Willet “Bill” Dean Rabe

Willet “Bill” Dean Rabe, 91, El Dorado Springs, passed away Sept. 3, 2024, at Moore-Few Care Center, in Nevada, MO. He was born June 3, 1933, in Beemer, NB, to Frank and Augusta (Kiihne) Rabe. Bill graduated from Royal High School in Nebraska in 1951. After graduation he moved to Versailles, MO. He worked for Missouri Farmers Association in Versailles until he was inducted to the United States Army in 1953. Bill was united in marriage to Patricia Coit on Nov. 12, 1953, in Stover, MO. They were the parents of one son, Bryan Dean and two daughters, Kathryn Ann and Kristin Jo.

After basic training, Bill was stationed at Camp Bussac, France. Bill and Pat lived in Saint-Andre’-de-Cubzac, France. They returned to central Missouri in 1955. Bill was employed in the retail furniture business and in 1961, he purchased a furniture store in El Dorado Springs. Bill remained active in the business for many years until his retirement.

Bill was an active member of Faith Lutheran Church until it closed, and he subsequently joined the United Methodist Church. He was a past member of the Jaycees, Rotary Club and the City Park Board. He served as chairman of the El Dorado Springs Planning and Zoning Commission for many years and was a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He also served on the El Dorado Springs Community Foundation Board, the Advisory Board of the Spring City Revitalization Group, and the El Dorado Springs Enhanced Enterprise Zone Board. Bill enjoyed woodworking and working with leaded glass. He also enjoyed traveling.

Bill was preceded in death by his son, Bryan Dean; parents, sisters, Virginia Kemper and Alvera Everson; and his brother, Elof.

He is survived by his wife; daughters, Kathryn Ann Leimkuehler and husband, Alan, of Nevada, MO, and Kristin Jo Atkinson and husband, Brian, of Parkville, MO; four grandchildren: Rachel Buzzard of St. Louis, MO, Gregory Leimkuehler of Nevada, MO, Alicia Leimkuehler of Lee Summit, MO, and Lauren St. John of Olathe, KS; and four great-grandchildren: Willet St. John, Stella St. John, Kelsey Cargill, and Madison Masters.

A graveside service for Bill Rabe was held on Saturday, Sept. 7, at El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home. Brent Bland was the minister. Online condolences may be left at www.blandhackleman.com.