Honoring Tom Rauch: Our Artist Of The Month

Honoring The Legacy of a Master Craftsman

A Master of His Craft

Tom Rauch was the heart and soul of our woodshop. His masterful craftsmanship turned ordinary pieces of wood into extraordinary works of art. Whether it was crafting seasonal decorations, building elegant frames for our artist-clients' masterpieces, or designing functional yet beautiful wooden displays for jewelry, Tom had an unparalleled ability to bring ideas to life. His creations were not just items; they were reflections of his dedication and passion for the craft.

A Legacy of Creativity and Collaboration

Tom was not only a talented artisan but also a collaborative spirit who uplifted those around him. Our artist-clients often found inspiration in his work, using his beautifully crafted pieces as canvases to showcase their own artistic expressions. Tom's willingness to share his expertise and provide support made him an invaluable mentor and friend to many in our community. His collaborative nature fostered an environment where creativity thrived, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists.

Celebrating Tom's Contributions

As we honor Tom as our Artist of the Month, we reflect on the countless ways he enriched our lives and our creative community. His contributions went beyond the tangible; he instilled a sense of warmth and camaraderie in our workshop, reminding us of the power of art to bring people together.



  "Tom was one of the most gentle, caring and loving people you could ever meet. I can not remember a time that I asked for his help that he did not give it to me, willingly with a smile. I would go to Tom with an idea, can you make this for us Tom....it is this big (I would show! him) this high and this wide. He would laugh at me and somehow make it perfect. His only request was that he wanted to see it after I painted it. I always felt we were a team. I will miss his smile. Everytime I will go in that wood shop I will look for him. I think his love will be there forever. I know I will feel it and think of him. 

Tom, you I am sure, have an extremely good place in heaven for all the thousands of people you have loved and helped. You are and will be missed dear friend. Rest in peace good and faithful servant."

Terry Schalnat

Tom's friend

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"Shortly after moving We Care Arts to the Wilmington location in 2004-2005, Tom came wanting to know more about volunteering in the Woodshop. He always came with a smile and if you asked him, he would say "this is my excuse to get away from Marilyn's TO DO list!

 In 2012, I asked Tom if he would be interested in becoming the new Woodshop manager and he said not only would he be honored, but it's the biggest raise he ever received! He brought humor to the woodshop with many family tales of practical jokes to each other and mishaps. Never using names just daughters, brothers, sisters and such.  

Working with Tom over the years, was like working with my dad, No job too big or too small. You could describe what the project needed was and he would run with it. I could even draw a picture and he would get the idea of how to put it together.  Both my boys worked closely with Tom, when they would help through summer breaks. He will be missed greatly by the Thieman family along with the We Care Arts family."

Brenda Thieman

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“Tom brought quiet strength, skilled hands, and a generous heart to everything he touched — including our We Care Arts team. Whether he was designing Ohio-shaped cutting boards or repurposing donated wood into frames and canvases to showcase our artists-clients' work, Tom embodied the very spirit of our mission and vision. His presence was a gift, and his legacy will live on in every corner he helped shape and every person he inspired.”



— Katie Neubert, Executive Director, We Care Arts