Macoupin County
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Obituaries K

Obituary of Sarah Ann (DEAHL) KAHL

Submitted 2000 by Robert Shultz
Name of Newspaper: Macoupin County Enquirer
Date of Obituary: March 25, 1914
Obituary: Mrs. Sarah KAHL died at her home in Shipman, Ill. Monday, March 16, 1914. She was 66 years old. Mrs. Kahl has been a patient sufferer for almost a year. She returned home several months ago from Mississippi where she had gone to spend the winter with her daughter. But after returning home she gradually grew worse. She leaves to mourn her loss a husband and ten children, namely Edward, George, Walter, and Earl KAHL; Mrs. Margaret SCOTT, of St. Louis; Mrs. Hulda OWENS, of Mississippi; Mesdames Mayne MITCHELL, Clara BRUEGGEMAN, and Edna TRAVERS, all of Shipman, and Mrs. Nettie CANDLER, of Edwardsville. Besides these she leaves two brothers, Adam DEAHL of Shipman and Henry DEAHL, Sr., of St. Louis; also several sisters in Nebraska, and many friends and relatives. It being Mrs. KAHL's request, Rev. C. F. SHULTZ, of Liberty, conducted the funeral services at the Lutheran church. She was a devoted wife, a kind and loving mother, and a good neighbor. She was a member of the Lutheran church.

Obituary of Mike KALIBAB

Submitted 2008 by Rick Doty
Name of Newspaper: Mt.Olive Herald
Date of Obituary: 7 Jun 1913
Obituary: Found Near Track. Mike KALIBAB, Sr., a Slavonian residing in the north part of town, was found lying beside the Wabash track near the No. 8 crossing Wednesday night some time after midnight by the night policeman Wm. WALKER. He was in a very serious condition, several of his ribs and his arm being broken and his head cut up. He only spoke a few words and then became unconscious. He was taken to Dr. FLORETH's office, where he died shortly after without regaining consciousness. The coroner's jury was unable to find out whether he was struck by a train or not, or how he came to his death. The remains were taken to BECKER's undertaking establishment and prepared for burial. The funeral services were conducted yesterday afternoon at the Immanuel Church, and the remains laid to rest in the Miners Cemetery. He was 51 years old and is survived by his wife and several grown children.

Obituary of Mabel Clare KARNAHAN

Submitted 2003 by Lloyd Konneker
Name of Newspaper: El Dorado Republican, Kansas
Date of Obituary: October 29, 1909
Obituary: Mrs. Merle KARNAHAN, aged thirty-five years, died in the family home on Merchant Street Saturday, October 23, 1909, at 7:45, having been sick since Wednesday morning with inflammation of the bowels. Mabel Clare CULP was born July 31, 1874, in Macoupin County, Illinois. When sixteen years of age she united with the Baptist church; was married Februrary (sic) 21, 1900, to R. M. KARNAHAN (Robert Merle), moving at once to El Dorado (Kansas). The husband and two daughters, Hazel Clare and Martha Elizabeth, survive. This untimely ending of a life pure and sweet in every relation and especially in the family, shocks and grieves relatives and friends of Mrs. KARNAHAN. The bereaved mother, husband and children, have the sincere sympathy of all. Funeral services were held from the home Monday afternoon at half after two conducted by Reverend Ben C. MCQUESTEN, of the Presbyterian church. He spoke on the text "The Lord will bless His people with peace;" [sermon and additional paragraph omitted]. The body was taken to Carlinville, Illinois, for interment, accompanied by Mr. KARNAHAN, his sister E. W. KIRKPATRICK (Earnest Wm., Lulu Teressa) and Mrs. R. E. CULP (Rachel Elizabeth), mother of Mrs. KARNAHAN.

Obituary of Steve KASKQUES

Submitted 2002 by Chris Grove Surgis
Name of Newspaper: Litchfield Daily News
Date of Obituary: August 1, 1902
Obituary: Virden Miner Found Dead. Steve KASKQUES, a Slavish miner employed at the Chicago-Virden mine at Virden, was found dead about 6 o'clock Thursday evening about a mile south of town on the J and St. L tracks. It is a mystery, but is believed that his death was caused by sunstroke. He was about 25 years of age. The coroner was notified and an inquest will be held Friday.

Obituary of Albert KASTEN

Submitted 1999 by Patricia Lorenz
Name of Newspaper: Carlinville Democrat
Date of Obituary: Wed., July 9, 1930
Obituary: [Not verbatim] Albert KASTEN, aged __, farmer, retired some years ago and moved to the city. He operated a threshing outfit and had also been engaged in road building and repairing. Survivors: Widow, May STAATS KASTEN, two daughters, Miss Buenita, teaching in Litchfield high school, and Miss Alvarita, teaching in Carlinville high school. One daughter Gabriella died in 19ll. Four surviving brothers: William, Gustav and Emil KASTEN of city and vicinity; Chas. of Lincoln, Neb.; four sisters: Mrs. Tillie WERNER and Mrs. Olga BURGDORFF of Carlinville; Mrs. Bertha TURK and Miss Ida KASTEN of St. Louis. He had been a member of the Modern Woodmen for some years. Funeral: Wednesday, July 9, at 2 p.m. at home and 2:30 from St. Paul's Evangelical Church, Rev. Wm OTT officiating; burial in City cemetery.

Obituary of Chris. KASTEN

Submitted 1999 by Patricia Lorenz
Name of Newspaper: Carlinville Democrat
Date of Obituary: Wed, August 31, 1927
Obituary: Death of Chris. KASTEN. Monday afternoon at 1 o'clock occurred the death of C. H. KASTEN at his home on South Broad street. He suffered a stroke of paralysis at his tin shop near the Diamond Kerosene company's plant, about 11:30 o'clock Monday morning. A physician was hurriedly called and the stricken man was taken to his home. His condition grew worse until he passed away. Mr. KASTEN is survived by his widow and the following children: Mrs. Lorine PAYNER, St. Louis; Miss Nell B. KASTEN, Los Angeles, Cal.; Eugene KASTEN, of Woodriver; Miss Mildred KASTEN of Washington, D.C., and Miss Florence KASTEN, of Carlinville. At the time of his death Mr. KASTEN was conducting a repair shop, but for 35 years had been in the employ of Woodward & Walton as a tinner. He was a hard working man, and respected by his many friends. Mr. KASTEN was aged 67 years. Funeral services will be held from the residence on South Broad street Friday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock. Interment will be in the city cemetery.

Obituary of Christina (MIEHE) KASTEN

Submitted 1999 by Patricia Lorenz
Name of Newspaper: Carlinville Democrat
Date of Obituary: Wed., November 25, 1914
Obituary: Mrs. Christina KASTEN, widow of the late Chris KASTEN, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Fred BURGDORFF, northwest of Carlinville, Monday night, Nov 23d, at 12 o'clock. Deceased was in her 80th year. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon from St. Paul's Evangelical church in this city. Interment will be in the city cemetery. We will publish a more extended sketch in our next issue.

