Illustrious Sir Wilbur A. Schenk Jr., PP

May 08, 1936 – January 04, 2024

Potentate of Medinah Shrine - Addison, IL in 2007

Beloved husband of the late Judith Schenk, nee Peterson; Devoted father of Jill (David) Flowers, Steven Schenk and Tracy Santagata; Loving son of the late Wilbur Sr. and Evelyn Schenk; Dear brother of Kenneth (late Shirley) Schenk; Fond brother-in-law of Gail (late Charles) Peterson; Dear grandfather of Daniel (Katie) Koopman, Lauren Koopman, Marissa (Austin) Vernier, Tyler Santagata and great grandfather of Harper Koopman, Camden Koopman and Baby Vernier on the way; Dear uncle of the late Charles Peterson, Kimberly (Steve) Leffew, Julie (Paul) Thiem, David Schenk, Susan Gaulden, Kevin Schenk, the late Cathy Schenk and many great nieces and nephews; Loving dear friend of Janyce Regan.

Illustrious Sir Robert "Bob" Charles Marshall, PP

1940 – February 29, 2024

Potentate of Mocha Shrine - London, Ontario Canada in 2015

Passed peacefully, at his home in Strathroy, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, February 29th, 2024, Robert “Bob” Charles Marshall at the age of 84.

Lovingly remembered by his wife and best friend, Vesta (Watson), his children; Brent (Lynn) and Lana (John), his grandchildren; Leah, Rachael (Lindsay), Robert and Marshall (Virginia) and his great grandchildren; Emmett and Elijah.

Bob is the dear brother of Ross (Carolyn) Marshall, Bernice Coughlin,  Joyce Barr, Glen Marshall, Vernon (Tammy) Marshall, Jack Marshall and Barry (Angie) Marshall.  Bob was loved and will be remembered by his brothers and sisters in law, Paul McNaughton, Lucille and Reg McCurdy, Jim and Betty Watson and Nancy Moen.

Predeceased by his siblings and siblings-in-law, Margaret and Dougal Dorland, Ruth and Glen Martin, Gordon Marshall, Glen Barr, Doris Marshall, Albert Watson and Sheila McNaughton.

It is impossible to sum up the life of Bob Marshall in just a few paragraphs so this shall be simply a “highlight reel” of the life of a wonderful man.  He was married for 64 years to Vesta.  He worked tirelessly for his family at the St. Thomas Ford Assembly Plant, Canadian Canners in Exeter.  He was Plant Manager at Strathroy Foods. He was the owner of Strathroy Rental & Marbolt.

When he wasn’t at work, he was always busy with something, including beekeeping, gardening and fixing something that wasn’t broken.

He spent countless hours contributing to many community organizations.  Bob was a Scout Leader, Past President of the Kirkton Woodham Community Association, a Mason, a Shriner, a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and Strathroy United Church.

Bob was a member and Past Master of both Granton Masonic Lodge #483 A.F. & A.M. and Beaver Masonic Lodge, Strathroy #83 A.F. & A.M.; Past Potentate Mocha Temple A.A.O.N.M.S.; Royal Arch Masons of Canada, Beaver Chapter #74; Scottish Rite; Mocha Shrine, London; Strathocha Shrine Club, Strathroy; Royal Order of Jesters #56 and Camel Coach of the Shrine.  Bob was also Past Patron of both Shining Star Chapter, #293 O.E.S. Mitchell and Past Patron of Veritas Chapter, #128 O.E.S. Strathroy.

Since Bob took such joy in serving these organizations we felt he would want to encourage all those who knew and loved him to consider a memorial contribution to the Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada.

Illustrious Sir Donald J Warner, PP

April 14, 2024

Potentate of Mocha Shrine - London, Ontario Canada in 2004

Don passed away after complications of a stroke on April 14, 2024 at the age of 81. Survived by his loving wife Sandra. Dear father of Michael Warner (Erica) of Vancouver, British Columbia and Nancy Anastasopoulos. Cherished Grandpa of Michael Anastasopoulos, Niko Anastasopoulos, Coretta and Jacob Warner. Brother-in-law of Karen Warner and uncle to Kristine, Kathryn and Lesley. Former elevator mechanic with Otis Elevator Company Ltd. and in retirement he worked for Walter D. Kelly Funeral Home.

