Randy Ray Nichols

 

Randy Ray Nichols, 82, of Rushville, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, January 31,
2026, at his home.
A memorial service for Randy and his wife Ruth will be held at 11 am on Saturday, April
11, 2026, at Bethany United Church of Christ in Tioga, Illinois, with burial to follow at the
church cemetery.
Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Ruth Ann Nichols

Ruth Ann Nichols, 82, of Rushville, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2026,
at her home in Rushville.
Ruth was born on March 3, 1944, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Virgil C. and Erma
B. (Altheide) Ament. She graduated from Warsaw High School in 1962. On June 29,
1963, she was united in marriage to Randy Nichols in Tioga, Illinois. He preceded her in
death on January 31, 2026. She was a member of Rushville Presbyterian Church and
was employed at Schuyler State Bank for many years, retiring in 2014. Ruth’s life
revolved around her family, and she loved attending her son and grandchildren’s sports
games. Two of her favorite joys in life were mowing at the farm and barn dancing. She
also enjoyed relaxing to her favorite soap operas.
Ruth is survived by her son Joe (Cindy Carter) Nichols of Rushville; her daughter Karri
Nichols of Pinckneyville, Illinois; her sister Jean Bowman of Quincy, Illinois; five
grandchildren: Karri’s children Matthew and Maggie, and Joe’s children Kolbie, Jegs
and Joanna; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Ruth is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Randy, her brother Donald and
her sister Alice.
A memorial service for Ruth and her husband Randy will be held at 11 am on Saturday,
April 11, 2026, at Bethany United Church of Christ in Tioga, Illinois, with burial to follow
at the church cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to Bethany United Church of Christ.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Albert Edward Keppel, III

 

 Albert Edward Keppel, III, 85 of Keokuk, IA passed away Sunday, March 29, 2026 at his home.

     He was born October 23, 1940 in Keokuk, IA the son of Albert Edward, Jr. and Charlotte Bernice Kayser Keppel.  He graduated from Keokuk High School.

     On October 20, 1962, Albert was united in marriage to Kathleen Curfman in Keokuk.  She survives.  

     Other survivors include two daughters, Therese Neff (Jim) of Keokuk and Marsha Jairl of Argyle, IA, one son, Albert Keppel, IV (Michelle) of Keokuk, nine grandchildren, Tiann Davis (Donnie), Melissa Carter (Adam), Jamie Neff, Tanner Keppel, Kole Keppel, J.D. Jairl (Sam), Tyler Jairl (Zoe) all of Keokuk,  Albert Keppel, V of Montrose, IA, and Juston Jairl (Chelsey) of Hamilton, IL, ten great-grandchildren, Blake Davis, James Neff, Corrine Carter, Wyatt, Karter, Chloe, Xander, Zeke, and Aria Jairl and Dominic Keppel.  He is also survived by one sister, Margaret Bauswell, one sister-in-law, Teresa Keppel of Keokuk and numerous nieces and nephews.

     He was preceded in death by his father, Albert Keppel, Jr., his mother, Charlotte Hays and step-father, Roy Hays, one brother, Johnnie Keppel, one grandson, Nathan Keppel and one son-in-law, Brian Jairl.

     Albert was employed at Keokuk Steel Castings for thirty-seven years until his retirement in 1999. He was a member of All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk and also belonged to the Eagles Club.

     Albert was a talented woodworker who took great pride in his craft. He enjoyed riding motorcycles and four-wheelers, playing cards and Dominos with family and friends, and spending time at the Lake of the Oaks. He will be remembered for his hardworking nature and the love he shared with his family.

     A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, April 2 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with Father Hai Dinh officiating.  Burial will be in the Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk.

     Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, April 1 at the funeral home with family meeting with friends at that time.  A rosary will be held prior to the visitation at 4:30 p.m.

     Memorials may be made to All Saints Catholic Church or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Diana Lynn Martinez

 

Diana Lynn Martinez, 77 of Keokuk, IA passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at River Valley Place in Ft. Madison, IA. 

     She was born August 31, 1948 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of Pedro and Alice Adelaide Olvis Martinez.   Diana attended Keokuk High School and loved getting together with classmates once a month for lunch. 

     Diana had been employed by several different businesses through the years, including Kmart, Schnucks and General Electric.

     She was a member of KARE-Keokuk Association for Rites & Equality and was a proud Democrat.  

     Diana found great joy in the outdoors, especially while hunting for geodes, tending to her flowerbeds, and watching the birds that visited. She was a talented seamstress who took pride in her quilting, creating pieces with both care and precision. Diana approached everything she did with a meticulous and particular nature, a trait that defined much of her life.

