Raymond H. Kurth

Raymond H. “Ray” Kurth, 87, Wausau died peacefully on Sunday, November 25, 2018 at Mount View Care Center, Wausau. He was under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.

He was born September 6, 1931 in Wausau, son of the late George and Martha (Lamz) Kurth. On October 30, 1954 he married Shirley Clintsman at Grace Methodist Church, Greenwood. Imbued with a strong sense of family, nothing pleased him more then to be surrounded by family, and the countless dogs and cats he loved and provided a home for.

Gardening was a passion of Ray’s, he loved and worked to expand his flower gardens, creating an oasis of beauty and color. Anyone who met Ray in his later years was sure to get an invitation to visit his gardens, sit by the fish pond, watch the birds and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Growing up in the shadows of Athletic Park fueled a love of baseball, first watching minor league games as a kid, and then following the Milwaukee Braves/Brewers. But, the Packers were his favorite; the games were a weekly staple in the fall. Later in life, he had the opportunity to work in Green Bay where he met many of those football heroes.

He was active in his church, serving as a scout leader, a softball manager, and playing on the church league dartball team.

Work was important to Ray. He started out in sales, managed restaurants, and finally owned restaurants. In his later years, he worked for Permar as a Security Guard at Aspirus and Marshfield Clinic until the age of 80.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley Kurth, Wausau, his children, Robin (Laurie) Kurth, Wausau, Timothy (Kathy) Kurth, Chaska, MN, and Peggy Kurth, Wausau, six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, one sister-in-law, Ann Kurth, Richfield, and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, three sisters, and a great-grandson, Sean Gates.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 30, 2018 at Zion Lutheran Church, Wausau. Friends may call at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the services. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.