This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: ChgoKid Surnames: Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.wisconsin.counties.shawano/16311/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Wisconsin State Journal (Madison, WI) - July 13, 2008 Deceased Name: Okray, Peter A. MADISON - Peter A. Okray, age 67, passed away on Saturday, July 5, 2008 at the HospiceCare Center in Fitchburg. Peter had endured a lengthy and valiant skirmish with lymphoma. He was born on June 22, 1941, to Ralph and Helene (Waterman) Okray. Peter graduated from Monona Grove High School in 1959 and continued his studies at UW-Madison, where he received his bachelor, master and doctorate degrees. He became engaged on Valentine' s Day, and was united in marriage to Catherine A. Cline on July 17, 1965. They made their home in Wausau, where he taught English and was an active participant in faculty governance, at the UW colleges, until his retirement in 1999. Peter was a scholar of life and the universe in an insatiable search for truth. In frequent contact with former students appreciative of his guidance, he wore his 'toughest professor' designation as a badge of honor. He specialized in British Literature with a particular focus on the life and writings of Charles Dickens. ! Peter held extremely high standards for himself, his family, and his students. A kind and passionate man, Peter will be missed by many people whose friendship and love he cherished. Peter is survived by his wife, Cathy of Madison; children, James of Madison; Elizabeth (Robert) Klingbile of Aniwa; brother, James (Bev Wilson) of Monona; sister, Emily (Ted) Vanke of Sharon Township, Ohio; and many nieces, nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be held at MONONA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 606 Nichols Road, Monona, on Friday, July 18, 2008, at 11 a.m. with the Rev. David Byers-Dent presiding. Memorials for a scholarship in Peter' s name may be sent to UW-Marathon Center Foundation, 518 S. 7th Ave., Wausau, WI 54401. Please send condolences and memories to Gunderson East Funeral Home, in care of the Peter Okray family. Wisconsin State Journal (Madison, WI) Date: July 13, 2008 Edition: ALL Page: D10 Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.