John Andes, 93, of Rochelle, died March 27 at Franklin Grove Nursing Home.
John was born March 20, 1916 in Lancaster County, Pa., the son of Charles and Elsie Reinhart Andes. He married Bertha Leake of Kane, Pa., on Aug. 27, 1949 and they moved to Rochelle in 1955. Bertha preceded him in death.
John served his country during WWII as one of the first smoke jumpers in California and Montana. He was a life-time member of the Masons.
The quiet strength of the values John held will be remembered by his children and grandchildren. His great-grandchildren brought him much joy. His remaining family in Pennsylvania, including a sister, nieces, nephews and others will miss his gentle smile and his visits.
He is survived by children, Bill ( Jody) Andes, of Salt Lake City, UT, and Dorrie ( Rick) Kasmar, of Rochelle; grandchildren, Kimberly and Bryan Jasker of Bloomington, Christopher and Michelle Andes, of Washington D.C., Greg and Christin Hayes, of Bloomington, Scott Andes, of Washington D.C., Christina Kasmar, of Rochelle and Tiffany and Brett Bennett, of Ft. Collins, Colo.; great-grandchildren are Violet and Aribelle Jasker and Honnalee Hayes.
Visitation is from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 31 at Unger-Horner Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 1 at Unger-Horner.
Memorials can be made to Hub City Senior Center or Ogle County Hospice.