Susie Bridgeman Verme, of Cuba, MO, passed away at the Cuba Manor on Thursday, May 12, 2016 at the age of 95 years.

Susie was born on February 19, 1921 in Ravenden, AR to the late Samuel and Lora (Emmons) Jones. She was raised there in her youth and later moved to the Sullivan, MO area. In 1935, she was united in marriage to Frank Otto Bridgeman and to this marriage six children were born. This marriage ended in divorce and in March of 1983, she was married to Anthony Verme. Susie was employed at various shoe companies in the area which included the former International Shoe Company, Midwest Shoe Company and the shoe factory in Cuba. She later became employed at Paramount Headwear in Bourbon, MO where she later retired. In her leisure, Susie enjoyed watching cooking shows on TV, making quilts and especially reading her bible. She was a devoted mother and good Christian lady who was a member of New Testament Baptist Church of Sullivan.

She is survived by her husband, Anthony Verme of Fairview Heights, IL, a son, Laverne Bridgeman and wife Hazel of Martinsville, IN; five daughters, Evelyn Plant, Shirley Blankenship and husband Charles, Marilyn Maupin and husband Jim, Carolyn Klein and husband Buddy all of Sullivan, MO; and Debbie Starks and husband Mike of Cuba, MO; a half-brother, Ernest Holland of Cuba, MO; two half-sisters, Mary Adair of Rockford, IL and Irene Schendel and husband Raleigh of Cherry Valley, IL; a host of grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends.

Along with her parents, Susie was preceded in death by two grandsons, Russell Bridgeman and Brian Blankenship; four brothers, Judge, Noel, Virgil and Bud Jones; two half-brothers, Ray Cavet and Chris Jackson; and half sister-in-law, Lottie Holland.

Funeral services were conducted 11 a.m., Monday, May 16, 2016 from New Testament Baptist Church in Sullivan with Pastor Charlie Idleman officiating. Interment was in Cave Spring Cemetery, rural Sullivan. Visitation was held from 4-8 p.m., Sunday, May 15, 2016 at the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, Missouri at the Clark Street location and on Monday from 9:30 until time of service at the church. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the New Testament Baptist Church Youth Building Fund. 

Friends may sign the family’s online guestbook a www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Sonya Marie Tucker, of Sullivan, MO, passed away Monday, May 9, 2016 at the age of 36 years.

Sonya Marie Tucker was born in Sullivan, MO on August 17, 1979 to Glen and Kathy (Hulsey) Tucker.  She attended Sullivan School and graduated in 1997. During her youth, Sonya enjoyed participating in Girl Scouts (achieving her Gold Award) and GMAs (Girls missionary auxiliary). She was saved at the age of 12 at home and baptized at First Missionary Baptist Church at the age of 21. Sonya enjoyed helping in the nursery, teaching VBS and Children’s Church. A love for teaching children was born and she went on to earn her Bachelors degree at Missouri State University in Springfield, MO in Vocational Family & Consumer Sciences (FACS), a minor in Child Development and a 7th-12th grade teaching certificate. 

Sonya’s first four years of teaching was at the Crawford County R1 School District in Bourbon, MO teaching high school FACS. She went on to achieve a Master’s degree in Secondary Educational Administration from Lindenwood University. Her next 10 years were spent with the Webster Groves School District teaching FACS at the Hixson Middle School.  Sonya was tenured while at Hixson as well as held Department Chair for several years. 

Sonya is survived by her mother Kathy Tucker, sister Laurie Tucker, brother Jeremy Tucker and wife Ashley, niece Jayden Tucker, nephews Kaleb and Blake Tucker, grandma Ruth Hulsey, best friend Charlie Martin, three fur babies (dogs) London, Lucy and Cooper, many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and co-workers.

She is preceded in death by her father Glen, maternal grandpa Roscoe Hulsey and paternal grandparents Loyd and Susie Tucker and other relatives.

Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 14, 2016 at First Missionary Baptist Church, Bourbon, MO, with Pastors Mike King and Roy Fikac officiating. Visitation for Sonya was held from 4-8 p.m. Friday at the Eaton Funeral Home Sullivan, Missouri and from 11 a.m. until time of service at 2 p.m. Saturday, at First Missionary Baptist Church, Bourbon, MO.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to GMAs (Girls Missionary Auxiliary) or the Pavilion Fund of First Missionary Baptist Church POB 386 Bourbon, MO 65441. 

Arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO. 

