Ronald Allan Spriester
September 17, 1953 – April 9, 2025

Ronald Allan Spriester, a beloved husband, father, and brother, passed away peacefully at home in the arms of his loving wife on April 9, 2025, after a courageous four-year battle with cancer. He was only 71 years old.

Born at Great Lakes Naval Base in Illinois on September 17, 1953, Ron entered the world during his father’s Army service. Ron’s parents were Northwestern University music majors, with his father later serving as the band director at Deerfield High School for many years. Consequently, Ron and his siblings were introduced to music at an early age. Following in his father’s footsteps, he took up the trumpet and enjoyed playing well into his adult years in the Deerfield Community Band and The Big Band Sound of Deerfield.

Ron also inherited his maternal grandfather’s interest in carpentry, dedicating over 40 years to his craft. As a journeyman, Ron worked on hundreds of homes throughout Lake County, Illinois, and beyond. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of meticulous craftsmanship reflected in the quality of his work.

In 1984, Ron met the love of his life, Sharon Nolan, on a blind date. Together, they received Jesus as their Lord and Savior and were later married on September 19, 1987. Ron and Sharon chose to educate their three children at home and have had the joy and privilege of watching each of them succeed academically and build their own fulfilling lives. While their children were young, Ron volunteered many hours working at their local church, often bringing his son, Brett, along.

Following his retirement in 2014, Ron embraced the opportunity to serve his community by offering his carpentry skills to others and keeping up with village projects and board meetings. He also enjoyed visiting with friends and neighbors and cultivating his garden. He remained a dedicated Northwestern fan, attending as many sporting events as possible with enthusiasm and pride.

Ron was steady, honest, intuitive, thoughtful, and fun-loving. He wasn’t a man who sought attention but preferred to observe and support from the sidelines, profoundly touching the lives of those around him. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void, yet his legacy of love, faith, and humor endures in all who were lucky enough to know him.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Dorothy (née Zarbock). He is survived and deeply missed by his wife of 37 years, Sharon (née Nolan), and his children: Brett (Julie) Spriester of Wheeling, Janna (Justin) Scrivner of Lake Villa, and Bonnie (Andrew) Pierce of Mundelein. He also leaves behind his siblings: Pam (Paul) Bell, Sandy (Carl) Markowitz, Laurie (Russ) Davis, Terri Spriester, and Bart (Mary) Spriester, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial gathering to honor Ron’s life will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel in Grayslake, Illinois. Visitation will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Northwestern Memorial Foundation, supporting the ongoing search for cancer treatments and cures. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact 847-223-8122.

Austin W. Hudson, 87, of Round Lake, Il passed away on April 14, 2025, at Warren Barr North Shore in Highland Park, Il.

Life reflections of Austin W. Hudson…

Austin Walker Hudson was born April 23, 1937, in Wheeling, West Virgina.  He was the oldest of six children parented by Ruth Davis and Alfred Hudson.

As a child, Austin loved sports. Baseball, Basketball and Football were his sports of choice, and he excelled in all three.  While attending Lincoln High School, his basketball coach was instrumental in positioning him for an athletic scholarship to the University of Arkansas Pine Buff, formally known as Arkansas A.M. and N.  He majored in pre-engineering as well as playing basketball and football.  He was rated among the top basketball players in the Southwestern Conference.

While attending university, he met the love of his life, Mary Frances Nelson who was a speech and drama major. After graduating, they married on July 4, 1958, in Chicago Illinois and made a home on the south side.  Austin gained employment with the Ford Motor Company in Chicago Heights and was a loyal and dependable employee for 46 years.

Austin and Mary gave birth to their only daughter, Cheryl Denise Hudson in 1961. Friends would affectionately call him Big Hut and his daughter, Cheryl, Little Hut for she was his heart.  He was a wonderful father, uncle, a committed husband, brother and compassionate neighbor. 

As a retiree, Austin enjoyed being a grandfather to twin grandsons and granddaughter, loved maintaining his home and interacting with neighbors.  He was known for great expressions like, “I am doing the best I can while I can; God willing and the creek don’t rise and I am taking care of business.”

Austin was a no-nonsense man with a great sense of humor and a compassionate heart. He truly lived his life on his own terms.  He had a good life and after his failing health, Austin made his departure April 14, 2025, at 8:50 pm. He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, Cecil, Sylvester and Karen.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his dutiful, loving wife Mary of 66 years, daughter Cheryl (Eric) Hudson-Jackson; grandchildren, Aaron (Ariel) Jackson, Ian Jackson, Taylor Jackson; his siblings, Delores Harris and David Hudson; and many nieces and nephews.

