Barbara A Orton

MORTON ~ Barbara Ann Orton, 58, of Toulon, passed away at 6:50 a.m. Tuesday, January 1, 2008 at the Toulon Health Care Center following a 31 year battle with Multiple Sclerosis.  She was formerly of Morton.

She was born May 7, 1949 in Chicago to Charles Edward and Martha Elizabeth (Woodbridge) Hess.  She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister.

Surviving are one son, Ronald D. (Shelly) Kettle of Toulon; one daughter, Melissa A. (Kristopher) Laster of Booneville, Mississippi and five grandchildren, Ryan Kettle of St. Louis, Missouri, Danielle Cathey, Stephanie Cathey, both of Toulon, Mitchel Laster and Niena Laster, both of Booneville.

Barbara was a homemaker and had worked as a beautician in earlier years.

She liked music and formerly enjoyed motorcycling, water ballet and playing bunco.  Her friends and family were important to her.

Her graveside funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, January 5, 2008 at Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin.  The Rev. Kevin Fierge will officiate.  Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, January 4, 2007 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater Illinois Chapter, 525 West Monroe Street, Suite 900, Chicago, IL 60661.