Vernon Rabe

Vernon (Bud) Rabe, child of God, was born on April 29, 1929 in Kroschel, MN, a farming community northwest of Hinckley, MN. He was the fifth and youngest child born to Herman and Annie Rabe. He passed on to his heavenly home on March 12, 2025. Preceding him in death were his parents, his brothers Harold (Pearl) and Walter (Lindy) Rabe, his sisters, Eleanor (Elmer) Lindeen and Ruth (Al) Lindroth, his first wife Carol Nelson Rabe and several nieces and nephews. Bud is survived by his three sons Michael (Chato), Christopher, David (Michael); his wife, LaDonna Reynolds, and many nieces and nephews who were an important part of his family. He was also a step-father to Jason and David (Pam) Reynolds and a step-grandfather to Kyle, Kate, Jack and Ally Reynolds.

During the Korean War from 1951 - 1953, Bud served in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. He returned as a veteran and immediately sought work. He worked in construction, served 10 years as a bus driver for the Metropolitan Bus Service and worked 25 years in maintenance in the Oil Refinery, south of St. Paul. He was awarded a Commendation of Merit for helping save another man's life while on the job.

After retirement, he and his first wife, Carol, moved to Florida where they spent their winters for 25 years, returning to Minnesota in the summers. He also worked in retirement as a Funeral Assistant with his son, David. He enjoyed baseball, softball and golf.

He was active in his church as a ministry volunteer and had an active prayer life. This was a man who loved his Lord, had an easy smile, had a kind and grateful heart, a warm and loving presence, and he was blessed with God's goodness!

A service of celebration of Bud's life will be held at Westwood Lutheran Church, 9001 Cedar Lake Road, St. Louis Park, MN on Thursday, March 20 at 11:00. Family and friends may gather at 10:00. Lunch will be served following the service. Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer Association or to Westwood Lutheran Church.

Link to church livestream: Vernon Rabe Livestream