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Welcome to the memorial page for
John S. Rakich
November 18, 1942 ~ February 11, 2017 (age 74) 74 Years Old Light a Candle
Leave a Condolence
A candle was lit by Badmonkey
on May 3, 2018 6:50 AM
A candle was lit by Charla Yeager martin CCHS class of 86
on February 15, 2018 11:32 PM
Message from Teresa morris
February 13, 2018 11:00 PM
I remember him from school. always
A kind word .. good teacher. I am very sorry to hear of his passing. My prayers are with all.
A kind word .. good teacher. I am very sorry to hear of his passing. My prayers are with all.
Message from Penny Shaffer Class of 83
April 19, 2017 12:21 PM
Mr. Rackich was not only a fine teacher, but also one of the finest people I know. Those of us lucky enough to grow up in the Central Columbia family have had many good teachers. So, to say he was a great teacher amid a school district of such talent , is saying something. John was a shining star among other stars. I am sorry my condolences are late. I am not in the Bloom are much. To the entire Rakich family, I'm so sorry for your loss. I also thank you for sharing him with the rest of us. We are all truly better people for having known him. Thank you John, for being my teacher, coach, and most of all, my friend.
Message from Donna Smith Hurley
April 17, 2017 6:33 PM
I just saw this post about Mr. Rackich's passing. What a gem he was to me! He welcomed me to explore language in ninth grade English class. He made it fun...an adventure. I have taught English at a wonderful Christian school for twenty + years now! What a treasure.
Class of '76 Central Columbia H.S.
Class of '76 Central Columbia H.S.
Message from Christopher Mingrone Class of 1983
February 26, 2017 10:44 AM
This saddens me to hear this news. Mr. Rakich was my English teacher and he was amazing. A true educator and a great person. The Central Columbia High School Family will never be the same. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Thank you Mr. Rakich for being my teacher.
Thank you Mr. Rakich for being my teacher.
Message from Former student
February 20, 2017 10:54 PM
Rest easy, Mr. Rakich. May you and your family be watched over and comforted during this time of sadness. God bless.
Message from Bill Garrison
February 18, 2017 1:00 PM
RIP John. I am a much better person having had you as a friend. The Rakich family will be in my thoughts. God Bless..
Message from Larry Roman
February 17, 2017 1:22 PM
Following the service yesterday, I regretted not having the courage, when a request was offered to anyone to come up and speak of memories of Coach John Rakich. So I'd like to speak on behalf of all of his "lost boys". What Coach did for so many of us, can hardly be put into few words, nor can minutes cover 30 years of his selfless acts and never ending kindness. He always had a way of being there at the exact moment to catch a falling star, using just the right words of encouragement, after we had failed terribly. He gave us the time we needed and picked us up higher then we knew possible. And we found our way. Even in the most troubled faces, he saw who and what we could become, not what other said we couldn't do! The most important thing he taught me was to refuse to give up! He gifted us all, hearts of CHAMPIONS; which will carry his lastly memory and be handed down to our children. Thank You John.
A candle was lit by lisa campbell-cunningham
on February 17, 2017 1:25 AM
Message from Annie (Rakich) Grandi
February 16, 2017 4:38 PM
May God be with the family during this very difficult time. My cousin Johnny what fond memories I have. As a child when your family would visit you and I always seemed to go off and play basketball, That was our thing. I have cherished those memories for years. May you rest in peace my dear sweet cousin.
Message from Melonie (Naugle) Yorks
February 16, 2017 10:39 AM
My thoughts and prayers are with everyone at this very difficult time. We had a lot of fun at the basketball games with John, Carolyn and Carol.
A candle was lit by rosie karnes
on February 16, 2017 7:29 AM
Message from Rosie Cooper Karnes
February 16, 2017 7:19 AM
RIP Mr. Rakich, you were a very good English teacher. I so enjoyed learning the parts of speech from you. I was so sad when I read this in the paper. My hubby has earned his angel wings too. Prayers go out to your family at this sad time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Message from Duane Ford
February 15, 2017 11:32 PM
Carolyn, Carol, Charlene and Family,
You all have my very deepest empathy and regret for your loss. John never did anything half way, whether as a spouse, father, teacher, coach, colleague or simply a friend. If any of his numerous talents or skills were needed, you never had to ask him twice, and you could be sure he would share them generously. I remember when he offered to help me put a new roof on my home. At 7 AM one morning, Judy woke me up and said she heard noises. A moment later I said, “That’s got to be John.” I got up, got dressed, went outside, and there he was, laying out the first row of shingles without me even being there to help. His work ethic was legendary, stemming from his very solid values, and he had a rare sense of integrity, fairness and loyalty that is sadly missing today. Always very competent, but also humble, only those who knew him well can really appreciate everything he did in all of his numerous roles. John will be very fondly remembered always!
