Mrs. Ursula Rathke

Ursula Rathke, affectionately known as Ushi, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 6th, 2025 at the age of 87. Her final day was spent with her husband of 63 years, Dieter Rathke, a quiet reflection of the life they built together.

Born on December 6, 1938, in East Prussia, Ursula “Ushi” Rathke was the beloved daughter of Egon and Anna Kadschun, and grew up alongside her younger sister, Ila. She spent her early years in the village of Insterburg, near Koenigsberg, in the eastern part of Germany. In the last days of the war, she and her family escaped from their home and settled near Wolfenbuettel, where her family built a new life. In 1958, she married the love of her life, Dieter Rathke, and together they raised two sons, Thomas and Andy. The early years of their marriage were spent sharing a home with her parents. After 10 years, Ushi and Dieter built their first home in Braunschweig and then later settled in Berlin. In 1979, they relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina.

In her new home, Ushi became the heart of a vibrant community. Her generosity and quiet strength drew people in—she was a cherished friend, a gracious host, and a strong, comforting presence to all who knew her. As a devoted homemaker, Ushi did everything behind the scenes, creating a warm and stable foundation that allowed her husband and sons to flourish. She was the quiet architect of their success—her unwavering support, tireless dedication, and gentle encouragement shaped the lives of those she loved most. She was the steady hand behind her husband’s achievements, the gentle guide for her children, and the soul of every gathering.

In her midlife, Ushi found joy and vitality on the tennis court. Her love of fashion led her to open a boutique store called The Lioness, a reflection of her bold spirit and refined taste. She was also an avid traveler, having visited over 30 countries and almost every continent—each journey added another layer to her rich and adventurous life.

Her legacy lives on through the family she cherished. Her sons, Thomas and Andy; her daughters-in-law, Julia and Melanie; her granddaughters, Nicole, Anna, Allie, Kathryn, and Caitlin; and her great-grandchildren, Colby, Sutton, Camryn, and Tate—all carry forward her spirit of kindness, elegance, and quiet resilience. She is also survived by her sister, Ila Mohnke, and brother-in-law, Guenter, along with their two children, who were an important part of Ushi’s extended family and always held a special place in her heart.

Ushi’s life was a testament to enduring love and grace. Though she has left this world, her presence remains in every shared memory, every family tradition, and every heart she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A service to celebrate Ushi’s life will be held at 4:00 pm, Friday, September 19th, 2025, in the Chapel of the McEwen Funeral Service - Pineville Chapel, 10500 Park Road. The family will receive friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Susan G. Komen Foundation at www.komen.org.