James Rau

James Victor Rau, 87, Jefferson City, passed away Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at Jefferson City Nursing and Rehab in Jefferson City.
He was born Nov. 28, 1933 to the late Erbin and Clara (Koechner) Rau in Tipton.
He was a graduate of California High School and attended Lincoln University. James proudly served his country in the U. S. Army from 1956 to 1958 where he served overseas in Germany, and after completing active duty, James served in the U.S. Army Reserves and the Missouri National Guard.
He was employed in 1961 as manager for the US Rents-It store in Sedalia and served in that position for 10 years. In 1971, he was promoted to general manager of all three US Rents-It stores in Columbia, Sedalia and Jefferson City where he remained until retiring after 55 years serving also as president and part owner.
James was a member of Central United Church of Christ, the Jefferson City Host Lions Club since 1972 and the Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce. He was also a member of the American Rental Association and served as president of the Missouri Chapter for two years and was active as a speaker during their yearly seminars. James was also a charter member of the RV Dealers of America and the Missouri RV Dealers.
He was preceded in death by parents, Erbin and Clara; brother, Jerry Rau; and granddaughter, Kali Thompson.
James is survived by children, Kathy Thompson and husband Richard of Fenton, Vicki Dudley and husband Randy of Ava and John Rau and wife Taunia of Auxvasse; siblings, Dorothy Daman, Sue Gilbert and Gary Rau; grandchildren, Ryan Thompson, Jacob, Hannah, Sarah and Rebecca Dudley and Orry and Carmen Rau.
Visitation and funeral services were held Thursday, June 10, at Houser-Millard Funeral Home in Jefferson City, with Rev. Dr. Judith Scott officiating. Interment with full military honors was in held in Riverview Cemetery.
Memorial contributions suggested to the Lions Eye Tissue Bank in Columbia.
Arrangements entrusted to Houser-Millard Funeral Directors in Jefferson City.
Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.