Marion Lincoln "Buck" Rotramel Jr., 90, passed away at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, August 28, 2014 at his home in Effingham.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 2, 2014 at Arborcrest Memorial Park in Effingham with military graveside rites. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Legion Veterans Fund.

"Buck" was born on March 3, 1924 in Benton, the son of Marion and Blanche (Huelbig) Rotramel. He graduated from Tri-State College of Engineering with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering.

During WWII, "Buck" honorably served his country in the United States Navy as a Seaman First Class on the tanker, U.S.S. Ponaganset. Following the war, he returned to Springfield, Illinois and married Winona (Slater) in 1949 and began his career as a civil engineer with the State of Illinois. He was transferred to Effingham in 1952 to continue his career with the Illinois Highway Department. After 35 years of employment with the State of Illinois, he retired at the age of 55.

"Buck" was a leader in the Boy Scouts of America achieving the highest honor of the Silver Beaver Award. He volunteered with the United Way, St. Anthony's Hospital Auxiliary and was the Director of Civil Defense. In 1946, he became a member of the Benton American Legion and was appointed Post Commander of the Effingham American Legion Post 120 and V.F.W. Post 1769.

"Buck" is survived by his children, Linda Rotramel of Effingham, Rae (Leonard) Pryczynski of San Tan Valley, AZ, Douglas Rotramel of Merced, CA and Cathy Mathias of Decatur; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 65 years, Winona; sister, Sue Petard; brother-in-law, Pete Petard; daughter-in-law, Jerri Rotramel and son-in-law, Dan Mathias.