Warren J. Oppe

Warren Jennings Oppe, 95, of Peoria, passed away at 4:45 AM on Saturday October 4, 2025.

Born in Kickapoo Township, IL on December 30, 1929, to August & Anna Oppe, Warren was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Dolores, his parents, 9 siblings and granddaughter Paige Oppe.

He is survived by his three children, Pamela Wright, Michael (Sheri) Oppe, William (Kay) Oppe and eight grandchildren, Megan (Mark) Taylor, Ben (Heather) Smith, Emma (Andrew) Davison, Lauren Oppe, Kevin (Destiny) Oppe, Jacob Oppe & Samuel Oppe and four great grandchildren Adelaide Taylor, Harrison Taylor, Charlie Smith and Randy Smith.

Warren proudly served as a motor pool staff sergeant in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and immediately thereafter joined Illinois Bell Telephone on the GI Bill, retiring after 39 years of service.

Warren is most fondly remembered for his work ethic, devotion to family and passion for fishing. In addition to his lifelong employment at Illinois Bell Telephone, Warren became certified as both a licensed electrician and heating and air conditioning specialist. He had an unwavering willingness to share this expertise with family and friends without fail, whenever the need surfaced. Warren enjoyed the technical aspects of the work, but it was the relationships that drove his work ethic to serve others. Notwithstanding his busy work schedule, family gatherings were always the priority. Warren was a fixture at Sunday family gatherings, family reunions, holiday gatherings, and evening dinners. Family came first, and it was quietly understood that Warren was there for you.

Fishing was Warren's favorite pastime. It provided a way to connect with friends, family and grandchildren on his terms. Fishing was also a frequent source of stories and jokes that Warren enjoyed sharing. We will always remember the fish fry following his annual fall trip to Canada, that became a long-standing tradition for family and friends.

Warren was a member of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church for over 60 years. His giving and selfless life is a living legacy. His actions spoke a life of love - he will be greatly missed.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at Buehler Home for the loving care they provided Warren for the 5 years he was a resident.

Memorial Mass will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at St. Thomas Catholic Church with visitation beginning at 9:00 AM until time of Mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Thomas Food Pantry.

Tributes and condolences may be made to www.wrightandsalmon.com