Funeral Report-Anna Rose Riggs

Funeral Services were held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 21, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home to honor the life of Anna Rose Riggs. Reverend Baily Pearson conducted the service that included prayer, message and scriptural passages. “Beyond The Sunset”, “Ashokan Farewell” and “In The Garden” were played during the funeral service. Burial took place at Highland Memorial Cemetery where Anna Rose was laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Walter Riggs. Pallbearers were Jessica Marlo, Todd Marlo, Emily Peters, Johnathan Peters, Phillip Williams and David Williams. John Schrodt served as honorary pallbearer. Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Anna Rose Rigg

Funeral Report-George Victor Keepes

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 23, 2019 at St. Sebastian Catholic Church to honor the life of George Victor Keepes.  Father Robert Zwilling conducted the Funeral Mass with Deacon Charlie Speaks and Father Bill Rowe assisting.  Father Bill chose the First and Second Scripture Readings that exemplified Vic’s life.   Bill Wright served as organist with Vesta Rigg serving as Cantor.  The Responsorial Psalm was taken from Psalm 23.  The opening hymn was “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today”.  The placement of the Pall over Vic’s casket was done by his children, Vickie Kieffer, Daniel Keepes, Michael Keepes, Pamela Woodcock, Bruce Keepes, Kevin Keepes, Candyce Hadra, and Shaun Keepes.  The Presentation of Gifts were brought forward by Vic’s siblings, Bernard Keepes, Eugene Keepes, Agnes Hockgeiger and Marilyn Harris.  Servers for the Mass were Aaron Brown and Justin Berberich. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion were Shaun Keepes, Jason Brown and Vince Goodwin.  The Church choir sang “Amazing Grace” during the Offertory” with “Let Us Break Bread Together” and “O, Lord, I Am Not Worthy during Holy Communion. The Song of Farewell was “I Am The Bread Of Life” with “Mine Eyes Have Seen The Glory” as the Closing Hymn.  At the conclusion of the Funeral Mass, Kevin Keepes, Pam Woodcock, Chelsea Keepes and Chase Victor Keepes each shared treasured memories of their time with their dad or pap and talked about the many lives that Vic touched.  The Committal Service was held at St. Sebastian Catholic Cemetery where Vic was laid to rest next to his beloved wife, Shirley Sue Keepes.  Pallbearers were grandchildren, Nicholas Kieffer, Justin Keepes, Joe Keepes, Nathan Woodcock, Craig Keepes, Derek Prosise, Jake Hadra and Chase Victor Keepes.  Honorary Pallbearers were Dr. Anadkat, Bernard Keepes and Eugene Keepes.  Present at the Graveside Service were members of Scott Air Force Base Honor Guard who conducted the flag presentation.  The Flag for Vic’s faithful service in the United States Air Force, was presented to his oldest son, Danny Keepes.  Members of our local USAMV honor guard conducted a 21-Gun Salute and “Taps” was played by Bill Hudson.  Mike Cunningham was also present at the graveside service and played “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes as the service concluded.  

    The entire George Victor Keepes family would like to thank the community for the tremendous outpouring of love and support during this most difficult time.  We are going to miss our Dad and Pap.  Go Cardinals!

Clifford Franklin Malcolm, 93

Clifford Franklin Malcolm, 93, of Westfield, Indiana, formerly of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away December 26, 2019, with his loving daughter at his side.

He was born August 11, 1926, in Mt. Carmel, Illinois, the son of Clifford and Gladys (Veihman) Malcolm. Clifford was a graduate of Mt. Carmel High School class of 1944. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served aboard the U.S.S. Antietam in the Pacific Ocean during WWII.

On August 25, 1946, Clifford married Joan Parker in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. They were married 53 years before her passing on May 6, 1999. He then married Gayle (Kennard) Malcolm on November 22, 2002, until her passing on May 9, 2010.

After his discharge from the Navy, Clifford went to college and became a podiatrist serving many patients in the Mt. Carmel area. He was a member of the Elks Club and was a past Exalted Ruler.

He will always be remembered as the best Santa Claus EVER! He was Santa for a lot of families over the years and loved every minute of it!

