WILLIAM R. RAATZ William R. Raatz, Sr., 41, of 1860 Michigan Ave., Manitwooc, died Monday morning at Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc, following a lingering illness. Funeral services will be at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday at Urbanek and Schlei Funeral Home, Manitowoc, and 9 a.m. at Holy Innocents Catholic Church, Manitowoc, with the Rev. E.A. Radey officiating. Interment will be in Evergreen Cemetery. Graveside rites will be conducted by the Amvets. Mr. Raatz was born Jan. 6, 1919, at Manitowoc, son of Louis and Anna Hrabik Raatz. A graduate of Lincoln High School, and entered the armed forces on Jan. 29, 1941, and served as technician fifth class with the 350 Harbor Craft Co. He was honorably discharged from service Nov. 9, 1945. He married the former Lillian Zdun Nov. 16, 1946, at Detroit. The couple took up residence at Manitowoc where Mr. Raatz was employed by Manitowoc Portland Cement Co. He was a member of the United Lime, Gypsum and Allied Workers, Local No. 34. In addition to the wife and parents, he is survived by two sons (Survivors omitted for privacy.); a brother Robert of Manitowoc, and a sister, Mrs. Sylvester Endries of Manitowoc. Friends may call at the funeral home after 2 p.m. Tuesday where the Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. January 18, 1960
CLARA RABENHORST Mrs. Henry W. Rabenhorst, 76, of 504 26th St., Manitowoc, died Tuesday morning at the family residence. Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday at First German Evangelical Lutheran Church, Manitowoc. The Rev. Norval Kock will officiate and burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mrs. Rabenhorst, nee Clara Karnopp, was born Oct. 16, 1893, at Maribel, daughter of the late Reinholdt and Bertha Schultz Karnopp. She was married to Henry Rabenhorst June 19, 1919, at Maribel. The couple moved to Manitowoc after their marriage and celebrated their golden wedding anniversary in 1969. She was a member of the Ladies Aid of Frist German Evangelical Lutheran Church. Survivors include her husband; two sons, Robert C. of Manitowoc and Paul H. of Madison; two sisters, Mrs. Henry Becker of Maribel and Mrs. William Radtke of Dale, Wis., and four grandchildren. Friends may call at the Pfeffer Funeral Home, Manitowoc, after 3 p.m. Thursday. The casket will be moved to the church at noon Friday to lie in state until the time of services. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. February 17, 1970 ********* [d. 02-17-1970/age 76 yrs./wife of Henry Rabenhorst]
HENRY RABENHORST Henry W. Rabenhorst, 78, of 504 S. 26th St., Manitowoc, died Thursday morning at Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at First German Evangelical Lutheran Church, Manitowoc. The Rev. Norval W. Kock will officiate and burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mr. Rabenhorst was born July 3, 1892, at Maribel, son of the late William and Othila Habeck Rabenhorst. He married Clara Karnopp June 18, 1919, at Maribel, and the couple moved to Manitowoc to reside. He had been employed as the manager of the appliance department at the Schuette Bros. Co. from 1932 to 1962 when he retired. His wife preceded him in death Feb. 17, 1970. Survivors include a son, Paul of Madison, two sisters, Mrs. Amanda Becker and Mrs. Emma Kluenker of Manitowoc and four grandchildren. A son, Robert, a sister and two brothers preceded him in death. Friends may call at the Pfeffer Funeral Home, Manitowoc, from 4 to 9 p.m. Friday until 11:30 a.m. Saturday and then at the church until the time of service. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. January 14, 1971 ******** [d. 01-14-1971/age 78 yrs.] (03 Jul 1892/Jan 1971/SSDI)
FRIEDRICH RADDATZ Friedrich Raddatz (b. 25 Nov. 1835—d. 5 May 1913) Gestorben.—Friedrich Radatz, der bei seiner Tochter, der Frau Robert Wiesmann dahier, wohnhaft war, erlag am Montag Morgen der Wastersucht. Der Verstorbene, der im Jahre1892 von Deutschland hierher kam, wurde am 21. November 1834 geboren. Er hinterläßt drei Söhne und drei Töchter. Die Beerdigung findet am Donnerstag Nachmittag von der lutherischen Kirche aus statt.—Manitowoc Post, Jahrgang 32, Dienstag, den 6ten Mai, 1913., No. 99 Manitowoc Post: May 6, 1913: Fredrick Raddatz, who lived at the home of his daughter Mrs. Robert Wiesmann died there Monday morning of dropsy. The deceased, who came here in 1892 from Germany, was born November 21, 1834 [1835?]. He leaves behind three sons and three daughters. The funeral will take place at the Lutheran church Thursday afternoon. Gestorben.—In der Wohnung seiner Tochter, der Frau Robert Wihsmann dahier, starb gestern Morgen Friedrich Radatz. Der Verstorbene, der am 21. Nov. 1834 in Deutschland geboren wurde, kam im Jahre 1892 hierher. Er hinterläßt zwei Söhne und drei Töchter, Die Beerdigung findet am Donnerstag Nachmittag von der lutherischen Kirche aus statt.—Die Wahrheit, No. 883, Manitowoc, Dienstag, den 6. Mai 1913, 16. Jahrgang Die Wahrheit, May 6, 1913: Died. Friedrich Rad[d]atz died at the home of his daughter yesterday morning. The deceased who was born November 21, 1834 [1835?] in Germany came here in 1892. He leaves behind two [should be three] sons and three daughters. The funeral is at the Lutheran church Thursday afternoon. (sent in by researcher/see contributors page)
ARTHUR RADKE Arthur Radke, 51, park attendant, died last evening at the home, 515 Riverview Drive, after a brief illness. He was at his duties last Wednesday but was taken seriously ill the following day and never rallied. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2 p.m., from the St. John's Evangelical church, the Rev. Paul Blaufuss officiating. Interment will be in Evergreen cemetery. Mr. Radke was born in Milwaukee in 1889 and at the age of 10 accompanied his parents to Manitowoc. Twenty-seven years ago he married Miss Julia Schmidt. For many years he was employed as an attendant in city parks and the cemetery. He was a member of the Eagles lodge. Survivors are the widow; son, Clarence, city; brother, Erwin, Milwaukee; three sisters, Mrs. Emil Schaus, Mrs. Carl Carstens, city, Miss Hilda, Milwaukee. The body may be viewed at the Wattawa, Urbanek and Schlei funeral home from Wednesday at 3:30 o'clock until Thursday at 10 a.m. when it will be moved to the church. The casket will be closed at 2 p.m. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. Tuesday, October 18, 1938 P. 2 ********* [d. 01-17-1938/age 51 yrs./cause: pulmonary hemorrhage]
AUGUST RADKE From Der Nord Westen, 11 Jan. 1906 August Radke, one of the oldest settlers in our city, died Monday morning at 82. Ever since Radke’s wife died a few weeks ago, he sought death for himself. Now his wish has been fulfilled. He is survived by 2 sons. The funeral will be held this afternoon from the Lutheran Church. ********** [cause: old age]
EFFIE RADKE Mrs. Erwin Radke, 45, nee Effie Stenson, a former Manitowoc resident, died Tuesday in Milwaukee. The body will arrive here Friday afternoon and will be taken to the Pfeffer funeral home, where it may be viewed. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. from the funeral home, the Rev. Paul Blaufuss officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen cemetery. Mrs. Radke lived in this city for many years. Following her marriage to Mr. Radke they moved to Milwaukee, residing at 235 E. Townsend street. Survivors are the widower; mother, Mrs. Thomas Stenson of this city; brother, Edward, of Valders; two sisters, Miss Irene Stenson of this city, Mrs. Selma King, Superior. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. June 10, 1943 P. 2 ******* [d. 06-08-1943 at Milwaukee, WI/age 45 yrs./bur. on Wm. Radke lot/ wife of Ervin Radke]
RICHARD RADKE From Der Nord Westen, 09 Dec. 1909: Death Tuesday afternoon of 21-year old Richard Radke after a 2-month heart illness. He is survived by his parents, 2 brothers and 2 sisters. The funeral will be held tomorrow afternoon. ********** Richard Radke, for eight weeks sick from typhoid fever, died this morning at 5 o’clock from heart failure which set in a complication and to which he succumbed on account of his weakened condition. Deceased was 21 years of age and a son of Mr. and Mrs. William Radke, Green street. Besides the parents, two brothers and three sisters survive. The brothers are Arthur and Ervin and the sisters are Mrs. E. Schaus and Tilda and Odelia. The funeral will be held Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock and will be conducted by the Rev. Grauer. Services will be held at St. Johannes church and interment will be in Evergreen cemetery. Manitowoc Daily Tribune, Wednesday, December 08, 1909 ********** [cause: typhoid fever]
WILHELMINE RADKE From Der Nord Westen, 05 Oct. 1905: Death Thurs. last week of 36-yr. old Mrs. Henry Radke after a long illness. She leaves her sorrowing husband and 4 children. The funeral was held Sun. afternoon from the Lutheran Church. ******** [cause: peritonitis]
JAN RADL From Der Nord Westen, 02 July 1896: Death in the local hospital Fri. last week, of 62 yr. old John Radl following a kidney illness. He leaves a widow and 5 children. Burial was Sunday. ******* [John Radl/cause: hypertophy]
THERESA RADL Mrs. Theresa Radl, 72, of 1322 N. 12th St., Manitowoc, died Saturday night after a short illness at Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday at Urbanek and Schlei Funeral Home, Manitowoc, and at 9 a.m. at Holy Innocents Catholic Church. The Rev. E.A. Radey will officiate and burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery. The former Theresa Fellner was born at Menasha April 1, 1887, daughter of the late Frank and Mary Fraff Fellner. In 1910, she was married at Manitowoc to Alois Radl. She was a member of Christian Mothers Alter Society of Holy Innocents Church, Germania Society and Golden Agers Club. Mr. Radl died in 1920. Surviving her are a son, Alois J. of Two Rivers; two daughters, Mrs. Wesley Besweil and Mrs. Sylvester Rohrer of Manitowoc; a brother, Frank of Orlando, Fla.; and eight grandchildren. A daughter, Violet, preceded her in death. Friends may call at the funeral home where at 6:15 o'clock this Monday evening the Germania Society will conduct services and where at 7 o'clock the Rosary will be recited. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. January 18, 1960 ******** [d. 01-16-1960/age 72 yrs./widow of Alois Radl]
GLADYS M. RADUENZ Gladys M. Raduenz, age 84, a resident of Harbor House II, 1480 N. Seventh St., Manitowoc, entered eternal life Good Friday evening, April 6, 2007, at Harbor House II. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 10, 2007, at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church, Manitowoc. Officiating will be the Rev. Paul Schossow with burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Gladys was born Sept. 6, 1922, in Milwaukee. She was the daughter of the late Felix and Anna Nemetz Jentsch. She was a graduate from Lincoln High School with the class of 1940. From 1965 to 1972, Gladys was a secretary for Schmitt Lumber Co. On March 11, 1944, she married John F. Konecny at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church. He preceded her in death on Nov. 11, 1965. She later married Russell F. Raduenz on July 29, 1972, at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church. He preceded her in death Feb. 12, 2000. Gladys was a member of Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church and also did volunteer secretarial work at the church in past years. She enjoyed traveling and traveled through many states in the country. (Survivors omitted for privacy) She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands: John Konecny in 1965 and Russell Raduenz in 2000; one brother: Ernest Jentsch; one sister: Alyce Bocher. Relatives and friends may call at the Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church, 916 Pine St., Manitowoc, on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Cremation Center, North 11th and St. Clare streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Herald Times Reporter, April 8, 2007
EMIL OTTO RADUNZ cemetery #44 Name: Radunz, Emil Otto D.: 4/25/1875 B.: Reg. D.: 12/31/1875 Sex: M/W Age at Death: 3 Mo. B.P.: D.P.: City of Mtwc. Cem.: Evergreen Ch.: Inf. & Address: Rev. G. Thiele Spouse: F.: M.: Cause of Death: Pg. #: v.1 p.183
GOTTLIEB RADUNZ From Der Nord Westen, 07 May 1891: Death on Wed. of 79 yr. old Mr. J. Radins, an old resident of our city. He was buried Fri. in the city cemetery. ********* [Burial register has Godlieb? Radenz, male, age 81.3.18, city pauper, born in Germany, cause of death: old age]
FERDINAND RAETHER From Der Nord Westen, 30 July 1903: Death in Manitowoc Rapids Tues. morning of Ferd. Raether, an old and wellknown resident of that town. Mr. Raether was born 02 Nov. 1828 in Germany and came to our county as a young man where he resided until his life ended. He died as a result of old age debility and is survived by a widow and several children. His funeral will take place this afternoon from the local Lutheran Church.
