Kenneth Douglas Rakouska

In Loving Memory of Kenneth Douglas Rakouska December 5, 1935 – January 17, 2025 Kenneth Douglas Rakouska passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, in St. Augustine, Florida, at the age of 89. Ken was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, uncle, friend, engineer, and entrepreneur whose life was marked by dedication, love, and curiosity. Born on December 5, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, Ken was the beloved son of Frank D. Rakouska and Elizabeth Rakouska. He grew up in Oak Park, where he attended Oak Park High School and met the love of his life, Dorothy Runkel. Their story is one for the ages. Ken continued his education at Dartmouth College, where he was a proud member of the NROTC program, the “Bones Gate” Delta Tau Delta fraternity, and the Rowing Crew. Known affectionately as “Rak and Runk,” Ken and Dot were featured in the Sports Illustrated 1957 Winter Carnival article. He graduated from the Thayer School of Engineering with distinction. A true renaissance man, Ken was equally at home designing solutions as he was navigating the open water. June 9, 1957, was a defining day in Ken’s life. On that single, unforgettable day, he was commissioned as a Navy Ensign at 10 a.m., graduated from Dartmouth at 1 p.m., and married Dorothy Runkel at 4 p.m. at the “little white church” down the street. His lifelong friends Bob Baehr and Bob Slaughter stood beside him. That day set the tone for a lifetime of love, partnership, and unwavering commitment. Ken served with honor in the United States Navy and went on to build a successful career in engineering and business. He held multiple patents and was known for his innovative mind and tireless work ethic. A man of many passions, Ken loved fishing, sailing, scuba diving, and playing bridge and gin with friends and family. He brought warmth and wit to every table and cherished the adventures life offered him, on both land and sea. Ken is preceded in death by his cherished wife of 64 years, Dorothy Jane Rakouska, and his beloved son, Kenneth Douglas Rakouska Jr. Left to honor his memory and celebrate his legacy are his granddaughters, Brianna Rakouska and Dr. Makena Rakouska; his daughter-in-law, Robin Rakouska; and his beloved niece and nephews, who all miss him deeply and remember him with immense love and admiration. Though we are heartbroken by his absence, we are grateful that Ken is at peace, reunited with his beloved Dorothy and their son Ken. His kindness, wisdom, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Memorial services will be held at Memorial Presbyterian Church on Friday, May 16th at 3:00 PM in the columbarium courtyard. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Memorial Presbyterian Church

Kenneth Douglas Rakouska

December 5, 1935 - January 17, 2025