Ray Sieren

KEOTA-Raymond “Ray” Michael Sieren, 86, passed away on September 3, 2025 in Washington, Iowa.

He was born July 14, 1939, on the family farm near Keota to Carl and Carmelita (Clarahan) Sieren. He graduated from Keota High School with the Class of 1957. Ray found his forever when he knocked on the door of Judy Gent, and the two were married on February 4, 1961. He proudly served in the Army Reserves for three years before returning to the life he loved – farming. Ray made farming his vocation, working alongside his children until his retirement in 2007 when he moved from the farm. With every season of reaping and sowing, his dedication, patience, and ability to trust in God’s timing went far beyond his work in the field. His life was devoted to loving his family and tending to his community.

He was a lifelong member of Holy Trinity Parish. He also served as a 4-H leader for the 76 Progressives and a member of the Washington County Extension Council. Ray was on the Board of Directors for Lagos Acres, Farmers Co-op, and St. Mary’s Parish Council. As a passionate Hawkeye fan and season-ticket holder, you could find Ray at Kinnick Stadium and Carver - Hawkeye for many football and basketball games.

Throughout Ray and Judy’s 64-year marriage, the two took joy in experiencing the world together - most notably their adventures going through the Panama Canal and exploring the Hawaiian Islands. For 18 years, Ray and Judy wintered in Mesa, Arizona, where he made many lasting friendships on the golf course and at the 19th hole. Ray was a stranger to none and especially enjoyed time spent with friends at the Moose Lodge.

Above all, Ray deeply loved and cherished his children, grandchildren, and most recently, his great-grandchildren. The true measure of his life is found in the abundance of love that he leaves behind – a steady light that guides generations to come – and in the joy of reunion of those who welcome him into eternal rest.

Ray is survived by his wife, Judy; children Dean (Linda) Sieren of Keota, Perry Sieren of Keota, Angie (Steve) Feller of Preston, Jill (Darren) Baetsle of Keota, and Janelle (Tim) McCuddin of Rocky Mount, MO; grandchildren Kyle (Emilia) Feller, Bryce (Ashlin) Sieren, Eric (Brittnie) Baetsle, Brandon Ray Sieren, Keyton (Alisa Omelchenko) Feller, Emily (Brody) Miller, Brooke (Ben) Johnson, Courtney McCuddin, Mackenzie Rae (Devin) Bernu, Kelsey (Zach Meyer) Feller, and Bailey McCuddin; great-grandchildren Ada Johnson, Emmett Sieren, Beau Raymond Baetsle, Sophie Rae Bernu, and Rose Feller, with three more great-grandchildren expecting in February 2026. Ray’s surviving siblings include Marianne Vogel, Francis (Jan) Sieren, Mike (Patty) Sieren, Bernadette (Rick) Johnson, Leo (Connie Zimmerman) Sieren, and Mary (Randy) Patterson. He is also survived by in-laws Phil and Pat Gent, Bonnie Warren, and Russ Gent and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by in-laws Louis Vogel, Bill Warren, and Jan Heinen, along with nephews and godchildren Doug Sieren and Andrew Patterson.

Memorial mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Holy Trinity Parish - St. Mary Catholic Church in Keota, with Fr. Robert Lathrop presiding. Burial will be at Holy Trinity Cemeteries - St. Mary’s Cemetery in Keota. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 12, 2025, at the church.

Memorials may be directed to Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Lagos Acres, the Alzheimer’s Association, or Hospice of Washington County. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Halcyon House and Hospice of Washington County for the compassionate care provided.