Illustrious Sir Harry W. Sterling, PP

January 2025

Potentate of Syrian Shrine - Cincinnati, OH in 2003

President of the Great Lakes Shrine Association in 2008

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Illustrious Sir Harry W. Sterling, 2003 Potentate of Syrian Shriners, 2008 President of the Great Lakes Shrine Association, and 2013 Thomas W. Melham Humanitarian Award Recipient.

Please keep Deb and the Sterling family in your thoughts and prayers. We will share additional information as soon as we have it.

Illustrious Sir Ernest "Ernie" J. Smith, Jr., PP

May 29, 1943 – January 12, 2025

Potentate of Mohammed Shrine - Peoria, IL in 2003

Ernest J. “Ernie” Smith Jr., 81, of Morton passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

Ernie was born on May 29, 1943, in Peoria to Ernest and Pauline (Quine) Smith Sr. He married Regina “Reggie” Hurst in 1965 in Morton. She preceded him in death on July 3, 2021. Also, preceding Ernie in death was his infant sister, Paulette.

He is survived by his daughters, Joann Pazen and Jodi (Chris) Murray; grandchildren, Riley, Ivan and Leo; and sister, Vicki (Donald) Bradshaw.

After a childhood spent with many aunts, uncles and cousins on the south side of Peoria, Ernie graduated from Manual High School, after which he chose to join the U.S. Navy and was sworn in on June 29, 1961, and proudly served on the USS Jallao, cruising the Mediterranean Sea, Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. He was proud of never getting sea sick!

Upon separation from the U.S. Navy and returning to the United States in June of 1965, Ernie worked in the construction trade. He joined Caterpillar, Inc. in 1966 and was a maintenance supervisor in plant engineering until retirement. In 1966, he and Reggie also moved to Morton to raise their family.

Ernie was a member of Morton Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite Valley of Peoria, Mohammed Shrine (Potentate 2003) and United Submarine Service Veterans, Inc. He took great pride in these and was able to form relationships that lasted his lifetime.

His family, coffee buddies, amazing neighbors, fellow Shriners and Jesters, waitresses at his favorite places, and everyone else who knew him will remember Ernie as a warm, generous, loving person who loved to share stories. Oh, the stories. He will be missed by so many!

Illustrious Sir Roy Francis Kinne, PP

June 16, 1935 – January 13, 2025

Potentate of Elf Khurafeh Shrine - Saginaw, MI in 2006 & 2013

KINNE, Roy Francis - Age 89, of Linden, passed away Monday, January 13, 2025. Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, January 18, 2025 at Sharp Funeral Homes, Linden Chapel, 209 E. Broad St, Linden (The service will be live stream and can be viewed below his obituary here on this page). Deacon Ron Kenney officiating. Burial in Fairview Cemetery, Linden, Visitation will be held at the funeral home Friday from 3-8 PM and Saturday from 10 AM until the time of the service. A Masonic Memorial Service will be held at the funeral home 7:00 PM Friday, followed by a Shrine Walk Through. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to the Elf Khurafeh Shrine Center. 

Roy was born at 412 N. Bridge St, Linden June 16, 1935, the oldest son of L. Brooks and Gladys (Sansam) Kinne. He married JoAnn G. Schmeling, daughter of Capt. Ervin and Josephine Schmeling November 29, 1997. He was employed by Flint Fisher Body #1 as a apprentice Tool and Die Maker, Fisher Body Grand Blanc Plant (Cadillac Plant) as a Die Maker Supervisor, retiring in 1988 after 35.5 years of service; he then worked for Modern Engineering (at G.M. Tech Center, Warren). He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Roy also was the founder of Lake Fenton Lakers Baseball League in 1967, Cub Scout chairman, Charter Member of the Fenton Twp. Volunteer Fire Department, Advisory Board Member at Loose Senior Center, Linden, Life Member of the Fenton Masonic Lodge #109 F.&A.M. and a Life Member of Linden Masonic Lodge #132 F.&A.M. He was Worshipful Master of the Fenton Masonic Lodge #109 in 1969, Secretary of the Fenton Masonic Lodge from 1970-1975, he was a Life Member 32nd Degree Mason, Life Member of the Elf Khurafeh Shrine Center, Member of the Elf Khurafeh Shrine Clown Unit 1978 as "Curly", Secretary of the Elf Khurafeh Shrine Clown Unit, President of Security Shrine Security Unit 2010 and 2011, President of Fenton Shrine Club 1992 and 2011, Secretary of Fenton Shrine Club 1987 to 1991, Treasurer of the Fenton Shrine Club 2007 to 2010, Clan #55 Michigan Pine Ticks, Grand and Glorious Order of the Hillbilly Degree, Co-Chairman of the Hospital Committee 1988, Chairman Hospital Committee 1991-1999, Board Member of Shriners Hospital Chicago Unit 2001 to 2011, Worthy Patron of the Fenton OES #248 1993-1994, Potentate of the Elf Khurafeh Shrine Center 2006 and 2013, Royal Order of Jesters, Life Member and Treasurer. Roy's hobbies included Shriners, computers and traveling. 

