Runner Dies at McNaughton Park
Delavan Man Suffered a Heart-Related Death
By Robert Fang
Published: August 9, 2026
Charles R. Meyer, 74, of rural Delavan, died Monday evening while at McNaughton Park near Pekin, according to the Tazewell County Coroner’s Office.
Authorities were called to an area along a trail near the Sheridan Road entrance at approximately 6:50 p.m. on Aug. 3. Meyer was pronounced dead at the scene by Tazewell County Coroner Charles Hanley. An autopsy conducted Tuesday found preliminary evidence that Meyer’s death was heart related. No foul play is suspected.
Meyer, born March 17, 1952, in Pekin, was a longtime metallurgist at Caterpillar Inc., retiring in 2015. He was widely known as an accomplished long-distance runner who completed numerous marathons, including the Chicago, St. Louis and Boston marathons.
A graduate of Forman High School and Illinois State University, Meyer also enjoyed gardening, collecting classic Indian motorcycles and primitive antiques.
Funeral services will be held Aug. 10 at Maas-Hurley Funeral Home in Manito, with burial following at Meadowlawn Cemetery.
Charles R. Meyer, 74, of rural Delavan, died Monday evening while at McNaughton Park near Pekin, according to the Tazewell County Coroner’s Office.
How Friendship Inspired Art
Local Metal Maestro Makes Much More Than Just Coffee
By Robert Fang
Published: August 9, 2026
Every weekday morning around nine o’clock, a familiar ritual unfolds in a garage that would put many commercial shops to shame. Coffee is poured, stories are exchanged, and a group of retired and semi-retired men gather for a daily dose of camaraderie.
The host is John Harris, a local welder whose talents with metal have earned him a reputation as something of a magician. While Harris still works out of his shop on the corner of Fourth and Harris streets, these days he says he only takes on projects for friends. Yet one of his most enduring creations may not be something made from metal at all. It may be the community that gathers around a pot of coffee in his garage each morning.
The coffee break began years ago when a group of friends regularly met at a local restaurant in town. As with many small-town stories, exactly why those meetings came to an end depends on who is telling it. Suffice it to say that a disagreement with a waitress eventually made the restaurant a less-than-ideal gathering place.
That’s when Harris stepped in with a simple offer.
“I told them I can make coffee,” Harris said.
The invitation worked. The group relocated to Harris’ garage, and over time attendance continued to grow. While the faces present vary from day to day, the morning gathering now regularly attracts around half a dozen men.
For Harris, the appeal is simple.
Many members of the group enjoyed the daily conversations and good-natured banter that naturally came with working life. After retirement, those opportunities became harder to find. The morning coffee break filled that void.
“It gives everybody a place to meet,” Harris said, noting that the conversations range from local happenings to memories, projects and just plain “guy-talk.”
Of course, there are limits.
With a grin, Harris admitted that if the conversation starts dragging on too long, he has a tried-and-true method of reminding visitors that there is work to be done. He simply wanders back to his workbench and fires up a grinder.
The message is usually received loud and clear.
Like many gathering places, Harris’ garage has become a source of friendship, shared stories and unexpected inspiration. One such spark arrived when fellow Air Force veteran Gil Gravitt attended a morning coffee break and noticed an unusual project sitting on Harris’ workbench.
“I said, ‘Hey, that looks like a fuselage for a 141,’” Gravitt recalled.
The observation launched a conversation between the two veterans about airplanes and military service. Both men share a deep appreciation for aviation, and before long an idea began to take shape.
The plan was to create metal models of the aircraft Gravitt flew during his Air Force career and display them along the fence bordering Dickey Street at the corner of Third Street. The property, once known as the Crabbe Mansion, is now the Gravitt home.
The first two aircraft have already taken their places on the fence, transforming an ordinary stretch of metal into a distinctive public art display.
To call the creations impressive is definitely an understatement.
Crafted entirely by hand, the aircraft capture remarkable detail and accuracy. Harris estimates that each one required more than 120 hours of work. The finished pieces are equal parts sculpture, engineering and tribute.
Even so, Gravitt recently reminded Harris that the project isn’t finished.
Of the three aircraft he flew in the service, only two have been completed.
There’s still one more plane left to build.
Given the amount of time and craftsmanship involved, many people might hesitate to take on another project of that scale. Harris, however, doesn’t seem ready to rule it out.
