Roger J. Koerner Sr.

Roger J Koerner Sr. was born August 12, 1933 to Martin and Louise (Zimmerman) Koerner. He entered God’s Kingdom on January 17th 2024. He was surrounded by his family and received the sacrament of Last Rites. Roger graduated from St Patrick’s High School and Lewis University. He married his high school sweetheart Maryann Dandurand in 1955 at St Patrick’s Church in Kankakee. They were married 66 years until Maryann preceded him in death on July 14th, 2021.Together they had 4 children Roger Jr (Nina), Stephen (Kelly), Julie, and Todd (the late Annette). Also surviving are 9 grandchildren Timothy, Sarah, Christopher, Alex, Stephani, Renee, Christine, Mathew, and Andrew. AS well as 9 great grandchildren. Roger was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Martin Koerner Jr. Roger Sr was the owner of Koerner Aviation in Kankakee that was started by His Father Martin Sr, and Uncle Delbert in 1927. Martin Sr was killed in a motorcycle accident in 1933. Later Delbert married Martin’s widow Louise and adopted her two boys. Delbert was the only father Roger ever knew. Delbert taught Roger to fly and Roger’s flying career continued until only a few years ago. Roger was a flight instructor and taught hundred of people to fly. He also flew as a corporate pilot for the Daily Journal for 20 years. Roger taught his sons, and daughter as well as his grandsons to fly. Koerner Aviation continues to operate to this day. Roger was a long-time member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, And the Midwest Antique Airplane Club. He enjoyed attending these events with his family. He enjoyed family camping vacation and traveling with his beloved wife Maryann. Roger was a devote Catholic and was a member of St John Paul II Catholic Parish. Roger and his wife Maryann taught their children to know love and serve God. We their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren know it’s only good bye for a little while. Services will be at Clancy – Gernon Funeral Home in Kankakee, Illinois. Wake will be Tuesday from 4 to 8PM A funeral Mass will be celebrated by Fr. Tony Tacheta, Wednesday at 10 AM at St. John Paul II Catholic Church-East Campus. Interment will follow at Limestone Cemetery.

Roger J. Koerner Sr.

August 12, 1933 - January 17, 2024