She had a deep love for her cats—Petey, Sugar, Harriet, Tommie, Momma Ring, Baby Cakes, and Gato—each of whom held a special place in her heart. Gato, who lived to be twenty-nine years old, was a testament to the love and care she gave her animals.  Above all, Diana wished to be remembered in her own words: as someone who spoke her mind and had a “loose tongue,” a reflection of her honesty, spirited nature, and the authenticity she carried throughout her life.

     She is survived by her daughter, Teresa Rairden (Dan) of Keokuk, two grandchildren, Alexis Olvis of Keokuk and Samantha Tiemeier (Payton) of Cedar Rapids, IA and three great-grandchildren, Kyler Cleesen, Bexley Cleesen and Arwen Brotherton.  She is also survived by one sister, Juana Johnson of Eugene, OR, one brother, Robert Martinez of Centerville, IA and one sister-in-law, Judy Martinez of Keokuk, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins and her close, special friend, Jean Carpenter.

     Diana was preceded in death by her parents, her life partner, James Camper, one brother, Kenneth Martinez, one sister, Toni Martinez, one sister-in-law, Teresa Martinez and one brother-in-law, Richard Johnson.  

     According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned.

     Memorials may be made to Keokuk Animal Services or to PAW Fort Madison Animal Shelter. 

     The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA is assisting the family with arrangements.

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com      

Robert “Bob” Lawrence Fritz, 80, of Carthage, IL, passed away on Wednesday, March
18, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family. Bob was born on February 26, 1946, to
Bob and Louise Fritz and was raised with one brother, Dave Fritz. He married Lila
Brooks Fritz on July 23 rd , 1994, and blended their families. Bob was preceded in death
by his parents, his son Mike Fritz and stepson, Robby White and his in-laws, John and
Bernadette Brooks. He is survived by his wife, stepdaughter, Erin (Steve) Fink, and his
grandchildren, Evan, Ellie and Benson Fink and his brother, Dave (Joanne) Fritz. As
part of a large extended family, Bob, will be missed by many sisters-in-laws, brother-in-
laws, nieces, nephews, and their children.
Bob grew up in Harrisburg, PA, near the Susquehanna River. From January 1967 to
December 1968, Bob served as an Army Medic. After being honorably discharged from
the Army, Bob completed his bachelor’s degree from Penn State, and landed what
would become his dream job as a social worker for the State of Pennsylvania. Bob
worked with disabled teens and adults with the transition from school to work or helping
someone change vocations due to a handicap or accident. Bob loved his job as a case
manager for clients for 25 years and then took an early retirement to start a new chapter
of life in rural Illinois, at Brooks’ Ranch, the home of his beloved wife, Lila.
Brooks Ranch was a great place for Bob to continue his love of running, hiking, biking
and all things nature. Bob hiked over 900 miles of trails in America, much of it on the
famed Appalachian Trial in quiet solitude. Bob and Lila built a home together on the
banks of Lake Linda where they enjoyed over thirty years of good country living. Bob
enjoyed watching his children and many nieces and nephews grow up and participate in
local sports. As an avid sports fan, Bob, was someone you could count on to cheer you
on in both sports and life, especially if you wore a Pittsburg Pirate uniform. At 63, Bob
took on the task of being the “Manny” to his then 3-week-old grandson, Evan, so that
Erin could return to work. Few men would be brave enough for this task, but Bob was a
natural with babies and exceled as the perfect grandpa for all the “Finklets”.
In a world of takers, he was a giver. In a world of talkers, he was a listener. In a world of
haters, he was a lover. The world was a better place with Bob in it, but heaven is the
perfect place for his kind of angel.
A memorial service will be held at 4pm on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the First
Presbyterian Church in Carthage, where Bob served many years as both a deacon and
an elder. Memorials may be made out to Bobbofest. Due to the service being Easter
weekend, friends and family are welcome to send a card to Lila at 2425 E. County Road
1800 N, Carthage, IL or give her a big hug at Bobbofest if you can’t attend the church
service. Print Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Charles W. Dennis, 78, of Hamilton, passed away at 4:00 PM Monday,
March 23, 2026, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy.
Charles was born July 21, 1947, in Keokuk, Iowa. He was the son of Elmer
and Esther (Klinger) Dennis. Immediately after graduating high school he
entered the US Navy serving over twenty years and receiving his
Honorable Discharge in 1992.
Charles is survived by his wife, Laura, of Hamilton; two sons, David and
Derek Dennis, both of Hamilton; and two granddaughters, Arianna and
Ava.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be held at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton from 4:00 – 6:00
PM Monday, March 30, 2026. Burial at sea will be held at a later date by
the U.S. Navy. Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of
arrangements.

