Conley Funeral Home, 116 W Pierce Street, Elburn, IL (2026)

04/12/2026

Life Story and Service Details for
PATRICA MOSLEY

Patricia Mosley, 77, of Somonauk, formerly of Aurora, passed away on February 26, 2026, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family.

Born on May 28, 1948, to Earl and Kathern (Lampley) Donovan, Patricia was a woman of remarkable resilience. Though a polio diagnosis at age two led to numerous surgeries and a lifelong leg brace, she never allowed it to slow her down. Instead, she poured that boundless energy into every ounce of love she gave to those in her world.

As the eldest of nine siblings, Patricia’s nurturing spirit emerged early. She was the family’s bedrock—a wise, patient listener who even spent hours typing medical school papers for her brother, Michael. After graduating from Kaneland High School, she worked as a phone operator for Illinois Bell and a secretary for DuKane.

In 1975, Patricia married Jack Mosley and together they raised two daughters. Patricia was a quintessential "involved mom”, serving as a Brownie leader, local babysitter, and a beloved lunch lady at Hall Elementary. She later dedicated a decade to the City of Aurora as a Civil Service Manager and retired in 2018 from Joe and Ross Ice Cream.

Patricia loved spending time with her grandchildren, watching shows like Once Upon a Time, or having a fun craft ready. She enjoyed baking/cooking and was known for her Christmas coffee cake, eggnog mold and fried chicken. She liked to knit, sew and embroider; making Halloween costumes and dresses for her daughters, blankets and other items for her grandchildren.

A woman of deep Christian faith, Patricia lived by the philosophy of giving everything she could to anyone in need. She was a humble advisor, a devoted "Nanny," and a true earthly angel who formed lasting bonds with all who knew her.

Patricia is survived by her daughters: Tania and Kimberly Mosley; grandchildren: Ethan Mosley and Leeana Luhman; her sisters: Wendy Donovan and Penelope (Ronald) Morgan; her brothers: Gary (Louella) Donovan, Kenneth (Vicki) Donovan, Steven Donovan, and Paul Donovan; one sister in law, Kate Donovan; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, extended family, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Kathern (Lampley) Donovan; brothers: Michael, David and William Donovan; her ex-husband and lifelong friend Jack Mosley; and her nephew, Douglas Jager.

Family and friends are invited to gather on May 9, 2026, from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm at the Lake Holiday Lodge (283 Easy St, Somonauk, IL). A service will begin at 12:00 pm, followed by a light lunch.

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” — Numbers 6:24–26

04/12/2026

Life Story and Service Details for
MARTIN "MARTY" BJORNSON

Martin “Marty” Jay Bjornson, 74, of Cape Coral, Florida, passed away peacefully under the compassionate care of Hope Hospice on Monday, April 6, 2026. Born August 16, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, Marty was the beloved son of the late A. John and Frances (Eisenbeis) Bjornson. He carried the warmth, humor, and grit of his Chicago roots throughout his life.
Marty built a long and dedicated career in the finance industry as a stockbroker, a profession that suited his sharp mind and steady nature. Yet, as proud as he was of his work, nothing mattered more to him than his family.

In September of 1992, after moving back in with his parents, Marty received a bit of fatherly advice that would change the course of his life. His dad told him, “Marty, you need a woman. Get out of this house and find one.” Taking those words to heart, Marty attended a get rich quick seminar—of all places.

As fate would have it, in the parking lot afterward he approached a woman named Julie and asked, “How did you like the presentation?” That simple question led to an hour long conversation, an exchange of phone numbers, and the beginning of a love story that would define the rest of his life.

Marty and Julie dated for thirteen years before marrying on August 13, 2005. Their marriage was nothing short of a fairytale, and for Marty, the sun truly rose and set on Julie. His world revolved around his children and grandchildren—his greatest joy, his proudest accomplishment, and the center of every story he loved to tell. Some of Marty’s fondest memories from when the kids were little were the summers he and Julie spent taking them to all the Kane County carnivals, festivals, and fairs. He loved nothing more than watching their faces light up as they ran toward the rides.