In 2011, he moved to Westfield, Indiana, at Sanders Glen Assisted Living. He made many, many friends there and was loved by all.

Left to cherish Clifford’s memory is his children, Kimberly Stephens and her husband Scott, Joy Hocking and her husband Steve, and, Jackie Fewkes and her husband Marvin; grandchildren, Craig Stephens and Doug Stephens, Wayne (Whitney) Hocking, Cassie Hocking, Justin (Mindy) Hocking and Dillion and Allison Pearson; bother, Robert (Barbara) Malcolm; several nieces and nephews; and too many friends to mention.

Clifford was preceded in death by his parents; wife Joan of 53 years of marriage, and, wife Gayle of seven years of marriage.

Funeral services for Clifford will be held Saturday, December 28, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home. Visitation will be prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow the funeral service at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Clifford’s family.

Dennis Ray Poland, age 65

Dennis Ray Poland, age 65, of Meridian, Mississippi, formerly of Mt. Carmel, Illinois and Olney, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2019 at Rush Health Systems in Meridian, Mississippi. He was born on February 21, 1954 in Lawrenceville, Illinois, the son of Ray A. and Betty (Berry) Poland. He married Sandra Provines on September 14, 1973 who survives.

Dennis dedicated his life to the emergency management systems as a paramedic. He was the director of the Wabash Ambulance Service 1989-1999, the risk manager at Richland Memorial Hospital 2000-2005, the 911 director for Wabash County 2011-2013, the 911 director for Lawrence County 2013-2016, and he dispatched for Lawrence County and Richland County. His hobbies included ham radio operator and CB radio operator, as well as target shooting and photography.

Preceding him in death were his parents and two sons, Scott Anthony and Christopher Wayne.

Survivors include his wife, Sandra; one son, Nicholas Poland of Olney, Illinois; one daughter, Jennifer Poland of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; one sister, Cathy Redman and husband, Russell of Olney, Illinois; and two grandsons, Tyler Poland and Camden Poland.

Funeral services will be conducted on Friday, December 27, 2019 at 10:00 AM at the Sivert-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Sumner, Illinois. Visitation will be Thursday from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Sumner Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to any of the local emergency services such as fire departments, ambulance services, 911 and first responders or Coyote Hills Equine Rescue and Therapeutic Riding, Inc 542 Chunky-Duffee Road Chunky, MS 39323.

George Victor “Vic” Keepes, 85

George Victor “Vic” Keepes, 85, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Thursday, December 19, 2019 at home. He was born September 24, 1934 in rural Wabash County Illinois, the son of Leo Philip and Edith Clara (Tennis) Keepes. He married Shirley Sue Williams on April 16, 1955 at St. Sebastian Catholic Church and she preceded him in death on April 10, 1980. Vic was dedicated to his family while always keeping Shirley close to his heart. He always shared fond memories of her and made sure to keep her memory alive in the family.

Vic was a proud United States Air Force retiree where the family travelled the world to Japan, England, Germany and Thailand. He proudly served his Country for twenty-one years before retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant on May 30, 1975 at Scott Air Force Base. After his military career, Vic and Shirley moved their family back home to Mount Carmel and Vic began another career as the Engineer of Maintenance at Wabash General Hospital. Vic was a smiling familiar face throughout the halls of the hospital for twenty-five years. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and could find a solution to whatever problem presented itself. Vic was proud of his work at Wabash General Hospital and made many good friends there. Everyone at WGH knew and loved Vic. Vic was also very proud of his work at Keepes Funeral Home where he enjoyed greeting and visiting with many families. In his, spare time Vic enjoyed gardening. He always had a bountiful harvest and loved sharing with his family and friends. Everyone who knew Vic knew he was a huge fan of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team and attended as many games as he possibly could. He enjoyed the games the most when any of his children or grandchildren were able to go along. Vic was lovingly given the name “Pap” when his first grandchild was born and every grandchild and great-grandchild in the family knew their “Pap” loved them. Vic was a lifelong member of St. Sebastian Catholic Church and extremely proud of his Catholic faith. He served on the parish council and was very involved in the church’s activities and caring for the building and grounds. He often served as a Lector during the Mass Celebration. Vic was a member of the Knights of Columbus - Fourth Degree, the American Legion, VFW, Air Force Sergeants Association and the American Military Society. Everyone who knew Vic, loved him and he will be dearly missed by many.

