Clifton Obituaries

Introducing Clifton Funeral Home: A Beacon of Comfort and Support

Located at 415 North Main Street, Clifton, IL, 60927, Clifton Funeral Home has been a trusted and respected institution in the community for many years. This family-owned funeral home has built a reputation for providing compassionate and personalized services to families during their most difficult times. In this article, we will delve into the history, services, and unique features that set Clifton Funeral Home apart from others.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

Clifton Funeral Home has a rich history that dates back to [insert year]. Founded by [insert founder's name], the funeral home was established with a single goal in mind: to provide exceptional care and support to families in need. Over the years, the funeral home has remained committed to this mission, earning the trust and respect of the community. Today, Clifton Funeral Home is still family-owned and operated, ensuring that every family receives the personalized attention they deserve.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Renee Antionette Mathy - May 09, 1944 - February 17, 2024

Departed: 02/17/2024 (Clifton)

Obituary Preview: Renee Antionette Mathy, 79, of Clifton passed away on Saturday, February 17, 2024 in Apollo Beach, Florida.

Renee was born on May 9, 1944 in Kankakee, the daughter of Robert and Antionette "Toni" (Legacy) Just. She married Russell (JR) Mathy in Kankakee on January 7, 1961 and he survives.

She is also survived by two sons, Brandon (Jane) Mathy of Clifton and Todd (Karen) Mathy of Clifton; one daughter, Deidre (Dave) Deany of Apollo Beach, FL; one sister, Debbie Meier of Manteno; ten grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, Breanna Mathy (Mark Nutter) and her children, Alana, Collin and Keira Baker; Dillon Mathy and his child, Roman; Luke Zimmerman; Logan (Kaylee) Mathy and their children Grace, Russell, and Jay; Karlie (Luke) Gash; Lauren (Collin) Hills and their children, Harper and Hunter; Derrick Mathy; Allie Mathy; Kayla (Mackenzie) Deany; Taylor (Jade) Deany and their child, Paxton; and two more great-grandchildren are on the way; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Bob and Donna Brouillette, Duane and Lynette Gray , Diane Mathy , and Mark and Carole Mathy; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Bob Just; one sister, Judy Cler; one brother-in-law, Gerald Mathy; one sister-in-law, Darlene St. John; and four great-grand angel babies.

Renee was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church in Clifton. She loved spending time with her family and cherished every holiday together. Renee enjoyed crafting, gardening, puzzling, wordle games, ceramics, sewing, and piano. She was an amazing cook and loved to bake. She always made sure there were plenty of cookies for her family.  Many knew her and her husband from their days at Russ and Rosie's in Chebanse, having owned it for twenty-five years. JR and Renee just celebrated 63 years of marriage on January 7 of this year. Together the two of them made memories that will last forever. Although she may be gone from this world, her legacy lives on through her family and the many people she touched.

Visitation will be from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Deacon Ed Szymanski will officiate. Burial will follow at the Clifton Cemetery in Clifton.

Memorials may be made to donor's choice.

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

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Donald L. McGuffin Jr. - September 06, 1962 - December 15, 2023

Departed: 12/15/2023 (Clifton)

Obituary Preview: Donald L. McGuffin Jr, 61, of Clifton passed away on Friday, December 15, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 6, 1962 in Chicago, the son of Donald L. and Rita (Pedersen) McGuffin Sr. He married Sheri Jorritsma in Whitinsville, MA on November 6, 1987. Surviving are his wife, Sheri McGuffin of Clifton; three children, Lauren (Jamie) Oates of Clifton, Benjamin (Ashley) McGuffin of Manteno; and Sarah McGuffin of Clifton; six grandchildren, Keyone, Warren, Grayson, Liam, Gwendolyn, and Luca; two sisters, Susan Barnhart of Papineau and Mary (Roy) Brady of Manteno. He was preceded in passing by both of his parents. Mr. McGuffin served in the United States Army. He was the owner and operator of Midwest American Delivery and Logistics. Donald enjoyed camping, traveling, and was a volunteer fire fighter for Glenwood and Chebanse Twp. Fire Departments. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone that needed it. Donald loved spending time with his grandchildren. Visitation was held from 4:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. A memorial gathering will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Clifton Community Building on Saturday, April 6, 2024. A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. at the Clifton Cemetery also on Saturday, April 6, 2024.Memorials may be made to The Clifton Food Pantry. Please share a memory of Donald at knappfuneralhomes.com.VisitationWednesday, December 20th, 202304:00 pm - 07:00 pm415 N Main St, Clifton IL 60927

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Marilyn "Lyn" D. Merkle - August 24, 1929 - March 19, 2024

Departed: 03/19/2024 (Clifton)

Obituary Preview: Marilyn "Lyn" D. Merkle, 94, of Ashkum passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at her home in Peoria, AZ. Lyn was born on August 24, 1929 in Cullom, IL, the daughter of Charles and Ruth Chandler. On December 27, 1952, she married Robert Merkle at the ABM Catholic Church in Ashkum, IL and he survives.

She is also survived by her son, Matthew Merkle; daughter, Melinda Merkle; and brother, Charles "Bub" and sister-in-law, Donna Chandler.

Lyn was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Ruth; and her two sisters, Francis Regnier and Bonnie Mathy.

After the wedding, she and her husband enjoyed military life at various posts throughout the country. Lyn and Robert owned and operated the family farm for over forty years and in 1997 they retired to Arizona.

