He was born, February 6, 1939 the son of William E. and Elizabeth C (Schimanski) Fliege Sr. He graduated from Trinity Lutheran Grade School in 1953, and went on to graduate from Lanphier High School in 1957. He continued his education earning a Bachelor of Science from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and later, a double Master’s degree, History and Education respectively, both from (then) Sangamon State University.
Stu worked for 6 years at Sangamo Electric before joining Athens Community High School in 1970 where he taught math and science. He retired in 1993 after more than 20 years of service.
Although retired from the classroom, Stu continued his interest in learning and teaching. He had a passion for history which led him to become a member of the Illinois Historical State Society. His interest in Illinois history and especially the settlement of various groups, gave him the insight and expertise to author “Tales and Trails of Illinois”. He enjoyed his research and was proud of his publication. He also traveled the state locating historical markers and researching and dedicating new ones. He was awarded a Life Long Achievement Award and "Volunteer of the Decade" from the Illinois State Historical Society for his work in chairing the markers committee.
He was a faithful and devoted member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church LCMS his entire lifetime. Stu served in various capacities over the years, President of the Congregation (2 terms), Parish Activities, Property Management, as well as a member of the church choir and the church band. Stu served as Scout Master of Troop 47 BSA sponsored by Trinity Lutheran Church. He was also well known as the church archivist, researching the heritage of the original settlers that organized Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. He furthered his interest and research to include Concordia Theological Seminary during its tenure here in Springfield. He received an award from the Concordia Historical Society for his research into Trinity`s history.
Stu married Judith B. “Judy” Eilers in Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church December 26, 1964 and she survives. Also surviving are his children, Pamela (husband William) Lazar of Springfield, his son, Roger (wife Dr. Katheryn Waldyke MD) Fliege of Makanda, IL, two grandchildren; Maximillian and Cassandra Lazar both of Springfield, two brothers, Fred (wife Becky) Fliege and Tim (wife Laura) Fliege both of Springfield, his sister, Linda (husband Dan) Wellereiter of Danvers, IL, several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandson, Theodore “Teddy” Lazar, his brothers; William Jr, Edwin Sr, Arthur, Richard, and Walther”Herk”, his sisters; Dorothy and Betsy, and two nephews.
The Fliege family will host a visitation on Sunday, August 4, 2024 at Bisch and Son Funeral Home 505 E. Allen St. Springfield, IL from 2:00pm until 5:00 pm. Additional visitation will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024 beginning at 9:00 am until the time of a funeral service at 10:00 am at Trinity Lutheran Church LCMS 220 S. 2nd St. Springfield, IL 62701. Rev. Dr. Micheal Strong and Rev. Jonathon Sharp will officiate. Burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Those who wish may direct memorial contributions to Trinity Lutheran Church music department, Camp CILCA, Lutheran High School, or the Illinois State Historical Society.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch and Son Funeral Home. 217-544-5424
