Raymond (Ray) Meier, of rural Wiota, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away at the Lafayette Manor in Darlington on March 17, 2024, at the age of 96. He was reunited with his beloved wife, Leona, who preceded him in death just five months ago.
Ray was born July 24, 1927, in Monroe, WI, the son of Jacob and Mary (Wyder) Meier. Ray grew up in rural Monroe and graduated from Monroe High School in 1944. Ray and Leona (Everson) were married on May 29, 1954, at Yellowstone Lutheran Church in rural Argyle. They shared an incredible journey together, celebrating 69 years of marriage marked by love, devotion, and unwavering companionship. Ray enjoyed Leona’s cooking, often lending a hand in meal preparations when they hosted Thanksgiving Day and other holiday gatherings. He looked forward to her baked goods as they were a particular favorite, filling their home with warmth and sweetness. Some of his favorite days in the kitchen were those making lefse with Leona and their Grandkids. They farmed in the Wiota area all their lives together, working side by side.
Ray was a kind and gentle soul, known for his quiet nature and warm smile. Whether it was lending a hand with a farm task or offering support during difficult times, Ray’s kindness and generosity touched the lives of many. In his leisure time, Ray found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed the company of loved ones and friends, especially during lively games of Euchre or Yass, where laughter filled the room and memories were made. Some of his favorite memories were made with his twin brother Roy by his side and their older brother Eugene. He enjoyed bowling and golfing for many years.
Ray served proudly as a Marine during the Korean War and was a member of the Argyle American Legion Post #251. He was a longtime member of Wiota Lutheran Church and treasurer of the East Wiota Cemetery. His spiritual faith was very important to him. Ray was a member of the Wiota Fire Department, where he took pride in serving brats during the July 4th celebration. He worked at the Wiota Milling for many years with the Kammerud boys, enjoying the camaraderie of fellow farmers and morning coffee times.
Ray is survived by his children: Gary (Diane) Meier of Beloit, WI, Steven (Karen) Meier of Waunakee, WI, and Mary (Jeff) Moore of Gratiot, WI; his grandchildren: Nicholas Meier, Nolan (Elora Ditton) Meier, Kyle Meier, Kayla (Cameron) Marks, Adam (Ashley) Moore, Connor (Christine) Moore, and Brooke Moore; three great-grandchildren: Warner, Bryce, and Violet; and brother and sister-in-law: David and Mary Everson. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Leona; and two brothers: Roy and Eugene.
Ray leaves behind a legacy of love and strong work ethic. While he will be deeply missed, his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at the Lafayette Manor for their compassionate care and love for Ray over the past five years.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at Wiota Lutheran Church with Rev. Steve Kottke officiating. Burial will be in East Wiota Cemetery where military graveside rites will be accorded by Argyle American Legion Post #251 of Argyle. A visitation will be held Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 9:00 A.M. until 10:45 A.M. at Wiota Lutheran Church. The Erickson Funeral Home in Argyle is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers and plants, a memorial fund has been established in Ray’s name.
