Walter “Ozzie” Rathbun, 79, of Tyringham passed away peacefully Tuesday, Nov. 14, with his wife of 30 years, Mary Withers Rathbun, by his side.
Born Oct. 20, 1938, he was loved by so many people throughout his lifetime. Wherever he went, he made friends, and was always willing to lend a helping hand.
Walter proudly served in the U.S. Navy from Aug. 20, 1956, to Aug. 19, 1960. Ozzie worked in carpentry for Franklyn “Bull” Withers along with brother “Stretch.” Maytag employed Ozzie for many years, which is where he utilized his mechanical skills. For the past 22 years, he was an active member of the Evening Star Lodge in Lee. Ozzie enjoyed hunting and fishing when he wasn’t tinkering with the lawn mowers or weed whackers! Visiting Bull and Mark Withers in Hanover, Maine, was his favorite place to go.
Besides his wife, he leaves two children: William and Lisa Rathbun; three stepsons: Jeffrey, Kenny and Kris Herlihy; a sister: Louise DeVanna; eight in-law siblings: Lil Rathbun, Mark, Vint, Glenn, Kathy, Debra, Matthew and Stephen Withers. He also leaves many nieces and nephews. He will be missed by all.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. To send a donation, leave a message of condolence or share pictures, visit www.kellyfuneralhome.net.
