Milford, IL – A virtual cemetery walk celebrating the 150th anniversary of St. John Lutheran Church of Schwer will be held Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, at 2 p.m. in the parish hall at 1812E 1130N Road, Milford (Iroquois County, near the Kankakee area). The program marks the church’s sesquicentennial with a look back at eight original signers of its constitution.
According to the Iroquois County Genealogical Society, the presentation will feature slides and photos while local speakers share short biographies of early members: Diane VanHoveln on Freich Lucht; Shanda Jaremus on Gike Wessels; Quintin Schaumburg on Harm J. Schaumburg; members of the Reiners family on Reiner Reiners; Deane Geiken on Geike Geiken; Jayne Frerichs on Jurden Duis; Mary Buhr on William Tincher; and Dee Eckersley on Harm Hofeling.
Attendees can stay for an ice cream social immediately after the program. Snacks will also be available for non-dairy eaters. A small donation will be collected at the door; it includes a souvenir booklet of the event and the featured histories.
Organizers note the program is designed for church members, local history buffs, and anyone tracing family ties in Iroquois County. The Iroquois County Genealogical Society, a nonprofit based in the Old Courthouse Museum (103 W. Cherry, Watseka), maintains local records of weddings, deaths, land transfers, and more, and assists residents building family trees. For information, call 815-432-3730 (Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.), email iroqgene@gmail.com, or visit the Iroquois County Genealogical Society Facebook page.
—
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
