Boomer Rethemeyer

B. A. "Gus" Rethemeyer, 91, of Pangborn Boulevard, Hagerstown, and most recently of Homewood of Williamsport, died Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014, at Meritus Medical Center.

He was married to Betty Jo Rethemeyer for 61 years.

Born Jan. 18, 1923, in St. Joseph, Mo., he was the son of the late Charles and Francis Rethemeyer.

Gus graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1949 after his service in the U.S. Navy during World War ll in the Pacific Theater.

In 1972, Gus purchased Federal Stone Industries in Thurmont, Md., and served as its chief executive officer working with his son, David, president; and grandson, Brandon.

He was a Master Mason of Pawnee Lodge 23 of Pawnee City, Neb. Gus was also affiliated with the Scottish Rite: the Knights of St. Andrews; the Ali Ghan Shrine; the Sayara Unit; and served as a Shepherd, escorting children to Shriners Hospitals for treatment.

He was past president of Hagerstown Lions and a member of Elks Lodge 378 and American Legion Post 0042.

Gus always loved a party and was past president of 9 & 90s.

Surviving are his children, Deborah (Patricia Locke) of Lake Bluff, Ill., David (Carol) of Taneytown, Md., and Richard of Brooklyn, N.Y.; his grandsons, Jason (Ashley) and Brandon (Erin); his great-grandchildren, Ryan and Mia; his siblings, sister, Joan (Arlie) Maag of Smithville, Mo.; brother, Gene Rethemeyer of St. Joseph; and many loved nieces and nephews.

Gus was preceded in death by brothers, Lester, Gilbert and Dean Rethemeyer; and his sister, Ruth Keling.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 31, at Andrew K Coffman Funeral Home, 40 E. Antietam St., Hagerstown. A gathering of family and friends will begin at 10 a.m. Internment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Rethemeyer’s name to Shriners Hospitals for Children, 3551 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19140.