John "Bill" Rawson

John William “Bill” Rawson, 79, of Marquette, KS, peacefully passed away on Monday, October 26, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Bill was born on May 3, 1947, in Lindsborg, KS, the son of Floyd Albert and Nyla Laurine (Hendershot) Rawson. He grew up in the Marquette community and graduated from Marquette High School in 1965.

Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he built a career at the NCRA Refinery, from which he later retired. In addition to his refinery career, Bill was a longtime and dedicated farmer and rancher.

He was a member of the Marquette United Methodist Church and American Legion Post #253.

On May 18, 1984, Bill was united in marriage to Louise Elena Christopher in Glendora, CA. Together, they built a life centered on family and were blessed with three children: Joanie, John, and Cole.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Louise; three children, Joanie (Lance) Boughfman of Valley Center, KS, John Rawson of McPherson, KS, and Cole (Brenda) Rawson of Lawrence, KS; siblings, Peggy Geiman of Marquette, KS, Patsy Morgan of Cheyenne, WY, and Bob (Diana) Rawson of Marquette, KS; sisters-in-law, Bobbie Rawson of Marquette, KS and Karen Christopher of La Verne, CA; eight grandchildren, Logan Rawson, Ciara Rawson, Lauren Boughfman, Rhett Boughfman, Presley White, Easton White, Ryan Rawson, and Russ Rawson; and many extended relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Richard “Dick” Rawson; brothers-in-law, Dean Geiman and Allan Morgan; sister-in-law, Lonnie Christopher; and infant granddaughter, Sophie Rawson.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Marquette United Methodist Church. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Marquette Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be payable to Marquette United Methodist Church or Marquette American Legion Post #253 in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.