Richard Lee Rath, 84 years old, died February 6, 2017, born December 30, 19.32, in Seneca, Iowa to a farmer, Carl H. Rath and his wife Sara Ann Freilinger Rath.
Richard graduated from Armstrong High School in 1950, after which he joined the U.S. Navy, where he received training that began his first career as an air traffic controller and pilot. After three years he married, left the Navy, and joined the Air Force where he continued his love of airplanes. He excelled in this career but chose to retire after 20 years, so that his three children could graduate from the same high school in Valdosta, GA. He always put the needs of his family first. He retired with the rank of Master Sergeant E7. His life revolved around family, serving in his church where he worked with the youth and other families. Later when he moved to Jacksonville, he became a Stephan Minister at Beach Church, joined and served in the Exchange Club and other charitable organizations. After he retired from the Air Force Richard began his second career as a Commercial Food Consultant, where he designed and specified kitchens and bars all over the world. This included much training and going back to college to learn computer drafting. Richard’s motto was “If you are going to do anything, do it right or don't do it all.”
His faith and determination saw him through many challenges in life, and he always saw the glass as half full instead of half empty. This gave him the positive attitude that he shared with friends and family.
Richard was predeceased by his parents Sara and Carl Rath, sisters Lucille (Sidney), Payne, Bernice (Clyde Anderson, and first wife Doris Rath, daughter Carlene. He is survived by wife Lenora “Lynn” Rath, son Michael (Fayra) Rath, granddaughter Morgan (Richard) Terry, grandson Richard (Kelsey) Rath, three great granddaughters Kasey, Emma Rose, and Adalyn, daughter Valeri (Daren) Ingold, grandson Scott (Donna) Sayers, daughter Carol (Bobby Sheffield, granddaughter Gretchen Sayers. Also, he is predeceased by two stepdaughters and two step sons, two step granddaughters, one step grandson, two step great-grandsons, and one step great-granddaughter. Also there are many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends all across the country.
We would like to thank Richard’s doctors and nurses and all who cared for him at Mayo Hospital, Brooks Rehab and Avante Rehab and Nursing Home. The pastors of Ponte Vedra United Methodist Church, Rev. Greg Doss and Rev. David Moenning, where his memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 25, 2017 at 11:00 am with a reception to follow at the Bennie Furlong Senior Center in Jacksonville Beach.
June 9, 2026
