Obituary: David Rink

LEMONT, IL — David L. Rink, age 83, of Mokena, passed away on April 23.

He is preceded by his parents, Kenneth and Esther Rink, and two brothers, Gary and Alan. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Christine Rink and his three children, Julie Pens (John), Brian Rink (Diane), and Heather Raspolich (Matthew), and grandchildren, Jillian Pens and Mason Raspolich. He is also survived by other various relatives including sister in laws, and nieces and nephews.

David was a 1961 graduate of Broome Technical Institute in Binghamton, New York. After college, he left for Illinois to join Argonne National Laboratory as a Metallurgist. He worked at Argonne for over 60 years, where he worked on various projects, became certified on the scanning electron microscope, contributed to various technical reports, and was recognized as an inventor for a patent on "Surface modification to improve fireside corrosion resistance of Fe-Cr ferritic steels."

He was a quiet, hardworking, humble man who enjoyed being outdoors among nature. He spent his free time farming in Lemont growing corn and soybeans, bailing hay, tending to his vegetable garden at home, and tinkering with projects in the garage. He was an automotive enthusiast who, over the years, owned an array of vehicles, which he enjoyed driving and maintaining, including rebuilding his 1926 model T Ford.

He was a passionate, amateur photographer who always loved preserving family memories through the lens. His favorite places to visit were Old Forge, New York; Door County, Wisconsin; and areas in southwest Michigan and Florida. He loved spending time with his family by going on day trips to the beach, Thresherman reunions, county fairs, and never missed an opportunity to have a bonfire in the backyard.

David will be remembered for his thoughtfulness, creativity, willingness to help others, and his love for family.

Visitation is April 28, from 3 to 7 p.m., and April 29 from 9 a.m. until time of funeral service at 10 a.m. at Markiewicz Funeral Home, P.C. 108 Illinois St., Lemont. Interment private.