LaMar Thomas Rauster

On November 25, 1969, LaMar Thomas Rauster was born in Chicago, Illinois, at the close of a decade that profoundly changed America and the African American experience. Born into a military family, LaMar would grow to embody that same spirit of service, perseverance, leadership, and faith.

Born to Barbara Harold and LaMar Thomas, LaMar was lovingly adopted and raised by Sarah and James Rauster. Raised in the Chicago area, he graduated with the Kankakee High School Class of 1987. As one of the youngest of seven siblings, LaMar watched his father and older brothers serve and knew that he wanted to serve as well. Though his mother naturally worried about her young son, LaMar felt a deep responsibility to his country. On May 18, 1988, he enlisted in the United States Navy at Great Lakes Naval Training Center.

There, another chapter of his life unfolded. LaMar often said that leadership was something he did not ask for. During boot camp, his playful and sometimes silly personality did not always fit neatly within the discipline of military life. When Company Commander K. B. Ballentine called him out, however, he saw something beyond the young man who was laughing—he saw a leader. LaMar was selected as Company Leader 88-127 and Recruit Chief Petty Officer, entrusted with leading men his age and older. The young man who never asked to lead was discovering that leadership was part of who he was.

After graduating from Great Lakes, LaMar trained in Meridian, Mississippi, in the SK specialty, now known as Logistics Specialist. He later served aboard the USS Saratoga (CV-60) during the Gulf War era and peacetime. His military service earned him the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, and Southwest Asia Service Medal. On May 17, 1991, he was honorably discharged from the United States Navy. Yet his spirit of service did not end there. He later served as a security site supervisor, once again demonstrating the responsibility, discipline, and leadership that had become hallmarks of his life.

LaMar accepted Christ at an early age, embraced the Apostolic faith, and was ordained as a minister. He spoke often of the goodness of God, and his faith was evident in the way he cared for and helped others. He loved to travel, especially to the beach, and was an avid swimmer. For LaMar, the water was more than recreation—it was a place of peace, reflection, and communion with the Lord.

In October 2016, LaMar met the love of his life, Erica Louise Fielder. After maintaining a long-distance relationship for a time, LaMar packed his car and drove 18 straight hours to Austin, Texas, where his love and a new home awaited him. On April 14, 2018, LaMar and Erica were married. Their love became one of the most treasured chapters of his life.

On Tuesday, September 29, 2026, LaMar began his transition to his eternal home, with his loving wife by his side. On that day, he joined those who had preceded him in death: his parents; his siblings, Andre Brown and Debra Brown; and his niece, Nichole Adelye.

Those who remain to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Erica; his son, Aaron Scott; his siblings, James Rauster, Julie Rauster, Angel Moore (Robert), and Michael Kursinski; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Today, we remember more than dates. We remember a man of faith, service, leadership, and love—a man who served his country, loved his family, helped others, trusted God, and found peace beside the water. His earthly journey is complete, but his love, his service, his laughter, and the lives he touched will continue to speak through the memories he leaves behind.

As Scripture reminds us:

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:6 (KJV)

MILITARY COMMITTAL SERVICE

A Committal Service with Military Honors will be held at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas, on October 21, 2026, at 1:15 p.m.

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS

As LaMar will be honored with a military burial, the family respectfully asks that flowers not be left at or sent to the cemetery. Those who wish to express their love and support may do so through cards, phone calls, prayers, acts of kindness, or a monetary contribution. No gesture is expected, but every expression of kindness is sincerely appreciated and will be received with gratitude. In lieu of flowers, let your kindness become a part of LaMar's legacy. Most importantly, please continue to keep LaMar's family in your prayers as his life is celebrated, his service is honored, and he is entrusted to the loving care of God.