Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services Obituaries

Introduction to Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services

Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services is a trusted and compassionate funeral home located in Atkinson, Illinois. With a rich history of serving the community, this family-owned business has established itself as a pillar of support for families during their most difficult times. In this article, we will delve into the services and amenities offered by Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, highlighting what sets them apart from other funeral homes in the area.

A Brief History of Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services

Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services has been a part of the Atkinson community for generations. Founded on the principles of compassion, respect, and dedication, this funeral home has built a reputation for providing exceptional service to families in need. With a deep understanding of the importance of honoring loved ones, the staff at Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services strive to create personalized and meaningful experiences for each family they serve.

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Linda Arden Kutsunis - September 14, 1939 - April 25, 2022

Departed: 04/25/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Linda Arden Kutsunis, 82, of Sarasota, FL, formerly of Geneseo, IL, passed away on Monday, April 25, 2022.  Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Shelly Kay Franck - September 02, 1954 - April 21, 2022

Departed: 04/21/2022 (Geneseo)

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Robert "Bob" L. DeBoever - November 28, 1945 - April 18, 2022

Departed: 04/18/2022 (Geneseo)

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Patricia "Pat" Lucille Caldwell - January 16, 1940 - April 16, 2022

Departed: 04/16/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Patricia “Pat” Lucille Caldwell, 82, of Geneseo, IL passed away on April 16, 2022, at her home surrounded by her family. A memorial visitation for Pat will be held on Friday, April 22, 2022, from 4-6 PM at Vandemore Funeral Home and Crematory-Geneseo Chapel. Memorials can be made in her name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Patricia was born on January 16, 1940, in Peoria, IL the daughter of George and Frances (Bock) Stiles. She married the love of her life, Ronald Caldwell on April 21, 1956. He survives. Her greatest joys were gardening and spending time with her family, especially the grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved to sew and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan. Her family will miss her dearly.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Ronald, her children; Julie (Jeff) Walsh of Cambridge, Kevin Caldwell of Kewanee, Colleen (Steve) Hirschbuehler of Andalusia, Susan (Chad) Hutchinson of Cambridge and Caryn Browne of Bettendorf, 7 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, brother, Richard Stiles of Orion, sister, Norma Pyland of Phoenix, AZ and dear friends; Judie Schweska, Martha and Brian Herron.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Frances Stiles.

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Robert E. Schwartz - December 12, 1946 - April 12, 2022

Departed: 04/12/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Robert "Bob" E. Schwartz, 75, of Colona, passed away on April 12, 2022, after a short stay at Illini Hospital in Silvis, IL. Per his wishes he will be cremated, and a memorial will take place at a later date. Vandemore Funeral Home and Crematory-Geneseo Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Bob was born on December 12, 1946, in Waukegan, IL, the son of William and Josephine Versen. He served in the United States Navy for 4 years, stationed mostly in the Philippines. Bob married Marlene Hiatt in 1982 and lived together for many years in the Quad City area. He worked at International Harvester and the Rock Island Arsenal. Bob enjoyed his pets, riding his Harley, playing backgammon frequently and hunting at garage sales.

We would like to extend our appreciation for the love, support and help to the neighborhood during this difficult time.

Surviving Bob is his wife of 40 years, Marlene of Colona, daughter, Theresa (Ken) Gentile, granddaughter, Elizabeth, brother, Rick Schwartz of Bettendorf, IA, sister, Peggy Hendrixson of Lake Geneva, WI, sister, Kim (Lee) Jackson of Huachuca, AZ and stepson, Tony (Robin) Hiatt of Shalimar, FL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Josephine, brother, Billy Schwartz, sister, Mary Cook and stepdaughter, Tami Howard.

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Eugene "Gene" Dale Thiessen - November 24, 1937 - April 09, 2022

Departed: 04/09/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Eugene “Gene” Dale Thiessen, 84, of Geneseo, passed away on Saturday, April 9, 2022, at his home.  A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 14, 2022, at St. Malachy Catholic Church, Geneseo, IL.  Father Daniel Gifford will officiate.  A memorial visitation will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, prior to the memorial service.  Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel is assisting with arrangements.  Memorials may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org).

