University News

Col. Rock III Announces Retirement

June 1, 2018

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MACOMB, IL -- On March 3, Western Illinois University's mascot, Col. Rock III (Rocky) turned eight years old … 56 in dog years … making him eligible for retirement (AARP - American Association of Retired Pups).

Today (May 30), his caretaker and owner Joe Roselieb announced that Rocky is hanging up his official WIU mascot jersey for an even greater life of leisure at the Roselieb "ranch." Fans can stay tuned for an update on an official retirement party for Rocky and news on Col. Rock IV.

Roselieb added that Col. Rock III will still make some appearances to teach Rocky IV all he needs to know about being the official WIU mascot.

Col. Rock III became a member of the Leatherneck family in May 2010 as a 10-week-old pup. Roselieb, director of residential/auxiliary facilities at Western and a WIU alumnus, was selected as Rocky's person (and trainer and chauffeur), and for eight years, Roselieb has overseen every aspect of Rocky's care, from providing him with a loving home to teaching the "old" dog new tricks to making sure he's healthy to taking him to numerous WIU and community events each year.

"Raising and training Rocky is among one of the biggest highlights of my career," Roselieb said. "While he will be out of the public spotlight, he'll still be a part of our family -- and the Leatherneck family -- and he will continue to be spoiled and pampered, probably even more now. Ketra (Russell) and I look forward to introducing him and our WIU family to the newest mascot, and continuing to take care of these wonderful boys."

Col. Rock III, an English bulldog, was donated to Western by Richard and Beth Siess of the Siess Ranch in Seneca, KS. Dr. Karen Blakeley of Macomb's All Pets Veterinary Clinic and the WIU School of Agriculture, along with other University and community organizations and individuals, make sure Col. Rock's care is tended to.

"I cannot thank enough the Siess family, Dr. Blakely, the School of Agriculture and our many donors and friends enough who have supported Rocky over the years, and I appreciate their continued generosity for our mascot program," Roselieb added. "Rocky is definitely an asset to Western, and he truly is a great companion."

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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