Don was very active with the community and volunteered his time with several organizations. He was a former Scout Leader, Past Master of Harmony Lodge No. 579. Past District Deputy Grand Master, Windsor District. Past Thrice Puissant Grand Master, Windsor Lodge of Perfection, Past Potentate Mocha Shriners, Member Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem and the Scottish Rite Learning Centre of Windsor.

Illustrious Sir Ellis G. Ryan, PP

January 24, 1947 – May 10, 2024

Potentate of Mizpah Shrine - Fort Wayne, IN in 2011

Ellis G. Ryan, 77, of Roanoke, passed away Friday, May 10, 2024 at his residence.

He was born on January 24, 1947 in East Liverpool, Ohio to the late Ellis E. and Stella (Fowler) Ryan.

On April 10, 1965 he married the love of his life, Patricia Quirk. She survives in Roanoke.

Mr. Ryan worked for 25 years for Global Tool & Die and retired from XY Tool & Die in 2011.

Ellis was a member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Roanoke. He was also a Past Potentate and Recorder of the Mizpah Shrine, a 33rd Degree Mason, an MSA member of the Scottish Rite, and a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus.

He is also survived by his granddaughter Ashley (David); great-granddaughter Miyah; and siblings, Sharon Frane, Ronnie (Wilma) Ryan, Jimmy (Peggy) Ryan, and John (Thelma) Ryan.

Also preceding him in death were daughter, Marilyn Ryan; and siblings, Dwayne Ryan, Gary Ryan, Linda Sheets, Larry Ryan, and Debbie Khaliq.

Imperial Sir John A Cinotto

September 13, 1941 – May 12, 2024

Imperial Potentate in 2013

Potentate of Murat Shrine - Indianapolis, IN in 2001

John Albert Cinotto, 82, of Indianapolis, formerly Carmel and Westfield, passed away May 12, 2024. He was born in Joliet, IL on September 13, 1941, son of John J. and Cecelia M. (Ayersman) Cinotto.

After attending Lewis College, John became employed at Johns Manville, Conwed, owner of CASI as well as owner of C.D.S. of Indiana. He served in the US Army National Guard.

John was a proud member of Shriners International, Murat Shrine, Free Masons, and the Scottish Rite. He was awarded the Imperial Potentate from Shriners International, as well as Potentate from the Murat Shrine in Indianapolis. John served in a variety of positions for both Murat Shrine and Shriners International.

When possible, John enjoyed fishing, boating, and scuba diving. His greatest joy was spending time with family and friends.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret (Kretzer) Cinotto; daughter in law, LeeAnn (Castor) Cinotto; siblings, Cele Pomatto, Marilyn Wilken, Beverly Ronchetti, Darlene Cinotto, Jacqueline Cinotto, and Robert Cinotto. 

Survivors include his children, Jeffrey Cinotto, Deana (Jeffrey) Keen, and Gregory (Jodie) Cinotto; 6 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild, and his beloved miniature Schnauzer, “Maggie”.

Illustrious Sir Harold Ed Scott, PP

April 16, 1938 – May 14, 2024

Potentate of Ainad Shrine - East St. Louis, IL in 2007

Harold Ed Scott, 86, of Shiloh, IL, born Saturday, April 16, 1938, in Jacksonville, IL, passed away Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at Memorial Hospital East in Shiloh, IL.

Harold worked at Sears in management for 42 years. He was a member of Franklin Lodge #25 AF & AM – Alton, IL, Scottish Rite Bodies, Ainad Shrine, Past Potentate 2007, Hospital Unit, Legion of Honor, Director Staff, Oriental Band, several Shrine Clubs, Southern, Illinois Court 86 R.O.J. He was a United States Army Veteran.