In his earlier years, Marty poured his energy into his community, helping with the Boy Scouts and coaching youth baseball. He had a gift for encouraging kids, celebrating their wins, and teaching them to shake off the losses.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Marty found peace on the water with a fishing pole in hand. He was also a diehard Chicago Bears and Cubs fan, loyal through every high and heartbreak. Movies were another of his favorite pastimes—especially if they came with a big tub of popcorn. And whether it was a perfectly cooked meal or a guilty pleasure snack, Marty had a true passion for good food… and even better junk food.

Marty will be remembered for his humor, his generosity, and the way he showed up for the people he loved. His presence filled a room, and his absence will be felt deeply by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his brother, Leonard Bjornson.

Marty is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Julie Bjornson; four children, Kristin Helen Bjornson, Bjorn Martin Bjornson (Ashley Rossi), Sonja Marie Bjornson (Paul) and Haley Nissa Gabalec (Craig); two brothers, John Bjornson and Verne Bjornson (Caroline Bjornson); four adored grandchildren, Hannah Marie Weiss, Julia Grace Bjornson, Brian Bjorn Gabalec and Shelby Lynn Gabalec; as well as ten nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10am-1pm at Conley Funeral Home at 116 W. Pierce Street, Elburn, IL 60119. The funeral service will immediately follow visitation at 1pm also at Conley Funeral Home. Interment will follow the service at Kaneville Cemetery in Kaneville, IL.

04/04/2026

Life Story and Service Details For
MIKE LADFORD

Robert Michael “Mike” Ladford, age 67, of Maple Park, Illinois, passed away on April 1, 2026 in Canton, Georgia, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born on June 19, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois, to parents Donald John Ladford and Patsy Kramer.

Mike grew up in Chicago alongside his siblings. He was the first in his family to graduate from high school, earning his diploma from Thornridge High School in 1975. From an early age, Mike developed a strong work ethic and a natural ability for working with his hands.

Mike met his wife, Susan Kay (Anderson) Ladford, and the two built a life together centered around family. They were married on May 23, 1981, at Kaneville United Methodist Church and shared 43 years of marriage while raising their children together.

Mike worked in ironwork, fabrication, maintenance, and welding throughout his career. In addition, Mike owned and operated his own business, Hub City Manufacturing. He took pride in building, fixing, and creating with his hands.

Mike was deeply family-oriented and dedicated his life to providing for and caring for those he loved. He was given an unique opportunity to move his wife and children to Maple Park, next to his father in law’s family farm, creating a place where they could grow together. This allowed Mike to fulfill a lifelong dream to design and build his family home. He enjoyed over 30 years of memories with his wife, kis, and grandchildren in this home.

Both Mike and Sue portrayed the epitome of unconditional love. Later in life for over 15 years, Mike was a devoted caregiver to his wife, Sue, as she battled multiple sclerosis, all while continuing to work full time. His strength, dedication, and loyalty never wavered. In life, Mike valued time with his family above all else.

He loved fishing and enjoyed games of penny poker with his mother and brothers, and later with his children as they grew older. He passed that same competitive drive, work ethic, and determination onto their children.After his wife’s passing, Mike moved to Georgia for the warmer climate and to be closer to his son.

Mike is survived by his mother, Patsy Kramer; his children: Elizabeth Ann “Liz” Ladford, Cherlyn Sue “Cher” Ladford, and Robert Michael “Rob” Ladford Jr. (Marly Ladford); and his grandchildren: Adrianna Elizabeth Taylor and Ryder Michael Taylor.

He is also survived by his siblings: Diana Ladford, David James Ladford, and Dennis Patrick Ladford (Donna Ladford) and many in-laws and nieces and nephews.