MARY RAETHER From Der Nord Westen, 08 Dec. 1892: Death on Mon. morning in Town Manitowoc Rapids of Mrs. Marie Roether. The deceased, who was only 22 yrs. 9 mos. old, died of consumption. The burial took place yesterday in the city cemetery.
EDWARD RAEUBER WEDDED 55 YRS.; OBSERVE DAY BY FAMILY REUNION Descendants of Edward Raeuber to Gather at Mayor's Home A family reunion at which the seven children and nineteen grandchilfren of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Raeuber, will be the form of celebration of the fify-fifth wedding anniversary of the couple tomorrow. Today is the anniversary date the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Raeuber taking place at Milwaukee February 28, 1865, but the celebration will be held tomorrow. The reunion will be at the home of Mayor and Mrs. John Schroeder on So. Sixteenth street. Mrs. Schroeder being a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Raeuber. Word has been received from all the children that they will be here to join in the celebration. For years past the family has held these annual reunions on occasion of the wedding anniversary. Mr. and Mrs. Raeuber, who have been residents of Manitowoc for thirty years, having spent the first twenty-five years of their married life at Milwaukee, were parents of eight children, all but one of whom are living, being Edward of Milwaukee, John and Fred of Kenosha, Arthur of Fond du Lac, William of Manitowoc, Mrs. John Schroeder of Manitowoc and Mrs. Carl Strateman of Milwaukee. There are nineteen grandchildren. Mr. Raeuber, who is in his seventies is still active and daily spends his time at the plant of the Building Supply Co. in which he is interested with Mayor Schroeder and Charles Salveson. Mrs. Raeuber also enjoys good health and the annual reunion of the family on the wedding anniversary is a day looked forward to all year. Mr. Raeuber was for many years clerk of the school district and has served in the city council. Many friends will tender congratulations to the worthy couple. Manitowoc Herald News, Manitowoc, Wis. February 28, 1920 P. 1
LUCIE RAEUBER From Der Nord Westen, 04 Mar. 1897: Death Sun. morning of Lucy Raeuber, daughter of E. A. Raeuber of Manitowoc, at the young age of 19 yrs. 17 days, of a heart illness. The burial took place yesterday afternoon at the city cemetery.
ADOLPH RAHR From Der Nord Westen, 26 Mar. 1896: Death last Sun. of Adolph Rahr, the 6-1/2 yr. old son of Max Rahr of Manitowoc, after several weeks of a severe illness. This is the second child who Mr. Rahr has lost to death in the space of a few weeks. The funeral took place Wed. in the city cemetery. ******** [cause: pneumonia]
BLANCA RAHR From Der Nord Westen, 21 Nov. 1889: Death on Sat. of the 3 yr. old daughter of Max Rohr(sic) of the flu. Burial was Mon. in the city cemetery. (From cem. records: The burial register has Blanca Rahr, female, age 2 y, daughter of Max & Ella Rahr, born in Manitowoc, cause of death: membr. croup, burial fee $2.)
CLARA RAHR Mrs. Reinhardt Rahr, 85, who for the past 30 years had resided at Pasadena Calif., died in that city Monday. Private funeral services for the immediate family will be Monday with the Rev. William Harvey officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mrs. Rahr, the former Clara Roch, was born at Madgeburg, Germany, Dec. 22, 1874. She was married to the late Reinhardt Rahr at New York City in 1900. In 1941, Mrs. Rahr donated the family home at North Eighth and Park streets, Manitowoc, to the city for use as a museum and civic center. The building has been converted to that purpose. Surviving Mrs. Rahr are two daughters, Mrs. Donald Jennings, of LaCanada, Calif., and Mrs. John S. Hamilton, of Tyrone, N.M.; a son, Guido R. Rahr, of Manitowoc; six grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Mittnacht Funeral Home, Manitowoc, has charge of funeral arrangements. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. December 1, 1960 P. 16 ********** [Clara Roch Rahr/d. 11-28-1960 at Pasadena CA/age 84 yrs./ cremains/widow of Reinhardt Rahr/bur. on William Rahr Sons Co. lot]
ELLA E. RAHR DEATH CLAIMS MRS. M. RAHR EARLY SUNDAY Many Friends Mourn Death of Well Known Resident of City HUSBAND, SON AND TWO DAUGHTERS SURVIVE Keen sorrow came to friends of Mrs. Maximillian Rahr in announcement of her death which occurred at the family home, Eighth and St. Clair street, early Sunday morning. Mrs. Rahr had been critically ill for several weeks and though it was known that she could not recover, news of her death Sunday was a shock to friends. Funeral services for Mrs. Rahr will be held from the late home Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock and will be conducted by Rev. Talbot Rogers, dean of Racine college, formerly of the Fond du Lac diocese. Mrs. Rahr, wife of Maximillian Rahr, president of the Rahr Sons’ company, was a daughter of the late Adolph Piening, and was born on June 20, 1866, being 51 years of age at her death. She was married to Mr. Rahr June 20, 1886, and they have made their home in this city since that time. Mrs. Rahr was the mother of three children, all of whom, with her husband, survive her, being Mrs. Theodore Haffenreffer, of Boston, Mass.; Mrs. Walter Hamilton, of Two Rivers and Frederick Rahr, of this city. All were with their mother when the end came at 4 Sunday morning. One sister, Mrs. Harriet Burmeister of Los Angeles, Cal., also survives. Mrs. Burmeister is in the city, having arrived sometime ago in response to news of her sister’s illness. The death of Mrs. Rahr will be deeply deplored by a large circle of friends who will experience a sense of personal bereavement in the loss of her presence and association and to many who have been recipients of her kindness and benefactions. Manitowoc Daily Herald, Monday, July 23, 1917, Page 1 ********* FUNERAL OF LATE MRS. RAHR IS HELD TODAY Many Friends Attend Services Held at the Home Funeral services for the late Mrs. Maxmillian Rahr were held from the late home on North Eighth street this afternoon and a large concourse of friends attended to pay a last tribute to love to the memory of the decedent, Rev. Talbot Rogers of Racine college officiated at the services. The casket was crowned by a wealth of flowers. Pall bearers were Edwin Schuette, T.W. Gray, George Hamilton, Edward Hamilton, C.C. West and Gustave Torrison. Interment was at Evergreen. Manitowoc Daily Herald, Tuesday, July 24, 1917, Page 4 ********* [Ella C./bur. 07-24-1917/cause: carcinoma of groin and vulva/ bur. on Wm Rahr lot]
JOHN RAHR From Der Nord Westen, 20 Feb. 1896: Death last Thurs. evening of John Nagle Rahr, the youngest child of Mr. Max Rahr of Manitowoc.