Vic will forever be remembered by his eight children, Vickie (Scott) Kieffer, Daniel (Kim) Keepes, Michael Keepes, Pamela (George) Woodcock, Bruce (Sandra) Keepes, Kevin (Carla) Keepes, Candyce (Kevin) Hadra, and Shaun (Kim) Keepes; twenty-four grandchildren, Brooke (Kyle) Loucks, Nicholas (Jenna) Kieffer, Travis (Trisha) Kieffer, Justin (Rocksan) Keepes, Erin Keepes, Joe Keepes, Zach (Audra) Keepes, Nathan

(Amy) Woodcock, Hannah (Jon) Jent, Jordan Woodcock, Mackenzie (Sebastian) Price, Craig (Jamie) Keepes, Chelsea Keepes, Kyle Keepes, Derek (Megan) Prosise, Tyler Prosise, Madyson Keepes, Rachel Strockbine, Shelbe (Jennifer) Hadra, Jake Hadra, Cortney (Chandler Madden) White, Chase Victor Keepes, Emma Keepes, and Lily Keepes; twenty seven great-grandchildren; brothers; Bernard Keepes and Eugene (Judy) Keepes; sisters, Agnes Hockgeiger, and Marilyn Harris; sister-in-law, Helen Keepes and many loved nieces and nephews.

Vic was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Shirley; brothers, Norman, Howard, and John L. Keepes; sister, Bertha Mae Kieffer; brothers-in-law, Louis Kieffer, Richard Hockgeiger and John Harris; sister in law, Phyllis Keepes.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Sunday, December 22, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 23, 2019 at St. Sebastian Catholic Church, 4921 N 1400 Blvd. Mt. Carmel, IL with Father Robert Zwilling officiating. Burial will follow at St. Sebastian Cemetery where he will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife Shirley.

Memorial contributions may be made in Vic’s memory to St. Sebastian Catholic Church or the Wabash General Hospital Foundation. Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Vic’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Keepes family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Wilma Jean Dillon, 82

Wilma Jean Dillon, 82, of Albion, Illinois passed away peacefully at her residence Thursday, December 18, 2019.

She was born June 2, 1937 in Friendsville, Illinois, the daughter of Wilber and Mary (Jordan) Wilkinson.

Wilma worked for Snap-on Inc. as an inspector. She loved nothing better than spending time with family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Grandma Willie”.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter Kimberly A. Paschal and husband Gail of Albion; grandchildren, Katie and husband Michael Fisher of Albion, Mikayla and husband Ethan Metcalf of Ramstein, Germany; great grandchildren, Lydia, Easton and Abigail Fisher, and Alyvia and Axel Metcalf; sisters, Donna Leistekow of Beaver Dam WI, Mary Wilkinson of Gainesville, FL; and brother, Johnny Wilkinson of Friendsville, IL.

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents; brother, killed in Vietnam, Captain Clyde David Wilkinson, and sister Carol Doris.

Graveside services for Wilma Jean Dillon will be Monday, December 23, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Friendsville Cemetery, Friendsville IL. There will be no visitation.

Memorials in Wilma’s memory can be made to Vietnam Veterans Memorial, 900 Ohio Drive SW, Washington DC 20024.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Wilma’s family.

George Victor “Vic” Keepes, 85

George Victor “Vic” Keepes, 85, of Mount Carmel, IL, passed Thursday, December 19, 2019 at home. Arrangements are pending at Keepes Funeral Home. When available the obituary can be viewed and online condolences can be made at www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Funeral Report- Eleanor Painter

Funeral Services were held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 18, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home to honor the life of Eleanor Painter. Pastor Mark Richison conducted the service which included reading of the obituary, sharing memories along with a message, a sermon and prayers. Special musical selections included “Welcome Home”, “Amazing Grace” and “Smile”. A private family burial took place on Thursday, December 19, 2019 at Maple Hill Cemetery in Sesser, Illinois. Honorary Pallbearers were Bill Hollen, Don Gray and Steve Scott. Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Eleanor Painter.

