Brian Wayne Ellberg

Brian Wayne Ellberg, 70, of La Salle passed away Dec. 18, 2019, in McLean County Nursing Home, Normal.

A private graveside service will be at Peru City Cem-etery at a later date. Arrang-ements are through Mueller Funeral Home, Peru.

Brian was born Oct. 22, 1949, in La Salle to Wayne and Jane (Gunia) Ellberg.

He attended La Salle-Peru High School where he excelled in scholastics and sports. Many basketball fans remember him as “the human kangaroo.” Some will remember his 300 bowling game. He was a versatile athlete and scholar. Graduating with the class of 1967, he then proceeded to Loyola University, Chicago earning an economics degree. Brian was a problem solver. Crossword and mathematical puzzles written in ink are found among his possessions.

Growing up in the “best era,” Brian acquired the passion of sports and hotrods. Watching today’s televised auto auctions always brought a smile and storytelling of days long ago.

After college, Brian married Kathy Hughes and started a family. His life had changed for the better.

Brian was mentored by his father. His thirst for knowledge accelerated him to head grower at the Peru Greenhouses. His loyalty and dedication will be extremely missed by all with whom he worked.

Brian will be joyfully remembered by his children, family and friends.

I will forever cherish the memories and I consider sharing his life to be my greatest privilege. I am proud to call him my brother and forever my best friend.

He is survived by a son, Eric Ellberg of Glendale, Ariz.; a daughter, Dana (Casey Mudge) Morrow of Normal; a brother, Bruce (Rosanna) Ellberg of Peru; an aunt, Leona Gunia and cousins, Darryl (Mary Ann) Jaraczewski, Gary Jaraczewski and Randy (Julie) Gunia.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The online guestbook may be viewed and remembrances shared at www.MuellerFH.com