Russell “Russ” Gustive Rathke, age 76, passed away in Plymouth, Wisconsin on Monday, July 13, 2026. He was born in West Bend, Wisconsin on January 21, 1950, to the late William H. and Dorothy Sylvia (Birzer) Rathke.
Russ loved his family more than anything, especially spending time with his children and grandchildren. No matter where life took him, he made an impact on the people he met, and everyone who knew him loved his sense of humor. He had a soft spot for his old 1988 Oldsmobile and took a special kind of joy in giving the people he liked a hard time. Russ was a regular at George Webb’s, where he loved hanging out with his friends. He also had an artistic side and took real pride and care in his handwriting. The little things made him happiest — a Marlboro cigarette, a Coke, or a strawberry shake.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepfather, Bud Hood; his sister, LaVerne Landrath; his brother-in-law, George Landrath; his grand-niece, Paige Rathke; and his close friend, Arthur Gaines.
He is survived by his children, Kay Wachs, Shelby (Tim Keller), Marla Rathke, Justin Rathke, and Sheena Sanchez; twelve grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; his sisters, Chris (Tony Bannenberg), Pat Lee, and Donna Schloemer; and his brother, Robert (Mardell) Blank.
Funeral services will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park on Thursday, July 30th. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 am, with Pastor John Vallier officiating.
The staff at Wenig Funeral Home in Sheboygan Falls (920-467-3431) is assisting the family. Please visit wenigfh.com for online condolences and additional information.
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