Carol Lee Hlavka was born on April 12, 1938 to Edward and Mary Rowena (Mehrhof) Hlavka at Faith, SD.
She grew up on the family homestead at Plainview, SD along with younger brothers Roger and Billy. She had fond memories of riding her horse Biscuit to the Plainview school as well as riding with her dad to the Cheyenne river breaks to get their Christmas tree. The family lost their house and all their belongings to a fire when she was a young girl.
Carol stayed with her grandma Eleanor Stehno in Sturgis to attend high school, graduating in 1956.
On September 30, 1956 she married the man of her dreams, Dewey D. Rathke in Sturgis, SD. They made their home on lower Alkali creek working for Walter (Buster) and Gladys Strong and Gurland Lloyd. Strong and Rathke partnership was later formed.
Carol and Dewey’s family grew to include five daughters; Mary Ellen, Nancy, Becky, Kathy, and Doreen. Mom’s Bohemian heritage helped build her character. Profoundly stubborn, determined and strong willed were the traits that defined her. She worked hard at everything she did. Mom always baked bread for her family along with fresh churned butter and homemade jams and jellies. She excelled at sewing, canning, and could grow anything and everything.
On October 28, 1974, her life was forever changed when Dewey and brother Roger were killed in a tragic plane wreck in Colorado. She moved to Sturgis and worked various jobs before opening her beloved shop “Carol’s Consignment.”
She made a few more moves over her lifetime to include the Nisland area, Spearfish, the Alkali ranch, Sturgis, and Rapid City. Mom loved playing cards, going to Deadwood, and Bud Light. Her favorite dog was “Pal”.
She will be greatly missed and survived by daughters: Nancy (Todd) Collins, Becky (Ron) Merwin, Kathy (Tim) Hughes, and Dory (Todd) Rathke. Along with 23 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, and numerous grand fur babies.
She was proceeded in death by her husband, brother, parents, and grandchildren Jeffrey Ross Collins, LeeAnn (Merwin) Hanks, and Shannon (Rafferty) Russell.
She was also proceeded in death by a former husband, Wendy Richter.
“It’s time to say so long.” – Carol Burnette
There will be a private family service.
The family would like to thank the staff at Morningstar for their love and support they extended to Carol. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.