MAXIMILIAN RAHR (d. 1928) MAXIMILIAN RAHR GOES TO REST ONE OF CITY'S MOST BELOVED MEN PASSES Well Known Pioneer Succumbs To Illness That Caused Him Long Suffering Maximilian Rahr, pioneer manufacturer, banker and philanthropist and one of the city's best beloved residents is no more, death as the end of an illness of long durtion which had caused him much suffering, summoning him to his final rest Sunday morning. Mr. Rahr passed away at the family home at Eighth and St. Clair streets after a brave fight of many weeks awaiting the end which he realized to be inevitable, with resignation. News of the death of Mr. Rahr, although not unexpected, comes as a shock to the community in which he was so widely known and universally respected. Although he had been ill for months and for several weeks his decline had been more noticeable he had been able to be about until very recently and few outside of the family and his circle of immediate and close friends, realized that the end was so near. Mr. Rahr, however, felt the approach of death and to friends no later than Friday, had calmly spoken of his expectation that he would soon pass on. Funeral Held Tuesday Funeral sevices will be held from the Rahr home Tuesday afternoon at two o'clock with the Rev. D.G. Ristad officiating at the services. Burial will be at Evergreen. Mr. Rahr was 72 years of age at the time of his death and resided in Manitowoc for 62 years. He was born in this city on July 18, 1856, the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Rahr. He married Miss Ella Piening on June 20, 1889, Mrs. Rahr preceding him in death in 1917. Headed Rahr Sons' Company After the death of his father, Mr. Rahr assumed the presidency of the William Rahr Sons' Company, established in Manitowoc in 1847, and for years was the head of the institution which later became one of the largest of its type in the country. Originally started as a brewery, the malting business was gradually featured and during the time Mr. Rahr was affiliated with it large and important improvements were made. Though he retired from active leadership in the company in 1918, he retained his interest in the concern and was a familiar figure about the premises. Mr. Rahr was president and one of the founders of the State Bank of Manitowoc but also retired from the presidency several months ago, when he became ill, and was interested in other business enterprises. Life Spent Here With exception of ten years which he spent in Colorado in younger days when he located there to recuperate his health and devoted himself to study as a machinist, and for extended trips which he made to foreign lands, Mr. Rahr had spent his entire life in Manitowoc and had been prominently identified with the building and development of the city, in recent years he had lived a more or less retired life, finding his chief interest in his home and family and in his friends, to whom he was most loyal and helpful. Loyal, Helpful Friend Mr. Rahr was widely known for his philanthropy and while always unostentatious in lending aid, many in Manitowoc have him to thank for their success. He was keenly alive to the welfare of employes of his concern and looked not only to their material advancement, but to their health, keeping in constant touch with well known physicians and surgeons in metropolitan centers who were engaged to assist local medical men when needed, this having been a policy adopted by both Mr. Rahr and his brother, the late William Rahr in conduct of the company. He was Max Rahr to everyone of his acquaintanceship and his acquaintanceship was legion. To hundreds of youngsters in Manitowoc he was "Uncle Max" and frequently he was to be seen with his car loaded to its very capacity with youngsters whom Mr. Rahr took with him on short tours about the county. No ragged youngster ever stood wistfully in front of a motion picture house in this city when Mr. Rahr approached but that the boy was not soon safely housed within the theater. The deceased was a regular patron of the theater and found enjoyment in attendance at legitimate plays and motion picture presentations. Friend of Worker Untiring in his efforts to teach thrift among employes of his concern, Mr. Rahr himself gave liberally to all in need. A story told by employes of many years ago reveals the trait to a marked degree. While engaged in building large storage warehouses, Mr. Rahr noticed men were carelessly throwing boards from the staging about the premises. Quietly he ordered the men to remove the nails and saw up the boards and then, with his own teams, had the wood hauled to the homes of his workmen. Mr. Rahr was a most companionable and found keen enjoyment at his club at the Elks where he was a daily visitor up to within a short time of his death where he spent hours with his friends and was always welcomed. He was widely traveled and well read and his interesting dicussion of lands he had visited and scenes always proved most interesting and pleasaurable to his listeners. Mr. Rahr was an authority on local events of years past and his retentive mind offtimes furnish data that was sought by others. Possessing a personality that was congenial, ever ready to assist others, Mr. Rahr had surrounded himself with a large circle of admirers and friends who will miss his visits with them. Leaves Two Daughters Mr. Rahr is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Theodore Haffenreffer, of Boston, Mass., and Mrs. Walter Hamilton, of this city. A son Frederick Rahr died only recently. Besides his daughters Mr. Rahr is survived by two sisters Mrs. Edward Borcherdt, of Davenport, Iowa, and Mrs. Oscar Billharz, of New York. Manitowoc Herald News, Monday, October 22, 1928 P.1 ******* NOTE: There is a good size picture of Mr. Rahr with the following listed under it: MAXIMILIAN RAHR Born July 18, 1856 Died October 21, 1928 The death Sunday morning of Maximilian Rahr, whose photo appears here, causes widespread sorrow in the community where no resident was better known or more beloved. Identified with Manitowoc practically during his entire life Mr. Rahr enjoyed the esteem of the community in a degree held by few men and although his life was well rounded in years, his death comes as a shock and a loss. Manitowoc Herald News, Monday, October 22, 1928 P.1 ******* [cause: apoplexy/bur. on William Rahr lot]
MOLLIE RAHR Graveside services for Mrs. William Rahr, 82, of Sheffield, Ill., former Manitowoc County diretor of public welfare, who died at 1:20 a.m. Tuesday at the Kewaunee (Ill.) Public Hospital, were at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc, with the Episcopal priest from Sheboygan officiating (in the absence of the Rev. William Harvey of Manitowoc). The former Mollie Hall was born March 24, 1881, at Manitowoc, daughter of the late Samuel and Sarah Brown Hall. She was graduated from Manitowoc High School and attended the Milwaukee Conservatory of Music. She was married to William Rahr III Nov. 27, 1902, who died in 1929. A lifelong member of St. James Episcopal Church, Manitowoc, she was active in St. Faith's Guild, the Sunday school and St. James Society. She was director of public welfare for Manitowoc county from 1935 until 1957 when she retired and moved to Sheffield, making her home with her son, William Rahr. She was one of the founders of Elm Terrace Home, Manitowoc. Surviving are a son, William Rahr of Sheffield; a daughter, Mrs. Mollie Bryan of Rockford, Ill.; three grandsons, three granddaughters, and eight great grandchildren (Survivors omitted for privacy.) Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. February 5, 1964 P. 15 ******** [widow of William Rahr/cause of death: coronary thrombosis/aka Sarah Elizabeth]
NATALIE TOMMA RAHR From Der Nord Westen, 05 May 1904: Death yesterday at 4 a.m. of Nathalia Thomma, the 6-mo. old little daughter of Reinhardt and Clara Rahr. The burial ceremony will be private, solely for the close friends and relatives of the family, and will take place tomorrow afternoon at 2p.m. at the funeral home. ******** [cause: bronchitis]
NATHALIA RAHR (Mrs. Wm. Rahr) (Death notice in Der Nord Westen, 18 Aug. 1881 The widow Rahr died this morning of a stroke. *********** From Der Nord Westen, 25 Aug. 1881: Mrs. Nathalia Rahr (nee Gesellschap), her burial was delayed until her son Max arrived from Colorado. *********** [Mrs. W. Rahr/bur. 08-21-1881](Natalia/Mrs. William Rahr) *********** Music Lessons. Mrs. Nathalia Rahr, formerly a music teacher in one of the Colleges in Germany, will give lessons on the piano at her dwelling house, corner of Washington and Main st. Fully versed in the English language and competent to give correct instruction, she is confident of her ability to give satisfaction to those who favor her with their patronage. Manitowoc, July 25th 1855. Manitowoc Tribune, Manitowoc, Wis. Thursday, July 26, 1855 P. 3
REINHARDT RAHR (d. 1921) REINHART RAHR DIES SUDDENLY AT HOME TODAY Death Follows Short Illness. Shock to Family Reinhart Rahr Sa. (sic), former mayor, vice president fo (sic) the Cereal Products Co., successors of the William Rahr Sons Co. and president of the State Bank of Manitowoc, died suddenly this afternoon at his home North Eighth and Park streets. He has been ill but a few days. He has been up and about until a few days ago and it was believed that his malady was simply a slight indisposition. Mr. Rahr had recently returned from a several weeks trip to Germany and Austria, making the trip to personally supervise the distribution of food supplies and clothing to the needy in those countries. Mr. Rahr, who was about 62 years of age, is survived by his widow, two daughters, the Misses Blanche and Margaret, and one son, Guido, and one brother, Maxmillian Rahr, Sr. Mr. Rahr was one of Manitowoc's most prominent citzens. He was interested deeply in humane and philanthropic work, and for years was an official in local civic and humane organizations. In the earlier years of his life Mr. Rahr took an active interest in public affairs. He served as a member of the legislature from this district and was also honored by being elected mayor of the city. The deceased became associated with his two brothers, Max Rahr, Sr., and the late William Rahr, Jr., in the William Rahr Sons company, brewers and malsters, which business was established by their father, William Rahr. Later this business expanded and the present ??????? ????? of the company, located in the First ward, was started. This plant engaged in the making of malt and grew until it became one of the largest malting institutions in the northwest. With the organization of the State Bank of Manitowoc a few months ago, Mr. Rahr, one of the stockholders was named to the board of directors, and by them chosen as president of the new banking institution, which bank opened its doors a few months ago, on Washington street. No arrangements have been made for the funeral and a more extended writeup will be published in these columns tomorrow. Manitowoc Herald News, Tuesday, October 18, 1921 P.1 ********* (Reinhardt Rahr/d. 18 Oct. 1921/from record of St. James Epis. ch., Manitowoc) [bur 10-21-1921/cause: apoplexy/removed to sec N 5-8-1957]
WILLIAM RAHR From Der Nord Westen, 07 Oct. 1880: Death of Wm. Rahr, Jr. on Tues. of this week. He was born 17 Mar. 1813 in Wesel and came to Manitowoc in the Spring of 1849 where he quickly established a farm and a brewery. He had 3 sons and 2 daughters. The eldest son, Wilhelm, followed him in business. The burial took place Fri. afternoon.
EMILY E. RAINE From Der Nord Westen, 05 June 1902: Death yesterday, from a stroke, of Mrs. Emily Raine, who resides on the road to Two Rivers. The deceased, who was born in England but has lived in our city for the past 30 yrs., reached the age of 65. She is survived by her husband and 5 children.