Brent Michael “Mike” Doyle, 50, of Burnside, Illinois, passed away on March 23, 2026,
after a long but courageous battle with end-stage renal disease.
Mike was born on May 15, 1975, in West Point, Illinois, to Donald and Norma (Phillips)
Doyle. He was raised there and spent much of his life in the area he knew and loved.
He spent his final years in Burnside, surrounded by the people and things he loved
most.
On October 21, 1995, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Crystal. Together,
they built a life centered around family, laughter, and unwavering support for their
daughters.
Mike was a mechanic by trade, and even after he was no longer able to work, he never
lost his love for fixing and tinkering with anything he could get his hands on. He enjoyed
hunting, riding motorcycles, and playing cards, but if you asked anyone who knew him
well, they would tell you his real talent was in the kitchen. Mike was an amazing cook,
and feeding the people he loved was one of the many ways he showed it. He also loved
cruising the back roads and knew nearly every road in Hancock County, often taking
rides with Crystal on their side-by-side—time that meant the world to him.
He had a personality that was unmistakably his own. Mike was stubborn, a little ornery,
and always ready to joke around or pick on you—especially if he liked you. He wore that
signature smirk like a badge, and those closest to him knew it meant you were in for a
laugh, whether you were ready or not.
More than anything, Mike loved his family. Time spent with his wife and daughters
meant everything to him. He was endlessly proud of his girls and talked about them
every chance he got. His pride in Kristen and Megan, both nurses, and in Rylan, who is
still in high school with big dreams ahead, was something he carried with him every
single day.
Mike is survived by his loving wife, Crystal; his daughters, Kristen Doyle, Megan Doyle,
and Rylan Doyle; his bonus daughters, Hannah Brice and Meagan Murk; his siblings,
Rex (Susie) Doyle, Donnie (Cindy) Doyle, Wilma (Bob) Leake, Connie (Mike) Wright,
Julie (Doug) Bollin, and Carla Link; as well as several beloved nieces, nephews, and
great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Norma (Phillips) Doyle, as well as
a son who was lost before birth and deeply loved. Mike often spoke of the day he would
be reunited with his parents and finally meet his son.
He will be remembered for his humor, his stubborn spirit, his cooking, and the deep love
he had for his family—the kind of love that showed up in teasing, in stories, in meals
shared, and in the quiet, constant pride he held for the people closest to him.
A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Printy Funeral
Home in Carthage. Visitation will be held prior to the service starting at 9 am. Memorials
may be made out to the family for an education fund for his children. Printy Funeral
Home is handling arrangements.

Brian Douglas Froman

Brian Douglas Froman, 57, of Warsaw, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on
March 23, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Born on August 13, 1968, in Quincy, Illinois, to Douglas and Mary Froman, Brian was
the second of three children.
He is survived by and a proud dad to his two daughters, Brooke Froman and Rae
Froman, who meant everything to him. He had just begun one of his favorite
roles—being a grandpa to his seven-month-old granddaughter, Morgan Rice, who he
would brag about to anyone who would listen.
He is also survived by his sisters, Jill (Brian) Brown and Linda (Steve) McCarthy, and
four nieces and nephews. We can’t forget about his cat TJ, who was his best friend and
kept him company through it all.
Brian loved the outdoors—whether he was hunting, fishing, boating, or out on the golf
course. He especially cherished his close circle of buddies who stood by him through
the years, through the good times and the tough ones. He was the kind of guy who
never met a stranger and never stayed serious for long. If there was a laugh to be had,
Brian was usually right in the middle of it—and most times the one causing it.
Brian was a staple in his community. He was a lifelong member of the Warsaw Gun
Club, a dedicated member of the Warsaw Lions Club, and a founding member of
Warsaw Caviar. Brian also served his community for 18 years as a Warsaw Township
Supervisor, something he took a lot of pride in.
Brian was one of those people you just don’t forget. He made people feel welcome,
made them laugh when they needed it most, and left a lasting impression everywhere
he went.
He’ll be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and all who had the pleasure of
knowing him.
Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Printy Funeral
Home in Warsaw, with burial to follow at Oakland Cemetery in Warsaw. Visitation will be
held on Friday, March 27, from 2 to 7 pm, with family meeting friends from 4 to 7 pm at
Printy Funeral Home.
Memorials may be directed to the Warsaw Lions Club or Coach’s Kids.

