Kenneth Anthony Raab, Sr., age 75, of Rogersville, passed away Saturday, February 12, 2011. He was born March 19, 1935, in Tishomingo, Okla.
He graduated from Central High School in Springfield and attended Southwest Missouri State University. He patriotically served his country in the United States Navy. After returning from naval service in San Diego, Calif., he completed certification in jewelry repair and design and was an integral part of the Springfield jewelry industry for nearly 60 years. He owned Radford Jewelers for 26 years and was instrumental in helping young couples and families select quality pieces to represent their love and carry on family traditions.
Ken was a member of Immaculate Conception Parish and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He was an avid collector of a multitude of items, loved to watch old movies, and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. All who were fortunate to know him recognized his heart of gold.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William Charles Raab and Dorothy Breeden Raab Cook; son, Craig Robert Raab.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Betty Hyden Raab, of Rogersville; son, Kenneth Anthony Raab, Jr. and wife Donna Harter Raab, of Fredericksburg, Va.; son, Brent Douglas Raab and wife Michelle Wommack Raab, of Hollister; and daughter, Cheryl Ann Raab, of Rogersville; granddaughter, Jami Raab; and grandsons, Jeff Raab, Brian Raab, Jordan Raab, Tim Raab, and Austin Raab; sister, Betty Raab Roberts and husband James Roberts, of Springfield; and sister, Theresa Raab Bade and husband Niles Bade, of Springfield; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, February 16, 2010 with Rosary Service at 7 p.m., in Greenlawn Funeral Home North. Mass of Christian burial will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, February 17, 2011 in Immaculate Conception. Burial will be in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Humane Society.