Donald L. Rackers

Donald L. Rackers, age 78, of Loose Creek, passed away Monday, April 21, 2014, at his residence with his loving wife and six children at his side. Donald was born on October 8, 1935, in Taos, a son to the late Ilde and Christine (Wimmer) Rackers. On November 23, 1957, he was united in marriage to Grace Backes at Immaculate Conception Church in Loose Creek. She survives at the home. Donald was employed at International Shoe Company, Tennyson Home Furniture, and Play-Mor Trailers. After retiring, he assisted his wife in her daycare, spoiling the kids. He enjoyed coon hunting, deer and squirrel hunting, fishing, and woodworking making bird and squirrel feeders, shelves and candleholders. Along with his wife, he is survived by: two sons, Bruce Rackers (friend Betty) of Bonnots Mill, and Leroy Rackers (wife Jenny) of Linn; four daughters, Cheryl Schulte (husband Sylvester) of Olean, Barb Kirsch (husband Andy) of Bonnots Mill, Nikkie Spratt (husband Dave) of Taos, and Melissa Koenigsfeld (husband Adam) of Rich Fountain; 12 grandchildren, five step-grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, six great-step-grandchildren and three great-grandchildren on the way; and two sisters, Mary Bell and Patricia Bracher. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by: two brothers, LeRoy and Arthur Rackers; one sister, Rosella Rackers; and two brother-in-laws, John Bell and Darrell Bracher. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2014, Morton Chapel in Linn with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 25, 2014, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Loose Creek with Fr. Don Antweiler as the celebrant. Interment will follow at the parish cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or Masses. Arrangements are under the direction of Morton Chapel, Linn, Mo. (573-897-2214) www.mortonchapel.com