Person Page - 129

     Addie Koertge was the daughter of Herman Conrad Koertge and Mary Josephine Summerfield.² Addie Koertge and Ralph Wallace Ridgely obtained a marriage license in 1919 at Richland County, Illinois.³ Addie Koertge married (1) Ralph Wallace Ridgely, son of Russel R. Ridgely and Margaret Jane Keen, on 1 Mar 1919.¹ Addie Koertge and Ralph were divorced in 1931.⁴

     Alma Koertge was born c 1886.² She was the daughter of Peter Christian August Koertge and Sarah Koehler.¹

     Dora Koertge was born on 8 Mar 1885 at Richland County, Illinois.¹ She was the daughter of Peter Christian August Koertge and Sarah Koehler. Dora Koertge died on 11 Mar 1982 at Burgin Nursing Manor, Olney, Richland County, Illinois, at age 97.¹ She was buried on 14 Mar 1982 at Moravian Cemetery, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.²
     Her obituary states:
     "Area Deaths: Dora Koertge, 97
"Dora Koertge, 97, of West Salem passed away Thursday, March 11, 1982 at 9:14 p.m. at the Burgin Nursing Manor in Olney.
"Services were held Sunday, March 14 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ingram Funeral Home in West Salem. Rev. Leroy Pittman officiated with burial in the Moravian Cemetery.
"Survivors include a sister, Mrs. Ella Findley of Olney and a half brother, Laurence Meyers, Eagle Grove, Iowa and several nieces and nephews.
"Dora Koertge was born March 8, 1885 in Richland Count the daughter of Peter Augustis [sic] and Sarah Koehler Koertge.
"She was a member of the Immanuel United Methodist Church in Olney.
"She was preceded in death by a brother, George Koertge and two sisters Ola Rothrock and Alma Wolford."¹
     Her obituary states:
     "Dora Koertge, 97
"Dora Koertge, 97, died last Thursday at Burgin Manor in Olney.
"Ingram Funeral Home is West Salem was in charge of services.
"Mrs. [sic] Koertge was born March 8, 1885, the daughter of Peter Augustus and Sarah (Koehler) Koertge.
"She was a member of the Immunuel [sic] United Methodist Church in Olney whee she taught the young children's Sunday School Class for many years.
"Survivors include a sister, Mrs. Ella Findley, Olney; a half-brother, Lawrence Myer, Eagle Grove, Iowa; several nieces and nephews; great nieces and nephews; and great-great nieces and nephews.
"She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, George Koertge; and two sisters, Olad Rothrock and Alma Wolfert."³
     Her obituary states:
     "Dora Koertge, 97
"Dora Koertge, 97, West Salem, died Thursday at 9:14 p.m. at Burgin Nursing Manor.
"Services will be Sunday at 2 p.m. in Ingram Funeral Home in West Salem with Rev. Le Roy Pittman presiding. Visitation will be after 4 p.m. Saturday. Burial will be in Moravian Cemetery.
"Mrs. [sic] Koertge was born March 8, 1885 in Richland County, the daughter of Peter and Sarah (Koehler) Koertge.
"She was a member of Immanuel United Methodist Church in Olney.
"Survivors include a half-brother, Lawrence Myers, Eagle Grove, Iowa; and a sister, Mrs. Ella Findley, Olney."³

     Geneva Helen Koertge was born on 23 Apr 1913.² She was the daughter of George Paul Koertge and Della Ann Ridgely.¹ Geneva Helen Koertge married Frederick Roy Mewes on 31 Aug 1934.¹ Geneva Helen Koertge appears in the Social Security Death Index as having died 7 Nov 1987 with the last place of residence listed as West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois. Geneva Helen's SSN was issued in Illinois. Also, her birth date is given as 22 Apr 1913.³ She died on 7 Nov 1987 at age 74.³ She was buried at Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.⁴
     "Cancer finally got Geneva Mewes. She had [an] operation several years ago but last summer (1987) it got her in Nov. Her bro. Robert bought the home and rents it now."⁵

