Lester “Rae” Rothermel, age 94, of Machesney Park passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Sunday December 29th, 2024.
Rae was the son of Lester and Celia (Rae) Rothermel, born on July 1st, 1930 in Adeline, Illinois. As a young boy, he moved to Polo, Illinois, where he stayed until age 90. Rae graduated from Polo Community High School in 1948, where he was an active member of the basketball team. His love for sports, particularly basketball, was a defining part of his youth and continued to shape his approach to life—valuing teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic.
On December 31, 1955, Rae married Mary Lynn Buck, with whom he shared three children. Later, on May 23, 1987, he married Sandi Berg, and together they raised two sons. Rae was a dedicated farmer whose love for the land and his family knew no bounds. From sunrise to sunset, he worked tirelessly, nurturing both his crops and the large family he cherished deeply. His passion for farming extended far beyond his own fields, taking him across the United States to various farming conventions where he sought knowledge and shared his experiences with others. Rae’s commitment to growth—whether in the soil or in the lives of his loved ones—was unwavering. He also had a great love for raising hogs, a part of his farming life that he took great pride in. Despite his long hours and demanding work, Rae always made sure to be there for his family, sharing his wisdom, love, and sense of humor.
Rae is survived by his daughters, Vicky (Bob) Bray of Altamont, IL, and Nancy (Pat) Gilmour of Galesburg (formerly of Mt. Morris); sons, Brian (Karen Bentele) Rothermel of Machesney Park, Cody (Kristin) Rothermel of Rock Falls, IL, and Jason (Kim) Berg of Monroe, WI; brother-in-law, Dan Hartman; sister-in-law, Susan Rothermel; grandchildren, Timothy (Claire) Gilmour, Danni Gilmour, JR (Kiley) Bray, Erin (Josh) Moffit, Rachel (Brent) Wagner, Michael Rothermel, Ian Berg, and Barrett Berg; and seven wonderful great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandi Rothermel; father Lester Rothermel; Mother Celia Rothermel; sisters, Calista Hartman and Phyllis Ruter; brothers, Delmar Rothermel, Darrell Rothermel, Alan Rothermel, and Harlan Rothermel; and granddaughter, Samantha Gilmour.
Celebration of Rae’s life will be Friday, January 17, 2025 at the Polo Family Funeral Home, 110 E. Dixon St. beginning at 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. There will be a family and friends sharing time from 11:30 a.m. until the conclusion of the service at 12:00 p.m. Rae will be buried in a private family service in Haldane Cemetery.
Rae’s legacy is one of hard work, love, and a deep connection to the earth and the people he held dear. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
We would like to extend a special thank you to the TLC Living Community staff who took care of Rae as if he was family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Polo FFA.
Condolences may be sent to pffh.condolences@gmail.com.
