Richard L. Rauscher

Richard Lee Rauscher, a cherished family man known for his generosity, mechanical expertise, and social nature passed away on March 19, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on November 30, 1946, to the late Frederick and Dorothy (Williamson) of Stratford, New Jersey, Richard's life was marked by dedication to his wife and family and a career characterized by loyalty and camaraderie.
A proud graduate of Sterling High School's class of 1965, Richard embarked on a career that began at WT Grant department store, where he honed his skills in management at various locations across South Jersey and Philadelphia. In the mid-1970s, drawing on skills developed in his father's tool and die shop, he transitioned to a maintenance mechanic role in educational publishing at WB Saunders. As the company evolved and underwent several name changes, ultimately becoming Reed Elsevier, Richard remained a steadfast employee for about 40 years. His coworkers were friends, often becoming part of the lively stories he shared at home.
Richard was married to Patricia (Murphy) Rauscher for over 48 years at the time of her passing, and their love story was one of quality time and exploration. Together, they took regular day trips across South Jersey, discovering hidden gems and creating lasting memories. Over the years, they spent many days in Cape May wandering around Washington Street Mall and eating at the Lobster House patio, playing slot machines in Atlantic City, fishing in Barnegat Bay, and enjoying Tuckerton.
Richard is survived by his brothers, Frederick (Sharon) and Raymond (Jane), his children, Richard Rauscher (Laura) and Erica Johnson (Jason), and his grandchildren. Time spent with his granddaughters, Zoe, Autumn, and Lila, were moments that he treasured. His humor, ability to fix anything, and his eagerness to lend a hand were traits that his family admired and will remember fondly.
Despite his complaints about New Jersey's taxes and government, Richard's roots were firmly planted in the state he called home. He loved his town, from his dedicated and supportive neighbors, to the many employees of local stores he befriended, to all of the cats, birds, squirrels, skunks, and other critters he fed for years.
Richard's legacy is one of love, dedication, and the ability to find joy in the everyday. He was the kind of man who made lasting impressions on those he met, who turned acquaintances into friends, and whose absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
There will be a celebration of Richard's life on April 19, 2025 at Earle Funeral Home, 122 W Church St, Blackwood, NJ 08012. Visitation begins at 10am, with remembrances beginning at 11am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at DONATE to St. Jude’s, or Toys for Tots, ATTN: Gift Processing Administrator, 18251 Quantico Gateway Drive, Triangle, VA 22172 or online at DONATE to Toys for Tots
Condolences may be shared at www.earlefuneralhome.com.