Ray Richard

MONONA — Ray Richard, 67, of Luana died Monday, September 28, 2020 at Crossing Rivers Health in Prairie du Chien.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Ray was born Aug. 25, 1953 to Wallace and Juanita "Red" (Hardin) Richard in Manhattan, Kan. He graduated from MFL High School in 1971.

He was united in marriage to Susan McCune in 1975. Two boys, Bill and Randy, were born to this union. Though Ray and Sue later divorced, they remained cordial until Sue's passing in 2017. Ray spent the last several years enjoying the company of his special friend, Brenda White of Waukon. He considered Brenda's kids and grandkids to be his family as well.

Ray spent his life working on the family farm south of Luana and trucking when they weren't in the fields. His specialty was hauling oversize loads all across the United States and Canada. He was also a talented mechanic, choosing to overhaul engines and rebuild machinery instead of sourcing the work out. Ray will be remembered by all who knew him for his work ethic, sense of humor and his kind soul.

Ray's hobbies included fishing, camping, watching dirt track races and spending time with his family. His grandkids will affectionately remember him as "Grandpa Ray."

Surviving Ray are his sons, William "Bill" (Dawn) Richard of Atkins, Randy (Magen) Richard of Monona, his mother Juanita "Red" Johanningmeier of DeWitt, brothers Brad (Laurie) Richard of Luana, Rick (Anita) Richard of Monona, Dana Richard of Garnavillo and Tony (Ginger) Johanningmeier of Des Moines; sisters Susan Johanningmeier of Luana, and Lori (Jeff) Frick of DeWitt. Also surviving are nine grandchildren, Julia, Morgan, Marcus, Dellanie, Taylr, Alex, Marie, Michael, and Carter.

Preceding Ray in death was his father, Carlyn Johanningmeier.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Monona is assisting the family with arrangements.

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