"Please know the Anthony family has my deepest sympathy. I went to school with Ray and I am so sorry for your loss."
In loving memory of
Raymond "Ray" Anthony
February 26, 1944 - January 27, 2020
Raymond L. "Ray" Anthony, formerly of Bristow, Iowa, passed away on January 27, 2020. After his failing health, he died peacefully within his home in Gladbrook, Iowa, surrounded by his wife and four children.
Ray was born February 26, 1944, in Waseca, Minnesota, to Luverne and Philomena (Foley) Anthony. He was one of seven children. Ray attended and graduated high school at Sacred Heart in Waseca. After high school, he served in the United States Army. He went to Vietnam from 1964-1966 with the 554th Ordnance Company. Ray was united in marriage February 17, 1968, to his beloved wife Annette Egner. They raised their children in Iowa. He worked at John Deere for over 30 years before he retired.
Ray enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards and listening to music. He was most passionate about harness racing and watching football. He was a huge Notre Dame fan. Ray was admired by many as he was a member and sponsor of Alcoholics Anonymous for 39 years. He was also a member of the Iowa Harness Horse Association and American Legion Post 127.
Ray is survived by his wife Annette, his daughter Christine (Clint) Fishel of Lewiston, Minnesota, his sons Patrick (Angel) Anthony of Norwalk, Philip Anthony of Waverly, and Adam Anthony of Gladbrook, and one brother John Anthony of Arizona. He was a loving grandfather to his grandchildren Paige, Craig, Brett, Rachel, Hunter, Jayden, Riley, Peyton, Lilly and Poppy (his granddog). He especially adored his great grandson, River. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Jim, Ernie, David, Jerry and his sister Gert.
Memorials may be directed to Cedar Valley Hospice.
Tributes
"My deepest sympathy to Ray's family. I became acquainted with Ray about a year ago. We had nice visits while taking a drive to other towns. Rest In Peace. "
"Ray was a good friend and teammate in high school, and we re-connected by phone and on (my wife's) FB in recent years. He is and was admired by me for many reasons. My heartfelt condolences to his family and his many friends. Lyndon Kratochwill"
"Ray was one of the kindest, most supportive individuals I know! With what Mark has/is going through you sure appreciate the people that you can truly call your friend. And that is Ray, he will be missed. Loved him so much! Mark, Deb and Merle"
"While I only had the good fortune to meet Ray a couple of times, I appreciated his kindness and humor. I am eternally grateful to him for the support and guidance he provided to my fiance, Shawn Milnes. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones."
"Ray had a tremendously positive influence on my life as he did so many others. I love him and will miss him terribly. My thoughts and prayers to his family and other loved ones. -Shawn Milnes "
"I am so sorry for your loss. I will never forget standing on my tippy toes next to Ray when he was on his horse and getting a cramp in my toes. I thought his horse had stepped on my foot. I shared that memory with him a few years back. I know he will be missed. I?m sure dad will be welcoming him through the gates of heaven. Sending prayers for you all. Bonita Gehring"
"My sympathy to you Annette and your children and grandchildren. I?ll just bet he and Craig are talking horses right now. I?ll never forget the old days in Waseca. Ray was a one of a kind. "
"So sorry to hear of Rays passing. He was a always so nice to me when our paths crossed over the years. Prayers to the family. RIP Ray. Alyson Fishel "
"Sorry to hear of Ray's passing. I attended many AA meetings with Ray and always enjoyed the times we spent together. His insight at the meetings was invaluable. He was always able to cut through the bull shit to the truth of whatever was being discussed. The world has lost a good man. Egon O"
"Good bye old friend keep them honest up there."