MaryAnn Rakow, 72, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, at her home in Lebanon, PA, after a short illness.
Born on Aug. 23, 1953, in Lebanon, PA, she was the daughter of the late William W. Rakow Sr. and Isabel M. Seubert Rakow.
A proud graduate of Lebanon Catholic High School, Class of 1971, MaryAnn excelled academically and found her early passion for the stage in theatrical productions. She later attended Bloomsburg University and a technical/business school. MaryAnn built a career that she was proud of as a legal secretary and notary, supporting several practices and offices throughout Lebanon County.
The theater remained one of her greatest lifelong joys. A gifted performer, she was active in community theater in Lebanon and Lancaster counties. She appeared in countless productions — far too many to name — and was known for her remarkable talent, presence, and love for the craft. She was always the best on the stage.
MaryAnn treasured the life she shared with her husband, Frank, whom she adored, and was very proud of her children and grandchildren. She also found deep companionship in the many dogs who were part of her life over the years: Gretchen, Max, Sam, Alex, Ginger, Jack, Ned, and Nicky.
MaryAnn is survived by her loving husband of 27 years, Frank J. Pautz; daughter, Stephanie Mitchell (Jesse); grandchildren, Gavyn Mitchell and Caden, Lilly Belle, Chase, and Aiden Nimmo; brothers, William W. Rakow Jr. (Cindy) and Robert Rakow (Debra); stepchildren, Laura Nimmo (Caleb) and Aaron Pautz (Denise); and a large extended family of in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her brothers, David A. Rakow Sr. (Mary Agnes) and Gregory Rakow (Joellen).
From her daughter…
“My sweet Mom was a true light. In her final days, she shared — ‘I’ve known love, and I’ve known happiness, and those are the most important parts of life.’ I promise to always look for the brightness, Mom, and know you are with me. Love you always.”
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, at 11 a.m., at St. Mary’s Church, 2 N. 8th St., Lebanon, PA. Visitation will be held at the church prior to mass from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Humane Society of Lebanon County, 150 N. Ramona Road, Myerstown, PA 17067.
Thompson Funeral Home Inc., Lebanon, is caring for the arrangements. The family welcomes your memories and messages in Thompson Funeral Home’s online guest book at thompsonfuneralhomelebanon.com.
