Frank D Rausch

Frank David Rausch, age 81, of Akron, Ohio, passed away on February 4, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born on August 11, 1944, in Bellevue, Pennsylvania, to the late Anthony and Rose Rausch (née Muller).

One of four children, Frank was raised alongside his siblings, Lillian, Anthony, and Patricia, in a close and devoted family. He attended Most Holy Name Catholic Grade School and graduated from North Catholic High School. He later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Pittsburgh before pursuing his lifelong passion for the culinary arts at the Culinary Institute of America.

Frank devoted his life’s work to the culinary profession, where he distinguished himself not only as a skilled chef but also as a patient and dedicated instructor of culinary arts. He believed deeply in the discipline, creativity, and fellowship that cooking inspires, and he took great pride in mentoring others as they developed their own talents. His career led him to various parts of the country, including Palm Beach, California, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, before he ultimately made his home in Akron, Ohio.

Beyond his profession, Frank lived a life rooted in simple joys and meaningful connections. He found great peace in tending to his garden, where his patience and care were reflected in all that he cultivated. He had a deep appreciation for travel and the experiences it brought, always eager to explore new places and cultures. At home, he was most content in the kitchen, preparing meals that brought people together, offering not just food, but warmth, generosity, and a sense of belonging to all who gathered at his table.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Frank was a devoted parishioner of Most Holy Name Catholic Church. His faith was a quiet but constant presence in his life, guiding his actions and sustaining him through life’s challenges.

In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by them. He is survived by his loving sisters, Patricia Keister (Orville “Bud”) and Lillian Black-Bump; his brother, Anthony Rausch (Jean); his nephews, Tom E. Sitarik (Tracy), Matthew Sitarik, Greg Black, Anthony Thomas Rausch (Laura), and Bradley Rausch (Kristina); and his nieces, Heidi Rausch, Pam Rodgers, Jill Sannese (Patrick), and Danielle Raynor (Scott).

The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to the caregivers at Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospice for the kind, compassionate care they showed to Frank during his final days.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 1700 Harpster Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. Frank will be laid to rest in a private committal ceremony at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Pittsburgh.

Services are entrusted to the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road, Akron, Ohio 44333 (Billow Fairlawn Chapel).