James Robert Rotramel

James attended East St. Louis Sr. High School and graduated in the class of 1960. He married his high school sweetheart, Pat, on April 15, 1961 and together they had two children, Michelle and James.

He worked as a welder for Ameren U.E. for over 31 years.

James was a man of faith and a member of Central Christian Church, O’Fallon, IL.

He was a proud member of Operating Engineers Local 148 and served four years in the United States Navy. His greatest achievement was his much loved family.

James was passionate about anything related to the outdoors, including gardening, fishing, and woodworking. He was happiest when he had a project to work on – any project, just as long as he was busy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Alverta (nee Rupprecht) Rotramel, and sisters, Dorothy Fleming and Thelma Meinkoff.

Surviving to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 61 years, Patricia Ann (nee Reeder) Rotramel; daughter, Michelle M. Hamm; son, Dr. James R. (Leisa) Rotramel, Jr.; grandchildren, Dr. Casey (fiancé Dr. Asa Petersen) Hamm, Chloe (Andrew) Schechter, Dr. Hayden Rotramel, Cameron Rotramel, and Devon Rotramel; great grandchildren, Cora Marie and Louis James Schechter; sister, Eleanor Huighe; plus countless friends and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A visitation for James will be held Sunday, March 5, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, followed by a funeral at 4:00 PM, officiated by Pastor Larry Ridenour. He will be privately interred at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville, IL.

Donations in James’ honor can be made to your charity of choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ValhallaGardensandFuneralHome.com for the Rotramel family.