James Edward Rathmel

James Edward Rathmel, age 40, passed away unexpectedly in a car accident on August 1, 2024. Born in California to Gary Rathmel and Jin Hee sunok Chin on January 20, 1984, James had moved to Florida by the time he was in high school, and he attended Okaloosa Applied Technology Center in Fort Walton Beach. 

James was full of life and, when he wasn’t spending time with his family, he enjoyed golfing, fishing, and listening to music. Buster, his dog, was definitely one of his favorites as well. He was funny, hardworking, and caring, and he will be remembered as one who was always there when anyone needed him. He was ready and willing to do anything for those he knew and loved.

He is survived by his wife Melissa M. Rathmel, daughter Gabriella M., father Gary Stephen Rathmel, mother Jin Hee Drum, brothers Terry (Gail) Rathmel, David (Jiyu) Rathmel, Alexander Rathmel, and Aaron Rathmel, sister Denise Tolander, aunt Cindy Hall, father-in-law Dale Morse, and mother-in-law Kim Morse,. 

Friends and family will cherish the memories they shared with him. One of his wife’s favorites is of James taking her and their daughter to the movies then, over dinner, getting to enjoy him and Gabby mock their favorite parts of the movie. That special time, and many others, will bring peace and comfort to loved ones as they remember James. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Melissa M. Morse.

There will be a Celebration of Life for James at a later time.