Obit: Kaz, Ray P. (1928 - 2009)

Contact: Dolores Kenyon

Email: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Kaz, Johnson, Borgemoen, Frick

----Source: Thorp Courier (Thorp, Clark Co., WI.) July 1, 2009

Kaz, Ray P. (5 August  1928 - 28 June 2009)

With great dignity, Ray P. Kaz passed away in the pre-dawn hours of Sunday, June 28, 2009 at his home in Thorp. Through his passing, Ray was surrounded by his loving wife and children.

He leaves his loving wife of 59 years, Betty; his children Peter (Chris) Owen; Carolynn (Mark) Johnson of Chili; Susan (David) Kaz-Borgemoen of Schofield; Liz (Ken) Kaz Frick of Scottsdale, AZ; Mike (Emilie) of Paradise, TX; John (Kathey) Burnsville, MN; Kate of Stevens Point; and Phil (Robin) of Stanley; 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  Surviving siblings include Richard (Anita) of San Diego, CA and James (Toni) of Thorp. 

Ray was preceded in death by his father (Peter), mother (Caroline), daughter (Candace) and brother (Art).

Ray was born on August 5, 1928 in the Town of Reseburg and resided in the Thorp and Owen areas the duration of his life.  In addition to dairy farming, Ray was also employed at the Post Company, Western Condensary, Foremost Dairies, and Wisconsin Dairies.  Ray was a true entrepreneur at heart and began waste management and landscaping businesses. Born to Lithuanian immigrants, Ray was passionate about his ethnic heritage.  From 1979 to 2004, Ray and Betty’s second home in Florida introduced them to many new experiences such as golfing, carving, fishing, and socializing. Ray’s other passions included maintaining his beautifully manicured lawn, watching the history channel, and sharing delightful stories about his self-taught knowledge regarding history, geography, and politics.

A brief entombment service will be held at Riverside Cemetery, Withee, at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 5, 2009 followed by light refreshments and fellowship at Meadowview Country Club in Owen.

Ministry Home Care Hospice Services provided exceptional service to Ray and were integral in the family’s ability to care for him at home through the duration of his illness.  In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates your donation to Ministry Home Care Hospice Services.

----Source: Thorp Courier (Thorp, Clark Co., WI.) July 8, 2009

The outpouring of condolences, generosity of gifts, cards, phone calls, and prayers throughout Ray’s illness and in his passing has touched the depths of our hearts.

From our family to yours, our sincere gratitude and appreciation is extended to our kind friends and neighbors.

The Ray Kaz Family