Surviving are: his wife, JoAnn; sons, Randy Scott Kinne of Fenton, Wayne Owen (Karen) Kinne of Grand Blanc and Rodney Francis Kinne of Mio; stepchildren, Julie (and the late Michael) Curzenski, Lori (Don) Brecken, Susan Avram, Steven (Lisa) Avram; grandchildren, Justin (Diane) Kinne, Heather Dalton, Randy Kinne and Ryan Kinne; step grandchildren, Amy Lynn Curzenski, Erica Avram, R.J. Avram, Richard Shores and Benjamin Shafer; great grandchildren, Colton J. Dalton, Grace M. Dalton, Evan V. Kinne, Rose, Bradley, Dagan and Meadow; and he was also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, L. Brooks and Gladys Kinne; his first wife, Helen (Begley) Kinne; brothers, Leo and Leslie Kinne.

Illustrious Sir Douglas R Boyd, PP

July 23, 1940 – February 09, 2025

Potentate of Antioch Shrine - Dayton, OH in 1999

BOYD, Douglas R., age 84, of Springboro, passed away February 9, 2025. He was born July 23, 1940 in Flint, Michigan; the son of the late Ralph and Gladys (Morgan) Boyd. Along with his parents, Douglas is preceded in death by his brothers, Don and Dwayne Boyd. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Joan (Melick) Boyd; son, Jeff (Brenda) Boyd; daughter, Jennifer (Chuck) Isham; grandchildren, Chad Schneider, Dan (Haley) Isham, Megan (Tyler) Zoltanski, Lindsey (Calvin) Watkins, Nick (Morgan) Boyd, Morgan (Connor) Crain, Josh (Kalie) Boyd, and Adam Boyd; great grandchildren, Hunter, Finley, Lucas, and baby girl Crain due in April; brother, Dr. Darrell Boyd; and numerous extended family members and friends.

 Douglas began a career with General Motors in Flint, Michigan and moved to the Dayton area in 1979 where he continued his career with Detroit Diesel Allison until his early retirement at the age of 50. After retirement, he was an avid woodworker building many custom pieces throughout the Dayton community. He was a lifelong member of the Antioch Shrine community serving on the Cincinnati Board of Governors for Shriners Children’s Hospital. He served as Potentate of Antioch Shrine in 1999. Douglas was also a member of the Alpha Lodge in Kettering, Ohio. In his free time, Douglas loved to golf, play cards, puzzles, garden, and feed the birds around his home. Douglas will be dearly missed by his friends and family.

Illustrious Sir Thomas S Schrag, PP

September 08, 1949 – February 19, 2025

Potentate of Ainad Shrine - East St. Louis, IL in 2005

Thomas S. Schrag,75, of Swansea, IL, born Thursday, September 8, 1949, in St. Louis, MO, passed away suddenly surrounded by family on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, IL.

Thomas was a retired Insurance Agent for Bankers Life Insurance Company. He was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church Belleville IL, St. Clair Lodge #24 AF & AM,  Ainad Shrine, Past Potentate in 2005, Directors Staff, Circus Committee, Chairman of Insurance Committee, Mecca Club, Bond County Shrine Club, Belleville Shrine Club, Jefferson County Shrine Club and Southern Illinois Court #86 R.O.J., President of Belleville Improvement Group and Past President of Belleville Jaycees and was a Veteran in the National Guard.

He was preceded in death by his:

• Parents: Robert and Sarah, nee Morgan, Schrag

• Brother: Robert Schrag

Surviving are his:

• Wife of 53 years: Ginny, nee Lugge, Schrag of Swansea, IL

• Son: Bobby Schrag of Belleville, IL

• Daughter: Beth (Jon) Joelner of Freeburg, IL

• Grandchildren - Riley Schrag & William Joelner

• Sister-in-law: Sonja Schrag

• Niece: Rachel Schrag

Illustrious Sir Clay P. Hepler, PP

August 21, 1926 – February 22, 2025

Potentate of Zenobia Shrine - Toledo, OH in 1961

Clay Pearce Hepler, age 98, passed away on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Perrysburg. Clay was born August 21, 1926, at his grandmother’s house in Urbana, Ohio, to John M. and Belinda (Pearce) Hepler.

