Calvert & Martin Funeral Homes, 413 N. Main Street, Pontiac, IL (2025)

11/05/2025

Constance “Connie” Mae Haag, 100, of Pontiac passed away on November 5, 2025 at Evenglow Lodge in Pontiac. She was born May 2, 1925 in Strawn, the daughter of George and Rachel Steidinger Saathoff. She married LeRoy Haag on December 14, 1944 in Cullom. He preceded her in death on July 21, 2017.

She is survived by five children, Patricia (John) Platz of Cullom, Richard (Kristine) Haag of Cullom, Lauri Smith of Baileys Harbor, WI, Marla (Gregory) Holloway of Trivoli, and Audrey (David) Lowe of Saunemin; twelve grandchildren, Leann Shaw, Stacey (Corey) Sharp, Todd (Dana) Platz, Chad (Kelly) Holloway, Ryan (Jayla) Willis, Angela (Jason) Eggenberger, Rebecca Holloway, Adam Haag, Megan Lowe, Kyle (Brittany) Lowe, Sara (Patrick Wood) Haag, and Tyler Lowe (Makenna Pankey); great grandchildren, Chelsey, Stazee, Jaclyn, Dylan, Gabrielle, Cassius, Garret, Braden, Addison, Emma, C**t, Nathan, Avery, Evie, Carson, and Abel. She is also survived two sisters, Mary Streitmatter and Barbara Hurt of Fairbury; a brother, George Saathoff of Eureka, and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she is preceded in death by a sister, Velda Swigart: son-in-law, Dexter Smith; brothers-in-law, Ray Swigart, Edwin Streitmatter, and Bob Hurt; and a sister-in-law, Thelma Saathoff.

Connie was a 1944 graduate of Saunemin High School. She embraced her role as a farm wife, bringing organization, warmth, and relentless hard work to all aspects of their family life. She belonged to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cullom, where she was active with Friendship Day and the church quilting group. She also formerly belonged to the Women of the LCA, Home Extension, and the Cullom Women’s Club. She enjoyed traveling in the motor home, especially during the winter, where they made many long time friends.

Connie was a loving wife, mom, grandma, great grandma, sister, aunt, and friend who will be greatly missed. She especially enjoyed time spent with each of her grandchildren. The family has so many special memories of the camping trips taken, as well as the skiing trips that included the grandchildren.

This angel on earth earned her wings. Never could you meet anyone with a gentler, kinder, more humble soul than Connie. She lived right and was rewarded with 100 years of life on earth. Now, she reaps her eternal reward. She leaves a legacy that anyone could be proud of. Well done good and faithful servant. Until we meet again.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 15th at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cullom.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cullom or to a charity of the donor's choice.

11/03/2025

Paula K. Rork, age 71, of Pontiac, formerly of Cullom, IL, passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side at 4:12 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Goldwater Care of Pontiac.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Calvert and Martin Funeral Home in Cullom, IL. A private family graveside will be held at a later date at Westlawn Cemetery in Cullom, IL, with Pastor Lloyd Evans officiating.

Memorials in Paula’s memory may be made to the Nursing Staff at Goldwater Care of Pontiac, as a gratitude for all of their love and care.

Calvert and Martin Funeral Home, Cullom, has been entrusted with her arrangements.

Paula was born on July 4, 1954, in Fairbury, IL, to Victor and Pauline (Long) Culkin.

She is survived by her three beloved children: Andy (Jill) Rork of Pontiac, IL, Karie (Leon) Martin of Reddick, IL; Kristi Hendrix of Streator, IL; 11 adored grandchildren: Mason (Annika) Rork, Eric Hiller, Trent Rork, Alana (Devin) Long, Mason Christianson, Stephanie (Patrick Penna) Martin, Brett Martin, Jessica Martin, Maxwell Martin, Blake Stites, Michelle Handrix; 1 great-grandchild: Nyla Hiller; and two sisters: Karen (Dennis) Darling, Joanie (Steve) Ponton. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, friends, and the staff at Goldwater Care of Pontiac who became like family to her over the years.

She is preceded in death by her grandmother: Beryl Long, parents, and one sister: Vickie Culkin.

