Roger William Lemke passed unexpectedly on September 11, 2025 at home.
He was born in Rockford, Illinois, May 8, 1946 the son of Everett and Grace (Medearis) Lemke.
He graduated from BHS in 1964 and went to work for Barber Colman as a Machinist. The company later sold to Reid Chatwood where he continued working and also at Advanced Machining for a total of 32 years. After being off for a couple of years, he decieded to work for Stillman Valley schools as custodial/maintenance. He worked there for 8 years. He then retired and enjoyed working in the yard, garden tinkering with different things and enjoying his time. These were his hobbies along with loving to play the lottery.
He married Sheila Donaldson, his wife of 52 years in August of 1973 and raised two boys, Brian Lemke and Bradley (Renee) Lemke. He has 4 grandchildren, Brian's 2 children Hunter Scott Lemke and Brenna Catherine Grace Lemke along with Brad and Renee's 2 children Caleb Edward Lemke and Paige Marie Lemke.
His family also for the last 26 years have always had a pet English Bulldog with them who he enjoyed so much having one around.
He is survived by his wife Sheila, son Brian, grandchildren Hunter and Brenna, son Bradley (Renee), grandchildren Caleb and Paige a brother Everett (Mary), and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents and sister.
Roger will be laid to rest at Byron Township Cemetery follow private family services. In Lieu of Flowers the family is requesting donations be made to Cancer Organizations focused on Research and Development of treatments and cures.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
506 W Merchant St, Byron, IL 61010
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