Clay attended high school in Lansing, Michigan where he was active in varsity sports, playing both football and baseball. He attended Michigan State College (MSC), where he played football for the Spartans. While attending college, Clay enlisted in the Army Air Corps; at the end of WWII, he returned to MSC before transferring to Ohio Wesleyan University. While at Wesleyan, he continued to be involved in varsity sports, officiating at local high school basketball and summer league baseball games. He also joined his brother, John, as a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He graduated in 1948 with a BA in Business.

On September 1, 1948, Clay married his college sweetheart, Betty O’Rourke, and they celebrated 64 years together before her passing in 2012. After graduating from Ohio Wesleyan, he started his career with his father-in-law at O’Rourke Buick. While Clay was there, he learned of every operation of each department. Next, Clay became a sales representative of the Abbey-Aetna Company, which helped diversify his experience until his return to O’Rourke Buick five years later when he became the Executive Vice President and General Manager. After the sale of the dealership in 1971, Clay served as the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Toledo Automotive Dealer’s Association for the next 32 years; during that time, he also served as National President of the Automotive Trade Association Executives.

Throughout his life, Clay was very involved in community service, including sports, committees, advisory boards, executive memberships, and other duties at numerous organizations. One of Clay’s proudest accomplishments of his active life was spearheading and lobbying for the creation of Maumee Bay State Park.

Clay spent 3 years on the football coaching staff at DeVilbiss High School and 2 years on the University of Toledo football coaching staff. During this time, he served as president of the Downtown Coaches Association and was honored with the 12th Man Award.

Clay was involved with numerous legislative committees, the Toledo Chamber of Commerce, air shows, and holiday parades. He was active on multiple advisory boards, including Owens Technical College-Automotive Technology, Toledo Mud Hens, and Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments.

His executive memberships included roles as the Chairman of the Board of Safety Council of Northwest Ohio, President of the Toledo Exchange Club, Director of the Jesters, President of the Ohio Shrine Association, and Chairman of the Board of the Better Business Bureau for 6+ years.

Clay was a member of Barton Smith Lodge, York Rite, and Scottish Rite. He became Potentate of Zenobia Shrine in 1961, making him the youngest Potentate in the country at the age of 35. He was a proud member of the Toledo Club for 58 years, Brandywine Country Club, Sylvania Country Club, Devil’s Lake Yacht Club, and the Toledo-Sylvania and Maumee Elks Lodges for over 60 years.

Upon retiring, Clay worked part time for the Walker Funeral Home on Sylvania Avenue to continue giving back to his community. At the end of his life, Clay resided at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, in Perrysburg, Ohio on a pilot program. There he received loving care from their outstanding staff, who called him “Hep.” Accompanying him at Hospice was his loving companion, Heppy the fish, who swam vigorously alongside Clay until last summer. His family and friends would especially like to thank the staff at Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Perrysburg for the tremendous care you all gave our dearest Clay during his last several years. You have our unending gratitude.

Illustrious Sir Fred Esken, PP

May 4, 1950 – March 19, 2025

Potentate of Mohammed Shrine - Peoria, IL in 2013

Frederick "Fred" J. Esken, 74, of Bloomington passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in Florida. Fred was born on May 4, 1950. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Esken. 

Fred was a member of Temple Masonic Lodge No. 46, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Peoria and Valley of Bloomington. He received the Meritorious Service Award from the Illinois Council of Deliberation in 2020. Illustrious Sir Esken served as Potentate of Mohammed Shriners in 2013. 

