Raymond Pruitt

JOHNSON CREEK - Raymond J. "Ray" Pruitt, age 54, passed away Saturday, Oct. 20, 2012, at Rainbow Hospice in Johnson Creek after a short battle with lung cancer, with Jean, the love of his life, at his side. He was born on March 27, 1958, in Milwaukee, the son of Judith C. Swanson Pruitt and William H. Pruitt. In October 1993 Ray met Jean (Richter) Rusch on her birthday at the Mineshaft in Hartford. They married on Feb. 20, 1999. Ray's lifelong dream of being self-employed came true March of 2003 when he purchased his welding and fabrication shop, Machinery Repair and Service. Ray enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. He loved spending time with his friends, family and especially the grandchildren. He liked bowling too, but he'd be the first to admit he wasn't very good. He would go out of his way to help anyone who needed it. There will be no services per Ray's wishes. Instead, there will be a celebration of life at Watertown Bowl North on Saturday from 7-11 p.m. Friends and family are welcome to attend. Ray is survived by his wife, Jean; children and grandchildren, Nicole (Shannon) Ihnen, Austin and Mason, Ashlynn and Korben; Jason (Erin) Pruitt and Maia; Lance Pruitt; stepchildren, Erika (Raini Justice), Zachary, Jonathan and Emily Rusch; stepmom "Ma" Janet; and siblings, Karen, Renee, Darryl, Dale, Prudy, Hanks, Janet and Leo; and many nieces, nephews, in-laws, out-laws, friends and especially his good buddies Jim, Steve and Ron. He was preceded in death by his parents and Sadie the family dog. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Rainbow Hospice or the family. The family would like to thank Dr. Eastman and staff at Johnson Creek UW Cancer Center, the team on B6/6 at UW Hospital and the wonderful staff and volunteers at Rainbow Hospice. They would also like to thank Gary Klopstein and all the loyal customers from the shop. We will miss you Ray! We know you are at the campground in heaven with a bottle of Jack.