Gene was born on November 24, 1937, the son of Theron and Ella (Spies) Thiessen, in Davenport, IA.  He graduated from Davenport High School followed by an apprenticeship for tool and die making at Production Aides.  On September 27, 1958, he married Moreen M. Schaecher at St. Pius Catholic Church, Rock Island, IL.  He proudly served in the United States Naval Reserves.  Gene was employed as a tool and die maker for International Harvester and then later at Eagle Engineering.  He was a member of St. Malachy Catholic Church.  He enjoyed fishing, working on cars, gardening, making knives, and going to garage sales.

Those left to cherish Gene’s life include his loving wife, Moreen; daughters, Kelly Thiessen, Austin, TX, and Karri Thiessen, Parrish, FL; granddaughter, Nicole Thiessen; great-grandchildren, Mia and Calvin; and brother Richard (Kaye) Thiessen, Blue Grass, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Theron and Ella; sons, Mitchell Thiessen and Brent Thiessen; and brother, Kenneth Thiessen.

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Helen M. Whitmore - April 14, 1925 - April 05, 2022

Departed: 04/05/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Helen M. Whitmore, 96, of Hillsdale, IL, passed away on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, at Hillcrest Home, Geneseo.  A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 29, 2022, at Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel.  Inurnment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Geneseo.  A memorial visitation will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., prior to the memorial service at the funeral home.  Memorials may be directed to the Helen Whitmore Memorial Fund.

Helen was born April 14, 1925, the daughter of Lloyd and Grace (Brennan) Hanna, in Joslin, IL.  She graduated from Hillsdale High School.  On June 9, 1946, Helen married Lloyd Whitmore at a service held at United Methodist Church, Joslin, IL.  He preceded her in death.  Her first job, right out of high school, was as an employee at the State Bank of East Moline.  It was a job she was immensely proud of.  She was employed as the assistant city clerk for the City of Geneseo for over 20 years before retiring in 1984.  She was a member of Erie Christian Church and was a long-time member of the Atkinson Congregational Church.  Helen enjoyed sewing, china painting, ceramics, quilting, and creating stained glass art with her husband.  She loved spending time with her family.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving children, Jane Helke, Orion, IL, and Allen Whitmore, Joslin, IL; grandchildren, Bryan (Kerry) Helke, and Kristin Carpenter; great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Abigail Helke, and Sincere and Kasey Carpenter; and sisters, Nancy (Robert) Wolf, Erie, IL, and Mary (Lantz) Ropp, Geneseo, IL.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Grace; her loving husband, Lloyd; and brothers, Charles and Harry Hanna.

The family would like to thank the staff of Hillcrest Home for their compassionate care of Helen.

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Charles "Chuck" Frederick Calhoun - April 22, 1936 - March 27, 2022

Departed: 03/27/2022 (Geneseo)

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Donald "Don" E. Meier - April 23, 1929 - March 24, 2022

Departed: 03/24/2022 (Geneseo)

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Sandra "Sandy" Tekla Elisabeth Smith - November 04, 1961 - March 23, 2022

Departed: 03/23/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Sandra “Sandy” Tekla Elisabeth Smith, 60, of Cambridge, passed away after a brief battle against cancer on Monday, March 23, 2022, at University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics, Iowa City, IA.  Cremation rites have been accorded and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memorials may be directed to Midwest Dachshund Rescue (http://mwdr.org/), 2023 Ridgewood Street, Highland, IN, 46322.

Sandy was born November 4, 1961, the daughter of Roy and Ingeborg (Seybold) Rhoden, in Evanston, IL.  She graduated from JD Darnall High School, class of 1979.  She later received an associate degree.  On October 22, 1983, Sandy married Brian Smith at First Lutheran Church, Geneseo.  He preceded her in death on February 12, 2021.  She was employed as a legal secretary for Mark Cyr then later worked for six years at Walmart – Silvis.  She enjoyed counter cross-stitch, fishing, and the outdoors.  She especially loved rescuing dachshunds.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Jared (Kortni Richards) Smith, Moline, IL and Jesse Levan, WA; grandchildren, Logan Smith, Landon Smith, Levi Levan, and Liam Levan; sisters, Renee Joseph, San Diego, CA, and Karen (Bobbie) Moore, Buena Vista, CO; and nephews, Justin Joseph and Devan Joseph, Escondido, CA.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Ingeborg Rhoden; and her loving husband, Brian Smith.

