John C. Rager
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John C. Rager, 68, passed away peacefully Tuesday, November 27, 2018, with his immediate family and friends by his side.
He was born January 19, 1950, in Brownsville, to Bruce and Mary Rager.
John was a graduate of California State College, earning a bachelor of science degree in 1970. Shortly after graduation, he was drafted to serve his country in the U.S. Navy for four years. After serving in the military, John furthered his education and achieved a master of fine arts degree in scenic design, costume design and technical theater from Ohio State University in 1980. Soon after, John was offered a position as an assistant professor and faculty designer at Rutgers University.
John was the set designer for hundreds of theatrical productions, including venues such as Connecticut Opera, Opera Express Hartford, Dutch Apple in Lancaster, Broadway Palm in Ft. Myers, Fla., and Landers Theater in Springfield, Mo.
He was a resident of New York City for 20 years, where he adored his Hell’s Kitchen Broadway neighborhood and all those who shared his life there. In 2004, John relocated to Las Vegas, Nev., to work as stage technician for Cirque du Soleil’s KA and later retired from MGM Resorts in 2016.
John was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Ohio State fan. He enjoyed Broadway shows, the New York Times crossword puzzles, trips to Western Pennsylvania and a good cup of coffee. Most of all, he loved being a loving Daddy to his Lakeland terriers, Oliver and Charlie.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Marilyn Santucci.
Left to cherish his memories are his devoted husband of 27 years and lifelong partner, RuBen Permel of Las Vegas; sister Marian Hileman of Wilksboro, N.C.; two nephews, Scott Rager and Carl Santucci Jr.; a niece, Janie Santucci; and extend family members and supportive friends.
A private celebration of life honoring John Rager will be forthcoming.