Perhaps that’s because the fence art itself stands as a reminder of how good ideas often begin. Not in a boardroom or planning meeting, but over a cup of coffee among friends.
And at John Harris’ garage, there’s always another cup brewing.
Lowry Sworn-in As Alderman for Ward 3
By Robert Fang
Published: August 9, 2026
Becky Lowry was sworn in as the City of Delavan’s Ward 3 alderman during the most recent City Council meeting. Alderman Brent Nafziger presided as mayor pro tem in the absence of Mayor White. Ward 1 Alderman Joshua Lusher made a motion to appoint Lowry to fill the unexpired term of Douglas Bury, who resigned last month. The motion received unanimous approval from the council. Following the vote, City Clerk Tia Galloway administered the oath of office. Lowry was then immediately seated as Ward 3 alderman and will serve the remainder of Bury’s unexpired term.
50 Years Strong: Delavan Athletic Booster Club Continues Tradition of Giving Back
By Kylin Brockhouse
Published: August 9, 2026
This year, the Delavan Athletic Booster Club is celebrating its 50th anniversary of supporting Delavan students, clubs, and athletics. For five decades, the organization has built a community-driven legacy through its ongoing financial support of Delavan schools and students activities.
The Delavan Athletic Booster Club is composed of community members who support all IESA (grades 5-8) and IHSA (grades 9-12) activities, including athletics as well as speech, scholastic bowl, and e-sports.
“The Delavan Athletic Booster Club is a fun and energetic group that works together through various fundraising efforts to supply the needs of Delavan sports teams and IHSA activities,” said Booster Club President Lindsay Diekhoff. She explains the importance of the Booster Club for students, coaches, and parents—explaining how the club provides support based on coaches’ requests for equipment, uniforms, and any other essential needs.
Although the Booster Club has a small membership, its impact on the school and community is significant. The seven-member board consists of President Lindsay Diekhoff, Vice President Jeremy Brockhouse, Secretary Sarah Tierney, Treasurer Jessica Dare, and members Brad Pierson, Chad Houston, and Erika Sipka. The group meets monthly to review coach requests and determine where financial aid will have the greatest impact.
Beyond the Delavan Athletic Booster Club’s support for extracurricular teams, the Booster Club also assists families in several other ways. The organization helps cover the cost for Hudl subscriptions, giving coaches and athletes access to recording games, game film, and recruiting tools for students seeking college opportunities. It also covers half the athletic trainer fees. The Club also purchases photographers for senior banners, assists with the alumni basketball game, and provides pizza for students attending Fifth Quarter following home basketball games.
Throughout the year, the Booster Club hosts and supports several fundraising events and community opportunities, including:
Finally, as part of the Fall Festival, the Delavan Athletic Booster Club is excited to bring back its old-school bingo tent! They hope to see lots of community members participating at the festival! Community members are invited to join the fun on Sunday, September 6th, from 1 - 4 p.m., and Monday, September 7th, at 12 - 3 p.m. School clubs and sports teams have signed up to operate bingo during different time slots, and all the proceeds earned during their shifts will be deposited into their activity accounts.
For the last 50 years, The Delavan Athletic Booster Club has continued to demonstrate its commitment in supporting Delavan students and members through the generosity of volunteers. Right now, the Booster Club is asking for more community involvement to help with special committees. Your time directly supports Delavan. Parents, alumni, and community members are encouraged to volunteer and help continue the Booster Club’s tradition of giving back.
For more information or to get involved, contact Booster Club President Lindsay Diekhoff at lindsay.delavanathleticboosters@gmail.com
Joyce A. Dutton
By Robert Fang
Published: August 9, 2026
Joyce A. Dutton, 88, of Mahomet, Illinois, formerly of Delavan, Illinois, passed away on July 28, 2026, at MeadowLark/ClarkLindsey Senior Community in Urbana, Illinois.
Joyce was born on July 22, 1938, in Tuscola, Illinois, the daughter of Joseph and Emma Pagliai Pasero. She married Richard “Dick” Dutton on April 23, 1960, in Paris, Illinois.