     George Paul Koertge was born on 2 Jul 1883.¹ He was the son of Peter Christian August Koertge and Sarah Koehler.² George Paul Koertge married (1) Della Ann Ridgely, daughter of Russel R. Ridgely and Margaret Jane Keen, on 23 Oct 1907 at Richland County, Illinois. He was 24, she was 20.^1,3,4 George Paul Koertge married (2) Mary Blanche Schmidt, daughter of Henry Schmidt, on 29 Jan 1950.^5,6 George Paul Koertge married (3) Ruth M. Lynch on 24 Dec 1961.⁷ George Paul Koertge died on 28 Feb 1963 at age 79.¹ He was buried on 2 Mar 1963 at Moravian Cemetery, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.^8,9
     He registered with the World War I Selective Service System on 12 Sep 1918 at Olney, Richland County, Illinois. He described himself as living on RR 1, Parkersburg, Richland County, Illinois, age 35, born 2 July 1883, and his occupation was farming for himself. He was medium in height, medium in build, with gray eyes and had dark hair. His closest relative was Della Koertge, also of RR1, Parkerburg..¹⁰
     His obituary states:
     "George P. Koertge, 79, Olney, died last night at his home at 230 N. Lincoln. He is survived by his wife, Ruth.
"Also surviving are three sons, Russell of West Salem, Robert of Bone Gap, and George Jr., of Parkersburg; five daughters, Mrs. Katherine White of Normal, Mrs. Geneva Mewes of Bone Gap, Mrs. Neomi Fishel of West Salem, Mrs. Irene Kollack of Albion, and Mrs. Winnie Dorney of Sumner; three sisters, Mrs. Ola Rothrock of West Salem, and Mrs. Ella Findley and Dora Koertge, both of Olney, twenty-four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
"Funeral services will be held Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at the Oak Grove EUB church, Rev. Buford Helm officiating. Burial will be in the Moravian cemetery, West Salem. Friends may call at the King Funeral Home in West Salem after 4 p.m. today."¹¹
     His obituary states:
     "George P. Koertge was born July 2, 1883 and departed this life Feb. 28, 1963, 7:30 at his home, 220 N. Lincoln, Olney, Ilinois at the age of 79 years, 7 months and 26 days. He was the son of August Koertge and Sarah Koehle[sic] Koertge.
"On Oct. 23, 1907, he was united in marriage to Della Ridgley. To this union 8 children were born: 3 sons, Russell August, West Salem, Ill., Robert Allen, Bone Gap, Ill. and George Paul, Jr., Parkersburg, Ill; 5 daughters; Katherine (Mrs. Gordon B. White) Normal, Ill., Geneva (Mrs. Fred R. Mewes) Bone Gap, Ill., Neomi (Mrs. Walter Fishel) West Salem, Ill., Irene (Mrs. Ernie Kollach), Albion, Ill., Winnie (Mrs. Wayne Dorney), Sumner, Ill. Three sisters survive, Mrs. Ola Rothrock, West Salem, Ill., Mrs. Ella Finley and Dora Koertge, both of Olney, Ill. Also 24 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
"After the death of his first wife Jan. 6, 1947, George married Blanche Ridgley, in 1950. Their union continued to Feb. 7, 1961, when Blanche passed away. After this George was married to Ruth Walden who survives him.
"George was preceded in death by a sister, Mrs. Alma Welford, Dec. 27, 1962. Also 2 grandchildren, Jack and Patricia Koertge.
"At an early age George confessed Christ as his Saviour at Oak Grove Church, near Parkersburg, Ill. This church continued to be the family's place of worship and Christian service while the children were being raised and continued to be for George until his passing. George was a devoted worker in the church and will be greatly missed by his friends as well as his children, wife and relatives.
"He was devoted to his family first for their spiritual welfare and also for their temporal well-being. He was generous in giving, but very conscientious not willing for anything to be wasted. He was kind and generous to his pastor and we are blessed in our hearts and life by having come to know George and his family whom we shall always remember with tenderness and Christian love.
"Funeral services were held at the Oak Grove EUB church Saturday at 1:30. Rev. Buford Helm officiating. Burial was in the Moravian cemetery, West Salem, Ill.
"Pall bearers were Kenneth Mewes, Ivan Case, James White, L. D. Rothrock, Frank Rothrock, and Joe Rothrock. Grandchildren assisted with the flowers.
"CARD OF THANKS.
"We want to express our thanks and appreciation for the kindness and many expressions of sympathy extended in the loss of our husband and father, George P. Koertge. May God bless you for your thoughtfullness.
The Family."¹²

     George Paul Koertge Jr. was born on 22 Dec 1930 at Richland County, Illinois. According to Fay Bechtel, it was discovered "recently" on his birth certificate that his name is George Junior Koertge.^1,2 He was the son of George Paul Koertge and Della Ann Ridgely.¹ George Paul Koertge Jr. appears in the Social Security Death Index as having died 31 Mar 1999 with the last place of residence listed as Parkersburg, Richland County, Illinois. George Paul's SSN was issued in Illinois. Also, his birth date is given as 22 Dec 1930.³ He died on 31 Mar 1999 at Olney, Richland County, Illinois, at age 68.^3,4 He was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery, Parkersburg, Richland County, Illinois.⁵
     His obituary states:
     George Koertge, Jr.
"George Koertge, Jr., age 68, of Parkersburg, died at 12:26 p.m., Wednesday, March 31, 1999 in Richland Memorial Hospital in Olney.
"Funeral Services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 2, 1999 in the Chapel of Summers-Kistler Funeral Home in Olney, with Rev. David Ducommon officiating. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Parkersburg.
"Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, or the American Cancer Society.
"Mr. Koertge was born December 22, 1930 in Richland County, Ill., the son of George and Della (Ridgely) Koertge, Sr. He married Norma Morrison on 31 October, 1951.
"Mr. Koertge was a dairy farmer. He was a member of the Parkersburg United Methodist Church, and a member of the Parkersburg Ruritan.
"Survivors include his wife, Norma Koertge of Parkersburg; two sons, Chad Koertge and wife Denise, and Todd Koertge and wife Diane, all of Parkersburg; three daughters, Cheryl Taylor of Highland, IL., Angela Davis and husband Ted of Farfield, IL., and Trina Shipman and husband Scott of Calhoun; one brother, Robert Koertge of Albion; two sisters, Naomi Fishel and Irene Kollack, both of West Salem, IL; 9 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews..
"Mr. Koertge was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and three sisters."⁴

     Henry Koertge married Rozanna Weiss.

