Roger Tramel

Roger C. Tramel, 77, of Peoria, IL, passed away peacefully at 11:50 PM Tuesday, December 26, 2023, at his home surrounded by family. He was born on March 5, 1946, in Pontiac, IL, the son of Carl Tramel and Vera Kaiser Tramel. He married his beloved wife, Lynn Rigley, on March 2, 1968, in Peoria. Surviving are his wife and their children; Drew (Carey) Tramel of Wheaton, Genna (Matt) Strayhorn of St. Louis, MO, and Matthew (Heather) Tramel of Madison, WI. Also surviving are six grandchildren; Isabella, Ethan, Lucas, Samantha, Sophia, and Caleb.

For 34 years, Roger dedicated his life to nurturing students at Chillicothe Jr. High School, where his passion for teaching mathematics, U.S. History, and physical education, as well as coaching basketball, baseball, and track left an indelible mark. Roger's commitment to education extended beyond the classroom. He was an active member of several associations, including the National Education Association, Illinois Education Association, and the Chillicothe Education Association, underscoring his belief in the power of continuous learning and professional growth.

At Western Illinois University, Roger earned his bachelor's degree in business administration. He later earned his masters degree in educational administration from Illinois State University. While at Western Illinois, he became a founding father and vice president of the Phi Theta chapter of the Theta Chi fraternity, where he formed lifelong friendships.

Roger's faith was a cornerstone of his life.  He was also passionate about spending time with his family and friends at the Lake of the Ozarks, where he enjoyed fishing, golfing, water skiing and boating. He was an avid reader and loved to travel with Lynn. Rog's friendships were very important to him. He especially enjoyed meeting his 'Cronies' each week for breakfast throughout retirement.

Those who knew Roger will remember his friendliness, wisdom, and generosity. He taught valuable lessons both in and out of the classroom. His warm smile and thoughtful advice were gifts he freely shared, and his legacy of kindness will continue to inspire.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Peoria Heights.  A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, preceded by visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. Burial of his remains will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Peoria. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Illinois Cancer Care, or St. Jude's Midwest Affiliate. Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements. His family invites you to visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com to share a memory or send a condolence.