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Melanie Elizabeth Rauscher
Melanie Elizabeth Rauscher
Obituary
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Melanie Rauscher Obituary
Melanie was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. She was a graduate of Kennedy-Kenrick High School and attended Old Dominion University in Virginia. Melanie served honorably in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt CVN-17 during the Iraq War. She lived her life in service to others. Melanie was employed at the Prescott VA Medical Center at the time of her passing. She was an avid outdoor enthusiast who loved nature and all creatures big and small. Melanie loved camping & hiking and finding adventure wherever she could. Melanie also had a passion for challenging herself which led her to participate on "Naked & Afraid" and "XL". Mel was a passionate athlete and deeply involved in local adult leagues. She was a diehard Eagles fan. She was a natural comedian, and her wit was unmatched. Melanie's boisterous laugh will echo in the hearts and minds of her loved ones forever.
A celebration of life is being planned for Melanie in October 2022 in Philadelphia, PA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to PTSD Foundation of America, an organization for which Melanie had a deep devotion.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Amy Mccament
May 28, 2025
Love you jungle wife rest in peace
R. Porter
April 26, 2025
Mel,
I followed you on N&A.
I just recently learned of your passing.
It's odd how much it hurt my heart. I knew you, but didn't know you. Prayers to all those who had the chance to love and be loved by this woman
May you dance with the angels Mel.
Alison Cameron
March 14, 2025
Mel, you´re definitely one of my most favorite competitors, a negative and afraid I am beyond sad,beyond hurt for your loved ones and all of your fans who wanted to see more of you on their TV.
You were the type of person that needed to be on TV more for all of us million viewers. You were that person and you will be strongly missed even from us sitting on a couch watching you.
You´re greatly missed and loved. May you rest in peace!
Wendy Goddard
February 23, 2025
Think this is wonderful thing to remember you Mel,strange how l followed you and no one else then watched you 2nd time, you still had my heart but that's when l saw that you had past away so sad l jumped out my Clair couldn't believe it after you went through everything you did in the Everglades Miami,ld been there seen crocs in water frightened me as was on air boat and ld put my hand in water and got into trouble with ranger,"if croc was there it would have dragged you in water so quickly we couldn't have saved you'll how stupid l was,they was everywhere lesson learnt.You wasn't bothered had laughed lived in so much mud and found crayfish to eat great episode that was,loved it as you both got on so well together and made it best out of a nightmare .l have been watching XL NA today,something lm sure you'd have done Mel,will always think about you and hopefully get to see your episode again, rest dear Mel you really was amazing lady love to your friends and family who must miss you terribly Wendy and Co xxxx
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Jack Kenna
February 19, 2025
I think of Mel every day. I keep her in my prayers. You are deeply missed my friend.
Angel
February 18, 2025
The Eagles won the Super Bowl Mel.
You should've been here to see it. You would have loved the halftime show and been on the edge of your seat right at the end of the game. Wish you were here to celebrate your team, doesn't feel right to do it without you.
Tim Schoolcraft
February 17, 2025
She was amazing on Naked and afraid. She definitely was one of a kind. So sorry for your loss.
Anita Williams
December 14, 2024
My deepest sympathies to the entire Rauscher family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Theresa Vandever
June 29, 2024
I loved Melanie, I watched her on both naked and afraid and XL. She will be sorely missed. RIP Melanie you will be forever remembered.
Angel
May 26, 2023
I still can't believe you're not here Mel. I think of you so often and with every thought of you I am reminded you're not just a phone call or text away anymore.
I wish we spent more time together, wish I had gotten to teach you to make tamales like we always talked about, wish we could spend another night sitting at that run down sports pub causing a ruckus, playing darts and laughing until our cheeks hurt.
Nothing is ever the same without you. Love you Mel. Til we meet again.
Jack Kenna
March 17, 2023
I met Mel for the first time at Rochester Parafest. She was such an amazing and bright soul. You could not help but want to be around her. Her strong and fun loving personality just drew you to her. The last time we spoke was just a couple months before she past. We were bowling together and she told me her desire was to inspire other young women to pursue their passions and to over-come their own hardships. I do know that she did inspire many as she was hoping to and still does through the series she was on. It's comforting to still be able to see my friend on those shows. I miss her.