Obituary of Emma (OELTJEN) KASTEN

Submitted 1999 by Patricia Lorenz
Name of Newspaper: Carlinville Democrat
Date of Obituary: Wed., July 7, 1926
Obituary: Mrs. Emma KASTEN, aged 68 years, 9 months and 18 days, died at her home in the First ward in Carlinville, at 2:30 o'clock Monday morning, July 5th. She had been ill for a long time. She was the wife of Gustav KASTEN, who survives him.[sic] Also surviving are two sons, Walter and Albert KASTEN, and one grandson, of Petersburg. She is survived by her brother, Fred G. OELTJEN; a sister, Mrs. Albert LOEHR, both of Carlinville. She had for many years been a faithful and esteemed member of St. Paul's Evangelical church. Her many friends are grieved at her passing. Funeral services will be held this (Wednesday) afternoon at 2:30 o/clock, from the St. Paul's Evangelical church, Rev. W. OTT, the pastor, officiating. Interment will be in the city cemetery.

Obituary of Gabriella Henrietta Augusta KASTEN

Submitted 1999 by Patricia Lorenz
Name of Newspaper: Carlinville Democrat
Date of Obituary: December 20, 1911
Obituary: Died in St. Louis. Miss Gabriella KASTEN, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert KASTEN, of Seminary Avenue, this city, died in a hospital, St. Louis, Tuesday, aged about 18 years. Deceased was taken to St. Louis Thursday and underwent a surgical operation on Monday. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Obituary of C. J. KEISER

Submitted 2002 by Chris Grove-Surgis
Name of Newspaper: Daily Enquirer
Date of Obituary: November 4, 1913
Obituary: One of the most prominent citizens of Macoupin county, C. J. KEISER, died at his home in Mt. Olive, Monday afternoon at his home in Mt. Olive, Monday afternoon at 4 o'clock, of a nervous trouble. The deceased had been for years one of the leading business men of Mt. Olive. He was president of the Mt. Olive bank and a member of the firm of KEISER, MIEMEYER & Co., who run the flour mills at that place. Besides his wife, Mary C. KEISER, he leaves to mourn his loss, five children, namely, E. A. W. KEISER, cashier of the Mt. Olive bank; A. A. KEISER an assistant cashier, Amanda PHLEN of Granite City; Pauline GIESSING, Farmington, Mo, and Berth ADAMS, of Waterloo, Iowa. Funeral services will be held Thursday, at 1 o'clock p.m.

Obituary of Mary (MOORE) KELLER

Submitted 2001 by Sue Raffurty McMurry
Name of Newspaper: Macoupin County Enquirer
Date of Obituary: March 15, 1911
Obituary: Mrs. Mary KELLER's Death - Paralytic Stroke Ends Active and Useful Life. Mrs. Mary KELLER, relict of the late Geo. C. KELLER, died at her home, No. 818 East Main Street about 8 o'clock Friday morning. She was aged 86 years, 4 months and 20 days. Mrs. KELLER's health was very good indeed for one of her age until last Sunday night at 10 o'clock, when she was stricken with paralysis, which caused her death as stated. Ten days ago she walked from her home to Bell & Burton's office and back, without undue effort or fatigue. Mary MOORE was born in Simpson county, Kentucky, October 20, 1824. When she was eight years old her father and his family came, with a number of their relatives to Illinois and the family settled on what is known as the HAUER (?) farm, east of town. They made the journey from the Blue Grass State in wagons, of course, as there was no other means of travel at that early day. Here Mary MOORE grew to young womanhood, and in December 1844, she was married to George C. KELLER, a native of Indiana. After their wedding the young folks settled on a farm near Blackburn bridge, south of Chesterfield. Afterwards they moved to what is now the O'NEIL farm northeast of town and from there to a farm in Honey Point township. After years of successful farming, they retired from active work and moved to Carlinville thirty-nine years ago. Mr. KELLER died eighteen years ago at Eureka Springs, Ark. Four children survive their mother, namely: Mrs. Caroline GROVES, Mrs. Sarah A. JONES, Mrs. Henrietta ADAMS of Elm Creek, Neb., and Chas. H. KELLER who resides on the old home farm in Honey Point. Mrs. KELLER was a most estimable woman, faithful to her family and friends, kind to her neighbors, active, strong and willing until age weighed her down, and even then her vitality was remarkable and her powerful will and forceful mentality sustained her until the dread disease which caused her death, subdued the brain and conquered the vitality. The funeral of the late Mrs. Mary KELLER occurred Sunday afternoon. Rev. RHODES delivered a short funeral sermon at the home on East Main street, using as his text 1 Cor. 15:22, "For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive". Following the services, the body was conveyed to Moore cemetery northeast of town, and there reverently laid to rest. The pallbearers were: William SURMAN, H. A. STEINMEYER, C. H. DIESEL, Charles MICHER, John WESTERMEIER and William ROBINSON, Jr. A large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends attended the obsequies and there were many beautiful floral tributes.

Obituary of Ida R. (PROUTY) KELLEY

Submitted 2003 by Ron Grassi
Name of Newspaper: The Kingfisher Times,, Kingfisher, OK, Free Press
Date of Obituary: October 1, 1903 & October 8, 1903
Obituary: News was received in this city that Mrs. T. B. KELLEY of Waurika died at 8:10 o'clock this morning. Mrs. KELLEY was formerly Miss Ida R. The Kingfisher Times, daughter of Col. and Mrs. C. T. PROUTY of this city. Definite arrangements for the funeral services have not been made, up to the time of going to press, but the interment will be in Kingfisher cemetery, and the services at the Congregational church of this city.

Obituary: The sad intelligence was received here today of the death of Ida PROUTY KELLEY at 8:10 this morning, at her home in Wurika. This is sad news indeed, that comes to us, that one so young and free from care should be taken away. Col. PROUTY and wife, and the bereaved husband have the heartfelt sympathy of our entire people in this, their deep affliction. Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at the Congressional church.

Name of Newspaper: The Kingfisher Free Press
Date of Obituary: October 8, 1903
Obituary: Too late for more than a brief mention in last week's Free Press the sad news of the death of Mrs. Ida KELLEY PROUTY was received here. Mrs. Ida PROUTY KELLEY was born in Carlinville, Ill, March 14, 1873, where the blithesome days of her girlhood were spent, and died Friday, Oct. 1, 1903, at her home in Waurika. In the early days of old Oklahoma she removed with her parents to this city, and was one of the most popular members of Kingfisher society, prominent in church, social and educational circles. For several years past she had been a teacher in our public schools and only last November was united in marriage to Mr. T. B. KELLY of Waurika, formerly in the drug business here. Shortly after their marriage the happy couple took up their abode on a homestead adjoining the town of Waurika, where she resided until the Heavenly Father called her to that land eternal where the weary body is at rest and the soul enters into that joy everlasting. She leaves a husband, father and mother, sister and brother to mourn her loss, and to live on in the blessed hope of a meeting in the better world. The funeral services were held in this city last Friday afternoon at the Congregational church, of which the deceased was a consistent member. The casket was placed in front of the pulpit platform covered by a floral cross, wreath and shower of Marechal Neil roses. Upon and about the desk was a wreath of flowers, gifts of various friends. The choir composed of Rev. and Mrs. D. S. BAYLEY and Mr. and Mrs. E. F. WENTZ, sang "Sometime, Somewhere," "Beautiful Isle of Somewhere." Rev. BAILEY read the passage of scripture, "Let not your hearts be troubled, in my Father's house are many mansions," and concluded by a short address. This was followed by the choir singing, "Sleep blessed sleep, from which none ever wake to weep." The casket with its precious burden was followed to its windowless home by a solemn cortege of sorrowing friends.