Paula was a graduate of Cullom High School. She was a Certified Nurse Assistant at Prairieview in Danforth, IL, and Livingston Manor for many years.

Paula was an avid Chicago Cubs baseball fan who enjoyed watching all of their games. Paula had a kind heart that was filled with endless love for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and her nieces and nephews. She valued all of the time she spent with them, and all of the memories made. Those memories will forever be cherished and remembered by all of her loved ones
She will truly be missed by all of those who knew and loved her.

This obituary may be viewed, and a guestbook signed at www.calvertmemorial.com or visit us on Facebook.

10/27/2025

Adam James Dopler, 44, of Chatsworth, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 11:10 P.M. on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at his mother’s home in Pontiac, Illinois.

Calvert & Martin Funeral Homes of Pontiac has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Adam was born on March 17, 1981, in Moline, Illinois, the son of James Delbert and Kathleen Ann (Debowski) Dopler.

Adam is survived by his loving mother, Kathleen Ann Dopler, His Brother, James Patrick (Jessa)Dopler, His aunts, Marian Ferry, Ann Marie (Gary) Schutt, Carolyn (John) Potter, Connie Spinks, Bonnie Woodhurst, his uncles, Robert (Mary) Dopler, Joseph Debowski, Michael (Patty) Debowski, Edward (Lisa) Debowski, and James Debowski, his nieces, Tatum Dopler and Dallas Dopler.

He was preceded in death by his father James D. Dopler, and his uncle Joseph Dopler.

Growing up, Adam loved to play video games and hang out with his brother and friends. He was a big Chicago Cubs and Bears fan and loved to watch the games. Adam was also a veteran of the United States Air Force where he deployed overseas 5 times. When he came back, he moved back into the small town where he grew up and continued to be the fun loving person he was before. He enjoyed playing penny ante poker and various card games with his family while sitting around the table talking and laughing.

In lieu of flowers memorials donations in Adam’s name may be made to; American Cancer Society (wwwdonate.cancer.org), Mission MSA (www.missionmsa.org), or the Wounded Warriors Project (https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org)

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

10/24/2025

Gerald “Jerry” Hartman passed away at 84 years old on October 23, 2025 at Citadel Care Center of Kankakee.

Gerald was born on March 23, 1941 to Russell and Leona Hartman in Kankakee, Illinois. Gerald married Julia “Mouse” Hartman on May 30, 2005 in Marion, Illinois, sharing almost 20 years of marriage together before Mouse passed on February 3, 2025.

Gerald was a carpenter by trade, but an artist at heart. He drew beautiful landscapes, portraits, and even pet portraits. He was a master woodworker and had many hobbies that surrounded his creativity. More recently, he was promoted to best great grandpa, as he was greatly adored by his great grandbabies “B” and “Brooksie” who cherished their visits with him and lovingly called him “Grumpa”.

Surviving are his brother, John (Cheryl) Hartman, and sister, Dawn (David) Post; his sisters-in-law, Julia Hartman and Ruth Hartman; his sons Randy (Linda) Hartman, Todd Hartman, Kevin (Melissa) Ozment, and Tim (Jennie) Ozment; his grandchildren Corey (Leah) Hartman, Amanda (Mikey) Summers, Cheyenne (Benjamin) Mizenko, Sydney (Dalton) Petersen, Taylor (Luke) Azzarelli, and Brandon Hartman; step grandchildren, Matthew (Ashley) Ozment, Christopher (Emily) Ozment, and Sarah (Ethan) Ozment; and several great grandbabies.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents; his late wife, Julia Hartman; his wife, Marge Hartman; his brothers, Tony Hartman and Wayne Hartman; his daughter, Terri Sue Hartman; and his daughter-in-law, Judy Hartman.

Memorial contributions may be made to Uplifted Care.

10/23/2025

Mrs. Joyce Elaine Lorrance, 88, of Pontiac, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 2:51 a.m. on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at her home in Pontiac after a brief battle of cancer. She was under the care of OSF Hospice and had her family by her side at her passing.

