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William O. Rathert

Bill Rathert, a beloved husband, father and friend, passed away peacefully on Dec. 6, 2024, at Trinity Hospital with family at his side. He had been struggling for the past several years with health issues.

Bill was born to Charles and Frances (Lund) Rathert on Jan. 9, 1943. He grew up in Wolf Point and graduated from Wolf Point High School in 1961. He played football and basketball all four years. He was a starter on the 1961 Class B state basketball team. He married his high school sweetheart, Irene Hentges Rathert.

After high school, he attended the University of Montana in Missoula where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business. He then went to the University of Minnesota and obtained a mortuary science degree. The family moved to Miles City, Mont., in 1967 where he worked at Graves Funeral Home. In 1970, the family moved to Wolf Point. Bill was a loan officer at Western Bank. In 1977, he purchased his brother's interest in the Ford dealership. He enjoyed people and the car business for over 30 years. Many will remember his laugh, his mischievous pranks, his appreciation of antiques and western art. Due to declining health, he sold his interest in the dealership to Tom Fox.

He was also involved in the family farm with his brother, Fred, and later Jim Hentges, his brother-in-law.

In August 2023, he became a resident of Faith Home.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Donna and her husband Mervin, brother, Fred and his wife, Kathy. Also, his son-in-law, Ken Schreibvogel.

He is survived by his wife, Irene. His daughter, Julie Rathert Schreibvogel, her son Rorey (Nicki) and great-grandchildren Easton and Presley. A daughter Jill (Greg) Page, their children Jon (Hannah), Alex (fiance Trevor Toavs) and Jake (fiance Lexie Pehlke). Also, a daughter, Jana Rathert and a son Bill Rathert. His brother Charles “Chuck” as well as several brother in laws, sister in laws, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

He has been cremated and a graveside service will be held at a later date. Waller Funeral Home of Scobey, Mont., is in charge. We would like to thank Faith Home and the staff at Trinity Hospital for their excellent care given to Bill.

(Paid Obituary)

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