All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 East Belvidere Road, Grayslake, Il 60030.  For more information, please contact Strang Funeral Chapel (847) 223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Hilda Thomas, 74, a resident of Round Lake Beach, IL, passed away April 6, 2025, at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  She was born May 13, 1950, in Cuttula, TX to Thomas and Tomasit Osrio.

Hilda is survived by her children Steve (Peggy) McNutt of Round Lake, Karen McNutt of Round Lake, Lynn (Jerry) Pounds of Round Lake, and Terri (Larry) Lawrence of Bourbonnais, her grandchildren Christina Pounds of Round Lake and Kurtis Pounds of Round Lake.  She was preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Tomasit Osrio, her husband Larry Thomas, and her sister Yolanda Osrio.

All funeral services were held privately and entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

Wayne Murphy, of Round Lake, IL, passed away peacefully on April 8th 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born and raised in Libertyville, IL, by his parents Wyatt Murphy and Helen Ann Sowatzke. His siblings were Pat and Brenda Murphy. Wayne attended Libertyville High School, where he played football and forged friendships that lasted a lifetime. During his teenage years, he began working at Cooper Stair in Mundelein, IL.

Following his graduation, Wayne and a work buddy enlisted in the U.S. Army on June 7, 1970, in Waukegan, IL. Serving with honor for six years, Wayne achieved the rank of top platoon sergeant before receiving an honorable discharge on June 2, 1976. Wayne’s commitment to service and leadership left an enduring legacy among those he served with.

Wayne found his true calling as a union carpenter at Lake Shore Stair in Libertyville, IL. Over a remarkable 50-year career, his craftsmanship and dedication earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike. His work reflected not just his skill but his unwavering commitment to providing for those he cherished.

Wayne was a loving father to three children, whom he shared with his last marriage. He devoted his life to ensuring their happiness and well-being. Outside of work, Wayne found joy tinkering in his garage, riding his Harley, and sharing good times with a beer (or four) in hand. His passions and sense of humor brightened the lives of everyone who knew him.

Wayne lived out his later years comfortably in his home in Round Lake, IL, a place filled with memories and the love of family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, love, and laughter that will be cherished forever.

Wayne is survived by his children, Ryan (Haley Lafferty) of Round Lake, IL, Jessica Murphy and Shawn Murphy; his grandchildren, Hunter Murphy, Colt Murphy, Beau Murphy, and Wayne Murphy; and his siblings, Patrick Murphy of Vernon Hills, Il and Brenda Murphy of Summerfield, FL. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Charles Murphy.

A visitation and funeral service will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Monday, April 14, 2025 from 10:30am until 12 noon, with a funeral service beginning at 12 noon. Interment will take place at Lakeside Cemetery in Libertyville, IL.  For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

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Michael Patrick Bradburn
April 29, 1985 – April 6, 2025
Grayslake, IL

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Michael Patrick Bradburn, age 39, a dedicated critical care, paramedic and traveling nurse, who left us unexpectedly on April 6, 2025. Born on April 29, 1985, in Lake Forest, IL, Michael was the beloved son of James and Lynn (née Zillner) Bradburn.

Michael lived his life in service to others, a true professional who cared deeply for those in need. Michael loved life and he had a great ability to make people laugh especially his children. Michael was Mason and a member of the Scottish rite of Freemasonry.

Michael leaves behind his loving wife, Amber Turner-Bradburn, and children, Saya and Grey Bradburn, who were the light of his life. He is deeply mourned by his parents, James and Lynn Bradburn, his grandmother, Marilyn Zillner and his siblings: Jennifer (Austin) Broyles, Diana (Jack) Herman, and Sarah (Alan) Pitts. He was a loving uncle, cousin, and friend to many, and his loss leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him.

A memorial visitation and service will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, located at 410 E. Belvidere Rd., Grayslake, IL 60030. Visitation will begin at 6:00 pm, followed by the service at 8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Amber Turner – Bradburn for the children’s college fund, ensuring that Michael’s legacy of care and support for his family will continue.

For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122. 