Illustrious Sir Charles "Chuck" Dea Pierce, PP

January 29, 1943 – April 14, 2025

Potentate of Tebala Shrine - Rockford, IL in 1998

Charles “Chuck” Dea Pierce, age 82, passed away on Monday, April 14, 2025, in Galena, IL, at Midwest Medical Center. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family. Chuck was born on January 29, 1943, at home in Corning, AR, to Dea and Vesta Pierce. He moved to Rockford, IL, in 1965 with his wife of 51 years, Janis Faye (Smith) Pierce. She preceded him in death on September 9, 2015. Chuck played baseball in his youth and continued playing in college. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing in The Galena Territory, Canada, and on Lake Michigan. He was a successful insurance broker for 54 years and a philanthropist who worked with the FreeMasons and Shriners. He was installed as Batavia’s Lodge No. 404 Worshipful Master in 1991 and a member of The Royal Order of Jesters. As a Shriner, Chuck served as Potentate for the Tebala Temple in Rockford in 1998. During his time as Potentate, his focus was “for the love of the children.” He also served as the President of the Great Lakes Shrine Association in 2010. Survivors include his wife of six years Janette (Johnson) Pierce, sister Minnie (Terry) Winslow, children Charla (Ken) Pierce-Beck of Dixon, Il, Todd (Ellen) Pierce of Hanover, IL, Sonja “Nikki” (Robert Klazura) Pierce of Denver, Colorado, and granddaughter Abbi Faye Pierce. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, and three sisters – Lufay Jones, Mary Sue Baker, and LaFern Young.

Illustrious Sir Thomas Fredrick Placher, Sr., PP

February 04, 1957 – April 20, 2025

Potentate of Elf Khurafeh Shrine - Saginaw, MI in 2014

Our beloved father, husband, grandfather, son, and brother, Thomas Placher Sr., passed away peacefully at home on April 20, 2025, at the age of 68.

Thomas was born on February 4, 1957, in Saginaw, Michigan. A proud Marine Corps veteran who served during the Vietnam War, as well as the Michigan National Guard 1/125 Bravo Company. Thomas lived a life dedicated to service, both to his country and his community. He was honored to serve as Potentate of the Elf Khurafeh Shriners for five years, a role that brought him great pride and allowed him to give back in countless ways.

Thomas is now reunited with the love of his life, his wife of 42 years, Cheryl Placher, who preceded him in death. He is also preceded in death by his parents.

He will be dearly missed by his children: Thomas (Melissa) Placher Jr., Tanya (Matthew) LaCount, and John Placher; his beloved grandchildren: Ronald, Lily, Tyler, (Sara) Placher, and MollyAnna; his brothers and sisters; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Illustrious Sir Joseph William Barnes Jr., PP

October 22, 1939 – May 17, 2025

Potentate of Ainad Shrine - East St. Louis, IL in 1985

Joseph William Barnes Jr., 85, of Highland, IL, born Sunday, October 22, 1939, in Los Angeles, CA, passed away Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

Joe graduated from Belleville Township High School in 1958. There, he was a proud member of the golf and diving teams, as well as the Sports Car Club, Golf Club, Letterman, and Prom Committee. After graduation, he attended college in Florida and then returned to the St. Louis metro area to work with his father in construction. He was a Staff Sergeant in the 52 Medical Service Squadron of the U.S. Air Force Reserves from 1962 to 1968.

In 1974, he married his bride, Linda, and moved to Highland after designing and building their A-frame home with his father. There, they built their lives and raised two daughters. Joe worked as a Project Manager for Interior Construction Services in St. Louis until his retirement.

He was a member of St. Clair Lodge #24 A.F & A.M. in Belleville, IL, Scottish Rite Bodies where he received his 33° in 1982, Ainad Shrine where he served as President of the Arab Patrol Club in 1970 and Potentate in 1985, Southern Illinois Court #86 R.O.J. (Past Director 1973), and Elks Lodge #664 in Fairview Heights, IL.

Honest, hardworking, witty, and loving, Joe was a devoted husband and father. He had a passion for golf, whether it was on the course with friends or playing mini golf with his wife, children, and grandsons. He adored watching sports on TV, especially with his grandson, Cole, sharing countless hours of games and conversation. He loved playing games with his family, especially Telestrations, which always brought plenty of laughter. He and his beloved wife, Linda, shared many joys in life, including their season tickets to the Muny, where they loved seeing shows together. They also cherished traveling to Branson with their dearest friends and family to take in performances. Together, they enjoyed trips to Las Vegas, regular visits to Texas to see their younger daughter and grandsons, and adventures across the country with their older daughter, creating treasured memories.