Anna Rose Riggs, 95

Anna Rose Riggs, 95, of Mount Carmel, Illinois passed away Monday, December 16, 2019 at Oakview Nursing and Rehabilitation. She was born September 1, 1924 in Wabash County, Illinois, the daughter of Everett O and Fern (Andrews) Jackman. She married Walter Riggs and he preceded her in death on April 23, 1996.

Rose was a Registered Nurse. She worked for Dr. Tommy R. Young for twenty years before retiring. She was a graduate of Vincennes University. Rose loved to cook and bake for her family. She enjoyed visiting with her many friends. Rose loved her family and grandchildren dearly and spending time with them was dear to her heart. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Rose will be lovingly remembered by her son, Edward (Tammie) Riggs; daughter, Debra (Raymond) Peters; grandchildren, Amna (Mark) Majors, Johnathan Peters, Jessica (Todd) Marlo, Emily Peters; one great-granddaughter, Ashley Majors; sister, Jane Benton.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Charles Jackman; sisters, Sarah Ella Jackman, Lora Jackman, Phoebe Jackman and Edna Jackman.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 21, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 21, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Rose’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Riggs family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Eleanor Painter, 89

Eleanor Painter, 89, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Friday, December 13, 2019 at her residence surrounded by the love of her family.  She was born on October 16, 1930, in Cicero, Illinois, the daughter of Frank and Elnora (Revelle) Shurtz.  Eleanor married James L. “Jim” Painter on November 6, 1954 and they enjoyed sixty-five years of marriage.

Eleanor’s greatest achievement was raising her family.  Throughout her children’s school age years, Eleanor loved cheering them on at their sporting events.  She was proud of her work as a bookkeeper.  Throughout the years, she was employed at the Bank of Mount Carmel, Southern Triangle Oil Company, Barker International and Southeastern IL Agency on Aging.  Eleanor was a member of Parkview Christian Church.  She loved her church family and loved helping with the Parkview Caring Closet Ministry. 

Eleanor will be remembered by her husband, Jim Painter of Mount Carmel; son, James Todd Painter and wife Penny of Nashville, TN; daughter, Rebecca Lynn Sparks and husband Tony of Sesser, IL; four grandchildren, Patricia Leigh Phillips, James Kyle Painter, Daphne Marie Haggard and Amanda Nicole Haggard; great grandchildren, Madison Grace Phillips, Katelynn Hope Phillips, Bailey Rose Lewis, Addison  Brooke Suter, Emma Grace Suter, James Jonathon Phillips, Nixon Kikue Painter and Elliott Saburd Painter; brother, Frank J. Shurtz; many loved nieces and nephews.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Wayne Shurtz; and sister, Hilda Isom.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 18, 2019, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 18, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Richison officiating.  A private family burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery, in Sesser, Illinois.

Memorial contributions may be made in Eleanor’s memory to Parkview Caring Closet.  Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Eleanor’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Painter family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Funeral Report-Robert M. “Mike” Johnson

Funeral Services were held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, December 12, 2019 at the First Baptist Church to honor the life of Robert M. “Mike” Johnson. Pastor Stephen Freels officiated the service which included reading of the Obituary, Scripture, Prayer, Eulogy, Message and a Closing Prayer.  Marcia Hall was keyboardist for the service providing prelude and postlude music along with Congregational Hymns during the service led by Pastor Steve.  Special musical selections  included “Mansion Over The Hilltop”, “Victory In Jesus”, “I Love To Tell A Story”, and “It Is Well With My Soul”.  Burial took place at Highland Memorial Cemetery.  Pallbearers were Eddie Johnson, Matt Johnson, Joseph Johnson, Sam Shaw, James Shaw and Chris Black.  Honorary Pallbearer was Luke Coleman. Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Robert M. “Mike” Johnson.

Michael “Mike” Gourley, 59

Michael “Mike” Gourley, 59, of Lawrenceville, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, December 10, 2019 at home surrounded by the love of his family. He was born October 14, 1960 in Princeton, Indiana, the son of Jack Gourley and Dixie (Ellis) Gourley.