You all have my very deepest empathy and regret for your loss. John never did anything half way, whether as a spouse, father, teacher, coach, colleague or simply a friend. If any of his numerous talents or skills were needed, you never had to ask him twice, and you could be sure he would share them generously. I remember when he offered to help me put a new roof on my home. At 7 AM one morning, Judy woke me up and said she heard noises. A moment later I said, “That’s got to be John.” I got up, got dressed, went outside, and there he was, laying out the first row of shingles without me even being there to help. His work ethic was legendary, stemming from his very solid values, and he had a rare sense of integrity, fairness and loyalty that is sadly missing today. Always very competent, but also humble, only those who knew him well can really appreciate everything he did in all of his numerous roles. John will be very fondly remembered always!
Message from Brenda Zolkosky
February 15, 2017 7:41 PM
Cousin Johnny,
I never really got to know you. I wished my dad would of brought us down to Pa. to see you and your brother Charlie more when we were kids. I vividly remember you as a young teenage boy, you were so handsome. I wanted to get to know you and Carolyn more since your mom past, but there never seems to be enough time and our health issues keep us from doing the things we long to do. I enjoyed the picnics you had on the 4th. of July and the Anniversary Party's that I was fortunate enough to come to, you and Carolyn were the perfect host and hostess. Thank you for thinking of us. You will be missed, again I wish I'd gotten to know you and your family better. To Carolyn and the family, my heart goes out to all of you at this time. May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with you and comfort you and this time and the days ahead. My prayers are with you all. God bless you. Love Cousin Brenda (Rakich) Zolkosky
I never really got to know you. I wished my dad would of brought us down to Pa. to see you and your brother Charlie more when we were kids. I vividly remember you as a young teenage boy, you were so handsome. I wanted to get to know you and Carolyn more since your mom past, but there never seems to be enough time and our health issues keep us from doing the things we long to do. I enjoyed the picnics you had on the 4th. of July and the Anniversary Party's that I was fortunate enough to come to, you and Carolyn were the perfect host and hostess. Thank you for thinking of us. You will be missed, again I wish I'd gotten to know you and your family better. To Carolyn and the family, my heart goes out to all of you at this time. May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with you and comfort you and this time and the days ahead. My prayers are with you all. God bless you. Love Cousin Brenda (Rakich) Zolkosky
Message from Ed & Mary McCabe
February 15, 2017 2:39 PM
Dear Carolyn, Char, Carol and all,
John's passing leaves a hole in my heart. John's endless energy and enthusiasm for life touched everyone who met him. He always had time and an interest in everyone's lives. He always gave, rarely took. Knowing John one would never guess his life accomplishments. His humility, generosity, kindness and sincerity exuded from his every pore. His wit could turn a frown upside-down. He taught through example whether parenting, teaching, coaching or mentoring. He was one of the most entertaining, cathartic colleagues imaginable. That photo chosen is vintage John.
He will always remain an unforgettable man.
Carolyn, you're all in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Ed & Mary McCabe
John's passing leaves a hole in my heart. John's endless energy and enthusiasm for life touched everyone who met him. He always had time and an interest in everyone's lives. He always gave, rarely took. Knowing John one would never guess his life accomplishments. His humility, generosity, kindness and sincerity exuded from his every pore. His wit could turn a frown upside-down. He taught through example whether parenting, teaching, coaching or mentoring. He was one of the most entertaining, cathartic colleagues imaginable. That photo chosen is vintage John.
He will always remain an unforgettable man.
Carolyn, you're all in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Ed & Mary McCabe
Message from Tim Begin Class of 85
February 15, 2017 10:48 AM
Either in class or on the mats Coach was the best.
My thoughts and prayers go out to coach's family.
My thoughts and prayers go out to coach's family.
Message from Sandra
February 15, 2017 10:17 AM
words cannot express the way I felt for my cousin John when ever I have a glass of black berry brandy I will always think of John always smiling ,laughing ,joking around my favorite memories take me back as Duris's and Rakich 's were always together as one big happy family forever in my heart I will treasure wonderful memories
Message from Charlyne (O'Brecht) Eichner class of '73
February 15, 2017 3:23 AM
Mr Rakich, you were among my #1 among my of my teachers. You gave me my a love for Shakesphere, the English language. and books. And I passed this onto my children and grandchildren. They are all bookworms. For that gift you gave me, I've give to my kids and grandkids. So, thankyou for all you're dedication..
A candle was lit by Charlyne (O'Brecht)
on February 15, 2017 3:06 AM
A candle was lit by Charlyne (O'Brecht) Eichner
on February 15, 2017 2:58 AM
Message from Cathy Weaver
February 14, 2017 4:01 PM
Mr. Rakich was my favorite teacher of all time. I have had a ton of teachers in 4 states, but no one affect me as much as he did. He was a remarkable teacher. He will be missed. I was blessed to have him.