Obituary of Charles KEMENA

Submitted 2006 by Ben Kemena
Name of Newspaper: Mount Olive Herald
Date of Obituary: February 3, 1933
Obituary: Charles KEMENA. Charles KEMENA, aged 82 years, 8 months and 9 days, for over fifty years a resident of Mt. Olive, died at his home Saturday morning at 9:30 o- clock. He had been in failing health for several years and death was due to infirmities attendant to old age. Mr. KEMENA was born in Germany on November 19, 1850, and came to this country when quite young. He came to Mt. Olive about 50 years ago and was employed at the mines until age forced his retirement. His wife, Mrs. Mary KEMENA, died many years ago. Three sons survive the father: Henry KEMENA of this city, Rev. Emil KEMENA of Michigan City, Ind., and Fred KEMENA of Springfield. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at 2:30 at the Becker Funeral Parlors, Rev. H. HOFHENKE officiating. Pall bearers were Wm. HASHEIDER, Herman GUENTHER, Wm. BRUNEGER, Paul HANEL, Ed. PRANGE and Andrew WICKLEIN. Interment was in the Mt. Olive Cemetery.

Note: Charles KEMENA was actually born May 19, 1850 -- not November as printed. His was wife was Mary KEMENA nee DINKERMANN.

Obituary of Mary (DINKERMANN) KEMENA

Submitted 2006 by Ben Kemena
Name of Newspaper: Mount Olive Herald
Date of Obituary: March 21, 1903
Obituary: Mrs. Charles KEMENA. Last Friday Afternoon Death Entered the Home of Chas. KEMENA, and without warning robbed the family of her who was dearest to all. In seeming perfect health, Mrs. KEMENA performed her household duties last Friday, and shortly after dinner talked with one of the neighbors, after which she went into the house and this was the last time she was seen alive, heart failure causing her death while she was standing in the pantry. When her husband and son came home from work they found her in a kneeling position against the wall, and immediately hastened for medical aid, who could do nothing, as life had already fled. A bottle containing a home remedy was lying by her side, which showed that she much have began to feel bad, and was intending to take a dose of it. She was 49 years, 4 month and 13 days of age, being born in Germany Oct. 24, 1853. She was married to Chas. KEMENA who survives her, in 1876, and they have resided in this city since 1884. She leaves her husband, three sons, Henry, Fred, and Emil, the later attending college in St. Paul, Minn, to whom the death of this mother was a severe blow. He arrived here Sunday morning to attend the funeral services, which were conducted on Monday afternoon by Rev. NOTTBOHM at the Zion's church.

Note: Mrs. Charles KEMENA also known as Marie KEMENA nee DINKERMANN.

Obituary of Sarah E. (HARRIS) KEPLINGER

Submitted 2002 by Chris Grove Surgis
Name of Newspaper: Macoupin County Enquirer
Date of Obituary: September 7, 1887
Obituary: Sarah E., wife of Peter KEPLINGER, daughter of Mary Regan and Benjamin HARRIS, was born in Elizabethtown, Carter county, Tenn., May 10, 1820. She removed with her parents to Morgan county, Illinois, in 1831 and was married to Peter KEPLINGER February 28, 1839. She was converted and with her husband joined the Methodist Episcopal church at a camp meeting near Franklin, Morgan county, under the preaching of Peter CARTWRIGHT in 1841. They came to Honey Creek, Macoupin county, in 1843. Where their house was the regular preaching place for years and where they lived until their removal to Carlinville five years ago. She was very devoted to her church and its services being always present when her health would permit and actively interested in missionary work, was a life member of the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society. She was also an earnest friend of education, temperance and every other good work in the home field. Failing health for very nearly two years had confined her to her room, where she greatly enjoyed the visits and religious readings of her minister and other friends, always in cheerful hope of "the rest which remains" her only sorrow being the thought of leaving her husband alone. Of her five children, two, James and Thomas, of Honey Point and Sarah Ellen, wife of Rev. WYLDER, survive, and also twelve grandchildren. Of her father's family only one brother, B. F. HARRIS, of Oskaloosa, Kansas, remains. Her death from lingering consumption occurred on Tuesday, August 30, her age being 67 years, three months and ten days. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. WILKIN, assisted by Rev. FREEMAN at the residence on Thursday September 1. Thus quietly slip away the living witnesses of the transformation of a wilderness, (tracked by wolves and deer) into a land of plenty, checkered by railroads and dotted with towns and cities. The departure of this good woman diminishes by one the list of pioneers of Macoupin, whose lives span over from the log cabin of the past to the stone columns of the present. Patriotic blood flowed in her veins. Inherited from a revolutionary aire on the one side and a soldier of 1812 on the other. So when her country called, she dutifully sent her two sons to preserve what their ancestors had won, at the same time doing what she could to furnish sanitary supplies for the field, and loyal sentiment is support of the government at home. She was modest and unassuming, yet decided in life, and her works do praise her.

Obituary of Wesley & Edward KEPLINGER

Submitted 2000 by Sue McMurry
Name of Newspaper: Macoupin County Enquirer, Carlinville, Illinois
Date of Obituary: February 16, 1910, page 5
Obituary:

Modesto – A large crowd attended the funeral of Mr. Ed. KEPLINGER and his son, Wesley at Vancil Temple, Monday. They both died Saturday with pneumonia.

Page 6 – Palmyra – Edward KEPLINGER and his son, Wesley, sixteen years old, died at their home on the J. L. LISTON farm three miles northwest of Palmyra, Saturday, February 12, 1910. Mr. KEPLINGER died in the afternoon at 1 o'clock and his son in the morning at 6 o'clock. Mr. KEPLINGER was 40 years old. Funeral was held Monday p.m. at Vancil Temple. Interment in Pulliam cemetery.

Page 6 - Hettick – Miss Margaret REINEKE attended the funeral of her uncle and cousin, at Modesto Monday.

Page 6 – Reader – Word has just been received here of the death of Ed. KEPLINGER and son, Wesley, from pneumonia. Mr. KEPLINGER was a brother-in-law of Mrs. Henry JONES, of this place. He resided near Palmyra.

Page 9 - Two Die Same Day – Father and Son Pass away Near Modesto. (Died February 12, 1910) Wesley KEPLINGER, only son of Mr. and Mrs. E. P. KEPLINGER, died at 6 o'clock, Saturday morning of pneumonia after six days illness. Deceased was fourteen years old and resided with his parents on their farm three miles west of Modesto. Edward KEPLINGER died at 1:45 Saturday afternoon at the family residence, west of Modesto, of pneumonia, after three day's illness. Deceased was 42 years of age and is survived by his mother, wife and one daughter.