Mike worked in the construction industry as a welder. He also owned and enjoyed working in his lawn maintenance business in Lawrenceville. Mike loved the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing and spending time at the river. Mike had two special pets, Paisley his dog and Shadow his cat. He dearly loved his family and his grandchildren held a special place in his heart. Mike was a member of Bee Branch Church. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Mike will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Dixie Gourley; wife, Peggy Gourley; sons, Justin Gourley and Jagger Gourley; daughters Brandy (Jayson) Hall, Maykenzie Gourley, step-daughters, Sara (Cody) Crump and Lisa Snyder; grandchildren Branson & Dayton Hall, Curtis Dill, Colin Stoneberger, Taelyn Wade, Tysen Gourley, step-grandchilden, Sophia Henry and Lily Axton; two great-grandchildren Sawyer Mathis and Patience Bailey; brothers, Greg Anthis, Brian Ellis; sister, Jackie Gourley; several nieces, nephews and special family friend, Dara Banks.

Mike was preceded in death by his father; first wife, Diana Gourley; son, Larry Wayne Perry, grandson, Bently Crump; sisters, Teresa Garcia and Kimmy Anthis.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Monday, December 16, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be 12:30 p.m., Monday, December 16, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Robin Overbey officiating. Burial will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mike’s memory to Lawrence County Cancer Resources. Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Mike’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Gourley family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Nathaniel Wayne Hill, 41

Nathaniel Wayne Hill, 41, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away surrounded by
family on December 09, 2019 at Deaconess Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.

He was born March 26, 1978, the son of Gene and Diane (Sargent) Hill in Belleville,
Illinois. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in the class of 1996.

Nathaniel attended school in Springfield, Missouri, to become a long-haul truck driver.

During the summer he loved taking his children with him on his trips. Nathaniel had a
passion for music, movies, and especially cars. He could tell you more than you could
even imagine (or maybe even care to hear) about the newest models of any given car.
His vast knowledge of cars and music led him to several jobs working with car stereo
equipment. Most of all Nathaniel loved travelling and his trips to the Smoky Mountains
with his children.

Left to cherish Nathaniel’s memory are his parents, Gene and Diane Hill of Mt. Carmel,
Illinois; children, Dalton Hill, Jocelyn Hill and Cooper Hill of Carmi, Illinois; siblings,
Nicholas Hill of Louisville, Kentucky and Margaret Hill of Chicago, Illinois; paternal
grandmother, Evelyn Hill of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; birth mother, Pam Karban; biological
sister, Kim Ingram; and many aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Bette and Jess Sargent and
paternal grandfather, Farrell Hill.

A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, December 12, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s
Catholic Church, 125 W. 5th Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. A visitation will be prior to the
service from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow the funeral mass at St. Mary’s
Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to the National Kidney Foundation online at https://team.kidney.org/campaign/Nathaniel-W--Hill or charity of your choice in
Nathaniel’s memory. Envelopes will be available at the church.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com
Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Nathaniel’s family.

Frank Thomas Hanzel, 70

F. Thomas Hanzel, 70,  passed away peacefully in the arms of his Lord and Savior on December 6, 2019, at his residence surrounded by his loving family.  There will be a celebration of his life at Trinity United Methodist church on Saturday, March 11, 2023, at 10:00 a.m.

 He was born June 22, 1949, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the son of Frank Regis and Dorothy (Bieber) Hanzel. On March 22, 1969, Tom married Patti Williams in Greensburg, Pennsylvania.

 Tom was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  He moved his family to Mt Carmel, Illinois, to work at the Amax Coal Mine in 1978 and retired there after 18 years.  Tom was asked and joined the Mine Rescue Team while he served at Amax. He was a very active church member for many years, a Bible teacher and scholar and assisted in many church activities, including head of the men’s ministry for a time and serving on boards and committees for different ministries and churches.  Tom and his wife attended numerous pastor conventions and events for many years.