A Mountain MeadowPedestal Arrangement was sent by George Creasy on February 14, 2017
A candle was lit by The Knorr Family
on February 14, 2017 10:44 AM
Message from Barb & Mike
February 14, 2017 9:33 AM
Our thoughts and condolences are with you and yours.
Message from Bill and Barbara Sarge
February 14, 2017 9:14 AM
We are so saddened to hear of the loss a of your husband and father. He was an energetic and uplifting man and will be greatly missed. Praying for the family.
We are in Florida for the winter so will be unable to attend the service.
We are in Florida for the winter so will be unable to attend the service.
Message from Marianne Potter
February 13, 2017 9:17 PM
My deepest sympathy. He was one of the best teachers ever 💔
A candle was lit by Marianne Potter
on February 13, 2017 9:14 PM
Message from Dana Hock class of 71
February 13, 2017 4:02 PM
John
You were my teacher, mentor, and so very good friend. You taught more than English; you taught character. You taught me what it meant to be selfless, humble and never to judge. So many memories. I, like so many of the people you touched will try to live the lessons you taught and to never forget the man who taught us.
You were my teacher, mentor, and so very good friend. You taught more than English; you taught character. You taught me what it meant to be selfless, humble and never to judge. So many memories. I, like so many of the people you touched will try to live the lessons you taught and to never forget the man who taught us.
Message from John Parcell, class of 1980
February 13, 2017 2:21 PM
I wrestled for coach for 4 years and was glad I did! Coach was a great coach and good teacher who didn't cut wrestlers any slack in his class.
I remember in my senior year, I was wrestling a state champ form one of the area schools. It was 2 weight classes above mine because our team was very short due to the flu that year. Coach knew I was nervous and prior to my bout he looked at me , gave me a 'slap 'on the head gear and told me that my opponent was just another wrestler and to do my best- I lasted 2 periods but got pinned in the 3rd. Coming off the mat, coach grabbed me in a head lock and said 'I am proud of you, you did you best'!
Also I will remember the New Years eve parties at Coaches house. He and Mrs Rakich invited all of us there- then staying up until the early hours of New Years Day , he would get us up a little later that morning and say 'get to the wrestling room , we need to practice" At their one party was the first time I saw MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL!
The last time I saw coach was about 2008 and introduced my son who was wrestling for Bloomsburg. He was refereeing the varsity match that night
My regards to a super family- Coach ,you are the best!!
I remember in my senior year, I was wrestling a state champ form one of the area schools. It was 2 weight classes above mine because our team was very short due to the flu that year. Coach knew I was nervous and prior to my bout he looked at me , gave me a 'slap 'on the head gear and told me that my opponent was just another wrestler and to do my best- I lasted 2 periods but got pinned in the 3rd. Coming off the mat, coach grabbed me in a head lock and said 'I am proud of you, you did you best'!
Also I will remember the New Years eve parties at Coaches house. He and Mrs Rakich invited all of us there- then staying up until the early hours of New Years Day , he would get us up a little later that morning and say 'get to the wrestling room , we need to practice" At their one party was the first time I saw MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL!
The last time I saw coach was about 2008 and introduced my son who was wrestling for Bloomsburg. He was refereeing the varsity match that night
My regards to a super family- Coach ,you are the best!!
Message from Dave Dillon
February 13, 2017 11:13 AM
We all have mentors who help guide our lives. Coach Rakich all of us always. Thanks for helping me become who I am.
Message from Marc, Jim, Steve, Barry Jr. & Barry Sr. Newman
February 13, 2017 11:10 AM
Our condolences to the Rakich family. As one of the best neighborhood "dads" growing up, the door was always open with Mr. Rakich. You could come and go. He was Mr. Rakich whether he was the neighborhood dad or the educator because he was always respected and he respected others. He was kind, funny and loved to joke around but you knew when he was serious. Even though this door is closing, our hearts will always be open to the Rakich family. May God bless all of you and Mr. Rakich.
Message from Larry Roman
February 13, 2017 10:54 AM
You made us all CHAMPIONS. Going to miss you Coach!
Message from Mike & Dawn McGrath
February 13, 2017 9:44 AM
Carol and Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you in this tough time.
The one time we did meet your Dad, he was a gracious host and was SO proud of his daughter and the rest of the family.
Take care, hang in.
Mike & Dawn McGrath
The one time we did meet your Dad, he was a gracious host and was SO proud of his daughter and the rest of the family.
Take care, hang in.
