Michael Thomas Rasnic

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Fire Chief Michael T. Rasnic, who courageously served in the Sesser Fire Department for 45 years. Chief Rasnic went to meet his Heavenly Father August 14, 2025, at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and unwavering dedication to his family, friends and community. Chief Rasnic was born on January 21, 1963 in Melrose Park, IL. He graduated from Sesser-Valier High School in 1981 and began work at Anheuser Busch, later moving forward to Continental Tire. In 1981, he joined the fire department and through much hard work and sacrifice, rose through the ranks to become Assistant Fire Chief in 2007 and appointed Chief in 2016 by former SFPD Fire Chief and Uncle Cletus E. McBride. Chief Rasnic took pride in serving and protecting the Sesser community by obtaining numeros certifications throughout his career. His career protecting and caring for others is a model of community service and humility. Beyond the firehouse, Chief Rasnic was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather and uncle. His love for large and complex family was every bit as consistent as his dedication to duty. He married the love of his life and best friend Kimberly Faye Rasnic in Laurens, SC in 1987, and they raised two children. Chief Rasnic is survived by his wife Kimberly Faye Rasnic, his daughter Kacey Faye Pitchford, son Robert Michael Rasnic, son-n-law William Cody Pitchford, granddaughter Tatyum Faye Pitchford, mother Judith E. Scott, mother-n-law Deloria Faye Simmons, one brother Raymond L. Scott and numerous nieces and nephews. Chief Rasnic proceeds in death; Twin Pitchford grandchildren, Grandmother Grace Mae Lemons, Grandfather Robert F. Lemons, Father-n-Law Robert E. Simmons, Uncle Cletus E. McBride, and Great-Uncle Stewart L. Lemons. To know Chief Michael T. Rasnic, was to know a heart of gold that stopped beating. Hard working hands now lay at rest. This has been one of life's challenges, but they do say God only takes the best. Chief Michael T. Rasnic will be raised in honor Saturday August 23, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the First Baptist Church in Sesser, IL. Family will gather around Chief Rasnic from 9am-10am, visitation to the public from 10am-12:45pm, Brothers and sisters of duty will honor Chief Rasnic at 12:45pm. Funeral, Last Call, graveside services and dinner to follow.