Dr. Michael Joseph Rausch

Jan. 18, 1949 — Jan. 17, 2015

Dr. Michael Joseph Rausch, 65, of Winamac, passed away at 9:37 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at Pulaski Memorial Hospital in Winamac.

He was born on Jan. 18, 1949, in Logansport, to the late Wilbert and Madelyn (Holbrook) Rausch.

Mike married Pamela Deafenbaugh on Sept. 8, 1984, in South Bend. She survives along with their sons, Zachary and Noah.

Mike graduated from Monterey High School in 1967. He attended Purdue University where he received his bachelor’s degree and continued on to receive his doctorate of veterinary medicine in 1975.

Mike began his professional career working for Dr. Bruce Hostrawser at the Animal Hospital of South Bend and later purchased the practice. Mike and his family moved to Winamac in 1989, where he operated a house call service before establishing the Winamac Pet Med Center. In 2005, Mike retired due to health issues and the practice was later purchased by Dr. Richard Davis. Mike appreciated being able to return to his hometown, to work and live.

Mike was a member of the Indiana Veterinary Medical Association, National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association (NMLRA), National Rifle Association, Purdue Alumni Association and National Wild Turkey Federation. He was a former Kiwanian in South Bend and a former Winamac Town Councilman. Mike served several years on the Pulaski County Board of Health.

Mike was a true outdoorsman and conservationist. At a young age, he developed a love for the land while working on the family farm. In his youth, he attained a passion for hunting, fishing and trapping; a gift he would get from his father, share with his brothers and friends, and pass on to his sons.

Mike enjoyed visiting, telling stories and spending time with family and friends, whether it be starting the day over a pot of coffee at Vicky’s, catching up with cousins and family at reunions, or discussing and admiring antique firearms at the NMLRA’s shoots in Friendship. Mike shared a connection with his clients, especially when talking about their pets, so much so that his staff often had to remind him to “wrap it up” for his next appointment.

Mike was a loving husband and father. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife Pamela D. Rausch of Winamac; sons: Zachary Alexander Rausch of Winamac, and Noah Hunter Rausch of Colorado Springs, Colorado; brothers: Stephen [Barbara] Rausch of Winamac, and Paul Rausch of Winamac; sisters: Theresa [Robert] Krohn of Sheridan, Patricia [Randel] Holliday of Winamac, Monica [David] DeSabatine of Winamac, Loretta “Lori” [Leon Morales] Rausch of Winamac and Elizabeth “Betty” [Larry] Allen of Winamac; sister-in-law Rebecca [Greg] Vanderheyden of South Bend; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents Wilbert H. and Madelyn Marie (Holbrook) Rausch; brother William A. Rausch; father-in-law Jack D. Deafenbaugh; and mother-in-law Patricia (Crooks) Deafenbaugh.

Visitation was 3-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac and one hour prior to services Saturday at the funeral home. Funeral services were at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, at Frain Mortuary. Rev. Matt Landry officiated. Burial took place in Mt. Zion-Franklin Township Cemetery, Winamac.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Michael J. Rausch to: National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association 1 of 1000 Program, Pulaski County Community Foundation Wildlife Conservation and Education Fund, or to one of the following animal rescue organizations: Alicia Smidler Fund c/o Christine Smith, Pulaski Animal Center, or humane society.

Online condolences may be offered in the guestbook at www.frainmortuary.com.

Pulaski County Journal

114 W. Main Street
Winamac, IN 46996

(574) 946-6628
 

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