News

(BS '00 FSHN) On September 7, 2021, Sheila N. Downing received a graduate diploma for Sports Nutrition from the International Olympics Committee (IOC) in Switzerland. After completing 2 years of online study and exams, she traveled to Lausanne, Switzerland, being the only American participant in the graduation ceremony. By obtaining this diploma, Sheila is eligible to provide nutritional counseling and coaching to the US Olympic Team.

(BS '03 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, Soil & Water Science, MS '06 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, JD; Law '06) Jennifer Walig was named on of Crain's Chicago 40 under 40. Wallig is a three time graduate of the University of Illinois. Click here to read the article. 

(BS '53 Agriculture) William (Bill) C. Jones passed away September 7, 2021.

(BS '44 Sociology, MS '47 Social Work)

Lorraine Friedman, 1923-2021

Lorraine Friedman, 97, longtime Hyde Park resident, retired CPS School Social Worker, passed away peacefully in May 2021, at Montgomery Place.

Lorraine attended Kozminski Elementary School and Hyde Park High School. She received her B.A. in sociology from the University of Illinois, Urbana (1944), and her M.S.W from the University of Chicago (1947).

She married Norman Friedman while he was in the Navy during WWII. Norman received his B.S. from the Illinois Institute of Technology (1944), and his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago (1967). His career began as a mechanical engineer. After receiving his M.B.A., Norman became a tenured Assistant Professor at the Richard J. Daley College, where he taught for 25 years.

Lorraine’s career in social work began as a caseworker for the State of Illinois, Department of Child and Family Services, where she licensed and supervised foster homes and conducted adoptive home studies. From 1966 to 1998, she worked for the Chicago Board of Education as a CPS School Social Worker, with many of those years spent in the Englewood neighborhood, especially Randolph School. She was a pioneering school social worker-- one of the very first employed by the Chicago Board of Education. By her retirement in 1998, there were over 300 school social workers in the system. Lorraine was a proud member of the Chicago Teachers Union from 1966 until the day she died.

Lorraine loved making a positive difference in peoples’ lives. She believed the major contribution of her work was her direct services with children, teachers, and school administrators.

Lorraine is survived by her two children, Adele and Victor. Both are happily married: Adele to Stuart; and Victor to Paul. Adele earned her M.F.A. from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and went on to become a filmmaker and an artist whose films have been internationally exhibited at museums including the Museum of Modern Art, New York; the Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris, France; and the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago. Victor earned his Ph.D. in South Slavic Linguistics from the University of Chicago, and became a tenured professor in that field, first at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and then at the University of Chicago.

In 1998, Lorraine retired earlier than she would have liked, to take care of her very ill husband. Norman lived for 17 more months and passed away in 1999. After 54 years of marriage to Norman, Lorraine never remarried. Before her passing, Lorraine wrote that her daughter Adele’s time and efforts enabled her to enjoy a carefree retirement, which lasted 23 years. Rest in Peace.

(BS '48 Ag Education, MS '54 Ag Education)

Joseph V. Griffin, 100, formerly of St. Anne, passed away Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, at Passavant Area Hospital in Jacksonville.

He was born Nov. 8, 1920, in rural Lovington Township, the son of John Paul and Johannah Smith Griffin. He married Lena Mae Cornelius on Aug. 1, 1942, at St. Isadore Catholic Church in Bethany.

Surviving are his wife of 78 years, Lena; and three children, Valerie (Michael) Adams of Jacksonville, John C. (Mary) Griffin of Fort Collins, Colorado, and Starla Griffin Born of Jacksonville. He also leaves eight grandchild and seven great-grandchildren.

Joe served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945 during World War II in the 39th Combat Engineers as BN communication chief. He served 33 months in North Africa, Sicily and Italy, including Anizo.

After serving, Joe graduated from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1948 and a Master of Science degree in 1952. Joe taught agriculture for 34 years in the Sidell, Arthur, Kempton-Cabery and St. Anne High School systems.

He was active in his church, St. Anne Catholic Church, and held memberships and various offices in the American Legion, 4th degree Knights of Columbus, Lions Club and Chamber of Commerce.

After retiring Joe loved to garden, winter in Arizona and research genealogy. He published two books, "The Original 16" and "The Saga of St. Isadore", both of which depict the settling of his Irish family and their church in rural Illinois. He also completed genealogy for all branches of his family.

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/myjournalcourier/obituary.aspx?pid=197163259

(BS '78 Forestry)

As a Christmas gift to their grandmother, our grandchildren had purchased a book entitled “What I Love About Grandma”. The book tasked the grandchildren to complete questions describing their grandmother. One of the questions had them puzzled, “describe your grandmother as a dance”. They came to grandpa, in search of an answer. Constance’s husband Keith said, “When they asked me what dance grandma was most like, I instantly knew the answer, a Viennese Waltz. Constance was beautiful, elegant and graceful. As the waltz developed from peasant dances and evolved into the epitome of refinement, so did my wife.”   

Constance’s life started on the open, flat prairies of Illinois.  She was the first daughter of a share cropper. She loved growing up on a farm. There were acres to play on, animals to tend and a loving family. She never knew that financially they were poor. She assumed everybody made their own clothes and had farm chores to perform every day.

Constance attended high school in Waterman, Illinois with 31 other students, where she excelled in the classroom and at sports. She learned to play the guitar, clarinet, and the piano and standing at six-foot one inch she was a natural at basketball. In her rural community she was not noticed for her athletic skills, however her academic achievements allowed her to graduate from the University of Illinois, Bachelor of Science in Forestry, Highest Honors, Bronze Tablet.

In 1978, Constance’s senior year of college, she met Keith and they quickly fell in love right before she moved to Oregon to work for the US Forest Service. Keith remembers, “the pain of separation from her was more than I could bare. She always had a bright smile and to her every day was a blessing to hold and cherish. So just three months after meeting, I proposed. She accepted and moved back to Illinois and on Nov. 4, we were married. 

Constance and Keith first set up home in Wheaton, Illinois just a mile down the road from Wheaton College. Over the years they resided in Wheaton; Hudson, OH; and finally in Dawsonville, GA.

After our first of three children was born, Constance decided to move her career into the home and raise our children with strong Christian values. She always had a passion for children and expressed this by visiting and supporting Christian orphanages in the Philippines, Romania and Cambodia. Constance was also a member of North Georgia Church in Dawsonville, GA.

While Constance’s life may have been shortened by pancreatic cancer, she burned brightly while here. Her life achievements were; top of her class at University of Illinois, traveling the world, successfully assisted in starting an international business and always living her life true to her faith. But if asked she would proudly proclaim that her greatest accomplishment was raising three beautiful children. 

Surviving are her husband, Keith; sons and daughter Peter (Danica), Dawsonville, Ellen (John) Turck, East Windsor, NJ, Joel (Aly), Bonita Springs, FL; grandchildren Joey, Madison, Will, Atticus, Cecilia, and Henry.

A memorial service will be held Saturday May 8, 2021, visitation at 10 o’clock and service at 11:30. This will be at the North Georgia Church, 74 Dill Lane, Dawsonville, GA 30534.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking that donation be made for a boy’s dormitory at the TransformAsia David Center Orphanage in Cambodia. To donate go to Transformasia.us/give, top far right click on Donation, then click on Donate to a Project, then click on Click Here to Pay Now, then on the fifth line down Project Designation and in the drop-down box pick In Memory of Connie Burlingame. 

Condolences may be left online at www.beardenfuneralhome.com

(BS '81, MS '83) Janet Grabowski retired in February 2020 after working for 28 years with the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Plant Materials Program. 

(BS '48 Ag Education, MS '54 Ag Education)

World-renowned scientist, activist, author and speaker, Dr. Temple Grandin, will be recognized as a Beacon College Difference Maker in the April episode of “A World of Difference,” airing during Autism Awareness Month.

The television series is produced by Beacon College, the first college in the nation accredited to award bachelor’s degrees exclusively to students with learning disabilities, ADHD and other learning differences. "A World of Difference” celebrates and supports families rearing kids with learning disabilities on their journeys from kindergarten through college. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, the award-winning program has expanded its reach and features influential individuals from all backgrounds, industries and experiences, including University of Illinois’ own, Dr. Temple Grandin.

Grandin’s unique understanding of the human mind has aided in her work with animal behavior, cementing her as one of the most respected global experts in both autism and animal behavior. She warns of the harmful effects that generalized education, academic and social standards have on a child’s identity and development. And while much of her life’s work has been to understand her own autistic mind, her goal remains to better the treatment of neurodiverse individuals like her.

 

(BS '48 Ag Education, MS '54 Ag Education)

Josh St. Peters will serve as the Illinois Beef Association (IBA) executive vice president beginning March 1.

He will develop and recommend policies, plans and programs to effectively meet the needs and challenges of the membership and to enhance the demand, growth and reputation of beef and Illinois' beef industry.

St. Peters comes to IBA with 20 years of experience in ag marketing, communications and public affairs work. He is a former farm broadcaster, having previously worked in communications for Illinois Farm Bureau. St. Peters' past experience includes management roles at Pioneer Hi-Bred and advertising agency Osborn+Barr. For the last five years, he has been executive vice president at The Context Network, a management consulting firm that works with agriculture companies around the world.

He and his family raise cattle in McLean County. He has been inducted into the Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame. He volunteers as Illinois FFA Foundation vice chairman.

(BS '48 Ag Education, MS '54 Ag Education)

March 17, 2021 --Ryland Edwin Webb, professor emeritus and former head of the Department of Human Nutrition and Foods (HNF) from 1973 to 1982, passed away on Feb. 23, 2021.

[https://vtnews.vt.edu/content/vtnews_vt_edu/en/articles/2021/03/cals-memoriam-webb-ryland/jcr:content/article-image.transform/l-medium/image.jpg]

During his final years with Virginia Tech, the department was housed in the College of Human Resources, and the exercise component was not added until 1996. Today, the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise is located in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Born to missionary parents in Angola, Africa, Webb spent the first 11 years of his life with his two brothers in the village of Bailundo, a place dear to his heart for the rest of his life. In 1930s Africa, families had to be both self-sufficient and hardy to survive because communication was limited to letter writing and the nearest hospital and school were three hours away over very rough roads. However, the family managed to provide a safe and comfortable environment that seemed far away and protected from the political and social unrest during that time. Eventually, the brothers had to return to the United States to continue their education. All three excelled at sports and schoolwork and became valedictorians of their respective graduating classes.

After graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1954 with his bachelor’s degree in animal science, Webb served in the Army for two years in Korea. After his commission was completed, he visited his parents in Bailundo for a final time; this was the last time he would set foot on African soil. Webb returned to the University of Illinois to obtain his doctoral degree in nutritional biochemistry and graduated in 1961. For the next two years, he held a research position with American Cyanamid in New York.

In 1963, Webb joined Virginia Tech’s Department of Biochemistry as an assistant professor where his research focused on the interactions of nutritional status and pesticides, and pesticide resistance and metabolism. Ten years later, he became head of HNF, succeeding S. Jewel Ritchey.

“I was pleased when Ryland agreed to follow me as head,” said Ritchey. “During his tenure, the department progressed in several areas, particularly in the number of graduate students and research endeavors; also, additional faculty were brought on board, while new and modified programs were instituted. Interestingly, we shared several commonalities during our careers. We had the same major professor while attending the University of Illinois, and in 1963, we both began working at Virginia Tech. Also, we both taught Food and People, the beginning course for HNF majors, and one that attracted students from several other disciplines.”

During Webb’s years as head, student enrollment grew rapidly, the exercise component was added, and the hospitality and tourism option expanded and developed into a separate department. While Webb thoroughly enjoyed his research, he particularly loved working with graduate students and teaching, especially when he taught Foods and People, one of the most popular classes campuswide in the 1980s and 1990s.

“Ryland was a ‘student-oriented’ department head,” said Janet Johnson, who retired from the department in 2002. “He knew every student by name and was often seen having informal chats with students moving between classes. He was very supportive of the faculty and encouraged our research activity, teaching, and promotion to administrative opportunities within the college and university. Ryland was a key player in moving HNF from an established department of excellence to a larger one of national prominence.”

Webb’s research eventually focused on applied nutrition programs. As the university coordinator of Haitian Programs from 1972 to 1982, he worked with the Haitian Bureau of Nutrition to prevent preschool malnutrition through innovative “Mothercraft Centers,” which used the concept of training mothers in simple nutritional practices. In conjunction with these centers, Webb taught fathers about nutritional education and agricultural management practices dealing with food production. Webb also traveled to the Philippines, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic to implement similar nutritional programs with the collaborative efforts of faculty in the departments of sociology, forestry, and horticulture. Their overarching goal was to help native populations learn to use what was readily available and teach sustainable agriculture practices.

In 1976, Webb was honored as a fellow with Purdue University’s Old Master’s Program. Created in 1950, the program, which is still ongoing, brought distinguished scholars together to share professional and personal experiences and inspire leadership for a lifetime. Those selected as Old Masters are exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to their professional fields.

Webb contributed to over 80 refereed publications and was the major advisor of 30 graduate students in both biochemistry and human nutrition and foods. He was conferred professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors in 1996 after retiring with 33 years of service.

Webb was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wanda, and is survived by his children Stanley, Linda, and Susan; grandchildren Parker, Ellery, Rachel, Kevin, Megan, and Zach; and great-grandson Salem.

To honor Webb’s memory and love of food, the family suggests donations to your local food pantry.

(BS '75 Ag Economics)

Glendale - Born August 1, 1953 - Passed away April 7, 2020

Steve had been my husband and was always my friend. Probably the best friend I ever had. Our 4 kids were his world. Katrina, Stephen Jr, Robert and Tabitha. They loved their Dad so much and hearts ache. We welcomed a son in law Mike in 2015 and our first grandchild in February 2017. Our little Princess, Mackenzie Belle. She definitely became the sparkle in his eyes. And this September we'll have a grandson too. Altho we weren't together anymore I still loved him dearly. We had our children together and they were our lifetime bond. Robert especially kept us close.

Steve and Robert were best buddies, hanging out together, doing errands, gardening, going to baseball games, occasionally basketball, football and hockey games. He was the most patient person with Robert.

Steve grew up in a little town called Egarville in southern Illinois. He graduated high school and went on to The University of Illinois (Fighting Illini) where he got a Bachelors Degree in Agriculture (Economics,I think) and graduated in 1975. He worked for Moorman Feed for several years and then the Department of Agriculture until he retired several years ago. He was a Market News Reporter (and it's too long to explain it). We'd met in Florida, married in 1983. He/we traveled summers and we finally settled (for a few years) in Texas. He worked in Dallas and we lived just outside in Sachse. Katrina and Stephen Jr were born there. We were there 3 years then in New York for a year and out to Arizona in 1988. He and Robert still lived in the house we bought in early 1989. Robert and Tabitha were born here in AZ.

Steve was very well liked and loved by so many people. Those he worked with and just about anyone he met. He was kind, compassionate, helpful and just loving. He volunteered at the food banks, with United Way, a seed library (he and Robert did that together) at voting polls and he went back to square dancing. He belonged to Tomahawk Twirlers. He truly made friends there that cared deeply about him. He still owned the farm in Illinois that he'd inherited from his folks. They grew Christmas Trees and Steve continued the business. The past few years he was waiting on more sellable size trees but he went a few times a year, planted seedlings, shaped trees and made wreaths at Christmas time. It was his peaceful place he loved to get away to. He'd just been there in March to plant seedlings. He'd said it gets too cold for him at his age to live there again.

Steve was Russian Orthodox Christian. Altho no longer a church goer he always believed. We celebrated Orthodox Easter April 19th this year. Christ Is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!

How do you say goodbye to a friend, someone you loved. We'll meet again some day. I don't know what else I can say.

Take Care of Robert and he'll take care of you. Best Buddies for eternity. I'm sure you're getting an ear full now that he's talking. And he's running like the wind. You're well, healthy and healed of all your ails. Maybe your hair will grow back so you don't need a comb over.

Welcomed into heaven by his parents Julia and Peter SR Skuba. Take care of this guy. Memory Eternal!

Survived by: Katrina Skuba, Daughter, Marana AZ; Stephen Skuba JR, Son, Glendale AZ; Tabitha Skuba, Daughter, Denver CO; Suzanne Skuba, Best Friend, Glendale AZ; Mackenzie Belle McMurrich, Granddaughter, Marana AZ; Michael McMurrich, Son in Law, Marana AZ; Peter Skuba JR, Brother, Normal, IL; Eleanore Johnson, Mother in Law, Glendale AZ.

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/azcentral/obituary.aspx?pid=195999457

(BS '16 Animal Sciences)

News Release: Sherrie Clark named interim department head of large animal clinical sciences

February 18, 2021 -- Sherrie Clark, professor of theriogenology in the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.vetmed.vt.edu/__;!!DZ3fjg!u3-NrSyRtvScBAkG3-7SPNRJrZDH2jfRQkGjcbzKwCzR8UyJ8bxqSG_MpE_52jZZsA$> at Virginia Tech, has been named interim head of the college's Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, effective Jan. 1. The appointment follows the departure of David Wong, now the chair of the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at Iowa State University.

[https://www.vtnews.vt.edu/content/dam/vtnews_vt_edu/articles/2021/02/vetmed-clark-sherrie.jpg]

Clark's teaching, research, and clinical service focus on advanced reproductive techniques in a variety of species, with a concentration in conditions that cause infertility.

"We appreciate the willingness of Dr. Clark to serve the department and college in this leadership role," said Dan Givens, dean of the veterinary college. "She has made notable contributions to the teaching, research, and service missions of the college. I am confident that the department will continue to advance under her attentive leadership."

A diplomate in the American College of Theriogenologists and a faculty member at Virginia Tech since 2011, Clark has served as section chief of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital’s<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.vetmed.vt.edu/vth/__;!!DZ3fjg!u3-NrSyRtvScBAkG3-7SPNRJrZDH2jfRQkGjcbzKwCzR8UyJ8bxqSG_MpE8XJWr7sA$> Production Management Medicine service. This past summer, she was installed as vice president of the American College of Theriogenologists for a one-year term; in November, she received the college's Zoetis Award for Veterinary Research Excellence.

Clark arrived at Virginia Tech from the University of Illinois, where she completed a residency in theriogenology before her appointment as assistant professor of farm animal reproduction, medicine, and surgery in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine and as swine species veterinarian in the Office of Vice Chancellor for Research.

In her role as interim department head, Clark intends to continue to build on the strong foundation established by her predecessor. "During this interim period, I hope to guide us in continuing to serve our students, patients, clients, and partners through our strong contributions across all mission areas of the college," she said.

Clark earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in 1996 and a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech in 1992; she then went on to complete a master’s degree and Ph.D. at the University of Illinois in 1999 and 2003, respectively.

# # #

(BS '77 Veterinary Medicine, PhD '79 Veterinary Medicine)

Randall C. "Randy" Wolf, 66, of St. Elmo died at 5:48 p.m. Tuesday, September 25, 2018 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri.

Randy was born on Monday, April 21, 1952 in Vandalia, IL to Clarence H. and Norma N. (Stuemke) Wolf. He married Linda Buzzard on June 3, 1972 in St. Elmo at the First United Methodist Church. He was an E and C Technician with Natural Gas Pipeline in St. Elmo. He was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Altamont and held the following positions; Vice President of Southwestern Electric Cooperative Board, Supervisor of Avena Township, Vice President of Lutheran Care Center Board, St. Elmo Lions, Altamont Community Choir, LERT (Lutheran Early Response Team) and was very involved with the Fayette Water Company from its inception holding several different positions.

Randy is survived by his wife of over 46 years, Linda Wolf, St. Elmo; son, Lucas (Karie) Wolf, San Jose, CA; daughters, Andra (Luke) Carson, St. Elmo and Heather (Joe) Samudovsky, Springfield; grandchildren, Aubrey (Dennis) Mitchell, St. Elmo, Madison Carson and Kinley Carson both of St. Elmo; great grandson, Colt Mitchell.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Marsha Wolf Greene.

http://www.thexradio.com/news/obits/35741-randall-wolf-66-of-st-elmo

(BS '77 Veterinary Medicine, PhD '79 Veterinary Medicine)

Beckmann, Bruce N., baptized into the hope of Christ's resurrection, Wednesday, January 1, 2020.

Beloved husband of the late Mary Anne Beckmann (nee Reust). Dear father of Kay (Mike) Wilson, Bruce F. (Amy) Beckmann, Brian (Karen) Beckmann, Chris Beckmann, Jane Beckmann, Glenn P. (Karen) Beckmann, Anita (Bill) Buchwolz, Eugene (Stephanie) Beckmann, Jeff Beckmann, and the late Michael Beckmann. Loving grandfather and great-grandfather to many. Dear brother of Eva Peterson and Marelise Beckmann. Brother-in-law of Mary Beckmann. Beloved uncle, great-uncle, cousin, and friend to many.

https://www.schrader.com/obituary/bruce-n-beckmann

(MS '90 Food Science)

(October 20, 2020) ATLANTA, GA – Charlie Wind of Brooks’ Bottling Co. was presented with the 2020 Technical Service Award from The Association for Dressings and Sauces (ADS). The announcement was made during the ADS Technical Meeting “Face2Face” held virtually October 5-7.

Each year, the ADS Technical Service Award is given to an individual who has demonstrated dedicated service to the ADS technical programs.  Nominations for this award are taken from the general ADS membership and then voted on by ADS’ Executive Technical Board, the group that oversees the Association’s technical activities. At the Technical Meeting, members share their expertise on a variety of industry-specific topics including packaging, food safety, emulsions and quality.

Charlie Wind played a critical role in advancing a number of key ADS projects. As a member of ADS’ Executive Technical Board, he served on ADS’ Research Subcommittee and provided exceptional scientific support and knowledge related to the Buffering Capacity Study and the Risk Assessment Study.  Charlie was the lead author of ADS’ best practices paper, “Key Considerations for Determination of Acid and Acidified Food Products.”

“It is always a great honor to be recognized by your peers, so thank you very much.  The ADS plays a role in being the voice of the industry for condiments, salad dressings and sauces and I encourage fellow members to join the various committees so their knowledge and experience can be utilized to advance our industry.  The purpose of the best practices paper was to provide a reference document that member companies could use to support the regulatory classification of their products based on this new research,” said Charlie Wind, Quality Assurance Director with Brooks’ Bottling Co.

About Charlie Wind
With 40 years’ experience in the food industry, Charles Wind, Quality Assurance Director, recently retired from Mullins Food Products (Liquid Products Division of Newlyweds Foods) and now working with Brooks’ Bottling Co.’s, earned his Bachelors in Biology/Biological Sciences from Northern Illinois University and earned his Master’s in Food Science from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  During his tenure at Mullins Food Products, the company was the recipient of the McDonald’s Corporation Systems Food Safety and Quality Award (2014, 2019) and Supplier of the Year Award (2014).  Charlie has also authored two scientific reference articles.

With over 60 years in the BBQ industry, Oneonta, New York-based Brooks’ Bottling Co., provides recipe formulation, brand development, sauce bottling, co-packing, selling, and distribution. For more information, visit Brooks’ Bottling Co.

https://dressings-sauces.org/the-association-for-dressings-and-sauces-honors-charlie-wind-of-brooks-bottling-co/

(BS '90 Industrial Agriculture)

The Family Business Consulting Group is proud to announce and welcome Richard J. Wolkowitz as its new vice president, serving as a primary resource for the family enterprise community and the advisors who serve them. Rich brings deep experience to his role, overseeing the firm’s external growth, operations and key relationships.

“Over 25 years, Rich’s career has made him a leader, advisor and key confidant to a range of family businesses and family offices,” said Kristi Daeda, the firm’s president. “His unique perspective and energy for their opportunities and challenges will be a great asset to FBCG as we continue to serve families across North America and globally in new ways.”

Rich has been immersed in the family business field in a wide variety of professional, leadership and management capacities working in and advising families. He was a partner for a national law firm representing closely held businesses and their respective executives and family-owned enterprises and their families. He also brings a depth of family office expertise to this position, having served in the fiduciary role for both a single-family office and a multi-family office with operating business portfolios in retail, finance, manufacturing, technology, insurance, wealth management and real estate.

In addition to advising family enterprises, Rich served as a third-generation member and business leader of his family’s multi-state automotive dealership network and finance firms with an embedded family office.

“Families and their family enterprises are uniquely complex and fuel the global economy providing jobs, opportunities and a great deal of philanthropy to further support local communities,” said Richard. “Hence, there is nothing more professionally rewarding to me than playing a leadership role at FBCG — the family and family enterprise industry standard-bearer — to help my colleagues and our family clients achieve a more purposeful life by maximizing the connectivity between the family and the family enterprise.”

Welcome to the team, Rich! We are looking forward to growing with you.

https://www.thefbcg.com/resource/the-family-business-consulting-group-names-richard-j-wolkowitz-as-new-vice-president/

(BS '16 Animal Sciences) Sarah will be the next Veterinary Fellow at the Vancouver Aquarium starting July 2021!

(BS '77 Veterinary Medicine, PhD '79 Veterinary Medicine)

BALDWIN, Wisconsin - Dr. Harold Franklin Wilkins passed away from COVID 19 in Baldwin, WI on January 7, 2021. Survived by his devoted partner, Bryan Gjevre; extended family; and many colleagues and friends. 

Born in Cobden, Illinois, Harold loved books, bookstores, libraries, newspapers, poetry, letters and flowers. He enjoyed good coffee, new restaurants, classical NPR, and a good story. 

Harold received his horticulture doctorate from the University of Illinois, and spent his career teaching and mentoring at Cornell, U of FL, U of MN, Ohio State and consulted all over the world. Beloved teacher, he was devoted to help ing all of his students reach their goals, he proudly "fathered" 11 PhD students. As the author of more than 200 publications, the recipient of numerous awards, the guest speaker at many seminars and conferences, his impact on the floricul ture industry is unquestionable. Harold influenced horticulture globally; he traveled to Israel, The Netherlands, Russia, Japan, South Africa, Chile, among other countries to collect information for his research. 

As a retirement project in 2005, he and Bryan purchased a 9-acre property near Baldwin, WI and named it Goldfinch Flower Farm. They grew and sold beautiful and unique flowers to local florists and the Mill City Farmers Market. In addi tion to research, Harold taught Floral Design and his bouquets were always ex quisite.  

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/thesouthern/name/harold-wilkins-obituary?pid=197518059 

1/16/2021 

Dr. Harold Franklin Wilkins Obituary - Carbondale, IL | The Southern Illinoisan 

He consistently shared his positive energy and concern; he was described by many as unwaveringly sweet and kind. Shortly before passing, Harold told Bry an he was going "upstairs to recuperate." 

A Celebration of his Life will be held this summer, at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, MN. Burial will be in Anna, IL. 

Many thanks to all healthcare workers during this pandemic - your dedication is unparalleled. We wish to extend our deep gratitude to his medical team at the Baldwin Care Center Campus and Western Wisconsin Health in Baldwin, WI. 

In Harold's memory, support your local florists and garden centers. 

(BS '77 Veterinary Medicine, PhD '79 Veterinary Medicine)

Selfless. This is the best word to describe Dorothy. She was generous with her time, her money, and her kindness. She spent her life in service to her family, friends, church, and community — always prioritizing others above herself. Many will remember her for the kind twinkle in her eyes. She had a gift for making people feel good about themselves.

Even in the midst of her courageous 23-year battle with breast cancer, Dorothy lived simply and with the mantra “live each day to the fullest.” She was the Shreffler and Kramer family historian, keenly pursuing her life-long passion for genealogy. She loved travel, movies, live music and plays, crafts, and puzzles. Dorothy hosted a spirited games group each week right up until her passing. Her Midwestern upbringing shined through as she was an exceptionally gracious hostess who loved to cook and entertain.

Dorothy held many volunteer positions and had many accomplishments in her life, but requested they not be listed. She never sought recognition despite everything she did to enrich the lives of others in all the various places she lived (Effingham, Champaign-Urbana, Pasadena, Calif., Ann Arbor, Mich., Therwil, Switzerland, St. Louis, Mo., Sequim, Wash.). Dorothy inspired others and her faith gave her a wellspring of strength for those in need of an embrace, a listening ear, or gentle wisdom.

Her refrigerator door was covered with her favorite quotes. This one could have been written about her: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” ~ John Wesley

Dorothy’s death is a poignant reminder of the fragility, resilience, and impermanence of our lives. Her favorite hymn was “I’ll Fly Away.” She has flown away with grace and dignity, lifting the family and friends’ saddened hearts and feathering them gently through the slipstream of her remarkable life.

Surviving are her loving sons, Doug and Dave Shreffler (and daughter-in-law Ann Soule), of Sequim, Wash.; her only grandchild, Waverly Shreffler, of Bellingham, Wash. (although she was affectionately known as “Grandma Dorothy” to many in the Sequim community area); her brother, Ken (Ruth) Kramer, of Sun City Center, Fla.; her sister-in-law, Jean Kramer, of Hannibal, Mo.; two aunts, one uncle, seven nieces, and five nephews.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Don Shreffler; her parents, Kenneth and Ferne Kramer; her brother, Karl Kramer and a newborn who died at birth; three sisters-in-law, three brothers-in-law, 11 aunts, six uncles, two nephews, and one niece.

The family is truly grateful to the many friends, neighbors, and relatives for the kindness and love each showed Dorothy during her final months. They are also thankful to Dorothy’s pastor, primary care providers, OMC Cancer Center, Wright’s Home Care, Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County and the Threshold Singers for facilitating her peaceful passing.

A celebration of Dorothy’s life will be scheduled later, when friends and family can all safely enjoy social gatherings again. Dorothy’s ashes will be buried in the Shreffler Family Cemetery in Kankakee, on land homesteaded by her husband’s ancestors in 1846.

Memorial gifts may be given in memory of Dorothy to: Dungeness River Audubon Center, PO Box 2450, Sequim, WA 98382; or Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County, 829 East 8th St., Port Angeles, WA 98362.

https://www.daily-journal.com/obituaries/dorothy-shreffler/article_682fe4da-7e39-11ea-99bb-b38e52a95f51.html

(BS '60 Agronomy) Carroll Paul Pedersen died peacefully on Sunday, January 17, 2021 from complications of advanced Parkinson’s Disease. Paul was born on April 15, 1942 on the southside of Chicago to Martha and Carroll Pedersen. He and his older brother, David, grew up there and enjoyed summer trips to the family farm near Cadillac, MI. Paul received a degree in forestry from the University of Illinois. In April 1965, he was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam as the leader of the 3rd Platoon of A Company, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry, 1 st Infantry Division (The Big Red One). CP, as he was known in the army, earned the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device, the Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantry Badge and achieved the rank of 1st Lieutenant. CP left the Army in 1967 but his devotion to his men lasted until the end of his life. After leaving the Army, Paul embarked on a life lived to the fullest. He spent five years living, studying, and working in Norway and Germany. Proud of his Norwegian heritage, his time in Norway had a profound impact on Paul’s life and he made several return trips to ski, visit friends, and research family roots. Upon returning to the States, Paul became a forester for the U.S. Forest Service. In his career, he served national forest districts in Alaska, Wisconsin, and Michigan, and fought forest fires throughout the Western U.S. Paul married Joan Slota in 1994 and was welcomed into the family by her daughters Holly and Suzie. In 2004, he became a proud grandfather to Collin Slota Gouran. Cross-country skiing was one of the greatest passions of Paul’s life. He completed 31 races of the American Birkebeiner and was a World Loppet Master, having completed 13 international races. He retired with Joan to a house they built near the Birkie trail, served on the Birkie Board of Directors, and looked forward to seeing the Norwegians who came to ski the Birkie each year. In addition to skiing, Paul enjoyed running, biking, walking in the woods, brewing beer, and celebrating his Norwegian heritage. Family, faith, and friends were important to Paul. He showed what it meant to be loyal, welcoming, and inclusive. He prayed daily for his family and friends and his faith sustained him through the difficult times of his life. He honored those who came before him and upheld family traditions. Right through the end, he delighted in continued connections with friends from throughout his life. Paul is survived by his stepdaughters Suzanne Slota and Holly Slota (partner David Gouran), his grandson Collin Slota Gouran, his sister-in-law Janet Pedersen, niece Martha Christina Pedersen and her daughter Mila, and nephew Paul Thor Pedersen (named after his uncle) and his son Conrad. He is preceded in death by his wife Joan Slota Pedersen, his parents Carroll and Martha Pedersen, and his brother David Pedersen. Family and friends are invited to attend an online funeral on Saturday, February 20, 2021 at 11 AM Central Time. The service will be streamed live on the First Lutheran Church of Hayward, WI Facebook page. Those without Facebook who wish to watch online are asked to email paulpedersen.funeral@yahoo.com for further instructions. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to First Lutheran Church (Hayward), the American Birkebeiner Foundation (Hayward), or Disabled Veterans of America.

(BS '50 Agriculture)

LODA — Donald “Wayne” Niewold, 92, of Loda passed away at 9:23 a.m. Friday (Jan. 22, 2021) at home.

Funeral services are pending at Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton.

Wayne was born Aug. 28, 1928, in New Holland, the son of Margaret “Josephine” Niewold Knudsen and stepson of Chris Knudsen. He married Grace “Janet” Weaver on Aug. 29, 1954, in Paxton. She survives.

Along with his wife, Janet, he is survived by three children, Jim (Robin) Niewold, Doug (Deana) Niewold and Grace (Brian) Funk; five grandchildren, Greg Niewold, Jessie Niewold Nguyen, Kristen Shanks Cherwa, Michelle Shanks Vaughn and Eric Funk; and nine great-grandchildren.

He graduated from New Holland High School in 1946 as valedictorian. He attended Illinois State University, Bloomington, 1946-47, and played on the freshman basketball team. He transferred to the University of Illinois and graduated with a B.S. in agriculture in 1950; Bronze Tablet; received reserve commission as a 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Army; was a member of Alpha Zeta and Gamma Sigma Delta honorary ag fraternities; member of the FarmHouse Fraternity; and a member of the livestock judging team. He received the College of Ag Alumni Award of Merit.

During his high school and college days, he did amateur photography, taking family portraits, weddings and fraternity dances. He played in the summer Sunday afternoon baseball league in Logan County.

Wayne served in the U.S. Army 1952-1954, serving in Korea as a 1st lieutenant 1953-54 as operations and maintenance officer of the 54th Heavy Truck Company. This company moved all of the POWs of both North and South Korea to the Rail Head during repatriation.

In 1952, he joined New Holland Masonic Lodge 741 then transferred to the Paxton Masonic Lodge 416 in 1979. He served on the Paxton Masonic Temple Board and did Masonic funeral services for 50 years for 94 brothers.

Wayne taught a veterans class at Lincoln High School. He served on the Paxton School Board during the high school construction. He also served on the steering committee and first Board of Trustees at Parkland College.

He was a member of the Paxton Masonic Lodge 416, Ford Chapter 113, Paxton Council 29, Mount Olivet Commandery 38, Holder of York Cross of Honor, Danville Consistory and Ansar Shrine, East Central Illinois York Rite College 81, where he received the Order of the Purple Cross, Allied Masonic Degrees 356, and a 50-year member of Eastern Star, being Worthy Patron 14 times and a 50-year member of White Shrine of Jerusalem.

Wayne was also a 50-year member of the Paxton American Legion Prairie Post 150, past commander and 15-year member of the firing squad. He was a member of Paxton Federated Church, serving as elder, moderator and Sunday school teacher.

He was a member of the Ford-Iroquois Farm Bureau. Wayne farmed and raised hogs in Ford County for 41 years. He was one of the founders of the FILM Cooperative. He was named an Outstanding Young Farmer State Award of Illinois in 1962 by the Jaycees and was also named a Master Farmer in 1977 by Prairie Farmer Magazine.

Wayne invented, started and owned Hydra Fold Auger, Inc., and owned Power Planter, Inc., having four U.S. and four Canadian patents. He was a licensed real estate broker for 41 years. He was a 4-H Club leader for 29 years; four years at New Holland (Hollanders) and 25 years for the Wall Town Club in Ford County.\\

He always had a witty comment or a joke to share. One of his greatest joys was seeing his life accomplishments being extended by the next generations.

Memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Chicago, Paxton Federated Church or an organization of the donor’s choice. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at baierfuneralservices.com.

 

https://www.news-gazette.com/obituaries/wayne-niewold/article_d86b0c58-5f6a-11eb-96f7-308d99b27af3.html

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

Dr. Paul Henry Sammelwitz passed away peacefully on January 1, 2021 after a brief illness.

Paul was born in Buffalo, NY on March 13, 1933 to the late Frederick and Elsie (Blum) Sammelwitz. He grew up as the younger brother to three older sisters. Paul spent many summers at his relative’s farms where he worked and enjoyed farm life. He graduated from East High School in 1951. Paul attended Cornell University where he was the manager of the football team for all 4 years. He graduated with a degree in dairy and agricultural sciences in 1955. Paul went on to attend the University of Illinois where he received his Masters’ and Doctorate Degree in reproductive physiology in 1959. Throughout his training and career, Paul was a member of various scientific fraternities and organizations.

He joined the University of Delaware in 1959 as an Associate Professor in the College of Agricultural and Natural Resources, teaching anatomy, physiology, and genetics. “Dr. Samm”, as he was referred to by his students, was well loved and admired. Paul’s area of specialty was poultry sciences, and he was known as the expert on the Blue Hen bird. Paul was a pioneer in the use of technology in teaching. In the late 1970s, he was among the first in the College to use computer programming as a supplement to laboratory lessons. In 1974, Paul and Dr. David Frey started the Annual Ag Day event which continues today. Paul became a tenured professor later retired from University of Delaware in 1999 after 40 years of teaching, mentoring, and advisement.  His passion was being an educator, as witnessed by the many students he inspired.

Paul was an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Newark, where he served in many leadership capacities and on various boards over the 60 years. He was a big supporter of Lutheran Campus Ministry at the University of Delaware. Paul also volunteered his time for many years as a member of the Delaware Maryland Synod, and traveled to monthly meetings in the Baltimore area.

He enjoyed many activities and sports including sailing, skiing, running, biking, canoeing and camping.  He learned to snow ski in his 30s after he arrived in Delaware. Paul enjoyed football especially watching the University of Delaware Blue Hen’s and the Philadelphia Eagles. He instilled a love of sports in all his children.

Paul and his wife, Diane, celebrated 58 years together in August of 2020. Their first date was in Longwood Gardens and they continued as members throughout the years. They enjoyed traveling and attending Elderhostel programs in their retirement. They moved to Jenner’s Pond Retirement community in West Grove, PA in 2011. At Jenner’s Pond, Paul sang in the choral group, participated with the wood shop and perfected his hobby of caning chairs. He liked to play Sudoku and spent time learning new things and communicating to others via his computer.

Paul is preceded in death by his wife Diane; son, Michael Moore; and sisters, Ruth Preusch and June Holden. He is survived by his children, Christopher Moore Sammelwitz and Ellen (Stephen) Casey; 3 grandchildren, Deirdre, Niall and Rebecca Casey; sister Alice Kryszczynski; many nieces and nephews; and beloved friends and colleagues.

Services and interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to:

St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 701 South College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713 or the Tithe.ly link to Paul Sammelwitz Memorial www.stpaulsnewarkde.org

And/Or

2. Paul H. Sammelwitz Scholarship Fund, University of Delaware, Gifts Processing, 83 East Main Street, 3rd Floor, Newark DE 19711

 

https://spicermullikin.com/dr-paul-henry-sammelwitz/

(BS '60 Agronomy)

Grinnell - William "Bill" Louis Wissmiller, age 89 of Grinnell, died on January 19, 2021 at the Mayflower Community Health Care Center in Grinnell.

William was born in Paxton, Illinois, on December 11, 1931, to Gertrude and Louis Wissmiller of Gibson City, IL. He was graduated from Drummer Township High School in Gibson City, IL, and served in the U. S. Army during the Korean War from February 1952 to February 1954.

On June 22, 1957, he married Theresa Jean Stine of Paxton, IL. He was graduated from the University of Illinois in 1960 with a BS degree in agronomy and continued in graduate school until he was recruited by Cargill. Bill was employed by Cargill, Inc., as a research scientist from 1960 until 1997. His employment was in Rochelle, IL, and Grinnell, IA, ending in a three-year period in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Bill is survived by his wife, Jean of Grinnell; two children: Ann Cortelyou of Denver, IA, and Paul Wissmiller of Minneapolis, MN; two grandchildren: Kira and Kendall Cortelyou of Denver, IA; and two sisters and one brother in Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents; and four brothers and a sister.

Cremation has taken place at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell and no visitation is planned. A memorial service will be held by the family at a later time. Memorial contributions in Bill's name may be made to the Drake Community Library or to UnityPoint Grinnell Regional Medical Center and mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memories and condolences may be provided to Bill's family online at www.smithfh.com.

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/desmoinesregister/obituary.aspx?pid=197584749

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

CHAMPAIGN — Jill P. Knappenberger, 102, passed away Tuesday (Dec. 8, 2020) at Owens Hospice, Peoria.

As per Jill’s wishes, there will be no visitation nor funeral. A memorial service will be announced at a later date, to be held at Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church, Champaign. Morgan Memorial Home, Savoy, is in charge of arrangements.

She was born on Sept. 11, 1918, in Evanston, the twin daughter of John Joseph and Margaret Leach Pitts. She attended grade school in Bloomington and graduated from high school in McLean. She went on to receive an associate degree from Stephens College, Columbia, Mo., and later earned a BS degree from the University of Illinois after she served with the Red Cross in World War II.

While with the Red Cross, Jill served in the European Theater of Operations as a clubmobile operator. After the war ended, she met and married Attorney T. Gaillard Knappenberger while attending the University of Illinois. They married on Jan. 3, 1953. 

She was a member of the Episcopal Church Altar Guild, life member of the American Overseas Association, University of Illinois Alumni Association, Champaign County Historical Museum, University of Illinois Foundation and on the Board of World Heritage Museum. She was also an associate life member of the 106th Infantry Division when they were trapped behind the German lines during the Battle of the Bulge.

Her hobbies were traveling, painting, needlework, bridge, mah-jongg, golf, swimming, mushroom hunting and watching "Jeopardy" with her neighbors.

She is survived by her nephews, Bob (Sharon) Pitts of Armington, Jack (Patty) Pitts of McLean, Doug (Jean) Pitts of Glen Mills, Pa., and Scott Pitts of McLean; and nieces, Nancy (Dave) LaReau of Clinton and Karen Pitts of Bloomington.

Also surviving are a sister-in-law, Martha Pitts of Bloomington, and many other friends in Newaygo, Mich., and Champaign.

Preceding her in death were her husband; parents; one sister, Polly; four brothers, Robert, William, Tom and her twin, Jack; two nephews, Rick and John; a niece, Becky Pitts Bruner; and a sister-in-law, Joanna Pitts.

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

Patrick Martin grew up in Chicago's suburbs, but from the moment he met freshman Sen. Barack Obama as a 17-year-old intern in Washington, D.C., he yearned for a fast life in politics in the nation1s capital. After earning an undergraduate degree in economics at the University of Illinois, he was back in Washington working for Obama, this time as a White House intern and later as a legislative correspondent for Indiana Sen. Evan Bayh. 

"I got the bug early on," Martin says. "I liked being in the middle of the action in Washington."

Marriage can change priorities, of course. After a seven-year career as a lobbyist working for the consulting arm of law firm McGuireWoods' Washington office, Martin married a Chicago high school teacher and moved back here, signing on with another powerhouse law firm, Cozen O1 Connor, taking on the task of building the Philadelphia firm1s first lobbying office in the Midwest. 

From virtually nothing, Martin, who now lives in Glen Ellyn with his wife and two young children, has built in just two short years an office employing half-dozen lobbyists working with a blue-chip roster of clients including Exelon, CVS, Starbucks, and Bank of America. The Practice has grown beyond Springfield and Chicago to big cities throughout the heartland. 

Current clients with Canopy Growth, a big Canadian cannabis company, and the Premium Cigar Association, with Martin taking a nonpartisan approach that finds him equally at ease working for both liberal and conservative causes. Says Bayh, who served as Martin's mentor in Washington, "Any lobbyist who takes a partisan approach can look forward to a feast-or-famine career, depending on who is in office. Patrick is taking a very reasonable approach to the business."

Martin is an active member of the University of Illinois' alumni association and, as a devout Catholic, serves on the Junior Board of Catholic Charities. Recently he has come to terms with the difference between Washington and Springfield, finding advantages in the latter. 

"There is quite a lot of inertia in Washington today," he says. "But at the state level, so many bills get passed every session. You really get to see the fruits of your labor."

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

HARTLAND, Wisconsin (Nov. 16, 2020)—A handful of communicators have left indelible marks on hundreds of agriculture and food companies and professionals through their actions, words and guidance. One of those, Lyle E. Orwig, announces his retirement as chairman of C.O.nxt, Hartland, Wisconsin.

In 1992, Orwig joined with business partner John Charleston to co-found the communications agency Charleston|Orwig, which recently rebranded as C.O.nxt.

Over a 28-year span Orwig guided the agency’s growth, leading strategic communications, branding campaigns, reputation management and corporate social responsibility programs for many agricultural and food companies. All while he was a mentor and guide for anyone who worked for and with the agency. 

“Lyle has had such a tremendous influence on not just the clients he has worked with over the years, but scores of people who he has come in contact with through his active contributions to multiple agriculture and food organizations and associations,” says Mark Gale, CEO at C.O.nxt. “His deep respect for agriculture shows in his real and palpable passion to help people. He takes a considerable amount of pride in helping young people grow and aspire toward their dreams. Many have benefited from his sage advice, and many can still expect to get Lyle’s phone call, email or note of recognition, congratulations or encouragement.”

Orwig launched his successful career in public relations, advertising and publishing after graduating from the University of Illinois in ag communications. He began his career as a public relations account executive at Reiman Associates in Milwaukee, then joined Century Communications in Skokie, Illinois. Later he spent 10 years at Bader Rutter, a Milwaukee-based agency, as vice president and director of public relations. 

In introducing himself, Orwig often says he was born and raised on an Illinois farm but “has yet to grow up.” That Illinois farm kicked off Orwig’s passion for farmers and agriculture, dedication to FFA and support of his alma mater, University of Illinois. He says these foundational experiences guided his career in agricultural communications. 

Over his career Orwig worked with many highly recognized brands, including Allis-Chalmers, ARM & HAMMER™, Case IH, Dairyland Seed, Dow, New Holland, Smithfield Foods, Zoetis and many others. 

As testament to a career dedicated to agriculture and the communications profession, he has received numerous awards, including two PRSA Silver Anvil awards for his work in public relations and issues management. In 1999 the National Agri Marketing Association named him the National Agri Marketer of the Year; in 2006 the National Association of Farm Broadcasting awarded him the Dix Harper Meritorious Service Award; in 2008 Orwig received the University of Illinois ACES Alumni Award of Merit; in 2012 the Ag Relations Council and Agri Marketing magazine inducted Orwig into the Agricultural Public Relations Hall of Fame as one of two inaugural members; and in 2019 he was awarded the Livestock Publications Council’s Headliner Award. 

Orwig has held board positions with numerous organizations, including the National FFA Foundation, National Association of Farm Broadcasting, the Farm Journal Foundation, American Agriculture Editor’s Association, Animal Agriculture Alliance, Omega Foods and University of Illinois ACES Alumni Association. 

“Even though Lyle has won many awards and recognitions, he would say that his greatest achievements are the countless people who consider him a mentor and friend,” says Marcy Tessmann, president of C.O.nxt. “Anyone who has walked with Lyle through the aisles of an agricultural trade show appreciates the depth and breadth of his relationships. We will miss him at C.O.nxt.” 

In retirement “LEO”, as he is affectionately known, will spend most of his time with his wife, Karma, spoiling his grandkids, working with a couple start-up companies and, as always, working on his golf game. 

About C.O.nxt
C.O.nxt (pronounced c o next) is a 100 percent employee-owned communications agency full of farm kids and foodies coming together to create fresh and unexpected solutions driven by deep insight and strategy. Based in Hartland, Wisconsin, we serve purpose-driven brands that stand out in the ag and food industries—from the seed in the ground to the steak on the plate—because that is what we’re passionate about. Full service. Full hearts. For the love of food. For more information visit CO-nxt.com.

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology) Timothy G. Blechl, 60, passed away on July 26, 2019. Tim was a man of strong faith, and celebrated life with music, choir, dancing and sports. Tim was a graduate of Our Lady of the Wayside grade school and Forest View High School. He graduated from the University of Illinois with a Master's Degree in Forestry. He loved the forest, trees and working outdoors. Tim is survived by his beloved daughters Sarah, Maria, Grace, and Angelina; his loving mother Roberta Blechl, fond uncle Gilbert Blechl, and aunts Lois and Pat Blechl. Tim is also survived by his caring siblings Ann Blechl, James Blechl (Barbara), Carrie Colella (Bill), twin brother Thomas, Ellen Al-hajje (Mohamad), Sally Batanian (David), Joseph Blechl, Molly Blechl, Jennifer Morrison, and Mary Horn (David). Tim is also survived by numerous wonderful nieces and nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father Gerald Blechl. Visitation services will be held on Friday, August 9 at 9 am at St. Cecilia Catholic Church located at 700 S. Meier Rd., Mt. Prospect, IL 60056. A funeral mass at 10 am will follow the visitation. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tim's name to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

Charles Wind, graduate of University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Master’s in Food Science), was honored with the 2020 Technical Service Award from The Association for Dressings and Sauces (ADS). Charlie Wind played a critical role in advancing a number of key ADS projects. As a member of ADS’ Executive Technical Board, he served on ADS’ Research Subcommittee and provided exceptional scientific support and knowledge related to the Buffering Capacity Study and the Risk Assessment Study. Charlie was the lead author of ADS’ best practices paper, “Key Considerations for Determination of Acid and Acidified Food Products.”

Click here to read the full release.

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

Wilbert "Wil" Needham Stevenson (Captain US Army), one of the few remaining members of the "greatest generation," was called Home on the 76th anniversary of D-Day.

Wil was a family man. He was born in January of 1921 and grew up amid cornfields on the family farm near Streator, IL. He was preceded in death by parents James and Lucile, and siblings Ruth, Ernie, and Joe. James was a leader in FDR's New Deal programs for farmers. Lucile wrote a column for a farming journal. Surviving family includes his wife of 72 years, Betty, and children Dennis, Jim, Tim, and Sara. Despite the rigors of running the farm, the family always ate dinner together, went to church, and vacationed to many of the states of the Union. All by car! As a youngster, Wil and his family endured the Great Depression. He often said they were luckier than most. As farmers, they always had something to eat. Wil received the Master Farmer award from the Prairie Farmer magazine in 1971. This family orientation has continued. Wil's other direct descendants include five grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. Wil recently posed in three different five-generation pictures.

Wil was a scholar. His first experience with education was in a one-room school, down the road from the farm. On one occasion, he and a classmate were sent home after they stopped to skin a skunk they found in one of their traps on the way to school. However, he did manage to skip second grade.

Education got better as Wil progressed through school (with less distracting wildlife). Wil often rode the 10 miles to high school on a milk truck, and later drove the route himself, picking up students along the way. He was the president of the National Honor Society. He played the violin (and saw, which did not sound as good). He often recalled Ag class field trips in a wagon.

After high school, Wil entered the University of Illinois, and joined Farm House fraternity. He was on a university livestock judging team that won a major award. At Illinois, Wil was student manager of the baseball team (which included future hall of famer Lou Boudreau) and served on the YMCA board of directors. He also received the Bronze Tablet honor, awarded to the top 3% of each graduating class. The Tablet is displayed in the U of I library. The Illio yearbook his senior year had his full-page picture as an important student leader. Wil later went back to Illinois for his Master's degree and helped manage the university research farms.

Wil was a soldier. When the US joined WWII, he enlisted in the army and, after training, was assigned to the Signal Corps and officer candidate school. Thereafter, he shipped out to Cairo, Egypt, in charge of the communications center for the Mediterranean region. Based on his work there, under trying conditions, Wil received the Legion of Merit medal. He seldom talked about this experience (which did not include combat) but he confided to his fellow army-vet grandson that one of his most satisfying jobs was arranging transport home for troops after the war.

