Larue Rathke Raesz

LaRue Rathke Raesz, age 94, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2024. Born on June 22, 1930, in Holland, Texas, she was the only child of Doyle and Lena (Lindemann) McWilliams.

In 1949, LaRue married Walter 'Shorty' Rathke, who preceded her in death in October 2002.  Together they raised four beloved children. LaRue was a devoted homemaker who delighted in baking and sewing for her family and friends. She cherished her time spent with her church family at Memorial Baptist Church, where she found joy in worship.

In February 2008, LaRue married her dear friend, Oscar Raesz. The couple enjoyed traveling and preserving the bounty from Oscar's garden, enriching each other’s lives with love and companionship.

LaRue is survived by her daughters, Janis Marek (Clifton) and Nancy Mikulencak (Calvin); her son, Mike Rathke (Melanie); and son-in-law, Kendall Koonce. She also leaves behind ten grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Donna Koonce; her husband, Oscar Raesz; and her great-granddaughter, Avery Koonce.

Serving as pallbearers are her grandsons: Kelly W. Koonce, David Koonce, Eric Koonce, Chad Marek, Blake Marek, Jeremy Rathke, and Bob Erskine.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to SPJST Assisted Living, particularly to Belinda Ozuna and Donna Farr, for their compassionate care and friendship during LaRue’s time there. We also thank Will-O-Bell Nursing Home for their support in her final months.

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 4, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM at Providence Funeral Home in Taylor, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Memorial Baptist Church - 340 W. Lake Dr. Taylor, Texas 76574.