Gary Rossman

Ralph 'Gary' Rossman, 82, of Mahomet, died at 2:35am on December 18, 2021 at his Mahomet home.  In accordance with his wishes, he will be cremated and his family will have a private celebration of life.

'Gary' was born on January 26,1939 a son of Robert William and Wilma Lula (Farris) Rossman in Champaign, Illinois.  He married Patricia Ann O'Neil on August 25, 1962.

Survivors include: his two children Lori Ann Rossman (Mike) Hays of Mahomet; Robert Gary (Sage) Rossman of Mahomet; 2 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and his step sister Ann Corbly of Raleigh, NC.  He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, in-laws,  his baby brother, and a grandson.  He was the best dad ever!

He graduated from Champaign High School in 1956 and attended the University of Illinois and then transferred to Southern Illinois University where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Business in 1961.  While in college he received the nickname 'Bozwell', and during his many years in a local Champaign bowling league his buddies called him 'Shoe'.  Neither story is very interesting.  The caption in his 1956 yearbook reads: "a friendly chap, who always has a comeback" which held true until the end.  

Gary worked for IBM in Omaha, Nebraska,  then returned to the Champaign area to work for the University of Illinois Chemistry Department in the 60's.  In the 80's he moved to the University's Operation and Maintenance Division.  He later became the Assistant Director of the O&M garage.  Gary spearheaded the first recycling program at the University campus.  He retired from the U of I in April 1998 after 32 years of service.  Gary was also in the Army Reserve from 1962-1968.

He enjoyed cars - especially Ford/Lincoln,  golfing, bowling, reading, photography, and traveling.  He adored the many pets he had over the years.  He delighted in his home, and spending time with his wife of nearly 58 years.

If you’d like to make a donation in Gary's name, please do so to: Bloomington Faith Church, 8782 N 1550 E, Bloomington, IL 61705.

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