Wendy Goddard
March 15, 2023
I've just watched naked afraid with Mel with Jeremy McCaa wow what a woman l coulde what Mel did,inspired by watching her,her strength her love of outdoors her kindness l just loved watching them bith ,so very sorry your not going to get to do more challenges but Mel,l hope you are somewhere in another world heaven, you'll brighten everyone up with your special charms,really gutted when l saw ending of big challenge and only saw little bit saying you had died,l have waited to see you again and l got the chance last night 15th March my birthday, loved watching you you lifted Jeremy up in that challenge hed have gone home.thankyou for entertaining us Mel,but now your in Gods safe arms sleep well sweetheart l love you and so so sorry to her lovely family Godbless you all,gly high Mel you lived 35 ye are of life you wanted,very very brave beautiful warrior fan from Hull England UK xx
few of your friends said goodbye to xx
Barb Kaplitz
March 13, 2023
You were my favorite on N&A. You were so genuine, kind and funny. My condolences to your family and friends. Thank you for your service to our Country. I wish I could have known you in real life. I'm sure you're in Heaven making God and the Angels sing with joy and laughter.
Ryan Lambert
March 1, 2023
I watch her on the show I'm heart broken her had a amazing heart and drive I never met her but I fell lost after seeing this
Adam Williamson
February 1, 2023
Rest In Peace Melanie Rauscher You were one of my favorite contestants on the show "Naked and Afraid" and I will always miss you. Your family will always have my sincere condolences including Jeremy McCaa. Please continue to watch us above as our guardian angel in Heaven and thanks so much for your service. Melanie you will always be one of my heroes because you´ve done a lot of heroic things to others. Rest In Peace
Mathilde Bittner
September 5, 2022
I had the pleasure of working with Melanie on her first Naked and Afraid. She was so bubbly, funny, enthusiastic and kind. I am truly so sorry for your loss. In lieu of flowers, please accept my donation to the PTSD Foundation of America. With my deepest and sincere condolences.
Hannah
August 25, 2022
Mel, you're a person I wish I'd gotten to know. I saw you in Naked and Afraid and you instantly got a big place in my heart. I miss you and am so sorry for the sake of your family and friends.
To Jeremy, I just want to say that your and Mel's friendship was something out of the ordinary and I think all of us behind the tv box will remember the words "It's my Mel" and the happiness when you saw each other.
Pamela S Candiliere
August 11, 2022
Sympathy, love and prayers to Melanie's family and many friends. Thank you Melanie for all you did for our country and humanity. You will always be the brightest star. Love and gratitude, Pam
Weverson Souza
August 8, 2022
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Our sincerilly condolences to all family and friends. here in Brazil we will missing a lot of her.
Dave, Kim and Matthew Siebert
August 3, 2022
Our deepest sympathies to the entire Rauscher family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Cathy Meyer
August 2, 2022
Dear Cathy & Danny please accept our heartfelt condolences for the loss of your dear sweet Melanie. May God bless you and your family, give you comfort and strength in Jesus's name Amen. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love, Cathy & Bill
Candra
August 1, 2022
From my heart, I am so sorry for the loss of your Melanie. I was blessed to have been introduced to her through Naked and Afraid. She was a bright and beautiful light in this world.
Anonymous
July 31, 2022
I´m so sorry to hear of your beloved daughter, family member, and friend´s passing. She was one of my favorite cast members of N&A - she really had something special about her, and the news was so sad. I´m so sorry for your loss. My condolences and may God hold your in his comforting hands.
Mandi Welsh
July 27, 2022
Mel, I will never forget all the good memories I have with you from grade school through high school. I'm so fortunate to have had you as a friend and I'll always love you so much. Your beautiful smile, laughter and uplifting spirit will stay with us all forever. Rest in paradise.
Alicia Robertson
July 27, 2022
Dan & Cathy,
My deepest condolences. My heart hurts for you and your family. You are in my prayers and thoughts.
Julia Barela Mills
July 26, 2022
Melanie, I have been a friend of your Mom, Catherine, for many years. Although, I never met you personally, I felt that I knew you a bit through her. She spoke glowing about you and your sisters. I would like to extend my deepest sympathies and condolences to the Rauscher family in this difficult time.
Wyla Williams
July 26, 2022
Rest in peace Melanie, you will always be admired and loved.
Titus Samuel
July 26, 2022
Melanie you will be missed and I send my deepest condolences to your family and friends.
Dora Mena
July 26, 2022
My deep condolences to Mel's family, friends and peers. I didn't personally know Mel but I got to know the special person she was through the show naked ND afraid, on XL. In my heart I lived her cuz I felt she was quiet when she needed to be and a leader or team player when she needed. She was very careful of not stepping on anyones toes in the show, so she showed the world how all of us can be part of a team ND not being fake. She head a beautiful smile ND I vibed she was a thrilled fun filling adventurous soul. I'm glad I got to know even a small part of her life ND the friendship she developed with Jeremy her jungle husband. We luv u Mel and hope ours angels are holding you in their arms as we that watched you on TV do. To her family, friends ND peers we offer you our love, no words can console ur hearts but just know we hurt just as much, she wasn't just part of a show she was part of Us....May God hold you in his arms.....Dora ND Martin ( Weslaco, Texas)
Judy Mull
July 25, 2022
Rick and Jeannette, I am so sorry for your loss.
