Raymond “Ray” J. Rumler passed away at home, on the farm, after a life well lived, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
A funeral service will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 3 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Watertown, with Rev. Jerry Ewings officiating. Family and friends may gather at the church from 1 p.m., until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials if desired, may be directed to the church. Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.hafemeisterfh.com.
Raymond “Ray” John Rumler was born at home on June 20, 1939, the son of Fred and Esther (Scheel) Rumler. He was baptized July 5, 1939, and was confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church. Ray graduated from St. John’s Grade School. He then attended Northwestern Prep School and Watertown High School. A lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, he remained steadfast in his faith.
Ray was deeply connected to Watertown’s history. As a young boy, he started working for his father’s excavating business, and was part of his family’s legacy, as the last providers of Watertown’s famous “noodled” geese, sold to exclusive restaurants in New York City. As a teen, Ray began dairy farming with his grandparents, on their farm and later bought it. Ray married Dianne Heller, on August 24, 1963, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, in Marshall, WI. She preceded him in death on October 1, 2017. Alongside dairy farming, he owned a sawdust and bark delivery service. He also worked as needed, for the Town of Emmet, plowing snow, and as a Saturday morning recycling attendant. After selling the cows in the late 1990’s, Ray began a new chapter, working for Carl Hoeffler’s excavating business, and later driving semi for Curt’s Trucking and with Caine Transfer.
Ray appreciated a good day in the field, a good hand of Sheepshead, and baked sweets. During his lifetime, he enjoyed the company of many dogs especially German Shepherds. He spent his happiest times with his family, shooting guns (TRYING to get a deer!), sometimes fishing, and entertaining all who crossed his path, with good stories and jokes. He was a Packers and NASCAR fan. Above all, Ray’s legacy is one of service and friendship, to his family, friends, and neighbors. In his younger years, he was an accomplished bowler, and enjoyed many years of camaraderie with his Wednesday and Friday night “farmer” bowling teams. As a lifetime Turner member, he bartended at Turner Hall and enjoyed their old-time dances. Ray loved a good polka!
Ray is survived by his children: Brenda (Randy) Wenzel, their children Nicole Wenzel and Candance LaRocque; Debra (Dan) Randall, and Linda Rumler; sister, Shirley (Jim) Richter; nephew, Mike Richter; other relatives and friends; and his companion dog, Sierra.
Ray was preceded in death by his wife, Dianne, infant son Bryan; newborn granddaughter Rebecca Wenzel; brother, Warren, and his parents.
Ray’s family is profoundly grateful to Rev. Jerry Ewings and Rev. Nicholas Quinnett for their compassionate spiritual support and home visits. Ray’s family is so blessed and grateful to the amazing caregivers and neighbors who made it possible for Ray to remain in his home, as he wished: Lori Ruehle, Josh Bratz, Jess O’Marrah, Kelly Mallow, Jodi Kunert, Dan and Peggy Bratz, Abby Bratz, Breyana Wolter, and Scott and Josh Westenberg. Thank you also for the incredible service and care, from Watertown EMS, Watertown Hospital, and the Hafemeister Funeral Home.
