Philomena Illgen

Philomena Illgen, 65, of Reedsville, passed away unexpectedly on December 27, 2024 from natural causes while traveling in Georgia.

A visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at Reinbold & Pfeffer Funeral Home in Kellnersville. (1124 Main Street, Kellnersville, WI 54215).  A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Johnson Creek (129 N. Watertown St, Johnson Creek, WI 53038) with Rev. Dale Vlastnik officiating.  Visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.  Burial with military honors will follow by American Legion Post #189 at the Town of Farmington Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers memorials would be appreciated to Menchalville Fire Department and Kellnersville First Responders: There will be a collection box at both of the viewings, and if you prefer to Mail, please mail to Bill Illgen, 16015 County Road K, Reedsville, WI 54230. Bill will get the funds in the right hands.

Philomena Rebelo was born on November 28, 1959 in New Bedford, MA to Manuel and Maria E. Rebelo.  She served in the United States Army as a Staff Sergeant from 1978-1984.  On March 28, 1981 she married Bill Illgen at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Johnson Creek. In 1985 Bill and Philomena purchased the family farm where they raised veal calves and children for over 15 years.   She worked at the Aurora Medical Clinic in De Pere for over 20 years and then for Ariens for 5 years until her retirement.

Philomena loved reading and was a wonderful homemaker.  She was a great mother, loving wife, and took great pride in taking care of her family. She always had a smile on her face and loved helping others.

She is survived by her husband, Bill Illgen of Reedsville; two sons:  Raleigh (Reiko) Illgen of Osaka, Japan, Johnathan (Emma Carr) Illgen of Madison; mother-in-law, Patricia “Patsy” Illgen of Reedsville/Johnson Creek; siblings:  M. Natalie Johnson, Connie (Joe) Correia, Helena (Harvey) Mickelson; four nephews:  Robert, Joe, Michael, Nicholas; sister-in-law, Theresa (Gary) Forkert; sister-in-law, Melodie Illgen; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Philomena was preceded in death by her parents; father-in-law, Raleigh H. Illgen; brother-in-law, John Illgen.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Philomena Illgen, please visit our floral store.