Obituary of Josiah Dodge KESSINGER

Submitted 2001 by June Swick Kessinger
Name of Newspaper: Montgomery News
Date of Obituary: April 24, 1900
Obituary: Two old settlers of this county died last week. They were William WILLIAMSON of Butler and Josiah KESSINGER who resides about five miles south west of Hillsboro. Josiah KESSINGER was the veteran watermelon raiser of this county. For years and years he has devoted most of his time to raising this luscious fruit of the vine and in his trips over the county with his produce he made a large number of friends who regret to learn of his demise. MR. KESSINGER had been very sick for several days and so his death which came Saturday, was not unexpected. He was born in Hart County, Kentucky, April 12, 1812 and moved to Macoupin County where he has since resided. The funeral was held at Clear Springs, Sunday at 3:O'clock.

Obituary of Leonard KETCHUM

Submitted 2001 by Sue Raffurty McMurry
Name of Newspaper: Macoupin County Enquirer
Date of Obituary: October 16, 1912
Obituary: Leonard KETCHUM 70 years old, a veteran of the Civil war died at his home near Medora after a lingering illness with uraemic poisoning. The funeral was conducted Sunday morning at 11 o'clock in the Kemper Baptist church, Rev. O. W. Shields of Virden officiating. The burial was made in Delaware cemetery near Kemper. The decedent is survived by his widow and the following children: Mrs. A. A. L. CARTER of Medora, Mrs. Edward BARNES and Mrs. James WASTLER of Kemper, Mrs. John SHIELDS of Jerseyville, Mrs. Carey HAYNES of Chesterfield and L. C. KETCHUM of Medora. He was a member of Company F, Twelfth Illinois cavalry and served throughout the Civil war.

Obituary of Hulda A. (SHULTZ) BROWN KIGHT

Submitted 2000 by Robert Shultz
Name of Newspaper: Macoupin County Enquirer
Date of Obituary: February 15, 1899
Obituary: Hulda SHULTZ was born in Somerset County, Penn., November 15, 1827, married in Alleghaney county, Md., Nov 22, 1845 to Geo. BROWN. Five children were the fruits of this marriage, two surviving their mother. Her second marriage was to Mr. John M. KIGHT, Nov 15 1858. Two children came from this union, her son, George, a lone surviving. She has been a member of the M. E. Church about 50 years. The family came to Illinois from Maryland in 1866 and located in Shipman. At the time of her death Mrs. KIGHT was a widow, her husband having been deceased some years. Mrs. KIGHT's last illness was of some duration, but she awaited the end with Christian fortitude and patient resignation, never complaining, never murmuring, but ever soothed and sustained with an unfaltering trust in God and his blessed promises. The burial occurred from the Methodist Episcopal church Sabbath afternoon at 2 o'clock. The former pastor of the deceased, Rev. RAVENSCROFT, of Edwardsville assisted by Rev VANLEESE, presiding elder, and Revs. HAMPTON and RIZER. Mrs. KIGHT was a woman of strong convictions, zealous and charitable, devoted to her friends. She was a thorough Christian woman. Her heart was the abode of heavenly purity. Although affliction came to her through the doorway of death and she had known sorrow, her sorrow was silent. She had no feelings but of kindness and beneficence, and as far as she could will it, every day of her life was filled with the sunlight of graciousness and love. She took delight in the ministration of blessings to all human beings within her sphere of action. Her life was not only beautiful and sublime, but shed a light about the pathway of others which illuminated the way to good and noble deeds and kindliest acts. She did not believe in the sinister sophistry that death is an eternal sleep; that human life is a mockery and human reason a dream; but she believed in the Bible, in God, and in the immortality of the soul, as they found an echo in the teaching of the principles of the church to which was so devoted. At this time and hour is not the reflection pertinent that we ourselves must soon be actors in the same closing scenes--that it is a desiny that no sublety can elude, a penalty that no foresight can avoid, an event clothed with an importance compared to which all other concerns shrink into nothingness? Happy are we at such a time were our faith and trust placed in the Supreme Being who dominated the life of the late lamented dead. As the winter of earthly being chilled the blood of her pure Christian heart, the summons came for her to lay aside the cares, duties and responsibilities of life and enter into a glorious felicity of the redeemed, purified and perfected — to put a crown gemmed with the jewels of heaven.

Obituary of Hattie (BOHLEN) KILGORE

Submitted 2000 by Kenneth R Doty Jr
Name of Newspaper: Mt Olive Herald
Date of Obituary: March 10, 1944
Obituary: Mrs. Hattie KILGORE, wife of J.P.KILGORE, was called by death Monday morning at 4:50 o'clock at the Litchfield hospital, where she underwent an operation last week and appeared to be slowly recovering until becoming weaker Saturday evening. Mrs. KILGORE was a life long resident of this city, having been born here October 1,1892 a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry BOHLEN. She was aged 51 years, 5 months and 5 days. On June 18, 1910 she was united in marriage to J.P.KILGORE. Surviving are her husband: one daughter; Mrs. Herman BAUER, of Mt.Olive: one son; James KILGORE of Chicago: one grandson Milton BAUER of this city: two brothers; Edward BOHLEN of this city and Arthur BOHLEN of Butler: two sisters; Mrs. James BRYDEN of Denver, Colo. and Mrs. Arthur ARCHIBALD of Gillespie: also many more distant relatives and a host of friends. Final rites were conducted Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Becker & Son Funeral Home, with Rev. H. HOFHENKE officiating. Mrs. Lambert FRANZEN, with Mrs. Clarence MARBURGER as accompanist sang two solos. The General Bradley Womans Auxiliary, of which Mrs.KILGORE had been an active member, attended the rites in a body and participated in the services. Interment was in Union Miners Cemetery, pall-bearers being Russell SCHLOMANN, Ernst SCHLOMANN, Ervin SCHLOMANN, Alfred TRUETZSCHLER, Ed GARRELS and Herman GARRELS.

Obituary of Jacob KINDER

Submitted 2004 by Carolyn Blatter
Name of Newspaper: Litchfield Monitor
Date of Obituary: October 21, 1882
Obituary: Jacob KINDERdied at his home near Clyde, on Monday, Oct. 16th, at 2:40p.m., after a long and painful attack of disease of the kidneys. He was born in Shelby Co., Ky., June 22d, 1815, and moved with his parents to Indiana in 1823, and then to Illinois in 1831; and was married to Jane HUDDLESTUN in 1834. Nine children were born to them, five of whom are living. He was one of fourteen, four sisters and ten brothers. Twelve lived to be heads of families. It would be very difficult to give the exact number of relatives, but we know he had hundreds of far and near relatives. Among them are sixteen grandchildren and seven great- grandchildren. In 1849 he professed religion and united with the M. E. Church, of which he remained a consistent member till his death. His funeral was preached in the M.E. Church, in Clyde, by the Rev. Alex HAMPTON, on Wednesday, Oct. 18th, at 2 o'clock p.m. A large concourse of friends and relatives followed his remains to its last resting place, at what is known as the Kinder graveyard. The procession, said to have been a half-mile long, was composed of wagons, carriages, buggies and a number on horseback, and all seemed to realize that another good man had passed away, and that his wife and children had lost a loving companion and a kind father.

