Steven M. "Choggie" Rakers of Breese, IL, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved him dearly.
The following words honor a life that mattered to many.
Steven spent his working life as ['mechanic at Klasing Motor Company and as a truck driver for the Breese Journal', 'maintenance'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
There is a discipline of duty that shapes a life long after the uniform is set aside.
Steven M. "Choggie" Rakers, age 71, of Carlyle, and formerly of Trenton and New Baden, passed away Monday, April 27, 2026, at his home. He was born July 5, 1954, in Belleville, a son of the late Cletus "Butch" and Margie (nee Schubert) Rakers.
Steve married Sandy Rakers (nee Scott) on October 30, 1999, at Carlyle Lake, and she survives in Carlyle. In addition to his wife, Steve is survived by his daughter, Jen (Brian) Kuhl of Trenton; grandchildren, Mytchel, Brady (Abby Litteken), and Carter Kuhl; siblings, Mark Rakers of Arnold, MO, Don Rakers of New Baden, Dave (Jackie) Rakers of New Baden, Patty (Doug) Cowart of Huntsville, AL, Teresa (Mike) Haar of New Baden, Keith (Ruth) Rakers of New Baden, Tim Rakers of St. Louis, MO, Mike (Peg) Rakers of Aviston, Darrin (Gina) Rakers of Trenton, and Lisa (Mike) Middelton of New Baden; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Terry (Nancee) Scott of Breese, Randy Scott of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and Gary (Jules) Scott of Palm Bay, FL; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Steve was preceded in death by his parents-in-law, Charles Glenn and Lucille (nee Gebke) Scott; and sisters-in-law, Sue Rakers and Kathy Rakers.
Steve proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army. He dedicated many years of service to the Illinois Department of Transportation, retiring in October 2025 after a long career in maintenance. Earlier in life, he worked as a mechanic at Klasing Motor Company and as a truck driver for the Breese Journal.
Steve found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved deer hunting, boating, and drag racing, and he had a special place in his heart for animals. Known for his generosity and kindness, Steve was always ready to lend a helping hand to neighbors and friends. He treasured time spent with his Edgewater Beach family, often relaxing with a cold beer or enjoying his favorite Blackberry Brandy.
A visitation will be held Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Moss Funeral Home in Breese. Closing prayers will follow at 5:00 p.m., led by Deacon Brad Haar.
In lieu of flowers, plants, or other gifts, memorials may be made to Clinton County Humane Society and will be received at the visitation or by mail at Moss Funeral Home, 535 N. 5th Street, Breese, IL 62230, which is serving the family.
Moss Funeral Home, P.C. is serving the family.
