Timothy L. Apel

Timothy L. Apel, 65, of Freeport, IL passed away at FHN in Freeport on Saturday June 7, 2025. He was born in Freeport, IL on May 25, 1960, to Randy and Dee (Fischer) Apel.

Tim graduated from Freeport High School in 1978 and joined the US Navy that fall. He was a proud military man and would have stayed in longer had his future wife wanted it. He traveled the world aboard the John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier. Tim’s active duty carried on a tradition of military service in his family which still continues and included his father, brothers, sister-in-law, niece, and nephew. He was deeply patriotic and always wanted to fly the biggest flag he could find.

A proud “girl dad,” Tim loved dancing competitively with his daughters at S&R Dance. He was an avid Packers fan and a life-long Cubs fan, who cherished watching them win the 2016 World Series and attending games. In his younger years, he enjoyed deer hunting with cousins and was an active member of Pheasants Forever and the Elks Lodge.

He worked for McDonald’s Corporation as a General Manager for over 30 years winning the Outstanding Manager Award many times. His career highlight was winning the Ray Kroc Award in 2005, an honor bestowed on the top 1% of managers nationwide, the highest award a manager can receive. Tim was passionate about mentoring employees, teaching them accountability and a strong work ethic.

Tim will be remembered for his legendary “dad jokes,” endless teasing, and deep love for his wife, daughters, and grandchildren. He adored his Rottweiler and Chocolate Lab; and his world was never complete without them nearby.

He married his high school sweetheart Debbie Meeks on November 27,1982 at Forreston Grove Church after returning from the military. They especially enjoyed time at the lake with family, him for the fishing and her for reading a book on the boat. He had as many fishing lures as she has books.

Tim is survived by his wife Debbie, daughters Tera (Eric) Elsasser, Ashley (Adam) Boothe, and Erin (Matthew) Shumway. His seven grandchildren: Hazel, Charlie, Noah, Owen, Molly, Jack, and Barrett. He is also survived by brothers Jay Apel, Brian (Helen) Apel, and Kevin (Dana) Apel and their families as well as his Aunt Sandi (Margaret Van Cleave) Apel and Linda Cates; in-laws Norman and Thelma Meeks; and sisters-in-law Cindy Meeks, Lisa (Tim Finn) Meeks, and Tracy (Todd) Walper and their families; and his dogs: Bear and Coco.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, Uncle Wayne and Aunt Pat McDonnell and brother-in-law Charles Meeks.

Tim was baptized at St. Joseph’s Church in Freeport and confirmed at St. Cecelia Catholic Church in Ames, Iowa. In accordance with his wishes, Tim will be cremated.

Memorial services will be 12:00 PM Saturday July 12th, 2025 at Forreston Grove Church, 7246 N. Freeport Rd, Forreston, IL. Rev. Lyle Greenfield will be officiating. A visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of service.  Luncheon to follow in the church basement.  A memorial has been established in Tim's memory.