Allan Rathbun

Born to Howard and Mildred Rathbun, Allan was the sixth of eight children and grew up on a farm where hard work was a way of life. From a young age, he completed farm chores before walking a mile and half to school each day. He attended a one-room schoolhouse that served kindergarten through twelfth grade and had just 33 students—an upbringing that shaped his strong work ethic, resilience, and lifelong love for the land.
In his twenties, Allan followed two of his brothers to Ohio, where he met his wife, Beverly (Koeth) Rathbun, and began building a life and family of his own. He raised three children and made Perry, Ohio his home for the remainder of his life.

Allan’s greatest joys in life were hunting, farming, and, above all, his family. One of the highlights of his life was returning annually to his family farm in the village of Ubly in Michigan’s Thumb region. He especially cherished hunting with his sons, nephew, and grandsons—traditions that created treasured memories and strengthened the bonds he held so dear.

Allan’s family often credited his long and healthy life to his upbringing on the farm—raised on wholesome, homegrown food—and to the fact that he continued farming in one way or another throughout his life. His devotion to hard work, stewardship of the land, and commitment to family formed the legacy he proudly passed on to his children and grandchildren.
Allan was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Mildred Rathbun; his wife, Beverly (Koeth) Rathbun; his son and daughter-in-law, Tom (TR) and Carrie Rathbun; his brothers, Chester, Gerald, and Keith Rathbun; and his sisters, Arlene Regentin and Mary Vattet.
He is survived by his daughter, Bonnie Rathbun of Mooresville, North Carolina; his son, Jack (Patti) Rathbun of Perry, Ohio; his sisters, Iola Strauss and Ruth Knoll; and many nieces and nephews, including his close friend, neighbor, and nephew, Duane (Sandy) Rathbun.
He also leaves behind five granddaughters: Tiffany (Darryl) Jackson, Miranda (Mike) Herczeg, Cassie (Lou) Garcia, Taylor (John) Gromatzky, and Alexandra (Drew) McNeil. He was a proud great-grandfather to Brittyn, Leah, and Harper Jackson; Luka and Ronan Herczeg; Tiberius Garcia; and Merritt McNeil.
A private service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Allan’s memory to support the charitable work of his nephews, Ron Rathbun and Marty Menard, whose international organization provides food, shelter, medical care, and humanitarian aid to those in need. Donations are tax deductible and may be sent to: Elizabeth Foundation, 12149 Laginess. LaSalle, MI 48145
One meaningful way to honor Allan’s life is through a simple act of kindness in his memory. Whether delivering a warm meal to someone in need, or taking time sharing a conversation with someone who may appreciate it, these gestures reflect the kindness Allan showed throughout his life. The family encourages others to pay that kindness forward in his honor. Online obituary and guestbook at www.behmfuneral.com