Leslie Reel

Leslie Edward Reel, age 74 of Congerville, IL, ended his battle
with cancer on Saturday evening, October 5th.  He
died at home, surrounded by loved ones.  Les often quoted,
"All roads worth taking lead uphill!" We rejoice, knowing he is
walking the pasture lands of heaven, catching up with dear friends
and family that have gone before him.


Les was born on May 16, 1939 in Congerville, a son
of Merle and Esther (Eglin) Reel.  He was raised on the farm
in central IL. He married Carolyn Sue Blaker on December 31, 1979,
and she survives.  He was the father to Kimberly (Eric)
Miller, Kris Polencia, Mary (Kevin) Ring, Scott (Sharon) Reel and
Abby (Jason) Reel Haas, all surviving.  Also surviving are his
brother, John (Martha) Reel and sister, Joyce (Jack) Wright.
He is preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Linda
Klein. He was a very proud grandpa and great grandpa, and will be
missed dearly by his wife, children and grandchildren.


It is difficult to imagine a world without Les
Reel.  Those who knew Les well will remember him for his
generosity, positive attitude, sense of humor, and cattle
sense.  Through his positive personality and work ethic, Les
earned the respect, admiration and friendship of his community and
the customers he served for over 50 years working in livestock and
agriculture.  His generosity was demonstrated in a variety of
ways.  Despite having 5 children of his own, he mentored,
cared for and financially supported several individuals in our
farming community, ensuring they had the help and support they
needed to be successful.  His sense of humor and ornery grin
will surely be missed by many!  It was hard not to laugh
around Les, his spirit of joy was contagious and inspired and
encouraged those around him.  This spark can never be
replaced.  He lived life abundantly, taking risks, sharing the
rewards and enjoying every minute of the adventure.


A public Celebration of Life Service will be held at
the Bloomington Performing Arts Center Auditorium on Thursday,
October 10 at 5-6:15 pm with a time of fellowship for family and
friends immediately following in the downstairs ballroom.  We
welcome all who wish to celebrate Leslie's life, influence and
legacy to join us for this special service of remembrance. Les was
involved in the planning of this event before his death and was
excited for the celebration!  It will include his favorite
band, Deer Fry International, and several speakers and memories
special to Les.  Please come and take part! A private family
funeral and burial service will be held at Roanoke Mennonite Church
at 10am, Friday, October 11, with interment at Imhoff Cemetery,
Congerville.  Argo Ruestman Harris Funeral Home, Eureka is
assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences
may be sent to his family at
ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.


Memorial contributions are welcome and can be made
out to the Roanoke Mennonite Church, the Congerville Fire and
Rescue Squad or the Congerville Beautification Fund.  Les'
family would like to thank their church family, neighbors and the
agricultural community for their prayers and support during this
time.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Leslie Edward Reel, please visit our floral store.