Final Salute

CHAMPAIGN – Roger Allen Stickels, 82, of Champaign passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday (May 17, 2023).

Roger was born June 13, 1940, at his grandparents’ home in Gibson City, the son of Ivan and Elizabeth (Williams) Stickels. He married Margaret “Lanna” Kelly on June 8, 1968, at Holy Cross Church in Champaign, and she survives.

He is also survived by his two sons, Eric (Catherine) Stickels of Champaign and Allen (Irene) Stickels of Champaign; his grandchildren, Rachel Stickels of St. Louis, Jack Stickels of Champaign, Hannah Stickels of Champaign and Fiona McGary of Champaign; brother, Charles (Judy) Stickels of Buffalo Grove; sister Patricia Stickels of Watseka; sister Kathleen (Edward) Haton of Lockport, Tracy (Leah) Stickels of Mahomet; and brother-in-law, William Savage of Champaign.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Terri Savage.

Roger was a 1958 graduate of Urbana High School and went on to serve in the United States Naval Construction Battalions (“Seabees”) from 1958-’62, stationed in Guam and Okinawa. After his Navy service, he worked at the University of Illinois before affiliating with Carpenters Local 44 in Champaign, where he served as trustee for several years during the 1980s. Before retiring in 2000 after three decades in the trade, he worked on several notable local projects, including the construction of the Assembly Hall and Foellinger Great Hall at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. Known as a patient and meticulous craftsman, Roger was always willing to share his knowledge and skills with everyone from apprentice carpenters to neighbors and family.

He was also known for his quiet sense of humor and for being a devoted fan of the Fighting Illini, St. Louis Cardinals and any team his grandchildren happened to be on. In retirement, his best times were the ones spent with his friends and family, particularly his four grandchildren.

A memorial and interment service for Roger will be at 11 a.m. June 3 at Mount Hope Mausoleum, 611 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Champaign.

Condolences may be offered at owensfuneralhomes.com.

Published by The News-Gazette from May 18 to May 21, 2023.