Ronald Draper, of St. Clair, MO, passed away Tuesday, May 10, 2016 at the age of 56 years.

Ronald Dean was born on November 4, 1959 to Clifford and Carol (Perry) Draper inSt. Louis, MO. He grew up in St. Clair and attended St. Clair High School. On November 4, 1985, Ronnie was united in marriage to Reba Draper nee Boyer in Union, MO. He was employed by GH Tool and Mold in Washington, MO, until ill health forced him to take a temporary leave of absence.  Ronnie enjoyed woodworking and riding his Harley-Davidson Motorcycle’s but the joy of his life were his three grandkids who he loved dearly. He loved playing games with Hunter and Gage and encouraged them to ride bikes and play with their Nerf guns. He also loved wrestling with the boys, while watching wrestling on T.V. Ronnie’s eyes would just light up when the boys were around. 

Ronnie is survived by his beloved wife Reba (Boyer) Draper, his daughter; Rebecca Williams and husband Uriah, three grandchildren; Hunter, Gage and Bre’; one brother, Clifford Draper of St. Clair; one niece, Samantha; one nephew, Garret, other relatives and friends.

Ronald’s wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be held at a later time. Memorials to Eaton Funeral Home in memory of Ronald Draper are appreciated.

The arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO.

Ruby Lorene Laubinger of Gerald, MO, passed away at her home on Sunday morning, May 15, 2016 as the sun rose over her farm, surrounded by her family at the age of 94 years, eight months and 11 days. She was able to spend her last few hours in the beloved cabin she restored while enjoying the sounds of the birds and the view she spent so many years perfecting.

Ruby was born September 4, 1921 on a farm in Salem, MO to John Harvey and Minnie May (Hubbard) DePriest. Being the youngest girl and the second youngest in her family of 11, Ruby grew up spoiled by her older siblings. She said, “They treated me as the most perfect little girl; like I could do no wrong.” Her older sisters made her doll clothes, while she and her brother Carl would take little Harvey out to play in his buggy. Ruby achieved a teaching certificate from high school before moving to St. Louis, MO on her 18th birthday to attend business school and work as a nanny.

While in St. Louis, Ruby met her future husband Albert C. “Bud” Laubinger, from Gerald, MO. Bud and Ruby were married in 1940 and had three children; two daughters, Margaret “Peggy” Harney (husband Jim) of St. Louis, MO, Patricia “Patty” Brandt (husband Gary) of St. Louis; one son, Dwayne Laubinger of Olathe, KS. In addition to caring for and spoiling her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren with love, Ruby managed a lunch counter in Hampton Village and later was the head cashier at Kroger’s grocery store. After she retired, Ruby took every opportunity she had to visit and care for her grandchildren. Her days were filled with her favorite activities; sewing, upholstering, gardening, volunteering, traveling, cooking and hosting gatherings for her family and friends. Ruby was known for her quick wit and ability to build anything. At the age of 72, she used her determination, creativity and resourcefulness to restore her husband’s family’s 130 year-old log cabin in Gerald, MO. It was there that she spent the last 22 years of her life. Ruby was loved by everyone she met and considered all her family. It was not unusual for her to say, “Come visit me” or to host multiple dinner parties a week. Ruby was cherished and will be missed by all who knew her. As a mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin and friend, she touched the lives of countless people.

She is survived by her three children, 10 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Along with her husband Bud, Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, seven brothers, and three sisters.

As Ruby would say, “Love ya, love ya, love ya”.

Visitation was held on Wednesday, May 18, 2016 from 3-8 p.m., at Ruby’s home, 7170 Highway H, Gerald, MO. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated 10 a.m., Thursday, May 19, 2016 from St. Gerald Catholic Church in Gerald, MO with the Rev. Fathers James Foster and James Fender officiating. Interment will follow in Laubinger Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family desires memorials be made to the Laubinger Memorial Cemetery Association, c/o Mr. Dale Schumke, 19 Whitney Lane, Union, Missouri  63084. 

Arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO. 

Friend’s may sign the family’s online guestbook at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Loretta Ann Chepely, of Bourbon, MO, passed away Sunday, May 22, 2016 at the age of 83 years.

Loretta was born at St. Louis, MO, on March 15, 1933 to the late Arthur and Agnes Bell. She was raised in the St. Louis area and had later left her schooling to find work to help support her family. Being a wife of a military husband, she and her family lived in many places around the country and the world. On April 19, 1952, she was united in marriage to Charles Chepely, Sr. at Saint Anthony Catholic Church in St. Louis, Missouri and to this marriage six children were born. Charles preceded her in death in May of 1979. Loretta came to the Bourbon area in 2011 and was a member of Saint Francis Catholic Church of Bourbon. She was known to have a cheerful disposition, and enjoyed the many activities at Saint Francis Parish.