He is reunited with his wife, Susan Kay Ladford; his father, Donald John Ladford; and his siblings, Donald John Ladford Jr. and Wallis Shipley.

The family would like to thank the following for the care and support Michael received during his final days from Marly & Rob Ladford, Donna Ladford, and the Piedmont Hospice Care.

Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m., Tuesday, April 7, followed by a funeral service to celebrate Mike’s life at 11 a.m., at Kaneville United Methodist Church, Kaneville, IL. Interment will follow at Gardner Cemetery, Maple Park, IL.

Contributions may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America at www.engage.mymsaa.org.

03/23/2026

Life Story and Service Details For
JERRY SCHMIDT

Joseph “Jerry” Schmidt, age 84, of Elburn, passed away into eternal peace, claiming the promise of his Savior, Friday, March 20, 2026.

He was born October 17, 1941 in Aurora, IL, to proud and loving parents, Joseph and Louise Schmidt.

Jerry grew up in the Winfield and Glen Ellyn areas while attending local schools. He graduated from St. Petronille and St. Precopius, now Benet Academy, in 1959.

Following graduation, Jerry found work as a driver for Kane County Service Company in Elburn.

It was while he was working in Elburn that he saw the love of his life for the first time. Lonna Dodd caught his eye and stole his heart. They drove their love affair straight to the altar, uniting in marriage on April 24, 1965. Their family grew by three when they were blessed with two sons, James and Kevin and a daughter, Kelly, who made the family complete.

Jerry continued to drive for various companies whose name and ownership kept changing, but Jerry stayed true to himself and the road, never blinking at the changing landscape when Knox Motors changed to Associated Truck Lines, to ANR Freight, and whose locations moved from Aurora to Wheeling and then Chicago. By the time he turned in his keys, Jerry had amassed almost 27 years of dedicated service. He changed seats but kept his driver’s cap on when he began working for Batavia Container in 1992 before he finally turned in his keys to enjoy retirement.

Retirement didn’t mean slowing down however, as Jerry became a Village Trustee in Elburn in the 1980’s, worked at Merrimack Dental, dedicated countless hours to the Elburn Lions Club, not to mention the faithful membership and mentorship at St. Gall Catholic Church.
Jerry was never one to slow down, but he did stop often to “smell the roses” while he tended his garden and trimmed the lawn. Jerry’s smile could lift the spirits of anyone he met and striking up conversations with friends and neighbors was one of his favorite pastimes. He was first in line to spend time with his family and cheer on his kids and grandkids at every activity. Jerry was happiest when surrounded by his nearest and dearest, letting each one know how important they were to him. His dedication to his faith and family provided a bedrock to build a lifetime of memories that will never be forgotten.

He leaves his loving wife Lonna Schmidt; 3 children: Jim (Beth) Schmidt, Kevin (Kris) Schmidt and Kelly (Ernie) Schmidt; 5 grandchildren: Dominic, Ben and Abbie Durbala, and Kailey and Brady Schmidt; two sisters: Ruthanne (Gary) Lewis and Jean (John) Abner; many nieces, nephews and a community full of friends that will never forget him.

Jerry is reunited with his parents, Joseph and Louise Schmidt; mother and fathers-in-law Irene Dodd Sachen, Ted Sachen and Lou Dodd, as well as a sister and brother-in-law, Marlene and Erv Rada, who preceded him in death.

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m., Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL. 10-11 a.m., Thursday, March 26, 2026, at St. Gall Catholic Church, 43w885 Hughes Rd, Elburn, IL 60119, followed by a Mass to celebrate Jerry’s faith at 11 a.m. Private family burial will follow cremation at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Jerry’s name. Checks may be made to the “Joseph J. Schmidt Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

03/21/2026

Life Story and Service Details For
JENNIFER KNIPPER

Jennifer Margaret (Mack) Knipper left this world unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Whether you knew her as Jennifer, Jennie, Jen, or Jenn, she freely gave her love and kindness to us all and she will be greatly missed. Appropriately born on February 14, 1981 in Aurora, Illinois, the family moved to Elburn when Jennifer was 6 months old, where her parents still reside. She attended Kaneland schools where she excelled academically and cultivated lifelong friendships. She graduated from Kaneland High School in 1999 as salutatorian of her class, then continued her education at University of Miami in Florida with a bachelor's degree in Marketing, and later earned an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Jennifer married her long-time partner Dave Knipper in 2012, and they lived in Batavia, Illinois before moving to Littleton, Colorado in 2015.

