Geordie Rauch

Geordie was born on May 22, 1980 in Sarasota and raised on Longboat Key, the beloved son of George W. Rauch III and Sally Rauch of Longboat Key, Florida. He grew up surrounded by the waters and natural beauty of the place he would always call home.

Family was at the heart of Geordie’s life, and he loved them fiercely. He is survived by his loving wife, Katie, who has been by his side since before he left for Naval boot camp 22 years ago. They were married on April 21, 2007, and together built a beautiful life centered around their three children: George, Molly, and Patrick, who were the absolute pride and joy of his life.

He is also survived by his parents, George W. Rauch III and Sally Rauch; his sister, Ellie Falck, and her husband Vic Falck, along with their sons Hayne and Drew; and his brother, Andy Rauch, and his wife Stacy, along with their sons Logan and Luke.

Geordie graduated from Bradenton Christian School before earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of San Diego, where he fully embraced his love of the ocean and spent as much time as possible surfing the California coast.

In 2005, following his calling to serve his country in the years after September 11, Geordie joined the United States Navy. True to his nature, he did nothing in moderation. Determined to challenge himself at the highest level, he pursued the grueling path of becoming a Navy SEAL. After completing Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training, he graduated from BUD/S on October 9, 2009—one of the proudest and happiest days of his life.

Geordie loved being a SEAL. He took deep pride in being part of a team, in the discipline and challenge of training, and in serving alongside the men who became his brothers. During his service he deployed to Iraq, where he was awarded the Naval Combat Action Ribbon in recognition of his service.

After leaving the military in 2014, Geordie returned home to Sarasota and founded Calusa Brewing with his lifelong best friend and brother-in-law, Vic Falck. What began as a passion project grew into something much more—a place where community gathers, friendships form, and countless memories are made. Together they built a brand to be deeply proud of. Calusa Brewing will celebrate its 10th anniversary this April, a milestone that stands as a testament to their vision, hard work, and love for bringing people together.

Geordie felt closest to God in nature. Whether hiking the Tetons with his family or boating and fishing the waters near his home, those were the places where he felt most at peace and most himself. He had a gift for finding joy in the little things—especially a funny video or story—and loved sharing those moments of laughter with others.

Those who knew Geordie will remember his strength, humility, and deep loyalty. He loved quietly and fiercely, and he lived with a spirit of gratitude and grace.

One of Geordie’s tattoos was the third verse of the hymn Amazing Grace:

“Through many dangers, toils, and snares, I have already come; ’Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far, and Grace will lead me home.” Those words now feel especially true.