My loving and devoted wife died tragically, along with her cherished Scotties in a house fire on Sunday morning, March 25, 2018.
Rae-Ellen was born in Kenosha on November 13, 1952, daughter of the late Willford and Charlotte (nee: Racine) Kubarth. The family moved to Racine in the 1960’s, where Rae attended Starbuck and Case High School, graduating in 1970.
With the exception of a stint at Turnstyle Dept. Store, her working life revolved around the medical field in which she served as a Nurses Aid and then a Surgical Secretary, working at St. Lukes Hospital, St. Catherine’s Hospital, and Highland Park Hospital. Rae had a lot of empathy and compassion for people in need, and it served her well in this field. Rae was also well known for her love for animals, namely dogs, of which we shared the company of numerous breeds our entire married life-Scottish Terriers were her favorites (lastly owning a family of three).
In 1978 Rae was united in marriage to Paul Mahnke, and together they enjoyed their passion for fishing, going to flea markets, and auctions, and sampling various foods (Rae was a very good cook) and loved to share her culinary adventures with other people. Rae is further survived by her brothers David Kubarth of Racine, and Michael (Stephanie) Kubarth of Paris; mother-in-law Delores Mahnke; and an extended family of relatives and friends. She was also preceded in death by her aunt Arlene Butterworth; cousin John Butterworth; and her grandparents, of which Gramma Nell held a special place in her heart.
At this time a private ceremony will be held, and a celebration of Rae’s life will be held at a later date.
My wife suffered from the disabling effects of diabetes for many years and now I feel is at peace. Donations can be made in Rae’s name to the Humane Society or a Diabetes Charity.
Anonymous says
Our prayers and thoughts are with.
Tom and Mary Popa
Merry and Steve Mertins says
We were very sorry to hear of Rae’s passing. If there is anything we can do, please don’t hesitate to call. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and we pray you feel God’s presence and peace.
Kim Carlson DeLaO says
So sorry for your loss, Paul.
Chris and Lisa Hillyer says
We are so saddened to hear of Rae’s tragic death. Our deepest sympathies, Paul. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Nancy Czechowicz says
I am so sorry Paul, for the loss of Rae. You have been in my thoughts and my prayers.
Jeremy Thompson says
I will always love you and will never forget! Thank you for being by my side all these years! You will always be my second mother!
Tricia Crawford says
Paul and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Tricia
Louise Gross says
I’m sorry to hear of your loss.
Jill Boyd says
Dear Paul,
I am so sorry for your loss of Rae and your dogs. You are in my thoughts.
Brian & Mary Jensen says
Paul and family, our heartfelt condolences on the tragic loss of Rae-Ellen. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
mary ellen anderson says
so sorry paul, for your loss of rae ellen. saw you guys at the clinic last year at the clinic and she persuaded me to get a dog.. which I did. it’ll be tough for you, but you’ll have all of your memories.
mary ellen anderson says
So sorry to hear of Rae’s passing Paul.Thank God for memories
Jim Poplawski says
Deepest Sympathy on your loss.
Jim ‘DOC’ Poplawski, Chairman, UAW Local 180 Retirees
Curtis Enselman says
Sorry for your loss
Tina Kirk says
So sorry Paul. This is Tina from Meals on Wheels and I will cherish the talks and visits with Rae. Everyone that delivered to her is feeling her loss. One driver emailed and wanted you to know that Rae was their favorite person to deliver to, always friendly and appreciative of their efforts to cheer up her day. They send their condolences.
Steve Croll & Thandi Bergfalk says
Dear Paul, We are so very sorry to learn of Rae’s death. Our condolences and prayers for you during this terrible time.
Todd and Kellie Butterworth says
Paul–
Though Rae and I fell out of touch across the years, I will be forever appreciative of the way she always looked out for grandma, and particularly her loving care when she came all the way to Nevada to be with my mom in her last days of cancer. Rae didn’t have any kids, but she was a mother at heart, looking out for those around her.
Kellie and I are so sorry for your loss but take heart in the love and dedication you two showed one another for 40 years; we appreciate your inspiring example! We’ll be in the Racine area in August and will make a point of looking you up.
Be well and God bless. We’ll be praying for God to give you comfort, strength, and good memories to get you though the months ahead.
Sue Leiting says
Paul,
I am so sorry. Rae was one off the first to welcome me to the neighborhood when I moved. I loved chatting with her on the back patio. I will always remember that voice and her laugh. My heart goes out to you.