Mary C. "Katie" Rorheim

Mary C. “Katie” Rorheim, 63 of Loves Park, IL, passed away Tuesday, December 11, 2018.

Katie was born October 28, 1955 in Oak Park, IL, daughter of Aidan and Rita (Rudd) McGibbon. She graduated from McHenry High School, Class of 1973. Katie met her true love and life partner, Kenneth Rorheim while attending Western Illinois University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in special education. Ken and Katie were married on March 25, 1978 in Crystal Lake, IL. Together, the two lived off the coast of the Florida Keys for 20 years in a sailboat named “Assurance.” Katie taught special education for many years of her life. She loved her students who she thought of as her own children. They brought so much joy and fulfillment to her. After leaving Florida, Ken and Katie returned to northern Illinois to take care of each other, showing their strong love and devotion.

Surviving relatives include her brother, Terry (Natalia) McGibbon of Seattle, WA; sisters, Erin McGibbon of Island Lake, IL and Beth McGibbon (Paul Drew) of Spokane, WA; step-sister, Cyndy (Reggie) Layoff of Woodstock, IL; step-brother, Tom (Tammy) Bowers of Crystal Lake, IL; nieces and nephews, Cailin, Kyle, Reilly, Jane, Connor, John-Thomas, Andy, Tyler and Kendall. Katie had a special love for her cats, especially her sea cat, “Buck.” She will be greatly missed by her dear friends, Cari and Jackson Moreno. Katie is predeceased by her parents; loving husband, Ken; step-parents, Gladi (Jim) Anderson and step-brother, Fritz Bowers.

According to Katie’s wishes, there will be no public services held. Cremation rites will be accorded.

Arrangements entrusted to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108. Share online condolences and memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com