Raymond Michaels

Michaels, Raymond E. MIDDLETON - Raymond E. Michaels, age 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 26, 2007, at University Hospital in Madison. He was born March 12, 1929, in Madison and attended East High School. He loved the eastside and often spoke fondly of memories and people. He joined the Navy and served on the Healy during the Korean conflict. He never missed a ship reunion. Upon return from the service he married Mary Roycraft (d. 1979) and had three children. He worked for Dane County at the City County Building for 30 years as a mechanical repairman. He took particular pride in his plumbing work. He was known for his ability to fix anything and spin a story. He remarried in 1981 to Marie Haller-Schwartz. Ray loved to travel, a good meal, bowling, his Ford truck, and watching reruns of Matlock and Walker Texas Ranger. In retirement, he enjoyed spending time at his cabin up north and visiting his brother-in-law in Florida. He especially liked visiting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his children from his first marriage, Raymond, Jr. "Mike" Sue and Jeff; his sister, Barbara; his wife, Marie and step-children, Greg, Kevin, Diane and Eric; grandchildren, Logan, Brady, Ellie, Jacob and Christy; and great-grandchildren, Megan, Dalton and Houston. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Mary Michaels; first wife, Mary (Roycraft) Michaels; and his brothers, Richard, Jack and Robert. The family wishes to thank the Middleton police, EMTs, and the doctors and nurses at University Hospital for their fast response and excellent care. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. BERNARDS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 7450 University Ave., Middleton at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 31, 2007, with Monsignor Douglas Dushack presiding. Entombment will be in Resurrection Cemetery with military rites. Family and friends may call from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, March 30, 2007, at the GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL HOME, 7435 University Ave., Middleton. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Bernards Catholic Church. Ray was a character, one of a kind, and was loved very much.