Our beloved father, Raymond L. Zechel, was called home to heaven on June 25, 2026. Born in Fort Atkinson, WI, on May 20, 1932, Ray was a man of quiet character and unwavering Christian faith.
From 1951 to 1953, during the Korean War, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps, obtaining the rank of Corporal and then Sergeant. He was extremely proud of his military service and often spoke of how it taught him “discipline” and “to have great pride in his country.”
From 1956 to 1960, he served on the Burlington Police Department. Recently, he went back and visited the department. He told us that the kindness and respect shown by the Chief and other officers while he was visiting had meant so very much to him.
He later worked for and retired from the Racine County Highway and Parks Department. Over the years, he had many duties there, including operating a shoulder grader and plowing many miles of snow. He mentioned how back then everyone “took great pride” in their work.
He often spoke of his incredible marriage to his wife of 52 years, Ione (Strege). For many years, they enjoyed living in Hall’s Point on Brown’s Lake in Burlington. They raised three daughters, Ruth, Mary, and Beth. Over the years, many wonderful memories were made there with extended family, children, and grandchildren. In 2010, Ione passed away after a long battle with cancer. Even during this difficult loss, Ray credited his faith in his Savior for carrying him through.
Ray was the oldest member of Messiah Lutheran Church (Hales Corners, WI). While his health problems prevented him from attending church in person, Ray thoroughly looked forward to and enjoyed his visits with the Pastor (Luke Bernthal).
Ray’s favorite sayings were “I’m much too blessed to be depressed” and “One day at a time.” His cheerful demeanor and faith-based outlook were an inspiration to many who knew him, especially his daughters. He will be dearly missed.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents (Mabel and Carl Zechel), two sisters (Laverne Cape and Marion Rickel), two brothers (Gene and Frank Zechel), and his beloved wife, Ione.
He is survived by his three daughters, Ruth (Jerry) Barthels, Mary (Tony) Blue, Beth (Steve) Salter, eleven grandchildren, Nicole Clines, Ryan (Heidi) Barthels, Jared (Hannah) Barthels, Derek Barthels, Kayla (Jon) Gamble, Dana (Josh) Stettler, Chris (Michelle) Blue, Ben (Lauren) Blue, Nick (Alex) Blue, Aaron (Jasmine) Salter, Jessica (Drew) Naumann, and 15 great grandchildren.
Ray lived 94 blessed years on earth and now lives eternally in heaven.
Once services are set, the obituary will be updated. Please check back periodically for new information.