Calvert & Martin Funeral Home of Pontiac has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Joyce was born on October 19, 1937, in Pontiac, Il. She was the daughter of Henry Herman and Alverta Mae (Shoop) Mehrkens. She was united in marriage to her first husband John Snow on March 22, 1958, until he passed away due to a construction accident on October 3, 1967. She later married her second husband Stanley (Red) Lorrance, Sr. on March 29, 1969, until his passing on March 11, 2016.

Joyce is survived by her children, Jolene Moss, John (Diana Nanninga) Snow, Jerry (Sandy) Snow, Brenda Keene; her eight grandchildren, several great grandchildren, several great great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her two husbands, John Snow and Stanley (Red) Lorrance, Sr.; one daughter, Teresa (Snow) Gaither; a grandson, Bryan Moss; her sons-in law, Mike Keene and Michael Moss; and her brother, Ronald (late Barbara) Mehrkens.

Joyce was a homemaker. She raised her kids to be strong and independent. She loved her children but loved all her grandchildren even more. It made her day when the grandkids came to visit.

She wasn’t just a mom to her kids, but to many of their friends too. Those “kids” had a special place in her heart. Her sons-in law and daughters-in law were her kids too, not just “in-laws”.

She enjoyed watching NASCAR races. Everyone knew to make sure they didn’t call her during “her show” The Young and the Restless. She watched it daily up until a few days before her passing.

Joyce enjoyed working in her yard and having fresh flowers to brighten it up.

After Red retired they moved to Florida and then Alabama before returning home in 2005. They loved traveling together in their motor home, but Pontiac was always her home.

During the summer everyone enjoyed her chocolate zucchini cake that she would make for each family.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Gift of Hope (www.giftofhope.org) or St Jude Children’s Hospital (www.stjude.org).

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

10/14/2025

Curtis “Curt” W. Myers, age 82, of Pontiac, IL, passed away peacefully at 1:51 a.m. on October 13, 2025, at Goldwater Nursing Home in Pontiac, IL.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A private memorial will be held by his loved ones at a later date.

Memorials in Curt’s name may be made to Transitions Hospice.

Calvert and Martin Funeral Home in Pontiac is entrusted with his arrangements.

He was born on October 17, 1943, in Beach Park, IL, to Max and Evelyn (Hadden) Myers. Curt spent his childhood in Mansfield, IL, and as a teen, in Pontiac, IL.

After graduating from Pontiac Township High School in 1961, he went on to the University of Illinois, where he received a bachelor’s degree within the agricultural department in Dairy Technology. Curt then served as a Captain in the United States Air Force, proudly serving as an instructor pilot, flying T-38 jets. He was stationed in Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, Texas and Tyndall Air Force Base in Panama City, Florida. After his USAF service He returned to the University of Illinois, receiving a law degree and returned to Pontiac, Illinois, where he practiced law until he retired in 2023.

In Pontiac, he served the community on the City Council for several terms, the library board, and loved driving a school bus to sporting events. Curt loved his sister Paula’s chocolate chip cookies, enjoyed crossing the southern border to eat authentic Mexican foods while living in Texas, taking his family boating and camping during the summer months, where many nights were spent on a beach in a tent on the weekends.

Curtis married Nancy Myers (Schultz) in 1966, with whom he raised a daughter Amy (Sohail) Morris and two sons Jason Myers and Andrew Myers, as well as two grandsons, Owen Myers and Riley Myers of Colorado. He is also survived by his sister, Paula (Joe) Cleary, who has been a big support to the family, especially in his final journey.

In 2000, he married Sharon Moch Yeagle. They most especially enjoyed their Sundays playing cards with her brother Duane (Deceased). She survives him in Pontiac, along with his stepchildren Kim (Mike) McKenna, Rhonda (Kenny) White, and Gavin (Brandy) Yeagle.

Curt was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Gayle Slager.

10/01/2025

Harriette Herkert, 77, of Pontiac, Illinois, passed away suddenly on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at her home in Pontiac, Illinois.

Memorial Visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. on Monday, October 6, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 119 E Howard St, Pontiac, IL 61764. Mass will follow at 12:00 P.M. also at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Father Joseph Baker will be officiating. Burial will be at Southside Cemetery in Pontiac, Il. immediately following Mass.

