Jerome "Mike" DeLyle Rakowska, age 86, passed away on Tuesday, August 23, 2022, in Stockton IL.  He was born on October 11, 1935, to Rudolph and Velma (Davidson) Rakowska in Waddams Township.  He served his country in the U.S. Army in Korea.  He married Marilyn (Balles) Rakowska on June 3, 1961, at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Freeport IL.

He drove truck most of his life hauling milk, gravel, and limestone, buying his own milk route in 1968.  He was affectionately known as "Mike the McConnell Milkman," working for Ulan Schultz, Oak Brand Dairies and hauling milk to Kraft in Stockton for 28 years.  He drove dump truck for Kasper Trucking for another 14 years and then retired in 2010.  He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandkids.  He enjoyed working on his trucks in the garage, going for rides in the car, and scratching lotto tickets.  He was a hard worker, dedicated to providing for his family.  He was a member of the American Legion, the IL Sheriff's Association and Holy Cross Catholic Church in Stockton.

He is survived by his daughters Julie (Randy) Baysinger and Tracy (Warren) Offenheiser; his grandchildren Brittney (Kyle) Demeter, Mikayla Baysinger, Rachel (David) Taylor, Daniel Offenheiser, and Emily Offenheiser; his great-grandchildren Emma, Luke, Audrey, and Jonah Demeter and Isabella Taylor; and his sister Opal Weick.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, infant sister Doris, brothers Duane (Ski), Darrell (Chick), and Gary Rakowska.

A funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, August 30, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Stockton with the Rosary beginning at 8:30 a.m. and visitation from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Officiating will be Father Michael Morrissey. Interment will take place at Chapel Hill Cemetery in Freeport IL.

A memorial has been established in his name.

The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to his caregivers Becky and Maureen for their love and kindness.  They continuously went above and beyond to give him the best care and comfort possible.