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Raymond Charles Obituary
Raymond "Ray" T. Charles, age 74 passed away after his brief illness on Friday, December 11, 2015. He was born on June 18, 1941 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the late Thomas and Florence (Barnes) Charles.
He married the love of his life, Carole Arkens on March 26, 1983 in Bark River, Michigan at Salem Lutheran Church.
Ray retired from the Wisconsin State Patrol after 31 years of service. He was first assigned to District 6 in Menomonie and lastly in District 3. Ray enjoyed his career so much he would often say he felt as if he "never worked a day in his life".
Ray proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy. His last assignment was spent at Great Lakes Naval Station in Illinois. During his time there, Ray fell in love with the northern states which ultimately led him to Wisconsin. He truly loved the northern woods and everything that lived in them. Being the compassionate person he was, Ray regularly fed the outdoor critters- always making sure there was plenty of food to go around.
In addition to his love for wildlife, Ray found great joy in finding long-lost and forgotten treasures at rummage sales. Ray would collect and sell antiques; however he might have collected more than what he sold. He was always eager to make both necessary and unnecessary trips to the grocery store and liked to stock up on his candies and snacks. But nothing brought him as much joy and happiness as his family.
Ray is survived by his wife of thirty-two years, Carole; his loving son, Bill (Lori) Charles; his granddaughter, Magen Eggers and his great grandson, Eli. He is further survived by his four brothers, Thomas Jr. Charles, Michael (Vickie) Charles, Jim (Marguerite) Charles and Pat Charles; his two sisters, Nancy Charles (Lucyann Pescatore), and Mary (Joe) Campellone.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a younger brother Billy.
The memorial service for Ray will be held on Tuesday, December 15, 2015 at 12:00 pm at WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME, 537 N. Superior Street, Appleton, WI. A visitation will be held on Tuesday starting at 10:00 am until the time of the memorial service at 12:00 pm at the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wichmannfargo.com. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Ray's name.
The family would like to thank all the staff at Theda Clark Medical Center for the compassionate care given to Ray and his family.
"Prepare a new den for us Papa Bear and we will be with you again when God picks our time."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Raymond Charles
tony cascio
December 7, 2020
Where do I begin? Ray and I met at the Wisconsin State Patrol Academy in 1968. Immediately we hit it off...both of us had biting wits and we laughed at and with each other. After the Academy, we visited Ray and his family in Menomonie for many BBQ's. I will always remember his genorosity and sense of humor. R.I.P. Brother...
stan zirbel
December 7, 2020
I still think of Ray in the fall. he brought me many trophies to measure, and many thing to remember him by.
Tony Cascio
August 31, 2020
Ray and I attended the Wisconsin State Patrol Academy in 1968. He was the funniest guy I have ever known. He was special. RIP my friend...
December 22, 2015
Very sorry to hear of Ray's passing, he had much to give.
Knew Ray while I served as Chief in Kimberly. We did a few bow hunting excursions with little success. He also lined me up for an exciting flight with the air patrol.
He will be missed.
My condolences to the family in their time of sorrow.
December 21, 2015
So sorry for the lost of your dear loved one. May you get the strength and comfort you need during this difficult time. 2 Cor 1:3
john
December 18, 2015
i worked with ray many years ago, i was at the truck weigh station on hwy 41.he was a great guy, served the people of wis very well
Joanne K.
December 16, 2015
Carol: I am so sorry for your loss.
I will miss Ray during Rummage season. He always seemed so happy when he was searching for that treasure.
stan zirbel
December 16, 2015
Measured alot of deer for Ray, always enjoyed talking to him. He was a real friend and will be missed. So sorry for yourloss.
Elaine Lamers
December 15, 2015
Bill, I used to be your babysitter when you were pre school. I was Elaine Van Hammond then. I actually had a date with your dad about 40 years ago. I still laugh about it because it was the most disastrous date I ever was on. I really liked your dad though. He was a great guy!
Kari Mogensen
December 14, 2015
So very sorry for your loss Carole.. sending you a big hug!! from Kari Mogensen/ Outagamie County HR
December 13, 2015
Carol, We are so going to miss Ray. We were blessed to see him often at Woodman's buying food for his little animal friends. He was such a nice caring person and we will miss him dearly. May God comfort you during this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Patti and employees of Woodman's Food Market.
December 13, 2015
Fair winds and following seas brother sailor.
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Wichmann Funeral Home - Downtown Appleton537 North Superior Street, Appleton, WI 54911
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