Shirley Jo Rathbun, 83, passed away Dec. 24, 2015, in Moscow. She was the daughter of Arnold and Cleo Anderson. Shirley was born August 7, 1932, in Elk City, Idaho. She attended elementary school in Moscow and high school in Pullman. She married the love of her life, Loris Rathbun on Dec. 2, 1950, in Lewiston, Idaho. Shirley had many part-time jobs through the years, but the best and hardest job was as a stay-at-home mom. She was a hard working devoted wife and mother, transforming the house Loris built for the family into a home. She enjoyed the flower gardens in their yard, canning the variety of vegetables Loris grew in their gardens, crocheting afghans and watching the birds that flocked to her bird feeders along with the many squirrels that stole the bird food. She was also a die-hard Raiders fan.
Shirley is survived by her husband of 65 years, Loris Rathbun, of Moscow; two sons, Arnie Rathbun and wife, Terri, of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and Vince Rathbun of Moscow; one granddaughter, Patty Patterson, of Lewiston; her sister and best friend, Betty Markley, of Hauser Lake, Idaho; two nephews, Doug and Larry Markley; and numerous other nieces and nephews on the Rathbun side of the family.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. The family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Shirley's honor.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Short's Funeral Chapel of Moscow and condolences may be left at www.shortsfuneralchapel.com.
