Rease Binger's Obituary
Rease Binger departed this life on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at his home at Primrose Retirement Community in Decatur, Illinois. He was born on June 21, 1937 in Rockford, IL, the son of Rease and Martha Binger. He was 88 years old.
He was married to the love of his life, Bette Grudichek, for forty-two years , a partnership defined by love, devotion and unwavering companionship.
A dedicated educator and coach, Rease devoted his career to shaping young minds and young athletes. He taught mathematics for many years at Stephen Decatur High School, influencing generations of students, and he retired from teaching in 1993. Even after retirement, his passion for education continued—he went on to teach math at St. Teresa High School for seven years, giving students the same patience, clarity, and encouragement he was known for throughout his lifelong career.
His coaching career was equally distinguished. He was the Stephen Decatur High School boys’ basketball coach and the girls track coach from 1976 through 1993. Rease led with passion, integrity, and heartfelt commitment.
A defining moment of his coaching career came in 1986, when his basketball team made a Sweet 16 appearance, highlighted by a memorable sectional final victory over Quincy. While coaching at South Beloit High School, he mentored standout athlete Perry Range, who went on to play basketball at the University of Illinois, a testament to Rease’s lasting impact on his athletes. His remarkable accomplishments were honored with his induction into the Decatur Public Schools Athletic Hall of Fame in 2019.
Earlier in his athletic journey, Rease proudly played on the 1955 Rockford boys’ basketball state championship team. Rease was an avid Cubs fan and especially enjoyed attending games with close friends. The Cubs 2016 World Series victory was one of the highlights of his life. He also had a lifelong love of playing golf, and he enjoyed many happy hours playing cards with friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife Bette Grudichek-Binger; his parents; his brothers Hank and Richard, and his sisters Jean and Joan. Rease is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Pace (Rob), and his cherished granddaughters, Alexandria and Korrina. Throughout his life, he was also blessed with a circle of long-time friends who became family in every meaningful way: Tim, Wanda, Amber, and Ashley Cruz; and Ken and Mary Handley. Their loyalty, laughter, and many years of friendship were treasures to him.
The family extends their deepest appreciation to Erica at Primrose, an employee, former student, and exceptionally kind caregiver. Her attentiveness, compassion, and dedicated care brought comfort and dignity to Rease during his time at Primrose, and her support is remembered with heartfelt gratitude.
Rease leaves behind a legacy of kindness, mentorship, and integrity. His influence will continue to live on in the many lives of those he taught, coached, and touched.
He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service honoring Rease’s life will be held at a later date.
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