JARS v64n2 - In Memoriam: Clarence Rahn

In Memoriam: Clarence Rahn
Reid Warren

A long-time member of the Valley Forge Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society has died. Clarence Rahn, along with his wife Evelyn, was very active in the chapter since its founding. He was 97 years old, and in recent years relatives brought him to several chapter events and to the dedication of a bench in Jenkins Arboretum in honor of his wife Evelyn who died in 2004. They had both been retired and lived at the Lutheran Home in Topton, Berks County.

He was very generous with giving plants to other chapter members, especially new ones, and giving sound advice on raising rhododendrons and azaleas. He also developed the Azalea Study Group at the Valley Forge Chapter. Together he and Evelyn operated Rahn's Nursery in Douglasville, Berks County, specializing in deciduous and evergreen azaleas. They were awarded the Bronze Medal in 1980.

Clarence contributed to chapter plant sales, judged truss shows and was active on several committees, the board of directors, and in many chapter activities. Clarence and Evelyn were also associate members of the Pine Barrens Chapter, and helped the Greater Philadelphia Chapter to plan and put together the exhibit at the Philadelphia Flower Show for many years. In addition he was instrumental in establishing the Charlie Herbert Memorial Azalea Garden at Swiss Pines in Charlestown Township.

When Clarence and Evelyn retired from their home in Douglasville, they gave many of their plants to Fred and Barbara Winter who still care for the Rahn Garden located at the Winter's home. Bill Steele, no slouch when it comes to propagating and raising azaleas and rhododendrons, commented recently: "I was very fortunate to have Clarence as a mentor. Without Clarence and Evelyn's guidance I probably would not have been able to propagate anything."

Clarence was from Pennsylvania German extraction and still talked (and was teased) when he spoke with the accent of that dialect. Those chapter members old enough to remember Clarence and Evelyn may also remember folks like Lloyd Partain, Albert Reid, Joe Becales, Don Mannion, Francis Raughley, Ross Davis, Walter Kern, Charlie Herbert and some of the other old-timers who were so instrumental in propagating, distributing and educating so many of us about rhododendrons.