SMSgt Richard “Rick” Karl Rohe (retired), 76, passed away Friday, November 6, 2026 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

Rick was born on June 10, 1950 in Ottawa, IL to William and Martha Rohe. He graduated from Ottawa Township High School in 1968 and promptly joined the Air Force to serve his country in the Vietnam War. After returning home from Vietnam, Rick attended the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO where he met his wife, Annie. Rick and Annie married on October 2, 1976.

Rick’s time in the Air Force enabled him to travel the world, eventually leading to a posting at Scott AFB, IL. With this posting, Rick and Annie settled in nearby Trenton, IL and raised their family. When Rick retired from the Air Force in 1991, he found a second career with the United States Postal Service. He took a route in Mascoutah, IL and worked in the post office there until 2012.

Rick enjoyed watching whatever sport was in season. He was a lifelong Cubs fan and never stopped rooting for them, no matter their record – even in “Cardinal country”. He was a wonderful cook – from barbequing on a Sunday to preparing a full Thanksgiving meal just like his mother had. Rick was a man of faith who found a community at Messiah Lutheran Church in Lebanon, IL as an elder and a member of their choir. Rick was soft spoken, kind, generous, quick witted, and loyal.

Rick is preceded in death by his mother Martha, father William, sister Judy, and brother Jim.

He is survived by his wife Annie, sons Richard and Robert, granddaughter Teagan, brothers Kent and Dave, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A private graveside service with military honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery is planned for a later date. Service arrangements are with the Duker and Haugh Funeral Home.