David Joseph "Joe" Rayer

February 8, 1953 — July 6, 2015

age 62 years, of Bellevue, NE.Passed away at home surrounded by family Monday morning following a hard-fought battle with cancer and with the support of St. Jude Hospice. A native of the Hanscom Park neighborhood, Joe was a state champion gymnast. He married his South High School sweetheart Shirley Swirczek and became the proud father of three children and grandfather of seven - known as "Papa Joe".Joe had a talent for drawing. He excelled as a draftsman and reminisced about the past when everything was done by hand. His work ethic was unrivaled; Joe insisted on going into the office even when he could no longer drive, post cancer treatment surgery.Joe's creativity extended to the kitchen, where he loved to prepare meals for his family. His favorite was a good steak, and boy did he love his coffee!Joe believed in sacrificing for your country and investing in your community. A member of the US Navy Seabees for 8 years, he served as a member of the Knights of Columbus, attended Assumption Catholic Church and volunteered as a Boy Scout leader up until his death.A Boy Scout ideal Joe always tried to follow: "Try to leave this world a little better than you found it."Family, friends, co-workers and acquaintances will remember Joe's lighthearted humor and jolly disposition. He was a faithful Catholic, a loyal husband of 42 years, a devoted father, a John Wayne super fan, an American military historian, a polka dancer, a Nebraska football fan, a belly-laugher and a grandfather who got down on the floor to play with his grandchildren.Preceded in death by parents Felix and Rita Crystal.Survived by wife Shirley; children Jolene Felber (Gerald), David Rayer Jr. (Ami), Joanne Rush (Ryan); grandchildren Dallas, Jordan, Josette, Maggie, Jude, Zoey, Baby Felber; step-mother Marge Rayer; brothers Philip (Shirley) Frank (Sandie); sisters Phyllis Sebeniecher (Lance), Mary Jo Rayer (John Krance); many beloved nieces, nephews and his Swirczek.Visitation at Assumption Catholic Church (22nd and U Streets) Friday, July 10th, beginning at 5:00 p.m. with Rosary at 6:30 p.m. and Vigil Service 7:00 p.m. at the church. Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, July 11th, 10:00 a.m. at Assumption Catholic Church. Interment St. John Cemetery. Memorials requested to Assumption-Guadalupe Catholic Church of for Masses.The family would like you to share memories and stories at [email protected]

To send flowers to the family in memory of David Joseph "Joe" Rayer, please visit our flower store.

David Joseph "Joe" Rayer

February 8, 1953 — July 6, 2015

Guestbook