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Ottawa Funeral Home and Crematory, 1111 LaSalle Street, Ottawa, IL (2026)

08/28/2026

Rose Higgins

Rose (Ponce) Higgins, 69, of Ottawa, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on August 27, 2026.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 1, from 10:00am until 12:00pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. A funeral ceremony will follow at 12:00pm. Burial will be in Valley Memorial Park in Spring Valley.

Rose was born on June 19, 1957 in Mexico to Rosa Ponce and Julio Morales. She moved to America in 1969 and grew up in DePue. She was one of the kindest, caring souls on this earth. She always put her loved ones before herself and we are all blessed to have had her in our lives. Rose had the biggest heart and it showed throughout her life. She spent her life caring for others as a certified nursing assistant, a loving wife, a caring mother, and an amazing grandma.

After retiring, she spent her days filled with love as she cared for her grandbabies. Her world revolved around them and her face would light up whenever she was with them. She left an impact on everyone she met as being a kind, warm soul. She will be missed greatly and never forgotten.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 37 years, Stanley; the loving mother of Samantha (Kyle) Taulbee, Andrew (Jileesa) Higgins, Stanley Higgins, and Larry Martin, the dearest sister of Frances, Olivia, Ed and Robert Ponce; and a wonderful grandma to Adalynn, Ember, Dawson, Kayleigh, Kyndra, Isiac, and Colton.

View Rose Higgins's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/28/2026

Lorine F Proehl

Lorine Faye Comer Proehl , 88, of Ottawa, Illinois, passed away peacefully surrounded by love on August 25, 2026, at Ottawa Pavillion.

In addition to her parents, she was proceeded in death by her husband Dwain, her daughter Beth Gray, grandson A.J. Gray, brother Herb Comer and sister Lela Comer.

She was born in Tupelo Arkansas on June 20, 1938. Lorine moved to Ottawa Illinois where she met the love of her life, Dwain, and raised a beautiful family filled with love and soul food. A true matriarch whose love and strength held her family up over the years. When she wasn't with her family, she enjoyed spending her days baking and cooking. You knew you were a special person if she sent her famous Christmas cookies or invited you over, in the fall, for the unrivaled garden vegetable soup. Also, an avid reader in her downtime. She enjoyed unwinding in her chair curled up with a romance novel. A paragraph cannot sum up the beautiful person she was or the depth of the loss her family feels. So, in the words of Dolly, "If you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain."

She is survived by three daughters, Cindy Sampson and spouse Kevin of Ottawa, Illinois. Dee Cervantes Proehl and spouse George of Naples, Florida. Dawn Musich of Illinois. 7 grandchildren, Dwain Sampson, Nicole Sampson, Matthew Gray, Tori Sampson, Alex Tiger Proehl, Katie Gray and Daniel Proehl. 5 great grandchildren, Daniel Mildred, Quinn Schwarting, Sunny Schwarting, Jade Sampson and Aryes Proehl. 2 great great grandchildren, Ember Carter and Eliyizianna Garrett. Many loved nieces and nephews. Last but not least her caretaker until the end, turned friend and shopping bestie, Paula.

Per Lorine's private wishes, there will be no funeral or memorial services.

View Lorine F Proehl's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/27/2026

Max Robertson

Max Ira Robertson, age 90, passed away peacefully at his home on August 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 30, 1935, Max lived a long and meaningful life centered around family, hard work, and the people he loved. He would have celebrated his 91st birthday on September 30.

Max proudly served his country for two years in the United States Army. He was a lifetime member of Bricklayers Union Local 74, proudly dedicating more than 50 years to his trade. He was a hardworking and dependable man who took great pride in the life he built and, most importantly, in his family.

Max was also a lifelong Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, and Illini basketball fan. Through the wins and losses, his loyalty to his favorite teams never wavered, and cheering them on was something he truly enjoyed throughout his life.

Above all, Max was a wonderful, kindhearted man and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and family man. He will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his children and their families: Karen and Rick Allen, and children Hollie, Max, Joe, Audrey, Elliot, and Nathan; Doug and Beth Robertson, and son Alex Robertson; Kevin and Penny Kubaszak; Randy & Alison, and son Cameron Kubaszak; Rodney and Amber Robertson, and children Zach, Zander, and Gavin; Sean and Kendall Robertson; and Kasey Downey; and numerous great grandchildren.

Max was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vanessa; his daughter, Karla; his granddaughter, Kara; his parents; and all of his siblings.

Those fortunate enough to know Max will remember his kind heart and the love he had for his family. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories he created and the love he gave will remain with his family for generations.

Max's legacy lives on in the family he loved so dearly, the life he built through 90 remarkable years, and the many lives he touched along the way.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 9, at Osborne-Nelson Funeral Home, 135 E. Lincoln St., Seneca, IL 61360, from 4:00pm until 7:00pm. A funeral service will take place at 7:00pm. Services have been entrusted to Osborne-Nelson Funeral Home.

