Donald H. Rathbun
(April 29, 1922 – August 21, 2015)
A long time ago it was said, “Heaven’s best gift to any home, community and nation is a good man”. On Friday August 21st, God called on one of them to come home.
Don Rathbun, born in Cleveland, Ohio and the eldest, beloved son of Harry and Margaret Rathbun (both deceased) passed away peacefully at the age of 93. Don was a graduate of the former Cathedral Latin High School in Cleveland in 1940, an active military man during World War II and an alumni of WVU. He moved to Winchester, VA in 1977 where he became a long term employee of Plumbly Lumber Company, an active member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the Legion of Mary.
August 21st marked the end of his tireless journey of love and devotion to God, family, and country. Don is survived by his 2 sisters, Mrs. Peggy Medved and Sr. Susan Rathbun (3 brothers who preceded him in death), his wife of 66 years Mary Catherine Rathbun, his 6 children; Stephen Rathbun, Timothy Rathbun, Mary Stuart, Daniel Rathbun, Donna Shumay, and Catherine Butler. Also surviving are 19 grandchildren (one deceased) and 10 great grandchildren.
The family will be receiving friends at Omps Funeral Home on Amherst St in Winchester, VA Tuesday evening from 5pm – 8pm with the recitation of the Rosary concluding the evening.
A Funeral Mass will be held in celebration of Don’s life and his continuous pursuit of an eternity spent in the presence of our heavenly Father. The Mass will be celebrated at 11am on Wednesday, August 26th at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church on Amherst Street in Winchester officiated by Father Stanley Krempa.
The graveside service will take place immediately after the completion of the Mass at Sacred Heart Cemetery with a reception following in the church hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sacred Heart Academy Tuition Angel Program.
Please view obituaries and tribute wall at www.ompsfuneralhome.com