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Meinhardt Raabe Obituary
His caregiver, Cindy Bosnyak, said Raabe died Friday morning at a hospital in Orange Park, Fla. He was 94 and was one of the few surviving Munchkins from the 1939 film.
Bosnyak said he complained of a sore throat at his retirement community before collapsing.
Raabe was a veteran "midget" performer, as little people were then known, when the film was made. He was the official who pronounces the Wicked Witch "really most sincerely dead."
In a 1988 Associated Press interview, he said he had no idea the movie would become a classic, because at the time of its release, it was overshadowed by "Gone With the Wind."
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
279 Entries
Leslie Redaway
October 16, 2024
Rest In Heaven
Susan Haelle
April 28, 2021
He and wife were sweet people. Marie & Meinhardt Raabe were friends and his wife babysat me as a kid. Fond memories.
Harold Dennis
August 25, 2020
Mr. and Mrs. Meinhardt lived behind me growing up in Marple Gardens, Broomall, Delaware County, PA
Some of the kindest people I have ever met.
We, my friends and I, missed you when you moved.
And now this brings back good memories for me.
God bless you both, and your family for the future. I'm so glad I had a chance to meet you.
September 19, 2019
So sorry for the Family's lost continuely...God is a God of all Comfort and he will Comfort the Family's...
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Mark Burton
June 6, 2018
I had the pleasure of hiring Mr Meinhardt Raabe for the United States Census in 1980, in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. He was a pleasure to work with and he shared some Oz stories along with meeting his wife, who I think was also an actor in the movie. Somewhere, I have an autographed picture of him in his role as Coroner which I should find and smile about again.
Julie Harris
November 18, 2017
My mothers maiden name is Raabe. My grandfather was Maxwell Raabe. I'm curious to know if we're related. Max grew up in Leadville Colorado, He had a dental practice and his father had a candy store. They move there in the late 1800s from Germany and move to Denver in the early 1900s.
Mary Ellen
November 20, 2016
tonight (11/20/16) the Wizard of Oz is on and it brought back a flood of memories. Mr. Raabe used to come in to the drugstore where I worked in 1972-1973,, and he would do his entire skit for me. Loved this man and his wife. he is still missed.
Harry Simpson
April 9, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Tom Claassen
March 28, 2014
He worked for Oscar Meyer in Madison as Little Oscar for a while.Traviling in the Weinermobile.Before Alice in Wonderland.
stevie Hollingsworth
March 7, 2014
He was one of my favorite characters in the wizard of oz he was the best munchkin in my eyeswwhen I was in 5th grade my teacher told us about how she met him and would let my class watch the wizard of oz every other Friday I would always squeal when he came on the screen he was just the most amazing person
Vincent O'Donnell
October 27, 2011
I meet Mr. Raabe when I went to school at Maple Newtown jr high in Broomall , PA he was a teacher assistant back in the early 80's I can remember I had trouble pronouncing his name so he said "just call me Mr. Robby" , funny I just new him as a math teacher and did not learn of his past till after I moved but what a teacher he was and for that I will never forget and yes Mr. Raabe / Robby you were right I will use math every day of my life !!!
Joyce Kirchberg-Mills
October 15, 2010
My father, Raymond, was Meinhardt's cousin back in Johnson Creek, WI. My memories are not of a famous person, but of a tiny couple whose wedding picture graced the top of our old upright piano. I had a child's rocking chair in which MARIE could sit, but I was too big for it. Thanks for the non-famous memories...it was only as I grew up that I realized that he was so accomplished in so many fields. And Marian, if you see this, I miss you, too.
October 2, 2010
I meet both him and his wife in Chesterton Ind. at a Wizard Of Oz Fest. wounderful and sweet people, heart of gold.They are both shinning stars in the heavens along with my son. God Bless good movies, cause they sure don't make them like they use to anymore.;0)
howard raabe
May 16, 2010
Always looked forward to his performance in the Wizard of Oz. Then when I discovered that we had the same last name it was even more significant. Wrote to him several times to his home in Florida. He will always be in our memories.
Howard S Raabe, Jr (easton, ct and weyauwega, wi)
jessica ellen
May 4, 2010
such a sweet man, and his wife was just as sweet. i had the pleasure of meeting both of them when i was younger. and getting a picture with them. what i remember most was him reaching down pinching my cheek and saying how cute a little girl i was.
