Dec. 2, 2015 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, IL.

She was born May 29, 1931 in Venice, IL to the late Lloyd & Mary (Richardson) Blumenstock.

Marlene graduated from Venice Grade School in 1945 and then from the Academy of Notre Dame in 1949.

On Sept. 10, 1949, she and James Francis Miller Sr. were married in Venice. He preceded her in death on Oct. 23, 2012.

Marlene was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, Gateway Regional Medical Center Auxiliary, Women in Travel of Greater St. Louis, TWA Seniors Club and a lifetime member of The Venice History Committee.

She will be remembered for her generous heart and time spent with her family and friends. She was lovingly referred to as Grandma, Nana and Queenie by her family and extended family.

Marlene enjoyed her career with Trans World Airlines. Upon retirement from TWA, with her ambitious spirit, she continued to share her knowledge and passion for travel as a consultant. She especially loved riverboat cruises with her husband on the Mississippi.

Survivors include children, Mary Catherine (Steven) Schwenk, Lorettte Miller, John (Cynthia) Miller and Paul Miller, daughter-in-law, Christine Miller, grandchildren, James (Kristi) Harper, Mark (Jennifer) Miller, Lauren (Blake) Shepard, Megan (Gawain) Piper, Jennifer (Brody) Robertson, Marley (Dale) Walls and Ian Miller, great-grandchildren, Jack & Claire Miller, Lukas Shepard, Edith Harper, Blair Shepard, Saer Robertson, Kaydence Piper and Flynn Robertson, sister, Jo Ann Barnett, brother, Lloyd (Adelina) Blumenstock, niece, Mary Chris (Mike) Curran, nephews, Gregory (Christa) Barnett and Will Blumenstock and many other great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Besides her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a son, James F. Miller Jr.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Sat. Dec. 12, 2015 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 2606 Washington Ave., Granite City, with Fr. Jason Stone as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gateway Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship Fund or Calvary Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Wojstrom F.H..

Courtesy Wojstrom F.H.

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Joan Elizabeth Flowers, 72, of Venice, Illinois passed away at 3:45 a.m. on Sunday, November 22, 2015 at Stearns Nursing and Rehabilitation in Granite City.

She was born September 6, 1943 in St. Louis, Missouri, a daughter of the late Albert W. and Eva E. (Wynne) Fink.

She was a dedicated and loving homemaker and was a member of Suburban-Unity Baptist Church in Granite City and a former member of Trinity Baptist Church in Overland, Missouri. She will be remembered for the love and special times shared with her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Flowers.

She is survived by three daughters and sons-in-law, Bridgette and Mike Koelker of Venice, Lisa and Curtis Brown of Granite City and Deborah and Edward Cox of Granite City; six grandchildren, Jimmy Koelker, Ashley Koelker, Katelyn Cox, Trever Brown, Adrean Brown and Caroline Brown; one sister, Margaret Underwood; three brothers and two sisters-in-law, Robert and Kathy Fink, Albert and Sandy Fink and Donald Fink; other extended family and friends.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City on Monday, November 23, 2015 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. where funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 24, 2015 with Reverend Clint Wisdom officiating.

Burial will be at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Foundation, Autism Speaks or the Muscular Dystrophy Association and may be accepted at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

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Oren Lance Austin, 57, of Collinsville, died at 8:43 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16, 2015, in Collinsville.

He was born Sept. 10, 1958, in Granite City, the son of Mildred (Head) Hunt and the late William Austin.

He married Linda M. Thien Austin Sept. 18, 1999, in Greenfield. She survives.

Lance loved to draw, play electronic games, was an avid St. Louis Blues fan and loved his dog, Blue. He was employed by Imperial Mfg. Group in Alton for five years.

Other survivors include his children, Kristina (Jacob) Jones of Gillespie and Sean Austin of Granite City; his mother and stepfather, Mildred and John Hunt of Scheller, IL; grandchildren, Landon and Lorelai Foley and Kallei Jones; sisters, Judy Austin of Collinsville, Lynda (Gary) Earhart of Caseyville, and Verla Myers of Cleburne, TX; brothers, William (Geraldine) Austin of Foley, MO, Patrick Austin of Leesport, PA, Randy (Julie) Austin of Alvin, TX, Vance (Anita) Austin of Cahokia, Terry (Michelle) Austin of Collinsville; stepbrothers, Michael Hunt of Hillsboro, MO, Randy (Trinni) Hunt of Sparks, NV, and Danny (Deanna) Hunt of Affton, MO; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father; his sister, Rita Bodimer; stepsisters, Liz Claus and Rebecca Hunt; a stepbrother, William Hunt; and nephew, Joshua Austin.

Visitation will take place from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, 2015, at Thomas Saksa Funeral Home in Granite City where funeral services will commence at 7 p.m. Friday.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Louis Blues 14 Fund by clicking HERE.

Courtesy Thomas Saksa F. H.

(For informational purposes only)

Inez Bennett, 73, of Madison died Nov. 10, 2015. She was the wife of retired Venice Police Chief William Bennett.

