Wilbert A. Cugler

He was born November 5, 1941, to Mary Powell in Pedricktown NJ. He grew up in Penns Grove, NJ. attended school there and also went to Penns Grove Regional High School. In the early sixty’s, he joined the US Army at Fort Dix, NJ. He was later stationed in Texas in the medical field. After leaving the Army, he moved to Illinois, where he met his life partner, Dick Helgeson who preceded him in death. During this time he worked for Chrysler in Belvidere for 30 years. While working there he had his own car built and watched it being made on the assembly line.

For 25 years he raised Show Collies, breeding and showing under his kennel name of Bronson Collies, out of that kennel came two Grand Champion Collies. He raised many litters out of that kennel and gained many friendships in the process. He kept in contact with many of them. After his retirement he could not be idle so he worked as a part time cook and kitchen helper at Penny Pincher. Anyone that knew him knew that he loved to talk. He loved to get his point across whether it was raising his voice, speaking in a British accent or just in having the last word. He had a heart of gold and was always trying to help and take care of everyone. He was a very generous man who loved his family and friends.

He is survived by siblings. Emma (Duane )Hall, Daniel Cugler, Franny (Marie)Cugler, Beverly (Bob) Russell; nieces and nephews, Viki (Bill), Duane (Mary), Frank (Brenda), Daniel, Tina (Shawn), Rona (Kevin), Tammy, Pam (Patrick), Francis, and Kevin; many great nieces and nephews; great -great nieces and nephews. Predeceased by mother, Mary; life partner, Dick

A Celebration of Life Service: 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 21, at Sunset Funeral Home 8800 N. Alpine Rd. Machesney Park, IL. Visitation: 9: 00- 10:00 a.m. Private Inurnment at Sunset Memorial Gardens.