Edith Rau

Edith Mae (Maly) Rau, 84, of Bismarck passed away on March, 1 2024 at Edgewood on Colorado Lane under their loving care and Caring Edge Hospice. 

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, May 23, at the Kassel Reformed Cemetery, Lincoln Valley, Sheridan County, ND. Lunch will follow at 1:00 PM at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Harvey, ND.

Edith, the daughter of Charles and Lydia (Pocta) Maly was born March 30, 1939 and spent her childhood years in Braddock graduating from Braddock High School in May 1957. In her younger years she stayed with Joseph & Barbara Leier and family and loved them all dearly. 

Edith received her teaching degree and her first teachers’ contract was in 1958 at Linton with a salary of $3150 yearly. Edith taught at Hazelton and Mott taking off time in between to attend college at Valley City State College, graduating in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science in Education. Affectionally known as Miss Maley, she continued teaching in the area and was offered a contract at McClusky Public School in 1970. 

Edith was introduced to Gary (Gerhard) Rau by Bev and Don Helm while living in McClusky and she said she “fell in love immediately.” Edith and Gary were married May 28, 1972 and moved to Gary’s farm in the Lincoln Valley area north of Denhoff. Edith also taught at Butte, North Dakota following her marriage to Gary. Gary passed away on December 7, 1994, the anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Edith would often say that was the saddest day in her life and for many others.  After Gary’s passing, Edith moved into Bismarck. Edith substitute taught in the Bismarck Public School System and in the area into her late 70’s. She loved teaching and her students. 

Edith was a collector of poems, readings, quizzes and comics, always sharing with family and friends. While teaching, Edith brought her students (one at a time) for an overnight stay so they could experience the wonders of farm life, animals, and nature.   In addition to her busy life, she also sold Longaberger baskets and cookie molds. 

Edith is survived by her sister Joanne (Leo) Vetter, Bismarck; sisters-in-law, Freida and Alma Rau, Harvey, and numerous nieces & nephews.  

Edith was preceded in death by her husband, Gary; parents; sister, Charlotte Reis; brother, Charles James Maly (Mary Lou); sisters-in-law, Elsie Rau, Gertie Rau, Norma Carlson; and brothers-in-law, Pius Reis and J Carlson (Norma).

Edith loved daisies and the color of yellow. In her memory, please feel free to wear yellow to the memorial service. At Edith’s request, cremation has taken place.

Edith will forever be in our hearts and memories of her cherished.