MRS. GUS RATHMANN DIED HERE WED.

Mrs. Gus Rathmann, long-time Blair woman and wife of a one-time Blair automobile dealer, died early today.

Grace Belle Swihart, daughter of William and Sarah Allen Swihart, was born January 19th, 1882 at Kennard, Nebraska and passed away March 1, 1961 at the Blair hospital after an illness of nearly three years.

On June 14, 1901, she was united in marriage to Gustav A. Rathmann at Council Bluffs, Iowa. To this union four children were born: Curtis C. of Blair; Dr. Norman K. of Blair; Dr. William G. of Los Angeles, California; and Mrs. Elmer Dixon (Marguerite) of Blair.

Mrs. Rathmann was the first white girl born at Kennard, Nebraska. Early in her life she studied music and prior to her marriage taught private music lessons, keeping her appointments by horse and buggy travel. Some time after her marriage she assumed her teaching career and taught for several years in Blair. She lived in Blair all of her married life.

Mrs. Rathmann was active in the Women’s Relief Corps. She was a Past Noble Grand of the Rebekah lodge and a member of the War Mothers and the V.F.W. Auxiliary.

She was baptized November 16, 1923 at the First Christian Church of Blair. She served the church faithfully as organist for many years.

In addition to her immediate family, those who mourn her death are: a brother and sister, Mark Swihart of Carroll, Nebraska, and Mrs. Jessie Olson of Los Angeles, California; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; a number of nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 2:00 at the First Christian Church of Blair. The Rev. Gail B. Dunning will officiate. Sacred music will be provided by Mrs. Joyce Dunning, singing “Beautiful Isle” and “In the Garden.” Mrs. Jean Ray will be pianist.

Rudy Fick, Ralph Mencke, G.A. Brewster, Oscar Jensen, Ab Jensen of Blair, and Fred Wilds of Fremont will be pall bearers. The Bendorf Funeral Home is in charge of the services and burial will be in the Blair Cemetery.