Richard Rathmann Obituary

From: Peter Mendelsohn

peter.s.mendelsohn@gmail.com

Richard Rathmann Obituary

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​Richard Ray Rathmann, 69, passed away Monday, December 27, 2021, at The Groves Senior Living Community in Independence, Missouri.  He was born on May 22, 1952 to Herman Walter and Mabel Ielene (Epperly) Rathmann in Independence, Missouri where He spent most of his life. He was known to his family and friends as ‘Rick’ but went by ‘Richard’ in later years.

Richard was a 1970 graduate of Wm. Chrisman High School and was in the ROTC at the University of Missouri. He liked science fiction, particularly anything to do with Star Wars.  In the seventies he had been president of the Kansas City Costumer’s Guild. Both he and the Guild won numerous Convention awards for costumes they had sewn.  He sang in the Independence Messiah choir for many years, played harmonica, and was active in a flute circle. He was a member of the Grain Valley Branch of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, was active in the Priesthood, and had a passion for studying Scripture. Richard worked eleven years for the Kansas City law firm Stinson Leonard Street, retiring in 2017.  He will be remembered for his studious ways, his gentle soul, and his lending a willing hand or ear wherever needed; as such he was beloved by many.

He is survived by two brothers, Kenneth L. Rathmann of Moberly, Missouri, Dennis H. Rathmann of Ashland, Mississippi and Peter S. Mendelsohn a caregiver of the home, several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Ilene Marie Rathmann.

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, January 23, 2022 at 2:00 pm at the Grain Valley Branch of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 32901 East Pink Hill Road, Grain Valley MO 64029. (Corner of E. Pink Hill Road and S. Buckner Tarsney Road.) Facial covering is optional.