Louis G. Magana, 92, of Sterling, IL, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and family.
Louis was born on August 17, 1933, in Dixon, IL, to John and Petra Magana. He married Rachel Martinez on September 8, 1951, and they shared many years devoted to family and faith, until her passing January 19,1993. He later married Martha Montanez on June 4, 1994, with whom he shared many happy years. Louis dedicated 40 years of service to Northwestern Steel and Wire Company. He was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church and found joy in life’s simple pleasures–watching classic movies, listening to Frank Sinatra and traditional Mexican music, and welcoming family and friends into his home. Above all, Louis loved his family deeply and treasured every visit and gathering with those he loved.
He is survived by his wife, Martha; children, Alex Magana of Morrison, IL, Lydia (LeRoy) Schaefer of Rock Falls, IL, Joe Magana of Sterling, Pete (Penny) Magana of Belleville, WI, Chris (Rob) Byvick of Sterling, Chuck (Cari) Magana of Sterling, and Michelle Magana of Rock Falls; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Rachel; son, Anthony “Tony” Magana; parents; daughter-in-law, Karen Magana; siblings, Jesse, twins Robert and Pablo, John, Antonia, Josephine, Robert (Bob), Hank (Henry), and Mary.
The Rosary will be recited on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 4:30 p.m., followed by Visitation from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., at the McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Fall, IL.
Celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday at 10:30 a.m., in St. Mary Catholic Church, with the Reverend Carlos Monsalve officiating
Burial will conclude at Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to Rock River Hospice & Home, Sterling, IL.
Our family would like to thank Gaffey Nursing and Rock River Hospice & Home for the care he received.