Michael Rau

According to His perfect plan, it pleased the Lord to gather to Himself Michael Thomas Rau, age 61, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Michael was a child of God and a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother. He set an example for all with his quiet contentment throughout his life, including during his battle with cancer, as well as with his faithful service in his callings in the home, as husband and father; in the church, as elder and deacon; in the workplace, as a builder; and in labors on many boards and committees. In everything he did, he used deliberate care to add the quality and beauty that he deeply appreciated. The family will fondly remember times spent together singing, playing board games, tackling projects, and enjoying the outdoors – a few of his favorite things. Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Phyllis Rau; brother, Steven Rau; sister, Rosemary Rau; and parents-in-law, Gus and Ramona Streyle. He will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by his wife of 39 years, Elaine (Streyle) Rau; children, Nate and Nancy Rau, Ben and Brenda Rau, Taylor and Erin Dykstra, Joel and Larissa Rau, Caleb and Leah Potjer, and Stefan Rau; 15 grandchildren; father, Alvin Rau; brothers and sisters, Jim and Lois Rau, Rev. Ken and Pat Koole, Dave and Mary Kregel, and Dave and Norma Rau; brother-in-law, John and LeAnn Streyle; many nieces and nephews; and many co-workers and church friends. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 8, at Grace Protestant Reformed Church, 11225 8th Ave, Grand Rapids, with Rev. Nathan Decker officiating. A private interment will take place at River Bend Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family on Friday, February 7, from 3-5 and 6-8 p.m. at the church and on Saturday from 10-11 a.m. at the church prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Hope Protestant Reformed Christian School or Covenant Christian High School.