Rebecca H. (Hazard) Rauch

Rebecca Hazard Rauch, age 79, died Thursday, October 18, 2018 at the Quaker Heights Nursing Home in Waynesville. She is survived by her husband of fifty years, Donald J. Rauch. They were married June 20, 1968.  Becky was born April 16, 1939 to Dr. Frank and Barbara Hazard, both who preceded her in death. She is survived by a son, Craig Hazard (Dr. John Patrick) Knight-Rauch of Dayton, Ohio, a sister, Susan H. Douglass of Wilmington, niece Jennifer Douglass (Jeremy) Ramage and their children, Alison, Patrick, and Gwendolyn of Loveland, Ohio, all of whom she dearly loved.  Mrs. Rauch was a graduate of the Wilmington High School Class of 1957 and attended classes at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida before graduating from Wilmington College in 1961.  She was a second-grade teacher in the Wilmington schools for thirty years and is still loved and remembered by many of her students. Her vivacious personality, coupled with her strong discipline techniques and teaching success, resulted in many children hoping to be placed in her class.  Following her teaching retirement, she was appointed as the Wilmington City Safety Director, always championing both the Police and Fire Departments and working tirelessly to support their needs.  When the community purchased the Murphy Theatre, Becky became an avid supporter and worked through the decade of the 1990s and beyond with then Director Doug Lynn, serving as Director of Community Relations and Marketing. Under their watch, the theatre was able to bring to the stage many well-known entertainers to carry on the tradition of a live performance theatre.  She was a member of the Saint Nicholas Club that raised money for local charities, a life-long member of the Friends Meeting, served on the Cape May Board of Directors, and participated in the Wilmington College Summer Theatre, as well as local bridge clubs.  Among her hobbies were crafting, gardening, decorating her home, and enjoying time with her many friends. She lived her life with enthusiasm and a positive attitude to bring smiles to people’s faces, often finding herself the center of attention as she made her way through life’s journey. Laughter and humor were always present, as was concern and empathy for others.  Calling hours will be Sunday, October 21, 2018 at the Wilmington Friends Meeting from 1:00 to 3:00 pm followed by a Celebration of Life at 3:00. A private graveside service will be at Sugar Grove Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Donations in her memory can be made to Wilmington College’s Hazard Arboretum, 1870 Quaker Way, Wilmington, Ohio 45177.  Brown Funeral Home is assisting the family.  For more information or to sign our on-line register, please visit www.arehart-brown.com or see our Facebook page, Brown Funeral Home

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