Rosemary E. Loechler

Rosemary “Rose” Loechler, 73, of Rockford, IL and Desert Hot Springs, CA, passed away on January 5th, 2025, after a sudden illness. Born on August 22, 1951, to John Sr. and Marilyn Sherman, Rose was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. A 1969 graduate of East High School, Rose’s life was full of warmth, laughter, and love. She married the love of her life, Richard Loechler, in Las Vegas, and together they shared 27 wonderful years, 17 of which were spent as a married couple. Their love story began at Big Lots, where they met, and their first date—a Bears vs. Packers game—was the start of a deep and lasting bond. They celebrated the evening with a bet, and ended up at the Ground Round Restaurant for dinner.

Rose and Richard's relationship was one built on shared adventures and endless joy. Rose worked as a retail store manager for several companies before retiring in 2014. She was known for her kindness, her devotion to family, and her spirited sense of humor. In her free time, Rose enjoyed dining out at restaurants, attending cookouts, listening to showtunes, and immersing herself in the music of the 60s, particularly The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and Elvis. She also loved the theater, especially operas, and was an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan. Rose had a green thumb and took great pride in her gardening, and she treasured her trips to Edwards Apple Orchard and visits with her dear friends, Ellie and Mary, in California.

Rose leaves behind her husband, Richard Loechler; her first husband, Dennis Thomas; children, Kristen (Thomas) Loewecke, Michael Thomas, and Tiffany (Loechler) Trotter; grandchildren, Kailey Trotter, Nevyn Hendrix, Giuliana (Thomas) Loewecke, and Kaylee Brycki; nieces and nephews, Jennifer (Marlyn) Wege, Matthew (Amy) Thomas, Mark (Mary) Thomas, Thomas (Anita) Greve, and Paula (Jon) Bare Greve; as well as many great-nieces and nephews. She will also be missed by her beloved pets, Nikki, Chester, and Sammy. She was predeceased by her parents, John Sr. and Marilyn Sherman, and her brother, John Jr. Sherman.

The family would like to give special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at OSF Hospital for the exceptional care they provided, especially Annie, Michelle, and Jessica, who took wonderful care of Rose and the family during this difficult time.

Rose's infectious laugh, loving spirit, and passion for life will be deeply missed, but she will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Memorial Service will be at 6:00pm on Friday, January 17, 2025 in Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory-Mulford Chapel, 4311 N. Mulford Rd., Loves Park with a memorial visitation at 5:00pm until the time of the service.

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