Thomas “Tom” Joseph Handyside, 60

Thomas “Tom” Joseph Handyside, 60, of Warsaw, Illinois, passed away on Thursday,
March 19, 2026, at Memorial Hospital in Carthage, Illinois.
Tom was born in Keokuk, Iowa, on August 21st, 1965, to his parents Dwight and
Patricia (Danford) Handyside. In his childhood he enjoyed time outdoors and caring for
animals. He graduated from Keokuk High School and quickly enlisted in the U.S. Navy.
He was united in marriage June 27 th , 1987, to his loving wife, Sheila Holtsclaw
Handyside. They have three children, Gavin Handyside of Carthage, IL, Kailyn (Brian
Joy) Handyside of Keokuk, IA, and Alexis (Luke) Kelly of Carthage, IL. He was Poppa to
nine grandchildren: Carson Kelly, Kira Cale, Granger Kelly, Kaiser Joy, Bennett Kelly,
Koda Joy, Kevin Joy, Kurt Joy, and Kermit Joy. He was so proud of each of them.
Tom is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, brother John (Patty) Handyside of
Hannibal, MO, and a sister Sally Miller of Keokuk, IA. Other survivors include numerous
nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Dan Handyside, and sister Ann
Pollock.
He will be remembered by his wit and charm. He was easy to love and loved easily.
Visitation will be held from 3 to 5 pm on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Printy Funeral
Home in Warsaw. A memorial service will be held at 5 pm on Wednesday, March 25,
2026, at the funeral home following visitation. Burial at Keokuk National Cemetery will
be held at a later date.
Memorials can be made to his family.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Kaye Lynn Bruns

Kaye Lynn Bruns, 82, of Carthage, IL, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the
Adams Point Senior Living in Quincy, IL.
Kaye was born on April 15, 1943, in Fort Collins, CO. She was the daughter of Ralph
and Anna (Dinneback) Bashor. Kaye graduated from Loveland High School in Colorado
and then went on to receive a degree from Central Business College in Denver, CO, in
1962. In August of that year, she was united in marriage to Junior Bruns.
Kaye stayed home and took care of their two sons. She then spent time working for
Methode Electronics before ultimately retiring from Alexander Lumber Company in
Carthage. Kaye was an avid collector and loved her hat pins. She enjoyed gardening,
flowers, and spending time with her granddaughters.
Kaye is survived by her two sons, Rick (Patti) Bruns of Camp Point, IL, and Rod
(Chrissy Lewis) of Carthage, IL, her grandchildren, Danielle (Kyle) Sethaler, and Kaylee
(Vance) Neastea, her great grandchildren, Kadence and Berkely Sethaler, her sister,
Judy (Bill) Weaver, and her brother, Ralph Bashor.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Junior Bruns, and her sister,
Beth McWethy.
A memorial service will be held at 11am on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Printy Funeral
Home in Carthage. A visitation will be held prior to the service starting at 10am.
Memorials may be made out to Blessing Hospice or the Harmony Township Cemetery.
Printy Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Elmer Frank Barlow

Elmer Frank Barlow, 88, of Keokuk, passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at
his home in Keokuk, Iowa.
Elmer was born on July 10, 1937, in St. Paul, Minnesota, the son of Elmer and Clara
(Zaun) Barlow. On September 15, 1956, he was united in marriage to his childhood
sweetheart Rosalie “Rosie” Ann Peterson in St. Paul Park, Minnesota. They celebrated
sixty-nine wonderful years together. She survives.
Elmer was a member of Calvary Foursquare Church in Keokuk and began working at
Armour-Dial in 1959, working there for forty-one years until his retirement in 2000. He
was instrumental in the development and implementation of carbon blades at the
factory, saving the company numerous hours and thousands of dollars in production
throughout the years. Elmer was a gearhead his entire life, building and racing cars and
riding motorcycles. He built a 1948 Indian Chief from the ground up, and rode his Honda
Goldwing countless miles throughout the United States. His love of all things
mechanical began at the age of fifteen, when he was working in a salvage yard. While
employed there, he built his first dirt track race car. In 1957, he became the inaugural
winner at the Cedar Lake Speedway in Wisconsin. Throughout the years of racing in
Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa, Elmer and Rosie made lifelong friends and were
beloved by all who knew them both on and off the track. His love of Bluegrass music
and camping took the family on trips throughout the Bluegrass music circuit, where he
became a regular face. Elmer’s life stands as a testament to his faith and his family.
Elmer is survived by his wife Rosie Barlow of Keokuk; three children: Carrie Feil of
Burlington, Iowa, Patti (Tom) Dombrock of Peterson, Minnesota, and Ricky (Beth)
Barlow of Keokuk, Iowa; eight grandchildren: Linda (John) Peacher, Christina (Dustin)
Nelson, Patrick (Rae) Renlund, Jason Davis, Jacob Thompson, Ricky Barlow, Jr.
(Fiancé Jill Thomas), Kayleigh Barlow (Bob Houseweart) and Braeden Barlow (Fiance
Cheyenne Kammerer); eleven great-grandchildren: Brittney (Darek), Andrew (Hailey),
Cole (Madalyn), Maggie, Molly, Elaina, Chase, Connor, Colton, Katherine and Jaiden;
five great-great-grandchildren: Addalyn, Parker, Liam, Wyatt and William; and several
nieces, nephews and cousins.
Elmer is preceded in death by his parents; four siblings: Alice Frank, Ray and Bob; and
his son-in-law Pat.
Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 pm on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Calvary
Foursquare Church in Keokuk. A memorial service will be held at the church at 4 pm on
Monday, March 23, directly following the visitation. A private family burial will be held at
Hickory Grove Cemetery in Keokuk.

