Bernell A. "Bernie" Voytas' Obituary
Bernell A. "Bernie" Voytas, age 53, of Marissa, passed away on Sunday, October 7, 2007 at 9:40 p.m. at his home. Bernie was born April 17, 1954 a son of August L. and Cecilia Amelia (Epplin) Voytas. He married Stephanie K. Schneider on February 21, 1975 in Coulterville and she survives. He was a coal miner for Peabody Coal for 18 years and a farmer. He was a member of the Washington County Farm Bureau, a former member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Coulterville and a current member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, Lively Grove and loved farming. Survivors include his wife Stephanie of Marissa, two daughters: Jennifer Ferguson of Marissa and Lacey Schmersahl (Jeremy) of Coulterville, his father, August Voytas of Coulterville, two grandchildren: Jalene K. Ferguson and Landen J. Schmersahl, three sisters: Victoria L. Voytas of Aviston, IL, Karla K. Osman (David) of Anna, IL and Donna L. Stewart (Robert) of Tilden, IL and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Lively Grove, on Wednesday, October 10, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. with Fr. Dennis Voss officiating. Interment will be in the Coulterville City Cemetery. Friends may call at Pyatt-Harrawood Funeral Home, Coulterville, on Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again on Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. Memorial donations may be made to Luke Memorial Hospice.
What’s your fondest memory of Bernell?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bernell?
Share a story where Bernell's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bernell you’ll never forget.
How did Bernell make you smile?