In Memory of Anthony “Toby” Jansen

April 4, 1934 - April 25, 2023

Toby and his family have attended the American Thresherman’s Show in Pinckneyville for many years. His family consisted of his wife, Mardell and his seven children, Marlene, Karen, Joyce, Linda, Mark, Richard and Wayne. During those 50 years his family grew, adding 7 in-laws, 15 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren with 2 on the way. His brothers Eddie, Virgil and Johnny and brother in law Norbert Hoene got him started in 1972. The first piece of equipment Toby brought was an Allis Chalmers WC tractor and then in 2005 followed his beloved threshing machine. Toby helped build the Steam Engine building and he ran his threshing machine for on lookers. He took pride in all his grandchildren, however, watching two of his granddaughters, Beth and Kelly, work with him threshing was extra special. It was no surprise to see a man in a pair of bib overalls over a long sleeve white shirt and a straw hat walking around the grounds in 90 degree weather. The family took care of parking the trucks and trailers carrying tractors and other machinery for several years. Toby took the job very seriously. When he wasn’t threshing he would spend time with other old folk reminiscing. He knew no strangers and made many new friends. He may have been seen eating breakfast at Kittens, known now as the Dixie Cup Cafe. He attended the Saturday evening mass at St. Bruno’s Catholic Church with the family. Toby enjoyed watching all his kids, grandkids and great grandkids experience all that he loved about this place. He will be greatly missed.