Obituaries

We will update the list of names of our deceased warriors on a monthly basis. We will not place a person on this list with hearsay, second hand, information. Send us a link to the obituary, noting the date and name of the newspaper from which it was taken. If you don't have the obit, then you must be related to, or a close friend who attended the wake, funeral or memorial service.

April 2026
William Grice '66
Donna Carle Tennison '61
Scott Searfoss '77
Antoinette Brunetti Demma 75
Raymond Tipperreiter '66
William Grice - Class '66
Rev. Dr. William G. Grice III, 78, passed away peacefully at his childhood home on March 31, 2026, surrounded by his family, after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer. William “Bill” Grice was born on December 30, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois. He attended local schools and graduated from Maine West High School. Following his graduation, Bill attended Northern Illinois University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Education. He later pursued his calling to ministry at Andover Newton Theological Seminary in Newton Centre, Massachusetts, earning his Master of Divinity degree, and ultimately returning to complete his Doctor of Ministry degree. An ordained minister in the United Church of Christ, Bill devoted more than five decades to ministry and service. He served congregations in Hyannis, Massachusetts, and New Gloucester, Maine before becoming Senior Minister of First Congregational Church of Des Plaines, where he served for nearly three decades. He was ordained at Christ Church UCC in Des Plaines, where his lifelong ministry began, and later celebrated 50 years of ordained service, a milestone that reflected his enduring commitment to faith, community, and care for others. Bill was a steady and compassionate presence in the lives of so many. He supported individuals and families through life’s most meaningful moments, officiating weddings, baptisms, and funerals, and offering guidance, perspective, and support during times of both joy and grief. He had a unique ability to meet people where they were, helping them feel seen, heard, and supported. His ministry extended far beyond the walls of the church. Bill was deeply connected to the Des Plaines community and played an active role in many local organizations, including the Des Plaines History Center, the Lions and Elks Clubs, the Des Plaines Library Board, the Self-Help Closet & Pantry, the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce, and the Des Plaines Ministerial Association. He also supported the broader United Church of Christ community, including his involvement with San Lucas UCC in Humboldt Park, where he helped serve annual Thanksgiving meals. Many in the community came to know Bill through his “Epiphanies” column in the Journal & Topics, where he shared personal stories rooted in local history, family memories, and everyday experiences. Through these reflections, he invited readers to pause, remember, and find meaning in the moments that shape our lives. Bill had a lifelong passion for trains. His interest extended to their history, model railroading, and taking excursions whenever he could. He was especially thrilled to learn that his future father-in-law was a train engineer for the Kansas City Southern. He also loved music and was a superb guitar player. He had a gift for bringing people together through his guitar and voice. Whether in worship, at community events, or around campfires, music was one of the many ways he created connection and joy. From youth fellowship groups in the 1970s to gatherings at Tower Hill Camp, his presence often included song, laughter, and a deep sense of belonging. He had a special gift for working with young people, mentoring generations through youth ministries, camps, and community programs. Many have shared that his encouragement, guidance, and belief in them helped shape the course of their lives. To his family, he was lovingly known as “Boompa,” a name that reflected the warmth, joy, and deep connection he shared with his grandchildren. He cherished time together, especially family gatherings filled with music, laughter, and adventure. He was intentional about creating opportunities for family trips, believing deeply in the importance of investing in shared experiences and lasting memories. Bill loved to travel and made it a priority to stay connected with friends and family across the country. Some of his favorite places included Heavener, Oklahoma; Cape Cod, Massachusetts; Anna Maria Island, Florida; and Tower Hill Camp in Sawyer, Michigan, each holding special meaning and memories. He also had a deep passion for history and family genealogy, taking great joy in uncovering stories, tracing connections, and preserving family legacy. In addition, Bill had a love for literature and a strong appreciation for proper grammar. He was often the family’s trusted editor, generously giving his time to read, revise, and help his children find just the right words throughout their school years and beyond. Preceded in death by his parents, William G. Grice Jr. and Dorothy, his first wife, Susan William, and his granddaughter, Elizabeth Grice. Above all, Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ann; his sons Paul, William IV, Jonathan, and Christopher; daughters-in-law Sandra, Shannon, Anna, and Ashley; and his cherished grandchildren: William V, Kaitlin, Abigail, Riley, Caleb, Tristan, Daniel, Joshua, Miles, Gracelyn, Gabriela, Danica, Danetta, and Dalton. He also leaves behind a wide and loving circle of friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives were deeply touched by his kindness, humility, humor, and unwavering faith. A Celebration of Life will be held at Christ Church UCC, 1492 Henry Ave., Des Plaines on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by a service at 10:00 a.m., with a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to organizations meaningful to Bill’s life and ministry, including Tower Hill UCC Camp, Ronald McDonald House, Self-Help Closet & Pantry, the Des Plaines History Center, and San Lucas UCC in Humboldt Park. Funeral care provided by G.L. Hills Funeral Home and Cremation Center. For information, please call 847-699-9003.
Donna Carle Tennison - Class '61
Donna Lea Tennison (nee Carle), 83, of Chandler, AZ passed away on March 26, 2026. She was born March 8, 1943 in Watertown, NY. The oldest daughter of John and Gloria Carle, she spent her childhood years in Des Plaines, IL and graduated from Valparaiso University in 1967. She married Tom Tennison in 1965. She raised two children, Todd and Kristin, spending countless hours leading Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, and youth groups while moving frequently for Tom’s work. She and Tom finally found their permanent home in Arizona in 1995 where Donna immersed herself in every opportunity to serve her church and community. Donna loved to graciously serve others through programs, including Grief Share, Divorce Care, Funeral Luncheons, and Coffee Service. Donna also cherished the time she spent with her grandsons in Arizona and Colorado. Donna will be greatly missed by all her family and friends that she held so close to her heart. Donna is survived by her husband Tom; children Todd (Amy), Kristin (Steve) Fox; grandsons Connor, Cooper, and Landon; and sister-in-law Judi (Tim Shideler) Carle. She also leaves behind nieces Melinda Keen, Megan (Michi) Kozel, and Jill (Andy Rottas) Carle, and nine great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gloria (nee Krueger) and John Carle Sr., and brothers, John Carle Jr. and Kent “KC” Carle. Memorial Service on Friday, April 3, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 739 W. Eric St., Chandler, AZ  85225.
