Wilbur R. Olroyd

Age 87 of Coal City, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 23, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on July 18, 1938, in Gardner, Wilbur was the son of Wilbur and Eileen (Harrop) Olroyd. He was raised in Coal City and graduated from Coal City High School with the Class of 1956. Following graduation, he proudly served in the United States Army and National Guard, and continued his service through the Army Reserves. On August 1, 1959, Wilbur married the love of his life, Carolee, at the Coal City Methodist Church. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and hard work.

Wilbur dedicated 30 years of service as a machinist with Caterpillar Tractor Company before retiring, and also worked for the Coal City Post Office and provided tree cutting services on the side. He was a member of the Coal City United Methodist Church and the Coal City Area Club, where he enjoyed fishing and hunting, and would also help maintain the grounds.

Above all else, Wilbur cherished his family. He will be remembered for his hardworking nature, quiet strength, and devotion to those he loved. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife: Carolee; three children: Pamela (the late Steve) Butler of Morris, Illinois, Cheryl (the late Tim) Butterfield of Dwight, Illinois, and Claudia (Rudy) Lorenz of Coal City; ten grandchildren: Matt Butler, Michelle Butterfield (Glenn Larkin), Rev. Caitlyn (Nate) Nesbit, Danielle Lindly, Sarah Butterfield, Jessica (Dylan) Brandt, Dillon Lindly, Joshua Chubb, Samatha Lorenz (fiancé: Dustin Cates), and Haley Angel; great-grandchildren: Peyton, Brysen, McKenna, Mila, Ella, and Aisling, with one more expected; and one sister, Charlene Swearingen of Braidwood, Illinois.

Wilbur was preceded in death by his parents, and one daughter, Kimberly Olroyd.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at the Coal City United Methodist Church, 6805 East McArdle Road in Coal City on June 8, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until time of funeral service, 11:00 a.m. Rev. Jay Regennitter will officiate, and cremation rites will be accorded following the services.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Wilbur’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral and cremation services have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-634-2125)