Stuart Ladage

Stuart Ladage, age 74, of Waverly, Il. died Monday afternoon (September 22, 2025) at his residence surrounded by his family.

He was born October 7, 1950, in Springfield, Il. son of the late Julius and Ruth Marie Crum Ladage.

He married Linda Sadler in 1969, and they later divorced.

Surviving is his longtime companion, Dawn Collison of Waverly, Il.; two daughters, Tracy Reznicek (Curt) and Kristi Yoder (Rick) all of Waverly, Il.; and Dawn's children who became his children, Lindsey Coyne of Des Moines, IA., and Levi Collison (Jenny) of Monument, Co.; grandchildren, Alexa Keeney (Chris) of Modesto, Il., Zack Reznicek (fiancé Jordan Releford) of Palmyra, Il., Julius Coyne of Des Moines, IA., and Willow and Archer Collison of Monument, Co.; great-grandchildren, Brisena, Jordan, Danger, and Theodore Stuart.

He was preceded in death by parents.

Stuart's education began and was completed in Waverly, Il. as was the entirety of his life. His life and work all took place on the Ladage Family Farm as he was third generation to steward that piece of dirt. He had great curiosity that led him on many adventures, but the pull was always the farm, and he never had a desire to live anywhere else. Stuart was baptized and confirmed Lutheran and remained steady in his faith. He did not always feel it was necessary to attend services as he said, "I'm with God every day in the largest church, outdoors". Even though the only child of Ruth & Julius Stuart was seldom alone, the kids in his neighborhood became family and many remain dear friends to this day. Always gregarious he spent time well, whether it be at Miner's shop for coffee, Verda Mae's for lunch or the Wagon Wheel for beers and laughs. He was a great storyteller and his laugh was infectious. Mark Twain and Stuart both said, "Never let the truth get in the way of a good story". He drew people in as one would harvest and gather treasure. His treasured family, girls Tracy and Kris and Dawn's children, Lindsey and Levi all were privileged to enjoy growing up on the farm with all the joys and challenges that presents. He created a good life for all he held dear. Stuart did not let his illness keep him from completing many bucket list times including a trip West, Estes Park, Mt. Rushmore and Deadwood. He was thrilled to cruise the Mississippi perched on his cabin deck, dreaming of Huck Finn, and soaking up the sun, relishing gourmet dinners (especially dessert) and a few glasses of wine. He was painting his picture of heaven as he had the gift of knowing his work on earth was nearly done. A final request was to be present at the celebration of his life. Decorum and propriety never concerned Stuart. He was given a party that he enjoyed immensely with the help of dear caregivers that became family and those souls, family and friends that he had gathered. Those stories, songs, friends and memories became the soundtrack that brought him comfort and joy in his final days. Stuart Ladage crossed over a few short weeks later at home, on the farm, sun streaming in on his face, his soundtrack playing, and those dear ones gathered around, as I imagine was the scene in heaven when he arrived. "A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time" Twain. Stuart Ladage left his mark, our loss is sharp, sweet memories remain.

Graveside services for Stuart will be held at a later date and made publicly known thru the Neece-Airsman-Hires website at www.airsman-hires.com. Neece-Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Waverly, Il. is privileged to be assisting the Ladage family with Stuart's arrangements.