It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Nada Rathkey on January 31, 2025 at the age of 80. Nada was a beloved member of the community, a devoted family member, and a friend to many.
Nada was born on July 22, 1944 in Lancaster County to Dorothy and Henry Neumann. She grew up on Fredrick Street and graduated from J.P. McCaskey High School in Lancaster County. Nada played the Clarinet and was a member of the senior high band. Nada had a distinguished career in food service and management. She worked as a banquet manager for several hotels, as a salad manager at Western Sizzlin and had a long career as a seafood manager at Giant food stores.
Nada was a devoted spouse, cherished by her family. She was the wife of Donald Rathkey Sr. whom she celebrated 57 years of marriage. She is survived by her two sons, Jeffery Rathkey, husband of Kathleen Rathkey, and Donald Rathkey, husband of Susan Rathkey. Nada was predeceased by her daughter, Renee Rathkey, who lost a long battle with cancer in 2023. Nada is survived by her loving sister, Esme Oppenheimer and was predeceased by her sister Mavis Wanger.
Nada met her biological father, John Ferguson, when she was 16 and had a loving relationship with him and her stepmother, Elaine Ferguson. Nada has numerous other relatives, grandchildren, great grandchildren and friends. Nada was known for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for those she loved.
Outside of her professional life, Nada had a rich and fulfilling personal life. She enjoyed weekend camping at Pinch Pond Family Campground, and eating ice cream at the Jigger Shop. She enjoyed traveling to Florida and Oregon to visit with family and friends. She loved the beach, especially Ocean City, MD. Nada spent many years as a Den Mother for the boy scouts and was a passionate Green Bay Packers fan.
While we mourn the loss of Nada Rathkey, we also celebrate the remarkable life she lived. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Nada was a firecracker and a fighter. Early on Nada was a devout Catholic and taught CCD classes at St. Anne’s Parish in Lancaster. She loved God and later on was a member of the Reamstown Church of God. May the soul of the faithfully departed, Nada, rest in peace, Amen. You will be forever missed and always remembered.
Services will be private at the convenience of her family.
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