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Thomas U. Marr - June 24, 1938 - March 19, 2022

Departed: 03/19/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Thomas U. Marr, 83, of Geneseo, IL, died March 19, 2022, after a lengthy illness. Per his wishes, he will be cremated and no services to be held.  Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Tom was born June 24, 1938, in Appleton, WI, the son of Urban T. and Dorothy E. (Canisius) Marr. The family moved to Osage, IA, in 1945 when Urban and his brother Francis started the Marr Knitting Mill.

After graduating from Osage High School, Tom was a salesman for his father’s mill before starting a long career as a property manager in Iowa and later Arizona. He also worked for Maytag in Newton, IA, for many years.

Tom will be remembered for his ready ability to make friends, his wry sense of humor, and the fighting spirit with which he faced his illness. He enjoyed woodworking and crafts. Tom also enjoyed family history and was a prime organizer of Marr reunions for several years.

Tom will be buried at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Cemetery in Sully, IA, next to his beloved wife Gladys L. (Rose) Marr. At his request there will be no service. Burial will be private.

In addition to Gladys, who died in 1994, Tom was predeceased by parents; his former wife, Sharon; a daughter, Theresa; his brother William T. Marr and sister-in-law Laurel (Venteicher) Marr; a brother-in-law, Alex Nagy; a niece, Katherine Marr; and a grand-nephew, Ryan Nagy.

Tom leaves behind a large extended family, including his sister Joan (Marr) Nagy of Murfreesboro, TN; his former wife, Cheryl; and one son.

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Curtis R. Koepping - September 30, 1929 - March 16, 2022

Departed: 03/16/2022 (Geneseo)

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Rose M. Guthrie - August 15, 1960 - March 14, 2022

Departed: 03/14/2022 (Geneseo)

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William C. "Bill" Neuleib - June 02, 1928 - March 14, 2022

Departed: 03/14/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: William C. “Bill” Neuleib, 93, of Geneseo, passed away on Monday, March 14, 2022 at Allure of Geneseo. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 19, 2022, at Grace United Methodist Church, Geneseo. Prior to the memorial service, a visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel. Memorials may be directed to the William C. Neuleib Memorial Fund which will be distributed among several organizations. Per his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.

Bill was born June 2, 1928, to Roy F. and Jeannette (Glawe) Neuleib. He attended Geneseo schools and graduated from Geneseo Township High School in 1946. Bill married the former Phyllis Obrecht on June 25, 1950. She passed away June 25, 2018. After graduating from Bradley University, he joined his father at Neuleib Insurance & Real Estate Agency and continued with the firm for 41 years. He was a past president of Henry County Independent Insurance Agents Association and was a licensed real estate broker for 50 years.  Bill and Phyllis were members of Grace church.

Bill was a lifetime member of the Moose Lodge, joining in 1949. He was a member of the Geneseo Rotary Club for over 55 years where he served as president in 1973. Bill was named “Rotarian of the Year” and was a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow. He was the first chairman of the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. Bill was co-founder of the Geneseo Music Festival, served as president of the Geneseo High School Alumni Association, logged 1,000 hours as a Hammond-Henry Hospital volunteer, and served as a Commissioner on the Geneseo Community Park District Board for eight years.

A longtime Geneseo sports fan, he was a past president of Geneseo Youth Football and was a timer at Geneseo High School track meets for 55 years. In 2017 he was inducted into the Geneseo High School “Athletic Hall of Fame” for his success in track in high school and later as a member of the Bradley University track team. It was Bill who suggested to a local reporter the name “Green Machine” for the Geneseo football team in 1966.

Bill was involved in the drum and bugle corps activity from 1941 to 1985, first as a performer, later as an instructor, music arranger, business manager, and finally as director of the Knights Drum and Bugle Corps. He was named to the “Knights Hall of Fame” in 1988.   He was also named “Director of the Year” by Drum Corps Midwest in 1983 and served as vice-president of that organization. He was inducted into the “World Drum Corps Hall of Fame” in 2001 and the “Heartland Drum Corps Hall of Fame” in 2012.

