Sheila R. Funk

1938 - 2024

Sheila R. Funk
Born: November 15, 1938
Died: August 12, 2024
Sheila R. Funk, passed away on August 12, 2024 in Morris, at the age of 85. Sheila was born on November 15, 1938, to George and Mona (Horan) Rooney, who preceded her in death. Her life was a testament to her passion for family, community, and lifelong learning.
Sheila's journey began in Joliet, where she was born and raised. She pursued her love for science at Saint Mary of the Woods in Terre Haute, earning a Bachelor's degree in Biology and Chemistry. It was there that she cultivated a curious mind and a caring heart, qualities that would define her for the rest of her life.
On August 22, 1959 at the St. Raymond Cathedral, Sheila married her beloved husband, Eugene "Gene" Funk, and together they embarked on a life full of joy, challenges, and accomplishments. Their marriage was a loving partnership that lasted 65 years, blessed with three wonderful children: Kelly Funk, Brian Funk, and Paige (Dave) Cherven. Sheila's role as a mother was one she cherished deeply, and she extended her nurturing spirit to her grandchildren: Michael, Nina, Brianna, and Hunter Funk, and Adrienne, Elise, and Lauren Cherven, as well as her great-grandchildren, Hudson and Henry Funk.
Sheila's brothers, Dr. George Rooney and Dr. Gael Patrick Rooney, held a special place in her heart. She shared with them a bond of mutual respect and fondness that endured through the years.
A pillar of the Morris community, Sheila dedicated 23 years of service to the Morris Planning Commission. She also served on the Hospital Auxiliary Board.
Sheila's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as she owned and operated several successful businesses, including the Hideaway Dress Shop, The Hideaway Jr. Shop, The Hideaway Children Shop, Collins Hideaway in Marseilles, and the Paraphernalia Gift Shop. Her shops were more than just businesses; they were extensions of Sheila's warm and welcoming personality.
Coaching the Morris Tennis Team for 11 years, Sheila shared her love for the sport and her competitive spirit with countless young athletes. Her enthusiasm for sports extended to her grandkids' sporting events, which she never missed. Sheila's love for the game was evident whether she was cheering from the sidelines or watching her favorite teams, Notre Dame Football and Morris Redskin football.
A social butterfly, Sheila enjoyed a glass of wine and the challenge of numerous Bridge Clubs. Her keen intellect and strategic mind made her a formidable opponent and a sought-after partner at the card table.
Sheila's love for travel and creating memories with her family took her to favorite destinations like Hilton Head and Lake Geneva. These trips were cherished times, filled with laughter, relaxation, and the simple pleasure of being together.
Visitation will be at the U.C. Davis Callahan Funeral home on Thursday afternoon, August 15th., from 4:00pm to 8:00 pm. A Mass of Christion Burial will be held Friday morning, August 16th., at 10:00 am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Morris. Burial will be in Mt. Carmel Cemetery following the mass.
An online guestbook has been made for the family, where you may sign the guestbook, share memories and photographs. You can access this by visiting the website at www.ucdaviscallahan.com. Arrangements have been entrusted with U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris, IL.