February 10, 1930 - April 3, 2026
George Martin Rabe, age 96, entered God’s loving embrace on April 3, 2026. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri on February 10, 1930, the son of Fredrick and Florence (née, Weiss). He was named after his uncle, the baseball legend George Martin Weiss (Baseball Hall of Fame).
George considered a life in ministry, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Friedrich. He studied theology in Nebraska for a little while. One of George’s favorite hymns was “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.” In Psalm 46:1, it says that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” George loved to study Greek and Bible history. He taught many Bible classes in church settings throughout the years.
George grew up in Dallas, attending the same Lutheran church as his beloved wife Ann (née, Teel). They were married at this church on July 14, 1967, and would have celebrated 59 years of marriage this summer. George and Ann also attended Highland Park High School, graduating different years. George went on to study at the University of Texas where he majored in art. He was an accomplished painter, specializing in portraits and landscapes. He was also a photographer in the Army. In addition to art, George’s father taught him about engineering. In 1973, George, Ann, and their two sons moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he worked for Cargill. George rode a bicycle to work, weather permitting, where he specialized in grain cooling systems. He also worked as a driver for Martin Luther Campus in Bloomington. During those years, he was a regular swimmer at one of the indoor pools at a local school. After retiring, George became a docent at the Minneapolis Institute of Art for 20 years. He especially enjoyed leading the children’s tours.
George is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Fred and Dick. He is survived by his dear wife Ann, and their two sons Erik and Kirk (Heidi) Rabe. Their family enjoyed ski trips, working on Volkswagen Beetles, and fishing. George and Ann shared many happy summer days in a log cabin at Cross Lake, north of the Twin Cities. George also had a good work ethic, raking leaves and shoveling snow even during the last months of his life. He will be remembered by his family and friends as smart and kind-hearted with a quick wit. Recently, when asked about his favorite church song, George replied, “Jesus Loves Me.”
George was laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on April 9, 2026.