She is survived by her four children: Debra (Ken) Sherwinski of Merrillville, Indiana; Rich (Kathy) Dutton of Troy, Ohio; Donna (Paul) Pauling of Appleton, Wisconsin; and David Dutton of Mahomet, Illinois. She is also survived by nine grandchildren: Karli (Evan) Swank of Mason, Ohio; Tad (Sarah Kioebge) Dutton of Westville, Illinois; Reagan (Michael) Harrison of Hastings, Minnesota; Adam Sherwinski of Mahomet, Illinois; Alec (Jordyn) Dutton of Kansas City, Missouri; Sydney (Shea Gallup) Pauling of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin; Luke Pauling of Fridley, Minnesota; Joe Dutton of Los Angeles, California; and Addie Pauling of Appleton, Wisconsin; and five great-grandchildren: Cameron Swank, Layla Dutton, Jackson Swank, Holland Harrison, and Maisie Harrison.
Joyce is also survived by one sister, Janice Lancaster of Fairbury, Illinois; and two brothers, Pete (Stephanie) Pasero of Newton, Illinois, and David (Chris) Pasero of Placita, New Mexico and two sisters-in-law Diane Dutton, Mahomet, Illinois, and Marilyn Dutton, Morristown, Arizona.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Dick Dutton, Sisters-in-law LaVerne Lafenhagen, and Joyce Block, Brothers-in-law John Lafenhagen, Ted Dutton, Frank Dutton, Russ Block and Larry Lancaster.
Joyce graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a bachelor’s degree in business education in 1960. After graduation, she taught at Green Valley High School and Hopedale High School before taking time off to be the best mom to her children. When the family relocated to Superior, Wisconsin, in 1968, she attended the University of Wisconsin- Superior part-time, earning a master’s degree in vocational education. The family returned to central Illinois in 1970, and Joyce accepted a position with Hopedale Hospital as secretary to Dr. Lawrence Rossi, Sr. In 1977 she returned to teaching at Olympia High School, where she taught business and vocational classes and served as the Chair of the Business and Vocational Departments until her retirement in 1994.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Mahomet, Illinois. Fr. Matthew Hoelscher will officiate. The Mass will be followed by a brief reception in the church hall. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Delavan. Davis-Oswald Funeral Home in Delavan is in charge of arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://Donate.Brightfocus.org or The Hopedale Medical Foundation, Hopedale, Illinois, at https://givebutter.com/hopedalemedicalfoundation.
Four Weeks to Go: Delavan to Celebrate the Season at Annual Fall Festival
By Robert Fang
Published: August 9, 2026
The countdown to the 2026 Delavan Fall Festival continues, and excitement is building as organizers unveil more of the activities planned for the community’s annual celebration. Scheduled to begin on Saturday, September 5, the festival will once again bring together residents, families, visitors, local businesses, and community organizations for a weekend of fun, fellowship, and hometown pride.
In this second installment of our weekly Fall Festival preview series, we’re highlighting several events that showcase the variety of activities available for all ages, from competitive races and baking contests to live entertainment and family-friendly fun.
Cyclists are encouraged to start the festival weekend on two wheels during the annual Tour De Delavan Bike Ride/Race.
Festival organizers recently announced that Clark and Mary Zumwalt are sponsoring this year’s event through a generous donation that helps make the ride possible.
Whether participants are serious cyclists looking to race or simply want to enjoy a leisurely ride through the community, organizers are inviting everyone to take part.
The ride will begin on Main Street at 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 5, providing an energetic start to the festival’s opening day activities.
Organizers encourage riders to dust off their bicycles, grab their helmets, and join friends and neighbors at the starting line as the festival gets underway.
One of the biggest announcements for this year’s festival is the return of a fan favorite that has been absent for several years.
The Booster Club Bingo Tent is officially making its comeback to the Delavan Fall Festival.
Festival organizers say community members have repeatedly requested Bingo’s return, and this year attendees will once again have the opportunity to test their luck, compete for prizes, and support local students through the Booster Club.
Bingo will be offered at the following times:
The Bingo Tent will be located at Delavan Lake Park near the food pavilion.
Organizers hope residents will gather friends and family, fill the tent, and help welcome back one of the festival’s most beloved traditions.
One of the most unique additions to this year’s festival lineup will take place on Monday, September 7, when Abraham Lincoln visits the Delavan Fall Festival.
President Lincoln will arrive at Delavan Lake Park at 2:30 p.m. and address festival attendees at 3 p.m. Following his presentation, he will remain available for family photographs and conversation.
Of course, the appearance comes courtesy of internationally recognized Lincoln presenter Fritz Klein, whose portrayal of the 16th President has earned acclaim across the country and around the world.
Klein has extensively researched Lincoln’s life and performs a one-man presentation that captures the stories, wisdom, humor, and character of America’s most famous president. He has portrayed Lincoln in 38 states and internationally, and now resides with his wife, Linda, in Springfield, Illinois, where he frequently performs at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum.