(Genesis 9:13) . . . My rainbow I do give in the cloud, and it must serve as a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.
Monica ~1 Peter 1:24,25
April 30, 2010
Raabe made an impression on everyone’s life with his beautiful smile and joy of living. He turned what some would believe a handicap into a unique opportunity to entertain and enliven people’s lives during a time of turmoil.
God's word the Bible can give you peace during this distressing time of your lives, (Psalm 37:11) . . .But the meek ones themselves will possess the earth, And they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.
Again I'm truly sorry for your loss.
Garry Parrett
April 23, 2010
Meinhardt and Marie visited my home in 1992 and 1993 in Wausaukee, WI. These visits will always be cherished memories. I have 5 pictures of the visits by my computer all the time. I will miss them both. I have a memorial for Meinhardt and Marie in my Land of Oz Museum. They will always be mentioned on my tours of the Museum for my Oz visitors. Rest in Peace my friends---
PAMELA MCKINNEY
April 22, 2010
I treasure the Wizard of Oz tin sign with your signature on it. It will hang in my house always. My prayers are with your sister and family and I will never forget you.
Larry Giantomas
April 21, 2010
I am to this day a great fan of the Wizard of Oz.. I saw it as a young lad.. I wrote to Margaret Hamilton for 12 years until her death.. she was the Wicked Witch and she told me how much fun she had with the "Munchkins" Meinhardt will never be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to his famiily on such a great loss. We all will miss him
Lori Yonash
April 21, 2010
Thank You, Meinhardt, for your wonderful performance in one of my favorite movies! Thank you, too, for visiting us in Stevens Point, WI, in the early 1990's. You graciously posed for pictures, along with Margaret Pellegrini, with so many happy people that day, including my daughter, Casey, and myself. Rest in peace, and condolences to your family...
Kathy Horn
April 21, 2010
Thank you for entertaining generations with your acting in the "Wizard of Oz". You had a great gift that you shared with many. My sympathies go out to your family.
April 20, 2010
How did anyone receive so much love and respect in such a small body?? We will all miss Meinhardt !! Take care small friend..until we meet again . Joel Beck , Milwaukee
CAROL CLARK
April 20, 2010
MEINHARDT RAABE,We WILL HOLD YOU IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER.OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY FOR THE FAMILY OF OUR BELOVED FRIEND.
charlie dorris
April 20, 2010
My grand childeren, my children and i thank you for your part in such a wonderful movie
April 20, 2010
Dear Marion,
My deepest sympathy to you at the passing of your brother. Thinking of you.
Sincerely,
Mary Lincoln
April 20, 2010
You entertained countless people in "The Wizard of Oz",Thank You!
Carl Staelens (West Allis,Wi)
Wendy Johnson
April 20, 2010
My sympathies to the family. I was a child and this was one of my favorite movies. My children enjoy it as well. Rest in peace and may God Bless and comfort the family.
Kathy Baptista
April 20, 2010
May God Bless him. I loved that movie my daughter loves it and so does my gradson. Now our friend will follow the Golden Road to Heaven with all of the other Munchkins .Thank You for making my life a little easier . God Bless his family
April 20, 2010
Thanks for the memory ...u.R to good to be forgotten..
Al from Phoenix,arizona
April 20, 2010
Deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and caregiver of Mr. Raabe. His role in one of the most memorable movies of all time was a great one. I always sing along when his part comes. He is resting in peace now and he has been reuninted with his fellow cast members as well. Hopefullly they are all dancing on the yellow brick road in heaven.. Rest in Peace good man! (Waukesha, Wisconsin)
Christine Allen
April 20, 2010
I loved his work! And you must all take great pleasure in the joy your loved one brought to all of us through the ages! He's smiling on us all from OZ right now! :-)
Sue
April 20, 2010
The Wizard of Oz is still one of my favorite films. I've even gotten my grandchildren hooked on it. Thank you for the wonderful movie. May God Bless you and your Family. May the Yellow Brick Road of heaven be placed in front of you and your family during this journey.
