Wilbur Rogers

Wilbur “Wil” Rogers passed away on the 25th of January at the young age of 69 while surrounded by his loved ones at the Unity Point Trinity Rock Island. Wil lived his life full of love, laughter, ambition, generosity and care until losing his courageous battle with cancer. He was born July 23, 1952 in Kewanee, IL to Wilbur and Gertrude (Hellebuyck) Rogers. Wil graduated from Kewanee High School before attending Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL.

Wil began his long career in the media industry at the Kewanee Star Courier Newspaper for many years before moving over to the television sector, working at KWQC for several years. From there he continued in the media/advertising industry working for Bawden & Associates and then on to other advertising agencies. He finished his work life as a contractor with John Deere until his retirement. As a hobby, he enjoyed painting or wallpapering multiple things for his friends, family and acquaintances.

Wil’s beloved friends and family were as precious to him as he was to them. Knowing and loving each one of them was the success story of his life, a story that he would joyfully do over again. He created fun, no matter where he was or whom he was with, not to mention a little sarcasm in the mix. As his loved ones would attest, Wil’s entire life involved loving and advocating for pets of all kinds. He had a special place in his heart for all of his pets, and an especially strong bond with his cat Maxwell, who survives.

Wil greatly impacted everyone he met with a genuine love and never-ending fond memories no matter what he was involved in…the boat rides on the Rock River, the laugh until you hurt times while hanging out with friends and family, the gatherings at Mac’s Tavern, along with so many walks, talks, sunsets and sunrises. His spirit is now exploring the universe, catching up and laughing with his family and friends that passed before him. His body and soul are now in eternal peace, watching over the living.

Survivors include his nephews, Jeremy (Sally) of Milan, IL and Chad (Leslie) Rogers of Galva, IL; his beloved and fabulous friends, Darla Evans, Michelle Collins, Julie Quested, Annette Sherbyn; and his most loved and adored feline companion, Maxwell.

Proceeding him in death were his loving parents, Wilbur and Gertrude Rogers; his siblings, Richard (Rich) Rogers, James (Jim) Rogers and Julie Rogers; a nephew, Todd Rogers; and his beautiful friend, JoAnn Johnson. All of whom welcomed him home with open arms.

Per Wil’s wishes, cremation rites were accorded, but no services will be held. Rather, everyone who remembers and cherishes Wil is asked to celebrate his life in their own way; raising a glass of their favorite spirit in his memory.

The family requests that memorials be made in his honor to either Gilda’s Club of the Quad Cities or the Quad City Animal Welfare Center in Milan, IL.