Ronald P. Raschke

Ronald P. Raschke, 69 of Geneseo, died Tuesday June 18, 2024, at home surrounded by family.  A Remembrance Gathering for family and friends will be held on July 6, 2024 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the family farm 9200 Church Road Geneseo, Illinois. Arrangements are being handled by Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory- Geneseo Chapel in Geneseo.

Ron, known to all as Beaver, was born on June 8, 1955, son of Edward Raschke and Betty (Raschke-Rogers), in Geneseo, Illinois. He graduated from J.D. Darnell High School. He was united in marriage to Cindy Lou Thompson on December 29, 1973.

Ron worked for The Rock Island Lines Railroad Company as a blacksmith and various construction companies before founding Beaver Tree Service, where he was owner/operator.

Ron was a great neighbor, friend, and family man. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt, trap, and fish, whatever the season. He was best known for coyote riddance in Edford Township and surrounding areas. He was a dedicated steward of the family farm who enjoyed caring for cattle, growing small crops, gardening and maintaining the farmstead.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife of 50 years, Cindy Lou; daughter, Brandy Raschke of Cedar Rapids Iowa; son, Ben (Cindy) of Geneseo; step granddaughter, Leila Quinones; step great grandson, Carter Seible; siblings: Carolyn Erickson, John (Jane) Raschke, Nancy Fliege, Linda (Jay) Weimer, Becky (Steve) Jallo-Knorrek, Don (Dee) Raschke, Brad (Shana) Rogers, Tim (Beth) Rogers; numerous nieces, nephews; and too many friends to count.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Ed Raschke, niece, Jill Raschke, and nephew, Eli Erickson.