Ray Lichtenberger

Ray Lichtenberger was born June 8, 1921, at Ottawa, in Franklin County, Kansas, the son of Edward R. and Jesse R. (Jeffries) Lichtenberger. A lifelong resident, Ray and his wife, Maxine, made their home in Ottawa, until his death Monday, May 9, 2005, at the age of eighty-three years. He graduated from Ottawa High School with the class of 1943. A dedicated employee, Ray worked thirty-eight years as a storekeeper for Kansas City Power & Light, in Ottawa and Paola, providing supplies to workers. He retired in 1983. Ray served during World War II from December 23, 1940, until October 29, 1945, in the United States Army with Squadron A, 3502d AAF Base Unit, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was an Airplane Armorer Gunner and received decorations and citations including the American Defense Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and World War II Victory Medal. He then served during the Korean War in the Air Force Reserve from July 1, 1950, until June 30, 1953. Ray was a member of First United Methodist Church; member and Past Exalted Ruler of Ottawa Lodge #803, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks; and former member of Ottawa Lodge #18, A.F. & A.M. (Ancient Free & Accepted Masons). Ray was a devoted husband and friend. He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid golfer. He also enjoyed traveling with Maxine, fishing, and hunting. On March 1, 1943, Ray was united in marriage with Maxine Brown at Taft, California. They celebrated sixty-two years of marriage. She survives of their home. Mr. Lichtenberger is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Bernice Mallow; and twin brother, Roy Lichtenberger. SERVICES: Funeral services will be held from Dengel & Son Mortuary in Ottawa at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 13, 2005. OFFICIANT: Rev. Jim Stigall. IN STATE: Friends may pay their respects to Mr. Lichtenberger after 1:00 p.m. Wednesday at Dengel & Son Mortuary until the service hour. CEMETERY: Highland Cemetery in Ottawa, Kansas. MEMORIALS: The family suggests memorials to First United Methodist Church or Alzheimer`s Association, c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.