 I did not know that Art passed away in late 2018. Art was my father's first cousin - Claude Pasco  Oliver, Jr., whose mother was Clyde Clara (Rainer) Oliver.  I have known Art and his sweet wives all of my life. We saw one another at a number of  Rainer family reunions, and in one another's homes because we shared a passion for documenting  family history.   When I was first beginning to delve into researching Rainer's,  it was Art who patiently and very generously took me under his wing. We spent great times sharing, what were to us,   special "finds".   Later in life when  Art was done with that pursuit, he asked me to continue the journey, which I have done.  When I became home-bound in 2009,  he was so sweet to drop by for visits. I clearly remember and cherish our last one. Dad and I tried  to keep in touch with Art after he and Janet moved into an assisted living situation, and later to another.  Our phone calls never seemed to make a  connection with Art after a point.   Dad used to get so fired up when he could not see or talk to Art.  After many struggles to care for Dad at home by his family and care givers, at 92 broke his neck, survived surgery,  and died four months later on August  29, 2019. Even during those last few months, Dad kept asking to see or speak with Art.  I am really saddened by Art's passing, which I learned of yesterday after one of my calls to his residence. I knew when all they would tell me was that he no longer lived there.   Although belated,  I want to extend my sympathy for their great loss to Art's family.  I am comforted by the knowledge that God, in his infinite wisdom and mercy, gave Art, Dad, and the loved ones waiting to welcome both, the ultimate family reunion.   

I met Mr. Art Rainer 15 or 20 years ago.  He was friend of my grandparents, Art & Evelyn Hall, whom also shared in his love for Peoria Cemetery.  Over the years as I escorted my grandparents to all of the Board meetings and activities at the Cemetery,  I became a great admirer of this kind man. Recently, I spent the last 3 years serving on the Board with Mr. Art and was constantly in awe of his knowledge and dedication to the Cemetery. 

Joe and family, please know Mr. Art will be greatly missed and was loved by all who knew him.   From my family to yours we send our love, prayers and deepest condolences. 

Rest In Peace Mr. Art ❤️

Tracy & Robert Hinton
Tracy Hinton

Dear Joe and family,
Our prayers for comfort go out to you and the family for the loss of your dad.   Please realize that his passing is a loss for all who knew him.  He was such a wonderful and noble friend.  He and Janet opened their home and hearts to so many.  His generosity and devotion to his passions where revealed every time we met;  love of his family, his adventurous nature, and that  endless energy.   I was often spellbound  by stories of  his travels and the amount of knowledge he possessed about Peoria Cemetery.  The  countless hours of work he bestow on that hallow ground is staggering.  For over 50 years, the  fact that he never wavered from his chosen duties again  proves how honorable a man he was. 
Mr. Art's life, family, and work are all proof of his spirit, a spirit that remained young no matter his age.  I will  miss him  and his friendship, for it was truly a gift.
My sincerest  condolence,  Melanie Tharp

The times I  have been blessed to be around this quiet gentle man he made me feel most welcome & comfortable.  Always a gentleman & I love how he loved his family  & his wife.  Joe I’m sorry you must say good bye to your father.  I know you & your family will miss him greatly. I pray your hearts will be comforted. 



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Art was predeceased by his wife, Lucille Futch Rainer and their infant son, Lee. His surviving family members include wife, Janet Rainer; daughter, Alecia Stark (Robert); daughter, Carol Theiler (Peter); son, Joe Rainer (Cindy); grandchildren, Cristy (Wendell); David; Jay (Tanya); Lisa (Jeff); Larry (Karen); Cara; Jana (Justin); and nine great-grandchildren.

OBITUARY

Arthur "Art" Rainer

December 17, 1922 – December 26, 2018

Hardage - Giddens Holly Hill Funeral Home

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