He was preceded in death by his:

• Wife: Elizabeth “Betty” J. Scott (whom passed away on August 31, 2023)

• Parents: Charles and Floy L., nee Blimling, Scott

• Brothers - Eugene Scott & John Scott

• Sister: Lucille Delaney

• 2 at infancy

Surviving are his:

• Daughter: Michele (Frank) Krajczar of Saint Louis, MO

• Step-grandchildren - Steve (Shannon) Krajczar, Ashley (James) Jeffery & Katie (Tyler) Simpson

• Great-grandchildren - Emry Krajczar, Morgan Jeffery & Jaylnn Hall

Illustrious Sir Donald W. Doyle , PP

May 15, 1935 – May 29, 2024

Potentate of Mohammed Shrine - Peoria, IL in 1998

Donald Wayne Doyle, age 89, of Metamora, Illinois, passed away peacefully Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, Illinois, surrounded by his devoted wife and three children. He was born May 15, 1935, near Time, Illinois, to Arthur Glen Doyle and Effie Louise (Manker) Doyle. He married Mary Ellen West in New Hartford, Illinois, on June 2, 1957. 

Donald grew up in Pike County, graduating from Pittsfield High School in 1953. After proudly serving in the United States Marine Corp after high school, Donald returned to work for Site Oil in Springfield, Illinois, shortly before moving with his new bride to Peoria, Illinois, to attend Bradley University. His forty-year career after college included employers Becker Bros., Inc., Peoria Blacktop, Schielein Construction Co., and Spurgeon Construction, a career which helped form the roads and buildings people still see and use around the region today.   

Donald enjoyed Bradley Braves Basketball, Bears’ football games, volunteering for the Shriners Hospital, and driving for Lexus in retirement. He was a member of American Legion, Mohammed Shrine (and past Potentate), Royal Order of Jesters, Peoria First United Methodist Church, and Bradley University Alumni Association. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Mary Ellen; children Todd (Amy) Doyle, Joelle (Robert) Weltzin, and Jocelyn Doyle; and three grandchildren, Riley (Colten), Brayden, and Connor. He was preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter Noelle Elizabeth Doyle, brother Billy Lee Doyle, sister Lois Glen McClain, and brother-in-law in law Albert E. McClain.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, June 3, 2024, at 2:30pm at the Pittsfield Cemetery with military funeral honors. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

The family expresses its profound appreciation to those at the hospice home who took such wonderful care of Donald and demonstrated genuine kindness to the family. Therefore, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made online to the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home.

Illustrious Sir Gary D Hudson , PP

December 28, 1938 – July 22, 2024

Potentate of Hadi Shrine - Evansville, IN in 2003

Gary D. Hudson, age 85, of Evansville, IN, passed away Monday, July 22, 2024, at Woodmont Health Campus in Boonville, IN.

Gary was born December 28, 1938, in Tell City, IN, to William Henry and Goldia (Harris) Hudson. Gary graduated from Chrisney High School in 1956 and served in the Army Reserves for 2 years. He retired as a supervisor from Whirlpool where he worked for over 20 years and was a member of the Whirlpool Management Club. Gary was a member of the VFW and American Legion Funkhouser Post 8. He was a past treasurer at St. James United Methodist Church. He became a member of Crossroads Christian Church in 2000. Gary was a member of Evansville Masonic Lodge #64 , the Hadi Shrine Temple, and the Scottish Rite. He was the past Potentate of the Hadi Shrine, served in the Arab Patrol, Hadi Car Club, Hadi Hospital Staff, Cabiri, Oriental Band, Spencer County Shrine Club, Hadi Legion of Honor, and Hadi Past Masters Club.

Gary is survived by his daughter, Dawn R. Smith (Dion); sister, Marsha Johnson; and grandchildren, Alex Langford (Ashley) and Karly Smith; great grandchild, Grayson Langford; and several nieces and nephews.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents; loving wife, Joann (Murdock) Hudson; sister, Joyce Schriefer; and brother, William Hudson, Jr.

Illustrious Sir Bernard S. "Bernie" Welniak, Jr., PP

December 16, 1945 – August 07, 2024

Potentate of Zenobia Shrine - Perrysburg, OH in 1993

Bernie Welniak, age 78, of Whitehouse, Ohio passed away on August 7, 2024 at Bridge Hospice Care Center in Bowling Green of pancreatic cancer with his wife by

his side.

Bernie was born December 16, 1945, and was raised in Toledo, Ohio, the son of the late Bernard S. Welniak, Sr. and Mary (Zolciak) Welniak.