ANN CORDELIA RAND Died Febr. 22, 1870/AE 30 yrs. 6 mos. From the Manitowoc Pilot, February 24, 1870 Rand - In this village, Feb. 23d, Mrs. Ann Cordelia, wife of Edwin H. Rand, aged 31 years and 6 months. A large circle of friends were pained to learn on Monday, Feb. 21st, of this serious illness of the wife of Edwin H. Rand, Esq. of this village, and greatly shocked to learn on Tuesday morning that she was dead. It will have its interest to many of the readers of The Pilot to have the leading facts of her life rehearsed. She received her birth and baptism in New Brunswick, of the British American Colonies, where she resided with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Albee, until she was seventeen years old. It was then that she thought she had met with a great spiritual change, and became a member of a Congregationalist church. In 1856 the family removed to Manitowoc, which remained her home, until her early death. It is hardly necessary to speak of her intercourse with those around her. Those most interested, know best what it has been. Advantages which she enjoyed in the place of her birth as here, so far fitted her for usefulness to others, that for two or three years before her marriage she was engaged in teaching - for limited periods at Cato and Neshoto - and for a much longer period in this village. In 1865 she was married to Mr. Rand, and now, leaving him with the responsibility to care for two precious little ones, she has gone. With her has gone the light of her husband's home, and his life, so suddenly overshadowed, is darkened with gloom. The social circle, so recently favored with her presence, has seen it, to see it no more. The Sunday school and choir, where, before her marriage, and consequent domestic cares, she was always present, will no more witness her cheerful smile, nor hear her voice of song. She has bid her adieu to earth, and all its interests and scenes; and already she has had disclosed the sublime mysteries of that eternal world, to which indeed all hasten but which cannot be unveiled to mortal eyes.
EDWIN HANSON RAND From Der Nord Westen, 03 Sept. 1908: Death Monday, following an illness of about 2 years, of Edwin Hanson Rand, a well-known resident of our city. The deceased was born in Sacketts Harbor, New York, and in 1852 came to Manitowoc with his parents. He leaves 5 children. [bur. 09-03-1908/cause: cordus oscutor]
GREENLEAF S. RAND From Der Nord Westen, 10 Dec. 1885: Death on Tues. morning, locally, after a short illness, Mr. Greenleaf S. Rand, the well known ship builder, Superintendent of Goodrich Ship Works, and member of the shipbuilding firm of Rand and Burger. Mr. Rand had built many ships which served on the Goodrich Line. He was 56 years old and left a wife, but no children.
MARY A. RAND MRS. MARY RAND DIES SUDDENLY AT MILWAUKEE Mother of G. Sterling Rand Stricken During Visit Messages received in the city this morning brought news of the sudden death of Mrs. Mary Spencer Rand widow of Edwin H. Rand, at Milwaukee where she had been visiting with her daughter, Mrs. Charles Johnson. Mrs. Rand was stricken while getting her little granddaughter off for school. The child, realizing that something was amiss, called her mother, who found Mrs. Rand unconscious, and death ensued in a few minutes. Mrs. Rand had suffered a stroke of paralysis last April and, although somwhat improved, had never regained strength to return to her home here. BORN IN RHODE ISLAND Mrs. Rand was born at Providence, R.I. Sept, 24, 1847, and came to Manitowoc with her parents at the age of seven years, the family locating on a farm in Kossuth. She was engaged in teaching school when she met Mr. Rand and was married to him in 1871, July 4. Mr. Rand died August 31, 1908. Since that time Mrs. Rand had made her home here. LARGE FAMILY SURVIVES At the time of the marriage, Mr. Rand was a widower and besides two children of the first marriage, Edwin, Jr. of this city and Mrs. E.R. Flack of Enterprise, Ore., neither of whom have ever known any other mother. Mrs. Rand is survived by two daughters, Mrs. W.J. Sloan and Mrs. C.B. Johnson of Milwaukee, and one son, O. Sterling Rand of this city, with whom she made her home at 807 Huron street. One brother, William Spenser of Kossuth, and four sisters, Mrs. Belle Carmen of Rensselaer, Ind., Mrs. Sadie Collison of Jamesport, Me., and Mrs. George Fulton of Kaukauna, also survive, together with seven grandchildren. ACTIVE CHURCH WORKER Mrs. Rand was an active church worker in her day and her kindly nature and spirit of doing for others had endeared her to all who knew her. The body will be brought here from Milwaukee and the funeral will be held at the Sterling Rand home at 807 Huron Street Friday afternoon, Rev. M.S. Axtell officiating. Manitowoc Herald News, Manitowoc, Wis. February 18, 1920 P. 1
ETHEL RANDOLPH Mrs. Samuel W. Randolph, 90, of Shady Lane Home, Manitowoc, died Tuesday evening at Memorial Hospital, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Phipps Memorial Chapel, Manitowoc. The Rev. Gervase Zanotti will officiate and burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mrs. Randolph, nee Ethel Bown, was born March 17, 1883, at New Orleans, La., daughter of the late Frederick and Henrietta Post Bown. She attended schools in New Orleans and was married to Samuel Randolph June 14, 1905, at New Orleans. The couple came to Manitowoc to reside. Her husband preceded her in death in 1941. Mrs. Randolph was a member of First Presbyterian Church, a member of the former Louis Society of the church and the Ladies Aid. She was also a 50 year member of the Order of Eastern Star No. 196. Survivors include a son, Fred, of Waynesburg, Penn., two daughters, Mrs. Charles (Charlotte) Scherb, of Chicago, and Mrs. Freeman (Florence) Butts, of Ho-Ho-Kus, N.J.; seven grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. A son and a sister preceded her in death. Friends may call at the Jens Funeral Home, Manitowoc, from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday at the chapel from noon until the time of service. Eastern Star Memorial Services will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church. Herald Times Reporter, Manitowoc-Two Rivers, Wis. December 26, 1973 ******* [d. 12-25-1973/age 90 yrs./widow of Samuel W. Randolph] (b. 17 Mar. 1883/d. Dec. 1973/SSDI)
FRANK J. RANDOLPH From the Manitowoc Pilot, November 9, 1905: Last Thursday relatives in this city received a telegram conveying the sad news that Frank Randolph had died at Chicago on Wednesday, Nov. 1. The decedent had been employed as head baggage agent by the Goodrich Transportation company at the Chicago docks since 1900. On receipt of the telegram Senator Randolph, a brother of the deceased, immediately left for Chicago to bring the remains to this city for burial. The body, in charge of Mr. Randolph, arrived here last Thursday evening, and the funeral was held Friday afternoon from the home of the decedent's brother, Senator S.W. Randolph. Besides the parents, four brothers, George of Buffalo, Charles, Samuel and William of this city, and one sister, Mrs. Albert Hessel, also of this city, survive. The decedent had a host of friends in this city and his loss will be much regretted. ******** From Der Nord Westen, 09 Nov. 1905: Frank Randolph of Chicago, a brother of Senator Randolph here, died Wed. last week. The deceased, who was employed as baggage master on the dock of the Goodrich Transportation Co. in Chicago, was born here 30 yrs. ago. He leaves his sorrowing parents, 4 brothers and 2 sisters. The body was brought here for burial. ******** [bur. 11-03-1905/cause: heart disease]
JACKSON RANDOLPH From Der Nord Westen, 02 Feb. 1905: Telegraphic news reached here Sat. evening reporting the death of Jackson Randolph in Dunning, Illinois. He is the son of Sam Randolph, Sr., and the brother of Senator Randolph. The death occurred Fri. and was the result of “galloping consumption”. The deceased was born and raised here, reaching the age of 35. He is survived by his sorrowing parents, 5 brothers and one sister. The body was brought here and buried Mon. in the city cemetery.
