Obituary of William R. Raabe

William "Bill" Raymond Raabe, 79, of Niles, passed away at Riverridge Manor in Niles on Wednesday, September 2, 2015. Bill was born on March 3, 1936 to the late Donald and Esther (Burke) Raabe in South Bend, Indiana. After graduating from Niles High School Bill went on to earn his certification as a police officer and firefighter. On March 31, 1967 Bill wed the love of his life, Jane Marie Mastin at a ceremony in Berrien Center. Bill was always active and enjoyed serving his community. After Bill completed police training in the 1960's he worked for Niles City Police, was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, the past Fire Chief of Morris Farms Volunteer Fire Department and previously had been with Niles Township Fire Department. Bill was also a 35 year member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles and was a past officer, had served on the Berrien County Youth Fair Board for 50 years, was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Shriners. He was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife, Jane Marie; children, Don (Jaye) Raabe of Niles, Dennis (Linda Martin) Raabe of Dowagiac, Diane (Ed) Muntz of Niles, Darla (Bill) McAllister of Niles and Debbie (Frank) DeLaTorre of Coloma; 12 grandchildren; nine great grandchildren and a host of extended family and friends. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. with a time of visitation one hour prior at Hope Community Church located at 2390 Lake Street in Niles.