Hunter Ray Nees

Hunter Ray Nees, 15, of Washington, passed away unexpectedly on November 1, 2026 in the emergency room at OSF. St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

He was born on June 17, 2011, in Streator to Ronald Ray Nees and Jenna Sue Long. From then on, Hunter brought joy to everyone he met.

He is survived by his mother, Jenna Long (Andrew Smith); his father, Ron Nees (Tonya Zaragoza); his siblings, Hannah Kimber (Margo Bachler), Justyn Zaragoza, Hayden Kimber (Amiaha Junker), Haylie Kimber (Gavin Miller), and Landen, Chelsie and Macie Zaragoza; and his girlfriend, Jessi Hopwood. Hunter also leaves behind his grandparents, Lisa Stoeger and Kimberly and Gary Robertson; great-grandfather, Ronald Ward, along with a circle of aunts and uncles, Jamie (Kevin) Derossett, Joshua (Alexandra) Long, Jason Nees, Lisa (Curtis) Angelico, Heather Robertson, Carrie Robertson, and Gary Robertson, Jr. (Michael Crouse); his many cousins; and his best friend Chase Simmons, his honorary aunt Veronica Orozco, and his dog, Remi.

Hunter was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Rita Ward, and Ronald and Nancy Leslie.

Whether it was playing some of his favorite video games, fishing, playing in a bags tournament or simply spending time together, Hunter created countless cherished moments and memories with his family and friends. He loved spending time with people he cared about, especially his girlfriend and best friend. He played football from JFL days until he began playing for WCHS. He was witty and just a little sassy, always ready with a good-natured comeback. Hunter stood up for those who couldn't stand up for themselves and his character served as good example for those around him.

To celebrate Hunter's life, we invite friends and family to gather at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory on November 14, 2026. A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until 1:00PM. A funeral service will begin at 1:30 PM. Pastor Joshua Gorrie will officiate. Interment will be at Hirstein Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Washington Panthers Youth Football Program, [Washington Panthers Youth Football Program](https://www.washingtonyfp.com/donate).