Roy F. "Tiger" Harbecke, 62, of Sycamore, went to see Jesus on Saturday, September 11, 2021. As a child Tiger committed his life to Christ, so we firmly believe that he is walking on the streets of gold praising his Lord.  As a lifelong testament to his early decision and deep love of God, Tiger lived an unselfish life and strived to be Christlike, always seeking to treat others with respect and genuine love. Tiger was an extremely hard working and patient man, known for his character and integrity. He spent his time regularly volunteering at church, helping friends, neighbors, and all of his beloved family.

Tiger graduated from the University of Illinois in 1981 with a Bachelors in Agricultural Science. He loved farming and spent his lifetime using his talents, knowledge, and strong work ethic to continue the family legacy.  He viewed his career as a gift from God and worked tirelessly to improve the farm for future generations.  He marveled at God's creation and enjoyed watching the seeds he planted thrive under his dedicated care.

Tiger's love for his family was unconditional and never ending. He was the pillar of our family as his presence brought laughter and joy, while also providing a steadfast support through hard times. Tiger loved to travel with his family, taking pleasure creating many memorable moments that will be cherished. He played church league softball with his late father Roy, brother, two sons, and countless friends.

Tiger was married to the love of his life, Ellen, for 36 years.  They were blessed to have 3 beautiful children; Sarah (Scott), David (Michelle), Nathan (Nicole), and 10 wonderful grandchildren; Leah, Addy, Paysen, Brinkley, Eliza, Coen Tiger, Anna, Cayden, Tenley, and Parker.  He is also leaving behind his mother, Lillian; mother-in-law, Dorothy; brother-in-law, Raymond; sister-in-law, Laura (Rick); brother, Ron (Beth); sister, Lisa; as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Those that are hugging him now are his father, Roy; father-in-law, Rick; sister, Karen; and brother-in-law, Chamin.

He will lovingly be remembered as a devoted husband, father, Papa, son, brother, cousin, uncle, brother-in-law, neighbor, friend, and - most of all - believer in Christ Jesus. Tiger will be dearly missed, but we rejoice in the hope and assurance in the promise of God that we will see him again.

His visitation will be on Friday, September 24th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Butala Funeral Home and Crematory, 1405 DeKalb Avenue, Sycamore, Illinois.

His "Celebration of Life" service will be on Saturday, September 25th at 10:00 a.m. at the Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church, 2325 N. First Street, DeKalb, Illinois.  Burial will follow at the Elmwood Cemetery, Sycamore, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be set up in Tiger's name and given directly to a charity close to his heart.

To sign the online guest book or share a special memory, go to www.butalafuneralhomes.com