Robert Rathke, age 84, of Buffalo Grove, IL and formerly of Bethel Park, PA, passed away peacefully and surrounded by his family on Friday, March 27, 2026. He was born on October 21, 1941, in Pittsburgh, PA to the late Elmer and Catherine (nee Lutz) Rathke. He married the love of his life, Eleanore Peszko, on April 15, 1972, in Pittsburgh, PA. Devoted husband of 53 years to Eleanore Rathke. Loving father of Colleen (Jim) Powell, Jarrett (Carrie) Rathke, Glenn Rathke. Caring papa of Nathan, Benjamin, and Nicholas. Fond brother of Jack (Vivian) Rathke. Kind son-in-law to the late Thaddeus and Helen (nee Mroczka) Peszko. Thoughtful brother-in-law of Anthony (the late Jean) Peszko, Edward Peszko, and Connie (the late Gary) Keay. In his career, Robert was most recently the Marketing Manager at ITT Industries in Morton Grove, IL. His hobbies included woodworking, photography, railroading, traveling, stained glass artwork, and gardening. His kind and gentle spirit will be greatly missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Robert's name to the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. A memorial visitation will be 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at St. Edna Catholic Church, 2525 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. The Celebration of Life Mass will begin at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be in Ascension Catholic Cemetery, Libertyville, IL. Arrangements are entrusted to Kolssak Funeral Home. For information, please call 847-537-6600.