Raymond Keibler

Raymond C. Keibler, 82, passed away Nov. 20, 2014, at hunting camp in Lima with family by his side.

Ray was born Sept. 10, 1932, and grew up on the family farm in Apollo, Penn. He enlisted in the Air Force at 18 years of age and married the love of his life, Fran, on July 3, 1955.

Ray and Fran lived in various states as well as Europe during his 13 years of active service. Ray continued serving in the Air and Army National Guards, eventually ending 32 years of service in the military.

In 1967, Ray began his second career with the Forest Service in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, advancing through various positions and locations and eventually being assigned to Columbia Falls in 1978, where he worked at Spotted Bear Ranger Station. He retired in 1992.

Retirement years were spent traveling and spending time with friends and family. Nothing meant more to him than his wife, children and grandchildren. Ray loved the outdoors. His passions were hunting and fishing. Throughout his life, he was active in various community organization, including the Masons.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Fran Keibler; four children, Cindy Gleesing and husband Joe, Bryan Keibler and wife Lianne, Greg Keibler and wife Connie, and Kathy Kilburg and husband Tom; eight grandchildren, Justin and wife Melissa, Aaron, Amanda and husband Jacob, Cody, Brandon and wife Alyse, Jared, Colton and Elizabeth; and one great grandchild, Maximus.

Funeral services will be held at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, in Columbia Falls, on Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2014, at 1 p.m.