Tracy Rath

Minot

Tracy Rath, 53, of Minot, North Dakota, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at a Minot hospital.

Tracy was born on August 21, 1972. He was known for his strong work ethic, big heart, and his fun-loving personality.

Tracy had a great sense of humor and was always cracking jokes, bringing laughter to those around him. He had a way of lighting up a room and making people feel comfortable and welcome wherever he went. He was the kind of man who would do anything for his family and friends and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Tracy owned and operated his own business, Rath Remodeling, where he specialized in kitchen and bathroom remodeling. He took great pride in his work and had the ability to do just about anything when it came to building and fixing a home. There wasn’t much he couldn’t do or figure out and bring to life. His craftsmanship and attention to detail left a lasting impact on many homes and families in the community, and he built strong relationships with those he worked for along the way.

Tracy had a deep love for the outdoors and was happiest when he was deer hunting, fishing, or out on the ice. Some of his most cherished memories were made on hunting trips with his best friend, Bill, with stories that could be told for days and still wouldn’t do them justice. He loved camping, trail riding on his four-wheeler and side-by-side, riding his motorcycle, playing games with his kids, and always listening to country music. He also enjoyed watching movies and TV series, especially when he could relax. He also enjoyed gardening and took pride in growing and caring for the things he planted. He and his son Thayne shared friendly competitions over whose garden was doing better; simple moments that meant more than words can say. Whether he was out in the woods, on the trail, or by the water, that’s where he felt most at home and most like himself. He didn’t need much, just good company and the outdoors.

Tracy had a creative side and loved building and designing things, always finding ways to improve, customize, or bring his ideas to life. He was known for customizing his toys like his golf cart, icehouse, camper, side-by-side, and motorcycle if it was his, it was getting upgraded. No matter what it was, it had to have speakers so he could listen to his music. He loved spending time with friends in his neighborhood, where golf cart rides often turned into hours of cruising around, laughing, and making memories together.

Above all, Tracy loved his family. He is survived by his sons, Thayne (Casy) Rath, Chase Rath, and Broc Rath. He was a proud grandfather to Grace (12), Carter (1), Itzel (1 week), Jaden (2), and Braley (5), who brought him great joy. He is also survived by his stepmother, Karen (Jerry Martin) Rath, Minot, brothers, Todd (Sharon) Rath and Troy Rath, sisters, Tara (Tom) Seehaver and Tanja McMillan, stepbrother David (Tammy) Carico, stepsister Dawn (Jason) Keelin and friend Jackie Mattern along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard and mother, Shari.

Tracy will be remembered not only for his strength and hard work, but for his deep love and the big heart he carried as a father. His sons carry with them lifelong memories of hunting, fishing, riding motorcycles, playing games, and having hour-long conversations on the phone about anything and everything. No matter what was going on, he was always there to listen, to give advice, or just to talk. Tracy often said, “If you’re feeling down, get up and keep yourself busy.” It was more than just advice, it was how he lived his life and a lesson his family will carry with them forever.

He was the kind of dad who showed up, who made sure his kids were taken care of, and who never stopped being there for them. He led by example through his hard work, his loyalty, and the way he treated others. The lessons he taught, the time he gave, and the laughter he shared will stay with his family forever.

Tracy’s absence will be deeply felt in the quiet moments — in the woods, on the water or ice, in the middle of a good story or a shared laugh. But his presence will never truly be gone. There are no words that can truly measure the loss of someone like Tracy. He was one of a kind-a man who loved deeply, worked hard, and showed up for the people who mattered most. He leaves behind a space that can never be filled, but also a lifetime of memories that will never be taken away.

Celebration of Tracy’s Life: 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Des Lacs Methodist Church, Des Lacs.

Visitation: Friday, March 27th from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.

In lieu of flowers and plants, memorials are preferred to an organization that supports animal rescue.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Published by The Minot Daily News, March 24, 2026.