Obituary: Roger James Killelea, Teacher for More Than 25 Years

Roger James Killelea of Shorewood passed away April 17 at the age of 70.

Killelea was born on April 7, 1943 in Oak Park, IL to Roger E. and Anna Marie “Nancy” (Yorgan) Killelea, and moved to Racine in 1956. He was a graduate (1961) of St. Catherine’s High School in Racine and UW–Whitewater.

Killelea served in the US Army Reserves for 30 years, rising to the rank of First Sergeant. He was a dedicated teacher for over 25 years, and then found a second career as a chemist at Aldrich Chemical Co. Killelea will always be remembered as a warm and loving man.

His faith in the Lord Jesus Christ was the center of his life. His life showed his love for his family. He was always first to offer help and could be counted on for any favor, no matter how big or small. Killelea was an avid fan of history and science, and for many years tried tirelessly to teach the French how to speak French. His wise, easy-going demeanor and faithfulness will live on in his children and grandchildren. He will be dearly missed, but the wonderful memories of his life will never fade.

Killelea is survived by his loving wife, Maureen (nee Schwartz) of 45 years and his children, Annmarie (Shane) Nytes and Daniel (Ginevra Clark) Killelea. His greatest source of pride and happiness are his five grandchildren; Julia and Jackson Krueger, Sophya Nytes of Plymouth, and Regina and Roger Killelea of Chicago. He is also survived by his favorite sister, Kathleen (Ryerson) Gewalt. Killelea was preceded in death by his sister, Colleen (Bill) Sullivan.

Memorials may be made to Camp Anokijig, W5639 Anokijig Lane, Plymouth, WI 53073-2823. “Onwards and upwards!”

(Courtesy of Feerick Funeral Home)