Raymond Edward Hocevar, Sr., 79, of Kohler, passed away on Friday, June 14, 2024, at his home with his son, Ted, by his side.
Ray was born on March 10, 1945, to Joseph and Margaret (nee Klancher) Hocevar. He graduated from Kohler High School in 1963 and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps from 1963-1967. Following his service, he returned home, and on August 31, 1968, Ray married Susan Dobrzynski at St. John Evangelist Catholic Parish. They purchased a home in Kohler where Ray spent many nights and weekends remodeling their home after working long hours at the Kohler Company. He took great pride in providing a good life for his wife and two sons. Ray’s love for his family was demonstrated through his hard work, dedication, and perseverance. After the long days, Ray still found the time to take the family fishing. Every summer there was a special week of camping in Crivitz or Eagle River. Once his boys were grown, he and Sue would continue their adventures in the North Woods, hooking up the boat, and going to Dam Lake.
Ray worked at the Kohler Company for 42 years, mostly in the pattern shop, retiring in 2010. Retirement plans were sidetracked when Sue was diagnosed with cancer. With Ray by her side, helping every step of the way, she was able to win her first battle with cancer and each year after, they celebrated, until Sue passed away in 2020.
Ray is survived by his two sons, Ted (Kristin) Hocevar and their four children, TJ Hocevar, Sam (Emily Tighe) Hocevar, Molly Hocevar, and Grant Hocevar; and Raymond Hocevar, Jr.; two brothers, Joe (Nancy) Hocevar and Richard (Tammy) Hocevar; brother-in-law, Ted (Bette Jochmann) Dobrzynski; nephews, Michael, Peter, Jeff, and Timmy Hocevar, and Jason Dobrzynski; other relatives, and friends.
Ray was proceeded in death by his loving wife of 52 years, Susan; his parents, Joseph and Margaret Hocevar; in-laws, Theodore and Mildred Dobrzynski; older brother, Carl; and sister-in-law, Barbara Hocevar.
His son, Ted, would like to thank Ray’s family, friends, and neighbors for their thoughts and prayers during his last days. Your support and visits made those days full of love. A special thanks to the staff at the Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice (Shannon, Linda, and Chris) for their support in helping with the challenges of caring for this strong willed, extremely independent Marine, allowing him to be home for his final days.
Ray will be cremated and laid to rest with Sue in a private burial at Woodland Cemetery in Kohler. A celebration of his life will be held at the Olson Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1132 Superior Avenue, on Thursday, June 20, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m with a dinner to follow.
In lieu of flowers, his son would encourage donations to VFW Post 9156 or a veteran’s organization of your choice.
“Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in this world. The Marines don’t have that problem.” – President Ronald Reagan
Semper Fi Dad, rest in peace.
The Olson Funeral Home & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Ray’s arrangements.
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