She is survived by her children; Joseph Chepely and wife Lynn of Villa Ridge, MO, Anthony Chepely of St. Clair, MO, Douglas Chepely and wife Allison of Leasburg, MO, Ann Chepely and life partner Sharon Hopwood of Bourbon, MO, Charles Chepely Jr. and wife Emma of Bourbon, MO, one sister; Virginia Cochran and husband James of Montgomery City, MO, one brother; Arthur Bell of Warrenton, MO, 8 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews other relatives and many friends.

Along with her husband and parents, Loretta was preceded in death by a son and daughter-in-law, Gregory and Deborah Chepely; a sister, Agnes Bell, and a sister-in-law, Rosemary Bell.

A mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11 a.m., Wednesday, May 25, 2016 from Saint Francis Catholic Church, Bourbon, MO with the Rev. Father Richard Boever officiating. Visitation was held from 9-11 a.m. Wednesday at Saint Francis Catholic Church, Bourbon, MO. Memorials to Saint Francis Catholic Church are appreciated. All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO.

Friends may sign the online guestbook at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Charles E. “Jug” Blankenship of Sullivan, passed away on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 at the age of 76 years.

Jug, as he was known by his family and friends, was born on August 5, 1939 in Japan, MO, to the late Alva and Elsie (Strothkamp) Blankenship. He had made his home Japan/Sullivan area his entire life and was employed for a time at the former Meramec Mining Company until its closing. Jug then went to work for the Shade Tree Company as a groundsman and worked there until retirement. Jug also owned and worked a farm in the Japan area for many years, raising cattle on a small scale. His pastime was spent largely by coon hunting and he also enjoyed NASCAR racing. However, his pride was his family and grandkids. On August 30, 1958, he was united in marriage to Shirley M. Bridgeman at Holy Martyrs of Japan Catholic Church and to this union three children were born of which a son Brian, preceded him in death.

Jug is survived by his wife, Shirley of the family home; one son Charlie A. Blankenship of Sullivan; one daughter, Charlene Albright and husband Larry of Bourbon, MO; nine sisters, Lois Copeland of Gerald, MO, Shirley Burcham and husband Jerry of Sullivan, Carol Schlueter of Bourbon, Janet Terris of St. Charles, MO, Joan Strothcamp and husband Ronnie of Zalma, MO, Lana Gauer and husband Danny of Sullivan, Lorene Ransom and husband Mike of Cuba, MO, Linda Heuer and husband Marc also of Cuba, and Lisa Caltry and husband Tony of Japan, MO; four brothers, Edgar Blankenship and wife Goldeen of Bland, MO, Jack Blankenship and wife Betty, Richard Blankenship and wife Donna, Roger Blankenship and wife Rita all of Sullivan; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; other relatives and a host of friends.

Along with his son Brian and his parents, Jug was preceded in death by a brother, Earl Blankenship and an infant sister Mary Theresa Blankenship.

Funeral services were conducted 11 a.m., Wednesday, June 1, 2016 from the Chapel of the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan with Mr. James Eaton officiating. Interment followed in Holy Martyrs of Japan Cemetery. Visitation was held from 4-8 p.m., Tuesday and on Wednesday from 9 a.m. until time of service at the Eaton Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Holy Martyrs of Japan Cemetery Fund or New Testament Baptist Church. 

Friends may sign the family’s online guestbook at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Benjamin Bennett Wieda, Jr., known to all as Benjie, departed this life in Creve Coeur, MO, on May 27, 2016, having reached the age of fifty-eight years, five months and twenty-nine days. Benjie was born in Washington, MO, on November 28, 1957, son of Benjamin Bennett Wieda, Sr. and Edna Kathleen Wieda nee Johnson, known to all as Kathleen. As a young man, he was united in marriage and blessed to have four children.

Benjie is survived by two children, Brandon Wieda of Willis, TX and Mindy Eddleman and husband, Justin, of Independence, MO; by five grandchildren, Katy, Nathan, Addison, Logan and Olivia Eddleman, all of Independence; by his brother, Brad Wieda, known to all as Hoss, and wife, Faye, of Sullivan, MO; by three sisters, Nancy Gann and husband, Larry, of Owensville, MO, Kitty Kistner of Sullivan and Amy Wieda of St. Clair, MO; by aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends.

