Eileen “Kay” Koebcke Rater
The world has lost a woman of poise, positivity, selflessness, and grace. Kay, of Monon, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Oct. 18. She will be sorely missed by many who loved her dearly. Kay was the youngest child born to Chris and Eva Koebcke on Nov. 24, 1935. Kay married the love of her life, William Rater on May 22, 1955.
Kay was a “homemaker” and mother above all else. Her greatest joy in life was being a devoted wife to her husband, mother to her four children, loving grandmother to her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
Once her children were in school, Kay began yet another endeavor. Many will remember Kay as the lovely, polite bank teller who worked tirelessly to solve their banking needs. She was to do this for 31 years. Forever the adventurer, Kay loved to bowl and was on a league with her gal pals for many years. She talked often and fondly of her unforgettable trip to Hawaii with her beloved husband and friends, Carole/Glenn Perry and Barb/Denny Bailey. What a grand time they had! The friendships and life that Kay and Bill built together living in Monon were treasures to her.
Kay leaves behind quite a legacy. She is survived by her children: Vic [Charlotte] Rater, Mitch Rater and Shelly Steinkamp; wonderful grandchildren: Bill [Kim] Rater, Steve [Heather] Rater, Toni [Frank] Conley and Colson Steinkamp. Kay was GREAT. She also leaves behind 11 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; and one sister, Janet Robinson.
Kay was preceded in death by her parents; siblings Richard [Wilma] Koebcke and Ruby Pardue. Kay’s biggest heartbreaks were the unexpected loss of her son, Tony Rater in 1978 and her beloved husband, Bill, in 2017. Kay would want to be remembered as a woman of honor who loved her family beyond measure.
A celebration of Kay’s life was held on Friday, Oct. 28. Visitation was at The First Christian Church of Francesville from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. with a memorial service following at 1 p.m. with Pastor James Ketchen officiating.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Southern Care Hospice or to the First Christian Church of Francesville.
Family and Friends Funeral Home of Wingate is assisting Kay’s family.
Visit us online at www.familyandfriendsfh.com to sign the guest book or share a condolence.
(Pulaski County Journal — Nov. 2, 2022)