On Campus
Celebration of Life service held for Dr. Rataiczak
Dr. Raymond D Rataiczak, 72, passed away suddenly on October 13, 2016 at his Cumberland, Ohio, farm. It is fitting that he died, as he lived, working on the farm that he loved so dearly.
Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of life service for Dr. Rataiczak on Tuesday, October 18, 2016, at Brown Chapel on the Muskingum University campus at 5 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that individuals plant trees in Ray’s memory as a fitting tribute to his love of the land.
Ray was born June 5, 1944, in Bellaire, Ohio, to the late Raymond E. & Mary D Rataiczak.
He was a graduate of Powhatan Point High School, earning his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics from Waynesburg College and a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Physical Chemistry-Magnetic Resonance from Saint Louis University.
Dr. Rataiczak was Professor of Chemistry and Chair of the Science Division of Muskingum University. He led the development of four new academic programs – Engineering, Nursing, Information Systems, and the Master of Information Strategy, Systems and Technology (MISST), directed the MISST program, and chaired the Informatics Department. He also served as the University’s Chemical Hygiene Officer and as the Special Assistant to the President for Regional Technology Partnerships.
He was twice named the recipient of Muskingum’s Cora I. Orr Faculty Service Award, which honors outstanding contributions to the University.
“Throughout his 36-year career at the University, Professor Rataiczak was a stellar and caring teacher and advisor to his students, a respected researcher in his field, a prolific grants writer, and a valued colleague to all of us,” said Muskingum University President Sue Hasseler. “His tremendous service to the University reflected his dedication to our students and his commitment to continually enhance their educational experiences and opportunities.”
Dr. Rataiczak began his career at Incarnate Word College in San Antonio, Texas.
Known across the Southeastern Ohio region as the Moderator for the WHIZ-TV’s High School Honors Society Quiz Show. Dr. Rataiczak also worked with K-12 educators and community groups to encourage the region’s young people to explore career opportunities in the sciences. He received multiple honors in recognition of his impact, including the Outstanding Educator Award from the Phi Delta Kappa Zanesville Chapter.
He is survived and loved deeply by his wife, Connie E. Rataiczak of the home, one daughter- Heather Rae (Aaron) Traver of Maryland, one son - Michael Paul (Christine) Rataiczak of South Carolina, three step-children – Dave (Shelly) Stephen of Columbus, Jim Stephen of New Concord, Debby (Jim) Sylvis of Cambridge, one sister - Danielia (Courtney) Gummer of Powhatan Point, one brother – Barry (Josie) Rataiczak of Hamilton, and a special brother-in-law and friend, Steve Burkhardt. Ray was also survived by his 26 grandchildren, whom he loved and cherished dearly, and several nieces and nephews.
A scholarship in memory of Dr. Rataiczak has been established by his children.