Bill loved lake vacations with his family and winters in Gulf Shores, Alabama with Phyllis and friends. He also enjoyed reading, flower gardening, and playing his trumpet in the early years.

Those left to cherish his memory include children, Gregg (Carol) Neuleib, Geneseo, Kari (John) Zimny, Folsom, CA, Molly (Mike) Hamer, Northbrook, IL, Jane (Steve) Scherer, Geneseo; grandchildren, Peter (Sadie Hahn) Neuleib, Arthur (Rachele) Neuleib, Jonathan (Lauryn) Zimny, Jeanette (Austin) Gaesser, Billy (Jessica Andruzzi) Hamer, Tess (Billy) McGivern, Sally Hamer, Allison (Bronson) Good, Jack (Cortney Backes) Scherer, and Diana Scherer; great-grandchildren, Carter, Tristan, and Rylan Neuleib, Finn and Shae McGivern, Adler and Rowan Good; and brother-in-law, Ron (Bonnie) Obrecht, Geneseo.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Roy F. and Jeannette (Glawe) Neuleib; his loving wife, Phyllis; and great-granddaughter Everly Good.

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Mary Luann Browning - April 17, 1954 - March 10, 2022

Departed: 03/10/2022 (Geneseo)

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Michael W. Pratt - July 25, 1953 - March 10, 2022

Departed: 03/10/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Michael W. Pratt, 68, of Geneseo, passed away on Thursday, March 10, 2022, surrounded by his loving family at the University of Iowa Hospital, Iowa City, IA. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 17, 2022, at Vandemore Funeral Home & Crematory - Geneseo Chapel. Reverend Terry Lancaster will officiate.  Services will be livestreamed at www.vandemorefuneralhome.com/live-stream.  Burial will follow in the Dayton Corners Cemetery, Colona, IL. Visitation will be from 4:00 -7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, at the funeral home.   Memorials may be directed to the University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA, 52246.

Mike was born July 25, 1953, the son of Richard and Wilma (Hayes) Pratt, in Moline, IL.  He graduated from JD Darnall High School, class of 1972.  He was employed in construction, part of Local Union 309.  On November 3, 1973, Mike married Mary Humbard at a service held in Colona, IL.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening.  He loved spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren.  In his spare time, he enjoyed mowing at the family lake.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Mary; children, Justin (Sarah) Pratt, Sherrard, IL, and Andy (Rachel) Pratt, Geneseo, IL; grandchildren, Carson, Henry, Nathaniel, Jonathan, and Charlotte Pratt; and siblings, Val Edge, WI, Beth (Doug) Schwager, Long Grove, IA, Gail (Steve) Evans, Cambridge, IL, Steve Pratt, Cambridge, IL, and Joe (Janet) Pratt, Geneseo, IL.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Wilma; brother, Danny Pratt; and nephew, Brett Martin.

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Michael "Mike" Eugene Johnson - October 24, 1960 - March 08, 2022

Departed: 03/08/2022 (Geneseo)

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Thomas H. Nelson - August 22, 1954 - March 07, 2022

Departed: 03/07/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Thomas H. Nelson, 67, of East Moline, passed away Monday, March 7, 2022, at Clarissa Cook Hospice in Bettendorf after a long battle with cancer. A visitation will be held at First United Methodist Church in Geneseo from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, March 12, 2022, followed by a funeral service celebrating his life at 11 a.m. Reverend Dr. Chris Ritter will officiate. The service will be live on Facebook at Geneseo First United Methodist Church for those who are unable to attend. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Geneseo, followed by a luncheon at the church. Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.   Memorials may be made to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital (https://uichildrens.org/donations).

Thomas Nelson was born on August 22, 1954, in Geneseo, Illinois, the son of Virgil and Lois (Firch) Nelson. He graduated from Geneseo High School and went on to study at the University of Iowa. Tom worked in restaurant management for many years followed by a career in construction at Hartco Cable in Geneseo.