     Herman Conrad Koertge was born on 7 Jul 1874.^4,2 He was the son of Henry Koertge and Rozanna Weiss.³ Herman Conrad Koertge married Mary Josephine Summerfield, daughter of John Henry Summerfield and Caroline Starckman, on 10 Nov 1895 at Edwards County, Illinois.⁵ Herman Conrad Koertge died in 1968.⁶
     He registered with the World War I Selective Service System on 12 Sep 1918 at Olney, Richland County, Illinois. He described himself as living on Route 1, Calhoun, Illinois, age 44, born 7 July 1874, and his occupation was farming for himself at Calhoun. He was medium in height, medium in build, with brown eyes and had black hair. His closest relative was Mary Josephine Koertge, Route 1, Calhoun.²
     His obituary states:
     "Herman C. Koertge, age 93, passed away last evening at the Golden Years Nursing Home, where he had been a patient for the past 6 years.
"A member of one of the pioneer families of Richland County, Mr. Koertge was born in Olney on July 7, 1874, the son of Henry Koertge and Rozanna Weiss Koertge. He operated a farm in Bonpas township for many years and moved to Olney in retirement several years ago. He was a member of the Free Methidist Church in Olney. He was married to Josephine Summerfield who preceded him in death on July 12, 1961.
"Surviving are three sons: Wilson and Howard Koertge, both of Olney and Noble Koertge of Elm Grove, Wis. There are 10 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Mrs. Hulda Hurn of Olney is his sister. Besides his wife, he has been preceded in death by his parents, a son, John Henry Koertge, a daughter Mrs. Addie Ziegler, and 3 brothers and 3 sisters: Wesley, Charles, John, Lydia, Elizabeth, and Lora.
"Funeral services for Mr. Koertge will be held at 10:30 o'clock in the Memorial Chapel of the Summers-Rainey Funeral Home with the Rev. Lee Billings officiating. Interment will be in the Haven Hill cemetery.
"Friends may call at the funeral home after 3 p.m. Thursday."³

     Howard Lee Koertge was born on 7 Apr 1900.⁴ He was the son of Herman Conrad Koertge and Mary Josephine Summerfield.³ Howard Lee Koertge married Elsie Myrtle "Myrtle" Rash, daughter of James Milton Rash and Mae Belle Albin, on 25 Feb 1921.^1,5 Howard Lee Koertge died on 16 Feb 1997 at age 96.⁴ He was buried at Haven Hill Cemetery, Olney, Richland County, Illinois.⁴
     He registered with the World War I Selective Service System on 12 Sep 1918 at Olney, Richland County, Illinois. He described himself as living on Route 1, Calhoun, Illinois, age 18, born 7 Apr 1900, and his occupation was farming for Herman C. Koertge at Calhoun. He was medium in height, medium in build, with blue eyes and had brown hair. His closest relative was Herman Conrad Koertge, Route 1, Calhoun.⁶
     "Mr. and Mrs. Howard Koertge, Rt. 1, Olney, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Feb. 25.
"No formal celebration is planned but cards would be appreciated.
"Howard Koertge and Myrtle Rash and Carl Rash and Elsie Weesner were united in marriage in a double-wedding ceremony at the Martin Weesner home at Parkersburg on Feb. 25, 1921.
"Mr. and Mrs. Koertge have spend their entire married life in Richland County. Mr. Koertge is still actively ingaged in farming.
"They are the parents of two children, Myrl of Parkersburg and Mrs. Alvin (Jeanne) Dehlinger, Olney. There are eight grandchilden and four great-grandchildren.
"Plans are being made for the children and their families to attend church service with Mr. and Mrs. Koertge on March 1 and then enjoy a family dinner together at noon."⁷

     Irene Marie Koertge was born on 31 Jul 1922.² She was the daughter of George Paul Koertge and Della Ann Ridgely.¹ Irene Marie Koertge married Earnest Albert Kollak on 22 Apr 1944 at Zion United Methodist Church, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.^2,3 Irene Marie Koertge was buried at Moravian Cemetery, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.⁴

     Jack Allen Koertge was born on 14 Apr 1941.¹ He was the son of Russell August Koertge and Alice Lenora Scherer.¹ Jack Allen Koertge died on 18 Jan 1961 at age 19.^1,2 He was buried at Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.³
     His obituary states:
     "Jack Allen Koertge, 19, son of Mr. and Mrs. Russell Koertge of West Salem, passed away last night at the Wabash General Hospital in Mt. Carmel, as the result of injuries suffered in a highway accident on Jan. 8.
"The accident ocurred on the Friendsville-West Salem blacktop road when the car in which Koertge and two others were riding straddled a low bridge abutment and careened into a field.
"Besides his parents the Koertge youth is survived by a sister, Mrs. Eleanor Case of West Salem and grandparents, Mrs. Stella Scherer Kaltridge of Olney and George Koertge of Parkersburg.
"Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday at the West Salem EUB Church, with Rev. Kenneth Hanley officiating. Burial will be in West Salem.
"Friends may call at the King Funeral Home after Tuesday noon.⁴

     Kathryn Sarah Koertge was born on 16 Dec 1908.² She was the daughter of George Paul Koertge and Della Ann Ridgely. Kathryn Sarah Koertge married Gordon B. White on 7 Jun 1934.² Kathryn Sarah Koertge appears in the Social Security Death Index as having died 15 Jan 1992 with the last place of residence listed as Normal, McLean County, Illinois. Kathryn Sarah's SSN was issued in Ilinois. Also, her birth date is given as 16 Dec 1908.³