Jennifer deeply loved her family and friends, and was a natural caretaker. She collected people who didn't quite fit and made them feel known and included. Her steadfast care and hands-on support for those around her is irreplaceable. Jen was so intelligent and well read, making her a go-to source of information on many topics. She loved to discuss and analyze concepts, ideas, policies–anything of interest or current relevance–with keen insight and eloquence.

Jen and Dave traveled extensively and often, including river cruises, international locales, and countless beach vacations. Jen really made the most of her time on this earth. Many trips to visit family and friends kept her in close proximity despite her moving away. Jen’s nephew, Lucas, and niece, Maddy, were her favorites and she was closely bonded to each of them. There is no way to adequately describe the loss her loved ones feel as a result of her unexpected passing.

Jennifer leaves behind her loving husband, David Knipper, and two dogs Homer and Dinky, who were like children to her. She is also survived by her parents, William and Lois Mack, her brother Bill Mack, her nephew Lucas Mack, her in-laws, Gary and Karen Knipper, Amanda (Richard) Lee, her niece Madelyn Lee, Stephanie (Nicholas) Collins, and many cousins, aunts, and uncles. Jen loved and was loved by so many.

There will be a time of sharing your favorite stories during a celebration of Jennifer’s life from 2-5 p.m., Saturday, April 4th, 2026, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Jennifer's honor to one of her favorite nonprofits:
Colorado Public Radio, https://donate.cpr.org/give
Humane Society of South Platte Valley, https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/HSSPV.

03/20/2026

Life Story and Service Details for
SHERRI CASTERLINE

Sherri Lee Casterline, 73, of Saint Charles, IL, passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital under their Hospice Care in Geneva, IL. She had successfully fought with uncurable Pulmonary Fibrosis for many years. The disease accelerated quickly in her final month.

Born on June 2, 1952, to Meriwyn “Polly” and James Casterline, Tipton, in Cedar Rapids, IA. She graduated as an Honor Roll student from Tipton High School with the Class of 1970.

She attended college at Semester at Sea where she attended classes while sailing around the world on a ship, Stephens College, the University of Iowa, and the University of Wisconsin as well as many continuing education courses. She earned MBA’s in Sociology and Instructional Design.

On September 9, 1999, she joined in marriage with her first love, Larry Mathias in Lake Tahoe, NV. They enjoyed a very happy 26 years of marriage, always together.

Sherri started her business career in sales with IBM, then Kraft Foods and the Arthur Andersen Company in Saint Charles, IL. She was in a management position with responsibility for the Pacific Rim area, travelling extensively. Later she started her own consulting company, Strategic Link, before retiring to stay home and have some fun. She of course remained very busy.

She was a devoted member of the Unitarian Universalist Society of Geneva, IL, was elected as President of the Board and served on many teams including Social Justice Team and the DEI Team. She found many new friendships within her church. Her love for small dogs was highlighted by joining a group dedicated to rescuing older or unwanted Cairn Terriers (Toto dogs) and transporting them to new forever homes. She authored and published a children’s book on the subject titled A Mile In My Paws, a real-life touching story that can give a child a true understanding of the value of “adopt, don’t shop”.

She was an avid reader and visited the local bookstore weekly. She also loved crafts making wire wrapped jewelry, rings and bracelets. She was also great with collage and assemblages made from random items she picked up in her travels. Sherri especially enjoyed doting on her step-sons, their families and grandchildren whenever she could and most importantly at Christmas time.

