Charles "Charlie" W. Rabe

Charles “Charlie” W. Rabe, age 83, of rural Oskaloosa, Kansas, passed away on Friday, October 31, 2025.

He was born on May 31, 1942, in Topeka, the son of Jacob G. and Elizabeth O. (Schaefer) Rabe. Charlie grew up in the Little Russia neighborhood, where adventure was never far away. From an early age, his quick wit, good humor, and storytelling became part of who he was. He attended St. Joseph Grade School, graduated from Hayden High School, and remained a lifelong member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where he was baptized and later married.

On July 28, 1962, Charlie married his sweetheart, Sharon Ann Koehler, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Together, they built a loving home and raised two daughters who were the center of their lives. Their family was filled with laughter, weekend adventures, and time spent together outdoors. When Sharon became ill, Charlie stepped in as the steady hand and source of strength for the family. Their 27 years together were full of love, and her passing in 1990 left a lasting ache in his heart.

Charlie worked his entire career with the Santa Fe Railroad, retiring as a Carman. He was never one to sit still and found peace in the great outdoors. Whether boating at Lake Perry, sitting quietly in his tree stand, or simply watching wildlife around his rural home, he found joy in the simplicity of nature. He loved his horses, cared deeply for animals, and found beauty in the world around him.

He and Sharon once owned and operated Slough Creek Bait Shop at Lake Perry, helping others make the most of their time at the lake. Charlie also enjoyed cheering for the KU Jayhawks and KC Chiefs, watching old westerns, and working on his classic cars.

More than anything, Charlie loved his family. His daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren brought him the greatest joy and pride. He will be remembered for his generosity, his steady kindness, and his willingness to help anyone in need. Family was at the heart of everything Charlie did, and together he and Sharon even opened their home to foster a young boy, showing that love always had room to grow.

Survivors include his two cherished daughters, Kelly D. Schuster (Troy) and Lisa A. Vinning. He leaves behind his seven loving grandchildren, Kyle Schmidtlein (Chelsea), Sharon Amanda Mirsch (Matthew), Mallory Schmidtlein, Madison Schmidtlein, Christopher Schuster, Cameron Schuster, and Brianna Schuster; as well as four beloved great-grandchildren, Levon, Merrick, Chandler, and Marley.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sharon; siblings, Jacob Rabe, Bobby Rabe, James Rabe, Gerald Rabe, Ruth Robinson and Joan Wolff.

Charlie will lie in state from 9:30-10:30 A.M., followed by a rosary at 10:30 A.M., on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 A.M., at the church.

Charlie will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife at 1:00 P.M., on Friday, November 7, at Mt. Calvary Cemetery-Topeka.

Memorial contributions can be made in Charlie's memory to St. Joseph Catholic Church in care of the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.