Melvin R. Rathjen, age 79 of Blair, entered into heavenly rest on March 12, 2024 in Omaha, Nebraska. Funeral services will be held March 20, 2024 at 4 p.m. at Passageway Church in Blair. Military graveside services will be held at the Fort Calhoun Cemetery. Visitation will be held prior to services at the church from 2-4 p.m.
Melvin was born in Fremont, Nebraska on September 2, 1944, the son of Raymond and Elsie (Burmeister) Rathjen. He was raised in the Fort Calhoun area and attended Bennington High School, graduating in 1962. In 1963, he joined the United States Marine Corps, serving as a radio technician during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1966. On March 22, 1968, he was united in marriage to Joyce Wallace in Blair. The couple made their home in Blair. Melvin retired from O.P.P.D. He was a member of Passageway church in Blair. Melvin enjoyed fishing throughout his life; in his earlier years he enjoyed bowling and softball. He was a sports fan and especially enjoyed cheering on the Huskers. The greatest treasure of Melvin’s life was his children and grandchildren.
Melvin is survived by his wife Joyce; children: daughter Cheri (Dave) Svehla of Georgia and son David (Kristine) Rathjen of Blair; grandchildren: Taylor, Jackson and Avery Svehla and Peyton and Andrew Rathjen; sister Myrna Heyden; sister-in-law Pearl Rathjen; along with nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Don Rathjen, and niece Denise Rathjen.
Services by Campbell Aman Funeral Home, Blair, NE www.campbellaman.com.
