MIRIAM RAU

Miriam Linda Rau, age 94, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 7, 2014 at Cherry Meadows with her family by her side. She was born on February 27, 1920 in Neenah to Carl and Ella (Klinko) Grutzmacher. On August 30, 1941 she married Angus Rau at All Saints Episcopal Church in Appleton. They made their home in Neenah and then moved to Menasha where together they raised two children, Daniel and Patricia. She worked at the Lakeview Plant for Kimberly-Clark and later at Theda Clark in the surgery ward. Miriam and Angus loved to travel until his death in 1982. Among their travels were Germany and the World Fair in Knoxville, Tennessee. Miriam also enjoyed gardening and cooking, especially for her family. Her favorite times were visits from her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and reminiscing of her youth. Miriam is survived by her son, Daniel (Emily) Rau, Neenah and their children: Debbie (Shawn) Kienert, Rev. David (Jennie) Rau, Bob (Chrissy) Rau, Lisa (Scott) MacWilliam, and by her daughter, Patricia Riedel, Appleton and her children: Matthew (Nicole) Cody, Kate Cody, and Beth (Derrick) Meisel. Miriam is also survived by 12 great-grandchildren: Logan Kienert, Brianna, Kayley, and Emma Rau, Tristan and Carson Rau, Teagan, Peyton, and Piper Cody, Tatum and Rylyn Bruette, and Avery Meisel. She is also survived by a nephew, Don (Sandy) Grutzmacher, and 2 nieces, Jean Powell, and Laurie (Andy) Zemlock. She was preceded in death by her husband, Angus, her parents, her son-in-law, David Riedel, her brother, Harold (Caroline) Grutzmacher and Robert Grutzmacher (in infancy), and her sister, Eunice (James) Waters. According to Miriam's wishes, a private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established in her name. The family would like to thank Theda Care Hospice, especially Suzie, and the nursing staff at Cherry Meadows for their loving care of Miriam in her last days.