Raymond E. Rathert

Raymond E. Rathert, passed away on December 2, 2024, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on October 22, 1930, in Kansas City, Missouri, he lived a life characterized by dedication to both his profession and his personal passions.

Raymond completed his education at Chapman High School in 1948, before furthering his studies at the University of Kansas, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business in 1957.He honorably served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1954, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to public service. He had a distinguished career as a Fire and Casualty Division Supervisor for the State of Kansas Insurance Department, where he made significant contributions to his profession.

He married Glenna Betts on April 18, 1953 in Junction City, KS and they welcomed two children, Karen and Kevin. Glenna preceded him in death on June 11, 1991. Raymond later remarried Barbara Johnson on September 26, 1992 in Topeka, KS.

He was a member of First Congregational Church and later First Christian Church, both of Topeka.

Not only was Raymond known for his professional accomplishments, but he was also a man of varied interests and hobbies. He was an avid fan of KU Basketball and Football. He enjoyed playing in the KU Alumni Band as a drummer. He passed on his love for music to his son, Kevin, and they played together in the KU Alumni Band events. Music played a central role in his life; he was affectionately referred to as the “King of Swing” having drummed for over 60 years, starting in his 20s and continuing into his 80’s. His natural rhythm and love for music enriched his life. Raymond also enjoyed boating and skiing at Beaver Lake, AR. He was a proud member of many organizations including, Phi Mu Alpha, Honorary Music Fraternity, KU Alumni Association, AmerFederation of Musicians, Masonic Lodge 90 in Topeka, Scottish Shrine, Shrine Temple and former Secretary and Chairman of Zove V Raters Conference.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara Rathert; children, Karen (Douglas) Boehr and Kevin (Lori) Rathert; step-son, Joe Johnson; grandchildren, Kelly (Alex) Ulmer, Kristen (Kyle) Glasgow, Kayla (Mitch) Young and Ryan (Stephanie) Rathert; great grandchildren, Brady Glasgow, Brecken Ulmer, Teddi Rae Young and Lorelai Ulmer; his inherited grandchildren, Jacqueline (Shane Doudna) Crowl, Danielle (Adam) Schnegelsiepen, Alexandra (Zachary) Forshee, Jessie Crowl, Kellie Crowl, Jessie (Justin) Revell, Danielle (JT) Goodwin; and his siblings, Marvin Lindberg, Joan Arbogast, Marjean Rossman and Judy Scritchfield. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Glenna Rathert of 35 years and his parents, Louis Rathert and Esther (Galbreath) Rathert.

Raymond will lie in-state from 12:00 PM until 5:00 PM on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, KS. A funeral service to celebrate Raymond’s life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home. His family will greet relatives and friends one hour prior to the service. A private family burial will take place in Chapman, KS.

His legacy will live on through all who knew him and were touched by his kindness and generosity.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Raymond's honor to the Kansas Children's Service League, 3545 SW 5th St, Topeka, KS 66606.