Richard J. Rathjen

Richard J. Rathjen, longtime Wautoma Attorney, passed away Monday evening, August 25, 2025 at his residence.

He was born June 17, 1944 in Eau Claire, the son of Leonard and Mavis (Johnson) Rathjen. He was a graduate of Osseo High School and Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. Dick graduated from Valparaiso University School of Law in Valparaiso, Indiana.

In 1968, he joined The Law Office of Jon P. Wilcox in Wautoma. Dick was drafted in the United States Army in 1970 and served in Vietnam until 1972. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his service. He returned to Wautoma and joined Wilcox, Rudolph, Kubasta & Rathjen Law Office. Richard was the firm litigator for over 4o years until his retirement.

Dick loved to travel and visited all 7 continents and over 120 countries. He loved photography and following the Milwaukee Brewers. He was a longtime member of Hope Lutheran Church in Wautoma where he sang in the choir and served on the Church Council.

He is survived by one sister, Darlyn Mathson, Eagan, MN; two nieces: Tammy (Scott) Barth, Thorp, WI, Mary (George) Leal, Austin, TX; one nephew, Paul (Brenda) Mathson, Cottage Grove, MN. He is further survived by grandnieces and grandnephews, other relatives and friends.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Dennis Rathjen and by his brother-in-law, Robert Mathson.

A memorial service will be held at Hope Lutheran Church in Wautoma on Saturday, October 18, 2025. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., service begins at 11:00 a.m. Full military honors will follow. He will be laid to rest at the Osseo Cemetery at a later date.