Wilma E Rathjen

Wilma Elsa Rathjen (nee Weiss), age 91, passed away on January 3, 2021. She was born May 24, 1929 in Jersey City, New Jersey to Karl and Wilhelmine Weiss (nee Riede). She lived in Franklin Lakes for 57 years and most recently at the Christian Health Care Center in Wyckoff, NJ.

She married Julius “Fred” Rathjen, on April 18, 1953 who predeceased her in 2017. Fred and Wilma were happily married for 64 years. Yes, these two predated the “Flintstones” cartoon. In fact, for those who knew them, the Rathjens may have even inspired the show!

Wilma lived a full life as a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, homemaker and secretary for PSE&G.

She loved to cook, bake, sew, had a passion for birds, and earned the title of Master Gardener. She was an active member of Advent Lutheran Church in Wyckoff where she taught Sunday School and was a member of the LCW. Wilma was an avid reader and was actively involved with the League of Women Voters. She also shared her love of chocolate and potato chips with all who knew her.

Wilma is survived by her two loving children, Scott Rathjen of Warwick, NY and Mayna Rightmire and her husband Michael of Oakland, NJ; grandchildren, Christopher Rightmire, Brittany Rightmire, and Derek Rathjen.

A private family ceremony will take place in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christian Health Care Center https://christianhealthcare.org/donate/

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