NORMAN RATHJE

Norman W. Rathje, 83, formerly of Rising City, died on June 5, 2016, in Lincoln.
Norman was born on June 3, 1933, to Werner and Frieda (Richert) Rathje in rural Rising City. He was baptized on June 25, 1933, and confirmed on July 26, 1946, both at St. John’s Lutheran Church in rural Rising City. He graduated from Rising City High School in 1951.
On May 24, 1953, he married Paula (Meyer) and they lived and farmed near Rising City until they retired. He served the church in many capacities including elder, church council president, and on building committee. He served in the Army National Guard, on Reading Township and FSA Boards, and was a seed corn dealer for Cargill.  Norman and Paula enjoyed traveling, square dancing and following their grandsons’ sporting events.
He is survived by his wife, Paula of Lincoln, son, Dana (Lori) of Falls City and daughter Linda (Bob) of Lincoln; grandchildren: Ryan and Jake Duren of Lincoln and Matt and Alex Rathje of Falls City, his sister Arlene (Robert) Dittmar of David City, twin brother, Norbert (Joyce) and brother-in-law Clark Gocken of Rising City, as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, father- and mother-in-law Richard and Helen (Backhus) Meyer, and sister-in-law Delores (Meyer)  Gocken, all of Rising City.
The family will greet visitors at Faith Lutheran Church in Rising City from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 10, followed by services at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 11.  Interment will follow at Faith West Cemetery.
Memorials in lieu of flowers can be given to: Nebraska Lutheran High School, Faith Lutheran Church or to the family for their direction.