Throughout his life, Tom enjoyed golfing and he played in the Pro Am at the Quad City Open. He also enjoyed reading about history, and each day he knew nearly all of the answers on Jeopardy. After retirement, Tom enjoyed traveling and spending time with his treasured friends and family.

He is survived by his father, Virgil Nelson; brother, Greg (Barb) Nelson of Geneseo; nephew, Jeff (Christine) Nelson of Moline, and niece Kim (Nick) Gehling of Geneseo; and five great-nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his mother, Lois Nelson.

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Henry W. Tarkington - June 18, 1955 - March 05, 2022

Departed: 03/05/2022 (Geneseo)

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Henry "Mickey" Halverson - February 27, 1939 - March 04, 2022

Departed: 03/04/2022 (Geneseo)

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Elizabeth L. Gradert - September 05, 1920 - February 27, 2022

Departed: 02/27/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Elizabeth L. Gradert, 101, of Geneseo, peacefully passed into eternal life, Sunday, February 27, 2022, at Woodridge Assisted Living-Geneseo. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, March 4, 2022, at Grace United Methodist Church-Geneseo, with Pastor Mike Smith officiating. Visitation will be held from 4-7 PM Thursday, March 3, 2022, at Vandemore Funeral Home and Crematory-Geneseo Chapel. She will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery-Geneseo. Memorials may be made in her name to the Geneseo Humane Society, Grace United Methodist Church or Geneseo Education Foundation.

Elizabeth was born in Cornwall Twp. (Henry Co.) on September 5, 1920, the daughter of Frank and Alta (Grier) West. She graduated from Geneseo High School in 1938 then married Wilbur Gradert February 14, 1940. He preceded her in death in 1996. She was the ideal farmwife on the family farm in Cornwall Township where they raised their four children. She was a long-time member of Grace United Methodist Church, Azure Circle of the church and Hammond Henry Auxiliary. She was FHA State Mom of The Year in 1965. She loved playing 500 cards in three card groups, bunco, and Mexican Train Dominoes. Elizabeth cherished her family, friends and all pets and animals.

Survivors include four children; Richard (Lyn) Gradert, Jean Lord, Diane (Dean) Olson and Barbara (Bruce) Fehlman; thirteen grandchildren, thirty great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sister, Genevieve Delp, brother, Laverne West and son-in-law, Fred Lord.

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Jacqueline Lee Cherry - May 23, 1940 - February 27, 2022

Departed: 02/27/2022 (Geneseo)

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Michael K. McBride - December 27, 1943 - February 23, 2022

Departed: 02/23/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Michael McBride, of Geneseo, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away at home on February 23, 2022. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Michael will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, May 28, 2022, at Vandemore Funeral Home and Crematory-Geneseo Chapel with Rev. Terry Lancaster and Rev. Dan Wright officiating. He will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in Geneseo. Memorials can be made in Michael’s memory to the ALS Association 1300 Wilson Blvd. Suite 600 Arlington, VA 22209.

Michael was born in Davenport, IA on December 27, 1943. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Iowa and a master’s in theology from St. Paul’s in Kansas. He was employed by Lohman Companies for 42 years and was minister at the Congregational Church of Atkinson for over 20 years.

In 1971, Michael opened his heart and raised two stepsons as his own, eventually officiating both of their weddings, as well as that of his youngest son. In 1991, he married the love of his life, Jan, to whom he was married for the rest of his days. Together, they traveled the world from the Panama Canal to New Zealand, from China to Cuba, from the Galápagos Islands to Norway. He was an avid photographer and captured these travels in beautiful photographs that were loved by people around the globe. He was also a devoted dog parent, enjoying time with his companion, Frodo.

For many years, he was active in Richmond Hill Theater as both an actor and director, in addition to reading the newspaper for the blind over the radio. He co-owned and ran a Murder Mystery event company called M&L Murder Productions, writing and acting in most events.

Michael was a kind, loving, intelligent man who was well liked by all.

Michael is survived by his wife, Jan (née Ryder); sister Melissa (Tom) Devolder; children, Brian (Debbie) Kendrick, Jason (Patti) Kendrick, Katherine (Mohammed) Ullah, and Colin (Heather) McBride; and grandchildren Erin, Charlotte, Ava, and Evans. He is predeceased by his parents Kenneth and Helen McBride, and his brother Jeffrey McBride.

