Raymond L. Rokusek

Raymond Rokusek, of Quincy, IL died February 13, 2025

Raymond (Ray) Rokusek was born June 10, 1935, in Yankton, South Dakota, the son of Robert and Clara Rokusek. Ray's early life included growing up in Yankton, (where reportedly, children walked back and forth to school, uphill both ways and always in 10 feet of snow). He joined the US Marine Corps after high school. After his military service he became a school bus driver in Fontana, California. He often worked summers as a tour bus driver in Yellowstone Park, one of his very favorite places. He also drove rescue buses during flood and fire seasons to evacuate and relocate people in danger.

While Ray was driving school buses in Fontana, CA, a feisty young schoolteacher happened to board his bus to reprimand some students. Ever the jokester, Ray closed the school bus doors and brought Miss Patricia Eades along on his route. He would not let her off the bus until she agreed to go on a date with him. They married on June 2, 1961.

After spending 11 years in California and their family growing to include son, John, and daughter, Lisa, the family moved to Quincy, IL. Ray was known by many names in the community: the Candyman, the Handyman, Mr. Wonderful, and World's Greatest Grandpa, to name a few.

He was an active member of Faith Presbyterian Church, where he and his wife Pat taught Sunday school and led youth fellowship. His favorite hobbies included chocolate-making, gardening, and general mischief-making.

Ray never failed to stop and help a stranded motorist or person in need and usually carried sand or ashes in winter to be ready to help. His life's motto was to "pay it forward", a mantra that he passed on to family and strangers alike.

Survivors include his two children, John Rokusek of St. Louis, MO, and Lisa (Ginger Human) Rokusek of St. Louis, MO, three grandchildren, Laurel Rokusek (Timothy Bearden) of Denver, Co, Jacob Rokusek of Denver, and Nicole Rokusek of Quincy.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sisters and his beloved wife, Pat Rokusek. He will be missed.

A Celebration of Ray will be held April 26, at 11:00AM - 2PM, at Tony's Too in Quincy, IL.

There will, of course, be chocolate candy.