Sherri is survived by her husband, Larry Mathias; step-sons: Matthew Mathias, of Aurora, IL, Andrew (Amy) Mathias, of Yorkville, IL; step-grandchildren: Kallista Mathias, of Rochester, MN, Amelia Mathias, of Sycamore, IL, and Adrian Mariano, of Orlando, FL; and step-great grandchildren: Armani, Elliara, and Eliza Mariano; her foreign exchange student “sister”, Ana Maria Miranda, of Conception, Chile; as well as a large circle of loving friends who will miss her generosity, laughter, and excellent advice.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Polly and Jim Casterline; in-laws Norma and Cecil Mathias; as well as many dear aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Sherri's family will be hosting a Celebration of Life service to be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 2:00p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Geneva, IL. Arrangements are pending with Fry Funeral Home, Tipton IA for her funeral at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to her favorite charity www.cairnresueusa.com to ensure that every little Cairn terrier that needs a new home will find it.

03/19/2026

Life Story and service information for

GEORGIA MAE BURGE

Georgia Mae Burge was born on April 27, 1932, in Tallahatchie County, Mississippi, to Julia Lee and Tom Polk. She began attending Charleston High School in 1946 and graduated in 1950. Shortly thereafter, she moved to St. Louis with her mother and later lived with her Aunt Alma before eventually settling in Chicago, Illinois.

In Chicago, Georgia married Lamont Wells, and to this union two sons were born, Reginald Wells Sr. and Leonard Wells. The family later relocated to Benton Harbor, Michigan, where they lived for several years before returning to the Chicago/Maywood area.

Georgia established deep roots in Maywood, Illinois, where she began working at Hines VA Hospital as a dispatcher. In this role, she ensured that essential items were efficiently shipped to VA hospitals across the region. During her time there, she met her beloved husband, Andrew W. Burge. Though their love was not immediate, Andrew’s devotion was unwavering. In 1978, they were united in marriage in a beautiful ceremony held in her parents’ backyard, surrounded by love.

In 1985, Georgia gave her life to Christ and became a faithful and devoted member of Wheaton Christian Center, where she served faithfully for 41 years. She worked as a greeter, assisted in the church office, and, alongside her husband Andrew, oversaw the tape ministry—helping to spread the Gospel through recorded messages. She later continued her faith journey at additional church homes, including a ministry in Elburn with Pastor Gary and Family Life Church in Elburn, Illinois.

Georgia dedicated her life to the Lord and shared His love with everyone she encountered. She instilled strong Christian values in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, godchildren, and all those blessed to know her.

Georgia Mae Burge, of Elburn, Illinois, passed into eternity to be with her Lord and Savior in the early morning hours of Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved husband, Andrew W. Burge; her dear aunt, Alma; her son, Reginald Wells Sr.; and her late son, Leonard Wells. She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Reginald Shermont Wells Jr., Talia Sheri Wells, Regina Maria Griffee, Corey Wooten, and Edward Griffee; her great-grandchildren: Tashya, Re’nee, Trisha, Raelynn, Ryleen, Malik, Marquill, and Kayden; her goddaughter, Audrey Harris; her stepchildren: Jerry, Annette, Tanya, Andrea, and their siblings; her first cousins: Zachary and Greg Cordet and his son, LC; and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

Georgia’s legacy of faith, love, and service will live on in all who knew her.

03/16/2026

Life Story and Service Details for
RICHARD NEISENDORF

Richard Neisendorf, age 71, of Plato Center, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2026, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family.

He was born on May 11, 1954 to proud parents, Edward (Bud) and Betty Neisendorf.

Rick grew up on a dairy farm in the Burlington area and attended local schools.

He graduated from Central High School with the class of 1972.
Rick met his future wife in the halls of his high school. Judi Partch invited him to the Sadie Hawkins dance and began a romance that would lead them both to the altar in 1975. They began their new life together in many different places in western Kane County while they raised a growing family that included three daughters, Andrea, Courtney and Megan.

