Loren G. Zuercher

Loren G. Zuercher, 98, of Pekin, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 1:50 AM on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Hopedale Nursing Home in Hopedale, Illinois surrounded by loved ones. A man of boundless optimism, unwavering confidence, and a tireless work ethic, Loren lived a life marked by dedication to his family, faith, and community, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations.

Born on July 6, 1926, in Roanoke, Illinois, to Joseph and Amelia (Gudeman) Zuercher, Loren was raised with a strong sense of family and purpose. On December 2, 1950, he married the love of his life, Colleen Bushell, in Washington, Illinois. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and service to others. Colleen preceded him in death on August 14, 2020, after nearly 70 years of marriage. Loren was also preceded in death by his parents, two sons, Patrick Zuercher and Ian Zuercher, and two brothers, Milton and Curtis Zuercher.

Loren is survived by his four sons: Kevin Zuercher of Oregon, Wisconsin; Eric Zuercher of San Francisco, California; Kurt (Sandy) Zuercher of Pekin, Illinois; and Karl (April) Zuercher of Washington, Illinois. He is also survived by three daughters: Colette (Monty) Kuka of Great Falls, Montana; Holly (David) Weiler of North Pekin, Illinois; and Elise Harnois of Gig Harbor, Washington. Additionally, he leaves behind one daughter-in-law, Connie Zuercher of Morton, Illinois; eleven grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.

Lorens life was a testament to hard work and determination. At the age of 16, he began his career as a patternmaker apprentice at Caterpillar Inc. in Peoria. Two years later, at 18, he volunteered for the Army Air Corps, proudly serving during World War II. Though he dreamed of becoming a pilot during his military service, that aspiration was not realized until later in life. At the age of 50, Loren earned his private pilots license, a milestone that reflected his lifelong love of flying and his belief that dreams are never out of reach. After his honorable discharge, Loren went back to Caterpillar where he was rising up the ranks quickly before being lured by an offer he couldnt refuse to work at Central Pattern in St. Louis, Missouri. Following the birth of his sixth child, Colleen longed to be closer to family, prompting Loren to return to Pekin. In 1960, he founded Pekin Patterns, a business that became a cornerstone of the community and a family legacy. Though he gradually stepped back from daily operations, Loren never truly retired, instead serving as a trusted consultant to his children who continued running the business.

A devout Catholic, Loren was a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin, where he found strength and solace in his faith. His commitment to the church extended far beyond attendance; Loren was an integral member of the repair crew of the new St. Josephs in 1968. He planned, constructed, and mounted the crucifix that is currently displayed above the altara lasting symbol of his devotion. Over the years, Loren fixed, repaired, and remodeled countless projects for the church, using his skills as a patternmaker and his generous spirit to ensure the sacred space remained a place of beauty and reverence for the congregation. Loren and Colleen were also devoted foster parents, opening their hearts and home to 25 to 30 children over the years through Catholic Social Services, providing love and stability to those in need. Lorens generosity and compassion touched countless lives, and his optimistic outlookoften expressed in his favorite phrase, "Things will work out"inspired all who knew him.

Loren had a deep love for St. Louis Cardinals baseball, cheering on his favorite team with unwavering loyalty. He also cherished his time in the air, flying whenever he could, a passion that brought him immense joy. Loren and Colleen owned a condo in the Bahamas for a time, where they spent winters making memories with family and friends. In their later years, after selling the condo at their childrens encouragement, they continued to escape the Midwest winters by spending time in Florida, always surrounded by the love of their family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 AM on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin, with Father Michael Andrejek officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, also at the church, offering an opportunity for loved ones to gather and share memories. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Pekin. Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin, a place that held great meaning for Loren throughout his life.

Loren G. Zuerchers life was a shining example of faith, family, and perseverance. His legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and optimism. May he rest in peace, soaring among the clouds he loved so much, forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

To view the Livestream or Archive of Loren's Mass of Christian Burial select this link View Loren's Mass