Tom Rathke

Tom Rathke, of Franklin, found peace after a long battle with cancer on January 21, 2021 at the age of 75. Beloved husband of Barbara (nee Hamberger) for 52 years. Loving dad of Jyl (Randy) Krohn, Denise (Greg) Uehling, Ryan (Allison) and Tom's youngest daughter, Christine, who was waiting for him to join her. Proud Papa of Kourtney, Zach, Jacqueline (JJ), Eryka, Jacyk, Ayla, Lucy and Amalia. Son of the late Charles and Dorothy (Martineau) and dear brother of Jim (the late Jean) Rathke. Son-in-law of the late Ervin and the late Edna Hamberger (Krueger). Also survived by many relatives. Tom was a "Mustang" and graduated from West Milwaukee High School in 1963. He was a long time employee of World Color (formerly W.A. Krueger and Ringier Printing Company) and retired in 2003. He also enjoyed a part time job at Hertz after retirement. Barbara, his wife, also graduated from West Milwaukee High School in 1965. They met on a playground in the summer of 1962. Tom was a big supporter of Franklin High School Girls Basketball program where his daughter, Christine, played. "Tommy Boy" as his friends call him, was a people person. Loved being a "Dad", "Papa", and going to his children and grandchildren's activities. Loved to golf, play cards and just being with family and friends. His wife, Barbara, and him played a "fairways and putts" golf competition every time they golfed together. Were very fortunate to have spent 10 winters in "The Villages", Florida and made many memories dancing on the square and enjoying retirement years. Tom was a good man, a good friend and especially a GREAT husband who cared deeply for his family and friends. He will be truly missed!! Private internment will be at St. Martin of Tour's cemetery. A "Celebration of Tom's Life" will be held on Saturday, June 26th from 3 until 8 pm at the Vernon Barg Pavilion in Franklin (81st and Drexel Ave.). In lieu of flowers, memorials to the MACC fund (maccfund.org/donation) would be appreciated.