Benjie was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin, Sr. and Kathleen Wieda; by one son, Benjamin B. Wieda, III; and by one daughter, Jenesee Wieda.

Benjie was a Christian, having been raised in the Baptist faith and believing in the Lord as his Savior. He was a truck driver throughout his working career. He had driven for various  companies as an over the road driver. He most recently was employed as a driver for Peterson Oil Company, delivering propane gas and was proud to have worked for them for about thirteen years. During his younger years, he had enjoyed riding and showing horses with his Dad. In more recent years, Benjie loved riding his Harley-Davidson Heritage Soft Tail, listening to rock and roll music and searching on Craig’s List for good deals. He was talented at repairing small engines and outboard motors and fishing and boating were favorite pastimes. What meant most to him was time spent with family. The love they shared and many precious memories they created will forever live in their hearts.

A celebration of life was held at 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 4, 2016, at the Sullivan Eagle’s Hall, 1000 Acid Mine Rd., Sullivan, MO, with MaryEtta Lewis officiating. A private committal will take place at a later date. Memorials may be made to Texas Children’s Hospital.

The family of Benjie Wieda, Jr. entrusted the care of their loved one to Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO.

William “Bill” Wilson Land, age 69, of Leasburg, fell ill and died May 20, 2016 at the home of his sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Don Dillon in Bourbon, MO.

Bill was born January 11, 1947 in St. Louis, MO, the last of nine children of the late Helen R. Coulson Land and Ronald Martin Land. At the young age of four years, he survived a high temperature from the disease meningitis but was left profoundly deaf. An ear specialist suggested that Bill was highly intelligent and said a friend could arrange for Bill to attend Central Institute for the Deaf. Speech and lip-reading were their emphasis and Bill learned well during his eight years there.

Longing for his family and his hometown, he was sent to school in Leasburg and graduated from Bourbon before attending the Missouri School for the Deaf in Fulton where he learned sign language, more math and such. Later, he graduated from Linn Technical College as a welder. Bill worked several jobs for only a short while due to the insurance companies’ failure to accept his disability.

A young nephew, Glenn, described his Uncle Bill this way “I  guess it could be said that Bill has had a rough life, but one couldn’t tell it by seeing him or talking with him. He is always cheerful, always smiling. Many times he has cheered me up; he can often shed light on a situation seemingly destined for darkness”. All the nieces and nephews felt loved and protected; they have many memories of the games their Uncle Bill “put up with” that he had exceptional sight and feeling; his approval or disapproval of what was beautiful; his love of dogs; the pleasure of driving and much more.

Ten years after the death of his mother, he was treated for depression and much of his cheerful personality drifted away; he continued to live in his home but was comforted somewhat by good lighting and having family and friends to depend on.

During his smnmer vacations, Bill, his mother, and his sister, Lois, the driver, made trips throughout the United States. Family was always a destination as well as our National Parks, Monuments, Battlefields, Capitols and Museums. Like his family, he loved history.

The movies, ‘”Gettysburg” and “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” were favorites. He loved telling you about the movies and stories he found in the area newspapers including the daily St. Louis Post Dispatch. The wars and their veterans concerned him.

Bill is survived by his sisters, Lois Aileen, Helen Joyce Bishop, Shirley Ann Dillon and husband, Don; brothers, Peter Louis and wife, Kathy (Wysong); Donald Keith and wife Aiko (Kingor); sister-in-law Wanda (Fernimen) Land; nieces, nephews, their children; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Lillian Alice and husband Russell; Dorothy Marie Marsh; brother, Martin Haley and brother-in-law, Joseph Bishop Jr.

Memorial funeral services

were conducted 2 p.m.,Saturday, June 4, 2016 from the Chapel of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO with Mr. James D. Eaton officiating. Interment was in Bourbon Cemetery.

Laura Ellen Simmerly, of Sullivan, MO, passed away at her home on Wednesday, June 1, 2016 at the age of 20 years.

Laura Ellen was born on July 27, 1995 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Clayton, MO to Carla Brown Simmerly. Laura was a preemie and shortly after her birth was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. She was the greatest joy to her mom, extended family, caregivers and many friends. She loved people and had a big smile for everyone. Laura enjoyed her bath-time, listening to music; especially Elvis, watching movies; her favorites were Blondie and the Sound of Music, and she loved balloons. She touched many lives with her courage and strength and will never be forgotten by her mom, her maw maw, aunts, uncles and cousins.

