Roger Lee Kilzer

Roger Lee Kilzer, age 74 of Charleston, IL passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Willow Breeze Hospice house in Mattoon, IL. A funeral service in his honor will be held at 12:00 PM, Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Mitchell-Jerdan funeral Home, 1200 Wabash Avenue, Mattoon, IL 61938. Gene Creek will officiate. A committal service will immediately follow at Glenwood Cemetery in Shelbyville, IL. The visitation will be held from 11:00 AM until the time of service at the funeral home. Roger was born on December 30, 1951, in Eldorado, IL to the late Charles E. and Anita Jane (Smith) Kilzer. He was raised by his mother and stepfather, Earl P. Maynard. He is survived by his two sons, Nathaniel Kilzer of Charleston, IL, Andrew Kilzer of Charleston, IL; his siblings: Vicky Wurl and husband Larry of Rantoul, IL, Sandra Hardt and husband Wes of Sharon, WI, Donna Kelpner of Belleville, IL, Helen (Kilzer) O'Brien of Dupo, IL, David Kilzer of Mascoutah, IL, Mike Kilzer and wife Tammy of Collinsville, IL, Sheila Aldrich and husband Randy of Santee, CA, Charlotte Kilzer of Collinsville, IL. Theresa Gill and husband Chuck of Dupo, IL; several grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Earl Maynard; stepmother, Helen Kilzer; grandson, Logan Kilzer; and niece, Stephanie (Hardt). Roger dedicated much of his life to serving others. In his younger years, he enlisted in the United States Army and was honorably discharged prior to completing basic training. Over the years, he worked as a firefighter and EMT in Shelbyville, IL, a police officer in Neoga, IL, a truck driver, and later as a pastor. A man of strong faith, Roger served as a minister in the United Methodist Church and found great purpose in sharing God's word. His faith was reflected in the kindness and compassion he showed to others. Roger was a member of American Legion Post 88, a loyal Chicago Cubs fan, and a sports enthusiast who enjoyed keeping up with his favorite teams. He also had a special love for his cats, whose companionship brought him comfort and joy. He will be remembered for his faith, his servant's heart, and the positive impact he made on the lives of those who knew him. Please visit www.mitchell-jerdan.com or www.facebook.com/mitchelljerdanfuneralhome to light a candle in her honor or share a memory with the family.

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Roger Lee Kilzer

December 30, 1951 - June 18, 2026