Dorothy Jane Whelchel Rutan

Dorothy Jane Whelchel Rutan, 80, of Danville, passed away at 2:55 a.m. Sunday, July 9, 2006 at Danville Care South. Dorothy was born on June 16, 1926 in Danville, Illinois, the daughter of Perry and Mary (Buy) Weaver. She married Vern Rutan in January of 1949 in Danville. He preceded her in death in January of 1975. Dorothy later married Lester E. Whelchel Sr. in Danville. He preceded her in death. She is survived by her four sons- Steven (Sharon) Rutan of Danville, Kenneth (Sally) Rutan of Tilton, John (Pam) Rutan- Olivet, and Lester Whelchel Jr. of Danville; one daughter- Susan (Charles) Strawser of Hoopeston; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, and one brother- William Weaver. Dorothy graduated from Henning High School. She worked as a Sales Clerk for J.C. Pennys for several years until she retired. She later worked for the Vermilion County Fair Board. Dorothy loved to crochet angels and called herself the Angel Lady. She also loved spending her time reading. A Celebration of the Life of Dorothy Jane Whelchel will be at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, July 13, 2006 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, with Rev. James Blue officiating. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will be held at Sunset Memorial Park.