Ray Satchell, age 100, of rural Bridgeport went to be with his heavenly father July 27, 2023.
Ray was born December 16, 1922 to Harlan and Minnie Satchell at home, delivered by his father, at the homestead where he resided the rest of his life.
Ray raised Hereford cattle, wheat and feed. He began his farm life with a team of horses and what we consider antique tools to raise corn on flat spots through out the hills. It would take him a day of hand picking sixteen acres to fill the wagon with the harvested corn. He could hitch up his team in the dark.
His dad went to the draft board because both his brothers were serving in WWII. He, being the youngest was then delegated to stay home to raise cattle and farm.
He attended country school, then Bridgeport High School graduating in 1940.
He served on the fair board, was a longtime Eagles member, enjoyed square dancing, bowling, trips to Alaska, occasional gambling adventures and was a longtime member of the Presbyterian church. He was blessed with good health; running chain saws, fixing fence and climbing windmills into his 90’s.
Left to cherish his memory are daughters, Lynda (Larry) Sydow, Dotty (John) Erickson, and Diane Contratto; and son Michael (Luann) Satchell; thirteen grandchildren, twenty-eight great grandchildren and many
more great-great-grandchildren, many of them carrying on the name Ray; nieces, nephews and special family and friends.
Preceding him in death were his wife, his parents, son Duane, daughter Beth, grandson John T, brothers Harry and Chet, and sister Violet.
In keeping with our parents’ wishes, we will have a celebration of life for Ray and Geri together on September 9, 2023 at 2:00 pm in the fellowship hall at the Presbyterian Church in Bridgeport, Nebraska. Private graveside services will be at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Dalton Volunteer Fire and Rescue, First Presbyterian Church in Bridgeport, or donors’ choice.