Rodger M. Ahlstrom

Rodger M. Ahlstrom, 72, of Metamora, IL passed away at 2:51 pm on Friday, July 6, 2018 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.  He was born on January 7, 1946 to Marion B. and Dorothy E. (Seibert) Ahlstrom in Peoria, IL.  He married Denise E. Buck on August 27, 1966 in Peoria, IL.  She survives.

Also surviving are daughters Angie (the late Robert “Bob”) Smith and Laura (Stephen) Geiler both of Germantown Hills, IL; and granddaughters Erica Smith, Maeve Geiler, and Josie Geiler.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Burdette Ahlstrom, and sister Marilyn Pyles.

Rodger was a Vietnam Veteran, serving in the United States Army as a Bridge Specialist.  He was an electrician by trade, a proud union member, retiring from Caterpillar after 30 years.  A faithful servant, his love of God led him to TEC, Cursillo, and Prison Ministry.  He was a member of St. Mary of Lourdes Church where, in years past, he participated in music ministry and Parish Council.

Rodger was a gentle giant with a huge heart that had room for everyone.  He left his mark on the world with his smile, kind ways, and infinite wisdom.  He was married to the love of his life for almost 52 years and he treasured his family like no other, always putting their needs before his own.  He adored his grandchildren beyond words as they brought him great joy and he always looked forward to time spent with them.

A jack of all trades, there wasn’t anything he couldn’t do.  When not helping others, he enjoyed hobbies such as woodworking, whittling, hunting, playing his instruments, gardening, coin collecting, baking, and mushroom hunting.  However, fishing The Big 25 with his best friend, Carl, was his favorite pastime.  Rodger was a hero to many, admired and respected by all and will truly be missed!

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, July 12, 2018 at St. Mary of Lourdes Catholic Church with Father Greg Jozefiak officiating.  Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 3:30 pm on Wednesday, July 11, 2018 at Mason Funeral Home Germantown Hills Chapel with visitation to follow from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm.  Burial will be in St. Mary of Lourdes Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Holt International Children’s Services and Adoption, 250 Country Club Road, Eugene, OR 97401 with “In Honor of Rodger Ahlstrom” in memo line or to an Educational Fund for granddaughter Erica Smith, c/o CEFCU.  Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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