Eric L. Rausch

Eric L. Rausch, age 67, passed away on January 8, 2026, at Cherry Meadows Hospice following a recent diagnosis of glioblastoma. Eric was born in Illinois to the late John and Jeanette (Lavier) Rausch on June 29, 1958. He grew up in Illinois on a farm with his siblings. At the age of 18, Eric began work as a chef in Florida.

Eventually, Eric moved to Wisconsin and after spending some time in Milwaukee, he moved to Appleton and began work at TrimB’s. It was while working at that Appleton fixture, he met the love of his life Margaret “Peggy” Hoffmann. The two hit it off as coworkers and soon their friendship turned to more. Eric and Peggy spent 25 years together.

Eric worked at many restaurants around the Appleton area over the years. In the early 2000’s Eric started his own food truck Street Eats, which he owned and operated for just over five years.

Eric loved growing things. He had a remarkable green thumb. He enjoyed building things, and created birdhouses for friends, built a deck and even a gazebo. He loved his backyard oasis where he and Peggy would feed their forest friends. Over the years, he and Peggy had a wide variety of pets. He loved nature, animals and trips to Door County. For he and Peggy, Door County was truly a special place. They loved to be near the water and enjoying the scenery relaxing in each other’s company.

Eric is survived by his longtime partner of 25 years, Peggy Hoffmann, his sister Pam Haundschild, his brother Mark Rausch. He is further survived by many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

At Eric’s request, the family will celebrate him privately and with friends. A more public celebration will take place as well. In Eric’s memory, go out with a friend and share a meal and a drink and raise a glass to him.