Published on August 25, 2025 2:03 pm
Last Updated on August 25, 2025 2:04 pm
Dennis M. “Butch” Willenborg, 84, of Effingham, IL, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and children.
Dennis was born on June 6, 1941 in Effingham, IL, the son of Clarence W. and Clara (Hemmen) Willenborg Sr. He married the love of his life, Jane (Szakacsi) on April 4, 2004 and together they shared a beautiful life filled with family, laughter, and faith. A man with an unmatched work ethic, Dennis devoted his life to the sawmill industry. Alongside his children, Kim and Russ, he proudly built Willenborg Hardwood Industries into what it is today. He was often teased that if he didn’t go to work seven days a week to hold the walls up, the whole place would surely fall down. But to Dennis, work was never just about business – it was about providing for his family, teaching his children the value of hard work, and leaving behind something lasting. Dennis will be remembered most for his devotion to his family, his steadfast faith, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. A lifelong member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, he sang joyfully in the choir and used his skills to build many things for the parish, including the Advent wreath holder, Jacob’s Ladder, a table for the Christmas manger theme, and countless other donations that will be treasured for years to come. Dennis also believed in constantly bettering himself and his business – he traveled often to trade shows and on business trips, always seeking new ways to grow and strengthen the family company he was so proud of. He loved nothing more than being surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren, whether it was at Sunday dinners, family celebrations, or simply visiting around the kitchen table. His legacy is one of love, loyalty, and perseverance.
He is survived by his wife, Jane Willenborg of Effingham; daughter, Kim (Jim) Parker and son, Russ (Tracy) Willenborg, both of Effingham; son, Keith Brown of Effingham; daughter, Rachel (Brian) Alexander of Springfield; grandchildren, Chris Parker, Ryan (Bethany) Parker, Emma Willenborg, Ava Willenborg, Collin Kelley, Chloe Kelley, and Noah Alexander; greatgrandchildren, Maggie and Ellie Parker; and brother, Clarence Willenborg Jr.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Theodore “Ted” Willenborg; sisters, Delores Johnson and Karen Shields; and grandson, Evan Willenborg.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Effingham. Burial will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Effingham. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Tunnels to Towers, Sacred Heart Church, or donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.