Obituary of Donald E. Rauber

Wayland – Donald E. Rauber, 98 years of age, passed away Wednesday November 8, 2023 at his home in Wayland. Don was born November 10, 1924 in Hornell the son of Edwin and Helen (Ward) Rauber. He grew up in Hornell and graduated from Hornell High School in 1942 as the class valedictorian. After graduation from high school, Don served his country in the United States Army from March 25, 1943 until his honorable discharge December 6, 1945. Serving during World War II, Don earned a Bronze Star Medal for his effort and in 2011, his grand-daughter escorted him on an Honor Flight Mission. After returning home from the war, Don went to college at Alfred State, attaining his Associates Degree in Business. He resided in Hornell during that time and when his parents moved to Wayland to own and operate a saw mill, he joined them. Don then began a career with the Wayland Post Office that lasted nearly 30 years. While working at the post office, he also owned and operated Rauber Realty, Inc. He also enjoyed buying houses, fixing them up and then selling them. He enjoyed working and continued to do so well into his 80’s. Don and Betty Barber were loving companions for over 52 years. They loved to dance to the big band sound and spending time with friends. Don enjoyed puttering around, repurposing something old or found, and especially maintaining “The Hill!” Don was pre-deceased by his parents, Edwin and Helen Rauber; his daughter, Charlene Rauber: his brothers, Gerald Rauber and Leo Rauber; Betty’s sons, Gaylan Barber and Alan Barber; and an infant grandson, Christopher. Don is survived by his loving companion, Betty Barber of Wayland; his daughter, Donna Werth of Wayland; Betty’s children, Gary Barber of Wayland, Mike (June) Barber of Wayland, Tom (Patty) Barber of Wayland and Paula Wheaton of Wayland; his granddaughter, Jill (Chris) Schubert of Canandaigua; his great grandsons, Owen and Wyatt Schubert; many grandchildren and great grandchildren on Betty’s side of the family; along with many nieces and nephews. Don’s family and friends may call Saturday November 18, 2023 from 1-3pm at St. George-Forsythe Funeral Home, 109 West Naples St., Wayland. Don’s funeral service will be immediately following at 3pm at the funeral home. Military honors will take place immediately following the service at the funeral home.