Roger A. Plue

On February 5th, 2025, Roger Allen Plue, 87, went to be with his heavenly family. Roger was born December 27, 1937, in Galesburg, the son of Earl Allen Plue and Lesterine Reynola Plue (Mulady). Roger had one brother and five sisters – Fred, Jeannie McDowell, and Charlene Mahnesmith who preceded him in death. Surviving siblings are Kathy (Frank) Howard, Robbie (Carl) Malcom and Lucy (Randy) Goben.

On Easter Sunday, April 6, 1957, Roger married Marilynn Davis with whom he had four children – Nick (Cathy), Chris (Darlene), Susan and Janie (Greg) Richmond. They later divorced. A total of 16 grandchildren were born throughout the years creating many fond moments and memories for Roger.

Roger married Cheryl Waggoner on August 18, 1979, who had three boys – Brian (Jen) Dennis, Brad Dennis, and Bret (Laurie) Plue. Brad preceded Roger in death. The combined family became a “Brady Bunch” of sorts creating much fun, good times and lots of precious memories. Three additional grandchildren were born into the family over the years. Roger treated his stepchildren like his own and was called “Dad” and “Grandpa”.

Roger worked at Gale Products/OMC where he retired as a machine operator after 30 years. He was always doing side jobs for extra cash. He worked for Hensley Construction and helped his uncle Russel Kelby with his tree service. Roger and Cheryl started a successful antique business called Prairieland Antiques in the early 1990s which became their 2nd career and passion. Roger refurbished antique furniture and Cheryl handled the smalls. Roger was an accomplished craftsman and began making his own furniture which sold very well. Roger and Cheryl could often be seen tied at the hip at a Folgers’ auction, yard sales and antique shows in St. Charles over the years. Roger also helped his sons and nephew’s family business, Plue’s Tree Service, for several years before he “retired” in his 70’s.

Roger enjoyed many things over his life. He was an avid hunter, trapper and fisherman. He hunted antelope in Wyoming, whitetail deer, fox, coyote and was a commercial fisherman on the Mississippi for many years. Ice fishing was his winter hobby. Roger was one of the first bow hunters in Knox Co. to legally harvest a whitetail deer with a recurve. Roger really enjoyed spending free time with family & friends at the cabin on the Mississippi River.

For those that knew Roger, he had an infectious laugh, was a hard worker, the handiest of men, loved his family dearly, would give the shirt off his back to help anyone in need, usually had a smile on his face and was always up to participating in fun and shenanigans. He will be dearly missed by many.

A celebration of life for Roger and his wife Cheryl, who preceded him in death in December, will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, Illinois.