Barbara S. (Vogel) Rausch
Barbara Sue (Vogel) Rausch, 72, of Winamac, passed away at her home on Friday, July 3. She was born on Nov. 7, 1953 in Mishawaka. Barb graduated from LaPorte High School in 1972 and earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from Ball State University. Barb was an elementary teacher at North Judson-San Pierre Schools for 35 years.
On June 12, 1976, Barb married Thomas Edward Rausch in LaPorte. They made their home in Pulaski County where they raised their three children. Barb loved her family very much. She was always supportive of her children and was especially proud to be a grandma. Tragedy struck the family on April 22, 1994 when her oldest child, Abram, was killed in automobile accident. Barb remained steadfast and faithful; holding her family together and providing support to other families who experienced the loss of a child.
Barb loved being outdoors, especially mowing, fishing, and spending time at Tippecanoe River State Park. She served as a supervisor for the Pulaski County Soil and Water District for many years. Barb was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Winamac and sang with the Pulaski County Extension Chords.
Barb was an outgoing and kind woman – the true life of the party! She was always friendly and never met a stranger. Barb enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, like ending the day with a bowl of ice cream. Her passing leaves us all with sadness, but we are better people for having known her in life.
She is survived by: husband Thomas Edward Rausch, Winamac; son Aaron James [wife: Jen] Rausch, Chesterton; daughter Laura Jean [husband: Tim] Mason, Valparaiso; grandsons: Abram James Rausch, Everett Thomas Rausch, Kale Michael Rausch, Douglas William Thomas, Owen James Thomas and Cooper Mason.
Preceded in death by son Abram Michael Rausch; parents: James and Betty (McCarty) Vogel; and brother Richard Vogel.
Visitation was from 3 – 7 p.m., Tuesday, July 7, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
A scriptural wake service was held at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 7, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, July 8, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church with Rev. Anthony Rowland officiating.
Cremation will take place at Frain Crematory followed by private burial at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Winamac.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
(Pulaski County Journal — July 8, 2026)