Roger P. Nilles, loving husband, age 76 of Freeport, IL, passed away Tuesday, September 26, 2017 at Manor Court in Freeport. He was born December 30, 1940 in Dubuque, IA with his twin brother, Roland; the son of the late Eugene and Marcella (McPolland) Nilles. He attended Dubuque grade schools, went to St. Mary's Catholic School for 7th & 8th grade and went on to Freeport High School. He married Louise Raih on July 20, 1991. His former wife, Patricia Cali, he married on December 1, 1962.
Roger had worked for Freeport Blacktop, Byron Nuclear Plant and Civil Construction. He owned Nilles tree trimming business. He began climbing trees in 1963 and climbed his last tree at the age of 73. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Freeport and of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart. He loved to decorate for Christmas often times starting the process in early October. He enjoyed taking things apart and rebuilding them. He loved fishing and taking an annual trip to the cabin on the lake in McFarland, WI. He really enjoyed dancing all his life. He was recently elected as President of the Resident Council at Liberty Village He was also grateful for his many years of sobriety.
He is survived by his wife, Louise Nilles of Freeport and former wife, Patricia Nilles of Freeport; daughters, Sherri (Mike) Daniel of Freeport, Toni (Billy) Bollon of Lena, and Stacey (Tim) Wagenknecht of Rockford; grandchildren, Tanner Bollon, Tyler (Aurora) Bollon, Madison Daniel, and Noah Daniel; great grandchild, Kellan Bollon; twin brother, Roland (Julia) Nilles of Idaho and brothers, David (Carol) Nilles of Freeport, Mark (Rosie) Nilles of Forreston; sister, Arlene Hibbard of Lena; special friend, Audrey Howard and several nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Marcella Nilles; brother, Dale; sister, Lois Feyen; and infant brother, Eugene.
The family would like to thank the doctors and staff of FHN, FHN Hospice and Liberty Village/Manor Court for all of their great care. Also a special thanks to their niece and nurse Haley Auer and Father Barr and Father Diego for their support and a special thanks to all his angels here on Earth. The family would also like to thank Walker Mortuary for all their support and assistance.
A Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, October 3rd at 11:00 am at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Freeport with a visitation beginning at 9:30 am. A memorial fund has been established in his name. Condolences may be shared with his family at www.walkermortuary.com.