Donald George Rohde

Donald “Don” G. Rohde, age 68, of Crystal Lake, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025.

Born on July 20, 1956, in Elmhurst, IL, Don was the cherished son of John D. Rohde of Rolling Meadows and the late Lenore (Hagen) Ricker. Raised in the northwest suburbs, he graduated from Forest View High School in 1974 and joined the U.S. Navy, a commitment he carried with pride throughout his life.

Don lived with a passion that touched everything he did. Early in his career, he owned a roofing business, tirelessly providing for his family. Later, he found a job he truly loved, driving a school bus for District 155, where his warm smile and kind words brightened the mornings of countless students. Whether coaching his sons’ Little League teams, leading as Chief Snapping Turtle in the Chippewa Tribe of Indian Guides, or perfecting his lawn, Don gave his all. His love for woodworking, model trains, and rooting for the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago White Sox filled his days with joy.

Don was a remarkable man in many ways and often declared himself a “legend”. His family heartily agreed with this nickname as he proved time and again to be extraordinary. With humor, grit, and unwavering determination, Don twice triumphed over cancer, embodying resilience until the end.

He leaves behind a legacy of love in his sons: Donald J. (Anna), David (Katie), Douglas (Valerie), and Daniel (Lindsey); his adored grandchildren: Evan, Emerson, Avery, Ryne, Benjamin, Anneliese, Sonja, Luke, and Reese; his siblings, John (Jill) Rohde, Vicki (Chuck) Grover, and Liane (Mark) Desmet; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 25, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at 12:15 p.m. at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake. A private burial will follow at Ridgewood Memorial Park in Des Plaines.