Wesley T Rothrock

Our hero, Wesley T. Rothrock, of Frankfort, IL,  was born into life April 19, 1953 and born into eternity February 7, 2021.  Wes persevered through the challenges of ALS for three years, with the Holy Spirit and his devoted wife Diane by his side. His strength was in Jesus Christ, his Savior.

Growing up on a dairy farm in Emington, IL, Wes met his wife of 47 years in elementary school. They became high school sweethearts and recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of their first date. Farming life with his father, mother, sister (Susan), and brother (Stuart) instilled discipline, hard work, and a love of God, family, and the outdoors.

Wes was a high school athlete and president of his senior class. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign and his MBA at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. He began his career at Oscar Mayer and later transitioned into an entrepreneur and business owner.

In his earlier years, Wes was a member of the Lions Club. More recently he volunteered on the parking team at Parkview Christian Church. He was blessed to be part of a dedicated early morning men’s group, and together with his wife hosted a small group for many years in their home. By God’s grace, he joyfully served 14 years as a children’s leader for Bible Study Fellowship.

Wes enjoyed spending time with his family and loving on his grandkids, all blessings from God. He also loved fishing, hunting, hiking, camping in WI (in the rain), vegetable gardening, traveling (he loved the open road), playing cards, snorkeling, staying in touch with good friends, and coaching and watching his kids’ and grandkids’ activities.

Wes was preceded into eternity by his father Wesley and mother Ruby.

He is survived by his wife Diane; their four children: Amy (Wayne), Chad (Anett), Ryan (Brooke), and Trisha (John); their twelve grandchildren: Laura (Tyler), Tobyn, AudryElla, Sonya, Charlotte, Quinn, Hannes, Anjali, Coy, Brittany, Banks, and Micah; and their two great grandchildren: Henry and Leo.

Wes was humble, witty, and an enthusiast for life and laughter. He was a hands-on grandpa and a giver of wise advice. In his later days, he blessed his family by diligently writing life stories with his eye gaze communication device. His signature wink quickly caught on as a dear expression of love. “Joy in Jesus Christ" and “Be of joy for me” were his mantras. He will be missed by everyone who knew him, and his family will forever be impacted by his spiritual leadership. We are comforted that he is safe in Jesus’ arms.

The Celebration Of Life Service has been held but ccan be watched on Youtube at https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4VAV_RUvXM

Memorial contributions on behalf of Wes can be made to the Les Turner ALS Foundation or The ALS Association.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as your trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13