Photo courtesy of Schrader Funeral Home - Eureka
Eureka, Missouri
Jul 18, 1942 – May 2, 2021 (Age 78)
Rohan, David Joseph, age 78, of Pacific, Missouri, devoted husband and loving father went home to be with his Lord and Savior on May 2, 2021.
He was born on July 18, 1942, to Harry and Marie (Oppermann) Rohan.
He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Mary Ann Rohan (nee Travers), six (6) children, Diane Bain (Richard), Joseph Rohan (Deborah), Edward Rohan (Nichole), Benjamin Rohan (Jennifer), Louis Rohan (Sarah), Christa Suermann (Adam), seventeen (17) grandchildren, four (4) great grandchildren, and brother, Thomas Rohan.
Dave was a dedicated, admired, and respected teacher for 35 years, 7 years at Langston Elementary School in St. Louis, and 28 years at Woerther Elementary School in Ballwin. He was an outdoor enthusiast, conservationist, animal lover, and an artist. With his unmatched hands-on teaching style, he brought that scientific enthusiasm into his classroom. Every wall was lined with aquariums filled with creatures, fossils, animal skeletons, and interesting science experiments of all kinds. His approach on teaching involved many demonstrations and activities in and outside the classroom and had an enormous impact on all his students. He personally provided every opportunity to ensure each of his students’ success. He was the founding member of the Outdoor Education Program in the Rockwood School District which enabled his students to have rewarding experiences by being immersed in nature. He also taught sketching and drawing, archery, rocket building, and bowling classes in the After School Education Program. During summer break and retirement, he diligently worked security jobs and continued to work for Rockwood in many capacities.
Those who knew Dave saw that he was truly one-of-a-kind. He was good hearted with a great sense of humor, competitive, had an optimistic outlook on life, and had an impeccable work ethic.
His last days were a blessing from God; a season to relax, free of responsibility and obligation, a time of reflection, repentance, gratefulness and peace.
Dave leaves a legacy of love and commitment to family, hard work and dedication in career, joy, persistence, and determination in life. It will be carried on in the minds of those he taught, and in the hearts of those he loved. He will forever be remembered for his smile and laughter.
Services: Dave’s family will hold a celebration of his life at the SCHRADER Funeral Home - Eureka, 108 N. Central Avenue, Monday, May 10, 2021, 10:00 a.m. Interment St. Bridget of Kildare Cemetery. Visitation Sunday, May 9, 2021, 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. Friends may sign the family’s on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.
Read More
A teacher that I will never forget due to his love of nature and the enthusiasm he brought to all of his students.
David BOSCH
April 01, 2025 | Wilkinson, IN | Student
I just recently learned of Dave's death, so I apologize for the tardiness of my message. My deepest sympathy to Mary Ann and the family. Dave was an amazing and passionate teacher and it was a privilege to work with him at Woerther. He kept us all on our toes! As well as having the pleasure of his many jokes as a coworker, my children also had the opportunity to be in his classes. Dave made the classroom come alive with his wonderful outlook on learning and the innately successful ability to...
Gerry Meier
July 04, 2021 | MO | Coworker
The first time I met Dave I was maybe 6 or 7 and he walked up with a pet crow on his arm and introduced himself and of course the crow which he taught to talk. Dave sparked an interest in animals and science in me that has become a big part of my life. I will miss his extra firm handshakes and distinctive baritone voice that was always happy to see you and truly interested in your life. Thanks buddy for the memories ❤
John Travers
May 11, 2021 | Casper, WY | Family
Always enjoyed working with Dave. He was my go to science teacher at Worther Elementary.
Tom Roberson
May 10, 2021 | Ballwin, MO | Coworker
Dear Mary Anne and Family, I have such fond memories of working with Dave at Woerther Elementary. I taught 5th grade and students were always so excited about moving up to 6th grade. Just the thought of being able to go into Mr. Rohan's Room was cause for excitement!! Dave was a fantastic teacher and co-worker. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and add humor to a situation. Having him arrive at school with the latest 'road kill' was not unusual, and Dave was always willing to use...
Peg Ostrander
May 09, 2021 | ENUMCLAW, WA | Coworker
Diane
May 09, 2021
My, my, where did the years go? A fall/winter holiday doesn't go by without a fond remembrance putting a smile on my face every time. Years of stories about the massive heat from expertly built fires. And the groans of holiday minded family members daring greatly, attending gatherings in fashionable thick sweaters. Soon accompanied by profuse sweating and hastily opened doors when Dave left the room. There must be so many stories, and they will sweeten with time.
What a big...
Janet Trompeter Heck
May 09, 2021 | Ballwin, MO | Family
I'm thinking of all the good times we had at Harris,Webster and in Sig Tau. I'll miss sharing jokes and hearing your distinctive laugh.
Rest in peace,buddy till we meet again.
Rich Nauman
May 08, 2021 | Chesterfield, MO | Friend
I had Mr. Rohan in 1987-88. I requested him the prior year and thankfully my wish was granted. What an absolutely amazing teacher/mentor!! I will never forget him. I tell my kids stories of that wonderful year. He will be missed by many. Definitely one of a kind. May he rest in peace. My heart goes out to friends and family. Prayers
Stacey Litzsinger (Crider)
May 08, 2021 | Student
