Freddy Larry Rathel

Freddy L. Rathel, 87, of Winchester, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, in Winchester, Virginia. Born on September 21, 1938, in Iron City, Georgia, Freddy was the son of the late Lonie Rathel and Daisy Harlow Rathel. He was also preceded in death by his wives, Peggy Carey Rathel and Colleen Rathel, along with 13 siblings. Freddy is survived by his loving children, Lisa R. Leckie of Front Royal, Virginia, and Christopher S. Rathel (Laura) of Winchester, Virginia; stepdaughters Sandra G. Dodson and Robin G. Rodgers (Keith), both of Winchester, Virginia; and his cherished grandchildren Emma Kerns (Cohen), Addison Rathel, Sidney Rathel, Jace White, Noah White, Holly Parker (Mark), Heather Wilson (Jason), and Stephanie Duvall (Brice), all of Winchester, Virginia. He is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews. After graduating from high school, Freddy proudly served his country in the United States Army. Following his military service, he began a long career with the United States Government at the Mount Weather Facility in Bluemont. After retirement, he continued serving others through his work with Project HOPE before dedicating his time and heart to Heart Havens, an organization devoted to empowering adults with developmental disabilities. Freddy had a passion for golf and tennis and especially treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren, rarely missing their activities and events. His faith was a guiding force throughout his life, and he was a lifelong member of Reliance United Methodist Church and its Men’s Group. A Celebration of Life will be held at Reliance United Methodist Church, located at 70 Cauthorn Mill Road, Middletown, Virginia, on June 28th 2026 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Heart Havens, 7501 Boulders View Drive, Suite 205, Richmond, VA 23225, or Legacy Palliative Care, 600 Pegasus Court, Suite 100A, Winchester, VA 22602. Chris and Lisa would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Legacy Palliative Care for the compassion, love, and care they showed their stubborn dad during his final months.

Freddy Larry Rathel

September 21, 1938 - May 26, 2026