Danny Trelz's Obituary
Danny Trelz, 86, of Charleston, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Copper Creek Cottages in Mattoon, IL.
Dan was born on August 22, 1939, in Pana, IL, to Henry and Irene (Dewitt) Trelz. On March 7, 1959, he married the love of his life, Joyce Darlene Stillwell, in Taylorville, IL. Together they shared 46 wonderful years of marriage before her passing on February 21, 2005.
He is survived by his three children: Pamela (Shawn) Bagley of Amarillo, TX; Danny Trelz Jr. of Decatur, IL; and Gregory R. (Libby) Trelz of Charleston. He also leaves behind four beloved grandchildren: Alyssa (Landon) Martin, Jesse (Tiffney) Strong, Kandy (Tyronne) Wilson, and Zachary Trelz; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and wife, Dan was preceded in death by three brothers and one sister.
Dan was a graduate of Pana High School. He enjoyed a long and successful 30-year career with Consolidated Communications, starting out setting poles and steadily working his way into management. Even after retiring, he continued to lend his expertise as a contracted field supervisor for Mlaskoch Excavating & Contracting and Finley Engineering.
Dan lived a full and active life. He loved traveling with Joyce, especially to beach destinations—her favorite places. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and had a deep passion for restoring and upcycling automobiles. He was accomplished in pencil sketch art and spent many hours perfecting the craft. Above all, one of his greatest joys was spending time with his beloved granddaughter, Alyssa.
Dan was a proud 'wheeler-dealer' who loved making a deal and always had a project or two in the works. Known for his resourcefulness, he once bartered a portion of his land to the county in exchange for a brand-new driveway—a trade he was quite proud of. In retirement, he became a beloved regular at McDonald’s, faithfully attending both the morning and afternoon coffee gatherings with his friends. He was also a familiar face at Lincoln Gardens, where he often walked over to enjoy a good meal and friendly conversation with the staff. Dan was part of a close-knit community that looked out for him and treated him like family.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Loyal Order of Moose #1388, located at 615 7th Street, Charleston, IL 61920. A private inurnment will take place at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to SBL Peace Meal, 694 Castle Dr., Charleston, IL 61920.
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