He was preceded in death by his:

• Parents, Joseph W. Sr. and Louise, nee Jost, Barnes

Surviving are his:

• Loving wife of 51 years, Linda Barnes, nee Kinder, of Highland, IL

• Children - Lynda Marshall of Highland, IL & Leslie (Jason) Benson of Fate, TX

• Grandchildren - Cole Benson & Lewis Benson

Illustrious Sir Larry D Jefferson, PP

November 27, 1936 – May 31, 2025

Potentate of Murat Shrine - Indianapolis, IN in 1993

Larry Dean Jefferson, 88, Carmel, Indiana, passed away Saturday, May 31, 2025 after a long illness. He was born November 27, 1936 in North Manchester, Indiana. He was the son of Lawrence and Daisy (Munson) Jefferson. Larry was a graduate of Central High School, North Manchester; attended Indiana University and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and a minor in law. He worked for Ford Motor Company, Indianapolis Plant, for 38 years, in the controller’s office.

In November of 1962, he married Manuella Dunham. During their 62 and a half years of marriage, they traveled to all 7 continents, 104 countries, 40 territories and islands, and all 50 states in the United States. They also enjoyed going to the theatre where they would partake in Broadway shows, Opera, and plays of all genre. They loved attending concerts, many of which were put on by the symphony orchestra.

Larry had the honor of being presented the Sagamore of the Wabash award in 1995 by Governor Evan Bayh. He was also presented the Imperial Potentate’s Award of Merit in 2014 by Imperial Potentate John A. Cinotto.

Larry was very active in the Murat Shrine Temple. He held many offices during his tenure. He was President of Murat Reception, Pilgrimage Chairman, Director General for the 1995 Imperial Session, Director General for the Great Lakes Shrine Association held in Indianapolis. He was appointed Outer Guard and spent ten years becoming Potentate in 1993. In 1997 he was appointed Murat Treasurer and served in that role for 13 years. He served as President of Shrine Treasury Association of North America, and five years as the Murat Shrine Temple Recorder. He served as treasurer and director of the Royal Order of Jesters. Larry was 50 year member of the Blue Lodge Mason, Brookside Masonic Lodge #720 F.&A.M., Scottish Rite of Indianapolis Valley, Order of Eastern Star, and Murat Shrine. He was also a member of Red Cross of Constantine, Royal Order of Jesters, Raper Commandery No. 1 Knights Templar Indianapolis, International Association Legions Honor Shriners International, The Royal Order of Scotland, the Kachina Club, DeMolay Legion of Honor and the Order of Quetzalcoatl. In 2002 Larry was conferred the Thirty-Third Degree in Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction as a member of the Valley of Indianapolis.

Larry is preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Jefferson, his mother Daisy Baines, his brother Donald L Jefferson and his sister-in –law, Beverly Jefferson. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 and a half years, Manuella Dunham Jefferson, his niece Karen Jefferson Clingler (Gary), his nephew Steven Jefferson (Cindy), two great nephews; Andrew Jefferson (Emily) and Cody Jefferson (Mollee), and a great-grandniece Robin Jefferson.

Illustrious Sir Joey Lee Scott, PP

December 26, 1934 – June 23, 2025

Potentate of Murat Shrine - Indianapolis, IN in 1995

Joey Lee Scott, 90, of Indianapolis, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 23, 2025, at Magnolia Springs Southpointe in Indianapolis.

Born on December 26, 1934, in Beckley, West Virginia, Joe lived a life marked by compassion, leadership, and service. He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Marshall University in 1957. He went on to earn his Physical Therapy certification from the Mayo Clinic in 1959. After relocating to Indiana, Joe continued his education at Butler University, receiving a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology in 1967. In 1971, he earned a Master's Degree in Hospital Administration from the Indiana University School of Medicine.

Joe was a pioneer in the field of physical therapy and healthcare administration in Indiana. He founded the Physical Therapy Department at St. Francis Hospital in Beech Grove and later established Rehabilitation Health Services, Inc. In 1983, he joined Basic American Medical Inc., rising to the role of Senior Vice President. In 1993, he founded Scott Medical Services, Inc., retiring in 2000 after a distinguished career.

A dedicated Freemason and Shriner, Joe was a proud member of Southport Lodge #270 F. & A.M., the Indianapolis Valley of the Scottish Rite, and the Murat Shrine. He served as Potentate of the Murat Shrine in 1995, was the Past President of the Arab Patrol, and was an active member of the Royal Order of Jesters, the Order of Quetzalcoatl, and the Gatling Gun Club. Joe was also a 33° Scottish Rite Mason and served on the Board of Governors for the Shrine Hospital in Cincinnati, as well as on the Board of Directors of the Murat Temple.

