Richard J. Rauer, 77, of Broadalbin, passed away peacefully Thursday, November 19, 2009, at the Stone Hedge Health and Rehabilitation Center in Rome, N.Y.
He was born November 22, 1931, in Gloversville, the son of the late Frank and Rose (Kautter) Rauer. Richard served his country proudly in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. Sierra during the Korean War.
He was employed as a carpenter with the Carpenter's Union Local No. 370 in Albany.
On October 19, 1957, he was united in marriage to Joan Ormill, who survives. They enjoyed fifty-two years together.
Richard loved the outdoors; he taught his daughters everything he knew about nature. He also enjoyed being on the water and spent just about every summer on Sacandaga Lake with his family. He was a master carpenter and did several projects on the home he shared with his wife; they were so very proud of their house. A great storyteller, he would captivate an audience every chance he could. First and foremost, Richard was devoted to his family, especially his beloved wife. He was her caregiver for many years and his world absolutely revolved around her. He was so generous with his time and efforts and was always happy to lend a hand, mow a lawn, shovel snow or share a smile. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend and he will be very sadly missed by all who knew him.
In addition to his wife, Joan Rauer of Broadalbin, Richard is survived by three daughters, Deborah Lair (Gary) of Broadalbin, Sharon Levine (Norman) of New Jersey and Lori Stevens (Andrew) of New Jersey; four grandchildren, Stephanie, Jonathan, Jeremy and Jessica; two stepgrandchildren, Ariel and Aaron; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Rauer was predeceased by an infant son, Richard James Rauer Jr.; a sister, Mary Rumrill; and his beloved beagle, Murmur.
Family and friends are invited and may call Sunday, November 22, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville. A funeral service will follow at 12:30 p.m. with the Reverend Dr. R.W. Williams presiding. Interment will be at Ferndale Cemetery in Johnstown with military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard's memory to Mountain Valley Hospice, 108 Steele Ave., Gloversville 12078 or to the Fulton Co. Office of the Aging, 19 North William Street, Johnstown 12095. Please visit the family's online guestbook at www.brbsfuneral.com