LEONORA RANDOLPH From Der Nord Westen, 22 Apr. 1909: Consumption took the life Monday of Mrs. Charles Randolph here. She had caught the deadly disease about a month ago from a cold. Mrs. Randolph, a daughter of Mrs. Emma Lang here, was 42 years old and is survived by her husband and 5 children. The funeral will take place this afternoon. ******* [bur. 04-22-1909/cause: tuberculosis]
SAMUEL RANDOLPH Funeral services for Samuel W. Randolph, 69, prominent Manitowoc resident who died in a Chicago hospital early Tuesday, were held this afternoon from the First Presbyterian church, of which he was a member. The Rev. C.H. Phipps officiated. The body was in state in the church auditorium from 10:30 this morning until the hour of services, 2 p.m. Six nephews of Mr. Randolph, Charles Randolph, W.C. Randolph, Charles Frum, Albert Hessel, and Sylvester Ferguson of this city, and Herbert Holmes of Two Rivers, were pallbearers. Burial was in Evergreen cemetery. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. Friday, October 31, 1941 P. 2 ******* [d. 10-28-1941 at St. Lukes Hosp., Chicago, IL/age 68 yrs./ cause: cancer of stomach] ******* RANDOLPH SWORN IN FOR NEW FOUR YEAR TERM TODAY Local Man confirmed by Senate as U.S. Marshal Takes Oath at Milwaukee Today. Held Recess Apointment Before Samuel W. Randolph, of this city, who has held a recess appointment as United States marshal for the Eastern district of Wisconsin, today took the oath of office and was sworn in for a four-year term at Milwaukee. The ceremony took place at the office of the Federal building at 9:30 and Mr. Randolph will serve for four years from this date, the term expiring Feb. 1, 1920. At the time Mr. Randolph was sworn in as United States marshal several months ago he took the office under a recess appointment made by the president, congress not being in session. With the convening of congress Mr. Randolph appointment was sent to the senate and was confirmed by that body Saturday. Under the federal laws a govenment appointee serves from the date of appointment and swearing in for his term of office and when Mr. Randolph was sworn in today it was for a four-year term as provided for the U.S. marshal, dating from today. His services under the recess appointment does not affect his present term of office. Following his oath of office today Mr. Randolph announced the following appointment of deputies and attachee of the office: Chief deputy-Charles Woller, West Allis. Deputy-B.W. Hayes, Kaukauna. Deputy-W.E. Mccormick, Milwaukee. Balliff U.S. court-H. Schlomovitz, Milwaukee. The salary of the U.S. marshal is $4500 per annum. Mr. Randolph was named upon recommendation of U.S. Senator Paul O. Husting. Manitowoc Daily Herald, Tuesday, February 1, 1916 P.8
WILLIAM RANDOLPH From Der Nord Westen, 02 Jan. 1908: William Randolph, about whom we reported elsewhere as being brought back from the state T.B. hospital, died Sunday in Holy Family Hospital. The deceased was born here 27 years ago. The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon. ****** [bur. 12-31-1907/cause: consumption]
BARBARA RANK Mrs. Louis P. Rank (photo), 70, of 2110 Emerson street, who suffered a stroke at her golden wedding celebration on Wednesday, died Sunday evening at Holy Family hospital. Funeral services wil be held at 9 a.m. Wednesday at the Urbanek and Schlei funeral home and at 9:30 a.m. at Holy Innocents Catholic church. The Rev. E.A. Radey will officiate with burial in Evergreen cemetery. Mrs. Rank, nee Barbara Roubal, was born in the town of Franklin in 1880 and married Louis Rank June 28, 1900. They lived on a farm in the town of Kossuth before moving to Manitowoc in 1930. Survivors are the husband, two brothers, Frank of Rice Lake and James of this city; three sisters, Mrs. Martin Remaker of Cato, Mrs. Dan Dragovich of Manitowoc, Mrs. Joseph Zigmunt of Francis Creek. Mrs. Rank was a member of the Holy Innocents Altar society. The rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home and friends may call at the funeral home after noon on Tuesday. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. Monday, July 3, 1950 P. 2 ******** [bur. on Louis P. Rank lot]
KENNETH C. RANK Kenneth C. Rank, 58, of 1401 N. 21st St., Manitowoc, died early Thursday morning at Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc. Private funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Urbanek and Schlei Funeral Home, Manitowoc. The Rev. Edmund E. Olson will officiate and burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mr. Rank was born Oct. 18, 1913, at Brillion, son of the late Peter and Wilhelmina Barth Rank. He was graduated from Lincoln High School, Manitowoc, with the Class of 1933. He married Ruth A. Krainik Oct. 25, 1937, at Manitowoc. The couple located at Manitowoc. Mr. Rank was employed as office manager for the Manitowoc County Highway Dept. Survivors include his wife and two sons (Survivors omitted for privacy.); a sister, Mrs. George Mayerl, of Manitowoc; and four grandchildren. There will be no visitation. Memorials in his memory may be made to the heart fund. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. October 13, 1972 ********* [d. 10-13-1972/age 58 yrs./bur. on Mrs. Ruth E. Rank lot-wife] (18 Oct 1913/Oct 1972/SSDI)
LENA RANK Mrs. Louis A. Rank, 64, nee Magdeline Schwartzenbart, of 1914 Washington street, died shortly after 11 o'clock this morning at the Holy Family hospital. She had been in failing health for some time. Mrs. Rank was born in this city and always resided here. She is survived by the widower; three sons, George, of Milwaukee, Roy, of this city, Charles of Green Bay; daughter Mrs. Alvin Johnson, of Green Bay. Funeral plans will be announced Monday. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. Saturday, February 21, 1942 P. 4 ******** [Magdeline Rank/d. 02-21-1942/age 64 yrs./cause: uremia/wife of Louis Rank]
LOUIS RANK (d. 1942) Louis A. Rank 65, of 1914 Washington street, died shortly before noon today, following a two weeks illness. His wife, the former Magdeline Schwartzenbart, died February 21. Survivors are three sons, George of Milwaukee, Roy of this city, Charles of Green Bay; daughter, Mrs. Alvin Johnson of Green Bay; brother, John, of Milwaukee; two sisters, Mrs. Catherine Monagan and Mrs. Antia Naus, both of Milwuakee. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. from the Pfeffer funeral home and at 9 o'clock from the St. Boniface church. Burial will be in Evergreen cemetery. The body may be viewed from Monday noon on. The rosary will be recited Monday night at 7 o'clock. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. Saturday, April 11, 1942 P. 4 ******* [d. 04-11-1942/age 65 yrs./cause: coronary occlusion/ bur. on Magdeline Rank lot](note: age is off)
LOUIS W. RANK From Der Nord Westen, 09 Sept. 1909: Death last week in Chicago of Louis Rank, a former resident of our city. The deceased reached the age of 32 and is survived by a widow and a child. The body was brought here and buried Saturday in the city cemetery.
ROY RANK JR. DEATH CLAIMS YOUTH OF 10 Roy Rank Jr. Dies Sunday After Illness of Two Weeks Roy Rank Jr., 10-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Rank, 1515 Philippen street, died Sunday at the home. He has been seriously ill for the past week. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. from the home of his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Louis A. Rank, 1914 Washington street, and at 9 a.m. from the St. Andrew's church. Interment will be at Evergreen cemetery. The boy was born in this city October 14, 1924. Survivors are the parents; two brothers, Robert and Wayne; and the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Rank, and Mr. and Mrs. Edward Duhame, city. The body was removed to the Rank home on Washington street this afternoon from the Pfeffer funeral home. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. Monday, March 11, 1935 P. 2 ********* [bur. 03-13-1935/age 10 yrs./cause: acute endocarditis/ bur. on Peter Schwartzenbarth lot]
AMELIA S. (BORCHERDT) RANKIN (Emily Estella Rankin) From Der Nord Westen, 18 Jan. 1906 Death Monday (15 Jan.) of Mrs. Emily Estella Rankin of pneumonia which followed a cold she caught on New Year’s Day. She is the widow of Joseph Rankin who died 20 years ago. Mrs. Rankin was born in Detroit in 1838, the daughter of Fred Borcherdt, former publisher of the local Tribune and later Consul in Livorno. She came to Manitowoc with her parents in the 40’s and married Mr. Rankin here in 1862. She is survived by one son, Joseph Rankin who resides in Dallas, Texas, and who arrived here shortly before his mother died. Also surviving are 3 sisters and one brother. The funeral was held yesterday afternoon.
ARCH F. RANKIN Arch F. Rankin, 67, or 3104 Waldo Blvd., Manitowoc, died Thursday morning at Memorial Hospital, Manitowoc. Private funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday at the residence. The Rev. William Harvey will officiate and burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mr. Rankin was born Oct. 12, 1904, at Lakewood, Ohio, son of the late Arcb????d P. and Gertrude Fraser Rankin. He married Mary B. Worrall Oct. 12, 1935. Survivors include his wife, a brother, Gilbert, of Manitowoc and a sister, Helen Ingram, of Santa Monica, Calif. Schneider-Mittnacht Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. There will be no visitation. Memorials may be made to Memorial Hospital or to charities of choice. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. June 23, 1972 ******** [Archibald F./d. 06-22-1972/age 67 yrs.]
JOSEPH RANKIN From Der Nord Westen, 28 Jan. 1886: Joseph Rankin, Representative in Congress, died last Sun. and was buried Thurs., 28 Jan. ****** Cause of death: Bright's Disease/from record of St. James Epis. ch., Manitowoc ****** Memorial Addresses on the Life and Character of Joseph Rankin, March 25, 1886, Delivered in the House of Representatives and in the Senate, Forty-Ninth Congress, First Session: Address of Mr. SPOONER, of Wisconsin. Mr. President, in offering here a tribute to the memory of Joseph Rankin, late a member of the House of Representatives from Wisconsin, I do not come to the mere perfunctory discharge of a customary duty. My acquaintance with Mr. Rankin commenced fourteen years ago, when we were associated in the legislative service of our State. He was of one political faith, I of another, but our friendship commenced with our acquaintance and ended only when his life went out. The formal story of his life is soon told. He was born at Passaic, N.J., September 25, 1833, and died in the city of Washington on the 24th of January, 1886. At an early age he removed with his parents to Connecticut, and soon thence to Homer, N.., where he lived until he was twenty-one receiving a fair academic education. His boyhood and youth were in no wise peculiar, except in the originality and strength of purpose which afterwards marked his manhood. In 1865, just of age, he sought, alone, a home and fortune in Wisconsin, then still one of the frontier States of the far West, settling in Mishicot, in the county of Manitowoc, which county with little interruption, thereafter remained his home. Upon his advent to Wisconsin he entered a mercantile career, in which he was quite successful. Early he developed an interest in, and an aptitude for, public affairs, and in 1860 he was elected a member of the assembly, in which body he served with credit. The silvery notes of the war bugle quickly won him from the paths of peace, and in October, 1862, he bade good-by to the loving woman who had been but a little time his wife, and enrolled himself in the Army of the Union as Captain of Company D, Twenty-seventh Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers. He, with his regiment, participated in the siege of Vicksburg and in many skirmishes and battles. From the date of his muster-in to June 30, 1864, he was, save for a month or two, present and in service with his company. He served as an acting assistant inspector-general from February, 1865 to August, 1865, when, with the rank of major, he was mustered out with his regiment. He was a brave and skillful officer and dearly loved by the men of his command. From the close of the war he resided in Tennessee until 1868, when he returned to Wisconsin, making his home at Manitowoc. In 1872, 1873, and 1874 he was elected to the assembly, and in 1876 he was elected to the State senate, in which he served for six years. He was elected to the Forty-eight Congress and re-elected to the Forty-ninth. Mr. Rankin easily distinguished himself throughout Wisconsin as a legislator. In truth, the work of legislation seemed natural to him. He was not technical nor obstructive, but nothing in legislation escaped him. He knew from the beginning what some legislators seem never to learn—that niggardliness in public expenditure is wastefulness and that true economy lies nearly always in the direction of liberal expenditures for public purposes; but he was always alert and powerful to prevent extravagance. He was not known to study pending measures, but his remarkable power of quick analysis searched every measure, and, at the proper time, his objection to a loosely drawn or bad bill was sure to come, in a few crisp, sharp sentences, which went to the heart of the subject. His knowledge and mastery of legislative details seemed intuitive and complete. He was, during his entire legislative career in the State, a marvel in this respect to his associates. His grasp of public affairs and policies as broad, strong, and accurate. As a parliamentarian he was of great skill, and as a presiding officer he excelled. In no sense an orator, he was, what is of more value in the service of the people, a good debater, keen, incisive, fertile in resources, and quick at repartee. His memory was strong and retentive, and while he was not a student, somehow he was always ready, and well ready, to meet every call which duty made upon him. He was independent and proud-spirited; not obstinate, but firm. When he had decided what he ought to do no persuasion nor