Charles Reese Roper, 87, of Litchfield, died peacefully in his home on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 12 p.m. at Plummer Funeral Home in Litchfield on Saturday, Feb. 14. A memorial service will begin at 12 p.m. at Plummer Funeral Home in Litchfield. Father Dan Willenborg will preside. Family and friends are invited to attend a luncheon at the Litchfield Country Club following the memorial service. Plummer Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Mr. Roper was born on Dec. 30, 1938, in Carlinville, to Charles and Elizabeth (Welsh) Roper. An only child, he was lovingly raised by his parents and an uncle and two aunts who lived next door. He married his high school sweetheart, Carol Ann (Link) Roper, on Aug. 13, 1957.
After graduating from Carlinville High School in 1956, he earned a bachelor of science in physical education from Eastern Illinois University in 1960 and later obtained a master of science in education from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
A lifelong educator, Mr. Roper was employed by the Litchfield School District for over 30 years, retiring in 1994. He enjoyed serving as a teacher, high school guidance counselor and most of all, coach. Throughout his career, he mentored many young athletes, coaching track, football, basketball and baseball.
He was a member of the Litchfield Country Club for over 60 years, serving on various committees and playing countless rounds of golf with family and friends.
Above all, he treasured time spent with his family and took great joy in supporting his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren through their activities, achievements and everyday moments, creating memories that will be cherished for generations.
Mr. Roper is survived by his wife of 68 years, Carol Ann (Link) Roper; children, Jan (Brad) Niehaus, Lynn (Roger) Hearn, Chuck Roper, Andrea (Al) DeVries, David (Christine) Roper and Jeff Roper; 16 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Mike (Becky) Link; and sisters-in-law, Janet Caulk and Jane Link.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Anne Marie, who was lost in infancy; and brothers-in-law, Ed Caulk and Ralph Link.
The family requests that memorials be made to the Litchfield Sports Boosters or the St. Clare Center Food Pantry.
Condolences may be left at www.plummerfuneralservices.com.
