John E. Rathbun

ILION – Mr. John E. “Bud” Rathbun, age 96, a longtime resident of Ilion, New York, passed away on February 13th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on August 1st, 1929, in Little Falls, New York, the son of the late John S. and Bertha (Berger) Rathbun.

John graduated from Mohawk High School and completed his adult-education teaching credentials from SUNY Oswego.

After high school John proudly served the United States Army and was honorably discharged after earning the rank of Corporal. John was assigned to 1725 D 41sr Anti-Aircraft Artillery as a truck driver. John shared many stories about his military work as a truck driver moving everything from supplies and artillery to soldiers. John was extremely proud of this military service, often he was seen proudly wearing a veteran’s hat.

He married Elizabeth (Betty) White Rathbun on June 16th, 1950. Bud and Betty enjoyed 62 years together until Betty’s passing in 2012. Bud was devoted to his wife and family. Some of their most enjoyable times together were weekend trips to Lake George New York and adventures at the Jersy Schore where he taught us kids to jump the waves.

John worked hard his whole life only retiring after 70 continuous years of employment with Herkimer County Highway Department. John’s career with HC culminated with John achieving the position of HC Highway Maintenance Supervisor. While working fulltime for Herkimer County John also maintained part-time work as an Adult Education Teacher with Herkimer County BOCES for over 20 years. John loved teaching welding and small engine repair. In addition to teaching in the evening John was in partnership with his two sons as owner and operator of Rathbun Enterprises for 15 years.

John was a member of the Church of the Annunciation. He was a 50-year member of Ilion Knights of Columbus and a lifetime member of Mohawk Legion, Post #25. John was an honorary lifetime member of the Herkimer County Town Highway Supervisors Association and a member and participant of Copper City Community Connection of Rome.

John showed love and compassion to all never a bad word everyone was his “friend.” His strongest strength was his ability to forgive. Thanks to the generosity and love from his son and daughter-in-law, Bob, and Janice, and he was able to remain at home until his brief illness. John was an avid hunter and outstanding mechanic- he could fix anything skills he passed down to his sons and grandsons. Throughout the years Bud was remembered to have been an avid snowmobiler, and excelled at softball, namely fast pitch. Sundays with Sue and Bob were a favorite as were shopping outings with Jim or long conversations with Marianne. We also thank Bud’s “shower lifeguards”, Cody and Bob.

Family was the center of his life. His kids and grandkids brought him so much joy. He is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law Susan and Robert Streeter, Marianne, and Al Miller and two sons and daughter-in-law, Robert, and Janice Rathbun with whom he resided and James Rathbun. He is also survived by his grandchildren; Justin and Britney Streeter, Cody and Pamela Streeter, Aaron Rathbun and partner Cheryl Maser, Jesse Rathbun and fiancé Jill Blais, Michael Miller, and John Amrhein and Rebecca Flansburg. Great grandchildren Parker, Corbin, Cody Jr and Lucas Streeter, Hailey and Gemma Miller, Melody, John Malcolm Rathbun (his name’s sake), Darcie and Ava Rathbun and Brendon Kelly, Gayge Amrheim and Michael Kellynn. Special family; Beth and Jim Colburn, Donna Ray, Daniel, Clay, and Brady Colburn. John also leaves six siblings he affectionately called the “little kids,” Terry, Judy, Betsy, Becky, Bonnie and Ricky and one sister-in-law, Doris Rathbun.

In addition to being predeceased by his wife John was predeceased by his brothers, Thomas, Malcolm, Roderick and Michael and sister Diane.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 28th, at 1:00 PM at The Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road in Ilion, New York, and calling hours will be that same day from 10:00 AM until the time of the services.

The Ilion Knights of Columbus are asked to gather in a body at the funeral home the day of the services (Saturday Feb. 28th) at 12 Noon to conduct their ritual, and the Mohawk American Legion Crowley Barnum Post #25 are asked to conduct their ritual at the funeral home at 12:30 PM.

Spring interment with military honors will be in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion, New York, on Friday, May 15th at 11:00AM.

The family would like to especially thank: the Wynn Hospital, namely the 5th and 8th floors, who cared for our father as if he were their own. They would also like to thank Copper City Community Connection staff Barb, Samantha, Linda I., and Lindo O for bringing joy and love to Bud daily. John participated in this social engaging program to help maintain his independence, keeping his mind and body sharp.

Contributions may be made in his memory to Copper City Community Connection senior center, 305 E. Locust Street, Rome, New York, 13440. John joined CCCC to socialize and made many new friends. He especially enjoyed playing pitch with Joe, Bob, Malcolm, and Chair Pilates with the ladies.

Bud’s obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website by visiting www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.