  Scott Searfoss - Class '77
Scott C. Searfoss, of Carpentersville, IL, passed away on March 20, 2026, in Elgin, IL. Born in Elkhart, IN, Scott lived a life defined by kindness, dedication, and a genuine love for the people around him. A graduate of Maine West High School, Scott built a remarkable year career as a concrete cement truck driver. He began with Meyer Materials and later continued with Ozinga until his retirement. Known for his reliability and strong work ethic, Scott formed lifelong friendships with his coworkers. He was the kind of colleague who quietly made everyone's day a little easier-often arriving early to make the first pot of coffee for the crew. His Meyer Materials family always held a special place in his heart. For more than five years, Scott shared his life with his beloved partner, Nicole Cunningham, though their connection stretched back to the early 2000s. Their relationship was rooted in deep friendship, mutual respect, and a love that grew steadily over time. Scott was the kind of person who made life brighter for everyone around him. He had a terrific sense of humor and was known for the affectionate nicknames he gave to those he loved. Compassionate, caring, and endlessly helpful, he was down to earth, genuine, and always ready to lend a hand. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Scott loved fishing, gardening, cooking, and canning, and he took great pride in caring for his home. He also loved riding his Harley, finding freedom on the open road. Working on cars brought him that same sense of satisfaction-a hands on craft he truly enjoyed. Some of his happiest memories were made outdoors: camping and fishing in Canada with family, casting lines on Lake Michigan with friends, enjoying peaceful days fishing from the Sunshine Bridge in Florida, and spending time fishing in Cape Cod. He had a special love for little kids and animals, especially his cherished dogs, who were constant companions throughout his life. Scott was preceded in death by his uncles, John Searfoss and Dean Curry; as well as his maternal and paternal grandparents. He is survived by his beloved partner, Nicole Cunningham, and her daughters, Kelly and Debby; his parents, Sandra and Frank Searfoss; his sisters, Gail (Dave) Fahey and Lisa (Nora) Searfoss; and his goddaughter, Emily Schindewolf. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles, Larry and Beverly Hibschman, and Donna Sue England; along with many cousins who will forever cherish his memory. Scott's life was enriched by lifelong family friends, including Kurt and Lenee Sundbloom and their family, Chris and Laura Fehrenbacher and their family, and his many friends from Meyer Materials who remained an important part of his life long after his retirement. A celebration of life will be held at the VFW, 117 S. 1st Street, West Dundee, IL, on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. This will be an open house gathering, and guests are welcome to come and go throughout the afternoon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Scott's honor. Scott will be remembered for the warmth he brought into every room, the loyalty he showed to those he loved, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. Though deeply missed, the impact he made on the hearts of others will continue to live on.
Antoinette Brunetti Demma - Class '75
Antonia Demma (nee Brunetti), 68, of Des Plaines, passed away peacefully surrounded by family Thursday, April, 9, 2026. Beloved wife of Salvatore Demma. Loving mother of Roseann (Daniel) Pepsnik, Salvatore Jr. (Katherine) Demma. Dear Nonna of Mia, Anthony, Vincent, Livia. Fond sister of Maria (the late Robert), Vito (the late Debra), and Joanna (Anthony). Sister-in-law of Josephine (Enzo) and Mario. Loving Aunt, Godmother, and friend of many. Preceded in death by her parents Giuseppe and Domenica Brunetti. A visitation will be held Wednesday, April 15th, from 3:00 PM until 9:00 PM at Friedrichs Funeral Home, 320 W Central Road at Northwest Highway in Mt. Prospect. A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, April 16th, at 10:00 AM at St. Emily Parish, 1400 E Central Rd, Mt. Prospect. Entombment All Saints Cemetery.
Raymond Tipperreiter - Class '66
Raymond H. Tipperreiter, age 77, longtime resident of New Egypt, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at Serenity Hospice at RWJ Hamilton. He was born on September 20, 1948 in Chicago, IL to the late Henry and Irene Tipperreiter. Ray proudly served in the United States Air Force and retired in 1993. He liked playing cards with family and friends. Ray was an avid coin collector. He enjoyed taking trips and traveling to Las Vegas. Ray cherished his grandchildren and family. He liked watching the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and the Chicago Blackhawks. Ray was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend that will be deeply missed. Ray is predeceased by his beloved wife, Alice Tipperreiter; his parents, Henry and Irene Tipperreiter; and his sister-in-law Carolyn Tipperreiter. He leaves behind his three sons, Larry Tipperreiter and his wife Sara, Gregory Tipperreiter and his wife Carrie, and Timothy Tipperreiter and his wife Dawn; his grandchildren, Katie, Josie, Travis, Ruth, Frank, David, Christopher; plus and additional two other grandchildren; his two great-grandchildren, Emma, and Adelaide; his sister, Joan Teister and her husband Joseph, and her brother Jerry Tipperreiter. Services for Ray are being held privately at the convenience of the family. All arrangements under the direction of Tilghman Funeral Home located in New Egypt, NJ. Due to cemetery restrictions, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ray’s memory can be made to either D.A.V (Disabled American Veterans), or Wounded Warrior Project .