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William R. Stuart - July 22, 1937 - February 22, 2022

Departed: 02/22/2022 (Geneseo)

Obituary Preview: Please note that William Stuart's Memorial service at 11:00 will be both on our website (www.vandemorefuneralhome.com/live-stream) and Vandemore Facebook Live. Since we have been having periodic outages with our web hosting we are displaying the service both ways as a precaution. We will be recording the service and will be adding it to Mr. Stuart's obituary this afternoon (or as soon as our hosting company gets things ironed out). The service will always remain on our Facebook live page as well.

William R. Stuart, 84, of Geneseo, passed away on February 22, 2022, peacefully at his home surrounded by his family. A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on March 2, 2022, at Vandemore Funeral Home and Crematory-Geneseo Chapel with Chaplain Michael Le Buhn officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30-11:00 AM prior to the service. He will be laid to rest at Cordova Cemetery. Memorials can be made in Bill’s name to Beacon of Hope Hospice.

Bill was born on July 22, 1937, in Iowa City, IA the son of William R. and Edna Marie (Hasse) Stuart. He married Mary Hibernik in Alaska in 1956 and she still survives. Bill graduated from UT in East Moline then joined the U.S. Air Force where he served in The Air Weather Reconnaissance flying from Alaska to Russia. He attended the Federal Aviation Academy and spent 35 years as an Air Traffic Controller in Colorado Springs, Moline, Indianapolis, LaCrosse and Oklahoma City, before retiring and teaching at the University of Oklahoma. Bill was a watercolor artist, loved fishing, bowling, woodworking and remodeling homes. He never knew a stranger and was a very devoted family man. An avid Chicago Cubs fan it was the highlight of his year when they won the World Series. He loved his faithful chihuahua “Pip” and always had a good joke to tell. His family will miss him dearly.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, children; Matthew (Mary) Stuart of Slidell, LA, Mark (Diana) Stuart of Geneseo, Deanna (Dave) Dech of Monument, CO, sister, Eleanor Cappaert of East Moline, grandchildren; Amy Stuart, Rachel (Tyler) Epstein, Christian Stuart, Ben (Adrea) Goetzman, Molly (Jeff) Lehman, Cori Dech, Brian Johnson and Melissa Johnson, great grandchildren; William and Maxwell Lehman, Paxton and Charlie Epstein, niece, Cindy Gast and nephew, Rick Cappaert.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Edna.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Beacon of Hope Hospice, especially Connie and Jennifer for their loving care of Bill.

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Irene Myers - October 01, 1928 - February 22, 2022

Departed: 02/22/2022 (Geneseo)

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Services Offered by Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services

Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services offers a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of each family. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, their experienced staff will guide you through every step of the process. Some of the services they offer include:

- Traditional funeral services with visitation and burial

- Cremation services with memorialization options

- Pre-planning and pre-funding options

- Grief support and counseling services

- Monument and marker sales

The Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services Facility

Located at 214 South State Street in Atkinson, Illinois, the Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services facility is designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families. The funeral home features spacious visitation rooms, a chapel for services, and ample parking for guests. The facility is also equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, ensuring that every service is conducted with dignity and respect.

The Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services Staff

The staff at Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services is comprised of dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing exceptional service to families. Led by experienced funeral directors, the team includes licensed funeral directors, embalmers, and support staff who work together to ensure that every detail is attended to. The staff is committed to providing compassionate care and guidance throughout the funeral planning process.

Pre-Planning and Pre-Funding Options

At Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, they understand the importance of planning ahead. By pre-planning your funeral or cremation service, you can ensure that your wishes are respected while alleviating the burden on your loved ones. Their experienced staff will guide you through the pre-planning process, helping you make informed decisions about your final arrangements. Additionally, they offer pre-funding options, allowing you to set aside funds for your funeral expenses.

Grief Support and Counseling Services

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, and Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services recognizes the importance of supporting families through their grief journey. They offer grief support groups, individual counseling sessions, and online resources to help families cope with their loss. Their compassionate staff is dedicated to providing ongoing support, ensuring that families receive the care they need during this difficult time.

