Rome Richard Rothgeb, 71, of Merrillville, IN, succumbed to his time on Earth on July 3rd, at his home with his loving wife and youngest son by his side after a year and a half battle with pancreatic cancer. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Rome, will always be remembered for his gentle and kind spirit along with his love for the outdoors, including gardening, camping, and most importantly fishing.

Born on April 18, 1954, in Harvey, IL, Rome grew up the only son of Rome and Nellie Rothgeb and a younger brother to his two sisters: Myra Rothgeb & Sandy Ahrens. He attended Thornwood High School, graduating in 1973. Within weeks of finishing high school, he began his career at the steel mill. As an incredibly loyal man, Rome spent 42 years at Inland Steel, where he worked as an overhead crane operator.

On August 8, 1988, Rome married the love of his life and best friend, Terri Rothgeb (Kirk). The two shared a loving relationship that lasted nearly 37 years and yielded one child of their own. As a true modern family each of them brought additional sons into the family from previous marriages.

Rome is survived by his wife, Terri Rothgeb; his 5 sons, Jayson, Rome, Dustyn, Justin, and Skylar; his 2 sisters, Myra Rothgeb & Sandy Ahrens; and his 3 granddaughters, Savannah, Sierra, and Harlie. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rome and Nellie Rothgeb.

A service to celebrate Rome’s life will be held on Thursday, July 10th at 4:00PM to 8:00PM at Calumet Park Funeral Capel, 7535 W Taft St, Merrillville, IN 46410. All are welcome.