Albert William Ranch

Albert William Rauch was born September 8, 1941, in Reading, PA, to Arthur G. Rauch, Sr. and Grace M. Rauch. He grew up in Fleetwood, PA, and was frequently in and out of his dad's drug store, making sure to stop by the candy counter on his way past. He was a graduate of Fleetwood High School and went on to get his B.S. from Appalacian State College and his M.A. from High Point College in North Carolina. He taught English at a small college in West Virginia for a few years, and during that time in his life, he toured Europe with some of his fellow teachers.
He moved to the Poconos while still a young man, and worked at the original Mt. Airy Lodge , the Beaver House Restaurant, Weikel car dealership, and the Barrett Friendly Library at various times during his years living in Mountainhome and Cresco. He indulged in a little acting during those years, most notably, perhaps, as a rabbi in Fiddler on the Roof. Al was a man who made friends easily and kept them forever. He provided a great service to people by driving them to appointments when they were unable to drive themselves, and also volunteered for various local organizations. Later in life, he was an asset to "Pat Williams' Shakespeare classes" at the library. His was a fairly active life.
In April, 2018, an unfortunate fall turned this healthy person into an instant quadrapelegic. Through it all, Al was still "Al." His mind was sharp and so was his wit. He became a resident of Pleasant Valley Manor at Stroudsburg, and continued to make new friends there. He liked hearing what the Shakespeare class was discussing, and offered his own take on the assignements given to the class. He thoroughly enjoyed visits from his friends (he'd say, "That made my day") and the many cards and letters he received from them.
Sadly, Al's body failed him toward the end, and he passed peacefully on December 3, 2018. He was preceded in death by his parents, but is survived by his older brother, Arthur G. Rauch, Jr., and sister-in-law Joyce E. (Larrick) Rauch in Winchester, VA. His remains were cremated, and burial will be private and at the convenience of the Rauchs in the family plot at Ebenezer Cemetery in New Tripoli, PA.
Remember Al as a healthy, vital man, and remember him often. Make memorial donations to a charity of your choice, if you wish, and every time you eat a peanut butter cup, say to yourself, "Al, this one's for you!"