- Date Of Birth: May 28, 1937
- Date Of Death: August 6, 2011
- State: Illinois
Gary A. Raetz 74, of Rockford passed away Saturday morning, August 6, 2011 at Swedish-American Hospital in Rockford after knee replacement surgery. Born May, 28, 1937 in Freeport he was the son of Arthur and Esther (Johnson) Raetz.
He was a 1955 graduate of Dakota High School, received his Bachelor’s Degree at North Central College and his Masters at Northern Illinois University. For 30 years he taught History and Social Studies at Dakota High School.
Gary was a world traveler and used his movies and slides in teaching his many students over the years. He wrote several articles for the Volunteer, “Before Your Time” and occasional articles about his latest trips. Founder of the Rock Run Country Historical Society, he was the president since its inception 17 years ago. He also belonged to several other Historical Societies in the area. He researched area German families in Germany, traveling there several times.
Surviving are 5 sisters Marian Wilkins of Savanna, Gloria Yoder of Freeport, Betty (Deryl) Drane of Stockton, Lana Kahler of Wauwatosa, WI, Holly Miller of Sterling; brother-in-law Jerry Downing of Dakota; several nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents of Davis, two sisters Marilyn Weaver of Durand and Charlotte Downing of Dakota.