     Louella "Ella" Koertge was born on 22 Jul 1889 at Richland County, Illinois.¹ She was the daughter of Peter Christian August Koertge and Sarah Koehler.² Louella "Ella" Koertge married James Marion Findley, son of Hugh Marion Findley and Mary Bowers, on 22 Mar 1911.^3,2 Louella "Ella" Findley and James were divorced in 1931.^1,4 Louella "Ella" Koertge appears in the Social Security Death Index as having died Mar 1983 with the last place of residence listed as Parkersburg, Richland County, Illinois. Louella "Ella"'s SSN was issued in Illinois. Also, her birth date is given as 22 July 1889.⁵ She died on 18 Mar 1983 at age 93.⁶ She was buried at Moravian Cemetery, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.^7,8
     Her household goods were advertised for sale on 12 June 1976 at 814 North Fair Street in Olney. George Koertge, conservator, advertised for sale (no date) the property of Ella K. Findley, at 814 N. Fair Street in Olney, consisting of 2 1/2 lots with modern home with 2 bedrooms and basement.⁹
     Her obituary states:
     "Ella Findley, 93, West Salem, died Friday at Burgin Nursing Manor in Olney.
"Services were conducted at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Ingram Funeral Home in West Salem with Brother Arthur Richey officiating. Burial was in Moravian Cemetery.
"Born in Richland County July 22, 1889, she was the daughter of August and Sarah Koehler Koertge.
"She was a member of the Immanuel Methodist Church in Olney.
"Survivors include: Two daughters, Mrs. Merle (Fay) Bechtel of Lorida, Fla., and Mrs. Lucille Fatland, O'Fallon; a granddaughter; and a great grandson.
"She was preceded in death by a brother, three sisters and a daughter."¹⁰
     Another obituary for Louella states:
     "Ella Findley, 93
"Ella Findley, 93, of West Salem, died 8:30 a.m., March 18th at the Burgin #1 Nursing Home in Olney.
"Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Merle (Fay) Bechtel of Lorida, Florida and Mrs. Lucille Fatland of O'Fallon, Ill. One granddaughter and one great-grandson.
"Funeral services will be held Monday March 21st at 10:30 a.m. from the Chapel of Ingram Funeral Home in West Salem with Bro. Authur[sic] Richey officiating and burial in Moravian Cemetery.
"She was born July 22, 1889 in Richland Co. the daughter of August Koertge and Sarah Koehler.
"She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, George Koertge, three sisters, Ola Rothrock, Alma Wolfert and Dora Koertge, and one granddaughter, Ruth Fatland.
"She was a member of the Immanuel United Methodist Church in Olney."¹¹

     Mary Koertge was born on 20 Apr 1880.¹ She was the daughter of Peter Christian August Koertge and Sarah Koehler.¹ Mary Koertge died on 6 Aug 1881 at age 1.¹

     Myrl Koertge was born on 16 Jun 1922 at Richland County, Illinois.¹ He was the son of Howard Lee Koertge and Elsie Myrtle "Myrtle" Rash.¹ Myrl Koertge died on 9 Dec 2007 at Burgin Manor, Olney, Richland County, Illinois, at age 85.¹
     His obituary states:
     "Myrl Koertge, 85, died at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, December 9, 2007 at Burgin Manor in Olney.
"Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Thursday at First Christian Church in West Salem. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the church. Burial will be in the Moravian Cemetery in West Salem. Ingram Funeral Home in West Salem is in charge of arrangements.
"Mr. Koertge was born June 16, 1922, in Richland County, the son of Howard and Myrtle (Rash) Koertge. He married Marjorie Deutsch on March 18, 1943, in Noble. She preceded him in death on April 10, 2004.
"He was a truck driver and hauled grain and oil. He was a member of First Christian Church in West Salem and a former member of Parkersburg Ruritan.
"Mr. Koertge is survived by his sons, F. Gale Koertge and his wife, Marlene, of Indianapolis, Ind., and Jeff Koertge and his wife, Karen, of Wheaton; and sister Jean Dehlinger, of Olney.
"He was preceded in death by his parents and wife."¹

