Dorlan F. Rathke, 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 23, 2019.

Dorlan was born June 8, 1927 to Louise and Fred Rathke in Dupree, South Dakota. Dorlan was preceded in death by two brothers Dewey and Bud; as well as 2 sisters Sally Ludington and Marjorie McDougal, who passed away 4/28/19.

At the age of 18, during WWII, Dorlan entered the US Merchant Marines. Dorlan was previously married, and had 2 daughters: Diana Lynn Irons, husband Cecil and Jill Kathleen Kelley, husband Steve.

Dorlan leaves surviving grandchildren: Shannon Irons Leighton and Shad Reed; and 3 Great Grandchildren Isabella and Kaylee Leighton and Indie Jean Reed.

Dorlan later married Polly Hunter, and his life was further blessed with two daughters: Dr. Susan Wagner, husband Alan Stewart; and Rebecca Simmons, husband Jim; grandchildren, Sarah and Jimmy and 2 great grandchildren

Dorlan is also survived by his longtime companion of 25 years, Reva Blundell; her daughter and son-in-law, Nancee and Kevin Driscoll; and grandchildren, Mckena, Garett, and Logan. Dorlan is also survived by Reva's great-granddaughter, Jayda McNabb.

Dorlan left them with never-ending love and memories that will remain with them throughout their lives. They are grateful to be "forever pals" with him.

Dorlan was an avid outdoorsman who loved fly fishing and pheasant and deer hunting. He was also a skilled woodworker. Later in life he enjoyed antiquing, where he met Reva and they spent years enjoying the hobby together. Dorlan enjoyed spending time at Reva's cabin at Angostura Lake. Dorlan's presence will be significantly missed due to the space he occupied in the hearts of those he leaves behind. But as Dorlan always said, "Without goodbyes, there can never be hellos."

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 2, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Bob Jacobs officiating. Burial, with military honors, will be at 12:30 p.m. at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.