Former Mayor, Teacher John Strobbe Dies at Age 77

The village lost a leader this week as former mayor and educator died on Tuesday, Oct. 11. Strobbe, 77, served as mayor for three terms, from 1980 to 1992, and was the director and founder of the Romeoville Recreation Department.

He taught at what was then known as Lockport West High School and was a staff member when the campus’ name become in 1971. Strobbe also coached basketball, football, track and girls tennis for both Romeoville and Lockport Township high schools.

“He will be greatly missed not only by those here at village hall, but also by the community,” said current Mayor John Noak. “Former Mayor Strobbe was a man who was truly committed to the community,” he added, lauding Strobbe for his “lifetime of service.”

Fittingly, Strobbe was chosen as grand marshal of the planned Sept. 18 . A nod to his role in creating the Romeoville Recreation Department, this year’s theme was to be “Recreation Rocks!”

The event was canceled due to inclement weather, but the village still found a way to honor the former mayor, presenting him with a plaque at a board meeting last month.

“I’m just glad we were able to recognize him recently,” Noak said. “We’re all going to miss him.”

Strobbe is survived by his beloved wife, Patty Munn Strobbe; and children Christopher (Maria) Strobbe, Joann Margaret (Tom MacQuarrie) Strobbe, Michelle Susan (George) Keough and Scott Joseph (Catherine) Strobbe. He is the grandfather of Michael, Thomas, Johnnie, Danny, Matthew, Kristi, Caitlin, Georgie, Alyssa, Sean, Emma and Cole, and great-grandfather to Karsyn and Estrella.

Strobbe is also survived by his former wife, Carole Ann Ralph. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Rita Ann Strobbe; along with his parents, John and Ana Strobbe.

Visition is from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, at , 606 Townhall Drive in Romeoville. Funeral services will be held Monday, Oct. 17. Family and friends will meet at 10 a.m. at Grace United Methodist Church, 1718 Avalon Ave., Joliet, for a service. Interment to follow at Bolingbrook City Cemetery.