Rex Rathman

Rex H. Rathman, 72, of Anita, Iowa, passed away Saturday, December 6, 2008, at Colonial Manor in Anita.

Rex Howard Rathman was born on March 4, 1936, in Anita, Iowa, the son of Thomas A. and Marie K. (Tibken) Rathman.

Rex attended school in Anita and graduated from Anita High School in 1954. Following graduation, he worked for Fletcher's Gambles Store in Anita. Rex served his country in the United States Army from 1958 to 1960. After returning from the service he went back to work for Fletcher's.

He moved to Atlantic and worked 15 years for Camblin's Plumbing and Heating. Rex then traveled on the road selling products for Briggs Pump Company out of Omaha, Nebraska, until his retirement. After his retirement he moved back to Anita.

Rex was a charter member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Anita, Iowa. He was an active member and served several positions on the Board of Stewards.

He enjoyed traveling and was an avid antique collector with a special interest in antique farm toys.

Rex is survived by his sister, Muryl Jean Vokt and her husband, Merle of Anita, Iowa; his brothers, Roger Rathman of Anita, Iowa, and Ray Rathman and his wife, Marcy of Greenfield, Iowa; his brother-in-law, Tony Petersen of Anita, Iowa; his longtime friend, Ray Wahlert of Wiota; his 14 nieces and nephews; and several great and great-great nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Marie Rathman; his sister, LaVon Petersen; and his great-nephew, Jeremy Faga.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, December 12, 2008, at the Hockenberry Funeral Home in Anita, Iowa, with the Reverend Ted Weishaupt of Holy Cross Lutheran Church officiating.

Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery in Anita.

Visitation will be from 1:00 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, December 11, 2008, at the Hockenberry Funeral Home in Anita, with the family present to greet friends from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Condolences may be left at www.hockenberryfamilycare.com.

Hockenberry Funeral Home in Anita, IA, is in charge of the arrangements.