Laverne Sophia Rathje, age 97 of Fremont, passed away peacefully May 20, 2014, at Fremont Area Medical Center.

Laverne was born February 2, 1917, on the family farm in Boone County, Nebraska, to Charles and Bessie (Nelson) Keith. She loved riding her little pony to grade school. After graduating from Belgrade High School in 1935, she attended cosmetology school in Lincoln. Upon receiving her certificate, Laverne opened her own shop for a few years in Lincoln. She relocated to Belgrade in early 1940's where she opened her second shop. Laverne Keith met Walter Rathje and they were married January 30, 1946, in Columbus, Nebraska. They moved to the Rathje family farm in Nance county in 1950 and eventually moved into Fullerton in 1959. Laverne retired as a cosmetologist and spent her life at home with their two children. She enjoyed gardening, baking, cooking, sewing, and quilting. She was involved as a 4-H leader, taught Sunday school, and enjoyed attending church circle meetings. In 1967 they moved to Fremont after Walter's retirement. They enjoyed dancing and going to church. They were married for 50 years. Walter passed May 8, 1996. Laverne loved her family and adored her grandchildren. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Fremont.
Preceded in death by:
Husband Walter Rathje; Granddaughter Heather Rathje Ellis; Infant brother Keith and brother Harold.

Survived by:

Daughter Karen Rathje of Fremont

Son Larry (Vera) Rathje of Marshalltown, IA

Grandsons:

Ryan Rathje of Fairfax, VA; Tyler Rathje of Chicago, IL

Granddaughters:

Kendra Rathje of Marshalltown, IA; Maria Rathje of Sioux Falls, SD; Alexandra Rathje of San Diego, CA

Former Daughter-in law Madlyn Rathje of Marshalltown, IA

Many other family, friends, as well as her beloved caregivers.


Please visit www.duganchapel.com to leave an online condolence.

Memorial Services will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, June 7, 2014, at Trinity Lutheran Church. Pastor David Coe will be officiating.