Christine (Christy) Marie Rath, 61, of Oelwein, IA, passed away at her home on February 8, 2026. 

Christy was born on December 26, 1964, to Marian and Patricia (Freese) Wise. She attended Wapsie Valley High School. In 1981, Christy married David Kane, and together they welcomed two children, Sara and Joe. The two later divorced. Christy married David Rath in 1996, and they made their home in Oelwein, where they welcomed their son, Cody. 

Throughout her life, Christy was known for her strength, humor, and deep love for her family. She was a kind neighbor and a friend to many. She shared a special bond with her beloved dog, Lucy, who brought her great comfort and companionship. 

Christy is survived by her children Sara (Kurt) Lagarde of Duluth, MN; Joe (Sydney) Kane of Cresco; and Cody (Meg) Rath of Oelwein; her grandchildren Brian, Austin, Skylar, Caiden, Cliff, Robyn, Eleanor, Warner, Emelia, and Charlotte; her great-grandchildren Rosemary, Grayson, and Ellie; her sisters Brenda (Ron) Hutschenreuter and Catherine Wise; and her close friend, Jim Thein. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her infant sister, Debra Ann Wise; her brother, William Wise; and her sister Barbara Wise.

A private family service will be held with arrangements entrusted to Geilenfeld-Buehner Funeral Home of Oelwein. Interment at Mount Clark Cemetery in Central City will take place at a later date.