Herman John Rathje, 95 of Kendallville, IN, formerly of Metropolis, IL, passed away on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at Chandler Place Senior Living.

A memorial service will be held for Herman this spring.

Herman was born on July 29, 1926 to Herman Frank and Coradina (Holt) Rathje in Chicago, IL. He married Blanche Bakehouse on May 23, 1964. They retired to Metropolis in 1983, where they joined the First United Methodist Church. They were both active in the Happy Hearts Senior Center while in Metropolis.

Herman is survived by a stepson, Ronald Dieckman and wife Sherry of Crete, IL; four step grandsons; five step great grandchildren; nieces and nephews, Margaret Demien, Elizabeth Martin, Richard Demien, Cordina Demien, John Demien, James Stephens, Judy Stephens, Tom Stephens, Edward Stephens, Mary Getts, William Mitchell, Janet Jones and Sandy Craig.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 47 years, Blanche Rathje; siblings, James Rathje, Edith Stephens, Coradina Mitchell, and Lillian Demien; two stepdaughters, Roxane Dieckman and Rosemary Murphy; one nephew, Arlie Demien Jr.; and one niece, Linda Demien.

Memorial contributions may be given in Herman's name to First United Methodist Church 100 East 5th Street, Metropolis, IL 62960. Condolences may be left online at www.aikinsfarmer-millerfh.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Aikins-Farmer-Loftus-McManus Funeral Home in Metropolis.

First Methodist Church
100 E. 5th Street, Metropolis IL 62960
Web: http://fumcmetro.com/