Wilbert Eugene Scheller

Wilbert Eugene Scheller passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 5:59 a.m. at his home in Mt. Olive, IL surrounded by family. He was 83 years old.

Wilbert “Willy” was born on July 15, 1943 in Mt. Olive, IL to Wilbert C. Scheller and Elda (Pauge) Scheller. He attended Mt. Olive Elementary and Mt. Olive High School. Willy graduated in the Class of 1961 and was a member of the Boy Scouts of America, where he was proud to achieve the rank of Explorer.

He attended Ranken Trade School studying architecture.

He served in the United States Army from August 1962- August 1966 serving at the DMZ in Korea for 1 year and was honorably discharged.

Willy married Susan (Bayon) Scheller in Mt. Olive, IL on September 11, 1965.

He was employed by the Illinois Department of Transportation as an engineering tech. He was a member of the Retired State Employees Association.

Willy was a founding member of the Mt. Olive Jaycees, a member of the St. John Paul II Catholic Church, a volunteer at the Care Center in Mt. Olive and the Mt. Olive District Fire Department.

While a volunteer member of the Fire Department, Willy served in several roles throughout his career, including Assistant Chief, and was both a Volunteer Trustee and a District Trustee. Willy, along with other firefighters started the Rescue Squad in the early 70’s. He was an EMT who was always willing to lend his skills and advice to further advance the mission.

He was also a valued member of Father Knaperek Council 8716 and the Vintage Motor Bike Club.

Willy is survived by his wife, Susan, two sons: Michael C. (Francine) Scheller and Andrew P. Scheller, one daughter, Christine (Bob) Gretak and six grandchildren: Alyssa (Mike) Gretak Leal, Emily Gretak, Chloe Gretak, Lillian (fiancé Travis Heilman) Gretak, Rapha Scheller, and Emi Scheller and sister-in-law Gretchen Martin (Matt and Josh Martin and families).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbert and Elda Scheller and brother-in-law Peter Bayon.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at St. John Paul II Catholic Church from 9:30 - 11 a.m. Mass officiated by Father Thomas Hagstrom will begin at 11 a.m. A lunch for family and friends will take place immediately after mass at St. John Paul II Church Hall. A private burial will take place at a later date. Memorials are suggested to the Mt. Olive Fire Department and the Mt. Olive Care Center.

Becker and Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Anyone wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at beckerandson.com.

His family would like to thank the caregivers who became friends and friends who became caregivers.