William Rau

William Rau, 86, of Dorchester, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2020, at Abbotsford Health Care Center of Abbotsford, under the care of St. Croix Hospice.

A private family graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2020, at Dorchester Memorial North Cemetery. We encourage those in attendance to abide by the COVID-19 guidelines by wearing a mask and social distancing.

William was born on February 28, 1934, to Henry William and Marie Katherine (Malchow) Rau in the town of Mayville. William was the youngest of seven children: Clifford Rau (died in infancy), Frederic Rau, Melvin Rau, Anna Rau, George Rau and Robert Rau, all of whom are deceased.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joan (Strohkirch); his daughters: Susan, Marshfield, Linda (Rob) Jaenke, Eau Claire and Kimberly, Medford; grandchildren: Carter Jaenke and Morgan Jaenke. He is further survived by two sisters-in-law: Arlene (Tauchen) Rau and Shirley (Gebert) Rau; nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends. Bill graduated from Dorchester High School in 1952. After high school he worked at the Dorchester Coop Feed Store before moving to Milwaukee for a time, where he worked for Rosenberg Elevator. He returned home to help on the farm due to his Dad’s health. During this time he worked at the Medford Coop Creamery and Merten’s Garage. He was drafted into the Army. He spent two years in the Army, after which he joined the National Guard. In 1961, he was activated during the Berlin Crisis. He spent 10 months at Fort Lewis in Washington.

William married Joan Strohkirch on Oct. 3, 1964. After the death of his dad, Bill took over the family farm. He continued to farm until retirement. Many memories were made on the farm. After retirement he worked as a janitor for the Colby School District and helped his nephew on Dic-Wisco Farms. He enjoyed gardening and mowing lawn.

Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com.

Paid obituary 93606