Wil had a global worldview, even as a young man. While stationed overseas, he used his leave time to visit Palestine and Egypt. He took pictures with his venerable Argus C3, and later gave a slide talk many times in the central Illinois area. This experience undoubtedly expanded the horizons of many in his audiences. Later, Wil and Betty hosted visiting students from Nigeria, Japan, the Netherlands, Libya and others. They also visited places like Mexico, Poland, Russia, Europe, and Scandinavia.

Wil was invested in the local community. He was a member of the local hospital advisory committee for 16 years and a hospital volunteer, on the high school board of education for eight years, sat on savings and loan boards for 15, as well as being involved in organizations such as Kiwanis, YMCA, and United Way. Wil and Betty were active members of Park Presbyterian Church. Wil was an elder several times and served on search committees for three pastors. He was also Sunday School Superintendant for eight years, and taught Sunday School regularly. Wil and Betty supported several charitable causes.

We hope that learning a little about Dad will serve as a blessing and inspiration to you. He certainly has been all of that for us. With his many achievements, Wil was a very humble and outgoing man. Virtually everyone who knew him considered him a friend.

The family wishes to extend our appreciation to Hospice Alliance and Casa del Mare Assisted Living facility, and the wonderful people who work at these places.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

(BS '91 Agriculture Science, MS '94 Vocational Technology)

The U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board are pleased to announce that Melissa Duong, a UIUC ACES alumni has received a Fulbright U.S. Student Program award to South Korea for the 2020-2021 academic year. Duong will support the teaching of English as a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship.

Duong is one of over 2,100 U.S. citizens who will teach English and share knowledge and foster meaningful connections across communities in the United States and South Korea. Recipients of Fulbright awards are selected in an open, merit-based competition that considers leadership potential, academic and/or professional achievement, and record of service.  As Fulbright alumni, their careers are enriched by joining a network of thousands of esteemed scholars, many of whom are leaders in their fields. Fulbright alumni include 60 Nobel Prize laureates, 88 Pulitzer Prize recipients, and 37 who have served as a head of state or government.

The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to forge lasting connections between the people of the United States and the people of other countries, counter misunderstandings, and help people and nations work together toward common goals. Since its establishment in 1946, the Fulbright Program has enabled more than 390,000 dedicated and accomplished students, scholars, artists, teachers, and professionals of all backgrounds to study, teach and conduct research, exchange ideas, and find solutions to shared international concerns. The Fulbright Program is funded through an annual appropriation made by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State. Participating governments and host institutions, corporations, and foundations around the world also provide direct and indirect support to the Program, which operates in more than 160 countries worldwide.

(BS '41 Agriculture)

Will Erwin, whose 65 years of service made him the longest-tenured Fellow of the Farm Foundation Round Table, passed away on September 12, 2020. All of us at Farm Foundation send our condolences to his family, and join his many friends and colleagues in remembering the powerful legacy he left in his community and in the agriculture industry.

An Army Air Corps veteran, former Assistant Secretary of Agriculture and former Indiana state senator, Erwin was passionate about serving others. He was also passionate about farming, building his own operation through hard work and innovation while also mentoring young farmers and participating in many industry and civic organizations. The story of his life is rich and varied, and we encourage you to read all about it in his full obituary.

(MS '41) Chillicothe – Glenn D. Oertley, 100, of Chillicothe, passed away at 1:42 p.m. Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Heritage Health in Chillicothe. He was born on March 28, 1920 in rural Stark County to Charles and Emma (Fritz) Oertley. He married Ethel Cheesman on January 21, 1945 in Princeville. They were married for 62 years before her death in 2007.

He is survived by two children, Charles (Karen) Oertley of Nashville, TN and Nancy (Harvey) Varness of Chillicothe; four grandchildren, Erik (Kate) Varness of Peoria, Kristin (Nick) Pretasky of Appleton, WI, Ann (John) Kantz of Chillicothe, and Jennifer (Jay) LeDuc of Nashville, TN; grand daughter-in-law, Dierdre (Tim) Stringenz of Bozeman, MT; eleven great-grandchildren, Emma, Max and Samantha Varness of Peoria, Quinn Varness of Bozeman, MT, Anika and Naomi Pretasky of Appleton, WI, Bobby and Charlie Kantz of Chillicothe, Evelyn and Grace Strigenz of Bozeman, MT, and Remy LeDuc of Nashville, TN; four nieces; and a foreign exchange student, Ludo Claussens of Antwerp, Belgium. He was also preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Mabel (Ralph) Streitmatter and Verna (Rollin) Streitmatter; one brother, Charles (Darlene) Oertley; one grandson, Todd Varness; and son, G. David Oertley.

Glenn attended schools near and in Wyoming, Illinois and the University of Illinois at Champaign, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture in 1941. After farming for five years, he became a professional farm manager and a rural appraiser. He was self-employed from 1951-1998 at Oertley Farm Management Service in Peoria. He lived a long, active and generous life. He was a member of Alpha Zeta Agriculture Honorary, and was a lifetime member of the President’s Council at the U of I. He was a member of the Illinois Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers for 72 years, a leader and supporter of 4-H programs, a board of directors member for the Heart of Illinois fair for 41 years, a lifetime member (76 years) of Masonic Blue Lodge #479 in Wyoming and a 50 plus year member of the Shriner’s International, who support the Shriners Hospital for Children in Chicago. He was an active member of Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap since 1969.

Glenn always encouraged others to continue their education and provided financial assistance to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren for their schooling, along with gifts to many others. With his wife, he established the Oertley Family Scholarship at Illinois Central College in 1998, which to date has provided financial assistance to more than 200 students.

He most loved his family, and remained interested and involved with all of them. Glenn also loved farming, being outside, gardening, and baking, especially “Grandpa Bread”. He freely shared whatever he had and always enjoyed being with people. His many friends were very important to him; so too was his faith, which formed his core of love and service. His motto was “Accept, adapt, keep moving”.

A service and burial in Princeville will be planned at a later date. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oertley Family Scholarship through Illinois Central College Educational Foundation, 1 College Drive, E. Peoria, IL 61635 or Prospect United Methodist Church 300 E. Ash, Dunlap, IL 61625.

(BS '41 Agriculture) Chillicothe – Glenn D. Oertley, 100, of Chillicothe, passed away at 1:42 p.m. Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Heritage Health in Chillicothe. He was born on March 28, 1920 in rural Stark County to Charles and Emma (Fritz) Oertley. He married Ethel Cheesman on January 21, 1945 in Princeville. They were married for 62 years before her death in 2007.

He is survived by two children, Charles (Karen) Oertley of Nashville, TN and Nancy (Harvey) Varness of Chillicothe; four grandchildren, Erik (Kate) Varness of Peoria, Kristin (Nick) Pretasky of Appleton, WI, Ann (John) Kantz of Chillicothe, and Jennifer (Jay) LeDuc of Nashville, TN; grand daughter-in-law, Dierdre (Tim) Stringenz of Bozeman, MT; eleven great-grandchildren, Emma, Max and Samantha Varness of Peoria, Quinn Varness of Bozeman, MT, Anika and Naomi Pretasky of Appleton, WI, Bobby and Charlie Kantz of Chillicothe, Evelyn and Grace Strigenz of Bozeman, MT, and Remy LeDuc of Nashville, TN; four nieces; and a foreign exchange student, Ludo Claussens of Antwerp, Belgium. He was also preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Mabel (Ralph) Streitmatter and Verna (Rollin) Streitmatter; one brother, Charles (Darlene) Oertley; one grandson, Todd Varness; and son, G. David Oertley.

Glenn attended schools near and in Wyoming, Illinois and the University of Illinois at Champaign, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture in 1941. After farming for five years, he became a professional farm manager and a rural appraiser. He was self-employed from 1951-1998 at Oertley Farm Management Service in Peoria. He lived a long, active and generous life. He was a member of Alpha Zeta Agriculture Honorary, and was a lifetime member of the President’s Council at the U of I. He was a member of the Illinois Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers for 72 years, a leader and supporter of 4-H programs, a board of directors member for the Heart of Illinois fair for 41 years, a lifetime member (76 years) of Masonic Blue Lodge #479 in Wyoming and a 50 plus year member of the Shriner’s International, who support the Shriners Hospital for Children in Chicago. He was an active member of Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap since 1969.

Glenn always encouraged others to continue their education and provided financial assistance to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren for their schooling, along with gifts to many others. With his wife, he established the Oertley Family Scholarship at Illinois Central College in 1998, which to date has provided financial assistance to more than 200 students.

He most loved his family, and remained interested and involved with all of them. Glenn also loved farming, being outside, gardening, and baking, especially “Grandpa Bread”. He freely shared whatever he had and always enjoyed being with people. His many friends were very important to him; so too was his faith, which formed his core of love and service. His motto was “Accept, adapt, keep moving”.

A service and burial in Princeville will be planned at a later date. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oertley Family Scholarship through Illinois Central College Educational Foundation, 1 College Drive, E. Peoria, IL 61635 or Prospect United Methodist Church 300 E. Ash, Dunlap, IL 61625.

(MS '48)

Ames - Karl Robert Kern, 96, of Ames, IA, passed away peacefully on September 2 at Green Hills Retirement Center.
A 31-year member of the Iowa State University faculty, under the name K. Robert, he came to Ames with his wife (deceased), Verna Lathrop Kern, native of Woodstock, IL, in March 1950 as a graduate assistant in the Extension Information Service. He joined that faculty in 1952, and he later chaired the department for 17 years.
Bob, as his friends knew him, also served four years as secretary and one year as chairman of the ISU Faculty Council, a principal advisory group to then-President W. Robert Parks, as well as serving as a member of the University Lectures Committee.

Bob was a member of the ISU Graduate College, retiring early (age 56) as Professor of Journalism and Mass Communication.
His other degree attainments were B.S., University of Illinois, followed by his work as a county extension agent (Decatur, IL) before coming to Iowa, and Ph.D, University of Wisconsin.
Bob was born on New Year's Eve 1923 at Pittsfield, IL, third of three sons who lived to maturity—a younger sister, Mary Josephine, and brother, Walter, died in infancy. His parents were Karl S. and Pearl J. (Thomas) Kern. The two older brothers, Ralph and Fred lived to their high 80s, leaving between them Bob's one niece and six nephews. The death of Ralph's wife, Laverne (Hedrick), in 2007 ended 150 years of an unbroken line of the Kern family in Pittsfield, starting with the arrival of immigrant George Frederick Kern in 1857.
After seven years in Prairie School (in a one-room red-brick schoolhouse), Bob—as had his brothers, attended Pittsfield Community High School, graduating in 1941 as salutatorian of his class (and receiving his diploma from the hand of his father, then president of the school board).
The three sons were born in Pittsfield between 1919 and 1923. In 1927, the family bought a farm three miles southeast of Pittsfield on the Big Four Trail that led from Pittsfield to the village of Time. His father, a shrewd early adopter of the emerging technologies, paid for the farm in 10 years, despite the Great Depression that diminished the farm value by two-thirds—but not the mortgage.

Bob went to the University of Illinois on an agricultural scholarship, interrupting that career in 1944 to enter army service in World War II. Trained as an infantry replacement, Bob joined the 79th Infantry Division in Europe after it had lost a battalion in the little-known Bulge that occurred in Alsace-Lorraine at the same time as that in Belgium. With some action in two European campaigns, the culmination was the final crossing of the Rhine River at Dusseldorf and clearing the Ruhr Valley east to Essen to the Ruhr River. Then the division went into the Army of Occupation.

His platoon leader, having seen his writing as censor of Bob's battlefield letters, commissioned him to write the lieutenant's recommendations for medals for men in the platoon. That work caught the eye of the company commander, who put Bob to work on recommendations throughout the company. The division's Adjutant General, who processed the awards, had Bob called up for special duty as a writer of citations for the 79th Infantry Division, where he wrote about 3,000.
When the division was deactivated in Europe, Bob volunteered to join the Third U.S. Army (General Patton, commander) as a clerk—again a citations writer and later an administrative non-commissioned officer.In his 23 months of service, Bob earned the Combat Infantryman's Badge, two Bronze stars, Army Commendation Ribbon plus Good Conduct and Victory Medals, and battle stars for two European campaigns.

Discharged from military service in the summer of 1946, Bob returned to the University of Illinois. Two months later, he met and began a 67-year relationship with Verna L. Lathrop, Woodstock, IL—including almost 65 years of marriage. For most of her 20 years in ISU's Women's Physical Education, Verna was the lead academic adviser in the department, retiring in 1982. She died in 2013 after surviving five cancers.
Three children were born to Verna and Bob: Martha, who died in infancy; Karl Robert II, who lives in Princeton, MN with wife Ann—granddaughter Frances lives in Rockville, MD with husband Kyle Wellman; Barbara Louise Carlson (David), lives in Boise, ID, as does one granddaughter, Stephanie, while Jennifer (Sam) Govey and great-granddaughter Cecily and great grandson Roscoe, who lives outside London, U.K.

While on leave from Iowa State, Bob developed the information office for the international center, ICRISAT, in India. After retirement from ISU, he served a year as editor, Center for Improvement of Wheat and Corn, Mexico--CIMMYT (made famous by Iowan Norman Borlaug), and three years as communication officer at the International Service to National Agricultural Research Systems, The Netherlands.
He took a second retirement in 1984 and devoted the next 18 years to consulting on communication related to agriculture and the environment. Missions during these years had him working from a few weeks to many months in 42 countries. Thirteen of those missions were to the Near East (Jordan and Egypt); others took him to 15 Pacific islands, as well as countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and to Australia and New Zealand. He recounted those travels in a book, At Work in a Wider World, printed and bound privately for family and a few international colleagues.

Upon retirement, Bob had input all his letters home from his World War II experience, printing and binding a copy for each child. Later, he wrote his autobiography, Four Score and More, and after Verna's death wrote a biography of her life, Exceeding Expectations, Hallmark of the Well-Lived Years of Verna Lathrop Kern. The latter two volumes were published by Xlibris and are available through Amazon.

Bob continued writing, most in the format of historical memoir—his recall of events and activities. Many dealt with his professional society, American Association of Agricultural College Editors, in which he held all offices and was president in 1965-66. He received all the association's awards, twice getting the outstanding member plaque.
Bob and Verna were founding members of the Green Hills Retirement Community at Ames, moving into a townhouse in July 1986, then to an apartment in 2012. Bob lived on to become the longest living resident of the community. He wrote a "historical memoir" for the 25th anniversary of Green Hills. And he added a 5-year update for its 30th.
Inurnment of his ashes will be in a plot shared with Verna in the Iowa State University cemetery in Ames. Due to the Covid-19 situation, no memorial events are scheduled at this time.

(MS '66 Agriculture Education, MS Agronomy Science '93) DUNLAP – David E. Moore, 83, of Dunlap, passed away at 6:50 a.m. Sunday, September 6, 2020 a UnityPoint Methodist Medical Center in Peoria. He was born March 8, 1937 to parents, Glenn T. and Leota (Cossairt) Moore. He married Dorothy Mae Rosenbaum on July 3, 1960 in Peoria. She preceded him in death on April 24, 2008. He later married Bette Johnson on August 11, 2012. She preceded him in death on January 8, 2019.

Surviving are son, David (Judy) Moore of Princeton; brother, Larry (Becky) Moore of Inkster, MI; sister, Glenda Kay Bolin of Denver, CO; step-son, Kenny (Jamie) Johnson of Texas; step son, Gary (Merna) Johnson of North Carolina; step-daughter, Sheryl (Mitch) Sattler of Florida; grandson, Payton Moore of Princeton, IL; and several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one brother-in-law, Larry Bolin.

A Dunlap resident for over 50 years, David was a teacher for 32 years, retiring from Dunlap High School. He taught vocational, agriculture and science classes, and was also the FFA teacher. He received his bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees from the University of Illinois; one MS in Education-Agriculture in 1966 and one in Science-Agronomy in 1993. He was a member of the Illinois Retired Teachers Association.

In Mount Vernon, Virginia, called “George Washington” Pioneer farm site, he volunteered his time for a month and a half early in the summer on four acres. He demonstrated colonial farming techniques to more than 3,000 visitors each day, as well as gave seminars on the site to different groups and schools. He was selected by state agriculture education leaders for his dedication to young people pursuing careers in agriculture. David was a Kiwanis member; member of the Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap; was a booster club member at Dunlap High School and also kept the football clock for many years. He oversaw the long jump and triple jumps at the school’s track meets, as well. His hobbies were watching his beloved Illinois and Cubs play. He enjoyed watching and playing golf; and loved the outdoors, especially his cabin in Minnesota, where he fished and hunted, where many great stories and whoppers were told. David enjoyed taking FFA trips with his students to his cabin, as well. He loved to travel.

A visitation will be Friday, September 11, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap. Funeral service will immediately follow at 10:30 a.m., also at the church. Burial will be in Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria. Rev. Linda Vonck will officiate. Facial covering and social distancing mandates will be enforced.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois CancerCare; Central Illinois Alzheimer’s Association; Prospect United Methodist Church; or the Amputee Coalition at www.amputee-coalition.org. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is in charge of arrangements.

(BS '84, MS '87) Jeanne Bailey has been promoted to the rank of Career Minister, the highest rank an FAS Foreign Service Offcier can reach. This is the equivalent of a 3-star General in the military. There is only one grade level higher, which is reserved exclusively for officers of the Department of State.

(BS '91 Agriculture Science, MS '94 Vocational Technology)

The Idaho Division of Career Technical Education recently announced that Dr. John Cannon, graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, (BS Agr: Agr Sciences ’91)(MS: EDM: Voc-Tech Ed ’94)  was named the Career Technical Educators of Idaho (CTEI) 2020 Teacher Educator of Year. 

He was nominated by peers and selected because of exemplary service and outstanding examples of leadership in career technical education. 

Dr. John Cannon is an associate professor of education and CTE program coordinator at the University of Idaho.  

He is the facilitator for the Idaho Division of CTE’s InSpIRE to Educate program for new CTE teachers. InSpIRE seeks to train industry experts in an alternative way as these educators accept teaching positions in their content expertise at the secondary and post-secondary levels. 

TEI is proud to honor Dr. John Cannon with the Teacher Educator of the Year Award.

(MS '41)

 ORLANDO, FLORIDA – Two ShuffieldLowman partners were recently selected as 2020 Legal Elite attorneys by Florida Trend magazine. The “Legal Elite” designation represents fewer than 1.2% of the active Florida Bar members who practice in the state. The ShuffieldLowman partners honored are Alexander “Alex” S. Douglas II and Heidi W. Isenhart.

     Florida Trend magazine collects ballots from Florida Bar members, asking lawyers to name attorneys whom they hold in the highest regard and would recommend to others. The results of the annual survey are published in Florida Trend magazine.

     Douglas practices in the area of fiduciary litigation, with extensive experience in trust, probate and guardianship litigation. 

     Isenhart practices in the areas of elder law, Medicaid planning, guardianship, probate and trust administration, estate planning and special needs trusts.

    ShuffieldLowman’s four offices are located in Orlando, Tavares, DeLand and Port Orange. The firm is a 45 attorney, full-service law firm, practicing in the areas of corporate law, estate planning, real estate and litigation. Specific areas include tax law, securities, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, estate planning and probate, planning for families with closely held businesses, guardianship and elder law, tax controversy – Federal and State, non-profit organization law, banking and finance, land use and government law, commercial and civil litigation, fiduciary litigation, construction law, association law, bankruptcy and creditors’ rights, labor and employment, and mediation.

(BS '78) 90, husband of Evelyn W. Justus for almost 68 years and Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Economics at the University of Kentucky, passed away peacefully at his home on July 24, 2020. He was born in St. Louis, MO, on June 30, 1930 to Fred and Emma Justus. As a young boy, the family moved to a farm near Mascoutah, IL where Fred grew up. Fred graduated and received all of his degrees from the University of IL, and then served two years in the US Army at Ft. Lee, VA. Prior to coming to KY in 1967, he was Professor of Agricultural Economics at the University of MO. His duties as a professor at UK involved teaching, research and extension in Farm Business Management and Rural Real Estate Appraisal. He served as Coordinator of the KY Farm Business Management Program. The Southern Agricultural Economic Association presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award. He was a long-time member of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers and a past College VP. He also served 20 years as Sec-Treasurer of the KY chapter of ASFMRA and served one year as its President. Fred was also recognized with a Sierra Club award for his work and dedication toward saving the Red River Gorge. Fred was a devoted Boy Scout Leader for 50 years, serving as a Scoutmaster, Council Commissioner, and Council Boy Scout Leader Training Chairman. Mr. J, as he was known by his scouts, influenced and mentored many young men over the years and was known as a “one of a kind leader”. He was a long-time member of the Executive Board of the Bluegrass Council, BSA. He was presented the Lamb Award by the Lutheran Church and BSA for distinguished service to youths. As a long time Lutheran, Fred was a member and attended services at St. John’s Lutheran and Gethsemane Lutheran Churches. He served in various roles with both congregations, and had a strong faith that sustained him throughout his life.Fred lived a wonderful and full life. He was a great husband to Evelyn, loving parent to all of his children, their spouses, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Fred and Evelyn filled their lives with traveling, including all 50 states and Canada in their travel trailer. He especially loved Alaska (and had hoped to make one last trip), and Iceland on a recent trip. His other hobbies and vices included fishing, hiking, gardening, following Evelyn’s directions, smoking his pipe, and his nightly bourbon happy hour. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Doris, and a brother, George. Survivors in addition to his wife are his “4 good kids”: David (Susan) of Bowling Green, KY, Linda (Don) Harkins of Overland Park, KS, Cathy Cook of Lexington, and Steve Justus (Jill) of Lexington. He has 11 grandchildren: Jason (Evelyn), Nathan (Tiffany) Ben (Aubrey) Harkins; Greg (Cassie) Justus; Quentin, Chelsea, Olivia Cook; Steven (Dolapo), Celena Justus; Kristi (Brian) Bledsoe; Heather (Mike) Hugo. Eight great-grandchildren: Russell, Sophia, Evan, Jackson, Dominique, Xander, Ayden, Clara. Nephews Michael (Sandy) and Allen (Jody) Justus of Mascoutah, IL, sisters-in-law Frieda Justus and Lu Dickhaut also survive. Funeral and visitation arrangements are pending. Services will be at St. John’s Lutheran Church, officiating by Pastor Betterman and Pastor Laura Altman. Interment will follow at Bluegrass Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials suggested to Bluegrass Council BSA, St. John’s Lutheran Church, or Gethsemane Lutheran Church.

(BS '65)

An obituary is not available at this time for Philip Nathaniel Appleton. We welcome you to provide your thoughts and memories on our Tribute Wall. 

https://www.malonefh.com/obituary/PhilipNathaniel-Appleton

 

(BS '78)

Kevin D. Wright, age 48, of LaGrange; beloved husband of Laura (nee Bregenzer); loving father of Danny; dear son of Cleonne and the late Daniel Wright; fond brother of Angela (James) Stanford, Andrew (Angela), & Kurt (Jill); dear uncle of Elina, Aiyana, Cooper, Alex, Madeline, & Kenzie; dear son-in-law of Harold & Margaret Bregenzer; nephew, cousin, brother-in-law, & friend of many.

A visitation will be held from 3 to 9pm on Friday, July 17 at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. Group limit and social distancing will be in place; masks required. Due to current restrictions, Mass at St. Francis Xavier Church of LaGrange is private. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Kevin’s name to NephCure (https://nephcure.org/) or to the “Benefit of Danny Wright”, Signature Bank, Attn: Ella, 7292 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60631, are appreciated. Funeral info: (708) 352-6500

(BS '49 Agriculture)

John Ammon, age 93 of Winslow, IL, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2020, surrounded by his family.  He was born on October 19, 1926 in Winslow to John Sr. and Hulda (Rolli) Ammon.  He graduated from Winslow High School in 1944, served his country in the United States Navy, was a World War II Veteran, he then graduated from the University of Illinois in 1949 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture.  John married Orla Thomas on August 28, 1949 at the Zion Evangelical Church in Pearl City, IL.   Together they owned and operated the Ammon Turkey Farm at their home in Winslow from 1949 until retiring in 1993.

John was a member of the McConnell United Methodist Church, Winslow American Legion Post 592, Farm Bureau and the Illinois State Turkey Growers Association.  He was continually active in community service through out his life and had served as a board member for the Lena -Winslow School District, Highland Community College Foundation, and the Winslow Fire Department board of trustees. John had served as Mayor of Winslow for 16 years and spent countless hours on committees for the Winslow River Days and Paradise Cove.

He received many awards and accomplishments in his life, but was most proud of the Prairie Farmers- Master Farmer Award (1969), Stephenson County Soil and Water Conservation District- Friend of the District Award (2009), and his Hole-In-One (1996) at the Lena Golf Course.  He was instrumental in writing the application in 2002 for Winslow to win the Governor’s Hometown Award, building the waterfall and covered bridge at Paradise Cove and always striving to make Winslow the best it could be.  He always enjoyed family and friends, fishing, euchre, pinochle, and poker games, making wine from his own grapes, turkey bar-b-ques, working the land and trees, travelling and a good joke.

John is survived by his children- Amy (Gary) Bublitz of West Dundee, IL, Trish (JC) Bishop of O’Fallon, IL, John F. (Nanette) Ammon of Longmont, CO, and Lisa Ammon of Freeport, IL; 5 grandchildren- Sarah (Brad) Davis of Falls Church, VA, Joshua Bishop of O’Fallon, IL, John Thomas (Darlene) Bishop of Caseyville, IL, Isaiah Ammon of Longmont, CO and Jared Ammon of Longmont, CO; and his great-grandson due in early August.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Orla in 2015, his parents, sisters and their husbands- Marjorie and Leland Wenzel, Marian and John Timmerman, Orla’s brothers and their wives- Emery and Frieda Thomas and James and Elaine Thomas.

John’s family would like to thank Sheila Hartman and the staff at Oakley Courts for their care, compassion and kindness these past 2 ½ years and Gary Ols for his continuing friendship.

(BS '65)

David Budd Duncan, '65 ACES, May 26, 2020, Alexis, Illinois

Parents: Eugene & Ida Budd, '37 ACES; Son: Jeffrey, '99 ACES

(BS '78) Oelwein, Iowa; January 17, 2020

(BS '49 Agriculture)

      ORLANDO, FLORIDA – William “Bill” R. Lowman, Jr., Heidi W. Isenhart, Alexander "Alex" S. Douglas, II, and Stephanie L. Cook, all partners with the law firm of ShuffieldLowman, have been selected as 2020 Florida Super Lawyers. Partner, Daniel Harris, has been named a 2020 Rising Star. 

     Super Lawyers, owned by Thomson Reuters, recognizes attorneys who have distinguished themselves in their legal practice.  The selection process is multi-phased and rigorous.  Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with third-party research and validation of the attorney's professional accomplishments.  The final published list represents five percent of the total lawyers in the state of Florida.

     A founding partner of the firm, Lowman's practice areas include corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, estate planning, high net worth family planning, intellectual property, securities, tax advice, and non-profit law.

      Isenhart practices in the areas of elder law, Medicaid planning, guardianship, probate and trust administration, estate planning and special needs trusts.

     Douglas and Cook both practice in the area of fiduciary litigation, with extensive experience in trust, probate and guardianship litigation.  

     Rising Star, Daniel Harris, practices in the areas of estate planning, probate, tax law, high net worth family planning, corporate law and non-profit law. 

     ShuffieldLowman's four offices are located in Orlando, Tavares, DeLand and Port Orange. The firm is a 45 attorney, full service, business law firm, practicing in the areas of corporate law, estate planning, real estate and litigation. Specific areas include tax law, securities, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, estate planning and probate, planning for families with closely held businesses, guardianship and elder law, tax controversy - Federal and State, non-profit organization law, banking and finance, land use and government law, commercial and civil litigation, fiduciary litigation, construction law, association law, bankruptcy and creditors’ rights, labor and employment, and mediation.

(BS '00)

TJ Jacob (Thomas Joseph John Jacob) moved on in the circle of life on Christmas Eve, 2019. He

departed quickly and peacefully from natural causes at his home in Fort Collins, Colorado, after a

brief illness. He was happy and full of life, right up until his spirit decided to move on.

TJ left behind his loving life partner, Nancy Nichols, whom he met at the University of Illinois at

Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), where both worked in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and

Environmental Sciences (College of ACES, formerly College of Agriculture).

During various periods of his life, he was affectionately known as Tom, Tommy, Jake, TJ, and Lichen

Spirit Warrior. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Martin Jacob; his mother, Marion

(Koehler) Jacob; and his brother John Jacob, all of Chicago. Close surviving relatives include his

brother Dennis Jacob of Chicago and sister Joanne (Jacob) Ginocchio of Port Charlotte, Florida.

TJ grew up in an apartment behind the family tavern, ABC Tap, in the Portage Park community of

Chicago. He attended St. Bartholomew’s School and St. Patrick’s High School. He started college at

the University of Illinois-Circle Campus on Navy Pier. He transferred to the UIUC campus, where he

earned a B.S. in Forestry and an M.S. in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences.

He spent time as a logging engineer in Alaska and a wildland firefighter in Oregon before settling

into a teaching career at UIUC. After working in academia for 20 years, in 1996 he moved to Fort

Collins, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, where his love of the outdoors flourished.

TJ truly loved his life, family, and friends. Ever youthful and joyful, he cherished every day, whether

working in his beloved vegetable garden or embarking on grand adventures such as

mountaineering and canoeing trips; a coast-to-coast bike tour; vacations in Europe, Central

America, and India; and passages of the Atlantic Ocean on the Queen Mary II.

TJ was a brother, uncle, teacher, mentor, confidant, and faithful friend to so many people he met in

the various places where he lived, including his hometown of Chicago; his university town of

Champaign-Urbana; his Colorado town of Fort Collins; his wildland-firefighting town of Hood River,

Oregon; and his logging town of Ketchikan, Alaska. He loved meeting new people and conversing

about virtually any subject. Never without a fabulous story to offer, TJ thrived on conversation and

was happy to provide helpful advice to anyone who sought his guidance.

TJ’s occupations and avocations over the years included business owner, university lecturer,

university program director, academic adviser, maintenance mechanic, wildland firefighter, logging

engineer, deep ecologist, forester, canoeist, mountaineer, expedition leader, runner, bicyclist,

insurance agent, banker, salesman, claims examiner, master gardener, cook, organizer, life coach,

conservationist, conversationalist, Poudre Wilderness Volunteer, and storyteller.

An ardent environmentalist, TJ sought tranquility and happiness for himself, others, and Mother

Earth. A brilliant thinker and orator, TJ freely gave of his many talents toward efforts to heal the

earth and create a sustainable path for humanity. Known as Mr. Environment at UIUC, he helped

organize the campus’s first Earth Day Celebration, attracting 5,000 participants. First at the

Institute for Environmental Studies and later in the Department of Natural Resources and

Environmental Sciences (formerly Department of Forestry), TJ created 13 new credit courses.

Notable among them were Earth Care, Ecology of Commerce, Story as a Tool for Teaching About the

Environment, Human Ecosystems, and Ecology for Educators. The latter was one of his crowning

achievements that quickly became a required course for all science-education students in the

College of Education.

TJ’s name appeared on the UIUC List of Excellent Teachers from 1980 to 1996, and he was invited

to give keynote speeches at many conferences and special events, including an inspirational

keynote address to incoming freshmen at the College of ACES from 1990 through 1995. He advised

an estimated 10,000 students at UIUC, many of whom followed career paths that he inspired.

Before beginning his teaching career, TJ co-owned Grade VI Expedition Outfitters, with stores in

Champaign-Urbana and Indianapolis. He also worked as a supervisor at Cook County Forest

Preserves, among other ventures.

After leaving academia, TJ added banker and insurance agent to his resume. At the time of his

passing, he was one of Enterprise Holdings’ top claims examiners, a company with 100,000

employees worldwide.

TJ brightened many people’s lives and made a positive influence wherever he went. For those who

were closest to him, we will miss his intelligence, loyalty, humor, compassion, and joy. May his spirit

enrich whomever and whatever it touches in his journey forward.

(BS '00) Dana Stewart was promoted to the Director of the International Franchise division for Claire’s Brands, Inc. She joined the company’s Hoffman Estates office in 2012.

(BS '54 College of Agriculture)

Delbert Delaine Mundt, age 91, of Dieterich, Illinois, went to his heavenly home on Thursday, April 30th, 2020 at 1:34 pm at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Our Dad loved being a part of this community and hoped that each person knows that one person’s contribution makes a difference.

Delbert was given life by his Creator on August 28, 1928, on the family farm in Bishop Township, rural Dieterich, Illinois, the son of Louis and Clara (Miller) Mundt.  He married Geraldine (Jeri) Mellendorf on March 8th 1953, at St. John Lutheran Church on the Effingham – Clay County Line by the late Rev. Harold Schlicker.  Jeri preceded him in death on June 7th 2019.  He was blessed with six children.

Delbert was baptized and confirmed both by Rev. W.C. Redeker at St. John Lutheran Church of rural Dieterich.  He attended Bishop Point one room grade school, He graduated from Dieterich 3 year High School in 1945 and Teutopolis High School in 1946.  He attended Southern Illinois University and graduated from the University of Illinois in 1954 receiving a BS degree in Agriculture and a commission in the U.S. Air Force. While at the U of I, he was on the Championship Intramural Basketball Team. Delbert served in the U.S. Air Force for 3 years active duty in Wales and England, and then the Air Force Active Reserves for 7 years. He resigned as captain. Upon his return, Delbert went into partnership with his father on the farm 1958 – 1990. During that time, he also was an agent for Bishop Mutual Insurance Company taking over the role when his father retired until his own retirement in 2000.

Delbert was a life-long member of St. John Lutheran Church, rural Dieterich, and held various offices.  He was Chairman of the Building Committee for the new Lutheran church built in 1983-1984, President of our 3 church Lutheran Laymen League (LLL) club, President of Zone LLL and their district Board as part of the development and expansion and participated in church workshops throughout Central Illinois District.  First District director of newly established Farm Bureau Young People and then served on their State Board.   Served 2 different terms on the University of Illinois Extension Council and started and was co leader of Lucas & Bishop (L & B) Ag Stars 4-H Club for 15 years, one of the founders and first treasurer of Effingham County Pork Producers.  Served on the Dieterich Community school board for 10 years, PTO President 1 year, Vice President on the Wabash Valley School Board Association. He was Treasurer of the unsuccessful National Trail Junior College steering committee, also Advisory Boards for Lake Land College, Advisory Board for St. Anthony Memorial Hospital, Norris Electric Board for 23 years - President 10 years, Association of Illinois Electric State Board and served as Chairman of the board for 2 years one of the founders and first Secretary (third President) of Dieterich Community Ruritan Club, one of the founders and first President of Dieterich Community Development Corporation (DCDC), founder along with his wife Jeri and first president of Greater Effingham Alliance for the Mentally Ill, served and was President 2 years on Illinois Alliance for the Mentally Ill, served on Governor Thompson’s commission to revise the Mental Health Code, served on the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod committee for mental illness, served on the Effingham County Mental Health 708 Board and on CEFS Community Opportunities Board, served on a 5 member Planning Committee for the Dieterich Community Veterans Memorial.

Founder and first President of EJ Water (Incorporated May 1989) also known as “Father” of EJ Water, director from 1989 – 2011.  While helping to develop EJ Water, Delbert developed steering committees in each of six townships surrounding Dieterich – then nine directors - worked closely with USDA Rural development.  President of Eastgate Regional Water Corporation, was original member of Holland Water Group,

Delbert was named outstanding young farmer in 1960; Effingham County Conservation Farm Family of the Year 1970; Doing it Wright in Dieterich 1994; BESI Award in 1995; Illinois Co-op Director of the Year from AIEC 1993; Citizen of the Year award presented by the Effingham Daily News in 2003.  He received the ACES Alumni Association Award by the University of Illinois College of Agricultural in 2004.

Delbert is survived by his children, Brenda Mundt of Effingham, Kevin Mundt (Dave Thomas) of California, Jae Mundt of Colorado, Donna Mundt of Dieterich and Sharon (Dan) Harn of Alabama; sisters Lorene Thoele of Teutopolis and Irma Horn of Dieterich. Also sisters-in-law, Natalie Mellendorf of Wisconsin, Verda Mellendorf of Louisville, Bonnie Mellendorf of Dieterich, Audrey Garbe of Effingham, and many cherished nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

Those preceded him in death are his wife Jeri (Geraldine), son Bruce in 1990, parents, sister Verda Mae (Krabbe) Schottman and cousin Lowell Miller.

To simply state Dad was active with his family, church and community would have been sufficient.  However, Dad asked that we include his activities as it was his hope that others would be inspired to be active in their communities through God’s wisdom and knowledge.  Our Dad loved knowing you and being in community with you all.

In loving memory of Delbert, the family ask that you plant a tree in honor of Delbert or in memory of a loved one, Worship Anew (formerly Worship for Shut-ins), Dieterich Schools Education Foundation, Lutheran Care Center of Altamont or donor’s choice.  Arrangements are under the care of the Meyer Funeral Home in Dieterich, Illinois. The obituary can be viewed and condolecnes left at www.meverfh.com.

(BS '73) Stevan A. Brockman, 1973 ACES, has just self-published his second auto-biography titled "It Should Have Been A Wonderful Life" which is a continuation of his first auto-biography, "I Was Compost When Compost Wasn't Cool" that was published some 10 years ago and both by Authorhouse Publishing. The new edition describes the up's and down's in his as well as his wife's life, greed and manipulation of the elder by certain family members, our court system and lawyers, village politics, influential people that were met along the way, big-time farming, large scale composting and the love of land and machinery.

(BS '45) On April 11, 2020, Anne Dirks Swain, died at the age of 97. She was born on November 30, 1922 in East Lansing, Michigan, graduated from the University of Illinois in 1945, and worked for the Fairfax County Council of the Arts for 24 years. She married Harold Dow Swain (Hal) on September 24, 1945.

Anne had a passion for her family, church, and friends. She was a member of St. Matthews United Methodist Church and sang in the church choir for many years, was on the church altar guild, delivered Meals on Wheels, and was active in her women's circle. She was a savvy bridge player with numerous awards to attest to her expertise. She could always be found with her nose either in a book or reading the newspaper. She also enjoyed traveling, the symphony, investment club, and visiting with her grandchildren. She was known for her kindness and sensitive and compassionate spirit.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Col. Harold D. Swain, Jr. (Hal) and son Harold D. Swain, III (Mike), her parents, Henry B. Dirks former Dean of Engineering at MSU, and his wife, Blanche B. Dirks, and a brother, Henry B. Dirks, Jr. (Libby). She is survived by two sons, Robert, John (Ann), one daughter Patricia, her daughter-in-law Elizabeth Cypher; two grandchildren, Marc (Mary Beth) and Rachel.

(BS '49)

Floyd F. Clark, 93, of Lostant, Illinois, formerly of the Long Point/Ancona area, passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at Manor Court, Peru.

Mr. Clark was born November 26, 1926 in Ancona to Floyd F. and Gladys (Arnold) Clark. He graduated from Long Point High School and served in the U. S. Army Air Corps during World War II. After serving his country, he attended the University of Illinois and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1949. He married Lodene Dominic in 1949, together they had four children. He later married Evelyn (Strode) Breckenridge in Lostant on March 8, 1997; she passed away on April 1, 2016. He attended Richland United Methodist Church and was a member of the Long Point American Legion Post #1217. He was very proud to be a lifelong farmer, being active for over 60 years. His favorite hobbies were woodworking and traveling.

He is survived by his children, David F. (Susan) of Ancona, Alan L. (Gail) of Peru, Thomas R. (Karen) of Long Point and Susan L. Trillet of Batavia; nine grandchildren, Kendra Shelton, Kevin Clark, Brian Clark, Robert Clark, Scott Clark, Becky Clark, Calvin Trillet, Michael Clark and Ryan Trillet; two great-grandchildren, Beckett and Kyler Shelton.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Evelyn.

(BS '70)

Richard Allen Heinkel, age 71 of Lena, IL went to his heavenly home on January 13, 2020.

He was born on May 8, 1948 in Freeport, IL to Allen and Verena Heinkel. He was a graduate of LenaWinslow High School in 1966. He then went to the University of Illinois and graduated with a degree in Business Agriculture in 1970 and was a member of the Beta Sigma Psi fraternity. He farmed with his Dad for a couple years and then started his career in the Insurance industry. He became one of the first seven Certified Insurance Counselor’s (CIC) in the state of Illinois and was very proud of that. He worked at a few insurance companies in the area before becoming co-owner of Taylor Heinkel Enterprises in Lena. He did that until retirement. He loved talking with people in his office, even if they just stopped by for a visit.

Richard was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Lena. He was very strong in his faith and loved his church home and all the friends made throughout the years. He served on many committees and boards over the years and was also Church President.

Richard was involved in many clubs and associations throughout the years. He was a member of the Lena Lions Club, where he served many positions and also served as District Cabinet Secretary. He was a member of the Lena Business Association to help make Lena a great place to live. He served as the Village Trustee from 1991-1995 and then Village President from 1997-2005.

He was an avid sports fan, especially of the Fighting Illini – good or bad. In his younger years he played basketball, softball, bowling, football and volleyball. He passed along his love of basketball to both his children, especially his son. He missed very few of his college games, traveling across Iowa even in blizzard conditions. He was also an avid collector of Planters Peanuts, Orange Crush and Crayola. He enjoyed photography and even won a local photography contest with the beautiful pictures he took. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with this family and friends going on adventures and playing cards.

He is survived by the love of his life Kathy Becke and they were happily married for 44 years. They raised two children: daughter Jennifer (Erik) Bennett of Sun Prairie, WI and son Lon (Candice) of Dubuque, IA. He adored and loved his three grandsons Alexander, Maxwell and Blake. He was so proud of everything they did and would start conversations with friends by telling stories about them. He is also survived by siblings VeAnn (Greg) Klipstein, Kay Heid (Stephen Hauser), Dale (Linda) and Lyle, Sister-in-law Barb Pinnow and Brother-in-law Daylon (Beth) Becke as well many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, parent in-laws Milford and Helen Becke, Uncle Elmer Wyss, Uncle and Aunt Harold and Margaret Heinkel and cousin Elizabeth Heinkel.

Celebration of life services will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, January 21, 2020 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lena, IL. Visitation prior to the service from 9:00 am – 10:30 am. Reverend Rick Bader will officiate the services. A luncheon will follow the service in the fellowship hall.

Cremation rites to be accorded. The family wishes to extend a thank you to Monroe Clinic Hospital, Lena Living Center and FHN Hospice for all the care that they gave Richard.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name.

(BS '74) Dr. James E. Sullivan has had an illustrious career in the animal feed industry. Jim grew up on a family farm and recieved academic training at the Universiry of Kentucky and University of Illinois. Dr. Sullivan is a pioneer in the use of food industry byproducts in the animal feed industry. Dr. Sullivan orchestrated the building of the first dedicated whey permeate drying facility in the world. In part due to th effors of Dr. Sullivan, brewer's yeast, chocolate, sugar food, cheese and other food byproducts have found their way into animal food. 

(BS '74)

Source: Livestock Publications Council (LPC) news release

The Headliner award is presented each year to a deserving individual for their service to the livestock industry. This year, LPC recognized Lyle Orwig, and Cindy Cunningham, past LPC president, presented Orwig with the award during the 2019 Ag Media Summit.

Orwig has been involved in agriculture since an early age growing up on his family farm in east-central Illinois. In 1992 Orwig co-founded Charleston|Orwig, Hartland, Wisconsin. In their own words, a marketing communications agency that is "dedicated to those who grow, harvest, process, package, distribute, market, eat and dispose of food." He is a 1968 graduate of Clifton Central High School and a 1974 ACES graduate of University of Illinois and currently resides in Wales, Wisconsin and chaska, Minnesota.

Orwig's commitment of time and effort to LPC and its membership as well as the livestock industry has helped his clients and friends in agriculture.

Commenting on Orwig deserving the award, Cunningham said, "Lyle's support of LPC and AMS over the years has bolstered the careers of numerous ag communicators. Whether it was being a quiet mentor, supporter of his staff engaging in our meetings, or a strong champion for agriculture, Lyle helped to better LPC and its members."

(MS '64)

ATTORNEY COLLEEN M. HURLEY CERTIFIED AS GUARDIAN AD LITEM TO REPRESENT CHILDREN IN DIVORCE CUSTODY CASES

Schaumburg, IL – Colleen M. Hurley, attorney at Schaumburg-based Lavelle Law, was recently certified as a Guardian ad Litem and Child Representative in Cook County, Illinois. A Guardian ad Litem is an attorney appointed by a judge to investigate the best interests of a child in divorce or custody cases.

The process to become a GAL and Child Representative took roughly two years as Hurley had to complete training and three pro bono Child Rep cases through Chicago Volunteer Legal Services in the Domestic Relations Division in Cook County. Hurley earned her J.D. and Certificate in Family Law from DePaul University College of Law.

“Representation for children is a very important part of family law,” said Lavelle Law Managing Partner Ted McGinn. “Children deserve the same unbiased representation as their parents and we’re proud to help those children have a voice in divorce or custody cases through Colleen’s commitment to this objective.”

Hurley’s desire to work with children began at an early age and was confirmed after interning at the Children’s Advocacy Center in Champaign County while earning her undergraduate degree at the University of Illinois. It was here that she saw a great need for advocacy for children in crisis.

“I went to law school with the goal of becoming a Guardian ad Litem,” said Hurley. “I am grateful to the team at Lavelle Law, who have been so encouraging and supportive as I pursued that goal through my professional practice. I am honored and humbled to reach this point in my legal career and to represent children’s interests in family law matters.”

The process involves interviews with the child, the parents, teachers, family members, physicians and others, and concludes with written report submitted to the court with recommendations for the child, followed by testimony as to the investigation, in the Guardian ad Litem capacity. In the Child Representative capacity, the process involves similar investigation, but advocacy on behalf of the child’s best interests through litigation.

For more information about Guardian ad Litem or Child Representative practice and Lavelle Law’s Family Law practice, read Hurley’s recent post https://www.lavellelaw.com/appointment-of-attorney-for-child-child-representative-and-guardian-ad-litem.

Lavelle Law’s main office is in Schaumburg and maintains an additional office in the Chicago Loop. The firm was founded in 1989 as a single attorney practice with an emphasis on tax law. The firm has added more than a dozen practice groups including Estate Planning, Business Law, Banking Law, Litigation, Criminal, Immigration, Divorce and Family Law, Commercial and Residential Real Estate and Law Practice Consulting. The firm has received numerous awards and commendations for their business success, their commitment to ethics, national recognition for their pro bono services, and multiple acknowledgements of the charitable work they do in the local communities. For more information, visit [http://www.lavellelaw.com%3chttp:/www.lavellelaw.com/]www.lavellelaw.com<http://www.lavellelaw.com/> or follow Lavelle Law on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

(MS '64)

I have published a children's book entitled,

"Where Did Yesterday Go?"

My second children's book is due out this week entitled,

" I Want a Circle Haircut Just like you gave my Daddy!" I am currently working on my third book. Each book is dedicated to one of our three children.

(PhD '91)

Sarah Kitlinski (class of 2013) and Emily Tripicchio (class of 2012) recently joined the law firm BatesCarey as associates.

Sarah focuses on professional liability coverage, with a focus on cyber liability and privacy issues. Her practice includes advising international and domestic insurers in pre-litigation insurance coverage analysis and litigation of complex insurance coverage disputes.

Emily’s practice focuses on counseling and representing domestic and international insurers nationwide in complex insurance coverage and bad faith matters.

(BS '53 General Agricultural)

James Richard Brown passed away June 10, 2019, at Lenoir Woods.

Jim is survived by his wife, Erma Jean Brown, and four daughters, Darcie Manning, Lisa Brown, Sandy Murray (Jeff) and Diana Recker (Don).

Also surviving are seven grandchildren, Michael and Katie Manning, Mark and Emily Murray and Ava, Ariana and Ainsley Recker. Nancy Stetson, sister, and nephews Mike (Connie), Mark and Clif Stetson also survive.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter, Kathy Jean; and a brother-in-law, Joseph Stetson.

Jim was born to Oscar and Grace (Cook) Brown on Oct. 6, 1931, in Charleston, Illinois, and grew up on a farm in Edgar County, Illinois. He was active in sports, FFA, band, 4-H and church during his youth. In 1953, he graduated from the College of Agriculture at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with honors in general agriculture and a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Jim was in active military service at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and overseas in Germany for several years. He was released from active service as a first lieutenant and remained in the Army Reserves until retiring as a lieutenant colonel after 20 years of service.

Jim received an M.S. in soil management from the University of Illinois in 1957 and received a doctorate in soil fertility in 1963 from Iowa State University. While at Iowa State, he met and married Erma Jean Sansgaard.

On Jan. 1, 1963, Jim joined the faculty of the Department of Soils at the University of Missouri and remained on the faculty until his appointment as professor emeritus of soil science in September 1998. During his years at MU, Jim taught several courses and directed research in many fields including soybean fertility, vegetable nitrates, micronutrients in farm crops and fertility management of forage crops.

Dr. Brown upgraded and directed the soil testing laboratory on the MU campus for several years. He became the director of Sanborn Field in 1984, a position he held until his retirement. Sanborn Field activities led to the centennial celebration of the Field in 1988 and invitations to England and Denmark for meetings with international scientists working on long-term field research.

Jim was active in several professional committees and work groups: Fellow of the Soil Science Society of America, Elder at First Presbyterian Church, member of Golden K Kiwanis Club and served on Board of Directors and as president, Pinnacles Park board member, 4-H club project leader, Central Missouri Rock and Lapidary Club and Life Member of the Ashmore Illinois AF and AM Lodge #390.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 16, 2019, at the Lenoir Woods Epple Chapel, 3710 S. Lenoir St., Columbia, MO 65201. Visitation will be prior to the service at 1 p.m. Inurnment will be at the U.S. Military Cemetery near Jacksonville, Missouri, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jim’s name to one of the following: Lenoir Benevolent Care, 3710 Lenoir St., Columbia, MO 65201, or the Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri, 2101 Vandiver Drive, Columbia, MO 65202.

(BS '60 Ag Marketing)

Kenneth Riecks, 87, died at 12:07 a.m. Monday, July 1, 2019,  at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton Senior Living.

Funeral services for the Air Force veteran will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 6, at First United Methodist Church, 210 W. Center St., Paxton. The Rev. John Hauck will officiate. Burial will be in Glen Cemetery, Paxton.

Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday at the church.

Baier Family Funeral Services, 406 E. Pells St., Paxton, is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Riecks was born June 6, 1932, in Anchor Twp, McLean County, a son of Frederich and Edith Riecks. He married Natalie Wiggers December 31, 1960 in Urbana. She survives.

Also surviving are three sons, Mark (Stacey) Riecks of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, David (Anna Barnes) Riecks of Champaign and Craig (Candi) Riecks of Loda; six grandchildren, Kimberly (Jeremy) To, Bailey Riecks, Blake Riecks, Corbin Riecks, Carter Riecks and Caiden Riecks; two great grandchildren; and three sisters, Roberta Stein, Shirley (Ron) Wright, Karolyn (Wayne) Riecks-Estes.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother Edith, who died when he was 14. After his mother died, his father married Velna, who also preceded him in death, and one sister, Vauna Jones of Gibson City.

Mr. Riecks spent his childhood in the rural Anchor area. He graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor of science degree in Ag and Marketing. He served in the United States Air Force from 1952-1956. During this time, he logged more 120 flights to various different bases all over the world.

After his marriage, he and his wife lived in Mahomet before moving to Lake Iroquois, Loda, in 1988. He worked for several years at both Kroger Foods and JM Jones/Supervalu in Champaign. In 1986 he purchased the Paxton IGA, where he worked until his retirement in 2002.

Mr. Riecks was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Paxton, where he was always active in church activities and enjoyed playing on the church softball team. He was also a member of the Paxton Rotary Club, Paxton Chamber, Paxton Lions Club, PRIDE in Paxton, United Fund, Lake Iroquois finance committee and the Exchange Club. He was involved with the Boy Scouts of America and was a mentor at the Paxton Junior High School.