Bob Pryor
April 20, 2010
My sister-in Law Donna Goossen will be waiting to great you in Heaven. She always had fond memories of visiting you on the set of the Wizard of OZ. You will always be in our thoughts for all the joy and laughter you shared with us in your life.
pattie connell
April 20, 2010
deepest sympathy to the family, friends at this time- thank you for all the joy that you brought to everyone through out your life on your journey
Susan Iwinski-Knapper
April 20, 2010
To the Meinhardt Raabe family Our Sympathy to you.
His life was full of excitement after he left Wisconsin. He was friends with my mom Irene Weber-Iwinski when they were growing up. My grandpa George & Elenora Weber owned a farm in Johnson Creek Wisconsin.
From my understanding He always had a smile on my face.
Sarah Eddy
April 20, 2010
Follow that Yellow Brick Road straight into heaven, Mr. Raabe. You've earned your spot. Thanks for all of the memories and may God bless you, your family and your friends.
Ann Moorehead
April 19, 2010
I love the Wizard of Oz and to have been fortunate enough to be in the movie is a wonderful legacy to leave your family and friends. God bless the Raabe family and comfort you.
Robyn Bodine
April 19, 2010
It was a pleasure to have known Meinhardt. May you rest in peace my dear friend. I will miss you.
Kathy Blaylock
April 19, 2010
I really enjoyed The Wizard of Oz. My heart goes out to the RAABE family. God Bless you and yours.
Shaun
April 18, 2010
My condolences to the Raabe family on your loss. May the Bible's promises for the future bring you comfort and peace. (Is. 61:2)
D Rollins
April 18, 2010
My condolences to the Family of Meinhardt Raabe, the death of a loved one may be difficult cope with, but may you take comfort from the scriptures and God promised at (Isaiah 8:25)God will eliminate death forever, thereby fulfilling his promise to mankind, the promise of the resurrection hope.
Linda
April 17, 2010
The Wizard of Oz is the BIG childhood memory for those of us who grew up with this magical classic. The loss of Mr. Raabe is a loss for all of us who grew up in the 50's. Who could ever forget the munchkins? Condolences to the family. Linda, Long Branch, NJ
A. Long
April 17, 2010
My utmost condolences goes out to the family, friends and fans. May all be comforted by reflecting on a time when all will be resurrected to enjoy life under God's Kingdom rule.
Laura Huff
April 17, 2010
Mr. Raabe was a great man. I met him once at a Wizard of Oz festival in Florida. I didn't know him really at all, but he signed my book. I will never forget that day or Mr. Raabe.
April 17, 2010
Thank you for being a part of a wonderful film and memory. I'll meet you in heaven someday. Gail
April 17, 2010
My thougths and prayers are with the Raabe Family in their time of grief.
At times like these, drawing close to God in prayer is what will "sustain
you." (Psalm 55:22) I hope this will bring the family a measure of comfort.
A Friend
(Chicago, IL)
John Fricke
April 17, 2010
Godspeed and God bless our friend, Meinhardt -- an irreplaceable and immeasurable contributor to the greater Oz legend and Oz family. His participation in more than three decades of Oz conventions, festivals, and celebrations was enjoyed by countless thousands of people of all ages. And his prior careers as salesman, spokesman, botanist, pilot, and educator speak for themselves. He made the most and best of his time and abilities...and many people benefitted from his talents and capacity to share. He'll never be forgotten.
French
April 16, 2010
The "Wizard of Oz" was the movie to watch each year with my Topeka, Kansas family. It seemed like a "sin" to miss it. I was sad to hear the loss of Mr. Raabe: a treasured surviving actor who played as a munchkin in the "Wizard of Oz". Many of the 20th century actors are slowly dying. However, these actors will always be remembered through their movies especially Mr. Raabe. Bravery, Brain and a Big heart. Many comforting prayers to his family.
Melissa Wright
April 16, 2010
I remember him in the "OZ" movie he was great , cute as bug he will be missed he lived a long life, will be missed sadly.
Marilynn
April 16, 2010
To Raabe family and friends. No words can express the pain your're feelin but just know that prayers are said in your behalf. (Psalm 34:18
Sandra Champion
April 16, 2010
To the Family of Mr Meinhardt Raabe Family; I would like to express my condolences to the lost of your loved one. I enjoyed watching The Wizard of Oz when I was a little girl, and with my two daughters when they were younger and now I watch it with my four grandsons. Thank you for the memories of a life time. May God Bless the family and caregivers always.