Memorials may be directed to Calvary Foursquare Church in Keokuk.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
DeJong-Printy Funeral Home of Keokuk is in charge of arrangements.

 

Robert E. “Bob” McDonald, 94, of Augusta, IL passed away at 1:35 am Tuesday March 17, 2026 at the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy, IL. 

A Funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday March 21, 2026 at the Hamilton Funeral Home in Augusta, IL with Rev. Dixie Croxton officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn cemetery in Augusta, IL. Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to time of services Saturday. Memorial contributions may be made to Augusta Woodlawn Cemetery or the Augusta Lions Club. 

The Hamilton Funeral Home in Augusta, IL is handling arrangements.

Irvin Leland Bell

Irvin Leland Bell, 89, of Hamilton, passed away at Memorial Hospital in Carthage
on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
Irvin was born February 4, 1937, in Batchtown, Illinois, the son of Bryan and Mary
(Gilbert) Bell. He was a truck driver in his early career and then worked for
Dadant and Sons for forty-seven years, a job he enjoyed, and was still currently
working.
Irvin is survived by two daughters, Patty (Buddy Gail) Young of Hamilton and
Jennifer (Kevin) Lee of Washington, Illinois; stepchildren, Corina (Rick) Carle of
New Boston, Illinois, Francis William Butch (Angela) Wreiden, Jr. of Wapello, Iowa
and Marlene “Tammy” (Richard) Turchin in Minnesota; grandchildren, Brennen,
Morgan, Jason, Ashley, Thomas and Kayla; and many great and great great
grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Karen Sue Osterloh; a daughter,
Debbie Clark; son, Randy Bell; five sisters, Idie, Gatha, Ethel, Geneva and Thelma;
three brothers, Alan, George and Neill; and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, March 20, 2026, at Printy
Funeral Home in Hamilton with burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery in Hamilton.
Family will meet friends from 12:00 until time of services at 2:00 at the funeral
home. Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.

Mildred “Milly” Medley 

Mildred “Milly” Medley 95, of Keokuk passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at River Hills Village in Keokuk, IA.

     She was born August 16, 1930 in Fort Madison, Iowa the daughter of Guy Raymond Ross and Pheobia Arvella Copeland.  She graduated from Keokuk Senior High with the class of 1948 and remained a proud lifelong resident of Keokuk

     On February 20, 1980, Milly was united in marriage to Maxwell K. “Max” Medley.  He preceded her in death on August 29, 2001. 

     Milly had been employed at several locally owned businesses including a dentist, Harold’s Place, several other restaurants before the Keokuk Country Club for several years, where she worked, she made and built lasting friendships and was known for her kindness. 

     She was an active and devoted member of the First Lutheran Church where she participated in many activities such as serving on the Church Council, the Naomi Church Circle and helping with the church’s    annual fall bazaar.  Milly was also a member of Keokuk BPW, Kalawequois #748 Chapter Questers, Keokuk Country Club, the American Legion Auxiliary and the Hoerner Y.

     Milly found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved the beautiful view of the river and took pride in the flowers that filled her garden. Her front porch was a place where she could be found sitting, visiting and waving to neighbors and friends as they passed by along with their four-legged companions. Her bright smile and friendly wave were a familiar and comforting sight to many.

