Raymond Raisl
Raymond 'Butch' Raisl, 78, of Richey died Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, at his home in Richey.
He was born in Glendive to Vera (Baese) and James “Jim” Raisl on Dec. 8, 1946. He grew up in Richey and graduated from Richey High School in 1965. Reminiscing with his high school buddies, who became lifelong friends, often ended up in gales of laughter and head shakes.
He attended MSU in Bozeman and graduated with a degree in accounting. He was drafted into the Army and was stationed at Fort Benning, Ga., and in Germany bringing his bride, Colleen with him. After his honorable discharge from the service, they moved to Billings where he began his career with Kelly Accounting, working the tax season during the winter months for over 40 years. He worked in road construction during the summer months until 1975 when he returned to Richey to farm with his brother, Bill. He genuinely loved farming; however, he was ready to turn his part over to the next generation after Chris, Bill’s son, returned to Montana in 2017 and stepped into Butch’s shoes in the farm operation.
After his marriage ended in divorce and a few years of the single life, he connected with Judy Buller. This resulted in a friendship that grew into love and marriage which lasted for 32 years until her death in November. She was his soulmate, sharing in the joy of rebirth in the spring, summer harvests, rides around the country and ice cream. Every year, they moved to Billings during the tax season, exploring new places to eat and catching up with friends and family in the area. His love and devotion to her showed throughout her long struggle with dementia and Alzheimer’s.
They served the Richey community for many years as EMTs and volunteers for the Richey Fire Department — he as fire chief and she as dispatcher. His love for the community of Richey was evident from the hours served and the support given to help local needs. He delighted in the success of young people, especially those of his nieces and nephews.
He enjoyed hunting, flying across the prairie in a pickup chasing antelope, walking in the mountains scouting for elk or sharing the stories from such adventures. He liked to fish and work with wood in the shop that he and Tim Buller shared. He was a friend to all with a ready smile, a memorable laugh and helping hands.
He was also preceded in death by siblings, Kenneth Raisl, Elaine Raisl and Betty Timp.
He is survived by his brothers, Bob of Richey and Bill Raisl of Glendive.
A memorial service is scheduled for April 19, 2025, at the Richey Senior Citizens Center in Richey, with burial for his and Judy’s remains at the Richey Cemetery.