Lyn was a very talented artist and shared her paintings and drawings with family, friends and charitable organizations throughout the years. Her artwork is proudly displayed in Arizona. Lyn was also a lifetime golfer, gardener and enjoyed many arts and crafts.

Burial of cremains will take place at a later date at the Ashkum, IL Cemetery.

Cremation rites were handled by Best Funeral Services in Peoria, AZ.

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

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A Wide Range of Services to Meet Your Needs

At Clifton Funeral Home, we understand that every family is unique, with their own set of needs and preferences. That's why we offer a wide range of services to cater to different tastes and budgets. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, memorial services, and pre-planning arrangements, our experienced staff will work closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one.

A Facility Designed for Comfort and Convenience

Our funeral home is designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere for families to gather and celebrate the life of their loved one. Our spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while our intimate visitation rooms provide a cozy setting for smaller groups. We also offer ample parking, wheelchair accessibility, and a convenient location in the heart of Clifton.

Personalized Funeral Services that Reflect Your Loved One's Life

At Clifton Funeral Home, we believe that every life is unique and deserves to be celebrated in a way that reflects their personality, interests, and accomplishments. Our experienced funeral directors will work closely with you to create a customized funeral service that honors your loved one's memory. From special music and readings to personalized eulogies and video tributes, we will help you create a meaningful and memorable celebration of life.

Cremation Options that Respect Your Wishes

We understand that cremation is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many families. At Clifton Funeral Home, we offer a range of cremation options to suit your needs and preferences. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, we will guide you through the process with compassion and understanding.

Pre-Planning Arrangements for Peace of Mind

Planning ahead can be a wise decision for many reasons. By pre-planning your funeral arrangements, you can ensure that your wishes are respected, reduce financial burdens on your loved ones, and gain peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of. Our experienced staff will guide you through the pre-planning process, helping you make informed decisions about your final arrangements.

A Commitment to Community Involvement

At Clifton Funeral Home, we are proud to be an active member of the Clifton community. We believe in giving back to those who have supported us over the years. Our staff participates in local charities, fundraisers, and community events, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those around us.

A Message from Our Family to Yours

We understand that losing a loved one is never easy. That's why we want you to know that you're not alone. At Clifton Funeral Home, we are here for you, offering a listening ear, a comforting word, and a helping hand whenever you need it. We are honored to serve your family during this difficult time and promise to provide the highest level of care and compassion every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, achievements, and funeral or memorial services.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to notify friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a permanent record of the person's life and legacy.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls to the family members or close friends of the deceased. Funeral homes or mortuaries may also assist in writing and publishing obituaries.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also mention any notable accomplishments or awards.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's preferences. Typically, it ranges from a few sentences to several paragraphs.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

Check the website or contact the newspaper or online platform directly for their submission guidelines and deadlines. Some may require you to fill out a form or email the obituary text and photo(s) directly.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

Yes, most newspapers and online platforms charge a fee for publishing an obituary. The cost varies depending on the publication, word count, and additional features such as photos or special layouts.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to have control over how they are remembered. This can be a therapeutic exercise and can also help reduce the burden on loved ones during a difficult time.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries don't have to be somber and serious. Including humorous stories or personal anecdotes can help capture the person's personality and spirit.

How do I handle sensitive or complicated family dynamics when writing an obituary?

This can be a challenging situation. Consider seeking guidance from a trusted friend, family member, or professional counselor. Be honest and respectful in your writing, but prioritize sensitivity towards all parties involved.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and continue their legacy.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publication varies depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Online platforms may publish immediately, while print newspapers may take several days or weeks.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it has been published?

This may be possible, but it depends on the publication's policies. Corrections or updates may be allowed for online obituaries, but print editions may not be able to make changes once published.

What if I want to keep the obituary private or limited to certain individuals?

Sometimes families prefer to keep the obituary private due to personal or safety concerns. In these cases, you can request that the publication limit access to specific individuals or groups.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

Yes, you can republish an obituary on significant dates such as birthdays or anniversaries of the person's passing. This can be a meaningful way to continue honoring their memory.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an obituary for someone who was young or died under tragic circumstances?

Yes, writing an obituary for someone who died young or under tragic circumstances requires extra sensitivity and care. Focus on celebrating their life and achievements while being mindful of the emotional impact on those reading it.

Can I include quotes, poems, or lyrics in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including meaningful quotes, poems, or lyrics can add depth and personality to the obituary. Choose something that resonates with the person's spirit and values.

How do I ensure that an online obituary remains accessible over time?

Many online platforms archive obituaries for future reference. You can also consider creating a permanent online memorial or saving a copy of the obituary for your records.

What if I need help writing an obituary due to grief or emotional distress?

Drawing up an obituary can be overwhelming during a difficult time. Don't hesitate to ask for help from friends, family members, or professionals such as funeral home staff or counselors.

Can I create my own custom design for an online obituary?

Some online platforms offer customizable templates or design options for creating unique and personalized online memorials. Check with the platform for available features and options.

How do I share an online obituary with others?

You can share online obituaries through social media platforms, email, or messaging apps. Many platforms also provide sharing buttons or links for easy distribution.

What is the purpose of including funeral service details in an obituary?

Including funeral service details allows friends and family members to attend and pay their respects. It also provides important information about visitation hours, burial sites, and other relevant details.