John A. Ray

John A. Ray, 76 of La Crosse, WI., died on Wednesday, July 27, 2022. He was born in Sparta, WI., on April 5, 1946, the youngest of 9 children born to George and Addie (Edmison) Ray. Following his graduation from Central High School in 1964, he attended Western Wisconsin Technical Institute and was trained as an LPN receiving his certification in 1971. He worked as an ambulance driver in the La Crosse area for awhile and had many colorful stories to share about it. He worked as a nurse at the Tomah VA Medical Center until he was disabled from a fall through a barn roof. After his injury, he cared for his mother in law and other family members until their passing. Following his wife’s death, he moved to the La Crosse area to be closer to family. He loved his family dearly and kept his faith as a mainstay In his life. On November 11, 1976 he married Janet Gottbeheat and she preceded him in death in 2011. Together, they had one son Jason Ray of Camp Douglas, WI. In 1984 he received his ADN from Western Technical Institute. Survivors include his son Jason, two sisters Pearl Ray, Rita (Burton) Andrus and many loving nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife Janet, he was preceded in death by parents, his two sisters Theresa Ray, Della (Allen) Stetzer, brothers George, Fred, Robert and Donald Ray. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, August 5, 2022 at The Cathedral of St. Joseph the Workman. Monsignor Richard Gilles will officiate. Military honors will be provided by the U.S. Army. Entombment will take place in the garden mausoleum at Oak Grove Cemetery, La Crosse.