Donald R. Rohde

Donald R. Rohde, age 87, of Ford River, passed away Thursday morning, April 18, 2019 at his home. He was born on December 19, 1931 in Chicago, IL, the son of Otto and Bertha (Duvynski) Rohde. Donald grew up in Chicago and was a 1949 graduate of Wells High School. He married the former Mary Anna Poland on October 24, 1950 in Chicago and she preceded him in death on April 27, 2013. Together, the couple shared 62 years of marriage and raised 3 children. Donald was employed as a window washer in Chicago and worked on the 110 story Sears Tower building. In 1985, Donald and Mary Anna retired and moved to Ford River because of the quietness, peace, and serenity the area had to offer. The couple enjoyed their many years of retirement on Lake Michigan. During Donald’s younger years, he lived an extraordinary life. He raced his stockcar in Lake Geneva, IL, taught himself to fly a plane, and was able to figure out how fireworks were made and became his own pyrotechnician. Donald was a member and past president of the Antioch Lions Club, and was a member of the Laborers International Union in Chicago. Donald was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed.

Donald R. Rohde is survived by daughter, Susan Fecarotta of Ford River; son, John Rohde of Ford River; 6 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Donald was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Rohde; 1 great-grandson, Warren Kaatz, Jr.; 1 great-granddaughter, Samantha Fecarotta; sister, Dorothy; and brother, Sonny.

Private family services are being held at the Rohde residence in Ford River. 

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