Kenneth Richard Rau

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Kenneth "Ken" Richard Rau, age 84, of New Philadelphia, OH passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026. He was born on May 21, 1941 to the late John and Frances (Metz) Rau.

Ken, a veteran of the United States Navy having served on the USS John R. Perry. Also, he was a man of many trades and talents including an accomplished mechanic having owned his own transmission shop for over 50 years. Ken was the inventor of the patented TransDrain, a system he created to easily drain transmission fluid. He was a self-taught piano player, second-degree black belt in jiu-jitsu, and an avid bowler and pool player. He also loved being on his boat and riding his motorcycles whenever the weather would let him. Most of all, Ken loved spending time with his family and friends. He is truly loved and will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his children, Kathleen Lynne Zambetti (Ronald), Kenneth Lawrence Rau, Karyn Faye Rau-Rich (Jeannie Rich), and Tobi Raine Rau (Megan Barker), and stepson, Donald Hill. Cherished grandchildren, Ryleigh and Reese Goldmeier, and Rocco Zambetti. Loving brothers James Rau (Pamela), Robert Rau (Karen), and John Rau (Joan), numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews as well as great-great nieces and nephews, along with a lifetime of collected friends.

The family will receive friends on Friday, March 13th from 11:00 am – 12:30 pm, with the Funeral Service following at 12:30 pm at the Waite Funeral Home 765 N Court St., Medina, OH. 44256. He will be laid to rest with Military Honors in Spring Grove Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.waitefuneralhome.com.