Mike & Dawn McGrath
A candle was lit by Krissy Brown and Connie Healy
on February 13, 2017 9:39 AM
A candle was lit by Marc Newman
on February 13, 2017 9:36 AM
Message from denise
February 13, 2017 9:36 AM
Sorry to hear about your loss the few times I met him he was great my thoughts and prayers are with you carol and your family
Message from LeAnn Conrad- class of 1999
February 13, 2017 9:16 AM
My condolences to the Rakich family. John was truly a great man.
A candle was lit by Darren Shaffer
on February 13, 2017 8:14 AM
Message from Stephanie Aten
February 13, 2017 5:30 AM
Sending my love to your family. Mr. Rakich was an amazing teacher, coach and person!
Message from Tracey Schickley
February 12, 2017 11:23 PM
So sorry for your loss.
Message from Kelly Benn
February 12, 2017 11:09 PM
My sincerest condolences on your loss. He was a wonderful man and a great teacher. He was always ready with a joke but also pushed us to go beyond where we thought our limits were.
Class of '98
Kelly (DeBonis) Benn
Aka The Kelvinator
Class of '98
Kelly (DeBonis) Benn
Aka The Kelvinator
Message from Angela Mont Philbin
February 12, 2017 11:00 PM
So very sorry for your loss. Mr. Rakich was one of the best teachers that I had the honor to know and be taught by. Sending prayers and much love.
Central Columbia Class of 1988
Central Columbia Class of 1988
Message from David J Trovitch
February 12, 2017 8:23 PM
I was one of the worst student you could have possibly imagined. Smart and stupid all in one.Had it not have been for mr r and many like him at central i wouldnt be the man i am today. He never gave up on me even with all my issues. I will truly miss you mr r. Thank u so much for all you helped me with i love and respect you very much.
Dt class of 93
Dt class of 93
Message from Tracy Waltman Burnett
February 12, 2017 7:06 PM
I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Rakich. I have fond memories of him as one of my favorite teachers and of being one of his "Wrestling Bells." He will be sadly missed.
Message from Brenda Yaple
February 12, 2017 7:02 PM
Was so very sad to read this in today's paper. I have SO many great memories of his visits to Bonham's! I truly believed he lived life to the fullest! May all of you find strength in God's arms....
Message from Colleen Young-Wetzel Class of 1980
February 12, 2017 7:01 PM
My deepest condolences on the loss of your loved one. I have fond memories of Mr. Rakich coaching our track team. He always had a smile for me and pushed me to be my best. May perpetual light shine upon him.
A candle was lit by Lori Pensyl
on February 12, 2017 6:52 PM
Message from Sue Shultz
February 12, 2017 6:41 PM
He was definitely my best and favorite teacher. I thought of him often and taught my children some of the things I learned from him. He will be greatly missed.
Message from Beth Longenberger Dawson class of 1978
February 12, 2017 6:38 PM
I was so sorry to learn of Mr. Rakich's passing. I have such fond memories of him. I spent many hours sitting next to him taking notes at wrestling matches. I loved being one of his "belles". He truly was a wonderful man. My sincere condolences to all of you.
A candle was lit by Mike and Jodi Sileo
on February 12, 2017 6:33 PM
A candle was lit by Beth Longenberger Dawson
on February 12, 2017 6:30 PM
A candle was lit by Ericka Rehm-Bower.
on February 12, 2017 5:30 PM
A candle was lit by Doug Lynn
on February 12, 2017 3:36 PM
Message from Tony & Chris DaRe
February 12, 2017 2:59 PM
To all the Rakich family, take comfort in the knowledge that the Central Columbia family will always remember with fondness and respect, our colleague, our mentor, and most of all, our friend. May he Rest In Peace.
Message from Joanne & Corky Fedder
February 12, 2017 2:37 PM
So sorry for your loss.
Message from Melinda Dawson
February 12, 2017 2:18 PM
Sorry for your loss. He was one of the best teachers I had in high school .
A candle was lit by Melinda Dawson
on February 12, 2017 2:14 PM
Message from Mike Edwards Class of 1976
February 12, 2017 1:54 PM
Sorry for your loss. I remember him as always having a smile on his face and full of energy.
A candle was lit by Romaine Grassley
on February 12, 2017 1:28 PM
Message from Marianne Krinet Coratello Class of 73
February 12, 2017 1:16 PM
To the Rakich family - It was with great sadness that I read of your husband and fathers passing. May you be comforted by the knowledge he was a well respected teacher and coach by the many students he came in contact with at Central. I extend to you my thoughts and prayers.
Maianne Kriner Coratello
Maianne Kriner Coratello
Message from Deedra Kitchen Winey class of 83
February 12, 2017 1:03 PM
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Mr Rakich. I remember him as a great teacher and think of him often.
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