It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ray Ott Wrobel Sr. of La Crosse, who entered into eternal peace on May 28, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on December 22, 1939, to Raymond and Dorothy Wrobel (Ott), Ray’s final journey was marked by profound serenity. He passed as he lived—enveloped by the warmth of his family—and he is now home with the Lord.

He was confirmed at St. John’s UCC. He graduated from Central High School in 1958 and was a founding member of the Sports Car Club of La Crosse.

He guarded French Island as an Army National Guardsman during the great flood of 1965. He served in the Wisconsin National Guard for 6 years and was honorably discharged in 1966.

He worked at Burlington Northern Railroad for 31 years as a conductor where he made many life long friends retiring in 2001.

He married Barbara Davidson on November 30, 1975 and they had 2 children, Ray Jr. and Karl, and at that time he welcomed Emily into his heart as one of his own. They later divorced and his companions were his dogs that he loved.

He loved animals, the finer things, and really enjoyed people, always finding a compliment or a witty comment to make someone smile or laugh. He enjoyed his family and will be remembered as a strong Christian and was a founding member of Living Word Christian Church.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother and survived by his sister Dawn Walter of Burbank, California, as well as his children Ray Jr. (Tara), Karl (Dana), and Emily Davidson.

He leaves behind eight grandchildren: Ariahna Bakalars, Adalayna Bakalars, Eli Wrobel, Sienna Wrobel, Olivia Wrobel (Ray and Tara Wrobel) and Beau Wrobel, Lucy Wrobel, and Amelia Wrobel (Karl and Dana Wrobel). He has further left behind his nieces and extended family in California as well as his beloved dog, Willi. He had many dear friends and acquaintances that will remember him.

The family would like to give a special Thank You to the staff at Gundersen Hospice for their loving care.

We invite you to join us in honoring Ray’s life on June 11th at Living Word Christian Church (2015 Ward Ave, La Crosse, WI). Friends and family are welcome to visit from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with the memorial service beginning at 10:00 a.m.