influence nor threat nor charm could swerve him a hair’s breadth from the line he had marked out. His integrity as a man and as a public servant was above suspicion. Of fine presence, he was a delightful companion, cheery, hospitable, and full of generous impulses, but possessing withal a quiet dignity which never for a moment left him. From the early days of his Wisconsin life to the end he was known among the people as “Joe” Rankin, and went by no other name. This popular familiarity of in no sense a belittling of him. It was simply a tribute to the qualities which compelled the respect and friendship of men, and it out-lived him, for o-day, though “he sleeps the sleep that knows no waking,” the old, familiar name is tenderly spoken from one end of the State to the other. I never knew a man who would do more with alacrity and delight to serve a friend, nor one more loyal and steadfast in his friendship. He was not effusive or demonstrative, but his friendship needed no nursing. Absence did not change it. Adversity only strengthened it. He was tender as well as brave. He would fight his way with sturdy blows through a score of men to avert an outrage or to right a wrong; yet the sobbing, half-clad stranger child upon the city street found him always a ready listener and a ready helper. He was, too, essentially a modest man. Turn to the Congressional Directory and you will find descriptive of his Army record and service only these seven words: “Served in the Union Army three years.” This was quite characteristic of the man. I venture to say that no one ever heard from him of any good deed he had done, although in his life there was abundance of good deeds and unobtrusive, unheralded charities. By a kindly law of our humanity the voice of criticism is hushed at the new-made grave. But Rankin’s life has left no stress upon his friends to invoke for his name and fame this protection, for while this strong man had, of course, his faults and weaknesses, they were forgotten even before he died, and were not such as, if remembered, would stand, unforgiven of men, against him. He was a Democrat always, and a leader in his party, potential, as a leader should be, in its councils. At one time he was chairman of its State central committee and directed and led the party forces. As a party manager he was wary, devoted, tireless, and able. However hopeless the contest, he always contrived to compel the respect and attention of his adversaries and to give them great trouble and anxiety. While he never lost sight of the party flag nor allowed his troops to straggle, his warfare was honorable and his methods reputable. He loved the truth and hated falsehood. The man whose word was not good in politics was to him unworthy of confidence in business. The “campaign lie”: had no place in his armory of party weapons. Slander he thought the weapon of the coward. He could not tolerate even in the heat of a political battle— Low-breathed talkers, minion lispers, Cutting honest throats by whispers. Once I knew him, in a summary way and in a close campaign, to stamp out with indignation well worthy of his manliness a slander which, while it was helping temporarily his party, was unjustly wounding in heart and home an opponent who was his bitter personal enemy. He was pitiless in his detestation of pretense and hypocrisy, and a sham reformer of either party found in him an unrelenting foe. With him politics never entered the domain of friendship as a disturber. I have heard him often quote with great delight the beautiful words of Garfield at Columbus, upon his election to the Senate, words day by day so happily illustrated in this Chamber: I say, moreover, that the flowers that bloom over the garden wall of party politics are the sweetest and most fragrant that bloom in the gardens of this world, and where we can early pluck and enjoy their fragrance it is many and delightful to do so. And when the committee representing the Congress bore his dead body back to Wisconsin, of the thousands who gathered from far and near to join in the last sad rites about his grave there were no sincerer mourners than those who had fought against him in vigorous party fights of many years. Those of us who knew him well confidently expected that with his peculiar talent for legislation he would become, after a little time, conspicuous in the larger field to which the people had called him. But this was not to be. Shortly after the end of the first session of the Forty-eight Congress he was stricken with a malady slow but sure in his undermining word, and from then there was ever by his side, with almost palpable presence, the angel of death. And well he knew it. This man’s character and strength were never better illustrated than by his sickness and death. He seemed to say: If I must die, I will encounter darkness as a bride, and hug it in mine arms. Calmly he set himself to guard with tender forethought the wife and children from around whom his strong arms were soon to fall forever. With patient skill he gathered together some of the fragments which in the generous days of his strong manhood he had scattered by the way. And when at length his task was done, it was well done. Then, though he had no hope of life, he would not lay away the harness. Few who hear me knew him, but none I think will soon forget the pathetic story of his last journey to the Capitol. With high resolve, he traveled with wife and children and death from his distant home to take the oath as a member of the Forty-ninth Congress. Once again only he dragged himself to the Capitol, weary and weak, but nerved and inspired by the purpose to serve a friend who had once served him. Then he awaited the final muster-out. Then this man, who with unflinching courage had faced death upon the field of battle and with the wild music of war ringing in his ears, calmly and as unflinchingly faced him again in the quiet of the sick-room. He sat and watched the lengthening shadows as peacefully as one looks from the window upon the sunset when the day is done. No murmur of discontent or revolt was heard from his lips. He seemed only intent to force the old-time cheeriness into his wan face, in the hope to lighten the heavy blow to the loved hones who watched about him. Considerate to the end, almost his last word was an injunction to his attendant not to let his dear ones know of the keep pain which he was suffering. Then when he knew the time was come, that journey was ended, with passionate love he gathered his remaining strength for the last embrace of wife and children, and in the agony of that parting there came to him— The sinless, stirless rest, That change which never changes. He said to me not long before he died, thinking, I believe, that it would be my duty to speak of him in the Senate, “If you ever mention me, talk of me as I am.” This, Mr. President, I have done. In a plain way, but with affectionate purpose, I have spoken of him as he was, as I knew him, as my honored colleague knew him, as the people of Wisconsin knew him, and as with tender pain he will be remembered in that State. Mr. Sawyer. Mr. President, I second the adoption of the resolutions offered by my colleague. The President pro tempore. The question is on the adoption of the resolutions. The resolutions were unanimously agreed to. Mr. Sawyer. As a further mark of respect to the memory of deceased, I move that the Senate do now adjourn. The motion was agreed to; and the Senate accordingly adjourned.”
CHARLES I. RANSOM Charles I. Ransom, 72, of 2130 Menasha Ave., Manitowoc, died Sunday morning at the Veterans Administration Hospital, Milwaukee. Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Phipps Memorial Chapel of the First Presbyterian Church, Manitowoc. The Rev. Gervase Zanotti will officiate and burial will be in the Evergreen cemetery, Manitowoc. Military gravesite services will be conducted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 659. Mr. Ransom was born July 22, 1898, at Nashville, Iowa, son of the late Charles and Mrs. Ellen Puttle Ransom. He was a veteran World War I, serving from March 21, 1917 to March 9, 1919, and also a veteran World War II, serving from Feb, 5, 1942, to Sept. 5, 1943. He married Viola Krainik April 10, 1944, at Milwaukee. The couple located at Milwaukee until moving to Manitowoc in 1963. Mr. Ransom was a life member in the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the DAV Fred Gettleman Post No. 44, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 659, and also a member of the Retreads. Survivors include his wife; his mother, Mrs. Ellen Ransom, of Iowa; brothers, sisters and other relatives. Friends may call at the Urbanek and Schlei Funeral Home, Manitowoc, after 4 o'clock this Monday afternoon until noon Tuesday and then at the chapel until the time of services. Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter, Monday, November 16, 1970, p. 12-T ******** [d. 11-15-1970 at Wood Milwaukee WI/age 72 yrs./bur. on Viola K. Ransom lot] (22 Jul 1898/Nov 1970/SSDI)
VIOLA K. RANSOM Mrs. Viola K. Ransom, 74, of 2130 Menasha Ave., Manitowoc died unexpectedly Tuesday at her residence. Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Friday in First Presbyterian Church, Manitowoc. The Rev. John Deason will officiate and burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mrs. Ransom, nee Viola Krainik, was born July 17, 1904, in Manitowoc, daughter of the late Anton and Marie Hackbarth Krainik. She attended Manitowoc Public Schools and was graduated from old Washington High School. She was married to Charles Ransom April 10, 1944, in Milwaukee, residing in Milwaukee for a time before moving to Denver, Colo. They returned to Milwaukee for a short time before moving to Manitowoc in 1958. Mr. Ransom preceded her in death in 1970. Mrs. Ransom was a member of First Presbyrerian Church and past worthy matron and 50 year member of Order of Eastern Star No. 196. Survivors include a brother, Paul Krainik, and a sister, Mrs. Roy (Alice) Peronto of Manitowoc and nieces and nephews. A brother preceded her in death. Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter, Wednesday, Apr. 25, 1979, p.3 ******* [d. 24 Apr 1979/age 74 yrs/widow of Charles I. Ransom] (17 Jul 1904/Apr 1979/SSDI)
ELINOR (KAWALLE) RANTZOW DEATH ENDS LONG ILLNESS OF MRS. RANTZOW Ill Since February, Death Came as Relief to Sufferer Mrs. Edward Rantzow, nee Kawalle, died at the hospital this morning after an illness since February, death coming as a welcome messenger of relief. Decedent was a native of this city, born here July 21, 1886, and had always made her home in Manitowoc. She is survived by a husband, five brothers and four sisters. Funeral arrangements have not been completed. Manitowoc Daily Herald, Monday, August 20, 1917, Page 1 ********* FUNERAL OF MRS. RANZOW TO BE TOMORROW Funeral services for the late Mrs. Edward Ranzow will be held from the home of Mrs. S.A. Morris to the German Lutheran church, with interment at Evergreen. Mrs. Ranzow was 31 years of age and is survived by her husband, four sisters, Mrs. S.A. Morris, Mrs. Emil Heideman of this city, Miss Ottillie Kewalle of Milwaukee and Mrs. Chas. Hoess of Juneau and five brothers, Richard of Milwaukee, Edward of Chicago and William, Carl and Hugo Kewalle of this city. Manitowoc Daily Herald, Tuesday, August 21, 1917, Page 8 ********* Mr. and Mrs. Rantzow and Gerhard Kaulitz of Hustisford; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hoefs, Juneau, Wis.; Erwin Kowalle, Chicago; Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kewalle and Miss Ottilie Kewalle of Milwaukee have returned to their respective homes after attending the funeral here of the late Mrs. E. Rantzow. Manitowoc Daily Herald, Thursday, August 23, 1917, Page 3 ********* Edward Rantzow, who was here for the funeral of his wife, has returned to Milwaukee. His mother, Mrs. H. Rantzow, who also attended the funeral, returned this morning to her home at Hustisford. Manitowoc Daily Herald, Friday, August 24, 1917, Page 5
CLARA RAPPEL Clara H. Rappel, age 85, of 904 N. 43rd St., Manitowoc, entered eternal life on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2008, at the Aurora Medical Center, Two Rivers. Clara was born on May 6, 1922, in the town of Maple Grove, Manitowoc County. She was the daughter of the late Albert and Emilia (Maertz) Zimmermann. Clara attended Reedsville public schools. She had been employed as a clerk at Johnson Hills Department Store. On April 15, 1948, she married Arnold J. Rappel in Clarks Mills. He preceded her in death on April 22, 1979. Clara was a member of St. Francis of Assisi. She enjoyed spending time with her family (Survivors omitted for privacy.) She was preceded in death by her husband: Arnold on April 22, 1979; one daughter: Barbara Kutil on Dec. 11, 1983; five brothers; and three sisters. Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 4, 2008, at St. Francis of Assisi on Waldo. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. Daniel Felton, with burial to take place at Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Relatives and friends may call at the St. Francis of Assisi on Waldo on Friday, Jan. 4, 2008, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at 10:30 a.m. The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Herald Times Reporter, Jan. 3, 2008
MARJORIE J. RAPPEL Mourn Death of Babe Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Rappel, 720 New York avenue, are mourning the death of their sixteen months old daughter, Marjorie, who died Sunday morning from an attack of pneumonia. The little one had been ill only a few days. The funeral will be held from the home at 9:30 tomorrow morning and burial will be in Evergreen. Besides the parents the litte one is survived by four sisters. Manitowoc Herald News, Manitowoc, Wis. Monday, November 16, 1925 P. 2 ******* [cause of death: pneumonia/buried on the Marcus Rappel lot]
JOHN RASMUDSEN From Der Nord Westen, 06 June 1889: Death of 76 yr. old Mr. Rasmusen on Manitowoc's Northside last Sun. The burial took place yesterday in the City Cemetery.
