Joseph M. Kersten, 75, of Woodstock, passed away Dec. 15, 2023.  Eldest son of Charles Otto and Mildred (Freeman) Kersten, Joe was born in Chicago. Growing up in nearby Greenwood and Wonder Lake, he attended St. Mary’s grade school in Woodstock. A 1966 graduate of Marian Central Catholic High School, Joe represented the Hurricanes proudly on the gridiron.  Joe began driving heavy equipment for Don Gavers out of high school. He enlisted in the United States Army the same week his draft number was selected in 1969. Joe served honorably in the 213th Engineer Detachment for 13 months, stationed in Can Tho, South Vietnam. Out of the Army, Joe hauled freight domestically for Dean Foods before establishing his own domestic

On Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, Jamieson Ryan Robinett, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, peacefully passed away with his family at his side at the young age of 46 after a 14-month battle with cancer.  Jamie was born in Woodstock on July 31, 1977, to David and Tammy (Church) Robinett. He attended Olson Elementary and Junior High School and Woodstock High School, where he played soccer. He graduated high school in 1996 and went on to attend Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from SIUC in 2000. Jamie was a die-hard Chicago Bears, Cubs, and Blackhawks fan. His love of sports also extended to playing in various recreational leagues, including volleyball, softball, and flag

Beverly S. Boyne, 89, of Woodstock, passed away at Northwestern Medicine in Woodstock on Sunday, Dec. 9, 2023. She was born on May 20, 1934, to Edward and Grayce (Kramar) Schock in Longlake, S.D. She married Robert Boyne in July of 1954. Her career was that of a teacher, mostly in Cary School District 26, but she also volunteered at District 200 in Woodstock. She enjoyed gardening and craft working. She especially loved to knit, making blankets for all of her grandchildren. She was a member at First Presbyterian Church in Woodstock for many years. She loved to travel, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors. She was loved and will be missed. She is survived by her husband, Robert; a son,

Rita R. Johnson, 91, passed away peacefully Nov. 29, 2023, at Northwestern Medicine in McHenry surrounded by her family.  She was born on March 8, 1932, in East St. Louis, Ill., the daughter of George and Ruth (Harrison) Roberts.  Rita graduated from Crystal Lake Community High School in 1950, then went on to graduate from St. Francis School of Nursing in 1953. She married Richard G. Johnson on Nov. 21, 1953, at St. Thomas Church in Crystal Lake.  Her passion for sewing and crafts led her to opening her store, My Little Room Antiques & Crafts, in Crystal Lake. She was an avid golfer, Chicago Bulls fan, philanthropist, and was always hoping for a good pull on the slot machines. 

Dr. Willa Wertheimer was born May 10, 1964, to Edna (Faye) Ruth Summerfield and William Wertheimer. She also had a brother she loved, Andre (Andy) Drath, and a half-brother, Marshall Neal Geesey. She was born in Chicago.  Her two successful son,s Maitiu and Liam, have been by her side during her struggle with leiomyoma sarcoma cancer. Willa went to Buffalo Grove High School and graduated from DePaul University. She earned her PsyD. from Illinois School of Professional Psychology in 1994. Willa was a clinical psychologist serving the local community since 1999. She focused on providing psychotherapy to adults who were abused as children as well as other psychological services.  Willa was a valuable contributor to the International Society for the

Born: December 13th, 1964 Died: November 30th, 2023 Fred J. Learman Jr. passed away in his home on Nov. 30, 2023, with his wife, Diane, at his side. He was 58 years old. Fred was born on Dec. 13, 1964 in DesPlaines, Ill., to Fred Sr. and Kathleen (Buffington) Learman. The oldest of four boys, Fred graduated from Woodstock High School in 1983. After graduation, Fred went on to complete trade school and his apprenticeship, becoming a plumber and soon after, a plumbing estimator. Fred was very proud of his work and spent over 10 years working at Sherman Mechanical before working the last 10 years at Jensen’s Plumbing and Heating. On June 23, 1990, Fred married his high school

Lanny “Lenny” R. Jakubowicz, age 73, of Woodstock, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Nov. 29, 2023. He was born on April 22, 1950, in Chicago to Ray and Yola (Hurgon) Jakubowicz. He graduated from Wells High School in 1968 in Chicago. In 1972 he met the love of his life, Linda; they were married on Feb. 9, 1974. Lenny and Linda were blessed to raise their family in Woodstock, where they shared a wonderful life. Lenny worked for 37 years as a mail carrier for the USPS and was an active member of the Woodstock Moose Lodge. He enjoyed traveling, bowling, or taking a cruise in his Corvette. You’d often find him enjoying a cold

Kevin H. Brown, 58, of Woodstock peacefully passed on Nov. 24, 2023, after a three-year battle with cancer.  Kevin was born in Woodstock on May 16, 1965, to Ronald and Bette (Stock) Brown. He attended Dean Street Elementary, Olson Junior High and Woodstock High School, where he played football and ran track. He graduated in 1983 and went on to participate in both sports at Milliken University.  Kevin played softball in recreational leagues for many years. It was at one of these games that he was set up on a blind date with his wife of 30 years, Mary Beth Dermont.  Kevin coached football at Northwood Junior High and with St. Mary Youth Football program but was in his element