Obituary of James E. KINDER

Submitted 2001 by Carolyn Blatter
Name of Newspaper: Litchfield News-Herald
Date of Obituary: June 28, 1927
Obituary: James Edgar KINDER, aged 61 years, 6 months and 9 days, a well known farmer of South Litchfield township, died at his home at 9 o'clock Monday night, following an illness of several months from cancer of the stomach. The deceased was born in Macoupin County, December 19, 1865, the son of Ephraim and Martha SCOTT KINDER. He is survived by his wife Mary Ellen MILLER KINDER, three daughters, Mrs. James (Hazel) HALEY of Detroit, Mich.; Mrs. Nellie ALLEN, Wood River and Mrs. Harry (Mae) SCHEFFEL, North Jackson Street; five sons, Russell, St. Louis; Jesse of South Litchfield; Earl, North Walnut street and Cameron and Harold who live at home. Also one brother Robert KINDER, who lives on North Harrison street. Funeral arrangements have not been completed, but burial will be made in the Crabtree cemetery.

Note: James's mother Martha also survived. He married Lula May EDWARDS on 10 October 1887, they later divorced. He married Estella WILHITE on 08 November 1894, in Montgomery Co, IL. She died about 1912. A daughter Daisey A. died in 1888. Sister Anna E. in 1880 and brother Cyrus Cornealius in 1914.

Obituary of Martha Arminda (SCOTT) KINDER

Submitted 2001 by Carolyn Blatter
Name of Newspaper: Litchfield News-Herald
Date of Obituary: January 20, 1928
Obituary: Mrs. Martha Arminda KINDER, aged 84 years, widow of the late Ephraim KINDER, and a resident of Litchfield for the last forty- five years, died at her home on North Harrison Street last night at 9:30 o'clock, following an extended illness due to the infirmities of old age. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock at the Free Methodist church, with Rev. GRIGG, pastor officiating. Interment will be made in Crabtree cemetery. Martha Arminda SCOTT was born near Carlinville, December 6 1843, and on October 30, 1862 was united in marriage to Ephraim KINDER, who died March 30, 1898. To the union four children were born. Anna E., James, and Cornelius, having died a number of years ago. One son, Robert W., and two sisters, Mrs. Rebecca JACKSON, who lives near Carlinville, and Mrs. Susan HUDDLESTON, of Chanute, Kansas, survive, together with eighteen grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren. She united with the Free Methodist church twenty years ago under the pasterate of Rev. WHEATLAKEand has been a devout member since.

Obituary of Charles A. KING

Submitted 2006 by Gloria Frazier and Virden Library
Name of Newspaper: Virden Reporter
Date of Obituary: 3-17-1905
Obituary: Local Item - Chas. A. KING, an old railroad contractor, died in Alton Friday night aged 64 years. he formerly lived in Girard and was well known to the people of Virden. The body was brought up from Alton and was buried in the Virden cemetery Sunday morning.

Obituary of Willie Thomas KIRK

Submitted 2008 by Littleton Bradley
Name of Newspaper: Virden Recorder
Date of Obituary: Jan. 18, 1889
Obituary: Willie Thomas KIRK and his brother, William, were out hunting on Friday morning. Thomas accidentally shot himself with a twenty-two caliber rifle. His brother was something like fifty yards distant when the accident occurred, and hurried to him as quickly as possible, but death had taken place before he reached him. They were something like a mile from home when this deplorable accident occurred. Tom, as he was familiarly called by everyone, was an exemplary young man, and was the pride of his parents. He was born on Dec. 13, 1865. Funeral services were held at the Macoupin Point Dunkard Church Sunday morning, Rev. J. H. BARBEE, preaching the funeral discourse, after which the Good Templars Lodge of this city (Girard) took charge of the remains and conducted their customary funeral service at the grave. He was a faithful member of that order. A large number of their members turned out to attend the funeral, bad as the weather and the roads were, which certainly speaks well for that organization. He was buried in the Dunkard (Pleasant Hill) graveyard adjoining the church."

Obituary of Mary (CROUCH) KITZMILLER

Submitted 2000 by Francie Graham Smith
Name of Newspaper: Girard
Date of Obituary: July 23, 1894
Obituary: Mother KITZMILLER, one of Girard's Earliest Settlers, Peacefully Passes Beyond Life's Troubles, and now Sleeps in the "Silent City" Beside Loved Ones who have gone before. A gloom of sorrow came over our citizens Friday morning as the Baptist church bell pealed forth the death warning upon the still morning air notifying the people that Mother Mary C. KITZMILLER, the wife of our esteemed neighbor and citizen, Rev. M. V. KITZMILLER, had been called to her haven of rest by the all wise creator and preserver of the universe. Mother KITZMILLER having lived in our community for over 38 years, was known far and near, and had a host of friends, who deeply sympathize with the husband and bereaved family in the loss of a dear wife and mother. She had been ailing for some weeks, suffering from flux and a combination of diseases which was beyond medical skill to check. Thus she fell peacefully asleep in the arms of her Saviour Friday evening, July 20th, 1894, surrounded by husband and children, to sleep the sleep that knows no waking. Her funeral took place Sunday afternoon from the Baptist church, which she had worshipped in these many years. Dr. J. BUCKLEY, of Surtcleff College, Alton, preached an appropriate sermon, assisted by the pastor of the church, Rev. WISEMAN. The church was filled to overflowing, even the yard being filled with neighbors and friends of the deceased who were anxious to pay a tribute of respect to the dead whom they had loved in life. After the services at the church the remains were followed to Girard cemetery by one of the largest funeral processions ever witnessed in this city, and there laid to rest in mother earth. Friends of the deceased covered the grave with floral tributes in token of the love and esteem in which she was held by all who knew her. Mary C. KITZMILLER, Age 66 years and 26 days. Where the bright headwaters of the beautiful Tennessee come singing down the mountain side, in full view of the loftiest domes east of the Rockies, with their silent grandeur leading every Christian heart to a holier worship of nature's God. There in the sweet sunny land of Eastern Tennessee, in Washington County, on the 24th day of June, 1828, little Mary came to gladden the home of Joseph and Elizabeth CROUCH. It was favorable to the child's future that the family into which God sent her to be a light, enjoyed no small degree of esteem in the community where they lived. The father for a long term of years was intrusted with official duties which he performed with much credit to himself and honor to his home; and while in that mountain home the rule of love to fellow man was inculcated; love to God was not forgotten. The home was Christian, and the family, together with a large connection by the same name, constituted the working force of several Baptist churches in the county. On the 29th day of April, 1847, Mary CROUCH became the wife of Rev. M.V. KITZMILLER. For nearly 48 years they have hand in hand walked together in love. Of this union then children were born – three of whom have passed on before in childhood, or early youth; seven, five sons and two daughters, remain, all with families of their own. These, with the husband and father, all with a good hope in Jesus, bide the time until they too shall hear the message, "'Tis enough, come up higher." To speak of the life and labors of Sister KITZMILLER, is to put a tax upon words which we feel reluctant to impose. In her home she was a queen, wearing the rich and pure ornaments of meekness and love, and called by husband and children alike by the sweet and fitting name "mother." The rich perfume of that name and life can never be absent from the lives of those who knew her in her home. In society the same adornment of a quiet spirit was hers, and the place she won in the hearts of all is better told by the presence of the large company than by words. But the biography is told briefly an best by saying, "she was a Christian." In the fall of 1849, upon a profession of her faith in Jesus, she was by her husband baptized into the fellowship of the Baptist church, at Buffalo Ridge, near the old home in Tennessee. She being the first person baptized by him. In 1856 they moved with their family to this [unreadable] The anxious look and sincerest inquiry of hundreds of our citizens as her life lay trembling in a glance, attests the fact that in love her hands had ministered to them in hours of trial, and her lips had blossomed with the comforting words of God's promises. The fact also that for more than 30 years her husband was a pastor of the Baptist church is a tribute of the wisdom and the worth of both the living and the dead. Her last illness, which ended with the day's ending Friday, July 20th, was borne by her as all other ills of life had been borne, with a patience born of a faith in Him who doeth all things well. Too much can not be said in honor of pioneer preachers, who in early days endured many hardships that the story of Jesus might be told to the new settlers on the plains of Illinois. But we here pay tribute of praise to the Godly wives who stayed at home and made numberless sacrifices and endured untold fears, for when coronation day shall come, He, who has kept account of all these things shall place upon the brow of her who sleeps in the grave a crown which in its golden sheen shall be equal to any worn by those who have stood at the sacred desk. Until then, dear mother in Israel, sleep sweetly in Him who was your stay in life, your hope in death, and shall be your song of praise forever and ever.

