Lavon Rathje

Lavon Doris Rathje, 88 years old, passed away June 5, 2006 in York. Lavon was born August 1, 1917 at Prescott, Iowa to Frank and Ruby (Ellenwood) Kneller. She was baptized April 20, 1930 at Prescott, and confirmed at Emmanuel Lutheran Church on November 16, 1947 in York. Lavon graduated from Prescott High School in 1935. After graduation she worked in North Platte, NE for the gas company. Lavon married Elmer Rathje, March 9, 1947 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York. Elmer and Lavon lived and raised their family on a farm northwest of York until retirement in 1996 when they moved to York. Lavon was an active member of the VFW Auxiliary in York. She enjoyed playing cards with family and friends, was an active member of Pitch and Chatter, and the Friendship Club. She was a member of the 3L Extension Club. Lavon enjoyed going to her grandchildren’s activities, growing flowers, quilting, sewing, and visiting with friends.

Lavon is survived by her husband Elmer, daughters Linda (Daryl) Watson of Benedict and Deborah (Randy) Conard of York. Grandchildren: Stacy (Jon) Pieper of York, Kirt (Mykelin) Watson of Giltner, Adam Watson of Lincoln, and Travis and Ryan Conard of York. Great-grandchildren: Kati and Shelbi Pieper of York and Karter and Sydni Watson of Giltner. Sister-in law, Muriel Kneller of Des Moines, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Hollis, Dale, and Ronald Kneller, sisters Doral Kneller and Helen Briels, and infant son Terry Lee Rathje.

Funeral Services were held Friday June 9, 2006 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York. Burial followed at Greenwood Cemetery in York. Memorials may be directed to the family.