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David Rathke Obituary
David N.
David Rathke, age 72, passed away peacefully at Ebeid Hospice on Thursday, May 29, 2014, following a long, courageous battle with cancer. David was born in Toledo, Ohio, the son of Norman and Ruth Rathke. He was a 1960 graduate of DeVilbiss High School and retired from The Toledo Blade's advertising department after over 30 years.
He and his wife, Mona (Fulton), were married for 40 years and loved to travel, spend time with friends, and enjoyed time at the family home at Devil's Lake. David was an avid car lover and belonged to various car clubs. He was also an active member of Zenobia Shrine.
David is survived by his wife, Mona; daughters, Dawn VanGunten and LeeAnn Brennan; grandson, Andy Brennan; granddaughter, Amy Brennan; his brother, Dan (Debra) Rathke, and niece, Dana Rathke. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his nephew, Devin Rathke.
There will be a memorial service on Tuesday, June 3, at Epworth United Methodist Church, 4855 W. Central Avenue, Toledo, Ohio. The family will receive guests beginning at 10 a.m. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. followed by a luncheon at the Church.
David and Mona wish to thank the staff of Ebeid Hospice, The Victory Center, Hickman Cancer Center, all of David's doctors who helped him through his fight, as well as Epworth United Methodist Church and David's wonderful family and friends for their kindness, their prayers, and their support.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be sent to Ebeid Promedica Hospice, Shriners Hospitals for Children, or a charity of their choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Rathke
Carole Lanier
June 10, 2014
Mona, my deepest condolences to you at this sad time. Dave was such a great guy. He will be greatly missed.
Sherry Gardner
June 7, 2014
I have many good memories of Dave cruising through the Hut in his red Impala convertible -- also of him selling ice cream bars from his Cushman motorbike at Devil's Lake. And always, that big grin!
Best regards to Dave's family.
Sherry Gardner, Ft. Collins CO
Connie Karcher
June 5, 2014
Dave was the only one who could get away with calling me "kid"! A great Blade colleague, Dave and I would often salivate during discussion of vehicles. Dave was a man of grace and style. My heart felt condolences to his lovely wife, Mona, and the rest of his family.
Nancy goodman Zerner
June 3, 2014
Very sad to say goodbye to another friend from the DeVilbiss Class of 1960.....!!!! You will be missed!!!! Condolences to the family!!!
Paula Flowers
June 1, 2014
God bless you Mona during this difficult time. We will all miss Dave.
Joanna Jackson
June 1, 2014
I grew up hearing all the stories of you and my Dad and your adventures in your cool cars. I am glad that as an adult I was able to get to know you and Mona and see for myself what a fun and loving man you were. Myself and my family will truly miss you but your sweet smile will always be in our memory.
June 1, 2014
You were my favorite cousin. I remember you always love and admiration. Chuck Berger
sharon winters
June 1, 2014
You will be missed
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