Calvert & Martin Funeral Home in Pontiac has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Harriette was born on July 31, 1948, in Moscow, Idaho. She was the daughter of Robert DeBolt Sr. and Martha Lucille (Williams) Rediger.

She is survived by her two sons, David Herkert of Pontiac, Il. and Darren Herkert of Goreville, Il; her seven grandchildren, Sierra, Kelsey, Katelyn, Madyson, Seth, Dominik, and Abbigal; her three great grandchildren; her three brothers, William Rich, Robert DeBolt Jr. and Roy DeBolt; her three sisters, Virgina (Robert) Smith and Kathy Cole, and Sue Menennga; a sister-in-law, Pat Difiore of Chicago, Il., and several nieces and nephew.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her daughter-in-law, Monika Herkert.

Harriette lived in Charleston SC, Key West FL, and Indian Head Maryland in her childhood before moving to Pontiac in 1959. Harriette was Threshermen’s Reunion Queen 1965. She is a graduate from Pontiac Township Highschool Class of 1967. She was Married to Les Herkert of Chatsworth, Il. for 18 years.

She worked for Livingston County for over 30 years from 1980-2011 as Office Manager and secretary for the Sheriff's department and Judge Frank. She was a direct descendent of the Williams family who owned the Williams Mill in Pontiac. She was a member of the Junior women's club of Pontiac. She taught water aerobics, loved playing Bridge and Scrabble. She was a kind soul to all who needed help or was hurting or suffering. On Easter of 2025, Harriette was confirmed into the Catholic faith at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pontiac. She was a loving Mother, Sister, Grandmother and Friend.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Harriette’s name may be made to her family.

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com or visit us on Facebook.

09/06/2025

Mrs. Billie Sue Semmens, 43, of Pontiac, passed away at home surrounded by her family at 1:16 P.M. on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at her home in Pontiac, Illinois.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M., on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church, 219 N Chicago St, Pontiac, IL 61764. Funeral services will follow at 6:00 P.M. also at the church. Revs. Gretchen Stinebaugh and Tiffany Black officiating. Interment will be held privately at Southside Cemetery in Pontiac, Il.

Calvert & Martin Funeral Homes of Pontiac has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Billie was born on May 4, 1982, in Naples, Florida, the daughter of Dan Lee and Ellen Kay (Walker) Wickman. She was united in marriage to Jeffrey C. Semmens on August 28, 2004, at the First United Methodist Church in Pontiac, IL.

Billie is survived by her father; Dan Lee Wickman; her loving daughters, Makinzi (Austin ) Semmens-Norman and Payton Semmens both of Pontiac, IL; her two granddaughters, Scarlette Norman and Charlotte Norman, her three brothers, DJ (Kassie) Wickman, David Wickman and Michael Wickman; a sister-in-law, Ruth Schlosser, and her brother-in-law, Donald Semmens; her three nieces, Olyvia, Jasmine and Adesynne. and one nephew, Alex.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Ellen Kay Wickman, her mother-in-law, Carol Herdien and loving husband Jeffrey C. Semmens.

Billie was known for her kindness and helping heart. She was a nurse for 11 years and continued to work until a month before her passing. It was so inspiring to watch her take care of others every single day while she was fighting her own battles behind closed doors. She has been nominated for the daisy award over five times and received the daisy award for her amazing patient care. Billie loved spending time with her granddaughters more than anything. She was the best grandma for those girls; her and Scarlette were best friends and made such great memories together. Billie also had a strong love for the racetrack. For years she was a supportive wife cheering on her husband and then was even happier when she got to cheer on her two daughters. Family was the most important thing to Billie, she was happy to have such a strong bond with her daughters, and she absolutely adored her dog, Bella. She enjoyed nothing more than travelling and spending time with her whole family. Anyone who knew Billie was lucky to have known such an inspiring and encouraging person. She fought her cancer hard until the end and you would never have known she was fighting such a tough battle. Billie was the strongest fighter; she never gave up and never complained about the cards she was dealt with. Billie’s memory will never be forgotten, and it gives us peace knowing she touched the lives of so many people

Memorial donations in Billie’s name may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 219 N Chicago St, Pontiac, IL 61764.
Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

09/04/2025

Carl F. Durham, 95, of Pontiac, IL passed away peacefully on the morning of Sunday, August 31st, 2025.

