Obituary, Visitation & Funeral Information

Walter C. Rathweg Obituary

Rathweg, Walter Clarence, aged 87, of Waynesville, Ohio, beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away April 16th, 2019, in his home, following a courageous, battle with cancer.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents, his son Donald W. Rathweg, as well as siblings, Donald, Russell, Norman, Madonna (Kline), and Shirley (Durbin).

He is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Theresa Jane, and their children, Debora L. (Stephen) Gibson, Walter E. Rathweg, Kevin P. Rathweg, Kristina, (Jeffery) Castle, as well as his late son’s wife, Teri Rathweg; his seven grandchildren, Melinda Jane (Dana) Beougher, Stanley D. Gibson, Joshua P. (Jenn) Rathweg, Victoria Rathweg, Natalie Rathweg, Mitchell Castle, and Joseph Castle; and his older sister Rita (Dusak); along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Born in Dayton, Ohio, July 28th, 1931, to Leola (Waltz) & Julius Rathweg, he graduated from Chaminade in 1949, then chose to serve his country, enlisting in the Navy, where he was stationed aboard the U.S.S. Yosemite. Following his honorable military service, he capitalized on his Navy skills and began working at General Motors as a machinist & model-maker, retiring after a 33 year career.

Walter was an outdoorsman who loved and respected nature. He and Theresa cultivated a large garden for as long as they were physically able, sharing the bounty with friends & family. They were known to raise cattle and chickens to fill the freezer, and even kept a horse, Schatzie, for the children.

Family, Faith and Country were nearest and dearest to Walt. In honor of this, he and Theresa hosted an “Annual 4th of July Picnic”, which simultaneously earmarked their huge family reunion that included many friends as well. Sometimes a 24 hour event, many of the brood would stay overnight telling stories & singing around the large campfire, enjoying the serene wooded homestead Walt & Theresa had worked hard to establish. This annual event went on for over 50 years, congregating folks from every corner of the U.S. as well as abroad!

Walter exemplified a strength of character many aspired to, yet few could match. He was known to give expert advice on just about anything, but only when solicited. With a fantastic sense of humor, Walt loved to have a good laugh and make others do the same. He was a patient and compassionate man, blessed with striking good looks, a beautiful wife, and five successful children, yet his humility constantly persisted. His absence will leave a vacant place in the hearts of all those who knew him. He was undeniably loved very much. He will be deeply missed.

Rest In Peace.

To help the family celebrate his life, you are invited to share during the visitation at Conner & Koch Life Celebration Home (92 W Franklin St, Bellbrook, Ohio 45305) on Monday April 22, 2019 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm with services to be held at 1:00 pm, with Rev Tom Myers officiating. The family will have a private burial at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Ave, Dayton, Ohio 45420. You are welcome to send a condolence, plant a tree and share a story or picture about Walter at www.ConnerAndKoch.com by clicking on his name.

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