Irene Rau
Irene Rau, 93, passed away surrounded by her family on Wednesday, March 18, 2020, at Agrace Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, Lancaster
Irene was born at home in Eastman, on July 2, 1926, the daughter of Thomas and Orpha (Mindham) Check. Upon Clarence Rau’s return from the European Theatre at the end of World War II, Irene and he were married on Feb. 2, 1946, and he preceded her in death on July 15, 1994. Irene worked as a nurse’s aide at Mercy Hospital for 11 years and at Pember Nuzum Clinic/Riverview Clinic, retiring in 1992. She and Clarence were among the charter members of St. John Vianney Catholic Church, where she was actively involved as a volunteer and as a member of the Catholic Council of Women. She and Clarence served the parish at school functions and the annual fall festival. In her retired years, Irene volunteered her services at Mercy Hospital and Dean St. Mary’s Hospital, as well as at the voting polls and the annual 4-H Fair. She was an avid bowler, golfer, and loved the adventure of travel. Irene was a gracious and outgoing lady who enjoyed being with people. She was an outstanding and vocal fan at sporting events for her children and grandchildren. She could be seen weekly at sporting events long after family was done competing.
Irene is survived by four children, Gary (Nancy) Rau, Joanne (Bob) Corey, David (Kathy) Rau, and Linda (Bill) Carrington; eight grandchildren, Brent, Brad, Kyle, Ethan, Joe, Brian, Lindsay and Erin; 11 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Catherine (Gerald) Forst, Norma (John) Gillitzer, Marilyn (Arthur) Pitzer, and one brother, Thomas (Loretta) Check. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Clarence; infant daughter, Janet; sister, Mildred Lessard; and brother, Harold Check.
The family would like to express appreciation to the staff at Agrace for their amazing care and empathy. The family, further requests no flowers, and encourages donations to Agrace Center for Hospice and Palliative Care. A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held. Interment will be in Mt Olivet Cemetery.