Joe is survived by his son, Jeffrey (Megan) Scott, and five beloved grandchildren: Whitney Scott, Vanessa (Jason) Klenke, Samuel Scott, Bridgett (Randy) Chestnut, and Joey (Elizabeth) Brake. He was blessed with two great-granddaughters, Elana and Sophia Brake, all of Indianapolis. He is also survived by many cherished nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Samuel Burke and Earl Scott, his first wife Virginia Scott and second wife Sandra Scott, his daughter Jennifer Wickersham, and his sisters Peggy Jo Goff, Patricia Bowling, and Cecelia Ellenbogen.

Joe will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his profession, his deep commitment to his community, and the love he shared with his family and friends.

Illustrious Sir Steven Robert Johnson, PP

December 01, 1948 – July 22, 2025

Potentate of Mizpah Shrine - Fort Wayne, IN in 1997

Steven Robert Johnson, age 76, of Angola, Indiana passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 with his favorite lakeview. He was born December 1, 1948 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to the late Robert Unger and Virginia Marie (née Gutermuth) Johnson. Steven graduated from North Side High School, Class of '67. Following graduation, Steven began his career at J.T.J., Inc. Restaurant Equipment and Supplies working alongside his parents in the family business. Following their closure in 1997, Steven ventured into commercial real estate with NAI Harding-Dahm from which he retired in 2014, a good fit so he could maintain his regular golf schedule.

Continuing the legacy began by his parents, Steven owned and operated Cap's Mobile Home Park on Crooked Lake, in Angola, Indiana which he has since passed on to his daughters. Cap's Mobile Home Park was a true extension of his family and held a special place in his heart. He was honored to serve the residents throughout his lifetime.

Steve was a member of the Valley of Fort Wayne Scottish Rite; Mizpah Shrine - Past Potentate (1997), Past President of SCAFRA, and Shrine Circus Director for ten years; North Eastern Lodge No. 210; Royal Order of Jesters; S.A.L. Post #423; and Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 1568.

He enjoyed traveling domestically and abroad, especially time spent in Aruba, and cruising to various ports of call. He and Marianne would winter at The Villages where they just celebrated their ten year Village-a-Versary; Steve became an avid water volleyball player, and was a formidable opponent. Although he also loved playing a round or two of golf, and took several golfing trips over the years with friends, Steve cherished the time spent with family the most. He was a man who loved his friends and family to the fullest . . . a loving, devoted husband, father and step-father. He was the best dad ever to his girls; he loved them unconditionally and gave them all the opportunities for success in life. Steve was beyond proud of his grandchildren; he was their greatest fan in all their adventures.

Steve is survived by his wife, Marianne Johnson; daughters, Kelly Crago and Holly (Scott) Uetrecht; step-children, Maxx (Deanne) Wade, and Callie (Josh) Richardson; and grandchildren, Corey (Keegan Arnold) Uetrecht and Eric Uetrecht. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kim Johnson; and son-in-law, Donald Crago.

Illustrious Sir Robert L. Seelye, PP

December 01, 1948 – July 6, 2025

Potentate of Mohammed Shrine - Peoria, IL in 1987

Robert Lee Seelye, “Bob”, 83, of Peoria, IL, passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Morton, IL. 

Illustrious Sir Seelye was a member of Temple Masonic Lodge No. 46 and the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite - Valley of Peoria. He served as the Potentate of Mohammed Shriners in 1987. He was a just and upright Mason for 53 years. 

Illustrious Sir William "Carl" Eakes, PP

March 03, 1931 – August 10, 2025

Potentate of Zenobia Shrine - Toledo, OH in 2008

William "Carl" Eakes, a longtime resident of Norwalk, passed away Sunday, August 10, 2025, surrounded by members of his loving family.

Carl was born in Nashville, Tennessee, March 3, 1931, to William Clifton and Verna Mae Eakes. He, his mother and brothers moved to Anderson, Indiana, in 1943. The family further moved from Anderson to Pendleton, Indiana, and then to Markleville, Indiana, where he graduated from high school in 1949.

Carl met the love of his life, Clarice Irene Owens, in Pendleton and married in August of 1949. This union produced five sons and lasted for 75 years until his recent death.

Throughout his years, in school and after, Carl was involved in various sports. His primary love was basketball, but he also enjoyed tennis, which he played into his 90s, golf and bowling.

Carl retired as division manager from General Motors after 42 years of service and was the potentate of Zenobia Shrine Club in 2008.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Clifton and Verna Mae Eakes; and brothers, Lloyd and Floyd.

He is survived by his wife, Clarice; sons, Michael (Brenda), Gary, Richard (Regina), Dennis, Kevin (Rachael); and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.