     Neoma Bernice Koertge was born on 22 Aug 1917.² She was the daughter of George Paul Koertge and Della Ann Ridgely.¹ Neoma Bernice Koertge married Walter Ellis Fishel on 28 Sep 1940 at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.^1,3 Neoma Bernice Koertge died on 1 Nov 2005 at West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois, at age 88;
     "Neoma Fishel, 88, of West Salem, passed away at 10 a.m., Tuesday, November 1, 2005, at her home. Visitiation will be from 6-8 p.m., Thursday at Ingram Funeral Home in West Salem. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday at Moravian Church in West Sale..."⁴
     "The family of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Fishel are hosting an open house in honor of their 40th anniversary on Sunday Sept. 28th from 2-4 at the Moravian Church in West Salem.
"Walter E. Fishel, son of Mr. and Mrs. John J. Fishel of West Salem, and Neoma B. Koertge, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George P. Koertge of Parkersburg were united in marriage in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. on Sept. 28, 1940 by Rev. John R. Hoseman. Their only attendants were Harry Fishel and Imogene Ridgely, who were married the same day with Walter and Neoma as their attendants.
"Mr. and Mrs. Fishel are the parents of four daughters, Carol Sue Walkenbach and Evelyn Bare, of West Salem, Mary Jane Martin, Olney, and Jo Ann Fishel of Evansville, Ind. They have two grandsons, Eric Eugene and Walter Lee Martin, three sons-in-law, David Walkenbach, Roger Bare and Kenneth Martin."⁵
     Her obituary states:
     "Neoma Fishel, 88, of West Salem, passed away at 10 a.m. Tuesday, November 1, 2005, at her home. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Ingram Funeral Home in West Salem. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday at Moravian Church in West Salem. Burial will be in Moravian Cemetery.
"Neoma was born August 22, 1917, in Parkersburg, the daughter of George and Della (Ridgely) Koertge. She married Walter Fishel on September 28, 1940. He preceded her in death.
"She was a beautiful Christian woman who let her light shine for Him in all she did. Neoma was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who loved to cook. She cooked for family, friends, various local organizations, church and church camps. She was an active member of West Salem Moravian Church and Sunday School as a teacher, Sunday School superintendent and various offices of the Women's Fellowship. She was also a charter member of West Salem Ruritanettes. She enjoyed working in her garden and with her flowers.
"Neoma was preceded in death by her husband, Walter, a son-in-law, David Walkenbach, and great-grandchild, Jarett Martin. Also preceding her in death were her parents, two brothers Russell and George Jr. Koertge, and three sisters, Winifred Dorney, Geneve Mewes, and Katherine White.
"Neoma is survived by four daughters, Carol Walkenbach, Evelyn (Roger) Bare, Mary Jane (Kenneth) Martin and JoAnn (Richard) Keller, all of West Salem; 10 grandchildren, Jonathan and Elizabeth Walkenbach and Erika (Adair) Aumock, all of Caro, Mich., Erin (Dustin) Alton, of Murray, Ky., Emily Bare, of Edwardsville, Evan Bare, Eric (Libby Huff) Martin, Walter Martin, Tiffany Martin and Melanie (Eli) Landingham, all of Albion; four great-grandchildren, Cailynn and Avian Aunock, Trent Martin, and Noah Alton; a brother, Robert (Faye) Koertge, of Albion; and a sister, Irene Kollack, of West Salem.
"She suffered from Alzheimer's for several years and had been cared for in her home by her daughters, JoAnn and Mary Jane.
"Memorials may be made to Moravian Women's Fellowship."⁶

     Ola Koertge was born on 14 Oct 1881.² She was the daughter of Peter Christian August Koertge and Sarah Koehler.¹ Ola Koertge married Clinton Lee Rothrock on 25 Oct 1905 at Richland County, Illinois.² Ola Koertge died on 10 Mar 1974 at age 92.^2,3

     Patricia Ann Koertge was born on 4 Jul 1936.¹ She was the daughter of Russell August Koertge and Alice Lenora Scherer.¹ Patricia Ann Koertge died on 15 Jul 1936.¹ She was buried at Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery, Parkersburg, Richland County, Illinois.²

     Peter Christian August Koertge was born on 4 Oct 1854 at Salchau, Prussia.¹ He married Sarah Koehler on 8 Jul 1880 at West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.^1,2 Peter Christian August Koertge died on 21 Feb 1890 at Richland County, Illinois, at age 35.¹

     Robert Allen Koertge was born on 29 Nov 1920.¹ He was the son of George Paul Koertge and Della Ann Ridgely.¹ Robert Allen Koertge married June Augusta Vandever on 7 Feb 1942 at Zion Methodist Church, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.^1,2,3 Robert Allen Koertge was buried at Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.⁴

     Russell August Koertge was born on 6 Sep 1910 at Parkersburg, Richland County, Illinois.^2,3 He was the son of George Paul Koertge and Della Ann Ridgely.¹ Russell August Koertge married Alice Lenora Scherer on 30 Dec 1933.^4,5,6 Russell August Koertge died on 3 Sep 1992 at age 81.⁷ He appears in the Social Security Death Index as having died 3 Sep 1992 with the last place of residence listed as West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois. Russell August's SSN was issued in Illinois. Also, his birth date is given as 6 Sep 1910.⁷ He was buried at Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.⁶
     He served as mayor of Parkersburg in 1971- 1979. "I retired from farming unexpectedly, on 6 November 1978; while baling hay alone, in a field south of West Salem, my foot became stuck in the machinery. I watched helplessly for four hours as the machine slowly devoured my right leg. I knew that if I passed out or weakened, I would surely be killed. Yet my faith sustained me in this painful period, and I was able to persevere until help arrived.
"Although I now walk with an artificial leg, I can say with great pride, that I am proud to have been a farmer and to have watched the industry progress from the push rake and self binder to the air-conditioned, self-propelled combine, and chemicals."⁸
     "Mr. and Mrs. Russell Koertge, West Salem, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with an open house Saturday, Dec. 31, at the United Methodist Church in West Salem, from 2 to 4 p.m. All friends and relatives are invited to attend. The couple requests no gifts.
"The open house will be hosted by their daughter, Eleanor Case and family.
"Russell Koertge and Alice Scherer were married Dec. 30, 1933, at the bride's home in Richland County."⁹

