Obituaries & Guestbook

Ray Krause, 69, Oconto Falls, died Thursday evening, August 19, 2021 with his family present, following complications from Parkinson’s disease diagnosed nine years ago. The second oldest child of Kenneth and Alva “Jean” (Lusha) Krause was born June 12, 1952 in Oconto Falls. Ray grew up in Oconto Falls where he attended public schools, graduating from high school with the class of 1970. Following graduation, he went to work for the Scott Paper Co. In 1972, he married Debra Belongia and the couple had two sons together.

While living in Oconto Falls, Ray worked at the local paper mill and also was proud to serve as an EMT for the Oconto Falls Ambulance Service for many years. In 1995, he took the opportunity to move to Kimberly Clark’s Owensboro, KY plant where he continued his 43 year career with the company until retirement.  On November 10, 2001 he married the love of his life, Suzi Witt at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Oconto Falls. As a longtime golfer and member of River Island Golf Club in Oconto Falls, Ray will be fondly remembered as student of the game who enjoyed practicing almost as much as playing the game. While living in Kentucky, he and his wife Suzi actually lived on a golf course.  He was a onetime member of the Oconto River Bowman and Wisconsin Bow Hunters Association as well as taught hunter’s safety. Ray also enjoyed following the Green Bay Packers and attending games with his brothers-in-law.

Survivors are his wife of 20 years, Suzi Witt-Krause, Oconto Falls, two sons, Derek (Denise) Krause, Iola; Kevin Krause, Oconto Falls; one very special grandson, Justin Krause; two sisters, Marsha (Ed) Loesch, Henderson, NV; Lori (Reggie) Comins, Lena; Suzi’s siblings, Karla Nacion, IL; Steve, David (Terri) and Tom (Linda) Witt, all of Oconto Falls; his fur baby dog, Laci.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Ronnie “Mouse” Krause and in-laws, Jerry and Leona Witt.

Visitation with the urn present will take place after 3:00 pm Thursday, August 26, 2021 at Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls until the time of service. Funeral services will be held 7:00 pm Thursday at the funeral home with Pastor Gary Olson officiating. Burial will take place 9:00 am Friday, August 27, 2021 at St. Anthony Cemetery in Oconto Falls.

The Krause family would like to thank Meadowbrook health care facility in Oconto Falls for their care and compassion shown Ray and his family during his illness.