Raymond Edward Schrank II

It is with profound gratitude for a life of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication that we share the passing of Raymond E. Schrank II, an esteemed attorney, community advocate, and cherished family man. His remarkable life’s work touched thousands throughout Wisconsin and beyond, but his greatest pride and joy was always his family.

Ray was born on August 1, 1944, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, to Dr. Raymond and Mrs. Bertha Schrank. Ray spent his childhood years living in Waupun, Wisconsin. He had a rich and adventurous childhood, spending time with immediate and extended family at one of his favorite places, his family’s lake property in central Wisconsin, fondly known as “Pixicopter Place.” In 1962, Ray graduated from Waupun High School and subsequently pursued his education at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in 1967. With a deep sense of purpose and an unshakable commitment to justice, he continued on to the University of Wisconsin Law School, where he received his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree in 1970 — marking the beginning of more than five decades of influential advocacy.

Over the course of his distinguished career, Ray was admitted to practice before the Wisconsin State Courts, the Eastern and Western Federal District Courts of Wisconsin, the Seventh and Eighth Circuit United States Courts of Appeals, and all Immigration Courts in the United States. He represented more than 6,000 clients, participated in over 175 jury trials, and worked tirelessly on behalf of families, immigrants, workers, and individuals facing life-changing legal challenges. His impact included more than 1,700 depositions, over 350 mediations, multiple multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements, over 300 representations in Immigration Court, and hundreds of immigration and DACA petitions and applications. He also devoted countless hours to pro bono asylum work, helping families find safety and hope.

A fierce advocate for professional excellence, Ray earned national recognition throughout his career. He was selected as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer, named a Wisconsin Personal Injury Super Lawyer, and honored with the Client Distinction Award beginning in 2012. He was repeatedly recognized by the State Bar of Wisconsin for his pro bono service and was named among the Top 10 Immigration Lawyers from 2019 to 2021.

His credentials included certification as a Civil Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy — first achieved in 1984 and recertified every five years for three decades. He also held Diplomate Certification from the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys. His peers entrusted him with numerous leadership roles, including service as a National Certification Examiner, Director of the Wisconsin Academy of Trial Lawyers, ATLA Stalwart, and long-time sustaining member of several national and state legal associations. He was appointed repeatedly by the Wisconsin Supreme Court to the Office of Lawyer Regulation and also served as an arbitrator for attorney fee disputes.

Beyond the courtroom, Ray was a prolific lecturer and author. His publications and presentations on medical negligence, trial strategy, professional liability, and tort law informed and educated attorneys, healthcare professionals, and students for over three decades. His appellate work contributed to significant Wisconsin case law and helped shape legal standards still recognized today.

Yet, for all his professional achievements, his deepest commitments lay in community and family. A devoted member and leader at Messiah Lutheran Church in Madison, Wisconsin and Atonement Lutheran Church in Muskego, Wisconsin, he served as council member, vice president, president, men’s group leader, advisor, and long-time committee contributor. He played key roles in planning and building new church facilities and guided both youth and adults with dedication and faith.

His community leadership extended into the Muskego-Norway School District, where he served as a school board member for nine years — including four as president — commencement speaker, parade judge, strategic planning member, and advocate for students and families. He coached youth soccer, supported Odyssey of the Mind teams, and contributed to numerous school and community programs.

A passionate believer in service to the vulnerable, Ray co-founded the Muskego Taxi Service, the Eagle’s Wing Free Clinic, and the Hispanic Legal Clinic, where he provided free legal immigration assistance to hundreds. Through his nonprofit, Legal Assistance to Asylum Seekers, Inc., he represented more than 150 families, helping many find safety and stability in the United States.

Among all his life’s accomplishments, his family remained his greatest blessing. He is survived by his beloved wife Barbara, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, partnership, and mutual devotion. He is also survived by his children Kenneth (Rosaida), Scott, Brian, Jenifer (Christopher), Kristin, and Curtis (Alexandra); and by his adored grandchildren Cole, Isabel, Curtis, Sophie, Jeric, Marvin, Scarlett, and Piper, each of whom brought joy, pride, and immeasurable meaning to his life.

Ray is also survived by his brother Bill (Debbie) and sisters Helaine (Keith, d. 2022), Wanda (Mike), Ann (David), and Vicky (Rick). He was preceded in death by his sisters Sondra, Donna, and Julie. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Joe (Donna, d. 2003) and many nieces and nephews.

Though his accomplishments were many, Ray will be remembered most for the way he made people feel — heard, supported, valued, and cared for. His life was a quiet testament to the belief that every person deserves dignity and compassion. He gave generously of his time, his talents, and his heart, always choosing service over recognition and kindness over ease.

His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the communities he strengthened, and the lives he touched with unwavering grace and determination. Those who knew him carry forward the lessons he taught: to work hard, stand up for others, lead with integrity, and love without hesitation.

May his memory continue to be a blessing and a guiding light to all who were fortunate enough to walk beside him.

A service honoring his life will be held at Atonement Lutheran Church in Muskego, Wisconsin on January 10, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Ray’s Asylum Seeker Ministry, continuing his lifelong mission of serving others. Donations can be made online here by selecting “Ray Schrank” from the drop down menu after checking the box to dedicate the gift in memory or honor of someone. Alternatively, donations can be made to Atonement Lutheran Church directly with an indication that they are being made in memory of Ray Schrank.