What is your first memory of Barbara? Share a favorite memory you have of Barbara. Tell us about a special moment you shared with Barbara. Describe a time when Barbara made you laugh or smile. What is something you will always remember about Barbara? Talk about a shared experience you had with Barbara. What is something you did together that you enjoyed? Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Barbara. Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Barbara. What is something you learned from Barbara?

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

Barbara Lou Johnson Rathert

Obituary

Guest Book

Barbara Rathert Obituary

Visit the Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions - Topeka website to view the full obituary.

Barbara Lou Johnson Rathert, 92, of Topeka, passed away Monday, February 17, 2025 surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on June 23, 1932 to Charles and Bessie (Bouldin) Reyher in Wiley, CO.

Barbara graduated Canyon City High School in 1950. Growing up, Barbara made the best of a tough time in history by building memories of a family making it through tough times with love, can-do attitudes, and a sense of adventure in their own pastures.

She had a long career in financial services with several local banks, and was proud of her service to Volume Shoe.

Barbara was an active member of First Christian Church of Topeka for many years. Barbara's spirit blossomed in her passion for gardening and painting, activities that nourished her creative soul and brought joy to those around her. However, her greatest love was perhaps her unwavering commitment to caring for others. She possessed a remarkable ability to be present for those in need, embodying the essence of compassion and selflessness.

In every gesture of kindness and in every moment spent with loved ones, Barbara created a legacy of warmth and devotion that will forever remain etched in the hearts of all who knew her. Her presence will be profoundly missed, yet her spirit will continue to inspire those she touched throughout her life.

Barbara is survived by two sons, Joseph (Marit) Johnson and Benny Crowl, grandchildren, Danielle (Adam) Schnegelsiepen, Jacqueline (Shane Doudna) Crowl, Alexandra (Zachary) Forshee, Jessie Crowl, Kellie Crowl, Jessie (Justin) Revell, Danielle (JT) Goodwin, step-daughter, Karen (Douglas) Boehr, step-son, Kevin (Lori) Rathert, and step-grandchildren, Kelly (Alex) Ulmer, Kristen (Kyle) Glasgow, Kayla (Mitch)Young, and Ryan (Stephanie) Rathert.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Bessie Reyher, husbands, Frank Kyle, Dwayne Crowl, Max Johnson, and Ray Rathert, brothers, Frank (Lou) Reyher and Buddy Reyher, Sisters, Pat (Charles) Reyher and Helen (Olaf) Sharpe, and sons, Franklin Kyle, Patrick Crowl and Michael Crowl.

Private family services will take place at a later date.

To share a memory of Barbara or leave a special message for her family, visit the guest book below.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.