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Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
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Rauch, Ralph F. 'Rev'
Ralph F. “Rev” Rauch, 85, of Cedar Rapids, died Monday, Feb. 22, 2010. Inurnment and graveside services will be Tuesday, June 1, at Czech National Cemetery. Brosh Chapel in Cedar Rapids is in charge of Ralph's arrangements.
Ralph was born Sept. 28, 1924, in Waverly, the son of Frederick and Amie (Borrum) Rauch. He was raised on a farm that is now Squaw Creek Park. He graduated from Marion High School in 1943. Ralph proudly served his country as corporal with the U.S. Marine Corps, 1st Division from 1944 to 1951 where he received the World War II Victory Medal and Certificate of Honor. Ralph and Mary Louise Vokolek were united in marriage in 1958. He retired from the Cedar Rapids Fire Department after 24 years in 1977. Ralph was a proud member of VFW Post 788, American Legion Post 572 and the Marine Corps League.
He had a stoic personality that earned him the nickname “Rev” while serving at the fire department. However, he also had a quick sense of humor. He was a loving and gentle man who will be dearly missed by all.
Ralph is survived by his sons, Dana (Susan) Rauch of Toddville and Brian (Allyson Frederick) Rauch of Texas; daughters, Cathy “Renai” (Tom) Ray of Mechanicsville and Diedre (Darryl) Edwards of Texas; 12 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandsons.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; a brother, Larry; and a sister, Maxine Boland.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to VFW Post 788 in his name.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at
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