John A. Ray

McFarland- John A. Ray, age 68, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, May 13, 2023 after a brief illness. He was born in Illinois on April 9, 1955, the son of Bernard and Janiece Ray.

Following high school John enlisted in the US Marines and served his country honorably. On July 15, 1978 he married the love of his life Diane Osterlie. John worked for over 25 years for Sysco Foods. He was an avid deer hunter and fisherman, loved spending time on his land in Hillsboro, and anything that involved his children and grandchildren.

John is survived by his wife of 45 years, Diane; two children, Kristen Ray and Kevin (Jill) Ray; grandchildren, Alec Asche (Hallie Chicker), Skyler Asche (Chase Ward), Addison Asche, Emery Ray and William Ray; mother, Janiece; siblings, Jamie Cook, Jerry (Sarah) Ray, Jimmy Ray, Jackie (Bob) Chamberlain, Janine (Chuck) Parduhn; mother-in-law, Marilyn Osterlie; sister-in-law, Dawn (Jeffry) Leeder; and brother-in-law, Dale (Lynne) Osterlie; numerous nieces and nephews; and many close friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Bernard.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at Lewis Park in McFarland. Military Honors will be held at 12 noon, with a luncheon and gathering to follow until 3:00pm. Memorials may be made to St. Jude.

A special thank you to the entire staff of Meriter Hospital ICU.

Please share your memories of John by posting on his Tribute Wall.

Cress Funeral Service

5801 Highway 51, PO Box 105, McFarland

(608) 838-0655