Leroy A. Vega

Leroy A. Vega—best known as Junior to those he liked most and June Bug to his nieces and nephews—passed away at the age of 60 on March 28, 2025.  Born on May 12, 1964, in Chicago, IL, he grew up in Burbank, spent most of his life in Merrionette Park, and later moved to Fruitland Park, FL.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Pamela and his children, Lauren (Brandon Jimenez) and John (Roy) Vega (Alice Corcoran). He was a proud grandfather to Jacob Jimenez. Leroy was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Vega, and is survived by his father, Agustin (John) Vega; his siblings, Yolanda Vega (Al Hastings), Angel (Don Campbell), Mary Quasny, and John (Kim), sister-in-law Nancy Bradley and brother-in-law Tom Bradley; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Leroy spent his life working with his hands, dedicating himself to construction. As a proud member of Carpenters Union Local 1889. He worked tirelessly, not just to build structures but to build a better life for his family. Coming from humble beginnings, he worked hard so that his children could have more than he did.

Beyond work, Leroy found joy in camping, fishing, and riding in his beloved Lund boat. He had a soft spot for the elderly, always acting as a free handyman for his elderly neighbors, helping with anything they needed. He also had a deep love for children, always spoiling them with Popsicles and cookies. His love for animals was unmatched—he rescued every stray he met and brought home countless dogs from the pound.

Leroy had a gruff exterior, but beneath it was the biggest heart. He was the kind of man who spoke and yelled loud but loved even louder. He had a unique way with words, often mixing them up in ways that made everyone laugh—like calling large birds "pterodactyls" but confidently pronouncing it “teriyakis,” or saying “fravorite” instead of favorite. His humor was effortless, and his presence filled every room with laughter.

A lover of classic rock, Leroy never hesitated to dance—badly—to songs like Old Time Rock and Roll. His dance moves, resembling a rough version of the Running Man, were infamous, but that never stopped him from having a good time and dancing anyway. His signature phrase, “I got sh*t to do,” was as much a declaration of his work ethic as it was a reminder that he was always on the move.

Leroy’s life was full of love, laughter, and hard work. He would want to be remembered as a man with a big heart, who worked endlessly to provide for his family, and who, despite life’s hardships, never lost his sense of humor. His family finds comfort knowing he is now at peace, probably fishing, dancing, or bringing home yet another stray dog.

Memorial services will take place on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 4-8 pm at Malcolm J. Mayo VFW, 557 W. Baltimore St., Wilmington, Illinois where Leroy will be honored by his friends and family from 4-8  pm.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to an animal rescue organization in his honor—because if there was one thing Leroy taught us, it’s that there’s always room for one more dog.  Leroy's arrangements are under the direction and care of Gentle Water Cremation.