Rickey J. Rausch

Rickey J. Rausch, 58, Athens, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, January 2, 2018, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services. He was born November 13, 1959 in Wausau, son of the late Walter "Wally" and Elizabeth "Betty" (Mullins) Rausch. On November 6, 1982, he married the love of his life, Connie Krueger at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Athens. She survives. His entire life, Rickey worked on the family farm. It was in 1993, when he and his brother took it over and further established it into what it is today, and where he, by example instilled the value of hard work in his children. He was President of the Heartland Cooperative Board and was a seed salesman from 1977 until 2000. Most of all, Rickey loved traveling and spending time with his wife and children. Survivors include, his wife of 35 years, Connie Rausch, Athens; three sons, Matthew (Justine) Rausch, Athens, Michael (Brittany Lapp) Rausch, Wausau and Andrew Rausch, Athens; one brother, Alan (Annette) Rausch, Edgar; two sisters, Bonnie and Patricia; and nieces and nephews. The Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Athens. Rev. George Graham and Rev. Gerard Willger will preside. Visitation will be on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Ronald McDonald House, 803 W. North Street, Marshfield, WI 54449. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Athens is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com