He enlisted in the U.S Air Force where he served in Japan, Philippines and Vietnam. After he was discharged, he married his high school sweetheart

Dorothy Jendrzejak. They have been married for 56 years.

Bernie was Director of Patient Accounts at St. Luke's Hospital for 28 years in Maumee, Ohio.

He and his wife Dorothy have resided in Whitehouse, Ohio since 1973. They belong to St. Joseph Church in Maumee, Ohio. They enjoyed attending Mass

at Lial Chapel with the Sisters of Notre Dame in Whitehouse, Ohio.

Bernie served two terms on the Village of Whitehouse Council and in 1992 served on the committee to prepare legislation for a Charter Form of Government. He was Past President of the former Whitehouse Area Recreation Corporation and was a member of Whitehouse American Legion Post #384 and recently received his 50-year  membership award. He was also a member of the Maumee Elks Lodge #1850.

Bernie has been a member of Barton Smith Lodge #613 since 1975. Fort Meigs Chapter #29, Toledo Council #33, Toledo Commander #007. He joined the A.A.S.R Valley of Toledo in 1975 and served as Sovereign Prince Northern Light Council Prince of Jerusalem. He is also a past member of St. Thomas Conclave-Red Cross of Constantine, Turkey Foot #253 A.M.D. Bernie was the Chairman for Fallen Timber's DeMolay Chapter and was holder of the DeMolay Honorary Legion of Honor. In 2010, he was coronated a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason in Philadelphia, PA. 

Bernie joined the Zenobia Shrine Patrol in 1975 and was a member of the Patrol Drill Team, a former marching unit traveling thru the U.S. And Canada. He was President of the Patrol in 1982. Past President of the Great Lakes Shrine Patrol Association 1986/1987, served as Potentate of Zenobia Shrine Center in 1993, Past President of the Ohio Shrine Association 1987/1988 and chaired the annual Shrine Hospital Tabloid Promotion. He was an Honorary Member of a number of Shrine Units and Club's, and was a member of R.O.J. Court # 21.

He loved to play euchre on Thursday nights with his friends at the Shrine. Bernie and Dorothy traveled extensively enjoying 17 cruises and many land trips. A highlight of their travels was a trip to the Orient in 1987.

Bernie will be best remembered for his service to others, love of family and friends and selling Shrine Circus ads and tabloids.

Bernie is survived by his wife, Dorothy, and has many nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents and loving sister, Rita Kramer.

Illustrious Sir Roger L Anderson, PP

July 05, 1935 – September 14, 2024

Potentate of Tebala Shrine - Rockford, IL in 1979

Roger passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 14, 2024, in his home. Roger was born on July 5, 1935, in Freeport to A. Raymond "Ray" & Lorraine M. "Chick" (Grell) Anderson. Roger was raised in Pecatonica and graduated from "Pec" High School in 1953. He joined the U.S. Navy and following boot camp, he was in the Navy Reserves for 8 years. Roger formerly worked at Woodward Governor Company, attended Rockford College & Northern Illinois University, then graduated with honors from Worsham College of Mortuary Science, served his apprenticeship & worked for Burpee-Wood Funeral Home for 4 years then joined Long-Klontz Funeral Home in 1964. In 1969 he was made a partner in that firm. That year the 3 partners purchased the business of Julian-Poorman Funeral Home. Following the deaths of Mr. John Long & David Klontz, Roger became the sole owner of Anderson-Long-Klontz.

Roger enjoyed fishing, boating, golfing, and flying and was a partner in the A&W Flying Service. He was appointed, by the Governor of the State of Illinois, to serve as member, secretary, and chairman of the 5 man State Board of Funeral Directing & Embalming Examiners, serving for 5 years. Roger and good friend M. Scott Hansen had previously owned "Good Time Charlies" restaurant.

He was a life member of Cherry Valley Masonic Lodge #173, an honorary member of Star in the East Masonic Lodge #166; Valley of Freeport Scottish Rite Masons; and Knights Templars #14; He was a former member of Tebala's International Championship Drum & Bugle Corps & member of Tebala's Air Squadron; Roger was Potentate of the Tebala Shriners in 1979 and then served Tebala as treasurer for the next 27 years, past director of the Royal Order of Jester Ct. #69. Past president of Northern Illinois Funeral Directors Association and past member of National Conference of Funeral Examiners.