He traveled extensively over the years with retail and wholesale grocer groups.

(BS '70) Janet Kolmer Grommet, BS '70 ACES (MS '72, PhD '78 Michigan State University). New academic position within the City University of New York system from nutrition faculty at Brooklyn College to Hunter College in Manhattan where she is now faculty coordinator for graduate nutrition student research in addition to her ongoing clinical nutrition research and undergraduate and graduate teaching responsibilities.

(BS '70) Janet Kolmer Grommet, BS '70 ACES (MS '72, PhD '78 Michigan State University). New academic position within the City University of New York system from nutrition faculty at Brooklyn College to Hunter College in Manhattan where she is now faculty coordinator for graduate nutrition student research in addition to her ongoing clinical nutrition research and undergraduate and graduate teaching responsibilities.

(PhD '91)

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – COUNTRY Financial® has named Steve Denault, of Bloomington, as executive vice president and chief operating officer, effective immediately. Denault has served as executive vice president of Enterprise Customer Operations since March 2017.

“Steve has deep knowledge about our business, having been part of our family of companies for nearly 30 years,” said Jim Jacobs, chief executive officer for COUNTRY Financial. “Steve’s proven track record of bringing people, processes and technology together made him the clear choice for our Chief Operating Officer.”

In this role, Denault will be responsible for leading the product and technology divisions within the organization. Specifically, he will lead Property Casualty, Financial Services and Information Technology.

Denault joined the COUNTRY Financial parent organization, Illinois Farm Bureau, in 1991 and moved to COUNTRY in 1992 as a health business analyst. He moved to Human Resources in 1995 where he held various positions. He became vice president of Human Resources in 2006, senior vice president of Human Resources and Communications in 2010, executive vice president of Corporate Services in 2012, and executive vice president of Enterprise Business Services in 2014.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business from Illinois State University, Normal, in 1987. He then earned a master’s degree in agricultural economics from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, in 1991. Denault furthered his insurance education and earned the Chartered Life Underwriter and Certified Compensation Professional designations. He holds a certification in Strategic Human Resource Management from Cornell University.

Denault is a former chairman of the Advocate BroMenn Medical Center Governing Council and former chairman of the McLean County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He is a commissioner on the Central Illinois Regional Airport Authority Board, the vice president of the BN Advantage leadership council and a member of the Illinois State University Foundation Board. Denault chaired the 2016 Red Cross of the Heartland Evening of Stars. He is a private pilot and a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association.

(MS '57 Soil Science)

James Richard Brown passed away June 10, 2019, at Lenoir Woods.

Jim is survived by his wife, Erma Jean Brown, and four daughters, Darcie Manning, Lisa Brown, Sandy Murray (Jeff) and Diana Recker (Don).

Also surviving are seven grandchildren, Michael and Katie Manning, Mark and Emily Murray and Ava, Ariana and Ainsley Recker. Nancy Stetson, sister, and nephews Mike (Connie), Mark and Clif Stetson also survive.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter, Kathy Jean; and a brother-in-law, Joseph Stetson.

Jim was born to Oscar and Grace (Cook) Brown on Oct. 6, 1931, in Charleston, Illinois, and grew up on a farm in Edgar County, Illinois. He was active in sports, FFA, band, 4-H and church during his youth. In 1953, he graduated from the College of Agriculture at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with honors in general agriculture and a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Jim was in active military service at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and overseas in Germany for several years. He was released from active service as a first lieutenant and remained in the Army Reserves until retiring as a lieutenant colonel after 20 years of service.

Jim received an M.S. in soil management from the University of Illinois in 1957 and received a doctorate in soil fertility in 1963 from Iowa State University. While at Iowa State, he met and married Erma Jean Sansgaard.

On Jan. 1, 1963, Jim joined the faculty of the Department of Soils at the University of Missouri and remained on the faculty until his appointment as professor emeritus of soil science in September 1998. During his years at MU, Jim taught several courses and directed research in many fields including soybean fertility, vegetable nitrates, micronutrients in farm crops and fertility management of forage crops.

Dr. Brown upgraded and directed the soil testing laboratory on the MU campus for several years. He became the director of Sanborn Field in 1984, a position he held until his retirement. Sanborn Field activities led to the centennial celebration of the Field in 1988 and invitations to England and Denmark for meetings with international scientists working on long-term field research.

Jim was active in several professional committees and work groups: Fellow of the Soil Science Society of America, Elder at First Presbyterian Church, member of Golden K Kiwanis Club and served on Board of Directors and as president, Pinnacles Park board member, 4-H club project leader, Central Missouri Rock and Lapidary Club and Life Member of the Ashmore Illinois AF and AM Lodge #390.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 16, 2019, at the Lenoir Woods Epple Chapel, 3710 S. Lenoir St., Columbia, MO 65201. Visitation will be prior to the service at 1 p.m. Inurnment will be at the U.S. Military Cemetery near Jacksonville, Missouri, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jim’s name to one of the following: Lenoir Benevolent Care, 3710 Lenoir St., Columbia, MO 65201, or the Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri, 2101 Vandiver Drive, Columbia, MO 65202

(MS '91 Agricultural Economics)

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – COUNTRY Financial® has named Steve Denault, of Bloomington, as executive vice president and chief operating officer, effective immediately.  Denault has served as executive vice president of Enterprise Customer Operations since March 2017.

 

“Steve has deep knowledge about our business, having been part of our family of companies for nearly 30 years,” said Jim Jacobs, chief executive officer for COUNTRY Financial.  “Steve’s proven track record of bringing people, processes and technology together made him the clear choice for our Chief Operating Officer.”  

 

In this role, Denault will be responsible for leading the product and technology divisions within the organization.  Specifically, he will lead Property Casualty, Financial Services and Information Technology.

 

Denault joined the COUNTRY Financial parent organization, Illinois Farm Bureau, in 1991 and moved to COUNTRY in 1992 as a health business analyst. He moved to Human Resources in 1995 where he held various positions.  He became vice president of Human Resources in 2006, senior vice president of Human Resources and Communications in 2010, executive vice president of Corporate Services in 2012, and executive vice president of Enterprise Business Services in 2014.

 

He earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business from Illinois State University, Normal, in 1987. He then earned a master’s degree in agricultural economics from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, in 1991. Denault furthered his insurance education and earned the Chartered Life Underwriter and Certified Compensation Professional designations. He holds a certification in Strategic Human Resource Management from Cornell University.

 

Denault is a former chairman of the Advocate BroMenn Medical Center Governing Council and former chairman of the McLean County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He is a commissioner on the Central Illinois Regional Airport Authority Board, the vice president of the BN Advantage leadership council and a member of the Illinois State University Foundation Board.  Denault chaired the 2016 Red Cross of the Heartland Evening of Stars. He is a private pilot and a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association.

(BS '93 Ag Education, MS '01 Ag Education)

Congratulations to Tina Veal, Director of Alumni Relations at the University of Illinois, for being elected the National Agricultural Alumni and Development Association (NAADA) Secretary for 2019-2021.

NAADA provides education, support and recognition for professionals and volunteers dedicated to expanding resources for advancing agriculture and related disciplines through land-grant and other colleges of agricultural sciences and partner programs.

Tina has served on the NAADA national Board as Education Chair from 2011-2013 and Membership Chair from 2009-2011 and as the Alumni Track Chair (2018-2019). Tina has been recognized with the NAADA Distinguished Founders Award and is a charter member of the NAADA Mulberry Society.  Tina has received several other awards in relation to programming developed for the ACES Alumni Association. 

Congratulations to Tina for this leadership role!

(BS '54 Agriculture) Mr. Paul E. Mechling passed away Saturday, November 24, at The University of Toledo Medical Center at the age of 87.

Mr. Mechling studied agriculture at the University of Illinois, graduating with a bachelor's degree in 1954. He and his wife of 40 years, Lois I. Johnson were married in September of that year and moved to Alaska, where Mr. Mechling served as a second lieutenant in the Army at Ft. Richardson for two years. Upon leaving the service, he enjoyed a successful sales career, then returned to agriculture as a golf course superintendent in his early 30s. Mr. Mechling came to Toledo in 1968 after accepting a position with Sylvania Country Club. Following two decades at Sylvania, he became the superintendent at Heatherdowns Country Club, retiring in his mid 60s to enjoy his family, friends, travel, fishing and (of course) golf.

Mr. Mechling was preceded in death by his wife, Lois; surviving are his two daughters, Ms. Paula D. Ashley of Toledo, and Ms. Angela M. Mechling of Redondo Beach, California, as well as his close friend of 20 years, Ms. Sally Konz.

Friends may call at the Foth-Dorfmeyer Mortuary, 3815 W. Sylvania Ave., Friday, Nov. 30, from 4-8 p.m. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, at Christ Presbyterian Church, 4225 W. Sylvania Ave. with visitation beginning at 12:30 p.m.

Suggested recipients of memorial tributes in Mr. Mechling's name are Christ Presbyterian Church, Hospice of NW Ohio, or Toledo Community Foundation.

(BS '45) Elinor P. Laegeler, 80, formerly of Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, died Oct. 11 at Highland Park Hospital. 

Mrs. Laegeler was born Dec. 23, 1921 in Chicago. A housewife and mother, she was a volunteer at Condell Medical Center for more than 25 years. 

She is survived by her children, Linda (Robert) Banks of Libertyville and Carol (Bill) Davis of Society Hill, S.C.; her daughter-in-law, Colette Laegeler of Highland Park; grandchildren, Donna Moats, Julie (Dan) Clemens, Beth Davis, Amie (Gene) Kelly, Emily Davis, Sebastien Braxton, Paris Braxton, T.J. Braxton; three great-grandchildren, Victoria, Valerie and Britney. She was preceded in death by her husband, Julius C. Laegeler, Jr.; and two children, Nancy J. and James C. Laegeler. 

Funeral services were Oct. 14 at Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home in Highland Park. Interment was in Memorial Park Cemetery in Skokie. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 777 Central Ave., Highland Park, 60035. A guest book may be signed at kelleyspaldingfuneralhome.com

(BS '88 Agricultural Sciences, MS '90 Animal Sciences) Rod Ott and wife Pilar Kuhn were the recipients of a Maxwel America, for their childrens book, "Clean Paws are VERY Important for a Scottie You Know." Thier book was a finalist in two catagories and winner in one category, for the 2018 DWAA awards in NYC on February 10, 2019. 

(BS '67 Agricultural Communications) John Volk recieved the VetPartners' Pioneer Professional Award.

(BS '68 Agricultural Communications, MS '72 MEXED) Ronald Scherer passed away Sunday, February 10th. Ronald Scherer was active with the Agricultural Communications Program. He also served on the Ag Alumni Board and ACES Alumni Board. 

(MS '13 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, PhD '17 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) Dr. Austin Happel has joined Chicago's Shedd Aquarium's conservation research team. As a research biologist, his job will be on different urban freshwater ecology initiatives focusing his research on the Chicago River ecosystem. 

(PhD '17 NRES)

Austin Happel, Ph.D., recently joined the conservation research team at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, his new role involves helping protect our planet’s wildlife.

As a research biologist at Shedd Aquarium, Austin joins a team of researchers studying aquatic ecosystems with the end goal of preserving biodiversity and ensuring a balance between humans and nature. Austin’s research will focus on the Chicago River ecosystem, leading citizen scientists and working with other local collaborators to collect data about the health of the Chicago River. He completed his Ph.D. and master’s degree in Nature Resources and Environmental Sciences from the University of Illinois

Austin is one of three new research biologists joining Shedd’s team this winter. 

(PhD '17 Food Science and Human Nutrition) Dr. Yun Yin was named assistant professor of food science and technology at Virgina Tech's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. 

(BS '51 Vocational Agriculture) Robert "Bob" Edwards, Jr., Passed away Monday, January 21st at the age of 90. He founded Edward Apple Orchard in 1964. He also was a member of the Illinois State horticulture Society Hall of Fame. 

(BS '77 Agricultural Sciences) Edward J. O'Malley recently published a book. His book is titled American Renewal: A New Season of Optimism, Cooperation, and Community
Chronicles cycles of social, political and foreign policy changes in America since 1945. You can learn more about his book at edwardomalley.com.

(BS '09 Agricultural Consumer Economincs - Markets and Management) Rachel Coventry is the Curtis Orchard Manager and Beekeeper of the Champaign County, 80-acre agritourism location, Curtis Orchard. She was recently awarded the 40 under 40 award by the Fruit Growers News. This award is given to Rachel for her dedication to the community and sustainable farming practices. 

(BS '96 Consumer Economics , MBA '09 Master of Business Administration) Margaret "Meg" A. Cline was awarded the 2018 4-H House Distinguished ALumni Award. This award is given to an outstanding alumni to recognize contributions she has made to her community, her profession, her sorority and/or her university. 

(BS '53) Robert L. Randall, ’53 ACES, passed away on October 8,2018 in Chrisman, Illinois.

(BS '90 Human Development and Family Ecology ) Dawn Munson is the professor at Elgin Community College. She recently recieved the NISOD teaching of excellence award for 2018. She also recieved the John and Suanne Roeche excellence award which honors contributions to community colleges. Dawn was also honored with the 2018 Dale P. Parnell distringuished teaching faculty award which was established to recognize those making a difference in the classroom. 

(BS '93 Agricultural Communications) Heidi Isenhart and her other four partners from the law firm of Shuffield Lowman were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America (2019). 

(BS '58 Agriculture, MS '59 Animal Sciences, PhD '65 Veterinary Medicine, B.S. Veterinary Medicine '63 Veterinary Medicine)

Dr. James Hale Sokolowski
November 20, 1935 - September 14, 2018

Dr. James Hale Sokolowski (“Dr. Jim”) was born in Alton, Illinois on November 20, 1935,and was raised in a home where animals were part of the family. His parents, Dr. Felix and Georgia (Hale) Sokolowski,  bred and showed a variety of dogs:  German Shepherds, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles and Bassett Hounds.  His father bred and raised Beta fish, keeping them in cups and containers on the shelves of his Psychiatry practice.  It was only natural that Dr. Jim decided to become a Veterinarian. 

Graduating from The University of Illinois with five degrees (BA in Agriculture 1958, MS in Animal Science 1959, BS Veterinary Medicine 1963, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine 1965, PhD in Nutritional Biochemistry 1965) Dr. Jim began his career at the Upjohn Company in Kalamazoo, Michigan working in the animal health division, conducting animal reproduction research. Through the Upjohn Company, he was awarded two patents, one for the treatment of genital tract disease with prostaglandins and the other for treating pseudopregnancy, galactorrhea and mastitis in mammals.  Additionally, he managed the research and development of the drugs Prostin, Cheque Drops and Lutalyse, which allowed breeders to have their reproduction control for their horses, dogs and cattle, respectively. 

1981 took Dr. Jim to the Gaines Pet Nutrition Center in Kankakee, Illinois, where he began his work in pet food research and development.  In 1986, Quaker Oaks acquired Gaines Foods and Dr Jim developed the popular “stage of life” pet foods branded “Cycle Dog Food”.

Transferring to Kal Kan Foods in 1990, Dr. Jim established and oversaw the “Waltham”, a grassroots education and public relations program at veterinary schools across the country.  In addition, he was responsible for directly communicating with both veterinarians and breeders nationally and world wide, regarding the Mars Petcare brands.  As part of the public relations campaign, Dr Jim was featured in radio spots, print media campaigns and television, including an infomercial featuring Cindy Williams of “Laverne and Shirley” fame.

Dr. Jim wrote extensively and was widely published professionally, with over 60 technical publications credited to his name.  Additionally, Dr. Jim penned a pet column for two years for a national magazine.  

After retirement, Dr. Jim and his wife, Barbara, relocated to Hendersonville, North Carolina where he remained active in the animal health arena by writing columns for various online pet sites and for magazines and newspapers under the pseudonym, “Ask Dr. Jim”.  An avid woodworker throughout his life, he built wooden horses and cradles for his grandchildren, beautiful birds perched on found branches and folk art-type horses and crows in his basement studio/workshop.  Classical music was his preferred genre, and he enjoyed both listening to and playing selections on the piano.  Dr. Jim and his wife also enjoyed extensive world wide travel in their retirement and trips to visit their children and grandchildren. 

(BS '65 Agricultural Economics) David and Marcia Duncan celebrated their 50th wedding anniversay July 6th, 2018!

(PhD '84 Plant Pathology )

Dr. John Bowman recently was awarded the “Excellence in International Service” Award from the American Phytopathological Society (APS) at the 11th International Congress of Plant Pathology in Boston MA. "John Bowman Ph.D. ‘84, is currently a Program Area Leader in the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Office of Agricultural Research and Policy.  He supervises a $200M+  grant portfolio involving global research projects in crop protection, nutrition, horticulture, livestock, aquaculture, post-harvest losses, food processing and food safety. 

(MS '95 Tree Biology and Urban Forest Health) Dr. Richard Hauer recently received the prestigious L.C. Chadwick Award for Arboricultural Research from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), in recognition of his research on arboriculture and contributions to the industry. Dr. Hauer is a professor of Forestry in the College of Natural Resources at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point. 

(BS '40 Home Economics)

Dr. Robert J. Lambert, 91, of Davenport, passed away on Sunday, July 1, 2018, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, Bettendorf. Dr. Lambert was born on March 14, 1927 in Faribault, Minnesota. He was an emeritus professor in the College of Agriculture, Department of Crop Sciences and earned a bachelor of science degree with distinction  from the University of Minnesota in June 1952. In August 1958, he was awarded a master of science degree also from the University of Minnesota. In February 1964 he earned his doctor of philosophy degree from the University of Illinois in plant breeding and genetics and was a member of the Departments of Agronomy and Crop Sciences until his retirement on Dec. 31, 2000. He enjoyed training many undergraduates, masters and Ph.D. students in the science of plant breeding, specifically hybrid seed corn. After retirement, he worked on developing varieties of popcorn.

He attended St. John Vianney Catholic Church, Bettendorf. He was also a member emeritus of many agricultural and professional societies, and a fellow of AAAS, as well as the American Society of Agronomy & Crop Sciences Society.

 

(BS '40 Home Economics) Dorothy Kovacic passed away on July 16, 2018. 

(BS '93 Agricultural Communications) Alumni Heidi W. Isenhart and her partners with the law firm ShuffieldLowman were selected as the 2018 Legal Elite attorney by Florida Trend magazine. Isenhart was awarded in her practice area of Elder Law. 

(BS '93 Agricultural Communications) Heidi Isenhart has been selected as a 2018 Florida Super Lawyer.  Super Lawyers, owned by Thomson Reuters, recognizes attorneys who have distinguished themselves in their legal practice. 

(BS '58 Dairy Technology and DVM) Donna Temple, age 70, of Forest Grove, died Wednesday May 9, 2018 unexpectedly in Vancouver, British Columbia.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Donna July in Oregon. A second celebration will be held in the early fall in Illinois. A memorial dedicated to her is currently in the process. It will honor her love of reading and her respect for libraries. Full details will be available soon, please hold any remembrances until they are worked out. 


DONNA TEMPLE was born July 5, 1947, in Moline, IL, the daughter of Donald and Betty McMahon Temple. She grew up in Moline and graduated from Moline High School in 1965. She then went on to study textiles at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where she graduated in 1971 from the ACES college and she was a lifelong Illinois Alumni Association member.

She was known first for the love of her family and friends, laughing a lot and for her love of books, books, and more books. She enjoyed Bigfoot, Nessie, Area 51 conspiracy, Aliens, and anything that is a little bit tacky. Donna was a fan of the Chicago Cubs, the Chicago Bears, and the Fighting Illini. She loved to get in her car and travel the country visiting her friends from coast to coast. She also preferred to write to friends and family. We have a collection of correspondence stretching from when we left for college to her final day written in her hand and mailed.

Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Larry and Cyndee Melvin of Hillsboro, Oregon; daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Rick Noyes of Lakewood, Colorado; grandchildren Sam and Lexi Melvin of Hillsboro, Oregon and Kaiya and Chloe Noyes of Lakewood, Colorado; several aunts, uncles, cousins and numerous beloved lifelong friends. 

Donna was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Wesley.

(BS '58 Dairy Technology and DVM) John Oscar Harris was born February 18th, 1930 and passed away on May 12th, 2018 at his home in Naples, FL. 

(BS '68 Agriculture Mechanics ) James Holmes is now retired from GM diesels and is planning to spend retirement traveling around the world with his wife Ellen!

(MS '60 Agriculture Economics , PhD '61) Donald Dickenson, Born Jan. 15, 1925, Passed away March 4, 2018. 

(BS '40 Home Economics and Science) Alice Davis Bauer passed away January 13, 2015. 

(BS '48 Vocational Agriculture , MS '49 Animal Science , PhD '51 Animal Sciences) Dr. William G. Kammlade Jr. passed away February 20th, 2018 in Marion, IL. 

(PhD '54 Animal Sciences) Dr. Lloyd LaVerne Bucy passed away February 1st, 2018. 

(MS '60 Agriculture Economics , PhD '61) James O. Melton passed away February 22nd, 2018. 

(BS '65 Agriculture Science ) Robert Charles Shufeldt passed away February 18th, 2018 in Greenville, S.C.

(BS '81 Forestry ) David Brenneisen passed away Wednesday, March 21st, 2018.

(BS '00 Agricultural Education, MS '02 Agricultural Education) Mr. Gary Ochs married Wendy Leenerts (M.S. '13 - Agricultural Education) in November of 2017.

(BS '01 Animal Sciences, Bio-tech, Pre-Vet, DMV '07 Veterinary Medicine) "I just had the most AMAZING experience in Glennallen, Alaska. Dr. Nina Hansen is head vet for the Copper Basin 300, also known as "Alaska's toughest 300 mile sled dog race!" I was given the opportunity to volunteer as one of the six veterinarians for this race. We examined 44 dog teams; that's 516 dogs & 2,064 paws, several times over the 4 day race! We checked them out prior to racing, at every check point along the way, and also at the finish line. After traveling miles through the elements of the Alaskan mountains, the very first thing these mushers do when they get to a checkpoint is tend to their dogs; giving them attention and a lot of head scratches before they get themselves food or any sleep. They tend to their dogs, feeding them, talking to them and handling each one to ensure they are strong enough to continue on the snowy path. Any concerns were immediately brought to the attention of the veterinary team. Alaska was an amazing experience and holds a natural beauty that cannot be put into words, but I was even more amazed at the dedication of these Mushers to their dog teams and the small communities that come together to ensure the dogs and volunteers all have a place to eat and rest along the race path." - Dr. Kelli Kramer

(BS '60 Agricultural Economics, MS '61 Agricultural Economics) On February 22, 2018 James O Melton, passed away in Ft Myers, FL. 

(BS '60 Agricultural Economics, MS '61 Agricultural Economics) Elizabeth A Homer was born on August 24, 1917 and passed away on January 28, 2018 in San Jose, California.

(BS '90 Agricultural Communications) Mr. Kevin Erb is awarded 2017 National Excellence in Extension Award representing the North Central Region. 

(BS '65 Vocational Agriculture)

Dr. Andrew C. Boston passed away October 2, 2017. 

Obituary of Dr. Andrew C. Boston

(BS '96 Agriculture Economincs, MS '03 Computer Science) Chris Oliver was named Chief Information Officer for the Illinois Department of Agriculture. 

(BS '70 Agricultural Economics)

Dorothy Jane Henderson Long, 94, of Murray, Kentucky, died Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2017, at Spring Creek Health Care in Murray.

She was born Sept. 2, 1923, in Tuscola, Illinois to Wayne Henderson and Mary Payne Henderson.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert F. Long Sr. (U. of I. Alumnus B.S. and M.S.); a daughter, Dorothy Ann Jeter; a sister, Mary Ann Teter; and two brothers, Donald Henderson and Charles Henderson.

Dorothy and Robert were life-long U. of I. champions. He completed his B.S. in Agriculture and completed the ROTC program in time to enter WWII. Dorothy completed a year of her undergraduate education at the Champaign-Urbana campus. She taught school in her hometown of Newman, Illinois during the war. After years of planning, they retired to Urbana and spent many years engaged in the cultural and educational opportunities on campus.

Mrs. Long is survived by a son, Robert Long Jr. and wife Patricia of Murray and her two daughters Pamela Tikalsky and Beth Meghji. Dorothy had ten grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Private graveside we held when she was buried next to her husband in Mount Hope Cemetery at the University of Illinois.

(BS '43 Home Economics)

Mary Jane Rutledge, 96, of Mason City, Illinois died on September 8, 2017 at Mason City Area Nursing Home. She was born near Mason City, IL, August 1,1921. She graduated from Mason City High School in 1939 and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics from the University of Illinois in 1943. She married Harvey King Rutledge on November 24, 1943.

A lifetime member of the United Presbyterian Church of Mason City, Jane actively served as elder, deacon, Sunday School teacher, Women’s Fellowship officer, Memorial Fund secretary, and chairman of funeral dinners. She volunteered her services during and following construction of the Mason City Area Nursing Home, was bestowed the honor of Farm Bureau Farm Wife of the Year (1980), and served as election judge, 4-H leader, substitute school teacher, and Home Bureau-HEA member. As a farmer’s daughter and a farm wife, she helped with delivering dairy products, caring for baby pigs and other livestock, hauling grain, and providing room and board for farm hands. Jane enjoyed annual fishing trips to Canada, sewing for her large family, playing pinochle with friends, hunting for Indian artifacts, and serving coffee at her kitchen table. She enjoyed an enduring lifetime friendship with the 4-H House Class of 1943, University of Illinois.
Jane was a much-loved wife and mother.

(BS '47 Home Ec)

Charlotte Evelyn Neville Crowe, 90, passed away quietly on Saturday, September 2, 2017 after suffering from a debilitating stroke. Charlotte was born on July 24, 1927 in Harrisburg, Illinois, to Florence Devere and Harry Neville, the third child in a family of five children. Education was important to Charlotte and she graduated as High School Valedictorian from Harrisburg High School and graduated with honors from the University of Illinois in 1947, with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Home Economics. Charlotte lived close to home and her Illinois roots until she married Bazel Crowe in 1945 and they soon began traveling the globe. By the time the family moved from Illinois to Florida, Charlotte was a full-time mother to three children. Throughout the familys travels around the world, Charlotte taught high school in Guam and worked in the main office of a mining and exploration company in Bougainville, Papua, New Guinea. The family also lived in Jamaica, Australia and Egypt. While teaching her own three children an appreciation of the diversity of cultures throughout the world, Charlotte and family embarked on numerous adventures, traveling twice around the world, not on todays luxury liners but as passengers on freighters. Finally, they settled in Houston, Texas, where Charlotte and Bazel made their home for over 44 years. Charlotte was the office manager and right hand to her husband in his civil engineering business until they retired to enjoy a quiet life in Houston. Charlotte enjoyed her family as well as cooking, sewing and knitting. 

Charlotte is survived by her husband, Bazel; her children, Robert, Sandra Grant, and Richard (Janet); her five grandchildren, Rachel, Walter, Michael, Kristina and Scott; and her brother, Donald Neville (Jane). She is preceded in death by her parents; and three of her four siblings, Harriet Neville Limper, Howard Neville, Virginia Neville Saup;, and by her son-in-law, George Grant; and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Crowe. 

In her later years, Charlotte indicated that the love and friendship of family and friends were very important to her. She said that she preferred to enjoy the many wonderful people in her life while she was still alive to enjoy them rather than having a memorial service when she would not be able to attend. So, Thank You to everyone who made Charlotte's life a happy one.

(BS '70 Agricultural Economics) Richard Bird has retired after a 45-year career in the manufacturing of crop protection chemicals and farm fertilizers.

(BS '64 Agricultural Science, MS '66 Dairy Science)

Dr. Eldon Askew would like to share that he is a retired, COL, U.S. Army Medical Service Corps, 1994, and he retired from the University of Utah's College of Health in 2014 and holds the distinction of Professor Emeritus.

(BS '40 Vocational Agriculture)

Glen F. Sons recently celebrated his 100th birthday.

Glen began his journey with University of Illinois in the fall of 1936 when he enrolled in the Agricultural Program – the graduating class of 1940.   After teaching 3 years in the vocational program in Hillsboro High School, Illinois, he eventually worked for the  United States Federal War Food Stamp Program.  As a result of this position, he became  the University of Illinois Agricultural agent of Hamilton County.   He moved to Shelby County.  In 1961, he became the Extension  an Assistant Regional Director.  He retired in 1981.

He currently lives in Worden, Illinois and continues to tend his garden and chickens.

(BS '70 Agronomy)

Stephan A. Schroeder, '70 ACES, was honored as a Living Legend at the 2017 annual meeting of the American Society of Mining and Reclamation in the field of land reclamation as someone who has spent a lifetime making the impossible not only happen but helping to formulate and evolve a profession that has made a profound difference in the world.

(BS '72 Agronomy) William recently moved from Arlington, Texas to Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.  He volunteers one day a week at the local hospital and walks a two-mile section of beach one day a week looking for sea turtle nests.

(BS '76 Forestry) After graduation from the College of Agriculture in 1976, Thomas spent a summer with the Forest Preserve District of Cook County as a student forester marking trees for Dutch elm disease as well as other duties. After working at Brookfield Zoo and Loyola Medical Center, he is back where he started 41 years ago as the Assistant Division Superintendent of the Salt Creek Landscape Maintenance Division in the Forest Preserve District of Cook County and enjoying every minute of it!

 

(BS '02 Agribusiness Markets and Management, MS '03 Agricultural Education) The Harms family recently relocated from the Des Moines area to the Quad Cities area. Brea accepted a new role as Division Manager, Customer Support for Division 3 of the Construction and Forestry Division, where she manages a team of seven Territory Customer Support Managers that cover the Midwest, Northeast, and Mid-Atlantic. Her husband Ryan continues to serve as Executive Director of Development for the Iowa State University College of Engineering, a role which is does via both remote and on-campus work, in addition to his time spent with alumni and supporters.

 

(BS '04 Animal Sciences)

Doug Hankes was inducted into the American Association of Meat Processors Cured Meals Hall of Fame.

(BS '03 Animal Sciences) Congratulation to Lynsee Melchi on completing her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. 

(BS '03 Animal Sciences) Edwin George Myers passed away April 23, 2017. He was a graduate from the University of Illinois College of Agriculture. 

(BS '04 Agricultural & Biological Engineering) Richard T. Lykins and his wife, Rebecca Lykins, College of Media alumni, have recently opened Grateful Pets, in the City of St. Louis. 

(BS '57 Vocational Agriculture ) Donald Bay was inducted into the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service Hall of Fame. 

(MS '65 Agronomy , PhD '67 Agronomy ) Dr. B. B. Singh was elected to be a Fellow of the American Association for Advances of Science (AAAS). 

(BS '15 Finance Agribuisness )

Lucas Frye's, CEO of Amber Agriculture, prototype of his company's sensor that monitors the interior of a grain bin was named "Best Startup" in tech blog Engadget's "Best of CES 2017" awards. Read more about this achievement by using the following URL. 

 http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2017-01-12/local-startup-impresses-tech-publication-ces.html

(BS '83) Janeen Emory Kolb passed away November 20th.

(BS '55, MS '65) Wayne N. Meyer passed on October 24th, 2016. 

(BS '41 Home Economics ) Mrs. Helen E. Davies passed away October 6th, 2016. 

(BS '54 Ag Education, MS '60 Ag Education) Eldon R. Aupperle recieved the National FFA VIP Award at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN.

(BS '55, MS '65) Richard P Kesler passed away October 2nd.

(MS '83 MEXED: Master of Extension Education) Lisa Sherman was awarded the OUtstanding Dietitian of the Year Award at the 2016 State of Nevada Dietetic Association Annual Meeting. 

(BS '00 Agribusiness Markets and Management) Mrs. Krystal J. Jungmann has recently been hired by the Illinois FFA Foundation! 

(BS '16 Animal Sciences ) Sarah Wright has been accepted and enrolled into the Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. 

(BS '62, '72 MEXED) Mr. Richard Harold Johnson passed away August 31st, 2016.

(BS '62, '72 MEXED) Stuart was recently inducted into the National Associaltion of County Agricultural Agents Hall of Fame at their 101st annual meeting in Little Rock, Arkansas.

(MS '65 Agronomy, PhD '67 Agronomy) Dr. B.B. Singh was honored with the Life Time Achievement Award as a Distinguished Mentor’ in a special ceremony held on July 8, 2016 organized by the "Pantnagar Clan", comprising Pantnagar Alumni from 1970 to 1978 batches. Dr. Singh was the Soybean Breeder and Associate Professor at G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, India from 1968 to 1979.

(MS '68 Animal Science, PhD '72 Nutritional Sciences) Dr. Ifeany J. Arinze passed away on June 1, 2016. 

(BS '71 Dairy Science) Arthur retired after working in the grain and feed industry for 44 years. He last worked for Sietsema Farms based in Allendale, MI. The Sietsemas, a family-owned livestock production operation, produce over 700,000 hots and 1.5 million turkeys per year.

(BS '53 Home Economics)

Eunice (Betty) E. Shinn (Johnson) passed away May 30th, 2016. 

Eunice E. "Betty" Shinn (Johnson), age 85, of Lockport passed away Monday, May 30th, 2016 at Church Creek Rehabilitation Center in Arlington Heights. Betty was born on a farm in Crossville, IL on May 4, 1931. Attended Belle Grade School & Crossville Community High School graduating in 1949 and then attended The University of Illinois graduating in 1953. She was past Edwards County Home Advisor & Will County Home Advisor; and substituted as a teacher for 16 years at the Lockport School system & Mount Assisi Academy. Member of Early Birds Home Extension Unit in Will County; past member of 4H club in White County & led 4H in Will County for 20 years; Cub Scout Den Mother & Brownie Girl Scouts Leader; member of the Taft PTA and Band Parents. 60 year member of the First United Methodist Church in Lockport where she sang in the choir. Activity Director at Alvernia Manor & Victorian Village in Lemont.

 

(BS '85 Human Development and Family Studies) Laurence celebrated 15 years at Merck & Co., Inc. this year.

(BS '03 Agricultural Engineering) Marguerite was appointed to the USDA's Ag Air Quality Task Force, starting April 2016.

(BS '07 Agricultural and Consumer Economics-Farm Management) Nathan Brown was named the new business manager of Livestock Products for Central Life Sciences. He will oversee all marketing efforts for the Livestock Product portfolio.

(BS '70 Foods & Nutrition) The American Soceity of Nutrition (ASN) made Janet Greger a Fellow in April 2016. Her latest thriller "I Saw You in Beirut" (published in November 2015) and her mystery "Murder: A Way to Lose Weight" (published in May 2016) contains snippets on nutrition research.

(BS '81 Human Development and Family Ecology) Laura Aird is the Manager of Disaster Preparedness and Response for the American Academy of Pediatrics. 

(BS '98 Agricultural Communications) Kristi recently was hired as the Sales Membership Manager for Cooper Fitness Center in McKinney, TX.

(BS '42 Vocational Agriculture, MS '49 Agriculture) William H. Rosso died on January 25, 2016 at the Evergreen Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Effingham, IL. He was preceeded in death by his wife, parents, and four sisters and is survived by his three children and their spouses, his six grandchildren, and his brother.

(BS '48 Agriculture) died on Sunday, September 13, 2015 in Aledo, IL. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, brother, and sister.

(BS '61 Forestry) passed away on July 31, 2015.

(MS '78 Agronomy, PhD '81 Agronomy) accepted a research position at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in January of 2014 and is now conducting studies on cover crops.

(BS '79 Agriculture Industries) was recently named commercial director of North America Professional Solutions by the FMC Corporation. Thompson was previously business manager for the Turf and Ornamental Solutions division.

(PhD '86 Agronomy) is the founder of Awear Technologies that has created a product that will be used to help attention deficit disorder. The set of neurosensing glasses, ConfiBoost Trainer, darken to get the attention of the wearer.

(PhD '87 Animal Sciences) joined HORN’s Technical Sales Team, supporting HORN Animal Wellness. They specialize in the distribution of specialty animal ingredients.

(BS '95 Agriculture, MS '99 Animal Sciences) was featured as a “newsmaker” in the Pittsburgh Tribune. He led a group that wrote a paper for the scientific journal, “Developmental Cell.”

(BS '96 Human and Community Development) is the chief financial officer/controller at Saint Mary-of-the-Wood College. He started working at The Woods in 2014 as registrar.

(BS '97 Biology, MS '99 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) is an orthopedic surgeon who just joined the Orthopedic & Spine Center of the Rockies as a hip scope and surgery specialist in Colorado.

(BS '01 Crop Sciences) is the Southern Soybean and Wheat Grower Manager at the Beck’s Hybrids Neoga facility and was recently featured in an article talking about the role of women in agriculture.

(BS '06 Agribusiness) was recently featured in an article about daughters, in particular millennials, returning to family farms after having a successful career in agribusiness.

(BS '08 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) has served as the president for the Orangeville, Illinois village since May 2013. He is now in the running for the position of the Community Development Director.

(BS '09 Animal Science, DVM '15) will be joining Animal Medical Clinic in Melbourne, Florida. The Animal Medical Clinic is now adding a new location in Indialantic, Florida.

(MS '10 Crop Sciences, PhD '81 Crop Sciences) was named the new Extension educator for field crops and specialty crop production in St. Joseph County (Michigan).

(BS '12 Agricultural Communications) was recently featured in an article talking about the roles of women now in agriculture. After graduation from the U of I, Lydia worked for Case New Holland before farming alongside her husband.

(MS '13 Crop Sciences) became the farm manager of the San Louis Valley Research Center in Center, CO in June of 2015.

(BS '14 Technical Systems Management) is a franchisee owner and operator of uBreakiFix, who recently just decided to open a store in Carmel, Indiana. This is the third store he has with his uncle, managing partner.

(BS '51 Vocational Agriculture, MS '67 Horticulture, PhD '73 Horticulture) died on July 22, 2015 at his residence in Batavia, IL. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his brother. He is survived by his two children, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

(BS '56 Ornamental Horticulture, MS '57 Horticulture, PhD '65 Horticulture) was featured in article series, chronicling his accomplishments in horticulture by one of his former students. The series, Grow with KARE, features different gardening and horticulture topics.

(BS '73 Agricultural Economics) was elected chairman of the Board of Trustees of Farm Foundation on June 12, 2015. He is also currently the President of J and M School, Inc, a family agriculture holding company.

(BS '75 Veterinary Medicine, DVM '77 Veterinary Medicine) and Arrin Colgan are opening their own veterinary clinic with an emphasis on making visits as stress-free as possible for pets and their owners.

(MS '79 Animal Sciences, PhD '82 Animal Sciences) has been appointed professor and head of the Department of Youth Development and Agricultural Education at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana.

(BS '80 Agronomy) was named the new chairman of the board of the board of directors for the Illinois Soybean Association. Other alumni elected to the board include Doug Schroeder and John Longley.

(BS '85 Animal Sciences) will be a judge for the Open Show at the World Beef Expo at the Wisconsin State Fair Park.

(BS '87 Human Development and Family Ecology) was named the new interim director of the African American Cultural Center at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC.

(PhD '92 Agricultural Economics) received the Grand Decoration of Honor in Gold with Sash for his outstanding services to the Republic of Austria. This award is one of the highest Austrian honors given to both Austrians and leading foreign leaders for their exemplary work to the Austrian people.

(BS '93 Agricultural Communications) , along with her two partners at the law firm of SuffieldLowman, has been selected as a 2015 Florida Super Lawyer. This organization recognizes lawyers who have distinguished themselves in their legal careers.

(BS '95 Animal Sciences, PhD '00 Nutritional Sciences) has joined the Ken Pet Group marketing department as the Senior Manager of Nutrition Development and Commericialization.

(MS '95 Plant Pathology, PhD '98 Plant Pathology) was featured in an article in for Capital Press. The article spotlights her current research at Washington State University.

(BS '98 -) has been named associate dean of students/diversity initiatives and affirmative action officer at Maryville University in Saint Louis. This appointment comes as part of the establishment of the Office of Diversity & Inclusion.

(BS '00 Human Development and Family Ecology) is the Mid-Atlantic region claims service manager for Liberty Mutual/Safeco Insurance.

(MS '12 Animal Sciences) was presented with the 32 Alltech Student Research manuscript at the 104th annual Poultry Science Association meeting in Louisville, KY. She is currently a PhD student at Purdue University.

(BS '39 Agriculture) was featured in an article in the Daily Herald, describing the end of his family farming career, one that is five generations old. He will turn 99 in June.

(BS '72 Agriculture) was named the 2014 Illinois Certified Crop Advisor of the Year by the Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Certified Crop Advisors. He was presented with the award on December 6th, 2014.

(BS '72 Agriculture) was named to the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers Hall of Fame in February. He has been a member for 39 years. This honor serves to “recognize members who stature exemplify the highest

(BS '83 Agriculture) was promoted to president, North America, at Archer Daniels Midland Company in April. He will also chair the new Geographic Council that coordinates ADM’s regional presidents to ensure best practices are being used across all markets.

(BS '84 Agriculture, MS '86 Agriculture) joined Land Pro LLC, a land real estate brokerage company, in December 2014, and will be serving the southern and southwestern Chicagoland areas.

(BS '87 Agriculture) was appointed as an independent non-executive member of the Board of Directors for OCI N.V.

(BS '94 Agriculture) joined SoundExchange as senior vice president, Communications. She brings a lot of knowledge and experience to the position.

(BS '96 Agriculture) was named Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications and Strategy in the Indiana Governor’s Office. His responsibilities being late May.

(BS '04 Agricultural and Environmental Communications) and James Walter were featured in a Daily Chronicle article, spotlighting their distillery, Whiskey Acres. The distillery is the only one in the country and Illinois’ first estate distillery. It is located in DeKalb, IL.

(BS '05 Agricultural and Environmental Communications) won the Champaign Urbana Public Schools Foundation’s Local Hero award in April. She currently works for University of Illinois Extension and runs Prosperity Garden, a nonprofit organization that educates local kids on gardening, marketing, selling, and eating produce that they grow in their garden.

(BS '07 Animal Sciences) is currently employed at the Saint Louis Zoo as a carnivore keeper, and will be a part of the opening of the zoo's new McDonnell Polar Bear Point habitat.

(BS '51 Agriculture) of Scottsdale, Arizona passed away February 3rd, 2015. He attended the University on an ROTC Scholarship and went on to serve in the Navy during the Korean War before working for DuPont and his own drip irrigation company. His main pride and joy was his family, daughter Jill, sons, Dan and Grant, and his seven grandchildren.

(BS '69 Ariculture) has become a member of the University of Illinois Board of Trustees following Governor-elect Bruce Rauner's appointments.

(PhD '74 Unknown) of Champaign, IL passed away Tuesday, February 17, 2015.  Dr. Klein was a faculty member in the Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition for 25 years, serving as the department head for two years. She also served as the director for the Illinois Center for Soy for eight years. Barbara was recognized in 2014 with the highest award from the ACES Alumni Association, the ACES Award of Merit. She leaves behind her her husband of 58 years, Miles Vincent Klein; two daughters, Cynthia (Cindy) Klein-Banai and Gail Isabelle Klein; their respective partners, Efraim (Effie) Banai and William Maisel; her three granddaughters, Alona, Rona and Sara Banai; and Rona's fiance, Ezra Kannof.

(BS '85 Agriculture) is the president and CEO of Farmland Partners Inc. and will elect REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) status, making the company one of only two publicly listed REITs specializing in domestic farmland.

(BS '88 Agriculture) has published a new book titled 2 Corinthians: A Handbook on the Greek Text with Baylor University Publishing.

(BS '96 Agricultural Education) was named 2014 Academic Advisor of the Month by the Council of Academic Advisors (COAA) at Western Illinois University College of Business and Technology.

(BS '99 Animal Sciences) has also graduated from Parkland College with an associate's degree in nursing and was honored for graduating with a 4.0 GPA in all her courses. Cynthia completed her associate's degree after working in the field and realizing she wanted to work more with people to help them become healthier.

(BS '00 Farm Management) was recently featured in the Illinois Farmer Today along with his family, talking about his seventh-generation farm that he took on right after graduating from the University.

(BS '03 Consumer Economics & Finance) was named Chief of Staff in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor following Governor-elect Bruce Rauner's appointments.

(PhD '74 Unknown) Harrison R. Thornley, 75, of Springfield, IL and formerly of Ashland, IL died Wednesday evening, December 3, 2014 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.

He was born June 9, 1939 in Jacksonville, IL. Harrison was a graduate of Ashland High School and the University of Illinois. He farmed in Cass and Morgan Counties for many years and formerly served on the Ashland Elevator Board of Directors. 

(BS '39 Agriculture) died on November 19 at the Illinois Knights Templar Home in Paxton, IL. He is survived by his three sisters and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his two sisters.

(MS '40 Agronomy, PhD '45 Agronomy) received an honorary doctorate at the Kansas State University Graduate School commencement on December 12. He also served as the commencement speaker for the ceremony.

(BS '41 Agriculture, MS '47 Animal Sciences) died on December 9 at his home in Monticello, IL. He was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Clusters, American POW medal and the Italian Military Cross for Valor. He is survived by his four sons, his caregiver, his six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and his two sisters. He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, his parents, a brother and two sisters.

(BS '55 Vocational Agriculture) died December 13, 2014 at home in Clinton, IL. He was 82. He was a U. S. Navy veteran, farmed and raised purebred, registered Angus cattle for 55 years, a member of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, and several civic organizations. He is survived by his wife, three sons, and four grandchildren.

(BS '55 Agriculture) of Pittsfield, IL passed away January 5, 2015.  He was better known as “Chief” to fellow teachers and students.  He was President of IAVAT in 1978-79, received the Excellence in Teaching Award in 1991 and in 1992 was named IVA (now IACTE) Teacher of the Year.

(BS '57 Vocational Agriculture) died Christmas Day, December 25, 2014 at home in Monticello, IL. He was 82. He was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, Alpha Zeta, and Hoof and Horn Club. He was also initiated into several honoraria: Phi Eta Sigma, Gamma Sigma Delta and Phi Kappa Phi. James was also included on the Bronze Tablet. James farmed with his father and later worked with The First National Bank of Chicago as a farm manager, retiring in 1990. He is survived by his wife and three children, and ten grandchildren.

(BS '69 Agriculture) was honored by the cities of Champaign and Urbana with this year’s Humanitarian Relief Award for his work with teaching poor African farmers about different techniques and helping bring clean water to people in need. He has also been honored with the Champaign New Rotarian of the Year Award in 2013 and the 2014 District Rotarian of the Year award.

(BS '72 Agriculture) recently started as R&D LifeSciences as their new Director of Technical Sales and Research. His new responsibilities include sales and customer support in the Midwest and coordinating company research in development of new products and support of existing products.

(BS '78 Interior Design) will be appointed to fill the Illinois Comptroller position vacancy by Governor-elect Bruce Rauner January 12, 2015.

(MS '90 Food Science) won the Daily Herald’s Home Baking Challenge, and qualified for the America’s Baking and Sweets Show, where she earned more than $1,000 in prizes. She is a semi-retired product developer for Kraft Foods.

(MS '90 Human Resources and Family Studies) has joined First Mid-Illinois Bank and Trust as vice-present, director of marketing. In this role, she will lead corporate communications, advertising and brand management, public relations, sales promotions, website management and corporate giving.

(BS '93 Agriculture Communications) has been named Verdesian Life Sciences vice president of communications, where she will oversee the execution of all promotional strategies for the corporate brand and the complete product portfolio.

(BS '95 Agricultural Economics) was named one of seven of the 2014-2015 Soy Ambassadors by the Illinois Soybean Association. This two-year program grooms young farmers for future leadership roles.

(BS '05 Agribusiness, Farm and Financial) shared Precision Drone news for 2015. Precision Drone is currently featured in the new 2015 Ford F-150 commercial; shown during College Bowl Games and NFL Playoff games on all major networks.  Precision Drone has also released a new website http://www.PrecisionDrone.com. Matt is a three-time varsity letter winner for the Fighting Illini Football team.  While a student, he worked for the U of I Farm in the Department of Plant Pathology under Dr. Wayne Pedersen.  Matt is married with two children and resides in Westfield, IN.

(MS '05 Crop Sciences, PhD '08 Crop Sciences) was recognized as one of Vance Publishing’s “40 Under 40.” This list honors leadership among individuals aiding in efforts to double food production by 2050.

(BS '06 Agribusiness, MS '08 ACE) was named one of seven of the 2014-2015 Soy Ambassadors by the Illinois Soybean Association. This two-year program grooms young farmers for future leadership roles.

(BS '06 NRES, MS '12 NRES) started as the new district wildlife biologist for the state. He works under the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, but is located in the Rock Springs Nature Center. His district includes Macon, Piatt, DeWitt, Champaign, and Logan counties.

(BS '07 Animal Sciences) joined the Humbert Road Dentistry workforce after graduating from Southern Illinois University – Faculty of Dental Drugs.  Dr. Smiley was a pitcher with the University of Illinois baseball team. He has volunteered for the Give Kids a Smile program, Illinois Mission of Mercy, and traveled to Jamaica to do a dental mission trip.

(BS '09 Animal Sciences) shared that after moving to Seattle, WA and becoming a dog trainer with Family Dog Training Center, a miniature pig, named Amy Trotter, was enrolled in her puppy manners class with seven other dogs.  The story was published by Ranny Green January 1, 2015 on the Seattle Kennel Club website, http://www.seattledogshow.org/amy-trotter-is-beyond-just-cute-shes-become-arole-model-for-the-other-dogs-in-classes-so-far/.

(BS '10 ACE) appeared in Illinois Farmer Today in an article series discussing various outlooks on farming. He is a fourth generation farmer from Moweaqua, IL.

(BS '13 HDFS) won the women’s wheelchair division of the 2014 TCS New York City Marathon. This win follows titles at Boston, London, and Chicago, capping off her second grand slam and eighth consecutive major marathon win.

(BS '13 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) is the new resource conservationist of the Kankakee County Soil and Water Conservation District.

(BS '28 Agriculture, MS '29 Agriculture, PhD '33 Agronomy) died on March 16, 2007 at the age of 101. He was survived by his wife, four children, 6 grandchildren, and 1 great-granddaughter.

(BS '40 Home Economics) died on July 1, 2014 at Heritage Square Health Center in Dixon, IL. She is survived by her son, two grandsons, four great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband and brother.

(BS '41 Agriculture) died on August 20, 2013 at Liberty Village in Pittsfield, IL.

(BS '41 Agriculture) died on July 24, 2014 in Scottsdale, AZ. He is survived by his four children, 14 grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, one step-great-grandchild, 12 great-great-grandchildren, and two step-great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, son and daughter-in-law.

(BS '43 Home Economics) died on May 30, 2014 in her home in Colusa, CA. She was beloved by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

(BS '48 Agriculture) died on July 24, 2014 in Elmhurst, IL. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, four children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

(BS '51 Agriculture) died on August 18, 2014 at his home in Goreville, IL. Nels was also a US Army Veteran. He is survived by his four children, eight grandchildren, one great granddaughter, and one sister. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son, and brother.

(BS '51 Agriculture) died on July 2, 2014 at Rose Arbor Hospice. He is survived by his wife, son, two granddaughters, brother, sister, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, and a brother.

(BS '51 Agriculture) died on June 20, 2014 in Delaware, OH. He is survived by his wife, daughter, sons, and cat, along with several nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter.

(BS '51 Agriculture) died on October 19, 2014 in his home in Monticello, IL. He was 85. He married Margaret Jean Bortell in 1954. Mr. Bateman is survived by his wife, Margaret, his four children, 16 grandchildren, and 3 siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister.

(MS '52 Home Economics) died on July 11, 2014. She is survived by her four children and grandson. She was preceded in death by her husband.

(BS '52 Home Economics) died on June 24, 2014 at Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, IA. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, sisters, brother and sister-in-law. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and three brothers.

(BS '52 Agriculture) died on June 28, 2014 at Pekin Hospital. He is survived by his wife, their daughter and son-in-law, two grandchildren, and two brothers. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.

