Robert I Rathbun

Robert I. Rathbun, 87, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away on September 13, 2026, in Nixa. He was born on November 11, 1938, in Elkhorn, Wisconsin.

Robert lived a life marked by dedication to his work, service to his country, and devotion to his family. He served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1959. During that chapter of his life, he married Christl (Leistner) in Germany on May 9, 1959, a proud and meaningful milestone that remained central to his life story. After his military service, he worked as a carpenter with Local 161 Union in Kenosha, Wisconsin, building a career through skilled labor and steady commitment. He was also a past member of American Legion Post 2930 of Portage, Wisconsin.

Above all, Robert will be remembered by those who knew and loved him as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and family man. He is survived by his wife, Christl Rathbun; his daughter, Dianne Gallant (the late George); his son Carl Rathbun (Barbara). Their lives were enriched by his presence, and his memory will remain a lasting part of their family.

He was preceded in death by his father, Douglas Rathbun; his mother, Helen (Fogel) Rathbun ; stepfather Carl "Butch" Tesch,  his brothers, Douglas (Jackie) Rathbun and Ray Rathbun, sister Virginia Kettle.  

Robert’s life was one of work, service, and enduring family ties. He will be remembered with respect, love, and gratitude by all who knew him.

A Private Burial with Military Honors will take place at Hillside Cemetery in Genoa City, WI.  The Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home and Crematory of Genoa City, WI is honored to serve the Rathbun family.