     Wilson Koertge was born on 8 Jan 1909 at Richland County, Illinois.² He was the son of Herman Conrad Koertge and Mary Josephine Summerfield.¹ Wilson Koertge died on 24 Feb 1998 at Burgin Manor Nursing Home, Olney, Richland County, Illinois, at age 89.²

     Winifred June Koertge was born on 4 Mar 1929.² She was the daughter of George Paul Koertge and Della Ann Ridgely.¹ Winifred June Koertge appears in the Social Security Death Index as having died Jul 1978 with the last place of residence listed as Sumner, Lawrence County, Illinois. Winifred June's SSN was issued in Indiana. Also, her birth date is given as 4 Mar 1929.³ She died on 8 Jul 1978 at age 49.⁴
     She died of cancer.²
     Her obituary states:
     "Winifred Dorney, 49, died after a long illness Saturday at 5 p.m. at her home in Sumner.
"She was born March 4, 1929, in Richland County to George and Della (Ridgley [sic]) Koertge. She was a member of the Sumner United Methodist Church.
"Surviving are her husband, Wayne R; daughters Margaret Brian, Sumner, Janice Kay, Sumner, and Karen Dorney, Springfield; brothers Russell of West Salem, Robert of Bone Gap, and George Koertge,Jr. of Parkersburg; sister, Katherine White, Normal, Geneva Mewes, Bone Gap, and Naomi Fishel and Irene Kolllack, West Salem.
"Preceding her in death were her parents and a son, Vernon.
"Services for Mrs. Dorney will be Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the Sivert Funeral Home, Sumner, with visitation from 7-0 p.m. today. The Rev. Grant Cunningham will officiate."⁴

     Earnest Albert Kollak was born on 28 Oct 1917 at Decatur, Illinois.^1,3 He married Irene Marie Koertge, daughter of George Paul Koertge and Della Ann Ridgely, on 22 Apr 1944 at Zion United Methodist Church, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.^1,4 Earnest Albert Kollak died on 10 Jun 2003 at Edwards County, Illinois, at age 85.⁵ He was buried on 12 Jun 2003 at Moravian Cemetery, West Salem, Edwards County, Illinois.⁵
     His obituary states:
     "Earnest A. Kollak, 85, of rural Albion died at 7:10 a.m. Tuesday, June 10, 2003, at his residence. Funeral services will be held at 11 a. m. Thursday, June 12 at the Ingram Funeral Home in West Salem, with burial in the Moravian Cemetery in West Salem.
"Visitation is from 6 to 8 p.m. today (Wednesday), June 11 at the funeral home.
"He was born Oct. 28, 1917, in Decatur, the son of German immigrants Carl and Louise (Balzer) Kollack.
"He married his bride of 59 years, Irene Koertge, on April 22, 1944 in West Salem.
"He was a self-employed dairy farmer until his retirement and a member of the Zion United Methodist Church in West Salem. He loved his church and the Lord, accepting Christ at a young age. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army and served in the Engineer Corrps in Europe in World War II.
"Survivors include his wife, Irene; two sons, Gene and wife Rebecca Kollak of Fairfield and Don and wife Paula Kollak of Albion; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
"He was prededed in death by his parents, five brothers and sisters."⁶

     Robert Ward Kolling was born on 26 Oct 1904.² He married Clara A. Olds, daughter of James William Olds and Emma M Shane, on 12 May 1927.³ Robert Ward Kolling died on 13 Apr 1994 at age 89.² He was buried at Liberty Cemetery, Upland, Dickinson County, Kansas.⁴
     Robert and Clara A. Olds appeared on the census enumeration 1 Mar 1925 at Noble, Dickinson County, Kansas, as follows:
     28/28 Kolling, Conrad, husband, age 54, b. Indiana, came from Indiana, tanner
      Kolling, Mittie, wife, 56, b. Kansas
      Kolling, Ward, son, 20, b. Kansas
      Olds, Clare, servant, 20, b. Kansas.⁵
Robert Ward Kolling appeared on the census of 13 May 1930 at Noble Township, Dickinson County, Kansas, as follows:
     21/21 Kolling, Ward R., head, 25, 1st marr. at 22, b. Kansas, father b. Ind., mother b. Kansas, general farmer
      , Clara A., wife, 25, 1st marr. at 23, b. Kansas, parents b. Kansas.⁶
Robert Ward Kolling and Clara A. Kolling appeared on the census of 16 Apr 1940 at Noble Township, Dickinson County, Kansas, as follows:
      Kolling, Ward, head, 35, 8 yrs school, b. Kansas, farmer
      , Clara, wife, 35, 8 yrs school, b. Kansas
      , Darrel, son, 5, b. Kansas
      , Phyllis, dau., 2, b. Kansas
The first three had lived in the same house on 1 Apr 1935. This family is currently indexed as Kalling.⁷

     Emilie Konas married Walter E. Olds, son of Eugene H. Olds and Ida E. Morris, on 10 Jun 1914.¹

     Herbert H. Kraushaar was born on 3 Feb 1916 at St. Louis, Missouri.^2,3 He married Carnita Gwen Michael, daughter of Olin Robert Michael and Ruby M. Richards, on 6 Mar 1943.^1,4 Herbert H. Kraushaar died on 3 Dec 1997 at Kansas City, Kansas, at age 81.^5,6,4 He was buried on 6 Dec 1997 at Kansas City, Missouri.⁷

     Almer L. Kreigh was born c 1861 at Indiana.¹

     Alfred Krimmel was born on 12 May 1834 at Mexico, Juniata County, Pennsylvania. He was the son of John Krimmel and Elizabeth White. Alfred Krimmel died on 13 Feb 1905 at St. MArks Cemetery, Lewistown, Juniata County, Pennsylvania, at age 70.