Roger is loved and will be missed by his 3 sons, Jeffrey S. (Yvonne) Anderson, Rockford, IL, Stephen G. (Diann) Anderson, Loveland, CO, and Roger D. "Chip" (Cindy) Anderson, Winnebago, IL; Grandchildren, David (Katherine) Anderson, Jonathan Anderson, Patrick (Tiana) Anderson, Dr. Matthew (Mary) Anderson, Carter Anderson, Ella Anderson; Step-grandchildren Jimmy (Laura) Johnson and Jeffery (Grace) Johnson; Great-grandchildren, Luke, Grace, Jacob, Caleb, Ezekiel, Jordan, Avery Anderson, Hollyn, Robin, Charlotte Johnson; as well as special friend, Joy King. Roger is preceded in death by his parents, a brother Donald R. Anderson (in 1933), daughter-in-law, Rev. Patricia Anderson in 2009, and former wife, Marjorie J. Anderson in 2014.

Illustrious Sir Thomas T King, PP

November 17, 1935 – September 26, 2024

Potentate of Mizpah Shrine - Fort Wayne, IN in 2001

Thomas T. King, 88, of Albion, IN, passed away on September 26, 2024. He was born in Grabill, IN on November 17, 1935, the son of the late George and Ida King.

He attended Indiana University-Bloomington obtaining a B.S. And M.S. He was a member of Kappa Sigma Social Fraternity, Phi Epsilon Kappa Honorary Physical Education Fraternity, Phi Delta Kappa Honorary Education Fraternity during his time there.

He was also a member of New Haven Masonic Lodge 740, Scottish Rite, Mizpah Shrine, Royal Oder of Jesters 27, Order of the Q, Jobs Daughters (Associate Guradian), Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Elks Lodge 1194, Moose Lodge and Shrine Chanters.

Thomas taught high school at Pleasant Mills in Adams County, Cromwell in Noble County, junior high at Village Woods in East Allen County and High school at Harding in East Allen County.

He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Colleen King; Children, Holly (Terry) Wilson, Ryan (Dr. Angie) King; stepchildren, Rick (Kathy) Puckett, Randall (Jennifer) Puckett; grandchildren, Austin Gage, Noah and Seth Stovall, Hailey Steele, Alicia Smith, Lydia Schrader, Lyndsey and Logan Puckett.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Janeen King; infant daughter, Dedra King; stepson, Ronald Puckett; brothers, Lewis, Russell and Chiron, and sister, Martha.

Illustrious Sir Dennis M. "Denny" Reed, PP

December 01, 1949 – October 01, 2024

Potentate of Hadi Shrine - Evansville, IN in 2001

Dennis M. “Denny” Reed, 74, of Jasper, passed away at 7:40 a.m. on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at home surrounded by family.

He was born on December 1, 1949, in Concordia, Kansas, to Fredrick Darrell and Betty (Kugler) Reed. 

He married his wife of 50 years, Jane Sternberg, on December 2, 1973, in St. Anthony Catholic Church in St. Anthony, Indiana. 

He graduated from Superior High School in Superior, Nebraska, in 1968 and from Kansas State University in 1972 with a B.S. in Restaurant Management.

Denny spent most of his career as a district manager for several keyboard manufacturers, including Kimball, Young Chang, Roland and Rodgers.  

After a very successful career in the music industry, he and his wife Jane embarked on a lifelong dream of owning and operating their own restaurant, Mimi’s.

Denny was a member of Truelove Church in Loogootee, where he served as their organist.

He was a member and Past Master of the Jasper Masonic Line Lodge #743. He was also a 32nd Degree Master Mason and a member of the Scottish Rite. Denny was the Potentate of the Hadi Shrine Temple in 2001 and served as Past President of the Dubois County Shrine Club. He was very involved in the planning and management of the Hadi Shrine Circus and was a Dubois County Roadster. He was also a member of the Jasper Moose Lodge #1175. 

