Lorraine V. Meythaler

MADISON-Lorraine V. "Raney" Meythaler, age 92, passed away on Tuesday, May 3, 2016.  She was born on October 22, 1923 the daughter of Arthur Edward and Nellie Marie (Gierhart) Meythaler.  Lorraine grew up on a farm in rural Woodford.  Education was important to her parents and Lorraine excelled even skipping a grade.  In good weather, it was a 2 mile trek and in the deep winter snow Dad hitched up the sleigh and horses as he was determined that his "girls" make it to school.  Lorraine went on to graduate from Monroe High School and Madison Business College.  After a year of employment with the Wisconsin DOT, an opportunity landed her a job at the University of Wisconsin Madison where she became a devout Badger fan.  Having earned the position of Dean in the Graduate Office she retired after 43 years and continued her support as a UW Alumni.  Lorraine enjoyed sharing her Badger Football season tickets with her extended family and friends.  She generously supported her favorite charities and loved volunteering at Hospice in later years.  Other interests included golfing, working puzzles, reading and playing cards.  She was always up for a challenging game of dominoes where the real  excitement was to see who would take home the most quarters.  Family and friends were an important part of her life, as she never failed to acknowledge a birthday, anniversary or special occasion.  To her nieces and nephews she was fondly known as Aunt Raney and she will always be remembered as matriarch of our family.  Lorraine is survived by a sister, Marilyn Daggett of Portland, OR.; a brother, Myron (Linda) Meythaler of South Wayne; eight nieces and nephews; 18 great-nieces and nephews and 24 great-great nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Estaleen, in infancy, and Dolores Mae Grant; brothers-in-law Ronald Grant and Hobart Daggett; nephew-in-law Larry Mertsching; great niece Michele and good friend Lilllian Schroedl.  A Memorial Service will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL & CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave., Middleton at 11 AM on Saturday, May  21, 2016.  A celebration of Lorraine's life and sharing of memories will follow at BABE'S, 5614 Schroeder Road, Madison starting at 1 PM.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a favorite charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.