In Memoriam: Mary Rausch, Past National President
December 9, 2025
Mary Helen (Hageman) Rausch, 87, of Fort Atkinson, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on October 30, 2025, as a result of an automobile accident.
Born on January 19, 1938, on the family farm near Calmar, Iowa, Mary was the fifth of nine children born to Ignatius and Elizabeth (Kuennen) Hageman. Growing up in a large farm family instilled in her the values of hard work, faith, and generosity — virtues she carried throughout her life.
On June 25, 1956, Mary married the love of her life, Melvin Rausch. Together, they celebrated 69 years of marriage, raising six children and sharing a lifetime of adventures. Education was a lifelong pursuit for Mary; she proudly earned her master’s degree from Liberty University, always valuing learning and personal growth.
Mary’s leadership and devotion to service were evident throughout her life. She was elected and served as President 2006-2009, Treasurer 2002-2006, and National Director 1994-2022of the National Catholic Society of Foresters (now 1891 Financial Life), splitting her time between Iowa and Chicago. She also led 1891’s St. Mary Impact Team 657 as President for many years. Mary served as President of the Fourth District American Legion Auxiliary, was a 40-year member of Huber-Steffes ALA Unit #672, and served as secretary and chairman of Junior activities involving her granddaughters and great granddaughters. Mary worked for Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) for 20 years assisting displaced homemakers and later substitute-taught at Turkey Valley Schools. Mary also served as President of the Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women, Decorah Deanery President, and attended over a dozen National Council of Catholic Women (NCCW) conventions.
Mary was a loyal sports fan, especially when it came to basketball. She kept her own scorebooks and rarely missed a local or college game. Her favorite player was Caitlin Clark, and she could recite nearly every Iowa basketball statistic. She delighted in attending Little League and school events, cheering proudly from the stands for her family. She enjoyed playing cards — especially buck euchre, Swoop, 7’s, Hearts, 500, and Spades — and could always be counted on to say, “I don’t like exacto, I was just trying to help, and it is just for fun!”
Mary cherished simple pleasures: feeding the orioles with her homemade grape jam, gardening, and canning. She especially enjoyed baking and cooking with Melvin by her side, serving family favorites like fruit pies from their pear and apple trees. Mary’s radiant smile, open heart, and willingness to talk with anyone embodied her deep belief in living God’s love daily. She will be missed by her family and the countless friends she made through the years. May she enjoy eternal rest in the peace of God.