 In the 90’s, he became pastor of New Life Fellowship in Mt. Carmel, Illinois, for fifteen years and during that time, he partnered that church with Crossroads from Norris City, Illinois, to have a branch of the International College of Bible Theology in Mt Carmel.  Many of NLF members went there as well as some from other churches to get their degrees.   Later, Tom co-pastored three churches in Lancaster, Illinois, with his wife Patti, and two churches, Mt Zion & Brown’s Chapel, in Albion, Illinois.  He did this up until put on hospice.  Tom loved going to the hospitals to visit and pray for when any of our family, our members or friends were there.  

 Tom was the kindest, humblest Christian person you would ever want to meet.  He was recognized even in his work outside of the church.  All knew him as a Christian man and respected that.  In the mine, he was a shining light in the darkness.  Tom was much loved by the congregations he served and counseled over the years, leading some to the Lord or making a positive impact on their lives.  He was a devout, faithful and spiritual role model for  all. Tom was the best and most loving, devoted husband, father and cherished papaw to his grandchildren.  He was an ardent Pittsburgh Steeler fan!

 Left to cherish Tom’s memory are his wife, Patti, married for 50 years and 8 months before he passed; his children, Dawn Michelle Hanzel of Lexington, Kentucky, Shawna Kristin Turpin and husband Eddie of Linton, Indiana, and their son, Thomas Eric Hanzel and wife Kristi of Clayton, North Carolina; step-mom, Carolyn Hanzel, of Greensburg, Pennsylvania; grandchildren, Christian, Jordan, Marissa, Noah and Jonah Ricketts;  Haley, Taylor, Isabella (Belle) and Brooklyn Hanzel; great grandchildren, Remington Drake and Warren Thomas; step-grandchildren, Jesika, Damian, Taryn and Cameron Turpin; siblings: Dorothy Will, Carolyn Forsythe, Robert Hanzel (Linda), Mickie Irwin (Michael), Frank Hanzel (Cathee M) & Erik Hanzel (Francesca);  in laws; Jim Williams (Sharon), Eddie Williams (Mary); and many other nieces, nephews, cousins and their families.

 Tom was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers-in-law, Al Will & Richard Forsythe.

Per his wishes, Tom was cremated. There will be a Celebration of Life service at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 11, 2023, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 512 N. Mulberry Street in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  Family and friends are welcome to a visitation prior to the service from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at the church.

Memorials can be made in Tom’s memory to the 700 Club or St Jude’s Hospital.  Short-Cunningham Funeral Home & Trinity United Methodist Church have the honors of serving Tom’s family.

Condolences may be made on line at www,short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Tom’s family.

Robert M. “Mike” Johnson, 68

Robert M. “Mike” Johnson, 68, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, December 8, 2019 at home. He was born August 29, 1951 in Mount Carmel, the son of Robert E. and Joann (Shearer) Johnson.

Mike was a hard-working man. For forty plus years he was employed by Duke Energy. He was a proud member of IBEW Local 1393. Mike lived and worked on his farm. He greatly enjoyed farming and the chores brought about by raising and selling Polled Hereford cows. Mike had a good heart. He always had a kind words to say about people. He enjoyed fellowship with friends and often could be found having breakfast or lunch with them at local restaurants. Mike’s family meant the world to him. He adored his grandchildren and loved spending time with them. Mike was a member of the First Baptist Church. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Mike will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Becky (Mike) Seibert, Betsy Johnson and Lisa (Chris) Jackson; grandchildren, Emily (Chris) Black, Luke Coleman and Antonia Ramsey; sisters, Deborah (Mike) Newton, Susan Johnson, Jennifer (Sam) Williams; his twin brother, Joseph Patrick (Jane) Johnson; and many loved nieces and nephews.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Clarence Edward Johnson.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Thursday, December 12, 2019 at the First Baptist Church, 130 West 6th Street, Mount Carmel, Illinois.

Funeral Services will be 1:30 p.m., Thursday, December 12, 2019 at the First Baptist Church with Pastor Stephen Freels officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mike’s memory to the Victorious Children’s Home. Envelopes will be at the Church or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Mike’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Johnson family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Robert George “Little George” Helton, 79

Robert George “Little George” Helton, 79, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away December 7, 2019, at his home.

