John R. Rauh

John R. Rauh, 79, of Metamora, Illinois passed away at 8:25pm Saturday April 14, 2012 at Snyder Village in Metamora. He was born August 15, 1932 in Spring Valley, IL to Raymond W. and Elyme (Schlund) Rauh. He married His devoted wife of 55 years, Carolyn M. Eckhoff of Benson, on November 18, 1956 and she survives. Surviving are his children Rick (Deb) Rauh, Kevin (Debbie) Rauh both of Metamora and Lori (Warren) Yates of Germantown Hills. Grandchildren; Nathan, Kari, Stephan, Kristin, Jared, Justin, Jordan, Joshua Rauh and Grace and Jonathan Yates. He is also survived by two brothers Glenn (Sharon) Rauh of Metamora, and Allen (Kathy) Rauh of Naples FL. He was preceded in death by his parents. As a 13 year old boy, John moved with his parents and brothers, Glenn and Allen, to Metamora in order to establish the Metamora Telephone Company (MTCO) as a progressive communications company which diligently served the needs of it?s customers. In spite of many early challenges, the family worked together to build a well-respected company which has contributed in many ways to the positive growth of the communities in which it serves. John was a pace-setter for his company in his value of hard work, his daily problem-solving skills and his commitment to caring for the practical needs of his employees. His contributions in his long-term roles of VP and Board member were celebrated by his co-workers at his retirement party in 1997, after 52 years of making a difference through his work. John faithfully served his country as a communications specialist with the U.S. army, stationed in Germany during the Korean War conflict. His time in the military significantly impacted his life, and he was proud of his country and the God-honoring values upon which it was built. After returning from active service, he was honored to be a life-long member of the American Legion Post in Metamora. Through the influence of several special friends, he became a Ham Radio operator (W9RVH) in 1951 and continued to enjoy this hobby with other local and worldwide friends throughout his lifetime. As a member of the Metamora community, John was actively involved with the Jaycees and contributed to many significant projects with the Metamora Park Board including the development of local ball fields, the swimming pool and the planting of trees at Black Partridge Park. He celebrated contributing to the growth of the Snyder Village Health Center and enjoyed being a part of the retirement community. He was an active member of St. Peter?s Lutheran church and served as Treasurer of the Church Council for a number of years. John was known as a hard-working man of integrity who generously contributed his time, money and energy to make a positive difference to those around him. He was well-respected as a man of wisdom who could come up with solutions to help others. He was a skilled woodworker who liked to use his hands and his resources to build and to serve. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing with friends throughout his life. He was an active supporter of conservation efforts and was concerned that future generations would be able to enjoy the beauty of the world that his Heavenly Father had created. His best decision in life was to choose Carolyn to be his life-long companion and friend. Though they had the privilege of traveling to many places in life, he most enjoyed spending time with her at the summer home in Wisconsin that they built together. Few things pleased him more than fishing and making memories on Long Lake with his family and friends. John was a devoted husband and father who was intentional about caring for the needs of his wife and family and imparting the faith and family values that were important to him. He was proud of his children and was thankful for the special spouses that they chose. He faithfully attended countless performances and sporting events of his grandchildren. He loved celebrating their successes and the character that they demonstrated in offering their best to the glory of God. He rejoiced in seeing each of them making the choice to walk with Christ and to serve Him with grateful hearts. The legacy of his life will be evident through those who learned from his example along the way. He will be missed by those who knew him best and loved him most. Funeral services will be at 11:00am Saturday April 21, 2012 at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Benson with Reverend Bill Hecht officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 4pm until 8pm at Mason Funeral Home Metamora Chapel and also one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will be in St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery in Benson. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Snyder Village, St. Peter?s Lutheran Church or the Peoria Area Youth for Christ. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com