She is survived by her mother; Carla Brown Simmerly of Sullivan, MO, her father; James E. Simmerly of Bourbon, MO, her maw maw; Frances Brown of Sullivan, MO, two half- brothers; Jimmy and Billy Simmerly of Bourbon, MO, aunt and uncles; Aunt Darla Dunne and Uncle Rick of Gerald, MO, Uncle  Dwayne Brown and Aunt Suzette of Sullivan, MO, Aunt Paula Leppanen and Uncle Bill of Sullivan, MO, Uncle Junior Simmerly and Aunt Evelyn of Bourbon, MO, cousins, Kyle Brown and Paige Leppanen both of Sullivan, MO, other relatives and many friends.

Laura was preceded in death by her paw paw; Ross Brown, and special friends; Clarence Biermann, Donna Harmon and Ben Bouschert.

Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 5, 2016 at the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO with Pastor Charles Idleman officiating. Interment was in Champion City Cemetery, Sullivan, MO. Visitation for Laura was from 4-8 p.m. Saturday and from 12-2 p.m. Sunday all at the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO.

Janice (Jan) Beverly Murphy (nee Soderquist) left this world on February 3, 2016 in San Antonio, TX after a short illness. She was 82.

Jan was born on Aug 21, 1933, in St. Croix Falls,WI, to her parents Carl and Vivian Soderquist; the third of five siblings. After bouncing around the western United States, the family settled in Pocatello, ID. She graduated from Idaho State University in Pocatello in 1955 with honors, where she was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, with a BA in Elementary Education. She taught in the Long Beach, CA school district until she noticed an advertisement to teach the children of the US Air Force servicemen stationed in England. While working in England, she met her future husband  William (Bill) Murphy. While Bill was proudly serving his country, they and their (beloved) children (Craig, Cathleen (Cathy) and Ian) lived in Shreveport, LA (where Craig was born); Wiesbaden, (West) Germany (where Cathy and Ian were born), and Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where Bill retired from the USAF.

After retirement, Jan, Bill and family moved to a small farm outside of Sullivan, MO, where Bill’s parents (Edith and Frank) had retired. Jan taught 5th grade in the Sullivan School District from 1970 to her retirement in 1996. She was a wonderful teacher, inspiring countless students and was a cherished coworker and mentor to her fellow teachers. Once her former students discovered that Craig, Cathy and Ian were her children, they all interjected  with great fervor how much they all loved having been taught by her.

Jan had a great passion for the theater, having won awards in college for plays she performed. She, for many years, had season tickets to a local theater in St. Louis, MO with her son Ian who inherited her passion for theater. In fact, her zeal for live theater was such, she volunteered as an usher for the premier theater in St. Louis, the Fox Theater. One of her fondest memories was seeing the original London production of My Fair lady
(with Julie Andrews and Rex Harrison).

She loved traveling and after her husbands’ passing in 1989, she explored the world, always returning with keepsakes that she sprinkled her home to remind her of these fabulous excursions. China and New Zealand were especially  favorite lands to visit.

Jan was a devoted Mother (at which she excelled), a fabulous cook and avid reader. Jan and Bill were terrific parents to their three children. The children have frequently stated that their childhood  was so idyllic that once they made their individual ways into the world and witnessed other family dynamics, they did not realize how good of an upbringing they had and their family was the stereotypical Cleavers from the TV show “Leave it to Beaver.”

Jan was a member of the Sullivan First Presbyterian Church during her residence in Sullivan, MO. She served as an Elder of the church. She and Bill for many years, enjoyed  their membership in the Mariners Group at  church where she made and cultured life-long friends.

Jan is survived by her son and daughter-in law, Craig and Theresa Murphy of San Antonio, TX; her daughter and daughter-in law, Cathy and Kelly Murphy-Maijer of St. Peters, MO; son and daughter-in law, Ian Murphy and Jennifer Gaither of St. Louis, MO; grandson Taylor Murphy of San Antonio, TX, step-grandchildren Jennifer Comeaux, Nicole Cadena, Monica Brady of San Antonio,TX, Donald Ruebenson III (of the US Coast Guard), Moses (Ben) Gaither-Ganim and Adlai (Addie) Gaither-Ganim of St. Louis, MO; seven step-great-grandchildren of San Antonio, TX; brother Neil Soderquist of Idaho Falls, ID and sister Clarice (Ann) Stamschror of Los Altos, CA. She is preceded in death by her husband, Bill, her elder sister, Dorothy (Dottie) Olsen and brother, Gene.

