Bleyer, James B., 1928-2025, Attorney & Veteran

James Bottomley Bleyer passed peacefully from his earthly life at his home on Monday, January 6, 2025. A fiercely devout Catholic, fittingly, his personal Easter was on Epiphany, the 12th (last) day of Christmas.

Born October 5, 1928, Jim was named in homage to “Sunny Jim” James Bottomley, first baseman for the St. Louis Cardinals, who gained the admiration of Albert Bleyer, Jim’s father, after Bottomley spoke to the crowd at an expedition game with Carterville community baseball players which Albert had arranged.

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Zwick, Ivan, 1939-2024, Veteran, Merchant & Philanthropist

Ivan Zwick, 85, passed away on December 16, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife Wanda, of 43 years, and family.

Ivan was born October 18, 1939, to Delores and Julius Zwick of Herrin, IL.

Ivan’s life was marked by many accomplishments and an enduring passion for family, community, and service. He was blessed with a diverse and fulfilling life, excelling in education, athletics, military service, business, and philanthropy.

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Jackson, Bob, 1935-2024, Teacher, Artist, Historian & Veteran Reservist

Charles Robert “Bob” Jackson age 89, of Marion a teacher, coach, artist and historian, passed away at 8:47 am on Friday, December 20, 2024, at his home with his family on the same small farm where he grew up.

Bob was born in Williamson County on April 14th, 1935, the son of Guy Jackson and Birdie Cowsert. He married Phyllis Sue Kobler on August 20, 1960. They were married for 58 years until her death on May 30, 2019.

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1880, News Clippings, October thru December

October 1880

Mr. and Mrs. J.J. Hendrickson are entitled to and are no doubt receiving the sympathies of every citizen in Marion. Last Sunday, they followed to his eternal rest their only baby, Aud Leo, aged about two and a half years. Scarcely a year ago, they were subjected to a like affliction.    EP 7 Oct 1880

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