He was an avid supporter and sports fan of his alma mater, Kansas State. His biggest passion in life was music; a day did not go by where he didn’t play a piano, keyboard, and even on occasion, an accordion. He loved to entertain people through stories, sharing his love of music, hosting happy hour, and spending time with family and friends.   

He is survived by his wife, Jane Reed of Jasper; two daughters, Ashley Fair (Dan) of Ireland and Kayce Reed-Buechlein (Aaron) of Bloomington; and one grandson, Connor Fair.

Preceding him in death were his parents.

Illustrious Sir Wayne D. Bishop, PP

January 29, 1934 – October 05, 2024

Potentate of Zenobia Shrine - Toledo, OH in 1984

Wayne Delano Bishop, 90, of Findlay, passed away on October 5, 2024. Wayne was the eldest of six children and was born to Harold and Georgia (Yates) Bishop on January 29, 1934 in Mt. Blanchard, Ohio. Wayne went to be with his wife of 57 years, Lueva, his parents; brother, Marcus and sister, Jane.

Wayne is survived by his sister, Joanne McClelland of Arlington Ohio; brother, Eric (Maggie) of Juncos, Puerto Rico; sister, Debra Fischer of Clarkdale, Arizona; two sons and daughters-in-law: Randy (Lori) Bishop of Findlay and Craig (Anne) Bishop of Waterville, Ohio. He was blessed with 5 grandchildren: Michael (Emily) Bishop, Stephanie (Jeff) Schweickert, Kylee (Jeff) Salatino, Eric (Bridget) Bishop and Joshua (Veronica Shapiro) Bishop. Wayne experienced the joy of 11 great grandchildren: Easton, Poppy, Owen, Nolan, Emerson, Wyatt, Jack, Sloane, Sofia, Cole and Eloise.

Wayne graduated from Mt. Blanchard High School in 1952 while working on the family farm before joining the US. Army in 1954.

Wayne along with his wife Lueva were entrepreneurs, owning and operating Imperial Marathon in Findlay, where they carried on business for over 50 years. Wayne was a member of Findlay Masonic Lodge 227 for over 60 years, Findlay's Eastern Star Chapter #23, where he and Lueva served as the Worthy Patron and Matron in 1970. He was the president of the Findlay Shrine Club in 1976 where he was active as a Clown and was the Potentate of the Zenobia Shrine in 1984 and also a member of the Shrine Jesters and Mariners. Wayne was a gardener, NASCAR fan and loved spending time with family. He could drive and fix anything with wheels, tracks or trim tabs. He and Lueva enjoyed boating on Lake Erie, motorcycles, snowmobiling, raising chinchillas and travel in their RV. He also found great enjoyment building and showing his classic cars.

Wayne enjoyed the past few years with his friends at a local senior community.

Illustrious Sir Norman Howard Storms, PP

January 26, 1932 – December 5, 2024

Potentate of Elf Khurafeh Shrine - Saginaw, MI in 2001

Norman was born in Flint, Michigan on January 26, 1932, the son of the late Lester and Ida (Connor) Storms. On October 13, 1951 he married Donna Ringler. He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church. Past Master of Genesee Lodge #174 F.&A.M., Past Potentate 2001, Past Treasurer and Past Chaplin of Elf Khurafeh Shrine Temple. Past Circus Chairman of Elf Khurafeh Shrine Circus. Member of several Shrine Clubs and Units. Member of the Royal Order of Jesters, Saginaw Court 74, Member of the Lapeer Country Club. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He also loved spending his summers at his place in Au Gres, Michigan. Norm was also an avid golfer and hunter.

Surviving are his wife, Donna; 2 sons, Brian (Susan) and Mark (Terry); grandchildren, Danielle Storms, Taylor Storms, Connor (Morgan)Storms; great-grandchildren, Draven Ramm, Amara Rider-Storms and Grayson Storms; sister, Evelyn (Earl) Rollyson; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Delbert, Darwin, Franklin, Truman, and Howard Storms; sister, Phylis Storms.

