Ray Walter

Ray W. Walter, age 78 of rural Darlington, WI passed away Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at his home. He was born April 12, 1944 in Ottawa, IL the son of Vernon and Edna (Hallett) Walter. Ray grew up on a farm near Grand Ridge, IL where he graduated from Ottawa High School in 1962. After high school Ray attended Iowa State University for 1 year before spending 2 years taking the Farm Short Course in Madison, WI. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Jane Mason on November 12, 1966 in Ottawa. Ray loved farming and striving to breed better cattle. Designing practical farm structures was his strength. The underground sow house, corral, and salt feeders were his top designs throughout the years. Ray enjoyed attending his children and grandchildren's activities. He loved getting together with his family and friends creating memories they will all cherish forever. As you enjoy your roast beef dinner, remember Ray. Ray was a member of Darlington United Methodist Church, the FFA Alumni, and the Lafayette County Beef & Pork Producers. He also proudly coached 4-H softball for Willow Springs and served on the Darlington School Board for 12 years. Ray is survived by his wife Jane at home; his children: Matthew (Isabel) Walter of rural Darlington, Sarah (Larry) Pedelty of Chatfield, MN, Rebecca (John) Long of Wildwood, MO, and Angel (Michael) McGinn of Austin, TX; his grandchildren that he absolutely adored: Jessica, Laura, and Kate Pedelty, Hannah Long, Kevin and Juliana Mulhern, Romeo Walter, Ian and Liam McGinn; his brothers and sister: Dean Walter, Carl (Wendi) Walter, Elmer Walter, Kevin Walter, Kenny Walter, and Janis (Don) Wade; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother: Dale Walter; and one sister-in-law: Rosemary Walter. A funeral service will be held Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. at Darlington United Methodist Church with Rev. InSun Lee officiating. Burial will be in Union Grove Cemetery. A visitation will be held Saturday, April 1, 2023 from 9:00 A.M. until the time of services at Darlington United Methodist Church. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com. For those who prefer, a memorial fund has been established in Ray's name.