Max Drysdale
April 16, 2010
I'm 52 years old and I still watch the Wizard of Oz.
April 16, 2010
April 16, 2010
Rest in Peace...Gone but not forgotten as many more generations will grow up loving the classic "wizard of oz" movie.. really most sincerely!
FELIX PAGAN
April 16, 2010
rest in peace little man.....and follow the yellow brick road!
Mike
April 16, 2010
Thanks for the memories.
Denise Gitchell
April 16, 2010
I was sorry to hear of this mans' passing. Many of us baby-boomers,(myself included) loved "The Wizard of OZ", and will never forget Mr.Raabe playing the one that pronounced the witch dead. My prayers and thoughts are with the family and friends at this time". Denise Gitchell,Binghamton,N.Y.
Angie G.
April 16, 2010
I think this was my cousin, or Uncle-not sure,but when i looked up my moms last name Breunig,I got my grammas name,Mary Roeser in Watertown Wi. Anyways- May God bless him.I loved the movie and everyone in it. Angie G.
Sara Rhyne
April 16, 2010
The "Wizard of Oz" has brought so much pleasure to so many people through the years, and will continue to do so for generations to come. Because of that movie, you will live forever. Thank you, Mr Raabe, for the memories.
Keith Knight
April 15, 2010
Our lost but I am sure it is much better now that you have made it to the other side of the Yellow Brick Road... Thanks for all you were....
Todd Noll
April 15, 2010
Follow the Yellow Brick Road!
Cally Beauchamp
April 15, 2010
Rest in peace.
April 15, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Steve Ray
April 15, 2010
In Honor Of You And Your Memorable Part Of Hollywood History.
Linda Mitchell
April 15, 2010
What an honor it was to meet Mr. Raabe and get his autograph in Wamego, Kansas, home of the OZ Museum. Although we have lost several of our beloved munchkins in the past year, they will live on in the heart of everyone who dreams of going over the rainbow. Peace be with your family and friends...
Barbara Gbaa
April 15, 2010
To the family of Meinhardt Raabe: I am so sorry to hear about his passing away. As a child I loved the Wizard of Oz. And I remembered his character. Family hold onto the memories of him and cheerish them. I know that he will be missed. To help you as you go through this transition, please read the promise that God made to all of mankind at Revelation chapter 21 verses 3, 4 and 5. Please hold this promise of His close to your hearts and cheerish them as well. May His loving kindness be with you always.
Hazella White
April 15, 2010
You were a wonderful entertainer, and will live on via your films. Rest in peace.
Charles & Vanessa White
April 15, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Renee Moore & Family
April 15, 2010
My Sincere condolences to the family. The Wizard of Oz has always been one of my FAVORITE classics and it's now my 4 yr old sons favorite show also. He watches it at least 3 times a month. It took me a while to get Mr. Raabes part exact, but I finally got it. Much love & Prayers to the family & Mr. Meinhardt Raabe may you Rest in Peace and Thank you!!
Helen Deak
April 15, 2010
I will miss You!
A 58 yrs olda kid from Budapest, Hungary
Louis Power
April 15, 2010
You will always stand tall in my book. Oz is my #1 movie favorite. I know every part by heart, even yours. "As Coroner I must aver. I thoroughly examined her, and she's not merely dead. She's really most sincerely dead".
Rest in Peace Meinhardt Raabe. You were well loved by many, and one of them was me!
Jenny
April 15, 2010
Because, because because, we love munchkinland, what a world what a world. Thank you for the happiness you brought in my life and will continue to bring to many more generations.
frank toney
April 14, 2010
thank you...
Jennifer Camp
April 14, 2010
Thank you for being such a wonderful part of this wonderful world. Rest in peace.
Laurie
April 14, 2010
Wizard of Oz is my all time favorite movie! Meinhardt is now following the "Yellow Brick Road" in Heaven!
Jerry Stewart
April 14, 2010
As a child I was spell bound with the Wizard of Oz, as a teenager I was fascinated with the Wizard of Oz, and as an adult am truly entertained with my children and grand children watching the Wizard of Oz. Thank you for all the pleasure you have give me and my family. You are now with the Angles. God peace be with you.
