John Arthur Rath

1941-2007 John Arthur Rath, age 66 was born in Kauai, Hawaii on February 13, 1941. He was the second of five boys and one girl born to Henry and Mary Rath. After the attack on Pearl Harbor later that year, the family moved to Little Rock, Arkansas. He attended school in Little Rock, was awarded a football scholarship to the University of Arkansas, and received a degree in accounting from Arkansas Tech University. In 1966 he was employed by Contel and later worked for GTE in accounting and billing systems development. He retired in 1993 from GTE, and following in his father's footsteps was quickly recognized as an artisan woodworker in the Atlanta area. In 2005, John and his wife, Darlene, moved to Auburn to be near their grandchildren and daughter. John was diagnosed in 1997 with Carcinoid cancer and passed on Friday, December 7, 2007 after a courageous and determined battle. He was an inspiration to all who knew him, strong in spirit and faith and never complained. John's passion for life was best seen through his devotion to his family and friends. His unconditional love and nurturing spirit helped encourage and support his family through the difficulties of his illness. It was the same selfless compassion that made him a gentle friend, mentor, and example to many. He will be missed dearly by Darlene, his wife of 41 years, his daughter Jennifer Stevens, his son John Alston Rath, his son-in-law, Michael Stevens, and four precious grandchildren, Will, Jack, Sydney, and Chris Stevens. A memorial service will be held at Auburn United Methodist Founders Chapel on today at 3:30 p.m. The family will greet friends one hour prior and after the memorial service at the church. In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, 3054 McGehee Road, Montgomery, Alabama 36111. Fredericks Funeral Home is in Charge of arrangements. www.fredericksfh.com Sign the guest book online at www.oanow.com