Bernard R. Racop

Bernard “Bernie” R. Racop, age 93, of Vincennes, Indiana, formerly of Flat Rock, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at BridgePointe Health Campus in Vincennes.

He was born February 18, 1932, the son of Fay S. Racop and Marie Royer Racop. On September 6, 1953, he married Julia Irene Knoblett Racop, and she preceded him in death on December 22, 1989. In later years, he married Marilyn Racop, who also preceded him in death.

Bernie was a lifelong grain and livestock farmer. He enjoyed nature and wildlife. He was a dedicated member of Allison Prairie Church of the Brethren. He served his community in many roles, including as a Farm Bureau Board Member for nine years, a member of the Rich-Law Service Board of Directors for twenty years, and as a Birds School Board Member. He played football for the Eastern Illinois Panthers until he was injured.  Bernie also enjoyed playing Rook and attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting and music events, where he was their biggest supporter.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his son, Steve Racop; his infant daughter, Brenda Racop; two brothers; and three sisters.

Survivors include two daughters, Susan Shands of Kent, Washington, and Carol (Bryce) Waggoner of Lawrenceville; one son, Ed (Kelly) Racop of Lawrenceville; and his daughter-in-law, Pam Racop of rural Flat Rock; eleven grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be Monday, September 22, 2025, 1:00 p.m. at Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois.  Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. till the service hour of 1:00 p.m.  Burial will be Lawrenceville City Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made to the Lawrence County Humane Society.

Lawrence County Illinois Humane Society
PO Box 415, Lawrenceville IL 62439