In Loving Memory of

John Clarey Raeker

1922 - 2019

Raeker, John C. "Clarey" age 96 of Melrose, passed away peacefully with family by his side on April 5th, 2019 at Melrose Centra Care. John Clarus Raeker was born on November 8, 1922 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Anton and Clara (Hockert) Raeker. He married Lucille S. Humbert on October 1, 1946 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport. John was a grocer for many years and owned Raeker's Grocery Store, starting in 1954. Prior to living in Melrose, they lived in Freeport for 3 years and in Rice for 5 years. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Melrose, and the American Legion for over 70 years. He was active in the Chamber of Commerce and American Legion during his working years.

He served his Country during World War I and was in the Coast Guard. He served on the U.S. Spencer ship for over 3 years, both in the Atlantic and the Pacific.

John enjoyed spending time with the family; watching the grandchildren and great-grandchildren playing sports through the years. He enjoyed playing cards and fishing. He had a deep love for God, family and Country.

Clarey is preceded in death by his wife, Lucille; parents; son, Thomas; brothers, Gerard, Wilfred, Harvey; sisters, Helen, Anella, Rosamond and Antoinette. Survivors include his daughter, Carol Lagermeier of Coon Rapids; 6 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, Roger Raeker; sister, Mary Hance and daughter-in-law, Anne Raeker of Waite Park.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Friday (4/12/2019) at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove, 20 State Hwy 4 S., Meire Grove, MN, with a visitation one hour prior at the church with Rev. Marvin Enneking officiatin. Inurnment will be at a later date at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred to St. Mary's School Endowment Fund in Melrose, MN.

Thurston-DeShaw Funeral Home

Andover 763-767-7373

www.thurston-deshaw.com