Nathan E. Applebee, Sr., 88, of Seneca, passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at the Morris Hospital, surrounded by his family.
A memorial service will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at the Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Seneca with Rev. Kris Zierke, officiating. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa.
Nathan was born on July 7, 1937 in Marseilles to Clyde and Carrie (Fleetwood) Applebee. He worked as a farmer, community leader, and the Director of Maintenance at Seneca High School for 21 years. Nathan was a veteran and served in the U.S. Army. He married Ann Hochstetler on August 9, 1960 at First Congregational Church in Ottawa. Nathan was a member of the Farm Bureau, Farmer’s Union, American Legion, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, the Norman Township Board and served on the Seneca Grade School Board for 20 years. He enjoyed working, farming, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his three children, Nathan (Rose) Applebee, Jr., Donelyn (John) Williams, Sr., James Applebee all of Seneca; nine grandchildren, Cheryl (Esteban) Lizano, Nathan (Jessica) Applebee, Kaelyn (Alejandro) Rodriguez, John Williams, Jr., Addysen, Ethan, Eli, Owen, Evan Applebee; four great-grandchildren, Maia and Ava Eames, and Alaina and Jordan Applebee.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ann Applebee; his parents, Clyde and Carrie Applebee; a sister, Jane McLennan; and two brothers, Roger and Russell Applebee.
Memorials may be directed to the Packs for Pals in Seneca.
You may sign the online guestbook and share remembrances at www.MuellerFH.com. Mueller Funeral Home and Crematory 800 First Avenue, Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-4433.