Danielle Mecham
July 25, 2022
Mel was a very happy soul she will be truly missed by her friends and coworkers.
Lauren Burns
July 25, 2022
I would like to offer my deepest condolences. I didn't know Mel for very long, but as a fellow co-worker, military comrade and friend my heart goes with her. She will always have a place in my heart.
Stephanie Metzner
July 25, 2022
I will miss your quirkiness and our "good chats" every day. You are a one of a kind person Melanie and I am so sad you are gone so soon. You brought joy and happiness to us all.
Craig M Malone
July 25, 2022
Mel,
You have left us far to early. Your smile and laugh will always be remembered. I will miss seeing you out on the softball fields. May your Rest In Peace.
Judy Dustin
July 25, 2022
I'm so sorry for your loss. I worked with Mel at the VA. She was an amazing lady & had so much love to give. She will be missed by all of us.
Sarah Robertson (Shough)
July 25, 2022
My condolences to the family.
Rusty J Gilligan
July 25, 2022
Rusty J Gilligan
July 25, 2022
Rusty J Gilligan
July 25, 2022
Rusty J Gilligan
July 25, 2022
Just learned of the death of Melanie.
We met at the 2019 Winter Parafest when we were both celebrity guests - she was the nicest person. She sat across from me and we joked both days. What a fun person.
She will be missed... rest in peace.
Patricia l stahler
July 25, 2022
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Lindsay Campion (Newmeyer)
July 25, 2022
Kennedy Kenrick outing @ Great American Pub. Love you forever Mel.
Anonymous
July 25, 2022
Mel was my boss for 6 months a few years back. She was a role model to me and took me in as her own. As I navigated living alone in a new place Mel ALWAYS made sure I had what I needed. She checked in on me daily, helped guide me through hard times and always made sure I was doing my homework. I haven´t seen or talked to her in a while but She made a huge impact on me from making sure I packed a lunch for work to teaching me how to change my break lights. Learning of her passing is nothing short of heartbreaking. Thank you Mel for always taking care of me while I lived in Prescott.
Ruben Molina
July 25, 2022
You will definitely be missed Mel. Her smile was so bright and her laughter will never be forgotten! Rest east my friend!!!!
LETITIA OUSLEY
July 25, 2022
i am so sorry to read this about her. i just loved her on n&a. she seemed genuine and kind.
Tera pica
July 24, 2022
Tera pica
July 24, 2022
Tera pica
July 24, 2022
Tera pica
July 24, 2022
Tera pica
July 24, 2022
One of many many memories I have of mel is at Target she would whistle that sounds like a cricket and would get me looking around every time! She was always laughing and making people laugh. One beautiful soul and she will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mel´s family.
Donna Holderfield
July 24, 2022
So sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful person.
Patricia J Flaherty
July 24, 2022
We never met but, I loved you from the 1st time I watched you on TV. Your strengths & compassion are timeless. R.I.P. & GOD Bless you Mel.
Horace Mashett
July 24, 2022
I was one of Mel's softball coaches at KK she was a joy to coach and a wonderful young lady very sorry for your loss
Howard Martell USS ROOSEVELT SHIPMATE
July 24, 2022
I to have dealt with death in my own family the last year and half may this funny and true patriot find her place in paradise.
Seth Reece
July 24, 2022
Rest in peace, from one tribe member to another. Only so many of us on this Earth know what it's like to share the experience of embracing the challenge and the legacy that those of us who have done so leave behind. Gone too soon, but never forgotten... Your strength and legacy will live on forever. Ah OOO!
Thomas Coe
July 23, 2022
Rest In Peace Melanie. Wishing the Rauscher family the best during this painful time.
Aryellen Sheller West
July 23, 2022
So sorry for your loss.
Wanda Jaynes
July 23, 2022
My deepest condolences Mel was a favorite on N&A, peace be with her.
Shelly and Mike Pester
July 23, 2022
Dan and Cathy, shocked and saddened to hear this news. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Anonymous
July 23, 2022
My mom and brother had just met you the day before you suddenly left this earth. You used to live right above them. I may not have met you and you may not have known them for very long, but your kindness lingered. My mom remembers your voice and that you gave her dog a treat. My mom and my brother are very sad that your no longer there, you were a very loved person even by strangers. Peace be with you wherever you are now and with your family.
