Karl F. Rau

Karl Frederick Rau III, age 81 of Evansville, Indiana passed away on Monday, April 15, 2019. He was a member of Old North United Methodist Church. Karl, son of Catherine and Karl F. Rau II, was born in Melrose Park, Illinois on May 9th, 1937. He grew up unknowingly building a love for baking with his two brothers Ronald and Robert, and sister, Catherine while helping in the family bakery, Rau’s Bakery in Melrose Park, Illinois. Karl attended Proviso HS where he played football and met lifelong friends. He then attended Missouri Valley College where he met the love of his life, Lydia G. Basye. They married in October 1959 and would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this year. Karl and Lydia began their life together in Maywood, IL building and raising, a family of four, two daughters Robyn and Susan. He worked in the relocation business beginning with Bekins Van Lines, and then relocated himself and his family to Evansville, Indiana to work for over 30 years with Atlas Van Lines Worldwide Corporation. Karl was the, in our eyes, the biggest Chicago Cubs Fan. By radio, TV, or newspaper he made sure he was up to date with their standings daily. Karl is survived by his wife Lydia Rau; daughters, Robyn Rau and Susan Bleza; his four grandchildren, Nicholas, Alexandria, Brendan, and Samantha Bleza. He is also survived by his brothers, Ronald Rau, Robert Rau, and his sister Catherine Leeman. A Memorial Service will be 4:00 p.m., Monday, April 22, 2019 at Old North United Methodist Church, 4201 Stringtown Road, officiated by Rev. Mike Monahan. Friends may visit Monday from 3:30 p.m. until service time at the church. Condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderNorthChapel.com.