Eileen M. Raymond's Obituary
Eileen M. Raymond, died 23 of January peacefully at home after a brief illness, with her loving family members at her side. Eileen was born in 1937 in Lakewood, Ohio to Mary and Leo Wojtowicz. She graduated from Lakewood High School in 1955 and then worked as a bookkeeper for White Sewing Machine Company until she met and married the love of her life, James Raymond M.D. in 1959. As a wife of an Army Surgeon she traveled to several Army Posts including Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D.C.; Fort Belvoir Hospital in Falls Church, VA; U.S. Military Hospital at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point N.Y.; and Fitzsimons Army Hospital in Denver, CO. After her husband left the Army, she and her family lived in Lafayette, IN and Midland, MI before moving to Oshkosh in 1973 where she resided until her death.
She is survived by her husband, James with whom she shared a beautiful journey of 65 years; her loving and grateful children, Todd (Joan) Raymond, Mary (Greg) Erickson and Jeffrey (Charlie) Raymond as well as grandchildren, Katie (Brian) Neitzel, Adam Erickson and Rae (Cameron) Erickson; and great grand-children, Brody and Bennett Neitzel. She is also survived by a sister, JoAnn Traum. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Genny, Dorothy and Pauline. Eileen's family rightfully believes she should be posthumously be inducted into 4 "Halls of Fame"; #1. Cooking Hall of Fame- she was master cook making all her food from scratch. She was particularly known for her chocolate chip cookies and for her fabulous holiday meals which looked as good as they tasted. #2. Decorating Hall of Fame; while she had no formal training she mastered her decorating skills by studying a multitude of decorating magazines, allowing her to decorate her home in a professional manner which drew praise from all who visited her. #3. "Messaging Hall of Fame"; Eileen could write the most moving, poignant heartfelt notes whether it was sympathetic, congratulatory or a simple "thank you". She was often told she should work for a greeting card company since her efforts were so moving. In addition to the wonderful messages, her hand writing was also beautiful as well. #4. "Kindness Hall of Fame"- Her kindness and empathy to others (friends and strangers alike) knew no bounds. She unselfishly devoted her life to her family and received pleasure when they benefited from her efforts. Eileen will be remembered not for her death but for the joy and happiness she bestowed on her family and friends. If there is one word that defines her life it is "caring" which came to her naturally. Rest in peace our dear Eileen. The world is a sadder place without you but you will remain forever in our hearts.
As per her wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. A joyous family day of recollection will be privately held at a later date.
What’s your fondest memory of Eileen?
What’s a lesson you learned from Eileen?
Share a story where Eileen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Eileen you’ll never forget.
How did Eileen make you smile?