Marlene Myrtle Raether, age 87, of Cameron, WI, died Tuesday, December 23, 2025 in Barron, WI. She was born on February 12, 1938 in Sturgeon Bay, WI to Alfred and Ruth (Keller) Dahms. Marlene attended St. Peter’s Lutheran Grade School and then went to Algoma High School and graduated in 1956.

After graduation went to work in the office of DeBroux Auto Sales in Sturgeon Bay, worked in the office of Algoma Plywood and Veneer. Marlene was married to Thomas Raether and moved to Rice Lake where their son John was born. They moved to different areas as Thomas was with Rock Finance. After several moves, they came back to Rice Lake when David was born. Marlene worked part time selling Avon, Woolworths and also did childcare.

After the sons started school, she went to work in the Rice Lake School System at the Rice Lake High School Library and retired after 23 years. She enjoyed gardening, canning - tomatoes and vegetables, flowers, word puzzles, quilting, casinos, dancing and traveling.

Marlene also loved watching the Milwaukee Brewers and the Green Bay Packers. Marlene was a member of the Rice Lake Moose Lodge and the Bethany Lutheran Church, where she was very active in Quilting.

She was very well known and loved in the High School and in the community. Marlene was a very kind, sweet and thoughtful mother and friend. She would help out any family member and friend. She is survived by her 2 sons, John Raether (Misty) and David Raether; a sister, Margaret (Ray) Badovski; a brother, Larry (Mary Ann) Dahms; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Ruth Dahms; a brother, Dan (Anna Mae) Dahms; a significant other, Cecil Kippenhan and her ex-husband, Thomas Raether.

The family would like to thank Mayo Clinic Northland Hospital and St. Croix Hospice for the special care and love that was given to Marlene. Funeral Services will be held at 11AM Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Rice Lake, Rev. Sue Eidahl officiating.

Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the Funeral Service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials would be appreciated to Bethany Lutheran Church.

Last Update: Dec 24, 2025 7:19 am CST