World Institute of Pain

In Loving Memory of Dr. Richard Rauck

Dr. Richard Rauck passed away Wednesday at the age of 69, following a long battle with lymphoma. Dr. Rauck was an internationally known physician, researcher, and a tireless advocate for his community.

Dr. Rauck received his bachelor’s degree from Davidson College, where he graduated magna cum laude. He graduated from the Wake Forest University Bowman Gray School of Medicine in 1982, followed by a residency in anesthesiology (1985) and a fellowship in pain medicine (1986), both completed at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. He was board certified in both pain medicine and anesthesiology.

A leader in pain management, Dr. Rauck was an early member of the World Institute of Pain, obtaining FIPP certification as part of the inaugural class of 2001.  He also served as President of WIP from 2013-2015.  Dr. Rauck founded the Carolinas Pain Institute in 2004, and was active in clinical practice and clinical research. His research encompassed innovative treatments, including new therapies for migraines, diabetic neuropathy treatment, and the use of non-invasive, magnetic impulses for chronic neuropathic pain as an alternative to opioids.

Beyond medicine, Dr. Rauck was defined by his dual love for cycling and the community. He was the driving force behind the annual Winston-Salem Cycling Classic and the accompanying Gears & Guitars concert series. He invested significant time and money into the events, attracting international professional racers and elite Americans to the area and working to make Winston-Salem a favorite stop on the cycling tour. Despite his many professional and civic accomplishments, he was intensely modest, rarely mentioning his achievements.

Dr. Rauck is survived by his wife, Katie; two daughters, Lauren Rauck Komanski and Catherine Rauck; and two grandsons.  Funeral services will be held at Centenary United Methodist Church in Winston Salem, NC on 1 November 2025.