Charles Nicholas "Nick" Rausch

Charles Nicholas “Nick” Rausch, age 80, passed away peacefully at home on July 24, 2025. Nick proudly served his community as a dedicated member of the Reynoldsburg Police Department for 27 years. Commissioned as a peace officer on November 16, 1970, he rose through the ranks to become a Sergeant, earning respect for his integrity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to public safety. He retired in 1996, leaving behind a legacy of service and honor.

After retiring from law enforcement, Nick began a second career in the private sector with Cisco Software. There, he continued his passion for public service by helping agencies across the country adopt advanced public safety software solutions, ensuring communities had access to cutting-edge technology. Nick found joy in the simple pleasures of life—boating and fishing with his wife, Kathy, alongside family and friends; spending time with his dogs; and sharing stories that could light up a room. Known for his quick wit, infectious humor, and legendary storytelling, he brought warmth and laughter wherever he went.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 36 years, Kathy (Tipton) Rausch; his son, Shawn (Diana) Rausch; his daughter, Heidi (August Elliott) Anderson; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; his brother, Thomas Rausch; his son-in-law, Tom Anderson; and his sisters-in-law, Sue Crabtree, Marsha Tipton, and Lana (Dan) Elliott; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, lifelong friends, and neighbors, including Frank and Mary Malone, Yvonne Sawyer, and Dick Barth. He was preceded in death by his parents, Karl Raymond “Ray” Rausch and Irene “Peg” Addison Rausch;
brothers-in-law, Mike Tipton and Erman Tipton; sister-in-law, Marsha Rausch; and his cherished grandson, Nicholas Eugene Rausch.

Nick will be remembered for his strength, service, sense of humor, and the deep love he shared with those around him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Nick’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 30th, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at: Cotner Funeral Home 7369 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 Beginning at 5:00 p.m., friends and family are welcome to share memories, stories, or words of tribute in honor of Nick. All are then invited to join the family for a reception immediately following the service at: Vick’s Pizza 7345 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068

*In honor of Nick’s love for life on the water, we are asking family and friends to come dressed in their best fishing or boating attire as we say bon voyage to our favorite boat captain.

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