     Milly had a busy social schedule with coffee at McDonalds, her daily car rides and dinner with friends that are too many to mention and always welcomed newcomers.  She loved antiquing and had many wonderful treasures in her home.  Milly was often seen in her convertible driving her regular route around Rand Park taking in the river view. 

     She is survived by two children, Timothy (Robin) Johnson of Urbandale, Iowa and Tammy Johnson of Dallas, Texas, three grandchildren, Brittany (Jeromy) Speciale, Isaac Johnson and Rachel (John) Mershon, and four great grandchildren, Leo and Lucia Speciale, Joel Johnson and Moshe Mershon. 

     Besides her husband she is preceded in death by her parents. 

     A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at the First Lutheran Church in Keokuk, IA with Reverend Tim Greenwald officiating.  Burial will be held in the Keokuk National Cemetery. 

     Visitation will be held Monday, March 16 from 4:00 -7:00 p.m. at Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with family meeting friends at that time. 

     Memorials may be made to First Lutheran Church or Keokuk Animal Services.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

 

Homer Yates Jr

Homer Yates Jr, 65, of West Point, IL, passed away early on Tuesday, March 10, 2026,
at his home in West Point.
Homer was born on February 23, 1961, at home in McDowell, KY. He was the son of
Homer Sr. and Maudie (Isaac) Yates. On May 11, 1983, Homer was united in marriage
to Tammy Hermann in Plano, TX. Homer worked a few jobs but ended up spending
most of his career as a roofer and a good one at that. He enjoyed his work and liked to
help wherever he could. Homer could always be found tinkering in his garage and
working on old Chevy’s. His favorite thing in life was spending time with his kids and
grandkids. They will miss him dearly.
Homer is survived by his wife, Tammy Yates of West Point, IL; his children, Brandi
(Robert) Pittman of West Point, IL, and James (Deanna) Yates of West Point, IL; his
grandchildren, Destiny, Karlee, and Ryan Alred, Ryker Pittman, Annika, Aiken, and Aliza
Yates; his sisters, Debbie (Bill) Elgert, Iris Cournoyer, and Sharon (David) Castro; as
well as many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Kenneth Yates, and Johnny
Arthur.
No funeral services will be held at this time. Printy Funeral Home is handling
arrangements.

William “Bill” Lee Baldwin

 

  William “Bill” Lee Baldwin, 78, of Warsaw, IL, passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.    

     He was born February 20, 1948, in Keokuk, IA, the son of Victor and Bertha Cochran Baldwin.    

     Bill was a proud veteran of the United States Army and faithfully served his country for two years.

      On February 4, 1967, Bill was united in marriage to Dixie Diana Green in Davenport, IA. They shared fifty-nine wonderful years of marriage. Together they built a life centered around family, love, and time spent with those who meant the most to them. She survives.

     Other survivors include three daughters, Diana Steffen (Jim) of Argyle, IA, Connie Baldwin of Keokuk, and Amy Morgan (Jerry) of Keokuk; and one son, William Baldwin (Gina) of Leavenworth, KS. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, Tamsen Hodson (Nathan), Samantha Palmer (Kevin), Darian Donaldson (Jeffrey), Gaige McGreevey (Savanna), Jared Steffen, Andrew Benstine, Halla Green (Todd), Bo Woods (Adrian Robles), and Jayden Woods; eighteen great-grandchildren, Hayden Houston, Tamya, Nathan, Louis, and Ryleigh Donaldson; Wyatt, Timber, and Oakley Palmer; Colton Six; Casey and Levi Steffen; Trinity, Wyatt, Hunter and Emmett Hodson; Lilith and Maya Woods; and Jax Ace Woods; and one great-great-grandchild, Rizzo Eid.

     He is further survived by his siblings, Carolyn Barry (Vernon), Barbara Egley (Robert), Charlotte Cooksey (Christopher), John R. Nichol (Judy), and Robert Nicol (Barb), many nieces and nephews and his longtime friend, Bill Smith.

     He was preceded in death by his parents; one grandson, James Steffen; four siblings, Mildred Cady, Victor Baldwin, Charles Nicol, and Janice Baldwin.

     Bill had been employed by several businesses through the years, including Purple Martin Fisca Gas Station, Alcoa, Ammco Transmission and International Harvester.  Bill later became the owner and operator of B&B Transmissions, where he worked for forty years until his retirement.

     In his younger years, he loved playing Bluegrass music on multiple instruments, including the harmonica, banjo, and guitar, often sharing that music with his family. He also spent time as a dirt track stock car racer and enjoyed a good game of penny poker.

