Monte Neal Groothuis, 78 of Effingham, passed away at 1:33 p.m. Saturday, May 9, 2015 at H.S.H.S. St. Anthony Memorial Hospital in Effingham.

A funeral service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday evening at Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham with an Elks Memorial Service to follow. A time of visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until time of service, Thursday evening at the funeral home. The family would be honored by memorials to any of the charitable organizations in which Monte was a member, or any charity of the donor's choosing. Online condolences may be left at www.bauerfh.com.

Monte was born July 11, 1936 in Mattoon, the son of Scoville S. and Alyce M. (Gust) Groothuis.  He married Nita Ann King on June 4, 1960 at the church in Trimble and she preceded him in death in 2005.  Monte taught chemistry and biology at Effingham High School for 36 years prior to retirement, as well as serving as department chair for many years.

Monte was a life member of Effingham Elks Lodge #1016, a life member of the National Education Association and a past member of the Illinois Education Association. He was a current member of the Sigma Pi Educational Foundation, Eastern Illinois University Foundation, Purdue University Foundation, Kappa Delta Pi, and Illinois Retired Teachers Association. Monte was an original member of the board of Lake Sara Area Water Coöp. He also manufactured and distributed Shady Lady Lures for over 30 years.

Survivors include his son, Neal of New York, NY, sister, Trudy List of Assumption and brother, Nik Groothuis of Casey. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Nita.