Jon Rauch Sr.

Jon Rauch Sr., age 87, died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Friday, May 8, 2026. Jon is survived by his three children, Jon Jr. (Michele) Rauch, Julie (Paul) Nixon, and Jane (Bob) Eggleston; and eight grandchildren, their spouses, and great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his brother, Dave Rauch; in-laws Dee Smith, Terry (Sharie) Smith, Pat (Kathy) Smith, Peggy (Dan) Reyers; many nieces, nephews, and cousins (a proud member of the Mead Clan). He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 58 years, Catherine (Kitty) Rauch, and his parents, Julia and Montgomery Rauch.

Independent, quietly observant, Jon moved through life with a sensitive attentiveness to others and the world. He fell in love with his Catholic Central high school sweetheart and was devoted to her to the very end. Tending to her grave and writing her little notes. She was the sun to his moon.

Our dad was a very proud Marine, having served his country in the early 60s, still representing the Marine Corps through his flags, hats, patches, and unwavering code: Semper Fi. He didn’t do that just to get a free cup of coffee; he loved the military life that brought him meaning and strength of character. His long career was in the transportation & logistics industry, including Darling Freight, Key Line Freight, and ATL/ANR, hence his love of trains, planes, Great Lakes freighters, and automobiles. He could replicate their horns with great accuracy, much to the enjoyment of his kids. His retirement began a new career at Frederick Meijer Gardens, implementing the tram/volunteer program and ending his work life as a stat courier for Spectrum Hospital.  He knew the highways and byways of Michigan better than GPS.

Our dad spoke through his actions. Providing for us daily, raising us in the Catholic faith which guided him always. He instilled in us a love of music, tending a garden, saving all year for a week’s vacation in Glen Arbor. He showed us the beauty in nature, a well-taken photograph, and above all, family and faith. We always knew we were loved and cared for. What a gift.

We want to thank all the family and friends who cared for Jon, stopped by to visit, and listened to his stories. Sometimes unable to communicate in words, he expressed his feelings through short, beautifully worded notes of thanks, a wood scrolled leaf, a bird alert text, or a picture of a fawn in his yard. He was thankful for your time and thoughtfulness. He was grateful to all of you. We are happy he was able to remain in his own home till the end and now rests in the peace of Christ with our dear mother. Together again!

Visitation will be Sunday, May 17th, 4-6 PM with a rosary at 5:30 PM at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, May 18th, 11:00 AM at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2750 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Rev. Peter Damian presiding. Immediately following, interment at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, 1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, or the Dan Donnelly Foundation; St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School, 2750 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.