Laura & Leonard Kitchens
July 23, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends Mel . We never met, but we got to know you from your Naked and Afraid episodes, such an awesome lady, we learned some cute sayings from you girl! We are all so sad you left this earth too soon.
Carol M Lucas
July 23, 2022
I am so very sorry to hear of Mel's passing. She was loved by so many and had lots of fans. Praying for peace and understanding for her family.
Aubrey Wayne Limerick
July 23, 2022
Mel you are so much a part of The greater Naked and Afraid community friends and fans. Rest Easy Sweet Mel.
Devin Hobbs
July 23, 2022
Condolences to family and friends from her NAA fans here. She was amazing, RIP
Frank Pownall
July 23, 2022
So very sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers with family and friends.
Michael Anne
July 23, 2022
Mel your spirit inspired so many people. I will miss our chats and our yearly adventures in Rochester.
My condolences and prayers to your family. May your spirit fly high.
Jodie Shiver
July 23, 2022
Although we never met, I saw what a wonderful person you are, through my tv screen. Your scenes are and always will be my favorites...Fly high, sweet girl...The world has certainly lost one of God's best creations.
Prayers for all of your loved ones. May they find comfort and peace.
Tina Meador
July 23, 2022
I´m am sorry sorry for your loss. I served with Melanie aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt. We lived in berthing together and she was such an amazing person. She will be missed by the Navy community.
Rest In Peace Melanie, We have the watch Shipmate.
Chris belcher
July 23, 2022
I met Mel through my daughter and son in law at their softball games. She was always a joy to be around laughing joking and. Just having a good time. We stayed up late the night before she left virginia having a great time saying good bye we never imagined good bye would be so final . Rest well Mel until we all meet again at that big softball field. In the sky . You will truly be missed
Jeanne Roberts
July 23, 2022
You were an awesome and amazing woman, Mel, you will be truly missed... Godspeed, and RIP, beautiful...
Janie McCord
July 23, 2022
My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mel, may God watch over each and every one.
Samantha Erwin
July 23, 2022
I have SO many funny stories and pictures to share of Mel. Even though she moved to Arizona, we still remained very close. I have fond memories of staying with your family in Arizona when I came to visit. And that phone call when we were leaving for Las Vegas and Mel accidentally hit a light pole in the empty parking lot and you had to fix her car before we left town!! The picture attached is at the Hoover Dam on our way to Las Vegas. She was such a goofball. Every time we talked she answered the phone differently and had a different funny nick name for me. Her voice mails were hilarious. I still have one saved. She always said she loved me before she hung up. I cherish so many memories with her. Your family will be forever in my thoughts and prayers. I am always here for you.
Debbie Finke
July 23, 2022
So very sorry for your loss. Although I never met Mel, I felt as if she was my friend. She will be missed by all who knew her. A delightful and real deal. Her spirit shines on us all.
Jerry Billington
July 23, 2022
The world lost a beautiful inspirational lady. I first started following when I watched her on first episode of Naked & Afraid. She was a warrior and the best she could be. I remember when I ask her for her autograph she said " You one of the Texas boys ". Thoughts and prayers going out to family and friends! RIP Melanie !!
Tina VanSon/piper Morrill
July 23, 2022
There is so much to say and to thank you for mel.. I will forever be grateful to you for helping my daughter who suffers from anxiety and ptsd. You were her super hero her mentor she loved you so much.. you helped her find her soul again after a monster tryed to take it away.. you will be missed my friend you became family to us very quickly and we wouldn't have it any other way.. WE LOVE YOU MEL..
Deborah Fisher
July 23, 2022
I only knew Mel through watching her on the show, but I have never forgotten her. She was the most memorable person! I loved her sense of humor and her can-do attitude. She told her NAA partner that she would never leave him...and she didn´t. I had tremendous respect and admiration for her. Praying for peace and comfort for her family. I will never forget Mel!
Christine bayet
July 23, 2022
Condolences to family she´ll be missed enjoyed her on naked and afraid rip fly high on your new adventure
Patti
July 23, 2022
She touched so many with her gentle spirit. She is missed by those who only knew her from TV, but got a glimpse of her soul.
Prayers for her family!
Sherrah
July 23, 2022
Heaven keeps picking our best flowers and it seems too soon, but it is not ours to question. I´ll just say my condolences to Mel´s family, friends and like me avid fans! May the Angel´s fly swiftly to your side to console and protect you in your time of sorrow
Batease Myra
July 23, 2022
Rest in peace and Thank you for your service , loved you on Naked and Afraid. Prayers for family and friends
Karen T
July 23, 2022
My thoughts and prayers to friends and family. Fly high on this next adventure Mel
Dawn and Bill Boone
July 23, 2022
My heart broke hearing this news. Mel had such a beautiful presence and always brought smile to peoples faces. She will be greatly missed by so many. God bless you all at this difficult time.
