Deaths

Death notices for the far Stateline: Oct. 6, 2025

We remember those who are no longer with us in Rockton, Roscoe, and South Beloit.

Michael McGinnis

Oct 7, 2025 — 3 min read

John Taylor, Raymond Nyen, Roberta Severson, Steve Blaylock, John Ward, Brenda Sanders, Marilyn Clark

With sadness, we announce the following deaths for Rockton, Roscoe, and South Beloit in recent weeks:

Sept. 23, 2025:
Brenda S. Sanders, 73, Rockton
She became one of the most respected dog trainers in northern Illinois. remembered for her fondness for Schnuck’s Seafood Salad, which she could never resist, and her signature hats - she had more hats than shoes. Brenda was happiest outdoors, walking at Hononegah Forest Preserve with her beloved dogs, always wearing a favorite hat.

Sept. 26, 2025:
Marilyn S. Clark, 78, Roscoe
She served as a social worker, a school board trustee for Kinnikinnick and Hononegah , and, after retirement, volunteered as a court-appointed child advocate at CASA.

Sept. 28, 2025:
Roberta A. Severson, 83, South Beloit
She loved horses, Arizona, and all her past pets (dogs, a turtle, and a duck). She graduated from South Beloit Memorial High School in 1960.

John G. Taylor, 79, Rockton
A man of many talents and passions, he was an outdoorsman, big-game hunter, cowboy, conservationist, golfer, entrepreneur, and adventurer - boating on the Rock River, flying airplanes, and racing cars.

John J. Ward, 83, Roscoe
A proud Rhode Islander, he brought popular dishes to restaurants, including the jalapeno popper. On many Sunday mornings, his booming laugh could be heard in the Roscoe United Methodist Church lobby. He never held back from expressing his enthusiasm and support in his loved ones' lives.

Oct. 1, 2025:
Raymond A. Nyen, 95, Roscoe
He traveled around the world three times during the Korean Conflict during the Korean Conflict. He played guitar in the Nyen Nordic Band alongside his brothers and son, recognized for their Norwegian song “Ole Nyen’s Waltz.” He worked for decades as a maintenance electrician.

Oct. 3, 2025:
Steve Blaylock, 79, Roscoe
He enjoyed his dear friends at work, his buddies who raced fast cars, listening to music, attending concerts, sports events, and especially spending time with his daughter and grandchildren.