David Grass

David R. Grass
April 7, 1952 – September 5, 2025
David R. Grass, 73, of Roscoe, Illinois, a devoted man of faith and steward of the land, passed away unexpectedly on September 5, 2025.
Born on April 7, 1952, in Rockford, IL, Dave lived a life rooted in service to others, to his community, and to the Lord. He devoted his career to education, earning a Bachelor's degree in special education and a Master's degree in outdoor education. He retired from the Rockford Public School District, where he dedicated decades to assisting those in need, and also shared his knowledge as a professor at Northern Illinois University. Dave was Director of the Northern Illinois Center for Adaptive Technology, where his vision and compassion made a lasting impact for people with all abilities.
An avid outdoorsman and educator, Dave found joy in hunting, fishing, and conservation work. His love for the outdoors was reflected in his leadership as President of the Winnebago County chapter of Pheasants Forever, his involvement with the Roscoe Sportsmen's Club, and his countless hours spent on golf courses and in nature. He also cherished time at the family vacation home in Crystal River, Florida, where he enjoyed fishing, boating, and the natural beauty of the area. Some of his most treasured memories were when family came to visit in Florida, joining him to check the crab traps and share in the simple joys of being together on the water.
Dave was an educator in all that he did. Beyond the classroom, he poured his time into teaching and mentoring through youth hunts, youth fishing days, shooting education programs, and countless volunteer efforts. He always gave freely of his time to help others learn, grow, and discover the same passions that shaped his own life.
A lifelong servant of the Lord, Dave was a dedicated member of St. Andrew Lutheran Church, where he lived out his faith through service, generosity, and humility.
Dave and his wife, Linda, shared their home in Roscoe and recently celebrated 50 years of marriage on June 14, 2025. Together they built a life filled with devotion, love, and family. He was a proud husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest joy was his family.
Dave is survived by his wife, Linda Grass; his children Sarah (Eric) Sallinger, John, and Emma; Laura Hook, Erin (Clint) Evans, Grace, Wyatt, and Claire; Andrew (Brooke) Grass and Isla. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Pauline Grass; his brother, Gary Grass; and his son-in-law, Rich Hook.
Dave's life was a testament to faith, service, and love-for God, family, the outdoors, and his community. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the land he cherished, and the family he so deeply loved.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 511 W. Rockton Rd., Rockton, IL.
A Funeral Ceremony will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025, also at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, with burial to follow at Pinnacle Hill Cemetery. A lunch will be served at the church following the committal service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Andrew Lutheran Church in honor of Dave.
McCorkle Funeral Home - Rockton Chapel assisted the family.