Richard (Rick) Louis Raimer
Richard (Rick) Louis Raimer, age 81, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family and beloved dog, Jasper, on July 8, 2026, at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin.
He was born on June 22, 1945, in Portage, Wisconsin, to parents Hilmer and Marie (Wimann) Raimer. As one of twelve children, Rick was the fourth oldest. Being part of a large family played a significant role in his life.
In 1967, at the age of 22, Rick started his own roofing and siding company (Raimer Roofing), which quickly gained success. He earned recognition as a skilled, well-established professional in Portage and the surrounding areas.
Rick was blessed with a unique and special gift - the ability to balance his quick wit and sharp tongue with a genuine heart. With his hilarious one-liners and a twinkle in his eye, he could bring a smile to almost everyone he met. What drew people to Rick, however, was the kindness and generosity that lay beneath his playful and sometimes gruff exterior. Despite his best efforts to maintain a tough facade, it was clear to all that he was a deeply caring individual that went to great lengths to ensure the wellbeing of those he loved, of whom he was immensely proud.
Rick married his soulmate, Penny Tanyi, on June 10, 1966, at St. John's Lutheran Church, in Portage. They recently celebrated a remarkable 60 years of marriage. Together, Rick and Penny had three children: two sons, Michael and Matthew, and a daughter, Tiffany. The family has wonderful memories of the various activities they enjoyed, including road trips, camping, snowmobiling, biking, and family gatherings. Rick was known for his sense of humor and often entertained others with jokes while sitting by the campfire. He was an avid deer hunter in his early years, and he always enjoyed finding bargains at thrift stores and doing a little haggling at garage sales. Rick also appreciated watching reruns of "Gunsmoke" and John Wayne movies.
After retiring from roofing, Rick embarked on a new business venture, proudly raising and selling purebred German Shepherd and Golden Retriever puppies. Staying in touch with many of the families, it brought him joy to know the puppies were in loving homes. Rick was a diligent worker, a devoted provider for his family, and a resilient individual.
Rick is survived by his wife, Penny; his sons, Michael (Jackie Schwantz-Raimer) and Matthew (Shellie Raimer); and his daughter, Tiffany Horn (Larry Asher). His grandchildren include Dylan Schwantz (Jenna), Austin Raimer, Grayson Asher (Calista), Rylie Asher (Huston); and great-grandchildren, Carter, Owen, and Kali Schwantz. Rick is also survived by his siblings, Diane Manthey, Rosanne Hoel, Jeannie Burns (Stewart), Randy Raimer (Judy), David Raimer (Susan), Jim Raimer, Julie Wolfer (Jeffrey); sister-in-law, Judy Raimer; and numerous nieces and nephews. Additionally, his beloved Golden Retriever, Jasper, his cherished and loyal companion.
He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Stephen Horn; his parents, Hilmer and Marie Raimer; his in-laws, Frank and Jessie Tanyi; his brothers, Dennis, John and Danny; his sister, Veronica (Roni); and his sister-in-law, Carol.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at St. Mary's Hospital, in Madison, for their excellent care and compassion.
His loved ones, family, and friends will deeply miss him. Please join us for a memorial service at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 3:30 p.m., with the Rev. Alan Boeck officiating. Visitation will be from 2:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. on Friday, at the funeral home. Following the service, a Celebration of Rick’s Life will be at The Clubhouse at Saddle Ridge, 100 Saddle Ridge, Portage.
Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage, is assisting the family.