     Bill was a natural storyteller and an avid fisherman who loved time on the water. His favorite fishing partners were his longtime friend Bill Smith and Jimmy Lee Steffen, but he always welcomed the chance to take any of his children or grandchildren along. He shared countless stories and created many cherished memories while teaching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren how to fish at a young age. Above all, Bill deeply loved his family, especially his grandbabies, who meant the world to him.

      A private family service will be held at a later date.

     Memorials may be made to the James Michael Lee Steffen Leadership Scholarship Fund and mailed to

 Amy Morgan, 1821 Franklin St., Keokuk, IA 52632 or dropped off at the Vigen Memorial Home.

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Richard “Dick” Craig Belshaw

Richard “Dick” Craig Belshaw, 95, of rural Carthage, Illinois passed away Monday,
March 9, 2026, at Memorial Hospital in Carthage. He was born on July 17, 1930
southwest of Bentley, Illinois to Donald C. and Irene Allen Belshaw. He graduated from
Carthage High School in 1948. On October 22, 1950, he married Lucille “Dude” Howd in
Carthage, Illinois. They spent more than 75 years together as husband and wife.

Dick was a lifelong farmer, raising grain and livestock south of Carthage. He was a
member of the First United Methodist Church in Carthage. He was a longtime Harmony
Township cemetery trustee, a member of ATA, NFO, and Carthage Gun Club. Dick also
served as a school board member of three different districts. He was active in the Swing
Easy square dance club of Keokuk, Iowa. Dick was a longtime member of the Carthage
Eagles Club, where he could be found making pancakes at the monthly breakfast.
While Dick served in many community organizations, his most important role was of
husband, father, and grandfather. He took pride in teaching his grandkids and great
grandkids to fish, garden, and mushroom hunt. There were always adventures that
included feeding the fish, riding on the tractor, and camping. He was always a fan of
Allis Chalmers tractors and Gleaner combines.

Dick is survived by his wife, Lucille, and his daughters Joyce (Dave) Biery, Judy (Dave)
Hartweg of Carthage, and Janice (Rusty) Baird of Whitesburg, Tennessee;
grandchildren
Tera (Shannon) Stewart of Sullivan, Ryan (Erin) Biery of Carthage, Jennifer (Joel)
Brown of Crescent City, Samantha (Darin) Klingler of Carthage, Jason Hartweg of
Carthage, and Amanda (Ricky) Gibson of St. Louis, Missouri; great-grandchildren Scott
and Matthew Garrelts; Rylan and Jake Stewart; Katie, Anna, and Luke Biery; Rylie and
Connor Brown; Jackson and Miranda Klingler; and Jayden, Jozie, and Jordy Fields; 6

great-great grandchildren. Also surviving are siblings Betty Collins of Shawano,
Wisconsin, Glen (Eileen) Belshaw of Carthage, and Margie Pollpeter of Ft. Madison,
Iowa.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage on Friday, March 13, 2026
from 5 to 8 pm. Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at
Printy Funeral Home in Carthage with burial to follow in Moss Ridge Cemetery in
Carthage. Memorials may be directed to Carthage Fraternal Order of the Eagles or the
First United Methodist Church. Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of the
arrangements.

 Norma Jeanne Kisor, 96 of Keokuk, IA passed away Monday, March 2, 2026 at Lewis County Nursing Home in Canton, MO.

     She was born February 7, 1930 in Ft. Madison, IA the daughter of John and Mae Wilt Bostwick.  She graduated from Argyle High School with the class of 1949.

     Norma was united in marriage to William “Bill” Kisor in 1950 in Keokuk.  He preceded her in death on May 13, 2014.

     She had been employed by several area businesses including Sheller Globe, the Benevolent Union Home and lastly Mode O’Day Fashion Crossroads.    

     Norma was an active member of Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Keokuk. Her faith was an active and vital part of her life, and she faithfully participated in church services and activities. She especially enjoyed working alongside Bill as they remodeled and designed homes together, finding great satisfaction in planning layouts, choosing details, and seeing each vision come together.

     She is survived by one son, Jim Kisor of Keokuk, one daughter, Mary Rosencrans (Danny) of Canton, MO, bonus brother, Rick Woodley of West Point, IA, three grandchildren, Kathy Ludwig (Brent), Brent Rosencrans (Lyne) and Stephanie Andrews (Josh), six great-grandchildren, Keagan Stutheit (Megan), Parker Stutheit, Peyton Rosencrans, Marissa Frantz (Treyson), Maria Frantz (Roo) and Owen Andrews and two great-great-grandchildren.

