John Held

Ransom- John S. “Jack” Held 89 of rural Ransom, passed away Saturday morning (Sept. 21, 2013) at St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria with his loving wife of 57 years by his side
Funeral services will be held at Noon Tuesday at Hagi Funeral Home, Streator with Rev. Danira Parra, officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM- Noon Tuesday at Hagi Funeral Home. Burial will be in Allen Township Cemetery, Ransom.
Mr. Held was born Feb. 21, 1924 in Streator the son of Clarence E. and Viola (Smith) Held. He married the love of his life, Roma Hinkelman, Jan. 29 1956 in Ransom. She survives.
Mr. Held and his wife had farmed his entire life in rural Ransom. He worked at the Seneca Shipyards during WWII and served in the US Army from 1946-1947. He was President of the Allen- Otter Creek Insurance Co. for 11 years, serving on the board for 21 years. He was a member of the Ransom United Methodist Church and served on the Allen Township Cemetery Board for many years, and was a member of the Allen Township Fire Department of 46 years. Jack attended rural grade school and was a graduate of Dwight High School, class of 1941.
Jack enjoyed farming, raising hogs, country music and Indy car racing. He will be fondly remembered for portraying Santa Claus for hundreds of children over the years.
Jack is survived by his wife Roma, one sister-in-law, Norma (Henry) Siedentop, Blackstone, two nephews, Larry (Sheri) Siedentop, Placentia CA and Jim (Pam) Siedentop, Ransom, three great nephews, Nick, Kevin and David Siedentop, two great nieces, Katie Amberston and Rachel Siedentop, along with a great great niece and nephew, Sophie and Will Amberston
He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother in infancy.
Pallbearers will be family and friends.
Memorials may be made to the Allen Township Fire Department, the Ransom united Methodist Church or the Pet Project, Marseilles.