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John "Pete" Rathmell, 88, of Central Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of military service, conservation, education and devotion to family.
Pete was a proud United States Air Force Cold War Strategic Air Command aircrew veteran, serving his country for three and one-half years beginning in 1958. The values, discipline, leadership and practical skills he acquired during his military service became the foundation for a lifetime of service to his community, his profession and his family.
Following his time in the Air Force, Pete devoted approximately 30 years to education. As a Biology teacher at Bucktail High School, he inspired generations of students through innovative teaching, hands-on learning experiences and a passion for the environment.
At the same time, Pete served for nearly three decades as a Pennsylvania Deputy Game Protector. His commitment to wildlife conservation and ethical stewardship of natural resources earned him a lifetime achievement award from the PA Game Commission.
Widely recognized as a leading deer and bear expert, Pete built a distinguished reputation as a forensic wildlife biologist. His expertise was sought in wildlife investigations, research and conservation efforts, and his knowledge of Pennsylvania's forests and wildlife populations was considered extraordinary. Through decades of study and field experience, he became a trusted authority on the wildlife and habitats he cherished.
An intrepid world traveler and legendary woodsman, Pete possessed an unparalleled understanding of the backcountry and the mountains of Central Pennsylvania. He was a tracker, hunter, naturalist, mentor and conservationist whose knowledge was freely shared with anyone willing to learn.
Pete was devoted to family. He shared 67 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Donna (Good) Rathmell, whose love and partnership were the foundation of his life. Though he is reunited with her now, those who knew them will remember the strength of their bond and the life they built together.
Pete is survived by his brother, William "Bill," and a sister, Marilyn (Rathmell) Short. He was a proud and loving father to his sons, John, III, Barry and Steve. He cherished his grandchildren, Madeline, Megan, Sarah Jane, John "Jack", IV, Sophie, Katie and Ben; and his great-grandchildren, Steve, Ben and Charles.
Pete was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donna, and his great-grandson, Christopher.
John "Pete" Rathmell was a "one of a kind" man, who attacked life with a down-home practicality and wisdom from a bygone era. As Henry Adams observed, "A teacher has a kind of immortality; because he or she never knows when their sphere of influence stops radiating."
"Some people walk through the woods. Pete grew up as part of them. His knowledge was vast, his service was selfless and his love for family, country and the natural world was unwavering. The trails he blazed and the lives he touched will never be forgotten."
Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements are under the direction of Gedon Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, LLC, 121 W. Main St., Lock Haven, Pa.
Thoughts and memories can be made at the Gedon Funeral Homes Facebook page or www.GedonFuneralHomes.com