Donald Rauser

Donald Rauser

Life Story

Some people come into our lives and we are forever changed. For those who knew and loved Don Rauser, their hearts will cherish his memory as a man of integrity who lived by faith. A friend to many, he could strike up conversation with anyone, anywhere, at anytime.

Born at home in Grand Rapids, Michigan on September 1, 1916, Donald was one of three children born to August and Nellie (Phillips) Rauser. His birth fell into a decade of advancement and struggle as the U.S. was advancing as a world power engaged in World War I. Although far removed from the battlefields of war, the Rausers' made their home on Ferris Street NW where Don enjoyed a typical childhood. Raised in faith, young Don and his family were members of St. John's Evangelical and Reformed Church which later became St. John's United Church of Christ. There Don learned early the fundamentals of his faith and lifelong relationship with his Lord.

Don attended Fairview Elementary School. He excelled in his studies and was quite fond of school. His first job was working as a caddy during the summer at Green Ridge County Club, conveniently located near his home. Such a good caddy, club members always requested his services, often hiring him when they played other courses. While working there Don came to thoroughly love the sport and it became his passion. He played often and even acquired a hole-in-one during his golfing career.

In high school Don was musically inclined as a member of the orchestra and Glee Club. After graduating from Union High School with the Class of 1934, he went on to trade school and earned his journeyman status as a pattern maker. Later he played the fiddle and mandolin as a member of the band, The Sage Riders, with gigs at places such as the Charlevoix Club in Charlevoix, MI.

During this time, Don met the love of his life. Invited by a friend to accompany him to the home of his cousin, Florence Zwartenkot, Don was enamored by the young woman who quickly stole his heart. That very night they shared a double date to Ramona Park, even though Flo needed to study for an exam. After falling deeply in love, the home of Florence's parents on Alpine Avenue NW set the stage for their wedding day in October of 1939.

Don and Flo first lived in an apartment on Fourth Street where their daughter Judy was born. They later moved into and purchased the home of Florence’s mother. They remained there for several years and welcomed the added blessing of Gary and Barb into their hearts.

Most important to Don was the treasure of family. A true family man, nothing brought him greater joy than being in the midst of their laughter and love. When the kids were young they enjoyed times camping along the "high banks" on the back waters of Croton Dam. Quite often Don's brother and friends with their families joined them which made for memorable adventures. They later enjoyed their trailer home on the Muskegon River before Don and his family built their cottage. . They spent great times enjoying the river waterskiing, boating, fishing and simply having fun. This came to be a cherished place to spend the months of summer making fond memories.

Don started his pattern career at American Seating Company and eventually he went to work at Wolverine Pattern and Model Works. After a few years he and his friend, John Wierenga, began Michigan Pattern Works in 1962. Initially located on Commerce Street, they later moved the business to Grandville Avenue SW where it continues to thrive today.

Don and Flo built a home on Ferris Street NW for their growing family next door to Don’s parents. Wherever Don called home, he was sure to have a vegetable garden. When they later downsized to a condominium at Strawberry Pines or the apartment at Covenant Village, Don somehow managed to have small container gardens which brought him contentment. Even the onset of macular degeneration could not take away his love for his gardens. Over the years he also loved to hunt ,fish and play cards with family and friends.

After Don retired at age 74 he and Flo already had begun wintering in Florida and shared good times with friends playing golf and taking in the warm weather. Their first place, located in Winter Haven, was too far from the golf course so they purchased a condo in Avon Park. They were able to spend six months in Florida and six months in Grand Rapids.

In 2008 Don and Flo sold their place in Florida, living in Michigan all year. Their children joined them in Florida to help pack and get their condo ready to sell. It was a very special time for Don and his family. Another memorable day included Don's last round of golf at the Elks. What better way to celebrate his 90th birthday, playing golf surrounded by the family he loved and his many friends. Don was proud of his many rounds of golf during the Pro-Am series held at the Elks. He was privileged to play with Big Cat, Lee Trevino, and Chi Chi Rodriquez.

Don counted his wife, family and golf clubs as his most prized possessions. He dearly loved his children and grandchildren, and was an integral part of their lives. Even when his great-grandchildren came along, it wasn't unusual for Don to get right down on the floor and play with them.

The example of a hard working man who deeply loved his family, Don's faith was evident throughout his long life. Girded in that very faith, surrounded by his loving family, Don reached his heavenly home at the age of 94 on Tuesday, May 31, 2011. He will be remembered as a wonderful and generous husband, dad, grandfather, great grandfather and good friend to all.

Don will be missed and always loved by his wife of 71 years, Florence; children: Judy and Roger Abbott, Gary and MaryJo Rauser, and Barbara Erhards. Grandpa was always so proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who remember him for all the love and wonderful memories he gave them: Georgia Abbott and Dave Emmel and children: Dylan and Corrina Bergeon; Amy Jo and Michael Pischner and children: Krista, Nicole, Kelsey and Jonathon; Jeff and Jenny Rauser and children: Anna and Justin; Todd and Kerri Rauser and children: Hayley and Jordyn; Heather and Jon DeYoung and children: Emma, Joe and Kate; Shannon and Matt McCarthy and children: Connor and Kaylee; Lisa Warren and children: Hannah and Sophia; Amy and Bob Wilens and children: Joshua and Ellie; his sister, Vivian Weston; brother-in-law, Howard Zwartenkot; many nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his son-in-law,J. Fred Erhards and brother, Kenneth Rauser.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held Monday, June 6, 2011, 11:00 AM at St. John’s United Church of Christ, 1934 Bridge Street NW. Visit with his family at the Heritage Life Story Funeral Home-Alt and Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW Sunday, 5-8 PM and again Monday at the church from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. For those who wish, memorial contributions to the Improvement Fund of St. John’s United Church of Christ, Hospice of Michigan or a charity of choice is appreciated. To read more of Don’s life, share a memory or sign his online register book, please visit www.lifestorynet.com.