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/7RGCRW8SG3NRNM7D

Ana M. Marquez, 57, of Round Lake, IL, passed away on April 3, 2025, at her home. She was born on August 29, 1967, in Mexico to Francisco and Clemencia Marquez.

Ana grew up in Mexico and relocated to the United States as a teenager with her family. She had many challenges but always found a way to persevere. She was a wonderful and loving mother and wife who was always there when you needed her the most. She went out of her way to help others. She will always be remembered for her love of cooking, music, dancing, traveling and spending time with her family. Her grandkids were her pride and joy and she spent as much time as she could with them. She left us a legacy of kindness and strength. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Ana is survived by her husband of 9 years, Luis M. Tovar, who she married on January 19, 2016; her father, Francisco Marquez; her children, Samantha Mancilla of Round Lake Beach, IL, and Edson Salazar of Waukegan, IL; her grandchildren, Adrian Mancilla of Round Lake Beach, IL, and Liliana Mancilla of Round Lake Beach, IL; her siblings, Oscar Marquez of Bristol, WI, Ismael Marquez of Mexico, Guadalupe Estrada of Round Lake Heights, IL, and Josephine Marquez of Round Lake Beach, IL; and many nieces and nephews.  She was the preceded in death by her brother, Francisco J. Marquez; and her mother, Clemencia Marquez.

A visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 4pm to 8pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 114 Lincoln Ave, Round Lake, IL 60073 on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 9:30am. Interment will be held at Grant Cemetery in Ingleside, IL. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Bruce E. Thorson (75) of Round Lake Park, Illinois, passed away at home on March 22, 2025. Bruce was born June 3, 1949 in Omaha, Nebraska to Kenneth and Lois (Swanson) Thorson. He graduated from Westside High School, University of Nebraska-Omaha, and North Park Theological Seminary. He was ordained by the Evangelical Covenant Church. Throughout his life in ministry, Bruce served Campus Crusade, Dawson Covenant Church (Minnesota), Aurora Evangelical Covenant Church (Nebraska), Covenant Home (Chicago), Covenant Village (Northbrook, IL), and Libertyville Covenant Church (Libertyville, IL).

 Bruce married Merileen Wakeley on October 16, 1971. Bruce and Merileen shared 5 children, 13 grandchildren, and 1 great grandchild. Bruce loved his children and grandchildren immensely. He taught the grandkids to fish, play games, be patient, showed them the value of a good nap, told the best bedtime stories and loved snuggling on the couch. He was always supportive of his children and grandchildren and attended their games, concerts, and plays to encourage them. Especially in retirement, Bruce and Merileen enjoyed road trips together and had visited all 50 states.

Bruce was dedicated to a life of service and listening. In his own words, “My ministry over the years could be summed as trying to help people find healing and wholeness for their spirit, for their relationship with God.” One congregant in Minnesota shared that “Others have come with their agenda and gifts; you came and just loved us.” Chaplaincy was a special calling, with the privilege of listening to so many stories. Because of his own personal health challenges, he was able to relate to the residents at Covenant Village. His psychology background helped him understand the variety of people he ministered to. As a spiritual director, he was a careful listener. Bruce had a love for music that was evident throughout his ministry, playing guitar, trumpet, and singing in quartets and choirs.   

He is survived by his wife Merileen and children Scott, Sarah (Ben Palmberg), Julie (Keith Peterson), Erin (Ramon Rodriguez) and grandchildren Abigail (Will Addy),and Sophia Thorson, Lars, Kajsa and Maren Palmberg, Tessa, Calla, Andrew and Annika Peterson, Lucia, Clara, David and Noa Rodriguez, great-grandson Ellis Addy, and his brothers Paul and Steve. Numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws survive. He was preceded in death by his parents and infant daughter Christine.

 2 Timothy 4:7-8          Well done, good and faithful servant. 

Visitation will be Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 9:30am with service to follow at 10:30, Libertyville Covenant Church, 250 S. St. Mary’s Road, Libertyville. Memorials can be made to Libertyville Covenant Church. 

Mark Allen Lagoo, 60, of Dawsonville, GA, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2025 at home with his wife Melissa by his side.  He was born on November 28, 1964 in Waukegan, IL to Leslie and Irene Lagoo.

Mark was a huge fan of the Chicago Cubs, enjoyed all Chicago food and loved his hometown of Round Lake, IL. He loved traveling with his wife and family often, mostly cruising the islands and summertime was his very favorite season.  He was never without a good joke, prank or laugh. He loved making others happy & living life to the fullest. He was a good man, loving & devoted husband, father and Papapa.  His wife, their daughter and grandchildren were always a source of great joy.

