Track and road racer, Reo Rorem, took his last breath on August 7, 2025, at the age of 67, after a long battle with cancer.
He passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was known not only for his talent on the road but also for being a kind friend to many.
Many remember Reo for his outstanding performance in the Popcorn Panic, where he was believed to still hold the old race record. He was also one of the division winners in the 1984 Festival of the Dunes 5K, an event attended by thousands.
Steve Stanek broke the news of his passing via Facebook, writing:
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Reo Rorem at 67, after a long battle with cancer.What a great runner and friend. I believe he still holds the old record of the Popcorn Panic. So sad to lose him. Keep all your friends in your thoughts and prayers.
Steve Stanek
Reo Rorem born in 1957 became a standout in college cross country, especially during the 1978 Mid-Continent Conference Championships. He helped Eastern Illinois University (EIU) dominate the event.
Competing on a 5-mile course, Reo placed third, just behind teammates Larry Schuldt and John McInerney, helping EIU score an incredible 17 points.
That season, the team went on to win the NCAA Division II Great Lakes Regional and placed fifth in the nation.
Reo’s passion for running didn’t stop after college. He competed in races throughout the 1970s, 80s, and even into the 2000s. He was known for qualifying by time, proving his dedication and skill in every race he ran.
Over his career, he collected five wins and earned $200 in prize money.
Reo Rorem competed across states like Illinois, Indiana, Florida, Kentucky, and Iowa, making a name for himself in the Midwest running scene.
Reo Rorem Earned Multiple Wins Including the 10 km Governor’s Cup During His Running Career!
Over the years, he recorded some impressive personal bests in long-distance running. He ran the 5 km in 15 minutes and 58 seconds in Gainesville, Florida in 2000.
His 10 km best was 29 minutes and 23 seconds, achieved in Rosemont, Illinois in 1982.
He completed the 15 km in 49 minutes and 7 seconds in Peoria back in 1977, and his best time for the 20 km was 1 hour, 9 minutes, and 40 seconds, which he ran in Charleston in 1978.
Throughout his running career, Reo had several notable wins. He took first place in the 8 km Stroh’s race in Indianapolis in 1984, and also won the 5-mile Pleasant Run in Irvington the same year.
In 1983, he won the 5-mile Double Eagle race in Indianapolis. He finished second in the 4-mile Steamboat Classic in Peoria in 1979 and came third in the 15 km Steamboat Classic in 1977.
In 1982, he had two more first-place finishes in the 10 km Sage City race in Monticello and the Governor’s Cup in Kankakee. That same year, he also placed second in the 20 km Panther Pant in Charleston.
Reo competed in many other well-known events as well, including the Dannon Oglesby 10k, Wendy’s 10k in Bowling Green, and the Sportsmed 10k in South Bend, showing his consistency and dedication across multiple races and locations.
So fa, the details surrounding Reo Rorem’s funeral services have yet to be published. During this difficult time, we offer our condolences to his extended family.
Rest In Peace, Reo Rorem!