According to her wishes, Jan was cremated and a memorial service was held at the Bulverde United Methodist Church, San Antonio,TX on February 7, 2016 at 1 p.m. Additionally, a memorial service was held on June 4, 2016 at 11 a.m. from the chapel of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO with burial in Crow Cemetery next to her heart’s love, Bill. In lieu of flowers,please donate to the Ronald McDonald House of St. Louis, MO, where Jan volunteered for many years in the 1900’s and 2000’s.

Nicholas Ty Marcotte, of Sullivan, MO, passed away Monday, May 16, 2016 at the age of 21 years.

Nicholas was born on October 30, 1994 in Biddeford, ME to Scott A. Marcotte and Corinna S. Robinson Marcotte. He attended Sullivan High School and was employed as a painter in the airplane manufacturing industry for a time. He enjoyed painting everything and was very good at it. He also liked to tinker with his Jeep. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. However, his Mom was his very best friend of all. He will be missed by his family and many friends.

He is survived by his mother Corinna Desmond of Sullivan, MO; his father, Scott Marcotte; two brothers, Ryan Desmond of Alfred, ME, and Andrew Marcotte of Fulton, MO; a nephew, Nicholas Paul Desmond; maternal grandmother, Judy Hubbs of Doniphan, MO; paternal grandparents, Roland and Barbara Decelles of Biddeford, ME; other relatives and many friends.

Nicholas was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Billy Bob Courtway.

It was Nicholas’ wish to be cremated. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO.

Charles Joseph “Joey” Askew, Jr., age 24, of Chickamauga, passed away on Sunday, June 5, 2016. Joey has been a resident of Chickamauga since 2005 and was of the Baptist Faith. He was a graduate of Gordon Lee Memorial High School and was working for J. F. Electric in Ohio. Joey was a member of I.B.E.W. Local #71 and was a loving father, son, brother and nephew, who will be missed by all that knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles “Chuck” Askew; grandmother, Regina Askew; and grandfather, Kenneth Wilson.

Joey is survived by his daughter, Kelsey Marie Askew, her siblings and mother, Melissa May; mother, Elizabeth Wilson; mother, Rena Askew; sisters, Emily Askew, Lindsay Wiles, and Jessica (Kody) Stewart; brother, Logan Willette; grandparents, Bill Askew, Norma Wilson and Angela and Alan Rotert; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

The funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 10, 2016 in the funeral home chapel, with Rev. Fred Holcomb officiating. Interment will follow in the Chickamauga City Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4-9 p.m. on Thursday and prior to the service on Friday. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial contributions be made to Kelsey Marie Askew at SouthCrest Bank, Chickamauga.

Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Home-J. Avery Bryan Chapel.

Donald Lee Eaton, 79, of Sullivan, MO, passed away Friday, June 10, 2016 at Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital. He was born in Leadwood on October 5, 1936 to the late Chester and Lucille (Thornton) Eaton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Lee Roy Long; sisters, Mary Lou Stewart, Judy Henderson, and Joyce Eaton; brother, Benny Eaton; and half-sister, Jane (Thornton) Pratte. Donald retired from MoDOT after 38 years. He was an avid golfer, belonging to the Sullivan Country Club and a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Sullivan.

Donald is survived by his wife Mina “Twerpie” (Wills) Eaton; children, Donald “Donnie” Eaton Jr. and wife Dawn of Farmington, Melissa and Jeffrey Schmidt of Mississippi, Laura and Robbie Miller of Sullivan; grandchildren, Jamie and Josh Norris, Melissa Miller, Kayla Miller and fiancé Anthony Rowden, Brian and Allison Holcomb, Emily Schmidt, Colin Eaton, and Connor Eaton; great-grandchildren, Bryce, Raeleigh, Katelynn, and Brayden; daughter-in-law, Jean Long of Pennsylvania; and numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

There will be a memorial service at a later date under the direction of C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge. Memorials may be made to the Grace United Methodist Church in Sullivan, MO.

Janet Anderson, of Sullivan, MO, passed away Thursday, June 9, 2016 at the age of 86 years, 11 months and one day.

