Obituaries

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William Allen Rathgeber, 73, of Dallas, Texas, passed away at homesurrounded by family on September 7, 2020, after a 7-year battle with cancer. Bill was born on December 16, 1946 in DuBois, Pennsylvania to William D. Rathgeber and Marian Jane (Allen) Rathgeber. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the University of New Mexico, where he played center and long snapper for the Lobos football team, and earned a Master of Science in electrical engineering from the University of Missouri. He married Cathryn Stooksberry on June 10, 1972, in Amarillo, Texas. 

Bill proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as did his father, brother and sister, retiring as a Lt. Colonel after twenty years. During his service, he managed programs for the National Emergency Airborne Command Post,  Presidential Support Communications, and Air Force One. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Bill joined Rockwell Collins in Plano as an engineer and program manager specializing in communications systems.  He retired from Rockwell in 2009.

Bill was an avid outdoorsman who loved golf, skiing, and especially camping with his two sons.  Bill participated as an adult leader in his sons’ Boy Scout troops, Troops 221 and 1001. He accompanied them on countless camping, backpacking, canoeing, diving, and climbing trips and was extremely proud that both sons attained the rank of Eagle Scout. 

Bill also loved hockey, faithfully attending both his sons’ games and fanatically following his Dallas Stars. He was an active member of Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church, serving as an Elder.  His return to the Holy Land with the church was a highlight.

Bill is survived by Cathy, his wife of 48 years, his son Bryan (Margaret), sister Susan (BJ), brother David (InSuk), as well as beloved extended family and friends. Bill was preceded in death by his son Jeffrey and his parents.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23