Leonard D. Rahe, 84, of Hiawatha, died peacefully surrounded by his family at his home Thursday afternoon, October 2, 2014.

Leonard was born at Palmer, Kansas, November 30, 1929, one of thirteen children born to the late Edwin and Hulda Meyer Rahe.  He grew up at Linn where he attended schools prior to graduating high school.  Leonard proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict, with the United States Air Force.  He entered the service in October 1950, served as a crew chief in a fighter squadron,  discharged at the rank of staff sergeant in August 1954.  He was the sales manager for 30 years at MoorMan’s Manufacturing Company,  which produced livestock feed, retiring in 1988.  After retirement, he drove a school bus for Hiawatha Public Schools, prior to driving the taxi for Brown County Services for the Elderly for a number of years.

Mr. Rahe was a longtime and dedicated member of Zion Lutheran Church of Hiawatha where he had been very active through the years.  He served as Elder, treasurer, the building committee, and the Lutheran Laymen’s League of the Church.  Leonard was a member of the Homer-White American Legion Post #66, of Hiawatha.  During the kids’ growing up years, he always involved and supportive in their sporting event.  He still enjoyed all sporting events.

Leonard married Peggy “Peg” Timme, May 10, 1953, at Linn.  They have made Hiawatha their home nearly all of their married life.  She survives of the home.

Also surviving are three sons:  Randy Rahe (Nola) of Libertyville, IL, Professor John Rahe (Heidi)of Rensselaer, IN, Dr. Brad Rahe (Megan) of Mulvane, KS; two daughters:  Tammy Sisk (Scott) of Highland, Sandy Lewis of St. Joseph, MO; 11 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchilden.  Leonard is also survived by three brothers:  Raymond Rahe, Wilmer Rahe, Ed Rahe; three sisters:  Nola McAfee, Marilyn Weise, Mary Lange; with many nieces and nephews.

Leonard was also preceded in death by brothers:  Lester, Laverne, Richard, Norman; two  sisters: Alice Spreer, and Elva.

A Celebration of Leonard’s life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 8, at Zion Lutheran Church of Hiawatha.  Reverend Michael Dunaway will officiate.  Cremation will follow service.  Military honors will be a courtesy of the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after 9 a.m. Tuesday where the family will meet from 6 until 8 that evening.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Lutheran Hour or Zion Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, which may be left in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434. 

 A special message may be made be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneral home.com.