Albert Rotermund, Jr.

Dr. Albert John Rotermund, Junior was born in Saint Louis, MO and passed away peacefully on February 27, 2024 in his home surrounded by his loving family in Arlington Heights, Illinois at the age of 83.

Albert ‘’Al’’ is survived by his spouse of 54 years, Carol Rotermund (neé Willson), his children Mary (Chris) Kulton, Thomas Rotermund, and Elisa Rotermund (Arnold Butiu), his grandchildren Madeline Kulton, Abby Kulton, Lauren/Steve Rotermund, TJ Rotermund, Jaden Butiu, Andrew Butiu, and Ronin Butiu. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and his brother Paul Rotermund (Judy). He was preceded in death by his parents Albert John Rotermund, Senior and Wilma Ann Rotermund (neé Siege).

Al and Carol’s love story began while pursuing his doctorate at University of Buffalo. After a whirlwind romance, this love blossomed into a lifetime of mutual support and shared dreams grounded strongly in faith and family. Their love story initially took them to Long Island, NY where he achieved his post-doctorate at Brookhaven Laboratories and they welcomed their first child.

After achieving his doctorate, he interviewed at Loyola University of Chicago and during a period of prayer and reflection while overlooking Lake Michigan, he found his calling in teaching and research. Soon after, he accepted a teaching position there and taught various courses including: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Anatomy & Physiology, and General Biology for over 35 years.

Al was a beacon of knowledge possessing a quiet intellect, kind soul, and was deeply humble. He always carved out time for his students, guiding them towards their goals with patience and wisdom ensuring everyone had an opportunity to learn. His influence extended beyond the classroom shaping the futures of countless scientists, nurses, and doctors with his mentorship and heartfelt recommendation letters. His children always had the most amazing science projects thanks to his guidance, creativity, and knowledge.

His published works and research contributions include: ATP and hibernation on reptiles and mammals, synthetic blood, and additives that may cause cancer stand as a lasting reminder of his intellect, dedication, and pursuit to benefit humanity. During this time, he welcomed his second and third child.

His passion and commitment for faith, family, ongoing learning, and teaching knew no bounds. He taught his three children the value of education, pursuit of excellence, hard work, and sacrifice for the betterment of those we love.These are lessons we hold dear. He always had a ready smile. He shared his love for science, scouting, photography, astronomy, nature, and long road trips with us instilling a sense of wonder and adventure. These experiences bonded us as a family and taught us to appreciate the beauty of the world and the strength of family across the miles.

Al was an early advocate for environmental preservation serving as a consultant for a wetland park, nature walk, and creek/woodlands in Arlington Heights, IL.

As we say goodbye, we are comforted by the memories of his love, his infectious smile, and quiet strength. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched and we are eternally grateful for the time we had with him and know his spirit lives on in each of us as we continue our paths. We know he will continue to watch over us.

Visitation will be on Sunday, March 3, 2024 from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm at Glueckert Funeral Home, Ltd. 1520 North Arlington Heights Road (4 blocks South of Palatine Road) Arlington Heights, IL 60004 and on Monday, March 4, 2024 from 9:00 am until the time of the Funeral Mass at 10:00 am at Saint Edna Catholic Church, 2525 North Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Internment will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery, 2501 Euclid Ave, in Arlington Heights.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Funeral information and condolences can be given at www.GlueckertFuneralHome.com or 847.253.0168

To livestream the mass, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/@St.EdnaParish_AH