Jeffery “J.D.” Sollenberger, 60, of Oquawka, Illinois, died at home, Friday, May 16, 2025. Jeff was born October 16, 1964 in Peoria, Illinois, the son of Dale William and Nona Yvonne (Chaney) Sollenberger. Jeff married Tina L. Hawks on November 6, 2020 in Oquawka. Tina survives of Oquawka, as does his father, Dale of Brimfield, Illinois; two daughters, Denna Sollenberger of Peoria, Illinois and Cary Jo Sollenberger of Kickapoo, Illinois; and two sisters, Nancy (Tom) Satterfield and Sue (Ken) Fishel, both of Brimfield. J.D. is also survived by two stepsons, Justin (Danielle) Barnette of Atco, New Jersey and Michael (Brittany) Davis of Gerlaw, Illinois; one stepdaughter, Jessi (Kenny) McKee of Oquawka; seven grandchildren, Emma, Elissa, Bryer, Khloe, Ridge, Ryker, and Mason; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and great nephews; and his beloved dog, Buster. J.D. was preceded in death by his mother Nona; an infant sister, Brenda Sollenberger; and sister, Karen Karl in 2006.
In 1980 J.D. joined the Brimfield Fire Department at the young age of 16. He was the youngest member to join the department starting the Cadet program for the Department. Following in his father’s footsteps as the 4th generation. His daughter Cary Jo followed the tradition and became a Cadet in 2009. Combined, the 5 generations of the Sollenberger family have over 140 years of dedicated service to the Brimfield Community Fire Protection District. Jeff also served on the Oquawka Fire Department after his retirement. After graduating from Brimfield High School, J.D. went to work for Carpenters Local 237, and remained a union carpenter for over 35 years, until his retirement. He lived a life of service to others. He was always there to lend a helping hand. An avid sportsman, Jeff loved being on the river fishing and hunting. For Jeff family came first. He was deeply devoted to his wife, children, and especially his grandchildren. He loved to cook, especially BBQ. Jeff and Tina loved to have cook-outs at their home.
A celebration of life will be held at the Brimfield American Legion, 121 W. Knoxville St., Brimfield, at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025. An additional celebration of life will be held starting at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 31, 2025 at his residence, rural Oquawka. Arrangements have been entrusted to Turnbull Funeral Home, Oquawka, Illinois. In J.D.’s memory, memorial contributions may be directed to the Brimfield Community Fire Protection District, 206 E. Knoxville St., Brimfield, IL 61517 or the Oquawka Fire Protection District, 411 Warren St., Oquawka, IL 61469. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.turnbullfuneralhomes.com.
