Gregory M. “Greg” Shoop, 84, of Argenta, IL, died peacefully at his home on December 4, 2024.
A celebration of Greg’s life will take place on Saturday, May 3, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the Shilling Environmental Education Center in Scovill Gardens, 71 S. Country Club Rd., Decatur, IL. Friends and family are invited to gather, remember, and share stories, with a time for reflections beginning around 2:00 PM.
Born on June 15, 1940, in Decatur, Greg was the son of Lewis F. and Ruth (Morse) Shoop. On February 16, 1962, he married Nancy L. Kelm in Peoria, IL, beginning a marriage that would span over 62 years. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and community.
Greg dedicated his professional life to the family business, Shoop & Sons, working with pride and persistence right up until his death. He was a familiar and friendly presence in downtown Decatur, often seen on his walks or enjoying meals with friends at Coney McKane’s.
In his younger years, Greg was a car enthusiast, spending countless hours working on and racing his Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite and his treasured 1952 MG TD. Over time, he developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors—fishing, kayaking, and later boating with friends through the waters of Alaska and British Columbia.
Greg had an incredible knack for fixing things—there seemed to be nothing he couldn’t repair. He was a devoted caretaker of both his family and his land, happiest when out in the woods or lending a hand to others. His warmth, work ethic, and quiet strength left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy; his children, Marla Shoop of Madison, WI, and Kenson Shoop of Morrisonville, IL; grandchildren, Seth Johnson of Madison, and Julia (Alex) Dudley of Morrisonville; and great-grandchildren, Kaden, Roza, and Mila Dudley. He is also survived by his brother, Roger (Cheryl) Shoop of Englewood, CO; and sister-in-law, Phyllis Weiner of Commerce Township, MI.