(BS '52 Agriculture) died on June 29, 2014 with his loving family by his side. He is survived by his wife, two children, eight grandchildren, brother, sister, and several nieces and nephews and in-laws. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, four sisters, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

(BS '53 Agriculture) died on July 20, 2014 in Oak Hill Skilled Care Center in Waterloo, IL. He is survived by his three children, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his wife, one son, and two brothers.

(BS '54 Home Economics) died on August 2, 2014 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, IL. She married George Tolson Searls in 1953. Mrs. Searls is survived by her husband, three children, 10 grandchildren, one great-grandson, and sister.

(MS '54 Dairy Science) died on July 6, 2014 at the East Georgia Regional Medical Center in Statesboro, GA. He is survived by his three children, five grandchildren, sister, and brother. He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years.

(BS '55 Agriculture) died on April 30, 2014. He is survived by his wife, his son, daughter-in-law, grandson, two sisters, brother, sister-in-law, three nephews and their families.

(BS '56 Agriculture, MS '70 Agricultural Education) died on July 27, 2014 at the Lincoln Rehabilitation Center in Decatur, IL. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, his granddaughter, his brother, and his mother and father in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, his eight brothers, his son in-law, his niece, and his nephew.

(BS '56 Home Economics) died on July 5, 2014 at her home in Bath, ME. She enjoyed a successful career as a writer of children's books. She is survived by her husband, five children, and six grandchildren.

(BS '56 Agriculture, MS '57 Agricultural Education) died on June 20, 2014 at Creekside Hospital. He is survived by his two children. He was preceded in death by his wife and younger brother.

(BS '59 Agriculture) died on June 17, 2014 at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, IL. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, sister-in-law, eight grandchildren, and one niece. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, and brother.

(BS '65 Agriculture, MS '67 Agricultural Education) and his wife, Melanie, donated an endowment to the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation to fund a seminar in the two-year Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program. The seminar will focus on issues relating to the international aspect of agriculture.

(MS '66 Plant Pathology, PhD '69 Plant Pathology) has been named a senior advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in its Global Food Security Project.

(BS '67 Agriculture) died on August 22, 2014 at Good Shepherd Hospice in Port Jefferson, NY after battling leukemia. He is survived by his wife, Susan Lipp, his 2 children, and 2 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister.

(PhD '67 Food Science) died on August 7, 2014 in Petaluma, CA. He is survived by his wife, four children, and seven grandchildren. He enjoyed antique Chris Craft boats and summers spent in Lake Tahoe, UT.

(BS '76 Forestry) has retired from Caterpillar Inc. after 37 years with the company. During his time with the company, his main focus was their Asia-based divisions before he became a group president.

(MS '79 Animal Sciences, PhD '83 Food Science) has been named the minister of health and welfare of Taiwan. He is the country's first health minister whose focus was not in medicine. He was a professor at National Taiwan University's Institute of Food Science and Technology before assuming his new role.

(MS '79 Human Resources and Family Studies) died on June 28, 2014 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Surviving are her son, sister, brother and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father and mother.

(BS '80 Agriculture) received her "diamond" 4-H leader pin for 20 years of volunteer service to the organization. She and her husband own and operate a small direct-market diversified farm.

(PhD '80 Dairy Science) died on June 21, 2014 at his home in Glen Ellyn, IL. He is survived by his wife, two sons, and sister.

(BS '82 Agriculture) and her family were honored as the 2014 Illinois Farm Family of the Year, an award sponsored by Burris Hybrids and AgriNews.

(BS '85 Home Economics) and her family were honored as the 2014 Illinois 4-H Family Spirit Award winners. The family, comprised of 49 participants, has devoted 444 years over four generations to 4-H volunteering.

(BS '85 Agricultural Communications) received the 2014 National Agri-Marketing Association Professional Development Award of Excellence for public relations. These awards honor NAMA members based on outstanding achievement in each of four professional development areas: public relations, marketing communications, product/species management and sales. Lisa was honored at the NAMA Fall Conference in Chicago.

(BS '85 Food Industry) died on June 20, 2014 while traveling in London. He is survived by his wife, daughters, father, sisters, brother, sister-in-law, mother-in-law, and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and great nieces. He was preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law.

(MS '87 Agricultural Education) has been elected to the board of directors at Farmers State Bank of Camp Point.

(BS '87 Agricultural Mechanization) died on August 1, 2014 surrounded by his family at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL. Kenneth married Susan Hanna in 1994. Mr. Walker is survived by Susan, his two children, mother, and his three sisters. He was preceded in death by his father and nephew.

(BS '87 Agriculture) died on August 4, 2014 in Prairie Home, MO. He is survived by his parents, life partner, two siblings, and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one brother.

(BS '88 Agriculture, MS '89 Agronomy) was named Pearson Master Teacher of the year at Lincoln Land Community College. He currently serves as the Program Coordinator for Agriculture and Horticulture there, which had record enrollment for agriculture students this fall.

(BS '91 Human Development and Family Studies) died on August 18, 2014 in Champaign, IL. She is survived by her father, stepmother, two daughters, three sisters, one stepbrother and one stepsister. She was preceded in death by her mother and grandmother.

(BS '98 Agriculture) was honored with the Ruth White Media Award by the Mid America CropLife Association. The award is presented to someone who has demonstrated unbiased and accurate reporting on American agriculture and the many issues related to it.

(BS '99 Human Resources & Family Studies) has been named to the 40 Under Forty 2014 List for Chicago Daily Law Bulletin /Chicago Lawyer Magazine. He works at Lake County Illinois Family Law Firm, Schlesinger & Strauss, LLC, where he is a partner.

(BS '99 Agriculture, MS '02 Agriculture, PhD '05 Animal Sciences) has been named an assistant professor at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in their medical microbiology, immunology and cell biology, and obstetrics and gynecology departments. Her research focus is reproductive diseases.

(BS '05 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) and his wife Carrie welcomed their first daughter, Sofia Charlee Fitzgerald on April 15, 2014.

(BS '06 Animal Sciences, MS '08 Bioinformatics) was awarded the Individual Postdoctoral Fellowship by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences through the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Awards program. The fellowship will provide up to three years of support for promising postdoctoral researchers who have the potential to become productive, independent investigators.

(BS '06 Animal Sciences, MS '08 Food Science & Human Nutrition) has published a cookbook entitled "Flavors of Fall," featuring produce and products from her parent's farm. Her cookbook can be purchased at the farm store at Gail's Pumpkin Patch in Beason, IL.

(MS '07 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) was named director of science education and research for the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, PA. She oversees all science-education programs at Phipps for kids and the Botany in Action research program for college students.

(BS '10 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) was honored by the Peace Corps with the Franklin H. Williams award, along with 5 other volunteers. This award is for volunteers with diverse ethnic backgrounds who continue to display commitment to community service and the Peace Corps' Third Goal of promoting a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.

(BS '35 Home Economics) of Peoria died April 6, 2014. She was 100. Her husband Merle Raymond Yontz preceded her in death. She is survived by five daughters and a son, 20 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren.

(BS '38 Agriculture) died March 22, 2014 at Girard, IL. He was 98. Mr. Pocklington served in the Timberwolf Infantry, including the Battle of the Bulge, receiving a Bronze Star. Afterwards, he started a commercial seed corn business with family. He married Lucille Denby, who preceded him in death. He later married Nancy Denby Dow. He was chosen for an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. Mr. Pocklington is survived by his wife, Nancy, and four children, two step-children, eight grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

(BS '39 Vocational Agriculture) of Sun City, AZ died March 23, 2014 at the age of 95. She is survived by her husband of 72 years, Neal Chellis Coffman, and a daughter.

(BS '39 Home Economics) of rural Jacksonville, died April 19, 2014 at 97 years old. Her husband, Horace "Ben" Benson preceded her in death. She taught for 11 years, worked at Olin Industries in Alton, then 17 years at Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, CA.

(BS '40 Home Economics) died April 15, 2014 in Springfield, IL. Her husband, Theodore, preceded her in death along with a grandson. In addition to teaching English and Home Economics for many years, she was the Home Extension Advisor in Kankakee County for five years. She is survived by two children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

(BS '41 Agriculture) died March 8, 2014 at the age of 95, at Great Falls, MT. He married Thelma Burley. She survives. Rudy served in World War II with the Army Air Corp. He worked at Grogan Robinson Wholesale from 1943 until retirement in 1987.

(BS '41 Vocational Agriculture) of Naples, FL passed away May 15, 2014 at the age of 94. Dale served in the United States Navy during WWII. He taught agriculture at Cissna Park and later became a partner in the Markwalder-Price Grain Company. He is survived by his wife, June, and three sons, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

(BS '41 Human & Community Development) of Watseka, Il died May 31, 2014 at the age of 96. Edna was a home economics teacher and served on the Illinois Board of Vocational Education. She was also a volunteer and life member of the Iroquois County Historical Society. Edna was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister, and one nephew. She is survived by two nephews and one niece.

(BS '41 Home Economics) of York, PA died March 13, 2014 at the age of 95. She married Warren J. Weaver, who preceded her in death. She is survived by the couple's three children, seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

(BS '42 Home Economics) died April 7, 2014 at Savoy, IL. She is survived by two sons, a daughter, six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Her husband, Norman W. Hassler, preceded her in death.

(BS '46 Home Economics) of St. Louis died May 15, 2014. She was 90. Helen was married and had 3 children. Helen was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority Alumni Association for over 60 years.

(BS '47 Agriculture) died March 23, 2014 at the age of 96 in Carlyle, IL. He married Marian E. Piggott. She preceded him in death. He is survived by a two children and a granddaughter. Bertren served in WWII with the United States Army. Afterwards, he worked as the assistant farm advisor in Jersey and Washington Counties. He then served as Farm Advisor in Clinton County from 1953 until he retired in 1977. He organized the first Clinton County Fair in Carlyle in 1951, continuing to serve on the fair board. He also served on the St. Louis Dairy Council, Illinois Poultry Council, was a member of the Clinton County Farm Bureau, Clinton County Holstein Club and 4-H.

(BS '49 Vocational Agriculture, BS '50 Agricultural Engineering) of Catlin died April 13, 2014 at the age of 90. He was preceded in death by his wife Frances R. Logan. Surviving are the couple's two children. He served in the United States Marine Corps. Merret worked for Oliver Farm Equipment in Shelbyville. He retired as a design engineer from Hyster Co., in Danville, in 1990.

(MS '49 Agronomy) of Gainesville, FL died April 8, 2014 at the age of 94. Leonard served in the United States Air Corp and trained as an aerial gunner and received the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal with two oak leaf clusters. Afterwards he worked as an Agronomist at the Everglades Experiment Station. He married Ruth Jameson. He taught seventh and eighth grade science. He was preceded in death by his wife and a son. He is survived by three children, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

(BS '50 Vocational Agriculture, EDM '58 Education Administration) died April 29, 2014 at the age of 91 at Naples, FL. He is survived by his wife, Hazel Marie, five children, ten grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He served in the United States Navy during World War II. He taught vocational agriculture in Shabbona and Harvard, before becoming principal.

(BS '50 Vocational Agriculture, MEXED '66 Extension Education) of Dickinson, TX, formerly Paris, IL, passed away May 3, 2014. He is survived by his wife Clara "Jackie" Jacobs, two children, and two grandchildren. He served in the United States Navy. He was a farm advisor with the Extension Services, served on the state professional organization with the Illinois Extension Advisory Association board and belonged to the National Association of Country Agricultural Agents. He was also chairman of the state 4-H advisory committee from 1956 – 1962, FFA Honorary Chapter Farmer Award in 1967 and many other volunteer organizations.

(BS '50 Home Economics Education) of Janesville passed away at the age of 85 June 3, 2014. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma. She is survived by her husband, Christ Schaaf, two daughters, three grandchildren, two step-children, and a step-grandchild.

(BS '50 Vocational Agriculture, EDM '55 Education Administration) of Springfield, IL, died May 13, 2014 at the age of 85. He taught vocational agriculture and was FFA advisor for 37 years in Middletown and Farmer City. He is survived by his wife Mary Catherine and six children, 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

(BS '50 Vocational Agriculture) of rural LaHarpe, IL, died at the age of 85. "Ernie" was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. He also served on the U o I Livestock Judging Team. He served in the United States Army. The rest of his career was spent farming. He also owned and operated the LaHarpe soil-testing lab, worked at the Disco, IL Elevator and owned and operated the Disco Farm Supply selling fertilizer and other farm needs. He is survived by his wife Pat and two children, four grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

(MS '51 Dairy Science, PhD '53 Animal Sciences) died at 91 years of age January 31, 2014. Dr. van Tienhoven came to the United States from the Netherlands in 1947. He was emeritus professor of animal physiology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University. His wife Ans van Tienhoven preceded him in death. He is survived by three children and several grandchildren.

(BS '51 Home Economics Education) of Mahomet, IL died May 1, 2014 at the age of 86. She married Art Clark, who preceded her in death. She is survived by five children, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

(MS '52 Home Economics) of Bloomington, IL died April 14, 2014 at the age of 88. She is survived by her husband Harold Ryan, two daughters, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She taught home economics for five years.

(MS '53 Agricultural Economics) of Jerseyville, IL passed away May 4, 2014 at the age of 87. He was preceded in death by his wife Regina Milles Rogers and a son. Robert farmed in the White Heath area, and spent 35 years in farm management in Greene, Jersey, Calhoun and Macoupin counties. He is survived by four children, and nine grandchildren.

(BS '53 Vocational Agriculture) of Lisle, IL died April 8, 2014 at the age of 82. He was in the United States Army, serving 27.5 years. His wife, Lorene Taylor Rizer survives, along with three children, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

(BS '54 Home Economics) died at the age of 83 July 4, 2014. She worked as a school teacher and also as a hospital nutritionist. Edna is survived by her husband Arnold Weber, three sons and eight grandchildren.

(BS '55 Vocational Agriculture) died April 19, 2014 at the age of 83. John served in the Air Force Reserves, and worked in the Horticultural Department at the University of California. He later worked in Air Pollution Research and Control for the County of Riverside, operated nursery and landscape business, followed by the Toro Company as Field Test Supervisor for the West Coast before retiring. He is survived by wife Mary, three children, a step-daughter, and seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

(PhD '55 Animal Sciences) died March 31, 2014 at the age of 91. He served in the United States Army. He married Nona Jumper. She survives, as does a daughter, two grandsons, and four great-granddaughters. Dr. Baker taught and conducted research at Virginia Polytechnic Institute, then returned to Mississippi State University to teach and conduct research. He was department head of Animal Science from 1968 – 1987, and received the MSU Alumni Association Faculty Classroom Teaching and Research Award.

(PhD '55 Agronomy) of Stillwater, OK died at the age of 86 on June 5, 2014. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard before attending the Oklahoma Agriculture and Mechanical College where he received his master's degree before attending the University of Illinois. Billy began his agricultural career as a soil scientist until his retirement as a Regents professor. He then continued his soil science career as a private consultant. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife (Christine until her passing in 2002), and wife (Shirley until her passing in 2006). Billy is survived by his three children, eight grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren.

(PhD '56 Animal Sciences) of Catonsville, MD died at 83 April 10, 2014. His wife Patricia Sonquist Lane preceded him in death. He is survived by the couple's two children, four grandchildren, and three great-grandsons. Dr. Lane was a scientist, authored more than 325 research papers published in major scientific journals, and most proud of his work in enzymology.

(BS '58 Food Science) of Chicago died at the age of 78 in March 2014. He is survived by his wife Joy, a daughter and grandson. Donald was a member of Psi Upsilon Fraternity. He was a research and development director for General Foods.

(BS '62 Vocational Agriculture) from Toulon, Illinois died July 6, 2014. Gary was a retired farmer.

(PhD '64 Agricultural Economics) passed away May 15, 2014 at Fort Worth, TX. He was 89. Dr. Hubbard served in the United States Army during WWII and the Korean War. He served on the faculty of Oklahoma State University, then to Kimbell Milling Co. He then went into business for himself. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, five children, 11 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

(BS '66 Vocational Agriculture) died February 24, 2014 at the age of 70. He was living in Vandalia at the time of his death. Surviving are a daughter, Clara Carpenter, his mother, 3 brothers and a sister. Shorty served in the United States Navy as a pilot during the Vietnam Conflict.

(BS '68 Home Economics) of Vero Beach, FL died at the age of 67 April 2, 2014. She is survived by her husband Bradley, two daughters, and four grandchildren.

(BS '69 Home Economics) died March 22, 2014 in Barrington. She was 67. Her career was project manager for 36 years with Brown Printing Co., Woodstock.

(MS '71 Agronomy) of the Republic of Cameroon, died January 21, 2013. He was 68. He became the first General manager of IRAD (Institute of Agronomic Research for Development) before being appointed minister of Scientific research.

(BS '73 Agricultural Economics) of Newton, IL died March 31, 2014 at the age of 63. His wife Karen Lea Harrison survives along with the couple's four children and two grandchildren. Steven began his career with FS in 1978 and recently retired from South Central FS.

(MEXED '74 Extension Education) of Madison, WI died March 9, 2014 at the age of 91. George was in the United States Marine Corps during WWII. He first worked as a field supervisor for Larson Canning Company, then as a livestock buyer for Oscar Mayer. He became an agriculture extension agent in Lee County, IL, Jo Daviess County, then with the Zamare Project in Zambia, East Africa before returning to the Galena area. He is survived by three children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Betty.

(BS '75 Animal Sciences) of Matteson passed away May 29, 2014 at the age of 60. He is survived by his wife, Marie, four children, seven grandchildren, and a great-grandson. Alan had retired from Avatar.

(BS '81 Forestry) has returned to Northern Michigan as forest supervisor fo the Huron-Manistee National Forests. Leslie has worked as acting forest supervisor for the Kisatchie national Forest in Louisiana and the national Forests in Alabama. She also served as deputy forest supervisor of the Cherokee national Forest in Tennessee.

(BS '82 Ornamental Horticulture) of Libertyville, IL died March 29, 2014 at the age of 55. Jeff was a horticulture teacher at Glenbrook South High School in Glenview for 30 years. His is survived by his wife Patty Yordy and their three sons.

(BS '85 Animal Sciences) has joined Kemin's animal nutrition and health division as a dairy technical service manager. Kemin Industries, Inc. is located in Des Moines, IA. Previously, Debra was with Prince Agri Products for 25 years.

(BS '85 Crop Sciences) was promoted to senior vice president and senior loan officer of Cissna Park State Bank.

(BS '87 Agricultural Economics) is the vice president of First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust in Mattoon, Il and now is believed to be the one only father and son combination to both serve as FFA Presidents for the state of Illinois.

(BS '88 Agricultural Economics, MS '91 Agricultural Economics) and Michelle M. Lendaitis (MS '94 Agricultural Economics) were featured in Iowa Living Magazine for their vehicle license plates hanging in their garage. The license plates tell their Midwest story from leaving graduate school at the U of I through their next 23 years; from Illinois to Ohio, Wisconsin, and finally Iowa.

(BS '92 Agronomy) has been named to AbCelex Technologies Board of Directors, a privately-held biotechnology company committed to the discovery and development of innovative solutions to advance the health of food animals and human food safety.

(BS '93 Agricultural Economics) recently joined the Chicago real estate company @properties as a real estate broker in Winnetka.

(MS '94 Agricultural Economics) and Victor J. Lenkaitis III (BS '88, MS '91 Agricultural Economics) were featured in Iowa Living Magazine for their vehicle license plates hanging in their garage. The license plates tell their Midwest story from leaving graduate school at the U of I through their next 23 years; from Illinois to Ohio, Wisconsin, and finally Iowa.

(BS '96 Agricultural Economics) of Little York, Il died June 10, 2014 at the age of 44. David was a dispatcher at Waste Management, volunteer fireman, and Sumner Township Supervisor. He is survived by his wife, parents, daughter, four step-daughters, six grandchildren, and a niece.

(BS '00 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) has joined Prime Law Group LLC in Woodstock. She will be responsible for municipal prosecution, civil litigation and family law.

(BS '03 Animal Sciences, MS '05 Animal Sciences) was invited to speak at the Pecatonica Rotary Club in July, where she had the opportunity to share stories about farm animal care, the environment and the science and technology of growing healthier food. She and her husband Brent farm more than 300 acres of corn and alfalfa to support their dairy cows and pigs they raise at their Rockford farm.

(BS '06 Human Nutrition, MS '08 Nutritional Sciences) graduated from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine May 2014 with a combined MD / JD degree in medicine and law. She began internal medicine residency at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis in July.

(BS '07 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) is the new natural history biologist in the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in Cape Girardeau.

(BS '07 Horticulture) has developed, along with Mason Day, of Ball Horticultural created an application gardeners can use to upload pictures of flowers and plants and other information about gardening to connect with other gardeners. The application is called "GrowIt!" and will be a way younger people can connect about gardening.

(BS '13 Human Development and Family Studies) won the Boston Marathon women's wheelchair race for the second straight year. She crossed the finish line in 1 hour, 35 minutes, 6 seconds. Tatyana also won the 2013 New York city marathon women's wheelchair race after winning in Boston, London and Chicago in the same year.

(BS '14 Agriculture and Consumer Economics) oined the Brenda Keith Realty Team at Re/Max Realty Associates as sales partner.

(BS '14 Agricultural Education)  married John Curtis Edgar July 19, 2014. She is the agricultural education instructor and FFA advisor at Sparta High School.

(BS '40 Home Economics) died March 15, 2014 at the age of 101. She married Samuel Buford in Grayslake, who preceded her in death. The couple's two children and two grandchildren and a great-grandson survive. Erlene taught high school home economics in Westfield and Cissna Park, and was an Extension home economist in Stark and JoDaviess Counties. Erlene was a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, University of Illinois Alumni Association, C-U Antique Study Group, C-U Art League, Stockton Heritage League, Stockton Art League and the Grayslake Historical Society. She was also a 4-H leader in JoDaviess and Lake Counties as well as an Extension volunteer for more than 30 years. Erlene was a board member of the UI Mom's Association for four years, board member of the UI Home Economics Alumni Association and received the UI Loyalty Award.

(BS '43 Home Economics) died March 14, 2014 at the age of 92. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph L. McGrath. Ruth worked in early cancer research with Dr. Warren Cole, UI Chicago. She is survived by a stepdaughter and two grandchildren.

(BS '43 Home Economics, MS '72 LAS) of Springfield, IL, died June 20, 2014. She was 93. Mary June lived in 4-H House. She taught Home Economics in Chenoa, Mason City and Pawnee, IL. She taught for 30 years in Springfield before retiring. Mary June was a member of the Philanthropic Education Organization (P.E.O.) Chapter in Springfield. She is survived by two children, three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

(BS '45 Home Economics) of Wheaton, IL died May 19, 2014 at the age of 90. She was the president of the Isabel Bevier Home Economics Club, a member of the 4-H House, an active alumnus and the treasurer of the U of I Home Economics Alumni Association. Doris received the Illinois 4-H Alumni Award in 1984, and was awarded the Loyalty Award for Devotion in Leadership in 1989. She taught home economics for 36 years at Peotone High School. She was preceded in death by her husband Russell C. Kruger. She is survived by the couple's two children.

(BS '46 Agronomy, MS '47 Agronomy) died February 24, 2014 at the age of 95. As a graduate student at the UI in the late 1940's, Al began his carrier as a "strip mine farmland man." He was dedicated to demonstrating that former surface coal-mined land could be productively used for agriculture and recreation. Al served in World War II Army Air Corp, Knox County Farm Extension, 4-H Club Leadership, and former Yates City School Board. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruth. The couple's three children survive.

(BS '46 Agriculture) died March 8, 2014 at the age of 90. Mr. Dralle was president and publisher of Big Farmer magazine, Woman's Golfer Magazine and owner of National Farm Data Bank. He served as vice-president of Farm Journal magazine. Ralph was a member of Farmhouse Fraternity, state livestock judge, and traveled as a representative for Earl Butz, Secretary of Agriculture, to Russia and Amsterdam. Among others, he established scholarship funds for Farmhouse Fraternity and Pi Beta Phi Sorority. Ralph was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Ann (Beaver) Dralle and a daughter. He is survived by four daughters, 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

(BS '48 Vocational Agriculture) died June 17, 2014 at the age of 90 in Indianapolis, IN. Arthur worked for the U of I as a dairy herd improvement supervisor. He served in the United States Army. Arthur was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, and was a member of the Dairy Judging Team. He was a dairy specialist working with Holstein Guernsey, Jersey and other dairy related groups for Elkhart County, IN Extension. He also worked in Noble County as an Extension Educator specializing in livestock programs. Mr. Howard also worked in banking for 24 years, including Grabill Bank. He is survived by his wife Mary Jeanne and the couple's two daughters and four grandchildren.

(BS '48 Agriculture) died November 22, 1974 at Clarendon Hills, IL. He married Alda Messar. The couple had one son.

(BS '48 Home Economics Education, MS '51 Home Economics Education) of East Liverpool, OH died June 8, 2014 at the age of 86. Her husband, Robert J. "Bob" Beals, preceded her in death. She is survived by three children and seven grandchildren. Lois had taught home economics in Watseka, IL in 1948, then became Assistant Professor of Foods and Nutrition at Northern Michigan College of Education, and also was a research dietician at the University of Illinois. From 1976 to 1994, she served as Home Economics and Learning Disabilities teacher with East Liverpool City Schools.

(BS '50 Vocational Agriculture) died May 19, 2014. He was a fourth-generation lifelong farmer, residing at Avon, IL. He was a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho agriculture fraternity, Fulton County Farm Bureau, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois Soybean Association, Illinois Pork Producers, and Bushnell United Methodist Church. Dick was also the Farm Bureau Chairman for Harris Township for several years, and served one term on the Board of Trusties for Lee Township. He is survived by his wife Marjorie L. Nelson, two children and four grandchildren.

(BS '51 Vocational Agriculture) died June 13, 2014. He was 84. Donald was an Army veteran, serving from 1951 – 1953. He returned to farm the family farm at Homer. He is survived by his wife Joan Wiese and the couple's four children, nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

(BS '51 Food Science, MS '56 Food Science) died May 31, 2014, at the age of 87 at his Kalamazoo, MI home. Mr. Kendall was a World War II veteran of the United States Navy. He worked in the food technology and postharvest physiology industries. He also helped coordinate U.S. and Chilean blueberry growers to achieve a year-round supply for consumers, primarily in America. Mr. Kendall was preceded in death by his wife Ruth E. Gatterdam and a daughter. He is survived by six children, thirteen grandchildren and a great-grandson.

(BS '53 Agriculture) 84, died June 10, 2014 at Wheaton, IL. Mel was a member of the Acacia Fraternity and served on the Acacia National Foundation Board and the Illinois Acacia Corporation Board. He married Carol Linde. Mel worked in the dairy industry for Borden, and retired from Quality Chekd Dairy Association in 1990. He is survived by Carol and one daughter, a son-in-law, and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter and a grandson.

(BS '55 Agriculture) died March 14, 2014 at the age of 80. His wife Joyce (Dunham) German preceded him in death. He later married Norma "Skip" (Vineyard) Hepworth. She survives. Four children also survive. Clyde also raised two granddaughters. Twelve grandchildren and six great grandchildren also survive. Clyde worked for DeKalb/Monsanto for over 50 years. He was a member of the Gifford Lions Club, was a scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts, and a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.

(PhD '56 Crop Sciences) died at the age of 91 May 23, 2014 in Sarasota, FL. Dr. Spurrier began his career with Monsanto Company, St. Louis, MO in 1958. He retired in 1982. Dr. Spurrier became Vice President for Regulatory Affairs and then State Affairs with the National Agricultural Chemical Association until 1991. He was preceded in death by his wife Peggy. He is survived by his second wife, Dolores, three children and two step-sons and eleven grandchildren.

(BS '57 Vocational Agriculture) died May 26, 2014 at Paw Paw, IL. He was 78. Melvin worked for the Illinois Farm Bureau, and later for the American Farm Bureau. He served in the United States Army. In 1974, he opened the True Value Hardware Store in Paw Paw, which he owned and operated until he retired after 35 years. He is survived by his wife Nancy and the couple's two children and three grandchildren.

(BS '58 Vocational Agriculture, EDM '63 Education Administration)  from Ridge Farm, died June 19, 2014 at the age of 82.

(BS '61 Vocational Agriculture) died May 17, 2014 at the age of 75, at New Berlin, IL. John served in the United States Army, and then returned to operate the family's centennial farm. John is survived by his wife Sara Lovekamp, three children, and two granddaughters and two step-grandchildren.

(BS '61 Agriculture) died at the age of 74 at Stockton, IL May 24, 2014. Dick was a member of Farmhouse Fraternity, and a veteran of the Illinois National Guard. He was preceded in death by wife Carol Evans. He later married Donna Noller. He was a dairy farmer and later established a seed company. He is survived by his wife Donna and their three children and ten grandchildren.

(BS '63 Agriculture) died February 28, 2014 at the age of 72. He was former Inspector General for the California National Guard at Sutter Medical Center in Roseville, Ca. He attended the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, PA, and was a Vietnam veteran. After retiring from the National Guard as an Army colonel, Don was an investigator for the State Fair Political Practice Commission and worked with the State Department of Veteran's Affairs. He is survived by his wife Michele.

(BS '63 Agriculture) died March 1, 2014 at the age of 73, of Lexington, IL. His wife Patty (Downes) Mohr, three children and seven grandchildren survive. James and Patty began farming and raising livestock in 1963, living there and operating the farm for over 50 years. He served two terms on the Lexington School Board, nine years as a Farm Service Agency County committeeman, 30 years on the Lexington Fire District Board, and 30 years as a clerk and trustee of Money Creek Township.

(BS '63 Agriculture) died March 18, 2014, at Monticello, IL. He was 72. He married Ellen Marie (Behnke) Gard. She survives, along with two daughters and three grandchildren. Jerry served as senior vice president for the National Bank, Marine Bank, and Banc One of Monticello. He was a member of the Monticello Masonic Lodge No. 58 AF&AM, the Bloomington Consistory, the Ansar Shrine, the Decatur Shrine Club and the First Christian Church of Monticello. He was also a former member of the Monticello Rotary Club, Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, Woodlawn Country Club and the Decatur Ski Club. Jerry was a director and originator of Tatman Village, director of the Monticello Grain Company, director of the local chapter of the Robert Morris Association and Illinois Bankers Association and treasurer of Phi Sigma Epsilon Alumni Association, as well as having served in the National Guard.

(BS '63 Agriculture) died May 23, 2014 at the age of 74. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Nancy L. (Smith) Strunk, and the couple's four children and ten grandchildren. Duane was an Illinois licensed general appraiser, farm manager, rural appraiser and real estate managing broker. Duane served on the College of Agriculture Board of Directors over 15 years, and the UI Board of Directors. He was a member of the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, and earned the AFM & ARA designations; Champaign County Farm Bureau and past BOD member, IFB Equine Grits Committee, 4-H Leader, State Extension Council and C-U Kiwanis member.

(BS '63 Vocational Agriculture) of Brandon, MS died May 28, 2014 at the age of 74. He retired as a Commander with the United States Navy. He was a member of Phi Kappa Sigma. Mr. McDonald retired as Finance Director with the MS Farm Credit Bank, and later worked at the Hercules Credit Union in Hattiesburg. He is survived by his wife Helene, two daughters and two granddaughters.

(BS '65 Vocational Agriculture) of Taylorville, IL died at the age of 70 October 23, 2012. Jack was an ag teacher in Newman, Williamsville, and Cerro Gordo, and was a soil consultant until he retired in 2004. He is survived by his wife Lois and three children.

(BS '69 Agriculture) is retiring from his position with Illinois State University June 14, 2014. Pat wanted to share with friends and colleagues that he is grateful for his beginnings with UI and Department of Agriculture, Consumer Economics.

(BS '69 Home Economics) died June 1, 2014 at the age of 67 in Indianapolis, IN. Lea became a registered dietitian, spending 25 years at Marquette Manor. She opened "Perfect Pastries" bakery. She was a member of the American Dietetic Association, and supporter of Meals on Wheels. Lea is survived by her husband Samuel Elbert, two children and five grandchildren.

(BS '74 Home Economics) has been named the first chief executive for Calypso St. Barth (Long Island City, NY). Mindy was formerly president of Aéropostale, Inc., New York, and previously, Victoria's Secret Direct Division of Limited Brands, Inc., Columbus, OH. Calypso St. Barth is a high-end island and resort brand of apparel and accessories, founded on St. Barth in 1992.

(BS '74 LAS, MS '76 Food Science)  has died at the age of 61, on March 20, 2014.

(BS '79 Agricultural Economics) died June 21, 2014 at the age of 57. Dennis was a VP of Business Banking at Peoples Bank and Trust of Pana, IL. He had retired as VP of Financial Services from Farm Credit Services in Shelbyville after 27 years and was a crop insurance specialist for many years. He farmed all his life. He was a U of I Alumni Association member, and past president of Shelbyville FFA Alumni Association. He is survived by his wife Kendra, two daughters and a grandson.

(BS '80 Animal Sciences) received the Distinguished Extension-Industry Service Award, which was established in 1965 to recognize outstanding achievement in meat science extension and service to the industry, and is sponsored by the American meat Institute Foundation (AMIF). Dr. Johnson is Director of Pork Quality, Smithfield-Farmland Corporation, Denison, IA.

(BS '82 Ornamental Horticulture) passed away March 29, 2014. He is survived by his wife and three sons. Mr. Yordy taught Agriculture / Horticulture at Glenbrook South High School, IL. Glenbrook South's horticulture department developed a nationally-recognized horticulture and floriculture program.

(BS '83 Agricultural Education) was recognized as an IAVAT Excellence in Teaching Award winner at the June 2014 IAVAT Conference in Decatur, IL.

(BS '83 Agriculture Economics) was promoted from Executive Vice President to Chief Credit Officer, Northern Trust Bank, Naperville, IL. Mark is a son of William and Nancy Gossett, (BS '56 ACES).

(BS '84 Food Science) died June 5, 2014. She ran a food booth at the Saturday Market in Eugene, and worked as a bookkeeper for Paul's Bicycle Way of Life, as well as caregiver for several local families.

(BS '86 Animal Sciences) was named 2014 SRS Specialist of the Year at the 2014 Select Reproductive Solutions (SRS) Conference held June 2-5, 2014 in St. Louis, Mo. Ted and his wife Elizabeth have three daughters and a grandson. The family resides in Milledgeville, IL.

(BS '86 Human Resources and Family Studies) was recently named new executive director of Project HELP, a child abuse prevention program that has served the Elmhurst community since 1992.

(BS '88 Food Science and Human Nutrition) is being promoted from the Illinois Chamber of Commerce executive vice president, overseeing several departments, including the business services division, government affairs, membership and marketing to CEO July 1, 2014.

(BS '93 Agricultural Communications) was recently recognized as a 2014 Florida Super Lawyer, in Orlando. Owned by Thomson Reuters, Super Lawyers recognize attorneys who have distinguished themselves in their legal practice. Isenhart practices in elder law, Medicaid planning, guardianship, probate and trust administration, probate and guardianship litigation, estate planning and special-needs trusts. Isenhart is a partner with Shuffield Lowman Attorneys and Advisors.

(BS '99 Crop Sciences, MS '02 Crop Sciences) has been appointed to AgReliant Genetics, LLC, an affiliated company of PRIDE Seeds to the position of Manager of Precision Ag Technologies, located in Westfield, IN.

(BS '01 Animal Sciences, DVM '05 Veterinary Medicine) has opened a new animal hospital in Darien, IL. A Grand Opening of Finan Animal Hospital was held June 14, 2014. Patient comfort and pet owner education are of utmost importance. The new clinic's mission is for pet owners to make educated decisions for their pets.

(BS '03 Animal Sciences) has been named executive director of the Naperville Area Humane Society. Previously, Anna was the head of Kendall County Animal Control. She has also worked as an animal control officer and humane education and public events coordinator for DuPage County Animal Care and Control, and volunteered with humane societies and breed-specific rescues. Anna has also been a department instructor at the University of Illinois.

(BS '03 Agriculture & Environmental Communications & Education) is joining Osborn Barr as Public Relations Director. A disconnect between farms and consumers challenges the local communications agency, Osborn Barr. Josh has been hired to meet this challenge. He left DuPont Pioneer's Global Public Affairs team, where he led issues management and crisis communications efforts to join Osborn Barr.

(PhD '03 Food Science and Human Nutrition) shares that he is a lecturer at Egerton University, Kenya. Thomas is married and the couple has three boys.

(MS '05 Agricultural Education) was recognized as an IAVAT Excellence in Teaching Award winner at the June 2014 IAVAT Conference in Decatur, IL.

(BS '07 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) will be moving, with his wife Gab, to Chicago as executive director of Faith in Place, a statewide nonprofit whose mission is "to help people of faith understand that issues of ecology and economy – of care for Creation – are at the forefront of social justice." Brian previously established a branch office of Faith in Place at the University YMCA, and served as a catalyst for change.

(BS '08 Animal Sciences) has continued her education since graduating from UI in 2008 to obtain a Master's degree in biotechnology and chemical science in 2010 from Roosevelt University in Chicago, to receiving a Ph.D. from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine May 17, 2014. She will begin an internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency at Medical College of Wisconsin and its affiliated hospitals in Milwaukee in July.

(BS '40 Home Economics) at the age of 101, died March 15, 2014 at Urbana, IL. Erlene married Samuel W. Buford, who preceded her in death. She taught high school home economics in Westfield and Cissna Park, and was an Extension home economist in Stark and JoDaviess counties. For more than 30 years, Erlene was a 4-H leader and an Extension volunteer. She was a board member of the UI Mom's Association, board member of the UI Home Economics Alumni Association and had received the UI Loyalty Award. Erlene is survived by two daughters, Jane Scherer of Urbana, and Margaret Engelmann of Godfrey, two grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

(BS '41 Home Economics) passed away April 17, 2006 at Sarasota, FL. She was 86. Evelyn is survived by four children, 14 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

(BS '41 Home Economics) passed away at the age of 90 June 11, 2008. Ruth and the late Elmer were married 61 years. She taught elementary school in Wauconda more than 25 years.

(BS '42 Agriculture, MS '47 Agricultural Economics) passed away March 21, 2013 in Vancouver, WA. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Sheila, and their two daughters and son.

(BS '53 Human and Community Development) died at the age of 83 in Bettendorf, IA February 16, 2014. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Nedra, and the couple's children. Following his service in the United States Army, Leon taught vocational agriculture, and later worked in private business, retiring from Merck & Co. in 1992.

(MS '70 Agronomy, PhD '73 Agronomy) is the executive director of the University of Georgia Seed Development, overseeing a program that produces foundation plant material and markets seed and plant materials designed to improve crop yields for Georgia growers, as well as across the United States. He is the fourth scientist to be featured in the DTN Progressive Farmer Crops

(BS '72 Agronomy) of Arlington, TX retired January 2014 after more than 39 years working for USDA-NRCS. He worked as a District Conservationist and Conservation Agronomist in Illinois, Kentucky, Florida, Delaware, Colorado and Texas.

(BS '75 Agriculture & Consumer Economics) Five Point Farms, Mattoon, IL, owned by John and Susan Doty, have been named Coles County Farm Bureau's Outstanding Members of the Year for 2014. John has been a director or member of the county Farm Bureau nearly 30 years. Five Point Farms is a grain farm.

(PhD '79 Agricultural Economics) was honored by being named the 2013-14 Chief Executive Leadership Award by the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District VI. This award is in recognition of the leadership of a higher education chief executive officer who demonstrates the ability to create a vision and inspire others. Dr. Chicoine serves as South Dakota State University President.

(BS '84 Agriculture and Consumer Economics) has been appointed to the Lincoln Land Community College Foundation Board of Directors. Todd also serves as president and CEO of United Community Bank, and as a board member for Memorial Medical Center, board director at United Community Bank, Brown County State Bank in Mt. Sterling and Marine Bank & Trust in Carthage. Todd is also a past president of the Central Illinois Foodbank, served on the board of directors for Ball-Chatham Education Foundation and as a volunteer for United Way and Chatham youth athletics.

(BS '90 Animal Sciences) is now the Director of Training, Improvement Solutions & Food Safety at SAI Global, Cedar Lake, IN. Gary is also the recipient of the 2013 SQF Distinguished Service Award, SQF Institute.

(BS '06 Agribusiness, Farm & Financial,, MAS '07 Accounting) Former campus Relay for Life committee chair Adam Schwarts was made the Hall of Fame's eighth inductee. He was quoted by saying "There's no other organization in the health arena, not just the cancer arena, that has accomplished what the American Cancer Society has accomplished." In June, Adam will open a new fundraising season around Chicago.

(BS '47 Home Economics, MS '55 Home Economics) died at the age of 20 October 9, 2013. Mimi and a friend were walking on Campus when a pickup truck jumped a curb and hit the two, killing Mimi and injuring her friend. A student of ACES, Mimi was also a very talented pianist.

(Attendee '39) 97, died on the morning of Christmas Eve following a long illness at her home. She was preceded in death by her husband. Mrs. Barnes was a bookkeeper for her husband's business, Barnes Lumber Company. She was a member of the board of trustees of Mitchell-Carnegie Library for 52 years. While attending the University of Illinois, she was a member of Delta Delta Delta Sorority.

(BS '39 Ornamental Horticulture) 98, passed away on December 26, 2013, three days before his 98th birthday. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lydia Bruce Tilley. He served in the Pacific during World War II. He retired as nurseryman for Bowater Paper Company in 1982.

(BS '41 Home Economics) 94, passed away on December 18, 2013. At the University of Illinois, Marion was a member of its Delta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. She is preceded in death by her husband, Douglas Jay Coyle. After his death in 2004 she moved to Dallas. She was a master at Mexican dominos and knitting.

(BS '41 Home Economics) 94, passed away on January 1, 2014. Juanita is survived by her husband George Ransom Flexman and their five children. Juanita was a licensed dietician.

(Attendee '41) 96, passed away January 24, 2014. Jack was married to Mary U. Walsh, who preceded him in death. The couple is survived by three children, six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. After attending the University of Illinois, College of Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, Jack joined the United States Army. Jack was a farm manager and master craftsman and machinist. He volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America.

(BS '42 Agriculture, MS '51 Education, PhD '57 Agriculture Economics) 92, passed away on December 14, 2013. Survivors include his wife, Mava; children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. John was a professor emeritus of agricultural economics and vocational agriculture at the University of Illinois. He authored a textbook on farm management that was used in many colleges for over 40 years. He traveled all 50 states of the United States as well as Canada and Europe.

(BS '42 Home Economics) 93, passed away on December 29, 2013. Elsie was a mother and homemaker survived by four children, ten grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. She taught in Divernon while her husband was at war. She served as a Red Cross volunteer in many countries. Elsie taught young mothers who were not allowed to attend high school.

(BS '43 Agriculture, MS '47 Education, EDM '55 Education) 91, passed away January 26, 2014 at Urbana, IL. He is survived by his wife, Gladys Anderson and their three sons and seven grandchildren. Dr. Hemp served in the United States Air Force during World War II. He taught agricultural education at Wenona High School, University of Vermont and Purdue University, and retired as chair of the Department of Agricultural Education in the College of Education at the University of Illinois.

(BS '44 Home Economics) 91, passed away December 16, 2013. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. William Van Buren Dorn. She was employed as a social worker for the state of Connecticut for several years before her retirement in 1984.

(BS '45 Home Economics) 89, passed away on December 21, 2013. She is survived by her husband and son. She was a Sunday school teacher, 4-H leader, and the Home Economics teacher at Roberts-Thawville and later at Ford Central. She enjoyed playing the piano at nursing homes, and sewing was her favorite hobby. She made costumes for church events and the PBL Choral Department. Patricia and her husband Jean were avid fans of all PBL Panther sports.

(BS '47 Home Economics) 87, of Gilman, IL died February 13, 2013. She had taught elementary school in Yorkville, IL and also worked for the University of Illinois Home Extension Office. She was married to Robert Wepner, who preceded her in death.

(BS '47 Home Economics, MS '55 Home Economics) 87, of Rock Hill, SC died December 21, 2013. She was married to H. Fred Hassenplug, who preceded her in death in 2001. Louise taught at the University of Illinois and was also involved in Extension work, the University of Louisville, and at Northwest Missouri State College before teaching for 20 years and retiring in 1986 from Winthrop College in the School of Home Economics. She was president of the SC Home Economics Association 1983 – 1985; named Winthrop's Teacher of the Year in 1985.

(Attendee '50) 81, of Aurora, passed away September 19, 2009. Ralph worked in the office furniture industry for over forty years, and was president of Bentson Industries. Ralph is survived by his wife, Lois, and their four children, 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

(BS '50 Agriculture) 87, passed away January 15, 2014. Bob served in the United States Navy, stationed in Okinawa. He was a member of Farmhouse Fraternity. Bob farmed in the Atlanta, IL area all his life, and volunteered on many civic boards and organizations. Bob is survived by his wife, Kathryn "Kay" Carson, and two sons and a daughter-in-law.

(BS '52 Agriculture) 84, died January 14, 2014 in Evansville, IN. Dwight was a District Conservationist for Crawford, Jasper, Lawrence and Wayne Counties, was awarded the Wayne County Friend of FH Award, and was elected to the Illinois FH Hall of Fame in 2012. Dwight was a woodworker. He is survived by two sons and two daughters, 12 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren.

(MS '52 Home Economics Education) 85, of Stillman Valley, IL died December 5, 2013 in Omaha, NE. Jessie taught family and consumer science in the Stillman school district for 33 years until her retirement. She married Gerald Manring. They both were licensed pilots, owning their own plane. They were married 44 years at Gerald's passing. Jessie is survived by a daughter and two grandsons. She was also a published artist, displaying many of her pieces at the Rockford Art Center. Many pieces were also donated to various area schools and other institutions.

(BS '53 Home Economics)  81, of Tulsa, OK passed away Christmas night, 2013. She was a former University of Illinois beauty queen and lifelong supporter of Gamma Phi Beta sorority. She was a print and runway model in Chicago in the 1950's. She was a talented painter and weaver. Jeannien lived in Evanston, IL from 1961 – 1994 and was a member of the Evanston Art Center. She was married to the late Henry George Grossman, and then to the late George Ludwig. She is survived by three children and six grandchildren.

(BS '56 Agriculture, MS '58 Agriculture) 83, of Decatur passed away January 5, 2014. Tom served in the Korean War, stationed in Japan, before completing his degree at the University of Illinois. A corn breeder first at Bear Hybrids, Decatur, Tom then went to work for Van Horn Hybrids in Cerro Gordo, and then opened his own company, Hybrid Concepts, in the converted one-room school house he'd attended as a child, Prairie Dell School. Tom created machines, devices, and developed computer systems for corn breeding. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Carol Bulkley Warfield.

(MS '57 Home Economics) 82, died October 3, 2011 at Gainesville, FL. She worked as a researcher for the School of Home Economics at the University of Florida when her husband, Shirley, was a professor there. He preceded her in death. The couple is survived by a daughter.

(PhD '58 Food Science and Human Nutrition) received the Institute of Food Technologists' 2013 Calvert L. Willey Award for distinguished service. He also earned Certified Food Scientist accreditation in the inaugural class of DVS recipients. Dr. Albrecht is serving as president of the Greater Baltimore Medical Center Volunteer Auxiliary Board.

(BS '58 Agriculture, EDM '63 Education) 79, of Dixon, IL died December 19, 2013. After graduating from the University of Illinois, he served in the United States Army, and married Margaret Jane Blair. She survives, along with three children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Dick was a vocational agriculture teacher and school administrator in northern Illinois. Dick owned several "Coast-to-Coast" stores, and "Super Wash" car washes.

(BS '58 Agriculture) 80, passed away December 20, 2013, at Auburn, IL. He married Mary Alice Darst, who preceded him in death. He later married Sue Allen Fuiten. She survives. He was preceded in death by a son and two grandchildren. Surviving are his wife, Sue, two daughters, one son, a daughter-in-law, a stepson, two stepdaughters, 10 grandchildren, and two great-grandsons. Lowell served in the United States Navy. He served on several civic and agricultural organizations. He was a fifth generation farmer in the Auburn area, and a licensed pilot with his own landing strip on his farm ground.

(MS '59 Animal Sciences) 79, of Elizabethtown, died January 8, 2014 at home. Bob farmed in the Glendale area. He is survived by his wife, Ella Mae, three sons and nine grandchildren. Bob was in the United States Army, serving in Korea. He also served as director for several Harding County Kentucky agricultural organizations.

(PhD '60 Animal Sciences) 93, passed away October 21, 2013 at Gaithersburg, MD. His wife, Rose Matilda Buric, preceded him in death. The couple is survived by five children and seven grandchildren.

(BS '63 Agriculture) has been honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Agricultural Editors' Association at the 15thAgricultural Media Summit in Buffalo, NY. He worked for Future Farmers of America until 2009, and now serves on the National FFA Foundations' Individual Giving council. He and his wife live in Alexandria, VA.

(BS '67 Forestry, MS '75 Plant Pathology) was elected a Fellow in the Society of American Foresters in 2012. Steve was a retired recreation manager. He and his wife, Gloria Whitney Ricketts (BS '68 Home Economics) live in Port Hadlock, WA.

(BS '69 Agriculture) 66, of Peoria passed away January 7, 2014 at home. Surviving are his wife, Janie (Hamby) and the couple's two children and five grandchildren. Steven worked for Caterpillar in both domestic and foreign markets, retiring after 30 years, and recently for Morton Supplies.

(BS '70 Home Economics) has published Murder: A New Way to Lose Weight, a mystery-suspense novel in April, under the name of J.L. Greger. The book is the second in a series.

(BS '70 Agriculture) 63, of Elkhorn, NE died June 4, 2010. He is survived by his wife, Teri, three children and four grandchildren.

(BS '76 Agriculture) 63, of Ridott died December 24, 2013 at home. He is survived by his wife, Jane Schriver, and a daughter. Jeff was a United States Army Vietnam Veteran. Jeff was a teacher at Burlington Central High School and Mid Valley Area Vocational School. He was an agriculture mechanic for Reed Brothers Implement, farmed the family farm for 30 years, and helped the Black Hawk Farm Business Farm Management with annual record books.

(MS '84 Animal Sciences, PhD '87 Animal Sciences) has written a book, Healthy Eating Made Easy, and includes a forward written by George C. Fahey, Jr., U of I professor emeritus in animal sciences.

(BS '85 Forestry) 52, died December 3, 2013. Thomas lived in Spring Grove, IL and worked for many years at Abbot Laboratories.

(BS '94 Human Resources and Family Studies) published a book in 2013: Creating Safe and Supportive Learning Environments: A Guide for Working with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Question Youth and Families. The book is published by Routledge.

(BS '02 Agriculture and Environmental Communications) an associate attorney at the Chicago Law firm of Deutsch, Levy & Engel, Chartered, has been elected an Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) "Under 35" delegate to the American Bar Association House of Delegates.

(BS '03 Animal Sciences, DVM '07 Veterinary Medicine) and Terry Foust (BS '04 Animal Sciences, DVM '09 Veterinary Medicine) established a veterinary practice together in Port Byron in April 2013, River View Veterinary Service, www.riverviewvets.com. The practice focuses on small animals, but they treat large animals such as cattle and horses, too. In addition to starting a veterinary practice, Terry and Sarah also started a family. They have a 21-month old daughter, Cecilia.

(BS '04 Animal Sciences, DVM '09 Veterinary Medicine) and Sarah Foust (BS '03 Animal Sciences, DVM '07 Veterinary Medicine) established a veterinary practice together in Port Byron in April 2013, River View Veterinary Service, www.riverviewvets.com. The practice focuses on small animals, but they treat large animals such as cattle and horses, too. In addition to starting a veterinary practice, Terry and Sarah also started a family. They have a 21-month old daughter, Cecilia.

(PhD '13 Food Science and Human Nutrition) joined ADM Foods & Wellness where he will be leading the marketing efforts for the Health & Nutrition market segments and supporting ADM's marketing efforts in Latin America.

(BS '13 Human & Community Development) is meeting a new challenge with competing for a cross country skiing medal at the Winter Paralympics in Sochi. Following Winter Paralympics, Tatyana will be headed to London, Boston, Chicago, and then New York for 2013 marathons.