Obituary of George KLAUS

Submitted 2004 by Beverly Holler
Name of Newspaper: Girard Gazette
Date of Obituary: June 2, 1887
Obituary: Grandfather G. Claus (KLAUS) died at his home southeast of Nilwood Wednesday. He had attained the age of about eighty years, and was highly esteemed by all who knew him. Rev. M.V. KITZMILLER of this city, conducted the funeral services at his late home today, after which his remains were conveyed to Sulphur Springs cemetery and deposited in the bosom of mother earth to sleep that sleep which knows no waking. Since the above was in type, Rev. KITZMILLER furnished us with the following facts. George KLAUS, Sr. was born in Alt Eckendorf, Canton Holfeldon, France November 5, 1804. He came to this country fourteen years ago; was a member of the Lutheran Church. He was nearly blind for a number of years, but retained his mental faculties to the close of his life. Died Tuesday a.m. May 31st. 1887 in the eighty-third year of his life.

Obituary of John KNIBB

Submitted 2011 by Marsha L. Ensminger
Name of Newspaper: Bunker Hill Gazette-News
Date of Obituary: Friday Nov 10, 1911, p7 c4 & Nov 17, 1911, p1 c6
Obituary: Death of John KNIBB Our community was shocked to learn of the death of John KNIBB, one of our oldest citizens, on Wednesday evening at 7 o'clock. He had been up town the day before, though he had been ailing. A congestive chill was the immediate cause of his death. Funeral at the M. E. Church Friday, the 10th. Obituary next week.

John KNIBB was borne at Leamington Warwichshire, Eng. July 1, 1845, died at his home in Bunker Hill, Ill. Nov. 8, 1911 7:50 P.M, aged 66 years, 4ms, 7ds. His father died at the home of his birth. The mother with the family came to this country making their home in St. Louis where his boyhood days were passed. His mother died in St. Louis. After this, he came to Bunker Hill where he resided the rest of his life. He served his country in the Civil War. He was united in (paper worn and not readable so wife's name is missing in this tear) ___ 25, 1872. ___ eight children. Two Jennie and Bradley died in infancy. The other six, William J., Frank E., Geo H., Richard W. David and Lydia with the widow survive. He united with the M. E. Church when a young man and has been very regular in attendance all his life. While the years were bearing upon him his death came as a shock to the whole family. A congestive chill being the immediate cause of death. His wife and children, George and Lydia were with him in the hour of death. All the rest case as soon as the learned the news. All the children with their families, were present at the funeral. Mrs. LINBERG, a niece from St. Louis, and Mrs. J. A. SCARRITT, a sister of Mrs. Knibb, attended the funeral from out of town.

Obituary of Mildred Marie HUEBNER KNIBB

Submitted 2002 by Marsha L. Ensminger
Name of Newspaper: Illinois State Journal Register
Date of Obituary: 29 Dec. 1960
Obituary: Mrs. Mildred M. KNIBB, 33, of Bunker Hill died at 9:30 p.m. Tuesday at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield. The body is at the Jacoby Wise funeral (sic) Home in Bunker Hill where services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday with burial in Bunker Hill Cemetery. She leaves her husband, Sterling, and eight children, Katherine, Dave, George, Jeffrey, Danny, Bradley, Sandy, and Nancy. Note from submitter: Mildred Marie HUEBNER was born 18 Aug 1927 in Granite City, Madison County, IL, the daughter of Louis George and Wilhelmina (BRANDES) HUEBNER. She married Sterling Austin KNIBB on 26 Jan 1948.

Obituary of William J. KNIBB

Submitted 2011 by Marsha L. Ensminger
Name of Newspaper: Bunker Hill Gazette-News
Date of Obituary: May 29, 1908, Front page
Obituary: William James KNIBB was born in Leamington, Warwickshire, England July 9, 1837. He died at his home in Bunker Hill, Illinois, May 22, 1908, aged 70 years, 10 months and 13 days. The deceased came to America and settled in St. Louis in the spring of 1858. He was married there in November of 1859 to Miss Eleanor Carson MOORE, and they moved to Bunker Hill in May 1861. To this union were born ten children, one died in infancy. The deceased leaves a wife, nine children, fourteen grandchildren, a sister and a brother. When about twenty years of age be became actively engaged in church work and his interest in the cause of righteousness continued until the time of his death. The funeral services were held in the Baptist church Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock conducted by the pastor, Rev. A. W. JUDD. The interment was in the Bunker Hill cemetery.

Name of Newspaper: The Carlinville Democrat
Date of Article: 10 June 1908, p2 c2
Probate Court: William J. KNIBB died at Bunker Hill, May 22, 1908. His widow, Ellen C. KNIBB, petitioned for the probate of the will. Personal estate is estimated at $2,000. Real estate consists of two business houses and lots in Bunker Hill. The will is dated April 23, 1897, and is witnessed by E. W. HAYES and Charles E. DREW. By its terms, the widow is given all the personal property, after the payment of the debts, and a life estate in the realty. At her death, or upon her re-marriage, the real estate is to be divided equally among the children. The widow is nominated as executrix without bond. Hearing on the petition is set for June 25. Petitioner asks that Jeffrey KNIBB appointed administrator with the will annexed.

Obituary of Lillian (LANCASTER) KNOERZER

Submitted 2002 by Chris Grove-Surgis
Name of Newspaper: Daily Enquirer
Date of Obituary: December 12, 1930
Obituary: Mrs. Lillian (LANCASTER) KNOERZER, wife of Sebastian KNOERZER, died at her home in East St. Louis, Friday Dec. 12. She was born and reared in Carlinville. They moved to East St. Louis about 15 years ago. Surviving are the husband, three sons and a daughter, and a foster daughter, Lilly Lee LANCASTER. Four brothers also survive. Funeral services were held Sunday at 2:00 p.m. from the Heinz funeral home in this city. Burial was in Mayfield Memorial cemetery.

