Christopher Arthur Rau

Christopher Arthur Rau, 60, of Arcadia, Oklahoma, passed away on September 24, 2025, in Oklahoma City, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted Christian, husband, father, grandfather, and patriot, Chris lived a life defined by service, integrity, and deep love for God, family, and country.

Born on May 6, 1965, in Oklahoma City to Charles and Carol Rau, Chris answered the call to service early in life. He began his military journey in May 1982 with B/149 Aviation Battalion of the Oklahoma Army National Guard and was appointed as Warrant Officer on September 17, 1985. Over his extraordinary 43-year career, he rose to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 5 while earning the distinction of becoming a Master Army Aviator with over 6,800 flight hours in multiple aircraft including the MC-12, C-12, CH-47, and UH-1.

CW5 Rau held many leadership roles including Operations Officer, Senior Instructor, Detachment Commander, and State Command Chief Warrant Officer for the Oklahoma Army National Guard from 2013 to 2023. He also served on the National Warrant Officer Senior Advisory Committee, including terms as Executive Council Chair and Region 5 Chairman. He completed three overseas deployments in Iraq (2003–2004, 2008) and Djibouti (2012–2013) and continued serving in senior aviation leadership roles until his passing.

Chris also gave over three decades of distinguished service to his community as a member of the Oklahoma City Police Department, retiring in 2018 at the rank of Captain. Among many roles and accomplishments, he served as the pilot for Oklahoma City Air 1 and received several letters of appreciation for his contributions, including support of the 1996 Special Olympics State Summer Games.

Beyond his professional achievements, Chris was a man of deep character and boundless heart. He is survived by his beloved wife of 19 years, Judith (Judy) Marie Rau; his children: Lauren Rau Riley, Matthew Rau and wife Katie, and stepson Zachary Sheehan and wife Ericka; and his treasured grandchildren: Isabella Rau, Porter Hanson, Jaxon Riley, Charles (Charlie) Rau, Hazel Rau, and Henry Rau. Chris was a loving brother to Charlene Roach and husband Hampton, Cindy Keever, and Jennifer Elmore, and was preceded in death by his parents and sister Beverly.

Chris had a zest for life and a heart for others. He adored his dogs, Gabby, and Willow, and found joy in walks, travel, ice cream stops, and time spent outdoors—especially with Judy by his side. He loved nothing more than adventuring with his grandkids, planning special trips, and creating memories. A dedicated OU football fan, Chris, and Judy, even planned their wedding around the Sooners’ bye week. Whether flying high above or sitting peacefully on the porch with a cold beer, Chris lived life to the fullest and gave his all to every moment.

His legacy of leadership, love, and service will live on in all who knew him.

All who wish to attend the ceremony at Ft. Sill National Cemetery are welcomed. He will be interred with full military honors on Monday, October 6 at 10:00 a.m.

Following this, a celebration of life will be held at Crossings Community Church in Oklahoma City on Monday October 6 at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Chris's honor to the United States Warrant Officer Association or Wreaths Across America, two causes close to his heart.

To view the livestream of the service please follow this link: https://vimeo.com/event/5417991/0976a7d400.