(BS '42 Home Economics) Honor Trotter passed away May 6, 2013.

(BS '00 FSHN) On September 7, 2021, Sheila N. Downing received a graduate diploma for Sports Nutrition from the International Olympics Committee (IOC) in Switzerland. After completing 2 years of online study and exams, she traveled to Lausanne, Switzerland, being the only American participant in the graduation ceremony. By obtaining this diploma, Sheila is eligible to provide nutritional counseling and coaching to the US Olympic Team.

(BS '81, MS '83) Janet Grabowski retired in February 2020 after working for 28 years with the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Plant Materials Program. 

(BS '48 Ag Education, MS '54 Ag Education)

Josh St. Peters will serve as the Illinois Beef Association (IBA) executive vice president beginning March 1.

He will develop and recommend policies, plans and programs to effectively meet the needs and challenges of the membership and to enhance the demand, growth and reputation of beef and Illinois' beef industry.

St. Peters comes to IBA with 20 years of experience in ag marketing, communications and public affairs work. He is a former farm broadcaster, having previously worked in communications for Illinois Farm Bureau. St. Peters' past experience includes management roles at Pioneer Hi-Bred and advertising agency Osborn+Barr. For the last five years, he has been executive vice president at The Context Network, a management consulting firm that works with agriculture companies around the world.

He and his family raise cattle in McLean County. He has been inducted into the Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame. He volunteers as Illinois FFA Foundation vice chairman.

(BS '16 Animal Sciences)

News Release: Sherrie Clark named interim department head of large animal clinical sciences

February 18, 2021 -- Sherrie Clark, professor of theriogenology in the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.vetmed.vt.edu/__;!!DZ3fjg!u3-NrSyRtvScBAkG3-7SPNRJrZDH2jfRQkGjcbzKwCzR8UyJ8bxqSG_MpE_52jZZsA$> at Virginia Tech, has been named interim head of the college's Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, effective Jan. 1. The appointment follows the departure of David Wong, now the chair of the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at Iowa State University.

[https://www.vtnews.vt.edu/content/dam/vtnews_vt_edu/articles/2021/02/vetmed-clark-sherrie.jpg]

Clark's teaching, research, and clinical service focus on advanced reproductive techniques in a variety of species, with a concentration in conditions that cause infertility.

"We appreciate the willingness of Dr. Clark to serve the department and college in this leadership role," said Dan Givens, dean of the veterinary college. "She has made notable contributions to the teaching, research, and service missions of the college. I am confident that the department will continue to advance under her attentive leadership."

A diplomate in the American College of Theriogenologists and a faculty member at Virginia Tech since 2011, Clark has served as section chief of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital’s<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.vetmed.vt.edu/vth/__;!!DZ3fjg!u3-NrSyRtvScBAkG3-7SPNRJrZDH2jfRQkGjcbzKwCzR8UyJ8bxqSG_MpE8XJWr7sA$> Production Management Medicine service. This past summer, she was installed as vice president of the American College of Theriogenologists for a one-year term; in November, she received the college's Zoetis Award for Veterinary Research Excellence.

Clark arrived at Virginia Tech from the University of Illinois, where she completed a residency in theriogenology before her appointment as assistant professor of farm animal reproduction, medicine, and surgery in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine and as swine species veterinarian in the Office of Vice Chancellor for Research.

In her role as interim department head, Clark intends to continue to build on the strong foundation established by her predecessor. "During this interim period, I hope to guide us in continuing to serve our students, patients, clients, and partners through our strong contributions across all mission areas of the college," she said.

Clark earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in 1996 and a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech in 1992; she then went on to complete a master’s degree and Ph.D. at the University of Illinois in 1999 and 2003, respectively.

# # #

(BS '90 Industrial Agriculture)

The Family Business Consulting Group is proud to announce and welcome Richard J. Wolkowitz as its new vice president, serving as a primary resource for the family enterprise community and the advisors who serve them. Rich brings deep experience to his role, overseeing the firm’s external growth, operations and key relationships.

“Over 25 years, Rich’s career has made him a leader, advisor and key confidant to a range of family businesses and family offices,” said Kristi Daeda, the firm’s president. “His unique perspective and energy for their opportunities and challenges will be a great asset to FBCG as we continue to serve families across North America and globally in new ways.”

Rich has been immersed in the family business field in a wide variety of professional, leadership and management capacities working in and advising families. He was a partner for a national law firm representing closely held businesses and their respective executives and family-owned enterprises and their families. He also brings a depth of family office expertise to this position, having served in the fiduciary role for both a single-family office and a multi-family office with operating business portfolios in retail, finance, manufacturing, technology, insurance, wealth management and real estate.

In addition to advising family enterprises, Rich served as a third-generation member and business leader of his family’s multi-state automotive dealership network and finance firms with an embedded family office.

“Families and their family enterprises are uniquely complex and fuel the global economy providing jobs, opportunities and a great deal of philanthropy to further support local communities,” said Richard. “Hence, there is nothing more professionally rewarding to me than playing a leadership role at FBCG — the family and family enterprise industry standard-bearer — to help my colleagues and our family clients achieve a more purposeful life by maximizing the connectivity between the family and the family enterprise.”

Welcome to the team, Rich! We are looking forward to growing with you.

https://www.thefbcg.com/resource/the-family-business-consulting-group-names-richard-j-wolkowitz-as-new-vice-president/

(BS '16 Animal Sciences) Sarah will be the next Veterinary Fellow at the Vancouver Aquarium starting July 2021!

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

HARTLAND, Wisconsin (Nov. 16, 2020)—A handful of communicators have left indelible marks on hundreds of agriculture and food companies and professionals through their actions, words and guidance. One of those, Lyle E. Orwig, announces his retirement as chairman of C.O.nxt, Hartland, Wisconsin.

In 1992, Orwig joined with business partner John Charleston to co-found the communications agency Charleston|Orwig, which recently rebranded as C.O.nxt.

Over a 28-year span Orwig guided the agency’s growth, leading strategic communications, branding campaigns, reputation management and corporate social responsibility programs for many agricultural and food companies. All while he was a mentor and guide for anyone who worked for and with the agency. 

“Lyle has had such a tremendous influence on not just the clients he has worked with over the years, but scores of people who he has come in contact with through his active contributions to multiple agriculture and food organizations and associations,” says Mark Gale, CEO at C.O.nxt. “His deep respect for agriculture shows in his real and palpable passion to help people. He takes a considerable amount of pride in helping young people grow and aspire toward their dreams. Many have benefited from his sage advice, and many can still expect to get Lyle’s phone call, email or note of recognition, congratulations or encouragement.”

Orwig launched his successful career in public relations, advertising and publishing after graduating from the University of Illinois in ag communications. He began his career as a public relations account executive at Reiman Associates in Milwaukee, then joined Century Communications in Skokie, Illinois. Later he spent 10 years at Bader Rutter, a Milwaukee-based agency, as vice president and director of public relations. 

In introducing himself, Orwig often says he was born and raised on an Illinois farm but “has yet to grow up.” That Illinois farm kicked off Orwig’s passion for farmers and agriculture, dedication to FFA and support of his alma mater, University of Illinois. He says these foundational experiences guided his career in agricultural communications. 

Over his career Orwig worked with many highly recognized brands, including Allis-Chalmers, ARM & HAMMER™, Case IH, Dairyland Seed, Dow, New Holland, Smithfield Foods, Zoetis and many others. 

As testament to a career dedicated to agriculture and the communications profession, he has received numerous awards, including two PRSA Silver Anvil awards for his work in public relations and issues management. In 1999 the National Agri Marketing Association named him the National Agri Marketer of the Year; in 2006 the National Association of Farm Broadcasting awarded him the Dix Harper Meritorious Service Award; in 2008 Orwig received the University of Illinois ACES Alumni Award of Merit; in 2012 the Ag Relations Council and Agri Marketing magazine inducted Orwig into the Agricultural Public Relations Hall of Fame as one of two inaugural members; and in 2019 he was awarded the Livestock Publications Council’s Headliner Award. 

Orwig has held board positions with numerous organizations, including the National FFA Foundation, National Association of Farm Broadcasting, the Farm Journal Foundation, American Agriculture Editor’s Association, Animal Agriculture Alliance, Omega Foods and University of Illinois ACES Alumni Association. 

“Even though Lyle has won many awards and recognitions, he would say that his greatest achievements are the countless people who consider him a mentor and friend,” says Marcy Tessmann, president of C.O.nxt. “Anyone who has walked with Lyle through the aisles of an agricultural trade show appreciates the depth and breadth of his relationships. We will miss him at C.O.nxt.” 

In retirement “LEO”, as he is affectionately known, will spend most of his time with his wife, Karma, spoiling his grandkids, working with a couple start-up companies and, as always, working on his golf game. 

About C.O.nxt
C.O.nxt (pronounced c o next) is a 100 percent employee-owned communications agency full of farm kids and foodies coming together to create fresh and unexpected solutions driven by deep insight and strategy. Based in Hartland, Wisconsin, we serve purpose-driven brands that stand out in the ag and food industries—from the seed in the ground to the steak on the plate—because that is what we’re passionate about. Full service. Full hearts. For the love of food. For more information visit CO-nxt.com.

(BS '91 Agriculture Science, MS '94 Vocational Technology)

The U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board are pleased to announce that Melissa Duong, a UIUC ACES alumni has received a Fulbright U.S. Student Program award to South Korea for the 2020-2021 academic year. Duong will support the teaching of English as a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship.

Duong is one of over 2,100 U.S. citizens who will teach English and share knowledge and foster meaningful connections across communities in the United States and South Korea. Recipients of Fulbright awards are selected in an open, merit-based competition that considers leadership potential, academic and/or professional achievement, and record of service.  As Fulbright alumni, their careers are enriched by joining a network of thousands of esteemed scholars, many of whom are leaders in their fields. Fulbright alumni include 60 Nobel Prize laureates, 88 Pulitzer Prize recipients, and 37 who have served as a head of state or government.

The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to forge lasting connections between the people of the United States and the people of other countries, counter misunderstandings, and help people and nations work together toward common goals. Since its establishment in 1946, the Fulbright Program has enabled more than 390,000 dedicated and accomplished students, scholars, artists, teachers, and professionals of all backgrounds to study, teach and conduct research, exchange ideas, and find solutions to shared international concerns. The Fulbright Program is funded through an annual appropriation made by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State. Participating governments and host institutions, corporations, and foundations around the world also provide direct and indirect support to the Program, which operates in more than 160 countries worldwide.

(BS '84, MS '87) Jeanne Bailey has been promoted to the rank of Career Minister, the highest rank an FAS Foreign Service Offcier can reach. This is the equivalent of a 3-star General in the military. There is only one grade level higher, which is reserved exclusively for officers of the Department of State.

(BS '00) Dana Stewart was promoted to the Director of the International Franchise division for Claire’s Brands, Inc. She joined the company’s Hoffman Estates office in 2012.

(MS '64)

ATTORNEY COLLEEN M. HURLEY CERTIFIED AS GUARDIAN AD LITEM TO REPRESENT CHILDREN IN DIVORCE CUSTODY CASES

Schaumburg, IL – Colleen M. Hurley, attorney at Schaumburg-based Lavelle Law, was recently certified as a Guardian ad Litem and Child Representative in Cook County, Illinois. A Guardian ad Litem is an attorney appointed by a judge to investigate the best interests of a child in divorce or custody cases.

The process to become a GAL and Child Representative took roughly two years as Hurley had to complete training and three pro bono Child Rep cases through Chicago Volunteer Legal Services in the Domestic Relations Division in Cook County. Hurley earned her J.D. and Certificate in Family Law from DePaul University College of Law.

“Representation for children is a very important part of family law,” said Lavelle Law Managing Partner Ted McGinn. “Children deserve the same unbiased representation as their parents and we’re proud to help those children have a voice in divorce or custody cases through Colleen’s commitment to this objective.”

Hurley’s desire to work with children began at an early age and was confirmed after interning at the Children’s Advocacy Center in Champaign County while earning her undergraduate degree at the University of Illinois. It was here that she saw a great need for advocacy for children in crisis.

“I went to law school with the goal of becoming a Guardian ad Litem,” said Hurley. “I am grateful to the team at Lavelle Law, who have been so encouraging and supportive as I pursued that goal through my professional practice. I am honored and humbled to reach this point in my legal career and to represent children’s interests in family law matters.”

The process involves interviews with the child, the parents, teachers, family members, physicians and others, and concludes with written report submitted to the court with recommendations for the child, followed by testimony as to the investigation, in the Guardian ad Litem capacity. In the Child Representative capacity, the process involves similar investigation, but advocacy on behalf of the child’s best interests through litigation.

For more information about Guardian ad Litem or Child Representative practice and Lavelle Law’s Family Law practice, read Hurley’s recent post https://www.lavellelaw.com/appointment-of-attorney-for-child-child-representative-and-guardian-ad-litem.

Lavelle Law’s main office is in Schaumburg and maintains an additional office in the Chicago Loop. The firm was founded in 1989 as a single attorney practice with an emphasis on tax law. The firm has added more than a dozen practice groups including Estate Planning, Business Law, Banking Law, Litigation, Criminal, Immigration, Divorce and Family Law, Commercial and Residential Real Estate and Law Practice Consulting. The firm has received numerous awards and commendations for their business success, their commitment to ethics, national recognition for their pro bono services, and multiple acknowledgements of the charitable work they do in the local communities. For more information, visit [http://www.lavellelaw.com%3chttp:/www.lavellelaw.com/]www.lavellelaw.com<http://www.lavellelaw.com/> or follow Lavelle Law on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

(MS '64)

I have published a children's book entitled,

"Where Did Yesterday Go?"

My second children's book is due out this week entitled,

" I Want a Circle Haircut Just like you gave my Daddy!" I am currently working on my third book. Each book is dedicated to one of our three children.

(PhD '91)

Sarah Kitlinski (class of 2013) and Emily Tripicchio (class of 2012) recently joined the law firm BatesCarey as associates.

Sarah focuses on professional liability coverage, with a focus on cyber liability and privacy issues. Her practice includes advising international and domestic insurers in pre-litigation insurance coverage analysis and litigation of complex insurance coverage disputes.

Emily’s practice focuses on counseling and representing domestic and international insurers nationwide in complex insurance coverage and bad faith matters.

(BS '70) Janet Kolmer Grommet, BS '70 ACES (MS '72, PhD '78 Michigan State University). New academic position within the City University of New York system from nutrition faculty at Brooklyn College to Hunter College in Manhattan where she is now faculty coordinator for graduate nutrition student research in addition to her ongoing clinical nutrition research and undergraduate and graduate teaching responsibilities.

(BS '70) Janet Kolmer Grommet, BS '70 ACES (MS '72, PhD '78 Michigan State University). New academic position within the City University of New York system from nutrition faculty at Brooklyn College to Hunter College in Manhattan where she is now faculty coordinator for graduate nutrition student research in addition to her ongoing clinical nutrition research and undergraduate and graduate teaching responsibilities.

(PhD '91)

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – COUNTRY Financial® has named Steve Denault, of Bloomington, as executive vice president and chief operating officer, effective immediately. Denault has served as executive vice president of Enterprise Customer Operations since March 2017.

“Steve has deep knowledge about our business, having been part of our family of companies for nearly 30 years,” said Jim Jacobs, chief executive officer for COUNTRY Financial. “Steve’s proven track record of bringing people, processes and technology together made him the clear choice for our Chief Operating Officer.”

In this role, Denault will be responsible for leading the product and technology divisions within the organization. Specifically, he will lead Property Casualty, Financial Services and Information Technology.

Denault joined the COUNTRY Financial parent organization, Illinois Farm Bureau, in 1991 and moved to COUNTRY in 1992 as a health business analyst. He moved to Human Resources in 1995 where he held various positions. He became vice president of Human Resources in 2006, senior vice president of Human Resources and Communications in 2010, executive vice president of Corporate Services in 2012, and executive vice president of Enterprise Business Services in 2014.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business from Illinois State University, Normal, in 1987. He then earned a master’s degree in agricultural economics from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, in 1991. Denault furthered his insurance education and earned the Chartered Life Underwriter and Certified Compensation Professional designations. He holds a certification in Strategic Human Resource Management from Cornell University.

Denault is a former chairman of the Advocate BroMenn Medical Center Governing Council and former chairman of the McLean County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He is a commissioner on the Central Illinois Regional Airport Authority Board, the vice president of the BN Advantage leadership council and a member of the Illinois State University Foundation Board. Denault chaired the 2016 Red Cross of the Heartland Evening of Stars. He is a private pilot and a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association.

(MS '91 Agricultural Economics)

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – COUNTRY Financial® has named Steve Denault, of Bloomington, as executive vice president and chief operating officer, effective immediately.  Denault has served as executive vice president of Enterprise Customer Operations since March 2017.

 

“Steve has deep knowledge about our business, having been part of our family of companies for nearly 30 years,” said Jim Jacobs, chief executive officer for COUNTRY Financial.  “Steve’s proven track record of bringing people, processes and technology together made him the clear choice for our Chief Operating Officer.”  

 

In this role, Denault will be responsible for leading the product and technology divisions within the organization.  Specifically, he will lead Property Casualty, Financial Services and Information Technology.

 

Denault joined the COUNTRY Financial parent organization, Illinois Farm Bureau, in 1991 and moved to COUNTRY in 1992 as a health business analyst. He moved to Human Resources in 1995 where he held various positions.  He became vice president of Human Resources in 2006, senior vice president of Human Resources and Communications in 2010, executive vice president of Corporate Services in 2012, and executive vice president of Enterprise Business Services in 2014.

 

He earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business from Illinois State University, Normal, in 1987. He then earned a master’s degree in agricultural economics from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, in 1991. Denault furthered his insurance education and earned the Chartered Life Underwriter and Certified Compensation Professional designations. He holds a certification in Strategic Human Resource Management from Cornell University.

 

Denault is a former chairman of the Advocate BroMenn Medical Center Governing Council and former chairman of the McLean County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He is a commissioner on the Central Illinois Regional Airport Authority Board, the vice president of the BN Advantage leadership council and a member of the Illinois State University Foundation Board.  Denault chaired the 2016 Red Cross of the Heartland Evening of Stars. He is a private pilot and a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association.

(MS '13 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, PhD '17 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) Dr. Austin Happel has joined Chicago's Shedd Aquarium's conservation research team. As a research biologist, his job will be on different urban freshwater ecology initiatives focusing his research on the Chicago River ecosystem. 

(PhD '17 NRES)

Austin Happel, Ph.D., recently joined the conservation research team at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, his new role involves helping protect our planet’s wildlife.

As a research biologist at Shedd Aquarium, Austin joins a team of researchers studying aquatic ecosystems with the end goal of preserving biodiversity and ensuring a balance between humans and nature. Austin’s research will focus on the Chicago River ecosystem, leading citizen scientists and working with other local collaborators to collect data about the health of the Chicago River. He completed his Ph.D. and master’s degree in Nature Resources and Environmental Sciences from the University of Illinois

Austin is one of three new research biologists joining Shedd’s team this winter. 

(PhD '17 Food Science and Human Nutrition) Dr. Yun Yin was named assistant professor of food science and technology at Virgina Tech's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. 

(BS '68 Agriculture Mechanics ) James Holmes is now retired from GM diesels and is planning to spend retirement traveling around the world with his wife Ellen!

(BS '96 Agriculture Economincs, MS '03 Computer Science) Chris Oliver was named Chief Information Officer for the Illinois Department of Agriculture. 

(BS '70 Agricultural Economics) Richard Bird has retired after a 45-year career in the manufacturing of crop protection chemicals and farm fertilizers.

(BS '64 Agricultural Science, MS '66 Dairy Science)

Dr. Eldon Askew would like to share that he is a retired, COL, U.S. Army Medical Service Corps, 1994, and he retired from the University of Utah's College of Health in 2014 and holds the distinction of Professor Emeritus.

(BS '76 Forestry) After graduation from the College of Agriculture in 1976, Thomas spent a summer with the Forest Preserve District of Cook County as a student forester marking trees for Dutch elm disease as well as other duties. After working at Brookfield Zoo and Loyola Medical Center, he is back where he started 41 years ago as the Assistant Division Superintendent of the Salt Creek Landscape Maintenance Division in the Forest Preserve District of Cook County and enjoying every minute of it!

 

(BS '02 Agribusiness Markets and Management, MS '03 Agricultural Education) The Harms family recently relocated from the Des Moines area to the Quad Cities area. Brea accepted a new role as Division Manager, Customer Support for Division 3 of the Construction and Forestry Division, where she manages a team of seven Territory Customer Support Managers that cover the Midwest, Northeast, and Mid-Atlantic. Her husband Ryan continues to serve as Executive Director of Development for the Iowa State University College of Engineering, a role which is does via both remote and on-campus work, in addition to his time spent with alumni and supporters.

 

(BS '04 Agricultural & Biological Engineering) Richard T. Lykins and his wife, Rebecca Lykins, College of Media alumni, have recently opened Grateful Pets, in the City of St. Louis. 

(BS '00 Agribusiness Markets and Management) Mrs. Krystal J. Jungmann has recently been hired by the Illinois FFA Foundation! 

(BS '71 Dairy Science) Arthur retired after working in the grain and feed industry for 44 years. He last worked for Sietsema Farms based in Allendale, MI. The Sietsemas, a family-owned livestock production operation, produce over 700,000 hots and 1.5 million turkeys per year.

(BS '03 Agricultural Engineering) Marguerite was appointed to the USDA's Ag Air Quality Task Force, starting April 2016.

(BS '07 Agricultural and Consumer Economics-Farm Management) Nathan Brown was named the new business manager of Livestock Products for Central Life Sciences. He will oversee all marketing efforts for the Livestock Product portfolio.

(BS '81 Human Development and Family Ecology) Laura Aird is the Manager of Disaster Preparedness and Response for the American Academy of Pediatrics. 

(BS '98 Agricultural Communications) Kristi recently was hired as the Sales Membership Manager for Cooper Fitness Center in McKinney, TX.

(MS '78 Agronomy, PhD '81 Agronomy) accepted a research position at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in January of 2014 and is now conducting studies on cover crops.

(BS '79 Agriculture Industries) was recently named commercial director of North America Professional Solutions by the FMC Corporation. Thompson was previously business manager for the Turf and Ornamental Solutions division.

(PhD '86 Agronomy) is the founder of Awear Technologies that has created a product that will be used to help attention deficit disorder. The set of neurosensing glasses, ConfiBoost Trainer, darken to get the attention of the wearer.

(PhD '87 Animal Sciences) joined HORN’s Technical Sales Team, supporting HORN Animal Wellness. They specialize in the distribution of specialty animal ingredients.

(BS '96 Human and Community Development) is the chief financial officer/controller at Saint Mary-of-the-Wood College. He started working at The Woods in 2014 as registrar.

(BS '97 Biology, MS '99 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) is an orthopedic surgeon who just joined the Orthopedic & Spine Center of the Rockies as a hip scope and surgery specialist in Colorado.

(BS '01 Crop Sciences) is the Southern Soybean and Wheat Grower Manager at the Beck’s Hybrids Neoga facility and was recently featured in an article talking about the role of women in agriculture.

(BS '08 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) has served as the president for the Orangeville, Illinois village since May 2013. He is now in the running for the position of the Community Development Director.

(BS '09 Animal Science, DVM '15) will be joining Animal Medical Clinic in Melbourne, Florida. The Animal Medical Clinic is now adding a new location in Indialantic, Florida.

(MS '10 Crop Sciences, PhD '81 Crop Sciences) was named the new Extension educator for field crops and specialty crop production in St. Joseph County (Michigan).

(MS '13 Crop Sciences) became the farm manager of the San Louis Valley Research Center in Center, CO in June of 2015.

(BS '14 Technical Systems Management) is a franchisee owner and operator of uBreakiFix, who recently just decided to open a store in Carmel, Indiana. This is the third store he has with his uncle, managing partner.

(BS '73 Agricultural Economics) was elected chairman of the Board of Trustees of Farm Foundation on June 12, 2015. He is also currently the President of J and M School, Inc, a family agriculture holding company.

(BS '75 Veterinary Medicine, DVM '77 Veterinary Medicine) and Arrin Colgan are opening their own veterinary clinic with an emphasis on making visits as stress-free as possible for pets and their owners.

(MS '79 Animal Sciences, PhD '82 Animal Sciences) has been appointed professor and head of the Department of Youth Development and Agricultural Education at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana.

(BS '80 Agronomy) was named the new chairman of the board of the board of directors for the Illinois Soybean Association. Other alumni elected to the board include Doug Schroeder and John Longley.

(BS '87 Human Development and Family Ecology) was named the new interim director of the African American Cultural Center at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC.

(BS '95 Animal Sciences, PhD '00 Nutritional Sciences) has joined the Ken Pet Group marketing department as the Senior Manager of Nutrition Development and Commericialization.

(BS '98 -) has been named associate dean of students/diversity initiatives and affirmative action officer at Maryville University in Saint Louis. This appointment comes as part of the establishment of the Office of Diversity & Inclusion.

(BS '00 Human Development and Family Ecology) is the Mid-Atlantic region claims service manager for Liberty Mutual/Safeco Insurance.

(BS '83 Agriculture) was promoted to president, North America, at Archer Daniels Midland Company in April. He will also chair the new Geographic Council that coordinates ADM’s regional presidents to ensure best practices are being used across all markets.

(BS '84 Agriculture, MS '86 Agriculture) joined Land Pro LLC, a land real estate brokerage company, in December 2014, and will be serving the southern and southwestern Chicagoland areas.

(BS '87 Agriculture) was appointed as an independent non-executive member of the Board of Directors for OCI N.V.

(BS '94 Agriculture) joined SoundExchange as senior vice president, Communications. She brings a lot of knowledge and experience to the position.

(BS '96 Agriculture) was named Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications and Strategy in the Indiana Governor’s Office. His responsibilities being late May.

(BS '07 Animal Sciences) is currently employed at the Saint Louis Zoo as a carnivore keeper, and will be a part of the opening of the zoo's new McDonnell Polar Bear Point habitat.

(BS '69 Ariculture) has become a member of the University of Illinois Board of Trustees following Governor-elect Bruce Rauner's appointments.

(BS '85 Agriculture) is the president and CEO of Farmland Partners Inc. and will elect REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) status, making the company one of only two publicly listed REITs specializing in domestic farmland.

(BS '88 Agriculture) has published a new book titled 2 Corinthians: A Handbook on the Greek Text with Baylor University Publishing.

(BS '99 Animal Sciences) has also graduated from Parkland College with an associate's degree in nursing and was honored for graduating with a 4.0 GPA in all her courses. Cynthia completed her associate's degree after working in the field and realizing she wanted to work more with people to help them become healthier.

(BS '03 Consumer Economics & Finance) was named Chief of Staff in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor following Governor-elect Bruce Rauner's appointments.

(BS '72 Agriculture) recently started as R&D LifeSciences as their new Director of Technical Sales and Research. His new responsibilities include sales and customer support in the Midwest and coordinating company research in development of new products and support of existing products.

(BS '78 Interior Design) will be appointed to fill the Illinois Comptroller position vacancy by Governor-elect Bruce Rauner January 12, 2015.

(MS '90 Human Resources and Family Studies) has joined First Mid-Illinois Bank and Trust as vice-present, director of marketing. In this role, she will lead corporate communications, advertising and brand management, public relations, sales promotions, website management and corporate giving.

(BS '93 Agriculture Communications) has been named Verdesian Life Sciences vice president of communications, where she will oversee the execution of all promotional strategies for the corporate brand and the complete product portfolio.

(BS '05 Agribusiness, Farm and Financial) shared Precision Drone news for 2015. Precision Drone is currently featured in the new 2015 Ford F-150 commercial; shown during College Bowl Games and NFL Playoff games on all major networks.  Precision Drone has also released a new website http://www.PrecisionDrone.com. Matt is a three-time varsity letter winner for the Fighting Illini Football team.  While a student, he worked for the U of I Farm in the Department of Plant Pathology under Dr. Wayne Pedersen.  Matt is married with two children and resides in Westfield, IN.

(MS '05 Crop Sciences, PhD '08 Crop Sciences) was recognized as one of Vance Publishing’s “40 Under 40.” This list honors leadership among individuals aiding in efforts to double food production by 2050.

(BS '06 NRES, MS '12 NRES) started as the new district wildlife biologist for the state. He works under the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, but is located in the Rock Springs Nature Center. His district includes Macon, Piatt, DeWitt, Champaign, and Logan counties.

(BS '07 Animal Sciences) joined the Humbert Road Dentistry workforce after graduating from Southern Illinois University – Faculty of Dental Drugs.  Dr. Smiley was a pitcher with the University of Illinois baseball team. He has volunteered for the Give Kids a Smile program, Illinois Mission of Mercy, and traveled to Jamaica to do a dental mission trip.

(BS '13 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) is the new resource conservationist of the Kankakee County Soil and Water Conservation District.

(MS '66 Plant Pathology, PhD '69 Plant Pathology) has been named a senior advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in its Global Food Security Project.

(BS '76 Forestry) has retired from Caterpillar Inc. after 37 years with the company. During his time with the company, his main focus was their Asia-based divisions before he became a group president.

(MS '79 Animal Sciences, PhD '83 Food Science) has been named the minister of health and welfare of Taiwan. He is the country's first health minister whose focus was not in medicine. He was a professor at National Taiwan University's Institute of Food Science and Technology before assuming his new role.

(MS '87 Agricultural Education) has been elected to the board of directors at Farmers State Bank of Camp Point.

(BS '88 Agriculture, MS '89 Agronomy) was named Pearson Master Teacher of the year at Lincoln Land Community College. He currently serves as the Program Coordinator for Agriculture and Horticulture there, which had record enrollment for agriculture students this fall.

(BS '99 Agriculture, MS '02 Agriculture, PhD '05 Animal Sciences) has been named an assistant professor at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in their medical microbiology, immunology and cell biology, and obstetrics and gynecology departments. Her research focus is reproductive diseases.

(MS '07 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) was named director of science education and research for the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, PA. She oversees all science-education programs at Phipps for kids and the Botany in Action research program for college students.

(BS '81 Forestry) has returned to Northern Michigan as forest supervisor fo the Huron-Manistee National Forests. Leslie has worked as acting forest supervisor for the Kisatchie national Forest in Louisiana and the national Forests in Alabama. She also served as deputy forest supervisor of the Cherokee national Forest in Tennessee.

(BS '85 Animal Sciences) has joined Kemin's animal nutrition and health division as a dairy technical service manager. Kemin Industries, Inc. is located in Des Moines, IA. Previously, Debra was with Prince Agri Products for 25 years.

(BS '85 Crop Sciences) was promoted to senior vice president and senior loan officer of Cissna Park State Bank.

(BS '92 Agronomy) has been named to AbCelex Technologies Board of Directors, a privately-held biotechnology company committed to the discovery and development of innovative solutions to advance the health of food animals and human food safety.

(BS '93 Agricultural Economics) recently joined the Chicago real estate company @properties as a real estate broker in Winnetka.

(BS '00 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) has joined Prime Law Group LLC in Woodstock. She will be responsible for municipal prosecution, civil litigation and family law.

(BS '06 Human Nutrition, MS '08 Nutritional Sciences) graduated from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine May 2014 with a combined MD / JD degree in medicine and law. She began internal medicine residency at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis in July.

(BS '07 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) is the new natural history biologist in the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in Cape Girardeau.

(BS '14 Agriculture and Consumer Economics) oined the Brenda Keith Realty Team at Re/Max Realty Associates as sales partner.

(BS '69 Agriculture) is retiring from his position with Illinois State University June 14, 2014. Pat wanted to share with friends and colleagues that he is grateful for his beginnings with UI and Department of Agriculture, Consumer Economics.

(BS '74 Home Economics) has been named the first chief executive for Calypso St. Barth (Long Island City, NY). Mindy was formerly president of Aéropostale, Inc., New York, and previously, Victoria's Secret Direct Division of Limited Brands, Inc., Columbus, OH. Calypso St. Barth is a high-end island and resort brand of apparel and accessories, founded on St. Barth in 1992.

(BS '83 Agriculture Economics) was promoted from Executive Vice President to Chief Credit Officer, Northern Trust Bank, Naperville, IL. Mark is a son of William and Nancy Gossett, (BS '56 ACES).

(BS '86 Human Resources and Family Studies) was recently named new executive director of Project HELP, a child abuse prevention program that has served the Elmhurst community since 1992.

(BS '88 Food Science and Human Nutrition) is being promoted from the Illinois Chamber of Commerce executive vice president, overseeing several departments, including the business services division, government affairs, membership and marketing to CEO July 1, 2014.

(BS '99 Crop Sciences, MS '02 Crop Sciences) has been appointed to AgReliant Genetics, LLC, an affiliated company of PRIDE Seeds to the position of Manager of Precision Ag Technologies, located in Westfield, IN.

(BS '01 Animal Sciences, DVM '05 Veterinary Medicine) has opened a new animal hospital in Darien, IL. A Grand Opening of Finan Animal Hospital was held June 14, 2014. Patient comfort and pet owner education are of utmost importance. The new clinic's mission is for pet owners to make educated decisions for their pets.

(BS '03 Animal Sciences) has been named executive director of the Naperville Area Humane Society. Previously, Anna was the head of Kendall County Animal Control. She has also worked as an animal control officer and humane education and public events coordinator for DuPage County Animal Care and Control, and volunteered with humane societies and breed-specific rescues. Anna has also been a department instructor at the University of Illinois.

(BS '03 Agriculture & Environmental Communications & Education) is joining Osborn Barr as Public Relations Director. A disconnect between farms and consumers challenges the local communications agency, Osborn Barr. Josh has been hired to meet this challenge. He left DuPont Pioneer's Global Public Affairs team, where he led issues management and crisis communications efforts to join Osborn Barr.

(BS '07 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) will be moving, with his wife Gab, to Chicago as executive director of Faith in Place, a statewide nonprofit whose mission is "to help people of faith understand that issues of ecology and economy – of care for Creation – are at the forefront of social justice." Brian previously established a branch office of Faith in Place at the University YMCA, and served as a catalyst for change.

(BS '08 Animal Sciences) has continued her education since graduating from UI in 2008 to obtain a Master's degree in biotechnology and chemical science in 2010 from Roosevelt University in Chicago, to receiving a Ph.D. from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine May 17, 2014. She will begin an internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency at Medical College of Wisconsin and its affiliated hospitals in Milwaukee in July.

(MS '70 Agronomy, PhD '73 Agronomy) is the executive director of the University of Georgia Seed Development, overseeing a program that produces foundation plant material and markets seed and plant materials designed to improve crop yields for Georgia growers, as well as across the United States. He is the fourth scientist to be featured in the DTN Progressive Farmer Crops

(BS '72 Agronomy) of Arlington, TX retired January 2014 after more than 39 years working for USDA-NRCS. He worked as a District Conservationist and Conservation Agronomist in Illinois, Kentucky, Florida, Delaware, Colorado and Texas.

(BS '84 Agriculture and Consumer Economics) has been appointed to the Lincoln Land Community College Foundation Board of Directors. Todd also serves as president and CEO of United Community Bank, and as a board member for Memorial Medical Center, board director at United Community Bank, Brown County State Bank in Mt. Sterling and Marine Bank & Trust in Carthage. Todd is also a past president of the Central Illinois Foodbank, served on the board of directors for Ball-Chatham Education Foundation and as a volunteer for United Way and Chatham youth athletics.

(BS '90 Animal Sciences) is now the Director of Training, Improvement Solutions & Food Safety at SAI Global, Cedar Lake, IN. Gary is also the recipient of the 2013 SQF Distinguished Service Award, SQF Institute.

(BS '70 Home Economics) has published Murder: A New Way to Lose Weight, a mystery-suspense novel in April, under the name of J.L. Greger. The book is the second in a series.

(MS '84 Animal Sciences, PhD '87 Animal Sciences) has written a book, Healthy Eating Made Easy, and includes a forward written by George C. Fahey, Jr., U of I professor emeritus in animal sciences.

(BS '94 Human Resources and Family Studies) published a book in 2013: Creating Safe and Supportive Learning Environments: A Guide for Working with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Question Youth and Families. The book is published by Routledge.

(BS '02 Agriculture and Environmental Communications) an associate attorney at the Chicago Law firm of Deutsch, Levy & Engel, Chartered, has been elected an Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) "Under 35" delegate to the American Bar Association House of Delegates.

(BS '03 Animal Sciences, DVM '07 Veterinary Medicine) and Terry Foust (BS '04 Animal Sciences, DVM '09 Veterinary Medicine) established a veterinary practice together in Port Byron in April 2013, River View Veterinary Service, www.riverviewvets.com. The practice focuses on small animals, but they treat large animals such as cattle and horses, too. In addition to starting a veterinary practice, Terry and Sarah also started a family. They have a 21-month old daughter, Cecilia.

(BS '04 Animal Sciences, DVM '09 Veterinary Medicine) and Sarah Foust (BS '03 Animal Sciences, DVM '07 Veterinary Medicine) established a veterinary practice together in Port Byron in April 2013, River View Veterinary Service, www.riverviewvets.com. The practice focuses on small animals, but they treat large animals such as cattle and horses, too. In addition to starting a veterinary practice, Terry and Sarah also started a family. They have a 21-month old daughter, Cecilia.

(PhD '13 Food Science and Human Nutrition) joined ADM Foods & Wellness where he will be leading the marketing efforts for the Health & Nutrition market segments and supporting ADM's marketing efforts in Latin America.

(BS '03 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, Soil & Water Science, MS '06 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, JD; Law '06) Jennifer Walig was named on of Crain's Chicago 40 under 40. Wallig is a three time graduate of the University of Illinois. Click here to read the article. 

(BS '48 Ag Education, MS '54 Ag Education)

World-renowned scientist, activist, author and speaker, Dr. Temple Grandin, will be recognized as a Beacon College Difference Maker in the April episode of “A World of Difference,” airing during Autism Awareness Month.

The television series is produced by Beacon College, the first college in the nation accredited to award bachelor’s degrees exclusively to students with learning disabilities, ADHD and other learning differences. "A World of Difference” celebrates and supports families rearing kids with learning disabilities on their journeys from kindergarten through college. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, the award-winning program has expanded its reach and features influential individuals from all backgrounds, industries and experiences, including University of Illinois’ own, Dr. Temple Grandin.

Grandin’s unique understanding of the human mind has aided in her work with animal behavior, cementing her as one of the most respected global experts in both autism and animal behavior. She warns of the harmful effects that generalized education, academic and social standards have on a child’s identity and development. And while much of her life’s work has been to understand her own autistic mind, her goal remains to better the treatment of neurodiverse individuals like her.

 

(MS '90 Food Science)

(October 20, 2020) ATLANTA, GA – Charlie Wind of Brooks’ Bottling Co. was presented with the 2020 Technical Service Award from The Association for Dressings and Sauces (ADS). The announcement was made during the ADS Technical Meeting “Face2Face” held virtually October 5-7.

Each year, the ADS Technical Service Award is given to an individual who has demonstrated dedicated service to the ADS technical programs.  Nominations for this award are taken from the general ADS membership and then voted on by ADS’ Executive Technical Board, the group that oversees the Association’s technical activities. At the Technical Meeting, members share their expertise on a variety of industry-specific topics including packaging, food safety, emulsions and quality.

Charlie Wind played a critical role in advancing a number of key ADS projects. As a member of ADS’ Executive Technical Board, he served on ADS’ Research Subcommittee and provided exceptional scientific support and knowledge related to the Buffering Capacity Study and the Risk Assessment Study.  Charlie was the lead author of ADS’ best practices paper, “Key Considerations for Determination of Acid and Acidified Food Products.”

“It is always a great honor to be recognized by your peers, so thank you very much.  The ADS plays a role in being the voice of the industry for condiments, salad dressings and sauces and I encourage fellow members to join the various committees so their knowledge and experience can be utilized to advance our industry.  The purpose of the best practices paper was to provide a reference document that member companies could use to support the regulatory classification of their products based on this new research,” said Charlie Wind, Quality Assurance Director with Brooks’ Bottling Co.

About Charlie Wind
With 40 years’ experience in the food industry, Charles Wind, Quality Assurance Director, recently retired from Mullins Food Products (Liquid Products Division of Newlyweds Foods) and now working with Brooks’ Bottling Co.’s, earned his Bachelors in Biology/Biological Sciences from Northern Illinois University and earned his Master’s in Food Science from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  During his tenure at Mullins Food Products, the company was the recipient of the McDonald’s Corporation Systems Food Safety and Quality Award (2014, 2019) and Supplier of the Year Award (2014).  Charlie has also authored two scientific reference articles.

With over 60 years in the BBQ industry, Oneonta, New York-based Brooks’ Bottling Co., provides recipe formulation, brand development, sauce bottling, co-packing, selling, and distribution. For more information, visit Brooks’ Bottling Co.

https://dressings-sauces.org/the-association-for-dressings-and-sauces-honors-charlie-wind-of-brooks-bottling-co/

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

Patrick Martin grew up in Chicago's suburbs, but from the moment he met freshman Sen. Barack Obama as a 17-year-old intern in Washington, D.C., he yearned for a fast life in politics in the nation1s capital. After earning an undergraduate degree in economics at the University of Illinois, he was back in Washington working for Obama, this time as a White House intern and later as a legislative correspondent for Indiana Sen. Evan Bayh. 

"I got the bug early on," Martin says. "I liked being in the middle of the action in Washington."

Marriage can change priorities, of course. After a seven-year career as a lobbyist working for the consulting arm of law firm McGuireWoods' Washington office, Martin married a Chicago high school teacher and moved back here, signing on with another powerhouse law firm, Cozen O1 Connor, taking on the task of building the Philadelphia firm1s first lobbying office in the Midwest. 

From virtually nothing, Martin, who now lives in Glen Ellyn with his wife and two young children, has built in just two short years an office employing half-dozen lobbyists working with a blue-chip roster of clients including Exelon, CVS, Starbucks, and Bank of America. The Practice has grown beyond Springfield and Chicago to big cities throughout the heartland. 

Current clients with Canopy Growth, a big Canadian cannabis company, and the Premium Cigar Association, with Martin taking a nonpartisan approach that finds him equally at ease working for both liberal and conservative causes. Says Bayh, who served as Martin's mentor in Washington, "Any lobbyist who takes a partisan approach can look forward to a feast-or-famine career, depending on who is in office. Patrick is taking a very reasonable approach to the business."

Martin is an active member of the University of Illinois' alumni association and, as a devout Catholic, serves on the Junior Board of Catholic Charities. Recently he has come to terms with the difference between Washington and Springfield, finding advantages in the latter. 

"There is quite a lot of inertia in Washington today," he says. "But at the state level, so many bills get passed every session. You really get to see the fruits of your labor."

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

Charles Wind, graduate of University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Master’s in Food Science), was honored with the 2020 Technical Service Award from The Association for Dressings and Sauces (ADS). Charlie Wind played a critical role in advancing a number of key ADS projects. As a member of ADS’ Executive Technical Board, he served on ADS’ Research Subcommittee and provided exceptional scientific support and knowledge related to the Buffering Capacity Study and the Risk Assessment Study. Charlie was the lead author of ADS’ best practices paper, “Key Considerations for Determination of Acid and Acidified Food Products.”

Click here to read the full release.

(BS '91 Agriculture Science, MS '94 Vocational Technology)

The Idaho Division of Career Technical Education recently announced that Dr. John Cannon, graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, (BS Agr: Agr Sciences ’91)(MS: EDM: Voc-Tech Ed ’94)  was named the Career Technical Educators of Idaho (CTEI) 2020 Teacher Educator of Year. 

He was nominated by peers and selected because of exemplary service and outstanding examples of leadership in career technical education. 

Dr. John Cannon is an associate professor of education and CTE program coordinator at the University of Idaho.  

He is the facilitator for the Idaho Division of CTE’s InSpIRE to Educate program for new CTE teachers. InSpIRE seeks to train industry experts in an alternative way as these educators accept teaching positions in their content expertise at the secondary and post-secondary levels. 

TEI is proud to honor Dr. John Cannon with the Teacher Educator of the Year Award.

(MS '41)

 ORLANDO, FLORIDA – Two ShuffieldLowman partners were recently selected as 2020 Legal Elite attorneys by Florida Trend magazine. The “Legal Elite” designation represents fewer than 1.2% of the active Florida Bar members who practice in the state. The ShuffieldLowman partners honored are Alexander “Alex” S. Douglas II and Heidi W. Isenhart.

     Florida Trend magazine collects ballots from Florida Bar members, asking lawyers to name attorneys whom they hold in the highest regard and would recommend to others. The results of the annual survey are published in Florida Trend magazine.

     Douglas practices in the area of fiduciary litigation, with extensive experience in trust, probate and guardianship litigation. 

     Isenhart practices in the areas of elder law, Medicaid planning, guardianship, probate and trust administration, estate planning and special needs trusts.

    ShuffieldLowman’s four offices are located in Orlando, Tavares, DeLand and Port Orange. The firm is a 45 attorney, full-service law firm, practicing in the areas of corporate law, estate planning, real estate and litigation. Specific areas include tax law, securities, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, estate planning and probate, planning for families with closely held businesses, guardianship and elder law, tax controversy – Federal and State, non-profit organization law, banking and finance, land use and government law, commercial and civil litigation, fiduciary litigation, construction law, association law, bankruptcy and creditors’ rights, labor and employment, and mediation.

(BS '49 Agriculture)

      ORLANDO, FLORIDA – William “Bill” R. Lowman, Jr., Heidi W. Isenhart, Alexander "Alex" S. Douglas, II, and Stephanie L. Cook, all partners with the law firm of ShuffieldLowman, have been selected as 2020 Florida Super Lawyers. Partner, Daniel Harris, has been named a 2020 Rising Star. 

     Super Lawyers, owned by Thomson Reuters, recognizes attorneys who have distinguished themselves in their legal practice.  The selection process is multi-phased and rigorous.  Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with third-party research and validation of the attorney's professional accomplishments.  The final published list represents five percent of the total lawyers in the state of Florida.

     A founding partner of the firm, Lowman's practice areas include corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, estate planning, high net worth family planning, intellectual property, securities, tax advice, and non-profit law.

      Isenhart practices in the areas of elder law, Medicaid planning, guardianship, probate and trust administration, estate planning and special needs trusts.

     Douglas and Cook both practice in the area of fiduciary litigation, with extensive experience in trust, probate and guardianship litigation.  

     Rising Star, Daniel Harris, practices in the areas of estate planning, probate, tax law, high net worth family planning, corporate law and non-profit law. 

     ShuffieldLowman's four offices are located in Orlando, Tavares, DeLand and Port Orange. The firm is a 45 attorney, full service, business law firm, practicing in the areas of corporate law, estate planning, real estate and litigation. Specific areas include tax law, securities, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, estate planning and probate, planning for families with closely held businesses, guardianship and elder law, tax controversy - Federal and State, non-profit organization law, banking and finance, land use and government law, commercial and civil litigation, fiduciary litigation, construction law, association law, bankruptcy and creditors’ rights, labor and employment, and mediation.

(BS '74) Dr. James E. Sullivan has had an illustrious career in the animal feed industry. Jim grew up on a family farm and recieved academic training at the Universiry of Kentucky and University of Illinois. Dr. Sullivan is a pioneer in the use of food industry byproducts in the animal feed industry. Dr. Sullivan orchestrated the building of the first dedicated whey permeate drying facility in the world. In part due to th effors of Dr. Sullivan, brewer's yeast, chocolate, sugar food, cheese and other food byproducts have found their way into animal food. 

(BS '74)

Source: Livestock Publications Council (LPC) news release

The Headliner award is presented each year to a deserving individual for their service to the livestock industry. This year, LPC recognized Lyle Orwig, and Cindy Cunningham, past LPC president, presented Orwig with the award during the 2019 Ag Media Summit.

Orwig has been involved in agriculture since an early age growing up on his family farm in east-central Illinois. In 1992 Orwig co-founded Charleston|Orwig, Hartland, Wisconsin. In their own words, a marketing communications agency that is "dedicated to those who grow, harvest, process, package, distribute, market, eat and dispose of food." He is a 1968 graduate of Clifton Central High School and a 1974 ACES graduate of University of Illinois and currently resides in Wales, Wisconsin and chaska, Minnesota.

Orwig's commitment of time and effort to LPC and its membership as well as the livestock industry has helped his clients and friends in agriculture.

Commenting on Orwig deserving the award, Cunningham said, "Lyle's support of LPC and AMS over the years has bolstered the careers of numerous ag communicators. Whether it was being a quiet mentor, supporter of his staff engaging in our meetings, or a strong champion for agriculture, Lyle helped to better LPC and its members."

(BS '93 Ag Education, MS '01 Ag Education)

Congratulations to Tina Veal, Director of Alumni Relations at the University of Illinois, for being elected the National Agricultural Alumni and Development Association (NAADA) Secretary for 2019-2021.

NAADA provides education, support and recognition for professionals and volunteers dedicated to expanding resources for advancing agriculture and related disciplines through land-grant and other colleges of agricultural sciences and partner programs.

Tina has served on the NAADA national Board as Education Chair from 2011-2013 and Membership Chair from 2009-2011 and as the Alumni Track Chair (2018-2019). Tina has been recognized with the NAADA Distinguished Founders Award and is a charter member of the NAADA Mulberry Society.  Tina has received several other awards in relation to programming developed for the ACES Alumni Association. 

Congratulations to Tina for this leadership role!

(BS '88 Agricultural Sciences, MS '90 Animal Sciences) Rod Ott and wife Pilar Kuhn were the recipients of a Maxwel America, for their childrens book, "Clean Paws are VERY Important for a Scottie You Know." Thier book was a finalist in two catagories and winner in one category, for the 2018 DWAA awards in NYC on February 10, 2019. 

(BS '67 Agricultural Communications) John Volk recieved the VetPartners' Pioneer Professional Award.

(BS '09 Agricultural Consumer Economincs - Markets and Management) Rachel Coventry is the Curtis Orchard Manager and Beekeeper of the Champaign County, 80-acre agritourism location, Curtis Orchard. She was recently awarded the 40 under 40 award by the Fruit Growers News. This award is given to Rachel for her dedication to the community and sustainable farming practices. 

(BS '96 Consumer Economics , MBA '09 Master of Business Administration) Margaret "Meg" A. Cline was awarded the 2018 4-H House Distinguished ALumni Award. This award is given to an outstanding alumni to recognize contributions she has made to her community, her profession, her sorority and/or her university. 

(BS '90 Human Development and Family Ecology ) Dawn Munson is the professor at Elgin Community College. She recently recieved the NISOD teaching of excellence award for 2018. She also recieved the John and Suanne Roeche excellence award which honors contributions to community colleges. Dawn was also honored with the 2018 Dale P. Parnell distringuished teaching faculty award which was established to recognize those making a difference in the classroom. 

(BS '93 Agricultural Communications) Heidi Isenhart and her other four partners from the law firm of Shuffield Lowman were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America (2019). 

(PhD '84 Plant Pathology )

Dr. John Bowman recently was awarded the “Excellence in International Service” Award from the American Phytopathological Society (APS) at the 11th International Congress of Plant Pathology in Boston MA. "John Bowman Ph.D. ‘84, is currently a Program Area Leader in the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Office of Agricultural Research and Policy.  He supervises a $200M+  grant portfolio involving global research projects in crop protection, nutrition, horticulture, livestock, aquaculture, post-harvest losses, food processing and food safety. 

(MS '95 Tree Biology and Urban Forest Health) Dr. Richard Hauer recently received the prestigious L.C. Chadwick Award for Arboricultural Research from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), in recognition of his research on arboriculture and contributions to the industry. Dr. Hauer is a professor of Forestry in the College of Natural Resources at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point. 

(BS '93 Agricultural Communications) Alumni Heidi W. Isenhart and her partners with the law firm ShuffieldLowman were selected as the 2018 Legal Elite attorney by Florida Trend magazine. Isenhart was awarded in her practice area of Elder Law. 

