Carol Dean “Fidget” Waller, 89, of Thompsonville, IL., passed away at 4:09 a.m., on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Mr. Waller was born on November 25, 1936, to Leslie and Irene (Lampley) Waller. Carol was a self-employed carpenter. On June 13, 1964, he married Margaret Robinson and she survives.

He was a Veteran of the United States Army.

Carol was a past Master of the Grand Lodge. He enjoyed outdoors, he was an avid hunter and fisherman as well. Another past time was gardening and working in his yard, always wanting to stay busy. In his spare time he enjoyed reading his Rifleman magazines and watching the old western television shows.

He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather.

Carol is survived by his loving spouse of 61 years, Margaret, his two daughters, Debra Storey and husband Doug, and Lori Waller; three grandchildren, Chris Benbrook, Brendan Ritchason and wife, Christy, and Jacob Storey; one great-grandchild, Henry Ritchason and one soon to be expected, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Irene Waller, infant daughter, Mary Elizabeth Waller, brother, Jerry Waller, half-brother, Wayne Waller, brothers, Bob Waller and Dwight Waller.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home and Crematory, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL, with Masonic Rites being conducted at 11:00 a.m.

Funeral services will be held directly after the visitation on Monday, April 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., at Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL, with Pastor Willie Huffine, officiating. Military rites will be Performed by the Benton American Legion Post 280, VFW Post 2671 and the Army Honors Team.

Following the funeral service, burial will take place in the Lampley Cemetery, Thompsonville, IL.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.