He was born September 5, 1940, the son of George Robert and Velma Ruth Kaiser Helton in Wabash County, Illinois. George graduated from Mt. Carmel High School. He proudly served in the U.S. Army.

George was a member of Lick Prairie Church. He owned and operated Little George’s Backhoe Service. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion #423, Mt. Carmel Elks #715 (Past Exalted Ruler), Eagles #3066, Masonic Lodge #239, Wabash Valley Shriner’s Club and a lifetime member of the International Union Operating Engineer Local #841. George was an avid Green Bay Packer Fan, loved Nascar, and enjoyed spending time with family and friends on the Wabash River in which he was a member of the Boat Club. His greatest love was spending time with his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. George was a hard-working man and was always ready to help anyone in need.

George is survived by his children Tim Keepes of Princeton, Indiana, Jeff (Sherri) Keepes, Scott Keepes and Lori (Jacob) Wilkinson, all of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; grandchildren, Colton and Tyler Sloan, Jesse Joe (Desiree) Neikirk, Brittany (Joe) Swift, Emily Dill, Heather (Jon) D’Errico and Brian (Lindsay) Keepes; greatgrandchildren, Dane and Jax Neikirk, Keagan, Jayce, Jett and Avery Swift, Connor and Mia D’Errico, and, Caleb, Job, Jedidiah and Ruth Keepes; siblings, Bonnie Talley of Mt. Carmel, Judy Whitaker of Memphis, Tennessee, Mary Ruth (Charlie) Kieffer and Jack (Mary) Helton both of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Eleanor Nation and Peggy Peterson; and a grandson, Caleb Keepes.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 12, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery.

Friends and family may call for a visitation Wednesday evening, December 11, 2019 from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Short Funeral Home.

Memorials can be made to Friends of Christmas. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Little George’s family.

John W. Hilbert, 103

John W. Hilbert, 103, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 5, 2019 at Wabash General Hospital.  He was born on October 12, 1916 in Mount Carmel, Illinois, the son of John and Carrie Lee (Moyer) Hilbert.  John married Doshia Grubb on September 19, 1971 and they enjoyed forty-eight years of marriage.

 John faithfully served his Country in the United States Army where he proudly served during World War II.  He served his training at Myrtle Beach and often shared stories of his military service with others.  John was a dedicated employee for the United States Postal Services as a mail carrier for sixteen years. During his routes, John liked meeting and talking with people. He also worked with his brother, Richard Hilbert at the tire shop in Mount Carmel.  In his free time, John loved woodworking and making gifts for Doshia.

 John will be remembered by his loving wife, Doshia Hilbert of Mount Carmel; one son, Steve Hilbert of Colorado; and one niece, Peg Greathouse; one special friend, Kade Deckard; many friends and neighbors.

 John was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Richard, Harold, Chester and Forest Hilbert; two sisters, Helen Hilbert and Mary Gribsy; and his first wife, Opal Hilbert.

 Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 10, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

 Funeral Services will be at 12:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 10, 2019 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Full Military Honors.

 Memorial contributions may be made in John’s memory to the USAMV – Wabash County Honor Guard.  Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

 Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view John’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Hilbert family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Fannie Ruth Knust, 86

Fannie Ruth Knust, 86, of Mount Carmel, Illinois passed away on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at her residence.  She was born on March 18, 1933 in St. Louis, Missouri, the daughter of Dr. Gilbert and Paulette (Ross) Couch.

Ruth will be remembered as a loving wife and grandmother.  Her family was her whole world and she was very proud of her grandchildren.  Christmas, was Ruth’s favorite holiday and she loved Christmas lights.  Ruth retired as CNA from Gibson General Hospital, where she loved her job and her work family.   She attended Patoka United Methodist Church in Patoka, Indiana.  Ruth will be greatly missed by her family and all who knew her.

