David Gleason Rathbun, 84, of Nisland, SD passed away on Sunday, June 16 at his home on the farm.

David was born on August 18, 1934 in Freemont, Nebraska to Marion Joy and Jack Rathbun. The family later moved to his grandfather's farm in Nisland.  David attended school in Nisland, graduating in 1952.  He enlisted in the United States Army and served as a trained medic in Europe.  After his time in the service he attended Black Hills State College where he played football and there he met Lynn Arithson.  The two were married on May 31, 1958. David and Lynn lived on the family farm where they raised sheep and sugar beets.  He was one of the best bean, corn, and alfalfa farmers and also a master irrigator.

He is survived by his children, Turner Rathbun, Belle Fourche, and Jeffrey Rathbun, Nisland; and grandchildren, Joshua Pummel, Spearfish, Meredith Pummel, Belle Fourche, and Samantha Coats of Missouri.

David was preceded in death by his wife, Lynn; his parents, Jack and Marion Rathbun; and his brother, Grove Rathbun.

He will forever be remembered for his colorful story telling ability, love of agriculture and history, and his ability to lighten the mood.

Memorials are being established to the Butte County Ambulance and the Humane Society of Spearfish.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm, Friday, June 21, 2019 at St. James Lutheran Church in Belle Fourche. Inurnment will follow at 3:00 pm at Black Hills National Cemetery with Sturgis Volunteer Honor Guard and the US Army providing military honors.  There will be refreshments at the farm immediately following the burial and all are welcome to attend.