Gerald (Jerry) Anthony Rath, 77, of Cuero passed away Monday, July 21, 2020.  He was born July 23, 1942 in Cuero to the late Alvin John Rath Sr. and Alice Mary Bitterly Rath.  He married Rose Marie Dreyer of Cuero on February 4, 1967 in Cuero at St. Michael's Catholic Church.  Jerry served in the National Guard and was an active member of the Meyersville Volunteer Fire Department, Meyersville Church Council and Meyersville School Board.  He was also a Green DeWitt Community Club Trustee and Secretary of Hochheim Prairie Farm Mutual Insurance Branch #9.  Jerry worked at Davis Plumbing and was the owner of Rath Dozer Service. For 29 years, he dedicated his service to Texas Eastern Pipeline Company where he worked as an operator.  Jerry enjoyed the country life…ranching, farming, driving his John Deere tractor, bulldozing and trimming trees.  He enjoyed loading his grandkids on his Ranger and riding around his property checking his cows, water gaps, fence lines and much more.  You would often find him making sausage with family and friends, spending time with his 9 grandchildren and caring for his wife, Rose.  Family was very important to Jerry.  He took pride in leading by example, caring for his wife, and loving his 3 children unconditionally.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Rose, of 53 years; son, Chris (Debbie) Rath of Cuero; daughters, Lisa (Kurt) Atkinson of Katy and Molly (Tom) Lowers of Katy; brother, AJ (Jane) Rath of Wharton; grandchildren, John Rath, Nathan Rath, David Rath, Adam Rath, Megan Atkinson, Emily Atkinson, Kayla Atkinson, Aidan Lowers and Grant Lowers.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Alice Rath of Cuero; brothers, Newton Rath of Cuero and William (Bill) Rath of Victoria and sister who died at birth.

Pallbearers include John Rath, Nathan Rath, David Rath, Adam Rath, Aidan Lowers, Grant Lowers, Blake Koepke and Cody Rath.  Honorary Pallbearers include Jerry's dear nephews: Steven Rath, Mark Rath, Aaron Rath, Matt Rath, Pat Rath, Bill Frederick and cousins: Erwin Rath and Mike Rath.

The family will hold a private rosary, funeral mass and burial with family and close friends.

Jerry and his family would like to take a moment to thank Karen Hahn for her 16 years of wonderful care she provided for Rose.  The care and compassion Karen provided, meant so much to the entire family.  Family would also like to thank Erma Gardner who has worked with Jerry and Rose for many years providing love and care, as well. The family would also like to thank all the doctors and nurses that helped Jerry throughout his medical journey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Freund Funeral Home to help ensure long term care of Jerry's wife, Rose. These were Jerry's wishes. Donations can also be made to St. Peter and Paul's Catholic Church of Meyersville where Jerry served as an active member for 40+ years.

You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com.

Freund Funeral Home, 361.275.2343.