Dear readers, we are researching some of the first Lithuanian families in Springfield for a future blog post and seek information from the descendants of the following late-19th Century immigrants. Please email sandybaksys@gmail.com if you can help with info or photos. Thank you!
Viliumas [William] Kasper and wife, Martha Tonila [Tunila]. He came to the U.S. in 1888. They had Kate (born 1887) and William, Jr. (born 1898).
Motiejus [Matthew] Patkus (Petkus). He emigrated in 1889 and seems to have married a non-Lithuanian (Agnes Reid). Their kids were Ralph (died 2009), George (died 1982), Matt (died 2007), and Mary (died 1983).
Ignatius [Enos] Kasper emigrated in 1890. He married Marcella Tonila (maybe brothers marrying sisters?)
Thank you for any help you can give!
Lithuanians in Springfield, Illinois 
Ron Yanor said:
Al Casper [Casperavich?] was a cousin to my father – Joe Yanor. Not sure on exact relationship. He bought Lauriks Tavern from my mothers aunt Antosia Laurik who alter remarried Joe Poder. All three were born in Lithuania. The Tavern was renamed Caspers. All was an uncle I believe to Phyllis Burge on her mother’s side.
sandyb52 said:
Thanks for the info, Ron! Do you know if Al was a descendant of any of the Kaspers mentioned in this post, who immigrated in the late 1800s?
Jami Winchester said:
Good morning all. My name is Jami Winchester. My maiden name is Patkus. Ralph Patkus was my grandfather. His siblings were Matthew Patkus, George Patkus and Mary.