(BS '93 Agricultural Communications) Heidi Isenhart has been selected as a 2018 Florida Super Lawyer.  Super Lawyers, owned by Thomson Reuters, recognizes attorneys who have distinguished themselves in their legal practice. 

(BS '90 Agricultural Communications) Mr. Kevin Erb is awarded 2017 National Excellence in Extension Award representing the North Central Region. 

(BS '70 Agronomy)

Stephan A. Schroeder, '70 ACES, was honored as a Living Legend at the 2017 annual meeting of the American Society of Mining and Reclamation in the field of land reclamation as someone who has spent a lifetime making the impossible not only happen but helping to formulate and evolve a profession that has made a profound difference in the world.

(BS '04 Animal Sciences)

Doug Hankes was inducted into the American Association of Meat Processors Cured Meals Hall of Fame.

(BS '57 Vocational Agriculture ) Donald Bay was inducted into the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service Hall of Fame. 

(MS '65 Agronomy , PhD '67 Agronomy ) Dr. B. B. Singh was elected to be a Fellow of the American Association for Advances of Science (AAAS). 

(BS '15 Finance Agribuisness )

Lucas Frye's, CEO of Amber Agriculture, prototype of his company's sensor that monitors the interior of a grain bin was named "Best Startup" in tech blog Engadget's "Best of CES 2017" awards. Read more about this achievement by using the following URL. 

 http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2017-01-12/local-startup-impresses-tech-publication-ces.html

(BS '54 Ag Education, MS '60 Ag Education) Eldon R. Aupperle recieved the National FFA VIP Award at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN.

(MS '83 MEXED: Master of Extension Education) Lisa Sherman was awarded the OUtstanding Dietitian of the Year Award at the 2016 State of Nevada Dietetic Association Annual Meeting. 

(BS '62, '72 MEXED) Stuart was recently inducted into the National Associaltion of County Agricultural Agents Hall of Fame at their 101st annual meeting in Little Rock, Arkansas.

(MS '65 Agronomy, PhD '67 Agronomy) Dr. B.B. Singh was honored with the Life Time Achievement Award as a Distinguished Mentor’ in a special ceremony held on July 8, 2016 organized by the "Pantnagar Clan", comprising Pantnagar Alumni from 1970 to 1978 batches. Dr. Singh was the Soybean Breeder and Associate Professor at G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, India from 1968 to 1979.

(BS '70 Foods & Nutrition) The American Soceity of Nutrition (ASN) made Janet Greger a Fellow in April 2016. Her latest thriller "I Saw You in Beirut" (published in November 2015) and her mystery "Murder: A Way to Lose Weight" (published in May 2016) contains snippets on nutrition research.

(PhD '92 Agricultural Economics) received the Grand Decoration of Honor in Gold with Sash for his outstanding services to the Republic of Austria. This award is one of the highest Austrian honors given to both Austrians and leading foreign leaders for their exemplary work to the Austrian people.

(BS '93 Agricultural Communications) , along with her two partners at the law firm of SuffieldLowman, has been selected as a 2015 Florida Super Lawyer. This organization recognizes lawyers who have distinguished themselves in their legal careers.

(MS '12 Animal Sciences) was presented with the 32 Alltech Student Research manuscript at the 104th annual Poultry Science Association meeting in Louisville, KY. She is currently a PhD student at Purdue University.

(BS '72 Agriculture) was named the 2014 Illinois Certified Crop Advisor of the Year by the Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Certified Crop Advisors. He was presented with the award on December 6th, 2014.

(BS '72 Agriculture) was named to the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers Hall of Fame in February. He has been a member for 39 years. This honor serves to “recognize members who stature exemplify the highest

(BS '05 Agricultural and Environmental Communications) won the Champaign Urbana Public Schools Foundation’s Local Hero award in April. She currently works for University of Illinois Extension and runs Prosperity Garden, a nonprofit organization that educates local kids on gardening, marketing, selling, and eating produce that they grow in their garden.

(BS '96 Agricultural Education) was named 2014 Academic Advisor of the Month by the Council of Academic Advisors (COAA) at Western Illinois University College of Business and Technology.

(MS '40 Agronomy, PhD '45 Agronomy) received an honorary doctorate at the Kansas State University Graduate School commencement on December 12. He also served as the commencement speaker for the ceremony.

(BS '69 Agriculture) was honored by the cities of Champaign and Urbana with this year’s Humanitarian Relief Award for his work with teaching poor African farmers about different techniques and helping bring clean water to people in need. He has also been honored with the Champaign New Rotarian of the Year Award in 2013 and the 2014 District Rotarian of the Year award.

(MS '90 Food Science) won the Daily Herald’s Home Baking Challenge, and qualified for the America’s Baking and Sweets Show, where she earned more than $1,000 in prizes. She is a semi-retired product developer for Kraft Foods.

(BS '95 Agricultural Economics) was named one of seven of the 2014-2015 Soy Ambassadors by the Illinois Soybean Association. This two-year program grooms young farmers for future leadership roles.

(BS '06 Agribusiness, MS '08 ACE) was named one of seven of the 2014-2015 Soy Ambassadors by the Illinois Soybean Association. This two-year program grooms young farmers for future leadership roles.

(BS '13 HDFS) won the women’s wheelchair division of the 2014 TCS New York City Marathon. This win follows titles at Boston, London, and Chicago, capping off her second grand slam and eighth consecutive major marathon win.

(BS '80 Agriculture) received her "diamond" 4-H leader pin for 20 years of volunteer service to the organization. She and her husband own and operate a small direct-market diversified farm.

(BS '82 Agriculture) and her family were honored as the 2014 Illinois Farm Family of the Year, an award sponsored by Burris Hybrids and AgriNews.

(BS '85 Home Economics) and her family were honored as the 2014 Illinois 4-H Family Spirit Award winners. The family, comprised of 49 participants, has devoted 444 years over four generations to 4-H volunteering.

(BS '85 Agricultural Communications) received the 2014 National Agri-Marketing Association Professional Development Award of Excellence for public relations. These awards honor NAMA members based on outstanding achievement in each of four professional development areas: public relations, marketing communications, product/species management and sales. Lisa was honored at the NAMA Fall Conference in Chicago.

(BS '98 Agriculture) was honored with the Ruth White Media Award by the Mid America CropLife Association. The award is presented to someone who has demonstrated unbiased and accurate reporting on American agriculture and the many issues related to it.

(BS '99 Human Resources & Family Studies) has been named to the 40 Under Forty 2014 List for Chicago Daily Law Bulletin /Chicago Lawyer Magazine. He works at Lake County Illinois Family Law Firm, Schlesinger & Strauss, LLC, where he is a partner.

(BS '06 Animal Sciences, MS '08 Bioinformatics) was awarded the Individual Postdoctoral Fellowship by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences through the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Awards program. The fellowship will provide up to three years of support for promising postdoctoral researchers who have the potential to become productive, independent investigators.

(BS '10 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) was honored by the Peace Corps with the Franklin H. Williams award, along with 5 other volunteers. This award is for volunteers with diverse ethnic backgrounds who continue to display commitment to community service and the Peace Corps' Third Goal of promoting a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.

(BS '80 Animal Sciences) received the Distinguished Extension-Industry Service Award, which was established in 1965 to recognize outstanding achievement in meat science extension and service to the industry, and is sponsored by the American meat Institute Foundation (AMIF). Dr. Johnson is Director of Pork Quality, Smithfield-Farmland Corporation, Denison, IA.

(BS '83 Agricultural Education) was recognized as an IAVAT Excellence in Teaching Award winner at the June 2014 IAVAT Conference in Decatur, IL.

(BS '86 Animal Sciences) was named 2014 SRS Specialist of the Year at the 2014 Select Reproductive Solutions (SRS) Conference held June 2-5, 2014 in St. Louis, Mo. Ted and his wife Elizabeth have three daughters and a grandson. The family resides in Milledgeville, IL.

(BS '93 Agricultural Communications) was recently recognized as a 2014 Florida Super Lawyer, in Orlando. Owned by Thomson Reuters, Super Lawyers recognize attorneys who have distinguished themselves in their legal practice. Isenhart practices in elder law, Medicaid planning, guardianship, probate and trust administration, probate and guardianship litigation, estate planning and special-needs trusts. Isenhart is a partner with Shuffield Lowman Attorneys and Advisors.

(MS '05 Agricultural Education) was recognized as an IAVAT Excellence in Teaching Award winner at the June 2014 IAVAT Conference in Decatur, IL.

(BS '75 Agriculture & Consumer Economics) Five Point Farms, Mattoon, IL, owned by John and Susan Doty, have been named Coles County Farm Bureau's Outstanding Members of the Year for 2014. John has been a director or member of the county Farm Bureau nearly 30 years. Five Point Farms is a grain farm.

(PhD '79 Agricultural Economics) was honored by being named the 2013-14 Chief Executive Leadership Award by the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District VI. This award is in recognition of the leadership of a higher education chief executive officer who demonstrates the ability to create a vision and inspire others. Dr. Chicoine serves as South Dakota State University President.

(BS '06 Agribusiness, Farm & Financial,, MAS '07 Accounting) Former campus Relay for Life committee chair Adam Schwarts was made the Hall of Fame's eighth inductee. He was quoted by saying "There's no other organization in the health arena, not just the cancer arena, that has accomplished what the American Cancer Society has accomplished." In June, Adam will open a new fundraising season around Chicago.

(PhD '58 Food Science and Human Nutrition) received the Institute of Food Technologists' 2013 Calvert L. Willey Award for distinguished service. He also earned Certified Food Scientist accreditation in the inaugural class of DVS recipients. Dr. Albrecht is serving as president of the Greater Baltimore Medical Center Volunteer Auxiliary Board.

(BS '63 Agriculture) has been honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Agricultural Editors' Association at the 15thAgricultural Media Summit in Buffalo, NY. He worked for Future Farmers of America until 2009, and now serves on the National FFA Foundations' Individual Giving council. He and his wife live in Alexandria, VA.

(BS '67 Forestry, MS '75 Plant Pathology) was elected a Fellow in the Society of American Foresters in 2012. Steve was a retired recreation manager. He and his wife, Gloria Whitney Ricketts (BS '68 Home Economics) live in Port Hadlock, WA.

(BS '53 Agriculture) William (Bill) C. Jones passed away September 7, 2021.

(BS '44 Sociology, MS '47 Social Work)

Lorraine Friedman, 1923-2021

Lorraine Friedman, 97, longtime Hyde Park resident, retired CPS School Social Worker, passed away peacefully in May 2021, at Montgomery Place.

Lorraine attended Kozminski Elementary School and Hyde Park High School. She received her B.A. in sociology from the University of Illinois, Urbana (1944), and her M.S.W from the University of Chicago (1947).

She married Norman Friedman while he was in the Navy during WWII. Norman received his B.S. from the Illinois Institute of Technology (1944), and his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago (1967). His career began as a mechanical engineer. After receiving his M.B.A., Norman became a tenured Assistant Professor at the Richard J. Daley College, where he taught for 25 years.

Lorraine’s career in social work began as a caseworker for the State of Illinois, Department of Child and Family Services, where she licensed and supervised foster homes and conducted adoptive home studies. From 1966 to 1998, she worked for the Chicago Board of Education as a CPS School Social Worker, with many of those years spent in the Englewood neighborhood, especially Randolph School. She was a pioneering school social worker-- one of the very first employed by the Chicago Board of Education. By her retirement in 1998, there were over 300 school social workers in the system. Lorraine was a proud member of the Chicago Teachers Union from 1966 until the day she died.

Lorraine loved making a positive difference in peoples’ lives. She believed the major contribution of her work was her direct services with children, teachers, and school administrators.

Lorraine is survived by her two children, Adele and Victor. Both are happily married: Adele to Stuart; and Victor to Paul. Adele earned her M.F.A. from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and went on to become a filmmaker and an artist whose films have been internationally exhibited at museums including the Museum of Modern Art, New York; the Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris, France; and the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago. Victor earned his Ph.D. in South Slavic Linguistics from the University of Chicago, and became a tenured professor in that field, first at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and then at the University of Chicago.

In 1998, Lorraine retired earlier than she would have liked, to take care of her very ill husband. Norman lived for 17 more months and passed away in 1999. After 54 years of marriage to Norman, Lorraine never remarried. Before her passing, Lorraine wrote that her daughter Adele’s time and efforts enabled her to enjoy a carefree retirement, which lasted 23 years. Rest in Peace.

(BS '48 Ag Education, MS '54 Ag Education)

Joseph V. Griffin, 100, formerly of St. Anne, passed away Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, at Passavant Area Hospital in Jacksonville.

He was born Nov. 8, 1920, in rural Lovington Township, the son of John Paul and Johannah Smith Griffin. He married Lena Mae Cornelius on Aug. 1, 1942, at St. Isadore Catholic Church in Bethany.

Surviving are his wife of 78 years, Lena; and three children, Valerie (Michael) Adams of Jacksonville, John C. (Mary) Griffin of Fort Collins, Colorado, and Starla Griffin Born of Jacksonville. He also leaves eight grandchild and seven great-grandchildren.

Joe served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945 during World War II in the 39th Combat Engineers as BN communication chief. He served 33 months in North Africa, Sicily and Italy, including Anizo.

After serving, Joe graduated from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1948 and a Master of Science degree in 1952. Joe taught agriculture for 34 years in the Sidell, Arthur, Kempton-Cabery and St. Anne High School systems.

He was active in his church, St. Anne Catholic Church, and held memberships and various offices in the American Legion, 4th degree Knights of Columbus, Lions Club and Chamber of Commerce.

After retiring Joe loved to garden, winter in Arizona and research genealogy. He published two books, "The Original 16" and "The Saga of St. Isadore", both of which depict the settling of his Irish family and their church in rural Illinois. He also completed genealogy for all branches of his family.

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/myjournalcourier/obituary.aspx?pid=197163259

(BS '78 Forestry)

As a Christmas gift to their grandmother, our grandchildren had purchased a book entitled “What I Love About Grandma”. The book tasked the grandchildren to complete questions describing their grandmother. One of the questions had them puzzled, “describe your grandmother as a dance”. They came to grandpa, in search of an answer. Constance’s husband Keith said, “When they asked me what dance grandma was most like, I instantly knew the answer, a Viennese Waltz. Constance was beautiful, elegant and graceful. As the waltz developed from peasant dances and evolved into the epitome of refinement, so did my wife.”   

Constance’s life started on the open, flat prairies of Illinois.  She was the first daughter of a share cropper. She loved growing up on a farm. There were acres to play on, animals to tend and a loving family. She never knew that financially they were poor. She assumed everybody made their own clothes and had farm chores to perform every day.

Constance attended high school in Waterman, Illinois with 31 other students, where she excelled in the classroom and at sports. She learned to play the guitar, clarinet, and the piano and standing at six-foot one inch she was a natural at basketball. In her rural community she was not noticed for her athletic skills, however her academic achievements allowed her to graduate from the University of Illinois, Bachelor of Science in Forestry, Highest Honors, Bronze Tablet.

In 1978, Constance’s senior year of college, she met Keith and they quickly fell in love right before she moved to Oregon to work for the US Forest Service. Keith remembers, “the pain of separation from her was more than I could bare. She always had a bright smile and to her every day was a blessing to hold and cherish. So just three months after meeting, I proposed. She accepted and moved back to Illinois and on Nov. 4, we were married. 

Constance and Keith first set up home in Wheaton, Illinois just a mile down the road from Wheaton College. Over the years they resided in Wheaton; Hudson, OH; and finally in Dawsonville, GA.

After our first of three children was born, Constance decided to move her career into the home and raise our children with strong Christian values. She always had a passion for children and expressed this by visiting and supporting Christian orphanages in the Philippines, Romania and Cambodia. Constance was also a member of North Georgia Church in Dawsonville, GA.

While Constance’s life may have been shortened by pancreatic cancer, she burned brightly while here. Her life achievements were; top of her class at University of Illinois, traveling the world, successfully assisted in starting an international business and always living her life true to her faith. But if asked she would proudly proclaim that her greatest accomplishment was raising three beautiful children. 

Surviving are her husband, Keith; sons and daughter Peter (Danica), Dawsonville, Ellen (John) Turck, East Windsor, NJ, Joel (Aly), Bonita Springs, FL; grandchildren Joey, Madison, Will, Atticus, Cecilia, and Henry.

A memorial service will be held Saturday May 8, 2021, visitation at 10 o’clock and service at 11:30. This will be at the North Georgia Church, 74 Dill Lane, Dawsonville, GA 30534.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking that donation be made for a boy’s dormitory at the TransformAsia David Center Orphanage in Cambodia. To donate go to Transformasia.us/give, top far right click on Donation, then click on Donate to a Project, then click on Click Here to Pay Now, then on the fifth line down Project Designation and in the drop-down box pick In Memory of Connie Burlingame. 

Condolences may be left online at www.beardenfuneralhome.com

(BS '48 Ag Education, MS '54 Ag Education)

March 17, 2021 --Ryland Edwin Webb, professor emeritus and former head of the Department of Human Nutrition and Foods (HNF) from 1973 to 1982, passed away on Feb. 23, 2021.

[https://vtnews.vt.edu/content/vtnews_vt_edu/en/articles/2021/03/cals-memoriam-webb-ryland/jcr:content/article-image.transform/l-medium/image.jpg]

During his final years with Virginia Tech, the department was housed in the College of Human Resources, and the exercise component was not added until 1996. Today, the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise is located in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Born to missionary parents in Angola, Africa, Webb spent the first 11 years of his life with his two brothers in the village of Bailundo, a place dear to his heart for the rest of his life. In 1930s Africa, families had to be both self-sufficient and hardy to survive because communication was limited to letter writing and the nearest hospital and school were three hours away over very rough roads. However, the family managed to provide a safe and comfortable environment that seemed far away and protected from the political and social unrest during that time. Eventually, the brothers had to return to the United States to continue their education. All three excelled at sports and schoolwork and became valedictorians of their respective graduating classes.

After graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1954 with his bachelor’s degree in animal science, Webb served in the Army for two years in Korea. After his commission was completed, he visited his parents in Bailundo for a final time; this was the last time he would set foot on African soil. Webb returned to the University of Illinois to obtain his doctoral degree in nutritional biochemistry and graduated in 1961. For the next two years, he held a research position with American Cyanamid in New York.

In 1963, Webb joined Virginia Tech’s Department of Biochemistry as an assistant professor where his research focused on the interactions of nutritional status and pesticides, and pesticide resistance and metabolism. Ten years later, he became head of HNF, succeeding S. Jewel Ritchey.

“I was pleased when Ryland agreed to follow me as head,” said Ritchey. “During his tenure, the department progressed in several areas, particularly in the number of graduate students and research endeavors; also, additional faculty were brought on board, while new and modified programs were instituted. Interestingly, we shared several commonalities during our careers. We had the same major professor while attending the University of Illinois, and in 1963, we both began working at Virginia Tech. Also, we both taught Food and People, the beginning course for HNF majors, and one that attracted students from several other disciplines.”

During Webb’s years as head, student enrollment grew rapidly, the exercise component was added, and the hospitality and tourism option expanded and developed into a separate department. While Webb thoroughly enjoyed his research, he particularly loved working with graduate students and teaching, especially when he taught Foods and People, one of the most popular classes campuswide in the 1980s and 1990s.

“Ryland was a ‘student-oriented’ department head,” said Janet Johnson, who retired from the department in 2002. “He knew every student by name and was often seen having informal chats with students moving between classes. He was very supportive of the faculty and encouraged our research activity, teaching, and promotion to administrative opportunities within the college and university. Ryland was a key player in moving HNF from an established department of excellence to a larger one of national prominence.”

Webb’s research eventually focused on applied nutrition programs. As the university coordinator of Haitian Programs from 1972 to 1982, he worked with the Haitian Bureau of Nutrition to prevent preschool malnutrition through innovative “Mothercraft Centers,” which used the concept of training mothers in simple nutritional practices. In conjunction with these centers, Webb taught fathers about nutritional education and agricultural management practices dealing with food production. Webb also traveled to the Philippines, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic to implement similar nutritional programs with the collaborative efforts of faculty in the departments of sociology, forestry, and horticulture. Their overarching goal was to help native populations learn to use what was readily available and teach sustainable agriculture practices.

In 1976, Webb was honored as a fellow with Purdue University’s Old Master’s Program. Created in 1950, the program, which is still ongoing, brought distinguished scholars together to share professional and personal experiences and inspire leadership for a lifetime. Those selected as Old Masters are exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to their professional fields.

Webb contributed to over 80 refereed publications and was the major advisor of 30 graduate students in both biochemistry and human nutrition and foods. He was conferred professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors in 1996 after retiring with 33 years of service.

Webb was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wanda, and is survived by his children Stanley, Linda, and Susan; grandchildren Parker, Ellery, Rachel, Kevin, Megan, and Zach; and great-grandson Salem.

To honor Webb’s memory and love of food, the family suggests donations to your local food pantry.

(BS '75 Ag Economics)

Glendale - Born August 1, 1953 - Passed away April 7, 2020

Steve had been my husband and was always my friend. Probably the best friend I ever had. Our 4 kids were his world. Katrina, Stephen Jr, Robert and Tabitha. They loved their Dad so much and hearts ache. We welcomed a son in law Mike in 2015 and our first grandchild in February 2017. Our little Princess, Mackenzie Belle. She definitely became the sparkle in his eyes. And this September we'll have a grandson too. Altho we weren't together anymore I still loved him dearly. We had our children together and they were our lifetime bond. Robert especially kept us close.

Steve and Robert were best buddies, hanging out together, doing errands, gardening, going to baseball games, occasionally basketball, football and hockey games. He was the most patient person with Robert.

Steve grew up in a little town called Egarville in southern Illinois. He graduated high school and went on to The University of Illinois (Fighting Illini) where he got a Bachelors Degree in Agriculture (Economics,I think) and graduated in 1975. He worked for Moorman Feed for several years and then the Department of Agriculture until he retired several years ago. He was a Market News Reporter (and it's too long to explain it). We'd met in Florida, married in 1983. He/we traveled summers and we finally settled (for a few years) in Texas. He worked in Dallas and we lived just outside in Sachse. Katrina and Stephen Jr were born there. We were there 3 years then in New York for a year and out to Arizona in 1988. He and Robert still lived in the house we bought in early 1989. Robert and Tabitha were born here in AZ.

Steve was very well liked and loved by so many people. Those he worked with and just about anyone he met. He was kind, compassionate, helpful and just loving. He volunteered at the food banks, with United Way, a seed library (he and Robert did that together) at voting polls and he went back to square dancing. He belonged to Tomahawk Twirlers. He truly made friends there that cared deeply about him. He still owned the farm in Illinois that he'd inherited from his folks. They grew Christmas Trees and Steve continued the business. The past few years he was waiting on more sellable size trees but he went a few times a year, planted seedlings, shaped trees and made wreaths at Christmas time. It was his peaceful place he loved to get away to. He'd just been there in March to plant seedlings. He'd said it gets too cold for him at his age to live there again.

Steve was Russian Orthodox Christian. Altho no longer a church goer he always believed. We celebrated Orthodox Easter April 19th this year. Christ Is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!

How do you say goodbye to a friend, someone you loved. We'll meet again some day. I don't know what else I can say.

Take Care of Robert and he'll take care of you. Best Buddies for eternity. I'm sure you're getting an ear full now that he's talking. And he's running like the wind. You're well, healthy and healed of all your ails. Maybe your hair will grow back so you don't need a comb over.

Welcomed into heaven by his parents Julia and Peter SR Skuba. Take care of this guy. Memory Eternal!

Survived by: Katrina Skuba, Daughter, Marana AZ; Stephen Skuba JR, Son, Glendale AZ; Tabitha Skuba, Daughter, Denver CO; Suzanne Skuba, Best Friend, Glendale AZ; Mackenzie Belle McMurrich, Granddaughter, Marana AZ; Michael McMurrich, Son in Law, Marana AZ; Peter Skuba JR, Brother, Normal, IL; Eleanore Johnson, Mother in Law, Glendale AZ.

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/azcentral/obituary.aspx?pid=195999457

(BS '77 Veterinary Medicine, PhD '79 Veterinary Medicine)

Randall C. "Randy" Wolf, 66, of St. Elmo died at 5:48 p.m. Tuesday, September 25, 2018 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri.

Randy was born on Monday, April 21, 1952 in Vandalia, IL to Clarence H. and Norma N. (Stuemke) Wolf. He married Linda Buzzard on June 3, 1972 in St. Elmo at the First United Methodist Church. He was an E and C Technician with Natural Gas Pipeline in St. Elmo. He was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Altamont and held the following positions; Vice President of Southwestern Electric Cooperative Board, Supervisor of Avena Township, Vice President of Lutheran Care Center Board, St. Elmo Lions, Altamont Community Choir, LERT (Lutheran Early Response Team) and was very involved with the Fayette Water Company from its inception holding several different positions.

Randy is survived by his wife of over 46 years, Linda Wolf, St. Elmo; son, Lucas (Karie) Wolf, San Jose, CA; daughters, Andra (Luke) Carson, St. Elmo and Heather (Joe) Samudovsky, Springfield; grandchildren, Aubrey (Dennis) Mitchell, St. Elmo, Madison Carson and Kinley Carson both of St. Elmo; great grandson, Colt Mitchell.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Marsha Wolf Greene.

http://www.thexradio.com/news/obits/35741-randall-wolf-66-of-st-elmo

(BS '77 Veterinary Medicine, PhD '79 Veterinary Medicine)

Beckmann, Bruce N., baptized into the hope of Christ's resurrection, Wednesday, January 1, 2020.

Beloved husband of the late Mary Anne Beckmann (nee Reust). Dear father of Kay (Mike) Wilson, Bruce F. (Amy) Beckmann, Brian (Karen) Beckmann, Chris Beckmann, Jane Beckmann, Glenn P. (Karen) Beckmann, Anita (Bill) Buchwolz, Eugene (Stephanie) Beckmann, Jeff Beckmann, and the late Michael Beckmann. Loving grandfather and great-grandfather to many. Dear brother of Eva Peterson and Marelise Beckmann. Brother-in-law of Mary Beckmann. Beloved uncle, great-uncle, cousin, and friend to many.

https://www.schrader.com/obituary/bruce-n-beckmann

(BS '77 Veterinary Medicine, PhD '79 Veterinary Medicine)

BALDWIN, Wisconsin - Dr. Harold Franklin Wilkins passed away from COVID 19 in Baldwin, WI on January 7, 2021. Survived by his devoted partner, Bryan Gjevre; extended family; and many colleagues and friends. 

Born in Cobden, Illinois, Harold loved books, bookstores, libraries, newspapers, poetry, letters and flowers. He enjoyed good coffee, new restaurants, classical NPR, and a good story. 

Harold received his horticulture doctorate from the University of Illinois, and spent his career teaching and mentoring at Cornell, U of FL, U of MN, Ohio State and consulted all over the world. Beloved teacher, he was devoted to help ing all of his students reach their goals, he proudly "fathered" 11 PhD students. As the author of more than 200 publications, the recipient of numerous awards, the guest speaker at many seminars and conferences, his impact on the floricul ture industry is unquestionable. Harold influenced horticulture globally; he traveled to Israel, The Netherlands, Russia, Japan, South Africa, Chile, among other countries to collect information for his research. 

As a retirement project in 2005, he and Bryan purchased a 9-acre property near Baldwin, WI and named it Goldfinch Flower Farm. They grew and sold beautiful and unique flowers to local florists and the Mill City Farmers Market. In addi tion to research, Harold taught Floral Design and his bouquets were always ex quisite.  

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/thesouthern/name/harold-wilkins-obituary?pid=197518059 

1/16/2021 

Dr. Harold Franklin Wilkins Obituary - Carbondale, IL | The Southern Illinoisan 

He consistently shared his positive energy and concern; he was described by many as unwaveringly sweet and kind. Shortly before passing, Harold told Bry an he was going "upstairs to recuperate." 

A Celebration of his Life will be held this summer, at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, MN. Burial will be in Anna, IL. 

Many thanks to all healthcare workers during this pandemic - your dedication is unparalleled. We wish to extend our deep gratitude to his medical team at the Baldwin Care Center Campus and Western Wisconsin Health in Baldwin, WI. 

In Harold's memory, support your local florists and garden centers. 

(BS '77 Veterinary Medicine, PhD '79 Veterinary Medicine)

Selfless. This is the best word to describe Dorothy. She was generous with her time, her money, and her kindness. She spent her life in service to her family, friends, church, and community — always prioritizing others above herself. Many will remember her for the kind twinkle in her eyes. She had a gift for making people feel good about themselves.

Even in the midst of her courageous 23-year battle with breast cancer, Dorothy lived simply and with the mantra “live each day to the fullest.” She was the Shreffler and Kramer family historian, keenly pursuing her life-long passion for genealogy. She loved travel, movies, live music and plays, crafts, and puzzles. Dorothy hosted a spirited games group each week right up until her passing. Her Midwestern upbringing shined through as she was an exceptionally gracious hostess who loved to cook and entertain.

Dorothy held many volunteer positions and had many accomplishments in her life, but requested they not be listed. She never sought recognition despite everything she did to enrich the lives of others in all the various places she lived (Effingham, Champaign-Urbana, Pasadena, Calif., Ann Arbor, Mich., Therwil, Switzerland, St. Louis, Mo., Sequim, Wash.). Dorothy inspired others and her faith gave her a wellspring of strength for those in need of an embrace, a listening ear, or gentle wisdom.

Her refrigerator door was covered with her favorite quotes. This one could have been written about her: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” ~ John Wesley

Dorothy’s death is a poignant reminder of the fragility, resilience, and impermanence of our lives. Her favorite hymn was “I’ll Fly Away.” She has flown away with grace and dignity, lifting the family and friends’ saddened hearts and feathering them gently through the slipstream of her remarkable life.

Surviving are her loving sons, Doug and Dave Shreffler (and daughter-in-law Ann Soule), of Sequim, Wash.; her only grandchild, Waverly Shreffler, of Bellingham, Wash. (although she was affectionately known as “Grandma Dorothy” to many in the Sequim community area); her brother, Ken (Ruth) Kramer, of Sun City Center, Fla.; her sister-in-law, Jean Kramer, of Hannibal, Mo.; two aunts, one uncle, seven nieces, and five nephews.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Don Shreffler; her parents, Kenneth and Ferne Kramer; her brother, Karl Kramer and a newborn who died at birth; three sisters-in-law, three brothers-in-law, 11 aunts, six uncles, two nephews, and one niece.

The family is truly grateful to the many friends, neighbors, and relatives for the kindness and love each showed Dorothy during her final months. They are also thankful to Dorothy’s pastor, primary care providers, OMC Cancer Center, Wright’s Home Care, Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County and the Threshold Singers for facilitating her peaceful passing.

A celebration of Dorothy’s life will be scheduled later, when friends and family can all safely enjoy social gatherings again. Dorothy’s ashes will be buried in the Shreffler Family Cemetery in Kankakee, on land homesteaded by her husband’s ancestors in 1846.

Memorial gifts may be given in memory of Dorothy to: Dungeness River Audubon Center, PO Box 2450, Sequim, WA 98382; or Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County, 829 East 8th St., Port Angeles, WA 98362.

https://www.daily-journal.com/obituaries/dorothy-shreffler/article_682fe4da-7e39-11ea-99bb-b38e52a95f51.html

(BS '60 Agronomy) Carroll Paul Pedersen died peacefully on Sunday, January 17, 2021 from complications of advanced Parkinson’s Disease. Paul was born on April 15, 1942 on the southside of Chicago to Martha and Carroll Pedersen. He and his older brother, David, grew up there and enjoyed summer trips to the family farm near Cadillac, MI. Paul received a degree in forestry from the University of Illinois. In April 1965, he was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam as the leader of the 3rd Platoon of A Company, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry, 1 st Infantry Division (The Big Red One). CP, as he was known in the army, earned the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device, the Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantry Badge and achieved the rank of 1st Lieutenant. CP left the Army in 1967 but his devotion to his men lasted until the end of his life. After leaving the Army, Paul embarked on a life lived to the fullest. He spent five years living, studying, and working in Norway and Germany. Proud of his Norwegian heritage, his time in Norway had a profound impact on Paul’s life and he made several return trips to ski, visit friends, and research family roots. Upon returning to the States, Paul became a forester for the U.S. Forest Service. In his career, he served national forest districts in Alaska, Wisconsin, and Michigan, and fought forest fires throughout the Western U.S. Paul married Joan Slota in 1994 and was welcomed into the family by her daughters Holly and Suzie. In 2004, he became a proud grandfather to Collin Slota Gouran. Cross-country skiing was one of the greatest passions of Paul’s life. He completed 31 races of the American Birkebeiner and was a World Loppet Master, having completed 13 international races. He retired with Joan to a house they built near the Birkie trail, served on the Birkie Board of Directors, and looked forward to seeing the Norwegians who came to ski the Birkie each year. In addition to skiing, Paul enjoyed running, biking, walking in the woods, brewing beer, and celebrating his Norwegian heritage. Family, faith, and friends were important to Paul. He showed what it meant to be loyal, welcoming, and inclusive. He prayed daily for his family and friends and his faith sustained him through the difficult times of his life. He honored those who came before him and upheld family traditions. Right through the end, he delighted in continued connections with friends from throughout his life. Paul is survived by his stepdaughters Suzanne Slota and Holly Slota (partner David Gouran), his grandson Collin Slota Gouran, his sister-in-law Janet Pedersen, niece Martha Christina Pedersen and her daughter Mila, and nephew Paul Thor Pedersen (named after his uncle) and his son Conrad. He is preceded in death by his wife Joan Slota Pedersen, his parents Carroll and Martha Pedersen, and his brother David Pedersen. Family and friends are invited to attend an online funeral on Saturday, February 20, 2021 at 11 AM Central Time. The service will be streamed live on the First Lutheran Church of Hayward, WI Facebook page. Those without Facebook who wish to watch online are asked to email paulpedersen.funeral@yahoo.com for further instructions. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to First Lutheran Church (Hayward), the American Birkebeiner Foundation (Hayward), or Disabled Veterans of America.

(BS '50 Agriculture)

LODA — Donald “Wayne” Niewold, 92, of Loda passed away at 9:23 a.m. Friday (Jan. 22, 2021) at home.

Funeral services are pending at Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton.

Wayne was born Aug. 28, 1928, in New Holland, the son of Margaret “Josephine” Niewold Knudsen and stepson of Chris Knudsen. He married Grace “Janet” Weaver on Aug. 29, 1954, in Paxton. She survives.

Along with his wife, Janet, he is survived by three children, Jim (Robin) Niewold, Doug (Deana) Niewold and Grace (Brian) Funk; five grandchildren, Greg Niewold, Jessie Niewold Nguyen, Kristen Shanks Cherwa, Michelle Shanks Vaughn and Eric Funk; and nine great-grandchildren.

He graduated from New Holland High School in 1946 as valedictorian. He attended Illinois State University, Bloomington, 1946-47, and played on the freshman basketball team. He transferred to the University of Illinois and graduated with a B.S. in agriculture in 1950; Bronze Tablet; received reserve commission as a 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Army; was a member of Alpha Zeta and Gamma Sigma Delta honorary ag fraternities; member of the FarmHouse Fraternity; and a member of the livestock judging team. He received the College of Ag Alumni Award of Merit.

During his high school and college days, he did amateur photography, taking family portraits, weddings and fraternity dances. He played in the summer Sunday afternoon baseball league in Logan County.

Wayne served in the U.S. Army 1952-1954, serving in Korea as a 1st lieutenant 1953-54 as operations and maintenance officer of the 54th Heavy Truck Company. This company moved all of the POWs of both North and South Korea to the Rail Head during repatriation.

In 1952, he joined New Holland Masonic Lodge 741 then transferred to the Paxton Masonic Lodge 416 in 1979. He served on the Paxton Masonic Temple Board and did Masonic funeral services for 50 years for 94 brothers.

Wayne taught a veterans class at Lincoln High School. He served on the Paxton School Board during the high school construction. He also served on the steering committee and first Board of Trustees at Parkland College.

He was a member of the Paxton Masonic Lodge 416, Ford Chapter 113, Paxton Council 29, Mount Olivet Commandery 38, Holder of York Cross of Honor, Danville Consistory and Ansar Shrine, East Central Illinois York Rite College 81, where he received the Order of the Purple Cross, Allied Masonic Degrees 356, and a 50-year member of Eastern Star, being Worthy Patron 14 times and a 50-year member of White Shrine of Jerusalem.

Wayne was also a 50-year member of the Paxton American Legion Prairie Post 150, past commander and 15-year member of the firing squad. He was a member of Paxton Federated Church, serving as elder, moderator and Sunday school teacher.

He was a member of the Ford-Iroquois Farm Bureau. Wayne farmed and raised hogs in Ford County for 41 years. He was one of the founders of the FILM Cooperative. He was named an Outstanding Young Farmer State Award of Illinois in 1962 by the Jaycees and was also named a Master Farmer in 1977 by Prairie Farmer Magazine.

Wayne invented, started and owned Hydra Fold Auger, Inc., and owned Power Planter, Inc., having four U.S. and four Canadian patents. He was a licensed real estate broker for 41 years. He was a 4-H Club leader for 29 years; four years at New Holland (Hollanders) and 25 years for the Wall Town Club in Ford County.\\

He always had a witty comment or a joke to share. One of his greatest joys was seeing his life accomplishments being extended by the next generations.

Memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Chicago, Paxton Federated Church or an organization of the donor’s choice. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at baierfuneralservices.com.

 

https://www.news-gazette.com/obituaries/wayne-niewold/article_d86b0c58-5f6a-11eb-96f7-308d99b27af3.html

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

Dr. Paul Henry Sammelwitz passed away peacefully on January 1, 2021 after a brief illness.

Paul was born in Buffalo, NY on March 13, 1933 to the late Frederick and Elsie (Blum) Sammelwitz. He grew up as the younger brother to three older sisters. Paul spent many summers at his relative’s farms where he worked and enjoyed farm life. He graduated from East High School in 1951. Paul attended Cornell University where he was the manager of the football team for all 4 years. He graduated with a degree in dairy and agricultural sciences in 1955. Paul went on to attend the University of Illinois where he received his Masters’ and Doctorate Degree in reproductive physiology in 1959. Throughout his training and career, Paul was a member of various scientific fraternities and organizations.

He joined the University of Delaware in 1959 as an Associate Professor in the College of Agricultural and Natural Resources, teaching anatomy, physiology, and genetics. “Dr. Samm”, as he was referred to by his students, was well loved and admired. Paul’s area of specialty was poultry sciences, and he was known as the expert on the Blue Hen bird. Paul was a pioneer in the use of technology in teaching. In the late 1970s, he was among the first in the College to use computer programming as a supplement to laboratory lessons. In 1974, Paul and Dr. David Frey started the Annual Ag Day event which continues today. Paul became a tenured professor later retired from University of Delaware in 1999 after 40 years of teaching, mentoring, and advisement.  His passion was being an educator, as witnessed by the many students he inspired.

Paul was an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Newark, where he served in many leadership capacities and on various boards over the 60 years. He was a big supporter of Lutheran Campus Ministry at the University of Delaware. Paul also volunteered his time for many years as a member of the Delaware Maryland Synod, and traveled to monthly meetings in the Baltimore area.

He enjoyed many activities and sports including sailing, skiing, running, biking, canoeing and camping.  He learned to snow ski in his 30s after he arrived in Delaware. Paul enjoyed football especially watching the University of Delaware Blue Hen’s and the Philadelphia Eagles. He instilled a love of sports in all his children.

Paul and his wife, Diane, celebrated 58 years together in August of 2020. Their first date was in Longwood Gardens and they continued as members throughout the years. They enjoyed traveling and attending Elderhostel programs in their retirement. They moved to Jenner’s Pond Retirement community in West Grove, PA in 2011. At Jenner’s Pond, Paul sang in the choral group, participated with the wood shop and perfected his hobby of caning chairs. He liked to play Sudoku and spent time learning new things and communicating to others via his computer.

Paul is preceded in death by his wife Diane; son, Michael Moore; and sisters, Ruth Preusch and June Holden. He is survived by his children, Christopher Moore Sammelwitz and Ellen (Stephen) Casey; 3 grandchildren, Deirdre, Niall and Rebecca Casey; sister Alice Kryszczynski; many nieces and nephews; and beloved friends and colleagues.

Services and interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to:

St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 701 South College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713 or the Tithe.ly link to Paul Sammelwitz Memorial www.stpaulsnewarkde.org

And/Or

2. Paul H. Sammelwitz Scholarship Fund, University of Delaware, Gifts Processing, 83 East Main Street, 3rd Floor, Newark DE 19711

 

https://spicermullikin.com/dr-paul-henry-sammelwitz/

(BS '60 Agronomy)

Grinnell - William "Bill" Louis Wissmiller, age 89 of Grinnell, died on January 19, 2021 at the Mayflower Community Health Care Center in Grinnell.

William was born in Paxton, Illinois, on December 11, 1931, to Gertrude and Louis Wissmiller of Gibson City, IL. He was graduated from Drummer Township High School in Gibson City, IL, and served in the U. S. Army during the Korean War from February 1952 to February 1954.

On June 22, 1957, he married Theresa Jean Stine of Paxton, IL. He was graduated from the University of Illinois in 1960 with a BS degree in agronomy and continued in graduate school until he was recruited by Cargill. Bill was employed by Cargill, Inc., as a research scientist from 1960 until 1997. His employment was in Rochelle, IL, and Grinnell, IA, ending in a three-year period in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Bill is survived by his wife, Jean of Grinnell; two children: Ann Cortelyou of Denver, IA, and Paul Wissmiller of Minneapolis, MN; two grandchildren: Kira and Kendall Cortelyou of Denver, IA; and two sisters and one brother in Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents; and four brothers and a sister.

Cremation has taken place at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell and no visitation is planned. A memorial service will be held by the family at a later time. Memorial contributions in Bill's name may be made to the Drake Community Library or to UnityPoint Grinnell Regional Medical Center and mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memories and condolences may be provided to Bill's family online at www.smithfh.com.

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/desmoinesregister/obituary.aspx?pid=197584749

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

CHAMPAIGN — Jill P. Knappenberger, 102, passed away Tuesday (Dec. 8, 2020) at Owens Hospice, Peoria.

As per Jill’s wishes, there will be no visitation nor funeral. A memorial service will be announced at a later date, to be held at Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church, Champaign. Morgan Memorial Home, Savoy, is in charge of arrangements.

She was born on Sept. 11, 1918, in Evanston, the twin daughter of John Joseph and Margaret Leach Pitts. She attended grade school in Bloomington and graduated from high school in McLean. She went on to receive an associate degree from Stephens College, Columbia, Mo., and later earned a BS degree from the University of Illinois after she served with the Red Cross in World War II.

While with the Red Cross, Jill served in the European Theater of Operations as a clubmobile operator. After the war ended, she met and married Attorney T. Gaillard Knappenberger while attending the University of Illinois. They married on Jan. 3, 1953. 

She was a member of the Episcopal Church Altar Guild, life member of the American Overseas Association, University of Illinois Alumni Association, Champaign County Historical Museum, University of Illinois Foundation and on the Board of World Heritage Museum. She was also an associate life member of the 106th Infantry Division when they were trapped behind the German lines during the Battle of the Bulge.

Her hobbies were traveling, painting, needlework, bridge, mah-jongg, golf, swimming, mushroom hunting and watching "Jeopardy" with her neighbors.

She is survived by her nephews, Bob (Sharon) Pitts of Armington, Jack (Patty) Pitts of McLean, Doug (Jean) Pitts of Glen Mills, Pa., and Scott Pitts of McLean; and nieces, Nancy (Dave) LaReau of Clinton and Karen Pitts of Bloomington.

Also surviving are a sister-in-law, Martha Pitts of Bloomington, and many other friends in Newaygo, Mich., and Champaign.

Preceding her in death were her husband; parents; one sister, Polly; four brothers, Robert, William, Tom and her twin, Jack; two nephews, Rick and John; a niece, Becky Pitts Bruner; and a sister-in-law, Joanna Pitts.

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology) Timothy G. Blechl, 60, passed away on July 26, 2019. Tim was a man of strong faith, and celebrated life with music, choir, dancing and sports. Tim was a graduate of Our Lady of the Wayside grade school and Forest View High School. He graduated from the University of Illinois with a Master's Degree in Forestry. He loved the forest, trees and working outdoors. Tim is survived by his beloved daughters Sarah, Maria, Grace, and Angelina; his loving mother Roberta Blechl, fond uncle Gilbert Blechl, and aunts Lois and Pat Blechl. Tim is also survived by his caring siblings Ann Blechl, James Blechl (Barbara), Carrie Colella (Bill), twin brother Thomas, Ellen Al-hajje (Mohamad), Sally Batanian (David), Joseph Blechl, Molly Blechl, Jennifer Morrison, and Mary Horn (David). Tim is also survived by numerous wonderful nieces and nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father Gerald Blechl. Visitation services will be held on Friday, August 9 at 9 am at St. Cecilia Catholic Church located at 700 S. Meier Rd., Mt. Prospect, IL 60056. A funeral mass at 10 am will follow the visitation. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tim's name to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

(BS '55 Dairy and Agriculture Sciences, MS '59 Reproductive Physiology, PhD '59 Reproductive Physiology)

Wilbert "Wil" Needham Stevenson (Captain US Army), one of the few remaining members of the "greatest generation," was called Home on the 76th anniversary of D-Day.

Wil was a family man. He was born in January of 1921 and grew up amid cornfields on the family farm near Streator, IL. He was preceded in death by parents James and Lucile, and siblings Ruth, Ernie, and Joe. James was a leader in FDR's New Deal programs for farmers. Lucile wrote a column for a farming journal. Surviving family includes his wife of 72 years, Betty, and children Dennis, Jim, Tim, and Sara. Despite the rigors of running the farm, the family always ate dinner together, went to church, and vacationed to many of the states of the Union. All by car! As a youngster, Wil and his family endured the Great Depression. He often said they were luckier than most. As farmers, they always had something to eat. Wil received the Master Farmer award from the Prairie Farmer magazine in 1971. This family orientation has continued. Wil's other direct descendants include five grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. Wil recently posed in three different five-generation pictures.

Wil was a scholar. His first experience with education was in a one-room school, down the road from the farm. On one occasion, he and a classmate were sent home after they stopped to skin a skunk they found in one of their traps on the way to school. However, he did manage to skip second grade.

Education got better as Wil progressed through school (with less distracting wildlife). Wil often rode the 10 miles to high school on a milk truck, and later drove the route himself, picking up students along the way. He was the president of the National Honor Society. He played the violin (and saw, which did not sound as good). He often recalled Ag class field trips in a wagon.

After high school, Wil entered the University of Illinois, and joined Farm House fraternity. He was on a university livestock judging team that won a major award. At Illinois, Wil was student manager of the baseball team (which included future hall of famer Lou Boudreau) and served on the YMCA board of directors. He also received the Bronze Tablet honor, awarded to the top 3% of each graduating class. The Tablet is displayed in the U of I library. The Illio yearbook his senior year had his full-page picture as an important student leader. Wil later went back to Illinois for his Master's degree and helped manage the university research farms.

Wil was a soldier. When the US joined WWII, he enlisted in the army and, after training, was assigned to the Signal Corps and officer candidate school. Thereafter, he shipped out to Cairo, Egypt, in charge of the communications center for the Mediterranean region. Based on his work there, under trying conditions, Wil received the Legion of Merit medal. He seldom talked about this experience (which did not include combat) but he confided to his fellow army-vet grandson that one of his most satisfying jobs was arranging transport home for troops after the war.

Wil had a global worldview, even as a young man. While stationed overseas, he used his leave time to visit Palestine and Egypt. He took pictures with his venerable Argus C3, and later gave a slide talk many times in the central Illinois area. This experience undoubtedly expanded the horizons of many in his audiences. Later, Wil and Betty hosted visiting students from Nigeria, Japan, the Netherlands, Libya and others. They also visited places like Mexico, Poland, Russia, Europe, and Scandinavia.

Wil was invested in the local community. He was a member of the local hospital advisory committee for 16 years and a hospital volunteer, on the high school board of education for eight years, sat on savings and loan boards for 15, as well as being involved in organizations such as Kiwanis, YMCA, and United Way. Wil and Betty were active members of Park Presbyterian Church. Wil was an elder several times and served on search committees for three pastors. He was also Sunday School Superintendant for eight years, and taught Sunday School regularly. Wil and Betty supported several charitable causes.

We hope that learning a little about Dad will serve as a blessing and inspiration to you. He certainly has been all of that for us. With his many achievements, Wil was a very humble and outgoing man. Virtually everyone who knew him considered him a friend.

The family wishes to extend our appreciation to Hospice Alliance and Casa del Mare Assisted Living facility, and the wonderful people who work at these places.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

(BS '41 Agriculture)

Will Erwin, whose 65 years of service made him the longest-tenured Fellow of the Farm Foundation Round Table, passed away on September 12, 2020. All of us at Farm Foundation send our condolences to his family, and join his many friends and colleagues in remembering the powerful legacy he left in his community and in the agriculture industry.

An Army Air Corps veteran, former Assistant Secretary of Agriculture and former Indiana state senator, Erwin was passionate about serving others. He was also passionate about farming, building his own operation through hard work and innovation while also mentoring young farmers and participating in many industry and civic organizations. The story of his life is rich and varied, and we encourage you to read all about it in his full obituary.

(MS '41) Chillicothe – Glenn D. Oertley, 100, of Chillicothe, passed away at 1:42 p.m. Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Heritage Health in Chillicothe. He was born on March 28, 1920 in rural Stark County to Charles and Emma (Fritz) Oertley. He married Ethel Cheesman on January 21, 1945 in Princeville. They were married for 62 years before her death in 2007.

He is survived by two children, Charles (Karen) Oertley of Nashville, TN and Nancy (Harvey) Varness of Chillicothe; four grandchildren, Erik (Kate) Varness of Peoria, Kristin (Nick) Pretasky of Appleton, WI, Ann (John) Kantz of Chillicothe, and Jennifer (Jay) LeDuc of Nashville, TN; grand daughter-in-law, Dierdre (Tim) Stringenz of Bozeman, MT; eleven great-grandchildren, Emma, Max and Samantha Varness of Peoria, Quinn Varness of Bozeman, MT, Anika and Naomi Pretasky of Appleton, WI, Bobby and Charlie Kantz of Chillicothe, Evelyn and Grace Strigenz of Bozeman, MT, and Remy LeDuc of Nashville, TN; four nieces; and a foreign exchange student, Ludo Claussens of Antwerp, Belgium. He was also preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Mabel (Ralph) Streitmatter and Verna (Rollin) Streitmatter; one brother, Charles (Darlene) Oertley; one grandson, Todd Varness; and son, G. David Oertley.

Glenn attended schools near and in Wyoming, Illinois and the University of Illinois at Champaign, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture in 1941. After farming for five years, he became a professional farm manager and a rural appraiser. He was self-employed from 1951-1998 at Oertley Farm Management Service in Peoria. He lived a long, active and generous life. He was a member of Alpha Zeta Agriculture Honorary, and was a lifetime member of the President’s Council at the U of I. He was a member of the Illinois Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers for 72 years, a leader and supporter of 4-H programs, a board of directors member for the Heart of Illinois fair for 41 years, a lifetime member (76 years) of Masonic Blue Lodge #479 in Wyoming and a 50 plus year member of the Shriner’s International, who support the Shriners Hospital for Children in Chicago. He was an active member of Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap since 1969.

Glenn always encouraged others to continue their education and provided financial assistance to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren for their schooling, along with gifts to many others. With his wife, he established the Oertley Family Scholarship at Illinois Central College in 1998, which to date has provided financial assistance to more than 200 students.

He most loved his family, and remained interested and involved with all of them. Glenn also loved farming, being outside, gardening, and baking, especially “Grandpa Bread”. He freely shared whatever he had and always enjoyed being with people. His many friends were very important to him; so too was his faith, which formed his core of love and service. His motto was “Accept, adapt, keep moving”.

A service and burial in Princeville will be planned at a later date. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oertley Family Scholarship through Illinois Central College Educational Foundation, 1 College Drive, E. Peoria, IL 61635 or Prospect United Methodist Church 300 E. Ash, Dunlap, IL 61625.

