Louis Nicholas "Lou" Rheeling, Jr., 83 of Rantoul, formerly of Paxton passed away at 6:20 p.m. Saturday, June 27, 2020 at his home.

A memorial service will be held at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, July 18, 2020 at Pells Park, Paxton. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is assisting the family with arrangements.

Louis was born February 2, 1937 in Metropolis the son of Louis N. Rheeling, Sr. and Mary Elizabeth Kennedy Rheeling. He married Lois M. Pontius May 16, 1963 at Faith Methodist Church, Champaign. She preceded him in death February 17, 2008.

He is survived by his sister, Betty Rheeling of Nashville, Tennessee, daughter Jennifer Rheeling of Bowie, Maryland; son, David Y. (Trece) Rheeling of Cary, Illinois; grandson David W. (Shaila) Rheeling; granddaughter Chandler Jarboe; special granddaughter Jani' Nelson of Bowie, Maryland, two great grandsons David and Callum Rheeling and a great granddaughter on the way, Emryn Dawn Rheeling.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Lois and two sisters, Patsy Harris and Sandy Rheeling.

Lou spent his childhood in Metropolis and graduated from Metropolis Community High School. He obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Southern Illinois University. Lou taught in Illinois for 35 years; 3 years in southern Illinois and 32 years at J. W. Eater Junior High School, Rantoul. After their marriage, Lois and Lou lived in Dewey and Rantoul. In 1978 they moved to Paxton and back to Rantoul in 1991. He was a member of the Paxton United Methodist Church, IRTA, IEA, and the NEA.

Lou enjoyed watching television and keeping an eye on the neighborhood. His greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandson, and great grandchildren.

Memorials gifts should be made to the Paxton United Methodist Church. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.