     In addition to her husband, Bill, she was also preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Bill Bostwick and two sisters, Hazel Hawes and Mary Evelyn Bostwick.

     A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Carolyn Pundt officiating.  Burial will be in Argyle Memorial Gardens in Argyle, IA. 

     Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30-10:30 a.m., Saturday, at the funeral home with family meeting with friends at that time.

     Memorials may be made to the Lewis County Nursing Home or Northeast Missouri Hospice or to Emmanuel United Methodist Church. 

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Robert (Bob) Edward Filz

Robert (Bob) Edward Filz, 91, of Bowen, Illinois, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 1, at the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy.
He was born on November 30, 1934, in Keokuk, Iowa, to Phillip Edward and Marguerite Schmid Filz of Wayland, Missouri. Bob was affectionately known as “Big,” as the older brother of his twin Richard “Tiny.” He graduated from Wayland High School in 1952.
Bob was drafted by the Army in 1957 and served during peacetime, where he was stationed
primarily in Germany. After his honorable discharge, he attended Northeast Missouri State in Kirksville, where he earned his teaching degree. Bob taught junior high social studies for
Southeastern Junior High in Bowen for more than 30 years.
On June 18, 1971, he married the love of his life, Edith (Price) Filz, in Wayland, Missouri. They spent more than 54 years as husband and wife. His wife, children and grandchildren were the joys of his life, and an answer to his prayers.
Bob was of the Catholic faith and a member of the Knights of Columbus for more than 50 years.
He enjoyed coaching youth sports teams, traveling, reading, gardening and spending time with his family. An avid sports fan, Bob was a lifelong supporter of Notre Dame Fighting Irish football and the Chicago Cubs, and also enjoyed attending stock car races.
He adored animals and children, especially his three children and four grandchildren, whom he would often refer to as precious. His two cats and his grandpups also brought him great joy. He was a gentle, kind-hearted, soft-spoken, compassionate, charitable, honest and loving soul who was full of faith and who will be dearly missed.
He is survived by his loving wife, Edie, their children Robert T. Filz of Bowen, Illinois, Monica
(John) Grizzle of LeRoy, Illinois, and Valerie (Jeffrey) Johnston of Chatham, Illinois; his
grandchildren, Brady and Carter Grizzle and Hunter and Ella Johnston; his sister Joanne (Karl) Hopson;  his sister-in-law, Pat (Richard) Filz; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and Marguerite Filz, his infant son, Robert Phillip Filz; his sisters Phyllis Burke and Vera Zinnert; and his brothers, Alan Filz and Richard Filz.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 5, at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage from 4-6 p.m. with rosary following. Filz funeral 10:00 AM Friday, March 6 at Immaculate Conception Church in Carthage, Illinois. The burial will be at Frazee Cemetery in Wayland, Missouri.
We would like to thank the staff at Blessing Hospital, Blessing Hospice, and the staff at the
Illinois Veterans’ Home in Quincy for the wonderful care. We are deeply grateful for the comfort and dignity you gave to Bob, and for the support you showed our entire family.
Memorials can be made to Immaculate Conception Church in Carthage or to the Alzheimer’s Association.

 

Patricia Ann Yocum Howell Matthews, 78, of Warsaw, formerly of Canton, will be
remembered most for the love she gave so freely to her family and the laughter she
brought into every room.
Born and raised in Canton, Illinois, Patricia built a life centered on devotion to those she
loved. In September of 1966, she was joined in marriage to Paul Eugene Howell,
beginning a chapter of life devoted to family and partnership. Throughout the years,
family remained at the heart of everything she did.
Her greatest joy was caring for and spending time with her children, grandchildren, and
great-grandchildren. Whether gathered around the table, sharing stories, or simply
sitting side by side, those moments meant everything to her.
Patricia was known for her sharp sense of humor and quick wit, always ready with a
remark that could lighten the mood. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures —
working on crossword puzzles, coloring, watching her favorite television programs, and
listening to her radio. She found comfort in routine and contentment in everyday
moments.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, Paul Eugene Howell; her second
husband, Rodney "Harry" Matthews; and her beloved daughter, Regina Marie Howell.
She is survived by her sons, Paul Christopher Howell and Glenn Howell; her
grandchildren, Ashley Howell, Paul Christopher Howell Jr., and Carly (Hamilton) Turcios;
as well as several great-grandchildren who carry forward her legacy of love and
devotion to family.
A private graveside service will be held for family and close friends.
Patricia’s life was a testament to the quiet strength of a mother and grandmother whose
love formed the foundation of her family. She will be deeply cherished, lovingly
remembered, and forever missed.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.