TILLIE RASMUSSEN Mrs. Eli O. Rasmussen, 93, of 930 S. 9th St., Manitowoc, died early Friday morning at Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. at Mittnacht Funeral Home, Manitowoc. The Rev. George J. Knudson will officiate and burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mrs. Rasmussen, nee Tillie Swenson, was born Oct. 12, 1876, at Winchester, Wis., daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Alfred J. Swenson. She was married to Eli Rasmussen in 1902 at Winchester. After their marriage the couple lived at Arbor Vitae, Wis., for five years, then moving to Oshkosh and coming to Manitowoc in 1917. They celebrated their 60th anniversary in 1962. Mr. Rasmussen died in 1964. Mrs. Rasmussen was a member of the Royal Neighbors of America and Rebekah Lodge No. 18. Survivors include a son, Alton J., of Manitowoc and a brother, Adolph, of Oshkosh. Friends may call at the funeral home after 4 p.m. Sunday until time of services. A memorial service will be conducted at 7 p.m. Sunday by the Rebekah Lodge. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. April 3, 1970 ******* [d. 04-03-1970/age 93 yrs./widow of Eli O. Rasmussen/bur. on Alton J. Rasmussen lot]
CAROLINE RATH From Der Nord Westen, 27 Oct. 1887: Death of Mrs. Carolina Rath last Sun. morning. She was the wife of JOHN RATH, resident of 11th St., 3rd Ward. The deceased had reached an advanced age and was ill for many years. Burial took place yesterday in the city cemetery. ********** [Mrs. Caroline Rath/bur. 10-26-1887/age 67 yrs/cause: debility]
HOMER RATH Homer Rath, 75, a former resident of 1409 S. 13th St. Manitowoc, died Saturday morning at St. Nicholas Hospital, Sheboygan. Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday at Pfeffer Funeral Home, Manitowoc, with the Rev. Paul Blaufuss officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mr. Rath was born Feb. 16, 1884, in the Town of Lind, Waupaca County. He came to Manitowoc as a young man and was employed in local foundries as a moulder until retiring in 1931. Mr. Rath married the former Tina Bartel June 27, 1905 at Stevens Point. She died July 12, 1959. He was a member of the International Moulders Union Local 301. Surviving is a son, Borden, of Coeur d' Alene, Idaho. Friends may call at the funeral home after 3 p.m. Sunday. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. January 30, 1960 ********* [d. 01-30-1960 at Sheboygan WI/age 75 yrs.]
JOHANN RATH From Der Nord Westen, 30 July 1903: Following a long illness, consumption took the life of John Rath, a 37-yr. old resident of our city. The deceased is survived by his parents and several sisters here. The funeral was held Tues. afternoon.
JOHANN RATH From Der Nord Westen, 12 Dec. 1895: Death on Thurs. of last week of 81 yr. old Johann Rath. He came to Manitowoc in 1850 and has resided here ever since. He was employed for 20 yrs. at Schuette Bros. The well-attended funeral took place Sun. afternoon at the local city cemetery. ******** [cause: old age]
WILHELM RATH From Der Nord Westen, 14 July 1904: William Rath, who came back ill from Chicago to Manitowoc a few weeks ago, has now died. He is survived by his parents and several sisters. ********** [William Rath/bur. 07-12-1904/age 41 yrs./cause: tuberculosis]
ALVIN RATHSACK From Der Nord Westen, 26 Dec., 1907: A 20-mo. old son of Joseph Rathsack here died Friday evening of a hemorrhage. The funeral was conducted Monday afternoon.
ANNA RATHSACK From Der Nord Westen, 30 July 1908: Death here Friday morning of Mrs. Wm. Rathsack from a stroke. The deceased, who was born in Austria, reached the age of 59. She leaves her husband, 3 sons and 3 daughters. The funeral was held Monday morning from St. Boniface Church. [Anna Mrs. William] [cause of death: precis]
CHRISTIAN RATHSACK From Der Nord Westen, 24 Jan. 1901: Christian Rathsack died Tues. at age 91. He was the father of our well-known fellow citizen William Rathsack, in whose residence the death occurred. The deceased was born in Germany in 1810 and came to America in 1860. He settled in Manitowoc where he operated a blacksmith shop for many years, until old age made him give it up and retire. He is survived by 2 sons and a daughter. ********* Death gathered another aged pioneer to his final rest to-day, releasing Christian Rathsack form the suffering of many days. He was 91 years of age and for more than forty four years has been a resident here, lately at the home of his son, William, on Tenth street. Advanced age made him feeble and in the few weeks previous to the end, he grew very weak, final dissolution taking place early this morning. Decedent was born in Germany in 1810 and continued to reside in his native land until fifty years of age. In coming here he established himself as blacksmith and for years continued the business. Since retiring he had led a quiet life and enjoyed comforts thrown about him by his children, three of whom survive. They are Charles and William of this city, and Mrs. Meyer of Chicago. Funeral arrangements have not been made. Manitowoc Daily Herald, Tuesday, January 22, 1901, p. 1 ********* [cause: old age]
EMMA RATHSACK Name: Rathsach, Emma Anna M. D.: 3/22/1878 B.: 1/6/1876 Reg. D.: 12/27/1878 Sex: F/W Age at Death: 2 Yrs. 2 Mo. 16 Da. B.P.: Mtwc. D.P.: Mtwc. Cem.: Mtwc. Ch.: Inf. & Address: Rev. F. A. Pieper Spouse: F.: William Rathsack M.: Anna Tinner Rathsack Cause of Death: Pg. #: v.1 p.274
ESTHER I. RATHSACK Esther I. Rathsack, age 96, a resident of Rivers Bend Health and Rehabilitation Center of Manitowoc, died early Saturday morning, Jan. 26, 2008, at Rivers Bend. The former Esther Koeller was born Sept. 29, 1911, at Belle Plain, daughter of the late Albert and Amelia Schultz Koeller. She grew up and attended local schools in the Shawano County area moving to Manitowoc at the age of 18. On Oct. 29, 1930, Esther was married to Robert L. Rathsack at Woodstock, Ill. The couple lived in Manitowoc and Robert preceded her in death on Jan. 23, 1969. She enjoyed her family especially all of her grandchildren. Esther took great pride in vegetable gardening, canning, making her special chocolate chip cookies and crocheting rugs. Esther was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Manitowoc. (Survivors omitted for privacy.) She was preceded in death by her husband: Robert Rathsack; one son-in-law: Lewis Stevens; two granddaughters: Cindy Cooper and Diana Groelle; three sisters and one brother. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 30, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2601 S. 10th St., Manitowoc. The Rev. Brian Staude will officiate with burial to follow in the Evergreen Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at the church on Wednesday from 9 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. The Reinbold & Pfeffer Family Funeral Home of Manitowoc is serving the Rathsack family. Herald Times Reporter, Jan. 28, 2008
JOSEPH RATHSACK (d. 1943) Joseph Rathsack, 82, a resident of this city for more than 70 years, died Friday at his home, 936 North 15th street, following a lingering illness. Funeral services will be held Monday at 8:30 a.m. from the Wattawa, Urbanek and Schlei funeral home and at 9 o'clock from the Holy Innocents church. Burial will be in Evergeen cemetery. Mr. Rathsack was born in Poland in 1860 and came to Manitowoc with his parents when a boy nine years old. He married Miss Antoinette Potrowsky. For many years Mr. Rathsack was employed by the Goodrich Transit Co. He retired 17 years ago. Mrs. Rathsack died in 1902. Survivors are two daughters, Mrs. Edward Reindl of this city, Mrs. O.U. Hamilton of Los Angeles; two sons, Leo of this city, Ben of Clover; five brothers, George and Peter of Glen Flora, Wis., Edward of Milwaukee, Frank and Anton of the town of Franklin; two sisters, Mrs. Albert Radey of Cato, Mrs. Frank Brezinski, of this city; 15 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. The body may be viewed at the funeral home from Sunday noon until the hour of the services. The rosary will be recited Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the funeral home. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. January 2, 1943 P. 5 ******** [d. 01-01-1943/age 82 yrs./cause: arterioscleriotic heart disease]
LAURA M. RATHSACK Mrs. Walter Rathsack, 84, of 631 N. Seventh St., Manitowoc, died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Manitowoc. The Rev. Bruce Hanstedt will officiate and burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mrs. Rathsack, nee Laura Larson, was born Feb. 14, 1888, at Manitowoc, daughter of the late Lars and Mary Riis Larson. She was reared by Mr. and Mrs. Lars and Johanna Hansen. She was married to Walter Rathsack July 30, 1908, at Manitowoc. The couple established residence at Manitowoc. Mrs. Rathsack was a member of the Gold Star Mothers, Women of St. Paul Lutheran Church and Esther Circle. Her husband preceded her in death in 1968. Survivors include two sons, Joseph C. of Manitowoc and Sterling L., of Park Falls, Wis.; two daughters, Mrs. Raymond (Lucille) Peterson and Mrs. John (Betty) Bebow, of Manitowoc; a sister, Mrs. Alma Christiansen, of Manitowoc; 16 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. Two sons, Walter and Robert, and two brothers preceded her in death. Friends may call at Urbanek and Schlei Funeral Home, Manitowoc, from 6 to 9 o'clock this Wednesday evening until noon Thursday and at the church from 1 p.m. until the time of service. Memorials in her memory may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church Building Fund. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. December 27, 1972 ********** [d. 12-26-1972/age 84 yrs./widow of Walter L. Rathsack] (14 Feb 1888/Dec 1972/SSDI)
