James Allen Rathert

James Allen Rathert, beloved father and friend, of Largo, Florida, passed away March 16, 2016. He is survived by his two loving children; his son Brian Rathert (Anna) and his daughter Jennifer Rathert. James was the proud grandfather of two grandsons; Karl (three years) and Paul (nine months). James was the son of Rudolph Rathert of Minden, Germany, and Florence Auer of Watertown, Wisconsin. James was born on November 22, 1942 in Watertown, Wisconsin. After graduation from Watertown High School in 1960, he attended the University of Wisconsin-Stout (Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity alumni). In 1961 he joined the U.S. Naval Reserve and served aboard the destroyer tender U.S.S. Grand Canyon in the Mediterranean. James was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1966 with the rank of Boatswain’s Mate, 3rd Class; receiving the National Service Defense Medal for his service during the Vietnam War. Relocating to the Sunshine State to join his parents, James married Eva Bennett, with whom he had his two children, and bought the house in Largo where he would reside for the rest of his life. After a brief stint at Bramlett International, James took a position as Design Engineer with General Cable Corporation. He took on many roles and responsibilities during his time at the company as it evolved through highs and lows over the course of thirty-seven years. James faced challenging “opportunities” that he overcame with courage, dedication, and an amazing work ethic that was a reflection of his hard-working German origins and of the melting-pot, post-war, American golden age that formed him. By the time of his retirement he had risen to the position of General Manager. Whether you called him Jim, “Wrenches”, “Boats”, or Dad, we were all honored to have had him as part of our lives. He was a genuinely kind man, good-humored, optimistic and generous. He loved his country and bore malice towards none. His loss is felt with great intensity. In lieu of flowers, James would be honored by donations in his name to one of the following charities: Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches Homes for Our Troops Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund Make-a-Wish Foundation St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital