Charles D. Rakers

On January 26, 2026, Charles D. Rakers of Burns Harbor, Indiana, passed away with his family by his side at Franciscan Health in Michigan City, Indiana.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Charles M. and Helen Doran Rakers, and one brother, Timothy Rakers. He is survived by his wife of fifty years, Debra Rakers, daughter Kelsey Rakers (Jeffrey Wenzel) of Valparaiso, son Casey Rakers of Burns Harbor, and three grandchildren, Rupert, Harrison, and Zoe Wenzel. He is also survived by his brother Wayne (Bette) Rakers of Peoria, Illinois and sister Deb Rakers (Mark Reopelle) of Eugene, Oregon.

Charlie was born on November 7, 1950 in Quincy, Illinois. He was a 1968 graduate of Costa High School in Galesburg and an Eagle Scout. Charlie was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, having served on the U.S.S Detroit. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Western Illinois University. On August 16, 1975, he married Debra McManis in Watseka, Illinois. He spent his career as a teacher, coach, and administrator, with the last twenty years of his career as principal at Marian Central Catholic High School in Woodstock, Illinois. In his retirement, he was a proud Papa to his grandkids. Charlie was a lifelong sports fan, especially of the Atlanta Braves, Chicago Blackhawks, and Chicago Bears. He also loved traveling, history, music, and movies.

Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 30, 2026 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Galesburg. The rosary will be prayed at 11:00 a.m. with funeral mass to start at 11:30 a.m. Father Jeffrey Stirniman will officiate. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Chuck Rakers to Marian Central Catholic High School for tuition assistance. Donations may be made online or by mail to Marian Central Catholic High School, 1001 McHenry Avenue, Woodstock, IL 60098. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.