Jacqueline Lee Rathjen

Jackie Rathjen, a woman of fierce independence, a tenacious spirit, and boundless curiosity, passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026, in Brigham City, Utah, at the age of 67.

She was born on July 31, 1958, in Coshocton, Ohio, to Jack Lee Roberts and Ruby Arminta Hains. Jackie’s life was defined by a constant desire to learn, grow, and experience the world on her own terms. After graduating from Coshocton High School, she joined the United States Air Force, serving four years as a NavCom technician. Her service took her from South Carolina to Hill Air Force Base in Utah where she mastered the intricacies of jet navigation systems.

Following her military service, Jackie transitioned her technical expertise to Thiokol, working as a solid rocket motor technician. It was there, during a department merger, that she met Peter. On February 6, 1987, they were married in Brigham City, Utah. Peter did not just marry Jackie; he lovingly and unconditionally brought both Jackie and her daughter, Nicole, into his heart and home. Together, they grew their family with the birth of their daughter, Mattie, building a life rooted in support and devotion.

In a testament to her courage and drive, Jackie chose a radical career shift after Mattie was born. She cashed out her pension to attend nursing school at Weber State University, launching a second career that saw her serve at Brigham City Hospital and McKay-Dee (IHC). She moved from the medical floor to labor and delivery, eventually serving as a dedicated charge nurse on the night surgical floor. Even after retirement, her passion for caregiving led her to work in home health for two years.

Jackie was a woman of quiet strength and hidden depths. While she was reserved in large crowds, those closest to her knew her "goofy" side—the side that gave pets eccentric names like "Todie Fishmonger." She was a voracious reader, a diligent researcher, and a lover of all music—from her days playing the cornet in a marching band to her pride in teaching herself the guitar on her cherished Ovation. She lived for adventure, finding peace and excitement in the mountains of Utah. Whether snowboarding at Powder Mountain, mountain biking, or cross-country skiing, Jackie embraced the outdoors with vigor. She held a special birthday tradition of experiencing something "new and simple" each year, once celebrating by exploring the state capital.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Peter; her daughters, Nicole (Karen Ferrara) and Mattie (Robert Mildenberger); and her sister, Vicky Rogers. She also leaves behind her niece, Erica, and her nephew, Scott, with whom she shared a particularly close and meaningful bond. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Ruby.

Jackie leaves behind a legacy of bravery, whether she was working on jet engines, navigating the challenges of nursing, or mountain biking down a steep trail. She will be remembered for her love of animals, her independent heart, and her unwavering commitment to her family.

Services entrusted to Aaron’s Mortuary of Brigham City.