Joseph Rauch

Joseph Rauch, 84, known as Jo Bear, passed away on October 14, 2025, at Westerly Hospital. Jo Bear lived life by his rules, always looking forward to a good time, a few drinks, and shared laughter. A true character known for his "Cherokee chanting," larger-than-life storytelling, and overall jovial antics. Jo Bear graduated from Don Bosco Preparatory High School in New Jersey. He worked for Pan American World Airlines in both New York and Boston, settling in Marblehead, MA, a town he would always consider home. Later, he was a "jack-of-all-trades" working in restaurants, on construction sites, in security, and always seeking opportunities to showcase his charismatic charm, especially with the ladies. Jo Bear split his time between Jensen Beach, FL, and Marblehead, MA, for more than twenty years. Ultimately, Jo Bear moved to southern Rhode Island in June of 2024 to reside with his youngest child.

Jo Bear is survived by his three children, Michael Rauch of Long Island, Catherine Rauch of Salem, MA, Kimberly Rauch-Anderson and her husband Ian Anderson of Hope Valley, RI, his sister Patricia Keneally of Melbourne, FL, and his brother Richard Rauch of Carson City, NV. Jo Bear had four amazing grandchildren - Courtney Rauch of Long Island, Taylor Rauch of Long Island, Elizabeth Anderson of Hope Valley, and Roland Anderson of Hope Valley -and one very special great-grandchild, Lily. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Jo Bear was predeceased by his parents, Joseph G. Rauch and Carolyn (Mitchell) Rauch of Port St. Lucie, FL, and his brother, Michael Rauch of San Diego, CA.

A mass will be held in his honor on December 7th at 10:30 AM at Saint Joseph's Catholic Church in Hope Valley, RI. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to Meals on Wheels Rhode Island.

Most importantly, share a frosty mug and tell a story resulting in deep, deep belly laughter in Jo Bear's honor.