Carl was born in Pontiac on March 29th, 1930 to James and Virgie Tolbert Durham. He married his love, Rita Mae Durham (States) on September 24th, 1949. She preceded him in death on January 30th, 2014. He was also preceded in death by, one sister Bernice Roof, and three brothers, William, Duane and Raymond “Duke” Durham.

He is survived by his two children, Sandra Durham and Carla (Don) Chandler of Pontiac, three grandchildren, Maggie (Justin) Zimmer, Derek (Christy) Chandler and Carrie Chandler, as well as two great-grandchildren, Logan and Tyler. He is also survived by one sister, Stella Hicks of Pontiac, along with many nieces and nephews.

Carl was a loving and devoted father and grandfather, deeply committed to his family and always present in their lives. His warmth and guidance extended beyond his own family, often serving as a father or grandfather figure to many
others in the community. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, an experience that shaped his lifelong values of discipline, integrity, and service to others.

A proud community member and lifelong tradesman, Carl went on to found Durham Electric Inc. in 1978 to better serve his community. The company remains in operation today as a family-run business — a lasting tribute to his hard work and dedication.,

Carl had a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. He found peace in fishing and took great pride in caring for his horses. Among his most treasured memories were the summers he spent with his daughters and wife, Rita, in Montague, Michigan, where they vacationed for decades with their extended Michigan family. That tradition continues to this day through their
grandchildren.

Carl was an enthusiastic supporter of his grandchildren’s talents and endeavors, always showing up with pride and encouragement. His presence and support were constant reminders of his unwavering love for his family. He will be remembered not only for his dedication and work ethic but also for the kindness, steadiness, and quiet strength he brought into the lives of so many.

Per Carl’s wishes, a private graveside ceremony will be held at Southside Cemetery in Pontiac on September 8th, 2025.

In Lieu of flowers or memorials, the family invites you to share pictures and stories of Carl at https://everloved.com/life-of/carl-durham/.

Donations in Carl’s honor can be made to Marine Corps Toys for Tots at http://secure.toysfortots.org

09/04/2025

Michael W. Dietz, 69, of Pontiac passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at his home. He was born on July 25, 1956 in Pontiac, the son of Wayne and Jean Cole Dietz. He married Tatsumi Kamiya on December 22, 1978. She survives.

In addition to his wife, Michael is survived by two children, Ashley (Wade) Cromer and Lucas Dietz; five grandchildren, Aiden, Christian, Felicia, Destiny, and Taylor; and two great grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Brian (May) Dietz; and two sisters, Jennifer (June) Dietz, and Karen Hallam.

He is preceded in death by a son, Jeremiah Dietz.

Michael served his country in the United States Marine Corps.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 11th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Duffy-Baier-Snedecor Funeral Home in Pontiac.

09/03/2025

Ann Elizabeth Kane, 72, formerly of Maryland, passed away Thursday, August 28, 2025, at her home in Fort Myers, Florida.

A Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on September 8, 2025, at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Chatsworth, Illinois. There will be no visitation.

Calvert & Martin Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Ann is survived by her three siblings, Gregory (Kathy) Kane of Pocatello, Idaho, Michael (Joan) Kane of Cullom, Illinois, and Jo Ellen Kane of Fort Myers, Florida, nephews Patrick Kane, Sean Kane and Daniel Kane and great-niece Annabelle Kane and great-nephew Elliott Kane.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul James Kane and Thelma Josephine (Bertsche) Kane, and a brother, James Eric Kane.

After graduating from Tri-Point High School, she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Illinois State University. Ann worked as a day care center director in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois until moving to Washington, DC in 1980. In DC, she worked for an education nonprofit, and later as an elementary school teacher for the District of Columbia Public Schools, where she remained until her retirement. Ann was a sports fan and especially loved rooting for the Cubs. She co-founded Capitol City Little League, serving as President of the organization for twenty years.

Memorial donations in Ann’s name may be made to: World Central Kitchen, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Irish American Partnership.

Online condolences may be made to the family at calvertmemorial.com.

Calvert & Martin Funeral Homes

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