She was born on August 26, 1942.

Visitation and funeral services were held on Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Friendship Baptist Church in Madison.

Burial was Monday, Nov. 16, in the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Officer F.H.

Courtesy Officer F. H.

(For informational purposes only)

John W. Hargis, age 92, of St. Louis, MO, died on Thursday, November 5, 2015, at Cardinal Ritter's Mary, Queen, and Mother Center.

He was born on August 2, 1923, in Venice, IL, and was a graduate from Venice High School in 1942.

His brother, Robert Hargis, recently passed away on October 9 of this year.

Mr. Hargis was a US Army veteran, retired as a foreman from Consolidated Aluminum, and was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. John and his wife Marian were happily married for 52 years, and enjoyed ballroom dancing almost every weekend.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frances W. (Barton) and Thomas J. Hargis; his brothers Walter and Robert Hargis, and 5 sisters, Esther Diamond, Margaret Hargis, Virginia Hargis, Mary Rose Stahl, and Vera Martinez.

He is survived by his wife Marian, nee Lubbers; his children, Keith Hargis (residing in Seattle with his wife Lidia) and Kent Hargis (residing in NYC); and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A funeral Mass was celebrated at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church on Tuesday, Nov. 10, with interment following at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

Arrangements were handled by the John L. Ziegenhein & Sons Funeral Home in St. Louis.

Memorial Masses are preferred by the family.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Ziegenhein & Sons.

Courtesy John L. Ziegenhein & Sons F. H.

(For informational purposes only)

Emma Jean Heisey, age 68 of Alhambra, IL, died October 31, 2015, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, IL.

She was born on May 19, 1947, in Hershey, PA, the daughter of Christian and Mary (nee Seltzer) Heisey.

She was a member of First Baptist Church, Alhambra, IL, the Alhambra Community Club and was a member of Delta Kappa Alpha in college.

Emma was born and reared in Hershey, PA. After high school, she moved to California and did Christian Mission work. In 1977 she and her family moved to Venice, IL She attended Belleville Area College and then SIU-E to finish her education.

She was a substitute teacher in Special Education in several Metro School Districts.

Following a car accident, she lost her sight and was wheelchair bound. Emma Jean moved to the Alhambra Care Center in 2001.

She enjoyed being active in her church - especially with the State Prison Ministry and helping make/package items for the homeless She enjoyed crochet & knitting.

Survivors include her father, Christian E. Heisey, Winchester, VA; three daughters, Rebecca L. Harshaw of St. Louis, MO, Roberta J. Larkin of Gibson City, IL, and Shirley M. (Johnny) Cystrunk of East Saint Louis, IL; seven grandchilden, Tenisha M. Cystrunk, Emily K. Bucks, Jessica D. Braggs, Vanisha R. Cystrunk, Justin J. Braggs, Ieshea N. Cystrunk and Ashley R. Cystrunk; one great grandchild, Nevaeh M. Williams; a sister, Sarah (Bob) Kerns of Winchester, VA, and a brother, Bill (Lil) Heisey of Glen Allen, VA.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Mary J. Heisey (nee Seltzer); a son-in-law, Joseph Larkin, and a sister, Mary Christine Harris.

Arrangements are being handled by Dauderman Mortuary in Alhambra, IL.

Visitation was held on Monday, November 02, 2015, at First Baptist Church in Alhambra, IL, where a funeral service followed with Rev. Mark Gause, Pastor, officiating.

A private interment service was held at Harris Cemetery in Alhambra, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to Family.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Dauderman Mortuary.

Courtesy Dauderman Mortuary

(For informational purposes only)

Dorothy M. O'Neill Ledford, 97 of Granite City passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2015 at her home with her family by her side.

Dorothy was born on June 24, 1918 in Alton; a daughter of the late Fredrick and Anna Hochuli. Dorothy was a life long homemaker and a member of Hope Lutheran Church in Granite City. Dorothy loved her family and will be remembered for her generous heart and all the special times she shared with her family and friends.

She is survived by and will be missed by her son; William H. and (Libby) O'Neill of Ellijay, GA; grandson, Chris Callicott of Cumming, GA; brother, Lafayette "Sonny" and (Naomi "Ruth") Hochuli of Granite City; sister, Joan Weeke of Garland, TX and many other extended family members and friends.

In addition to her parents Dorothy was preceded in death by her 1st husband; Harold J. O'Neill; her 2nd husband, Frank Ledford; her son, Robert O'Neill and her brother-in-law, Roy Weeke.

She will be remembered as having lived on Abbott Street with her first husband, Harold O'Neill. Her family had lived on Logan Street in North Venice, where her father operated a bakery.

Friends may call on Tuesday, October 27, 2015 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City. In celebration of her life services will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church, 3715 Wabash Ave. in Granite City with Pastor Alan Beuster officiating.

Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.

Memorials are suggested to Hope Lutheran Church.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at Irwin Chapel.

Courtesy Irwin Chapel

(For informational purposes only)