Jimmy P. Rathbone

January 20, 1948 - July 23, 2024 

Jimmy “Jim” Paul Rathbone, 76, of Waterloo, died Tuesday, July 23, at his home.

He was born January 20, 1948, in Waterloo, the son of Lyle “Paul” and Gladine Rathbone. He married Leslie Starbuck on January 13, 1968, in Waterloo and they later divorced.

Jim graduated from Waterloo West High School in 1966. He then received his Associates Degree from Hawkeye Institute of Technology. Jim was employed as a police officer with the Waterloo Police Department from 1969 to when he retired in 1993.

During Jim’s (often known by many as “Bones”) retirement he stayed busy working various part time jobs, from farming to working with his daughter at the pharmacy. He also enjoyed spending his time playing the Pick 4 lottery every day, afternoon and night, meticulously caring for his cars and always making sure his dog, Mickey, had plenty of treats. Jim enjoyed working on projects and was known as the “fix it” guy who could fix anything. Everyone knew if you ever needed anything fixed to call Jim because he would have the part you needed saved somewhere.

Above all, the most important thing in Jim’s life was his family and friends. He always helped everyone with anything they ever needed. Birthdays and holidays were very special to him. He made sure everyone felt important on those days and loved having big holiday celebrations. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

Survivors include: his daughters, Kathryn (Kerry) Merrifield of Waterloo and Julie (David) Trebel of Woodbury, MN; seven grandchildren, Joshua, Nicholas, and Natalie Merrifield, Ashlyn, Kimberly, Lauryn and Addisyn Trebel; his brother, David Rathbone of Andover, KS and a nephew, Jacob Rathbone of Independence, MO.

Preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial Service: 1 p.m. Saturday, August 3, at Hagarty-Waychoff-Grarup Funeral Service on West Ridgeway. Public visitation from 11 am until the service time at the funeral home.

Memorials: may be directed to the family.