Right after high school, Rick began working for Patterson Lumber before moving on to Perrin & Serafin Construction. Later he started his own business, Neisendorf Construction, but later made his mark at Lamp Construction and Hargrave Builders before setting down his tools to enjoy retirement.

Rick had two Harley Davidsons, one of which was built for eating up the miles. He, his brothers and friends would take road trips to national parks, Canada and Sturgis to name a few. The vistas were always incredible but never as great as the memories that were made, mile after mile. Rick also was dropped off in the middle of “Nowhere, Alaska” on a fishing trip for the ages, complete with tall tales and no electricity. A family cabin on the Rock River in Oregon, IL was a favorite escape for Rick where epic holiday parties were held and stories were often shared. Classic Rock was the soundtrack to his life, and he had the vinyl records to prove it. Rick was the life of the party, breathed sarcasm and left marks on the hearts of all who loved him.

He leaves his loving wife of 51 years, Judi; two daughters: Andrea (Paul Sibbitt) Neisendorf and Courtney Neisendorf; two grandchildren: Raven Peterson (Kaden Holbrook) and Brandon Peterson; 6 siblings: Bev (Lou) Thies, Dan “Boomer” (Peg) Neisendorf, David (Pam) Neisendorf, Tom (Jody) Neisendorf, Tim (Peg) Neisendorf, Dean “Farmer” (Jenny) Neisendorf; too many nieces and nephews to count and a countryside of friends.

He is reunited with his parents, Edward (Bud) and Betty Neisendorf, a beloved daughter Megan, and a host of friends who also welcomed him into the gates of Heaven.

A celebration of his life will be held following cremation, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Make-A-Wish Illinois, at https://wish.org/illinois, or to a charity of your choice. Memoires and tributes may be left on the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

03/12/2026

Obituary for
JEFFREY L WORLAND

Services will be held at a later date.

Jeffrey L. Worland, age 71, of Sycamore, formerly of Aurora, IL and Jamestown, NY, passed away surrounded by the love and prayers of his family, Monday, March 9, 2026.

He was born on July 6, 1954, to proud and loving parents, James and Joyce Worland.

Jeff grew up in Aurora and attended local schools. He graduated from East Aurora High School with the class of 1972. He continued his education at the College of DuPage.

Jeff met the love of his life, Bonnie Berens, at a friend’s party and the celebrations continued to the altar when they were united in marriage on May 5, 1979, in Virgil, IL. They began their new life together in a apartment above the country store in Virgil before buying a farm on Ramm Rd. Horses, chickens, cats, dogs, racoons and more, all shared the farm, but unfortunately not the chores. When they weren’t caring for the land and various menagerie, Jeff was a member of the Kane County Sheriff’s Mounted Patrol.

In 1997, Jeff, Bonnie and their one-year-old son, Brett, moved to Jamestown, NY, where Jeff worked at Jamestown Metal Products doing similar work he had done for 30 years at St. Charles Kitchens.

Jeff loved to fish for Muskie, Walleye and more in Michigan, but never went as often as he wanted. Rod and Gun Club took some of his time, but he saved the best for his family. His dedication to his job and family left little time for anything else, and for Jeff, that was just fine. A man of few words, Jeff could convey paragraphs with a look and those who were lucky enough to meet him, knew they had a friend for life.

Jeff leaves his loving wife of 46 years, Bonnie Worland; his son Brett (Julie) Worland; six siblings: Valerie (Andres) Velazquez, James (Georgia) Worland, Jay Worland, Julie Worland, Joel Worland and Joyce (Carlos) Martinez; many nieces, nephews and a family of friends.

He is reunited with his parents, James and Joyce Worland, who preceded him in death.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. Tributes and memories may be shared on the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

03/11/2026

Life Story and Service Details For
DYLAN ROCCO PADULA

Dylan Rocco Padula, age 24, of Elburn, passed away into the peaceful paths of eternity, Monday, March 9, 2026. Gone without being able to say goodbye, his memories are left as his legacy, a balm to wounded hearts of all who miss him.

