Kris Hodson
Burt Rausch was my father. He was one of the hardest working men in the whole world! He worked sacrificially to provide for his family. Dad always held his military service in the highest regard and attributed the military with teaching him the benefits of living a disciplined life.
Dad was an accomplished brick mason with quite the creative flair. If the linear lines of bricklaying became boring to him, he would change it up and make a curvy brick wall. One early morning Dad woke me before dawn wanting to borrow my music book. Later that day the front yard boasted musical notes in brick and stone laid as a walking path.
Armed with a thirst for knowledge and an inquisitive mind, Saturday mornings were often spent at the public library. Eventually I came to realize Dad was studying for his GED so he could take Engineering classes at UCLA. Testing him for his concrete and structural engineering classes became my job. This allowed for a special connection between us and taught me a few things as well.
When I purchased my first car, Dad insisted that I know how to change the tire and replace the oil myself! Although he may have regretted encouraging me to purchase a car with a V8 engine. Dad, thank you for all you taught me about responsibility, discipline, and creativity.