     Anna Belle Krimmel was born on 2 Oct 1849 at Juniata County, Pennsylvania.¹ She was the daughter of Samuel Krimmel and Hester Dunn. Anna Belle Krimmel married John Hixon Olds, son of Justin Hixon Olds and Charity Louisa Bryant, on 15 Apr 1869 at Bureau County, Illinois.² Anna Belle Krimmel died on 21 May 1937 at Wyanet, Bureau County, Illinois, at age 87^3,4 and was buried at Forest Hill Cemetery, Wyanet, Bureau County, Illinois.⁵
     The following list of Olds names is from an assessment of personal property in Wyanet Township, Town 16, Range 8 for 1909. The amounts are in dollars.
Olds, Annie B. Mrs     134
Olds, Howard     18
Olds, Frank Jr      40
Olds, Frank Sr     237
Olds & Hamilton     624.⁶
     Her obituary states:
     “Anna Belle Olds, 88, Summoned at Her Home Here Friday
“A member of pioneer family Bureau County; Funeral Services on Monday.

"Mrs. Anna Belle Krimmell Olds, 88, one of the early settlers of Bureau County, and a lifelong resident, passed away in peace at the close of day Friday, May 21st. She had been confined to her home and bed since last July, but even so, she had an ever-glowing spirit of contentment.
"Funeral services were conducted at her home on Monday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, with the Rev. Mr. H. L. Brett pastor of the Wyanet Methodist Episcopal church, officiating. Two of her favorite songs, "Beautiful Isle of Somewhere", and "City Foursquare" were sung by Mrs. Elmer Anthony and Mrs. Earl Mount. The pall bearers were Earl Mount, Glenn Mosher, C. F. Winterberg, A. E. Bergh, Elmer Anthony, Earl Jegglie. The pall bearers with the exception of Mr. Jegglie, were sons of her old friends.
"Interment was made in Forest Hill Cemetery.
"Anna Belle Krimmell was born on October 2, 1849, in Mifflintown, Pa., and was the oldest daughter of Samuel and Hester Krimmell. When seven years of age she came with her parents to Illinois who settled in the vicinity of Tiskilwa. Here she spent her girlhood, attending the public schools and the Tiskilwa high school, and the Methodist Church.
"The deceased was married to John H. Olds on April 15, 1869, and they settled on a farm nearby Tiskilwa and four miles south of Wyanet, where they made their home for a number of years, later moving to Wyanet. Mr. Olds here built the residence known as the Larson home and still later the present place where they continued to live. Mrs. Olds had lived in the present house for 44 years. Mr. Olds passed away on July 8, 1901, thirty-six years ago. Since that time her daughter and husband, Mr. and Mrs. George Dahl, have made their home with her almost continually.
"To Mr. and Mrs. Olds were born eight children -- Bryant Olds, Howard Olds, Mrs. Elmer Sapp, all deceased, Mrs. M. G. Whitney of Cour d'Alene, Idaho, Guy M. Olds, deceased, Mrs. C. J. Webster, of Portland, Ore., John C. Olds, deceased, and Mrs. George C. Dahl of Wyanet.
"Mrs. Olds was the last of a pioneer family, her parents and brothers[sic] and sisters have all preceded her in death -- James Krimmel, Mrs. Lucius Rhodes, Mrs. David Booth, Mrs. Geo. Stinson and Mrs. Stephen Foster.
"Besides the three daughters mentioned, Mrs. Olds leaves the following grandchildren, Mrs. Warner Van Aken of Cold Water, Mich., Milford Olds and Austin Olds, of Chicago, Robert Olds of Newark, Ohio, Justin Olds of Marseilles, Bernadine Olds of Wyanet, Maxine Whitney and Merrill Whitney of Cour d'Alene, Idaho, Mrs. Clyde Campbell and Elizabeth Olds, Wyanet.
"There are nine great grandchildren, Marjory Van Aken, Bryant Van Aken and Elmer Van Aken, Charles Bryant Olds, Billy Whitney, Bobby Whitney, Danny Olds, Jackie Olds and Dickie Olds.
“Mrs. Olds was taken sick in July of last year and has been confined to the house and bed practically the entire period since that date, until the time of her death on Friday evening, May 21st 1937. She slipped peacefully away just at the close of day just as the sun was going down, having reached the advanced age of eighty-eight years. Throughout the recent months she endured much suffering with declining strength, but through it all constantly displayed a quiet and patient spirit so typical of her character. In these months she was most faithfully ministered to by her daughter Mrs. George Dahl. All that love and devotion could do was gladly done to make her comfortable and contented.
"The passing of Mrs. Olds is the breaking of another link that binds this generation to the pioneers, for Mr. and Mrs. Olds made their home and spent their lives in this vicinity of Bureau County. As these pass from amongst [us,] we sense a loss for their struggles and fortitude and sturdy uprightness to worthy ideals were the very foundations that made this great section of our land what it is today. We owe a debt to them and trust that we as their successors may be like them, courageous and faithful in our day.
"Mrs. Olds was one of those quiet, unassuming personalities who go about life's duties with a faithfulness which is highly commendable. She ministered well to the cares of her household and in her quiet way forgot not to minister to those who were in need, and thus carried on a helpful ministry.
"She will be missed by a large number of friends for to know her was to love her. Her memory will be with her own loved ones who remain as a sweet fragrance.
"Say not goodbye but rather bid me good morning in God's better land.
