David William Racht, 49, of Dickson City, passed away surrounded by his family on Friday, September 5th, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center after an illness.

Born in Scranton, son of Edwin and EvAnn Cox Racht of Waymart, David was a member of St. Mary’s Visitation Church, Dickson City. A graduate of Western Wayne High School, Class of 1994, David was elected Class President his senior year, a role that reflected his natural ability to make others feel valued, seen, and loved. He later attended Johnson & Wales Culinary School in Rhode Island and also earned his accreditation in HVAC.

David’s professional life reflected his many talents and passions. He began his career as a chef at the family business, the Iron Horse Restaurant in Lake Ariel, and later devoted more than 20 years as a chef at the Hideout, where his creativity and dedication touched countless lives. Most recently, before his illness, he was employed as an HVAC technician in the physical plant at Keystone College, where his problem-solving skills and helpful spirit made him a trusted colleague.

David was known for his kind and gentle heart. He had a gift for making people feel cared for, whether through a warm meal, a listening ear, or simply his steady presence. He was especially loved by the elderly, who gravitated toward his patience and compassion. A talented chef and a skilled handyman, David had the ability to fix just about anything—and often did so quietly, with humility and generosity.

David’s life was not without struggle, yet he carried himself with sweetness and resilience that left an imprint on all who knew him. He will be remembered as a son, a brother, an uncle, and a friend to all, who gave freely of his love.

He was welcomed into heaven by his beloved grandmother, Eva Jo Cox, who cherished him dearly.

Also surviving are three sisters: Nadine Racht LaPlaca and husband Paul, West Reading; Rachelle Hopsicker and husband Dr. Peter Hopsicker, Alexandria; Marissa Ryan and husband Bernardo, Florence, Italy; a brother: Darren Racht, PA-C, Sutton, Mass.; two nieces: Kathryn and Madelyn Hopsicker; a nephew: Willem Cioci; his best friend: Jeff Witts, numerous cousins, aunts, and uncles.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Monday, September 8th, at 10 a.m. in St. Mary’s Visitation Church, Dickson City. There will be small gathering at 12 noon celebrating David’s life following the service at the Gravity Inn, Waymart. Private interment will take place at a later date in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Forest City. Arrangements by the Brennan & Brennan Funeral Home, Inc., 55 Lincoln Avenue, Carbondale. 

Memorial donations can be made to St. Jude’s in his honor.