Obituary of Michael B. KOENIG

Submitted 2008 by Great Granddaughter Deloris DeAnn Summers
Gravestone Name of Newspaper: Macoupin County Enquirer
Date of Obituary: January 10, 1917
Obituary: Michael B. KOENIG, second son of Bastile and Mary KOENIG, was born Nov 2, 1873, at Dale, Ind. He lived in southern Indiana and Owensboro, Kentucky until 16 years of age. He then came to Illinois. In July, 1898, he married Miss Anna STUMBAUGH; one son, John EDGER, was born unto them. The wife and mother passed away June 1, 1901.
July 5, 1902, he was united in wedlock to Miss Sylvia A. KSSIE; the fruits of this union are three sons and 2 daughters, namely: Roy Marcus; Catheryn Marguerite; Daniel Greene; Lloyd Dudolph and Lela Fern. He departed this life Jan 4, 1917, at the Springfield Hospital, aged 43 years, two months and two days. He was a kind husband and father, a good neighbor and liked by all who knew him. Farming being his occupation, at which he was a willing and industrious worker. Prior to his being taken to the hospital he lived near Charity Church. From the number from that neighborhood and other neighborhoods around here who drove through the mud to attend his funeral it was evidence that his friends were many. Those left to mourn his demise are the wife and children mentioned; two sisters, Mrs. Katy DAVIS, of Owensboro, Ky; Mrs Clara JOHNSON of Indianapolis, Ind.; two brothers, John KOENIG of Chrisney, Ind.; Joseph KOENIG, Kampsville, Ill, and many friends. The family have the sympathy of all in ths their sad bereavement. The remains were brought to Hettick, Saturday on the 8 a.m. train, accompanied by his brother, Joseph KOENIG of Kampsville, and conveyed to the home of Postmaster BURNS and thence removed to the Baptist church at 1:15, where a large crowd had congregated to pay their last tribute of respect. Funeral service was in charge of Rev. J. N. BACON who delivered an impressive and appropriate sermon, Burial in the Baptist cemetery. The pallbearers were; O. M. MCCOLUM, R. B. PATTERSON, B.C. MILLER, J. T. CHANDLER, O. T. BRANDOM and T. H. JONES. All business men of Hettick.

Card of Thanks. We feel grateful and extend our heartfelt thanks to all who in any way rendered assistance and kindness during the illness and death of our companion and father. Sylvia KOENIG and Children.

Obituary of Ernest KORTUM

Submitted 2008 by Barbara Hitch
Name of Newspaper: Carlinville Democrat
Date of Obituary: Saturday, February 23, 1871
Obituary: Our quiet town was startled very much yesterday by the sudden death of Ernest CORDUM, a young man living about two miles from town. He was felling a tree from which to make rails when a large limb broke off from the tree and struck him on the head with such force as to kill him instantly. An inquest today developed the above facts, and the corpse was taken to Bunker Hill for interment.

Obituary of Eula Louise KORTUM

Submitted 2008 by Barbara Hitch
Name of Newspaper: Edwardsville Intelligencer
Date of Obituary: 12 September 1924
Obituary: Nut Causes Death Child Strangled on Kernal Here Recently. Eula Louise KORTUM To Be Buried on Sunday Eula Louise KORTUM, 30 months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John KORTUM, who moved here several weeks ago from Gillespie with the intention of making Edwardsville the family residence, died this morning about 3 o'clock at the Missouri Baptist Sanitarium in St. Louis from the effects of getting one or more salted peanuts in her lungs. Double pneumonia developed about two weeks ago and caused the death. The KORTUMS had been here but two or three weeks when the mother went to a neighborhood grocery store to make some purchases. The little girl wanted some peanuts but the mother did not want her to eat them. A traveling salesman later placed a penny in the machine and gave the girl the nuts. The mother turned just as the child put her hand to her mouth to eat some of the nuts, little Lula Louise laughing as she looked at her mother. The girl strangled and had a severe coughing spell which lasted fifteen minutes before having the least bit of relief. The breathing of the child changed within a few hours and she was taken to a Carlinville doctor and later to Springfield where the parents were told to go to St. Louis specialists. In the meantime one of the kernels had lodged securely and was giving off an injurious gas. Doctors found the condition too serious for an operation and were helping the child to some extent by inserting a tube which removed the gas. She had chances to recover until pneumonia developed. The KORTUMS are related to a number of Edwardsvillians and had partially arranged to sell their Gillespie home and come here to reside. The little girl is the only child. The funeral is to be held Sunday afternoon from the HAYES home north of Gillespie. The HAYS are grandparents of the child.

Obituary of Louis KORTUM, Jr.

Submitted 1999 by Barbara Hitch
Name of Newspaper: Edwardsville Intelligencer
Date of Obituary: 12 September 1924
Obituary: Meets Death On Railroad Crossing Louis KORTUM, Jr., of Gillespie was killed Friday morning when his auto was hit by the west bound morning train on the Big Four railroad about two miles east of Gillespie. According to the report, while crossing the railroad track his engine died and the west bound train struck him demolishing the car and he was internally injured. The train was stopped and he was brought to Gillespie but died soon after he was taken to the office of Dr. HIGGINS. He was a prominent citizen of Gillespie, and his death was a sad shock to his relatives and friends. Corner W. W. JACOBY went to Gillespie to conduct an inquest.

Obituary of Louis Henry KORTUM

Submitted 2008 by Barbara Hitch
Name of Newspaper: Macoupin County Inquirer
Date of Obituary: March 1, 1899
Obituary: Died. April 13, 1924, son of Ludwig H KORTUM Found Dead In Bed. Our citizens were shocked Sunday morning to learn of the sudden death of one of our highly esteemed citizens in the person of Louis KORTUM at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Minnie TAYLOR on Park Avenue. The deceased had always enjoyed good health and was up and around on Saturday and did not complain of feeling badly. At six o'clock Sunday morning his daughter entered the room and he seemed to be sleeping peacefully and naturally. A short time afterward when she went to call him he was dead. The deceased was for many years one of our prominent farmers, and resided on a farm just west of this city. After the late war he retired from the farm and came to this city to reside, making his home with his daughter. He was a member of the Lutheran church and an honorable and honest citizen, highly respected by all who knew him. He leaves to mourn his sudden demise five children: Miss Matta, John, Charles and Miss Minnie TAYLOR of this city, and Mrs Emma MEYER of Denver, Colo. He also leaves one sister, Mrs Minnie WATERS of St Louis, and one brother, Edward of near Gillespie. His wife preceded him in death many years ago. His death was due to a sudden attack of heart trouble. He was aged 62 years at the time of his death. Funeral services were conducted from the Lutheran church in the city on Tuesday afternoon at 1 o'clock. Rev L KRECKELER officiating, and the interment took place in the Gillespie cemetery.

Obituary of Louis Henry KORTUM

Submitted 2008 by Barbara Hitch
Name of Newspaper: Macoupin County Inquirer
Date of Obituary: November 9, 1921
Obituary: Died: November 4, 1921
Meets Death On Railroad Crossing Louis KORTUM, Jr., of Gillespie was killed Friday morning when his auto was hit by the west bound morning train on the Big Four railroad about two miles east of Gillespie. According to the report, while crossing the railroad track his engine died and the west bound train struck him demolishing the car and he was internally injured. The train was stopped and he was brought to Gillespie but died soon after he was taken to the office of Dr. HIGGINS. He was a prominent citizen of Gillespie, and his death was a sad shock to his relatives and friends. Corner W. W. JACOBY went to Gillespie to conduct an inquest.