(BS '41 Agriculture) Chillicothe – Glenn D. Oertley, 100, of Chillicothe, passed away at 1:42 p.m. Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Heritage Health in Chillicothe. He was born on March 28, 1920 in rural Stark County to Charles and Emma (Fritz) Oertley. He married Ethel Cheesman on January 21, 1945 in Princeville. They were married for 62 years before her death in 2007.

He is survived by two children, Charles (Karen) Oertley of Nashville, TN and Nancy (Harvey) Varness of Chillicothe; four grandchildren, Erik (Kate) Varness of Peoria, Kristin (Nick) Pretasky of Appleton, WI, Ann (John) Kantz of Chillicothe, and Jennifer (Jay) LeDuc of Nashville, TN; grand daughter-in-law, Dierdre (Tim) Stringenz of Bozeman, MT; eleven great-grandchildren, Emma, Max and Samantha Varness of Peoria, Quinn Varness of Bozeman, MT, Anika and Naomi Pretasky of Appleton, WI, Bobby and Charlie Kantz of Chillicothe, Evelyn and Grace Strigenz of Bozeman, MT, and Remy LeDuc of Nashville, TN; four nieces; and a foreign exchange student, Ludo Claussens of Antwerp, Belgium. He was also preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Mabel (Ralph) Streitmatter and Verna (Rollin) Streitmatter; one brother, Charles (Darlene) Oertley; one grandson, Todd Varness; and son, G. David Oertley.

Glenn attended schools near and in Wyoming, Illinois and the University of Illinois at Champaign, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture in 1941. After farming for five years, he became a professional farm manager and a rural appraiser. He was self-employed from 1951-1998 at Oertley Farm Management Service in Peoria. He lived a long, active and generous life. He was a member of Alpha Zeta Agriculture Honorary, and was a lifetime member of the President’s Council at the U of I. He was a member of the Illinois Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers for 72 years, a leader and supporter of 4-H programs, a board of directors member for the Heart of Illinois fair for 41 years, a lifetime member (76 years) of Masonic Blue Lodge #479 in Wyoming and a 50 plus year member of the Shriner’s International, who support the Shriners Hospital for Children in Chicago. He was an active member of Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap since 1969.

Glenn always encouraged others to continue their education and provided financial assistance to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren for their schooling, along with gifts to many others. With his wife, he established the Oertley Family Scholarship at Illinois Central College in 1998, which to date has provided financial assistance to more than 200 students.

He most loved his family, and remained interested and involved with all of them. Glenn also loved farming, being outside, gardening, and baking, especially “Grandpa Bread”. He freely shared whatever he had and always enjoyed being with people. His many friends were very important to him; so too was his faith, which formed his core of love and service. His motto was “Accept, adapt, keep moving”.

A service and burial in Princeville will be planned at a later date. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oertley Family Scholarship through Illinois Central College Educational Foundation, 1 College Drive, E. Peoria, IL 61635 or Prospect United Methodist Church 300 E. Ash, Dunlap, IL 61625.

(MS '48)

Ames - Karl Robert Kern, 96, of Ames, IA, passed away peacefully on September 2 at Green Hills Retirement Center.
A 31-year member of the Iowa State University faculty, under the name K. Robert, he came to Ames with his wife (deceased), Verna Lathrop Kern, native of Woodstock, IL, in March 1950 as a graduate assistant in the Extension Information Service. He joined that faculty in 1952, and he later chaired the department for 17 years.
Bob, as his friends knew him, also served four years as secretary and one year as chairman of the ISU Faculty Council, a principal advisory group to then-President W. Robert Parks, as well as serving as a member of the University Lectures Committee.

Bob was a member of the ISU Graduate College, retiring early (age 56) as Professor of Journalism and Mass Communication.
His other degree attainments were B.S., University of Illinois, followed by his work as a county extension agent (Decatur, IL) before coming to Iowa, and Ph.D, University of Wisconsin.
Bob was born on New Year's Eve 1923 at Pittsfield, IL, third of three sons who lived to maturity—a younger sister, Mary Josephine, and brother, Walter, died in infancy. His parents were Karl S. and Pearl J. (Thomas) Kern. The two older brothers, Ralph and Fred lived to their high 80s, leaving between them Bob's one niece and six nephews. The death of Ralph's wife, Laverne (Hedrick), in 2007 ended 150 years of an unbroken line of the Kern family in Pittsfield, starting with the arrival of immigrant George Frederick Kern in 1857.
After seven years in Prairie School (in a one-room red-brick schoolhouse), Bob—as had his brothers, attended Pittsfield Community High School, graduating in 1941 as salutatorian of his class (and receiving his diploma from the hand of his father, then president of the school board).
The three sons were born in Pittsfield between 1919 and 1923. In 1927, the family bought a farm three miles southeast of Pittsfield on the Big Four Trail that led from Pittsfield to the village of Time. His father, a shrewd early adopter of the emerging technologies, paid for the farm in 10 years, despite the Great Depression that diminished the farm value by two-thirds—but not the mortgage.

Bob went to the University of Illinois on an agricultural scholarship, interrupting that career in 1944 to enter army service in World War II. Trained as an infantry replacement, Bob joined the 79th Infantry Division in Europe after it had lost a battalion in the little-known Bulge that occurred in Alsace-Lorraine at the same time as that in Belgium. With some action in two European campaigns, the culmination was the final crossing of the Rhine River at Dusseldorf and clearing the Ruhr Valley east to Essen to the Ruhr River. Then the division went into the Army of Occupation.

His platoon leader, having seen his writing as censor of Bob's battlefield letters, commissioned him to write the lieutenant's recommendations for medals for men in the platoon. That work caught the eye of the company commander, who put Bob to work on recommendations throughout the company. The division's Adjutant General, who processed the awards, had Bob called up for special duty as a writer of citations for the 79th Infantry Division, where he wrote about 3,000.
When the division was deactivated in Europe, Bob volunteered to join the Third U.S. Army (General Patton, commander) as a clerk—again a citations writer and later an administrative non-commissioned officer.In his 23 months of service, Bob earned the Combat Infantryman's Badge, two Bronze stars, Army Commendation Ribbon plus Good Conduct and Victory Medals, and battle stars for two European campaigns.

Discharged from military service in the summer of 1946, Bob returned to the University of Illinois. Two months later, he met and began a 67-year relationship with Verna L. Lathrop, Woodstock, IL—including almost 65 years of marriage. For most of her 20 years in ISU's Women's Physical Education, Verna was the lead academic adviser in the department, retiring in 1982. She died in 2013 after surviving five cancers.
Three children were born to Verna and Bob: Martha, who died in infancy; Karl Robert II, who lives in Princeton, MN with wife Ann—granddaughter Frances lives in Rockville, MD with husband Kyle Wellman; Barbara Louise Carlson (David), lives in Boise, ID, as does one granddaughter, Stephanie, while Jennifer (Sam) Govey and great-granddaughter Cecily and great grandson Roscoe, who lives outside London, U.K.

While on leave from Iowa State, Bob developed the information office for the international center, ICRISAT, in India. After retirement from ISU, he served a year as editor, Center for Improvement of Wheat and Corn, Mexico--CIMMYT (made famous by Iowan Norman Borlaug), and three years as communication officer at the International Service to National Agricultural Research Systems, The Netherlands.
He took a second retirement in 1984 and devoted the next 18 years to consulting on communication related to agriculture and the environment. Missions during these years had him working from a few weeks to many months in 42 countries. Thirteen of those missions were to the Near East (Jordan and Egypt); others took him to 15 Pacific islands, as well as countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and to Australia and New Zealand. He recounted those travels in a book, At Work in a Wider World, printed and bound privately for family and a few international colleagues.

Upon retirement, Bob had input all his letters home from his World War II experience, printing and binding a copy for each child. Later, he wrote his autobiography, Four Score and More, and after Verna's death wrote a biography of her life, Exceeding Expectations, Hallmark of the Well-Lived Years of Verna Lathrop Kern. The latter two volumes were published by Xlibris and are available through Amazon.

Bob continued writing, most in the format of historical memoir—his recall of events and activities. Many dealt with his professional society, American Association of Agricultural College Editors, in which he held all offices and was president in 1965-66. He received all the association's awards, twice getting the outstanding member plaque.
Bob and Verna were founding members of the Green Hills Retirement Community at Ames, moving into a townhouse in July 1986, then to an apartment in 2012. Bob lived on to become the longest living resident of the community. He wrote a "historical memoir" for the 25th anniversary of Green Hills. And he added a 5-year update for its 30th.
Inurnment of his ashes will be in a plot shared with Verna in the Iowa State University cemetery in Ames. Due to the Covid-19 situation, no memorial events are scheduled at this time.

(MS '66 Agriculture Education, MS Agronomy Science '93) DUNLAP – David E. Moore, 83, of Dunlap, passed away at 6:50 a.m. Sunday, September 6, 2020 a UnityPoint Methodist Medical Center in Peoria. He was born March 8, 1937 to parents, Glenn T. and Leota (Cossairt) Moore. He married Dorothy Mae Rosenbaum on July 3, 1960 in Peoria. She preceded him in death on April 24, 2008. He later married Bette Johnson on August 11, 2012. She preceded him in death on January 8, 2019.

Surviving are son, David (Judy) Moore of Princeton; brother, Larry (Becky) Moore of Inkster, MI; sister, Glenda Kay Bolin of Denver, CO; step-son, Kenny (Jamie) Johnson of Texas; step son, Gary (Merna) Johnson of North Carolina; step-daughter, Sheryl (Mitch) Sattler of Florida; grandson, Payton Moore of Princeton, IL; and several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one brother-in-law, Larry Bolin.

A Dunlap resident for over 50 years, David was a teacher for 32 years, retiring from Dunlap High School. He taught vocational, agriculture and science classes, and was also the FFA teacher. He received his bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees from the University of Illinois; one MS in Education-Agriculture in 1966 and one in Science-Agronomy in 1993. He was a member of the Illinois Retired Teachers Association.

In Mount Vernon, Virginia, called “George Washington” Pioneer farm site, he volunteered his time for a month and a half early in the summer on four acres. He demonstrated colonial farming techniques to more than 3,000 visitors each day, as well as gave seminars on the site to different groups and schools. He was selected by state agriculture education leaders for his dedication to young people pursuing careers in agriculture. David was a Kiwanis member; member of the Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap; was a booster club member at Dunlap High School and also kept the football clock for many years. He oversaw the long jump and triple jumps at the school’s track meets, as well. His hobbies were watching his beloved Illinois and Cubs play. He enjoyed watching and playing golf; and loved the outdoors, especially his cabin in Minnesota, where he fished and hunted, where many great stories and whoppers were told. David enjoyed taking FFA trips with his students to his cabin, as well. He loved to travel.

A visitation will be Friday, September 11, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap. Funeral service will immediately follow at 10:30 a.m., also at the church. Burial will be in Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria. Rev. Linda Vonck will officiate. Facial covering and social distancing mandates will be enforced.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois CancerCare; Central Illinois Alzheimer’s Association; Prospect United Methodist Church; or the Amputee Coalition at www.amputee-coalition.org. Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Princeville is in charge of arrangements.

(BS '78) 90, husband of Evelyn W. Justus for almost 68 years and Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Economics at the University of Kentucky, passed away peacefully at his home on July 24, 2020. He was born in St. Louis, MO, on June 30, 1930 to Fred and Emma Justus. As a young boy, the family moved to a farm near Mascoutah, IL where Fred grew up. Fred graduated and received all of his degrees from the University of IL, and then served two years in the US Army at Ft. Lee, VA. Prior to coming to KY in 1967, he was Professor of Agricultural Economics at the University of MO. His duties as a professor at UK involved teaching, research and extension in Farm Business Management and Rural Real Estate Appraisal. He served as Coordinator of the KY Farm Business Management Program. The Southern Agricultural Economic Association presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award. He was a long-time member of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers and a past College VP. He also served 20 years as Sec-Treasurer of the KY chapter of ASFMRA and served one year as its President. Fred was also recognized with a Sierra Club award for his work and dedication toward saving the Red River Gorge. Fred was a devoted Boy Scout Leader for 50 years, serving as a Scoutmaster, Council Commissioner, and Council Boy Scout Leader Training Chairman. Mr. J, as he was known by his scouts, influenced and mentored many young men over the years and was known as a “one of a kind leader”. He was a long-time member of the Executive Board of the Bluegrass Council, BSA. He was presented the Lamb Award by the Lutheran Church and BSA for distinguished service to youths. As a long time Lutheran, Fred was a member and attended services at St. John’s Lutheran and Gethsemane Lutheran Churches. He served in various roles with both congregations, and had a strong faith that sustained him throughout his life.Fred lived a wonderful and full life. He was a great husband to Evelyn, loving parent to all of his children, their spouses, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Fred and Evelyn filled their lives with traveling, including all 50 states and Canada in their travel trailer. He especially loved Alaska (and had hoped to make one last trip), and Iceland on a recent trip. His other hobbies and vices included fishing, hiking, gardening, following Evelyn’s directions, smoking his pipe, and his nightly bourbon happy hour. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Doris, and a brother, George. Survivors in addition to his wife are his “4 good kids”: David (Susan) of Bowling Green, KY, Linda (Don) Harkins of Overland Park, KS, Cathy Cook of Lexington, and Steve Justus (Jill) of Lexington. He has 11 grandchildren: Jason (Evelyn), Nathan (Tiffany) Ben (Aubrey) Harkins; Greg (Cassie) Justus; Quentin, Chelsea, Olivia Cook; Steven (Dolapo), Celena Justus; Kristi (Brian) Bledsoe; Heather (Mike) Hugo. Eight great-grandchildren: Russell, Sophia, Evan, Jackson, Dominique, Xander, Ayden, Clara. Nephews Michael (Sandy) and Allen (Jody) Justus of Mascoutah, IL, sisters-in-law Frieda Justus and Lu Dickhaut also survive. Funeral and visitation arrangements are pending. Services will be at St. John’s Lutheran Church, officiating by Pastor Betterman and Pastor Laura Altman. Interment will follow at Bluegrass Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials suggested to Bluegrass Council BSA, St. John’s Lutheran Church, or Gethsemane Lutheran Church.

(BS '65)

An obituary is not available at this time for Philip Nathaniel Appleton. We welcome you to provide your thoughts and memories on our Tribute Wall. 

https://www.malonefh.com/obituary/PhilipNathaniel-Appleton

 

(BS '78)

Kevin D. Wright, age 48, of LaGrange; beloved husband of Laura (nee Bregenzer); loving father of Danny; dear son of Cleonne and the late Daniel Wright; fond brother of Angela (James) Stanford, Andrew (Angela), & Kurt (Jill); dear uncle of Elina, Aiyana, Cooper, Alex, Madeline, & Kenzie; dear son-in-law of Harold & Margaret Bregenzer; nephew, cousin, brother-in-law, & friend of many.

A visitation will be held from 3 to 9pm on Friday, July 17 at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. Group limit and social distancing will be in place; masks required. Due to current restrictions, Mass at St. Francis Xavier Church of LaGrange is private. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Kevin’s name to NephCure (https://nephcure.org/) or to the “Benefit of Danny Wright”, Signature Bank, Attn: Ella, 7292 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60631, are appreciated. Funeral info: (708) 352-6500

(BS '49 Agriculture)

John Ammon, age 93 of Winslow, IL, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2020, surrounded by his family.  He was born on October 19, 1926 in Winslow to John Sr. and Hulda (Rolli) Ammon.  He graduated from Winslow High School in 1944, served his country in the United States Navy, was a World War II Veteran, he then graduated from the University of Illinois in 1949 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture.  John married Orla Thomas on August 28, 1949 at the Zion Evangelical Church in Pearl City, IL.   Together they owned and operated the Ammon Turkey Farm at their home in Winslow from 1949 until retiring in 1993.

John was a member of the McConnell United Methodist Church, Winslow American Legion Post 592, Farm Bureau and the Illinois State Turkey Growers Association.  He was continually active in community service through out his life and had served as a board member for the Lena -Winslow School District, Highland Community College Foundation, and the Winslow Fire Department board of trustees. John had served as Mayor of Winslow for 16 years and spent countless hours on committees for the Winslow River Days and Paradise Cove.

He received many awards and accomplishments in his life, but was most proud of the Prairie Farmers- Master Farmer Award (1969), Stephenson County Soil and Water Conservation District- Friend of the District Award (2009), and his Hole-In-One (1996) at the Lena Golf Course.  He was instrumental in writing the application in 2002 for Winslow to win the Governor’s Hometown Award, building the waterfall and covered bridge at Paradise Cove and always striving to make Winslow the best it could be.  He always enjoyed family and friends, fishing, euchre, pinochle, and poker games, making wine from his own grapes, turkey bar-b-ques, working the land and trees, travelling and a good joke.

John is survived by his children- Amy (Gary) Bublitz of West Dundee, IL, Trish (JC) Bishop of O’Fallon, IL, John F. (Nanette) Ammon of Longmont, CO, and Lisa Ammon of Freeport, IL; 5 grandchildren- Sarah (Brad) Davis of Falls Church, VA, Joshua Bishop of O’Fallon, IL, John Thomas (Darlene) Bishop of Caseyville, IL, Isaiah Ammon of Longmont, CO and Jared Ammon of Longmont, CO; and his great-grandson due in early August.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Orla in 2015, his parents, sisters and their husbands- Marjorie and Leland Wenzel, Marian and John Timmerman, Orla’s brothers and their wives- Emery and Frieda Thomas and James and Elaine Thomas.

John’s family would like to thank Sheila Hartman and the staff at Oakley Courts for their care, compassion and kindness these past 2 ½ years and Gary Ols for his continuing friendship.

(BS '65)

David Budd Duncan, '65 ACES, May 26, 2020, Alexis, Illinois

Parents: Eugene & Ida Budd, '37 ACES; Son: Jeffrey, '99 ACES

(BS '78) Oelwein, Iowa; January 17, 2020

(BS '00)

TJ Jacob (Thomas Joseph John Jacob) moved on in the circle of life on Christmas Eve, 2019. He

departed quickly and peacefully from natural causes at his home in Fort Collins, Colorado, after a

brief illness. He was happy and full of life, right up until his spirit decided to move on.

TJ left behind his loving life partner, Nancy Nichols, whom he met at the University of Illinois at

Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), where both worked in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and

Environmental Sciences (College of ACES, formerly College of Agriculture).

During various periods of his life, he was affectionately known as Tom, Tommy, Jake, TJ, and Lichen

Spirit Warrior. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Martin Jacob; his mother, Marion

(Koehler) Jacob; and his brother John Jacob, all of Chicago. Close surviving relatives include his

brother Dennis Jacob of Chicago and sister Joanne (Jacob) Ginocchio of Port Charlotte, Florida.

TJ grew up in an apartment behind the family tavern, ABC Tap, in the Portage Park community of

Chicago. He attended St. Bartholomew’s School and St. Patrick’s High School. He started college at

the University of Illinois-Circle Campus on Navy Pier. He transferred to the UIUC campus, where he

earned a B.S. in Forestry and an M.S. in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences.

He spent time as a logging engineer in Alaska and a wildland firefighter in Oregon before settling

into a teaching career at UIUC. After working in academia for 20 years, in 1996 he moved to Fort

Collins, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, where his love of the outdoors flourished.

TJ truly loved his life, family, and friends. Ever youthful and joyful, he cherished every day, whether

working in his beloved vegetable garden or embarking on grand adventures such as

mountaineering and canoeing trips; a coast-to-coast bike tour; vacations in Europe, Central

America, and India; and passages of the Atlantic Ocean on the Queen Mary II.

TJ was a brother, uncle, teacher, mentor, confidant, and faithful friend to so many people he met in

the various places where he lived, including his hometown of Chicago; his university town of

Champaign-Urbana; his Colorado town of Fort Collins; his wildland-firefighting town of Hood River,

Oregon; and his logging town of Ketchikan, Alaska. He loved meeting new people and conversing

about virtually any subject. Never without a fabulous story to offer, TJ thrived on conversation and

was happy to provide helpful advice to anyone who sought his guidance.

TJ’s occupations and avocations over the years included business owner, university lecturer,

university program director, academic adviser, maintenance mechanic, wildland firefighter, logging

engineer, deep ecologist, forester, canoeist, mountaineer, expedition leader, runner, bicyclist,

insurance agent, banker, salesman, claims examiner, master gardener, cook, organizer, life coach,

conservationist, conversationalist, Poudre Wilderness Volunteer, and storyteller.

An ardent environmentalist, TJ sought tranquility and happiness for himself, others, and Mother

Earth. A brilliant thinker and orator, TJ freely gave of his many talents toward efforts to heal the

earth and create a sustainable path for humanity. Known as Mr. Environment at UIUC, he helped

organize the campus’s first Earth Day Celebration, attracting 5,000 participants. First at the

Institute for Environmental Studies and later in the Department of Natural Resources and

Environmental Sciences (formerly Department of Forestry), TJ created 13 new credit courses.

Notable among them were Earth Care, Ecology of Commerce, Story as a Tool for Teaching About the

Environment, Human Ecosystems, and Ecology for Educators. The latter was one of his crowning

achievements that quickly became a required course for all science-education students in the

College of Education.

TJ’s name appeared on the UIUC List of Excellent Teachers from 1980 to 1996, and he was invited

to give keynote speeches at many conferences and special events, including an inspirational

keynote address to incoming freshmen at the College of ACES from 1990 through 1995. He advised

an estimated 10,000 students at UIUC, many of whom followed career paths that he inspired.

Before beginning his teaching career, TJ co-owned Grade VI Expedition Outfitters, with stores in

Champaign-Urbana and Indianapolis. He also worked as a supervisor at Cook County Forest

Preserves, among other ventures.

After leaving academia, TJ added banker and insurance agent to his resume. At the time of his

passing, he was one of Enterprise Holdings’ top claims examiners, a company with 100,000

employees worldwide.

TJ brightened many people’s lives and made a positive influence wherever he went. For those who

were closest to him, we will miss his intelligence, loyalty, humor, compassion, and joy. May his spirit

enrich whomever and whatever it touches in his journey forward.

(BS '54 College of Agriculture)

Delbert Delaine Mundt, age 91, of Dieterich, Illinois, went to his heavenly home on Thursday, April 30th, 2020 at 1:34 pm at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Our Dad loved being a part of this community and hoped that each person knows that one person’s contribution makes a difference.

Delbert was given life by his Creator on August 28, 1928, on the family farm in Bishop Township, rural Dieterich, Illinois, the son of Louis and Clara (Miller) Mundt.  He married Geraldine (Jeri) Mellendorf on March 8th 1953, at St. John Lutheran Church on the Effingham – Clay County Line by the late Rev. Harold Schlicker.  Jeri preceded him in death on June 7th 2019.  He was blessed with six children.

Delbert was baptized and confirmed both by Rev. W.C. Redeker at St. John Lutheran Church of rural Dieterich.  He attended Bishop Point one room grade school, He graduated from Dieterich 3 year High School in 1945 and Teutopolis High School in 1946.  He attended Southern Illinois University and graduated from the University of Illinois in 1954 receiving a BS degree in Agriculture and a commission in the U.S. Air Force. While at the U of I, he was on the Championship Intramural Basketball Team. Delbert served in the U.S. Air Force for 3 years active duty in Wales and England, and then the Air Force Active Reserves for 7 years. He resigned as captain. Upon his return, Delbert went into partnership with his father on the farm 1958 – 1990. During that time, he also was an agent for Bishop Mutual Insurance Company taking over the role when his father retired until his own retirement in 2000.

Delbert was a life-long member of St. John Lutheran Church, rural Dieterich, and held various offices.  He was Chairman of the Building Committee for the new Lutheran church built in 1983-1984, President of our 3 church Lutheran Laymen League (LLL) club, President of Zone LLL and their district Board as part of the development and expansion and participated in church workshops throughout Central Illinois District.  First District director of newly established Farm Bureau Young People and then served on their State Board.   Served 2 different terms on the University of Illinois Extension Council and started and was co leader of Lucas & Bishop (L & B) Ag Stars 4-H Club for 15 years, one of the founders and first treasurer of Effingham County Pork Producers.  Served on the Dieterich Community school board for 10 years, PTO President 1 year, Vice President on the Wabash Valley School Board Association. He was Treasurer of the unsuccessful National Trail Junior College steering committee, also Advisory Boards for Lake Land College, Advisory Board for St. Anthony Memorial Hospital, Norris Electric Board for 23 years - President 10 years, Association of Illinois Electric State Board and served as Chairman of the board for 2 years one of the founders and first Secretary (third President) of Dieterich Community Ruritan Club, one of the founders and first President of Dieterich Community Development Corporation (DCDC), founder along with his wife Jeri and first president of Greater Effingham Alliance for the Mentally Ill, served and was President 2 years on Illinois Alliance for the Mentally Ill, served on Governor Thompson’s commission to revise the Mental Health Code, served on the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod committee for mental illness, served on the Effingham County Mental Health 708 Board and on CEFS Community Opportunities Board, served on a 5 member Planning Committee for the Dieterich Community Veterans Memorial.

Founder and first President of EJ Water (Incorporated May 1989) also known as “Father” of EJ Water, director from 1989 – 2011.  While helping to develop EJ Water, Delbert developed steering committees in each of six townships surrounding Dieterich – then nine directors - worked closely with USDA Rural development.  President of Eastgate Regional Water Corporation, was original member of Holland Water Group,

Delbert was named outstanding young farmer in 1960; Effingham County Conservation Farm Family of the Year 1970; Doing it Wright in Dieterich 1994; BESI Award in 1995; Illinois Co-op Director of the Year from AIEC 1993; Citizen of the Year award presented by the Effingham Daily News in 2003.  He received the ACES Alumni Association Award by the University of Illinois College of Agricultural in 2004.

Delbert is survived by his children, Brenda Mundt of Effingham, Kevin Mundt (Dave Thomas) of California, Jae Mundt of Colorado, Donna Mundt of Dieterich and Sharon (Dan) Harn of Alabama; sisters Lorene Thoele of Teutopolis and Irma Horn of Dieterich. Also sisters-in-law, Natalie Mellendorf of Wisconsin, Verda Mellendorf of Louisville, Bonnie Mellendorf of Dieterich, Audrey Garbe of Effingham, and many cherished nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

Those preceded him in death are his wife Jeri (Geraldine), son Bruce in 1990, parents, sister Verda Mae (Krabbe) Schottman and cousin Lowell Miller.

To simply state Dad was active with his family, church and community would have been sufficient.  However, Dad asked that we include his activities as it was his hope that others would be inspired to be active in their communities through God’s wisdom and knowledge.  Our Dad loved knowing you and being in community with you all.

In loving memory of Delbert, the family ask that you plant a tree in honor of Delbert or in memory of a loved one, Worship Anew (formerly Worship for Shut-ins), Dieterich Schools Education Foundation, Lutheran Care Center of Altamont or donor’s choice.  Arrangements are under the care of the Meyer Funeral Home in Dieterich, Illinois. The obituary can be viewed and condolecnes left at www.meverfh.com.

(BS '45) On April 11, 2020, Anne Dirks Swain, died at the age of 97. She was born on November 30, 1922 in East Lansing, Michigan, graduated from the University of Illinois in 1945, and worked for the Fairfax County Council of the Arts for 24 years. She married Harold Dow Swain (Hal) on September 24, 1945.

Anne had a passion for her family, church, and friends. She was a member of St. Matthews United Methodist Church and sang in the church choir for many years, was on the church altar guild, delivered Meals on Wheels, and was active in her women's circle. She was a savvy bridge player with numerous awards to attest to her expertise. She could always be found with her nose either in a book or reading the newspaper. She also enjoyed traveling, the symphony, investment club, and visiting with her grandchildren. She was known for her kindness and sensitive and compassionate spirit.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Col. Harold D. Swain, Jr. (Hal) and son Harold D. Swain, III (Mike), her parents, Henry B. Dirks former Dean of Engineering at MSU, and his wife, Blanche B. Dirks, and a brother, Henry B. Dirks, Jr. (Libby). She is survived by two sons, Robert, John (Ann), one daughter Patricia, her daughter-in-law Elizabeth Cypher; two grandchildren, Marc (Mary Beth) and Rachel.

(BS '49)

Floyd F. Clark, 93, of Lostant, Illinois, formerly of the Long Point/Ancona area, passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at Manor Court, Peru.

Mr. Clark was born November 26, 1926 in Ancona to Floyd F. and Gladys (Arnold) Clark. He graduated from Long Point High School and served in the U. S. Army Air Corps during World War II. After serving his country, he attended the University of Illinois and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1949. He married Lodene Dominic in 1949, together they had four children. He later married Evelyn (Strode) Breckenridge in Lostant on March 8, 1997; she passed away on April 1, 2016. He attended Richland United Methodist Church and was a member of the Long Point American Legion Post #1217. He was very proud to be a lifelong farmer, being active for over 60 years. His favorite hobbies were woodworking and traveling.

He is survived by his children, David F. (Susan) of Ancona, Alan L. (Gail) of Peru, Thomas R. (Karen) of Long Point and Susan L. Trillet of Batavia; nine grandchildren, Kendra Shelton, Kevin Clark, Brian Clark, Robert Clark, Scott Clark, Becky Clark, Calvin Trillet, Michael Clark and Ryan Trillet; two great-grandchildren, Beckett and Kyler Shelton.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Evelyn.

(BS '70)

Richard Allen Heinkel, age 71 of Lena, IL went to his heavenly home on January 13, 2020.

He was born on May 8, 1948 in Freeport, IL to Allen and Verena Heinkel. He was a graduate of LenaWinslow High School in 1966. He then went to the University of Illinois and graduated with a degree in Business Agriculture in 1970 and was a member of the Beta Sigma Psi fraternity. He farmed with his Dad for a couple years and then started his career in the Insurance industry. He became one of the first seven Certified Insurance Counselor’s (CIC) in the state of Illinois and was very proud of that. He worked at a few insurance companies in the area before becoming co-owner of Taylor Heinkel Enterprises in Lena. He did that until retirement. He loved talking with people in his office, even if they just stopped by for a visit.

Richard was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Lena. He was very strong in his faith and loved his church home and all the friends made throughout the years. He served on many committees and boards over the years and was also Church President.

Richard was involved in many clubs and associations throughout the years. He was a member of the Lena Lions Club, where he served many positions and also served as District Cabinet Secretary. He was a member of the Lena Business Association to help make Lena a great place to live. He served as the Village Trustee from 1991-1995 and then Village President from 1997-2005.

He was an avid sports fan, especially of the Fighting Illini – good or bad. In his younger years he played basketball, softball, bowling, football and volleyball. He passed along his love of basketball to both his children, especially his son. He missed very few of his college games, traveling across Iowa even in blizzard conditions. He was also an avid collector of Planters Peanuts, Orange Crush and Crayola. He enjoyed photography and even won a local photography contest with the beautiful pictures he took. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with this family and friends going on adventures and playing cards.

He is survived by the love of his life Kathy Becke and they were happily married for 44 years. They raised two children: daughter Jennifer (Erik) Bennett of Sun Prairie, WI and son Lon (Candice) of Dubuque, IA. He adored and loved his three grandsons Alexander, Maxwell and Blake. He was so proud of everything they did and would start conversations with friends by telling stories about them. He is also survived by siblings VeAnn (Greg) Klipstein, Kay Heid (Stephen Hauser), Dale (Linda) and Lyle, Sister-in-law Barb Pinnow and Brother-in-law Daylon (Beth) Becke as well many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, parent in-laws Milford and Helen Becke, Uncle Elmer Wyss, Uncle and Aunt Harold and Margaret Heinkel and cousin Elizabeth Heinkel.

Celebration of life services will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, January 21, 2020 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lena, IL. Visitation prior to the service from 9:00 am – 10:30 am. Reverend Rick Bader will officiate the services. A luncheon will follow the service in the fellowship hall.

Cremation rites to be accorded. The family wishes to extend a thank you to Monroe Clinic Hospital, Lena Living Center and FHN Hospice for all the care that they gave Richard.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name.

(BS '53 General Agricultural)

James Richard Brown passed away June 10, 2019, at Lenoir Woods.

Jim is survived by his wife, Erma Jean Brown, and four daughters, Darcie Manning, Lisa Brown, Sandy Murray (Jeff) and Diana Recker (Don).

Also surviving are seven grandchildren, Michael and Katie Manning, Mark and Emily Murray and Ava, Ariana and Ainsley Recker. Nancy Stetson, sister, and nephews Mike (Connie), Mark and Clif Stetson also survive.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter, Kathy Jean; and a brother-in-law, Joseph Stetson.

Jim was born to Oscar and Grace (Cook) Brown on Oct. 6, 1931, in Charleston, Illinois, and grew up on a farm in Edgar County, Illinois. He was active in sports, FFA, band, 4-H and church during his youth. In 1953, he graduated from the College of Agriculture at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with honors in general agriculture and a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Jim was in active military service at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and overseas in Germany for several years. He was released from active service as a first lieutenant and remained in the Army Reserves until retiring as a lieutenant colonel after 20 years of service.

Jim received an M.S. in soil management from the University of Illinois in 1957 and received a doctorate in soil fertility in 1963 from Iowa State University. While at Iowa State, he met and married Erma Jean Sansgaard.

On Jan. 1, 1963, Jim joined the faculty of the Department of Soils at the University of Missouri and remained on the faculty until his appointment as professor emeritus of soil science in September 1998. During his years at MU, Jim taught several courses and directed research in many fields including soybean fertility, vegetable nitrates, micronutrients in farm crops and fertility management of forage crops.

Dr. Brown upgraded and directed the soil testing laboratory on the MU campus for several years. He became the director of Sanborn Field in 1984, a position he held until his retirement. Sanborn Field activities led to the centennial celebration of the Field in 1988 and invitations to England and Denmark for meetings with international scientists working on long-term field research.

Jim was active in several professional committees and work groups: Fellow of the Soil Science Society of America, Elder at First Presbyterian Church, member of Golden K Kiwanis Club and served on Board of Directors and as president, Pinnacles Park board member, 4-H club project leader, Central Missouri Rock and Lapidary Club and Life Member of the Ashmore Illinois AF and AM Lodge #390.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 16, 2019, at the Lenoir Woods Epple Chapel, 3710 S. Lenoir St., Columbia, MO 65201. Visitation will be prior to the service at 1 p.m. Inurnment will be at the U.S. Military Cemetery near Jacksonville, Missouri, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jim’s name to one of the following: Lenoir Benevolent Care, 3710 Lenoir St., Columbia, MO 65201, or the Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri, 2101 Vandiver Drive, Columbia, MO 65202.

(BS '60 Ag Marketing)

Kenneth Riecks, 87, died at 12:07 a.m. Monday, July 1, 2019,  at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton Senior Living.

Funeral services for the Air Force veteran will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 6, at First United Methodist Church, 210 W. Center St., Paxton. The Rev. John Hauck will officiate. Burial will be in Glen Cemetery, Paxton.

Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday at the church.

Baier Family Funeral Services, 406 E. Pells St., Paxton, is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Riecks was born June 6, 1932, in Anchor Twp, McLean County, a son of Frederich and Edith Riecks. He married Natalie Wiggers December 31, 1960 in Urbana. She survives.

Also surviving are three sons, Mark (Stacey) Riecks of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, David (Anna Barnes) Riecks of Champaign and Craig (Candi) Riecks of Loda; six grandchildren, Kimberly (Jeremy) To, Bailey Riecks, Blake Riecks, Corbin Riecks, Carter Riecks and Caiden Riecks; two great grandchildren; and three sisters, Roberta Stein, Shirley (Ron) Wright, Karolyn (Wayne) Riecks-Estes.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother Edith, who died when he was 14. After his mother died, his father married Velna, who also preceded him in death, and one sister, Vauna Jones of Gibson City.

Mr. Riecks spent his childhood in the rural Anchor area. He graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor of science degree in Ag and Marketing. He served in the United States Air Force from 1952-1956. During this time, he logged more 120 flights to various different bases all over the world.

After his marriage, he and his wife lived in Mahomet before moving to Lake Iroquois, Loda, in 1988. He worked for several years at both Kroger Foods and JM Jones/Supervalu in Champaign. In 1986 he purchased the Paxton IGA, where he worked until his retirement in 2002.

Mr. Riecks was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Paxton, where he was always active in church activities and enjoyed playing on the church softball team. He was also a member of the Paxton Rotary Club, Paxton Chamber, Paxton Lions Club, PRIDE in Paxton, United Fund, Lake Iroquois finance committee and the Exchange Club. He was involved with the Boy Scouts of America and was a mentor at the Paxton Junior High School.

He traveled extensively over the years with retail and wholesale grocer groups.

(MS '57 Soil Science)

James Richard Brown passed away June 10, 2019, at Lenoir Woods.

Jim is survived by his wife, Erma Jean Brown, and four daughters, Darcie Manning, Lisa Brown, Sandy Murray (Jeff) and Diana Recker (Don).

Also surviving are seven grandchildren, Michael and Katie Manning, Mark and Emily Murray and Ava, Ariana and Ainsley Recker. Nancy Stetson, sister, and nephews Mike (Connie), Mark and Clif Stetson also survive.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter, Kathy Jean; and a brother-in-law, Joseph Stetson.

Jim was born to Oscar and Grace (Cook) Brown on Oct. 6, 1931, in Charleston, Illinois, and grew up on a farm in Edgar County, Illinois. He was active in sports, FFA, band, 4-H and church during his youth. In 1953, he graduated from the College of Agriculture at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with honors in general agriculture and a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Jim was in active military service at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and overseas in Germany for several years. He was released from active service as a first lieutenant and remained in the Army Reserves until retiring as a lieutenant colonel after 20 years of service.

Jim received an M.S. in soil management from the University of Illinois in 1957 and received a doctorate in soil fertility in 1963 from Iowa State University. While at Iowa State, he met and married Erma Jean Sansgaard.

On Jan. 1, 1963, Jim joined the faculty of the Department of Soils at the University of Missouri and remained on the faculty until his appointment as professor emeritus of soil science in September 1998. During his years at MU, Jim taught several courses and directed research in many fields including soybean fertility, vegetable nitrates, micronutrients in farm crops and fertility management of forage crops.

Dr. Brown upgraded and directed the soil testing laboratory on the MU campus for several years. He became the director of Sanborn Field in 1984, a position he held until his retirement. Sanborn Field activities led to the centennial celebration of the Field in 1988 and invitations to England and Denmark for meetings with international scientists working on long-term field research.

Jim was active in several professional committees and work groups: Fellow of the Soil Science Society of America, Elder at First Presbyterian Church, member of Golden K Kiwanis Club and served on Board of Directors and as president, Pinnacles Park board member, 4-H club project leader, Central Missouri Rock and Lapidary Club and Life Member of the Ashmore Illinois AF and AM Lodge #390.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 16, 2019, at the Lenoir Woods Epple Chapel, 3710 S. Lenoir St., Columbia, MO 65201. Visitation will be prior to the service at 1 p.m. Inurnment will be at the U.S. Military Cemetery near Jacksonville, Missouri, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jim’s name to one of the following: Lenoir Benevolent Care, 3710 Lenoir St., Columbia, MO 65201, or the Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri, 2101 Vandiver Drive, Columbia, MO 65202

(BS '54 Agriculture) Mr. Paul E. Mechling passed away Saturday, November 24, at The University of Toledo Medical Center at the age of 87.

Mr. Mechling studied agriculture at the University of Illinois, graduating with a bachelor's degree in 1954. He and his wife of 40 years, Lois I. Johnson were married in September of that year and moved to Alaska, where Mr. Mechling served as a second lieutenant in the Army at Ft. Richardson for two years. Upon leaving the service, he enjoyed a successful sales career, then returned to agriculture as a golf course superintendent in his early 30s. Mr. Mechling came to Toledo in 1968 after accepting a position with Sylvania Country Club. Following two decades at Sylvania, he became the superintendent at Heatherdowns Country Club, retiring in his mid 60s to enjoy his family, friends, travel, fishing and (of course) golf.

Mr. Mechling was preceded in death by his wife, Lois; surviving are his two daughters, Ms. Paula D. Ashley of Toledo, and Ms. Angela M. Mechling of Redondo Beach, California, as well as his close friend of 20 years, Ms. Sally Konz.

Friends may call at the Foth-Dorfmeyer Mortuary, 3815 W. Sylvania Ave., Friday, Nov. 30, from 4-8 p.m. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, at Christ Presbyterian Church, 4225 W. Sylvania Ave. with visitation beginning at 12:30 p.m.

Suggested recipients of memorial tributes in Mr. Mechling's name are Christ Presbyterian Church, Hospice of NW Ohio, or Toledo Community Foundation.

(BS '45) Elinor P. Laegeler, 80, formerly of Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, died Oct. 11 at Highland Park Hospital. 

Mrs. Laegeler was born Dec. 23, 1921 in Chicago. A housewife and mother, she was a volunteer at Condell Medical Center for more than 25 years. 

She is survived by her children, Linda (Robert) Banks of Libertyville and Carol (Bill) Davis of Society Hill, S.C.; her daughter-in-law, Colette Laegeler of Highland Park; grandchildren, Donna Moats, Julie (Dan) Clemens, Beth Davis, Amie (Gene) Kelly, Emily Davis, Sebastien Braxton, Paris Braxton, T.J. Braxton; three great-grandchildren, Victoria, Valerie and Britney. She was preceded in death by her husband, Julius C. Laegeler, Jr.; and two children, Nancy J. and James C. Laegeler. 

Funeral services were Oct. 14 at Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home in Highland Park. Interment was in Memorial Park Cemetery in Skokie. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 777 Central Ave., Highland Park, 60035. A guest book may be signed at kelleyspaldingfuneralhome.com

(BS '68 Agricultural Communications, MS '72 MEXED) Ronald Scherer passed away Sunday, February 10th. Ronald Scherer was active with the Agricultural Communications Program. He also served on the Ag Alumni Board and ACES Alumni Board. 

(BS '51 Vocational Agriculture) Robert "Bob" Edwards, Jr., Passed away Monday, January 21st at the age of 90. He founded Edward Apple Orchard in 1964. He also was a member of the Illinois State horticulture Society Hall of Fame. 

(BS '53) Robert L. Randall, ’53 ACES, passed away on October 8,2018 in Chrisman, Illinois.

(BS '58 Agriculture, MS '59 Animal Sciences, PhD '65 Veterinary Medicine, B.S. Veterinary Medicine '63 Veterinary Medicine)

Dr. James Hale Sokolowski
November 20, 1935 - September 14, 2018

Dr. James Hale Sokolowski (“Dr. Jim”) was born in Alton, Illinois on November 20, 1935,and was raised in a home where animals were part of the family. His parents, Dr. Felix and Georgia (Hale) Sokolowski,  bred and showed a variety of dogs:  German Shepherds, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles and Bassett Hounds.  His father bred and raised Beta fish, keeping them in cups and containers on the shelves of his Psychiatry practice.  It was only natural that Dr. Jim decided to become a Veterinarian. 

Graduating from The University of Illinois with five degrees (BA in Agriculture 1958, MS in Animal Science 1959, BS Veterinary Medicine 1963, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine 1965, PhD in Nutritional Biochemistry 1965) Dr. Jim began his career at the Upjohn Company in Kalamazoo, Michigan working in the animal health division, conducting animal reproduction research. Through the Upjohn Company, he was awarded two patents, one for the treatment of genital tract disease with prostaglandins and the other for treating pseudopregnancy, galactorrhea and mastitis in mammals.  Additionally, he managed the research and development of the drugs Prostin, Cheque Drops and Lutalyse, which allowed breeders to have their reproduction control for their horses, dogs and cattle, respectively. 

1981 took Dr. Jim to the Gaines Pet Nutrition Center in Kankakee, Illinois, where he began his work in pet food research and development.  In 1986, Quaker Oaks acquired Gaines Foods and Dr Jim developed the popular “stage of life” pet foods branded “Cycle Dog Food”.

Transferring to Kal Kan Foods in 1990, Dr. Jim established and oversaw the “Waltham”, a grassroots education and public relations program at veterinary schools across the country.  In addition, he was responsible for directly communicating with both veterinarians and breeders nationally and world wide, regarding the Mars Petcare brands.  As part of the public relations campaign, Dr Jim was featured in radio spots, print media campaigns and television, including an infomercial featuring Cindy Williams of “Laverne and Shirley” fame.

Dr. Jim wrote extensively and was widely published professionally, with over 60 technical publications credited to his name.  Additionally, Dr. Jim penned a pet column for two years for a national magazine.  

After retirement, Dr. Jim and his wife, Barbara, relocated to Hendersonville, North Carolina where he remained active in the animal health arena by writing columns for various online pet sites and for magazines and newspapers under the pseudonym, “Ask Dr. Jim”.  An avid woodworker throughout his life, he built wooden horses and cradles for his grandchildren, beautiful birds perched on found branches and folk art-type horses and crows in his basement studio/workshop.  Classical music was his preferred genre, and he enjoyed both listening to and playing selections on the piano.  Dr. Jim and his wife also enjoyed extensive world wide travel in their retirement and trips to visit their children and grandchildren. 

(BS '40 Home Economics)

Dr. Robert J. Lambert, 91, of Davenport, passed away on Sunday, July 1, 2018, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, Bettendorf. Dr. Lambert was born on March 14, 1927 in Faribault, Minnesota. He was an emeritus professor in the College of Agriculture, Department of Crop Sciences and earned a bachelor of science degree with distinction  from the University of Minnesota in June 1952. In August 1958, he was awarded a master of science degree also from the University of Minnesota. In February 1964 he earned his doctor of philosophy degree from the University of Illinois in plant breeding and genetics and was a member of the Departments of Agronomy and Crop Sciences until his retirement on Dec. 31, 2000. He enjoyed training many undergraduates, masters and Ph.D. students in the science of plant breeding, specifically hybrid seed corn. After retirement, he worked on developing varieties of popcorn.

He attended St. John Vianney Catholic Church, Bettendorf. He was also a member emeritus of many agricultural and professional societies, and a fellow of AAAS, as well as the American Society of Agronomy & Crop Sciences Society.

 

(BS '40 Home Economics) Dorothy Kovacic passed away on July 16, 2018. 

(BS '58 Dairy Technology and DVM) Donna Temple, age 70, of Forest Grove, died Wednesday May 9, 2018 unexpectedly in Vancouver, British Columbia.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Donna July in Oregon. A second celebration will be held in the early fall in Illinois. A memorial dedicated to her is currently in the process. It will honor her love of reading and her respect for libraries. Full details will be available soon, please hold any remembrances until they are worked out. 


DONNA TEMPLE was born July 5, 1947, in Moline, IL, the daughter of Donald and Betty McMahon Temple. She grew up in Moline and graduated from Moline High School in 1965. She then went on to study textiles at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where she graduated in 1971 from the ACES college and she was a lifelong Illinois Alumni Association member.

She was known first for the love of her family and friends, laughing a lot and for her love of books, books, and more books. She enjoyed Bigfoot, Nessie, Area 51 conspiracy, Aliens, and anything that is a little bit tacky. Donna was a fan of the Chicago Cubs, the Chicago Bears, and the Fighting Illini. She loved to get in her car and travel the country visiting her friends from coast to coast. She also preferred to write to friends and family. We have a collection of correspondence stretching from when we left for college to her final day written in her hand and mailed.

Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Larry and Cyndee Melvin of Hillsboro, Oregon; daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Rick Noyes of Lakewood, Colorado; grandchildren Sam and Lexi Melvin of Hillsboro, Oregon and Kaiya and Chloe Noyes of Lakewood, Colorado; several aunts, uncles, cousins and numerous beloved lifelong friends. 

Donna was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Wesley.

(BS '58 Dairy Technology and DVM) John Oscar Harris was born February 18th, 1930 and passed away on May 12th, 2018 at his home in Naples, FL. 

(MS '60 Agriculture Economics , PhD '61) Donald Dickenson, Born Jan. 15, 1925, Passed away March 4, 2018. 

(BS '40 Home Economics and Science) Alice Davis Bauer passed away January 13, 2015. 

(BS '48 Vocational Agriculture , MS '49 Animal Science , PhD '51 Animal Sciences) Dr. William G. Kammlade Jr. passed away February 20th, 2018 in Marion, IL. 

(PhD '54 Animal Sciences) Dr. Lloyd LaVerne Bucy passed away February 1st, 2018. 

(MS '60 Agriculture Economics , PhD '61) James O. Melton passed away February 22nd, 2018. 

(BS '65 Agriculture Science ) Robert Charles Shufeldt passed away February 18th, 2018 in Greenville, S.C.

(BS '81 Forestry ) David Brenneisen passed away Wednesday, March 21st, 2018.

(BS '60 Agricultural Economics, MS '61 Agricultural Economics) On February 22, 2018 James O Melton, passed away in Ft Myers, FL. 

(BS '60 Agricultural Economics, MS '61 Agricultural Economics) Elizabeth A Homer was born on August 24, 1917 and passed away on January 28, 2018 in San Jose, California.

(BS '65 Vocational Agriculture)

Dr. Andrew C. Boston passed away October 2, 2017. 

Obituary of Dr. Andrew C. Boston

(BS '70 Agricultural Economics)

Dorothy Jane Henderson Long, 94, of Murray, Kentucky, died Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2017, at Spring Creek Health Care in Murray.

She was born Sept. 2, 1923, in Tuscola, Illinois to Wayne Henderson and Mary Payne Henderson.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert F. Long Sr. (U. of I. Alumnus B.S. and M.S.); a daughter, Dorothy Ann Jeter; a sister, Mary Ann Teter; and two brothers, Donald Henderson and Charles Henderson.

Dorothy and Robert were life-long U. of I. champions. He completed his B.S. in Agriculture and completed the ROTC program in time to enter WWII. Dorothy completed a year of her undergraduate education at the Champaign-Urbana campus. She taught school in her hometown of Newman, Illinois during the war. After years of planning, they retired to Urbana and spent many years engaged in the cultural and educational opportunities on campus.

Mrs. Long is survived by a son, Robert Long Jr. and wife Patricia of Murray and her two daughters Pamela Tikalsky and Beth Meghji. Dorothy had ten grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Private graveside we held when she was buried next to her husband in Mount Hope Cemetery at the University of Illinois.

(BS '43 Home Economics)

Mary Jane Rutledge, 96, of Mason City, Illinois died on September 8, 2017 at Mason City Area Nursing Home. She was born near Mason City, IL, August 1,1921. She graduated from Mason City High School in 1939 and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics from the University of Illinois in 1943. She married Harvey King Rutledge on November 24, 1943.

A lifetime member of the United Presbyterian Church of Mason City, Jane actively served as elder, deacon, Sunday School teacher, Women’s Fellowship officer, Memorial Fund secretary, and chairman of funeral dinners. She volunteered her services during and following construction of the Mason City Area Nursing Home, was bestowed the honor of Farm Bureau Farm Wife of the Year (1980), and served as election judge, 4-H leader, substitute school teacher, and Home Bureau-HEA member. As a farmer’s daughter and a farm wife, she helped with delivering dairy products, caring for baby pigs and other livestock, hauling grain, and providing room and board for farm hands. Jane enjoyed annual fishing trips to Canada, sewing for her large family, playing pinochle with friends, hunting for Indian artifacts, and serving coffee at her kitchen table. She enjoyed an enduring lifetime friendship with the 4-H House Class of 1943, University of Illinois.
Jane was a much-loved wife and mother.

(BS '47 Home Ec)

Charlotte Evelyn Neville Crowe, 90, passed away quietly on Saturday, September 2, 2017 after suffering from a debilitating stroke. Charlotte was born on July 24, 1927 in Harrisburg, Illinois, to Florence Devere and Harry Neville, the third child in a family of five children. Education was important to Charlotte and she graduated as High School Valedictorian from Harrisburg High School and graduated with honors from the University of Illinois in 1947, with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Home Economics. Charlotte lived close to home and her Illinois roots until she married Bazel Crowe in 1945 and they soon began traveling the globe. By the time the family moved from Illinois to Florida, Charlotte was a full-time mother to three children. Throughout the familys travels around the world, Charlotte taught high school in Guam and worked in the main office of a mining and exploration company in Bougainville, Papua, New Guinea. The family also lived in Jamaica, Australia and Egypt. While teaching her own three children an appreciation of the diversity of cultures throughout the world, Charlotte and family embarked on numerous adventures, traveling twice around the world, not on todays luxury liners but as passengers on freighters. Finally, they settled in Houston, Texas, where Charlotte and Bazel made their home for over 44 years. Charlotte was the office manager and right hand to her husband in his civil engineering business until they retired to enjoy a quiet life in Houston. Charlotte enjoyed her family as well as cooking, sewing and knitting. 

