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William Lee Raumaker, Jr. (known as Bill to his family and friends) died at the age of 60 at his home in Blue Springs, MO on November 11, 2013.Bill was born an only child on January 3, 1953, in Dyersburg, TN, to William Raumaker. Sr and Helen Gray. He was raised in Sedalia, MO, and graduated from Smith Cotton High School in 1971. Bill was an athlete in school, competing in track and field, swimming and diving, but his passion was football. He was very talented in music, playing several instruments with the favorite being bass guitar. While attending school in Sedalia he met his high school sweetheart, Sue Cook. He said from the moment he saw her, he knew she was his soul-mate.Bill and Sue were married August 25,1972 and had their first child, Karen, shortly after. In 1973 they moved to Springfield, MO where Bill began his employment with Southwestern Bell. In 1976, Kelly was born and added to the family. In 1977, SWBT transferred the Raumaker family to Blue Springs, MO where they continue to live. In 1979, the family was complete with the birth of Mark in June. Family was everything to Bill and was constantly kissing and hugging his Suzie and the children. No one ever finished a visit or phone call without an “I love you, kiddo.” He was the happiest when everyone was together, whether it was playing games or watching football.Bill loved to travel and learn. Sue often said that he was like a sponge because he could never acquire enough knowledge. Sue and Bill felt blessed that they were able to visit historical places such as battlefields, homes of presidents or any B&B with a good ghost story. He lived for memories and family vacations were a yearly event and especially loved taking cruises.Bill had many passions and hobbies, with reading, sports, movies and animals being the most important. Bill was always reading, occasionally two or three books at a time. His favorite author by far was Stephen King and was very proud of his collection. He also enjoyed sports and coached several little league teams. He had a tremendous love for animals. He always had at least one dog in his home. The dog of his life was Quincy. He trained her to be a Hospice Therapy Dog and visited several nursing homes, along with St. Mary’s Hospital. He loved the positive effect his “girl” had on the sick. They were buddies and often seen around town together.Bill’s life was never the same after the birth of his grandsons, Dylan in 2004 and Dawson in 2005. The boys warmly referred to him as “Pops”. He instilled in them the power of education. He was always reading to them, helping with homework and telling them stories. He loved attending they’re sporting events and never missed a Grandparents Day at their school.Bill worked as a sales manager for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for 30 years, retiring in 2003. He continued his career with Sprint until 2006. Bill earned a degree in Business with a BA in Marketing, continuing his education and earning a Masters Degree in Information Management Systems. He also taught at Avalia University in their MBA program.He is preceded in death by his father William L Raumaker, Sr. He is survived by his mother, Helen Ohlson, his wife of 41 years, Sue Raumaker, his children, Karen Long, Kelly Raumaker, Mark Raumaker, wife Sarah Raumaker, and grandsons Dylan Long and Dawson Long. Visitation will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, November 14, with a celebration of life to follow at 7 p.m. at Woods Chapel United Methodist Church, 4725 NE Lakewood Way, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064.Contributions in Bill’s name may be mailed to: Sedalia School District Foundation, PO Box 2505, Sedalia, MO 65301. Attn: Cedar Hill Scholarship Fund in Memory of Bill Raumaker or to the American Cancer Society.
Betty Law says
My heart is heavy with sadness at the sudden illness and passing of Bill. He was a kind and gentle man who loved his family first and foremost. Wehn someon you love dies, you never quite get over it; you just slowly learn how to go on without them; but always keeping them tucked safely in your heart. Love and Hugs, Betty
David snell says
Bill was my boss while at sprint. He was a great guy and would do whatever he could to help you both at work and in private life. Bill helped me out by taking my Bassett hound (daisy) when I was going through a tough time. I know he loved animals and Daisy would be in good hands. He was that kind of guy. I am shocked at the news of his passing. He will be missed greatly and my condolences to his family.
Jackie Deck Schudy says
May Bill’s memories live on in the love and joy he gave to everyone. God Bless you all.
Jim and Tammy Frewen says
Sue and family, please accept our condolences. Bill was a great friend to our family. He was a groomsman in our wedding, and with Sue’s help, provided Tammy and I support as we learned to be parents. During our time in Kansas City, Bill was my best friend, mentor and running buddy. I had great respect for his guidance and opinions, although I still prefer the Stones over the Beatles. I never could win that one……We had great philosophical discussions such as the exact perfect place to mount a mobile phone in our cars (you had to be there)!! Or whether Stephen King or Richard Bachman was the better author. He even introduced me to White Castles!! He will be missed. Jim and Tammy Frewen
Patty (long) Torbet says
My sincerest sympathy to your family. He was a great guy.
Chris Chapman says
My thoughts and prayers are with Sue, his family and his many friends. Bill was a terrific guy, always had a smile on his face. He will be missed.
Jeff & Cathy Johnson says
So sorry to hear about Bill. Our sympathy to the family and may your wonderful memories help you through this difficult time.
Larry & Carolyn Pittsenbarger says
Dear Sue and family,
Our sympathy to you
and pray God gives you
strength for the future.
The wonderful memories will hold you together.
Debby Freeman says
My sincerest sympathy to the entire family. I worked with Bill at SBC and he always brightened the office with his chuckle and big smile. He will be missed
Debby Freeman
Courtney McFadden says
I will always have a special place in my heart for Bill. So sorry for his family. Bill took a chance on a young person, me, 14 year ago with no experience in the world and offered me a job at SBC. He equipped me with a map and a list of customers and away I went. I proudly carry his legacy in my career and am so sad to hear of the loss of a great/great man. Courtney McFadden