Stephen Rauch

Stephen Rauch died unexpectedly at home on the evening of September 2, 2017.

Born in Minneapolis on December 11, 1922, of Russian and Romanian parents Belle (Woolpy) and Charles Rauch, at an early age, Stephen carved his own course. He was a successful child actor in the radio series “Buddy and Ginger”, starring as Buddy. He ventured west as a young man, first hitchhiking to Mexico where he learned Spanish, and later setting in California.

Stephen served in the US Army in Hawaii where he trained in Japanese, and intercepting code. He worked at a local high school there, beginning his career in education. He injured his ear swimming in Hawaii, affecting his hearing, but he was physically active all his life.

Stephen earned degrees at the University of Minnesota and Columbia before coming to UC Berkeley for his PhD in psychology. He met and married fellow graduate PhD student Mary Alice Darby, “Scottie”. Stephen, Scottie and Robert Suczek formed the “Berkeley Psychological Group”, their office on Telegraph Avenue. Although that office closed, he continued private practice right up until his last weeks.

Scottie and Steve settled near Wildcat canyon, built a glass and redwood house, and had three children. They also had several Irish Setters and a Siamese cat, as well as goats, chickens, tropical fish, lambs, ducks, monkeys and a burro. Scottie died in 1972, when the children were teenagers. Stephen died at home, in his later years he spoke of how much he enjoyed being there, watching the weather, seasons, and outdoor life pass by.

Stephen was an adventurous traveler, from his solo trans-Siberian railroad trip to family VW camper and Sierra wilderness trips, both by horse and on foot. He was a fisherman, frying fresh trout for breakfast on the Coleman stove. Stephen preferred remote areas, and enjoyed diverse cultures and languages. He enjoyed speaking Spanish on annual camping trips to Mexico beaches. Stephen was once the oldest participant in an “Outward Bound” excursion.

Stephen had a long career in the Department of Psychology at San Francisco State University, during an era of significant political change. As Chair of the Department, he was involved in starting the graduate school psychology program. He was a memorable professor and mentor, encouraging intellectual curiosity and independence. Stephen married Dr. Rosemarie Bowler, also on faculty at SFSU. For over 30 years, they shared thier love of travel with trips to Europe, Asia and Central America, and weekends on the Russian river. They also enjoyed the symphony and local theatre. Stephen’s enthusiasm for sports and education was shared with Rosemarie’s children, Russell, Colette and Nicole. After retiring from SF State, Stephen continued working with Rosemarie, assisting with her research on the cognitive effects of neurotoxins.

Ever tuned to local, national and world politics, Stephen read at least three newspapers each day. His interest in news centered on politics, but included sports and weather. He was a long-time member of the Sierra Club and a supporter of the anti-war, black power and women’s movements. He and Scottie encouraged their children’s participation in peaceful protests. Stephen may be remembered for driving his VW beetle with the sunroof perpetually open, a stream of colored ribbons trailing from the antenna.

Although he lived into his mid-90’s, Stephen never quite took on a role as an “old” man. He was active and lucid right up until his last day. He was always interested in the lives of his family and friends, and became increasingly reflective about his life. He was a thoughtful writer and regularly sent emails which reflect his voice and tone.

Stephen’s children Charles, Kate and Sally remained very close to him. He was also an everinterested grandfather to Beatrice, Charles, Bonnie, Alice, Toby and Will. Just this July, Grandpa Steve travelled to British Columbia to witness Bonnie marry Ehsan, and to meet his new great grandson Silas.

Many thanks to Stephen’s caregiver Veronica, who spoke Spanish with him and became a close friend.

A memorial will be held in March; please contact srauchmemorial@gmail.com for more information.