Richard "Dick" Rathbun

Richard “Dick” Rathbun of Detroit Lakes, MN died on November 22, 2017 at Emmanuel Nursing Home at the age of 94. Dick was born to Edith (Johnson) and Richard Rathbun on July 14, 1923 in Minneapolis, MN. He attended Minneapolis Public Schools, graduating from North High School in 1941. Dick was enlisted in the US Air Corps in 1942 and served overseas on the South Pacific island of New Guinea as a radio operator during WW II. He attended St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, graduating in 1949. While a student there, he played football, hockey and won the heart of Homecoming Queen Betty Hustad. They were married on August 13, 1949 in Alexandria, MN and made their first home in St. Croix Falls, WI where Dick worked as a teacher and coach. In 1953, they moved to Kimball, MN and one year later made their move to Detroit Lakes, where they would raise their family and reside for 63 years. Dick taught Social Studies at the Holmes Jr. High School and was also the varsity hockey coach. After receiving his MA from NDSU in 1964, Dick became the Guidance Counselor at the Jr. High, and also acted as the Assistant Principal before retiring in 1985 after 31 years with the school district. While residing in Detroit Lakes, Dick was an active and supportive member of First Lutheran Church. He was a member of the American Legion, MN Education Association, and various community organizations. He was a supporter of Laker athletic programs, as well as officiating various athletic events. Dick was instrumental in the building of the first ice arena in Detroit Lakes, where he spent many hours refereeing and announcing the hockey games. Given his love for the outdoors, Dick was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was honored to serve as the fishing guide for his St. Olaf friend, former Governor Al Quie, when he made an appearance in DL for the fishing opener.  Dick also followed the Minnesota sports teams and enjoyed a visit to Target Field for a Twins game with his children and grandchildren. Dick treasured time with his family and friends. Dick is survived by his son, David, of Minneapolis; daughter, Susan (Doug) Kortemeier of Eden Prairie; grandchildren, Andy Rathbun of St. Paul; Emily Rathbun of St. Paul; Todd (Greta) Kortemeier of St. Louis Park; brother-in-law, Don Hustad; sisters-in-law Marlene (Duane) Engstrom and Jane (Tom) Osterberg; and nieces, nephews, cousins. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty; his parents; his sister Joyce (George) Vados; his sister-in-law Dorothy (Bud) Hovren; and sister-in-law Donna Hustad.