Obituaries

Freeport/Sleepy Hollow

Brett Eugene Wardlow, 69

Brett Wardlow, 69, of Sleepy Hollow, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2023. He was born on July 29, 1954, in Freeport, Illinois. Son of Merle and Ladona (Renken) Wardlow.

Brett will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 30 years, Mary (Reinert) Wardlow, his son Evan (Ashley) Wardlow, He is survived by his parents, brother Dean (Marcia) Wardlow, sister Karen (Hans) Hauser, Nieces and Nephews, Sarah (Luke) Kramer and their son Leo; Kyle (Anna) Wardlow; Lindsey (Lucas) Goncalves and Nathan Wardlow.

Brett pursued a successful career in the banking/lending industry, working at First American Bank in West Dundee, Illinois, and JP Morgan Chase in Elgin, Illinois. His dedication and expertise made him a valuable asset to both institutions.

Outside of his professional life, Brett was a man of many talents and interests. He graduated from Freeport High School in 1972 and went on to cultivate a passion for creating moments of intense joy, charisma, and hilarious jokes. He had a unique ability to bring smiles and groans simultaneously, endearing himself to all who had the pleasure of being around him.

Brett Wardlow's passing leaves a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. He will be remembered for his vibrant personality, his unwavering love for spreading laughter, and his ability to brighten any room he entered. May his soul find eternal peace.

Donations in Brett's memory can be made to the American Cancer Society.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Della “Polly” M. Martin, 90

Della “Polly” M. Martin, age 90 of Freeport, IL, passed away on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at Ascension St. Joseph Nursing Home. She was born June 28, 1933; the daughter of the late Earl and Viola (Bonner) Barnhart. She was a 1951 graduate of Mt. Morris High School. Della married Jim Holder on August 16, 1952. She later married Burnham “Bun” Martin on April 9, 1965; he passed September 5, 2011.

She began working at Structo. She later worked for Newell Co and owned her own resale shop. Following that, she worked for Malcom Eaton Enterprises and later volunteered at Contact. Della was a member of the Freeport Church of the Brethren. She enjoyed crocheting, baking, decorating and reading. She also loved gardening and tending to flowers. Della loved entertaining around the holidays, especially at Christmas time. Most of all she loved spending time with her family.

She is survived by her children from her first marriage: Stephen (Pamela) Holder of Freeport, Holly (Norman) Hornung of Freeport, Linda (Rich) Hofmaster of Freeport, and Valerie (Greg) Stocks of Apple River, IL. Her step-children: Shelby Martin, Kathleen Shaw, Carol (Michael) Chacamaty, John (Sue) Martin, and Gregg (Connie) Martin, and Russ (Heather) Martin all of Virginia. Grandchildren: Sarah (Charles) Williams, Allison (Todd) Slama, Julie (Brian) Alderman, Lisa McDonald, Connie (Joe) Witte, Rachel Meyers, Ed Meyers, Katie Meyers, Geoff (Liz) Stocks, and Bridgette Stocks. Step-grandchildren: Jason (Erica), Adam (Amy), Carie, Rich Jr. (Carrie), Amanda, and Stephanie (Wes). Numerous great grandchildren. Brother, Kenny (Sue) Barnhart of Texas. Sisters, Donna “Duffy” Reuter of Freeport, Karen Kulas of Pearl City, IL, and Jean (Terry) Donahue of Carterville, IL. Sister-in-law, Kathleen Barnhart of South Carolina and brother-in-law, Dennis (Nancy) Martin of New York.

She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Jim Holder; second husband, Bun Martin; grandson, Adam Holder; brother, Rick Barnhart; sister, Doris “Snooky” Snapp; brothers-in-law, Bob Snapp, Bob Lizer, and Carl Reuter.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Her family is planning a celebration of life at a later date. Condolences may be shared at http://www.walkermortuary.com.