Dora R. Planthaber, 80, passed away on February 15, 2025, in Spring Valley, Illinois. Born on June 15, 1944, in Ottawa, Illinois, she lived a life filled with love, faith, and devotion to her family.

Dora was a woman of deep faith and unwavering kindness. A lifelong Christian, she found great joy in prayer and gospel music, particularly country gospel. She cherished celebrating the birth of Jesus each year by baking a birthday cake and having the children sing "Happy Birthday" to Him. Her faith was not just something she practiced but something she lived—through her compassion, hospitality, and generosity toward both family and strangers alike.

Family was at the heart of Dora's life. She is survived by her daughters Diane (Jeff) Barhum of Tonica and Melissa Zwart of Streator; her siblings Patricia Robinson of Ottawa, Ramona "Pete" Loeffler of Peru, Cindy Kennedy of Spring Valley, Claudette Judy of Peru, Norma (Bill) Foltyniewicz of Oglesby, Gloria "Dee Dee" Owens of Utica, Sherry Bowne of Texas, Carmen Hill of Peru, and Harry Callahan (Janice) of Streator; as well as eight grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. She also played a significant role in raising her granddaughters Tabbitha and Amanda.

She was preceded in death by her parents Ann and Harry Callahan; her husband Harold; her daughter Margaret; her sons Kenny Bauer and Danny Tastad; two grandchildren Dustin and Britiny; and another great-grandchild Hunter.

Dora had a passion for the outdoors and found peace in nature. Whether fishing at local state parks or enjoying a picnic with loved ones, she embraced the beauty around her. Gardening brought her joy as she nurtured plants with the same care she gave to those around her. She also had an eye for home decorating—turning any space into a warm and welcoming haven with thoughtful touches of paint and décor.

A talented cook who delighted in preparing meals for family gatherings, Dora loved hosting loved ones for dinners filled with laughter and conversation. Playing cards or board games together was another favorite pastime that strengthened the bonds between those she held dear.

Her warmth extended beyond immediate family—she had a heart of gold that made everyone feel welcome. As the second oldest among her siblings, she naturally took on a nurturing role, always looking out for them with love and wisdom. Her storytelling ability captivated listeners as she shared experiences filled with insight and humor. Her laugh was unforgettable—contagious in its joy.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Horner-Merritt Funeral Home, located at 800 Monroe St., Mendota, Illinois. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM at the same location with her grandson Jeremiah Parker presiding. Afterward, family and friends are invited to gather for a funeral luncheon at First United Methodist Church, 102 6th Street, in Mendota.

Dora Planthaber's legacy is one of love—love for God, love for family, love for life's simple joys. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.