Illustrious Sir Mike Koeneman, PP

May 11, 1948 – December 9, 2024

Potentate of Ainad Shrine - East St. Louis, IL in 2024

On December 9, 2024, Mike Koeneman passed under the checkered flag and started his final victory lap. Michael Roy Koeneman was born in May of 1948 in Chester, Illinois.  He was the son of Roy and Dorothy Koeneman. He lived the vast majority of his life in the Belleville area.  In 1979, he married Karen and they built a long and busy life in the Belleville and Swansea area, it was there that they raised Keri and Scott.

Mike loved being in the community and visiting with people so it was natural that his career led him to Koerner Distributing where he worked for 38 years.  At Koerner, Mike worked in all divisions, finally serving as Senior Business Administrator. This gave him the opportunity to visit businesses throughout the area and establish lasting friendships. If you wanted to know the best price on something, call Mike because he had just been in the store.

He had a sense for numbers and was known for his organization and attention to detail. His seriousness and natural leadership ability came from his dad, which was softened by the smile and gift of gab he got from his mom. His connection to the community created opportunities to connect the dots between the organizations he served.  This allowed him to amplify his organizations’ success.  He always knew someone that could help somehow, someway.

The organizations who benefited from his service were Allied Auto Racing Association where he was a member for 32 years serving as the Secretary and then Treasurer, building friendships that stood the test of time; Past President of the Swansea Park Board where he served as a member for 15 years; East Lodge #504 AF & AM, Scottish Rite Bodies, Current Potentate Ainad Shrine, Past President of Directors Staff, Belleville Shrine Club, Past Director of Southern Illinois Court #86 Royal Order of Jesters. He was a man of many missions and each of these organizations was fortunate to have him serve.

His true life’s mission was his family, the sparkle in his eyes.  He reveled in watching his kids grow up with the calamity and chaos of family gatherings.  Despite his schedule, he was the ever present fan and cheerleader at both his children’s and grandchildren’s events. This was the source of his inner joy and pride. His wife Karen was his trusted companion traveling to and from, here and there, so as to not miss a thing.

Mike had a full life made special by a cadre of friends and family.

Left to cherish his memories are his:

• Wife: Karen

• Daughter: Keri (Jason) Hinson

• Son: Scott (Danielle) Koeneman

• Grandsons - Carter Hinson & Easton Koeneman

• Granddaughter: Elliana Koeneman

• Sisters - Becky (Dan) Schnitzius & Laura (Carol Bartle) Grandy

• Niece: Jules (Jason) Hunter

• Nephews - Christopher (Jennifer) Davis, Todd (Catherine) Davis & Joe (Chris Voss) Grandy

Illustrious Sir Steven Earl Ripstra, PP

February 24, 1949 – December 13, 2024

Potentate of Hadi Shrine - Evansville, IN in 1995

President of Great Lakes Shrine Association in 2003

Steven Earl Ripstra (Steve), 75, of Huntingburg, IN, passed away on Friday, December 13, 2024.

Steve was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 24, 1949. He graduated from Thorntown High School in 1967 and continued on to receive a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Political Science from Ball State University in 1971. He later received his law degree from Samford University, Cumberland School of Law of Birmingham, Alabama in 1978.

Steve was married to Trish (Nay) Ripstra on September 25, 1971; they were married 53 years.

Steve was an attorney for 48 years. He began his career in Jasper, Indiana with Lytton Law Office, which soon became Lytton and Ripstra Law Office, and later Ripstra Law Office. Steve enjoyed reading, playing chess, fishing, golfing, watching the Chicago Cubs and St Louis Blues, working, and watching his grandkids play sports. He was a life-long learner and thrived at gaining knowledge in all areas of life.

Steve was involved in many organizations throughout his life. He was a Master Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite, Potentate of the Hadi Shrine in 1995, President of the Great Lakes Shrine Association, and a member of the board of St Louis Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Steve is survived by his wife, Trish Ripstra; daughters, Jennifer Thacker (Jason) and Amanda Rees (Jason); grandchildren, Cassidy, Brock, and Maddie Jean and many friends that are considered family.

Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Phyllis Ripstra and Earl Ripstra, his brother, Charles Ripstra.

Illustrious Sir Kevin M. Wilson, PP

December 2024

Potentate of Mocha Shrine - London, Ontario Canada in 2009