Juanita Joan Rathke

Juanita "Joan" Rathke (nee) Kirschner 90, formerly of Arlington Heights, IL went to be with the Lord 2/4/2020. Joan was born October 11,1929 in Chicago. She was married to her beloved husband Richard "Dick" Howe Rathke for 51 years. Joan is survived by her son Glenn Richard (Jeanne) of Royal Palm Beach, FL. She was also predeceased by her parents Theresa (nee Rupp) and John Kirschner and her sisters Eileen Carpenter and Marjorie Carpenter. Joan and Dick settled in Arlington Heights, IL in 1950. She was employed as a book keeper and later as a church secretary for 8 years. Joan worked from her home as a dog groomer for 20 years. Her family enjoyed frequent weekend trips to Door County, WI, beginning with camping at Peninsula State Park in the 1940's, and also taking many trips to Williamsburg, VA and Fort Lauderdale, FL. Her special neighbors of over 50 years, Ed, Charlotte, Sherri, and Heather Maher and close friends, Ron and Margaret Hettinger were like family and enjoyed several memorable get togethers, including spending many holidays together. Joan often requested that her mother play on the piano her favorite hymn, "In the Garden". She was known to always have one or more poodle companions, enjoyed reading her bible, planting an annual vegetable garden, making ceramics, cooking German meals, and working crossword puzzles. She felt blessed to partner with many ministries that shared the good news of Jesus' saving grace including the Billy Graham Association. A private family memorial will be held at a later date in Williamsburg, VA.