Edward J. "E.J." "Ace" Rotherham

Eugene, OR — Edward James "E.J." "Ace" Rotherham, 60, of Eugene, OR, died unexpectedly on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at his home in Eugene, OR.

Funeral services are in the care of Major Family Funeral Home in Springfield, OR.

Memorials may be made to the family for future designation.

Edward, son, brother, beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator and friend. Born on Oct. 16, 1964, to Jerry and Karen (Donohoe) Rotherham in O'Neill, E.J. grew up in Ewing as part of a tight-knit Catholic Irish family with eight siblings. His childhood was filled with love, laughter and the warmth of strong family values, faith and community—foundations that shaped him into the compassionate, humble, generous and honorable man he became. 

A proud 1983 graduate of Ewing Public School, E.J. carried the values of his small-town roots with him throughout his life.

E.J. pursued his passion for education at Kearney State College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in education. He began his teaching career in the Bellevue school system, where he inspired young minds in the elementary grades. In 1995, E.J. relocated to Eugene, OR, joining Briggs Middle School and eventually moving to Agnes Stewart Middle School. There he served as a dedicated teacher and later as assistant principal after earning a master's degree in education administration from the University of Oregon. Over his 38-year career, E.J.'s infectious enthusiasm, kindness and commitment touched thousands of students and families and left an indelible mark on countless colleagues. He found immense joy in fostering children's growth and building lifelong connections within his school communities.

In a serendipitous moment, E.J. met his future wife Shanna while both were vacationing in Aspen, CO. They married on Aug. 28, 1993, in Bellevue, and together built a life centered on love and family. The couple welcomed three sons—D.J., Kolte and Levi—and made their home in Eugene, OR. E.J. was a devoted husband and father who treasured family road trips, especially returning to Nebraska to reconnect with loved ones. Whether coaching his sons' football, basketball or baseball teams, or cheering from the sidelines, he was always present, always engaged. He adored his grandchildren William and Ruby whom he affectionately nicknamed “Oscar Fiddle Poop” (or “Willy J”) and “Ruby Tuesday,” showcasing his playful humor and gift for creating lasting memories.

A passionate outdoorsman, E.J. cherished time with his children and grandchildren most of all. He hiked weekly and enjoyed biking, basketball, softball and regular visits to the gym. A die-hard Nebraska Cornhuskers fan and loyal supporter of the Oregon Ducks, E.J. rarely missed a game. His vibrant personality shone through in his quick wit, warm laugh and boundless generosity. Known for his self-discipline and compassion, he was always the first to lend a helping hand—leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met.

E.J.'s legacy—as a devoted family man, beloved educator, loyal friend and joyful prankster—will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His unexpected passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide those whose lives he touched.

E.J. is survived by his beloved wife Shan; three sons D.J., Kolte (Alexa) and Levi (McKenzie); two grandchildren William and Ruby; six sisters, Rose, Kamie, Deb, Diane, Colleen and Kay; one brother Mark; five brothers-in-law Cliff, Pat, Ladd, Greg and Craig; 21 nieces; 20 nephews; 17 great-nieces; 11 great-nephews; 102 cousins; and several cherished aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jerry and Karen Rotherham, one sister Carol Vandersnick, one brother-in-law Hank Bornemeier, 12 aunts, 14 uncles and 10 cousins.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorfamilyfh@msn.com.