Julie
April 14, 2010
Somewhere Over the Rainbow... Rest In Peace...
Gary Nixon
April 14, 2010
Meinhardt, Thank You And Everyone On The Wizard Of Oz A Movie That Will Last Forever.R.I.P.
Shannon
April 14, 2010
I never got to know you as much as I would have liked, Meinhardt, but I'll always remember you fondly. Rest in peace.
Susan Arnold
April 14, 2010
My thoughts & prayers are with the family. What a wonderful character. I will think of him every time I watch "The Wizard of Oz".
Trisha Whitehurst
April 14, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Meinhardt Raabe. He will always be a part of my life. I am sure he never new how many peoples lives he touched. God bless and safe jouney "Home".
WANDA WALLACE
April 14, 2010
MY FAVORITE MOVIE EVER,FIND REST OVER THE RAINBOW,GOD BLESS YOU.
Dannie McClain
April 14, 2010
May you resit in peace,you brought happiness and joy to so many,thank you.
Cecilia Graham
April 14, 2010
Rest in peace knowing the love and pleasure you gave to so many through your work and life.
Walterlee Gates
April 14, 2010
God Bless, you made many people happy and we will look forward in seeing you each fall. to the family thank you for sharing such a great gift
Curt Hellenbrand
April 14, 2010
My condolences on Meinhardt’s passing. He brought great happiness to friends and family and he will be missed.
Harold Shaffer
April 14, 2010
I was a great fan. God Rest Your Soul. you are in a much much better place. his Family is in my prayers for Their loss.
The Daniels Family
April 14, 2010
We offer our deepest condolences to all who loved Mr. Raabe. What a joy his film brought to so many kids and adults alike. He will be missed. May your memories and comfort from "the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort," ease the pain of losing him.
Stan Smith
April 14, 2010
A life well lived. Godspeed Meinhardt.
Mark Wells
April 14, 2010
Iv'e seen the movie many times as a child, and have watched it with my own children, a true classic" My condolences to mr Raabes family, rest in peace Sir. The Wells family.
Joann
April 13, 2010
God bless Mr. Raabe and his family at this very difficult time. I hope that he is able to find that yellow brick road and walk right up to Heaven on it. May you rest in peace. You were one of the characters that I always enjoyed watching.
Lisa Johnson
April 13, 2010
The Wiz will always be a special movie to watch and remember. I say to the Raabe family. We Thank Mr.Meinhardt for all the magical moments this movie created for me and so many others. We will never forget him. God Bless!!
Susan Naler
April 13, 2010
The Wizard of Oz is my all time favorite movie and I don't believe that just one part was better than any other. You are an icon that will be missed. God bless you!
patricia williams
April 13, 2010
the wizard of Oz, one of the all time favorite movie Mr.Meinhardt. you are a jewel. Rip, My love. love to the family.
Terry Goodman
April 13, 2010
I met Meinhardt and his late wife a number of years ago in Chittenango, NY. They were a very gracious couple. He has left a lasting impression on untold thousands. Meinhardt is home now and there really is no place like home.
J.W. Allen
April 13, 2010
My sincere condolences on the death of a mainstay in my life. Mr. Raabe *made* The Wizard of Oz for me. I absolutely loved his role. He will be missed yet he will live on in the hearts of many for years and years to come. What a great legacy. Thank you for sharing him with us for even just a little while.
Toni
April 13, 2010
Mr. Raabe no doubt touched the lives of billions over the years; after all, there are probably very few who have not seen The Wizard of Oz. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time.
As we await the time when Isaiah 33:24 is fulfilled, may your fond memories bring smiles to your faces and warmth to your hearts for many years to come.
Richard Fredrick
April 13, 2010
In a film where he was surrounded by people like Judy Garland and Bert Lahr, Meinhardt's character was fantastic. Because I started watching the film on a B&W TV I was in my teens before I was aware of the "Over the Rainbow" effect. But I always loved the coroner's speech, even before I knew what a coroner was. Enjoy that trip over the rainbow!
April 13, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers to the family. I LOVED the Wizard Of Oz!!!!! Thank You Meinhardt!
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