Mark will be loved, dearly and forever missed by his loving wife, Melissa, of 33 years; his father, Leslie Lagoo, Jr.; his daughter, Melissa (Mark) McClead of Ball Ground, GA; his grandchildren, Aubrie McClead, Alana McClead, and Easton McClead, all of Ball Ground, GA; his sisters, Leslie (Ruben) Lopez of Round Lake Beach, IL, Michele (Greg) Dombrowski of Menominee, MI, and Irene “Cookie” (Mike) Donovan of Winthrop Harbor, IL.  He was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Lagoo.

A private, very special family celebration of life was held. 

James Joseph Miller, aged 83, a current resident of Third Lake, IL, and long time resident of Grayslake, passed away March 24, 2025, at Bickford of Gurnee.  He was born May 30, 1941 in Milwaukee, WI to Eugene and Ludina Miller, where he grew up with a strong sense of family and community.

James was a beloved husband, father, brother, teacher, and community leader. He was a devoted husband and father, providing a gentle presence offering wisdom and guidance to his children with a smile. He dedicated his professional life to teaching and leading staff and students as an educator and principal in District 46, where he worked to build a community of kindness, understanding, and a sense of belonging. James leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to all of the lives he has touched. He will be deeply missed but his impact will live on in the countless lives he touched throughout his lifetime. May he rest in peace.

James is survived by his wife of 56 years, Margaret Miller, his daughter Jenifer (Sam Williams) Miller, and his brother David Thomas Miller.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his son Ryan Miller.

A visitation and funeral service are scheduled for Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 12 noon until 2pm with the funeral service commencing at 2pm.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.  For more information log onto www.StrangFuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

Elizabeth Kay Woodworth, 44, passed away peacefully March 18, 2025 after an extended illness.  

Beth was born on April 17, 1980, to Donn and Barbara (Goethe) Woodworth.  She was a cherished only child who grew up on the west side of Rockford, always active, gardening, and enjoying the outdoors.  Beth loved spending time playing cards and games with her uncles, Ron and Jerry, at her grandparents house, and playing with her cousins at her Uncle Paul and Cathy’s house.  She had an early love of travel by taking vacations to Lake Tomahawk, WI, and visiting family like her aunts, MaryLou (Eric) and Dolores (Jim).  As she grew, she spent time playing in the yard with her step-brothers, Mark and Scott.  Beth graduated from Auburn High School in 1998, where her dad and step-mom Karla would cheer her on as she played on the basketball and tennis teams.  Beth majored in Biology at  Augustana College and “had the best legs” of her life due to all of the hills she had to hike up to get to class.  Then Beth moved to Champaign, IL where she received her Masters Degree in Geography from the University of Illinois.  While there she met Steve Tymonko who she married on October 14, 2006. Beth and Steve welcomed 2 sons, Sebastian, 12,  and Zachary, 7.  Beth worked as a Geographic Data Analyst for the University of Illinois Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering for many years, but her favorite job was being a mom to Seb and Zach.  After the boys were born, family became her first priority as they settled into their wonderful neighborhood in Lindenhurst.  They became very close with their neighbors who have been an incredible support.  Beth loved being a mom and watching the boys play hockey, board games, swim, and play with Rex, their dog.  Beth planned and photographed all of the family adventures, keeping a detailed photo journey on the walls of their home and maps of everywhere the family traveled.  Beth had a flair for hosting family and friends at her house, especially Thanksgiving dinner, where she and Steve would create wonderful memories for all.  

Beth was a selfless and loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend.  Her passing has left a hole that is impossible to fill and she will be incredibly missed by all.  Beth was predeceased in death by her parents, Donn and Barbara Woodworth; grandparents, Helen and Vernon Goethe; and uncle, Paul Goethe.  Beth is survived by her husband, Steve; sons, Sebastian and Zachary; step-mother, Karla (Les Horowitz) Woodworth; step-brothers, Scott (Ivy) Spencer and Mark (Staci) Spencer; in-laws John and Kathy Tymonko; sister-in-law Cheryl (George Greiner) Tymonko; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 31st at Wildwood Presbyterian Church in Grayslake at 2pm. Memorial donations may be made to A Safe Place, https://asafeplaceforhelp.org