As we prepare to turn the page to a new year, we take a moment to remember and honor some influential individuals from the Galesburg area and surrounding communities who passed away in 2025. From dedicated educators and healthcare professionals to business leaders, athletes, union advocates, and public servants, these people left indelible marks on our hometown through their service, passion, and kindness.
(Click the name in each entry to read the full tribute story)
Note: This list highlights a selection of individuals whose passing generated significant community tribute coverage on WGIL in 2025. It is not exhaustive, as many meaningful lives were lost this year.
January
Brian S. Gabel
Brian Gabel, a beloved Monmouth-Roseville teacher and wrestling coach, passed away at age 64 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Known for his caring motivation and ability to connect with students beyond the classroom, he inspired the “Blankets of Love” project in his memory and left a profound legacy in education and youth sports.
Jack Edmund Oakley
Jack Edmund Oakley, longtime owner of the popular Titletown Video store in Galesburg, died at age 89. A retail fixture for decades, including as manager of the former Montgomery Ward, he served the community with dedication and was remembered for his military service and family ties.
Steven H. and Christine F. Youngquist
Steven H. Youngquist (70), a lifelong farmer and seed salesman, and his wife Christine F. Youngquist (72), a retired teacher of over 30 years, were tragically killed in a wrong-way crash on I-74. Described as true pillars of the Cameron and Lake Bracken communities, they were cherished for their kindness, faith, and family devotion.
February
Lawrence “Larry” Diemer
Longtime Galesburg High School English teacher Larry Diemer passed away at age 77. With a passion for writing and theater, he inspired students through challenging courses and community involvement with Prairie Players, making Shakespeare exciting and leaving a lasting impact on education.
Robert “Joffre” Eyre
Joff Eyre, the only Galesburg athlete to win an individual state golf championship, died at age 80. A standout from the 1963 state-winning team and military veteran, his athletic achievements earned him multiple Hall of Fame inductions and defined local sports history.
Larry Schroeder
Carl Sandburg College educator Larry Schroeder, known as “everyone’s favorite teacher,” passed away at age 77. He dedicated decades to teaching math and sciences, personally investing in student success and contributing to youth sports as a coach.
March
Tony Etz
Knox College Board of Trustees Chairman Tony Etz died at age 64. A fourth-generation alumnus and entertainment industry leader, he advanced the college’s mission through strategic leadership and established the Etz Family Institute for Civic Leadership.
April
Alice C. Stenander
Dedicated nurse and public servant Alice Stenander left a Galesburg legacy at age 83. With a 55-year nursing career and leadership in Rotary, PEO, and the Chamber, she mentored many and volunteered extensively in faith and community causes.
Francis E. “Sid” Cisco
Galesburg native and aviator Sid Cisco passed away at age 69. A free spirit who landed planes in all 50 states, he served as Soangetaha Country Club president and excelled in bowling and outdoor pursuits.
Dr. Frederick “Fred” Macnair Pacey
Beloved Galesburg dentist Dr. Fred Pacey died at age 92 after over 40 years of practice. He served generations of patients with skill and warmth, contributing to local boards and enjoying community activities like golf.
Dr. Gene E. Johnson
Former Galesburg Clinic physician Dr. Gene Johnson passed away at age 96. With nearly 30 years in family medicine and missionary work abroad, he provided compassionate care and lived an adventurous life post-retirement.
May
King Terrance J. “TJ” Pendleton
Silver Streaks football star TJ Pendleton’s light shone brightest under Friday night lights until his passing at age 51. An electrifying tailback on the 1991 team, he inspired teammates with clutch plays and gritty intensity on the court.
Dr. Syed Imam
Nephrologist Dr. Syed Imam, who practiced in Galesburg and Monmouth, died tragically at age 47 in a crash. A dedicated OSF HealthCare physician, he was beloved for exceptional patient care.
John Twomey, a WWII veteran and track star, lived a notable life until age 101. An All-American runner and grain storage innovator, he volunteered extensively in Monmouth and embodied service.
July
U.S. Army Cpl. Paul Eugene Hoots
Korean War soldier Cpl. Paul Eugene Hoots (died at 25 in 1950) had his remains returned home in 2025 after seven decades. A Galesburg native passionate about radios, his identification brought closure and military honors.
Caroline (Andrews) Porter
Trailblazing first female Knox County Board member Caroline Porter passed away at age 89. A downtown advocate, writer, and activist, she broke barriers in politics and journalism.
Craig M. Johnson
Basketball mentor and Galesburg Electric owner Craig Johnson died at age 85. His backyard court shaped generations of players, teaching competition and life lessons.
Arnold “Arnie” Jerome Haider
Longtime JCPenney manager and civic leader Arnie Haider passed away at age 85. With 43 years in retail and service on multiple boards, he exemplified dedication and community spirit.
Ruth Pecsi
Baseball trailblazer and community servant Ruth Pecsi left a lasting Galesburg legacy. The first female varsity baseball player in Illinois history, she also dedicated decades to education, volunteering, and youth sports, inspiring many with her pioneering spirit and kindness.
August
Sarkis “Sharky” Younes
La Gondola icon Sharky Younes died unexpectedly at age 59. Known for his constant smile and caring leadership over nearly 40 years, he made work fun and coached youth basketball.
Dr. John “Jack” Walter Pacey
Beloved dentist Dr. Jack Pacey, who practiced with family, passed away at age 94. Serving over 45 years, he built community ties and enjoyed sailing and family life.
November
Brian D. “Doc” Elliott
Longtime Monmouth leader Brian “Doc” Elliott died at age 67. Involved in chamber work, teaching, and local events, he served the community for decades.
December
Jordan T. Ball
Young Galesburg teacher and coach Jordan Ball passed away tragically at age 26. Passionate and energetic, he made classrooms and courts vibrant, leaving a deep impact on students.
Thomas “Tom” Baughman
Longest-serving Galesburg firefighter Tom “Baughie” Baughman, the “fireman’s fireman,” died at age 74. With 38½ years of fearless service and mentorship, he embodied dedication.
Major Marte Lynn Glass
Lifelong nurse and Army Reserve veteran Major Marte Glass passed away at age 72. Serving in ICUs, helicopters, and schools, she contributed to healthcare and veterans’ memorials.
David L. Bevard
Former Maytag union leader David L. Bevard passed away at age 73 on Christmas Day. A 32-year Maytag employee and union president, he fought to save the plant during its 2004 closure, testified before Congress on factory shutdown impacts, and later organized for teachers’ unions until retiring in 2019.
David L. Whiteman
Popular longtime coach, teacher, and athletic director David L. Whiteman passed away at age 77. A fixture at Knoxville High School for decades, he inspired generations of students and athletes with his dedication and leadership on and off the field.
