Raymond James Altenburg

Raymond “Ray” James Altenburg, age 75, of Westfield, passed away at his home on Friday, February 27, 2026.

Ray was born on July 29, 1950, in Madison, Wisconsin, to James and Betty (Bursack) Altenburg. He was the oldest of three children, followed by his brother Dan and sister Linda. Ray grew up in Madison and graduated from La Follette High School in 1969. He was very active in Boy Scouts and proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

Ray met Linda Anderson at a tavern where he was bartending. It may be hard to believe now, as Ray was known for being quite direct and never shy about sharing his opinion - Linda had to coax him into conversation that night. They wed in the Little Brown Church in Iowa on November 24th, 1972. Together they created Viking Decal in Stoughton, the first vinyl shop in Wisconsin. Linda and Ray later divorced and remained friends. In 2007, Ray purchased a home in Westfield, Wisconsin, where he lived for the remainder of his life, spending his winters in Texas.

Ray was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, boating, and waterskiing. Ray’s favorite place was the family cabin, which was built by hand in the 1970s using cinder blocks. Ray worked alongside Dan and his father, James, to help construct it. The cabin quickly became the gathering place for family celebrations. Holidays such as Memorial Day and the Fourth of July were spent there. One favorite tradition was listening to the Indy 500 on the radio with family gathered around, following along with the photos of the drivers printed in the newspaper. You could always find a quarter barrel of beer buried in the ground with ice to keep it cold. The cabin remained a special place for Ray throughout his life and held many memories for the family.

Ray is survived by his daughter, Melissa (Scott); son Joe (June); grandson Jett; brother Dan Altenburg; sister Linda (Gary) Winburn: and niece Michelle (Mitch) Sersch and their children. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Betty Altenburg, and his beloved companion, Buddy the cat.

Ray was a boisterous personality known for his blunt honesty, deep loyalty, and strong sense of integrity. He was always happy to offer a little unsolicited advice, and will be deeply missed.

According to Ray's wishes, no service will be held.

The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the Marquette County Sheriff’s Office, Marquette County EMS, the Waushara County Medical Examiner, Steinhaus-Holly Funeral Home, and the many first responders who assisted.

Please take a moment to view the online Tribute Wall. Send your condolences or share a memory of Ray with his family & friends.