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tree
planted in memory of Thomas Eugene Rakestraw
Obituary for Thomas Eugene Rakestraw
It is with both sadness and joy that we announce the passing of Thomas Eugene Rakestraw, who went to be with his Lord and Savior on July 28, 2024 in Peoria, IL.
Tom was born in Peoria to Eugene and Helen Eileen (neé Julien) Rakestraw on December 10, 1952. He attended St. Mark’s Grade School and graduated from Central High School. Tom attended weekly mass with his family at St. Mark's Church. It was there that Tom learned about generosity, loving others without exception, and devotion to his family and church.
As a young adult Tom followed his father's footsteps, becoming a glazier while helping pay for his younger siblings' private school tuition. This act of selfless generosity was a characteristic that would become a hallmark for his entire life. In 1985 Tom married Sharon Myers (neé Coates), stepping boldly into the unpredictable role of father to 4 rambunctious children with whom he would routinely share simple yet powerful words of wisdom and valuable lessons for life... things like "remember who you are and who you belong to," or "you've gotta be smarter than what you're working with."
In 1991, Tom suffered a spinal cord injury that confined him to a wheelchair. In the face of a drastically increased level of adversity each day, Tom persevered in his faith and found much encouragement in 1 Chronicles 16:11 "Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually." With this daily dose of God's strength, Tom led many people of all ages to Jesus Christ through volunteer work with Teens Encounter Christ, Love in Action Food Pantry, Heart of Illinois Harvest, Peoria Rescue Mission, Boy Scouts of America, Special Touch Disabilty Ministry, Prison Ministry, multiple church youth, men's, and family programs, and countless interactions with each person God put along his path. He was never too busy or distracted to connect with others in a meaningful way, bringing joy, and life, and the Good News of Jesus Christ to all those around him.
Tom faithfully attended and supported the Chillicothe Assembly of God Church, serving as an elder and volunteer for 28 years until its closing. Later, he became a member of Glad Tidings Assembly of God in East Peoria.
Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife in 2022, and has since been longing for their joyous reunion in God's perfect time. He was also preceded in death by his parents and his youngest brother, Joe. He is survived by five siblings: Patti (Jim) Mishler, Anne (Jim) Wilson, Jim (Vicki) Rakestraw, Mary Rakestraw, and Amy (Terry) Dixon; four children: Sandy (Jerry) Myers, Cyndi (Pete) Light, Justin (Amelia) Rakestraw, Chris (Candice) Rakestraw, 15 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 1 second-great-grandchild.
A memorial mass will be held at St. Mark’s Church in Peoria, IL on August 24 at 9:00am followed by a Celebration of Life at 10:00am at Detweiller Park Dogwood/Pine Shelters. Donations in his honor may be made to Midwest Food Bank and/or Pathway Ministries of Peoria.
The Cremation Society of Mid-Illinois Pekin/Peoria is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at csmico.com
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