Dana R. Rauscher

Dana R. Rauscher, age 79, passed away peacefully and in the comfort of his own home, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

He was born on April 10, 1947, a son of the late Raymond and Elizabeth “Betty” (Thomas) Rauscher. Dana attended Whitesboro High School and would go on to obtain his bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland. On September 6, 1969, he married the love of his life in St. Peter’s Church in North Utica, Donna Demma, a blessed union of 56 years. Dana proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for over 20 years. Being in the Air Force allowed him to travel all over the world, which he thoroughly enjoyed doing with Donna. Dana ended his military career retiring from Griffiss Air Force Base as a Government Contractor.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Dana was an avid golfer, noted for having four holes-in-one throughout his illustrious career as well as always having the first tee-time of the day.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; his daughters, Dana Marie (Chris) Machold, Utica and Kara (Jason) Tanoory, Canandaigua; his cherished grandchildren, Kiernan Leary, Emilee (Miguel) Reynes and AnneMarie Leary and Anna, Oliva, Jack, Luke and CJ Tanoory; his adored great-grandchildren, Stella and Maisy Reynes; his sisters, Linda (David) Greiner and Carole Ann (David) Havener; his in-laws, Jack (Alyce) Demma; his canine companion, Gibbs as well as several nieces and nephews. Dana was predeceased by his parents; his mother-in-law and father-in-law Anne and Jack Demma; his sister-in-law, Angela Demma and his good friend and golfing partner, Ed O’Toole.

Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 4-6 PM at the Scala, Roefaro & Karboski Funeral Home 1122 Culver Ave., Utica. Funeral services will be on Thursday at 9:30 AM at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Whitesboro, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Private interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Remembrances in Dana’s name may be made to Feed Our Vets or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.