Thurman Dean Rabitsch
Thurman Dean Rabitsch, 76, died Wednesday, January 16, 2013, at his residence.
Dean Rabitsch was born in Millen to the late Tom Rabitsch and Claudia Burke Rabitsch.
A sister, Patricia A. Rabitsch, preceded him in death.
He served in the U. S. Air Force Reserves. Mr. Rabitsch was very active during his high school years in Millen, where he served as vice-president of his class, was in the Beta Club, Student Council, HI-Y Club which instilled high standards of Christian character. He was an avid sports player playing and lettering in football, basketball, baseball, track and tennis. After graduation he attended Southern Technical Institute and obtained an Industrial Engineering Degree.
Mr. Rabitsch moved to Monticello in 1966, and was the President of the Monticello Bobbin Company. In 1975, he left the Bobbin Mill and founded Poly Tech Industries with his late wife, Gloria Starr Rabitsch. His desire to be involved within the community carried over in his career in Monticello where he was actively involved in the Jaycees, Kiwanis, the Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Jasper County Industrial Park Committee.
Mr. Rabitsch started a girl’s softball league, the monthly bus skating ministry, and several youth groups such as the 4T’s for Christ. He loved his church and was an active member and deacon of Monticello Baptist Church. He was a founding parent of Piedmont Academy and was actively involved in several local organizations.
Survivors include his wife, Marsha Amos Rabitsch of Monticello; children and spouses, Tammy and Tim Boggs of Monticello, Jimmy and Michelle Rabitsch of Covington, and Patty Batchelor of Monticello; grandchildren, Shawn Lynch, Cliff Lynch, Jeremy Blackmon, and Starr Batchelor; and great-granddaughter, Yasmine Lynch.
Funeral services were held Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013, at Monticello Baptist Church. Interment was held in West View Cemetery. Dr. Robert Whitmire and Rev. Stan Patterson officiated.
Pallbearers were Shawn Lynch, Cliff Lynch, Tim Boggs, Robert McMichael, Thurman Willis, Jr., and Sterling Floore. Honorary pallbearers were the Monticello Baptist Church Adult IV Sunday School Class and Poly Tech Employees.
The family suggests in lieu of flowers donations be made to Monticello Baptist Church, 334 W. Greene Street, Monticello, GA 31064; or the Georgia Sheriff’s Association Youth Homes, P.O. Box 1000, Stockbridge, GA 30281.
Jordan Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. For more information, visit its website at www.jordanfuneralhome monticello.com.