Working on the family farm created a respect for the land and a passion for animals that ultimately shaped the outdoorsman that Mike Rausch became. As a boy, Mike learned to hunt, fish, and trap from his father and spent much time following this passion with his brothers, cousins, friends, and later with nephews and his own sons.

A graduate of Monterey High School, Mike attended Purdue University where he earned his bachelor’s degree and then his doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. When Mike began at Purdue, he and his father talked about a dream of opening a clinic in Winamac.  Mike went on to own a successful practice in South Bend for over a decade, but in 1989, the original dream was fulfilled when he returned to his hometown with his family and established the Winamac Pet Med Center. He would often make house calls, and some clients still smile as they tell stories about how their kitchen table served a new purpose during the exam and treatment part of his visit.

Dr. Rausch was forced to retire in 2005 because of his health, but he still holds a special place in the hearts of many residents due to his deep interest in his clients and their pets. Michael shared his legacy of love for the outdoors with the community through his support and involvement in local organizations’ conservation and education activities. One participant remembers a youth event sponsored by the Pulaski County Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) of which Mike was a co-founder.

He recalled, “We were out before dawn listening for wild turkeys. The members showed us how to look for signs of turkeys, taught us how to use turkey calls, and fed us. We then got a chance to try our hand at shooting trap while learning how to safely use black powder muzzleloaders (supervised, of course). It was a great experience that helped me gain an ongoing love and appreciation for wildlife and those type of outdoor activities.”

Mike had great love for family and friends, a respect for remembering history while looking to the future, and a great appreciation for the importance of giving back to the community. He enjoyed giving presentations at the elementary school, helping young people through job shadowing and mentoring experiences, and supporting 4-H activities. He also served the community at large as a member of the town council and later, the Board of Health.

Mike Rausch made a positive impact on his community during his life, and will continue to do so in the years to come, thanks to the endowment that bears his name. The Michael J.Rausch Community Fund will enhance the number and amounts of grants awarded each year to worthy nonprofits and projects. Contributions to the Michael J. Rausch Community Fund or any existing fund may be made at any time, in any amount. All gifts are tax deductible and may be sent to the Community Foundation, P.O. Box 407, Winamac or online through the CF website at www.cfopc.org .