Janet was born on July 8, 1929 at St. Louis, MO to the late William and Viola (Houseman) Kerans. She was raised in Gray Summit, MO and for a time lived in Pacific. Janet was employed at the former Parrot’s Restaurant in Pacific. It was there that she met her future husband, Dr. E.R. Anderson. When his practice expanded they moved to Sullivan where Janet was employed at the former Snell’s Restaurant. She later worked at the former PACO Company until ill health caused her early retirement. Janet was known for her elaborate window displays at her home which would always depict the current season or special holiday. Being located next to the Sullivan Post Office, she had many viewers; so many that she had to place a sign in the window stating it was for looking only and not a curio shop. Janet was a long time member of the First Presbyterian Church of Sullivan

She is survived by her husband, Dr. E.R. Anderson of the family home, one son Rusty Anderson of Wichita, KS; one daughter, Gloria Plank of Pearland, TX; three grandchildren, Tristan Anderson, Sean Alexander and Jared Plank; three great-grandchildren, Nicolas, Vincent and Madi Alexander; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted 11 a.m., Monday, June 13, 2016 from the First Presbyterian Church of Sullivan with Pastor Ron Koppelmann, Jr. officiating. Visitation was held from 4:30-8 p.m., Sunday at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund.

Friends may sign the family’s online guestbook at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.   

David Ewing Gilliland, age 79, died June 9, 2016.  He was the son of the Honorable A. Glenwood and Helen Gilliland. He was preceded in death by his wife Anna Catherine Gilliland. He is survived by four children, Mary Lehr (Kevin); Barbara Benson (Mike Jackson); John Gilliland (Margie); James Gilliland; his brother, Alvin Gilliland; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. David was a Korean war Veteran and a career General Motors employee that fueled his love of Corvettes. During retirement David worked at Walmart in Sullivan, MO where he shared much joy and friendship with everyone he met. He and Anna were active in the Woodland Lakes community in Sullivan, MO for many years.

Private family memorial will be held in his honor.

Daniel James Rask, of Bourbon, MO was born on Tuesday, September 25, 1990 at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO to David Vincent Rask and Dorothea B. Rask. He passed away on Wednesday, June 8, 2016 at the age of 25 years, 8 months, and 14 days.

Daniel graduated from Sullivan High School and worked recently as an assistant manager at Burger King in St. James, MO. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, skateboarding, swimming in the river and climbing trees. He was a great guy and loved his family, especially his daughter. He will be sadly missed by all his many friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his brother Jeffery Rask and unborn child Avery.

He is survived by his parents David and Dorothea Rask of Sullivan, MO; girlfriend Kristi Board; daughter Aviana Board of Bourbon, MO; special friends Adam Williams and Diane Copeland of Bourbon, MO; cousins and many friends.

The family chose cremation as the final disposition.

Arrangements under the care of Hutson Funeral Home, Cuba, MO.

Victor L. “Biddie” Froelker, of Gerald, MO, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on the afternoon of June 18, 2016, at Mercy Hospital in Washington. He had reached the age of 88 years, 10 months and 21 days.

Victor was born July 28, 1927, to the late Victor Amos and Lillian Elizabeth (Toelke) Froelker on his family farm outside of Gerald where he resided his entire life. He was united in marriage to Virginia Havener on August 7, 1948, at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Gerald.

The couple built a home on the Froelker family farm where they were blessed with three children. The family attended church services at Leslie United Methodist Church where Victor was a lifelong member.

He was a graduate of Union High School, class of 1945. After graduation he was an apprentice at West Gate Electric in Troy. He went on to be an electrician for over 50 years and was founder of Big Creek Electric Inc. He was one of the first electricians to bring electricity to the rural homes.

Though many would describe Victor as a quiet and peaceful man, he was passionate about many things and enjoyed several hobbies. He served on both the Crawford Electric Co-Op and the Cedar Fork Insurance boards for over 30 years; he was an avid bowler, participating in league bowling competitions for many years; a lifelong farmer who loved raising cattle, baling hay, and planting crops. Farming was a hobby he grew to love from his father and grandfather. He spent many hours with his father restoring tractors, several that he proudly showed off at the Owensville Thresher’s Show. After retirement Victor could be found many evenings in his recliner watching Fox News, enjoying a Pepsi and some chocolate.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Jane Click; nephew, John Click; and son-in-law, Robert Drewel.

