Raymond Reitmeier

ST. JOSEPH - Raymond Robert Reitmeier began the next step in his journey on Sunday (Sept. 14, 2025) when he added a set of wings to his standard attire of blue jeans, western shirts, a cap and suspenders.

Ray was born Aug. 4, 1944, to Christian J.H. Reitmeier and Mary Christina Huls, the last of his siblings to be born at home in a two-story farmhouse in St. Joseph. Appropriately enough, Ray was called to his heavenly home in that same location 81 years later.

Dad was everything, not just to me but everyone - loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. Over the years, Dad was a farmer, welder, bus driver, custodian, musician ... the list goes on. From building both of our houses himself to building our cabin on the family farm. There wasn't a thing he couldn't do if he set his mind to it, and that he did often! He had a stubborn streak, but I believe that's what made him so good at literally everything. I swear there wasn't a thing he couldn't fix with a pair of pliers (which could always be found in his pocket).

Dad always was and will be the backbone of this family, leaving behind his loving wife of 57 years, Andrea (Gress). Mom and Dad were married on April 26, 1968, at St. Mary's Church in Westville. Nine months later, that couple became a family.

Dad leaves behind three children, Lori (Christopher) Stowe, Robert (Susan) Reitmeier and Rebecca Reitmeier; four grandchildren, Connor, Kyle, Andrew and Sydney; and two great-granddaughters, Harley and Brooklynn (with one on the way!). Dad also leaves behind his brother/partner in crime, Melvin "Pete" (Marie) Reitmeier; nieces and nephews; along with numerous friends who have over the years become more like family.

Dad was a simple man who enjoyed nothing more than being home surrounded by his family - the closer the better! He enjoyed playing music, hunting or fishing and spending time in his beloved garden. Dad was happiest when encircled by friends, family, country music, his cats and a plate or two of frog legs or deer steak and gravy.

Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 18, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. with Pastor Scott Smith officiating. Burial will be in Stanton Cemetery, St. Joseph.

Our family would like to thank the staff at Carle Foundation Hospital, Shirley Ryan Ability Lab and Transitions Hospice for three months of wonderful love and care. Words cannot express how much we appreciate all of the friends and family who have supported us. It truly was the prayers, the vists and phone calls that kept us going and continue to keep us going through this difficult time.