In loving memory of
Raymond J. Knudtson
May 4, 1922 - January 5, 2017
Madison - Raymond J. Knudtson, age 94, died Thursday, January 5, 2017. He was born on May 4th, 1922 in Madison, the son of the late Joseph A. and Margaret Mary (Dempsey) Knudtson. Ray's school years involved St. Raphael's Catholic Parochial; Evergreen Park Elementary in Evergreen Park, IL, Madison Central High and Madison Area Technical College. Following school, Ray, together with his brothers Thomas and George, served in the United States Army during World War 2. Thomas was killed in action during the Normandy invasion on July 4th, 1944. By coincidence, Tom and Ray who served in different Army units were fortunate to meet and spend three days together in London, England and at Ray's Air Corps base shortly before the invasion. Ray always cherished that precious memory.
After Army service, Ray returned to Madison and met a very wonderful girl, Thelma (Steinmetz) Connor. Ray and Thelma were married on May 28, 1949. Ray's career covered forty years in custom metal fabricating. The last 22 years of the forty were spent with Metaskil, Inc., a family business founded by Ray, wife Thelma, and stepson, Michael J. Connor. Ray was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #4527, the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus Honor Guard General Assembly #1200, the VFW Post# 14000 and the Madison Elks Lodge.
During his working years, he was a member of and also chaired at one time, the Madison-Beloit American Welding Society section and the Middleton Chamber of Commerce. Later, during his retirement, Ray chauffeured people for various apostolates for the handicapped activities.
Ray is survived by his step-daughter-in-law, Madonna Connor; five step-grandchildren, Theron Connor, Lisa (Jeffrey) Geiger, Michelle (Robert) Varebrook, Julie (John) Davids and Sara (Matthew) Kennedy. Surviving step-greatgrandchildren are Devin and Aden Khan, Kaylyn, Kelsey, Claire, and Christine Geiger, Caleb and Isaac Varebrook, Joshua and Jacob Davids, Emma and Michael Kennedy; many cousins and friends.
Ray was preceded in death by his dear wife, Thelma; son, Michael J. Connor; his parents; sisters, Margaret Mary and Eleanor; and brothers, Thomas and George.
Family and friends are invited to visit at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 401 S. Owen Dr, Madison, on Monday, January 9, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. Raymond will be laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery after Mass.
Winn-Cress Funeral Home
5785 Hwy Q
Waunakee, WI 53597
608-849-4513