_____________
     On 23 May 1938, Louis A. Zearing, Master in Chancery for Bureau County reported that he had received and distributed $10,699.67 pursuant to a Circuit Court decree in a case of Eva Estelle Olds, et. al., Plaintiffs, and Lucy Webster, et. al., Defendants. His Partition Report of Distribution does not specify whose estate was being settled but the heirs are those of John H. Olds and his now deceased widow, Anna Belle Olds. Besides several expenses which were due from the estate, a distribution was made to each of seven heirs that got a distributive share of $1020.30 (or .31). They were Eva Estelle Olds, Myra Dahl, Thirza K. Olds, Anna Olds, Lucy Webster, Blanche Whitney and Gladys Van Aken. In addition, Dorothy Olds, Administratrix of John C. Olds, deceased, got (for payment of debts and distributive share) $340.10 for herself, $340.10 for Ardeth Campbell, and $340.10 for Elizabeth Olds. Also included in the list were $22.50 to George C. Dahl for rent refund, $700 to George C. Dahl for improvements on said premises, and $316.96 to Anna Olds for improvements to said premises.⁸
     Prior to the court settlement, Milford Olds, from the firm of Olds and Dewitt, 105 West Adams Street, Chicago had written to the out-of state family to explain the process and get their agreements. He explained that Myra and others had asked him to handle this and he had agreed only if there was entire agreement among the heirs. One of the things agreed to was the sale of the property. "Because of the minority of John's younger daughter Elizabeth, the only way in which this can be accomplished is by partition proceedings in Court, and the heirs resident in Illinois have therefore filed a petition naming the non-resident heirs as defendants. Because of the fact that the property will bring a better price at the sale if title is cleared in the same proceeding, publication was made and notices were supposed to be sent to the non-resident heirs, by the clerk of court. For some reason, the Clerk failed to do this and publication will have to be had all over again, unless all non-resident heirs file voluntary appearances. That accounts for the receipt, by Aunt Blanche, of the appearance form from Judge Russell.
"Now as to your question about the interest of John's heirs in the estate. John, as you know, borrowed $2000.00 from Grandmother in 1919 and made one payment, of $300, to her. That, of course, represented a debt to Grandmother, and has nothing to do with Grandfather's estate. The only way any recovery could be made, would be to have an administrator appointed for her estate, for the purpose of filing a claim against John's estate.
"Grandmother left no will, but left a memorandum containing several requests, chief among which was the request that Myra be given most of her personal belongings and whatever cash she had. No one, so far as I know, raised any objections and Mr. Sapp (the banker) turned over about $600.00 in cash to Myra, out of which she paid Grandmother's funeral expenses.
"John was indebted to Mr. Sapp on his note to the extent of approximately $3500.00, at the time his death. An estate was opened for John and Mr. Sapp has filed his claim against it. When the partition sale is held, John's share of the proceeds will become the sole asset of the estate. Considering the run down condition of all the property and the present value of real estate, there will not be enough realized to satisfy Mr. Sapp's claim, and John's heirs will get nothing. His widow, of course, will be allowed a widow's award.
"If an estate were opened for Grandmother, of course, a claim could be filed by her administrator against John's estate which would be paid pro-rata with Mr. Sapp's, but the personal belongings and cash, which she requested Myra to have, would have to be inventoried. In such event, there would be a conflict of interest, at least between Myra and the rest of the heirs, in which I would not care to be involved.
"That situation, however, has nothing to do with the partition proceedings, which is all that I have any interest in. I have explained the legal requirements and consequences to all who have asked me, but have also made known my desire to remain neutral.
"If Aunt Blanche will sign and return the appearance form, it will save time and the expense of another publication, but still have no bearing whatever upon any controversy over John's debt to Grandmother."⁹
A later letter explains some details of the accounting:
"The Court felt that hearings on matters of accounting should be eliminated and suggested that such matters should be figured out and stipulated to by the parties. I have therefore prepared a stipulation and am sending a copy to each of the heirs for signature. The tenant on the farm has stipulated to pay his rent into court and the only other matters of accounting involved are those arising from the agreements signed several years ago with George and with my father for improvements on the store and on the farm.
"George's agreement provided that he be reimbursed to the extent of $700.00 for improvements made on the store. He actually expended about $850.00, but is entitled to reimbursement only for the amount called for in his contract. That is provided for in the stipulation.
"My father's agreement called for reimbursement to the extent of $2000.00. He expended slightly more than that for alterations and additions to the house, new outbuildings including a barn, etc. but when he died his estate was indebted to Grandmother for rent. By agreement with Grandmother, this indebtedness was deducted from the amount owing under his contract, for the benefit of the heirs, leaving a balance of $1000.00. During Grandfather's lifetime, he signed a note for my father which he was required to pay and this is also deducted from the amount due to Mother under my father's agreement. The amount of this note is $653.04 and the net balance due Mother is $316.96, as provided in the stipulation. " ...¹⁰