Roger Gail “Sweeney” Hollen, 80, of Grand Prairie, TX, formerly of Hoopeston, IL, passed away on February 7, 2025, at Coral Rehabilitation and Nursing in Arlington, TX. He was born on February 19, 1944, in Prairie Green Township, the son of Russell B. and Thelma May (Highfill) Hollen.
Roger is survived by his daughter, Debra Mae (Trinidad) Rivera of Grand Prairie, TX; his son, Phillip Lee (Dee) Hollen of Richardson, TX; five grandchildren, Amelia Mae (Dharyl) Daduya, Richard A. Rivera, Emily (Adam) Ener, Kyle Hollen, and Drew Marshall; four great-grandchildren, Magnolia Ener, Anderson Ener, Isabella Daduya, and Kavant Matthews-Marshall; and four nieces and nephews, Russell (Marty) Borders, Cathy (Roger) Uden, David (Rhonda) Borders, and Kristine McCoy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Janice (Roy) Borders; one brother, Robert “Bob” (Jan) Hollen; and two nephews, Donald Hollen and Gilbert Borders.
Roger worked for several years at Quaker Oats in Danville, IL, before joining Silgan, where he retired in 2004 after 30 years of service. He was a member of the First Church of God and had a passion for fishing, camping in his RV, and woodworking. He was also a devoted fan of Indiana and Cornjerker basketball. Before moving to Texas, he cherished his yearly trips there to visit his children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories with his family.
Roger was a man whose kindness, goofy humor, and love touched all who knew him. He had a quick wit and a knack for making people laugh, always ready with a joke or a playful tease. Whether he was cracking jokes, pulling harmless pranks, or just being his lovable, silly self, he made every moment with family and friends a little brighter.
Visitation will be held 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Monday, February 17, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will take place at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at the funeral home, with Pastor Micah Mobley officiating. Burial will follow at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.
Memorial donations may be made in Roger’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.
Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Roger’s tribute page and send condolences to the family.
Arrangements are being handled by Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston.