Charlotte is survived by her husband, Bazel; her children, Robert, Sandra Grant, and Richard (Janet); her five grandchildren, Rachel, Walter, Michael, Kristina and Scott; and her brother, Donald Neville (Jane). She is preceded in death by her parents; and three of her four siblings, Harriet Neville Limper, Howard Neville, Virginia Neville Saup;, and by her son-in-law, George Grant; and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Crowe. 

In her later years, Charlotte indicated that the love and friendship of family and friends were very important to her. She said that she preferred to enjoy the many wonderful people in her life while she was still alive to enjoy them rather than having a memorial service when she would not be able to attend. So, Thank You to everyone who made Charlotte's life a happy one.

(BS '03 Animal Sciences) Edwin George Myers passed away April 23, 2017. He was a graduate from the University of Illinois College of Agriculture. 

(BS '83) Janeen Emory Kolb passed away November 20th.

(BS '55, MS '65) Wayne N. Meyer passed on October 24th, 2016. 

(BS '41 Home Economics ) Mrs. Helen E. Davies passed away October 6th, 2016. 

(BS '55, MS '65) Richard P Kesler passed away October 2nd.

(BS '62, '72 MEXED) Mr. Richard Harold Johnson passed away August 31st, 2016.

(MS '68 Animal Science, PhD '72 Nutritional Sciences) Dr. Ifeany J. Arinze passed away on June 1, 2016. 

(BS '53 Home Economics)

Eunice (Betty) E. Shinn (Johnson) passed away May 30th, 2016. 

Eunice E. "Betty" Shinn (Johnson), age 85, of Lockport passed away Monday, May 30th, 2016 at Church Creek Rehabilitation Center in Arlington Heights. Betty was born on a farm in Crossville, IL on May 4, 1931. Attended Belle Grade School & Crossville Community High School graduating in 1949 and then attended The University of Illinois graduating in 1953. She was past Edwards County Home Advisor & Will County Home Advisor; and substituted as a teacher for 16 years at the Lockport School system & Mount Assisi Academy. Member of Early Birds Home Extension Unit in Will County; past member of 4H club in White County & led 4H in Will County for 20 years; Cub Scout Den Mother & Brownie Girl Scouts Leader; member of the Taft PTA and Band Parents. 60 year member of the First United Methodist Church in Lockport where she sang in the choir. Activity Director at Alvernia Manor & Victorian Village in Lemont.

 

(BS '42 Vocational Agriculture, MS '49 Agriculture) William H. Rosso died on January 25, 2016 at the Evergreen Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Effingham, IL. He was preceeded in death by his wife, parents, and four sisters and is survived by his three children and their spouses, his six grandchildren, and his brother.

(BS '48 Agriculture) died on Sunday, September 13, 2015 in Aledo, IL. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, brother, and sister.

(BS '61 Forestry) passed away on July 31, 2015.

(BS '51 Vocational Agriculture, MS '67 Horticulture, PhD '73 Horticulture) died on July 22, 2015 at his residence in Batavia, IL. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his brother. He is survived by his two children, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

(BS '51 Agriculture) of Scottsdale, Arizona passed away February 3rd, 2015. He attended the University on an ROTC Scholarship and went on to serve in the Navy during the Korean War before working for DuPont and his own drip irrigation company. His main pride and joy was his family, daughter Jill, sons, Dan and Grant, and his seven grandchildren.

(PhD '74 Unknown) of Champaign, IL passed away Tuesday, February 17, 2015.  Dr. Klein was a faculty member in the Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition for 25 years, serving as the department head for two years. She also served as the director for the Illinois Center for Soy for eight years. Barbara was recognized in 2014 with the highest award from the ACES Alumni Association, the ACES Award of Merit. She leaves behind her her husband of 58 years, Miles Vincent Klein; two daughters, Cynthia (Cindy) Klein-Banai and Gail Isabelle Klein; their respective partners, Efraim (Effie) Banai and William Maisel; her three granddaughters, Alona, Rona and Sara Banai; and Rona's fiance, Ezra Kannof.

(PhD '74 Unknown) Harrison R. Thornley, 75, of Springfield, IL and formerly of Ashland, IL died Wednesday evening, December 3, 2014 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.

He was born June 9, 1939 in Jacksonville, IL. Harrison was a graduate of Ashland High School and the University of Illinois. He farmed in Cass and Morgan Counties for many years and formerly served on the Ashland Elevator Board of Directors. 

(BS '39 Agriculture) died on November 19 at the Illinois Knights Templar Home in Paxton, IL. He is survived by his three sisters and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his two sisters.

(BS '41 Agriculture, MS '47 Animal Sciences) died on December 9 at his home in Monticello, IL. He was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Clusters, American POW medal and the Italian Military Cross for Valor. He is survived by his four sons, his caregiver, his six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and his two sisters. He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, his parents, a brother and two sisters.

(BS '55 Vocational Agriculture) died December 13, 2014 at home in Clinton, IL. He was 82. He was a U. S. Navy veteran, farmed and raised purebred, registered Angus cattle for 55 years, a member of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, and several civic organizations. He is survived by his wife, three sons, and four grandchildren.

(BS '55 Agriculture) of Pittsfield, IL passed away January 5, 2015.  He was better known as “Chief” to fellow teachers and students.  He was President of IAVAT in 1978-79, received the Excellence in Teaching Award in 1991 and in 1992 was named IVA (now IACTE) Teacher of the Year.

(BS '57 Vocational Agriculture) died Christmas Day, December 25, 2014 at home in Monticello, IL. He was 82. He was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, Alpha Zeta, and Hoof and Horn Club. He was also initiated into several honoraria: Phi Eta Sigma, Gamma Sigma Delta and Phi Kappa Phi. James was also included on the Bronze Tablet. James farmed with his father and later worked with The First National Bank of Chicago as a farm manager, retiring in 1990. He is survived by his wife and three children, and ten grandchildren.

(BS '28 Agriculture, MS '29 Agriculture, PhD '33 Agronomy) died on March 16, 2007 at the age of 101. He was survived by his wife, four children, 6 grandchildren, and 1 great-granddaughter.

(BS '40 Home Economics) died on July 1, 2014 at Heritage Square Health Center in Dixon, IL. She is survived by her son, two grandsons, four great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband and brother.

(BS '41 Agriculture) died on August 20, 2013 at Liberty Village in Pittsfield, IL.

(BS '41 Agriculture) died on July 24, 2014 in Scottsdale, AZ. He is survived by his four children, 14 grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, one step-great-grandchild, 12 great-great-grandchildren, and two step-great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, son and daughter-in-law.

(BS '43 Home Economics) died on May 30, 2014 in her home in Colusa, CA. She was beloved by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

(BS '48 Agriculture) died on July 24, 2014 in Elmhurst, IL. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, four children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

(BS '51 Agriculture) died on August 18, 2014 at his home in Goreville, IL. Nels was also a US Army Veteran. He is survived by his four children, eight grandchildren, one great granddaughter, and one sister. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son, and brother.

(BS '51 Agriculture) died on July 2, 2014 at Rose Arbor Hospice. He is survived by his wife, son, two granddaughters, brother, sister, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, and a brother.

(BS '51 Agriculture) died on June 20, 2014 in Delaware, OH. He is survived by his wife, daughter, sons, and cat, along with several nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter.

(BS '51 Agriculture) died on October 19, 2014 in his home in Monticello, IL. He was 85. He married Margaret Jean Bortell in 1954. Mr. Bateman is survived by his wife, Margaret, his four children, 16 grandchildren, and 3 siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister.

(MS '52 Home Economics) died on July 11, 2014. She is survived by her four children and grandson. She was preceded in death by her husband.

(BS '52 Home Economics) died on June 24, 2014 at Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, IA. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, sisters, brother and sister-in-law. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and three brothers.

(BS '52 Agriculture) died on June 28, 2014 at Pekin Hospital. He is survived by his wife, their daughter and son-in-law, two grandchildren, and two brothers. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.

(BS '52 Agriculture) died on June 29, 2014 with his loving family by his side. He is survived by his wife, two children, eight grandchildren, brother, sister, and several nieces and nephews and in-laws. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, four sisters, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

(BS '53 Agriculture) died on July 20, 2014 in Oak Hill Skilled Care Center in Waterloo, IL. He is survived by his three children, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his wife, one son, and two brothers.

(BS '54 Home Economics) died on August 2, 2014 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, IL. She married George Tolson Searls in 1953. Mrs. Searls is survived by her husband, three children, 10 grandchildren, one great-grandson, and sister.

(MS '54 Dairy Science) died on July 6, 2014 at the East Georgia Regional Medical Center in Statesboro, GA. He is survived by his three children, five grandchildren, sister, and brother. He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years.

(BS '55 Agriculture) died on April 30, 2014. He is survived by his wife, his son, daughter-in-law, grandson, two sisters, brother, sister-in-law, three nephews and their families.

(BS '56 Agriculture, MS '70 Agricultural Education) died on July 27, 2014 at the Lincoln Rehabilitation Center in Decatur, IL. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, his granddaughter, his brother, and his mother and father in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, his eight brothers, his son in-law, his niece, and his nephew.

(BS '56 Home Economics) died on July 5, 2014 at her home in Bath, ME. She enjoyed a successful career as a writer of children's books. She is survived by her husband, five children, and six grandchildren.

(BS '56 Agriculture, MS '57 Agricultural Education) died on June 20, 2014 at Creekside Hospital. He is survived by his two children. He was preceded in death by his wife and younger brother.

(BS '59 Agriculture) died on June 17, 2014 at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, IL. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, sister-in-law, eight grandchildren, and one niece. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, and brother.

(BS '67 Agriculture) died on August 22, 2014 at Good Shepherd Hospice in Port Jefferson, NY after battling leukemia. He is survived by his wife, Susan Lipp, his 2 children, and 2 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister.

(PhD '67 Food Science) died on August 7, 2014 in Petaluma, CA. He is survived by his wife, four children, and seven grandchildren. He enjoyed antique Chris Craft boats and summers spent in Lake Tahoe, UT.

(MS '79 Human Resources and Family Studies) died on June 28, 2014 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Surviving are her son, sister, brother and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father and mother.

(PhD '80 Dairy Science) died on June 21, 2014 at his home in Glen Ellyn, IL. He is survived by his wife, two sons, and sister.

(BS '85 Food Industry) died on June 20, 2014 while traveling in London. He is survived by his wife, daughters, father, sisters, brother, sister-in-law, mother-in-law, and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and great nieces. He was preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law.

(BS '87 Agricultural Mechanization) died on August 1, 2014 surrounded by his family at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL. Kenneth married Susan Hanna in 1994. Mr. Walker is survived by Susan, his two children, mother, and his three sisters. He was preceded in death by his father and nephew.

(BS '87 Agriculture) died on August 4, 2014 in Prairie Home, MO. He is survived by his parents, life partner, two siblings, and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one brother.

(BS '91 Human Development and Family Studies) died on August 18, 2014 in Champaign, IL. She is survived by her father, stepmother, two daughters, three sisters, one stepbrother and one stepsister. She was preceded in death by her mother and grandmother.

(BS '35 Home Economics) of Peoria died April 6, 2014. She was 100. Her husband Merle Raymond Yontz preceded her in death. She is survived by five daughters and a son, 20 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren.

(BS '38 Agriculture) died March 22, 2014 at Girard, IL. He was 98. Mr. Pocklington served in the Timberwolf Infantry, including the Battle of the Bulge, receiving a Bronze Star. Afterwards, he started a commercial seed corn business with family. He married Lucille Denby, who preceded him in death. He later married Nancy Denby Dow. He was chosen for an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. Mr. Pocklington is survived by his wife, Nancy, and four children, two step-children, eight grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

(BS '39 Vocational Agriculture) of Sun City, AZ died March 23, 2014 at the age of 95. She is survived by her husband of 72 years, Neal Chellis Coffman, and a daughter.

(BS '39 Home Economics) of rural Jacksonville, died April 19, 2014 at 97 years old. Her husband, Horace "Ben" Benson preceded her in death. She taught for 11 years, worked at Olin Industries in Alton, then 17 years at Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, CA.

(BS '40 Home Economics) died April 15, 2014 in Springfield, IL. Her husband, Theodore, preceded her in death along with a grandson. In addition to teaching English and Home Economics for many years, she was the Home Extension Advisor in Kankakee County for five years. She is survived by two children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

(BS '41 Agriculture) died March 8, 2014 at the age of 95, at Great Falls, MT. He married Thelma Burley. She survives. Rudy served in World War II with the Army Air Corp. He worked at Grogan Robinson Wholesale from 1943 until retirement in 1987.

(BS '41 Vocational Agriculture) of Naples, FL passed away May 15, 2014 at the age of 94. Dale served in the United States Navy during WWII. He taught agriculture at Cissna Park and later became a partner in the Markwalder-Price Grain Company. He is survived by his wife, June, and three sons, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

(BS '41 Human & Community Development) of Watseka, Il died May 31, 2014 at the age of 96. Edna was a home economics teacher and served on the Illinois Board of Vocational Education. She was also a volunteer and life member of the Iroquois County Historical Society. Edna was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister, and one nephew. She is survived by two nephews and one niece.

(BS '41 Home Economics) of York, PA died March 13, 2014 at the age of 95. She married Warren J. Weaver, who preceded her in death. She is survived by the couple's three children, seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

(BS '42 Home Economics) died April 7, 2014 at Savoy, IL. She is survived by two sons, a daughter, six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Her husband, Norman W. Hassler, preceded her in death.

(BS '46 Home Economics) of St. Louis died May 15, 2014. She was 90. Helen was married and had 3 children. Helen was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority Alumni Association for over 60 years.

(BS '47 Agriculture) died March 23, 2014 at the age of 96 in Carlyle, IL. He married Marian E. Piggott. She preceded him in death. He is survived by a two children and a granddaughter. Bertren served in WWII with the United States Army. Afterwards, he worked as the assistant farm advisor in Jersey and Washington Counties. He then served as Farm Advisor in Clinton County from 1953 until he retired in 1977. He organized the first Clinton County Fair in Carlyle in 1951, continuing to serve on the fair board. He also served on the St. Louis Dairy Council, Illinois Poultry Council, was a member of the Clinton County Farm Bureau, Clinton County Holstein Club and 4-H.

(BS '49 Vocational Agriculture, BS '50 Agricultural Engineering) of Catlin died April 13, 2014 at the age of 90. He was preceded in death by his wife Frances R. Logan. Surviving are the couple's two children. He served in the United States Marine Corps. Merret worked for Oliver Farm Equipment in Shelbyville. He retired as a design engineer from Hyster Co., in Danville, in 1990.

(MS '49 Agronomy) of Gainesville, FL died April 8, 2014 at the age of 94. Leonard served in the United States Air Corp and trained as an aerial gunner and received the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal with two oak leaf clusters. Afterwards he worked as an Agronomist at the Everglades Experiment Station. He married Ruth Jameson. He taught seventh and eighth grade science. He was preceded in death by his wife and a son. He is survived by three children, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

(BS '50 Vocational Agriculture, EDM '58 Education Administration) died April 29, 2014 at the age of 91 at Naples, FL. He is survived by his wife, Hazel Marie, five children, ten grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He served in the United States Navy during World War II. He taught vocational agriculture in Shabbona and Harvard, before becoming principal.

(BS '50 Vocational Agriculture, MEXED '66 Extension Education) of Dickinson, TX, formerly Paris, IL, passed away May 3, 2014. He is survived by his wife Clara "Jackie" Jacobs, two children, and two grandchildren. He served in the United States Navy. He was a farm advisor with the Extension Services, served on the state professional organization with the Illinois Extension Advisory Association board and belonged to the National Association of Country Agricultural Agents. He was also chairman of the state 4-H advisory committee from 1956 – 1962, FFA Honorary Chapter Farmer Award in 1967 and many other volunteer organizations.

(BS '50 Home Economics Education) of Janesville passed away at the age of 85 June 3, 2014. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma. She is survived by her husband, Christ Schaaf, two daughters, three grandchildren, two step-children, and a step-grandchild.

(BS '50 Vocational Agriculture, EDM '55 Education Administration) of Springfield, IL, died May 13, 2014 at the age of 85. He taught vocational agriculture and was FFA advisor for 37 years in Middletown and Farmer City. He is survived by his wife Mary Catherine and six children, 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

(BS '50 Vocational Agriculture) of rural LaHarpe, IL, died at the age of 85. "Ernie" was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. He also served on the U o I Livestock Judging Team. He served in the United States Army. The rest of his career was spent farming. He also owned and operated the LaHarpe soil-testing lab, worked at the Disco, IL Elevator and owned and operated the Disco Farm Supply selling fertilizer and other farm needs. He is survived by his wife Pat and two children, four grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

(MS '51 Dairy Science, PhD '53 Animal Sciences) died at 91 years of age January 31, 2014. Dr. van Tienhoven came to the United States from the Netherlands in 1947. He was emeritus professor of animal physiology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University. His wife Ans van Tienhoven preceded him in death. He is survived by three children and several grandchildren.

(BS '51 Home Economics Education) of Mahomet, IL died May 1, 2014 at the age of 86. She married Art Clark, who preceded her in death. She is survived by five children, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

(MS '52 Home Economics) of Bloomington, IL died April 14, 2014 at the age of 88. She is survived by her husband Harold Ryan, two daughters, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She taught home economics for five years.

(MS '53 Agricultural Economics) of Jerseyville, IL passed away May 4, 2014 at the age of 87. He was preceded in death by his wife Regina Milles Rogers and a son. Robert farmed in the White Heath area, and spent 35 years in farm management in Greene, Jersey, Calhoun and Macoupin counties. He is survived by four children, and nine grandchildren.

(BS '53 Vocational Agriculture) of Lisle, IL died April 8, 2014 at the age of 82. He was in the United States Army, serving 27.5 years. His wife, Lorene Taylor Rizer survives, along with three children, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

(BS '54 Home Economics) died at the age of 83 July 4, 2014. She worked as a school teacher and also as a hospital nutritionist. Edna is survived by her husband Arnold Weber, three sons and eight grandchildren.

(BS '55 Vocational Agriculture) died April 19, 2014 at the age of 83. John served in the Air Force Reserves, and worked in the Horticultural Department at the University of California. He later worked in Air Pollution Research and Control for the County of Riverside, operated nursery and landscape business, followed by the Toro Company as Field Test Supervisor for the West Coast before retiring. He is survived by wife Mary, three children, a step-daughter, and seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

(PhD '55 Animal Sciences) died March 31, 2014 at the age of 91. He served in the United States Army. He married Nona Jumper. She survives, as does a daughter, two grandsons, and four great-granddaughters. Dr. Baker taught and conducted research at Virginia Polytechnic Institute, then returned to Mississippi State University to teach and conduct research. He was department head of Animal Science from 1968 – 1987, and received the MSU Alumni Association Faculty Classroom Teaching and Research Award.

(PhD '55 Agronomy) of Stillwater, OK died at the age of 86 on June 5, 2014. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard before attending the Oklahoma Agriculture and Mechanical College where he received his master's degree before attending the University of Illinois. Billy began his agricultural career as a soil scientist until his retirement as a Regents professor. He then continued his soil science career as a private consultant. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife (Christine until her passing in 2002), and wife (Shirley until her passing in 2006). Billy is survived by his three children, eight grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren.

(PhD '56 Animal Sciences) of Catonsville, MD died at 83 April 10, 2014. His wife Patricia Sonquist Lane preceded him in death. He is survived by the couple's two children, four grandchildren, and three great-grandsons. Dr. Lane was a scientist, authored more than 325 research papers published in major scientific journals, and most proud of his work in enzymology.

(BS '58 Food Science) of Chicago died at the age of 78 in March 2014. He is survived by his wife Joy, a daughter and grandson. Donald was a member of Psi Upsilon Fraternity. He was a research and development director for General Foods.

(BS '62 Vocational Agriculture) from Toulon, Illinois died July 6, 2014. Gary was a retired farmer.

(PhD '64 Agricultural Economics) passed away May 15, 2014 at Fort Worth, TX. He was 89. Dr. Hubbard served in the United States Army during WWII and the Korean War. He served on the faculty of Oklahoma State University, then to Kimbell Milling Co. He then went into business for himself. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, five children, 11 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

(BS '66 Vocational Agriculture) died February 24, 2014 at the age of 70. He was living in Vandalia at the time of his death. Surviving are a daughter, Clara Carpenter, his mother, 3 brothers and a sister. Shorty served in the United States Navy as a pilot during the Vietnam Conflict.

(BS '68 Home Economics) of Vero Beach, FL died at the age of 67 April 2, 2014. She is survived by her husband Bradley, two daughters, and four grandchildren.

(BS '69 Home Economics) died March 22, 2014 in Barrington. She was 67. Her career was project manager for 36 years with Brown Printing Co., Woodstock.

(MS '71 Agronomy) of the Republic of Cameroon, died January 21, 2013. He was 68. He became the first General manager of IRAD (Institute of Agronomic Research for Development) before being appointed minister of Scientific research.

(BS '73 Agricultural Economics) of Newton, IL died March 31, 2014 at the age of 63. His wife Karen Lea Harrison survives along with the couple's four children and two grandchildren. Steven began his career with FS in 1978 and recently retired from South Central FS.

(MEXED '74 Extension Education) of Madison, WI died March 9, 2014 at the age of 91. George was in the United States Marine Corps during WWII. He first worked as a field supervisor for Larson Canning Company, then as a livestock buyer for Oscar Mayer. He became an agriculture extension agent in Lee County, IL, Jo Daviess County, then with the Zamare Project in Zambia, East Africa before returning to the Galena area. He is survived by three children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Betty.

(BS '75 Animal Sciences) of Matteson passed away May 29, 2014 at the age of 60. He is survived by his wife, Marie, four children, seven grandchildren, and a great-grandson. Alan had retired from Avatar.

(BS '82 Ornamental Horticulture) of Libertyville, IL died March 29, 2014 at the age of 55. Jeff was a horticulture teacher at Glenbrook South High School in Glenview for 30 years. His is survived by his wife Patty Yordy and their three sons.

(BS '96 Agricultural Economics) of Little York, Il died June 10, 2014 at the age of 44. David was a dispatcher at Waste Management, volunteer fireman, and Sumner Township Supervisor. He is survived by his wife, parents, daughter, four step-daughters, six grandchildren, and a niece.

(BS '40 Home Economics) died March 15, 2014 at the age of 101. She married Samuel Buford in Grayslake, who preceded her in death. The couple's two children and two grandchildren and a great-grandson survive. Erlene taught high school home economics in Westfield and Cissna Park, and was an Extension home economist in Stark and JoDaviess Counties. Erlene was a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, University of Illinois Alumni Association, C-U Antique Study Group, C-U Art League, Stockton Heritage League, Stockton Art League and the Grayslake Historical Society. She was also a 4-H leader in JoDaviess and Lake Counties as well as an Extension volunteer for more than 30 years. Erlene was a board member of the UI Mom's Association for four years, board member of the UI Home Economics Alumni Association and received the UI Loyalty Award.

(BS '43 Home Economics) died March 14, 2014 at the age of 92. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph L. McGrath. Ruth worked in early cancer research with Dr. Warren Cole, UI Chicago. She is survived by a stepdaughter and two grandchildren.

(BS '43 Home Economics, MS '72 LAS) of Springfield, IL, died June 20, 2014. She was 93. Mary June lived in 4-H House. She taught Home Economics in Chenoa, Mason City and Pawnee, IL. She taught for 30 years in Springfield before retiring. Mary June was a member of the Philanthropic Education Organization (P.E.O.) Chapter in Springfield. She is survived by two children, three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

(BS '45 Home Economics) of Wheaton, IL died May 19, 2014 at the age of 90. She was the president of the Isabel Bevier Home Economics Club, a member of the 4-H House, an active alumnus and the treasurer of the U of I Home Economics Alumni Association. Doris received the Illinois 4-H Alumni Award in 1984, and was awarded the Loyalty Award for Devotion in Leadership in 1989. She taught home economics for 36 years at Peotone High School. She was preceded in death by her husband Russell C. Kruger. She is survived by the couple's two children.

(BS '46 Agronomy, MS '47 Agronomy) died February 24, 2014 at the age of 95. As a graduate student at the UI in the late 1940's, Al began his carrier as a "strip mine farmland man." He was dedicated to demonstrating that former surface coal-mined land could be productively used for agriculture and recreation. Al served in World War II Army Air Corp, Knox County Farm Extension, 4-H Club Leadership, and former Yates City School Board. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruth. The couple's three children survive.

(BS '46 Agriculture) died March 8, 2014 at the age of 90. Mr. Dralle was president and publisher of Big Farmer magazine, Woman's Golfer Magazine and owner of National Farm Data Bank. He served as vice-president of Farm Journal magazine. Ralph was a member of Farmhouse Fraternity, state livestock judge, and traveled as a representative for Earl Butz, Secretary of Agriculture, to Russia and Amsterdam. Among others, he established scholarship funds for Farmhouse Fraternity and Pi Beta Phi Sorority. Ralph was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Ann (Beaver) Dralle and a daughter. He is survived by four daughters, 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

(BS '48 Vocational Agriculture) died June 17, 2014 at the age of 90 in Indianapolis, IN. Arthur worked for the U of I as a dairy herd improvement supervisor. He served in the United States Army. Arthur was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, and was a member of the Dairy Judging Team. He was a dairy specialist working with Holstein Guernsey, Jersey and other dairy related groups for Elkhart County, IN Extension. He also worked in Noble County as an Extension Educator specializing in livestock programs. Mr. Howard also worked in banking for 24 years, including Grabill Bank. He is survived by his wife Mary Jeanne and the couple's two daughters and four grandchildren.

(BS '48 Agriculture) died November 22, 1974 at Clarendon Hills, IL. He married Alda Messar. The couple had one son.

(BS '48 Home Economics Education, MS '51 Home Economics Education) of East Liverpool, OH died June 8, 2014 at the age of 86. Her husband, Robert J. "Bob" Beals, preceded her in death. She is survived by three children and seven grandchildren. Lois had taught home economics in Watseka, IL in 1948, then became Assistant Professor of Foods and Nutrition at Northern Michigan College of Education, and also was a research dietician at the University of Illinois. From 1976 to 1994, she served as Home Economics and Learning Disabilities teacher with East Liverpool City Schools.

(BS '50 Vocational Agriculture) died May 19, 2014. He was a fourth-generation lifelong farmer, residing at Avon, IL. He was a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho agriculture fraternity, Fulton County Farm Bureau, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois Soybean Association, Illinois Pork Producers, and Bushnell United Methodist Church. Dick was also the Farm Bureau Chairman for Harris Township for several years, and served one term on the Board of Trusties for Lee Township. He is survived by his wife Marjorie L. Nelson, two children and four grandchildren.

(BS '51 Vocational Agriculture) died June 13, 2014. He was 84. Donald was an Army veteran, serving from 1951 – 1953. He returned to farm the family farm at Homer. He is survived by his wife Joan Wiese and the couple's four children, nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

(BS '51 Food Science, MS '56 Food Science) died May 31, 2014, at the age of 87 at his Kalamazoo, MI home. Mr. Kendall was a World War II veteran of the United States Navy. He worked in the food technology and postharvest physiology industries. He also helped coordinate U.S. and Chilean blueberry growers to achieve a year-round supply for consumers, primarily in America. Mr. Kendall was preceded in death by his wife Ruth E. Gatterdam and a daughter. He is survived by six children, thirteen grandchildren and a great-grandson.

(BS '53 Agriculture) 84, died June 10, 2014 at Wheaton, IL. Mel was a member of the Acacia Fraternity and served on the Acacia National Foundation Board and the Illinois Acacia Corporation Board. He married Carol Linde. Mel worked in the dairy industry for Borden, and retired from Quality Chekd Dairy Association in 1990. He is survived by Carol and one daughter, a son-in-law, and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter and a grandson.

(BS '55 Agriculture) died March 14, 2014 at the age of 80. His wife Joyce (Dunham) German preceded him in death. He later married Norma "Skip" (Vineyard) Hepworth. She survives. Four children also survive. Clyde also raised two granddaughters. Twelve grandchildren and six great grandchildren also survive. Clyde worked for DeKalb/Monsanto for over 50 years. He was a member of the Gifford Lions Club, was a scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts, and a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Flatville.

(PhD '56 Crop Sciences) died at the age of 91 May 23, 2014 in Sarasota, FL. Dr. Spurrier began his career with Monsanto Company, St. Louis, MO in 1958. He retired in 1982. Dr. Spurrier became Vice President for Regulatory Affairs and then State Affairs with the National Agricultural Chemical Association until 1991. He was preceded in death by his wife Peggy. He is survived by his second wife, Dolores, three children and two step-sons and eleven grandchildren.

(BS '57 Vocational Agriculture) died May 26, 2014 at Paw Paw, IL. He was 78. Melvin worked for the Illinois Farm Bureau, and later for the American Farm Bureau. He served in the United States Army. In 1974, he opened the True Value Hardware Store in Paw Paw, which he owned and operated until he retired after 35 years. He is survived by his wife Nancy and the couple's two children and three grandchildren.

(BS '58 Vocational Agriculture, EDM '63 Education Administration)  from Ridge Farm, died June 19, 2014 at the age of 82.

(BS '61 Vocational Agriculture) died May 17, 2014 at the age of 75, at New Berlin, IL. John served in the United States Army, and then returned to operate the family's centennial farm. John is survived by his wife Sara Lovekamp, three children, and two granddaughters and two step-grandchildren.

(BS '61 Agriculture) died at the age of 74 at Stockton, IL May 24, 2014. Dick was a member of Farmhouse Fraternity, and a veteran of the Illinois National Guard. He was preceded in death by wife Carol Evans. He later married Donna Noller. He was a dairy farmer and later established a seed company. He is survived by his wife Donna and their three children and ten grandchildren.

(BS '63 Agriculture) died February 28, 2014 at the age of 72. He was former Inspector General for the California National Guard at Sutter Medical Center in Roseville, Ca. He attended the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, PA, and was a Vietnam veteran. After retiring from the National Guard as an Army colonel, Don was an investigator for the State Fair Political Practice Commission and worked with the State Department of Veteran's Affairs. He is survived by his wife Michele.

(BS '63 Agriculture) died March 1, 2014 at the age of 73, of Lexington, IL. His wife Patty (Downes) Mohr, three children and seven grandchildren survive. James and Patty began farming and raising livestock in 1963, living there and operating the farm for over 50 years. He served two terms on the Lexington School Board, nine years as a Farm Service Agency County committeeman, 30 years on the Lexington Fire District Board, and 30 years as a clerk and trustee of Money Creek Township.

(BS '63 Agriculture) died March 18, 2014, at Monticello, IL. He was 72. He married Ellen Marie (Behnke) Gard. She survives, along with two daughters and three grandchildren. Jerry served as senior vice president for the National Bank, Marine Bank, and Banc One of Monticello. He was a member of the Monticello Masonic Lodge No. 58 AF&AM, the Bloomington Consistory, the Ansar Shrine, the Decatur Shrine Club and the First Christian Church of Monticello. He was also a former member of the Monticello Rotary Club, Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, Woodlawn Country Club and the Decatur Ski Club. Jerry was a director and originator of Tatman Village, director of the Monticello Grain Company, director of the local chapter of the Robert Morris Association and Illinois Bankers Association and treasurer of Phi Sigma Epsilon Alumni Association, as well as having served in the National Guard.

(BS '63 Agriculture) died May 23, 2014 at the age of 74. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Nancy L. (Smith) Strunk, and the couple's four children and ten grandchildren. Duane was an Illinois licensed general appraiser, farm manager, rural appraiser and real estate managing broker. Duane served on the College of Agriculture Board of Directors over 15 years, and the UI Board of Directors. He was a member of the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, and earned the AFM & ARA designations; Champaign County Farm Bureau and past BOD member, IFB Equine Grits Committee, 4-H Leader, State Extension Council and C-U Kiwanis member.

(BS '63 Vocational Agriculture) of Brandon, MS died May 28, 2014 at the age of 74. He retired as a Commander with the United States Navy. He was a member of Phi Kappa Sigma. Mr. McDonald retired as Finance Director with the MS Farm Credit Bank, and later worked at the Hercules Credit Union in Hattiesburg. He is survived by his wife Helene, two daughters and two granddaughters.

(BS '65 Vocational Agriculture) of Taylorville, IL died at the age of 70 October 23, 2012. Jack was an ag teacher in Newman, Williamsville, and Cerro Gordo, and was a soil consultant until he retired in 2004. He is survived by his wife Lois and three children.

(BS '69 Home Economics) died June 1, 2014 at the age of 67 in Indianapolis, IN. Lea became a registered dietitian, spending 25 years at Marquette Manor. She opened "Perfect Pastries" bakery. She was a member of the American Dietetic Association, and supporter of Meals on Wheels. Lea is survived by her husband Samuel Elbert, two children and five grandchildren.

(BS '74 LAS, MS '76 Food Science)  has died at the age of 61, on March 20, 2014.

(BS '79 Agricultural Economics) died June 21, 2014 at the age of 57. Dennis was a VP of Business Banking at Peoples Bank and Trust of Pana, IL. He had retired as VP of Financial Services from Farm Credit Services in Shelbyville after 27 years and was a crop insurance specialist for many years. He farmed all his life. He was a U of I Alumni Association member, and past president of Shelbyville FFA Alumni Association. He is survived by his wife Kendra, two daughters and a grandson.

(BS '82 Ornamental Horticulture) passed away March 29, 2014. He is survived by his wife and three sons. Mr. Yordy taught Agriculture / Horticulture at Glenbrook South High School, IL. Glenbrook South's horticulture department developed a nationally-recognized horticulture and floriculture program.

(BS '84 Food Science) died June 5, 2014. She ran a food booth at the Saturday Market in Eugene, and worked as a bookkeeper for Paul's Bicycle Way of Life, as well as caregiver for several local families.

(BS '40 Home Economics) at the age of 101, died March 15, 2014 at Urbana, IL. Erlene married Samuel W. Buford, who preceded her in death. She taught high school home economics in Westfield and Cissna Park, and was an Extension home economist in Stark and JoDaviess counties. For more than 30 years, Erlene was a 4-H leader and an Extension volunteer. She was a board member of the UI Mom's Association, board member of the UI Home Economics Alumni Association and had received the UI Loyalty Award. Erlene is survived by two daughters, Jane Scherer of Urbana, and Margaret Engelmann of Godfrey, two grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

(BS '41 Home Economics) passed away April 17, 2006 at Sarasota, FL. She was 86. Evelyn is survived by four children, 14 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

(BS '41 Home Economics) passed away at the age of 90 June 11, 2008. Ruth and the late Elmer were married 61 years. She taught elementary school in Wauconda more than 25 years.

(BS '42 Agriculture, MS '47 Agricultural Economics) passed away March 21, 2013 in Vancouver, WA. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Sheila, and their two daughters and son.

(BS '53 Human and Community Development) died at the age of 83 in Bettendorf, IA February 16, 2014. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Nedra, and the couple's children. Following his service in the United States Army, Leon taught vocational agriculture, and later worked in private business, retiring from Merck & Co. in 1992.

(BS '47 Home Economics, MS '55 Home Economics) died at the age of 20 October 9, 2013. Mimi and a friend were walking on Campus when a pickup truck jumped a curb and hit the two, killing Mimi and injuring her friend. A student of ACES, Mimi was also a very talented pianist.

(Attendee '39) 97, died on the morning of Christmas Eve following a long illness at her home. She was preceded in death by her husband. Mrs. Barnes was a bookkeeper for her husband's business, Barnes Lumber Company. She was a member of the board of trustees of Mitchell-Carnegie Library for 52 years. While attending the University of Illinois, she was a member of Delta Delta Delta Sorority.

(BS '39 Ornamental Horticulture) 98, passed away on December 26, 2013, three days before his 98th birthday. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lydia Bruce Tilley. He served in the Pacific during World War II. He retired as nurseryman for Bowater Paper Company in 1982.

(BS '41 Home Economics) 94, passed away on December 18, 2013. At the University of Illinois, Marion was a member of its Delta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. She is preceded in death by her husband, Douglas Jay Coyle. After his death in 2004 she moved to Dallas. She was a master at Mexican dominos and knitting.

(BS '41 Home Economics) 94, passed away on January 1, 2014. Juanita is survived by her husband George Ransom Flexman and their five children. Juanita was a licensed dietician.

(Attendee '41) 96, passed away January 24, 2014. Jack was married to Mary U. Walsh, who preceded him in death. The couple is survived by three children, six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. After attending the University of Illinois, College of Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, Jack joined the United States Army. Jack was a farm manager and master craftsman and machinist. He volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America.

(BS '42 Agriculture, MS '51 Education, PhD '57 Agriculture Economics) 92, passed away on December 14, 2013. Survivors include his wife, Mava; children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. John was a professor emeritus of agricultural economics and vocational agriculture at the University of Illinois. He authored a textbook on farm management that was used in many colleges for over 40 years. He traveled all 50 states of the United States as well as Canada and Europe.

(BS '42 Home Economics) 93, passed away on December 29, 2013. Elsie was a mother and homemaker survived by four children, ten grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. She taught in Divernon while her husband was at war. She served as a Red Cross volunteer in many countries. Elsie taught young mothers who were not allowed to attend high school.

(BS '43 Agriculture, MS '47 Education, EDM '55 Education) 91, passed away January 26, 2014 at Urbana, IL. He is survived by his wife, Gladys Anderson and their three sons and seven grandchildren. Dr. Hemp served in the United States Air Force during World War II. He taught agricultural education at Wenona High School, University of Vermont and Purdue University, and retired as chair of the Department of Agricultural Education in the College of Education at the University of Illinois.

(BS '44 Home Economics) 91, passed away December 16, 2013. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. William Van Buren Dorn. She was employed as a social worker for the state of Connecticut for several years before her retirement in 1984.

(BS '45 Home Economics) 89, passed away on December 21, 2013. She is survived by her husband and son. She was a Sunday school teacher, 4-H leader, and the Home Economics teacher at Roberts-Thawville and later at Ford Central. She enjoyed playing the piano at nursing homes, and sewing was her favorite hobby. She made costumes for church events and the PBL Choral Department. Patricia and her husband Jean were avid fans of all PBL Panther sports.

(BS '47 Home Economics) 87, of Gilman, IL died February 13, 2013. She had taught elementary school in Yorkville, IL and also worked for the University of Illinois Home Extension Office. She was married to Robert Wepner, who preceded her in death.

(BS '47 Home Economics, MS '55 Home Economics) 87, of Rock Hill, SC died December 21, 2013. She was married to H. Fred Hassenplug, who preceded her in death in 2001. Louise taught at the University of Illinois and was also involved in Extension work, the University of Louisville, and at Northwest Missouri State College before teaching for 20 years and retiring in 1986 from Winthrop College in the School of Home Economics. She was president of the SC Home Economics Association 1983 – 1985; named Winthrop's Teacher of the Year in 1985.

(Attendee '50) 81, of Aurora, passed away September 19, 2009. Ralph worked in the office furniture industry for over forty years, and was president of Bentson Industries. Ralph is survived by his wife, Lois, and their four children, 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

(BS '50 Agriculture) 87, passed away January 15, 2014. Bob served in the United States Navy, stationed in Okinawa. He was a member of Farmhouse Fraternity. Bob farmed in the Atlanta, IL area all his life, and volunteered on many civic boards and organizations. Bob is survived by his wife, Kathryn "Kay" Carson, and two sons and a daughter-in-law.

(BS '52 Agriculture) 84, died January 14, 2014 in Evansville, IN. Dwight was a District Conservationist for Crawford, Jasper, Lawrence and Wayne Counties, was awarded the Wayne County Friend of FH Award, and was elected to the Illinois FH Hall of Fame in 2012. Dwight was a woodworker. He is survived by two sons and two daughters, 12 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren.

(MS '52 Home Economics Education) 85, of Stillman Valley, IL died December 5, 2013 in Omaha, NE. Jessie taught family and consumer science in the Stillman school district for 33 years until her retirement. She married Gerald Manring. They both were licensed pilots, owning their own plane. They were married 44 years at Gerald's passing. Jessie is survived by a daughter and two grandsons. She was also a published artist, displaying many of her pieces at the Rockford Art Center. Many pieces were also donated to various area schools and other institutions.

(BS '53 Home Economics)  81, of Tulsa, OK passed away Christmas night, 2013. She was a former University of Illinois beauty queen and lifelong supporter of Gamma Phi Beta sorority. She was a print and runway model in Chicago in the 1950's. She was a talented painter and weaver. Jeannien lived in Evanston, IL from 1961 – 1994 and was a member of the Evanston Art Center. She was married to the late Henry George Grossman, and then to the late George Ludwig. She is survived by three children and six grandchildren.

(BS '56 Agriculture, MS '58 Agriculture) 83, of Decatur passed away January 5, 2014. Tom served in the Korean War, stationed in Japan, before completing his degree at the University of Illinois. A corn breeder first at Bear Hybrids, Decatur, Tom then went to work for Van Horn Hybrids in Cerro Gordo, and then opened his own company, Hybrid Concepts, in the converted one-room school house he'd attended as a child, Prairie Dell School. Tom created machines, devices, and developed computer systems for corn breeding. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Carol Bulkley Warfield.

(MS '57 Home Economics) 82, died October 3, 2011 at Gainesville, FL. She worked as a researcher for the School of Home Economics at the University of Florida when her husband, Shirley, was a professor there. He preceded her in death. The couple is survived by a daughter.

(BS '58 Agriculture, EDM '63 Education) 79, of Dixon, IL died December 19, 2013. After graduating from the University of Illinois, he served in the United States Army, and married Margaret Jane Blair. She survives, along with three children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Dick was a vocational agriculture teacher and school administrator in northern Illinois. Dick owned several "Coast-to-Coast" stores, and "Super Wash" car washes.

(BS '58 Agriculture) 80, passed away December 20, 2013, at Auburn, IL. He married Mary Alice Darst, who preceded him in death. He later married Sue Allen Fuiten. She survives. He was preceded in death by a son and two grandchildren. Surviving are his wife, Sue, two daughters, one son, a daughter-in-law, a stepson, two stepdaughters, 10 grandchildren, and two great-grandsons. Lowell served in the United States Navy. He served on several civic and agricultural organizations. He was a fifth generation farmer in the Auburn area, and a licensed pilot with his own landing strip on his farm ground.

(MS '59 Animal Sciences) 79, of Elizabethtown, died January 8, 2014 at home. Bob farmed in the Glendale area. He is survived by his wife, Ella Mae, three sons and nine grandchildren. Bob was in the United States Army, serving in Korea. He also served as director for several Harding County Kentucky agricultural organizations.

(PhD '60 Animal Sciences) 93, passed away October 21, 2013 at Gaithersburg, MD. His wife, Rose Matilda Buric, preceded him in death. The couple is survived by five children and seven grandchildren.

(BS '69 Agriculture) 66, of Peoria passed away January 7, 2014 at home. Surviving are his wife, Janie (Hamby) and the couple's two children and five grandchildren. Steven worked for Caterpillar in both domestic and foreign markets, retiring after 30 years, and recently for Morton Supplies.

(BS '70 Agriculture) 63, of Elkhorn, NE died June 4, 2010. He is survived by his wife, Teri, three children and four grandchildren.

(BS '76 Agriculture) 63, of Ridott died December 24, 2013 at home. He is survived by his wife, Jane Schriver, and a daughter. Jeff was a United States Army Vietnam Veteran. Jeff was a teacher at Burlington Central High School and Mid Valley Area Vocational School. He was an agriculture mechanic for Reed Brothers Implement, farmed the family farm for 30 years, and helped the Black Hawk Farm Business Farm Management with annual record books.

(BS '85 Forestry) 52, died December 3, 2013. Thomas lived in Spring Grove, IL and worked for many years at Abbot Laboratories.

(BS '42 Home Economics) Honor Trotter passed away May 6, 2013.

(BS '77 Agricultural Sciences) Edward J. O'Malley recently published a book. His book is titled American Renewal: A New Season of Optimism, Cooperation, and Community
Chronicles cycles of social, political and foreign policy changes in America since 1945. You can learn more about his book at edwardomalley.com.

(BS '65 Agricultural Economics) David and Marcia Duncan celebrated their 50th wedding anniversay July 6th, 2018!

(BS '00 Agricultural Education, MS '02 Agricultural Education) Mr. Gary Ochs married Wendy Leenerts (M.S. '13 - Agricultural Education) in November of 2017.

(BS '01 Animal Sciences, Bio-tech, Pre-Vet, DMV '07 Veterinary Medicine) "I just had the most AMAZING experience in Glennallen, Alaska. Dr. Nina Hansen is head vet for the Copper Basin 300, also known as "Alaska's toughest 300 mile sled dog race!" I was given the opportunity to volunteer as one of the six veterinarians for this race. We examined 44 dog teams; that's 516 dogs & 2,064 paws, several times over the 4 day race! We checked them out prior to racing, at every check point along the way, and also at the finish line. After traveling miles through the elements of the Alaskan mountains, the very first thing these mushers do when they get to a checkpoint is tend to their dogs; giving them attention and a lot of head scratches before they get themselves food or any sleep. They tend to their dogs, feeding them, talking to them and handling each one to ensure they are strong enough to continue on the snowy path. Any concerns were immediately brought to the attention of the veterinary team. Alaska was an amazing experience and holds a natural beauty that cannot be put into words, but I was even more amazed at the dedication of these Mushers to their dog teams and the small communities that come together to ensure the dogs and volunteers all have a place to eat and rest along the race path." - Dr. Kelli Kramer

(BS '40 Vocational Agriculture)

Glen F. Sons recently celebrated his 100th birthday.

Glen began his journey with University of Illinois in the fall of 1936 when he enrolled in the Agricultural Program – the graduating class of 1940.   After teaching 3 years in the vocational program in Hillsboro High School, Illinois, he eventually worked for the  United States Federal War Food Stamp Program.  As a result of this position, he became  the University of Illinois Agricultural agent of Hamilton County.   He moved to Shelby County.  In 1961, he became the Extension  an Assistant Regional Director.  He retired in 1981.

He currently lives in Worden, Illinois and continues to tend his garden and chickens.

(BS '72 Agronomy) William recently moved from Arlington, Texas to Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.  He volunteers one day a week at the local hospital and walks a two-mile section of beach one day a week looking for sea turtle nests.

(BS '03 Animal Sciences) Congratulation to Lynsee Melchi on completing her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. 

(BS '16 Animal Sciences ) Sarah Wright has been accepted and enrolled into the Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. 

(BS '85 Human Development and Family Studies) Laurence celebrated 15 years at Merck & Co., Inc. this year.

(BS '95 Agriculture, MS '99 Animal Sciences) was featured as a “newsmaker” in the Pittsburgh Tribune. He led a group that wrote a paper for the scientific journal, “Developmental Cell.”

(BS '06 Agribusiness) was recently featured in an article about daughters, in particular millennials, returning to family farms after having a successful career in agribusiness.

(BS '12 Agricultural Communications) was recently featured in an article talking about the roles of women now in agriculture. After graduation from the U of I, Lydia worked for Case New Holland before farming alongside her husband.

(BS '56 Ornamental Horticulture, MS '57 Horticulture, PhD '65 Horticulture) was featured in article series, chronicling his accomplishments in horticulture by one of his former students. The series, Grow with KARE, features different gardening and horticulture topics.

(BS '85 Animal Sciences) will be a judge for the Open Show at the World Beef Expo at the Wisconsin State Fair Park.

(MS '95 Plant Pathology, PhD '98 Plant Pathology) was featured in an article in for Capital Press. The article spotlights her current research at Washington State University.

(BS '39 Agriculture) was featured in an article in the Daily Herald, describing the end of his family farming career, one that is five generations old. He will turn 99 in June.

(BS '04 Agricultural and Environmental Communications) and James Walter were featured in a Daily Chronicle article, spotlighting their distillery, Whiskey Acres. The distillery is the only one in the country and Illinois’ first estate distillery. It is located in DeKalb, IL.

(BS '00 Farm Management) was recently featured in the Illinois Farmer Today along with his family, talking about his seventh-generation farm that he took on right after graduating from the University.

(BS '09 Animal Sciences) shared that after moving to Seattle, WA and becoming a dog trainer with Family Dog Training Center, a miniature pig, named Amy Trotter, was enrolled in her puppy manners class with seven other dogs.  The story was published by Ranny Green January 1, 2015 on the Seattle Kennel Club website, http://www.seattledogshow.org/amy-trotter-is-beyond-just-cute-shes-become-arole-model-for-the-other-dogs-in-classes-so-far/.

(BS '10 ACE) appeared in Illinois Farmer Today in an article series discussing various outlooks on farming. He is a fourth generation farmer from Moweaqua, IL.

(BS '65 Agriculture, MS '67 Agricultural Education) and his wife, Melanie, donated an endowment to the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation to fund a seminar in the two-year Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program. The seminar will focus on issues relating to the international aspect of agriculture.

(BS '05 Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences) and his wife Carrie welcomed their first daughter, Sofia Charlee Fitzgerald on April 15, 2014.

(BS '06 Animal Sciences, MS '08 Food Science & Human Nutrition) has published a cookbook entitled "Flavors of Fall," featuring produce and products from her parent's farm. Her cookbook can be purchased at the farm store at Gail's Pumpkin Patch in Beason, IL.

(BS '87 Agricultural Economics) is the vice president of First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust in Mattoon, Il and now is believed to be the one only father and son combination to both serve as FFA Presidents for the state of Illinois.

(BS '88 Agricultural Economics, MS '91 Agricultural Economics) and Michelle M. Lendaitis (MS '94 Agricultural Economics) were featured in Iowa Living Magazine for their vehicle license plates hanging in their garage. The license plates tell their Midwest story from leaving graduate school at the U of I through their next 23 years; from Illinois to Ohio, Wisconsin, and finally Iowa.

(MS '94 Agricultural Economics) and Victor J. Lenkaitis III (BS '88, MS '91 Agricultural Economics) were featured in Iowa Living Magazine for their vehicle license plates hanging in their garage. The license plates tell their Midwest story from leaving graduate school at the U of I through their next 23 years; from Illinois to Ohio, Wisconsin, and finally Iowa.

(BS '03 Animal Sciences, MS '05 Animal Sciences) was invited to speak at the Pecatonica Rotary Club in July, where she had the opportunity to share stories about farm animal care, the environment and the science and technology of growing healthier food. She and her husband Brent farm more than 300 acres of corn and alfalfa to support their dairy cows and pigs they raise at their Rockford farm.

(BS '07 Horticulture) has developed, along with Mason Day, of Ball Horticultural created an application gardeners can use to upload pictures of flowers and plants and other information about gardening to connect with other gardeners. The application is called "GrowIt!" and will be a way younger people can connect about gardening.

(BS '13 Human Development and Family Studies) won the Boston Marathon women's wheelchair race for the second straight year. She crossed the finish line in 1 hour, 35 minutes, 6 seconds. Tatyana also won the 2013 New York city marathon women's wheelchair race after winning in Boston, London and Chicago in the same year.

(BS '14 Agricultural Education)  married John Curtis Edgar July 19, 2014. She is the agricultural education instructor and FFA advisor at Sparta High School.

(PhD '03 Food Science and Human Nutrition) shares that he is a lecturer at Egerton University, Kenya. Thomas is married and the couple has three boys.

(BS '13 Human & Community Development) is meeting a new challenge with competing for a cross country skiing medal at the Winter Paralympics in Sochi. Following Winter Paralympics, Tatyana will be headed to London, Boston, Chicago, and then New York for 2013 marathons.