Harold "Sug" Hand

PEORIA - Harold D. "Sug" Hand, a man characterized by his tireless work ethic, devotion to family, and proud service to his country, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the age of 81.

Born in Peoria on March 16, 1944, to Harold V. and Pearl (Johnson) Hand, "Sug" became a lifelong fixture of the community he loved. He was a man who understood the value of commitment, a trait evidenced by his 45-year career as a master painter. Alongside his brother, he co-owned and operated Vogue Painting in Peoria for 25 years, leaving a colorful and lasting mark on countless homes and businesses across the region before his retirement in 2002.

A proud veteran, Sug served with honor in the United States Marine Corps, carrying the values of discipline and loyalty with him throughout his life.

Sug's greatest legacy remains his large and loving family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Noreen Hand, whom he married on November 26, 1994. He also shared many years and memories with his first wife, Janice Laughlin.

His memory will be cherished by his children, Todd (Jennifer) Hand of East Peoria and Missy (Brian) Despines of Creve Coeur; his step-daughters, Heidi (Mitch) Creasy and Heather (Tobin) Taylor, both of Peoria; and daughter-in-law, Marcia Stevenson of Montreal, Missouri. He was a proud grandfather to Tony (Jaelin) Stevenson, Ciara (Steve) Haenke, Samantha Despines, and Briana Despines; and step-grandfather to Emma, Clara, and Sara Taylor. His joy multiplied with his great-grandchildren: Oliver Haenke, and Abigail, Angelina, Jessica, and Sophia Stevenson. He also leaves behind his brother, Robert "Rusty" (Diana) Hand, and his sister, Valerie Duncan, both of Peoria.

Sug was preceded in death by his son, Robert; his granddaughter, Jessica; and his half-brothers, Rick Defreitas and James Hand.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of Sug's life-a time for friends and family to gather and share the stories that defined him-will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Double A's in Peoria, 7716 IL-91, Peoria, IL 61615.

He will be laid to rest with military honors at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the St. Jude’s Runners Association.