Name of Newspaper: Gillespie Area News
Date of Obituary: November 9, 1921
Obituary: Died: November 4, 1921. Louis KORTUM, Jr was run over and killed by the Big Four west bound passenger train Friday evening. (The train fireman stated that the train had struck his auto at a crossing north of Gillespie). On the morning of the accident, Mr. KORTUM, accompanied by a Mr. SIESKA of South Dakota was going to an adjoining farm where Mr KORTUM was going to paint a new barn that he had lately erected. Mr SIESKER was badly shocked, but suffered no injuries, stated that the train had struck KORTUM's auto at a crossing north of Gillespie.

Obituary of Louisa (GRAWEN) KORTUM

Submitted 2008 by Barbara Hitch
Name of Newspaper: Bunker Hill Gazette
Date of Obituary: March 1, 1899
Obituary: Died - at her home in Bunker Hill, on Thursday (February 23, 1899), at 11 o'clock a.m., Mrs. Louisa KORTUM, aged 78 years, 11 months and 19 days. Deceased was born in Germany and came to this country half a century ago, locating in Bunker Hill. Her husband died at this place about eight years ago. One daughter, living in St. Louis, and two sons, Edward, near Dorchester, and Louie, near Gillespie, survive her. Deceased was a respected and much beloved old lady, and a member of the German M. E. Church. The funeral services will be held at the German M. E. Church this afternoon at 1:30 o'clock.

Obituary of Ludwig H. KORTUM

Submitted 12 March 1999 by Barbara Hitch
Name of Newspaper: Bunker Hill Gazette
Date of Obituary: November 2, 1892
Obituary: Ludwig H. KORTUM, died on Wednesday, aged 85 years and 8 months. He was a native of Germany, and came to this country in 1852, locating in this place in 1859. He leaves a widow and six children. Rev. KITTLE of Gillespie conducted funeral services on Friday.

Obituary of Mary C. KORTUM

Submitted 2008 by Barbara Hitch
Name of Newspaper: Bunker Hill Gazette
Date of Obituary: Sept 25, 1895
Obituary: Died: September 22, 1895 in St Louis, MO. A Fatal Jump Sad Death of a Bunker Hill Woman. Mary KORTUM fell from a street car in St. Louis on Sunday night, sustaining internal injuries and skull fracture, and dying a few hours later, without regaining consciousness. She had signaled the motorman to stop, but the car kept on its way, and she jumped off, with result as stated. She was unknown to any on the car, and it was not until her body reached the morgue, and a statement of the case had appeared in the city papers, that her identity was established. Her sister, Lulu was visiting in the city at the time, and returned home on Monday. Deceased was a daughter of Mrs. KORTUM of this place, and about 30 years of age. For a few years past she had earned her own livelihood in St. Louis, and when she met her death she was engaged in a private family. She was the main support of her aged and infirm mother, and but a day before her death had assumed the burden of providing musical instruction for a niece. She was a member of St. John's M. E. Church, St. Louis. The corner's inquest was to have been held yesterday morning. If the newspaper accounts be substantiated, there is good reason for holding the car man for culpable neglect of duty. Funeral services will be held in the German Methodist church, in this place, today at 1:30 o'clock.

Obituary of Joseph Patrick KOVAL

Submitted 2020 by Unknown
Name of Newspaper: The State Journal-Register
Date of Obituary: March 27-28, 2020
Obituary: Staunton, IL — Joseph Patrick KOVAL of Staunton, IL passed away March 15, 2020 at Heritage Health. Joe was born March 16, 1929 the son of Michael and Anna (Kasalko) KOVAL in Mt. Olive, IL. He married Rosemary VIDOT in 1967 and she died in 1986. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Lucille KOVAL and Virginia MORRIS, and his brothers Mike and John. Joe is survived by daughters Terri MRAZEK of Moses Lake, WA, Linda YINGST of Houston, TX, Rhonda KOVAL of Edwardsville, sons Keith KOVAL, St. Louis, and George (Elizabeth) KOVAL of Ballwin, 10 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren. Nephews Mike (Monica) KOVAL, Virden, Jim MORRIS. Niece Sheila (Mike) NOONAN, Springfield, 3 great nephews and 3 great nieces. He will be greatly missed by all of his family and we will miss his warm smile and giggle that made us all smile. Joe was a graduate of Mt. Olive High School in 1947, Blackburn College 1950, University of Illinois 1952, and received his Bachelor of Law in 1954. Joe was drafted in the Army and served from 1954-1956 as JAG Officer in the 5th Armored Division in Texas. He joined as partner in the law firm of Kelsey and Koval in 1956. He was elected States Attorney for Macoupin County in 1972.He was elected Circuit Judge in Carlinville in 1976.and remained Circuit Judge until retirement in 2006. Judge Joe listed in the Marquis Who's Who, member Macoupin County Bar Association, IL Judges Association, American Judicature Society, and Knights of Columbus. He was a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church, served on the board and was a lector. He served on the board of Adopt A Pet Benld, VFW, sponsored families under the Unbound Charity, sponsored Wounded Warrior, and gave generously to many other charitable foundations. Joe enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brothers Mike and John and especially his nephew Mickey KOVAL. He was a fan of Emmy Lou Harris, Gunsmoke, Charles Schultz, and St. Louis Cardinals. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Adopt-A-Pet of Benld, IL or St. Michael's Catholic Church, Staunton, IL. Due to the Pandemic a private service will be held. A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Joe at a later date.

Obituary of Frank KRATOCHVIL

Submitted 2008 by Rick Doty
Name of Newspaper: Mt.Olive Herald
Date of Obituary: 8 Mar 1935
Obituary: Died At Hospital. Frank KRATOCHVIL, Sr. of White City died at the Litchfield hospital Tuesday morning of asthma and complications, at the age of 60 years, 1 month and 20 days. The deceased has been a resident of White City for a long number of years, and is survived by his wife and three sons, Frank KRATOCHVIL, Jr. of Mt. Olive, Louis and Jerry KRATOCHVIL, the latter village clerk of White City; also four grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted at the residence in White City on Thursday afternoon at 4 p.m., and the remains were laid to rest in the Union Miners' Cemetery. The services were in charge of the Checo-Slovakia Lodge, of which he was a member.

Obituary of Wilhelmina KRUSE

Submitted 2006 by Rick Doty
Name of Newspaper: Mt.Olive Herald
Date of Obituary: 11 Feb 1893
Obituary: Died - At her home East of Mt.Olive, Mrs. Wilhelmina KRUSE, of Pneumonia, Thursday, Feb. 9, '93 Deceased was 74 years old, and has been a resident of Mt.Olive for many years, and was a beloved mother of a large and respected family. Funeral services will be held at the Zion's Church at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon.

Obituary of Johanna KUZIA

Submitted 2002 by Chris Grove-Surgis
Name of Newspaper: Litchfield News Herald
Date of Obituary: July 19, 1927
Obituary: Staunton. July 19 - Funeral Services for Mrs. Johanna KUZIA, who died at her home here Monday morning, will be held Wednesday morning at 9 o'clock at St. Michael's Catholic church. Rev. Father P. H. MASTERSON officiating. Interment in St. Michael's cemetery.


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