Conrad Rathmann Bohn

1926 - 2024

Conrad Rathmann Bohn, age 97, passed away in Austin, Texas on August 26, 2024. He was born in Austin on October 4, 1926 to Walter and Frieda (Rathmann) Bohn. Conrad had many fond memories of growing up in a much smaller Austin. His boyhood home in the Judge's Hill neighborhood was within walking distance of schools he attended: Pease Elementary, University Junior High School, Austin High School, and the University of Texas; as well as the family-owned Bohn Brothers Department Store on Congress Avenue. Conrad's early interest in music and his mastery of the French horn enabled him to drum major for Austin High School and the University of Texas marching bands.

After completing bachelor's and master's degrees in Chemistry from UT, he married his college sweetheart and fellow musician, Dulce Buchanan, and they moved to Berkeley, CA. After earning a PhD in Chemistry at the University of California, he and Dulce moved to Wilmington, DE where he worked first as a research chemist and then as a patent liaison officer in textile fibers for the DuPont Company. He raised four children; was active in numerous musical groups, both professional and amateur; experimentally grafted fruit trees; brewed beer; perfected his photography hobby; and spent many hours (lunch hours in particular) enjoying the challenge of improving his bridge game.

Retiring from the DuPont Company in 1979, Conrad and Dulce returned to their native Texas. Music, gardening, playing bridge, and extensive travels throughout the world ensued. They converted the family fishing lodge on Lake Austin, built in 1933, into their permanent residence, in an area now known as Rivercrest.

Conrad is survived by his four children: Dwin (Karen) Bohn of Ridgewood NJ, Ralt (Susan) Bohn of Greensboro, NC, Diedra (John Davis) Bohn of Winston-Salem, NC, and Rista (Peter) Anderson of Monroe, LA; eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Conrad was predeceased by his parents; his wife of 53 years, Dulce; and his brother Arval Bohn.

The family would like to especially thank Bob and Cathy Romano, Elena McAllister, and Linda Aguiar, whose help allowed Conrad to live out his days at his beloved family home in Rivercrest.

Funeral services will be held privately.