Robert Rathbun, 74, of Elkton, passed away on Monday, May 2, 2022, at the Brookings Hospital.  Family will hold a celebration of Robert's life on Saturday, May 14, 2022, at the Izaak Walton Clubhouse located in Huron, South Dakota beginning at 1:00 P.M.

Robert Lee Rathbun was born on September 28, 1947, to Cyril and Rosella (Smith) Rathbun in San Diego, CA.  The family also lived in Pleasant Grove and Washington Mn. Robert began attending country school starting with 1 ^st grade.  He graduated from high school in 1965 in Spring Valley, MN.  On March 25, 1967, Robert was united in marriage to Alita Comstock, and the couple had two children.

In April of 1966, Robert joined the United States Navy, proudly serving his country until his honorable discharge in 1970.  During his service he was stationed on the naval base in Oak Harbor, WA on Whidbey Island, as well as on board the USSA Ranger Aircraft Carrier during the Vietnam War.  Robert served as a petty officer as a mechanic and fabricator as well as volunteering for aviation duty.  Robert was discharged from the Navy Reserve in January of 1972.

Throughout his life Robert held many interests.  He was the manager of Good Year Tires stores for over 43 years.  He was a member of the Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Huron, South Dakota.  Robert also enjoyed hunting, snowmobiling, fishing, and winemaking.  In his younger years, Robert enjoyed riding horses.  In the early 90's he purchased Belgian draft horses, and he and his wife enjoyed wagon training with friends and family.

Robert is survived by his wife, Alita Comstock Rathbun; children: Mashell Rathbun Bernard and Dave Bernard, and Matthew Rathbun and Kristen Dehne Rathbun; grandkids: Justin and Kayla Aden, Kaishia Bernard Anderson and husband David Anderson, and Lee Bernard; great-grandkids: Hunter, Addie, Magnolia (Maggie), Lylah, Tren, Spencer, Logan, and Ryan.  Siblings: Joan Lex,  Charlie Rathbun (Audrey Rathbun) Steve Rathbun (Vicki Rathbun) Cyrilla Trende ( Mike Trende) Chris Stackhouse (Terry Stackhouse)  Julie Harris ( Ron Harris) and Bridget Rathbun.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Cyril Rathbun and Rosella Smith Rathbun; brothers: Mike Rathbun and Gene Riddle; and a brother-in-law, Loren Lex.