(picture)

G. RATHMANN DIED FRIDAY; IN BUSINESS IN BLAIR FROM 1900 TILL 1930

Gus Rathmann, 86 years of age, Blair business man from 1900 to 1930, died at his home Friday morning of a heart attack.

Funeral services were held today (Monday) at the First Christian Church, the Rev. Gail Dunning officiating, with interment in Blair Cemetery.

Gus Rathmann was born Sept. 21, 1875, the son of Mr. and Mrs. George Rathmann, who farmed near the Wranch School.

As a young man he became interested in the blacksmith trade. In 1900 he opened the Rathmann Blacksmith Shop in Blair. In 1910 he obtained the Ford Agency in Blair and operated that business until he sold out in 1930. The agency was located where the Ford Motor Co. is located today.

After selling his business, he moved to his farm on the bottom north of Blair, where he lived until he retired in 1943.

He joined the Blair Fire Department in 1900 and served as a member for many years.,p. Mr. Rathmann married Miss Grace Bell Swihart June 14, 1901. She preceded him in death on March 1, 1961.

He is survived by three sons, Curt Rathmann and Dr. Norman Rathmann, both of Blair; and Dr. Bill Rathmann of Los Angeles; and a daughter, Mrs. Elmer Dixon (Marguerite) of Blair; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. A sister, Mrs. Mary Andersen of Blair, also survives.

The Campbell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Pallbearers were Oscar Jensen, Ab Jensen, Rudy Fick, Les Reynolds, Ralph Mencke and Clarence King.