Ira J. Wolfe, age 97 of Monroe, formerly of Winslow, IL, died Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at Pleasant View Nursing Home, Monroe.

Ira was born September 1, 1912 in Winslow, the son of Oscar and Annie (Priewe) Wolfe. He graduated in 1930 from Winslow High School where he played basketball. Ira married Elva M. Eder on August 5, 1951 at Staver St. Peter United Methodist Church.

He farmed all his life on the home farm in Oneco Township and enjoyed showing cattle at the Holstein black and white show in Freeport and also the Stephenson County Fair.

He was a longtime and very active member of the Staver St. Peters Church. Ira was a former member of the Winslow CO-OP Board of Directors, a past president of the Orangeville School Board, and was well known for his ability to play the musical saw.

He is survived by his daughter, Margaret Wolfe (Mark McConnaughay) of Dixon, IL; a son, Wayne Wolfe of Monroe; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Elva, on April 2, 2008; sisters, Hulda Wolfe, Edna Kohl, and twin sister, Iva Williams; and two brothers, Milo Wolfe and Willie in infancy.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 16, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. at Staver St. Peters United Methodist Church, Clarno Township. Pastor Paul Gregersen will officiate with burial to follow in the Staver Church Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church on Monday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.

Memorials may be given in Ira's name to the Staver Church.

The Newcomer Funeral Home, Monroe, is assisting the family.

To send a condolence to the family go to www.newcomerfuneralhome.net