Obituary of John A Rothermich

~~John A. Rothermich, 85, died peacefully at home on Sunday, September 24th, 2017. John was born on June 23, 1932 in St. Louis, MO to parents Arnold and Edna (Orf) Rothermich.
John’s life reflected the joy and the beauty he found in all people and in all things. He embraced life with overwhelming gratitude and grace. John’s words and deeds throughout his life demonstrated his beautiful relationship with God and his amazing ability to be God’s witness for all those lucky enough to call him father or friend. He loved thoroughly and unconditionally all those who walked with him on his journey. 
John’s early life in St. Louis included a love of the outdoors, of sports, and of learning.  His love of nature began in his beloved St. Josephville where he spent summers with Uncle Johnny and all John’s wonderful extended family as they worked their farms – instilling in John a love nature and of gardening his entire life. John found joy in all the natural wonders God has given.
John graduated with honors from St. Louis University High School then went on to graduate again with honors from St. Louis University, earning an A.B. in English, History, and Philosophy as well as a Master’s in English. During this time he was an avid soccer and baseball player, playing on many championship teams. He made all-state for Baseball and was Captain of his soccer team. John later went on to coach many of his son’s soccer teams.
John began his professional career as a teacher.  He taught Composition and English Literature at St. Louis University and taught English and Latin at Ferguson High School in St. Louis.  He joined McGraw-Hill Book Company working as the Editor-in-Chief for Language Arts and Early Childhood Education and later as Editorial Director for Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematics for all of K-12. John later worked for Phoenix Learning Resources as Vice President, Editing, Marketing, Production, and Manufacturing. 
Throughout his life, John generously gave his time and talent for many community, school, and religious organizations. He sang in church choirs since he was 8 years old, continuing that tradition with St. Leo’s Choir. He was on the Board of Directors for Catholic Family Services and served as Vice President of Stamford Catholic Regional School System. He happily volunteered at many church functions and was recently recognized by the Bishop for his extraordinary tradition of service.
John is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Helen (Phillipi) Rothermich and his seven children, Mary Beth Rothermich of St. Louis, MO; Patti Columb of Cumming, GA; Mark Arkanum of Cumming, GA; John Rothermich of Greer, SC; Greg Rothermich of Sutton, MA; Jeanne Rothermich of Ridgewood, NJ; and Chris Rothermich of Ovieda, FL.; 23 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; sister Alice Weis of St. Louis, brother Arnold Rothermich of Yachats, OR; and 4 stepchildren, Kathryn Trister of Hamden, CT; Joseph Gaffney of Metchun, NJ, Michael Gaffney of Ramsey, NJ; and Robert Gaffney of Easton, PA. John is predeceased by his first wife Shirley M. (Hummel) Rothermich, his parents, and stepson Francis Gaffney.
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of Thomas M Gallagher Funeral Home, Stamford (203)-359-9999, 453 Shippan Avenue Stamford.  Calling hours are Thursday September 28th from 4:00pm – 8:00pm at the funeral home.  A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Leo’s Parish 24 Roxbury Road Stamford Friday September 29th at 10:00am.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Gift of Life International at http://www.giftoflifeinternational.org/ in John’s honor. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.gallagherfuneralhome.com