Community Involvement

Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services is deeply rooted in the Atkinson community. They believe in giving back to the community that has supported them for generations. Through their involvement in local organizations and charities, they demonstrate their commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services is more than just a funeral home – it's a trusted partner in your time of need. With their rich history, compassionate staff, and comprehensive services, they are dedicated to providing exceptional care to families in Atkinson and surrounding areas. Whether you're planning ahead or coping with a recent loss, Vandemore Funeral Homes and Cremation Services is here to support you 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 surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any charitable donations in lieu of flowers.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and can be a therapeutic way for loved ones to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the family of the deceased or a close friend will write the obituary. Funeral homes or mortuaries may also offer assistance with writing and publishing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary should include the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, and any notable achievements or accomplishments. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any charitable donations in lieu of flowers.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary, but it's generally recommended to keep it concise and to the point. Aim for around 150-200 words, depending on the publication's guidelines.

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 nice way to personalize the notice and make it more meaningful to readers.

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

Contact the publication directly to find out their submission guidelines and deadlines. Some publications may have online forms or email addresses where you can submit the obituary, while others may require you to visit their office in person.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication and the length of the notice. Some publications may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or discounts for longer notices.

Can I edit or revise an obituary after it's been published?

This depends on the publication's policies. Some may allow corrections or revisions, while others may not. It's best to proofread carefully before submitting the obituary to avoid errors.

What if I want to publish an obituary in multiple newspapers or online platforms?

You'll need to submit the obituary separately to each publication, following their individual guidelines and deadlines. You may also consider using an online obituary platform that allows you to publish the notice across multiple sites simultaneously.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary as a way to reflect on their life and legacy. This can be a unique opportunity to tell your own story and ensure that your wishes are respected after your passing.

What is a death notice versus an obituary?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed notice that provides additional biographical information and context.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary is a celebration of the person's life, so feel free to include stories, quotes, or humorous moments that capture their personality and spirit.

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

The timeframe varies depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Online publications may publish the obituary immediately or within hours, while print newspapers may take several days or even weeks.

Can I request changes to an existing obituary template?

If you're working with a funeral home or mortuary, they may have standard templates for obituaries. However, you can certainly ask if they can make modifications to accommodate your needs or preferences.

What if I'm unsure about what information to include in an obituary?

Drafting an obituary can be overwhelming. If you're unsure about what to include or how to structure the notice, consider consulting with a funeral director, family member, or close friend for guidance.

Can I include links or URLs in an online obituary?

This depends on the publication's policies. Some online platforms may allow links to memorial websites, social media profiles, or charity donation pages, while others may not.

How do I ensure accuracy when writing an obituary?

Double-check all facts and details before submitting the obituary. Verify dates, names, and spellings with family members or official documents to avoid errors.

What if I want to publish an anonymous or private obituary?

This is possible in some cases. Contact the publication directly to discuss options for anonymous or private notices. Keep in mind that some publications may have restrictions or requirements for these types of notices.

Can I republish an old obituary from years ago?

This depends on the publication's archives and policies. You may be able to find archived copies of old newspapers or online notices through libraries or genealogy websites.

Are there any specific rules or regulations for writing an obituary?

While there are no hard-and-fast rules, it's generally considered respectful to follow traditional guidelines for tone, content, and format. Additionally, be mindful of any local laws or regulations regarding death announcements and notifications.

Can I use social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter to share an obituary?

Absolutely! Social media can be a powerful tool for sharing news of a loved one's passing and connecting with friends and family. You can share a link to the online obituary or create your own post with details about the person's life and legacy.

What if I'm struggling emotionally while writing an obituary?

This is completely normal! Writing an obituary can be a difficult and emotional task. Take your time, seek support from loved ones if needed, and remember that it's okay to show emotions in your writing.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Absolutely! Quotes, lyrics, or poems can add depth and meaning to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the person's personality or legacy.

How do I handle corrections or mistakes in an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication directly as soon as possible to report any errors. They will work with you to correct the mistake and republish the revised notice.