Darryl J. Rohrer, 64, of Washington Island, passed away on Friday, April 12, 2024 at his home. He was born July 3, 1959 in Fontana, California, son of the late Donald Gene and Pearl Minnie Rohrer. He graduated from Lanphier High School in Springfield, Illinois. He then attended Eastern Illinois University, where he obtained his master’s degree in School Psychology. On August 4, Darryl married the love of his life, Annie Wittrock at Faith Lutheran Church in Mundelein, IL. The two raised four children and created countless memories which provide an endless source of inspiration to his family. Darryl worked as a School Psychologist for Hononegah Community School District in Rockton, Illinois, for 35 years, where he supported students and their families and was beloved among his colleagues. In his time at Hononegah, he was the advisor to the Gay-Straight Alliance club, advisor of the Freshman Mentor Program, and was the Girls Cross Country Coach for over 10 seasons. His students and athletes remember him as an advocate, an ally, and a constant source of support. Upon Darryl’s retirement in 2021, he and Annie moved and made their home on Washington Island, a dream they shared since their honeymoon in 1984. He was a proud member of the Washington Island Lions club, a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, and loved his part time jobs at the Washington Island Ferry Line, Williams Tree Farm, and Elegant Foods. He loved delivering Meals on Wheels and especially making genuine connections with island folks. He found a new passion for making maple syrup and took great joy in the natural beauty of the island. He continued to run with his dog, Luna, and ride his bike long distances with friends and his children. Darryl measured wealth in relationships and, by this measure, very proudly considered himself the richest person in the world. To him, no one was a stranger - he loved meeting new people and making new friends. His family and friends were the most important part of his life. They continue to count his riches and extend their deepest heartfelt gratitude to everyone who was lucky enough to know him. Darryl will be missed by his loving wife, Annie, and children, Daniel (Kyli Marshall), Matthew (Karen Jones), Benjamin (Michelle Kim), and Elliott (Kim Schlesinger), as well as his sisters, Diana Paidra (Phil), and Debra Hensen (Bruce). Darryl’s life will be celebrated in a memorial service on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at Trinity Lutheran Church at 12:00 p.m. Visitation for friends and family will be held at the church from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Casperson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Sister Bay is assisting the Rohrer family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Darryl may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.caspersonfuneralhome.com.
