Walter Ray Richner, 79, of Mt. Pulaski passed away on Saturday, April 20, 213 at home with his family at his bedside. He was born to Walter and Josephine Gardner Richner on October 25, 1933.

Ray graduated from the University of Illinois in 1955 then served two years in the United States Marines Corp.

He then returned to Chestnut to work the family farm until his retirement.

Ray is survived by his wife, Jo, of 58 years; son: Michael (Jennifer) of Mt. Pulaski, daughter: Leigh Ann (Mark) Whitson of Arcola; grandsons: Adam (Michelle) Whitson of Cibolo, Texas, Joshua (Jaimee) Whitson of Tuscola; Justin (Michelle) Richner of St. Louis, Mo.; great grandchildren: Ava and Beau Whitson and Lauren Whitson. his brother: Francis Neil (Maggie) Richner of Virginia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers: Darrell and Marvin, infant sister Betty Jo, ond one grandson Jason Richner.

A Memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 25, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church in Chestnut.

Following the service the family is asking friends to join them for a fellowship meal at the Chesnut family Restaurant at 5:00 p.m.

No Visitation is scheduled.

Private family burial will take place at a later date.

Peasley Funeral Home in Lincoln is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Memorial Home Services Hospice, Pastor Joel Dietrich, and our good friends for their help in getting through this very difficult time.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Memorial Home Services Hospice, the Chestnut Zion Lutheran Church, or donor’s choice.

Obituary written by family members.