Raymond Minardi

Raymond Edward Minardi passed away peacefully on May 7, 2024, in Mountain Home, Arkansas, at the age of 86. He was born on September 29, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, and was raised in Mobile, Alabama. After graduating from High School in Mobile, Alabama, Ray proudly served in the United States Air Force and carried his kindness and welcoming nature wherever he went. He was honorably discharged from the Air Force in 1959 in Madison, Wisconsin, where he remained and started his 36 year career with Oscar Meyer. After retiring, he moved from Madison to Mountain Home, Arkansas, to get away from the winters. In Mountain Home, he joined Twin Lakes Baptist Church, where he was an active member for more than 20 years. His great sense of humor lit up the room and endeared to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Apart from his successful career at Oscar Meyer, Ray had a variety of hobbies and interests that brought him joy. From woodworking and carving to playing cribbage, bowling, and fishing; he found solace and pleasure in these activities. Ray especially loved playing pool volleyball with his friends.

Ray's love for his family was evident in everything he did. He is survived by his loving wife, Rita Minardi of Mountain Home, AR; son, Dean (Jane) Minardi of Duluth, MN; two daughters, Stephanie Minardi of Sun Prairie, WI, and Angela (Joe) Haag of Deerfield, WI; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and many special friends, including Dave and Deb Ersland, Richard Todd, and Merrill Glazebrook. He is reunited in heaven with his parents; wife, Judy Minardi and son, Tony Minardi.

A Visitation and Funeral Service to honor Ray's life will be held at Twin Lakes Baptist Church in Mountain Home, Arkansas on May 21, 2024. The Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the Funeral Service at 11:00 AM, concluding with Military Honors. Graveside Services will be held at Sun Prairie Memory Gardens in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.

Ray's legacy of love, laughter, and sincerity will be forever remembered by those whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace knowing he was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Memorials may be made to a charity of choice. Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.