Raymond Francis Panske's Obituary
Raymond Francis Panske died peacefully at home on December 28, 2024 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Ray was born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin on July 30, 1931, to the late August and Catherine Panske (nee Yungwirth). He married the love of his life Barbara Panske (nee Binder) on June 30, 1956. Ray was the only Panske of his seven siblings to graduate high school. He worked at Reimer Sausage, Panske Construction (for his brother Gerald), Binder Beverage (for his late father-in-law Dick Binder) and Rockwell International where he retired after 30 years in 1992. A fun fact is the Binder house on Knapp St, where Barb grew up (now owned by EAA), was built by the Panske men.
Ray had a strong faith in God and never missed an opportunity to go to Mass. He enjoyed playing cards, dart ball, fishing and golfing and had many good friends. A favorite destination was “up north” to Boulder Lake since 1961 where countless family memories were made at the trailer around the campfire and at the lake.
Ray was a member of the Knights of Columbus, President of the St. Vincent school board and an usher at St. Vincent’s. Ray also volunteered as a coach, den leader for scouts, at the EAA and anywhere else someone needed a helping hand.
Ray was always well dressed thanks to Barb sewing many of his suits by hand. He was an avid Green Bay Packers fan and wouldn’t miss watching a game (and he even played semi-pro football for the Oshkosh Comets back in the day).
Ray loved his kids, their spouses, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great, great, grandchild and was always there for them.
Ray is survived by his wife, Barb, children Sue (Gary) Davies, Ray (Susie) Panske, Jane (Tim) White, John Panske, Joan (Steve) Schwartz, Kathy (Dave) Rockhill, Rick (Gina) Panske and Tom (Christa) Panske, his grandchildren Laura (Mike) Cmeyla, Michelle Davies, Eric (Kelly) Davies, Nicci (Cory) Schmidt, Andy (Katie) Panske, Jason Panske, Amanda (Justin) Eslinger, Richard (Chealse) Panske-Zombor, Tyler (Secelie) Panske, Jacob Panske, Alex (Deagan) Schwartz, Kyle (Emma) Schwartz, Katie Meyer, Lexi Meyer, Alison (Jake) Casper, Abby (Connor) Miller, Adam Panske, Aaron Panske, Emma Panske, August Panske and Sammy Panske and his 25 great grandchildren and one great, great grandchild. Ray is also survived by sister-in-law Beatsie Tank and many nieces and nephews.
Ray was predeceased by his grandchild Cheyenne, great grandchild Robert, siblings Syl and wife Lorraine, Arnie, Gerry and wife Jane, Jim and wife Mary, Mercedes and husband Norm Poklasny, Tony and wife Opal, Vince and wife Barbara and his parents August and Catherine and in-laws Dick and Mary Binder (nee Mateyka), Tom and Pat Binder, Dick and Dora Binder and Gene Tank.
A visitation for family and friends will be on Friday, January 3, 2025 from 10:00 until 12:00 at St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church 1225 Oregon St. Oshkosh, WI and followed by Mass. A luncheon for extended family will follow. Ray’s internment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Oshkosh. Poklasny Funeral Home is assisting the family. If you wish please submit online condolences to fissbillspoklasnyfuneralhome.com.
Thank God for keeping Dad at home under the loving care of his wife and children. We love you Dad.
In Lieu of flowers Ray’s family has asked that any donations should be directed to St. Vincent De Paul at 2551 Jackson St. Oshkosh, WI 54901
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