Randy Paul Rock, 1947-2024; Was Dean of Students
The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus community extends our sincerest condolences to the family of Randy Paul Rock who died Wednesday, Feb. 14, at University Care Center in Edwardsville. He was 76.
Rock’s journey at SIUE started as a student. He earned a Bachelor of Science (1969) and Master’s in English and History (1979). He taught English 101 and 102 and served as the Dean of Students from 1994 to 2003. Rock received his 30-year service award in April 2001 and retired from SIUE in 2003.
Randy Rock, the father of SIUE financial aid coordinator Jason Rock, continued to instruct students part-time until the fall 2023 semester.
According to friends and colleagues, Rock was a fixture at SIUE for nearly 50 years. Linda Jaworski-Moiles, office manager for the Department of English said, “Mr. Rock always enjoyed working with students. He had a genuine interest in what the students thought and had a passion for helping them put those thoughts into writing.”
Rock is survived by his wife, Janis Surette, son Jason Rock (Brianna Domescik), daughter Jamie Horstmann (Matt Horstmann), and two grandchildren: Brynn and Briar Horstmann.
Rock is preceded in death by parents Hilbert and Nora (nee Niehaus) Rock, and numerous beloved family pets.
Visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, February 24, at Barry Wilson Funeral Home in Maryville. Memorial service will follow at 4 p.m.
Memorials can be made to Gardens at SIUE and the Metro East Humane Society. Arrangements are being handled by Barry Wilson Funeral Home .
Photo: Randy Paul Rock, courtesy of Barry Wilson Funeral Home.