Ruth will be remembered by her daughter, Sharon (John) Long of Mount Carmel; stepsons, Bill (Robin) Knust of Patoka, IN, Travis (Heather) Knust of Oakland City, IN; stepdaughter, Tara Bustos-Gaytan of Mount Carmel, twin granddaughters, Carrie (Chris) Speth and Melanie Scales; fifteen step grandchildren; several great grandchildren; step nieces and nephews; special friends and neighbors, Hulie and Linda Holloman.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; and husband, Lyman “Ed” Knust.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Graveside Services at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 4, 2019 at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Pastor Jeff Pinney officiating.  There will be no public visitation prior to the Graveside Service.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ruth’s memory to Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies.  Envelopes will be at the cemetery or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Ruth’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Knust family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Duane C. Smith, 75

Duane C. Smith, 75, of Evansville, Indiana, formerly of Bone Gap, Illinois, passed away on Friday, November 29, 2019 at his residence.  He was born on October 24, 1944 in Evansville, Indiana, the son of Duane Smith and Louise (Engler) Lovellette.  He faithfully served his Country in the United States Army.  Duane married Mickie James on July 22, 1989 and they enjoyed thirty years of marriage.

 Duane loved his family and treasured the time he spent with them.  He was an accomplished mechanic and truly enjoyed his work at Hoosier Hot Rods & Classics.  Duane loved drag racing and always loved the excitement of racing his own cars.  He always looked forward to watching NASCAR and loved a good western movie.  Duane attended Hope Fellowship Church in Evansville, IN. 

 Duane will be remembered by his loving wife, Mickie Smith of Evansville; two sons, Jeff (Martha) Miller and Ryan (Tiffiny) Smith; stepson, Dustin Hale; two daughters, Michelle (Greg) Fleck and Angie (Scott) Tennison; stepdaughter, Carrie (Jeremy) Devine; six grandchildren, Brittani (Todd) Prater, Jordan Smith and Liam Smith, Cooper Fleck, Abby Fleck and Jesse Tennison; three step grandchildren, Chase Hale, Jade Devine and McKenna Devine; one great granddaughter, Ella Prater; four sisters, Joanne (Ray) Krohn, Anita (Moe) Moseley, Karen (Steve) Wilson and Lisa (Jerry) Porter; many loved nieces and nephews.

 Duane was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Robert Royce.

 Graveside Services with Full Military Honors will be at 1:00 p.m., Friday, December 13, 2019 at Oak Lawn Cemetery in St. Francisville, IL with Pastor Carl Mann officiating. 

 Memorial contributions may be made in Duane’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Foundation.  Envelopes will be at the cemetery or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

 Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Duane’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Smith family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Patricia Ann Jones, 81

Patricia Ann Jones, formerly of Lancaster, Illinois, passed away November 16, 2019, at her daughter’s home in Kissimmee, Florida, at the age of 81.

She was born July 8, 1938, the daughter of Hollis Bass and Anna Mae (Montgomery) Cargill.

Pat attended Mt. Carmel High School. On July 26, 1955, she married Charles Robert Jones.

She was a devoted wife and loving mother and grandmother. Pat worked on the farm and drove a school bus for many years before moving to Florida. She cooked in the Healthcare industry prior to retirement.

Pat was a member of the Lancaster Zion United Methodist Church. She had a passion for collecting Shawnee Cornware, Campbell Soup and Pillsbury pottery.

Left to cherish her memories are six children, Linda (Mark) Brewster, Debra (Allen) Broster, John Jones, Sally (Todd) Johnson, Janice Jones, James (Kim Adams) Jones; nine grandchildren, Brandi (Brad) Neale, Chad Broster, Jared (Jessica) Brewster, Joel Brewster, Tabetha Johnson, Chelsey (Josh) Jones, Trenton and Dillon Jones and Logan Jones; ten great grandchildren, Mallory, Estella and Brooke Neale, Cole and Audrey Broster, Brandon, Jose, Samuel and Erica Johnson, Avery Brewster; brother Lester Cargill, Jr.

Preceding her in death was her husband Bob Jones; her parents; step-father Lester Cargill; sisters, Ruby Bass and Barbara Hedges; brother, Robert Bass; and great-grandson Miguel Johnson. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

A private graveside service will be held at Harrison Cemetery in Lancaster, Illinois. Memorial donations in Pat’s memory may be made to Lancaster Zion United Methodist Church, c/o Betty Stoltz (treasurer), 20929 E. 700 Road, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863.