CHESTER – Earl C. "Sonny" Welge, 90, of Chester, IL, passed away on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Randolph County Care Center, Sparta, IL.

Earl was born January 19, 1935, in Blair, IL to Clarence and Ruby (Mahan) Welge. Earl married Lardean Hornbostel on April 23, 1960, at Immanuel Lutheran Church - West Point. He was a Veteran of the U.S. Army and owned and operated the family farm. Earl was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Bremen, IL, and Randolph County Farm Bureau. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Earl is survived by his wife, Lardean "Deanie" Welge of Chester, IL, his children: Mary Ann (David) Schatte of Ladson, SC, Robert (Stephanie) Welge of Steeleville, IL, Carol Best of Chester, IL; his grandchildren: Jerel (Stephanie) Bernasek, Hilary (Nathan) Koller; his great grandchildren: Evelyn and Sloane; his sister, Marie Hornbostel of Campbell Hill, IL and several nieces and nephews.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Florence Ruroede.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, 11:00 am, at St. John's Lutheran Church, Bremen, IL, with Rev. David Peters officiating. Burial to follow at Paradise Cemetery, Steeleville, IL. Visitation will be Thursday morning, where friends may call from 9:30 am until time of service at the church. Memorials may be given to St. John's Lutheran Church, Bremen, IL and can be mailed to Wilson's Funeral Home, P.O. Box 217, Steeleville, IL 62288. To sign the guest book, visit www.wilsonsfuneralhome.net.