His survivors include his wife of almost 68 years, Virginia Froelker of the home; sons, James Froelker and wife, Terry and Jerry Froelker all of Gerald; daughter, Janice Drewel of Creve Coeur; grandchildren, Brian Froelker of Denton, TX, Chad Froelker and wife, Justine of St. Louis, Becky Pomerleau and husband, Jeremiah of Cupertino, CA, Jennifer Crosby and husband, Brad of Owensville, Grant Drewel and wife, Annie of St. Louis, Thomas Drewel of St. Louis, and Jeffrey Froelker of Gerald; great-grandchildren, Garret, Tucker, Alexis, and Jack; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, June 22 at 11 a.m. at Leslie United Methodist Church in Leslie with Rev. Pam Quigley officiating. Interment followed at the Leslie United Methodist Church Cemetery.

The family was served by Gottenstroeter Funeral Home in Gerald.

Michael Sanford Halmick of Bourbon, Missouri passed away Saturday, June 25, 2016 at the age of 61 years.

Michael was born on November 6, 1954 to the late Warren Peter Halmick and Mae Marie Gamble Halmick at Sullivan, Missouri. Mike grew up in Sullivan and attended and graduated from Sullivan High School class of 1974. He was employed as an Ironworker with Local 396 in St. Louis, Missouri for many years. For several years he worked in the Marshall Islands as an Ironworker. After retirement Michael enjoyed hunting, fishing and shooting his guns.

He is survived by his brother; Guy Halmick of Sullivan, Missouri, nephew; Kyle Halmick, aunts, uncles, cousins other relatives and many friends.

Along with his parents, Michael was preceded in death by one brother; Craig Wright.

Michael was buried at Crow Cemetery Sullivan, Missouri at 2:00 p.m. Friday, July 1, 2016. All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, Missouri.

Christopher J. Peters Johnson of Rosebud, Missouri passed away Thursday, June 23, 2016 as the result of an accident at the age of 24 years.

Christopher was born on March 17, 1992 at St. Louis, Missouri to Christopher E. Johnson and Dawn Coggins. He grew up in the Sullivan area and attended Sullivan schools. Christopher enjoyed listening to music, being outdoors, camping, tattoos, watching movies and spending time with his family and many friends. Christopher was crazy about his daughter Kaylie and loved spending time with her most of all.

He is survived by his daughter; Kaylie Johnson and her mother, Alyssa King,  his mother; Dawn Coggins of Rosebud, Missouri, father and step-mother, Christopher and Heather Johnson of Sullivan, Missouri, grandparents; Sharon Coggins and companion, Frank Buskuehla of Leasburg, Missouri, Kenny Tanner and wife Debbie of Warsaw, Missouri, Phyllis Kelly of Bourbon, Missouri, special uncle; Jim Johnson of Sullivan, Missouri, four brothers; Dustin Johnson, Christian Jones, Shawn Schollmeyer and David Patterson, two sisters; Brooke Carnes and husband Rob and Kiara Jones, aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and many friends.

Christopher was preceded in death by his grandfather; Charles Coggins.

Christopher was cremated. A celebration of his life was held at his grandmothers Sharon Coggins on Saturday, June 25, 2016. All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, Missouri.

Terry R. Kick of Sullivan, Missouri passed away Sunday, June 26, 2016 at the age of 42 years.

Terry was born on January 11, 1974 in St. Louis, Missouri to George R. Kick and Peggy A. Cordes Frazer. He attended Spring Bluff and Sullivan High School. On June 11, 2011 Terry was united in marriage to Katie Elizabeth Moore at Meramec State Park. He was employed by Eberlin Boats as a boat technician for the past four years. Terry was a jokester who loved to make people laugh. He would help anyone in need and enjoyed fishing, boating, and car racing. He loved his wife and family and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife; Katie (Moore) Kick of Sullivan, Missouri, his parents; Peggy and Terry Frazer of St. Louis, Missouri and George and Julie Kick of Stockton, Missouri, grandmother; Ann Bretz of St. Louis, Missouri, one brother; Rich Kick of Sullivan, Missouri, two step-brothers; Chad Hill of Neosho, Missouri, Jeff Frazer of St. Louis, Missouri, three step-sisters; Tiffany Kick of Springfield, Missouri, Ashley Kick of Grove, Oklahoma and Cassandra Hill of Stockton, Missouri, father in law; Doug Moore, mother in law; Connie Pfitzinger,  two sisters in law; Tiffany Moore and Nickie Browne and husband Pete, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services will be conducted 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 30, 2016 at the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, Missouri with Pastor Sean Adams officiating. Cremation will follow. Visitation for Terry Kick will be from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, at the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, Missouri. Donations to the Kaden Keller Foundation are appreciated.

Those who desire may sign the on-line guestbook for Terry at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.