Edward Milan Rotkvic, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on December 9, 2024, at the age of 79.

Ed was born January 15, 1945 to parents Emil and Mailda (Horvaic) Rotkvic in Chicago, IL. He graduated from Thornton Township High School, completed college courses at Northwestern University, and completed US Navy Nuclear Power School.

He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1964-1970 and was aboard the USS MacDonough in the Mediterranean from April 1966 until October 1970, during which he was recognized for his outstanding leadership and dedication by his superiors who stated “there is no doubt that ours is a better ship because you have been a member of the crew.”

In 1967 while on military leave, Ed met his future wife, Victoria Lynn Crites Seabaugh, and they were married on January 13, 1968 in Chicago, IL. Together, they proudly raised four children, Jennifer Lynn, Kristin Kathryn, Emily Celeste, and Timothy Edward.

Ed worked for Nebraska Public Power District in Brownville, NE for over 22 years, where he was affectionately known as “Rocky”. Upon retirement, he and Vicki relocated to Missouri to live out their dream of living on Table Rock Lake, a place he visited on numerous family vacations over the years. He volunteered at the Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Education Center where he contributed over 1,000 hours of service both as a volunteer naturalist and volunteer for the Discover Nature Fishing Program. He had a special gift for giving tours of the fish hatchery and demonstrating how to be a variety of flies for trout fishing. In 2017, he was recognized as Outstanding Interpretive Volunteer by the Association of Missouri Interpreters, an award he was so proud to receive.

He is preceded to heaven by his father, mother, and sister, Kathryn. He is survived by his wife, Vicki, of Ridgedale, MO; his children, Jennifer (Fred) Foan of Washington, MO, Krisin (John) Grilli of Fayeteville, AR, Emily (Alex) Kohls of Omaha, NE, and Tim (Crisa) Rotkvic of Omaha, NE; his seven grandchildren, Zachary, Madelynn, Caroline, Lauren, Norah, Elaina, Edward; his sister Margaret “Peggy” (Edward) Stood; many nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

Ed will be remembered by his ability to find joy and humor in any situation, tell a compelling story, and connect with others. He kept journals and letters throughout his life, reflecting on love and family, life, wisdom, and growing older. He would want us to celebrate his life, tell stories about his adventures, and keep on dancin’. Please remember him by spreading “love and peace” to all.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans in Ed’s honor at https://www.nchv.org.

A military service will be held at the Omaha National Cemetery in Omaha, NE on January 10, 2025, at 1:30pm, with a celebration of life to follow. Additional details will be forthcoming.