Ruth Shea Rauch

Ruth Louise Shea Rauch, a remarkable soul whose life was a testament to resilience, creativity, and love, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on June 12, 2024. She was born on August 7, 1929, in New York City to Deborah Codding and Charles Shea. As a member of an Army family, she followed her father’s career and grew up in Florida, Nebraska and New Jersey while maintaining a strong connection to family in Danielson, Connecticut, where she enjoyed the company of numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. As a member of both the school band and the orchestra, sports club, French club, junior Red Cross and the yearbook staff, she graduated from Killingly High School in 1947. She began attending classes at Green Mountain College in Vermont, but unfortunately, contracted polio and had to leave school to receive the required treatment. However, Ruth's determination and hard work prevailed, and with the support of her family, she recovered - exceeding doctors’ expectations. In 1949, her next chapter began as she sailed to Europe with her mother and sister, Susan, to reunite with her father, who was stationed in Paris. While studying at the Sorbonne, she met Bill Rauch, a young man serving in the Army under her father's command. Their love story blossomed, leading to a wedding in the American Church, Quai d'Orsay, Paris, in November of 1949. In 1950, the newlyweds ventured back to the States, settling in Dallas, Pennsylvania, and then ultimately Rochester. Over the next 16 years, they welcomed three daughters Ellen, Becky and Amy. Throughout her life, Ruth wore many hats and pursued diverse careers. She worked as an administrative assistant for the Gates-Chili School District and as a dental hygienist. Her dedication and organizational skills shone as she served the community, including Gates Presbyterian Church, the Girl Scouts, and any other group she became involved with. Ruth was a creator at heart, leaving behind a legacy of handmade treasures. She experimented with stenciling, quilling, and theorem painting, but her true passion lay in quilting. Her quilts became cherished heirlooms, with each of her great-grandchildren receiving a specially crafted quilt. Ruth also designed and sold quilted "shelfies,” bringing warmth and beauty to the residents of Ogden Gardens. Above all, Ruth loved to laugh and make others laugh. Her high school yearbook said of her: “Behind this imposing array of talents, you will find an imp of mischief that pops up when we least expect it and need it most.” This description was true her entire life. Ruth was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, William Rauch. She is survived by her sister Susan and brother-in-law, Larry Melander; daughters Ellen Rauch, Becky Robbins, Amy Donovan, and son-in-law Scott Donovan; grandchildren Ryan and Caitlin Nally, Jeremy and Sarah Robbins, and Fiona Donovan; her great-grandchildren Frances and Wesley Nally, Rowan and Thorsen Stecher and Madsen Zinser. She will be deeply missed by many. A celebration of life will be held on October 12, 1:00-4:00 pm at Rustic Roots, 5324 W Ridge Road, Spencerport, NY 14559. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions in her memory to the Girl Scouts of the Nation’s Capital at https://www.gscnc.org/en/support-us/ways-to-give/share.html.

Ruth Shea Rauch

August 7, 1929 - June 12, 2024