Roland Wayne Mohr

Roland Wayne Mohr, affectionately known as Rick, of St. Joseph, passed away
unexpectedly on March 29, 2025, while on a golfing trip to Florida. Rick shined a light in
the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was
marked by love, compassion, and family.

Roland was born to Elmer W. Mohr and Lorraine (Cox) Mohr on November 4, 1946, in
Urbana. He was the youngest of three sons. Rick grew up on a fourth-generation family
farm outside of Broadlands. Rick graduated from ABL High School in 1964 and
Southern Illinois University in 1973 with a Bachelor's in Physical Education.
On September 25, 1969, he married his high school sweetheart, Donna Rae
(Porterfield) Mohr, at Fort Campbell, KY, just before graduating from basic training and
deployment to Vietnam. Rick was drafted and proudly served in the Army from 1969 to
1971, achieving the rank of Sergeant E5. When he returned from Vietnam, they lived in
Carlyle, IL, as Rick began his teaching career. Soon after, Rick and Donna moved back
to central Illinois. He taught and coached at Sidell High School, then transitioned to St.
Joseph-Ogden High School in 1976. He was a physical education and driver's ed
teacher and coached cross country and boys' basketball. He stayed active with sports
by refereeing high school boys' basketball. Rick retired from St. Joseph-Ogden in 2004.
Whether blowing the whistle on the basketball court, guiding runners through the trails,
consistently beating his PE students in games, or teaching them to drive behind the
wheel, he pursued each with love, excellence, and dedication.

In 1988, Rick embraced a lifelong dream when he was blessed with the opportunity to
farm his family’s ground. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, sportsmanship, and a
family farm that will provide for generations. His greatest joy was seeing his family
follow in his footsteps, embracing the love of farming.

He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer (1974), mother, Lorraine (2002), and
brother, Ronald H. Mohr (2017). His wife, Donna, passed away on January 29, 2025,
just two short months prior. They shared 55 years of marriage filled with love,
commitment, and a partnership that grew stronger with each passing year. He lovingly
cared for his wife throughout her journey with Alzheimer's, a testament to the enduring
promise of "in sickness and in health.” He walked beside her, hand in hand, until the
very end.

He is survived by his brother, Rodney Mohr of Royal, and sister-in-law Dorothy (Bob)
Gordon of St. Joseph. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews: Roger
(Karen) Mohr, Teri (Mark) Magnuson, Karen (Steve) Welch, Vicki (Todd) Roberts,
Celana (Kevin) Skeith, Jeff (Ginger) Mohr, Matt (Jennifer) Houchens, and Nate Houchens.

Rick is also survived by his two sons: Timothy (Joscyln) Mohr of St. Joseph and
Thomas (Sarah) Mohr of Tolono. He was a devoted grandfather, lovingly known as
“Papa” to Cole (Caitlin), Jae, Jackson, and Riley Mohr. He was a constant presence in
the lives of his sons and grandchildren, his heart filled with pride as he watched them
excel in football, basketball, cross country, track, dance, theater, scholastic bowl, and
music. He was their biggest fan, beaming from the sidelines, applauding from the
audience, and cherishing every moment.

Rick found immense joy in bringing his family together, celebrating their special
occasions with his mother's famous recipe for “hot chicken” or steaks on the charcoal
grill. This created unforgettable moments of joy and connection for friends and family.
His love for golf was more than a pastime; it was an adventure. With a map and his
clubs, he embarked on a journey to play courses in all 50 states, a feat he nearly
accomplished. His passion for the game will be remembered by all who knew him. He
relished the time spent with friends on the course, creating lasting bonds and enjoying
their shared love of the game.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 10, from 4 to 7:00 PM, and the funeral service
will be held on Friday, April 11, at 10:00 a.m. at Freese Funeral Home in St. Joseph.
Burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery, Broadlands.

Memorials may be made to St. Joseph United Methodist Church, St. John’s Cemetery,
or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting Rick’s
obituary page on the Freese Funeral Home website, www.freesefh.com.

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