Raymond Crocheck

BOONE, Iowa—Raymond Dale Crocheck, known as Ray to his friends and family, passed away on October 13, 2025, at Hansen Family Hospital in Iowa Falls, IA. Born on July 24, 1947, in Des Moines, IA, to Robert and Mary (Swyers) Crocheck. He was united in marriage with Charlene Meyeraan at Augustana Lutheran Church in Boone, IA, on February 27, 1965. Ray’s life was a testament to the values of hard work, devotion to family, and the simple joys of life.

During his early life and summers growing up, Ray lived with his Uncle, Lloyd, and Aunt, Ivadell Bush, and their family in rural Truro, IA. He learned a strong work ethic on their farm. Ray’s journey into the trucking industry was paved by his Uncle Earl Swyers, who taught him to drive a truck. His trucking career began with R. D. Reed Livestock of Zearing, IA, and spanned over four decades. Ray became a familiar face at Crouse Cartage Company, where he dedicated 26 years of service until their closing. He then continued his vocation at Coe Transfer until his well-deserved retirement. Throughout his career, Ray was known for his customer service, dependable nature, and the friendly banter he shared with everyone on the road.

Ray’s passion for the outdoors was evident in his role as the honorary “President and CEO” of the Crocheck Cattle Company. Working alongside his son on the cow-calf operation, he found peace and purpose. Fishing was another of Ray’s great pleasures, and he took joy in the annual family fishing trips to Lost Island Lake, as well as visits to local spots like Little Wall Lake. The love of fishing was a gift he passed down to his grandchildren, creating cherished memories.

Travel was another of Ray’s interests, and after retirement, he and his beloved wife Charlene explored new horizons, traveling to Texas and Mexico. Ray’s unwavering support during Charlene’s cancer battles spoke volumes of his character; he was a devoted husband until her passing in 2018. Over the past 5 years, Ray enjoyed his friendship with Deb Linderblood and her family, including trips to Arizona.

Ray was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Charlene; his parents, Robert and Mary Crocheck, and Lloyd and Ivadell Bush; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Frank and Lydia Meyeraan; his brothers, Joseph, Robert, and David; and his sisters, Patricia Gatewood and Linda Kathman.

Survivors include his sons Justin (Michelle) Crocheck of Boone, IA, and Jason (Melissa) Crocheck of West Des Moines, IA; grandchildren, Summer Crocheck, Shawn Crocheck, and Bradley Scheller; and great-granddaughter, Celeste; brother, Larry Crocheck of Boone, IA; sister, Kate Tyrie of West Lafayette, IN; brothers and sisters-in-law Marilyn Meyeraan, Clarence Murra, Joyce Meyeraan, Leona (Lowell) Spieker, Kayleen (Bill) Scholl, and Gary (Sharon) Meyeraan.

Ray’s journey may have come to a close, but the impact of his life’s voyage will be felt far beyond the miles he traveled. He will be remembered fondly and missed dearly by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him on the road of life.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church in Boone, with Pastor Adam Gordon officiating. Interment will be at 2:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Cemetery in Wellsburg, Iowa. Visitation with the family present to greet friends will be from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Schroeder-Stark-Welin Funeral Home in Boone.

Memorials may be made to the family to use at their discretion.