Peter Okray
July 05, 2008 - July 05, 2008
Obituary
Okray, Peter A. MADISON Peter A. Okray, age 67, passed away on Saturday, July 5, 2008 at the HospiceCare Center in Fitchburg. Peter had endured a lengthy and valiant skirmish with lymphoma. He was born on June 22, 1941, to Ralph and Helene (Waterman) Okray. Peter graduated from Monona Grove High School in 1959 and continued his studies at UW-Madison, where he received his bachelor, master and doctorate degrees. He became engaged on Valentines Day, and was united in marriage to Catherine A. Cline on July 17, 1965. They made their home in Wausau, where he taught English and was an active participant in faculty governance, at the UW colleges, until his retirement in 1999. Peter was a scholar of life and the universe in an insatiable search for truth. In frequent contact with former students appreciative of his guidance, he wore his "toughest professor" designation as a badge of honor. He specialized in British Literature with a particular focus on the life and writings of Charles Dickens. Peter held extremely high standards for himself, his family, and his students. A kind and passionate man, Peter will be missed by many people whose friendship and love he cherished. Peter is survived by his wife, Cathy of Madison; children, James of Madison; Elizabeth (Robert) Klingbile of Aniwa; brother, James (Bev Wilson) of Monona; sister, Emily (Ted) Vanke of Sharon Township, Ohio; and many nieces, nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be held at MONONA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 606 Nichols Road, Monona, on Friday, July 18, 2008, at 11 a.m. with the Rev. David Byers-Dent presiding. Memorials for a scholarship in Peters name may be sent to UW-Marathon Center Foundation, 518 S. 7th Ave., Wausau, WI 54401. Please send condolences and memories to Gunderson East Funeral Home, in care of the Peter Okray family.
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Memories
DC
Darrin Chapman
Other •
Jim/Beth,
Sorry to hear about your loss. My prayers are with you both and the rest of your family/friends on this unfortunate day.
Take care and God Bless!
DT
Debora Treu
Other •
Peter Okray was simply the best teacher I ever had - 'tough' as the memorial message states, but not difficult. His toughness was in passionate, dedicated, inspired, excited involvement in literature in the truest sense. UW-Marathon was blessed with a gem in Peter Okray. And I was fortunate enough to take several classes with him - actually any that were offered. I can easily bring to mind the sight of Dr. Okray pacing in front of the class - stopping to point at a stanza of poetry in the open book before him and imploring us to get 'in there' with him. He guided and encouraged my interest and work in British Literature and has been a lifelong inspiration. I am saddened by his loss, but he was never far from heart and mind - and will remain so.
MR
Michael Rankin
Other •
Pete 'oakes' was my friend in high school and college. I spent many a night studying with peter and the gang up in his suite in their old house on the lake. Also many more nights of not studying with the gang. He was a good friend and although I have only seen him at various reunions over the years he will be missed.
Michael Rankin
CA
Chris Horak & Jack Horak-Horak's Automotive
Other •
Peter Okray was one of the best & most memorable customers our family business has ever had. He was a great teacher & friend. His tradition of sharing Christmas cheer with us at our repair shop will always be remembered as some of the best times. It is truly rare to be able to be part of someones life from the time they begin their career, raise their family & into retirement.
We will truly miss you, Peter Okray.