R. Eugene "Buck" Roe, 97, of Lena, formerly of Rockford, IL passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Lena Living Center in Lena, IL.  He was born on May 26, 1927, in Lena, IL to Russell Eugene and Susan (Pierce) Roe Sr.  On February 16, 1950, Eugene married Helen L. Duft in Freeport, IL. Eugene worked for Stephenson- Carrol Publishers in Lena for over 15 years until 1967 where he took a job for Aid Association for Lutherans (now Thrivent Insurance) as a District Representative. In1969, Eugene and his family moved to Rockford because he became District Manager for the Aid Association for Lutherans, retiring from there in 1994. During his retirement he worked with Citizens State Bank to help form their insurance department.

During his younger years, he was the Lena Fire Department Fire Chief for numerous years, as well as helping at Leamons Ambulance Service and Funeral Home. During his free time, he enjoyed golfing and taking trips with Helen in their motor home, as well as going with friends across the country on numerous trips.

Eugene is survived by his children; Christine "Chris" Kramer of San Antonio, FL, John (Linda) Roe of Woodstock, IL, and Larry (Jodi) Roe of Rockford, IL; nine grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; sister Doris "Dorie" Fransen; and two nephews Tom and Paul Fransen.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Helen in 2021, brothers-in-law; Ray Peterson and Robert Fransen son-in-law; Michael "Mike" Kramer, and sister-in-law Doris Johnson.

A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

Burial will take place at a later date at Lena Burial Park.

Cremation Rites have been accorded.

A memorial has been established in his memory for Autism Speaks.