Eric Lange Hillsdale IL Obituary, Death: With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we gather to remember and honor the life of Eric J. Lange, who passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at the young age of 24. His time with us, though far too brief, was filled with love, laughter, and a spirit of adventure that touched all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community.
Born with a deep passion for the outdoors, family, and hard work, Eric exemplified the qualities of dedication, kindness, and perseverance. He was a proud graduate of Alleman High School, where he built strong friendships and a reputation for being a caring and supportive friend. After high school, he pursued his Associate’s Degree, demonstrating his commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth. Eric found his calling in construction, working for Porter Brothers Construction in Rock Falls, IL as a Junior Project Manager.
He was on his dream path to becoming a member of the Operators Union 150, recently completing the prerequisites for acceptance. His ambition and determination in his career were evident to all who knew him—he was a young man with a bright future, dedicated to achieving his goals while maintaining his humility and work ethic. Eric’s love for nature and the great outdoors was unmatched. From a young age, he embraced hunting and fishing, scoring his first buck and turkey at just nine years old.
Whether he was casting a line into the water or sitting in a tree stand waiting for the perfect moment, he found solace and joy in these pursuits. Annual fishing trips to Richmond, MN, and pheasant hunting excursions in South Dakota were cherished traditions that Eric looked forward to every year. His appreciation for the wild was not just about sport—it was about connection, tradition, and the beauty of nature. Eric was also an active member of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and Pheasants Forever, demonstrating his dedication to conservation and preserving the land he so deeply cherished.
He understood the importance of protecting the environment and passing down these traditions to future generations. To Eric, family was everything. As the middle child, he played a unique and vital role in his household, serving as the glue that kept everyone connected. He had a natural ability to bring people together, ensuring that family traditions were upheld and that love and laughter were always present. His kindness and generosity knew no bounds—he was always there to lend a hand, offer words of encouragement, or simply share a moment of joy with his loved ones.
Beyond his immediate family, Eric had an unwavering commitment to his community. He gave back through his involvement in coaching Riverdale Jr. Rams Football, where he became a mentor and role model to young athletes. His passion for the sport and dedication to the kids he coached left a lasting impact, shaping the next generation with lessons of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Eric’s love for cars and racing was deeply rooted in his family.
As a proud member of his grandfather’s pit crew for the Ozark Mountain Super Shifters, he was actively involved in the sport he adored. The 1965 Chevelle was more than just a car to Eric—it was a legacy, a passion, and a bond that connected him to his family in a special way. It was always his dream to keep the Chevelle racing, a dream that will now live on in his memory. When he wasn’t working, coaching, or hunting, Eric could be found enjoying life with his best friends. He was the kind of friend who was always there, whether for a deep conversation, a shared adventure, or simply a cold beer on a quiet evening.
His ability to make those around him feel valued and appreciated was one of his greatest gifts. Eric’s passing leaves a tremendous void in the lives of those who loved him. His kindness, his laughter, and his unwavering loyalty will be missed every single day. He was not just a son, a brother, or a friend—he was a shining example of what it means to live with purpose, to cherish every moment, and to uplift those around you.
He is survived by his loving parents, Beth and Steve Timm of Port Byron, and Gary Lange Jr. of Rock Island; his devoted brothers, Joe (Emily) Timm of Bettendorf, Jake Lange of Port Byron, Josh Timm of Port Byron, and Nick Lange of Port Byron; his beloved sister, Addie Timm of Port Byron; and his dear nephew, Edward Timm. He also leaves behind his cherished grandparents, Gary and Kris Klavon of Port Byron, Gary and Glenda Lange of Rock Island, and Sue Timm of Moline, as well as a large extended family and countless friends who will miss him dearly.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Christ the King Church in Moline. Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects during the visitation from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday at Rafferty Funeral Home, 2111 1st Street A, Moline. Eric will be laid to rest at St. John’s Cemetery in Rapid City, IL, where his legacy will continue in the hearts of all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alleman Booster Boy Football or Riverdale Jr. Rams Football.
These donations will serve as a tribute to Eric’s love for football and his dedication to mentoring young athletes. As we say goodbye to Eric, let us not dwell on the sorrow of his passing but instead celebrate the incredible life he lived. Let us remember the laughter he shared, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely. His spirit will continue to live on in every sunrise over the hunting fields, in every ripple of water on the lake, and in every roar of an engine on the racetrack.
Though Eric’s journey was cut short, his impact is eternal. May we honor him by living our lives with the same kindness, passion, and dedication that he exemplified every day. Until we meet again, Eric, may you rest in peace, forever cherished and never forgotten.