In addition to these featured events, visitors can enjoy food vendors, community organizations, local businesses, shopping opportunities, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities throughout the festival weekend.
The Delavan Fall Festival continues to serve as a celebration of community spirit, bringing together generations of residents and visitors while showcasing the people and organizations that make Delavan special.
From a morning bike ride and apple pie contest to paddle boat racing, Bingo, local talent, and glowing foam-filled fun, the 2026 festival is shaping up to offer something for everyone.
Reminder: This Fall Festival preview series will appear weekly until the 2026 Delavan Fall Festival on September 5, with each edition featuring additional activities, contests, entertainment, and special events planned for this year’s celebration.
With each passing week, excitement continues to grow as organizers and volunteers prepare for another successful festival weekend.
Photo Caption: Golf is better when shared with family. Kaeden Mammen (right) and his dad, Dan Mammen (left), on the course during the tournament where Kaeden battled his way to a second-place finish..
Mammen Places Second in Golf Tourney
Achievement Serves as an Inspiration to Other Young Athletes.
By Kylin Brockhouse
Published: August 9, 2026
Seven-year-old Kae-den Mammen had an amazing showing at his recent golf tournament in Jacksonville, Illinois at the Jacksonville Links Golf Course. While competing with other young prodigies, Kaeden skillfully outplayed kids in the 6-8 division, placing second out of sixteen. His strong finish highlights his dedication to the game and serves as an inspiration for young athletes like him.
The Robbie McEvers Youth Golf Tournament is a two-day tournament hosted every July for kids ages 5-18. The free tournament teaches young athletes patience, focus, and consistency, while it also prepares older athletes for their upcoming season in fall. Each hole presents new challenges, from keeping calm under pressure to executing smart decisions with every swing of the club you take. Kaeden faced those challenges and overcame them with confidence, earning his top place finish.
Jacksonville Links Golf Course provided a great learning opportunity for kids as well. Known for its well-maintained greens and fairways, this course offers a variety of challenges to learn from, as well as a chance to enhance their skills. For many young golfers who have a future in the sport, events like this are valuable moments to develop skills and sportsmanship. Kaeden’s skill and confidence definitely shone through as he embraced the competition against other talented and mature players.
Placing second out of sixteen individuals is an impressive achievement, especially for someone who is seven years old. Competing in the 6-8 division meant that Kaeden faced players at a similar level as him. Every shot mattered and consistency was crucial in this two-day tournament, and Kaeden conquered those difficulties. His resilience and talent, even at a young age, reflects his growing talent and hard work in improving his skills in an activity he is passionate about.
Golf teaches many life lessons beyond the scorecard. Players learn patience, resilience, problem-solving, and honesty. Young athletes like Kaeden continue to build their characters through the confidence they build and respect they earn from one another. Whether making a great shot or recovering from a difficult situation, every experience helps build these young golfers characters both on and off the course.
Now, as Kaeden heads into the second grade, his second-place finish at the Robbie McEvers Youth Golf Tournament serves as a memorable accomplishment to celebrate as he heads into the next school year. Balancing family, life, and sports takes commitment and grit, and Kaeden’s top finish is an accomplishment that is earned through determination and hard work. Kaeden’s grit and winning-spirit can be an inspiration for other young athletes in Delavan’s community, as well as something his family can be proud of.
While every tournament only has one champion, a second or third place finish in a field of sixteen is still an impressive feat. More importantly, the tournament helped enhance Kaeden’s golf skills, as well as influence young athletes passionate in their own sports to pursue more opportunities and work harder in their sports. With his enthusiasm and passion for golf, he has a bright future ahead of him. Congratulations to Kaeden Mammen on an outstanding second-place finish at the Robbie McEvers Youth Golf Tournament and best wishes for continued success on the golf course and in the classroom.
Golf is better when shared with family. Kaeden Mammen (right) and his dad, Dan Mammen (left), on the course during the tournament where Kaeden battled his way to a second-place finish.
Seven-year-old Kae-den Mammen had an amazing showing at his recent golf tournament in Jacksonville, Illinois at the Jacksonville Links Golf Course. While competing with other young prodigies, Kaeden skillfully outplayed kids in the 6-8 division, placing second out of sixteen. His strong finish highlights his dedication to the game and serves as an inspiration for young athletes like him.