MARIA RATHSACK From Der Nord Westen, 08 Mar. 1894: Death on Tues. of Mrs. Carl Rathsack, Sr. in the residence of her son-in-law Mr. H.C. Westphal. The deceased was born 19 July 1825 in Priebenow, by Stavenhagen . She is survived by her husband and one daughter. The funeral will take place tomorrow at 2 p.m. at the residence of H.C. Westphal. ******** [cause: hepatic calculus]
WALTER RATHSACK (information from researcher/see contributors page) Walter's body was never recovered and the only memorials to him are the small cenotaph on his parents' tombstone and an even smaller one on the Tablets of the Missing at the East Coast Memorial in Battery Park, New York City. His parents tried for years to learn the circumstances of his death but, so far as I know, went to their graves knowing no more than I did. We have learned that Walter C. Rathsack and his shipmates died as the result of an unsuccessful experiment in anti-submarine warfare promoted by President Roosevelt: the deployment of Q-Ships in the Atlantic. The story is told -- and Walter C. Rathsack named -- in Kenneth M. Beyer's book _Q-Ships Versus U-Boats: America's Secret Project_, Naval Institute Press, Annapolis, MD, 1999. Q-Ships were converted merchant ships, heavily armed but disguised to appear harmless. Their mission was to entice German U-boats into attacking them on the surface (thus conserving their torpedoes for bigger prey), then destroy them with depth charges and gunfire. The experiment was born in desperation, undertaken in haste and soon abandoned. Only three or four Q-Ships were commissioned by the U.S. Navy. The first were the USS Asterion (ex-SS Evelyn) and the USS Atik (ex-SS Carolyn), former bulk sugar carriers of about 3200 tons displacement. They were converted to Q-Ships in Portsmouth, Maine, and commissioned on 5 March 1942. All officers and crew were volunteers. Chief Radioman Walter C. Rathsack was assigned to USS Atik. After a short period of training (only 36 hours according to author Beyer!), Atik and Asterion put to sea on their maiden voyages. On 26 March 1942 Atik was torpedoed by U-123 about 300 miles off the coast of Virginia. The ship sent two distress signals, reporting itself on fire though not seriously, and fired on the submarine, inflicting some damage and one casualty. U-123 then submerged and waited until nightfall to administer the coup de grace with another torpedo. Atik disappeared without a trace, leaving no survivors among its crew of 139 officers and men. The whole affair was shrouded in secrecy until May 1944 when the Navy announced only the presumption of death of the Atik's crew. The identity and actions of U-123 were not revealed until postwar examination of German records. So there at last is a date of death for Walter C. Rathsack: 26 March 1942. I find it a cruel irony that Walter's father was a foreman at the Manitowoc shipyard that built submarines for the U.S. Navy.
WILLIAM RATHSACK (d. 1921) WM. RATHSACK SR. CITY PIONEER IS DEAD AT AGE 73 Founder of Hardware Concern; Lived Here 57 Years Death closed the book of life for another early day resident and pioneer business man of the city when it claimed William Rathsack, Sr., at his home 123? South Ninth street last evening after an illness that had confined him to his bed for ten days. Mr. Rathsack had been in failing health for several years, suffering from a complication of diseases but up to ten days ago he was able to be up and about. Death came peacefully at the residence which had been the home of Mr. Rathsack since his boyhood day. RESIDED HERE 57 YEARS Mr. Rathsack had been a resident of Manitowoc for 57 years and for ???? years had been identified with business interest of the city having founded the present business of the William Rathsack Sons Company of which he was for years at the head and at the time of his death honorary president. Mr. Rathsack formed the business on Jay street in 1893 but of late ??? had not been active in the management, his sons having taken over the store. He was an energetic businessman, upright in his dealings and his business which he established had grown to large proportions and he took people in the ????? ????? CAME HERE BOY OF 6 Born in Germany on December 10, 1848, Mr. Rathsack was ???? ??? ??????. He came to Manitowoc with his parents when a boy of ??? and had made his home here ever since. He attended the local schools until 1? years of age and then engaged as a ?????, a hazardous undertaking for being so young in that day, ??? he continued the work for two years and then became an apprentice in the tinshop of August Berner and made rapid advancemetn working himself to ????man. After he became superintendent of the Ernst Wagner shops and of the Rand & Roemer company and then in 1893 established his own business opening a store on Jay street. He gave his personal supervistion to the business up to twelve or fifteen years ago when he retired from active management and was succeeded ??? the William Rathsack Sons Co. A handsome large store building is a monument to Mr. Rathsack's energy and industry in the business. The death of his wife fifteen years ago was a servere blow to Mr. Rathsack. LEAVES SIX CHILDREN Mr. Rathsack is survived by six children, all residents of the city, being William, Jr., Mrs. Anna Bem, Louis, Mrs. Adolph Kadow, Mrs. ?. T. Ziglinski and Charles Rathsack. Fourteen grandchildren also survive as does a twin brother Charles Rathsack of Butternut, Wis., a former resident here where he was a pioneer employee of the N.W. company. Funeral services for Mr. Rathsack will be held at the home on South Ninth street Saturday afternoon at 2 under auspices of the local lodge of Odd Fellows. Rev. Schuppe will conduct the services. Friends please omit flowers. Manitowoc Herald News, Manitowoc, Wis. June 23, 1921 P. 1
WILLIAM RATHSACK (d. 1960) William A. Rathsack, 57, of 1415A S. 14th St., Manitowoc, died Friday evening at Holy Family Hospital, Manitowoc, after an illness of a month. Funeral services will be at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday at Jens Funeral Home, Manitowoc, and at 9 a.m. at St. Andrew Catholic Church, Manitowoc, the Rev. Allan Walt celebrant of the solemn requiem high Mass. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. Mr. Rathsack was born March 17, 1903, at Manitowoc, son of the late Louis and Clara Hoyer Rathsack. He was educated at Manitowoc schools and in 1919 did sheet metal work for Rathsack Hardware Co. of Manitowoc where he was employed until 1943. He married Beatrice LaFave July 9, 1923, at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Manitowoc. In 1943 he moved to San Francisco where he was employed at the San Francisco Naval Shipyards, returning to Manitowoc in 1957. He worked at Rathsack Hardware store until 1958 when he took a job as tender of the 10th Street bridge. Survivors include his wife; two sons, a daughter, two brothers, Edward and Clarence of Manitowoc, and a sister, Mrs. Robert McCoy of Cottonwood, Ariz., and two grandchildren. Friends may call at the funeral home after 2 p.m. Monday where the Rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Manitowoc Herald Times, Manitowoc, Wis. December 31, 1960 P. 14
ROSALIA RAUBER From Der Nord Westen, 06 Sept. 1894: Death of Mrs. Rosalie Rauber on Sun. afternoon in the residence of her son-in-law, August Schmidt, on South Main St. The deceased, who reached age of 79 yrs. died of dropsy and old age. Her funeral took place Tues. afternoon in the city cemetery. ******* [age 79 yrs./cause: old age]
LYDIA RAUS From Der Nord Westen, 26 June 1902: Death Sun. of 85-yr. old Judith Raus of old age debility at the home of her daughter Mrs. John Mahler here. The deceased has been a resident of our city since 1879. Her funeral was conducted yesterday afternoon.
CAROLINE RAUSCH From Der Nord Westen, 08 Nov. 1888: Death of Mrs. Ransch(sic), wife of our beloved fellow citizen Mr. Fr. Ransch(sic), on Saturday of a heart illness. The deceased was 63 yrs. old at the time of her death. She was born in Halberstadt in the Prussian Province of Sachsen and came to America in 1854, to Manitowoc in 1858. She leaves her husband and 7 children, most of whom are married. The funeral took place Mon. with countless people in attendance.
CHARLOTTE RAYFIELD DEATH TAKES MRS. REHFELDT (sic), AGED RESIDENT Had Been in Failing Health Since Fall Death claimed Mrs. Charles Rehfeldt, an old resident of this county at her home at Seventeeth and Washington streets, Sunday afternoon. Mr. (sic) had been in failing health since last fall. Mrs. Rehfeldt was born ?? ?????? and had resided here ???? her early youth. With her husband, she made her home in Newton ??? ???? period ?? nearly, the family removing to the city ???? years ago. She ???nt was 71 years of age. Besides her husband, Mrs. Rehfeldt is survived by eleven children, seven sons and four daughters, they being John, Charles, Wiliam, George, Hugo, Fred and Herbert and Mrs. ???a E?le?, Mrs. Henry Es?l?, Miss Marie Rehfeldt and Mrs. William Vandergrift. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon from the German Lutheran church. Manitowoc Daily Herald, Monday, January 24, 1916 P.1 (Note: very hard to read) ******** [bur. 01-27-1916/cause: preucious anemia/bur. on Carl Rayfield lot]
CHARLES RAYMOND From Der Nord Westen, 01 Nov. 1906: Death in Minneapolis last week of Charles Raymond, a former resident of our county who many of our readers will remember as the owner of a sawmill in Neshoto. The body was brought here Friday for burial in the city cemetery.