Raymond D Rataiczak

Cumberland – Dr. Raymond D Rataiczak, 72, of Cumberland, passed away suddenly on Thursday afternoon, (October 13, 2016) at his farm. It is fitting that he died, as he lived, working on the farm that he loved so dearly.  Ray was born June 5, 1944, in Bellaire, Ohio, to the late Raymond E. & Mary D Rataiczak.

He was a graduate of Powhatan Point HS, earning his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics from Waynesburg College and a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Physical Chemistry-Magnetic Resonance from Saint Louis University.  Dr. Rataiczak began his career at Incarnate Word College in San Antonio, Texas.  He spent many years (1980-present) as a Professor of Chemistry- and Chair of the Science Division of Muskingum University. He led the development of four new academic programs – Engineering, Nursing, Information Systems, and the Master of Information Strategy, Systems and Technology (MISST), directed the MISST program, and chaired the Informatics Department.  He also served as the University’s Chemical Hygiene Officer and as the Special Assistant to the President for Regional Technology Partnerships.  He was twice named the recipient of the Muskingum’s Cora I. Orr Faculty Service Award, which honors outstanding contributions to the University.

Dr. Rataiczak was known across the Southeastern Ohio region as the Moderator for the WHIZ-TV’s High School Honors Society Quiz Show and his work with K-12 educators and community groups to encourage the region’s young people to explore career opportunities in the sciences.  He received multiple honors in recognition of his impact, including the Outstanding Educator Award from the Phi Delta Kappa Zanesville Chapter.

He is survived and loved deeply by his wife, Connie E. Rataiczak of the home, one daughter- Heather Rae (Aaron) Traver of Maryland, one son - Michael Paul (Christine) Rataiczak of South Carolina, three step-children – Dave (Shelly) Stephen of Columbus, Jim Stephen of New Concord, Debby (Jim) Sylvis of Cambridge, one sister - Danielia (Courtney) Gummer of Powhatan Point, one brother – Barry (Josie) Rataiczak of Hamilton, and a special brother-in-law and friend, Steve Burkhardt. Ray was also survived by his 26 grandchildren, whom he loved and cherished dearly, and several nieces and nephews.

Ray was a modest and kind man who encouraged hundreds of students over his many years in teaching.  He never truly understood how much he was loved and appreciated by all who had the honor of knowing him.  His family knew him as “Danny” and faculty and students knew him as “Doc” Rataiczak.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a celebration of life service for Dr. Rataiczak on Tuesday, October 18, 2016, at Brown Chapel on the Muskingum University campus at 5:00 PM.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you each plant a tree in Ray’s memory, to honor his love of the land.  Farus Funeral Home of New Concord is caring for his family.