Obituaries

J. David Rabe, age 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 24, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Hospice. Born in Covington, Kentucky, to Ferdinand A. and Aurelia (Hellmann) Rabe.

He was a graduate of St. Henry High School where he participated in both boxing and basketball. Dave worked as a skilled and proud Local 212 Electrician, embodying hard work and expertise throughout his tradesmanship.

Following his retirement, Dave truly found his element under the open sky, dedicating his life to the careful stewardship of his lands. He was deeply passionate about caring for his farms, transforming them into thriving spaces where he raised cows and nurtured his animals.

An avid horseman at heart, Dave found his ultimate joy and freedom in horseback riding, constantly exploring nature and finding peace on long trail rides. Above all else, he loved to yard sale and spend precious time with his family, frequently gathering everyone together for their weekly cherished breakfast tradition.

Dave was the devoted husband of the late Barbara Rabe (nee Simpson), with whom he shared 62 beautiful years of marriage. He was the loving father of Julie Glassmeyer (Don), Susan Trenkamp (Nick), David Rabe (Ginny), Steven Rabe, Andrea Behne (Tony), Nicole Jordan (Eric), and Daniel Rabe. He also leaves behind a legacy of love as the proud grandfather of fourteen and great-grandfather to twenty-one.

He is survived by his dear siblings, Francis Rabe and Carol Ann Readnour. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his beloved siblings, Ferd A. Rabe, Jr., George F. Rabe, Walter J. Rabe, and Mary Aurelia Rice. He was the brother-in-law of Mark Simpson (Nancy) and Mary Ann Scheper and Jan Rabe. Dave will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by a multitude of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Visitation will be held Saturday, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 348 Dudley Road, Edgewood, KY 41017, followed by Mass of Christian Burial.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to either St. Elizabeth Hospice, 483 South Loop Road, Edgewood, KY 41017, or The Point Arc of Northern Kentucky, 104 West Pike Street, Covington, KY 41011.