Obituaries

Lena

John “Jack” Rife, 69

John “Jack” L. Rife, 69 of Lena passed away peacefully after a brief battle with cancer on Saturday, July 29, 2023 surrounded by his family at his home in Lena. He was born on January 14, 1954 in Freeport, IL to Ralph and Dorothy (Ertmer) Rife. He married Cheryl (Potter) in 1975 and together they raised 2 children. Jack and Deb Knoll were united in marriage on October 22, 2010 in Apple River, IL.

Jack spent over 30 years in Law Enforcement with most of his time as a Conservation Police Officer for the State of Illinois. He was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting, fishing and gardening as well as many other activities. He also loved aviation and music and was a proud member of the NRA.

He is survived by his wife- Deb Rife; 4 children- Jessica (Brian) Engle, Jerod (Kristen) Rife, Rob Knoll and Jake Knoll; grandchildren- Bryton, Avery, and Lily Engle and Isaac, Samuel and Elizabeth Rife. 4 siblings- Connie (Eugene) Ertmer, Tom (Nancy) Rife, Marg (Tom) Gulovich, Julie (Randy) Jobgen and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and 2 siblings, Carol (Tippett) Fischer and Don Rife.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Stockton, IL. A visitation will take place from 9:00 am until time of service. Father Michael Morrissey will be officiating the service. Cremation rites have been accorded.

A memorial has been established in his memory. Condolences maybe sent to the family at http://www.leamonfh.com