Jacqueline Figgins, ETC, USN (Retired)
July 23, 2022
Melanie was a joy to work with during our time together in the US Navy. She worked hard and always had an upbeat attitude. She will be sorely missed by me and all her fellow Shipmates. RIP and God bless all her family and friends!
Christine Hyde
July 23, 2022
I wish I knew her. Her kindness and big heart came through to people who she never met. She will be missed.
Lillian Sue Marchetta
July 23, 2022
Mel, my heart is devastated to the fullest! No one can take your place not ever! Prayers for her family, as well as extended family of NAKED & AFRAID, and us die hard fans you have!
From: your Mississippi fans
Jack Kenna
July 23, 2022
I met Mel for the first time a couple.years ago at the Rochester Winter ParaFest in New York which was run by our mutual friend Ted VanSon (photo attached). I met her again this year at the same event and had the pleasure of spending some quality time with her. We played darts, bowled against each other, laughed together, discussed her time in the Navy, our families, and her passion for the outdoors and her desire to help others. Mel was an amazing and unique individual, and I am a better person for having met her. I will miss her and will mourn the fact I will not get to meet or talk to her again in this life. I will also rejoice in the fact that I know she had a positive impact on the lives of everyone she met. I also know that it takes amazing and dedicated parents to have raised such and amazing child. I am deeply sorry for your loss. Mel is in my prayers as are you her family.
Jack Kenna
Haunted Case Files
The Travel Channel
The attached photo is of Mel and I at the paranormal convention in Rochester NY.
Wes Giles
July 22, 2022
Love you Mel!! Even though we never met I feel like I've known you for life.
Wendy and Gary Pester
July 22, 2022
Cathy and Dan,
Our hearts ache for the loss of your beautiful Melanie. Praying that you all find the strength you need to get through this devastating tragedy, and that God brings peace to your hearts. With love and deepest sympathy, Gary and Wendy
Christopher Rimmer
July 22, 2022
I still remember the day she checked on board and I showed her around. Instead of the normal lost look that most new sailors have on an aircraft carrier, she just kept that Philly attitude, and kept quoting Mariah Carey songs and pushing forward with a smile that never stopped. She will be missed terribly.
Bill fahringer
July 22, 2022
Cathy and Danny sorry for your loss thoughts and prayers to your family
Jim & Shelly Capella
July 22, 2022
Dan and Cathy, words can not express our feelings we have for you a hug and kiss would be perfect. We are so sorry for the loss of Mel,you guys raised a great daughter and family. Mel `s gift of lighting up everyone´s face with a smile and laughter was priceless. That gift came from both of you!! We are so sorry Love ya guys
Liz
July 22, 2022
Such an amazing woman. She will be missed.
Bob Reed
July 22, 2022
Catherine I am so sorry for your loss I can't imagine the pain you are going through.
Prayers for you and your family
Lindsay Campion (Newmeyer)
July 22, 2022
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Mel was a huge part of my childhood and I will always cherish the memories we made together. I will forever remember her contagious laugh & smile.
Tony Nocito
July 22, 2022
Danny And Cathy So Sorry My Family Thoughts are with you
Sarah Melusky
July 22, 2022
I am so sorry for the loss of Mel. She was such a good friend to me when I needed one. Always giving advice and making me laugh. Her friendship, kindness and laughter will never be forgotten.
Gary Howard
July 22, 2022
Mel always had a smile on her face and was one of the most naturally funny people I have ever met.
Dee Volpe-Gubicza
July 22, 2022
Dan and Kathy,
I am sending heartfelt sympathies to you and your family. Offering prayers and loving support during this very difficult time! Hold close all the wonderful memories of Mel. They will somehow help you to heal.
May she Rest In Peace!! Take care.
Tina Szadorski Holleman
July 22, 2022
Dear Cathy, Danny and the Rauscher sisters,
Losing a child and a sister is like losing a piece of yourself. Losing someone as special as Melanie has a whole other feeling. She lit up a room. She made everyone smile and laugh. She was so funny, kind, loving, smart and empathetic. She was fearless and always spoke up for causes she believed in. The world is better because she was in it... even though it was too soon to lose her. She will live on through all of us that knew and loved her. Always
Love Tina and Megan
Lisa Tornetta
July 22, 2022
You are so loved by all, your infectious laughter radiated the room, your heart was truly beautiful. You're never forgotten, but we still will miss the world without you.
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