View Max Robertson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/25/2026

James E McLachlan

James Edward McLachlan, 71, of Plainfield, Illinois, passed away on August 23, 2026.

A visitation will be held Friday, August 28, 2026, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. at Ottawa Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. at St. Columba Church, with burial afterward at St. Columba Cemetery.

James was born in Ottawa, Illinois, to Laurence and Joanne McLachlan. He was a lifelong farmer in Prairie Center, Illinois, and a loving husband to Donna. Together, they enjoyed traveling, visiting many countries, and making memories along the way. James was an outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and snowmobiling. He had many friends and was known for being a good storyteller.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; sisters Laurie Govednik and Jean Olson (Jim); nephews Scott Govednik (Beth) and Mark Govednik (Olivia); great-nephews Owen, Beckham, and Nash; great-nieces Wrenley and Lenna; sister-in-law Mary Jo McLachlan; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Laurence and Joanne McLachlan, and his brother, Jerry McLachlan.

Pallbearers will be Scott Govednik, Mark Govednik, Chris McLachlan, Will McLachlan, Michael McLachlan, and Jason Vollmer.

View James E McLachlan's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/24/2026

James Sullivan

James "Jim" Lawrence Sullivan, 70, of Ottawa, IL passed away on Friday, August 21, 2026. His wife, Kathy (Damman), mother, Majorie "Marge," brother, Thomas "Tom," daughters, Shannon (Webb), Erin (Shaffer), and Carolyn (Hesselink), and six grandchildren are amongst the many family and friends who will remember him as a great source of light and love. He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas "Tom," brother, Timothy "Tim," and sister, Mary (Sullivan) Malek.

Jim never met a stranger and was known as the "unofficial Mayor of Alinda Ave." He was born and raised in Streator, moved to Oswego to raise his own family for several decades, and found his way back to Ottawa for the final chapter in his life. Jim had a thriving career in transportation logistics and would eagerly share photos and stories of his favorite trucks and people he'd encountered day to day. Not one to sit still for long, even in retirement, Jim loved to fish with his grandkids, winter in Florida, and help anyone who crossed his path - mowing a lawn, helping someone move, or volunteering in town.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing him often commented on his happy demeanor, nearly always whistling a little tune, and his ability to genuinely listen to and care for the people around him. In his last decade, he rekindled a high school friendship that turned into a great love. When asked how things were going, Jim and Kathy, known to many as the couple behind the local small business Sullivan's Sweets, often remarked, "We're living the dream."

Services to celebrate Jim's life will be held Saturday, August 29th at Ottawa Funeral Home at 1111 LaSalle St. in Ottawa, IL. Those who wish to share condolences or a story or memory of Jim are invited to join the family at the visitation from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM, the funeral at 12:00 PM, and the luncheon following services. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to support Marquette Academy at 1000 Paul St. Ottawa, IL 61350 or online at marquetteacademy.net or a charity of your choice.

View James Sullivan's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/18/2026

Carmen Torres

Carmen Torres, née Larez Belisario, of San Antonio, Texas, formerly of Ottawa, Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 14th, surrounded by her family.

Carmen was born January 6, 1942, in Venezuela to Sergio Donato Belisario and Maria Leonor Larez. She married Franklin Torres on July 6, 1973, and they shared 40 years of marriage.

Carmen was a devoted homemaker who loved cooking, sewing, crocheting, reading, and crafting. Most of all, she loved her family and caring for others, especially children.

She is survived by her three children, Luis (Yari) Torres, Oscar (Lucinda) Torres, and Nina (Jose) Alvarez; six grandchildren, Andres, Dafne, Oscar Jr., Franklin Torres, Leonardo, and Valentina Alvarez; two great-granddaughters; and many loving family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Franklin; her parents; and her five brothers and sisters.

Carmen will always be remembered for her kindness, loving heart, and devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Visitation: Friday, September 25th, 4:00-6:00 p.m., at Ottawa Funeral Home.

Funeral Mass: Saturday, September 26th, at 12:00 p.m., at St. Columba Church, followed by burial at St. Columba Cemetery.

View Carmen Torres's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/17/2026

Ronna Fessler

Ronna Lynn Fessler, 77, of Marseilles, passed away Sunday, August 16, 2026.

Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.

Ronna was born October 6, 1948, in Ottawa, IL to Emmett and Betty Lou (Wilson) Frye. She married Willis Fessler on April 19, 1969, at the Methodist Church in Ottawa. She enjoyed spending time with her sister, especially going out to dinner together. Ronna also loved her dogs, Ellie Mae and Babs, and could often be found watching her favorite soap operas and westerns.

