Raymond J. "Ray" Lucas

Raymond “Ray” J. Lucas, age 73, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away at his home on March 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 13, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois, to Peter and Stella (Petkus) Lucas, Ray built a life rooted in hard work, family, and the outdoors. He began his career with McCain Foods when the company first opened and remained in management until his retirement. His staff remembered him as firm but fair, and he took genuine pride in both his work and the people with whom he worked.

Above all, Ray cherished his family. He shared a deep bond with his brothers Wally, Ritchie, and Alan, treasuring their lifelong connection and the stories they shared. A devoted husband to Sherri Jo, he loved traveling with her, spending summers exploring neighboring states and taking cruises to Jamaica, Honduras, Belize, and Mexico. At home, he was a farmer at heart who spent most of his time outdoors tending his garden, planting corn, splitting wood, and caring for the 50 acres he loved. He taught his children practical life lessons through hands-on experience—changing oil, opening a bank account, saving money, and working hard—often during those quiet moments in nature. He also found great joy in driving the combine and walking his dogs across the land.

Ray is survived by his wife, Sherri Jo Lucas; his children, Sharon Lucas, Sheila (Robert) Walloch, Dan (Lisa) Lucas, Sara (Andrew) Pio, Ashley Fick (David Bowman), Nicole (Jake) Schroeder, and Brianna (Logan) Brey; grandchildren, Gracie, Kenedy, and Adyson Walloch, Brock and Lily Lucas, Gavin and Emma Jo Pio, Kiara and Patrick Lester, Hayden and Grayson Fick, and Caleb and Naomi Schroeder; his brothers, Walter (Judy) Lucas, Alan (Wendy) Lucas, and Richard (Jody) Lucas; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved dogs, Lexi, Rusty, Tilly, and Troublemaker Jack. He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Stella Lucas; his brothers, Johnny and Michael Lucas; his granddaughter, Amelia Schroeder; and other dear family members.