He was born on December 21, 2001, to loving parents, Joseph and Jennifer Padula.

Dylan grew up in Elburn and attended local schools. Frustrated with the education system, he took it upon himself to obtain his GED faster than if he had taken the traditional path to graduation.

Dylan had a spirit that was one part “angelic”, always looking to help others, and the other “mischief” that reveled in laughter, good times and maybe even a little mayhem. He was dedicated to his family and friends, had an intellect that was as sharp as his wit and shared just as freely. Dylan’s interests were varied, balancing his packed closet full of his shoe collection, leaning towards Jordan and Steph Curry as well as designer clothes, with his love of sports where football, basketball, baseball combined with his black belt in Taekwondo, skateboarding and fishing anywhere where he could drop a line. When he wasn’t playing his favorite sports, Dylan cheered them on, rooting loudly and proudly for the Pittsburg Steelers, Chicago Bulls and White Sox with a full card of UFC to boot. Watching games on the television often segued into playing them. Dylan was often found pouring all his attention into Apex and Arc Raiders. Dylan made his mark on everything he did and everyone he met. He will never be forgotten.

He is survived by his parents, Joseph and Jennifer Padula; his brother, Anthony Padula; maternal grandparents, Joann and Robert Birkmann; paternal grandparents, Anthony and Rita Padula; several aunts, uncles, cousins and a circle of friends who will always remember him with a smile.

Friends and family may come and celebrate their favorite memories of Dylan from 3-7 p.m., Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL. The family encourages everyone to bring a personal letter or photo for Dylan to be tucked in with him. Throughout visitation, memories can be shared as well. Private family interment will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Dylan’s name to benefit, Lighthouse Recovery. Checks may be made to the “Dylan R. Padula Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

03/09/2026

Life Story and Service Details for
EUGENE "GENE" M. CAPES

Eugene “Gene” M. Capes, 86, of Elburn, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

Born in Aurora on September 17, 1939, to parents, C. Sterling and Lucile M. Capes, Gene was a lifelong resident of Elburn.

Gene was a 1957 graduate of Elburn High School. He attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to study agriculture and was a proud member of the Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity. He left UIUC early to return home to work with his father and brothers on the Capes Bros family farm north of Elburn. On his 21st birthday, he married the love of his life, Joanne Funk, together for 44 years until her passing in 2004. He worked in farming for 30 years growing corn and soybeans, raising cattle with his brothers and then sheep with his children for 4-H. He began a second career in 1986 and worked for 20 years until his retirement as an inspector with the Elgin Sweeper Company in South Elgin. Through Gene’s love of the outdoors, he always looked forward to a good game of golf and fishing in Northern Wisconsin and his Canada trips to Uchi Lake.

He is survived by his children: Gene (Carrie) Capes II of Maple Park, IL, Geoff (Jonathan Saw) Capes of New York, NY, Geordan (Tim England) Capes of Chicago, IL, and Jenn (Chris) Rosati of Elburn, IL; and his grandchildren: Riley (Meghan) Capes, Max Capes, Grace Rosati, Rocco Rosati, and Sophia Rosati.

He was preceded in death by his parents, C. Sterling and Lucile M. Capes; his beloved wife, Joanne F. Capes; and his daughter, Meredith Leanne Capes.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10a.m. to 12p.m. at Conley Funeral Home at 116 W. Pierce Street, Elburn, IL 60119. A funeral service will immediately follow the visitation at 12p.m. also at Conley Funeral Home. Interment will follow the service at Blackberry Twp. Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Gene’s name to VSW (http://VSW-IL.org/donate) supporting adults with disabilities in the Fox Valley area or Northern Illinois Food Bank (https://solvehungertoday.org/donate) helping neighbors with access to nutritious food.

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