Roy Edwin Hilgendorf, 96 of Loda, passed away peacefully at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton at 8:10 p.m. Friday, October 13, 2023.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 23, 2023, at the Loda United Methodist Church, 200 S. Locust Street, Loda with Rev. Timothy Delaney officiating.  Burial will follow in Pine Ridge Cemetery, Loda with military honors accorded by the Loda American Legion Post 503.

Visitation will be one hour before the service from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Monday, October 23, at the church. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is handling arrangements.

Roy was born August 29, 1927, in Loda the son of Frank J. and Edna S. Hilgendorf.  He married Margaret Larkin May 29, 1949.  She survives.

Along with his wife, Margaret, he is survived by a daughter, Nancy (Harold) Ecker of Loda, three sons, Richard (Debra) Hilgendorf of Leroy, Michael (Marianne) Hilgendorf of Pontiac, Donald (Jerilyn) Hilgendorf of Gibson City; 9 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, 7 great-great grandchildren and step grandchildren; son-in-law, Charles Cox of Rantoul and a sister, Janet Lindauer of Gibson City.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother James Hilgendorf, daughter Linda Cox and grandson Trent Martin.

Roy graduated from Loda High School in 1945.  He served in the United States Navy, primarily in Japan during World War II.  Roy retired from farming in 1970 and from O'Cedar France Broom Company in 1993.

He was a very active member of the Loda United Methodist Church and the Loda American Legion Post 503.  He served at many levels of the county and district Illinois American Legion.  Roy was also a life member of the Gibson City VFW.  He volunteered at the Danville VA for many years as an advocate.  Roy was a Loda Village Board trustee for 14 years with the Loda Park as his special project.  He also planned and arranged the installation of the playground equipment and the Veterans Memorials next to the Loda Legion.

His true enjoyment in life was his wife and very large family.  He enjoyed all family events, camping, his flower gardens and jigsaw puzzles.

Memorials may be made to the Loda American Legion Post 503, the Loda United Methodist Church or an organization of the donor's choice.  Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.