Raymond N. "Ray" Steichen

Raymond Steichen of Dubuque passed away January 23rd, 2026, surrounded by loving family. Raymond was born in Dubuque on April 14, 1933, to Nicholas Steichen and Margaret (Kirkpatrick) Steichen. He was the fourth of ten children. He grew up fishing, hunting and gardening. He was an avid story teller and loved to talk about fishing, outer space, and his grandkids. He was an Army veteran of the Korean Conflict.

Raymond met the love of his life, Patricia McGuire at a dance at Turner Hall in Galena, Illinois.

They married in 1958 in Galena and were married for sixty-five years. Patricia passed away in 2023. They had four children: Karl (Kassandra Powell), Karen (Brian) Huskins, Paul (Bich Tran), and Kathy (Christopher Urias). Raymond is also survived by four grandchildren.

Raymond spent free time traveling, fishing the Mississippi River and spring fed streams in the driftless areas of Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois. All the children have fond memories of fishing and swimming in the Mississippi.

Raymond was a patrolman for the Dubuque Police Department for forty years. He retired in the mid 90's and enjoyed a long and healthy retirement. He continued fishing on the Mississippi, gardening, road trips in northeast Iowa and float trips on the Turkey River.

Ray would like everyone to know that Patricia was the most wonderful wife, mother and caregiver. They spent much of their time staying active by dancing, enjoying music, and growing fruit and vegetables together. They spent evenings holding hands watching Lawrence Welk re-runs.

As Raymond's physical abilities declined, Raymond and son Karl developed various contraptions to allow for his continued access to the boat. The family would like to thank Keith Boever for helping on fishing trips.

Raymond was preceded in death by siblings Kenneth, Robert, William, Rosemary (Severson), John, and Glenn. He is survived by sisters Rita, Mary Lou Konrardy and Joann Malec.

The family thanks Stonehill Nursing Home and Hospice of Dubuque for the excellent care he received for the last four months of his life.

A memorial service will be held in June and will be announced. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Ray's family.