She is survived by her son, Jim (Sue) Fessler; her siblings, Kim (Sue) Frye, Tonya Borowicz, Emmett Frye Jr. "Laddie," Johnna (Winford) DeClue, and Babette (Derek) Alonzo; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Emmett and Betty Lou Frye, and her husband, Willis Fessler, and her brother-in-law, Joseph Borowicz.

View Ronna Fessler's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/13/2026

James Freeman

James Vincent Freeman, 86, of Ottawa, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2026.

Born on June 10, 1940 in Ottawa, Illinois, Jim was the son of George Freeman and Marie (née Schneider) Freeman. He grew up in Ottawa, attending Ottawa High School, participating in track and field. He studied art and art education at LaSalle Junior College and Illinois State University, and was honorably discharged from the U.S Army in 1965 after serving in Fort Benning, Georgia and working as a designer/illustrator for the graphics group.

Jim began his career as an designer/illustrator at Caterpillar Tractor Company in Peoria, Illinois. He spent 30 years working for the global advertising agency, Leo Burnett, where he led art direction for notable accounts, such as Marlboro ci******es, RC Cola, and Allstate Insurance.

Outside of work, Jim had a lifelong love of the outdoors and was happiest when he was hunting, fishing, boating, or walking with his black labradors. He was an accomplished oil and watercolor artist, frequently painting scenes from his outdoor adventures or his beloved dogs.

Jim is survived by his son, William, daughter, Megan, and brother George. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mary.

In lieu of a service, please consider honoring his memory by donating to any foundation or mission related to preserving natural environments and by spending time outdoors.

View James Freeman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/13/2026

Francis Kelley

Francis Kelley, 70, of Ottawa, passed away Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his family, after a lengthy illness.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 15, from 2:00pm until 5:00pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. A funeral ceremony will be held on Sunday, August 16, at 2:00pm at Ottawa Funeral Home, with Rev. Bill Clark officiating. Burial will follow in Galloway Cemetery in Marseilles.

Francis was born on April 5, 1956 in Streator, IL to Frank and Mildred (Christianson) Kelley. He attended Seneca High School in Seneca, IL. He married the love of his life, Cathy Martin, on March 21, 1977.

Francis worked at Illinois Power, which is now Ameren, for 31 years as a power lineman and tree trimmer. He would like to thank everyone for the fabulous training and camaraderie of his fellow employees and friends during his career.

Francis loved being a life ranked boy scout and later on being a leader of Troop 99 in Marseilles, IL. He loved fishing, camping, hunting, and trapping. He was an avid sports fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs. He participated in team sports at Seneca Grade School and High School and played many years of slow pitch softball around the Ottawa Area. But his greatest love was restoring classic Chevelles and Camaros to show car condition. He was a member of LaSalle County Cruisers and Blood, Sweat, and Gears.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Cathy (Martin) Kelley; his son, Jeramie (Krystal Kae) Kelley; his daughter, Kristina (Jason) Palicki; 6 grandchildren, AJ Palicki, Lauryn Palicki, Aleck, Jaykob, Christian, and Rebekah Kelley; 4 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; as well as his sisters and brother in laws, Carolyn (Randy) Hooper; Sue (William) Dean, Ron (Tina) Martin, Don (Diann) Martin, and Linda Martin.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Mildred; and his step sisters, Dorothy Genesi and Helen Hatter both of Pekin, Il.

Pallbearers will be AJ Palicki, Aleck Kelley, Jaycob Kelley, Christian Kelley, Brian Armstrong, John Benett, and Randy Hooper.

View Francis Kelley's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/11/2026

Raymond Gene Detert

Raymond Gene Detert, 83, of Ottawa, passed away on August 8, 2026.

Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 14, 2026, at St. Columba Church in Ottawa. A second Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at St. Ludmila Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.

Raymond was born October 1, 1942, in Solon, Iowa, to Lewis and Lulu Detert. He spent 34 years as a store manager with Eagle Foods and later owned and operated Dete's Construction and Detert Rentals. He was a member of the Ottawa Lions Club and St. Brigid Parish.Raymond was a messy amateur chef who loved the outdoors. He was an ornery man with a great sense of humor who was always keeping busy. If he didn't like what he built, he'd tear it down and rebuild it, always finding a way to make things just right.

He is survived by the love of his life, partner, friend, and wife, Susanalice Woodrum-Detert; his son, Nathaneal "Nate" Woodrum; his sister, Mabel Pata; niece, Cherry Detert Cronin, and the rest of his Iowa family; his beloved pets, Maximus, Jasper, Peridot, Garnet, Humphrey, Bogart, Opal, Beryl, and his cat, Allison; children from his earlier marriage, Debra Detert, David Detert, Dustin Detert, and Darrin Detert; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Lulu Detert; his brother, Leo Detert; his sister, Betty Walton; and his beloved dogs, Vanilla and Ruby.

View Raymond Gene Detert's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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