Roger Reynolds, Beloved Sandburg Alum, Remembered Fondly

ORLAND PARK, IL - Friends and family of a beloved Orland Park man who died in his sleep at age 32 last week have started an effort to help pay for his services and a flight back home from Arizona. Roger Reynolds is remembered as someone with a great personality and a friend to many.

Reynolds died suddenly in his sleep on Oct. 31 and his cause of death remains unknown, according to a GoFundMe page that has raised more than $6,000 of a $15,000 goal that would pay for his services.

"He was ambitious, loving, hysterically funny, as well as caring, Roger's sister Michelle wrote in setting up the online campaign that's garnered not only financial support but many kind words about what Roger meant to those who knew him.

"Roger is survived by many that loved him," Michelle wrote. "He had maintained lasting friendships since elementary school and throughout his life."

Justin Haskett was one of Roger's closest friends. One of hundreds of friends he had.

"He had a contagious personality that everyone gravitated towards," Haskett said.

A GoFundMe supporter named Scott called Roger a great friend throughout college and one with a "great smile and infectious laugh."

"I'll never forget our impromptu games of darts at all hours. Hope you are Resting in Peace."

Reynolds grew up in Orland Park, graduated from Carl Sandburg High School and at one point was a model for Abercrombie and a regular at the former Diamond's gym in Orland, Haskett said.

"He loved to shoot pool and play bags," he added.

Michelle said she is at "an emotional loss," noting Roger also left his parents, a brother, nieces, nephews and grandparents.

All of the funds donated from the GoFundMe will be handled by Roger's mother.

"I have started to see a lot of stress leave the eyes of my parents during this difficult time since setting up this page," Michelle wrote. "Roger has such wonderful friends and family. They have all been so supportive during this difficult time."

Photo via GoFundMe