Thomas Chester Raben was born February 7, 1954 in Crawford, Nebraska, to John and Bernice Raben. The family lived on the Raben homestead 4 miles northeast of Crawford. They moved to Valentine, Nebraska in 1957.

Tom attended kindergarten and 1st grade in Valentine and finished 1st through the 6th grade in Martin, South Dakota. He then went to Tuthill for 7th and 8th grade. Tom’s freshman year was at Kadoka High School. The family moved back to Martin where Tom attended his sophomore year at Bennett County High School. Tom then moved back to Crawford, NE to work for an uncle and aunt. He graduated from Crawford High School in 1973.

Tom eventually moved back to Martin and worked on a ranch by Batesland and later worked for the city of Martin. He next moved to Post, Texas to work with his brother, Johnnie, and had recently retired.

Tom was somewhat of a loner but was a very big hearted guy and loved to tease. His dogs were his companions and he enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Survivors include three brothers Franklin "Dee" Raben of Detroit, Michigan, Johnnie Raben of Post, Texas, and Lenny (Jamie) Raben of Black Hawk; one sister Gaynold (Tony) Willoughby of Midland; brother-in-law Dave Konst; aunt, Veda Raben of Crawford, Nebraska; uncle, Neal Matti of Gillette, Wyoming; many nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, John and Bernice Raben; sister Meredith Pauly; sister-in-laws- Mary K. and Michelle Raben; and niece DeAnn Raben.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 5, at Rush Funeral Home in Philip with Pastor Cindy Bisser officiating. Livestreaming will be provided from this webpage for those that want to watch the memorial service at home.

Burial will follow at the Martin Community Cemetery.